We are Super Weston Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:57:35 -0400 http://www.superweston.net en-us © 2026 We are Super Weston yes Weston-super-Mare, UK d67c71ad-39b7-5dec-a341-06ee3ce84e6b Becky Walsh episodic false Welcome to the brand new ‘Super Weston’ podcast, shining a light on all the reasons why Weston is a ‘super’ place to live, work and visit.  

 

Tune in and listen to stories of business innovators, local people with unique stories to tell about life in Weston, and those who are raising the game through new projects and events.  Plus insider tips on where to eat and drink.

 

Be prepared to be surprised!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) weston super mare, south west england, placemaking, seaside town,weston, coastal town, holiday, staycation Becky Walsh https://storage.buzzsprout.com/5amldbq2uq21ioesqyhg17sebefb?.jpg We are Super Weston http://www.superweston.net Ep 19 Beyond the boards: the past, present and future of Weston's iconic piers Ep 19 Beyond the boards: the past, present and future of Weston's iconic piers 2023 has been designated the 'Year of the Pier', and in our final podcast of the season, we are celebrating Weston's piers. Of the 60 piers left in the UK, four can be found on North Somerset's 19-mile coastline, and three of them are in Weston!

We chat to pier experts Michelle Michael, one of the owners/directors of The Grand Pier and Revo, and Simon Talbot-Ponsonby, Director of  Birnbeck Regeneration Trust, about the history and future of Weston's three very different, iconic piers.

They discuss:

- The evolution of entertainment at The Grand Pier, from its Victorian beginnings to the present day
-  Michelle's family's aspirations for The Grand Pier and Weston
- The importance The Grand Pier places on hiring and training young people in Weston-super-Mare
- Large-scale events: The Grand Pier can seat up to 1,000 people, making it the biggest venue in the town
- The charity work Michelle, her team and The Grand Pier are involved with - at their recent charitable ball, they raised a staggering £410,000
- Celebrity visitor anecdotes from The Grand Pier
- Upcoming events, recent developments (including new feature lighting) and future investment happening at The Grand Pier.

- The history of Birnbeck Pier from its days as an enormous funfair to being commandeered as a secret weapons research establishment.
- How the implementation of modern transport lead to its demise.
- Birnbeck Pier's importance for the RNLI
- North Somerset Council's recent ownership of Birnbeck Pier after years of uncertainty.
- Funding,  grants and future plans for the restoration of the pier.
-Michelle and Simon's favourite places to eat out, shop and go in Weston-super-Mare.

You can also read a transcript of the podcast here.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> 2023 has been designated the 'Year of the Pier', and in our final podcast of the season, we are celebrating Weston's piers. Of the 60 piers left in the UK, four can be found on North Somerset's 19-mile coastline, and three of them are in Weston!

We chat to pier experts Michelle Michael, one of the owners/directors of The Grand Pier and Revo, and Simon Talbot-Ponsonby, Director of  Birnbeck Regeneration Trust, about the history and future of Weston's three very different, iconic piers.

They discuss:

- The evolution of entertainment at The Grand Pier, from its Victorian beginnings to the present day
-  Michelle's family's aspirations for The Grand Pier and Weston
- The importance The Grand Pier places on hiring and training young people in Weston-super-Mare
- Large-scale events: The Grand Pier can seat up to 1,000 people, making it the biggest venue in the town
- The charity work Michelle, her team and The Grand Pier are involved with - at their recent charitable ball, they raised a staggering £410,000
- Celebrity visitor anecdotes from The Grand Pier
- Upcoming events, recent developments (including new feature lighting) and future investment happening at The Grand Pier.

- The history of Birnbeck Pier from its days as an enormous funfair to being commandeered as a secret weapons research establishment.
- How the implementation of modern transport lead to its demise.
- Birnbeck Pier's importance for the RNLI
- North Somerset Council's recent ownership of Birnbeck Pier after years of uncertainty.
- Funding,  grants and future plans for the restoration of the pier.
-Michelle and Simon's favourite places to eat out, shop and go in Weston-super-Mare.

You can also read a transcript of the podcast here.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-14115938 Sat, 09 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000 2790 1 full false Ep 18: Commercial property & investment opportunities in Weston-super-Mare Ep 18: Commercial property & investment opportunities in Weston-super-Mare This week, we talk to Simon Price, a partner at Alder King, and Jane Harrison, Head of Economy at North Somerset Council, about the increasing appeal of Weston-super-Mare as a place to locate a business, and for developer investment.

During the episode they discuss:

  • Trends for business growth and interest in Weston, including industrial sector growth, particularly in advanced manufacturing. 
  • How KMW and Rockhaven are collectively developing sites of over 130,000 sq. feet, speculating on positive market demand. 
  • The attractiveness of locating a business in Weston, thanks to staff availability, good transport connections, culture-led regeneration and government investment, alongside ease of access to local government support, advice and business networks. 
  • The great value for money of commercial property in Weston, where average top-end rents are £18 - £20 per sq. metre, whereas just 20 miles away in Bristol, they are £42 - £50 per sq. metre.  
  • The importance of the Weston Enterprise Area and the handholding and support for any business moving into the area.  
  • The many environmental and community groups in the town focused on areas like trees, plastics reduction, and sustainability that businesses may want to partner with for ESG goals.
  • Investment in the High Street, the increase in independent businesses coming into the town centre and why large empty units like TJ Hughes remains empty. 

They also share with us some interesting facts about Weston, and their favourite places to go, eat and drink.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> This week, we talk to Simon Price, a partner at Alder King, and Jane Harrison, Head of Economy at North Somerset Council, about the increasing appeal of Weston-super-Mare as a place to locate a business, and for developer investment.

During the episode they discuss:

  • Trends for business growth and interest in Weston, including industrial sector growth, particularly in advanced manufacturing. 
  • How KMW and Rockhaven are collectively developing sites of over 130,000 sq. feet, speculating on positive market demand. 
  • The attractiveness of locating a business in Weston, thanks to staff availability, good transport connections, culture-led regeneration and government investment, alongside ease of access to local government support, advice and business networks. 
  • The great value for money of commercial property in Weston, where average top-end rents are £18 - £20 per sq. metre, whereas just 20 miles away in Bristol, they are £42 - £50 per sq. metre.  
  • The importance of the Weston Enterprise Area and the handholding and support for any business moving into the area.  
  • The many environmental and community groups in the town focused on areas like trees, plastics reduction, and sustainability that businesses may want to partner with for ESG goals.
  • Investment in the High Street, the increase in independent businesses coming into the town centre and why large empty units like TJ Hughes remains empty. 

