The Somerset Leveller - Issue 163

Royal enjoys organic food and more

ORGANIC food, learning and gardening were on the agenda for a royal visit to Somerset.

The Duchess of Edinburgh was in the county on April 17, where she joined a Learning Day at the Royal Bath & West Showground, before visiting organic dairy brand, Yeo Valley.

In her role as patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations, The Duchess attended the Field to Food Learning Day 2024 at the Shepton Mallet showground.

It is an annual day focused around educating the next generation about farming and food production, giving young people an insight into where their food comes from, and the hard work farmers do.

The Duchess took part in ‘plough to plate’ educational activities, learning about livestock, arable farming, horticulture, food, and machinery.

Later, she visited Hazel Manor and the Yeo Valley Organic Garden, in North Somerset, to discover projects which are opening up the countryside and to learn more about sustainable farm and

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gardening practises.

Yeo Valley Organic is Britain’s largest organic dairy brand; the 14th biggest-selling online grocery brand in the UK; and the third largest yogurt brand in the UK.

Team members at Yeo Valley highlighted multiple regenerative organic farming projects being undertaken across the firm’s farms, including

Somerton Arts Festival display

AN arts exhibition opens in Somerton this month ahead of a full festivel itinery in July.

The Parish Room is the venue for the Arts Exhibition, which runs from May 25.

It is a warm up for the Music and Arts Festival, which runs from July 4 to 14, including in the two-day Somerstock event, headlined Shakatak.

Somerstock opens on Friday, July 12, with an evening of live bands, and runs into May 13 with a full day and evening of live music.

The Charlie Miller Band, with its dance and soul sounds, is the main act for the Friday evening entertainment, which runs from 6pm to 11pm with food stalls and bar.

Supporting will be local favourites Twisted Vinyl,

passion and power from Bristol based blues, rock and soul band Florence & The Bare Souls, plus a surprise act to be announced.

Saturday’s headliner, Shakatak, will be joined by 10 more live acts providing continuous music across two outdoor stages and a big top marquee from 1pm to 11.15pm.

Also on the outdoor stages will be Matt Owens, formerly of Noah and the Whale and now with the Delusional Vanity Project, who delighted festivalgoers in 2023.

There will also be children's activities, retail stalls, food stalls and bars.

Tickets are on sale now, via www.somertonartsfestival.co. uk. For full information about Somerstock see www. somerstock.co.uk.

mob grazing and agroforestry. From there, it was on to the famous Yeo Valley Organic Garden, where the Duchess was welcomed by head gardener, Sarah Mead, and Yeo Valley co-founder Mary Mead OBE.

The six-and-a-half-acre Soil Association-certified ornamental garden was the inspiration behind the Autumnal Chelsea Flower Show entry in 2021, which was awarded an RHS Gold Medal and the BBC’s People’s Choice Award.

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Artists transform drug garage

ARTISTS in Glastonbury transformed a boarded-up garage – previously inhabited by drug users –into a canvass for a magnificent mural.

The garage was boarded up by police on Sunday, May 5, who said it was previously “being used for the use of class A drugs”.

And, less than an hour later, it had become the host of a colourful mural created by Glastonbury Murals.

An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said it looked “incredible”.

“This graffiti was organised as a part of the Glastonbury Mural Trail with the appropriate permissions,” a spokesperson added.

Meanwhile, they said officers had noticed “an increase in tags not associated with the trail around the town”.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101.

Bus damaged

CHILDREN on their way to school were injured when their bus struck a branch.

Police are looking for witnesses after an incident in Bath on May 7 which saw a double-decker bus suffer damaged windows in the Kelston Road area, at around 8.15am.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 101 and quote log number 191 of May 7.

Sheltered housing to close

TWO sheltered housing facilities in Wellington are to close, as they are no longer “financially sustainable”.

The Abbeyfield Society, which runs Ivy House and The Old Vicarage, has announced it intends to close the properties.

Sheltered housing is a type of accommodation for people who can live independently, but live in a development with some support available.

However, in May last year, The Abbeyfield Society launched a consultation over the future of the Wellington properties – which currently house a combined 45 people – after it was unable to find a provider to take over running them.

Now, it has announced it intends to close them, although no date has been set.

An Abbeyfield Society spokesperson said: “Since the consultation began, we have consulted at length with a large number of stakeholders about the potential options available to try and keep the homes open and serving their community.

“Having explored all avenues we cannot see a way of maintaining the properties as financially sustainable services that are fit for purpose in the future.

“As a charity, we never want to close any of our homes, however, part of being a responsible organisation is recognising when you need to make a difficult decision, and this regretfully was one of those occasions.

“Our priority now that we have announced closure is to provide affected residents with the support they need to find alternative accommodation where they will be happy.

“We will be doing everything we can to ensure that the closure and moving process runs as smoothly as possible for them.”

In response, Somerset Council has said it will provide support and guidance to residents, including advice on alternative housing options.

Councillor Sarah Wakefield, lead member for adult social care, said: “I am saddened and concerned by the news that Ivy House and The Old Vicarage will be closing and understand the impact that this will have on the residents and their loved ones. We had hoped that it might be possible for another operator to take over these facilities but this has not proved possible.

“Our teams are willing and prepared to help them through this difficult time and will absolutely make sure they have access to the support and information they need.

“We recognise the value and importance of sheltered housing for older people in our communities, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that there is a sufficient supply of affordable and quality accommodation for our ageing population in Somerset.”

Cllr Federica SmithRoberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture, added: “I am deeply saddened by the news that The Abbeyfield Society will be closing Ivy House and The Old Vicarage, which have been home to many older people in our community for years.

"We understand that this must have been a very difficult decision, but we are concerned about the impact these closures will have on residents, their families, and staff at both homes.

“People who live in sheltered housing tend to be elderly and vulnerable, and need stability and security.

“Supporting affected residents to find alternative accommodation that meets their needs and preferences is our top priority, and we will work closely with Abbeyfield to ensure a smooth and respectful transition for everyone involved.”

Anyone affected by the closures who needs housing advice and support can contact Somerset Council online by visiting, www.somerset.gov. uk/housing-support/ homelessness-and-prevention/ homelessness-advice-andassistance.

Ivy House, above, and The Old Vicarage in Wellington are set to close as they are no longer "financially sustainable"

Maternity services told to improve

MATERNITY services at Musgrove Park, Yeovil, and Bridgwater Community Hospitals have been ordered to improve after inspectors found services were failing.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has told the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust it must make improvements to the three maternity services after visits in November.

The CQC has issued a warning notice at Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital to focus the trust’s attention to maintain rapid and sustained improvement in the care.

The trust, said changes had been made since the inspection and will continue.

Musgrove Park Hospital

The overall rating for maternity services at Musgrove Park Hospital decreased from good to inadequate.

The rating for leadership also decreased, from good to inadequate, as did the safety rating, which fell from requires improvement to inadequate.

Areas of effective, caring and responsive services retained their previous ratings of good.

"Following the maternity services inspection, the overall rating for the Musgrove Park Hospital has also decreased from good to requires improvement," the CQC said. Yeovil District Hospital

Maternity services were rated as inadequate overall, as well as for being safe and well-led.

Bridgwater Community Hospital

The Mary Stanley Birth Centre, a midwife-led unit, has been rated as requires improvement overall, and for being safe and well-led.

Carolyn Jenkinson, CQC’s deputy director of secondary and specialist care, said: "When we inspected maternity services at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we found a deterioration in the quality of care being provided across maternity services at all three of the locations they provide them from.

"We also had particularly significant concerns with the care being provided at Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital.

"Leaders weren’t supporting staff to learn from incidents or make improvements when things went wrong.

"Incident data seen by inspectors also

didn’t always match up with information provided to the trust’s board.

"Leaders also weren’t effectively monitoring how the services performed, or taking action when risks needed to be escalated.

"At Musgrove Park Hospital, we found poor systems and processes for assessing women and people using the service who needed medical attention.

"Staff weren’t using a standard method to assess and prioritise people based on clinical need when they arrived, which meant that people were being assessed differently based on the individual who saw them.

"At Yeovil District Hospital, we were concerned that staff weren’t always cleaning their hands when entering clinical areas to care for people, and they

weren’t always following the trust’s uniform policy to help reduce spreading germs.

"Leaders also weren’t monitoring whether staff were complying with their hand hygiene policies.

"There were high rates of staff sickness at Bridgewater Community Hospital and poor staffing levels meant the birth centre and home birth service had to close for five months between February and July last year.

"However, the trust had taken steps to recruit more midwives. They should also review how to ensure the service is sustainable for local women and people.

"Despite these issues, across the trust we found staff were keen to improve the services and some of the problems were out of local leaders’ control.

"At Musgrove Park Hospital, inspectors noted the buildings were in poor condition and required regular maintenance which posed an ongoing challenge for the quality of maternity services they were able to provide.

"We have told the trust where we expect to see significant improvements and will continue to monitor them closely while these improvements are made."

Peter Lewis, chief executive of

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We have received three reports from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) regarding the maternity services we provide.

"These illustrate that we have fallen short of the standards we expected to be delivering, and we want to say sorry to our families that use these services and to our hard-working colleagues.

"We are committed to improve, so that we provide an excellent service that supports women, birthing people, and families in Somerset. We have made significant changes since the inspection and will continue to do so.

"We have strengthened our processes to provide ongoing review of quality, performance and governance, including developing a strong audit and policy programme to drive continual improvements in our services.

"All guidance and policies that were highlighted have been reviewed and updated, and we have increased scrutiny and governance around our policy processes, ensuring these are available to all colleagues.

"We have reviewed and mapped all mandatory training, strengthened our oversight, and significantly improved our compliance.

"At Musgrove Park Hospital’s maternity unit, we have put in place a new triage process to risk assess and prioritise care based on clinical need, and have reconfigured the ward to facilitate safe and effective clinical oversight.

"We immediately sourced emergency equipment at Musgrove Park and Yeovil District Hospitals.

"The CQC report for Musgrove Park’s maternity service highlights issues that are as a result of the poor condition of the building. We are planning to replace this as part of the national New Hospitals Programme, but have already made improvements specifically around safety and security.

"The inspectors noted an open culture, good engagement with local communities to make improvements and plan services, good team working, and that colleagues felt valued and supported.

"We have a lot of work to do, but this does give us good foundations on which to build. We are here to support all those using our maternity services. If you have any questions, or concerns, would like more information, speak to your midwife. We are here to help and support you."

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Shop assault CCTV

POLICE are keen to trace this person after an incident at a shop in Minehead.

Officers believe the man may have information regarding an alleged assault at Morrisons, in Vulcan Road, on April 30.

At around 11.30am, a man threatened someone at the supermarket after they challenged him about an alleged theft. The suspect then hit the victim before leaving the shop.

If you recognise the man pictured, or have any other information, contact police on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224111144.

66-bed Taunton care home plan

A NEW 66-bed care home could be built on land in Taunton.

Plans for the facility, in Cutliffe Road on the Killams Park estate, have been submitted to Somerset Council by LNT Care Developments.

The building would be a two-storey structure, on a site previously earmarked for a primary school, which is no longer being proposed.

The application said the development, of more than 3,000 sq m had been “designed to create a building of a suitable scale to the local setting and neighbouring development”.

“The proposed development will be a focal point within the street scene but as it is set back from the road this will help assimilate the scale and mitigate against

by PAUL JONES paul@blackmorevale.net

any potential impact,” it went on.

It would be “in-keeping with the existing street scene by providing an attractive frontage onto Cutliffe Road”, it added.

“The layout also allows for

a large ancillary garden to the rear of the care home which will be attractively landscaped.”

Bedrooms at the care home would enjoy views of the landscaped gardens.

It will also feature a café, to

SECURE SELF STORAGE

“provide a welcoming space for residents and visitors”, the application outlined, with a car park and cycle storage.

“The central social/ communal areas on the ground floor will also have doors that open into the garden, which will encourage full use and enjoyment of the landscaped gardens and maintain an important connection to the outdoors,” it went on.

“The building’s form and orientation will integrate well with its surroundings, while having regard for the character and appearance of the local area, to enhance its distinctiveness.

“This effect will be further enhanced through the building’s siting within a highquality landscaped setting.”

For more details, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search reference 38/24/0131.

36-year-old woman charged with murder after death in quiet village

A 36-YEAR-OLD woman has been charged with murder after a man in Baltonsborough was stabbed to death.

Police were called to Dunford Terrace, below, at around 4.30pm on Thursday afternoon (May 9), where they arrested Christine Kekkonen on suspicion of murder.

Kekkonen, of Dunford Terrace, was due to appear at Bristol Magistrates' Court on Saturday after being charged with murder.

Police said although formal identification has not yet taken place, they believe the victim to be 41-year-old Henri Kekkonen.

"Henri’s family have been updated following this significant development in our investigation," an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

"Our thoughts remain with them at this tragic time and specialist family liaison officers will continue to support and update them.

"A post-mortem examination concluded Henri died of a stab wound."

