Latest news with #Chard
BBC News
3 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Chard cafe runs chatty sessions to combat loneliness
A cafe has introduced a "chatting" table to combat loneliness in the local first ever "chatter and natter" session at Chard's CommuniTea Waffle on Holyrood Street took place in May, offering a chance for customers to meet new idea is that anyone, no matter what age or background, can sit together and socialise on the designated manager Blue Gover said: "We're all about bringing people together and making sure everyone feels welcome and there's a space for people to come if they need it." The cafe is a not-for-profit organisation which gives all proceeds to projects and charities elsewhere in part of those efforts, they decided to help people who feel lonely in the community. Help with finances "We realised how lonely people can get," Ms Gover said."One thing that really stood out to us was an older gentleman who said he just comes in to 'see someone'. We needed to do something about this."We noticed that loneliness comes hand-in-hand with finances so we have a pay-it-forward programme so if you came in and wanted a coffee you could take a voucher off the board and you could still have a chat and not feel like you don't belong."Ms Gover said to remove any potential awkwardness, they have a volunteer who joins the chatty table and helps get conversations started."What we're hoping is create a group of people who come in on a Thursday," Ms Gover said."It doesn't matter who you are and how old you are. Even if it's just for five minutes it gives you the opportunity to get a different perspective, to shut off from the world."
BBC News
13-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Chard could lose 70-year-old youth club as charity folds
A Somerset youth centre which has been welcoming young people for more than 70 years could have to charity which runs Chard Youth Centre, said it was no longer financially trustees of Chard Area Youth Committee said it was a "heart-wrenching" decision to potentially close the centre which started operating for local young people in centre will currently hold its final youth sessions in July. The charity which is made up of seven trustees, was set up in 2019 to run the centre when Somerset County Council ended funding youth services in O'Brien, chair of the Chard Area Youth Committee, said it was a "very sad meeting" when the decision was taken to close the said it had relied on other groups hiring the building to help cover the costs - but after the Covid-19 pandemic they didn't have enough private hire bookings to help pay for the building, a situation not helped by rising utility bills."It's a beautiful old building and it's just ideal for young people, but its an issue of sustainability," Ms O'Brien said."We have tried everything in our power to avoid closing it," she said - adding the response from the community since announcing the charity's closure had been "wonderful." "They're all very sad that it's happened but very understanding because it's a sign of the times," said Ms O'Brien. Active Learning Skills runs sessions at the centre, commissioned by Chard Area Youth May, director, Active Learning and Skills said he was "hugely saddened" by the news the centre would be closing."We would like to thank the committee most sincerely for their incredibly hard work in challenging times over the years, and for their partnership in enabling our services to be used by between 300-500 young people and children per year, in recent years," said Mr May. Possible new support He described the club as a "super venue" with good facilities where young people could make new friends."Importantly though, what is also provided is more than just a space to have fun and a good social time, but also support in dealing with problems and crisis."{it offered] Chances to try new things, learning and help on issues affecting them, developing life skills and understanding of the world around them, plus opportunities to get involved in their community," Mr May things stand, the final session for young people will be on 18 a meeting on Monday night, Chard Town Council agreed to set up a steering group to try and support future youth services across the discussion was held in a confidential part of the meeting, but councillors agreed in principle that it needs to have an input in youth services for Chard.
BBC News
12-05-2025
- BBC News
Task force to tackle anti-social behaviour in Chard
A new task force is attempting to tackle anti-social behaviour in a town after concerns from parents about needles being found in public. One mother from Chard, in Somerset, who asked not to be named, said her son picked up a used drug pipe and later a used needle. She said: "Something needs to be done. We are one step away from someone being very dangerously hurt."Independent town councillor Andy Webb has set up the Chard Community Task Force, made up of the police, schools, town council and youth groups, to work together to help address the problem. The mother told the BBC she had called Avon and Somerset Police several times, but added: "They don't do anything." Avon and Somerset Police said it is working with partner agencies to "tackle the root causes of these problems".It has also advised anyone who finds discarded drug-related items to contact their local authority - the body responsible for safely clearing them away. Sonia Barnes, who also lives in Chard, said drug-related activity was "very blatant on the streets". "Daylight even, you will see a little package and money exchanging hands. There's an awful lot of it," she added. Councillor Mr Webb said the newly set up task force is now working to address the issues of anti-social behaviour and drug-related activity. They want to hear from residents and work with schools to try and prevent further drug issues in the south Somerset town."It's a partnership-based initiative dedicated to making Chard safer, stronger, and more inclusive for everyone," he said."We've got to start protecting the youth now and the only way we can do that is through collaboration." Lucy Roberts is the Student Safeguarding and Mental Health Team Leader at Holyrood Academy - one of the partners on the new task said they have surveyed students on safe places and spaces around Chard. Next week students are going out for what Ms Roberts called "youth walk and talks" with the police to identify those areas. She said that by the community "pulling together" and sharing resources and information, she hoped the partnership will "make a big difference". Neighbourhood inspector Rose Green, from Avon and Somerset Police, said the force recognised and "fully appreciates" resident's concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour in the town."We would encourage people to continue to report these issues to us. This intelligence helps build a picture which helps prioritise the proactive resources we have," she said."This includes the execution of warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act, targeting those involved in the supply of illegal drugs."Officers also work closely with our Anti-social Behaviour Coordinators to deal with offenders. This includes the use of warning letters, acceptable behaviour contracts, criminal behaviour orders, and injunctions and we take action whenever these are breached."
