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DOG OWNERS WARNED: BEWARE OF POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CHINESE TREATS LINKED TO ‘WEREWOLF SYNDROME’ -  ⚠️ 🐕 Report by Duncan...
18/01/2025

DOG OWNERS WARNED: BEWARE OF POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CHINESE TREATS LINKED TO ‘WEREWOLF SYNDROME’ - ⚠️ 🐕

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

Dog owners are being urged to exercise caution when selecting chews for their pets after the Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued a warning about treats imported from China.

Reports from the European Union (EU) suggest that certain chews may be linked to a rare and alarming condition in dogs, commonly referred to as "werewolf syndrome".

This condition has been associated with sudden and severe behavioural changes, including panic attacks, aggression, and uncontrollable howling or crying. In more severe cases, affected dogs have suffered from spasms, epileptic fits, and even death.

While no cases have been confirmed in the UK, the FSA has highlighted the possibility that some pet owners may have purchased these products online from international sellers.

Tina Potter, Head of Incidents at the FSA, stated: “While there is no confirmed distribution of affected products to the UK, there is the possibility that some consumers may have purchased these online from international sellers. No unsafe dog chews have been identified but, based on international investigations so far, we are advising dog owners to avoid feeding the affected chews to dogs as a precaution. There is no evidence to suggest these products present any risk to human health.”

The affected products include specific chews under the Barkoo and Chrisco brands, with identified barcodes and expiry dates.

The FSA has advised dog owners to avoid using these chews and to seek veterinary advice immediately if their pet displays unusual symptoms after consumption. Providing detailed information about your dog’s diet, including any treats, is essential for diagnosis and care. Vets are also being urged to remain alert for signs of this condition and report suspected cases to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

HOW THE GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY HELPED CHANGE THE CLOCKS IN ENGLAND - ⏰ 🚂 Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK Befor...
12/01/2025

HOW THE GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY HELPED CHANGE THE CLOCKS IN ENGLAND - ⏰ 🚂

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

Before the 19th century, timekeeping in England was far from standardised. Each town and city operated on its own 'Local Time', based on the sun’s position and calculated using sundials.

This lack of uniformity worked well enough in a pre-industrial world, where life moved at the pace of local communities. However, the arrival of the railway age - with its need for precise and synchronised schedules - exposed the flaws of this system, particularly in the West of England.

In the early 19th century, 'Local Time' varied significantly across Britain. For instance, 'Oxford Time' lagged five minutes behind 'Greenwich Time', 'Bristol Time' was ten minutes behind, and 'Exeter Time' trailed by a further four minutes.

For centuries, this lack of standardisation caused little concern. Public clocks were set to their locality, and life was governed by the rhythm of the sun.

However, the rise of the railway, particularly the Great Western Railway, demanded a more uniform approach to timekeeping. Trains needed to adhere to strict timetables to ensure safety and efficiency. But how could a network spanning multiple towns with varying local times achieve this?

In November 1840, the Great Western Railway tackled this problem by adopting 'London Time' - also known as 'Greenwich Mean Time' (GMT) - as its standard. This innovation, known as 'Railway Time', revolutionised scheduling across the network, ensuring passengers and goods could travel seamlessly. At first, train guards carried the time from London’s Paddington Station to the rest of the system, but by 1855, telegraph technology allowed 'London Time' to be communicated instantly across the country.

However, this change was not universally welcomed. While 98% of towns and cities in Britain had embraced 'Railway Time' by 1855, resistance lingered, particularly in Exeter.

Exeter, the capital of Devon, became a battleground for the clash between tradition and modernity. The Dean of Exeter Cathedral staunchly resisted the imposition of 'London Time' on the city’s iconic clock. The cathedral clock continued to display 'Exeter Time', steadfastly 14 minutes behind GMT. As a compromise, an additional hand was added to the clock face to indicate 'London Time', allowing the public to observe both systems.

This defiance was not merely about timekeeping but also symbolised the tension between local autonomy and the growing influence of industrial networks like the railways. For many, adhering to 'Local Time' was a matter of pride and heritage. Exeter Cathedral’s decision to preserve local time, even in the face of growing national uniformity, reflected a reluctance to abandon centuries-old customs.