Finalist in the 2023 International Opera Awards

The home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a large chorus of emerging young artists

World Première

An opera in four seasons Composer: Paul Carr

Librettist: Euan Tait (After Thomas Hardy) 23, 25 July at 19.00 | 27 July at 14.00

Marking 100 years since the composer’s death… Giacomo Puccini 22, 24, 27 July at 19.00 | 25 July at 14.00

The Golden Anniversary Friday 26 July at 19:00

Coade Theatre, Bryanston, Blandford Forum Box Office: dorsetopera.com 07570 366 186

Henri Kekkonen was killed by a stab wound

Lidl on the lookout for new sites in Taunton

SUPERMARKET giant Lidl is on the lookout for a new store location in Taunton.

The cut-price food chain has launched a new appeal for landowners and property agents to highlight potential sites as it bids to open hundreds of new stores across the country – including in the county town.

A document highlighting where the firm is looking for sites includes “Taunton –North”, which would add to stores already open in Castle Street and in Roman Road.

The discounter is also on the lookout for sites in Cheddar, as well as relocating the store in Frome, as it marks its 30th anniversary.

Richard Taylor, Lidl GB chief development officer, said: “Having fortified our

infrastructure with significant investments like Luton, which is the largest warehouse in the Lidl world, we’re proud to have achieved record market share this month.

“We have also been the fastest growing bricks and mortar supermarket for the past seven months in a row.

“With an exceptional store network and our laser focus on operational excellence, we’re welcoming more customers through our doors than ever before, which positions us perfectly for continued expansion.

“As we celebrate our 30th year, our commitment to ensuring that all households across the country have access to high quality produce at affordable prices is stronger than ever.

“We’re planning to open hundreds of new Lidl stores but ultimately see no ceiling on our ambition or growth potential.

“This is why we’re continuing to invest in new locations whilst exploring innovative routes to expansion.

“As we look ahead, we’re excited to welcome even more new shoppers to our existing stores, as well as those we’re planning to open across the country in the coming months and years.”

In a bid to encourage development, Lidl is offering a ‘finders’ fee’ should a

suitable site be identified, which would see either 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price, or 10% of the first year’s rent for leaseholds, which would equate to £22,500 for a completed £1.5 million site purchase.

The announcement said the company is specifically looking for sites in “prominent locations with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow, with 1.5+ acres for a standalone store and up to four acres for mixed-use schemes”.

Crossing works in Taunton

A WELL-USED pedestrian crossing in the centre of Taunton is being replaced and relocated – but will see temporary traffic lights installed for around three months.

Somerset Council is replacing the traffic lights and pedestrian crossing which goes over Upper High Street, linking High Street with the entrance to Vivary Park.

Work started on Monday, May 13, and is expected to be completed in August.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place will work is being done, along with a temporary pedestrian crossing.

There will also be overnight road closures towards the end of the scheme for final resurfacing, the council said.

The Lidl store in Castle Street, Taunton Picture: Google

Sub-postmaster's warning over system

A FORMER Taunton sub-postmaster has met with the Post Office minister to review his conviction.

Steve Marston believes he was wrongfully convicted of theft and false accounting errors caused by the Capture software.

A predecessor to Horizon, Capture was developed by the Post Office before being rolled out in 1992.

Shortfalls of £79,000 were found at his branch in 1998, he said, forcing him to plead guilty in a bid to avoid jail time.

He made the case to Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake (Con, Thirsk and Malton) in a meeting arranged by his constituency MP, Rebecca Pow (Con, Taunton Deane).

An independent review has been ordered to assess possible glitches in the Capture software.

Mr Marston said: “Both my wife and myself would sincerely like to thank Rebecca for her fantastic help in bringing my case to the minister’s attention.

“We feel that we had a very productive meeting and would like to thank everyone in attendance for their support and kind words.

“It is my hope that not just my case but everyone else who have had their lives destroyed by faulty software called Capture can look forward to a speedy and just resolution to this miscarriage of justice and give us the opportunity to draw a line beneath it and carry on with our heads held high for the rest of our lives.”

Rebecca Pow said: “The distress and impact that the Post Office Capture system has had on Mr Marston and his family is unimaginable.

“I first became aware of Mr Marston’s case in early January and raised concerns with the Post Office minister, Kevin Hollinrake, immediately.”

Kevin Hollinrake, added: “We want to get to the truth.

“We are interested in justice and I give my assurances that we will get the right person to test the evidence.

“I want to thank MP Rebecca Pow for acting swiftly on behalf of her constituent Steve Marston and for bringing this to my attention.”

Post Offices

minister Kevin Hollirake, left, woth Rebecca Pow, Steve Marston and his wife

Model train steams into auction

AMODEL steam train – even with some replacement parts – set off a flurry of bids at a Somerset auction.

Among items offered up at auctioneer Greenslade Taylor Hunt’s recent collectors and selected antiques sale was a three-inch gauge Stevens model dockyard live stream spirit-fed 4-2-2 locomotive, Conqueror.

The model sparked furious interest from would-be buyers, having come to the sale at the Somerset Salerooms, in the Sedgemoor Auction Centre at Junction 24, via a house clearance.

Eventually, the hammer fell at £1,700 – the day’s top price.

Elsewhere, an interesting insight into life in London in the 19th Century was also sold.

Charles Booth’s Life and Labour of the People in London, 1902, is regarded as a landmark piece of socio-economic history looking at the living and working conditions of Londoners at the time.

The original notebooks on which the books are based are held by the London School of Economics.

Included in the lot consigned to GTH were a selection of 20 maps and limited edition illustrations, which had been signed by the illustrator TR Way. Together, they fetched £1,400.

Meanwhile, missing ears and restored legs were no bar to success for a Pearlware pottery model of a horse, circa 1800-1820.

The dappled grey example, with a mustard bridle, sold for £600.

More ceramic charm was provided by a pair of Burmantofts faience partiecolour Persian vases, designed by Joseph Walmsley.

Featuring stylized floral and foliate decoration in shades of turquoise, blue, grey and yellow, the striking vessels sold for £500 at the GTH auction.

Examples of Walmsley’s work are held by the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Other lots included an unsigned sketch book from the late 18th/early 19th Century, which made £350, while a set

of five Corgi classic diecast model commercial vehicles sold for £110.

The auctioneers are preparing for a similar collectors and selected antiques sale on Wednesday, June 26, from 11.30am. Contact the salerooms on 01278 410250.

Police make an arrest over fire at bin store in Frome

A MAN has been arrested in connection with a fire in Frome.

Police issued a CCTV appeal after an incident in a bike and bin store, in Sunnybank Court, on Wednesday, March 13.

An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said a 33-year-old man has been questioned and released on bail.

“Thanks to all who helped us with our appeal,” they added.

The model steam train, below, and some of the Booth notebooks that went under the hammer Pictures: GTH

Bridgwater devolution deal will see town take control of services

STREET cleaning, road sweeping, parks, open spaces and fly-tipping in Bridgwater will be the repsonsibility of the town council in future.

A landmark deal has seen Somerset Council transfer assets and services to Bridgwater Town Council to protect services amid a financial emergency in the county.

Also transferring as part of the historic deal are responsibilities for footpath repairs, Market Rights, bedding plant provision and carnival clean-ups.

Somerset Council declared a financial emergency in November 2023 as it faced a £100 million budget shortfall.

Leader of the authority, Cllr Bill Revans, wrote to all 279 Somerset parishes, highlighting ‘at risk’ functions that could potentially be devolved to those city, towns, and parishes willing to take them on.

The council said conversations are ongoing with many, while as well as the new services being taken on by BTC, Yeovil Town Council has also assumed responsibility for a number of services, though not signed a full devolution deal, like Bridgwater.

Cllr Theo Butt Philip, lead member for transformation and human resources at Somerset Council, said: "Transferring assets and services to the most local level has the potential to deliver huge benefits.

"Devolution doesn’t just protect some of the services our residents value the most, it also means that these services will be delivered by an organisation

which is much closer to the community which uses them.

"Our city, town and parish councils are better placed to understand and respond to the needs of their local communities.

"We also know that devolution will strengthen the role of our parish councils, allowing them to play a greater role in leading, shaping deciding the future of their local areas."

David Mears, CEO and Town Clerk of Bridgwater Town Council, went on: "As we transition these vital services from Somerset Council to Bridgwater Town Council, we are committed to maintaining and improving high standards.

"Our focus remains on the well-being of our community, ensuring parks and open spaces thrive under local management."

Scott Mason, the newly-appointed director of amenities at the town council, added: "Taking charge of street cleansing and road sweeping is a significant responsibility.

"We are dedicated to making Bridgwater a clean, safe, and attractive town for residents and visitors alike."

Leader of Bridgwater Town Council, Cllr Brian Smedley, said: "Bridgwater has grown in terms of housing and employment over the last decade and is continuing to grow.

"We have had the ambition to take over parks and open spaces and to improve street cleaning and that ambition has been realised. "Bridgwater Town

Council is now running our own services, and owning our own assets. It naturally follows we are also now accountable for those local services too."

In a bid to balance the budget for 2024/25, Somerset Council has made a number of savings, as well as increasing council tax.

Up to 1,000 employees are set to be facing redundancy in the coming months as the authority looks to avoid issuing a Section 114 notice, which would effectively declare it bankrupt and see government inspectors appointed to make finanical decisions.

Cllr Revans added: "The Local Government finance model is broken. With no help from government forthcoming, despite all the lobbying and stark warnings, we quickly recognised we needed to seek local solutions, here in Somerset.

"Working with our city, town and parish councils, and other partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, we have been finding innovative ways to protect the services our residents value during these financially challenging times.

"The successful partnership work with Bridgwater Town Council serves to demonstrate this.

"Conversations on how we can best support our communities will continue in Bridgwater, and with our many other partners and parishes, across the county."

Parishes exploring devolution should email devolution@somerset.gov.uk.

Somerset Council leader Bill Revans, Bridgwater mayor Mick Lerry and others mark the devolution deal

Picture: Somerset Council

Man fled police in raid arrest drama

30-YEAR-OLD Aaron Cooper – who fled when police raided his Shepton Mallet home – has been jailed for two years and eight months for possessing drugs with intent to supply.

Cooper admitted charges of possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, as well as possession of cocaine. He was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Tuesday, April 23.

He was arrested when a warrant was carried out at his home, involving firearms officers and officers with the patrol and Neighbourhood Policing teams.

He initially fled the property, leading to a foot chase, where he was caught by officers within a few minutes.

A search of his property found cocaine and cannabis concealed, as well as a substantial amount of cash.

PC Jamie Rule said: “This operation has resulted in a significant amount of illegal drugs being taken off the streets.

“Drugs have a significant and harmful impact on our communities and we want the public to know we will always take action to keep them safe."

Pair in court over raids at shops in Somerset and Dorset

A BRIDGWATER woman and a man of fixed address have appeared in court charged with conspiring to burgle shops in Somerset and Dorset.

Luke Spencer, 34, and 46-year-old Emma Hendy, of Blackdown Road, Bridgwater, appeared at Taunton Magistrates’ Court on April 29.

Spencer has been charged with conspiring to commit a burglary other than a dwelling between January 14 and April 28, at the BP garage in Curry Rivel, the Premier Store in Moorland Road, Bridgwater, Brocks in Rockwell Green, Wellington, and a store in Mosterton, Dorset.

He’s also been charged

with causing actual bodily harm against a store worker in Dorset, and driving otherwise in accordance with a licence.

Hendy has been charged with conspiring to commit burglary other than a dwelling, between April 27 and 28.

This encompasses the same alleged offences in Wellington and Mosterton in Dorset.

She’s also been charged with permitting the use of a motor vehicle without insurance.

Spencer was remanded in custody, while Hendy was released on conditional bail, until their next appearance at Taunton Crown Court on Friday, May 31.

Increased police patrols aimed at tackling ASB

EXTRA patrols by police officers are to be carried out across the Avon & Somerset force area to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Starting this month, the patrols are part of an initiative involving the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and local authorities, with funding from the Home Office.

It will see uniformed police officers, PCSOs and partner agencies working thousands of hours of additional patrols, police said, engaging with members of the public and businesses, and disrupting the activity of ASB perpetrators.

“Whether classified as criminal behaviour or not,

persistent ASB can have a devastating impact on individuals and communities, so we are committed to proactively addressing the issue as part of the government’s AntiSocial Behaviour Action Plan,” a spokesperson went on.

“The plan puts forward “an ambitious new approach to working with local agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour across England and Wales”.”

Uniformed patrols targeting ASB have been piloted by 10 police services nationwide and achieved positive results.

ASB fell by 38.5 per cent

across Essex in a 12-month period, with 9,416 fewer offences recorded, according to statistics published in February.

“Partnership working will be vital in our effort to problem-solve and address the biggest ASB challenges within

our communities – different agencies deal with different types of ASB, and intelligence shared between the police, local authorities, social housing associations and early intervention teams can help build a bigger picture of the main issues across locations,”

Bin collection changes to be rolled out

BIN and recycling collection days are set to change for more than 90,000 households in Somerset.

Somerset Council is currently sending letters to 92,000 properties in the east of the county, detailing a change in waste collection dates.

The new collection routes affect homes in the former South Somerset and Mendip districts and are set to come into force from the week beginning Monday, June 17.

Changes in other parts of the county were put in place earlier this year.

The new routes are being introduced by contractor SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, who say they will make rounds “more efficient, more manageable for crews while reducing mileage and carbon emissions”, and come at no additional cost to the council.

