Taunton & South Somerset Living Jun

YOUR FREE COPY JUNE/JULY 2026

Taunton

AND SOUTH SOMERSET

LIVING

INSIDE

Brownie Recipes

Interiors Guide

Puzzle Page

PICNIC SEASON

Outdoor dining, summer colour

and easy entertaining

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

S O U V E N I R E V E N T S P R E S E N T S

WITH VERY SPECIAL GUESTS

DJ SETS

SUNDAY 30 AUGUST 2026

VIVARY PARK TAUNTON

IN AID OF

NORDOFF & ROBBINS

E L E C T R I C S U M M E R . C O • T I C K E T S V I A U N I V E R S E . C O M

C O N T E N T S

A NOTE

from the editor

18 22

DECADENT JACK

HOME 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

STEIN BROWNIE INTERVIEW RECIPES & RECIPE

26

FOR ADVERTISING

Account Manager Adrian Hill

e adrian.hill@minervapublications.co.uk

t 01225 984496

Front cover courtesy of Talking Tables

08 04

PICNIC COMPETITIONS

SEASON

12

TEA BREAK TEASERS

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.

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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.

Welcome summer...

I had my first English

strawberry

As we move

this

into

week,

June and

and

July,

my

word,

everything

it was

starts

beyond

to feel

delicious

a little

- more perfectly relaxed. sweet, The it evenings was a

very stretch good out, advert the garden for eating chairs

seasonally. come back I’ve into tried regular to echo use,

this and the in all hopeful my recent British fruit ritual and of

vegetable “shall we eat purchases, outside?” and begins it’s

had — usually a transformative followed by someone effect on

my checking cooking three - everything weather apps just

tastes and deciding better to - risk more it anyway. vibrant,

needing less seasoning and

just This overall issue has very a lovely tasty. summer

feel, with plenty of inspiration

I’m for making the the most most of the of

cooking season at whilst home. I Our still summer have a

kitchen home upgrades - mine is feature due to looks be

ripped at the improvements out in two weeks that and can

it make will be a real camping difference, stove from and

air beautiful frying for flooring two months and better from

there! glazing I’ve to already ideas for picked making my

kitchen,

the garden

but

feel

it got

like

me

a true

thinking

extra

about

room. Whether

all the other

you’re

areas

planning

that

a bigger project or simply

need updating in my home. If

looking for ways to make your

you are thinking of a similar

home flow more easily into the

refresh, please check out our

outdoors, it’s a reminder that

home pages this edition -

summer living often starts with

they’re full of inspiring trends

the spaces we use every day.

and a few timeless classics.

We’re also very happy to

We’ve feature also brownie got recipes some lovely from

editorial Kate Jenkins on of the Gower best Cottage plants

for — easy pollinators share, - it’s ideal never for

been picnics, so important garden to gatherings support

wildlife or school-holiday in the garden. treats, and

dangerously good with a cup of

The tea. Consider competition yourself guide warned. this

issue is a bumper one - we

have Alongside an the outdoor lighter seasonal furniture

set pieces, from our Bramblecrest Living Well worth with

nearly Dementia £3,000, feature plus a looks cordless at

lawnmower support, understanding worth £679 to and get

that the ways garden people in shape. can continue This,

plus to live a with lot more dignity, makes connection it well

worth and care. a look and an enter!

We hope will be you back enjoy the again issue in

August — and - I’ll that be fully somewhere rebooted

and

between

recharged

the home

into

inspiration,

summer

mode.

the brownies

See you

and

then!

the summer

days out, you find something to

brighten the weeks ahead.

Katie

Katie

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

“WOULDN’T

IT BE GOOD”

80s ICON

NIK KERSHAW

ON STILL

LOVING THE

SPOTLIGHT

6 in 26 - a micro-anniversary tour - sees Nik Kershaw and his band

heading out on a limited run of shows to celebrate 50 years of

‘responsible adulthood.’

Also dubbed the ‘no particular reason we can think of’ tour - and, just as

fittingly, the ‘why the hell not?’ tour - these dates promise a mix of the

hits and plenty more besides. In fact, expect whatever you like!

Mendip Living’s Ade Hill caught up with Nik to find out more...

HEY NIK, YOU’RE BACK

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS

APPEARING AT BATH’S

KOMEDIA ON 12TH JULY WITH

“6 IN 26”. A MICRO TOUR

PLAYING YOUR CLASSIC HITS

AND A TRIP DOWN MEMORY

LANE.

Yeah, a night of celebrating the hits from

over the years. People want to hear the

classic tracks of course, but there will be

loads of stuff. We just love getting out on

the road to play gigs and we love playing

in the West Country.

THERE’S A LOT GOING ON

AROUND THE WORLD RIGHT

NOW. 6 IN 26 IS A CHANCE TO

FORGET THAT FOR A COUPLE

OF HOURS, RIGHT?

Yep, exactly that. A chance to lose

yourself. We’ll be on stage giving it our

all and hopefully making it a memorable

night in Bath.

I’VE GOT TO ASK YOU ABOUT

YOUR BAND NIK. YOU ALL

LOOK LIKE YOU’RE HAVING A

LOT OF FUN ON STAGE?

Yes, we have been together as a band

for quite sometime now. We’re all great

mates and we love hanging out with

each other. Apart from anything else it’s

a brilliant reason to play a concert. That

and having to share a tour bus. I have

been on tour buses before and there’s

been a bit of an atmosphere, which really

isn’t very nice. They are simply all bloody

good musicians.

THEY SAY NEVER MEET YOUR

HEROES, BUT HAVE YOU AND

WHO WERE THEY?

David Bowie is one of them. We were in

the same room, but I just couldn’t bring

myself to say hello. I wanted to of course,

but I couldn’t justify just how much he

meant to me, so I kept my mouth shut and

simply smiled. He must have thought that

Nik Kershaw is a right miserable bastard.

Hahaha. Another one was in LA at a Pink

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Floyd after party and Joni Mitchell is sat

on this sofa. I so wanted to go over and

say hello to an absolute legend, but it was

as if someone had nailed my feet to the

floor – I just couldn’t do it.

YOU WERE 27 WHEN YOU

PERFORMED AT LIVE AID.

HOW DID YOU FEEL KNOWING

THAT YOU WERE GOING TO BE

PERFORMING IN FRONT OF AN

ESTIMATED GLOBAL AUDIENCE

OF 1.9 BILLION?

Oh god! That was just amazing, it was

absolutely amazing but terrifying. You

can’t describe just how terrifying that

was. It wasn’t just the amount of people

out there at Wembley, it was the 2

billion people that were supposed to be

watching it on the television. What got

to me was being surrounded by all of my

heroes and my peers; I just didn’t want

to mess up. You hadn’t seen your crew,

you hadn’t seen your gear, so walking

out onto that stage was literally just like

jumping off a cliff without a parachute.

CASTING YOUR MIND BACK,

HOW WAS IT THE FIRST TIME

THAT YOU APPEARED ON TOP

OF THE POPS?

