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Established regional newspaper series published in the United Kingdom by Independent News Limited. We enhance communities with digital and print publications that communicate uplifting news stories; providing advertisers with a successful means to promote their services. By remaining independent, we are unbiased in our reporting and retain the valued trust and loyalty of our readers. Additionally,

we aim to support regional business by offering credible advertising brands that readers will respond to. When people see an advert for the first time they are unlikely to respond to it, because usually it means nothing to them. When people have seen your advert a number of times, they are familiar with your organisation and you have succeeded in making your name real in people's minds. Therefore, ongoing advertising works far better than a one-off advert, and advertising in a variety of places and a variety of ways, makes you organisation more real to people and will give them more confidence in you. The result will be that they will feel that your organisation is one that is worth supporting, your product is one worth buying, your message is one worth hearing.

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.

12/12/2024

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

Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News

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 📸 )

12/12/2024

KNOWLE MEADOW CAMPING WINS GOLD AND SILVER AT TOURISM AWARDS - 🏆

Report by Kelly Leonard for Pulman's Weekly News

Knowle Meadow Camping, located between Chard and Ilminster in South Somerset, has been honoured with two prestigious awards at the Bristol, Bath & Somerset Tourism Awards 2024. The family-run campsite won Gold for New Tourism Business of the Year and Silver for Campsite of the Year, a remarkable achievement for a business in its first full season.

The Knowle team shared their gratitude, expressing how receiving such recognition early in their journey has been a long-held dream come true.

“We’ve always wanted to create a haven for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the countryside, and to be honoured in this way is incredibly rewarding,” a spokesperson for the site said.

The site offers spacious camping and glamping facilities within a tree-enclosed meadow, where each pitch is surrounded by long grass and wildflowers. Guests can enjoy luxurious features such as a Scandinavian wood-fired barrel sauna and eco-friendly washrooms.

For glampers, options include stargazing belle tents and a locally-crafted Shepherd’s hut with a wood-fired hot tub.

Knowle Meadow Camping has quickly established itself as a family-friendly and dog-friendly rural getaway. Combining comfort, sustainability, and natural beauty, the site provides a unique experience for those seeking an escape to the South Somerset countryside.

( Photos: Knowle Meadow Camping 📸 )

06/12/2024

STORM DARRAGH SET TO BRINGS CHAOS TO THE SOUTH WEST - ⚠️ 🌧️

Report by Kelly Leonard for News Advertiser newspapers

Storm Darragh is poised to bring severe winds and heavy rain to Somerset, Devon and Cornwall this weekend, causing widespread disruption and safety concerns.

The Met Office has issued an amber wind warning for Saturday, 7th December, and a yellow rain warning in effect from 3.00pm on Friday, 6th December, until 6.00am on Sunday, 8th December.

Coastal areas are forecast to experience gusts of 70 to 80mph, with very large waves expected. Inland, wind speeds could reach 60 to 70mph, with stronger gusts in some locations. These conditions may damage buildings, dislodge roof tiles, and pose a serious risk to life from flying debris.

Coastal roads and properties are at further risk from waves and beach material being flung ashore. Heavy rainfall, totaling 15 to 25mm, is likely to exacerbate flooding in already vulnerable areas.

Flood warnings are in place across many parts of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall with rivers rising and drainage systems under strain.

Travel disruptions are anticipated, with road and bridge closures expected, as well as delays and cancellations to public transport.

Motorists are advised to drive with caution, especially on exposed routes where sudden gusts could make conditions treacherous. Power outages are also a strong possibility, potentially affecting mobile phone coverage and other essential services.

Residents are urged to take precautions, such as securing outdoor items, charging mobile devices, and preparing for power cuts with torches and backup batteries. Authorities recommend avoiding unnecessary travel and staying indoors during the storm to minimise risks from falling trees and flying debris.

The Met Office has highlighted particular dangers along the coastline, where large waves and storm surges pose serious risks to life. “Driving in these conditions can be dangerous,” a Met Office spokesperson warned, advising drivers to reduce speed and exercise caution.

With Storm Darragh’s impact imminent, emergency services and local authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, stay informed, and prioritise safety as conditions worsen.