The council said residents

may have: a change to collection day, a change in the week that their rubbish is collected (although will still be collected once every three weeks), a one-off additional collection of rubbish, to avoid residents going too long between collections.

If a household’s collection days are changing, they will receive a letter in early May making it clear.

This will be followed by a service guide – including a collection day calendar – ahead of the changes beginning in June.

If a household does not get a letter in May, there will be no changes to their collection days, but all households will still receive a service guide and 12-month collections calendar near the end of the month.

Garden waste collections will continue as per the original schedule for subscribers.

There are also no changes to clinical waste collections, or communal property collections with shared collections, such as blocks of flats.

During the switch, some households will have an additional one-off Saturday collection of their rubbish, on either June 15 or 22.

Details will also be in the letter they receive at the start of May.

If there is no mention of an additional one-off collection of rubbish in the letter, then the household will not need one.

Councillor Dixie Darch, executive lead member for climate and environment, said:

“Changes to recycling and rubbish collections have been designed to make the routes more manageable for crews, as well as being more environmentally friendly and cost effective.

“Look out for your letter and service guide and take note of your collection day. If you don’t receive a letter this means that your day is staying the same. The changes come at no additional cost to the council and will help towards making the county greener and more sustainable.

“Please make a note of your new collection day and possible interim rubbish collection. Crews can’t return for missed collections where bins are not out on the right day.”

For more information on the changes, visit www.somerset. gov.uk/bins-recycling-andwaste/reroute-of-wastecollections.

Don't look into The Light...

Glastonbury has joined a campaign focussed on countering disinformation presented in controversial newspaper, The Light. PAUL JONES delved inside the front cover...

IN recent years, while walking through the centre of my hometown in Gloucestershire during visits to see my mum, I noticed them.

Some of the people I knew from years gone by, and nodded as I passed, giving a polite, 'No, thank you', as they offered me a magazine.

I was visiting family, enjoying a break from the 'day job' - the last thing I wanted was to get consumed by a local newspaper or political pamphlet...

However, professional curiosity got the better of me eventually, and I took one. And I was shocked.

This was not an ordinary local newspaper.

The publication being handed out by around half a dozen people in the centre of Stroud - during the hugely popular farmers' market the town has become famous forwas The Light.

The tagline on the paper's masthead, 'The Uncensored Truth', in actuality couldn't be further from 'the truth'.

For far from being 'the light', this publication leads readers into some very, very dark corners of conspiracy you would expect to be confined to the most remote corners of the internet.

The Covid pandemic is "a hoax", and doctors and nurses who helped administer the life-saving vaccine should face trial for "crimes against humanity".

Sadly, even the whitesupramacist 'great replacement theory' - the idea there is an international conspiracy to see 'white' people replaced by 'other races' - makes its pages.

The 'green agenda'? Yes, that too is a conspiracy - "a cancer destroying economic life", with climate change dubbed the "Trojan horse to rule us all".

It's all there.

Reading any edition of The Light is like playing a game of conspiracy theory bingo. The same themes are rolled out in every edition, conspiracy after conspiracy, again and again.

The rise of the publication - which is understood to distribute around 100,000 copies each month - has caused concern in many of the communities in which it has thrived.

Places like my hometown of Stroud, and in an adopted hometown here in Somerset - Glastonbury.

Both are what my friends and family affectionately call,

'hippy towns'.

Far from being a criticism, my interpetation of such comments is that both feature a strong community spirit of acceptance, diversity and an intellectual curiosity - freedom of thought, differences of opinion, alternative lifestyles and an openness to challenge, are all on show in Stroud and in Glastonbury.

This acceptance, if you like, is part of what has made these towns so successful.

So it is no surprise The Light would find a foothold in places like this.

No one in Stroud or Glastonbury wants to 'cancel' anything, it goes against our

instincts, our core belief system.

But this is different.

The Light has become an organ of outright denial; denial of provable facts, of science and, ironically, of 'truth'.

It has become nothing more than conspiracy propaganda which could have real-life consequences for those who believe what it says.For example, there is no attempt to balance an article headlined, 'UK doctors call for end to Covid vaccines' (spoiler alert: they didn't), or another with the title 'Councils should prioritise the people, not Net Zero', which features the line, "Net Zero, like Zero Covid, is a con", and says, with absolutely no challenge, "the Earth will be fine".

Yes, Earth will still be here, but humankind may not be. But that isn't mentioned.

One article, headlined 'The war on masculinity', at one point bizarrely claims health warnings about eating too much meat could, in fact, be "a cover for the drive to subvert manhood".

This is not your average right-wing publication. It is a catalogue of conspiracy.

The paper itself says it was

Speakers at the event in Glastonbury on April 13

Picture: Chris Hoskins

founded as a publication "without the constant propaganda aimed at perpetuating the myths and deceptions by which people are being controlled" to fight "the coming total technocratic tyranny".

In response to the emergence of The Light, a group was formed in Stroud named Community Solidarity Stroud District (CSSD), which aims to "oppose the hatred of minorities and oppressed people arising from false and harmful information".

"Very Stroud", as my mum would proudly say.

Now, in Somerset, another group has been launchedCommunity Solidarity Glastonbury.

The Glastonbury group also aims to "combat the agenda of hate being spread by the publication known as The Light, and other right-wing agendas which are being promoted, both here and elsewhere".

On April 13, an event was held in association with the Glastonbury Independent Alliance (GIA) at the United Reform Church, entitled 'Blinded by The Light?', which discussed the publication and how mis- and disinformation could be combatted.

All of the groups represented, as you would expect, are opposed to 'cancelling' The Light.

Speakers included Mayor of Glastonbury, Councillor Indra Donfrancesco (Green, St Benedict's), who opened the gathering.

James Beecher, of the CSSD, told the meeting rather than 'cancelling' The Light, members instead wanted to "create awareness of some of its links to far-right politics, especially in terms of its espousal of climate crisis denial and other dubious conspiracy theories".

Stephanie Mathivet spoke on the links between many of the

conspiracy theories vaunted by the far-right and the "dismantling of the gains women have made in the last 50-plus years".

While Melissa Taylor addressed the denial of science in The Light, including the use of so-called 'experts' in articles.

In Gloucestershire and Somerset, the effort against the far-right, conspiracy theory-led agenda of The Light, has begun.

It is an effort, according to Cllr Donfrancesco, to guard against "encroaching fascism".

"It created a safe space for an engaging, enlightening compassionate enquiry. The start of many conversations about the dangers of encroaching fascism," she said of the meeting.

Emma King, a founder member of Community Solidarity Glastonbury and party secretary for GIA, said it was "up to us all to stand against hate in town to ensure that Glastonbury remains a welcoming place for all of its visitors and residents".

that we created this event for the town and that everyone worked together as a team to support each other and all of the people who attended," she added.

who contributed in any way."

would like to respond to the creation of the groups in

Stroud and in Glastonbury, as well as asking more general questions on its editorial policy.

We received a somewhat bizarre response from "Darren & The Light", who we assume to be Darren Nesbitt (sometimes known as Darren Smith), the editor.

After, correctly, pointing out I had initially incorrectly quoted the tagline as 'the unfiltered truth' - it is 'the uncensored truth' - the response included the line, "the people that organise these meetings cancel our events, attack our meetings, deface statues, damage property and cause economic harm to individuals, as well as physically attack some - but they have the nerve to call us the fascists".

It added: "Do you think that is fair?"

In response, I asked if the tagline - 'the uncensored truth' - was suitable, as the newspaper largely consists of pure opinion, not undisputed fact, even if it is presented as

such by the author.

I wrote: "I think, and this matches much of my own personal view, the point is that the paradox between claiming to be objective, as a purveyor of ‘uncensored truth’, is not upheld through the content, or the way it is presented. The Truth presents nothing as a debate, even when that word is explicitly used. It presents a view as fact – and one that is somehow ‘cancelled’ or ‘censored’, which (through the publication of the newspaper itself) is provably false.

"I am keen to find out why the newspaper presents itself as a definitive opinion on what it covers, and not as an arbiter of information, which it surely is?"

The final response was as olique as you might imagine.

"Fascist/far right/hateful etc. The accusations are made and they are 180 degrees wrong," Darren wrote.

"Your denying them, and their interference in cancelling our events does not help your case."

I was at pains to point out how no one - least of all mewas attempting to 'cancel' The Light, merely to explore the reasoning behind the presentation of opinions and theories, as fact.

We didn't pursue it any further.

Ironically, for a newspaper called The Light and claiming to offer 'the uncensored truth', the editor seemed reluctant to help us illuminate any of the thinking behind the paper - and it's opinions. For they are most definitely opinions - not fact - and not 'the uncensored truth'.

Mayor of Glastonbury, Cllr Indra Donfrancesco, opening the meeting Picture: Chris Gregory

Somerset beaches among UK's dirtiest

SOMERSET’S beaches have been ranked second worst in the UK for clean water.

Analysis of Environment Agency summer water quality ratings has put the county’s coastal spots in 18th place, out of 19, for clean seas.

And to make things worse, two beaches in the county – at Dunster and Weston Super Mare – have been offered ‘Brown Flag Awards’ for being named among the nation’s 13 dirtiest.

The award comes in the form of a flag sporting a brown poo emoji.

At the other end of the scale, Dorset, Devon and Suffolk have the highest percentage of ‘excellent’ beaches for clean water, according to the analysis by UK travel site, Holiday Park Guru.

The ‘winning’ beaches

offered the flags are rated as ‘poor’ by the Environment Agency due to bacteria such as e-coli from sewage and other waste.

Just one in 10 of Somerset’s designated bathing spots is considered ‘excellent’ for the quality of their sea water in summer – at Porlock Weir.

In Dorset, 89% of beaches are rated as ‘excellent’ for

JEWELLERS

summertime water quality.

Keen sea-swimmer, Robbie Lane from Holiday Park Guru, said: “We’re hoping to make a real splash in the papers with the launch of England’s first ever ‘Brown Flag Awards’.

“Commiserations to our 13 winners this year – you really are top of the plops. “We just hope they’ll take up our offer of a free brown flag, although I’m afraid we can’t quite afford to provide a flagpole as well.

“On a more positive note, high praise is warranted for England’s 273 beaches with the top rating for their water quality – including Porlock Weir.”

The Environment Agency data only includes water quality readings from May 15 to September 30 when giving ratings to bathing areas.

Clean water ratings at UK beaches by county – from best

Jewellery Repairs and Commissions

Weston has been offered a poo moji flag in recgnition of being among the UK's dirtiest beaches

to worst:

Dorset: 89% of beaches rated ‘excellent’ for sea water cleanliness

Devon: 86%

Suffolk: 83%

Cornwall: 81%

Tyne and Wear: 78%

Northumberland: 77%

Lincolnshire: 77%

Hampshire and New Forest: 75%

Isle of Wight: 73%

Merseyside: 57%

Essex: 53%

Sussex: 52%

Cumbria: 50%

Norfolk: 50%

Kent: 45%

Yorkshire: 40%

County Durham: 16%

Somerset: 10%

Lancashire 0%

For more details, and a full breakdown of the analysis, see www.holidayparkguru.co.uk/ brown-flag-awards.

Man jailed over sex abuse

A WESTON man who paid thousands of pounds to watch children being exploited in online videos has been jailed for 16 years.

Sidney Morris, of Brompton Road, was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on April 29 after pleading guilty to 15 counts, including:

One count of attempting to cause / incite a boy under 13 to engage in sexual activity

One count of attempting to cause / incite a girl aged 13-15 to engage in sexual activity

Seven counts of attempting to arrange / facilitate commission of child sex offence

Three counts of making indecent photos of a child

Three attempts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.

The investigation was led by Avon and Somerset Police’s Internet Child Abuse Team (ICAT) in partnership with North East and the West Midlands Regional

Organised Crime Units (ROCU).

In June 2022, officers from West Midlands ROCU discovered Morris had been messaging someone he believed to be a young child from the UK, engaging in inappropriate conversations of a sexual nature.

The 55-year-old, pictured, was arrested at his home in July of the same year and his devices seized.

A detailed examination of the devices found Morris had 574 indecent images of children, comprising of 84 category A images (the most serious), 170 category B and 320 category C.

They all appeared to show children from an Asian country, as young as four, being sexually exploited.

During the investigation, officers discovered Morris had paid more than $14,000 to people abroad to exploit the children in the photos.

It is believed he was also using other payment channels so the true value he spent is likely far greater.

As the investigation continued, North

East ROCU discovered Morris was actively trying to facilitate the abuse and exploitation of children online.

He was arrested on November 1 last year and charged.

Investigating officer, DC Benn Murphy, said: “Morris poses a very real and significant risk to children. He has tried to hide his actions behind the anonymity of the internet and by targeting vulnerable people both in the UK and abroad. This should serve as a warning to those who look to exploit or abuse children; there are no safe places to hide."

Beavers rediscovered at rewilded site

by PAUL JONES paul@blackmorevale.net

WILD beavers have been discovered at a Somerset site being rewilded.

In December 2022, the charity Heal Rewilding acquired a site on a tributary of the River Frome.

Now, it has confirmed wild-living beavers have taken up residence at the site, through natural dispersal rather than a reintroduction programme.