The resistance in Exeter and other towns demonstrated the challenges of achieving uniformity in an era of rapid technological change.

It wasn’t until 1880, with the passing of the Statutes (Definition of Time) Act, that 'London Time' was legally enforced across the United Kingdom. This act marked the final victory of standardised time over localised traditions, ensuring that the whole country operated within a single time zone.

The standardisation of time was not just a practical necessity for the railway but also a significant cultural shift. It marked the beginning of a more interconnected Britain, where regions like the West of England were no longer governed solely by the rhythms of their localities but by the broader demands of a nation.

The Great Western Railway’s adoption of 'Railway Time' paved the way for modern timekeeping systems, which we often take for granted today.

FLU INFECTIONS RISING AT AN ALARMING RATE ACROSS ENGLAND - 📈 Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK Flu infection ra...
03/01/2025

FLU INFECTIONS RISING AT AN ALARMING RATE ACROSS ENGLAND - 📈

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

Flu infection rates in England have surged dramatically, with the number of hospitalised patients quadrupling in the past month, NHS England has revealed. Over 5,000 people were receiving hospital treatment for flu at the end of last week, nearly 3.5 times higher than the same period in 2023.

Professor Julian Redhead, NHS National Clinical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating: “The pressure from flu was nowhere near letting up before we headed into the new year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospital as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate.”

The surge in flu cases is exacerbating pressure on an already overstretched NHS. Last week, more than 12,200 patients were left waiting in ambulances for over an hour before they could be admitted to hospital. Dr Adrian Boyle, President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “What we are seeing is ambulances are frequently stuck outside emergency departments and our emergency departments are full.”

He added: “Flu is the straw that is breaking the camel’s back because we have this chronic lack of beds within our hospitals, and we don’t use those beds properly because we haven’t reformed social care.”

Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, said the service is in a position of "national vulnerability" with "intense pressures" gripping local services despite steps taken to prepare for winter challenges. Hospitals have implemented measures such as adding extra beds, reintroducing mask mandates, and restricting visitors to limit the spread of flu.

Professor Redhead also issued advice for vulnerable individuals and those with respiratory conditions, particularly with a severe cold snap expected. “With what looks like an extreme cold snap expected right across England ahead of the weekend, we know the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions.”

The NHS urges everyone in at-risk groups to try to keep warm and ensure they are well-stocked with any regular medication.

BREAKING THE HABIT: HOW TO QUIT SMOKING FOR GOOD - 🚭 Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK Smoking remains one of the...
01/01/2025

BREAKING THE HABIT: HOW TO QUIT SMOKING FOR GOOD - 🚭

Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK

Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in Britain. It’s a habit deeply ingrained in daily life for many, yet its devastating health effects - such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke - are well-documented.

For smokers, the decision to quit is a vital step towards better health, but it’s not without its challenges. Understanding why quitting is so difficult and exploring effective strategies can make the journey to a smoke-free life much more achievable.

The addictive nature of ci******es is one of the primary reasons why quitting feels almost impossible for some.

Ci******es contain ni****ne, a substance that triggers the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating feelings of pleasure and relaxation. This effect can be especially pronounced in men, studies suggest, as they are often more reliant on the stimulant properties of smoking.

Over time, this dependency leads to powerful cravings and withdrawal symptoms when quitting, including irritability, headaches, nausea, and intense urges to smoke - barriers that often lead to relapse.

Social and environmental factors also play a significant role in keeping people hooked. In Britain, smoking is still closely linked with socialising, particularly in settings like pub beer gardens where alcohol is consumed. This association makes it challenging for many men to resist lighting up in social situations. Additionally, the widespread availability of ci******es means temptation is never far away, even for those who are determined to quit.

Despite these challenges, quitting smoking is entirely possible, and the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. Success often lies in finding the right combination of strategies tailored to individual needs.

Ni****ne replacement therapy (NRT) is one effective approach. Products like patches, gums, and sprays deliver controlled doses of ni****ne without the harmful chemicals found in ci******es, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

A newer option gaining popularity in the UK is ni****ne pouches. These discreet, tobacco-free alternatives offer a quick and smoke-free way to manage cravings, making them particularly useful in public spaces or workplaces where smoking is prohibited.

