Mendip Living Apr - May 2024

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

18 36 

JACK COSY STEIN & CALM INTERVIEW LIVING SPACES & RECIPE 

Welcome to the April/May 

edition - a celebration of 

I had my first English 

spring and early summer, 

strawberry this week, and my 

word, 

where 

it was 

we’re 

beyond 

shaking 

delicious 

off 

- 

the 

perfectly 

winter 

sweet, 

blues 

it 

with 

was 

a 

very 

hearty 

good 

dose 

advert 

of 

for 

vitaminpacked 

kale I’ve recipes, tried to a living echo 

eating 

seasonally. 

this room in all transformation my recent fruit that’ll and 

vegetable make you purchases, want to grab and it’s a 

had paintbrush, a transformative and effect enough on 

my spring cooking garden - everything content just 

tastes to make better even - more the vibrant, most 

needing reluctant less green seasoning thumb reach and 

just for the overall trowel. very tasty. 

INTERIOR HEALTHY RECIPES UPDATES 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

22 24 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Adrian Hill 

e adrian.hill@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984496 

Front cover courtesy of Thatcher’s 

Cider Company 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

48 27 

PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS 

JULIA KENDELL 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

I’m Feeling making a bit the wilted most after of 

cooking winter? Fear whilst not! I still We’ve have got a 

kitchen recipes that’ll - mine have is due you to kaleing 

it in out the in two kitchen weeks like and a 

be 

ripped 

it pro. will From be camping one-pan-heroes stove and 

air to frying comforting two pasta, months these from 

there! dishes I’ve will already have you picked feeling my 

kitchen, like a leafy but it green got me superhero thinking 

about in no time. all the other areas that 

need updating in my home. If 

you Ever are looked thinking around of a similar your 

refresh, living room please and check thought, out our 

home “Hmm, pages this could this do edition with a - 

they’re bit of zhuzhing”? full of inspiring Well, trends hold 

and onto a your few timeless scatter classics. cushions 

because we’ve got a living 

We’ve room transformation also got some lovely that’ll 

editorial make you on want the to best dust off plants the 

for DIY pollinators gear and get - it’s cracking. never 

been 

We even 

so important 

caught up 

to 

with 

support 

DIY 

wildlife 

SOS designer 

in the garden. 

Julia Kendell 

to talk all things kitchen! 

The competition guide this 

issue is a bumper one - we 

And for those of you who 

have an outdoor furniture 

prefer to get your hands dirty 

set from Bramblecrest worth 

outside, we’ve got plenty 

nearly £3,000, plus a cordless 

of spring garden content to 

lawnmower worth £679 to get 

keep you entertained. 

that garden in shape. This, 

plus a lot more makes it well 

worth 

But hey, 

a look 

that’s 

and an 

just 

enter! 

the 

beginning! Our Spring 

We 

edition 

will 

is 

be 

bursting 

back 

with 

again 

more 

in 

August 

insights, 

- 

and 

I’ll be 

articles 

fully rebooted 

to keep 

and you recharged entertained into until summer we 

mode. reconvene See in you June. then! So grab a 

cuppa, put your feet up, and 

let’s spring into action! 

Katie 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

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Supported by Saxobeat & That Brit Pop band 

at Freedom Farm 

PROFESSOR GREEN 

Scan Me 

Book now 

13th April 24 

18.30PM 

THE BATH & WEST SHOWGROUND 

Tickets from £55 

IN AID OF RUSHTON DOG RESCUE 

Book Now

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

PROFESSOR GREEN PLAYS 

FOR RUSHTON DOG RESCUE 

Rushton Dog Rescue is run by mother and daughter 

duo, Cindi and Zoe, who are dedicated to saving 

and rescuing animals. They tell us more about the 

upcoming charity concert this April where Professor 

Green is playing the Bath and West Showground... 

Tell us a little of the history of Rushton 

Dog Rescue? 

We started Rushton Dog Rescue in 2007, 

after the loss of Cindi’s partner Timothy 

Rushton. Since then we’ve rescued 

thousands and thousands of dogs 

including other animals. The charity has 

grown rapidly during the years and we’re 

now lucky enough to have Freedom Farm 

to operate from. The charity is run by us 

both, Zoe and Cindi, we’re very close as 

mother and daughter and lucky we both 

share the same passion. 

You have some famous patrons, right? 

Yes we do, we have Shirlie Kemp who 

is lovely and has adopted one of our 

poodles. The Kemp family have done 

some TV game shows before for the 

charity which has been very helpful in 

the past. 

This April Professor Green is playing 

the Bath and West in aid of Rushton 

Dog Rescue. How did all this come 

about? 

Yes that’s right! We really love music 

and we have been thinking of doing 

a big music event for the charity for a 

long while now. It was actually Cindi’s 

(mums) idea! We have been really, really 

struggling with funds so thought this 

could be a great event to raise much 

needed funds to ensure we can carry on 

our vital work and for people to enjoy a 

night out at the same time! 

How did it feel when he agreed? 

Oh we were absolutely delighted! We 

actually jumped and screamed with joy! 

What can I expect on the night Zoe? 

The night is going to be solely music 

based. It’s going to be such a great night! 

With music from two support acts we 

chose.. ‘That Brit Pop Band’ who are 

really talented and play some awesome 

covers! The other being ‘SaxoBeat’ which 

is a DJ and saxophone set..it’s super cool 

and will definitely get the crowd dancing! 

There will be opportunities to purchase 

merchandise too which also benefits the 

charity! 

The evening with Prof Green is all 

in aid of your charity, but how can I 

donate separately? 

We really are desperate for donations 

right now, people can donate via our 

website... www.rushtondogrescue. 

co.uk 

On there you can donate via PayPal, 

Bacs and directly through a donation 

link! Every donation we are lucky enough 

to receive goes directly to the dogs! We 

are not a charity which pays wages and 

expenses for humans…everything is for 

the dogs and that’s a promise! 

Where abouts are you? 

We are based in Somerset, just outside 

of Langport, a place called Henley.. our 

centre is named Freedom Farm. 

Do I need to book an appointment to 

visit, or can I just turn up? 

We do prefer for people to contact us 

before turning up. This is due to the fact 

the dogs have free rein across the farm 

for the majority of the day. We don’t like 

the thought of just because they are in a 

rescue they need to be confined inside 

kennels… dogs deserve freedom (hence 

our centre name). We also like to ensure 

those coming into contact with our 

dogs are those we can make sure would 

never cause them distress. We are very 

protective of our dogs so like to make 

sure we only invite those in to them we 

know have been vetted by ourselves. 

Where can I find out more about the 

concert and Rushton Dog Rescue? 

The event details are on our social media 

pages, the See Tickets page where you 

can purchase a tickets. If anyone would 

like more information then they can feel 

free to contact us directly. 

www.rushtondogrescue.co.uk 


MEET THE 

Fromies 

WE TALK TO BUSINESSES 

IN AND AROUND FROME 

WHO ARE PASSIONATE 

ABOUT WHAT THEY DO... 

FRODO 

YOU’VE WON FROME’S PERSON OF 

THE YEAR AWARD OR SHOULD WE 

SAY FROME’S ‘PURR-SON’ OF THE 

YEAR WITH A SPECIAL CAT AWARD 

TO MARK YOUR POPULARITY IN 

TOWN. HOW DOES IT FEEL FRODO? 

Puuuuuurrrrrrr 

YOU WERE NOMINATED FOR BEING 

SOCIABLE, APPROACHABLE AND 

FRIENDLY AROUND FROME TOWN 

CENTRE YEAH? 

Meow Mow Mow 

YOU ALSO FOUND FAME AS THE 

TROWBRIDGE TESCO CAT BEFORE 

MOVING TO FROME? 

Meow Meow Meow 

YOU’RE OFTEN SEEN WANDERING TO 

THE CHEESE AND GRAIN, WESTWAY 

CINEMA AND EVEN THE THREE 

SWANS PUB TO MEET AND GREET 

YOUR FANS. DO YOU GET LOTS OF 

LOVE? 

Purrrrrrrrrrrrrrr 

ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO 

SAY TO THE PEOPLE OF FROME THAT 

VOTED FOR YOU FRODO? 

Purrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr 

SARAH SWALES 

FROME FESTIVAL 

YOU’VE JUST JOINED THE TEAM AT 

FROME FESTIVAL. WHAT IS YOUR 

NEW ROLE? 

I am Festival Manager which is the first point 

of contact for many. We are a very small 

team so the role is varied, including admin, 

social media, fundraisers and talking to a 

LOT of people (which I love!). We work all 

year to put on the Festival which happens 

over 10 days. This year it is from Friday 5th 

to Sunday 14th July and you can find out 

more on www.fromefestival.co.uk or on 

Facebook and Instagram. 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT 

THE FESTIVAL? 

I’m passionate about the arts so the 

Festival has always been the highlight of 

Frome’s calendar for me. The programme 

is so full and varied and you’ll often find 

me running around seeing art exhibitions 

and then catching a poetry reading or 

theatre production or a gig or two, all in 

the same day! This year I’m also planning 

on catching more comedy and attending 

some of the workshops and food and drink 

tasting events, plus a silent horror film with 

live organ improvisation in a church. 

BIG PLANS FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT? 

We can’t reveal everything yet but I’m 

excited to see comedy legend Richard 

Herring and I think the Old Time Sailors, 

a high energy shanty band, will be a hoot! 

We will have more youth programming this 

year, including a cartoon drawing workshop 

by a Beano illustrator, bouldering induction 

sessions, and a magic show. There is even 

a Willy Wonka Family Rave planned for 

the really little ones. We’re celebrating 60 

years of “Charlie & The Chocolate Factory” 

and, young or old, you might be lucky 

enough to find a Golden Ticket! And, as it’s 

Frome, you can expect some quirky things 

popping up here and there. Goth Morris 

dancers, anyone?! 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT 

FROME? 

I really appreciate the beautiful 

architecture and landscape, especially 

after living away for so long. I love that 

you can walk to almost everything that 

you need, which is very different from 

Seattle, and the good public transport 

connections to larger cities. I’m amazed 

at how many talented and creative people 

live here so I have a rich cultural life full 

of art, photography, and music. The 

Cheese & Grain pulls in some incredible 

bands too and I’ve seen everyone from 

Paul McCartney to PIL, Johnny Marr, The 

Pretenders and Robert Plant. I certainly 

didn’t expect that when I moved here! 

I really enjoy Frome’s quirkiness with 

celebrity cats like Frodo and Dexter, 

and its traditions like the lighting of 

the Valentine’s lamp, the Town Crier 

and Wassail. But, most of all, I love the 

sense of community. People help each 

other and there are plenty of volunteer 

opportunities. I am involved in putting on 

secret pop-up gigs in varied locations for 

Sofar Sounds which we do for the love 

of music and community and, of course, 

Frome Festival brings the town together 

as well. It’s very easy to meet people in 

Frome and there’s always something fun 

to do. 



Established in 2001 this band is the only tribute to have performed with two original 

founder members of Blondie, legendary drummer Clem Burke and songwriter, bass 

player and author Gary Valentine. BB had the honour to be thanked on Blondie’s 11th 

album ‘Pollinator’ and have played at the world famous CBGB in New York City. 

Ade Hill met the fabulous Debbie and discovered more! 

WHEN YOU WERE YOUNGER WERE 

YOU THAT LITTLE GIRL SINGING 

WITH A HAIRBRUSH IN THE 

MIRROR? 

Yes, especially on a Thursday night 

after Top Of The Pops. Funnily enough 

we’ve used that image for a character 

in the rock opera we’re working on with 

Blondie’s drummer Clem Burke called 

‘Songs From The Big Smoke’. 

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU 

FIRST HEARD DEBBIE HARRY? 

Ha ha you don’t ask a lady her age!!!! I 

was pretty young. I remember hearing 

‘Hanging On The Telephone’. Later on 

I found out it was a cover written by 

Californian band The Nerves! 

HOW AND WHERE DID IT ALL START 

FOR YOU DEBBIE IN TERMS OF 

BECOMING A TRIBUTE? 