They also share with us some interesting facts about Weston, and their favourite places to go, eat and drink.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-14024690 Thu, 23 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000 3004 1 18 full false Ep 17 Christmas in Weston - what's on and where to shop with Fay Powell and Alan Smith Ep 17 Christmas in Weston - what's on and where to shop with Fay Powell and Alan Smith This week, host Becky Walsh chats with guests Fay Powell and Alan Smith, to discover what Weston has to offer this Christmas.

Alan Smith, Manager of The Sovereign, shares what the shopping centre has been up to over the past year, and their grand festive plans for December, including late night shopping and a Christmas light switch-on (30th November 2023).

Fay Powell,  Central Services Manager of Weston Town Council, shares the Christmas activities she has planned with her family including pantomimes, markets, workshops, and festive activities, and reveals her favourite local shops. 

Fay also talks about:

For more information about what’s on this Christmas in Weston head to the Visit Weston website.



To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> This week, host Becky Walsh chats with guests Fay Powell and Alan Smith, to discover what Weston has to offer this Christmas.

Alan Smith, Manager of The Sovereign, shares what the shopping centre has been up to over the past year, and their grand festive plans for December, including late night shopping and a Christmas light switch-on (30th November 2023).

Fay Powell,  Central Services Manager of Weston Town Council, shares the Christmas activities she has planned with her family including pantomimes, markets, workshops, and festive activities, and reveals her favourite local shops. 

Fay also talks about:

For more information about what’s on this Christmas in Weston head to the Visit Weston website.



To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13933421 Wed, 08 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000 1910 1 17 full false Ep 16 The Stable: a business and community hub of creativity and inclusivity Ep 16 The Stable: a business and community hub of creativity and inclusivity The Stable is a vibrant hub that has woven itself into the fabric of the community in Weston-super-Mare. A multifaceted space, it offers everything from co-working offices, to a board game cafe, hot desks, a pub, pop-up food shop, artisan markets and more.

In the latest episode of the We are Super Weston podcast, Councillor Jemma Coles - the driving force behind the remarkable transformation of the building and ongoing community initiatives - tells us about her journey and how The Stable got to where it is today.

Host Becky and Jemma talk about:

  • What led Jemma to this role
  •  The vision behind this thriving community hub 
  • The diversity of businesses that have set up at The Stable and subsequent opportunities for networking
  • The foresightedness of their community initiatives, such as Stable Foundations, which has been instrumental in supporting young people with learning disabilities and others who may have been overlooked by traditional support systems
  • Her favourite places to eat out and shop in Weston

More about The Stable 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> The Stable is a vibrant hub that has woven itself into the fabric of the community in Weston-super-Mare. A multifaceted space, it offers everything from co-working offices, to a board game cafe, hot desks, a pub, pop-up food shop, artisan markets and more.

In the latest episode of the We are Super Weston podcast, Councillor Jemma Coles - the driving force behind the remarkable transformation of the building and ongoing community initiatives - tells us about her journey and how The Stable got to where it is today.

Host Becky and Jemma talk about:

  • What led Jemma to this role
  •  The vision behind this thriving community hub 
  • The diversity of businesses that have set up at The Stable and subsequent opportunities for networking
  • The foresightedness of their community initiatives, such as Stable Foundations, which has been instrumental in supporting young people with learning disabilities and others who may have been overlooked by traditional support systems
  • Her favourite places to eat out and shop in Weston

More about The Stable 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13859072 Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0100 2256 1 15 full false Ep 15 Food WorksSW: Cultivating food and drink innovation in the West Country Ep 15 Food WorksSW: Cultivating food and drink innovation in the West Country The West Country is fast becoming a hotbed for entrepreneurial food and drink producers thanks to food and drink innovation centre, Food WorksSW, which opened in 2020.  If you have an idea for a new food or drink product, or have a small food business you want to scale-up,  Food WorksSW can help you innovate and grow.

Located just off the A370 into Weston-super-Mare, The Food WorksSW offers food-grade business units and development kitchens, as well as hands-on food technical and specialist business support, conference and meeting rooms, a business lounge for co-working and a coffee shop.

On today’s podcast, host Becky is chatting to Rebecca Hale - Marketing and Facilities Manager of Food WorksSW, and Alli Briaris, owner of Drinks Kitchen alcohol-free beverages.  

They talk about: 

  • The amazing facilities at the Food WorksSW for food producers and those looking for co-working space
  • The businesses who are benefiting from the Food WorksSW services
  • The story behind Alli setting up her own non-alcoholic beverages business, Drinks Kitchen
  • How the Food WorksSW has helped Alli’s business scale-up.
  • How the eat: Festivals have helped give Alli’s product an outlet to sell, along with a community of supportive producers 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> The West Country is fast becoming a hotbed for entrepreneurial food and drink producers thanks to food and drink innovation centre, Food WorksSW, which opened in 2020.  If you have an idea for a new food or drink product, or have a small food business you want to scale-up,  Food WorksSW can help you innovate and grow.

Located just off the A370 into Weston-super-Mare, The Food WorksSW offers food-grade business units and development kitchens, as well as hands-on food technical and specialist business support, conference and meeting rooms, a business lounge for co-working and a coffee shop.

On today’s podcast, host Becky is chatting to Rebecca Hale - Marketing and Facilities Manager of Food WorksSW, and Alli Briaris, owner of Drinks Kitchen alcohol-free beverages.  

They talk about: 

  • The amazing facilities at the Food WorksSW for food producers and those looking for co-working space
  • The businesses who are benefiting from the Food WorksSW services
  • The story behind Alli setting up her own non-alcoholic beverages business, Drinks Kitchen
  • How the Food WorksSW has helped Alli’s business scale-up.
  • How the eat: Festivals have helped give Alli’s product an outlet to sell, along with a community of supportive producers 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13797858 Tue, 17 Oct 2023 22:00:00 +0100 1924 1 15 full false Ep 14 Thinking of moving? David Plaister talks property in Weston-super-Mare Ep 14 Thinking of moving? David Plaister talks property in Weston-super-Mare With house prices considerably lower in Weston-super-Mare* than the West Country capital, Bristolians are moving to the North Somerset seaside town in their droves.  