Setting clear and realistic goals is another powerful tool. Instead of vague ambitions like "smoking less", try breaking down the process into manageable steps. For example, aim to reduce the number of ci******es smoked each day or set a firm quit date.

Keeping your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) can help maintain focus and motivation. Reflecting on personal reasons for quitting - whether it’s improving health, saving money, or being there for loved ones - can provide an emotional anchor to keep you on track.

Support from others can make a world of difference. Whether it’s through local smoking cessation services, online forums, or gender-specific support groups, sharing your journey with others who understand the struggle can provide encouragement and accountability. Many resources across Britain offer tailored support, including NHS services designed to help smokers quit for good.

While quitting smoking is undeniably tough, it’s important to remember that every step forward is a victory. Slip-ups are a natural part of the process, but revisiting your reasons for quitting and seeking support can help you stay the course. The rewards - better health, more energy, and a longer life - are well worth the effort.

Breaking free from smoking is one of the most life-changing decisions you can make. With the right strategies and support, a smoke-free future is well within reach.

HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - 🎁 Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK The festive seas...
18/12/2024

HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - 🎁

Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK

The festive season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, a period of warmth, laughter, and connection.

Yet, for many families, Christmas can also bring a sense of financial anxiety, as expectations around gifts, decorations, and elaborate meals seem to grow each year. But the truth is, creating a memorable and meaningful holiday doesn’t have to mean emptying your bank account.

With a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, it’s possible to enjoy a magical Christmas without overspending.

The run-up to Christmas is where much of the season’s joy lies, and this time can be made special without splashing out.

A crisp winter walk, with the added sparkle of fairy-lit houses and shopfronts, can be just as enchanting as any costly outing. Taking a thermos of homemade hot chocolate along can make it all the more memorable.

At home, the focus can shift to simple, heartfelt traditions. An evening spent crafting decorations or writing cards together not only saves money but also deepens the sense of shared effort and togetherness.

Even a family night in, watching classic Christmas films by the glow of the tree, can feel indulgent when approached with the right mindset.

When it comes to gifts, it’s worth remembering that the thought behind a present matters far more than its price tag. Handmade gifts, whether a batch of spiced biscuits or a photo album filled with shared memories, are often the ones cherished most.

If budgets are particularly tight, agreeing with friends or family to organise a Secret Santa can ease the pressure. Setting a modest spending limit ensures the fun remains without financial strain.

Another lovely idea is giving the gift of time - vouchers promising to babysit, cook a meal, or help with household projects are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly thoughtful.

Budgeting for the festive period might not feel particularly Christmassy, but it’s a practical step that pays dividends in reducing stress. Taking the time to set a realistic spending limit and sticking to it can be liberating.

Shopping early is another simple way to spread the cost, as is keeping an eye out for sales or browsing charity shops for hidden treasures. Sometimes, the perfect gift isn’t the one with a shiny new tag but the one with a story behind it.

The Christmas meal, often considered the centrepiece of the day, is another area where simplicity can shine. A traditional turkey is lovely, but it’s not the only route to festive success. Roasting a chicken or preparing a hearty vegetarian dish can be just as satisfying. Inviting guests to contribute - a pudding, a side dish, or some drinks - not only lightens the financial load but makes the meal feel more communal. And when the day is done, leftovers can become a source of creativity, stretching the feast into warming soups or satisfying sandwiches.

Every Christmas, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of adverts and expectations, but it’s worth pausing to remember what truly makes this time special. The joy of Christmas isn’t found in a pile of expensive presents or a lavishly decorated home. It’s in the sound of shared laughter, the warmth of a hug, the quiet moments around the table or tree.

By focusing on the simple pleasures and the people who matter most, this year’s Christmas can be just as magical as any other, without leaving a financial hangover to deal with come January.

Sometimes, the best gifts of all are those that don’t cost a penny - time, love, and the memories made together.