Well we always performed interesting 

covers in our original band Granny Takes 

A Trip and when Maria came out in 

1999 we decided to cover it. Every time 

we played the song we’d get people 

coming up to us or we’d get handed little 

notes asking for more Blondie songs, 

so because my real name is Debbie and 

my partner’s name is Andy Harris who 

is also the guitarist we decided to go 

for it full time. When we 

got married Debbie Harry 

sent a video message of 

congratulations to us. You 

can see it on 

www.bootlegblondie.com 

YOU’VE PLAYED AT 

CBGB RIGHT? 

Yes we have. It was back 

in 2006 just before CBGB 

closed, we were asked 

over by Blondie fans to 

play there. We played the 

Friday night at OTTO’S 

SHRUNKEN HEAD and 

Saturday at CBGB. It was 

a dream come true to 

shout 1234 on that stage 

lol! We headlined, got no 

money, bought second 

hand guitars and Andy 

unbolted the neck on his 

and brought it home in his 

suitcase. He still uses it to 

this day. We have a little 

framed CBGB shrine on 

our wall. Inside we have 

the tops of the taps from 

the toilet hand basin, bits 

of mosaic floor tiles and plaster from 

the wall with graffiti and stickers still 

attached! We went back later in the year 

and CBGB was gone. 

HOW DID DEBBIE HARRY FIND OUT 

ABOUT YOU GUYS? 

It was through Clem who we first met in 

2005. He told Debbie we were to play 

CBGB and she sent us a ‘Good luck with 

your show’ message! 

THAT REALLY MUST HAVE BEEN A 

LIFE MOMENT, RIGHT? 

Yes it knocked us for 6! And who would 

have thought that this would go on to us 

meeting Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, 

playing two sell out UK tours with Clem 

Burke on drums and performing some 

shows with another founder member 

Gary Valentine! To top it off we have now 

written and recorded 36 original songs 

with Clem for our rock opera. 

FOR ANYONE WHO HAS NEVER 

SEEN YOU BEFORE, WHAT CAN 

THEY EXPECT? 

Well we’ve been described as a fan’s 

band which is fantastic, that’s how we 

started - as Blondie fans. We play all the 

hits plus album tracks and b sides. We 

also have cool Blondie memorabilia, mine 

and Andy’s guitars signed by Blondie 

and our drum kit which Clem has played 

on with us, is signed by Clem and Gary 

Valentine. Plus I fit as many authentic 

Debbie Harry costume changes as I can 

into a full two hour show! 

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE 

ABOUT THE TOUR THIS YEAR 

DEBBIE? 

All our dates are up on our website: 

www.bootlegblondie.com and on the 

facebook Debbie Harris and Bootleg 

Blondie Band pages. 


301 - MAY 3 – 1 JUNE 2023 2024 

DISCOVER MORE AT 

THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW 

Book your tickets now: bathandwest.com/tickets 

Adult advanced tickets: £25, Family advanced tickets: £50 (2x adults & 3x children) 

Advanced rate until 16th May 2024

April Powers! 


April will see the publication of new novels from two nationally-acclaimed 

Frome authors: Libby Page and Keith Stuart. So, as the sun fully emerges 

from its winter hibernation, you can enjoy two uplifting full-of-heart reads to 

leave you feeling lighter of spirit as we step into Spring. 

First up, a welcome return by 

Libby Page to the world of The 

Lido. But in The Lifeline the 

action unfolds in Somerset, as 

Kate has swapped life in London 

to start a family in the country. 

But being a Mum is far from 

what she had imagined and as 

Kate struggles to put down new 

roots, she misses the sense of 

connection that swimming in 

the Lido provided. Will 

wild swimming help to 

fill that void? This is a 

comforting return to a 

familiar world, but with 

some really lovely new 

characters thrown into 

the mix. 

Keith Stuart is the master 

of big-hearted, cannilyobserved, 

real-life drama. 

I’ve yet to read a Keith 

Stuart novel that I haven’t 

both laughed and cried 

through. Love is a Curse is 

no exception. Cammy has 

always known that a ‘curse’ 

hangs over the women in her 

family; that they are destined 

to lose the one they love. 

But she has always managed 

to brush the curse aside 

– until they day in her late 

twenties when her boyfriend 

is hit by a car and dies… 

Another absolutely beautiful, 

heart-rending reach across the ages, which 

you simply will not want to end. 

If you would like an exclusive *Signed & Inscribed* copy of either (or both!) of these titles from Winstone’s Hunting Raven 

Books you can purchase online at bit.ly/loveisacursefrome and bit.ly/lifelinefrome or drop us a line at 

winstonebooks3@gmail.com / 01373 473111. 

AT RUDGE 

Newly renovated, independent 

country pub with 5 beautiful letting 

rooms and large dining room. 

Serving elevated pub classics, 

generous Sunday roasts, 

real ales & ciders. 

Open Wednesday - Sunday. 

@fullmooninnrudge 

fullmooninn 

01373 830936 

office@fullmooninn.co.uk 

www.fullmooninn.co.uk 

GARDEN 

Now Open! 


PASTORAL CARE 

in schools 

Children’s mental health has hit 

a worrying low, according to a 

raft of research from charities 

and professional bodies. From 

anxieties caused by exam 

stress and social media to the 

devastating toll of the pandemic, 

the picture has never been starker. 

MENTAL HEALTH 

SUPPORT IN SCHOOLS 

Schools have a key part to play both 

in terms of prevention and picking 

up the pieces when things escalate, 

but the picture here isn’t great either. 

‘Provision in schools is patchy and 

fragmented – having a counsellor isn’t 

even mandatory in schools,’ says 

David Stephenson, senior policy and 

campaigns officer at the charity Mind. 

Good news is that Ofsted and ISI 

now assess personal development, 

which includes mental health in 

schools. Areas such as resilience, 

confidence, independence, and 

how to keep mentally healthy are all 

covered. As part of pastoral care in 

schools, all schools have to provide 

a mental health and relationships 

curriculum, and the government has 

committed to a £1,200 training grant 

for each school to ensure a whole 

school approach, albeit by 2025. 

AWARENESS TRAINING 

FOR TEACHERS 

A positive step towards good mental 

health in children is the growth in 

training staff in mental health first aid. 

At Lord Wandsworth College, a co-ed 

day and boarding senior school in 

Hampshire, this goes for all staff. ‘It 

means they know what to look out for 

and what to do when a pupil comes 

to them – in some cases that will be 

a listening ear and reassurance, other 

times support or signposting,’ says 

headteacher Adam Williams, who 

adds that staff wellbeing in schools is 

also a priority for them. 

PEER SUPPORT 

The school has a peer mentoring 

programme whereby young people 

are trained to support one another 

and break down the stigma often 

associated by mental health. 

‘Sometimes you feel safer and more 

12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

comfortable talking to someone 

nearer your age – and they are just 

more likely to understand,’ said a 

pupil on our recent visit. The school 

also involves parents, running talks 

and giving practical advice on how 

to support teenagers. 

WELLBEING HUBS 

A dedicated wellbeing hub is one 

way to address mental health issues 

in children. At Malvern St James, an 

all-through girls’ day and boarding 

school, The Hive is described by Zinnia 

Wilkinson, director of pastoral care, 

as ‘a comfortable, welcoming space 

where pupils can just be but also see 

a counsellor for a 30-minute session 

just for one or two weeks because 

sometimes that’s all they need.’ 

MENTAL HEALTH VS 

GRADES 

Wilkinson points out that parents 

often perceive a school to be good 

pastorally or academically, but not 

both. ‘In fact if a school is pastorally 

strong, it’s in the best position to 

thrive academically,’ she says. 

Sophie Blunt, housemistress 

at Wycombe Abbey, a day and 

boarding senior school for girls, 

agrees. Outstanding pastoral care 

might not be the first thing you 

think of at one of the top academic 

schools for girls, and yet many of 

the parents we spoke to whose 

daughters had needed intervention 

were full of praise for how the school 

had responded. ‘Wellbeing education 

is at the heart of our curriculum – it’s 

on timetable for every girl,’ she says. 

For Dean Taylor, associate headteacher 

at Seven Kings School, a co-ed state 

school for 4-18 in east London, it’s the 

relationship between staff and pupils 

that holds the key to positive mental 

health in schools. ‘The ethos is more 

important than anything and you can 

walk around this school and see that it’s 

inclusive, friendly, safe and with clear 

and consistent boundaries,’ he says. 

The school pays particular attention to 

pressure points such as exam time and 

makes sure every child has a trusted 

adult. There’s a joined-up approach 

with the SENCO too, in the knowledge 

that youngsters with conditions such as 

ADHD and autism can be particularly 

at risk of mental health problems. ‘The 

most vulnerable pupils have a onepage 

profile that’s shared with all staff,’ 

he adds. 

DISCIPLINE 

Nearly half of young people are 

disciplined at school for behaviour 

related to their mental health, according 

to Mind’s latest research. One in four 

school staff were aware of a student 

being excluded from school because of 

their mental health. Seven Kings avoids 

this by never taking behaviour at face 

value. ‘It’s about conversations and 

getting pupils to reflect if they’ve broken 

rules. Were you in the right place at the 

right time with the right people, and if 

not what can we do to fix that? Who 

was affected? And what could you do 

next time? These repetitive questions 

from all staff help them self-regulate,’ 

says Taylor. 

The full article is available to read 

online - Article from The Good 

Schools Guide - an excellent resource 

for parents. goodschoolsguide.co.uk

We’ve 

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Admission to The 

Bishop's Palace 

Children’s activities are 

included in the value-packed 

Admission Ticket which allows 

12 months of return visits on 

any normal sightseeing day. 

Plus year-round events, 14 

acres of RHS Partner Gardens, 

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Dragon's Lair playground. 

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Family Activities 

Easter Storytelling (no booking required) 

2nd April, 11am & 1.30pm 

Helpful Nell’s Wildlife Trail 

29th March-14th April 

Solve twelve clues to help you guess what 

will be in twelve pictures. Return your trail 

to the ticket office for a choclate’y prize! 

Medieval Falconry Day 

13th April, displays at 12pm and 3pm 

Dragon‘s Lair Play Area 

Award-winning café with children’s menu 


B E S T 

PLACES 

TO LIVE 

IN AND 

AROUND 

MENDIP 


If you are thinking of moving and need to find out the best 

towns in Somerset, this is the article for you. 

f you are thinking of moving and need to find out the best towns in Somerset, this is 

Somerset is a fantastic place to live. 

But, 

the 

with so 

article 

many excellent 

for you. 

towns to 

choose from, it is maybe a daunting 

task to begin your house search. 

Regardless of what you need from 

your new home, one of these towns 

in Somerset is sure to tick all of the 

boxes. 

FROME 

Full of charm, Frome was built on high 

ground at the eastern end of the Mendip 

Hills and is one of those towns you cannot 

help but fall in love with. 

Winding cobbled medieval streets make for 

a delightful place to wander. Dotted with 

plenty of little independents lining the main 

high street shopping in Frome provides 

plenty of opportunities to purchase a 

special one-off gift. 

The town sits just outside the two 

busy locations of Bristol and Bath. It 

has excellent connections so when its 

necessary to travel into the city you can be 

there in no time at all. 

Frome’s thriving and popular Wednesday 

and Saturday market showcases quality 

handmade products from independent 

businesses. It also offers delicious locally 

produced produce! 

There is no surprise that the town’s been 

named one of the best places to live in 

Britain by The Sunday Times! Frome is 

also considered one of Time Out’s best 

making the move. 

weekend breaks from London and ‘the 

most Stylish town in the UK’. 

You may be surprised to learn that despite 

Frome’s positive reputation the current 

average property value is only £335,578. 

GLASTONBURY 

The first thing that springs to mind is the 

Glastonbury Festival, undeniably one of the 

most famous festivals in the UK. However, 

there is so much more to Glastonbury than 

mud, tents and music. 

Somerset is a fantastic place to live. 

A busy place, the town became a centre for 

commerce in the early to mid-1800’s. 

This led to the construction of the 

market cross, Glastonbury Canal and the 

Glastonbury and Street Railway Station. 

A popular year-round tourist destination 

thanks to its healing waters, the imposing 

Glastonbury Tor and its fascinating Abbey. 