Their presence on site was confirmed through observation and surveying, the charity said, including the use of remote cameras used to capture images and videos of wildlife in their natural habitats.

Based on the activity seen, one or more young beavers are now exploring the land to see if it is suitable as new territory for them, they added.

The Beaver Trust, which is advising Heal on the discovery, has suggested that it is likely to be kits from beaver families already established in the surrounding area.

There are no signs yet of dams or a

lodge being built but the Heal Somerset team will be monitoring carefully for any signs of this.

A lodge is a domeshaped structure constructed by beavers as their home, made from mud, sticks and branches.

Jan Stannard, Heal’s chair of trustees and acting CEO, said: “Seeing these ecosystem engineers on our land is the most exciting wildlife event since we arrived at the site.

“They are a sign of nature taking back some control and could provide a crucial first step for natural processes to take shape.

“Beavers create thriving ecosystems by building dams, digging canals, and creating dead wood. They restore wetland areas which reduces flood risks, captures carbon and helps fight climate change.

“We really hope that they will find the habitat suitable and remain for the long term.”

Eva Bishop, head of communications at the Beaver Trust, added: “Beavers are a highly adaptable, mobile species which belong in our landscape.

“It is great to see this demonstration of them fitting back in and that land managers are welcoming of their arrival.

“Heal Somerset are taking a pragmatic approach of monitoring the wild animal’s return, maintaining their own adaptability and learning to live alongside the beavers.”

Gardens of the month, by Roger Peacock

BADGWORTH COURT BARN

In this one-acre plot around old stone barn buildings, a small orchard leads to a part-walled garden with perennial meadow areas and multi-stemmed trees. Gently curving beds are flanked by a more formal oak pergola walk. The planting is a relaxed contemporary mix. In the atmospheric courtyard, planting is more established and leads to an innovative, colourful sand garden in front of the barns.

Address: Notting Hill Way, Stone Allerton, Axbridge BS26 2NQ.

Contact: Trish & Jeremy Gibson. https://www.instagram.com/ theoldbarngardeners/.

Facilities: Home-made teas, Plants for sale, Dogs welcome.

Disabled Information: Main garden is level and accessible. Courtyard and drive areas are loose stone chippings and can be difficult for some wheelchairs. No accessible WC.

Opening Dates and Time: Sat 1, Sun 2 June (2-5.30).

Admission: £5, chd free. Cashless payment available.

Directions: 4m SW of Axbridge. Turn off A38 in Lower Weare, signed Wedmore, Weare. Continue 1.1m, past rd on R (Badgworth Arena). Continue 0.1m, to 'No Footway for 600 yds' sign. Garden & car park will be signed.

MODEL FARM

Four acres of flat gardens to S of Victorian country house. Created from a field in last 14 yrs and still being developed. A dozen large mixed flower beds planted in cottage garden style with wildlife in mind. Wooded areas, mixed orchard, lawns, wildflower meadows and wildlife ponds. Plenty of seating throughout the gardens with various garden sculptures by Somerset artists.

Address: Perry Green, Wembdon, Bridgwater TA5 2BA.

Contact: Dave & Roz Young 01278 429953 daveandrozontour@hotmail.com www.modelfarm.com.

Facilities: Tea, coffee, squash and home-made cakes. Dogs welcome, Plants for sale,

Disabled Information: Wheelchair access.

Opening Dates and Time: Every Thur 11 Apr to 18 July (10-4).

Admission: £5, chd free. Please pay using cash only.

Directions: 4m from J23 of M5. Follow Brown signs from r'about on A39 2m W of Bridgwater.

Wild beavers have returned to the Somerset site

Annie tops the Tor in charity challenge

ANNIE Maw - the former Lord Lieutenant of Somerset - successfully scaled Glastonbury Tor in her wheelchair as part of a challenge to raise awareness and funds for a county charity.

Annie made the 158-metre ascent in a wheelchair with the help of the Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, in aid of Festival Medical Services (FMS), the Somerset-based charity of which she is a patron.

She had never climbed the landmark, even before a horse-riding accident in 2002 led to her becoming a wheelchair-user.

But on May 4 - National Firefighters Day - she made the climb, conquering her fears ahead of the challenge.

Annie, a former nurse, said: "I had the most amazing experience of being up there, which is an extraordinary, unique place.

"The team of about 20 Devon and Somerset firefighters took it in turns to push and pull me with ropes up the path which was 260 steps and almost perpendicular in places.

"I was quite fearful

beforehand, but actually on the day I was not frightened at all because the firefighters are the most unpanicked people you could ever meet."

FMS provides medical services at events across the country, including Somerset's Glastonbury Festival.

And Annie said

the world about Festival Medical Services as they head into the festival season in 2024.

"They are the most incredible, generous people who work voluntarily at festivals because they want to send funds to other voluntary organisations bringing

highlighting the group's work was key to her taking on the climb.

"I took on this challenge for two reasons," she explained. "Firstly, I wanted to highlight that being a wheelchair-user can bring many difficulties in getting around to places that ablebodied people take for granted – but we must keep pushing the boundaries and proving there is more and more we can achieve.

"Secondly, I did it to tell

medical care into countries where people are suffering from wars and natural disasters and are in desperate need of wheelchairs."

FMS intends to give the sponsorship money Annie has raised – currently standing at more than £13,000 - to two other medical charities.

The money will be split between Motivation and Humanity & Inclusion - an international disability and inclusion charity based in Bristol.

Motivation provides wheelchairs, training and support to empower disabled people in Africa and India to gain independence, improve their confidence and transform their own lives.

They provided the allterrain wheelchair that Annie used in her ascent.

Humanity & Inclusion work alongside disabled and vulnerable people around the world – particularly in countries affected by conflict, natural disaster and poverty.

"I always wanted to help someone with the same injury as me somewhere else in the world because there are 100 million people in the world who need wheelchairs who haven’t got them," Annie added.

"Even if we only put enough money together to get a few people a wheelchair, that’s better than none, so I feel elated."

Annie’s sponsorship page is still open for donations at https://www.justgiving.com/ campaign/access-all-areas.

FMS and Annie also thanked The Riflemans Arms pub in Glastonbury, who kindly lent the use of their car park on the day.

The FCDI is on the landmark Firepool site in the heart of Taunton

Picture: Somerset Council

Labour stalwart becomes new Avon & Somerset police chief

ANEW Police and Crime

Commissioner (PCC) will oversee the Avon & Somerset force after the recent election.

Labour candidate Clare Moody emerged victorious in the May 2 poll, receiving 95,982 votes and pushing the incumbent, Conservative Mark Shelford, into second place (91,006 votes) and took up her role on May 9.

“It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to serve the people of Avon and Somerset in this role,” she said after the result

was announced.

“Now that I am sworn into office, I will be visible, accountable and PCC for all residents of Avon and Somerset.

I am keen to buy all coins, banknotes & tokens.

I travel throughout the South West Home visits undertaken

David Ayling

Call me anytime on 07799 880312 or email

dave@dwjayling.com

“The people of Avon and Somerset have communicated their priorities to me.

“On my time on the doorstep, people expressed that they want to see a greater connection to their local neighbourhood police and for their service to address and reduce violent crime, particularly knife crime and MVAWG, and to do all we can

Village event to highlight group's climate efforts

STOKE St Gregory will host its annual environment fair next month.

The Stoke Environment Group is inviting everyone along to Envirofair 2024, on Saturday, June 1.

Set up three years ago, following the declaration of a climate emergency by the then-Somerset County Council, the group comes up with ways the community can help in the fight against climate change.

Projects around the village have included improving the bus shelter to encourage the use of public transport, to managing a small community orchard.

Envirofair24, in the Williams Hall, will be hosting a range of groups and organisations, national charities and crafters.

One of the most popular ‘regulars’ at the event are the Owls from Sharandy’s Birds of Prey – this year to be joined by a sparrowhawk. In addition, there will be the Somerset Fixy Van and the On Your Bike charity, Somerset Wildlands, the Otter Trust, Moth Group and many more, with cider on offer from Wady's of Westonzoyland.

Fi McQueen, one of the event organisers, said: "Envirofair is all about engaging with the beautiful natural world. We can learn so much from nature and, if we give it a chance, it can inspire and energise us. But the continued health and wellbeing of the natural world is largely in our own hands – we can’t afford to damage it further."

For more information, log on to www.envirostoke.org.

to prevent crime.”

But Oxfordshire-born Clare is no stranger to political circles.

The 58-year-old served as a Member of the European Parliament for the south west between 2014 and 2019, and worked in the policy unit at Number 10 under Gordon Brown.

A former union worker, she stood for parliament for Labour at the 2005 general election, where she polled in third place, and previously unsuccessfully ran to be PCC for Wiltshire, in 2012.

She is currently co-CEO of equality and human rights charity, Equally Ours.

The PCC oversees policing in the force area, with powers to lead priorities, funding and more.

The Avon & Somerset Police Area includes Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council.

Speaking before the vote, Clare said: “Labour will restore community policing after 14 years of Tory neglect.

“We will increase the number of neighbourhood police and PCSOs by 13,000 nationally, with guaranteed police patrols in town centres and every community in our area having a named officer they can get in touch with.

“Many of our streets feel less safe than ever, and over

14 years under this Government the police have grown more distant from the people they serve.

“The Tories are putting up your council tax again, while cutting PCSO numbers by 80 and police staff by around 200 in Avon & Somerset. They are letting people down across our region in the middle of a cost of living crisis."

She said her priorities were:

n Investing in neighbourhood policing: Building safer communities and helping to prevent and solve crime.

n Supporting victims of crime: Making sure victims are properly listened to, and get the help they need when they need it.

n Prioritising reducing violent crime: The scale of violent crime, including knife crime and violence against

women and girls, isn’t inevitable but it needs focus and commitment to fix it.

n Preventing crime: Working with agencies across the public sector and civil society to prevent crime and build safer communities.

n Restoring trust and confidence in the police: Enabling the police to take pride in high standards.

Mark Shelford (Conservative) – 91,006 Katy Grant (Green Party) –64,623

Benet Allen (Liberal Democrat) – 45,864

Qualified Chartered Accountants providing a personal, professional service in accountancy and taxation matters for over 60 years... Find out how we can help.

Mark Shelford served as the Avon & Somerset PCC for one term

The full result in the Avon & Somerset PCC election: Clare Moody (Labour) –95,982 - ELECTED

Quick news...

Work begins on centre revamp

THE Tourist Information reception in Glastonbury has moved as work begins to transform its current home.

Work is set to start on St Dunstan’s House, home of the Glastonbury Information Centre, this month as part of the multi-million pound town deal project.

As a result, the reception will move to the small hall at neighbouring Glastonbury Town Hall, with the last day in St Dunstan's on May 13.

The office will reopen on the Friday, May 17, at 10am in the Town Hall.

It is hoped the facility will be back by October 2025.

Reform reveals MP hopeful

REFORM UK has selected its candidate for Taunton and Wellington, ahead of the next general election.

Charles Hansard, 59, will represent the party, having previously stood for the Conservatives.

In 2001, he challenged the Bristol North West seat, but finished second behind the Labour incumbent, Doug Naysmith.

A veteran, he spent 12 years in the armed forces before earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental management and a further education diploma in accounting.

Since then, he has enjoyed a career in the energy industry for nearly 25 years.

Although committed to finding carbon-reducing energy solutions, Mr Hansard is not convinced electrical

vehicles are the way to go, and believes effort should be put into making fossil fuels more environmentally efficient.

The 59-year-old is director of a company that sells diesel fuel pumps.

In a Linkedin post, he said: “We are too quick to change our cars for the next technical revolution.

“We need to change this approach and provide a whole life cycle analysis and impact assessment to cars from cradle to grave.

“This should include the energy source for both construction and operation.

“We would then know exactly what our impact is on the environment and not get away with greenwashing.”

The latest figures from

polling website, Electoral Calculus, give Lib Dem candidate Gideon Amos a 73% chance of winning. Incumbent Conservative, Rebecca Pow, is given a 17% chance.

She is a junior minister for nature; Mr Hansard’s strong environmental opinions could be particularly dangerous with Reform on track to split the Tory vote.

The candidate has offered vocal support to his son, who set up right-wing news website, The City Investor.

It describes itself as “Anti-migration, Anti-woke, Anti-leftism” and “entirely based on opinion.”

Charles Hansard and Rebecca Pow have both been approached for a comment.

How a new skate park could reveal Roman secrets

THE story of how the wheels of Roman carriages could be replaced by those of skateboards could be revealed thanks to work in Bruton.

As part of work to prepare Jubilee Park for the new BruBowl skate park development, an archaeological survey got underway on April 29.

The study is part of planning approval for the scheme, which is set to be a “skater’s haven” in the town, designed by renowned skate park architects, Mavericks.

Plans for the state-of-the-art facility include an expansive interconnected street area, featuring a variety of ramps, rails, and a signature bowl section, designed to accommodate and inspire skaters of all ages, styles, and skill levels.

The site – leased by Bruton Town Council from Hugh Sexey’s Hospital – is situated within the charming Bruton conservation area and is believed to be beside a Roman road, running beneath the football pitches.

So before construction work on the

Politics, pomp

by PAUL JONES paul@blackmorevale.net

skate park can begin, archaeologists are setting about trying to reveal any subterranean secrets.

