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International Overdose Awareness Day

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment
To mark International Overdose Awareness Day on 31 August, Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS) is inviting people to attend free training and awareness sessions that could help save a life.
Event Details: Learn to save a life on International Overdose Awareness Day
📅 Date: Friday, 29 August 2025
🕙 Time: Any time between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Locations:
  • Yeovil – Maltravers House, Petters Way, BA20 1SH
  • Taunton – 4 Hammet Street, Taunton, TA1 1RZ
These drop-in sessions are open to everyone—whether you’re seeking support, a health or care professional, a friend or family member of someone who uses substances, or simply curious about the service.
Joseph Olubodun, Peer Mentor and Volunteer Coordinator – Aftercare at SDAS, said:
“We are opening our doors for International Overdose Awareness Day to show people what our service offers to those living in Somerset and to help reduce the stigma surrounding substance use.
“We also want to demonstrate how carrying Naloxone and knowing how to use it can save a life.
“Members of the SDAS team and our peer mentors will be available to speak with attendees and encourage them to join the growing number of people who carry Naloxone as part of their daily routine.
“So, whether you use substances, spend time with people who do, or are a friend or family member of someone who does, please take the time to come along and find out more.
“You could save a life.”
If you’re unable to attend, you can still learn more and access training by visiting:
🔗 https://www.turning-point.co.uk/services/somerset/naloxone 
About SDAS
Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS) is commissioned by Somerset Council and delivered by the national charity Turning Point. The service provides support, education, and resources to individuals and communities affected by substance use.
Any members of the media who would like to attend and find out more should contact keith.williams@turning-point.co.uk in the first instance.

Timberscombe Village Show Report

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment

 

 In sunshine and heat Timberscombe Village Hall welcomed a good crowd on Saturday 16th August to view the talents of the village. It was heartening to see many new exhibitors as well as seasoned regulars.

All pictures by Gabrielle Horrobin

One comment,  “it’s been a difficult year for growers’ was made;  despite this there were some spectacular exhibits on the veg table, with Andy Heard, once more, winning the Joyce and Eddie Smith trophy and getting the “People’s Choice” with his carrots. The Cut Flower Section was smaller than usual because varieties had been ‘peaking too early’, although the Floral Arrangers were not deterred and produced some exquisite arrangements.  There was plenty to admire in the Art and Handicraft sections, with shades of ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’ showing in class 61.  Youngsters in the village were also well represented, again including newcomers  delivering some excellent artwork and models.

 It’s important for village shows to continue and for this we rely on and thank our judges who are called on every year. We value them, sadly they are becoming a ‘rare breed’. 

A highly valued member of our community, Joyce Smith revived the Village Show in 1984 after an absence of 40 years and she organised it for 21years before handing over to Wendy Cook in 2005, although Joyce  has remained as a steward, including this year. For more information see https://stpetrockshistorygroup.omeka.net/

Her connection with the Village Hall has been constant as she has continued to be its cleaner for 36 years, until this year, when she decided it was time for her to step down at the age of 88! She is pictured receiving her retirement gift from Village Hall Chairman, Martin Booth.

Thanks, as always, this year go to:  the organisers, their stewards and helpers; Timberscombe First School; The Lion Inn;  all donators to the raffle; Minehead Garden Centre; exhibitors and everyone who supported the day.  Finally thank you to Ken, our auctioneer, who rounded off the day with a lively and entertaining auction.  All funds raised go to the Village Hall.

Trophy winners. Best in Show: Gabrielle Horrobin.  Runner up Best in Show: Joy Booth. Most Points  Overall: Andy Heard.  People’s Choice: Andy Heard.  Best Photography: Malcolm Bennett. Art Challenge Cup: Gabrielle Horrobin. Best Handicraft: Deb Ball.  Best Cookery: Joe Gould.

Best Flower Arrangement: Joy Booth.   Best Cut Flower: Susanne Leggett.  Sweet Pea Challenge cup: Pauline Bennett.   Best Fruit & Veg: Andy Heard.

Children’s. Novice Handicraft: Theon.  Best Child’s Exhibit: joint. Evie & Lucas.   Runner-up Best Child’s Exhibit: Amelia D.

Report by Pauline Ward Bennett

 

 

 

Timberscombe Village Annual Show

Published on by St Petrock's Gardening ClubLeave a comment

We were blessed with wonderful weather last Saturday and the Village Hall welcomed a good crowd to look around the Annual Show. Thank you for the generous prizes donated for the raffle. Thanks also go to: the organisers, those who helped in the days before and on the day, the judges who we call on every year, Timberscombe First School, the Lion and Sarah in the PO, to all the enthusiastic exhibitors, including many new folk, who gave us all a good selection of talents to be admired, [what about those carrots!!!] Finally a big thank you to everyone who came along to give their support. 

See you next year.