Glastonbury is also well known for its 

foodie scene, exciting nightlife, surrounding 

countryside and historical sites. Plus pretty 

much an institution, the weekly market is a 

busy affair! 

Nicely placed for exploring the region, 

Bristol is just 27 miles away, the coastal 

town of Weston Super Mare is 22 miles and 

Bath is 25 miles. Bristol Airport sits 20 miles 

north and offers flights across the UK and 

Europe wide. 

There is more to Glastonbury than meets 

the eye. A great community spirit, plenty of 

culture and several “outstanding” schools. 

Property prices are very reasonable with an 

average value of £324,963 

SHEPTON MALLET 

The ancient market town of Shepton Mallet 

is very nicely positioned in the Mendip 

district of Somerset. There are 218 listed 

buildings in the town. This includes the 

market cross that dates back to the 1500s 

and a 10th-century church. 

Shepton is the old English for sheep. The 

town was heavily involved in the wool 

trade. During the 18th century, the wool 

industry mostly disappeared and made way 

for other economic activities, in particular 

brewing cider. 

The town offers the rugged beauty of 

the Mendip Hills, luxury outlet shopping, 

internationally recognised country shows 

and one of the oldest prisons in the UK, 

which is now open to the public. 

Shepton Mallet sits 18 miles from Bath, 20 

miles from Bristol and less than an hour 

from the UK’s popular western coastline. 

Clearly, getting around to other popular 

areas in the region is conveniently easy. 

Shepton Mallet is the ideal place to 

experience life in a semi-rural but wellconnected 

location. 

Home to some excellent towns, buyers are gradually deciding that the towns in 

Somerset are among the best places to live. 

Much less pricey than many other parts of 

Somerset, buying here costs an average of 

£281,829. 

CASTLE CARY 

Referred to simply as Cary, a peaceful and 

quaint market town. Castle Cary is located 5 

miles north-west of Wincanton and 8 miles 

south of Shepton Mallet, on the River Cary. 

As homes in cities and towns across the UK becoming more expensive, the potential 

of living in one of the towns in Somerset offers the allure of an exceptional location 

that may be more affordable than elsewhere. 

One of the most attractive towns in the 

region, set in the glorious South Somerset 

countryside. As the name suggests, a 

castle once stood in the town but no longer. 

The rural areas that are accessible in Dorset offer more breathing space as well as 

the choice to commute. 

The renowned illuminated carnival 

takes place in October and is a mustsee! 

Nearby 4 miles away is Haynes 

International Motor Museum. 13 miles away 

is Glastonbury Abbey, the legendary burial 

place of King Arthur. 

With the range of great towns in Somerset, buyers are ensured a choice of great 

schools, exciting activities and some stunning countryside! 

The area is a delight and contains some 

unusual shops many of which still retain 

their fine nineteenth-century shopfronts. 

Whilst the old buildings such as the 

impressive Market House and the popular 

George Hotel, a 15th-century inn are still in 

use today. 

It is clear that the county offers a variety of reasons that buyers would consider 

There has been some expansion to 

the north of Cary with new housing 

developments to make way for the 

increasing interest in the region, but for 

the most part, the area is comfortingly 

untouched its major asset. 

Cary Castle has an average property price 

of £313,935. Higher than Somerset as a 

whole (£289,012), it is well worth the extra 

in order to live in such a lovely place. 



RIVENDELL 

ESTATES 

01373 489 888 

rivendell-estates.co.uk 

Award Winning Estate Agency shaking up the property 

market in Somerset and Wiltshire. We chat to owner 

Mat Weiland & understand why “Movers Need Shakers”... 

Tell us more about Rivendell Estates? 

Sure, in a nutshell, I would say we’re 

an independent boutique estate and 

letting agency focusing on exceptional 

residential properties. We offer our 

clients a truly bespoke and first-class 

marketing experience and an extremely 

high service standard. 

Tell us more about the team at 

Rivendell? 

As Gold winners of the British Property 

Awards 2023-2024, I am extremely 

proud of my team; We live and breathe 

our “Rivendell Estates” values - integrity, 

Knowledge, Service, and Results. Local 

connections, meticulous attention to 

detail and, simply put, incredibly high 

standards define us. Every member 

is Propertymark qualified. I’ve been a 

regional executive for Propertymark 

(The professional body for Estate & 

Letting Agents) for the past 10 years 

and now sit on the advisory panel, so 

CPD, knowledge and compliance is 

paramount to me. 

Where abouts are you? 

Deliberately, not on the high street. We 

have a superb private office in Frome 

Business Park. Our clients can park 

on-site and sit in our office or one of our 

private board rooms to discuss what, 

for most people, is the biggest financial 

decision they will ever make in their 

lives. 

What’s the market like at the moment? 

Check our News page (Scan QR). 

The current property landscape in Frome 

presents a striking contrast to the story 

back in March 2008. Back in the Spring 

of 2008, the Frome property market was 

flooded with homes for sale, causing 

house prices to drop throughout 2008. 

Today there are 52% fewer Frome 

homes available on the market. 

This means there is more of an 

equilibrium in the Frome property 

market, which will foster a more stable 

environment for property prices. This 

tightening of supply means that demand 

is more closely matched with availability, 

reducing the likelihood of drastic price 

fluctuations. 

For Frome homeowners and prospective 

buyers, this could signal a period of 

relative stability in the property market, 

making it an opportune time to consider 

long-term investment decisions. 

This trend underscores the dynamic 

nature of the property market, where 

supply levels play a crucial role in 

shaping price stability and market 

health. Although I’ve chosen to focus 

on Frome, the picture is similar across 

Somerset & Wiltshire. 

What are you doing differently in 

today’s market that makes Rivendell 

stand out? 

Marketing is key, and we take our 

marketing very seriously. We produce 

extremely High-quality professional 

video tours using drones and other 

state-of-the-art videography equipment, 

as well as professional photography 

(Scan QR, to see video examples). Our 

team are relentless on the phones, 

and we utilise all modern & traditional 

mediums to deliver a sale. We also have 

a national network of relocation and 

search agents who last year accounted 

for 27% of our sales. 

Why the name Rivendell Estates? 

Great question… “The last Homely 

House” for those who know, its from The 

Lord Of The Rings.. I’m a big fan, and 

as a child reading the books I always 

thought Rivendell sounded like the most 

wonderful place to live, and to be fair, 

our beautiful countryside somewhat 

reminds me of it. Does that make me a 

geek? Probably 

What commission will I pay? 

2% plus VAT. 

Expensive? Yes.. Why? Invite me out 

to value your home, and I’ll explain. I 

just can’t stand “wishy-washy” answers 

to this basic question. Yes, we’re 

expensive, but for good reason. Straight 

talk and no hidden costs for a start. 

How can I get in 

touch to discuss 

if I’m looking to 

buy or sell? 

Scan QR and 

talk to me on 

WhatsApp now or 

call our offices. 


Acorn Solicitors are a friendly, local, 

family run firm based in Street and 

Taunton. We are well known for our 

specialist knowledge and personal 

style of working. 

ARE YOU THINKING 

OF SELLING YOUR HOUSE? 

LET'S WORK TOGETHER! 

Selling a home can be a stressful process if you don't have the right estate 

agent. That's where I can help. I am Melanie Lewis, your local Bespoke 

Estate Agent. Unlike traditional high street agents my service is tailored to 

your specific needs and I work with you personally from valuation to 

completion on your sale or purchase. And with no costly overheads to 

worry about I can concentrate on what I do best, selling your house for the 

best price with the least amount of stress. 

SCAN FOR AN 

INSTANT 

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We have no hidden charges or costs - we 

tell you upfront clearly what you will pay. 

MELANIE.LEWIS@EXP.UK.COM 

07846 64 64 58 

126 High Street, Street, Somerset BA16 0ER Tel: 01458 441507 

www.acornsolicitors.com 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19 

General services quarter page Taunton Living Mendip 07 11 22.indd 108/11/2022 11:52:51

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AMERICAN 

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9 March – 31 December 

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GREAT 

Taste 

Working in Michelin Star establishments 

around the world from the highly 

acclaimed Le Gavroche under the tutelage 

of Michel Roux, to restaurant Schillinger 

in Colmar, and a spell in three star Marc 

Meneau in Veselay, Daniel Galmiche’s 

culinary journey has been extraordinary. 

Sally Thomson caught up with him 

to discuss his career, his love of the 

Highlands and his new direction 

Thank you for taking the time 

to talk to me. You have moved 

recently - where are you based 

now, please? 

I am on the top of the Chiltern Hills, 

which means I’m about 35 minutes 

on the top of the hill behind Bicester. 

I’ve met you before when you 

were in the Vineyard. Am I right in 

thinking that your grandparents 

were organic farmers? 

That’s right. They had a small 

holding, mainly for friends and 

family. And it was all hand-fed, all 

organic, it was fantastic. So that 

must be about 60 years ago, that 

was pre-dating what goes on now. 

And my great aunt was a really 

fantastic cook. 

You were also in at one time in 

Scotland, for about seven years? 

“I’m fan of the Scots for 

a lot of things. I love the 

tradition, I love the kilt, 

the tartan, the mystery, 

the magic, the produce, the 

people. There’s something 

quite exquisite about 

Scotland, isn’t there?” 

Yes, I wanted to stay there, because 

I love Scotland, it’s my second 

country really. 

That’s another question I had 

for you, because my husband’s 

a Scot, and he absolutely loves 

Scotland too. 

Of course, it is a beautiful country. I 

just love Scotland and the produce 

they have is amazing. For me, the 

best produce in the UK comes from 

Scotland. 

Raspberries in particular, it was 

raspberries that my husband 

remembers growing in his garden 

when he was a little boy. They 

had buckets and buckets of 

raspberries. 

Best in Europe. Yes, they are. It’s 

just the season itself, so sometimes 

it can last for two weeks, three 

weeks, and sometimes for six 

weeks, because of the weather. I’m 

fan of the Scots for a lot of things. 

I love the tradition, I love the kilt, 

the tartan, the mystery, the magic, 

the produce, the people. There’s 

something quite exquisite about 

Scotland, isn’t there? 

What made you decide to leave 

Scotland at that stage then? 

I had a chance to go to live in 

Singapore for nearly four years. 

When I came back, I was in Portugal 

for one year, running the Penina, 

which is in the Algarve, where they 

have the famous Henry Cotton golf 

course, which is world renowned. 

And after that, I went to Harvey’s in 

Bristol for nearly seven years as well. 

You’re naturally a French chef and 

you’ve been all over the world 

however is there another cuisine 

that you like? 

I love Japanese food as well. I 

mean, it’s fantastic. There’s a 

symbiotic relationship between 

French and Japanese cooking - we 

have the same discipline and way 

of thinking about food and produce 

and where to get it. 

What direction is your career 

taking now? 

I don’t want to go back to 100 

covers and working all hours. I 

want something more intimate - 

everybody to come together, sit 

down together and go together and 

do that Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 

that’s it. Maybe 12 to 18, maybe 

12, 10 and 12 covers, that’s all I 

want to do. But proper, really nicely 

done. And I don’t want a 30-course 

menu. I want a seven-course menu. 

Simplified, focusing on connection - 

that’s what good food is about! 

danielgalmiche.co.uk 


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We combine time honoured techniques, talented craftsmen and modern 

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Contact us: adam@ 

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Call us: 014582 1 0300 

Find out more: 

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Visit us: 

Buscott Woodworking, 

Station Road, Ashcott, 

Somerset TA79QP. 

fil

Kale-ing It 

A new survey has found that three quarters of 

Brits are unaware of where to get the vitamin 

folate. The survey by Discover Great Veg has 

found that despite folate’s importance to our 

wellbeing, 75% of Brits don’t know folate is 

found naturally in food, and 1 in 5 think it’s only 

pregnant women who need to consume it. 

But folate matters to us all - from anaemia to 

cardiovascular disease and even mental health, 

not eating enough folate (otherwise known 

as Vitamin B9) can lead to a range of health 

problems. Despite more than 8 in 10 people 

believing it is difficult to get folate in their diet, it is 

found naturally in a wide range of everyday foods 

including green leafy veg like kale and spinach, 

chickpeas and kidney beans, as well as liver. 