Vicki Haselgrove, community leader for the BruBowl, said: “We have raised an astonishing £87,000 so far, and with planning permission in place, we can make the final push for the rest including match funding to reach our target.

“It’s been a long time in the process but we’re so excited to be in the final stages of getting this in the ground – Roman roads aside.”

Stuart Anderton, chair of Bruton Town Council, said: “The planning requirement for an archaeological survey is a

and

fascinating opportunity to discover the history of an area of town that is currently unrecorded.

“We look forward to seeing what is discovered – but please ask that residents and visitors let the archaeologists remain undisturbed during their important work.”

ceremony at Ilminster Lit Fest

POLITICS, pomp and ceremony take pride of place at this year's Ilminster Literary Festival.

The town's eight lit fest runs from May 30 to June 6.

Among those appearing is Labour politician Wes Streeting, Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

He’ll be talking with former politician Alan Johnson about his book ‘One Boy, Two Bills and a Fry Up’, charting how

family and education helped him escape poverty and transform his life.

Meanwhile, visitors can find out more about our King with respected journalist and broadcaster Robert Hardman, whose biography of Charles III was published in January to wide acclaim.

For full details, see ilminsterliteraryfestival.org.

How the new Bruton skate park could look

Pair jailed over theft of £5.7 million of cryptocurrency

TWO men – from Somerset and Wiltshire – have been jailed after stealing more than £5.7 million of cryptocurrency in an online fraud.

Jake Lee, 38, from Charlcombe in Bath and 42-year-old James Heppel, from Staverton in Wiltshire, both pleaded guilty to three counts of conspiracy to commit fraud.

Lee was sentenced to four years and Heppel to 15 months behind bars at Bristol Crown Court on May 3.

The pair carried out the fraud by spoofing the domain of online cryptocurrency exchange blockchain.com to access victims’ Bitcoin wallets, stealing their funds and login details.

A total of 55 victims have been recorded, in 26 different countries, during an investigation by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU).

The operation seized £835,000, including a suitcase containing £551,000 in cash voluntarily handed over by Lee in January, as well as £64,000 of cryptocurrency, a Banksy print worth £60,000 and three vehicles.

A confiscation order for nearly £1m was made against Lee, which will be used to compensate the victims.

DS Matt Brain, from SWROCU’s Regional Cyber Crime Unit, said: “Our investigation started back in 2018 after colleagues at Avon and Somerset Police arrested Lee on suspicion of money laundering.

“As well as £24,000 cash, officers from the force seized digital devices and three laminated Bitcoin wallet recovery seeds.

“At the same time, our unit

had started an investigation into a cryptocurrency scam reported by a Wiltshire victim who had £11,000 worth of Bitcoin from his Blockchain wallet.

“We took on the investigation into Lee and when we analysed his devices, we established he was a central figure involved in a sophisticated domain spoofing fraud and worked to identify numerous victims.

“Mapping out Lee and Heppel’s offending and links to other suspects and cryptocurrency exchanges all over the world was complex

work, but the fact they both pleaded guilty to all counts, negating the need for a six-week trial, shows the strength of evidence we secured against them.”

Pamela Jain, a specialist prosecutor with the Serious Economic Organised Crime International Directorate of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “This was a complex and time-consuming prosecution which involved enquiries with numerous victims and prosecuting authorities all over the world.

“A substantial sum of money and assets have been seized. In addition to his prison sentence, the court also ordered Jake Lee to pay almost £1 million by way of a confiscation order which will enable the victims to be compensated."

Confiscation proceedings against James Heppel are ongoing.

Jake Lee, left, and James Heppel

Lib Dems retain Mendip South seat after resignation prompted by-election

THE Liberal Democrats have defended a Somerset Council seat with another by-election win.

It was called after Cllr Alex Wiltshire resigned after he decided to move to Australia.

Rob Reed triumphed in the May 2 vote, defeating Conservative candidate Ken Maddock.

He will represent Mendip South alongside fellow Lib Dem, Claire Sully.

The victory comes despite the party declaring the local authority was in a “financial emergency”.

The full result was:

Rob Reed (Liberal Democrats): 1,313

Ken Maddock (Conservatives): 1,122

Michael Smyth (Green Party): 200 David Oakensen (Labour): 139

New councillor Rob Reed, centre, with, from left; Wells and Mendip Hills candidate and Somerset Councillor Tessa Munt, Anna Sabine the candidate for Frome & East Somerset, MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Somerton & Frome) and candidate for Bridgwater, Claire Sully

THE BIG POLITICAL QUESTION...

MAY 2 saw much England head to the voting booths to cast their votes in a range of elections.

The results were, to put it mildly, difficult for the Conservative Party, who lost almost 500 local council seats and a host of mayoral races, as well as the Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner poll.

In lieu of a vote in Somerset, we asked representatives of parties in the county: If a Somerset Council election was held today – what would be your biggest single pitch to voters on why they should vote for you?

'Does Somerset need an election at the moment? Are we ready to start the campaign three years before?'

Another election?! I hear anguished cries of 'not another one', even at the suggestion!

If you live in Somerton you will have had, in the past year alone a parliamentary byelection, a council by-election and police and crime commissioner election.

Several other areas fare no better – Castle Cary, Evercreech and Baltonsborough, to name but a few.

And yet we all know that there will be another election sometime before January 24 next year and probably during the autumn.

October 17 has been marked in my diary for some

by DAVID FOTHERGILL Conservative Group leader at Somerset Council and councillor for Monkton & North Curry

time now as the date of the General Election but I have to stress that is only my assumption.

Despite being in the same political party as the Prime Minister, I have absolutely no insight into his plans!

But October 17 sounds about right to me.

So do people in Somerset really want another election at the moment?

Or would they rather see the current Lib Dem administration at County Hall resolve the mess they’ve created, stabilise the finances and start delivering the transformation which they keep talking about?

I for one certainly do not want to see this council fall into a section 114 bankruptcy notice and so it is important that the plan works, and for that we need to give it time.

Of course, if the plan fails

then that in itself will be the basis of the next county-wide election but until then, many in the authority are sitting there with all fingers crossed that they can sort it out.

We’ll see.

So does Somerset need an election at the moment and are we ready to start the political campaign three years before the electorate vote?

The answer to both questions has to be no, but over the course of the next two years we will hold the Lib Dem administration to account, we will continue to highlight failings and we will positively advance the case for stabilised public services. Should that not be the outcome then the electorate will make the decision on May 6, 2027, if they can risk another four years of the current Lib Dem administration, or not.

Brenda, from Bristol, who famously exclaimed - 'what, another one?' when told of the general election in 2017

'Locals

Iknow what their area needs'

think this has been asked so many times, but it changes every week in Somerset.

The council is in a massive transition, in fact, multiple transitions and many issues that are not in their control, so the answer is not easy.

Some of these issues include the bringing together of five councils, cost of living crisis, council's financial crisis with a potential section 114, national cuts in grant funding, multiple years of no council tax increase, massive increases in the cost of care and transport for adult and children brought on because of outsourcing and private profit-seeking big business.

I have written before about the council.

Currently, we are in a position of downsizing

by LEIGH REDMAN

Somerset Council and Bridgwater Town Council member for the Labour Party

Officers (the staff of a council) talk about ‘a council that is the right size’. I argue back, asking “is that the right size to do what we need for our communities” or “is it the right size based on what little money we have left?”

I think it is sadly the latter!

I personally feel that if there were a Somerset Council election tomorrow, there would be massive apathy from the electorate, along with huge concern for the future.

Communities are up in arms with obvious service reductions and cuts.

While we are in a position of poor turnout of voters, we have to listen and do things differently.

Is it right that you have just 17.8% of Somerset voters expressing a preference in the Police and Crime Commissioner election?

We need to find a way for more people's voices to be heard.

Being a local community councillor has to be near the top for me. I am a community champion for the area where I live. Local councillors genuinely embedded in their community know what's best for their community, too often because of the way local government is structured and resourced, our electorate gets passed around the place trying to find someone to sort or respond sensibly to their issues.

Listening and explaining things to the people is what should matter. Taking people with us in a transparent way has to be a priority.

As we head for a general election, locally we must take people with us, building trust rather than taking them for granted.

Somerset's position is reflected across the country; councils of all colours are on the precipice of bankruptcy.

It is time for change, nationally and locally. We need a council and government that listens.

My pitch will be the same as I have had for the 13 years I have been a local community councillor; I will listen, communicate and fight for the people, because they know what their area needs best.

'My manifesto would tell it like it is'

There’s only one answer to this for me – I would tell it as it is.

I would promise to both continue to lead on understanding the financial situation for councils including Somerset, and commit to continuing to work hard. I don’t believe in ‘dumbing down’, I prefer to ‘wise up’ when working on all forms of communication.

People who pay Council Tax and vote deserve relevant information in plain English.

Of course, we all stand for election for a specific division, so our campaign literature is a mix of addressing very local concerns, and a wider commitment to steering the political direction of what is now one very large council.

The last year and more I have spent explaining the inherited financial position of Somerset Council, a challenging position like so

by LIZ LEYSHON

Lib Dem councillor for Street, deputy leader of Somerset Council and lead member for resources and performance

many other councils across the country.

I see no reason to change that pitch, because it’s so important to understand the massive challenges for councils that have responsibility for adults’ and children’s services, for education including Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (Send), and for housing and homelessness.

I have started work on figures that demonstrate how much of those enormous budgets are spent in communities of e.g. 10,000 or 20,000 residents. I feel that is essential to demonstrate that it’s people of all ages in each settlement needing the council’s services, it’s not a separate cohort of residents needing support. If we had an

election in Somerset this summer, I would include that information in the campaign materials - it’s enlightening to say the very least.

Having come to politics fairly late in life, following retirement, it’s also been interesting to understand how important a political party’s manifesto is in forming the campaign.

That manifesto forms the basis of the council’s vision, and corporate plan. It needs to be both aspirational and realistic. It needs to include ambitions and targets that can be played out across the whole of Somerset, as well as in a specific division.

My greatest concerns, inevitably, are about affordability and what approach the next government

will take to funding local authorities. I would like to see the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, funded by Government, getting financial support to where it’s needed most.

The state pension age part of the scheme is mandated by government but not funded.

My pitch would include a commitment to working with all the seven Liberal Democrat Parliamentary candidates, helping them understand the absolute necessity for the next Government to acknowledge the need to fund social care differently. And last, but a very long way from least, I would say vote to get rid of what has been the worst possible Government at the worst possible time.

Every vote sends a message, and this is the time for that message to be heard loud and clear, as it was at the recent elections.

Greens would play to their strengths

Somerset was not involved in the latest round of local elections but we, in the Green Party, were particularly interested in the outcome of the Bristol City Council elections.

It was an absolute triumph, with 34 of the 70 seats going Green, making them the largest group and only two seats short of an overall majority.

So, what is the secret of Bristol’s success? If we could distil that and pitch it in Somerset, would we be able to gain more than our current total of five seats? Well, there are close comparisons between what has happened in Bristol and what we have seen in Frome, which elects four of the five Green councillors on Somerset.

Frome is a little like Bristol in microcosm. It has become a popular town to move to from London and Bristol too. It has

by MARTIN DIMERY

Green Party Somerset Councillor for Frome West and Parliamentary Candidate for Frome and East Somerset

a remarkable arts scene, a massively popular independent market, and a very independent political outlook. In 2010 it formed the prototype of the now popular independent town councils.

Frome’s place in the far north east of the Somerset council area has contributed towards its sense of detachment from local government in Taunton. It votes with a sense of defiance - mostly Green for Somerset and Independents for Frome Town Council.

The Green Party values its local roots, and Independents share similar values, campaigning in local elections on issues that matter to people in their community. Again and again, I hear on the doorstep that people don’t think

political parties should matter in local elections.

It’s about choosing honest, decent, reliable people with a genuine concern for their local services.

A successful example in Somerset of good local representatives breaking through the usual Lib Dem or Conservative duopoly is in the ward of Upper Tone, centred on Wiveliscombe, where Somerset Green Party leader Dave Mansell is elected alongside the Independent, Gwil Wren. Both are conscientious, very erudite and knowledgeable councillors, who established their reputations on smaller local councils.

It is far easier to build momentum for a political movement and in a

geographically compact area like Bristol. In Somerset we have 580,000 people spread across a wide expanse of countryside linked by modest sized towns. So, no single issue will resonate with the entire county.

If a Somerset election was happening now the Green Party would play to its strengths. We have plenty of Green candidates on town and parish councils ready to step up to county-wide politics. They will know what is important to their own communities.

Green candidates are often flexible and happy to work across the political parties. We are not a party of conflict. We are a party of co-operation, of collaboration and compassion. We will always vote in the best interests of the community and not on party lines. In Frome, that has been a very persuasive argument.

Is art move on Dean's to-do list?

FOLLOWING the eagerlyawaited appointment of the new Dean and other new officers at Wells cathedral, may we hope that Rev Canon Toby Wright’s post-Easter to do list includes ending the temporary home of the patinated iron sculpture entitled Doubt loaned by Sir Antony Gormley to the cathedral from his back catalogue of works in August 2021?

Finding sites for such creations is not a task without complication, as was seen this year at King’s College Cambridge, where another Gormley piece raised at the side of a famous prospect drew the ire of Historic England.

