bathvoice
01225 459611
April 2020 No. 7
FREE EVERY MONTH in Bear Flat, Oldfield Park and Widcombe
Help our NHS staff during the crisis During the coronavirus crisis it is even more essential to support the Royal United Hospital’s staff. They are under increased pressure as they care for all patients as well as the rise in those affected by the virus. NHS staff must continue to work so allowing them priority in public transport and food stores is vital to maintain their work. As the hospital’s charity, The Forever Friends Appeal is asking for your help to support the hospital and its heroes. To donate and support your local NHS and hospital heroes, please visit www. foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk/ hospital-heroes
INSIDE
TV drama films at Crowe Hall
Page 4 Half marathon’s school team’s fundraiser Page 5 Police alert over ‘flasher’ reports
Covid-19: it’s a lockdown The deserted streets of Bath as shops shut, pubs and bars closed and residents stayed in due to coronavirus
In a whirlwind of a week, life in Bath was changed beyond recognition as precautions were taken to guard against the coronavirus pandemic. All pubs, clubs, cafes, restaurants, gyms, cinemas and theatres had to close
after Friday, March 20 under instruction from the government. Schools closed that same day. The Royal United Hospital told people they could not visit their loved ones on certain wards and said: “Please DO NOT
visit the hospital unless absolutely essential.” A man in his 80s with underlying health conditions, who tested positive for Covid-19, died at the hospital on March
Read more, page 3
DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES Courses you can do online at home for FREE www.bathcollege.ac.uk/distance-learning distancelearning@bathcollege.ac.uk Courses are free subject to eligibility
@bathcollege
bathvoice
2
bathvoice Contacts
HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...
Follow us on social media:
Sam Petherick News Editor 07907 589905 news@bathvoice.co.uk Erica Benson Publisher and sales 07402 441485 erica@bathvoice.co.uk
on Twitter @bath_voice
Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is April 20th
My councillor? Oldfield Park: Shaun Stephenson-McGall 07483 299240 Shaun_Mcgall@bathnes.gov.uk Widcombe & Lyncombe: Alison Born 01225 319188 Alison_born@bathnes.gov.uk Winston Duguid 07899 066440 Winston_Duguid@bathnes.gov.uk Moorlands: Jess David 07977 500804 Jess_david@bathnes.gov.uk
Rich Coulter Sub Editor 07775 550607 George Benson Distribution 07970 767606 george@bathvoice.co.uk
April 2020
on Facebook Bath Voice My MP? Wera Hobhouse MP 26 Charles Street, Bath, BA1 1HU 01225 307024 office@werahobhouse.co.uk Jacob Rees-Mogg House of Commons Westminster London SW1A 0AA jacob.reesmogg.mp@parliament.uk
Southdown: Paul Crossley 07718 632959 paul_crossley@bathnes.gov.uk Dine Romero 01225 477496 dine_romero@bathnes.gov.uk Combe Down: Gerry Curan 01225 330349 / 07900684562 Gerry_curran@bathnes.go.uk
Bharat Ramji Nathoo Pankhania Bharat_pankhania@bathnes.gov.uk 07464 867554 Odd Down: Joel Hirst 07792 869044 joel_hirst@bathnes.gov.uk Steve Hedges 07971270879 steve_hedges@bathnes.gov.uk Twerton: Sarah Moore 07807013635 Sarah_moore@bathnes.gov.uk Tim Ball 01225 400834 / 07970461674 Tim_ball@bathnes.gov.uk Westmoreland: June Player 07967 920064 June_Player@bathnes.gov.uk Colin Blackburn 07796 807157 Colin_Blackburn@bathnes.gov.uk
USEFUL NUMBERS
SPECIAL OFFER:
OAPs small fish & chips with curry sauce or mushy peas - £4.90 Order online ready for collection
www.bathfishandchips.co.uk Opening Hours Monday – Thursday 5:00pm – 10:00pm Friday & Saturday 5:00pm - 10:30pm Sunday : Closed
01225 464600
1 Wellsway, Bath, BA2 4QL
Bath & North East Somerset Council Guildhall, High Street, Bath, BA1 5AW Bath One Stop Shop 3-4 Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JQ Council Connect 01225 39 40 41 Email: council_connect@bathnes. gov.uk Bath & North East Somerset Citizens Advice Bureau 2 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath, BA1 2EE 0344 848 7919 NHS Urgent: 111 / Emergency: 999
Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.co.uk General inquiries: 101 Emergency 999 Fire www.avonfire.co.uk Inquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Anti-social behaviour team asb@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 842462 Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk (Freephone) 0808 808 5252
COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bath Voice, contact the News Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/ nuj-code. Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: news@bathvoice.co.uk or by post: 1 Camerton Close, Saltford, Bristol, BS31 3BT or by phone: 07402 441485 All stories and pictures are © Bath Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission. Bath Voice News & Media Ltd
To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485
April 2020
bathvoice
3
n NEWS
Ghost town as Bath shuts up shop
From Page 1 18. It was believed to be the first death to the virus in Bath and North East Somerset. Night marshal Alex Adams posted photos of the city looking eerily quiet during what would, in more normal times, be a busy Friday night. He wrote: “#bath is a ghost town, all the clubs seem to be on lockdown. Whilst patrolling last night we only saw a couple of people.” There were calls for a universal basic income by a research fellow at the University of Bath. Dr Neil Howard’s open letter was signed by 500 academics and published in the
Independent. He said: “Basic income is one of the simplest social policies imaginable – it consists of no more than giving all people a modest, regular, unconditional cash sum, much like a pension, but for everyone.” Major Bath attractions and heritage sites including the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms, Victoria Art Gallery and Assembly Rooms have been closed. Councillor Dine Romero, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “The situation regarding coronavirus is changing rapidly and we must work together as a community
to protect ourselves and those around us. “It is important that everyone remains calm and follows the latest national advice on the steps needed to reduce the spread of infection. It is essential that we support each other and understand that we will all need to adapt to different day-to-day behaviours during this period.” The charity Goldies cancelled its Sing&Smile sessions which more than 200 elderly people joyously take part in. As of Sunday, March 22, according to the latest figures available as Bath Voice went to press, there were 13 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in B&NES.
The launch party behind the pop-up shop called Loce Bear Flat, Love Art.
Photo: Ian Hargreaves
Loving the pop-up shop at Bear Flat A pop-up shop called Love Bear Flat, Love Art has been hailed a success. It opened in the former home of Rolfey’s Antiques on Hayes Place thanks to a generous offer from Andrews Estate Agents. Bear Flat Association said it was fortunate to find a co-ordinator an experienced
community artist whose network of contacts brought in artists to display their wares in Shiva Page. Volunteers decorated and fitted out the store and a rota was drawn up to staff the shop. An unexpected and welcome development was that two groups running community art projects also joined in: the Educational
Day Services of Action on Hearing Loss, and Genesis Trust. There was a lively and well attended launch evening on February 26, joined by Mr Rolfe himself. The shop ran for three weeks, with rising footfall and good sales of the art and crafts and was well received by locals.
All aspect of Joinery undertaken, free quotations, many years of experience in: • Windows • Doors • Staircases • Furniture • Carpentry Services • All Bespoke Joinery T: 0117 9860062 E: sales@applejoinery.co.uk www.applejoinery.co.uk Unit 1 & 2 Lays Farm Trading Estate, Charlton Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2SE
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
Help is at hand People-powered support networks have been established in Bath to help each other through the coronavirus crisis. More than 30 people signed up in Bear Flat, where a range of measures are in place to support anyone who catches the virus. Meanwhile the aim in Widcombe is to have at least two people on every street who are willing and able to lend a hand to those most in need. The Bear Flat Association has set up a helpline manned by volunteers for anyone who is selfisolating or having difficulty in shopping for food and other essentials, in getting medicines or even needing someone to talk to. To be a volunteer responder send your name, postal address and telephone number to covid@ bearflat.org.uk Anyone who needs assistance can also email that address or call 07593 876127. If you are willing and able to offer your support over this difficult period, email residents’ association treasurer Hilary Furlonger at treasurer@ widcombeassociation.org. uk or call 07794 922082. Or contact chairman Jeremy Boss on chairman@ widcombeassociation.org. uk and 01225 484794.