I have to be honest Ade and say that it

was just a bit surreal really. The whole

experience just didn’t seem to be very

real. I had been watching Top Of The

Pops on and off all my life on the telly and

for a start the studio looks really huge but

when you get there it is really tiny. Then

you find out that there aren’t hundreds

of people in the audience; there is about

twenty all being herded about when

the cameras are not running them over.

When I did Top Of The Pops you were

not allowed to perform live, the whole

thing had to be recorded, and I thought

to myself is this really going to be on the

television as it just seems like a rubbish

gig (laughter).

I RECENTLY SAT DOWN WITH

YOUR MATE CHESNEY HAWKES

AND WE BOTH AGREED THAT

YOUR FIRST ALBUM “HUMAN

RACING” IS STILL A BRILLIANT

ALBUM. WHAT ARE YOUR

MEMORIES ABOUT MAKING IT?

It was recorded at Sarm Studios in

Aldgate in east London. It really was a

magical time as I had just got a record

deal, and the record company were

spending all this money on me and

giving me all this attention and hopes

were high. I was surrounded with brilliant

musicians and the top producers of the

day. It was the summer of 1983, and it

took 10 weeks to record. I used a “guitar

orchestra” approach, featuring up to

20 guitars on some tracks to achieve a

specific, aggressive sound. “Wouldn’t It

Be Good” was one of the last written for

the album which got released in February

1984 and hit the Top 5 in the charts.

80’S LIVE MUSIC IS REALLY

POPULAR. MANY LIKE ME

WERE JUST THAT BIT TO

YOUNG THE FIRST TIME

AROUND. HOWARD JONES IS

PLAYING TAUNTON IN AUGUST

AND IS SELLING OUT FAST.

IT MUST PLEASE YOU TO SEE

THAT?

Yeah absolutely. It’s the power of

nostalgia and a great sound. Many who

come to my gigs, now bring their grown

up children, who love it as much as the

parents do.

YOU’RE BACK IN FROME AT

THE CHEESE AND GRAIN NEXT

MARCH 20TH FOR AN EVENING

OF SONGS AND STORIES.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW,

BUT WHAT KIND OF EVENING

WILL IT BE?

It’s an intimate show and I’d done a

couple of them at the end of 2025 and

really enjoyed doing them. It’s like

having a conversation with the audience

about my music career with a few songs

thrown in of course. I’m looking forward

to coming back to Frome!


MEET THE

Tauntonians

WE TALK TO BUSINESSES IN AND

AROUND THE TAUNTON AREA WHO ARE

PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT THEY DO...

ELECTRONIC

SUMMER

JEZ DAMSELL

TELL US MORE ABOUT ELECTRIC

SUMMER

Electric Summer is a one-day festival

celebrating the legends of 80s synthpop

alongside contemporary artists inspired

by that iconic sound. It’s a meeting of

the elder statesmen of synthpop and

the new(er) wave, featuring seven live

performances throughout the day, plus DJ

sets between acts to keep the electronic

energy flowing from start to finish.

VIVARY PARK, RIGHT?

Absolutely — Vivary Park is the perfect

backdrop for Electric Summer. Conveniently

located in the heart of Taunton, it’s incredibly

easy to reach by both road and rail.

Accessibility was a huge factor in choosing

the venue, and we’re delighted to already be

welcoming bookings from across the UK, as

well as Sweden, Germany, Italy and even

North America.

HOW DO I GET TO THE PARK FROM

TAUNTON RAILWAY STATION?

It’s little more than a relaxed 15-minute walk

from the station. Why not arrive early and

explore the town before the festival begins?

Taunton’s Independent Quarter and Bath

Place are both highly recommended.

WHERE DID THE IDEA OF

BRINGING HOWARD JONES TO

TAUNTON BEGIN?

That’s a long story! In short, Howard

Jones had always been at the very top of

my “dream booking” list for the monthly

COMPUTER WORLD SYNTHPOP CLUB

nights in Taunton. We’ve previously

hosted sell-out performances from

Blancmange and China Crisis — twice, in

China Crisis’s case.

Eventually, we realised that if we truly wanted

to bring Howard to Taunton, we needed to

think bigger. Electric Summer became the

perfect opportunity to make that happen -

and thankfully, the rest is history.

YOU’VE ALSO GOT HEAVEN 17

AND BLANCMANGE PERFORMING!

I honestly couldn’t be happier to have them

both involved. Heaven 17 and Blancmange

are absolute legends, and it still feels

surreal that artists whose records I bought

as a teenager are now playing our festival.

We’re also thrilled to welcome Mesh,

Hungarian duo Black Nail Cabaret,

Agency-V and West Country electronic act

Neon Fields. It’s an incredible line-up from

start to finish.

WHAT ABOUT DISABLED ACCESS?

Accessibility is extremely important

to us. The park is level throughout, with

dedicated wheelchair-accessible toilet

facilities available on site.

There will also be a viewing platform

for wheelchair users, although spaces

are limited and must be pre-booked in

advance. Access+ card holders requiring

a ticket for an authorised carer should also

get in touch beforehand.

Please contact us via the form on our

website: www.electricsummer.co

APART FROM THE LIVE ACTS,

WHAT ELSE CAN I EXPECT?

We’re delighted to have internationally

renowned DJ and remixer Paul Dakeyne

joining us for the day. As well as being

hugely respected in electronic music

circles, he’s also a genuinely friendly and

engaging presence.

Paul will be playing DJ sets from gates

opening at 12:30pm and between every live

performance — keeping those synthpop

and electronic vibes flowing all day long.

CAN I BRING A PICNIC? WILL

FOOD AND DRINK BE AVAILABLE?

With the exception of medically necessary

food items (supported by the appropriate

certification), outside food and picnics

won’t be permitted.

However, we’re excited to showcase a

fantastic range of local food and drink

vendors throughout the event. Serving

begins from gates opening at 12:30pm, so

you’ll be able to enjoy lunch, dinner and

refreshments in the park across the day

and into the evening.

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE

AND BOOK TICKETS?

You can read more about the artists,

festival information and the charity

we’re proudly supporting — Nordoff

and Robbins — on our official website:

www.electricsummer.co

Tickets are currently available here:

www.universe.com/electricsummer26


Ross Grant & Hartwin Dhoore

Sat 11 Apr

Laura Jane Wilkie

Thu 28 May

Holly Clarke

Fri 4 Sep

Jon Wilks

Sat 17 Oct

Box Office: 01823 283244

www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk

@brewhouselive

West Somerset Railway

England’s Longest Heritage Railway

Travel through the Quantock Hills and along the

meandering coastline between Bishops Lydeard

and Minehead. With ten unique and picturesque

stations, you can travel in style behind one of

our heritage locomotives to one of the many

destinations along our line.

On-Board Catering • Souvenirs and Gift Shops •

Heritage Locomotives and Carriages

Now in our 26 th Year

Voted Daily

Telegraph one

of the top 500

pubs in the

UK

Bishops Lydeard, TA4 3RU • Minehead, TA24 5BG

Visit: www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk


Bon Appetit Tin Trays, £15, Yellow & White

Check Napkins, £4.75, Lemon Enamel Plate,

£15, Metal Reusable Plates, £6,

talkingtables.com

Tomato Handle

Wooden Salad

Servers, £29.50 oliverbonas.com

Geometric Acrylic Jug &

Tumbler Set, £40, coxandcox.co.uk

PICNIC SEASON

Picnic season brings fun & charm to outdoor dining: here are some

beautiful - and practical - baskets, blankets, tableware and serveware...