The image screen of Wells Cathedral is even more iconic and here the piece is actually affixed on high.

A side issue of the famous West Front Campaign 50 years ago to conserve the fragile medieval figure sculpture was the hope that Fabric Advisory Committees for English cathedrals would take a more considered view of conservation.

That did not happen in 2021 when Doubt was assessed, with committees failing to realise that the position of the largely abstract sculpture in an empty niche would work only when seen from one specific viewpoint; from other viewpoints on Cathedral Green the West Front would suffer a harmful jarring.

As it was, Faculty was granted for only 18 months’ duration, a period long expired.

Public acclaim was wanting for the piece at the time and since.

George Carey, formerly of Canterbury, when he heard about points being made about disbelief in his former see in 1991, expressed alarm.

Widespread public acclaim was wanting for Doubt at the time and has been since. Would the Dean please rise to the task, much needed here.

J H WINSTONE Retired conservation architect Name and address supplied

Show us the money!

Your frequent correspondent, Alan Paul, is usually trying to persuade us that the

Sky Diary with Paul Adamson

MOON PHASES

First Qtr: May 15 / Full May 23

Last Qtr: May 30 / New Moon June 6 / First Qtr: June 14

PLANETS

After the recent lack of bright planets in our sky, as the months of May and June progress, we see Saturn and Mars reappearing ever earlier in the morning hours.

CONSTELLATION

government is not giving councils enough to pay for social care and our Liberal Democrat council leaders often say that the system of funding local government is fundamentally broken.

Certainly, all councils are under great pressure from increased social care costs and inflation. However only one fifth are in severe financial difficulties like Somerset, whose former Liberal Democrat councils voted against unitary savings in 2007, incurred huge debts from IT management outsourcing, previously failed to collect £43m in council tax and invested £290m in loss-making property at the top of the market when interest rates were at rock bottom.

Liberal Democrats have led unitary Somerset Council since April 2023 and the opposition Conservative leader has said they failed to maintain focus on real issues, failed to take advice, failed to take decisive actions early and failed to keep key personnel in post.

He said it has been a record of incompetence and mismanagement.

The move to a unitary council was resisted by the

Ursa Major, or the great bear, is well placed for observation now, reaching its highest point in the sky almost overhead.

At this time, you can see many more stars that form the constellation than during the winter, when it is low on the northern horizon.

Look out for the star in the

Liberal Democrats, who proposed their Stronger Somerset alternative, which would have replaced five councils with five new organisations including a SouthWest Two shareholder owned delivery service.

This may be why they have been so reluctant to implement the £18.5m savings available as a single unitary council.

Wiltshire Council, unitary since 2010, has a services budget this year of £490m, an increase of £36m. Half of this budget is adult and children’s social care services.

They made savings last year of £26m and focus on sensible financial management and action to mitigate the impact of inflation. Somerset’s services budget this year is £513m with £42m extra for adult and children’s services. 68% of this budget is adult and children’s social care services.

We have still not been told why Somerset needs an additional £100m, but Somerset’s legacy £350m Liberal Democrat debt is unproductive and will have been increased by recent property purchases.

Debt charges have ballooned from £75,000 a day in 22/23 to £173,000 a day this year.

middle of the bear’s tail and you will notice that it is in fact two stars, named Alcor and Mizar.

CELESTIAL EVENTS

Before dawn on the Morning of May 31, Saturn can be seen to the left of the crescent Moon. To the far left of this, low on the Eastern horizon, you will see the red planet Mars.

SOMERSET LEVELS STARGAZERS

Meet on the last Wednesday of the month, except December, in Othery. Contact somersetlevelsstargazers@ hotmail.com for details.

Liberal Democrat stewardship has been very costly for Somerset citizens these past two decades.

With the need to increase defence spending and an enormous national debt, it is not clear that any new government would allow national taxpayers to bail out Somerset . We must just hope that our debt can be reduced by speedy sales of recent property purchases.

CHRIS MANN Taunton

Send your letters to paul@ blackmorevale. net

The Langport Saturday Markets

Local Food - 1st June and the first Saturday of every month until Dec

Vintage - 8th June and the second Saturday of every month until Dec

Artisans (New) - 15th June and the third Saturday of every month until Dec

'We

groundsmen

“OH, woe betide you young and pure, that life could ever so bend you so, A groundsman you may find yourself, should fate have cast you truly low.”

I want these to have been the words of a ruined fop in Thomas Hardy’s least known novel, The Cricket Demons. I want the difficulties of this moment to be eternal, and to have been noted, and set down before. Sadly, it’s never like that with groundsmen. Our strife is ours, and ours alone.

You know your local groundsman don’t you. You see him of an evening from a distance across a well-cut sward. Taciturn and crinkled. Wearing shorts and shoes that most would have thrown away years ago. Frequently misunderstood, he tends to be conversationally either adamant or infuriated.

There is never quite enough time, so he always stays longer. The dash he cuts is distinct from the other players because he is half cricketer, half soil. He also keeps himself separate because everything is always his fault.

All week he slaves to prepare the outfield and the pitch. He would love to cut the outfield three

know - it's all our fault'

VIEW FROM LANGPORT by SEAN DROMGOOLE

times but is lucky if rain and other inconveniences allow him a single cut. The pitch is a crafted balance.

There should be something for the batsman (ideally flat as a road so that the ball comes through quickly and without deviation) and something for the bowler (ideally an uneven surface that grips the ball causing it to do wicked things).

They can never both be happy and are prone to mentioning it. To strive for this balance he will work for a couple of hours a day at least five days before the match.

Each evening, if weather allows, he

will rake the surface, mow it to a height of six millimetres, roll it using a magnificent machine slowly, and then water the surface. He will stop watering about three days before the game to allow the surface to firm up.

One day before the game he will paint the various lines that players like to run between. If there is the faintest danger of rain, he will cover his masterpiece to try to keep the sinful water away.

On the morning of the match, he will, with a pride understood by no-one except other groundsmen, insert six erect timbers. Three at each end. They will stand crisp and bright in the sunlight declaring that all is ready.

This is more of a challenge this year. To work the ground, you need two days clear of rain.

This spring, such double dry days have been as rare as dog’s eggs. The grass has grown alright but on a paddy field. The soil is like oily plasticine with green beard. Mowers clog, wheels skid and rollers subside. Nothing works.

It is a nightmare written in sludge. But offer ye no comfort to us poor benighted groundsmen. For we know, it is always our fault.

Chris helping others move to his beloved Langport

A LANGPORT resident has taken on a new role in his hometown – helping other people join him.

Estate agent Chris Watts, pictured, is the new residential manager at the Langport office of longestablished property firm Greenslade Taylor Hunt.

But Chris is no stranger to the town, which he has called home for the past seven years.

“It has everything you need. It’s a busy and vibrant place with lovely river walks,” he said. “It felt like a lovely place from the moment I started looking for a home here.”

Initially working in property management, Chris made the switch to estate agency in a bid to pursue his love of housing and engaging with people.

“I love the satisfaction of finding the right person for the house,” said Chris, who has worked in a variety of rural and

town settings, valuing all types of property.

He prides himself on his attention to detail and providing the highest level of customer service.

Away from work Chris enjoys pottering in the garden, enjoying dog walks in the Somerset countryside and sport.

Presently the property market in Langport is on the up, with plenty of people looking for homes, particularly at the £400,000 plus bracket.

Meanwhile, GTH’s Langport office is on track to record one of its best sales months. And Chris feels there is plenty of pent-up demand in the market with people keen to move at all stages of their property journeys.

To contact Chris at GTH Langport, call 01458 250589, or call into the office at The Shopping Parade.

M. Franks & Sons

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Website: www.mfranksandsons.co.uk

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CREATIVE WRITING IN NATURE

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WILLOW WORKSHOP

THU 4 JUL | 10:30 - 17:00

TRAVEL SKETCHBOOK WORKSHOP

FRI 5 JUL | 10:30 - 15:30

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

SAT 6 JUL | 10:30 - 15:30

FOR MORE INFO:

BOX OFFICE: 01823 283244 TAUNTONBREWHOUSE.CO.UK

Taunton Brewhouse, Coal Orchard, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1JL

Summer's brewing!

TAUNTON Brewhouse is promising a spectacular summer filled with family shows, outdoor productions and more.

The venue is set to host more than 100 events from May to August, including comedy, theatre, and more.

Comedians Ivo Graham (Taskmaster), Tom Davis (Wonka), Viggo Venn (Britain’s Got Talent), Gary Delaney (Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week), and Joe Pasquale (I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here) are on the bill.

For those who enjoy their theatre al fresco, Four Forty Theatre return to Taunton’s Castle Gardens for an adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream/Twelfth Night.

For the young, or young at heart, Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Zog and the Flying Doctors are set to show.

Meanwhile, Sex Pistol’s frontman John Lydon – aka Johnny Rotten – sheds light on his unique and extraordinary career in his new spoken word show, while That’ll be the Day’s Trevor Payne and Gary Anderson bring their double act to Taunton.

Fearne Cotton also takes to the stage in June to discuss her debut novel Scripted, and the Godfather of Punk Poetry John Cooper Clarke's show is already sold out.

Vickie Robbins, executive director, said: "The whole Brewhouse team are excited to bring you a summer season jam packed with music, laughs, family shows, and lots of workshops and classes."

Get tickets via tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk or on 01823 283244.

Ilminster Literary Festival 2024

HATCH ART SOMERSET WELCOMES YOU TO THE VOID! Weekends 18 May – 2 June, 11-4

Visits by donation. Book via website.

PEOPLE FOR PACKSADDLE JUMBLE SALE

Saturday 18th May - 12 noon until 3pm, The Bennett Centre, Vicarage Street, Frome BA11 1PU.

All kinds of clothing, bric-a-brac, books, toys etc. 50p entry, kids go free - bring cash! Cheaper than a charity shop! peopleforpacksaddle.org

SOMERSET GUILD OF WEAVERS, Spinners & Dyers - Annual Fleece Fair, 15th June, Hatch

Beauchamp Village Hall 9.30am - 1.30pm, www.somersetguildwsd.org.uk

-Fibre Growers -Makers

-Vintage Garments -Haberdashery -Workshops -Talks

Hawkers Farm Stour Provost, SP8 5LZ For tickets and info visit: www.hawkersfarm.org/defashion-dorset

Business, legal & finance

Cheers! Yeovil firm toasts county's only King's Award after international trade boom sees turnover soar

YEOVIL firm Atlantas Marine has been announced as the only Somerset company to receive a prestigious award.

The company, which designs underwater cameras and equipment, has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.

Founded in 2000, the firm has been the UK dealer of industry-leading VideoRay ROVs since 2001, supplying in excess of 400 systems.

It also provides subsea offshore inspection services, technical support and training to customers worldwide, working across a range of industries including offshore wind, oil and gas, and defence.

Charlie Foll, managing director and founder of Atlantas Marine, said: “It is a great honour to be recognised in this year’s King’s Award for Enterprise. We have a fantastic and very loyal team of people working at Atlantas Marine, and this award is testament to their experience, skill and professionalism.

“Together we have far exceeded the growth forecast in our current business plan, written with support from the Cranfield Business Growth Programme.

“We hope this award will propel us to further export growth, shining a spotlight on the work we do and helping us to expand our presence in key industries such as offshore

wind.”

Atlantas Marine is one of 252 organisations nationally to be recognised with a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise and the only award recipient in Somerset.

It was recognised for its excellence in international trade, with the company’s overseas earnings growing by more than 300 per cent over a three-year period.

Its overseas turnover rose from 30 per cent of its total turnover to 51 per cent, with key export regions including Central and South America, Asia and Africa.

The King’s Award for Enterprise will be presented to Atlantas Marine by His Majesty The King’s personal

representative in the county, the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset.

In addition, a special reception for recipients of King’s Awards for Enterprise will be hosted later this year by His Majesty The King at Windsor Castle.

The company employs 16 staff from its new state-of-theart, energy efficient offices in Yeovil.

With turnover in excess of £7m – expected to exceed £10m by 2027 – Atlantas plans to further expand its sales and inspection services in the coming years.

Sectors targeted include offshore wind, a growth area as the move to net zero continues.

MD and founder Charlie Foll with team Atlantas Marine members celebrating the award

Picture: Scott Macintyre Photography

10 pitfalls to watch out for when taking a commercial lease

Navigating the world of commercial leasing? Buckle up because it's not always smooth sailing! Whether you're a seasoned pro or dipping your toes into the commercial property pool for the first time, there are some common pitfalls you'll want to avoid.

Here's our rundown of the top 10 things to watch out for when taking on a commercial lease, straight from the savvy minds at Pardoes' commercial property department.

1.Time is of the Essence: Ever feel like finding the perfect space is like searching for a needle in a haystack? We get it! From scouting locations to negotiating terms, it's a journey that often takes longer than expected. Be prepared for the unexpected and plan ahead for those fit-out works.

2.The Right Fit: Choosing a property that aligns with your business needs is crucial. Location, layout, and amenities all play a part. Plus, make sure you've got a solid grasp of the lease terms – you don't want any surprises down the line!