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70%  - 📈 Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK Engla...
12/12/2024

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70% - 📈

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

England is grappling with a sharp rise in flu infections, with the NHS reporting a staggering 70% increase in hospital cases within a single week.

Health officials are calling on the public to act swiftly, urging vaccinations to mitigate the growing threat of what has been dubbed "festive flu".

For the week ending 8th December, an average of 1,861 patients with flu were hospitalised daily, up from 1,099 the week before and a mere 402 at this time last year. The UK Health Security Agency has identified children aged 5 to 14 as having the highest infection rates, but warns that adult cases are likely to rise as schools close and families come together for the festive season.

Adding to the pressure on healthcare services are surges in other seasonal illnesses, including norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Hospital beds occupied by patients with norovirus symptoms increased by 10% last week compared to the previous week, marking a 64% rise from last year. Meanwhile, hospitalisations of children with RSV climbed to 152 per day, a notable increase from 107 a year ago.

Though COVID hospitalisations have slightly declined, with 1,343 patients compared to 1,390 the previous week, the combined strain of these illnesses has raised concerns about a potential “quad-demic” - simultaneous peaks of flu, COVID, RSV, and norovirus.

In response to these challenges, the NHS is intensifying its vaccination campaign. Eligible groups, including the over-65s, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, are being urged to take advantage of free flu jabs available at pharmacies.

To make vaccinations more accessible, they are also being offered in unconventional locations such as football clubs, Christmas markets, church halls and supermarkets.

Pregnant women are being encouraged to receive the RSV vaccine to protect their babies, while adults aged 75 to 79 are also eligible for this additional protection.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, Chief Medical Officer of NHS England, described the surge in flu cases as deeply concerning, emphasising the urgent need for vaccinations. He said, “The tidal wave of flu cases and other seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is really concerning for patients and for the NHS. With one week left to book your vaccine, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting booked in to protect yourself against serious illness and to avoid ‘festive flu’.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this call, urging people to act now, saying, “Protect yourself, your family, and the NHS by getting vaccinated before it’s too late.”

The plea comes as the health service braces for an exceptionally challenging winter.

In addition to rising infection rates, November was the busiest on record for A&E departments in England, with 2.31 million attendances. However, only 57% of patients were seen within the target of four hours, down from 58.1% in October. Ambulance handover delays also increased, with patients waiting an average of 42 minutes and 59 seconds - a rise compared to the same period last year.

Vaccination remains a critical defence against what health officials fear could become a particularly difficult winter for the NHS and its patients.

( Image: Pixabay Library 📸 )

HEDGEHOGS IN WINTERTIME AND HELPING THEM BETTER SURVIVE A COLD SNAP - 🦔 🦔 🦔 Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK A...
23/11/2024

HEDGEHOGS IN WINTERTIME AND HELPING THEM BETTER SURVIVE A COLD SNAP - 🦔 🦔 🦔

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

As winter grips Britain, hedgehogs enter a state of hibernation, a strategy essential for their survival during colder months when food is scarce.

Hibernation is a deep state of torpor, where body temperature, heart rate, and activity levels drop dramatically to conserve energy.

This unique adaptation allows hedgehogs, which are warm-blooded (endothermic) when active, to behave like reptiles (poikilothermic) during hibernation by cooling their body temperature to just above freezing. Hibernation combines hypothermia with a near-complete shutdown of bodily functions, triggered by internal signals and seasonal cues.

The process of hibernation is remarkably efficient, with a hedgehog’s heart rate dropping to as low as four or five beats per minute, and their body temperature plummeting from 35°C to just above freezing. In this state of torpor, hedgehogs can even pause their breathing for up to two hours before taking a series of rapid shallow breaths and sinking back into dormancy. This helps the creatures preserve fat reserves, but the process is delicate. Any unnecessary disturbance can force them to wake, burning through stored energy and potentially endangering their survival.

The ideal hibernation temperature is around +4°C, as this minimises the consumption of fat reserves, although freezing conditions may cause them to increase their metabolic rate slightly to prevent tissue damage.

Hedgehogs construct their winter nests, known as hibernacula, using dead leaves and moss, burrowing into their chosen site and arranging the materials into a compact structure.