In this week’s podcast, we talk to David Plaister - owner of the family-run Weston Estate Agency that bears his name - about this growing trend, where the best places are to live in Weston and what’s going on with the property market in general.

Becky and David discuss: 

  • The trend for people moving to Weston from Bristol 
  • How Weston has become a ‘suburb of Bristol’ due to its excellent train connections
  • The sense of community, great schools, and hospital in Weston
  • Some of the popular areas to live in the town

For more information about David Plaister:

Website: https://www.davidplaister.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidplaister/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/davidplaisterltd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidplaisterltd

*According to Rightmove, the average house price in Weston in 2023 is £271,853, in comparison to Bristol at £393,582.  With semi-detached houses in Weston reaching £289,413, while in Bristol they are £429,391. 




To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> With house prices considerably lower in Weston-super-Mare* than the West Country capital, Bristolians are moving to the North Somerset seaside town in their droves.  

In this week’s podcast, we talk to David Plaister - owner of the family-run Weston Estate Agency that bears his name - about this growing trend, where the best places are to live in Weston and what’s going on with the property market in general.

Becky and David discuss: 

  • The trend for people moving to Weston from Bristol 
  • How Weston has become a ‘suburb of Bristol’ due to its excellent train connections
  • The sense of community, great schools, and hospital in Weston
  • Some of the popular areas to live in the town

For more information about David Plaister:

Website: https://www.davidplaister.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidplaister/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/davidplaisterltd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidplaisterltd

*According to Rightmove, the average house price in Weston in 2023 is £271,853, in comparison to Bristol at £393,582.  With semi-detached houses in Weston reaching £289,413, while in Bristol they are £429,391. 




To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13742383 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 13:00:00 +0100 2049 1 14 full false Ep 13 Best Weston-super-Mare walks with local experts Paul Batts and Jane Murch Ep 13 Best Weston-super-Mare walks with local experts Paul Batts and Jane Murch Perched on the edge of the Mendip Hills, surrounded by gorgeous Somerset countryside and with miles of flat seafront promenade, Weston-super-Mare is a walker’s paradise.

In episode 13 of our We are Super Weston podcast, host Becky Walsh speaks to local experts, Paul Batts - owner of independent shop, Outdoors & Active - and Jane Murch, Visitor and Information Services Manager for Visit Weston, about the best places to go for a stroll in and around Weston.

They discuss:

  • Their favourite walking trails in and around Weston-super-Mare
  • The opening of the new King Charles III England Coast Path and related celebrations at Weston Museum
  • Health tourism in Weston
  • Their favourite things about working and living in the town
  • Weston Literature Festival's special guest Raynor Winn (author of The Salt Path)  5-8 October.  
  • Best places to stay (including dog-friendly places!), eat and drink in Weston

Discover more on our blog: superweston.net/latest


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Perched on the edge of the Mendip Hills, surrounded by gorgeous Somerset countryside and with miles of flat seafront promenade, Weston-super-Mare is a walker’s paradise.

In episode 13 of our We are Super Weston podcast, host Becky Walsh speaks to local experts, Paul Batts - owner of independent shop, Outdoors & Active - and Jane Murch, Visitor and Information Services Manager for Visit Weston, about the best places to go for a stroll in and around Weston.

They discuss:

  • Their favourite walking trails in and around Weston-super-Mare
  • The opening of the new King Charles III England Coast Path and related celebrations at Weston Museum
  • Health tourism in Weston
  • Their favourite things about working and living in the town
  • Weston Literature Festival's special guest Raynor Winn (author of The Salt Path)  5-8 October.  
  • Best places to stay (including dog-friendly places!), eat and drink in Weston

Discover more on our blog: superweston.net/latest


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13633522 Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0100 2297 13 full false Ep 12 Wind, water and beach sports with former Combat Paramedic and adventurer Ben Peters Ep 12 Wind, water and beach sports with former Combat Paramedic and adventurer Ben Peters In today’s episode, we chat with former Combat Paramedic Ben Peters, about some of his many adventures,  his work with young people and WhatSUP paddleboarding, and some of the adrenaline sports on offer in Weston.  

Born and bred in Weston, Ben's extraordinary life has seen him paddleboard down the Amazon River, work as Bear Grylls’ medic and help rebuild the British Virgin Islands with Richard Branson.

Host Becky Walsh talks to him about:

  • Where his appetite for adrenaline comes from and how it has inspired his youth work in Weston-super-Mare
  • What led him to working with Bear Grylls and Richard Branson
  • The fantastic range of outdoor activities on offer in Weston for those who want adventure and excitement (e.g kitesurfing, windsurfing, blokarts, stunt kites, paddleboarding and canoeing to name a few!) 
  • How people looking to participate in water and windsports can stay safe in the water in Weston by getting involved with local clubs
  • His involvement with Weston Wind, Wheels and Waves, and the accessibility of his paddleboarding club, WhatSUP UK (which includes a wheelchair accessible paddleboard)
  • Fascinating facts about Knightstone Island in Weston
  • Celiac-friendly places to eat out in Weston
  • The upcoming Weston Beach Race

Here are a few links to help you find out more about Weston’s wind, water and adrenaline sports:

South & West Association of Traction Kiting

The Mudlarks

Weston Rollers’ Skate Nights

Visit Weston
Weston Blokart Club

Discover more on our blog www.superweston.net/latest


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> In today’s episode, we chat with former Combat Paramedic Ben Peters, about some of his many adventures,  his work with young people and WhatSUP paddleboarding, and some of the adrenaline sports on offer in Weston.  

Born and bred in Weston, Ben's extraordinary life has seen him paddleboard down the Amazon River, work as Bear Grylls’ medic and help rebuild the British Virgin Islands with Richard Branson.