3.Time's Up: Lease length is a tricky balancing act. Too short, and you're left in limbo; too long, and you might find yourself stuck in a space that no longer

by SARAH GRATTON Pardoes Solicitors

suits your needs. Negotiate terms that work for you and keep an eye out for any hidden clauses.

4.Rent Woes: Rent obligations can feel like a minefield. Late payment charges, rent reviews – it's enough to make your head spin! Make sure you're crystal clear on what you're signing up for to avoid any nasty surprises.

5.Money Talks: Keep an eye out for any unexpected costs lurking in the shadows. Insurance, utilities, service charges – they all add up! Negotiate where you can to keep your budget in check.

6.Passing the Baton: Need to pass on the lease? It's not as simple as handing over the keys! Understand the process, including costs and conditions, before making any moves.

7.Repairs and Maintenance: Who's responsible for fixing that leaky faucet? Clarify repair obligations upfront to avoid any disputes down the line. And don't forget to document the premises' condition – it could save you a headache

later on!

8.Early Exit: Sometimes, things don't go according to plan. Negotiate a little flexibility into your lease agreement to give yourself an out if needed. Trust us; you'll thank yourself later!

9.The Dreaded Rent Review: Brace yourself for the rent review – it's like waiting for exam results! Understand your landlord's rights and negotiate like a pro to ensure you're not left out of pocket.

10.All's Well That Ends Well: Not every lease has a fairy-tale ending. Financial setbacks, disputes – they happen. But with careful negotiation and open communication, you can minimise the risk and keep your business on track.

So, there you have it – our top tips for navigating the world of commercial leasing. With a little know-how and a dash of negotiation skills, you'll be signing on the dotted line with confidence in no time!

n For more information visit our website www.pardoes.co.uk or call 0800 062 0442

Clearance Sales - Somerset offers low-risk opportunity to try reselling for all AD

OWNED and run by Dave Coombs, this is a small business located near Brent Knoll that supplies entrepreneurs with brand new stock from bankruptcies, closing downs, surplus, etc.

I have been doing this for more than 30 years and supply people up and down the country with new stock to sell at bargain prices on eBay, at boot sales, markets and more.

One of the advantages of using me is that I have no minimum spend, so if someone is just trying out reselling, they can keep their financial risk to a minimum.

FEATURE

Viewing at any time is by appointment only so you are not disturbed by other people and I can give you 100% attention.

To view, simply give me a ring and we can get together.

My other line is rugged plastic storage boxes, ideal for a host of uses.

I have lots of various sizes and they are used for lots of different things; Clearing out the loft, clearing the garage, keeping car boot stock in!

The beauty of these is that if no longer need them in the future, you can sell them and get your cash back!

Email: info@arbortech org uk

Tel: 07946179722

Web: www arbortech org uk

-Tree surgery

-Surveying -Planting -Hedge maintenance -Woodland and vegetation management

Home & Garden

Sutton Upholsterers are a family run business which has been established since 1978. We operate from modern well equipped offices and workshops in Langport.

Reupholstery & Repair - Traditional & Modern Curtains Made to Measure

Curtain Poles & Tracks

Loose Covers

Venetian & Roman Blinds

Replacement Sofa Cushions DIY Supplies & Foam Cut to Size

With more than thirty years of experience, Suttons are happy to advise on all upholstery & soft furnishings - from re-covering a much loved sofa to making loose covers, cushions and

We have a wide range of contemporary and traditional fabrics to choose from, to suit all styles and budgets.

•

• Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

• Buying advice, setup and installation

Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.

Farming

'Pets problem hasn't changed in more than 50 years - more needs to be done'

WE are so very lucky with our neighbours where we live. They kindly keep an eye on sheep and cattle for us and if a lamb has it’s head stuck in a fence or a cow has calved unexpectantly on the moor, there is usually a phone call asking if we are aware.

It has been quite a trying time lambing this year, mainly due to the wet weather. Maybe a good hard think about lambing later next year when the weather might be more clement, is in order.

However, it seems that other farmers have had many more problems than us. I feel that I ought to give a warning, such as you hear on the television news, when they say “the next item some viewers may find distressing”. I certainly did!

A recent article in the South West farmer’s press caught my eye – Backlash after farmer ties dead sheep to post. A photo of a dead sheep

OVER THE FARM GATE

by HELEN WALKER

with wounds around it’s head was tied to electric fencing stakes with a notice saying “This is what dogs do to sheep!”.

Apparently, a picture of this had been circulating online.

More than 50 years ago I started to keep livestock and dog attacks on sheep were then a big problem. Now, nearly every month in the press there are reports of dog attacks on sheep and cattle.

I am quite boring in that I will bang on to anyone that will listen, that you need to keep your dog on a lead near any sheep but especially near pregnant ewes. There you see – I am doing it now!

The RSPCA is quite polite about it, perhaps the farmer in question thought that shock tactics would make a difference? Apart from the suffering of the sheep, he or

she has to deal with the consequences of someone who has allowed their dog to attack.

It was reported that a concerned resident said that they feel very strongly about animals and that they are anti-farmer that exploit innocent animals to produce and then be slaughtered.

He/she goes on to say that the farmer should have the electric fence put on him and that tying the dead body to a post was totally uncalled for.

I find it somewhat strange that a person who is such an animal lover seems completely unconcerned that someone allowed their dog to rip the throat out of a sheep but thinks it fine to have a go at a farmer who obviously cares enough to try and make a point. How sad!

The next article was in the local press; Pain, fear &

distress of the lamb hurled down stone stairs by teens.

I felt physically sick after reading what these “children” did to ewes and lambs, I won’t go into more detail here. The lamb thrown down the stairs was never found. Their “entertainment” was shown by them on social media, which is how they were detected and prosecuted. They are subject to a referral order apparently. Gosh, that is tough for them - I make no further comment!

Finally on a lighter note, the picture is of our bottle-fed lambs, getting excited and jumping on and exploiting Graham!

Government will extend seasonal worker scheme to 2029

SEASONAL worker visasintroduced to make it easier for people to come to the UK for farm work - are to be extended, the Government has announced.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has introduced a number of measures after John Shropshire’s Independent Review into Labour Shortages.

The measures include extending the seasonal worker visa route for five years, until 2029, providing up to £50 million to fund new technology to support fully

automated packhouses and robotic crop pickers, and creating a comprehensive strategy to enhance skills provision and attract domestic workers to the sector.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said: "We have a world-class food and drink sector, and the measures announced today will strengthen this by boosting funding for the cutting-edge technology that will reduce reliance on migrant labour in the long term.

"Businesses do best when they can plan effectively for

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the future, which is why we’ve extended the seasonal worker visa route until 2029 to give farmers and growers the certainty they need to thrive."

NFU president, Tom Bradshaw, welcomed the news.

He said it “will be a huge relief for the horticulture and poultry sectors that rely on seasonal workers and is a brilliant win for the NFU, which has been campaigning for a long-term plan for seasonal workers for some time”.

He added: "We have seen in the past how damaging shortages of workers have

been."

Recent NFU survey data showed 41% of respondents reduced the amount of food they produced due to being unable to recruit the essential workforce needed, with approximately £60 million worth of crops lost during 2022 due to labour shortages.

The scheme makes it easier for seasonal workers to come to the UK

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Cryptic crossword

2

Crossword

6

Cryptic crossword

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Across

7 Expression in Italy for stations (7)

9 Find fault with bachelor, rowdy male (5)

10 Excellent feature in court? (3)

11 Claim job with university after a deadline? (9)

Sudoku Pro

12 Fool within walls of grocery given to vapid talk (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

14 Robot in human form manoeuvred in road close to land (7)

Down

1 Direct and narrow passage, we’re told (8)

2 Elder, say, getting support around rector (4)

3 Son with hint merely (6)

4 Sailor in Marseilles on back of billboard is ridiculous (6)

5 Frenchman with a vehicle on island getting pasta (8)

6 Give up source in hearing (4)

16 Percussive instruments in main pit damaged (7)

18 Waste strip of wood for lighting candle (5)

19 Vain lot I fancy after securing Oscar getting abuse (9)

20 Priest, informally, concerned with verse (3)

21 Sound of bay, maybe, in eight harbours (5)

22 Less advanced Canadian musician with Queen (7)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

8 Unsteadiness, isn’t it, with Libya? (11)

13 Coils by ground around medium? That’s characteristic of a sign (8)

15 Conveyance of French uniform (8)

17 Indifference apparently at hospital close to irresponsibility (6)

18 Like a misguided person among criminals Fulham (6)

19 Doctor penning note for opening (4)

20 Fury with shooting venue denied name (4)

Sanctuary launches urgent £100,000 appeal to help stave off rising costs

A SOMERSET animal sanctuary has launched an "urgent appeal" in a bid to ensure its survival through the coming months.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary, which has been running since 1939, has rescued, rehabilitated, or rehomed around 40,000 animals.

Based on a 72-acre site near Chard, the charity now says it needs funding in a bid to stave off the effects of the cost-ofliving crisis.

"Our dedicated team work tirelessly to provide the animals that pass through our gates the love, care and attention that they need," a spokesperson said.

"But right now we find ourselves amid an unprecedented and severe financial downturn and need your help now more than ever."

Among animals it has helped is Milo the dog, who was brought to the sanctuary at less than a year old.

"He arrived covered in wounds, scabs, urine scald and with his claws growing into his feet," the spokesperson went on.

"Poor Milo was clearly in excruciating pain and smelled so strongly of infection, but his eyes gleamed with excitement to see us and he did not complain at all."

Milo, pictured, has needed ongoing and intensive care, with regular medicated baths and antibiotics to treat the infection he arrived with.

"He has suffered terribly in his short lifetime, but he has remained so bright and friendly towards us which is a testament to his adorable character," the spokesperson added.

"Milo has made incredible progress in his time at Ferne. The team continue to look after him diligently, with daily washes of his feet and lots of TLC, he can now look forward to heading off to his loving forever home.

"Please donate what you can today to help provide a second chance to animals like Milo.

"Any donation big or small will make a huge difference."

For more information on the appeal and the sanctuary, log on to www. ferneanimalsanctuary.org/urgent-appeal.

Dog Harness Fitting

Animals looking for forever homes

Barney Barney is a handsome young chap who is in search of his forever home after coming to St Giles from a multi-cat household.

He is a young boy and has settled in brilliantly with his friend Levi. He is quite a confident and happy fella and he could potentially live with Levi.

Breed: Domestic S.H (short hair)

Sex: Male

Age: 8 months

Colour: Black and White

Size: Small

Can live with cats: Sociable

Bolt

Levi

Levi is young boy and has settled in brilliantly with his friend Barney. He is a little nervous to begin with but it doesn’t take long for him to come out and engage. He is a very lovely boy who enjoys affection and attention once he comes to you and engages it.

Breed: Domestic S.H (short hair)

Sex: Male Age: 8 months

Colour: Black Size: Medium

Can live with cats: Sociable

Bolt is a lovely chap but a sensitive soul now in search of his forever home with someone who has patience and time for the love he deserves. He can initially be nervous of new people but soon builds a bond. He definitely loves a cuddle once he's bonded. Bolt walks quite nicely on lead but enjoys stopping.Bolt will need to be in an adult-only home with one to two people, as well as being the only animal.

Breed: Retriever (Labrador)

Age: 3 yrs 10 months

Sex: Male

Colour: Black

Size: Medium Can live with dogs: Interested Can live with cats: Negative

Kai

Sadie

This is Sadie, who was brought into the centre as a stray and is now looking for a new home with active owners who have the time and energy to spend giving her the training and exercise she needs. She enjoys going out for walks, and especially loves to play and run around in the paddocks here. She would benefit from mental as well as physical stimulation in order to keep her mind occupied.

Breed: Collie Age: 9 months

Can live with dogs: Worried

Sex: Female Size: Medium Colour: Black

Kai is a gorgeous young boy who was a stray now in search of his forever loving home. He has a lot of love to give and would be an excellent addition in the right home environment with people who have experience with dogs or even experience with the breed. He weighs around 35kg so would need a large enough environment to be able to stretch his long legs.

Breed: Dobermann

Sex: Male Age: 2 yrs 4 months

Colour: Black and Brown Size: Large Can live with dogs:Interested

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation

COMPANIONS at Peace is an independent, family-run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners.

Since opening in 2020, we have helped clients say their final farewell to their pets, companions and much-loved friends.

Whatever the circumstances, a phone call to us will be all that is needed.

We offer an individual collection service from your home, vet practice, or you can arrange to bring your companion to us personally.

We have a peaceful farewell room where bereaved owners can say their final goodbyes. From the smallest to the largest of companions, each

one is cared for on their final journey with dignity and compassion, from the moment you entrust them to us, until their ashes are returned to you.

We offer a range of caskets, urns and scatter tubes.

We will also help you find just the right one for your companion.

Whether you are anticipating that sad day, or your companion is healthy and you simply want to find out a little more about the service we provide, please just give us a call.

At Companions at Peace, we provide the peace of mind that your beloved companion will be cared for on their final journey with dignity, respect and compassion, and always individually.

Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners. • Collection Service • Farewell Room • Out of Hours Service provided

in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border

Don't miss microchipping deadline for pet cats - or risk a £500 fine

CAT owners are being urged to have their pets microchipped to avoid a potential £500 fine when new laws come into force next month.

From June 10, it will be law to have our feline friends chipped, which helps reunite lost animals with their owners.