( Photo: The Met Office 📸 )

01/12/2024

AXMINSTER AND CHARD GEAR UP FOR BURLESQUE WORLD RECORD BID - 🪩🤞 💛

Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News

The communities of Chard in South Somerset and Axminster in East Devon are preparing to shimmy their way into history as they attempt to set a new World Record for the largest-ever burlesque class on 27th April 2025.

Led by local burlesque instructor Laura Edgell, who performs under the name Trixie Valour, the event will form part of celebrations for World Burlesque Day on 26th April. The initiative aims to gather dancers both locally and online to surpass the current record of 155 participants.

Laura, who runs burlesque classes at Axminster Guildhall and the 1610 Wellness Centre in Chard, is passionate about the transformative power of the art form. "In a world where we are constantly inundated with unrealistic beauty standards, burlesque offers a refreshing space where people can feel beautiful, strong, and celebrated for who they truly are," she said.

The project is equally about breaking records, building self esteem and challenging taboos. Laura highlights burlesque’s role in boosting confidence and mental health. "Beyond boosting confidence, burlesque can serve as a powerful tool for combating depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that physical activity, creative expression, and community support are vital for mental health. Burlesque combines all three," she explained.

The class will welcome participants of all ages, shapes, and sizes, embodying the inclusive spirit of the event. Laura hopes the project will put "little old Axminster and Chard on the map" while spreading awareness of burlesque’s liberating and empowering qualities.

“Learning to perform, whether it’s a simple shimmy or a full routine, gives participants a sense of accomplishment. The community aspect fosters connection, reducing feelings of isolation,” she added.

As part of their efforts, the group will also join a simultaneous worldwide online attempt to engage 151 countries, highlighting burlesque as a creative and mental health-boosting activity.

This inclusive and joyful art form has seen a revival over the past 20 years. With its roots in theatre and comedy, burlesque combines a playful "art of tease" with serious benefits for self-esteem and body confidence. Laura’s classes already embody these values, offering a safe and celebratory environment for everyone who joins.

To newcomers curious about burlesque, Laura has a simple invitation: “Come and experience this wonderful, liberating event. Let’s make history together!”

Whether you’re an experienced performer or a complete beginner, the world record attempt is open to all. Interested participants can find more information and join the effort by visiting Laura’s website - www.lauralewismovement.com/burlesqueclasses

( Photos: Laura Edgell / Trixie Valour 📸 )

23/11/2024

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

Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News

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 📸 )

18/11/2024

JOSH DENNING HONOURED AS YOUNGEST EVER FREEMAN OF LYME REGIS - 🗝️ 🩶

Report by Kelly Leonard for Experience: Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis celebrated an extraordinary achievement as local hero Joshua Denning was honoured as the youngest-ever Freeman of this historic town in West Dorset.

At just 20 years old, Joshua’s years of dedication to the community and outstanding fundraising efforts were recognised with the highest honour the council can bestow.

“What Joshua has achieved since he was nine years old has been absolutely fantastic, and the amount of money he has collected is astronomical,” said Mayor Cllr Evans, who presented the award. “He has been a star of this town for many years, and becoming the Westcountry Pride of Britain winner, receiving the most nominations anyone had ever had, has actually brought a huge amount of publicity to our town.”

Cllr Evans also acknowledged the vital support Joshua has received from his family, presenting a bouquet of flowers to his mother, Annette, and praising his brother, Jacob, as “an extraordinary young man” for his own achievements and unwavering support for his older brother.

The Honorary Freedom of the Town is the highest accolade Lyme Regis Town Council can confer to a citizen.

Mayor Evans emphasised its significance, stating, “We are so proud of you in this town, and we hope you will hang this in your house so that everybody who walks in knows that you are a Freeman of Lyme Regis. It’s my greatest pleasure as mayor to present this wonderful achievement to a wonderful young man, who has set the standard for young people working for their community.”

( Photo: Lyme Regis Council 📸 )

17/11/2024

STATION ROAD IN ILMINSTER CLOSED FOR ESSENTIAL WORKS UNTIL MONDAY - ⚠️

Report by Stephen Collier for Pulman's Weekly News

Motorists and residents in Ilminster, South Somerset, are experiencing disruption as Station Road, a key route into the town centre, remains closed until 6.00am on Monday, 18th November, due to essential works.