Host Becky Walsh talks to him about:

  • Where his appetite for adrenaline comes from and how it has inspired his youth work in Weston-super-Mare
  • What led him to working with Bear Grylls and Richard Branson
  • The fantastic range of outdoor activities on offer in Weston for those who want adventure and excitement (e.g kitesurfing, windsurfing, blokarts, stunt kites, paddleboarding and canoeing to name a few!) 
  • How people looking to participate in water and windsports can stay safe in the water in Weston by getting involved with local clubs
  • His involvement with Weston Wind, Wheels and Waves, and the accessibility of his paddleboarding club, WhatSUP UK (which includes a wheelchair accessible paddleboard)
  • Fascinating facts about Knightstone Island in Weston
  • Celiac-friendly places to eat out in Weston
  • The upcoming Weston Beach Race

Here are a few links to help you find out more about Weston’s wind, water and adrenaline sports:

South & West Association of Traction Kiting

The Mudlarks

Weston Rollers’ Skate Nights

Visit Weston
Weston Blokart Club

Discover more on our blog www.superweston.net/latest


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13575528 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0100 1944 1 12 full false EP 11 Opening the doors on Weston’s heritage with Cara MacMahon and Jane Hill EP 11 Opening the doors on Weston’s heritage with Cara MacMahon and Jane Hill Each September allows us to delve deeper into Weston-super-Mare’s history through the national Heritage Open Days festival. This year, it’s taking place from Friday 8th to Sunday 17th.   

 In today’s episode, we talk to two of our local heritage specialists– Jane Hill, Heritage & Communication Officer at Weston Museum and Cara MacMahon, North Somerset Council’s Heritage Action Zone Project Manager.  Cara, Jane, and Becky, highlight some of our town's rich heritage and what you can find at this year’s Heritage Open Days event.

They share with us:

  • How Weston developed as a seaside town through the coming of the railways. 
  • The work of local Architect Hans Price whose work can be seen throughout Weston in the many historic buildings dating back to the 1850s.
  • The investment in the shop fronts and buildings in the town centre over the past six years, which has been made possible thanks to the Heritage Action Zone projects funded by Historic England. This includes work on buildings including the Fork n Ale Taproom and Kitchen and Walker and Ling, Weston’s family-run department store.
  • Dr Fox and his development of Knightstone Island, and the rise of Weston as a place to improve health and wellbeing.
  • The website Know Your Place where local people share their photos and stories.  It's a great resource for those wanting to search the history of their house and its location through the ages. 
  • Some of the buildings that are open, experiences and events taking place as part of the national Heritage Open Days Festival.  Find out more here.

Here are a few links to help you find out more about Weston’s heritage. Find more on our blog www.superweston.net  

Weston’s Heritage Open Days Festival Programme 2023
Weston Museum - a great place to visit with lots to see and do (great cafe too!)
Know Your Place map - find interesting information about different areas of Weston
Heritage Open Days - National visitor information North Somerset 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Each September allows us to delve deeper into Weston-super-Mare’s history through the national Heritage Open Days festival. This year, it’s taking place from Friday 8th to Sunday 17th.   

 In today’s episode, we talk to two of our local heritage specialists– Jane Hill, Heritage & Communication Officer at Weston Museum and Cara MacMahon, North Somerset Council’s Heritage Action Zone Project Manager.  Cara, Jane, and Becky, highlight some of our town's rich heritage and what you can find at this year’s Heritage Open Days event.

They share with us:

  • How Weston developed as a seaside town through the coming of the railways. 
  • The work of local Architect Hans Price whose work can be seen throughout Weston in the many historic buildings dating back to the 1850s.
  • The investment in the shop fronts and buildings in the town centre over the past six years, which has been made possible thanks to the Heritage Action Zone projects funded by Historic England. This includes work on buildings including the Fork n Ale Taproom and Kitchen and Walker and Ling, Weston’s family-run department store.
  • Dr Fox and his development of Knightstone Island, and the rise of Weston as a place to improve health and wellbeing.
  • The website Know Your Place where local people share their photos and stories.  It's a great resource for those wanting to search the history of their house and its location through the ages. 
  • Some of the buildings that are open, experiences and events taking place as part of the national Heritage Open Days Festival.  Find out more here.

Here are a few links to help you find out more about Weston’s heritage. Find more on our blog www.superweston.net  

Weston’s Heritage Open Days Festival Programme 2023
Weston Museum - a great place to visit with lots to see and do (great cafe too!)
Know Your Place map - find interesting information about different areas of Weston
Heritage Open Days - National visitor information North Somerset 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13510528 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0100 1895 1 11 full false Ep 10 Weston's exciting food scene with business owners Anna Southwell of Loves Cafe and Sprout Cafe and Prayag Rajpura of Cumin Alive and Rebel Dark Arts Kitchen Ep 10 Weston's exciting food scene with business owners Anna Southwell of Loves Cafe and Sprout Cafe and Prayag Rajpura of Cumin Alive and Rebel Dark Arts Kitchen If your culinary go-to for food in Weston-super-Mare is a bag of chips on the seafront from the chippy, let us broaden your gastronomic horizons. 

In this episode, we discuss the surprisingly excellent food on offer in Weston (some of it produced by our two guests, local hospitality owners, Anna Southwell from Loves Cafe and Sprout Cafe, and Prayag Rajpura from Cumin-Alive and Dark Arts Rebel Kitchen. 

They share with us:

  • Why they chose to run vegan establishments
  • How Anna started her Garden Grooves summer sessions in Grove Park
  • How they cook everything from scratch and infuse their food with love 
  • The positive changes they have noticed in Weston over the past few years
  • Family-friendly days out in the town (and why they no longer feel the need to travel to Bristol when Weston has so much to offer)
  • The wonderful Grove Village area
  • Their favourite places in Weston to visit and eat out

Follow Sprout (Instagram or Facebook) and Loves (Instagram or Facebook) - you’ll find updates on upcoming events as well as pictures of their food to try and tempt you in for lunch!

Follow Cumin-Alive on Facebook or Instagram for future events and new menu ideas.

Check out Dark Arts Rebel Kitchen food delivery service (also on Instagram) 

For more inspiration on places to eat and drink in Weston, go to the Visit Weston website.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> If your culinary go-to for food in Weston-super-Mare is a bag of chips on the seafront from the chippy, let us broaden your gastronomic horizons. 

In this episode, we discuss the surprisingly excellent food on offer in Weston (some of it produced by our two guests, local hospitality owners, Anna Southwell from Loves Cafe and Sprout Cafe, and Prayag Rajpura from Cumin-Alive and Dark Arts Rebel Kitchen. 