To help educate consumers to get more folate 

into their diet, Discover Great Veg has now 

partnered with nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche, to 

raise awareness about the importance of folate 

for every age group. 

KALE PASTA 

SAUCE 

Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes 

Cook time: 10 minutes 

INGREDIENTS 

500g pasta 

1 tbsp olive oil 

280g kale 

3 cloves of garlic, chopped 

3 tbsp. water 

90g grated parmesan 

240ml vegetable stock 

180g cream cheese 

METHOD 

Cook the pasta according to packet 

instructions. Meanwhile, in a medium 

saucepan heat the oil over a medium heat. 

Add the kale and garlic and fry for about 1-2 

minutes, until the leaves start to wilt a little 

then add the water and keep stirring for a 

further couple of minutes. 

Transfer the kale and garlic to a food processor 

and blend for a few minutes then add the 

grated parmesan, vegetable stock and cream 

cheese. Blend at full speed until you have a 

bright green and creamy texture. Stir this in to 

your cooked pasta then warm through gently 

before serving. 

30% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 


See you at 

The Bath and 

West Food 

Festival! 

Award winning 

artisan cheeses made 

using locally sourced 

sheep, buffalo, goat 

and cows milk. 

Mature, naturally rinded and 

suitable for vegetarians. 

01749 860237 

info@somersetcheese.co.uk | www.somersetcheese.co.uk 

l 

Welcome to our traditional town centre coaching inn 

• We are open ALL DAY, EVERY DAY, for food & drinks 

• On-site customer parking • Coffees, teas, pastries & cakes • Cream Teas 

• Thai Chilli restaurant • Pub Classics menu • Traditional Sunday lunches 

• Excellent en-suite accommodation • Dog-friendly 

42 Market Place 

Warminster 

BA12 9AN 

oldbellwarminster 

oldbellwarminster 

www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk 


LEMONY 

CHICKEN 

TRAY BAKE 



INGREDIENTS 

1 large leek, sliced 

300g miniature/baby potatoes, 

boiled then halved 

4 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly 

smashed 

2 tbsp olive oil, divided into 1⅓ 

tbsp and ⅔ tbsp (2tsp) 

8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs 

1 tsp sweet smoked paprika 

2 tsp lemon zest 

Juice of 1 lemon 

One small pack of fresh thyme 

350g kale 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 210°C (fan) 

230°C (standard). 

Toss the leek slices, potatoes, and 

garlic in 1+⅓ tbsp olive oil in a large 

bowl. Season to taste. 

Spread out on 1-2 baking trays. 

Add the chicken thighs to the same 

bowl and toss with the paprika, 

lemon zest and lemon juice. Season 

to taste. 

Place the coated chicken portion on 

top of the vegetables, each with a 

30% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 

sprig of thyme on top. 

Bake for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, 

toss the kale in the remaining 2/3 

tbsp i.e. 2 tsp olive oil. Stir to coat 

each piece well then add to the 

baking tray/s giving everything a 

good stir in the process. 

Bake for a further 15 minutes, 

stirring once. Check that the 

chicken juices run clear and if you 

have a meat thermometer that the 

internal temperature at the thickest 

part is at least 74°C. 

40% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 

SPINACH AND 

KALE MINI 

QUICHES 

Makes 8 Prep time: 10 minutes 


INGREDIENTS 

90g spinach 

90g kale 

3 tbsp water 

6 large eggs 

180g fresh pesto 

Ground black pepper 

A little olive oil for greasing 

METHOD 

Preheat your oven to 190°C. Heat 

a medium saucepan over medium 

heat and add the spinach, kale and 

water. Cook for a few minutes until 

the leaves have wilted and reduced. 

Leave to cool. Pop these leaves 

into your food processor and blend 

on medium speed. 

Meanwhile, beat the eggs with the 

pesto and pepper then add to the 

cooled leaves in the food processor 

before blending on top speed. 

Grease the 8 holes of your muffin tin 

with a little oil or use cases to avoid 

sticking. Fill each of the 8 greased 

muffin holes with equal amounts of 

the eggy mixture. Put the tray in the 

oven and cook for 20-25 minutes 

or until a cocktail stick inserted into 

the quiches comes out clean. Serve 

warm or cold. 


WEST SOMERSET 

RAILWAY 

Travel through countryside and coast on England’s longest Heritage Railway 

Retail and catering facilities available • Choice of destinations 

Picturesque country stations • Heritage steam and diesel locomotives 

Bishops Lydeard TA4 3RU • Minehead TA24 5BG 

www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk • 01643 704996 


Between the 

S E A S O N S 

As soon as the weather warms up, we 

are craving that summer food - but the 

weather doesn’t always play ball! Here 

Cuisinart give us some tasty recipes that 

can be enjoyed inside or out 

I N D I A N 

V E G G I E 

B U R G E R S 



The perfect vegetarian option for 

your next summer BBQ, these 

Indian inspired burgers are loaded 

with veggies and are full of flavour. 

INGREDIENTS 

For the Burgers: 

1 sweet potato, peeled & chopped 

2 medium carrots, peeled & 

chopped (approx. 70g) 

70g cauliflower florets 

70g frozen peas 

1 tbsp. oil for frying 

2cm piece of ginger, peeled & 

grated 

1 medium red onion, finely chopped 

15g green onions 

1 green chilli, finely chopped 

1 tsp. garam masala 

½ tsp. cumin powder 

½ tsp. red chilli powder 

¼ cup finely chopped coriander 

(approx. 10g) 

1 tsp. sea salt 

1 cup fine breadcrumbs 

4 brioche or burger buns 

Olive oil for brushing 

For the Green Sauce: 

1 small red onion, peeled & 

quartered 

½ cucumber, deseeded (approx. 

100g), cut into wedges 

1 green chilli, deseeded 

15g fresh coriander, stalks removed 

5g mint, stalks removed 

Juice of ½ lemon 

Pinch of sea salt 

To Serve: 

Green salsa 

Crisp lettuce 

1 red onion, sliced 

2 medium tomatoes, sliced 

Chilli sauce 

METHOD 

Add 700ml of water to the cooking 

pan of the Cook In and place in the 

steaming tray. Set the temperature 

to high, to allow the water to come 

to the boil. 

Add the chopped sweet potato 

and carrots to the steaming tray. 

Secure the glass lid and reduce 

the temperature to medium. Steam 

the vegetables for approximately 

7 minutes, before adding the 

cauliflower and peas. Continue 

steaming for a further 5 minutes, or 

until the vegetables are soft. Set the 

vegetables to one side. 

Wipe out the cooking pan, place 

back on the Cook In and set the 

temperature to medium. 

Add a tablespoon of oil and gently 

sauté the ginger, red onion, green 

onion and green chillies, until 

softened, stirring frequently. 

Add the steamed vegetables and 

stir well. Cook for several minutes. 

Turn off the Cook In and add the 

garam masala, cumin powder, chilli 

powder, coriander and sea salt. Stir 

to combine everything together. 

Allow to cool slightly. 

Set up the large chopping / mixing 

blade in the large work bowl of the 


The Apple Tree Inn are very very excited to 

announce that we are launching our brand new 

GRILL & SMOKEHOUSE HOUSE MENU on in 

mid-February. Chef Jack will be smoking everything 

in-house in our new smoker. 

The menu will also offer a good choice for 

vegetarians and vegans. 

As well as brand new individual dishes, guests will 

be able to choose from a range of SIGNATURE 

SHARING PLATTERS. We’ll be keeping some 

traditional pub classics on the menu, as well as our 

popular Sunday Roast, so there should be something 

for everyone on our new menu. 

If this sounds like your cup of tea, please keep an 

eye on our facebook 

page or follow us for 

updates on the new 

menu. Or call the 

pub any time. 

NEW 

Grill & 

Smokehouse 

Menu Coming 

Soon 

We’re hoping the new menu 

will offer customers something 

quite unique to the local area, especially for groups 

and family celebrations. 

If you don’t know us, The Apple Tree Inn have a new 

manager, Martin, who joined us from successfully 

running another local pub, the Thatched Cottage. 

The Apple Tree Inn is a historic and friendly country 

pub with a nice garden. Dating back to 1674, the 

pub has many of the original features including 

several log fires and flagstone floors. We also have 

a great venue room for big celebrations and events 

such as weddings. 

We hope to welcome you soon to try out the new 

menu or one of our traditional pub classics. 

The Apple Tree Inn, West Pennard, 

Glastonbury BA6 8ND 

Email us: info@appletreeinn.co.uk 

Call any time: 01749 681896 

www.appletreeinn.co.uk 

www.facebook.com/ 

OfficialAppleTreeInn 

WestPennard

Easy Prep Pro and add the cooled veggie 

burger mixture. Process the mixture on 

high, until everything starts to come 

together but still has some texture. The 

mixture will be quite sticky. 

Remove the mixture and divide into four, 

before shaping into patties. Coat the 

outside of each patty with breadcrumbs. 

Place on a tray in the refrigerator to firm 

up, for about half an hour. 

Place the grill tray onto the Cook In and 

set the temperature to high. Lightly coat 

the grill tray with oil and cook the burgers 

for 5 minutes on each side, until starting 

to brown and crisp. Set aside in a warm 

oven. 

Cut the burger buns in half and brush the 

cut sides with a little olive oil. Place the 

oiled side down onto the grill tray, to toast. 

To make the salsa, add the onion, 

cucumber, chilli, coriander, mini, lemon 

juice and salt to the Cordless 

Mini Prep Pro. Pulse, using the chop 

button, until you have a chunky 

consistency. 

Serve your veggie burgers, topped with 

the green salsa, lettuce, onions, tomatoes 

and chilli sauce. 

SUMMER 

BERRIES FROZEN 

YOGHURT LOLLIES 

Makes 8 Prep time: 10 minutes 

Freeze time: 2-3 hours 

This simple recipe for Summer Berries Frozen Yoghurt 

Lollies is quick and easy to make and they are ready within a 

few hours. Yoghurt is a healthier alternative to ice cream and 

they are fun for the kids to make too. 

INGREDIENTS 

350g plain Greek yoghurt 

1 tbsp pistachios 

60ml runny honey 

160g mixed berries, halved 

Iced lolly moulds 

Lolly sticks 

METHOD 

Place the Greek yoghurt, pistachios and honey into the 

Cordless On The Go Blender. Blend until smooth. 

Pour the yoghurt mixture into iced lolly moulds, leaving 

about 1cm at the top. Add approximately 6 pieces of fruit 

into each lolly mould, spreading the fruit along the sides of 

the mould. 


Meet the family 

behind the 

Aardman ad 

A perfect west country pairing 

is behind the pint-sized advert 

appearing on TV and cinema 

screens this summer. 


Thatchers Cider and their thirst for 

perfection have joined forces with 

Aardman’s joyful storytelling technique 

to whisk viewers through the barn doors 

of Myrtle Farm and into the world of the 

family cider makers. 

Viewers are treated to a glimpse of 

what real life is like at the family farm; 

from the 12:30 tasting, to the Thatchers 

hot air balloon and Myrtle the dog– not 

animated myths, but true reflections 

on the magic moments that makes 

Thatchers Cider so special. 

The Thatcher family has been making 

cider at Myrtle Farm in Somerset for 

120 years. As a British, family run 

business, they produce much-loved 

ciders such as the smooth Thatchers 

Gold, naturally cloudy Thatchers Haze, 

zingy Thatchers Blood Orange and 

the award-winning alcohol-free cider, 

Thatchers Zero. 

Martin Thatcher, fourth generation 

cider maker, whose miniature figure 

stars in the advert, says “Our passion 

for creating the most perfect cider is 

reflected in the genius of Aardman, 

whose animators have recreated life 

at Myrtle Farm in the most minute and 

exacting detail; from the hot air balloon 

basket handwoven out of real straw, to 

fabric from our workwear being used to 

create the costumes.” 

With total dedication to their craft, it 

took a team of 40 creatives at Aardman, 

with animators alone needing over 

480 hours to shoot the 40 second 

commercial. 