Brambly Cottage Sunnyside Melamine

Serving Dish, £34.85, wayfair.com

Bon Appetit Napkins, £4.75,

talkingtables.com

Contrast Rim Acrylic Jug £14

marksandspencer.com

Green & White Stripe

Picnic Blanket, £25,

procook.co.uk

Picnic Basket, £80

procook.co.uk


Leela Striped Cutlery

Set, £44.99,

laredoute.co.uk

Discover

Somerset’s Hidden Gem

TRADING POST

FARM SHOP

FRESH PRODUCE, LOCAL FAVOURITES & DELICIOUS FINDS

FRESH &

SEASONAL

Beautiful fruit, veg &

local produce

--------------------------

LOCAL &

DELICIOUS

Westcountry &

Beyond Cheese Deli

--------------------------

Open 7 Days a Week

UNIQUE

FiNDS

Hampers, Gifts

Homeware

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday - Saturday

Sunday

8.30am - 6.00pm

10.00am - 4.00pm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

‘A Mini Borough Market’ The Sunday Times

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trading Post Farm Shop

The Old A303

Lopenhead

Nr South Petherton WORTH THE DETOUR

Somerset

Hop off the A303 at

TA13 5JH

South Petherton

01460 241666

tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk

/// what3words: ///firelight.cheerily.chosen

Loved by Locals....

Ready to be discovered by you

1 0 % o f f

u s i n g c o d e

1 0 H A U S L I F E

p e r f e c t

g i f t s f o r

a n y

b u d g e t

f u r n i t u r e ,

f a s h i o n ,

h o m e w a r e ,

g i f t s &

a c c e s s o r i e s

3 Abbeygate Street, Bath | hauslife.co.uk


TAUNTON’S PREMIUM GARDEN CENTRE

TAUNTON’S PREMIUM GARDEN CENTRE

QUALITY

GUARANTEED:

We have one of the

largest ranges of quality

plants and gardening

products in the

South West.

Family owned since 1979!

Family owned since 1979!

TREAT YOURSELF

YOURSELF

TREAT WITH OUR NEW GARDEN INSPIRED

OUR NEW GARDEN INSPIRED

WITH AFTERNOON TEA

AFTERNOON TEA

THE ELM TREE

Restaurant

Restaurant

Monkton Heathfield, Taunton Somerset, TA2 8QN

TEL: 01823 412381

EMAIL: info@monkton-elm.co.uk

www.monktonelm.com

Puzzle Time

Summer Word Search

Would you like to advertise in this space?

Get in touch to find out more: 01225 984550 or

email studio@minervapublications.co.uk.

I E V E G O G G L E S H F W O

S T A D T N B F T L X O H Y M

F N H F G S A N S U G L P V O

V L O U O A W M G R O I H K P

Y B I R N K R I E X J D D S V

K L L P K D I D M T M A H U A

K E T U F E E S E S W Y M N I

Z B H A E L L R W N U O N G C

E A E H L S O I S C I I A L E

J R A U M P K P N T K N T A C

A B T Q B T D I S G O R G S R

S E W A E E A Y E X B R G S E

S C A I D M M J R S R W M E A

S U V S T A Y C A T I O N S M

V E E U B E A C H B A L L B P

HEATWAVE

BLUE SKIES

SUNGLASSES

SWIMSUIT

FLIP FLOPS

ICE CREAM

GOGGLES

SUMMERTIME

WORDSEARCH

BEACH BALL

SNORKELING

GARDENING

THUNDERSTORM

BARBECUE

STAYCATION

HOLIDAY

WORD WHEEL

thunderstorm sunglasses snorkeling

Staycation blue skies flip flops

This Summer themed word wheel is made from a 9

beach ball letter Summer gardening themed word. Try and find swimsuit that word,

then make as many words of any length as you can

Barbecue from these letters. goggles You can only use each heatwave letter once,

and each word must include the letter B.

ice cream

Holiday

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

Sudoku

SUDOKU

8 1 6

3 4

9 5 3 2

1 4

5 4 3 9 7 2

8 7 9 3

1 5

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

6 5 2

5 9 7 2

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

SOLUTIONS

Come along

to our Open

Day

Come see

a home designed with you in mind

Kingfisher Court

South Street, Taunton,

Somerset, TA1 3GH

Our Kingfisher Court development in Taunton is

cleverly designed to make life easier – now and in

years to come.

Join us for our open day at Kingfisher Court. It's a great

opportunity to visit this stunning Retirement Living

PLUS development, view our high quality apartments

available, and meet our vibrant

community of homeowners.

Visits are by appointment only and we look forward to

welcoming you.

Join us for coffee & cake

Date: Friday 5th June 2026

Time: 11am - 3pm

Call 0800 185 5674

to book your space.

mccarthystone.co.uk/kingfisher-court

Here's some of what over 70s can

enjoy:

Local amenities nearby

Dedicated Estates Manager

Beautiful communal lounge

Stunning landscaped gardens

Staff on-site 24/7

Flexible care & support^

On-site chef-run restaurant

Apartments for rent from £2,345pcm #

50% Shared Ownership from

£105,000 ~#

plus a monthly rent of £241pcm

Or purchase a 75% share with no rent to pay

Ts&Cs apply. ~Shared Ownership example shown when purchasing a 50% share with monthly rent. Other shares available. Qualifying criteria apply. See mccarthystone.co.uk/shared-ownership for

more details. #Subject to availability. ^Additional charges apply. Imagery is representative. Information correct at time of print. Ts&Cs apply.

DRIVING AT NIGHT

GETTING HARDER?

It Might Not Be Your Glasses

If you’ve found yourself avoiding night driving lately,

you’re not alone. Many people notice that oncoming

headlights feel dazzling, streetlights seem to glow with

halos, and road signs aren’t as sharp as they once were.

It’s easy to assume your glasses need updating—but

often, that’s not the full story.

These symptoms can be early signs of cataracts, a

common age-related change where the eye’s natural

lens gradually becomes cloudy. Unlike typical vision

changes that glasses can correct, cataracts affect how

light enters the eye. This is why glare from headlights

can feel overwhelming, and why night-time vision is

often the first thing to deteriorate.

Other tell-tale signs include blurred or dim vision,

increased sensitivity to light, and colours appearing

slightly faded. You may even notice that your prescription

seems to change more frequently, without ever

quite feeling “right.”

So when is it time to consider treatment? If your vision

is starting to impact everyday activities—particularly

driving, reading, or recognising faces—it’s worth seeking

EXPERT EYE CARE

YOU CAN TRUST

Clear, comfortable vision is something many of

us take for granted - until it begins to change.

advice. Cataracts don’t need to be “ripe” anymore

before being treated; modern approaches focus on

improving quality of life as soon as symptoms become

bothersome.