They share with us:

  • Why they chose to run vegan establishments
  • How Anna started her Garden Grooves summer sessions in Grove Park
  • How they cook everything from scratch and infuse their food with love 
  • The positive changes they have noticed in Weston over the past few years
  • Family-friendly days out in the town (and why they no longer feel the need to travel to Bristol when Weston has so much to offer)
  • The wonderful Grove Village area
  • Their favourite places in Weston to visit and eat out

Follow Sprout (Instagram or Facebook) and Loves (Instagram or Facebook) - you’ll find updates on upcoming events as well as pictures of their food to try and tempt you in for lunch!

Follow Cumin-Alive on Facebook or Instagram for future events and new menu ideas.

Check out Dark Arts Rebel Kitchen food delivery service (also on Instagram) 

For more inspiration on places to eat and drink in Weston, go to the Visit Weston website.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13361638 Wed, 09 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0100 1891 1 10 full false Ep 9 Swimming in Weston with Karen Barry & Claire Trevor-Roper Ep 9 Swimming in Weston with Karen Barry & Claire Trevor-Roper In this episode will be 'diving' into the joys of swimming in the sea in Weston with Claire Trevor-Roper, CoDirector of Mudlarks and Karen Barry, one of the founding members of the Wild Swimming group the Supermares!   

Our guests share their expert knowledge on taking a dip in Weston's waters as well as some valuable advice on swimming safely when it comes to navigating the town’s powerful tidal changes. 

They also chat about:

  • Weston Marine Lake as a safe place for year-round swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers, canoeists and families. 
  • The creation of the Mudlarks group who are instrumental in the renovation of the marine lake
  • The Supermares! swimming group, a friendly community of swimmers who meet regularly to swim safely in Weston
  • Tips on the best times and places to swim 
  • Up-and-coming events taking place in and around the marine lake
  • Their favourite places to eat and drink, as well as some of the lesser known places such as Weston Music Shop and Weston Arts Space.  

Find out more:

Visit the Weston Marine Lake site 

Check out the Mudlarks on Facebook
Follow the Mudlarks on Instagram

Join the Supermares! Facebook group
Follow the Supermares! on Instagram 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> In this episode will be 'diving' into the joys of swimming in the sea in Weston with Claire Trevor-Roper, CoDirector of Mudlarks and Karen Barry, one of the founding members of the Wild Swimming group the Supermares!   

Our guests share their expert knowledge on taking a dip in Weston's waters as well as some valuable advice on swimming safely when it comes to navigating the town’s powerful tidal changes. 

They also chat about:

  • Weston Marine Lake as a safe place for year-round swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers, canoeists and families. 
  • The creation of the Mudlarks group who are instrumental in the renovation of the marine lake
  • The Supermares! swimming group, a friendly community of swimmers who meet regularly to swim safely in Weston
  • Tips on the best times and places to swim 
  • Up-and-coming events taking place in and around the marine lake
  • Their favourite places to eat and drink, as well as some of the lesser known places such as Weston Music Shop and Weston Arts Space.  

Find out more:

Visit the Weston Marine Lake site 

Check out the Mudlarks on Facebook
Follow the Mudlarks on Instagram

Join the Supermares! Facebook group
Follow the Supermares! on Instagram 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13328986 Wed, 02 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0100 2066 1 9 full false Ep 8 Lynsey McKinstry talks about family life, Weston College & opportunities for young people in Weston Ep 8 Lynsey McKinstry talks about family life, Weston College & opportunities for young people in Weston Weston-super-Mare is a holiday destination and a great place to bring kids, but what's it like to raise a family here? We talk to Lynsey McKinstry, who grew up in the town and is now bringing up her own children in Weston.

Lynsey also tells us about her work with Weston College and how the college provides an award-winning service supporting students and employers in Weston. 

Lynsey talks about: 

  • her early memories of the town
  • things to do with kids of all ages in the area
  • the positive impact Culture Weston has had on life in the town
  • The Grand Pier’s local’s membership card
  • her favourite places to eat and shop in Weston
  • her role at Weston College, its progressive approach to getting students into the workforce and the pastoral care given to pupils
  • the work Weston College is doing around neurodiversity and how inclusive Weston is becoming.  

Lynsey works for Weston College as Business Partnerships Manager & SEND Employment Coordinator. 

If you are interested in Lynsey's work you can connect with her on LinkedIn

To find out more about things to do for families in Weston go to VisitWeston

As mentioned in the podcast

Weston College
The Grand Pier
Tropicana
Castle Batch Park
Culture Weston
Ginger Pig
The Vaults
Duke of Oxford
Fork & Ale
The Nut Tree
The Woolpack
South Sands Hotel


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Weston-super-Mare is a holiday destination and a great place to bring kids, but what's it like to raise a family here? We talk to Lynsey McKinstry, who grew up in the town and is now bringing up her own children in Weston.

Lynsey also tells us about her work with Weston College and how the college provides an award-winning service supporting students and employers in Weston. 

Lynsey talks about: 

  • her early memories of the town
  • things to do with kids of all ages in the area
  • the positive impact Culture Weston has had on life in the town
  • The Grand Pier’s local’s membership card
  • her favourite places to eat and shop in Weston
  • her role at Weston College, its progressive approach to getting students into the workforce and the pastoral care given to pupils
  • the work Weston College is doing around neurodiversity and how inclusive Weston is becoming.  

Lynsey works for Weston College as Business Partnerships Manager & SEND Employment Coordinator. 

If you are interested in Lynsey's work you can connect with her on LinkedIn

To find out more about things to do for families in Weston go to VisitWeston

As mentioned in the podcast

Weston College
The Grand Pier
Tropicana
Castle Batch Park
Culture Weston
Ginger Pig
The Vaults
Duke of Oxford
Fork & Ale
The Nut Tree
The Woolpack
South Sands Hotel


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13250865 Wed, 19 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0100 2156 1 8 full false Ep 7 Alex Hearn talks about placemaking for Super Weston and his work at North Somerset Council Ep 7 Alex Hearn talks about placemaking for Super Weston and his work at North Somerset Council Land redevelopment, investment in the high street and seafront experiences being brought back to life - these are exciting times for Weston.  

In this week’s episode we talk to Alex Hearn, experienced Placemaking specialist, and former Assistant Director (Placemaking and Growth) for North Somerset Council.

Alex discusses how public and private organisations involved in Weston are working together to bring to life the Super Weston placemaking strategy, and his vision for the future of Weston.  