Enjoying life on the farm is not just 

limited to the TV animation, with the 

doors open to guests year-round. A 

warm welcome awaits those visiting 

the award-winning pub and restaurant, 

The Railway Inn, which received two 

AA Rosettes this March. Featuring a 

traditional country pub lounge and large 

family-friendly outdoor space, it is a 

great spot for foodies, dog walkers and 

cider lovers alike. Open Wednesday 

to Sunday and Bank Holidays. For 

reservations, please call 01934 611518. 

Or you can head to the Cider Shop 

to discover limited-edition ciders and 

seasonal hampers. You can also buy 

cider straight from the barrel – a great 

way to impress your cider-loving, 

friends and family. 


WELCOME TO MYRTLE FARM 

Experience our complete range of ciders in our cider shop here 

at Myrtle Farm. Try our traditional ciders and explore our exclusive award 

winning Cider Barn collection, or join us at the Railway Inn for some 

delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. 

Please check our website for opening times. 

Thatchers Cider Company, Myrtle Farm, 

Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA 

Visit: www.thatcherscider.co.uk/myrtle-farm 

Tel: 01934 822862 

Railway Inn Tel: 01934 611518

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With many of us opting to improve instead of move, it’s 

never been more important to make our spaces work better 

for us. After extending a kitchen to the side of their house, 

homeowners Kate and Tom needed to reconfigure the existing 

kitchen and separate dining room into a space that reflected 

the flow of their lives. Opting to open the rooms completely, we 

caught up with them to discuss the process. 

Photography by Lucy Hartley-Saunders

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In terms of the build, can you tell us 

what you’ve done? 

The living area occupies what was once 

the dining room, and the dining room was 

the teeny tiny kitchen. We prioritised a 

larger living space over a big dining area - 

I think many of us have moved away from 

the formal dining space, instead opting 

to have something move convivial. We 

have a large breakfast bar in the kitchen, 

which is in the new extension, so there are 

options for dining, and it made sense to 

just keep the space flowing. 

What flooring was here before and why 

have you chosen the finish you have? 

This space has been transformed by the 

flooring, which was an easy-to-lay, fully 

DIY process. The flooring runs from the 

kitchen all the way through to the living 

area. It had to be something that would 

work with the underfloor heating, be able 

to stand up to the demands of kitchen 

life, be easy to clean with two dogs in the 

house and still give the space a feeling of 

warmth. I wanted to find a clean-looking 

tone which didn’t read too grey or too 

yellow, so settled on Canadian Nude 

Oak from Karndean - it’s a rigid-core 

product, so doesn’t need gluing down 

and just clicks together using the tongue 

and groove system. It can be laid over an 

existing floor too. 

That stove is amazing - why did you 

choose it? 

The existing fireplace had a small opening 

in it, and it looked like it would lend itself 

well to an inset stove. I’m not over-stating it 

when I say this stove is one of my favourite 

things I’ve ever had in my home. It offers 

instant cosiness, and such a beautiful focal 

point whether it’s roaring or gently glowing. 

That sofa looks incredibly 

comfortable… 

Oh, my, goodness! It is the most 

comfortable sofa I’ve ever sat on - it’s the 

Chaise Otto from sofa.com. My partner and 

“We prioritised a larger 

living space over a big 

dining area - we wanted 

to have something move 

convivial.” 

Armchair from hauslife.co.uk 

I saw it in our local showroom 

and sat on it for nearly half an 

hour! We didn’t want to move, 

and it immediately transported 

us to lazy Sundays in front of the 

fire, stretched out on the chaise. 

It has feather-wrapped cushions 

which make it dreamily squishy, 

and the covers are removable for 

washing, which is essential with 

my penchant for beige alongside 

having two dogs…it also means 

we can update the look of it in a 

few years without replacing the 

whole sofa. 

Are there any other design 

elements you love? 

We’ve zoned this space with this 

huge rug from Ruggable - it’s 

actually machine washable so 

can stand up to daily life, spills, 

muddy dog paws and more! Then 

we have the amazing Lithe Audio 

ceiling speakers - one above 

the dining table and the other 

in the adjoining kitchen space, 

connected to one another. It’s 

lovely to be able to have music on 

whilst cooking, and then keep the 

ambient sounds on during dinner. 

They look really sleek and the 

sound quality is amazing. 

Is there anything you’d 

change? 

I really love this space. It feels 

welcoming and cosy, and that 

was always the goal. It’s not a 

formal seating area, but a place 

to retreat from daily life, where 

you can really just spill out and 

chill. It’s versatile enough to cater 

for our needs as they shift. 


▶ ▶ 

This is actually an extendable 

table - so it can be round to 

seat four people, then has 

leaves to take it all the way 

to a 12 seater. It’s only the 

two of us, so we didn’t want 

a massive table that spent 

most of the year getting in the 

way, only to be used at full 

capacity at Christmas. So, this 

arrangement really suits us. I 

wanted the chairs to be sleek 

and sit below the top line of the 

table, as the space is small and 

I didn’t want them to encroach. 

Then the black lines just 

make sure that strong shade is 

present in each little zone. 

The doors were a real success story - we widened 

what was once the single kitchen door into a set 

of slimline double doors on parliament hinges so 

they can open right back to the wall. The glazing 

helps to ensure light can shine on this darker 

pocket of the house. We used reeded glass film to 

create an obscured effect for the utility door - still 

allowing light to shine, but without needing to see 

the detail of the appliances in there. 

▶ 

We went for the Stovax Riva2, which had a sleek but robust 

design. The visuals are spectacular - the range provides 

convergent airflow to keep the glass clean. I’m eco-conscious, 

so that weighed in heavily on my choice - the Riva2 not only 

meets but exceeds Ecodesign efficiency standards, which aim 

to improve air quality by minimising the level of permitted 

emissions from wood burning products. For those in smoke 

control areas, as we are, all models are DEFRA exempt as 

standard for burning wood in urban areas without the need 

for an additional kit. 

STOCKIST INFORMATION: 

Sofa, Otto Chaise in Taupe Brushed Linen Cotton sofa.com; Sarrah Blue Quartz Rug, 

ruggable.co.uk; Alvah Extendable Round Dining Table and Chantilly Polyester Blend 

Upholstered Slat Back Parsons Chair both wayfair.co.uk; Karndean Canadian Nude Oak 

Flooring, palioexpress.com; Neutral Abstract Sands Canvas Print, abstracthouse.com; Stovax 

Riva2, find your nearest supplier at stovax.com; QLED 4K Ultra HD TV (available in 43”, 50” 

& 55” screen sizes), find your local stockist online at mitchellandbrown.co.uk; Reeded Glass 

Film, surfacedesigns.com; Heritage Clear Glazed Doors, climadoor.co.uk; Cushions, Coffee 

Table, Throw and Log Basket from hauslife.co.uk; Ceiling Speakers from litheaudio.com 

▶ 

There’s no getting away from the need for a TV in a living 

space, but I really didn’t want it to be the focal point of the 

room. I wanted a smaller television with a slimline frame, 

so it didn’t make such a visual statement - I really loved the 

slimline look of this Mitchell & Brown QLED 4K Ultra HD 

TV- and even better, they’re a British brand with a seven year 

warranty, which is so much longer than many other brands. 

It’s a smart TV, so ready to go with all the apps. We’ve got it 

mounted on a pull-out bracket, ready to move as and when 

it’s needed. 


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A LARGE CHINESE 

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BOILING WATER TAP 

Designed in England and handcrafted 

in Italy, the Pronteau Propure 

Quad is a clean and contemporary 

tap that boasts sleek, sharp, and 

sophisticated lines. A tap that is 

packed full of style and engineering 

excellence, perfectly blending design 

with functionality whilst adding 

contemporary styling, symmetry, and 

personality to your kitchen. 

Built-in safety 

features ensure 

little hands 

are safe for 

complete peace 

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SLIMLINE 

DISHWASHER 

Together with 3D Zone Wash, the 

combined action of the powerful 

water jets from the upper and lower 

spray arms and the variable speed 

inverter motor, makes sure precisely 

the right amount of water is used 

throughout the selected basket for 

either 40% more cleaning power or 

40% more energy efficiency, depending on 

your needs. 

With enough capacity to hold up to 10 place 

settings and including a dedicated cutlery 

tray, this dishwasher is great for cleaning up 

after dinner parties and everyday mealtimes. 

Hotpoint HSFO 3T223 W X UK N Dishwasher, 

from £399, Energy Rating: E. 

It delivers 98° boiling water, 

alongside hot, cold and filtered water, 

to cater for all your household needs. 

From £899, see the full range at 

pronteau.co.uk 

Appliance 

GUIDE 

As items we use every single day, the appliances 

in our homes have to be practical, energyefficient 

and functional. We take a look at some 

upgrades you could make 

UPRIGHT VACUUM CLEANER 

The HL4 gives great performance, across all 

floor types with no loss of suction to deeply 

clean carpets and above-floor surfaces. 

It’s lightweight, easy to carry at under 5kg, 

and moves seamlessly from floors to other 

surfaces at the press of a single button. 

And gives you peace of mind with a FREE 

warranty up to 3 years. Hoover Upright 

Vacuum Cleaner with ANTI-TWIST - 

HL4, £199, hooverdirect.co.uk 

VENTING INDUCTION HOB 

This Hotpoint vented induction hob features a built-in vent hood 

that automatically removes vapours and odours. With Automatic 

Aspiration, the hood will routinely set the right power level to 

protect your kitchen by keeping it smelling and feeling fresh, so 

you can spend more time cooking and eating with your loved 

ones. The innovative Combi Due Zone allows you to combine 

two cooking zones into one extra-large space, which is easily 

controlled with Hotpoint’s unique touch control hobs. So, no 

matter what you are cooking, and how many people you are 

cooking for, Hotpoint has you covered. Hotpoint PVH92BUK 

Black 90cm Vented Hob, from £1899, Energy Rating: A 


ENHANCE THE VALUE 

and beauty of your home with real timber windows & doors 

OF CLIFTON 

THE REASSURANCE OF DEALING WITH Alocal SPECIALIST 

Whether your home is a country cottage, 

a Victorian semi, a modern townhouse or a 

converted barn, we have a range of traditional 

and contemporary timber windows and doors 

that will complement it perfectly. 

Visit our newly rerfurbished showroom to 

discuss how we can help you with our lovely 

range of products. You’ll receive expert advice 

and see how beautiful timber windows and 

doors really can enhance the value and beauty 

of your home. 

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Now selling 

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WELLS RECLAMATION 

COXLEY WELLS SOMERSET BA5 1RQ 

Home & Garden Renovation Specialists 

LARGE STOCKS OF NATURAL STONE FLOORING 

Available for immediate delivery across the UK 

Call: 01749 677087 or Email: enquiries@wellsreclamation.com 

Monday-Friday 8.30am to 5pm Saturdays 10am to 4pm Sundays & Bank Holidays CLOSED 

ONLINE, CLICK & COLLECT AND DELIVERY SERVICES AVAILABLE 

www.wellsreclamation.com 01749 677087

Wells Stone Carving 

Festival 

4-6 May 2014 (May Day Bank Holiday) 

Bishop’s Barn, Wells, Somerset 

Six years after Wells stonemason and sculptor Paul Roddan staged 

the first Wells Stone Carving Festival the event is returning to the 

Bishop’s Barn, the medieval tithe barn owned by the council of the 

UK’s smallest cathedral city. 

As well as being a qualified stonemason, Paul is a Yeoman of the 

stonemasons’ Livery Company in London (The Worshipful Company 

of Masons), which is once again supporting this year’s festival. There 

is further support from Whiteway Quarry, which is supplying the 

Marnhull stone the competitors will use; Tool-maker G Gibson & Co; 

Glastonbury Marquees, which will supply the marquee the carvers 

will work in; and creative street and hoarding advertising specialists 

Buildhollywood. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. 

Paul says: “These events give us masons and carvers a chance to 

come together, sharing our passion for the craft. Carving and banker 

masonry can be a solitary task at times, so these gatherings are a 

chance to connect with peers and contemporaries. Unlike the usual 

straight lines of our day-to-day work, the festival lets everyone go in 

whatever creative direction they fancy. 

“And, of course, the auction on the Bank Holiday Monday adds 

excitement for visitors, giving everyone the opportunity to own a 

unique piece of art crafted by some of the best stone carvers in the 

country at a fraction of their true worth.” 