The good news is that cataract surgery is now one of

the most common and straightforward procedures performed

in the UK. It typically takes less than 30 minutes,

is done under local anaesthetic, and most people return

home the same day. The cloudy lens is replaced with a

clear artificial one, often restoring sharp, vibrant vision—

sometimes even reducing the need for glasses.

If night driving has become stressful or uncomfortable,

it’s worth looking beyond your prescription. A simple eye

examination could be the first step back to clearer, more

confident vision.

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

Whether it’s difficulty driving at night, cloudy vision, or colours

appearing less vivid, shifts in eyesight can have a real impact

on everyday life. While it’s tempting to put these changes

down to needing stronger glasses, they can sometimes signal

underlying conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma.

At Newmedica Bristol, patients have access to expert eye

care delivered in modern, state-of-the-art facilities across

three locations in the city. The clinic provides a comprehensive

range of services, including cataract surgery, YAG laser

capsulotomy (a follow-up treatment sometimes needed after

cataract surgery), glaucoma care, vitreoretinal surgery, and

oculoplastics—treating conditions such as drooping eyelids

and lumps or bumps around the eye.

What truly sets Newmedica apart is its unique structure.

The clinic is owned and led by the consultants and partners

who work there. This means the people responsible for

your treatment are personally invested in achieving the best

possible outcomes. There’s a strong sense of accountability

and pride in the care they provide—because it’s their

reputation, as well as their patients’ wellbeing, on the line.

Cataract surgery at Newmedica is quick and highly effective

- often completed in as little as 10 minutes. It is performed

under local anaesthetic, with patients returning home the

same day. A range of advanced lens options is available for

private patients, allowing treatment to be tailored to individual

lifestyles and visual goals, often reducing the need for glasses

afterwards. For added convenience, free transport is also

available on the day of surgery for those who need it.

Patients can choose treatment via the NHS with a referral

from their optometrist or GP, or opt for private care, with

appointments available in as little as two weeks. Private

medical insurance is accepted, with the clinic working

alongside leading providers.

If your vision isn’t quite what it used to be, seeking expert

advice could be the first step towards seeing clearly again.

Newmedica Bristol

www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/bristol

0117 335 0160


“

I needed cataract surgery and

didn’t want to wait. Within weeks

I could see clearly again.

”

That’s Newmedica

At Newmedica Bristol, we prioritise reducing wait times for

cataract care. Our skilled team and expert consultants

ensure your treatment and lens choice are tailored to your

vision and lifestyle.

We’re committed to making private cataract lenses

affordable, with prices starting from £2,295 and with pay

monthly options available at 0%.*

For a free consultation call

0117 453 4452

newmedica.co.uk/clinics/bristol

*Acceptance is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply

RAISING INDEPENDENT

CHILDREN

By Gail Murphy, Early Years Development Manager,

National Day Nurseries Association

Parents and immediate family members

are a child’s first educators and the most

important people in their lives. The early

years are their foundations for learning

and independence, when they develop the

skills they need to reach their full potential.

Happy, secure and independent children

benefit from structure, routine and the

opportunity to develop decision-making

and risk-taking skills which builds their

confidence. Sending a child to nursery

where there are varied and different

learning environments to home can really

support a child on their next steps to

independence and self-sufficiency.

Independence looks different for

every child. Well-qualified early years

professionals are best placed to support

each child to develop their potential.

Here’s why:

Nurseries provide opportunities for group

play, shared problem-solving, learning

with and from their peers. Children in

settings soon develop social skills such as

turn-taking, sharing, negotiation, conflict

resolution and empathy.

In a larger social setting, children have the

extra space to develop communication

skills through individual, small and large

group experiences where they learn

how to express needs, wishes, interests,

ideas and feelings in socially acceptable

ways. Group mealtimes for example

support social skills and routines and

introduce children to try broader tastes

and an understanding of the joys of eating

together.


Supporting children to develop

persistence and resilience can be

challenging for many families, particularly

when it feels easier in the moment to

step in quickly or avoid upsetting them.

Nurseries can offer helpful challenge

and gentle resistance by encouraging

children to try for themselves, building

independence rather than reliance.

Parents’ own upbringing and experiences

can also shape how comfortable they

feel with saying no, but evidence shows

that children benefit from clear, consistent

boundaries. Boundaries help children feel

safe and secure, and from this sense of

reassurance they gain the confidence to

explore.

Relationships that children have with

their nursery workers are key to their

overall experiences in nursery. Adults

have the training to encourage, model

and enable, engendering curiosity

through new and exciting opportunities

and experiences, such as the Maths

Champions programme. Children develop

self-sufficiency and real-world skills like

dressing, toileting, managing meal times,

looking after their environment and each

other.

Making daily choices in free-flow indoor

and outdoor play within predictable

routines builds autonomy, decisionmaking

and ownership of who to play

with, where and what. Nursery staff

support where necessary but also know

when to step back to help children

become more capable, try it themselves,

to gain that confidence when they achieve

their goals. Independence grows gradually

and needs to be encouraged and taught.

It includes knowing when and how to ask

for help in a situation. Children learn in this

way to develop persistence and resilience

when things are tricky.

Routines, play and relationships with peers

and adults build children’s confidence, a

‘can do’ attitude and support emotional

regulation by reducing anxiety.

What is the Maths Champions

programme and why does it matter?

The Maths Champions programme,

delivered by the National Day Nurseries

Association is an evidence-based early

intervention designed to boost children’s

maths skills from the very start. Through

flexible online training, practical tools

and expert support, it helps nursery staff

build confidence and embed maths into

everyday play and routines.

The impact is significant: children in

participating settings make up to three

months additional progress, rising to six

months for disadvantaged children.

Just as importantly, it equips practitioners

and parents with simple, effective ways to

support early maths at home and in the

setting. Strong early maths skills are a key

foundation for later learning, making early

intervention crucial.

Find out more about the programme

here: https://ndna.org.uk/championsprogrammes/maths-champions-earlyyears-maths-training/

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PHOENIX HEART AWARDS 2026:

Celebrating Excellence in Education, Care, and Support

Phoenix Learning and Care is proud to

announce the Phoenix HEART Awards

2026, taking place this July...

The awards celebrate the exceptional

contribution and everyday achievements

of our Team Members across our

schools, colleges and care services,

and the positive impact they have

on the People we support. HEART

Award winners are also put forward for

national awards, with several colleagues

shortlisted in previous years.

This year’s awards will be even more

inspiring, with categories recognising

excellence in innovation, compassion,

leadership and teamwork. By celebrating

Team Members who live our values of

Honesty, Empathy, Aspiration, Respect

and Teamwork every day, the HEART

Awards reflect what Phoenix stands for.

AWARD CATEGORIES FOR

2026 INCLUDE:

• Empowering Futures Award

• Innovation & Impact Award

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• Nurture Award

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• Sensory Support Award

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• Therapist of the Year

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The Phoenix HEART Awards 2026 will

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As part of this year’s event, we would

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our generous sponsors, whose support

makes the HEART Awards possible. Their

commitment to education, care, and the

well-being of the People we support is

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Jon Pain, CEO at Phoenix Learning and

Care said: “We are incredibly proud

to celebrate the passion, dedication,

and hard work of our Team Members.