Alex shared his views on:

  • What placemaking is and why it’s important 
  • What the Super Weston strategy is all about 
  • The new projects in Weston which are benefiting from the £20m levelling-up fund
  • Why it is important to get the right private investment into Weston and how that can help boost the local economy 
  • The importance of culture as a key component for connecting the community, acting as a skills provider and a key ingredient for attracting investment.  

Alex also shares his favourite places for coffee, to eat out and to shop in Weston.

This podcast is part of the marketing strategy to share more about the exciting projects and people doing great things in the town as part of the Super Weston strategy.  

Find out more about the strategy to regenerate Weston at www.superweston.net/about/resources

Click here to read the full transcript.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Threads 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Land redevelopment, investment in the high street and seafront experiences being brought back to life - these are exciting times for Weston.  

In this week’s episode we talk to Alex Hearn, experienced Placemaking specialist, and former Assistant Director (Placemaking and Growth) for North Somerset Council.

Alex discusses how public and private organisations involved in Weston are working together to bring to life the Super Weston placemaking strategy, and his vision for the future of Weston.  

Alex shared his views on:

  • What placemaking is and why it’s important 
  • What the Super Weston strategy is all about 
  • The new projects in Weston which are benefiting from the £20m levelling-up fund
  • Why it is important to get the right private investment into Weston and how that can help boost the local economy 
  • The importance of culture as a key component for connecting the community, acting as a skills provider and a key ingredient for attracting investment.  

Alex also shares his favourite places for coffee, to eat out and to shop in Weston.

This podcast is part of the marketing strategy to share more about the exciting projects and people doing great things in the town as part of the Super Weston strategy.  

Find out more about the strategy to regenerate Weston at www.superweston.net/about/resources

Click here to read the full transcript.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Threads 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13208057 Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0100 2088 1 7 full false Ep 6 Dom Early from eBike UFO talking all things cycling in and around Weston Ep 6 Dom Early from eBike UFO talking all things cycling in and around Weston Surrounded by beautiful countryside and excellent cycle routes (with more in the pipeline), Weston-super-Mare is a fantastic place for a pedal, whether you're an avid mountain rider or prefer more of a leisurely pace on two wheels, you'll find everything from flat, relaxing rides to coastal paths and stunt jumps in the woods.

Dominic Early, owner of eBike UFO in Weston first came to the town as a national stunt kite flyer and loved it so much he wanted to open a shop. 26 years later and his kite shop has evolved into a fantastic bike shop, focused on eBikes, servicing and hire.  

In the podcast they chat about: 

  • How he went from kites, to inline skates, to YoYos to eBikes 
  • The benefits of eBikes and the intro sessions run at eBike UFO
  • Some of the great places to cycle in and around Weston 
  • The development of cycling routes around Weston including the new Pier to Pier route to Clevedon.  
  • His favourite places to eat, drink and shop in Weston

Click here to find out more about eBikeUFO and all they offer

To learn more about the plans for the Pier to Pier Way, click here

For links to the organisations mentioned in the podcast along with guides to where to cycle in and around Weston, read the full conversation here.

Enjoy the episode! 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Surrounded by beautiful countryside and excellent cycle routes (with more in the pipeline), Weston-super-Mare is a fantastic place for a pedal, whether you're an avid mountain rider or prefer more of a leisurely pace on two wheels, you'll find everything from flat, relaxing rides to coastal paths and stunt jumps in the woods.

Dominic Early, owner of eBike UFO in Weston first came to the town as a national stunt kite flyer and loved it so much he wanted to open a shop. 26 years later and his kite shop has evolved into a fantastic bike shop, focused on eBikes, servicing and hire.  

In the podcast they chat about: 

  • How he went from kites, to inline skates, to YoYos to eBikes 
  • The benefits of eBikes and the intro sessions run at eBike UFO
  • Some of the great places to cycle in and around Weston 
  • The development of cycling routes around Weston including the new Pier to Pier route to Clevedon.  
  • His favourite places to eat, drink and shop in Weston

Click here to find out more about eBikeUFO and all they offer

To learn more about the plans for the Pier to Pier Way, click here

For links to the organisations mentioned in the podcast along with guides to where to cycle in and around Weston, read the full conversation here.

Enjoy the episode! 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13080937 Wed, 28 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100 1433 1 6 full false Ep 5 John Telling, Director of Towens, talks to us about this super successful waste and recycling business employing 135 staff in the heart of Weston Ep 5 John Telling, Director of Towens, talks to us about this super successful waste and recycling business employing 135 staff in the heart of Weston Family-owned recycling and waste management business ‘Towens’ employs around 135 people from in and around Weston.  If you live in the town, you will be familiar with the lorries and skips taking away Weston’s waste, of which a staggering 94% is recycled.  

In today’s episode, John Telling, Director of Towens talks to Becky about some of the interesting projects Towens has been involved in, from helping clear Weston Marine Lake, to supporting BBC1's DIY SOS with a project in the Bournville housing estate. 

Find out more about:

  • The amazing long-serving team who work at Towens 
  • How they recruit new staff 
  • The development of a new aggregates plant that is cleaning and recycling soil normally destined for landfill 
  • Some of the challenges he faces as a business, with the ever-changing laws around what can and can’t be recycled
  • The opportunities for Weston in the next few years 
  • Why he feels Weston is such a great place to live and work.  

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

Find out more about Towens.

Enjoy the episode!



To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Family-owned recycling and waste management business ‘Towens’ employs around 135 people from in and around Weston.  If you live in the town, you will be familiar with the lorries and skips taking away Weston’s waste, of which a staggering 94% is recycled.  

In today’s episode, John Telling, Director of Towens talks to Becky about some of the interesting projects Towens has been involved in, from helping clear Weston Marine Lake, to supporting BBC1's DIY SOS with a project in the Bournville housing estate. 

Find out more about:

  • The amazing long-serving team who work at Towens 
  • How they recruit new staff 
  • The development of a new aggregates plant that is cleaning and recycling soil normally destined for landfill 
  • Some of the challenges he faces as a business, with the ever-changing laws around what can and can’t be recycled
  • The opportunities for Weston in the next few years 
  • Why he feels Weston is such a great place to live and work.  

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

Find out more about Towens.

Enjoy the episode!