Any mason or carver who would like to take part should contact 

Paul Roddan on stonecarvingfest@gmail.com. 

There is an entry fee of £60 per person. 


Natural stone 

is an enduring 

popular choice. 

Natural stone is an enduring popular 

choice for patios, driveways, and pathways. 


But choosing the paving for your garden or patio can be a 

daunting prospect. Planning your project is key. Employ a 

professional and ask them to measure and advise you on the size 

of flagstone or combination of sizes you will need. Whether you 

choose a single size or a combination of sizes, your builder will 

be able to advise on a pattern. 

Armed with this information, always visit a supplier in person to 

see the options available and then take samples of your shortlist 

to see how they look in your garden. If you are unable to visit, ask 

for samples to be sent. Samples are hugely important as colours 

and textures are very hard to determine on a picture or website. 

And if you buy blind, it can be an expensive mistake to make. 

Sandstone or limestone? Sandstone has a more traditional and 

varied look in both colour and texture, as you would imagine old 

flagstones to be. Limestone provides a more uniform look and 

can be good in a more contemporary space. Sandstone and 

limestone can be supplied in a tumbled or untumbled finish. The 

tumbled option looks more aged and as such is usually more 

expensive. 

If you choose to go down the reclaimed route, be prepared for 

odd sizes and shapes of flagstones. Also, be prepared to shop 

around for large quantities. As a rule, reclaimed is considerably 

more expensive than newly cut stone. 

Whichever option you choose, nothing beats natural stone 

paving. It is durable, low maintenance and hardwearing, creating 

perfect outside spaces which can be used and enjoyed for years 

to come. And the range of colours, textures, finishes and prices 

available gives the consumer a wide choice of options to suit any 

taste or budget. 

www.wellsreclamation.com 01749 677087 


CREATE YOUR 

DREAM HOME 

Ahead of the Homebuilding & Renovating Show 

Series, we caught up with expert designer 

Julia Kendell to discuss all things interiors. 

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT SOME 

PROJECTS YOU’RE WORKING ON AT 

THE MOMENT? 

I’m currently working on several 

large property renovations and new 

builds for clients in the south east. 

One I am particularly enjoying is 

the contemporary renovation of a 

large 1920s property. The clients are 

configuring and adding to the space 

to create a huge 15m x 8m open-plan 

kitchen and living area. These large 

spaces can be challenging to design 

but a lot of fun! This year I am also 

collaborating with one of the other 

Homebuilding & Renovating Show 

experts, Allan Corfield and a team of 

the best in the industry to provide a 

‘silver-service’ architectural design 

and build for clients who are looking 

for a premium experience where every 

detail is considered and delivered. 

Working alongside the best of the best 

is thrilling! 

I will be launching my ‘Interior Design 

Series’ in early Spring. This is a 

collection of video modules I have 

written and filmed to provide online 

content for anyone embarking on 

a decoration/ build and needing 

guidance to know where to start and 

how to create their perfect home. 

DO YOU THINK SOCIAL MEDIA IS 

MAKING DESIGN MORE ACCESSIBLE 

OR MAKING IT FEEL LIKE WE ALL 

NEED TO HAVE UNATTAINABLE, 

PERFECT SPACES? 

I have mixed feelings when it comes 

to design in social media. It certainly 

provides endless inspiration and ideas 

but so much of it is impractical for 

normal daily life or has been created by 

AI presenting ridiculously ‘fantastical’ 

settings. I ask clients to share Pinterest 

boards with me at the beginning of a 

project to ensure we are on the same 

page, but I occasionally have a battle 


to explain that most of the images 

online are lit and styled way beyond 

what can be expected in real life. 

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS TO REFRESH A 

SPACE WITH A LIMITED BUDGET? 

One of the most impactful ways to 

refresh a space is to think about 

maximising light into the room. 

Replace curtains with lighter blinds 

and if the budget allows, swap out 

carpet for hard flooring. A timber 

floor will always make a room feel 

substantially larger and brighter than 

carpet. A lick of paint on the walls 

always works wonders to make a 

space feel renewed and don’t forget 

about the ceiling. A fresh coat will aid 

light bouncing around the room and 

can be transformational. 

THE KITCHEN IS THE ENDURING 

POWERHOUSE OF THE HOME – 

AND OFTEN THE SPACE WE SAY 

SELLS HOUSES. HOW HAVE YOU 

SEEN KITCHEN DESIGN CHANGE IN 

THE PAST FEW YEARS AND WHAT 

CONSIDERATIONS AND TRENDS ARE 

YOU SEEING EMERGE NOW? 

Kitchen design has changed markedly 

in the past few years. With larger 

spaces to fill there has been an 

emergence of dedicated activity 

areas, such as breakfast cabinets, 

baking cabinets and walk-in larders. 

The island has also become the key 

must-have’ for most planning their 

new kitchen providing a sociable 

cooking area and somewhere to gather 

around. One of the newest trends 

has seen multiple islands becoming 

popular, each with specific uses, to 

fill cavernous open-plan rooms. For 

those with a significant budget, there 

has also been a shift towards having a 

‘show kitchen’ and a working kitchen 

behind it to mitigate some of the 

issues of open-plan entertaining. The 

most important consideration when 

planning your kitchen is to start the 

design process as early as possible. 

Often the kitchen design will lead 

positions of doorways/windows to 

maximise the layout so having this 

nailed before the builders make a 

start is always wise. 

WITH BUILD COSTS INCREASING 

RAPIDLY, WHERE WOULD YOU 

ADVISE HOMEOWNERS SPEND VS 

SAVE WHEN RENOVATING THEIR 

HOMES? 

The places to invest in are those 

that receive most use and are 

least likely to be replaced in the 

future. Flooring and lighting are 

key elements for any home and I 

would always prioritise buying good 

quality door and cabinet handles, 

light switches and any element that 

we interact with daily. Consider the 

‘niggly’ areas that are a nuisance 

if not functioning well, such as 

leaky taps, dodgy boiler etc to 

inform decisions on investment. 

Renovating a home should provide a 

space of relaxation and enjoyment, 

not daily annoyances! Areas to save 

are the ‘novel’ built-in gadgets that 

might be easily tired of after a year 

or so and unnecessarily expensive 

paint (ask your decorator their 

thoughts on this!) 

HAVE YOU SEEN DESIGN BECOMING 

MORE SUSTAINABILITY-LED? 

The industry is certainly engaging in 

the sustainable conversation more 

and more. This, of course, is vital 

and not least because every time we 

make a good choice environmentally, 

it is inevitably a better choice for our 

health and well-being too. A low VOC 

product, for example, will ensure the 

air quality in the home remains clean 

and choosing natural material finishes 

are known to enhance our experience 

of our spaces, reduce stress and have 

a calming effect. Manufacturers are 

responding to this shift and it has 

become far easier to make sustainable 

choices in most areas of renovating/ 

new-build so there is less excuse not 

to pay attention! 

YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT HOME- 

GROWN PRODUCE AND SELF- 

SUFFICIENCY – WHAT WERE SOME OF 

YOUR HIGHLIGHTS IN THAT SPHERE 

LAST YEAR AND WHAT ARE YOU 

LOOKING FORWARD TO TRYING THIS 

YEAR? 

I confess I have been so busy working 

on my new Design Series and in the 

business that I have had little time 

in the garden the past year. I have 

certainly felt less energised as a result 

and have made a commitment to 

growing again this year. We are also 

taking on a little paddock which we will 

turn into a wildflower meadow and I 

will have plenty of space for some exbatt 

hens. Can’t wait! 

Design Series website - launching (Feb 

14th) - www.interiordesignseries.com 

The National Homebuilding & 

Renovating Show at the NEC, 

Birmingham, is celebrating its 30th 

anniversary. Readers can get free 

tickets to all the 2024 shows on this 

link: 

www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ 

minerva 


Come and 

see us for 

everything 

Everhot 

• Competitively priced Factory trained AGA and 

Rayburn service engineers Servicing all makes of 

cast-iron cookers and oil fired boilers. 

• AGA TC, DC, 13 and 30 amp specialists with most 

parts carried in stock. 

• Agents for EVERHOT, RAYBURN and 

HERRITAGE appliances. 

• Electrikit AGA conversion specialists for over 

10 years. 

If you would like to come and Check out an Everhot to see if it 

is right for you or you are considering converting your existing 

AGA cooker to the controllable Electrickit or the exciting new 

“eControl” please email us at service@obrienscookers.co.uk. 

Please include your best contact number and we will get back 

to you with a mutually convenient time for you to come and see 

us to ensure we can give you the time you deserve and answer 

any questions you may have. We will probably put the kettle on 

as well! 

O’Briens Range Cookers Ltd – Blatchbridge farm, 

Blatchbridge, Frome BA11 5EJ 

01373 463535 – service@obrienscookers.co.uk 

Tincknell Fuels 

Time to Upgrade your Oil Boiler 

If your oil boiler is more than 15 years old 

then you may want to consider replacing it 

with a new high-efficiency boiler which can 

help you lower your annual fuel bills and your 

home’s carbon footprint. 

Even if there are no 

apparent problems, it’s 

unlikely to be running 

above 70% efficiency 

(new oil boilers are more 

than 90%) and reliability 

is likely to be an issue. 

Call to request a free, 

no obligation quotation. 

For all your Electrical needs 

Tincknell Electrical is a NICEIC-approved electrical 

contractor that provides a wide range of electrical 

services for domestic, commercial, industrial and 

agricultural premises. 

We are committed to providing a professional and 

reliable service. 

Tel: 01749 683911 

www.tincknellfuels.com 


Parties 

Bo now to 

secur 

TREES 

please! 

In this edition, our regular 

contributer Matt Biggs tells us 

how planting trees can make the 

world of a difference... 

Parties 

There are many, many schemes to plant trees, in their hundreds 

and thousands and in many different places here and around 

the world. But just as a journey of a thousand miles starts with 

a single step so it is with tree planting, if even a few of us plant 

just one tree, that multiplication will make a big difference. I once 

saw a series of cartoons about ants – one by one they looked at 

the river they had to cross and one by one they realised that they 

couldn’t make it – however when they all combined, they made a 

raft and floated safely across – I love that image! 

The choice of tree is very dependant on your space, your location 

and what you want it to do for you – you might want a productive 

tree so a fruit tree or even a walnut would be possible choices, 

you might want to look out on it and enjoy it as it changes 

through the year so Rowans, crab-apples or, of course, the 

elegant silver birch will give you that or you might want that burst 

of Spring blossom and think of one of the flowering cherries 

– and then there is always my own personal favourite – the 

handkerchief tree, that is a stunner! 

Experience Days. 

Venue Workshops 

Sustainable Flol Design Workshops 

The magnificent 

H andkerchief Tree 

Do your homework and seek advice from a local nursery or 

garden centre to ensure your choice of tree is right for the space 

– not only now but in 10 or 20 years’ time – and your tree will give 

shelter to birds and insects, add to the local biodiversity and add 

too the stock of trees that will make the future better for all of us, 

and our children and grandchildren too. 

Bo now to 

secure your date 

Hen Parties. Events. 

Experience Days 

Sustainable Floral Flol Design Workshops 


Parties Parties Venue Venue Workshops 

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Whether it’s 

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Whether 

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accommodate up up 

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flowers 

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10 TIPS FOR HELPING 

HEDGEHOGS AT THIS 

TIME OF YEAR: 

1. PUT OUT FOOD AND WATER - Hedgehogs are just coming 

out of hibernation now, so leaving out meaty cat or dog food, and a 

shallow bowl of water can give them an energy boost. Avoid dried 

mealworms as they cause a calcium deficiency in hedgehogs and 

are only supplementary feeding. Ideally your garden will be full of a 

hedgehog’s natural diet of earthworms, ground beetles, caterpillars, 

earwigs and millipedes. 

2. MAKE ACCESS HOLES IN FENCES - Hedgehogs travel around 

1-2 miles a night in search of food and mates. Make it easier for them 

by cutting small 5inch square holes in the bottom of garden fences 

and walls. This will be too small for most pets. Or remove a brick from 

the bottom of the wall; put a pipe at the bottom of a wire fence. 