The nests, often reused and repaired each year, not only protect hedgehogs from harsh conditions but also provide shelter at times for other wildlife species, such as bumblebees, field voles, and wood mice. To prepare for hibernation, hedgehogs lay down both white fat, which is used for general maintenance, and brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is particularly effective at storing energy.

If a hedgehog is seen during daylight in freezing weather, it is likely in distress and needs urgent help. Acting quickly, you should carefully pick up the hedgehog and wrap it in a towel or blanket before placing it in a box. Providing warmth is crucial, so a hot water bottle wrapped in fleece should be placed nearby, allowing the animal to move closer or away as needed. Once secure, contact a local wildlife rescue centre for further assistance.

Your prompt intervention can play a critical role in ensuring the hedgehog’s survival during these challenging months.

Hibernation is not just a survival mechanism but a testament to the resilience and adaptability of hedgehogs. Despite their remarkable abilities, they face numerous threats in the modern world, many of them human-made. Understanding their needs and stepping in to help when necessary can make a vital difference. With care and respect, we can help these extraordinary creatures continue to thrive in our shared environment.

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

WHY A POPPY? 🙏In Flanders fields the poppies blowBetween the crosses, row on row,That mark our place: and in the skyThe ...
09/11/2024

WHY A POPPY? 🙏

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

John McCrae (1872–1918)

We will remember them...

ROYAL MAIL’S 2024 CHRISTMAS STAMPS CAPTURE SNOWY SPLENDOUR OF ICONIC UK CATHEDRALS - 🎁 ✝️ ❄️ Report by Duncan Williams f...
05/11/2024

ROYAL MAIL’S 2024 CHRISTMAS STAMPS CAPTURE SNOWY SPLENDOUR OF ICONIC UK CATHEDRALS - 🎁 ✝️ ❄️

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

This festive season, the Royal Mail has unveiled its much-anticipated 2024 Christmas stamp collection, featuring a series of evocative snowy scenes of iconic UK cathedrals. Illustrated by British artist Judy Joel, each stamp captures the beauty of these sites dusted in winter snow, evoking a sense of peace, tradition, and seasonal spirituality.

Five cathedrals across the UK are featured: Liverpool, Edinburgh, Armagh, Bangor, and Westminster. The new stamps, available as of today, offer a tour through Britain’s architectural past and its spiritual heart. Each image highlights the cathedrals' unique histories and cultural significance, giving a glimpse of both well-known and hidden details about each site.

Liverpool Cathedral is celebrated as the largest cathedral in Britain and ranks as the fifth largest in the world. This architectural giant, known for the world’s heaviest and highest ringing peal of bells, attracts countless visitors each year, not only for its grand scale but also for its imposing neo-Gothic design, which stands out dramatically against the Liverpool skyline.

Moving north to Scotland, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh appears in all its Victorian Gothic beauty. Celebrating its 150th anniversary, the cathedral’s cornerstone was laid in 1874, and its triple spires mark it as one of only three cathedrals in the UK with this unique feature, a distinction shared only with Lichfield and Truro. St Mary’s is also known for its pioneering spirit in music; it was the first UK cathedral with a daily choral service to invite girls to sing alongside boys, a progressive change made in 1978.

Across the Irish Sea, Northern Ireland’s St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh brings ancient history to this festive collection. Perched on the hill that gives the city its name, Ard Mhacha, the cathedral’s site is said to date back to 445 AD, where Saint Patrick himself founded a church. Its architecture, shaped by centuries of reconstruction and restoration, is an eclectic blend that reflects the varied epochs through which it has endured.

Wales also finds its place in this collection with Bangor Cathedral, a site steeped in Welsh history and legend. Dating back almost 1,500 years, it has withstood the turbulence of history, including episodes of destruction and reconstruction, and serves as the burial ground of notable Welsh princes. The cathedral is dedicated to its 6th-century founder, Saint Deiniol, anchoring it as a deeply significant site for the Welsh people.

Rounding off the collection is Westminster Cathedral, the largest Roman Catholic church in England and Wales. Though construction concluded in 1903, Westminster Cathedral remains unique due to its unfinished interior mosaics, which continue to be crafted and added to this day. The structure itself, with its Byzantine architecture, stands apart from the more Gothic style associated with English cathedrals, making it an architectural marvel in its own right.