To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-13029395 Tue, 13 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0100 1378 1 5 full false Ep. 4 Beautifully Proud, celebrating Pride and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Weston with Matt Hardy Ep. 4 Beautifully Proud, celebrating Pride and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Weston with Matt Hardy Rainbow flags, glitter balls and a pier (or three)…no we’re not talking about Brighton, this is Weston-super-Mare, where there’s excitement, support and ambition amongst the LGBTQ+ community this June, as the *Beautifully Proud programme kicks off across several of the town’s venues.

Listen to Matt Hardy, Operational Services Manager for Weston Town Council, and Event Creator for Beautifully Proud, as he gives us an overview of some of the social aspects and support available for the community, and how it has changed over the past few years.

 Not only does he give us an insight into life in the LGBTQ+ community in the town, he also tells us how Weston’s burgeoning cultural scene has ignited his creative spirit.

Matt talks about:

  • Highlights of the Beautifully Proud programme for June
  • LGBTQ+ nightlife, year-round events and diversity in Weston
  • Support services available for the community 
  • How venues in Weston are getting involved in a new support system showcasing welcoming, safe spaces
  • The independent business scene in Weston and his favourite places to eat and drink in the town.

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

*Beautifully Proud  is a month-long programme of events, activities, exhibitions and performances for all ages across multiple venues throughout Pride Month in June 2023.
 Click here for the full Beautifully Proud programme.

To find about more about year-round support and social events for the LBGTQ+ community, visit The North Somerset LGBT+ Forum 

Find Matt Hardy (@matthdoesmakeup) on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook and YouTube


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Rainbow flags, glitter balls and a pier (or three)…no we’re not talking about Brighton, this is Weston-super-Mare, where there’s excitement, support and ambition amongst the LGBTQ+ community this June, as the *Beautifully Proud programme kicks off across several of the town’s venues.

Listen to Matt Hardy, Operational Services Manager for Weston Town Council, and Event Creator for Beautifully Proud, as he gives us an overview of some of the social aspects and support available for the community, and how it has changed over the past few years.

 Not only does he give us an insight into life in the LGBTQ+ community in the town, he also tells us how Weston’s burgeoning cultural scene has ignited his creative spirit.

Matt talks about:

  • Highlights of the Beautifully Proud programme for June
  • LGBTQ+ nightlife, year-round events and diversity in Weston
  • Support services available for the community 
  • How venues in Weston are getting involved in a new support system showcasing welcoming, safe spaces
  • The independent business scene in Weston and his favourite places to eat and drink in the town.

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

*Beautifully Proud  is a month-long programme of events, activities, exhibitions and performances for all ages across multiple venues throughout Pride Month in June 2023.
 Click here for the full Beautifully Proud programme.

To find about more about year-round support and social events for the LBGTQ+ community, visit The North Somerset LGBT+ Forum 

Find Matt Hardy (@matthdoesmakeup) on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook and YouTube


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-12979131 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0100 1612 1 4 full false Ep 3 Establishing a successful creative business by the beach, with Clair Haycraft, Haycraft Creative and Angela Hicks, CEO of The Hive. Ep 3 Establishing a successful creative business by the beach, with Clair Haycraft, Haycraft Creative and Angela Hicks, CEO of The Hive. In this week’s episode, we meet Angela Hicks, Chief Executive of The Hive, and Clair Haycraft of Haycraft Creative.   Clair and her husband Phil set up their creative business in Weston, with the help of Angela and her team. 

Starting out on your own business path can be daunting, but the businesses of Weston and North Somerset have huge support in the form of The Hive. 
The Hive offered Clair and Phil essential business advice, office and meeting space, plus connections to other businesses, helping them set up what is now a thriving design business.  

In the episode, Clair talks about:

  • How the move from Bristol to Weston has benefitted their business and allowed them to have a better quality of life
  • Why clients like an excuse to visit, as they get the chance to be close to the beach
  • Her business success story after maternity leave and lockdown, following input from The Hive

They also talk about the benefits to working in Weston, including: 

  • The sense of community support for each other and the collective desire to make Weston a better place 
  • How unlike a city like Bristol, Weston’s size makes it feel easier to connect with people, and stand out with less competition from other creative peers
  • How culture has transformed the town over the past few years, how much there is to do on the doorstep and the sense of light and space in Weston
  • Weston’s fantastic transport connections - including the train station, local airport and road network
  • Lesser known facts about Weston and their favourite places to eat, drink and shop

Click here for a  summary of the episode and further links to business support within Weston 

Find out more about The Hive 

Discover more about Haycraft Creative 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> In this week’s episode, we meet Angela Hicks, Chief Executive of The Hive, and Clair Haycraft of Haycraft Creative.   Clair and her husband Phil set up their creative business in Weston, with the help of Angela and her team. 

Starting out on your own business path can be daunting, but the businesses of Weston and North Somerset have huge support in the form of The Hive. 
The Hive offered Clair and Phil essential business advice, office and meeting space, plus connections to other businesses, helping them set up what is now a thriving design business.  

In the episode, Clair talks about:

  • How the move from Bristol to Weston has benefitted their business and allowed them to have a better quality of life
  • Why clients like an excuse to visit, as they get the chance to be close to the beach
  • Her business success story after maternity leave and lockdown, following input from The Hive

They also talk about the benefits to working in Weston, including: 

  • The sense of community support for each other and the collective desire to make Weston a better place 
  • How unlike a city like Bristol, Weston’s size makes it feel easier to connect with people, and stand out with less competition from other creative peers
  • How culture has transformed the town over the past few years, how much there is to do on the doorstep and the sense of light and space in Weston
  • Weston’s fantastic transport connections - including the train station, local airport and road network
  • Lesser known facts about Weston and their favourite places to eat, drink and shop

Click here for a  summary of the episode and further links to business support within Weston 

Find out more about The Hive 

Discover more about Haycraft Creative 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-12893799 Wed, 24 May 2023 10:00:00 +0100 2202 1 3 full false Ep 2 Life on Weston high street with retailer Sam Walker, Owner of family run department store Walker & Ling Ep 2 Life on Weston high street with retailer Sam Walker, Owner of family run department store Walker & Ling Walker & Ling is a stalwart of Weston High Street with a fascinating history.
Run by the Walker family for 115 years, its rich heritage has seen the department store survive being bombed in WW2, undergo a major facelift as part of Historic England and North Somerset Heritage Action Zone investment and welcome great brands while retaining a sense of homely nostalgia.