The closure began at 7.00pm on Friday, 15th November, to allow for the installation of a Vodafone Fibrewave system and the repair of a defective chamber. The work, carried out by Vodafone Fibrewave Ltd, is intended to improve local infrastructure and connectivity.

Station Road, which is near the Shrubbery Hotel and the Warehouse Theatre, serves as a vital link to Ilminster town centre. Its closure has caused inconvenience for residents and visitors, with some reportedly attempting to bypass the road closure signs to reach their destinations, despite the 24-hour restriction in place.

A Somerset Council spokesperson expressed regret over the disruption, stating: “We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

Drivers are encouraged to visit the Somerset Council Roadworks and Travel Information website for updates and alternative routes during the closure: www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/roadworks-and-travel/

The road is expected to reopen as planned on Monday morning, restoring normal access to the town.

( Photo: iStock Library 📸 )

10/11/2024

WEEKLY WELLBEING: THE POWER OF COMPASSION - 🤍

Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News

Compassion is celebrated across cultures and religious traditions as one of humanity's highest virtues. Although ambition, achievement, and self-reliance are frequently prized above this essential quality, compassion remains a quiet yet transformative force, shaping the lives of both those who offer it and those who receive it.

The Dalai Lama once expressed a simple yet profound truth: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” These words reveal a striking insight - kindness benefits not only others but also ourselves. In practising kindness, we foster a more empathetic world while also nourishing our own hearts and souls.

True kindness begins with the self. Many think of it as an outward expression, especially directed toward those in distress, but it often starts with a friendly attitude towards ourselves - a sense of self-acceptance and gentle self-regard. When we learn to be patient and understanding with ourselves, despite our imperfections, we lay a foundation for genuine care toward others. Self-compassion is essential; if we judge ourselves harshly or resist accepting our own humanity, we may unintentionally carry that same rigidity into our interactions. By fostering warmth toward ourselves, it becomes natural to extend that same gentleness to others.

There’s a common misconception that this virtue is only needed in times of visible suffering. While it certainly shines brightest during hardship, it doesn’t require a crisis to emerge. It is a mindset - a way of relating to others with openness, kindness, and generosity. This outlook allows us to see others without judgment or expectation and to be present for them, even if there is no problem to solve. Being compassionate isn’t about fixing others’ struggles; it simply invites us to offer a calming and trusting presence.

Although compassion is part of our nature, it can sometimes feel distant, especially if we’ve grown guarded due to pain, disappointment, or cynicism. During such times, we may feel disconnected, even detached from the ability to empathise with others. Yet, even in these moments, it remains within reach. Reconnecting with it often begins with small acts - a warm smile, a listening ear, or a few words of encouragement. These gestures may seem insignificant, yet they have the power to gently bridge the distance between us and others.

As we practise this openness, it grows stronger, like a muscle. With time, it becomes easier to approach the world with an open heart, even in the face of challenges. In embracing compassion, we are reminded of our shared humanity, rediscovering that, despite our differences, we all seek understanding, kindness, and connection. Ultimately, compassion is more than a virtue - it’s a quiet strength, one that transforms not only how we see others but how we see ourselves and the world around us.

05/11/2024

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

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

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 📸 )

31/10/2024

HAUNTED HILLS AND MYSTERIOUS MOORS: LET'S HEAR YOUR WEST COUNTRY HALLOWEEN STORIES - 🎃 💀 🦇 👻

Report by Kelly Leonard for News Advertiser newspapers

Happy Halloween to all local folk! As the nights grow longer and the air grows colder, we welcome the spookiest time of the year, filled with ghost stories, eerie decorations, and festive gatherings. But did you know that Halloween has roots far deeper than costumes and sweets?

The origins of Halloween trace back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, a time to mark the end of the harvest season and prepare for the coming winter.

The Celts believed that around this time of year, the veil between the world of the living and the dead lifted, allowing the spirits of the departed to return and walk among us. The night was filled with bonfires, offerings, and rituals to protect people from any unwelcome supernatural visitors.

Do you have a chilling tale to share about the West Country’s haunted history? Any stories of ghosts roaming the streets or eerie sounds echoing in old, creaking houses?

We invite you to share your stories with us - if you dare. Whether it’s a local legend or a personal encounter with the unknown, let’s uncover the spooky side of the West Country this Halloween.

👇👇👇

23/10/2024

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

Report by Stephen Collier for Pulman's Weekly News

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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