This year’s ceremony will unite finalists,

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remarkable individuals and teams whose

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A special thank you to Fyrex as our Gold

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support for all the people we work with.

For more information about the Phoenix

HEART Awards 2026, please visit:

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heart-awards/


Join the Phoenix Community

We’re a dedicated team of over 700 professionals supporting

Children, Young People and Young Adults through:

Schools

Further Education College

Children’s Residential Homes

Adult Supported Living Services

We run 40+ specialist settings

across South England and

South Wales, offering

tailored, therapeutic care and

education.

Phoenix Learning and Care Group is expanding into

the North of England with the opening of Havencross

School in late 2026. Based in Denton, Greater

Manchester, the independent specialist SEND school

will support children with autism and learning

disabilities who are unable to access mainstream

education.

An Integrated Therapies culture that puts people first

Phoenix’s Integrated Therapies Teams work in open, collaborative

and supportive ways. We value clinical expertise, trust professional

judgement and encourage shared learning, building connected

teams where people feel supported and able to thrive.

If you’re looking for a role where collaboration, trust and

creativity are genuinely valued, and where education and

therapy work together to support each individual, Phoenix

could be the place for you.

Find out more about us, follow us on

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Reimagining Education for

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How do we prepare young people not just to leave

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Too often, education prepares students for the “real world” by

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This is the foundation of our Enterprise Learning approach: a

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producing something that matters to them and to the people

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To make this possible, we staff our schools with practitioners

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NEXT-LEVEL BROWNIES

Rich, indulgent and endlessly adaptable,

brownies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

In The Brownie Book: Wickedly Irresistible

Chocolatey Bakes, Kate Jenkins reimagines

the classic with creative twists and bold

flavours. Kate’s kindly selected three

standout recipes to try at home.

MATCHA BLONDIE

Building on the lusciousness of our white

chocolate blondie base, we have infused half of

the batter with earthy matcha powder to create

a visually striking and delicious bake with an

unusual flavour profile.

INGREDIENTS

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, diced

150g (5½oz) white chocolate, broken into small

pieces

300g (1½ cups) caster sugar

1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract or paste

150g (1 cup plus 2 tbsp) plain flour

½ tsp baking powder

3 eggs

2 tbsp matcha powder

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F/

Gas 4).

Put a medium (about 20cm/8in) heavy-based

saucepan over a medium heat. Add the butter

and melt slowly, stirring continuously. Turn the

heat to low, add the chocolate and stir until

completely melted and smooth.

Take the pan off the heat. Add the sugar and

vanilla and mix thoroughly. Add the flour and

baking powder and stir until combined and

smooth, with no lumps.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs for 20–30

seconds until light and frothy. Carefully fold into

the chocolate mixture to form a thick batter.

Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.

Add the matcha powder to one bowl and mix

until fully combined.

Allow to cool slightly for 10–15 minutes, then

spoon alternating dollops of each mixture into a

lined tray to create a marbled effect.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are

set and the centre slightly soft. Leave to cool

completely, then slice into 12 pieces.


PEANUT BUTTER

SALTED CARAMEL

BROWNIE

I’ve taken our classic chocolate brownie

base and transformed it by creating a

salted caramel layer running through the

bake. I’ve included peanut butter and

chopped, lightly salted peanuts for extra

indulgence and texture, but if that isn’t

your bag, just leave them out.

For the salted caramel

100g (1⁄2 cup) light soft brown sugar

175ml (3⁄4 cup) double cream

50g (1¾oz) unsalted butter, diced

1 tsp sea salt

300g (10oz) crunchy peanut butter

(optional)

For the brownie batter

175g (6oz) unsalted butter, diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate, in

small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour


3 eggs

50g (1¾oz) lightly salted peanuts, chopped

(optional)

METHOD

Begin with the salted caramel. Combine the

sugar, cream, butter and salt in a saucepan

over a low heat and stir until dissolved.

Increase the heat and simmer for 2–3

minutes until golden and syrupy. Remove

from the heat, cool slightly, then stir in the

peanut butter. Spread evenly into a lined tray

and freeze until firm.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F/

Gas 4).

Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the

chocolate and stir until smooth. Remove

from the heat, add the sugar and vanilla,

then mix in the flour and baking powder until

combined.

Whisk the eggs until light and frothy, then

fold into the mixture to form a smooth batter.

Spread half the batter into a lined tin. Place

the frozen caramel layer on top, then cover

with the remaining batter. Sprinkle with

peanuts if using.

Bake for 40 minutes until the edges are set

and the centre slightly soft. Cool completely,

then cut into 12 bars.


RASPBERRY RIPPLE

BROWNIE

Childhood memories of summers spent

at the seaside were the inspiration for

this recipe. Regardless of the weather,

a Whippy ice cream was a must — and

with raspberry topping, it became an

unforgettable taste combination.

INGREDIENTS

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

broken into small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour


3 eggs

For the raspberry swirl

125g (4½oz) white chocolate

75ml (2½fl oz) soured cream

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp natural raspberry flavouring (we use

Foodie Flavours, available online)

1 tbsp raspberry jam

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C

fan/350°F/Gas 4).

Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add

the chocolate and stir until smooth.

Remove from the heat, mix in the sugar

and vanilla, then add the flour and baking

powder and stir until combined.

Whisk the eggs until light and frothy, then

fold into the mixture to form a smooth

batter.

For the raspberry swirl, melt the white

chocolate in short bursts, stirring until

smooth. Mix in the soured cream, egg,

flavouring and jam until well combined.

Spread half the brownie batter into a

lined tray. Spoon over half the raspberry

mixture, then cover with the remaining

batter. Add the rest of the swirl mixture

and create a marbled effect with a

cocktail stick.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until the

edges are set and the centre

slightly soft. Cool completely, then

slice into 9 pieces.

Full versions of these recipes

can be found in The Brownie

Book: Wickedly Irresistible

Chocolatey Bakes by Kate

Jenkins (DK, £16.99), with

photography by Kim Lightbody.


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SUMMER HOME UPGRADE

Invest in Your Home This Season

As the days grow longer and life

spills out into the garden, summer

is often when homeowners start

looking at their houses with fresh

eyes. Rooms feel brighter, doors are

left open, gardens become part of

daily life again — and suddenly the

potential for improvement becomes

easier to imagine.

For some, that might mean a major

renovation: a new kitchen, improved

glazing, a redesigned layout or a

garden room. For others, it may be

smaller but still impactful changes,

such as new flooring, shutters,

lighting, planting or outdoor furniture.

Whatever the scale, a well-planned

home upgrade can make your

property more enjoyable now while

adding comfort, efficiency and longterm

appeal.

DESIGNER TIP

Before changing a layout, think

about how you use the room

at different times of day. A

space that works for breakfast,

homework, entertaining and

quiet evenings will always feel

more successful.

This summer, the smartest projects

are those that improve how a home

works as well as how it looks.