3. CHECK BEFORE MOWING OR STRIMMING - Hedgehogs 

often nest in long grass or piles of leaves. Give areas a thorough 

check before cutting and remove any debris carefully. Make sure you 

are not disturbing or even moving a hibernating hedgehog. 

EVEN BETTER - 

4. LEAVE WILD AREAS - Piles of leaves, logs or grassy areas are 

great nesting spots and habitat for natural food sources. Avoid tidying. 

5. STOP USING CHEMICALS - Any chemical treatment that kills 

slugs, snails or insects will be bad for hedgehogs, and other wildlife. 

6. COVER DRAINS AND HOLES - Make sure open drains & holes 

are covered so hedgehogs don’t get trapped. Although hedgehogs 

can swim, ponds should have sloping sides so they can get out. 

7. KEEP NETTING RAISED - Make sure any netting is raised at 

KEYFORD HEDGEHOG 

is a small but mighty hedgehog 

rescue in Frome, that was started 

just over 4 years ago by Jennie 

Owen. With training and support 

from Secret World Wildlife Rescue 

and Vale Wildlife Hospital, Jennie 

has rehabilitated and released 

over 70 hedgehogs back 

into the wild. 

least 5 inches off the ground, so hedgehogs don’t get tangled. This 

includes fruit cages, veg netting and football nets. 

8. BUILD A HEDGEHOG HOUSE – It needs a tunnel entrance 

to stop predators or cats from getting in, and a supply of dry, clean 

nesting material, such as straw, placed nearby. If buying a hedgehog 

house, avoid those made of brushwood. They don’t last, they can trap 

our spikey friends inside. 

9. LEAVE THEM ALONE! – Wild hedgehogs are just that, wild. Do 

not pick them up or hinder their travels. If you see an adult hedgehog 

out in the day, quickly going about its business, it is probably a mum 

off the nest looking for food or a nest disturbance. If a hedgehog is 

not moving, is staggering around, has flies around it or is obviously 

sick or injured be it day or night, it needs urgent help. Call the British 

Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890 801 to find your 

nearest rescue. 

10. FIND OUT ALL YOU CAN – Ongoing research means our 

knowledge about hedgehogs and how to care for them is continuously 

evolving. Use reliable sources such as Hedgehog Street www. 

hedgehogstreet.org and BHPS www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk 

Avoid social media groups that can give incorrect or damaging advice. 

Established in 2016 

by Aaron Harford. 

Studio Art & Frame in Frome stock one of the 

largest collections of wildlife artwork by leading 

British artist Kay Johns. 

Kay, works hard to capture the 

characteristics and personality 

of all manner of British wildlife, 

from the smallest Dormouse, 

to the largest Highland Cow, 

Kay brings them to life with her 

unique style. 

Kay has two distinctive 

styles, the light hearted 

‘quirky’ white background 

collection which are 

displayed alongside the 

more dominant black 

background images. 

Westway Shopping Centre, Frome BA11 1BS 

Tel: 01373 464528 retail@studioartandframe.co.uk 

www.studioartandframe.co.uk 

Aaron and his team are fully trained, friendly 

and professional. Aaron also holds all relevant 

insurances and is fully DBS checked. His 

extensive knowledge ensures that he is well 

equipped to offer advice and inspiration no 

matter what the budget. 

Aaron and his team can provide: 

• ALL ASPECTS OF TREE WORK 

from light pruning, through to full removal 

and stump grinding. 

• FENCING ranging from small repairs right to 

full installations. 

• PATIOS • TURFING • GARDEN DESIGN 

• HEDGE CUTTING • REGULAR MAINTENANCE 

• GUTTER AND FASCIA cleaning and repairs. 

www.arhgardeningservices.co.uk 




Wood Chronicles: 

Enhancing Your Garden 

with Oak and Pressure- 

Treated Sleepers 

Crafting the perfect garden oasis requires 

attention to detail and a touch of creativity. 

As you embark on your journey to 

transform your outdoor space, the choice 

between pressure-treated and oak sleepers 

emerges as a crucial decision, shaping not 

just the aesthetics but also the durability 

of your garden features. Let’s delve into 

the world of sleepers and uncover their 

versatility and charm. 

Sleepers, whether pressure-treated or 

oak, serve as versatile elements in garden 

design. From constructing vibrant flower 

beds to defining the landscape with sturdy 

retaining walls, these timbers provide 

endless possibilities. One could craft 

steps leading to a hidden garden corner, 

pathways guiding visitors through blooming 

flowers, or pond surrounds exuding 

tranquility—sleepers bring these visions to 

life. Moreover, their adaptability allows both 

vertical and horizontal usage, unleashing 

creativity throughout the garden. Prized 

for flexibility in design, sleepers materialize 

myriad uses. Among the most popular, 

raised beds cultivated with sleepers 

provide a practical solution for vegetable 

gardening while imbuing the outdoor 

sanctuary with rustic charm. Imagine the 

satisfaction of harvesting homegrown 

produce from beautifully crafted raised 

beds, a testament to the adaptability and 

functionality of sleepers in projects. 

When it comes to choosing between 

oak and pressure-treated sleepers, 

understanding their unique characteristics 

is key. Oak sleepers, priced at £40.00 

(including VAT) from Haven Timber, exude 

timeless elegance and charm. Their natural 

allure adds a touch of sophistication 

to any garden space, making them a 

popular choice for those seeking a classic 

and refined look. On the other hand, 

pressure-treated sleepers, available at 

£19.75 (including VAT), offer strength 

and resilience. Treated to withstand the 

elements, these sleepers are durable and 

reliable, making them a practical option for 

various garden projects. 

One of the critical factors to consider when 

choosing between oak and pressuretreated 

sleepers is their lifespan. Oak 

sleepers are renowned for their durability, 

lasting for many years with proper care. 

As they weather naturally over time, they 

acquire a unique character that adds a 

rustic charm to your garden. In comparison, 

pressure-treated sleepers, with their 

extended lifespan due to the treatment 

process, offer a robust solution that can 

endure outdoor exposure for an extended 

period without compromising on strength 

or integrity. 

In conclusion, whether you opt for the 

timeless allure of oak sleepers or the 

practical reliability of pressure-treated 

sleepers, both options from Haven Timber 

provide the foundation for your garden 

dreams to flourish. With their versatility, 

durability, and charm, these sleepers stand 

ready to elevate your outdoor space to 

new heights. So, unleash your creativity, 

explore the possibilities, and let the beauty 

of sleepers transform your garden into a 

sanctuary of natural elegance. 




TAUNTON’S PREMIER GARDEN CENTRE 

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KGM COMES TO YEOVIL 

Ade Hill chats to David Malcolm, Group General Manager at 

Blackdown Motor Company Ltd about the new KGM Yeovil dealership... 

Tell us more about the new KGM 

YEOVIL site? 

Blackdown Motor Company are pleased 

to announce that our Yeovil dealership 

has introduced KGM, previously known 

as SsangYong to our portfolio. This is in 

addition to our KGM franchise in Street. 

This is a fabulous opportunity for us to 

bring an incredible range of vehicles to all 

our customers, old and new in Somerset. 

Where abouts in Yeovil is the new site, 

David? 

We are located on Summerhouse Terrace, 

ideally located in the heart of Yeovil a 

short walk from the town centre and 

ample parking for customers to explore 

our range of approved used vehicles on 

the forecourt and the latest KGM models 

inside our showroom. 

Will you have the full range of Electric 

and Hybrid to check out? 

We do stock a range of Electric and 

Hybrid models, with our team trained and 

experienced in discussing the benefits 

of buying EV over petrol or diesel to 

make sure it suits our customers unique 

needs and circumstances. The Korando 

E-Motion is a great model to consider, 

and KGM have a new electric SUV, the 

Torres EVX, coming very soon which we 

look forward to unveiling. 

What makes KGM unique? 

The standard KGM warranty lasts for 

5-years, or 100,000-miles based on 


whichever comes first. KGM new battery 

electric vehicles warranty lasts for 7-years 

or 90,000-miles. The KGM range has 

long been a favourite for many customers 

as the brand provides exceptional build 

quality and value for money with featurepacked 

vehicles. 

What is the Motability Scheme David? 

Motability is a worry-free car lease 

package for disabled drivers. It can 

mean a brand-new car every three 

years, for anyone receiving the higher 

rate Motability component of the 

Personal Independence Payment (PIP), 

Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or 

War Pensioners’ Motability Supplement 

(WPMS). You don’t even need to be 

able to drive - as part of your lease you 

can nominate up to two drivers. The 

package includes: Insurance, servicing 

and maintenance, full RAC breakdown 

assistance, annual road tax, replacement 

tyres, windscreen replacement, certain 

adaptations at no extra cost and a 60,000 

mileage allowance over a 3 year lease. 

Will you also stock used KGM 

vehicles? 

Absolutely. We pride ourselves in 

stocking some of the highest quality 

approved used vehicles in Somerset, and 

that approach remains the same with our 

introduction of the KGM brand in Yeovil. 

Customer peace of mind is important to 

us, so all our used vehicles come with 

at least 12 months warranty, multi-point 

checks along with MOT and service is 

either or both are due. 

Can I discuss part exchange? 

Part-exchanging is a very popular 

route customers take when it comes to 

changing to a new vehicle. Our trained 

and experienced sales team will be happy 

to discuss your options and provide 

all the information you need to make a 

decision. We can even pay off existing 

finance on the part exchange vehicle, so 

you can change earlier. 

What about servicing and parts? 

Blackdown Motor Company has been 

a trusted dealership in Yeovil and the 

wider Somerset region for many years. 

Hundreds of customers visit us every 

year for their servicing, MOT, repairs 

and free manufacturer updates. Our 

team will be happy to assist in any 

vehicle maintenance needs and can also 

supply and even fit genuine parts or 

accessories. 

Where can I find out more online? 

Go to our website at 

www.blackdownmotorcompany.co.uk 

to explore our brands, locations and 

even reserve a car online. Alternatively, 

you can chat with our online support 

team, browse our latest stock of new 

and used vehicles and discover our 

latest offers online too. For the very best 

offers, get in touch with our team in 

Yeovil on 01935 381744.

0 % 

APR * KGM range in mpg: 30.8-40.1. CO 2 

Yeovil KGM 

Tel. 01935 381735 

Street KGM 

Tel. 01458 550905 

Pay half now 

and half in 

12 months * 

emissions: 161-241 g/km. All KGM 

vehicles come as standard with a 5-year/100,000-mile 

warranty except for Korando e-Motion, which attracts 

KGM models ordered by 31/03/2024. 12 month term. 

will be set at 50% of the published on the road price. 

With KGM Advance Payment Plan, you may return the 

be in good condition and, if you exceed the agreed 

annual mileage, you will be charged 6p per mile on 

Tivoli, Korando & Torres ICE models and 12p per mile 

on Korando e-Motion, Torres EVX, Rexton & Musso 

models for exceeding 15,000 miles p.a. Subject to status. 

Guarantees may be required. T&Cs apply. Participating 

retailers only. Finance through CA Auto Finance UK Ltd, 

PO Box 4465, Slough, SL1 0RW 

commission may be received.

A HAPPY & 

HEALTHY 

Retirement 

Retirement marks a significant 

milestone in life, offering the promise 

of relaxation, exploration, and newfound 

freedom. However, achieving 

a happy retirement requires careful 

planning and foresight, particularly 

in the UK where factors such as 

pension schemes, healthcare, and 

cost of living play crucial roles. By 

taking proactive steps, individuals 

can pave the way for a fulfilling and 

financially secure retirement. 

START EARLY AND 

SAVE DILIGENTLY: 

The foundation of a successful 

retirement plan lies in starting 

early and consistently saving for 

the future. Take advantage of 

workplace pension schemes such 

as the government-backed National 

Employment Savings Trust (NEST) or 

employer-provided schemes, which 

often include employer contributions. 

Additionally, consider contributing to 

private pension plans or Individual 

Savings Accounts (ISAs) to diversify 

your retirement savings. 

UNDERSTAND 

STATE PENSION 

ENTITLEMENTS: 

The UK State Pension provides 

a fundamental source of income 

for retirees. To maximise your 

entitlement, ensure you have 

made sufficient National Insurance 

contributions throughout your 

working life. The State Pension 

age is regularly reviewed, so stay 

informed about any changes that 

may affect your retirement plans. 