There are more than 9 million pet cats in the UK, with microchipping proven to be the most effective method for identifying lost pets, with microchipped dogs more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owner.

Microchips cost around £25, including registration and often, charities and cat rescue organisations offer microchipping at a reduced rate.

Owned cats must be microchipped before reaching 20 weeks of age, with their contact details stored and kept up to date in a pet microchipping database.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, said: "Microchipping is by far the most effective and quickest way of identifying lost pets.

"As we’ve seen with dog microchipping, those who are microchipped are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owner.

"I urge all owners to ensure their cat is microchipped before the legal deadline so they can increase the likelihood that they will be reunited with their beloved pet in the event of it going missing."

British Veterinary Association president, Anna Judson, said: "Microchipping is a safe, simple

New Independent Vets

technology that can have a big impact; enabling vets to reunite hundreds of lost, stray and stolen cats with their families each year, and allowing injured cats to be quickly identified and treated.

"With the deadline for compulsory microchipping fast approaching we urge owners with unchipped cats to make an appointment with their practice today.

"If you have any concerns or are unsure if your cat needs to be chipped, please speak to your vet."

Flick those ticks: What owners need to know

WITH the milder wetter winters now becoming more of a common occurrence in the UK, the prevalence of ticks all year round has become a bigger problem for pets and their owners.

Having picked off ticks from both my dogs in February this year, informing pet owners a bit more about ticks and what disease they can spread is very important. What are ticks?

Ticks are arachnids and are part of the group arthropods which also include spiders, mites and scorpions. They have a segmented body with eight legs and a head with mouth part to allow for feeding. They only feed on mammals, including humans.

We have 22 different types (species) of ticks in the UK. The most common are the Ixodes Ricinus (deer/sheep tick) and Hexagonus (Hedgehog tick).

Life cycle of the tick

Ticks have four stages to their lifecycle. An adult will climb onto a passing animal and attach with the barbed mouth part.

They feed and engorge

by EMILY MUNDAY DVM MRCVS

Vet and owner of Hamstone Vets, Crewkerne

themselves with blood and pass saliva into the mammal for several days.

The female tick drops off and lays thousands of eggs. The eggs hatch into larva that have to feed on a host again before they moult into a nymph. The nymph feeds again on a host before moulting for the final time developing into the adult tick. Should I be worried about ticks?

Ticks can leave a localised swelling and if the tick is not removed properly the head can be left in the animal and may form a small abscess.

Ticks can also spread diseases. The two they can spread in this country are: Babesia and Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. A red ring bullseye around a tick site is typically seen on humans infected with the bacteria. Initial flu type symptoms occur but can affect multiple organs.

Babesia is mainly carried

by ‘exotic ticks’. It is a blood parasite and is exchanged through the saliva in the tick. They live in the blood and can severe illness in both animals and people. They can destroy red blood cells can cause severe anaemia.

Prevention of ticks

In rural areas, ticks are very common. It is important to check your pets on a daily basis. A tick remover can be used or if in any doubt consult a veterinarian.

It is advisable to use a tick control product on a regular

basis to reduce the number of ticks that attach to your pets and potentially spread harmful disease.

These come in chewable treat tablet (Simparica trio, Bravecto, and Credelio plus) spot ons (Bravecto) and collars (Serresto).

If pet owners feel their pet has not had suitable treatment for ticks and would like more information, it would be recommended to talk to their registered vet practice for more information and guidance.

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Many brands of dog & cat food stocked

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Wide selection of wild bird food & feeders

Orders Welcome - If there is something you require which we don’t stock we will endeavour to order for you

Food & Drink

Revealing the rudimentary superfood - olive oil

COBBS CORNER

ONE of the simplest and most basic foods known to man is probably the biggest powerhouse of nutrients essential to our health, and preventing many modern day diseases exacerbated by our Western diet.

This supercool is good old olive oil! But not any old oil - I have been researching the benefits of high quality extra virgin cold pressed Italian olive oil and have discovered some surprising secrets.

I have discovered that organic Italian oil has a much higher level of polyphenols.

These are compounds present in the oil from olive trees grown near volcanic regions .

These polyphenols have fantastic antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects in the

body helping to prevent degenerative diseases common in our Western world.

Here are some discoveries that may surprise you...

Weight management

Yes an oil to reduce weight. Containing MCT - or medium chain fatty acids - extra virgin olive oil is quickly broken down and absorbed by the liver to convert into energy.

This helps to prevent and break down stubborn belly fat by shifting accumulated fat deposits.

Alzheimers disease

In cases of this degenerative disease, levels of beta amyloid plaque is found in raised levels in brain cells. The oleic acid found in olive oil helps to significantly break this down.

Gut health

Overgrowth of bacteria

such as helicopter pylori, the main cause of stomach ulcers and cancer is reduced by a daily dose of oil. It also encourages a healthy gut microbiome.

Joint health

Containing compounds called oleocathal, olive oil acts as effectively as ibuprofen as an antiflammatory as well as helping to lubricate and nourish your joints.

Heart disease and stroke

Probably the most common cause of compromised health in the western world!

The high levels of polyphenols help to prevent excessive blood clotting and helps to remove and dissolve harmful plaque from the arteries.

Cholesterol is balanced and blood pressure may improve if you take a daily dose of oil.

Ideally, take 15 mls daily directly from a spoon to address all of the above health issues and indeed for general health.

Other benefits are healthy skin and hair, especially if you suffer from hair thinning and skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Olive oil is high in vitamin E which is essential for skin and hair quality.

To check if your oil is high in polyphenols, a fool proof way is in the taste. It should be peppery and a bit bitter.

I find the purest and best oils are extra virgin organic olive oils.

Aswell as taking a daily dose use as a drizzle oil over salads and pasta dishes.

Cook with it though high temp cooking isn't recommended as this will kill off the goodies it contains!

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Cobbs stocks a select range of well priced organic olive oils . We also offer a refill service! So bring your empty bottle to refill to save money and the planet!

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Health & Wellbeing

Could counselling be your new career?

WESSEX Counselling & Psychotherapy has been making a difference in the community for over 40 years.

Based in Frome, our service extends to Bath, Bristol and The Mendips offering affordable, accessible, professional, accredited counselling.

At Wessex Counselling & Psychotherapy we have a vibrant training programme from counselling skills through to professional accreditation.

A range of training opportunities are available: a popular 10-week online Counselling Skills Course, Foundation Certificate and a dually accredited BACP / BPC Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling.

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Wellbeing

Motoring with David Young

New Maserati GranCabrio revealed

THE best advice you can give someone making a significant financial decision is pretty obvious: go with your head, not your heart. Sound advice, and exactly the opposite of what you’ll want to do when you’ve reached the bottom of the page.

Choosing a new car is a big decision and one that should be properly researched and considered. Or you could just listen to your heart and jump behind the wheel of the new Maserati GranCabrio instead.

The Maserati GranCabrio is the Italian brand’s latest creation intended to appeal to drivers looking for the perfect combination of comfort, luxury, style, and performance.

The latest model to bear the iconic Trident badge is based on the existing GranTurismo coupe. Created in parallel

with the GranTurismo, the GranCabrio retains the elegance and beauty of the coupe while simultaneously exposing the occupants to the warmth of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Unfortunately, I can’t promise the sunshine if you happen to live in Martock rather than Milan, but please don’t let that inconvenient little truth put you off.

Prevailing weather conditions aside, the Maserati GranCabrio offers a whole lot more than just a chance to top up your tan from behind the wheel.

That achingly pretty body is accentuated by the elegant swooping nose and purposeful rear end that just exudes power. It sits on a staggered

wheel configuration so you’ll get 21-inch rear wheels and 20-inch front wheels in a choice of six designs.

There are more than enough air intakes to confirm the impression that this is a powerful tourer, and with the fabric roof down you can take in the sights whilst listening to the growl of the engine through those four stainless exhausts outlets.

The interior is designed around functionality so expect to sit in a clean and

uncluttered cabin as you while away the miles. There’s no gear lever so the space can be better utilised to spread out the rest of the controls and associated screens. The dashboard is slim and elegant, a theme carried through to the sporty yet comfortable seats with built-in headrests.

The dashboard also houses the main 12.3-inch central display and 8.8-inch comfort display that control the majority of the car’s functions.

On a practical note, using a fabric soft-top means Maserati can offset some of the extra weight that inevitably comes from stiffening the chassis to compensate for the lack of roof. The choice of fabric rather than metal is one reason why the convertible manages to only weigh 100Kg more

than the coupe. Being fabric, the roof also folds more easily so you don’t have to sacrifice too much boot space in exchange for those wide-open skies. The GranCabrio is even clever enough to know whether the roof is up or down and can adjust the air conditioning and Bose sound system accordingly.

The fact that the GranCabrio is based on a longer chassis also means it come with sufficient room in the back for an extra couple of adults to enjoy the experience along with you.

And it’s an experience that begins as soon as you hit the starter button because that swooping bonnet hides one of the most potent engines in Maserati’s long and distinguished history.

When the Maserati GranCabrio arrives, it will initially be available in the Trofeo trim level which means you’ll have the six-cylinder Nettuno engine hiding beneath that gorgeously swooping bonnet. Maserati’s Nettuno engine sits at the heart of the range-topping MC20 supercar and incorporates some clever F1 technology. It should go without saying that if Maserati

is happy to put this engine into a supercar then it clearly packs a deceptively heavy punch.

In layman’s terms, the 3.0-litre twin-turbo generates a sizeable 542bhp that is sent to all four corners of the car via Maserati’s All-Wheel drive transmission. I could go into detail about the clever engineering in this engine, but a lot of it goes completely over my head so I’d probably end up getting it wrong. It’s much simpler to stick to the numbers everyone understands. In the case of the GranCabrio those numbers are 196mph and 3.5 seconds, which roughly translates to ‘very fast’.

At this point it might be worth mentioning another little snippet of information for the more environmentallyminded.

Maserati is also introducing an all-electric Folgore version of the GranCabrio.

You’ll have to wait a little longer to get your hands on this one, but it might be worth the wait. It features three electric motors – one at the front and two at the rear – and an 800v electrical system powered by the 92.5kWh battery.

The suggestions coming out

of Italy point to the Folgore offering even more power than the V6, boasting the electric equivalent of 760bhp.

The all-electric version is a little slower on the top speed – not that 180mph could be described as slow – but it makes up for it by hitting 60mph in under three seconds.

So, if you completely ignore the sensible advice and listen to your heart rather than your head, you could be one of the lucky few to experience the glorious new Maserati GranCabrio for yourself. I say lucky few, and you can probably guess why I chose those particular words so let’s just get it out in the open.

The brand-new Maserati GranCabrio is undoubtedly gorgeous and suitably powerful. But it’s also quite expensive.

Prices for the V6 Trofeo version start at £169,500.

The all-electric Folgore will set you back an even more eye-watering £185,600.

And you don’t need me to tell you what will happen to that number if you start playing with the options list…

So yes, you need to be quite lucky to be able to afford one, but if you can, there’s absolutely no reason whatsoever why you shouldn’t.

Changes to benefits

ANYONE working less than 18 hours a week who is claiming Universal Credit will be expected to look for more work under new rules.

From Monday, May 13, government rules say claimants must work 18 hours as opposed to the previous level of 15.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said the rule change meant 180,000 people would have to work more.

It comes due to a change in the Administrative Earnings Threshold (AET), which was set at £892 from May 13.

The amount is the equivalent of working 18 hours a week while earning the minimum wage.

People who earn more money, therefore, can work fewer hours.

The DWP said anyone

falling below the threshold would be given "intensive" support in a bid to increase their working hours.

It comes after the Government also launched a consultation over proposed changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme.

The Modernising Support Green Paper aims to explore how the welfare system can be redesigned to create "better outcomes" for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (Con, Richmond) said: "It’s clear that our disability benefits system isn’t working in the way it was intended, and we’re determined to reform it to ensure it’s sustainable for the future, so we can continue delivering support to those who genuinely need it most."

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Property Somerset home bought as a 'wreck' back up for sale - at £1.35 million

ASOMERSET

farmhouse property bought as a “wreck” almost 14 years ago is back on the market – for almost three times what it was last sold for.

Windmill Farm, including an 18th century farmhouse, was bought at auction in 2010 for a price believed to be around £500,000.

Now, it has gone back on sale, with the guide price of a whopping £1.35 million.

The 10.43-acre property, in Pibsbury, near Langport, is being marketed by Somerset agent Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH).

As well as the restored farmhouse itself, Windmill Farm also includes a twobedroom lodge and two detached holiday lets.

A GTH spokesperson said:

“It was bought at a GTH auction as a wreck 14 years ago, with the vendors spending 12 months restoring

the property to its former glory.

“Now, it provides a beautiful home augmented by attractive holiday accommodation, which the current vendors have created.

“It created a good deal of interest when it came onto the market, but all types of property are currently being sought in the Langport area.”

The listing for Windmill Farm describes it as incorporating “a beautiful mix of old and new”.

“Offered for sale in immaculate condition throughout, with a twobedroom lodge and two sought-after holiday accommodations all set centrally in its 10.43-acre plot.”

Windmill Farm when it was bought, below, and above, how it looks now

Pictures: GTH