OPEN UP YOUR

LIVING SPACE

One of the biggest shifts in modern

home design is the move towards

flexible, light-filled spaces that

support the way families really live.

The kitchen, in particular, is no

longer just somewhere to cook. It is

often the heart of the home: a place

for homework, entertaining, relaxed

suppers and everyday conversation.

Rethinking the layout of a kitchen,

dining room or family room can

make a dramatic difference.

Removing a wall, widening an

opening or repositioning storage

can help a home feel more spacious

and sociable. An island or breakfast

bar can create a natural gathering

point, while better lighting, flooring

and cabinetry can refresh a room

without changing its entire footprint.

It is also worth thinking about

how each space connects to the

next. Do you move easily between

kitchen, dining area and garden?

Is there enough storage for daily

life? Good design is not just about

creating a beautiful room — it is

about creating a room that supports

real life.

BRING THE

OUTSIDE IN

Few upgrades transform a home

quite as instantly as improved

glazing. Sliding doors, bi-fold doors,

French doors and larger windows

can flood interiors with natural light

and create a stronger connection

between house and garden.

A darker room can suddenly feel

brighter and larger, while a garden

becomes part of the view all year

round rather than something

enjoyed only on sunny days. Wide

expanses of glass can also make

entertaining easier, allowing guests

to move naturally between indoor

and outdoor spaces.

The right choice will depend on

your property, budget and lifestyle.

Sliding doors can offer slim

sightlines and uninterrupted views.

Bi-folds can open up almost an

entire wall. French doors may suit


DESIGNER TIP

Treat the area just outside

your doors as an extra room.

Add lighting, seating and

planting so it feels intentional,

not like an afterthought.

Harvey Jones

Quorn Stone

period homes or smaller spaces.

Modern glazing can also offer

excellent thermal performance,

helping homes stay comfortable

throughout the year.

For older properties, the key

is balance. New windows and

doors should improve comfort

and efficiency without stripping

away character, particularly

in conservation areas, listed

buildings or homes with traditional

architectural details.

CREATE SEAMLESS

INDOOR-OUTDOOR

LIVING

The dream of indoor-outdoor

living is not simply about installing

large doors. It is about making

the transition between home and

garden feel natural, attractive and

easy to use.

Flooring can play a major role.

Choosing complementary materials

inside and outside can help create

a sense of flow, even if they are not

identical. Level thresholds, where

possible, make access easier and

more elegant. Lighting also matters:

soft garden lighting, wall

lights or carefully positioned

spotlights can make an

outdoor space feel inviting

long after sunset.

Think too about what sits

immediately outside the doors.

A terrace, patio or deck can act

as an extension of the kitchen or

living room, giving you somewhere

to eat, sit or entertain. Even a

small courtyard can feel much

more usable with the right seating,

planting and lighting.

The most successful spaces are

designed around real habits. If you

love relaxed family meals, prioritise

a dining area close to the kitchen.

If you enjoy evening drinks, think

about comfortable seating and

warmth. If children or grandchildren

use the garden, make sure there is

clear visibility from the house.

MAKE MORE OF

THE GARDEN

Outdoor living has become one

of the most desirable elements of

a modern home. A garden is no

longer just a patch of lawn or a place

Wooden Adirondack Chair

(with footrest), £239, hauslife.

co.uk; Ocellus Outdoor

Cushion £75, oka.com

for summer barbecues. With

thoughtful planning, it can become

an extra living space, dining room,

play area, home office or peaceful

retreat.

Garden rooms remain popular

for those wanting more flexible

space without moving house. They

can work beautifully as offices,

studios, gyms, guest spaces or

hobby rooms, particularly when

properly insulated for year-round

use. Pergolas, awnings and covered

seating areas can also extend the

season, offering shade and shelter

when needed.

Outdoor kitchens and built-in

cooking areas are another growing

trend, especially for those who

enjoy entertaining. But a successful

outdoor space does not have to be

elaborate. A simple patio with good

furniture, layered planting and a

practical route back to the kitchen

can be just as effective.


Bronze Light Switch, £55, dowsingandreynolds.com;

Indoor/Outdoor

Rug, £115, clickstyle.co.uk; Outdoor

Cushion, £38, hauslife.co.uk

When planning a garden upgrade,

start with purpose. Do you want

somewhere low-maintenance?

A space for entertaining? A quiet

retreat? A family-friendly garden?

Once you are clear on how the

space should work, choices around

landscaping, planting, paving and

furniture become much easier.

THINK ABOUT

COMFORT AND

EFFICIENCY

The best home upgrades are not

only about appearance. Practical

improvements can make an

enormous difference to daily

comfort, especially in older homes.

Energy-efficient windows, improved

insulation, underfloor heating,

smart controls, better ventilation

and high-quality flooring can all

help a home feel more comfortable

and cost-effective to run. These

elements may not be the most

glamorous part of a renovation, but

they often have the biggest impact

on daily life.

Lighting is another area worth

serious thought. A single overhead

light rarely does a room justice.

DESIGNER TIP

Do not leave finishes until the

end of the budget. Handles,

lighting, window treatments and

flooring are the details that often

make a project feel complete.

Layered lighting — combining task,

ambient and accent lighting —

can change the mood of a space

completely.

Storage is equally important.

Beautiful rooms quickly lose their

appeal if there is nowhere to put

coats, shoes, toys, paperwork,

appliances or everyday clutter. Builtin

storage, boot rooms, utility areas

and clever cabinetry can help keep a

home feeling calm and organised.

ADD THE

FINISHING

TOUCHES

Sometimes it is the final layer that

brings a project together. Paint

colours, curtains, shutters, blinds,

rugs, tiles, handles, furniture and

accessories can all influence how

a room feels. These details add

personality and create flow.

Shutters and window treatments can

be particularly effective in summer,

offering privacy, light control and a

polished finish. Soft furnishings can

introduce colour and texture, while

mirrors, artwork and lighting can

help a space feel considered rather

than simply renovated.

This is where local specialists can

be invaluable. Interior designers,

kitchen companies, flooring experts,

glazing specialists, landscapers

and home furnishing retailers bring

practical knowledge as well as style

oka.com

advice. They can help you choose

materials that suit your lifestyle,

avoid costly mistakes and create a

cohesive result.

START WITH THE

RIGHT ADVICE

Every successful home project

begins with good advice. Speaking

to local experts early can help

clarify what is realistic, what

permissions may be needed, how

long work might take and where

your budget is best spent.

It is also wise to think ahead. If you

are investing in glazing, how will it

affect flooring, heating and garden

access? If you are redesigning

a kitchen, does the lighting plan

support the new layout? If you are

landscaping, will the space work

beyond high summer?

The most satisfying upgrades are

rarely the result of one isolated

decision. They come from looking at

the home as a whole — how it flows,

how it feels, how it functions and how

it supports the people living in it.

Whether you are planning a major

renovation or a series of smaller

improvements, summer is the

perfect moment to invest in your

home. With the right guidance,

thoughtful design and attention to

detail, you can create a space that

feels brighter, more practical and

more enjoyable for years to come.