CREATE A 

REALISTIC BUDGET: 

Assess your current financial 

situation and outline a realistic 

budget for retirement. Consider 

your expected expenses, including 

housing, healthcare, leisure 

activities, and potential long-term 

care costs. Factor in inflation and 

potential fluctuations in income 


to ensure your budget remains 

sustainable throughout retirement. 

You need to work out what you’d 

like retirement to look like, how 

much that would cost per year, and 

save and invest in line with those 

expectations. 

DIVERSIFY 

INVESTMENTS: 

While pensions form a core 

component of retirement planning, 

diversifying investments can provide 

additional sources of income and 

mitigate risks. Explore investment 

options such as stocks, bonds, 

mutual funds, and property, taking 

into account your risk tolerance and 

long-term financial goals. 

HEALTHCARE AND 

LONG-TERM CARE 

PLANNING: 

Healthcare costs can significantly 

impact retirement finances, 

especially as individuals age. 

Familiarise yourself with the NHS 

services available to retirees and 

consider private health insurance 

options to supplement your 

healthcare needs. Additionally, 

explore long-term care insurance to 

protect against the potentially high 

costs of residential or home care in 

later life. 

D E B T 

MANAGEMENT: 

Prioritise clearing outstanding 

debts before entering retirement 

to alleviate financial burdens and 

ensure a smoother transition. 

Develop a repayment plan to settle 

any outstanding mortgages, loans, 

or credit card debts, allowing you to 

enter retirement with greater financial 

freedom and peace of mind. 

STAY ACTIVE AND 

ENGAGED: 

Retirement is not just about 

financial planning; it’s also about 

maintaining physical, mental, and 

social well-being. Stay active by 

pursuing hobbies, volunteering, 

or engaging in part-time work 

if desired. Cultivate social 

connections with family, friends, and 

community groups to foster a sense 

of belonging and fulfilment during 

retirement. 

REGULARLY REVIEW 

AND ADJUST PLANS: 

Life is dynamic, and retirement 

plans should adapt accordingly. 

Regularly review your financial 

situation, investment portfolio, and 

retirement goals to ensure they 

remain aligned. Consider consulting 

with a financial advisor periodically 

to assess progress, make necessary 

adjustments, and stay on track 

towards a happy and secure 

retirement. 

In conclusion, planning for a happy 

retirement requires a proactive 

approach that encompasses 

financial preparation, healthcare, 

and lifestyle choices. By starting 

early, saving diligently, diversifying 

investments, and prioritising physical 

and emotional well-being, individuals 

can embark on retirement with 

confidence and optimism for the 

fulfilling years ahead. Remember, 

the key to a successful retirement 

lies in thoughtful planning and 

continuous adaptation to changing 

circumstances.

We are independent funeral directors serving Frome and the 

surrounding areas. With over two decades of experience, we 

provide a personal, compassionate and professional service. 

• 24 Hour Personal Service 

• Private Chapel of Rest 

• Arrangements made in your own home if required 

• Pre-paid funeral plans with Golden Leaves 

• Traditional and Green Funerals 

• Direct Cremations 

R20 Marshall Way, Commerce Park, Frome, Somerset BA11 2FE 

01373 476277 | office@waynekellyfuneraldirectors.co.uk 

www.waynekellyfuneraldirectors.co.uk 

The West Country welcomes you to its 

newest, most exclusive development. 

Located on the edge of the beautiful market town of Bridgwater, 

17TH-18TH AUGUST 2019 

9AM-4PM 

Somerset and within easy reach of the picturesque Quantock Hills 

and the vivid landscapes of Exmoor. Enjoy a relaxing round of golf 

at some of the region’s challenging courses or a visit to Chilton 

Lakes for fishing, a stroll along the beaches of nearby Burnham-on- 

Sea or Minehead, all within easy reach of Chilton Park. Across of the 

road will take you to the brand new leisure centre, featuring a gym, 

exercise classes, 4 court sports hall, swimming pool and more! 

Chilton Park, Chilton Trinity, Somerset TA6 3JW | www.chiltonpark.co.uk | 01278 426005 or 07858 404593 


LOCAL FAMILY RUN 

MOBILITY SHOWROOM 

Luxury Adjustable Beds 

Rise & Recline Chairs - Made to 

Order or Stock Chairs for Quick 

Delivery! 

Mobility Scooters - Lightweight & 

Road Legal 

Powerchairs 

Walking Aids & Rollators 

Wheelchairs 

Bath Lifts 

Stairlifts - Straight & Curved 

Daily Living Aids 

Scooter Servicing & Repairs 

Visit One of our Showrooms Open 6 Days 

Trudoxhill Nr Frome - *Shepton Mallet - Coxley, Wells - Warminster - Melksham 

CALL US ON 01373 836165 

www.lifeandmobility.co.uk 

*Open Sunday & Bank Holidays 

WHAT WE OFFER 

Welcoming new patients 

Dental Care Plan 

GBT certified practice 

3D and CBCT Scanners 

Implantology 

Orthodontics 

Zoom Whitening 

Airflow Hygiene 

Composite bonding 

Monday - Friday 9am-5pm 

2 Fromefield, Frome BA11 2HA 

01373 465212 

catherinecourtdentistry.co.uk 


LOCAL WASTE HERO: 

A LOCAL WASTE HERO: 

J.WITT WASTE RECYCLING TO TURN 

J.WITT WASTE RECYCLING TO TURN 

UNRECYCLABLE WASTE INTO SRF WITH ADVETEC 

UNRECYCLABLE WASTE INTO SRF WITH ADVETEC 

South West-based J Witt Waste 

Recycling South will West-based use on-site J Witt biotechnology Waste 

to Recycling convert will more use than on-site 3,600 biotechnology 

tonnes of 

unrecyclable to convert more waste than into 3,600 Solid tonnes Recovered of 

Fuel unrecyclable (SRF) each waste year, into Solid a move Recovered that will 

benefit Fuel (SRF) the circular each year, economy in a move by that reducing will 

and benefit reusing the circular waste that economy would by otherwise reducing 

go and for reusing incineration. waste that would otherwise 

go for incineration. 

The eight-year contract with biotechnology 

The eight-year business contract Advetec with is the biotechnology 

long line business of waste Advetec innovation is the latest activities in 

latest in 

a 

from a long J line Witt of – waste which innovation was the first activities waste 

handler from J Witt to establish – which a was dedicated the first food waste 

waste handler collection to establish service a dedicated in Bath. food 

waste collection service in Bath. 

J Witt plans to use Advetec’s largest 

aerobic J Witt plans biodigester to use Advetec’s machine largest the XO22 at 

full aerobic capacity, biodigester which machine means it the will XO22 process at 

up full to capacity, 10 tonnes which of unrecyclable means it will waste process 

on-site up to 10 per tonnes day. of unrecyclable waste 

on-site per day. 

Advetec’s technology reduces the mass 

and Advetec’s volume technology of waste by reduces 50% and the 70% mass 

respectively and volume and of waste offers by a 50% sustainable and 70% and 

highly respectively cost-effective and offers alternative a sustainable to landfill 

highly and cost-effective Energy from alternative Waste (EfW). to landfill 

and two Energy tonnes from of unrecyclable Waste (EfW). waste For 

For 

every 

that every go two through tonnes the of machine, unrecyclable 1.2 tonnes waste 

of that CO2 go through are saved, the as machine, the process 1.2 digests tonnes 

the of CO2 organic are saved, fraction as of the the process waste digests using 

unique the organic blends fraction of bacteria. of the The waste floc using that’s 

left unique will blends be used of as bacteria. a coal replacement The floc that’s 

product left will be – each used tonne as a coal of floc replacement used as SRF 

will product replace – each 0.5 tonnes of of floc carbon-emitting 

will replace coal. 0.5 tonnes of carbon-emit- 

used as SRF 

ting coal. 

16 FUTURE WASTE 

16 FUTURE WASTE 

This technology will help J Witt offer 

greater This technology environmental will help gains J Witt to its offer 1,000 

customers greater environmental in Bath, Bristol, gains Somerset to its 1,000 

and customers Mendip, in which Bath, Bristol, include Somerset retailers, 

restaurants, and Mendip, industrial which include estates, retailers, veterinary 

restaurants, practices, industrial holiday estates, lets and veterinary 

particular, practices, processing holiday lets unrecyclable and offices. 

offices. 

In 

residual In particular, waste processing on-site will unrecyclable save almost 

500 residual road waste miles on-site each week will – save as this almost waste 

will 500 road no longer miles need each to week be sent – as to this the waste 

Energy will no longer from Waste need incineration to be sent to the plant in 

Avonmouth. 

Energy from Waste incineration plant in 

Avonmouth. 

Jamie Witt, director at J Witt Waste 

Recycling Jamie Witt, said: director “This at technology J Witt Waste is a 

game-changer Recycling said: for “This us operationally technology is and a 

environmentally, game-changer for and us operationally for our customers and 

too. environmentally, We’ve invested and in for Advetec our customers 

reduce 

and too. stabilise We’ve invested our costs in Advetec and future-proof to reduce 

the and business, stabilise our as well costs as and to give future-proof customers 

the a business, more carbon as well and as cost to give friendly customers 

a more carbon to landfill and and cost EfW friendly for their 

alternative 

unrecyclable alternative to waste. landfill and EfW for their 

unrecyclable waste. 

“At the moment, we have to transport 

this “At the waste moment, across we the have region to which transport is 

costly this waste and across time intensive. the region An which on-site is 

solution costly and will time dramatically intensive. An reduce on-site our 

lorry solution journeys, will dramatically which means reduce less cost our as 

well lorry as journeys, significantly which reduced means road less cost related as 

carbon well as significantly and congestion.” reduced road related 

carbon and congestion.” 

Jamie added: “We’ve always been committed 

Jamie added: to actively “We’ve reducing always waste been committed 

we’ll to actively have the reducing technology waste to amplify but 

but 

now 

now we’ll have the technology to amplify 

our efforts. Crucially, we’ll be turning 

local our efforts. waste into Crucially, a commodity we’ll be turning that benefits 

local the waste circular into a economy commodity and that helps benefits 

the circular accelerate economy their and journey helps to our Net 

our 

customers 

Zero.” customers accelerate their journey to Net 

Zero.” 

Lee Knott, Chief Commercial Officer for 

Advetec, Lee Knott, said: Chief “Jamie Commercial and his team Officer are for 

what Advetec, we call said: waste “Jamie innovators and his team and for are 

the what businesses we call waste they innovators serve, they’re and waste for 

heroes the businesses too. Their they decision serve, they’re to invest waste in 

our heroes technology too. Their reflects decision the to increasing invest commercial our technology and reflects political the impetus increasing for 

change commercial and shows and political their appetite impetus to for embrace 

change more and environmentally shows their appetite friendly to embrace 

more environmentally methods. friendly and 

and 

cost-effective 

cost-effective methods. 

“The Advetec XO22 will give J Witt 

greater “The Advetec control XO22 over cost will give and carbon J Witt and 

build greater greater control waste over handling cost capacity carbon and 

into build their greater own waste operations handling – all capacity of which 

will into benefit their own their operations customers – greatly. all of which We’re 

delighted will benefit to their count customers them among greatly. our We’re 

clients.” delighted to count them among our 

clients.” 

Earlier this year, Max Recycle in 

Houghton-Le-Spring Earlier this year, Max became Recycle the in first 

waste Houghton-Le-Spring handler the UK became to create the first SRF 

on waste site handler with Advetec. in the UK Several to create of Advetec’s 

on site smaller with aerobic Advetec. digester Several machines of Advet-– 

the ec’s X06 smaller and aerobic X03 – are digester also machines operation – 

SRF 

across the X06 the and UK. X03 – are also in operation 

across the UK. 

To find out more visit www.advetec.com 

or To call find 01225 out more 777484. visit www.advetec.com 

or call 01225 777484.

Glastonbury Festival presents 

years 

PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS 

& THE SHEPTON MALLET BIG BAND 

Gates open 4.30pm 

Fireworks at 10pm

Mendip Living Apr - May 2024

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