Somerset News

Axbridge Review – Somerset News: Axe River Books publishes an anthology of short stories

By Emily Goodman: Axe River Books, a newly launched community interest publishing house based in the South West of England, is proud to announce the release of its debut publication, Axe River Books Short Story Prize: Anthology 1. This anthology features the top 14 entries from their inaugural short story competition, offering readers a diverse range of voices and styles from across the region. Available from November 1, 2024, on Amazon.co.uk.

The collection includes stories from writers in Bridport, Cheddar, Highbridge, Ivybridge, Wells, Weston-super-Mare, Sandford, South Molton, and beyond, reflecting the rich cultural and literary diversity of the South West.

The overall winner, Clare Reddaway, was awarded first place for her story Ripe Apricots Burning Oil. In the story, a fry cook in a fish and chip shop finds his mind drifting back to a life he no longer recognises—his former self as a history teacher in Iran. Through vivid memory, he contemplates the loss of his former identity, scratched onto his memory like the postcards he still sends to his wife, despite the distance between them. Driven away by his political beliefs and convictions, he is now in exile, trying to find meaning in a small seaside town.

“I believe that stories are the bedrock of being human, and I find creating, tangling, and untangling them to be a source of constant fascination,” said Clare Reddaway.

Judge and Wrington-based novelist Mel Greenwood praised the winning entry, saying:
“This is one of the most powerful and beautiful stories I have ever read. Every reading unveils new layers of depth. It’s filmic, believable, and intelligent, with realistic descriptions and superbly crafted dialogue. The poetic opening contrasts brilliantly with the sudden, gritty reality of the chip shop job, leading us into the protagonist’s tragic truth.”

Emily Goodman, co-founder of Axe River Books, commented on the anthology:
“We’re incredibly proud to have published our first book and to share it with readers across the South West and beyond. The quality of the submissions blew us away, and we’re confident these 14 stories will resonate with readers from start to finish.”

Co-publisher Joe Williams added:
“Seeing this book come to life after months of hard work has been an exciting journey. We owe a huge thanks to all our authors, our judge, and Gemma Trickey for her incredible support in making this dream a reality. This anthology is just the beginning—we look forward to continuing our mission of publishing great writing from the region.”

Co-founder Andy Corp highlighted Axe River Books’ community focus:
“We are passionate about supporting writers and local retailers. This book is available to order on Amazon, but we’re actively seeking partnerships with independent bookshops, libraries, and community groups across the Southwest. We want to spotlight the often unsung literary talent in the region.”

Community Focus and Local Hiring

Axe River Books is currently seeking to hire individuals who live and work in the South West of England. This is part of its mission to uplift local talent and contribute to the region’s creative community.

About the Cover Art

The anthology’s striking cover was designed by Somerset-based printmaker Gemma Trickey, whose work explores folklore, mythology, and the natural world. Inspired by William Morris and Aubrey Beardsley, Gemma works with lino and woodcut techniques on paper and textiles and has previously designed book covers for Penguin Random House and Octopus Publishing Group. She has worked closely with The Letterpress Collective on various projects and regularly exhibits her work in Somerset and Bristol. Learn more about her work on Gemma Trickey’s website and her Instagram @gemmatrickeystudio.

The Axe River Books logo was designed by Tom “Rebus” Sutcliff, a talented illustrator and graphic designer with over 15 years of experience. His portfolio includes collaborations with major brands like Disney and Marvel. View more of Tom’s work on his Behance profile or contact him at rebusillustration@gmail.com.

About Axe River Books

Axe River Books was founded by three literature enthusiasts in Somerset to offer publishing opportunities to writers in the South West of England, particularly those unpublished or unrepresented by literary agents. The company provides a platform for emerging voices and promotes original talent from the region.

Inspired by the River Axe, which has flowed through the Mendip Hills for millions of years, the publishing house is committed to supporting local writers and fostering a vibrant community around South Western literature. As a community interest company (CIC), all profits are reinvested in future projects that align with its mission. Axe River Books is dedicated to sustainability, using locally sourced materials and working with partners who share their values.

For more information or to order Axe River Books Short Story Prize: Anthology 1, visit  axeriverbooks.com

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Axbridge Review – Somerset News: Super council proposed for Somerset to include Dorset and Wiltshire

Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils have expressed interest in creating a shared authority reports Clara Bullock of the BBC in a story from 23 September 2024. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwyex5xnj5xo). She writes: ‘The three councils are to to submit a request for devolution to create an area called the “Heart of Wessex”. It comes in response to a request from the government to consider devolution.

‘In a joint statement, the leaders of the three councils said: “We have had constructive discussions and recognise that, while each council has its own unique aspirations, there is a shared belief that working together can provide a strong foundation for devolution.

‘“There are projects and services we already provide which are more effective when delivered in partnership,” the statement added.

‘“Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire Councils are keen to explore how together they may better meet residents’ needs and align with the government’s vision for devolution. Discussions to date have also included Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council and Swindon Borough Council. Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils remain open to the possibility of working with these councils across the Wessex region.”

‘The councils added they wanted “clearer guidance” from the government on how to complete the devolution.

‘“Once formal proposals have been agreed with central government these will be communicated with our residents and any options will be consulted on before being taken forward,” the councils added in the statement.’