SMART JOBS FOR JUNE

to keep your garden looking its best

June is one of the most rewarding

months in the garden. Borders are

bursting into life, lawns are growing

quickly and outdoor spaces

become somewhere to relax and

entertain as the evenings stretch

longer.

A little regular maintenance now

helps keep everything looking

beautiful through the rest of

summer — and prevents those

small jobs turning into bigger ones

later in the season.

KEEP THE LAWN

LOOKING ITS BEST

With warmer temperatures and

occasional rainfall, lawns tend

to grow rapidly in June. Regular

mowing encourages thicker growth

and keeps grass looking lush and

healthy.

Avoid cutting the lawn too short

during dry spells — slightly longer

grass helps protect the roots and

retain moisture. Edging paths,

patios and borders also makes a

surprisingly big difference, instantly

giving the garden a well-kept look.

Modern cordless mowers such as

the STIHL RMA 235 battery mower

have become increasingly popular

with home gardeners. Lightweight,

quiet and easy to store, they

make routine mowing quick and

convenient for smaller to mediumsized

lawns.

TRIM HEDGES BEFORE

SUMMER GROWTH

TAKES OFF

Many hedges benefit from a light

trim in early summer to keep them

neat and encourage dense growth.

Formal hedges such as box, privet

and yew respond particularly well to

gentle shaping during June.

For taller hedges and shrubs, a

dedicated hedge trimmer makes

the job far quicker and easier.

Battery models like the STIHL HSA

45 hedge trimmer offer plenty of

cutting power while remaining

lightweight and easy to handle for

most garden tasks.

Always check carefully for nesting

birds before trimming, and aim for

light shaping rather than heavy

pruning.

DON’T FORGET TOOL

MAINTENANCE

Reliable tools make garden jobs far

easier, particularly during the busy

summer growing season. Whether

using traditional petrol equipment

or newer battery-powered tools,

keeping blades sharp and engines

or batteries well maintained helps

ensure everything runs smoothly

when you need it.

Many gardeners choose to have

equipment professionally serviced

once a year — a simple service can

often extend the life of tools and

maintain peak performance.

KEEP PATHS AND

BORDERS TIDY

With plants growing vigorously, it’s

easy for paths, patios and borders

to become cluttered with grass

clippings, fallen leaves and early

weeds. Regular light clearing keeps

outdoor spaces feeling fresh and

welcoming — especially if you’re

planning garden gatherings or

summer barbecues.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL

STIHL STOCKIST

Your local authorised STIHL dealer

can offer expert advice on choosing

the right equipment for your garden

— whether you’re maintaining a

compact lawn or managing larger

hedges and borders.

They can also help with:

• Demonstrations of the latest

petrol and battery garden

tools

• Servicing and maintenance

to keep equipment running

smoothly

• Replacement parts,

accessories and seasonal

advice

Speak to your local STIHL dealer

to find the right tools for the

season ahead.


AK SYSTEM TOOLS -

for medium-sized

to large gardens

ƒ

GET THE LATEST STIHL BATTERY-

POWERED TOOLS FROM HUNT FOREST

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STIHL Approved Dealers offer excellent service,

expert advice and best-in-class maintenance for

your tools. With years of experience in the garden

machinery industry, we‘re ready to help.

Visit us today to find out more about the latest STIHL

tools and get the right tool for your needs today.

STIHL – a pioneer in power and garden tools for 100 years

Find your local Hunt Forest Group branch at

Nether Stowey

Inwood Farm, Nether Stowey, Bridgwater,

Somerset, TA5 1HY Tel: 01278 733603

Opening hours:

Monday – Friday: 8.00am – 5.30pm

Saturday: 8.00am – 12.00pm

www.huntforest.com

Email us at info@huntforest.com

NOTES FROM THE

Garden

Flower shows abound at this time of the year

and they are a fantastic opportunity to see new

plants, see how other people use their garden

space, look for garden accessories - and chat to

other gardeners too.

Gardening clubs, garden magazines, TV programmes all vie to

show us the best of the best but sometimes things don’t go to

plan, plants fail, plans don’t get executed and you can feel a bit

down - but nature somehow has a way of not letting you feel

down for long. If the big picture

seems a long way away, start with

the small picture.

New gardeners are often daunted

by all of the advice, adverts, show

gardens, perfect gardens etc - but

actually every single gardener will

share takes of what didn’t worksometimes

very funny stories too!

Just one beautiful plant, one home

grown courgette, one birds nest in

your garden - is enough.

Starting small is good. If you

have a big garden maybe target it in bite size chunks. Restore

one border, prune one tree, plant a few beautiful pots and give

yourself a pat on the back.

Enjoy the perfection, recognise the hard work and chat to other

gardening enthusiasts - having your own outside space - a

balcony, a patio, even a window box should be a pleasure and

the more you do the better you get!

Enjoy the sun, use a water butt if you are able, don’t forget

water for birds and bees and remember “A weed is a plant that

has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to

grow in rows.” - Doug Larson

For more advice, visit Matt Biggs’ website:

www.matthewbiggs.com

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TAKE CONTROL OF ENERGY COSTS NOW

NOT WHEN WINTER HITS

With energy costs continuing to impact households, many

homeowners are looking for ways to reduce bills and improve

efficiency. But while it’s natural to focus on this during the colder

months, the reality is that the best time to act is now...

Late spring and early summer provide

the ideal opportunity to review how

your home is performing — before

demand rises and issues become

urgent. Acting early not only helps

spread costs, but also ensures access

to trusted local specialists before the

seasonal rush begins.

For some, the starting point is simple.

A boiler service or system check

can highlight inefficiencies that may

otherwise lead to higher bills or costly

breakdowns in winter. Ensuring your

heating system is running efficiently

now can make a noticeable difference

when you need it most.

However, many homeowners are now

thinking more broadly about how their

homes use and retain energy. Solar

panels continue to grow in popularity,

offering a way to generate electricity

directly from your property and reduce

reliance on the grid. When combined

with battery storage, homes can

store excess energy and use it when

needed, helping to maximise long-term

savings.

Heat pumps — both air source and

ground source — are also becoming

an increasingly attractive option.

Designed to provide efficient, lowcarbon

heating, they offer a futurefocused

alternative to traditional

systems, particularly when considered

as part of a wider home upgrade.

Importantly, improving energy

efficiency isn’t just about how energy

is generated — it’s also about how

it’s retained. Good glazing plays a

vital role here. Upgrading windows

and doors can significantly reduce

heat loss, improve comfort and lower

overall energy demand. For many

properties, especially older homes,

this can be one of the most effective

first steps.

What’s clear is that homeowners are

shifting from reactive decisions to

more considered, long-term thinking.

Rather than waiting for bills to rise

or systems to fail, there is growing

awareness of the benefits of acting

early — whether through smaller

improvements or more comprehensive

upgrades.

Working with experienced local

providers can make all the difference,

offering tailored advice and solutions

suited to your property and lifestyle.

And by taking action now, there’s time

to plan, install and optimise before

winter places greater strain on both

homes and energy costs.

A more efficient home doesn’t just

reduce bills - it offers greater comfort,

resilience and peace of mind. And with

the right steps taken today, you’ll be

far better prepared for whatever the

seasons ahead may bring.


