As we head into 2023 and must deal with the many challenges that face us, this is also an opportunity to think about our lives and how it has changed so much over the years.

Who can remember hiring a video from Blockbusters to watch on a VHS video machine? How about receiving free milk at school during break times? Or taking a holiday by flying on a BOAC aeroplane? These and many more memories will be discussed at a new reminiscence group being launched at Trinity Methodist Church in Westfield on Thursday, 19th January by local charity WERN (West of England Rural Network).

This free group will meet every third Thursday between 11am and 12noon for a cup of tea and chat about our past. Each week we will focus on a different subject and attendees will be encouraged to bring along photos, artefacts and interesting stories which they can share with the group. Subjects to be discussed include childhood and growing up, transport and entertainment for starters. The group will run initially for six months.

This project was set up by West Of England Rural Network (WERN), a charity which supports local families with a range of health and wellbeing issues. They run a team of Village Agents (North Somerset and B&NES) who are embedded in the rural communities in which they work, providing confidential 1 to1 support with information and advice. Alongside this, we work with local people to create new opportunities for activities and social groups, and encourage people to move more, sit less through gentle exercise and walks.

Michael Auton, Village Agent for Midsomer Norton, Westfield and Radstock, has worked with Trinity Methodist Church and Westfield Parish Council to get this group off the ground.

Michael said: “Life has changed so much over the years, and it is nice to have an opportunity to share our memories with others. We are very grateful to Westfield Parish Council for their financial support to enable us to launch the group. It will be a fun morning, where new friendships can be made, and we can share experiences from our past. “If you have any questions about the group or want to reserve your place in the group, please call Alison, Group Co-ordinator, on: 07919 006708, or Michael Auton, Village Agent, on: 07392 700765.

Anyone over 18 years of age can be supported by WERN and you can self-refer if you are struggling and need additional support. Michael can be contacted by emailing: [email protected].

More information about the Village Agent service can also be found on the WERN website: https://www.wern.org.uk/village-agent