Yahoo
16-04-2025
- Yahoo
Former waste plant workers hit with felony charges after allegedly lying about years of troubling actions: 'There were some discrepancies'
Two former waste treatment plant employees are facing felony charges for the alleged dumping of raw untreated sewage outside of Oklahoma City. According to authorities, former Bethany-Warr Acres Waste Water Treatment Plant manager Glenn Brentnell and former employee Anthony Menzie are accused of lying to officials regarding how much fecal matter was dumped into surrounding waterways. Officials allege that as plant manager, Brentnell was aware of the plant's disrepair but failed to address any concerns. They also argue that Menzie knowingly altered lab reports to indicate a lower fecal count. As reported by KFOR, Menzie was arrested on March 28, 2025, and charged with five felonies including obtaining money, property, or signature under false pretenses, one charge of conspiracy to commit a felony, another of offering forged or false instruments for the record, and two of violating the Oklahoma Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Act. A felony warrant is out for Brentnell's arrest. As of April 6, 2025, no arrest record for Brentnell has been made available. Shellie Chard, Water Quality Division Director at the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, spoke to KFOR regarding the department's lengthy investigation into the illegal dumping and the plant's overall conditions. "The treatment plant was in very much disrepair," Chard said. The plant's questionable conditions ultimately led to a complaint being filed in 2019. "We responded within 24 hours," Chard said. "Through a series of records reviews, there were some discrepancies. We had our inspectors go out and look at the facility and inspect the equipment. In doing that, some of the records were missing, and some of the tests weren't being completed." Although the yearslong investigation uncovered several issues, Chard noted that the illegal dumping of untreated raw sewage was perhaps the most concerning. The sewage was found in nearby fields and local water sources such as Bluff Creek and Liberty Lake. "It's a big lake. There's fishing and lots of activities. So, there was an impact there and to Bluff Creek." According to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Liberty Lake is home to several fish species, including crappie, catfish, and bass. The lake is also an important water source for the nearby community. Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Fox News
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Meghan Markle's latest podcast ploy on shaky ground after ‘toxic' drama, bitter disputes: expert
Meghan Markle's new podcast premieres on Tuesday – and the stakes are high for the Duchess of Sussex. The 43-year-old teamed up with Lemonada Media to launch "Confessions of a Female Founder," where she'll chat with female entrepreneurs and friends to get advice "that turns small ideas into billion-dollar businesses," she previously told People magazine. British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital this is a make-or-break moment for the "Suits" alum, who has been attempting to cement herself as a celebrity influencer in California. However, Chard warned that the former American actress will have a hard time escaping the royal drama that has followed her for years. "Chaos ensues around brand Sussex," Chard claimed. "There are bitter disputes and no shortage of drama. The Sussex brand is deemed 'toxic' by many. The worry is that no one wishes to be associated with a toxic brand." "[This podcast] could be a huge success if the guests are of interest and have gems of wisdom to share and empower [listeners]," Chard shared. "However, I have heard there is a plethora of 'giggling girl talk.' Hopefully, this serves to connect, bond and support rather than simply enjoying each other's company." "This is a big deal for Meghan," Chard continued. "She needs this podcast to do well and compliment her new 'As Ever' brand and business entrepreneur aspirations. Her cookery show seems to have bombed and the previous podcast deal with Spotify flopped, so the desire to succeed this time is weighing heavily on her shoulders." This will be Meghan's second attempt to make her mark on podcasting. In 2023, the production company founded by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex parted ways with Spotify less than a year after the debut of their series, "Archetypes." It was unclear why the podcast was leaving the platform. However, Spotify and Archewell Audio said in a joint statement that the decision was mutual. Archewell landed a multi-year partnership with Spotify in 2020 to create podcasts and shows that would tell stories through diverse voices and perspectives. "Archetypes," which premiered in 2022, topped Spotify charts in seven countries, including the U.S. and the U.K. It won the top podcast award at the People's Choice awards last year. But following the couple's exit, Spotify executive and podcaster Bill Simmons labeled them "grifters." "I wish I had been involved in the 'Meghan and Harry leave Spotify' negotiation," Simmons said on his platform, The Ringer. "'The F---ing