WHEN YOU NEED A

SOLICITOR'S HELP...

Taunton Solicitors is a general law practice serving individuals

and businesses across Taunton, Somerset, and beyond.

You should consider contacting a

solicitor whenever you face unfamiliar

legal issues, significant financial

decisions, or the risk of a dispute. This

might include buying, selling, or leasing

property; dealing with family matters

such as divorce, separation, child

arrangements, or financial settlements;

preparing wills or lasting powers of

attorney; handling probate or estate

administration; resolving disputes;

or reviewing employment settlement

agreements.

Taunton Solicitors recommend seeking

advice as soon as you think you may

need help.

Our Services:

• Property & Conveyancing:

Buying, selling, leasing, or

transferring property. Our

experienced team provides

reliable, efficient, and cost-effective

support, with a strong focus on

clear communication and smooth

progression.

• Family Law:

Divorce, separation, child

arrangements, and financial

settlements. We combine legal

expertise with understanding and

practical support during what can

be highly personal and challenging

situations. (Please note we do not

offer legal aid work.)

• Wills, LPAs & Probate:

Drafting wills, setting up LPAs, and

ensuring their validity, including

where mental capacity may be a

concern. We also handle contested

wills and estate administration.

During bereavement, we can guide

you through the probate process

or manage it on your behalf,

depending on your needs.

• Dispute Resolution:

Helping resolve disputes such

as issues with contractors,

neighbours, or other

disagreements. We aim to settle

matters through negotiation

and mediation where possible,

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

or pursue your rights through

the courts if needed. (Excludes

personal injury, clinical negligence,

and road traffic cases.)

• Employment – Settlement

Agreements:

Providing independent legal advice

when you are leaving employment

and offered a settlement

agreement. We explain the terms,

suggest amendments, and can

negotiate on your behalf where

appropriate.

Taunton Solicitors take a traditional,

client-focused approach, providing clear

guidance, care, and support for you, your

family, and your business.

Ask about fixed fees and available

discounts, including for members of the

armed forces and emergency services.

Call 01823 351122 or visit

tauntonsolicitors.com to arrange an

appointment.

Taunton Solicitors

Legal Services and Advice

WILLS, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION,

PROBATE & TRUSTS

LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY

BUSINESS SALES &

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

BUYING & SELLING

HOUSES & FLATS

FAMILY LAW & DIVORCE

FARMS, LAND &

AGRICULTURAL PROPERTY

Visit our website for Discounts and Costs: www.tauntonsolicitors.com

2 Hours Free Client car Parking, Ground floor office, disabled parking and facilities and private meeting rooms.

2 Tangier Central Taunton TA1 4AP.

Call our office for more details 01823 351122

e-mail: info@tauntonsolicitors.com


A partnership for the

end of partnerships

ADVERTISING Promotional Partnership FEATURE

Claire Macklin

Amicus Law recently announced a partnership

with divorce coach and author Claire Macklin.

The partnership is designed to offer a holistic

approach to family breakdown, combining legal

expertise with emotional support during what is

often one of life’s most challenging transitions.

We sat down with Lauren Preedy, Partner and

Family Solicitor at Amicus Law, and Claire to

discuss why working together is so important...

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST

MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE

EARLY IN THE DIVORCE

PROCESS?

Lauren says, “A key mistake is making

decisions before getting legal advice,

particularly around finances or assets,

which can lead to regret. Seeking advice

early is especially important where there

are businesses or complex assets, and

where there may be tax or disclosure

issues that need addressing properly.”

Claire adds, “Yes, I agree. People

often act from strong emotions without

pausing, leading to reactive decisions.

Rushing in this way can escalate conflict,

make the process longer and more

difficult, particularly where children are

involved. Divorce is not just a legal

process, so take time to deal with your

emotions.”

HOW DO YOU REDUCE

CONFLICT?

Claire replies, “When emotions are

unmanaged, they can derail legal

decision-making and escalate conflict. I

support clients with strategies to calmly

gain clarity and communicate effectively,

which helps the process run smoothly.

Our collaboration provides vital emotional

support alongside the legal process.

Particularly, where children are involved,

improving communication is key to

protecting them.”

Lauren continues, “With 20 years’

experience, my role is to help people

navigate the process. I give clear, realistic

advice to minimise unnecessary conflict

with a focus on fair and proportionate

outcomes. Sometimes we take matters

into court if needed, but I always aim for

a collaborative agreement where possible

– this partnership gives our clients the

best advice to achieve that.”

IS IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A

SUCCESSFUL DIVORCE?

Lauren confirms, “Yes, it absolutely

is. A successful divorce involves

resolving matters without court where

possible, with lawyers communicating

constructively and both parties remaining

child-focused. It’s about being kind,

fair and realistic. Court is sometimes

necessary, particularly where there

is non-engagement or fundamental

disagreement, for example around

finances or pensions.”

Claire agrees, “Yes. I would define

“successful” as a divorce that is handled

with dignity, honesty and respect, where

decisions are made thoughtfully and with

full information, and clients emerge with

their integrity intact, feeling that they did

their very best.”

WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP?

Lauren says, “Take early advice, stay

calm and avoid direct contact if it

increases conflict. Keep communication

factual rather than emotional. Reach out

to friends and professionals for support,

focus on your children’s wellbeing and

stay off social media.”

Claire adds, “Set a clear intention for

how you want to show up and keep

returning to it. Focus on what you can

control - divorce can feel like steering

Lauren Preedy

through a storm, so staying steady and

getting the right support early makes a

real difference.”

Amicus Law and Claire’s partnership

reflects a shared belief that divorce is not

just a legal process, but an emotional one

too - and that the best outcomes come

when both are supported side by side.

For more information about

Claire Macklin, visit:

https://clairemacklincoaching.com/

For more information about Amicus Law,

visit: www.amicuslaw.co.uk


Family Law & Divorce

When family life changes, you need legal advice you can trust. Our

experienced family lawyers provide clear, compassionate guidance tailored

to your circumstances, always placing your wellbeing and your family’s

future at the heart of what we do.

We advise on:

Divorce and Dissolution

Financial Settlements

Resolution Together and Collaborative Law

Child Arrangements and Parental Disputes

Cohabitation Agreements

Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements

01823 288121

www.amicuslaw.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the SRA No. 628528

LIVING

WELL

WITH

DEMENTIA

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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It often brings difficult questions about

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Dementia affects people in different

ways. Some may experience memory

loss, confusion or difficulty finding

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behaviour. Because the condition can

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But good care at home is about far

more than ticking off a list of tasks.

For someone living with dementia, a

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an understanding of their life story

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Carers who take time to learn about

someone’s routines, preferences, past

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As needs increase, specialist

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Many now provide dedicated

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The best settings combine safety with

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Activities play an important role in

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“Good care is not

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for couples or individuals who want

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For relatives, making care decisions

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Seeking advice early can make the

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Living well with dementia is about

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Contact us about care support services available in your area.

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Taunton & South Somerset Living Jun - Jul 2026

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