Owner Sam Walker spoke to us about:

  • The store’s heritage and challenging times
  • What drew him to take over the reins of the family business
  • How he juggles the store's heritage with modern shopping expectations
  • The Shopfront Enhancement Scheme - part of the Heritage Action Zone delivered by Historic England and North Somerset Council to reinvigorate the high street
  • His involvement in other organisations in the town, including Weston Hospice Care
  • His favourite things to do in Weston-super-Mare
  • What he would like to see for the town's future

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

You can find more about Walker & Ling here.
Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

To find out more about  Weston Town Centre, including vacant units and other retail business enquiries contact Weston BID, or North Somerset Council Economy Support Services.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Walker & Ling is a stalwart of Weston High Street with a fascinating history.
Run by the Walker family for 115 years, its rich heritage has seen the department store survive being bombed in WW2, undergo a major facelift as part of Historic England and North Somerset Heritage Action Zone investment and welcome great brands while retaining a sense of homely nostalgia.

Owner Sam Walker spoke to us about:

  • The store’s heritage and challenging times
  • What drew him to take over the reins of the family business
  • How he juggles the store's heritage with modern shopping expectations
  • The Shopfront Enhancement Scheme - part of the Heritage Action Zone delivered by Historic England and North Somerset Council to reinvigorate the high street
  • His involvement in other organisations in the town, including Weston Hospice Care
  • His favourite things to do in Weston-super-Mare
  • What he would like to see for the town's future

For a full summary of the conversation click here.

You can find more about Walker & Ling here.
Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

To find out more about  Weston Town Centre, including vacant units and other retail business enquiries contact Weston BID, or North Somerset Council Economy Support Services.


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-12829265 Tue, 23 May 2023 14:00:00 +0100 1809 1 2 full false Ep 1 Fiona Matthews and Tom Newman of Culture Weston discuss Weston’s cultural renaissance and the importance of culture to the local communities. Ep 1 Fiona Matthews and Tom Newman of Culture Weston discuss Weston’s cultural renaissance and the importance of culture to the local communities. Welcome to the very first episode of the We are Super Weston podcast.  Thank you so much for taking the time to listen today.  

Giant bats in a climate carnival, massive murals on walls and festivals for the grieving - the impact of Culture Weston on the town can't be understated.
In this podcast, we talk to Fiona Matthews, Artistic Director and Tom Newman Executive Director of Culture Weston who are the driving force behind some of the outstanding cultural activity at the heart of Weston-super-Mare's daily life.

In this episode they talk about:

  • The importance of culture to Weston and the town’s regeneration
  • Why Weston was chosen as a ‘priority place’ for Arts Council funding
  • How community and collaboration is a big part of the success of Culture Weston 
  • Weston’s cultural renaissance over the past few years
  • How projects in Weston like SEE MONSTER and Banksy’s Dismaland were important for Weston
  • The development of Weston for creative people, where paid work is no longer something they have to move away to find
  • Lesser known facts about Weston and their favourite places to eat, drink and shop
  • Exciting events Culture Weston has in the pipeline

If you are interested in culture and creativity and its impact on a town, then we hope you’ll find this episode really interesting. 

Click here for the full podcast transcript and links to where to find further information about Weston's culture offer. 

Find out more about Culture Weston

Culture Weston on Instagram & Facebook

For the full programme of what's happening for the months ahead see  Visit Weston. 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Welcome to the very first episode of the We are Super Weston podcast.  Thank you so much for taking the time to listen today.  

Giant bats in a climate carnival, massive murals on walls and festivals for the grieving - the impact of Culture Weston on the town can't be understated.
In this podcast, we talk to Fiona Matthews, Artistic Director and Tom Newman Executive Director of Culture Weston who are the driving force behind some of the outstanding cultural activity at the heart of Weston-super-Mare's daily life.

In this episode they talk about:

  • The importance of culture to Weston and the town’s regeneration
  • Why Weston was chosen as a ‘priority place’ for Arts Council funding
  • How community and collaboration is a big part of the success of Culture Weston 
  • Weston’s cultural renaissance over the past few years
  • How projects in Weston like SEE MONSTER and Banksy’s Dismaland were important for Weston
  • The development of Weston for creative people, where paid work is no longer something they have to move away to find
  • Lesser known facts about Weston and their favourite places to eat, drink and shop
  • Exciting events Culture Weston has in the pipeline

If you are interested in culture and creativity and its impact on a town, then we hope you’ll find this episode really interesting. 

Click here for the full podcast transcript and links to where to find further information about Weston's culture offer. 

Find out more about Culture Weston

Culture Weston on Instagram & Facebook

For the full programme of what's happening for the months ahead see  Visit Weston. 


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-12902490 Mon, 22 May 2023 14:00:00 +0100 1880 1 1 full false Podcast Trailer - Welcome to the new Super Weston podcast Podcast Trailer - Welcome to the new Super Weston podcast Join Becky Walsh, host and resident of Weston-super-Mare, every two weeks as she brings you interviews with the movers and shakers who are rocking Weston right now. 

From award-winning digital artwork creators or food technology manufacturers, Weston has so much to offer beyond its beautiful sunsets and fabulous beaches.

Tune in and listen to stories of inspirational people who have created hugely successful businesses, and people who have interesting and unique stories to tell about life in Weston, and those who are bringing excitement and intrigue through new projects, events and culinary delights. 

Be prepared to be surprised.  

 Subscribe now to make sure you never miss an episode.  


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Join Becky Walsh, host and resident of Weston-super-Mare, every two weeks as she brings you interviews with the movers and shakers who are rocking Weston right now. 

From award-winning digital artwork creators or food technology manufacturers, Weston has so much to offer beyond its beautiful sunsets and fabulous beaches.

Tune in and listen to stories of inspirational people who have created hugely successful businesses, and people who have interesting and unique stories to tell about life in Weston, and those who are bringing excitement and intrigue through new projects, events and culinary delights. 

Be prepared to be surprised.  

 Subscribe now to make sure you never miss an episode.  


To comment on today's conversation head over to Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would so appreciate it if you could rate, review and subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify - it helps us to share the amazing stories of the people of Weston-super-Mare.

Huge things are happening in Weston-super-Mare, the creative, historic seaside town on the Somerset coast in the South West of England.

Find out more on our website Super Weston

Huge thanks to our host Becky Walsh and our voiceover artist Matt Hardy

]]> Becky Walsh Buzzsprout-12731408 Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +0100 53 full false