This 2024 stamp series offers more than a festive touch; it presents a celebration of the UK’s Christian and architectural heritage, connecting modern observers with centuries of seasonal culture, faith, and history.

( Pictures courtesy of Royal Mail 📸 )

WASTE NOT SOMERSET FUND BOOSTS LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND REDUCES WASTE - ♻️ Report by Stephen Collier for News Advertiser ne...
23/10/2024

WASTE NOT SOMERSET FUND BOOSTS LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND REDUCES WASTE - ♻️

Report by Stephen Collier for News Advertiser newspapers

The Waste Not Somerset Fund, a grant initiative set up to help community groups reduce waste and promote sustainability, is having a significant impact across Somerset. Jointly funded by Somerset Council and SUEZ recycling and recovery, the fund supports grassroots projects aimed at reducing waste, reusing materials, and encouraging sustainable living.

Managed by Somerset Community Foundation, the fund uses ring-fenced income from the sale of recyclable materials to support a variety of local initiatives. The scheme focuses on projects that minimise waste and promote repair and reuse, with recent grants helping groups in Wellington, Crewkerne, and Bridgwater.

Cllr Richard Wilkins, Somerset’s executive member for transport and waste services, praised the initiative, stating, “We want Somerset to be a greener and more sustainable place and, while recycling is great, reducing waste is even better. These grants have the added benefit of helping community groups grow with all the positives that come with a flourishing community sector.”

SUEZ’s senior community liaison manager, Lily Morton, highlighted the wide-reaching benefits of the initiative, explaining that, “Backing some of the amazing community groups in Somerset has been brilliant. Empowering community groups to tackle waste, alongside supporting their local community, is a win-win! Seeing what the groups have done with the funding, it’s clear that they are vital to changing resident behaviours towards waste. All the groups align perfectly with SUEZ’s vision to live in a world where there is no more waste.”

Fiona Foster, senior philanthropy manager at Somerset Community Foundation, added, “We’re extremely privileged that SUEZ and Somerset Council chose to partner with Somerset Community Foundation to create their Waste Not Somerset Fund. It’s great to be working alongside these experienced waste partners to support local groups and grassroots charities, working to reduce waste in the heart of our communities here in Somerset.”

One of the projects benefiting from the Waste Not Somerset Fund is the Best Before Food Store in Wellington. This membership scheme provides local residents with access to essentials, including personal hygiene products that would otherwise go to waste. Reflecting on the scheme’s impact, a spokesperson for the store said, “Coming to the Best Before Food Store has helped me massively and prevents products from going to landfill. Nothing has to be wasted. It has made me think about products in a different way.”

The store has also expanded its activities by hosting monthly cooking demonstrations aimed at reducing food waste.

Another group benefiting from the fund is Prodigal Bikes in Crewkerne. This small charity collects unwanted mountain bikes and refurbishes them with the help of local volunteers, including individuals with special educational needs and mental health issues. Thanks to the grant, Prodigal Bikes processed 170 bikes, saving around 2.5 tonnes of waste. Forty of these bikes were donated to local refugees, providing them with a sustainable mode of transport. Anthony Raybould, the charity’s operations manager, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We really appreciate funding like this which we can use to support our running costs.”

In Bridgwater, the Victoria Park Community Centre has also benefited from the Waste Not Somerset Fund. The centre’s Local Pantry, which started in February 2023, prevented 2.45 tonnes of food waste in just five months. Laura Fowler, the centre’s manager, commented on the social value of the project, saying, “The social value of the Pantry not only means reducing food waste but we're able to support people on low incomes through the cost-of-living crisis, adding value to their weekly food costs with amazing foods, valued at approximately £20.00 for £3.50 per week.”

The centre has also used the funding to run workshops including a clothes swap, family cooking sessions, and reusable personal hygiene product demonstrations, all aimed at promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

For more details about the fund and its projects, visit the Somerset Community Foundation’s website at - www.somersetcf.org.uk.

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