Grifters.' That's the podcast we should have launched with them," said Simmons at the time. "I have got to get drunk one night and tell the story of the Zoom I had with Harry to try and help him with a podcast idea. It's one of my best stories… F--- them. The grifters." British royals expert Hilary Fordwich labeled Meghan's new podcast "a high-stakes gamble." "The positives have been the amount of media buzz, but sadly for her, she's been met with universal derision," Fordwich told Fox News Digital. "This certainly does not bode well for her new podcast. Her credibility as a media creator is under intense scrutiny with every project to date being labeled superficial and/or overexposed. "If this new podcast is substantive, engaging and authentic, she could improve her image and overcome skepticism. But thus far, her track record of sustaining projects doesn't bode well for such a transformation, let alone in this highly saturated space of business-focused shows." "The stakes are high as yet another failure will limit any future revenue opportunities from partnerships," Fordwich added. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020, citing the unbearable media intrusions and lack of support from the palace. The couple, looking to become financially independent, were said to be frustrated that Buckingham Palace prevented them from developing their "Sussex Royal" brand, the BBC reported. They moved to the wealthy, coastal city of Montecito, where they are now raising their two young children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Since the couple's royal exit, they've aired their grievances in interviews and a Netflix docuseries. Harry's memoir, "Spare," was published in 2023. But Meghan hasn't escaped scrutiny. She and Harry were recently the subjects of a scathing Vanity Fair cover story about their lives in California. Fox News Digital previously reached out to a spokesperson for the couple for comment. Several of those who worked with Meghan came forward to the outlet and candidly shared their experiences. They described how, at first, the mother of two would be "warm and effusive," creating an atmosphere of "professional camaraderie." However, whenever something went poorly, "often due to Meghan and Harry's own demands," she would become "cold and withholding toward the person she perceived to be responsible." A source told the outlet that it was "really, really, really awful. Very painful." "She's constantly playing checkers," the source claimed. "She's just very aware of where everybody is on her board. And when you're not in it, you are to be thrown to the wolves at any given moment." Producer Jane Marie had a different experience collaborating with the duchess. "She's just a lovely, genuine person," Marie told the outlet. Despite the allegations, Meghan has followed the royal motto of keep calm and carry on. On March 4, her Netflix lifestyle series "With Love, Meghan," premiered. Her As Ever collection became available for purchase on April 4, selling out in under an hour. Her limited-edition honey, priced at $28, sold out in less than five minutes. WATCH: MEGHAN MARKLE MUST LEARN THIS LESSON FROM PRINCESS DIANA: ROYAL EXPERT "She is forging ahead, hoping to win fans along the way," said Chard. "Her scripted ideas for interviews are in place to show her as relatable and in the best light. She hopes… her 'As Ever' brand is holding onto glimmers of positivity and is not muddied in the water." Doug Eldridge, a branding expert and the founder of Achilles PR, told Fox News Digital that the stakes have always been high for Meghan. "If the definition of insanity is 'doing the same thing over and over, but expecting a different result,' then that's probably where we are in the lifecycle of this story," Eldridge explained. "That said, Meghan… still has control over her destiny. My hope is that she makes the right decision and tacks with the wind, instead of against her. Thus far, it's only run her into the rocks on the shoreline, and she can't afford another shipwreck." "It's not uncommon to see a fisherman drop four different lines from a pier; the idea is that you never know where the fish will bite, so you diversify your approach and expand your chances of success," said Eldridge. "The problem, however, is that if you don't know how to bait your hook – which is to say, create something that will attract and appeal to the fish – then you're not likely to catch anything, regardless of where you drop your lines." "This is essentially the case with Meghan, thus far," Eldridge continued. "She has dropped 'lines' in an Oprah sit-down, a Netflix series, a production company, and now a podcast. The struggle isn't having multiple lines in the water; it's not having a properly baited hook to begin with." Chard noted that whether Meghan sinks or swims, there's no denying that people will be tuning in. "Her chosen path as a celebrity influencer and business owner is here to stay," said Chard. "She is running with her forever passion projects which will keep her name in lights and bring in oodles of cash. If things don't quite go to plan, she will tweak her endeavors and keep on going. There will always be an interest in the wife of Prince Harry."