bathvoice
4
April 2020
n NEWS
TV detective series films gun drama at Crowe Hall A Widcombe country mansion was the scene of a shooting which sparked a huge emergency service response and investigation led by two detectives. However, if this shocking incident sounds somewhat far-fetched, it’s because it happened in the fictional crime drama McDonald and Dodds. The two-part series was shown on ITV across Sunday, March 1 and 8 in episodes each lasting two hours. In episode 1, The Fall of The House of Crockett, a homeless man is shot dead in the deserted mansion of one of Bath’s most prominent industrialists, the inventor Max Crockett. This property is Crowe Hall, a grade II-listed building surrounded by several hectares of gardens, set off Widcombe Hill and above Prior Park
ITV’s new crime drama McDonald and Dodds has been film in and around Bath with this scene shot at Crowe Hall Landscape Gardens. It is privately owned but its beautiful garden is opened to visitors on a select few days
of the year. Crowe Hall is just one of many Bath locations featured in the show. Both episodes of McDonald
Perfect for Parties!
BEER IN A BOX Enjoy 36 Glorious Pints of our Award Winning BELLRINGER at home!
* Click & Collect
from our Bath pubs Assembly Inn, Star Inn and Couer de Lion or direct from the Abbey Brewery, Camden Row BREWED IN THE Bath BA1 5LB
ONLY
£55 .25 CLICK & COLLECT
HEART OF BATH
Our Original AMBER GOLD ALE with a REFRESHINGLY HOPPY Finish
B RE W E D I N TH E
H E A RT O F B ATH
Telephone 01225 444437
ABV 4.2%
www.abbeyales.co.uk
* Order online now at www.abbeyales.co.uk To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485
and Dodds can be watched online at www.itv.com/hub/ mcdonald-dodds/2a7401 until April 7.
April 2020
bathvoice
5
n NEWS
Half marathon hit by coronavirus controversy In one of the last mass gathering events before coronavirus restrictions were imposed, the Bath Half Marathon went ahead with thousands of runners raising huge amounts of money for charity. Organisers were criticised for their decision not to cancel the Sunday, March 15 race with just a day to go. However, on the Friday, the UK chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said preventing mass participation events would not have a “big effect” on Covid-19 transmission rates. Around 6,000 runners out of nearly 15,000 entrants completed the Bath Half, raising money for causes such as a new playground for a special educational needs school in Odd Down. Race organisers have since launched a scheme so that anyone who avoided the race out of concerns about coronavirus can complete a virtual half marathon and receive their official finisher’s medal and T-shirt. Despite the unpredictable circumstances and rainy weather, a team from Three Ways School raised nearly £5,000. Teachers, teaching assistants, parents, supporters and the school dog completed virtual and the actual Bath Half Marathon alongside pupil Finn, who was pushed on his adapted trike, loving every moment. Virginie Mein’s son Sebastien goes to Three Ways.
The Bath Half Marathon featured some major fund raising efforts including Finn on his trike with Jo Myall and Three Ways School teacher Lizzie Griffin who took on the challenge backed by friends and family She said: “It was a great day despite the rain and I will never thank Three Ways enough for looking after my son so well.” School fundraiser Lucy Beattie said: “Once more we have been blown away by the support of our community, overcoming any obstacles they have managed to support the school with months of training, hard work and fundraising. “We want to say a huge thank you to them all.” The school was edging ever closer to its £5,000 target
for new adapted playground equipment as Bath Voice went to press. Donations can be made at http://www. donatemyschool.com/th Bath Half race director Andrew Taylor said: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped us this weekend: our volunteers, staff, contractors, medical team, sponsors, charities, spectators and the local community of Bath. “Over 6,000 people turned up to run the Bath Half, many of whom were raising money
for charity and I’d like to say a special thank you to all of you.” He added: “This was the hardest week and toughest few days we have ever had. “We sought advice far and wide on what we should do and after a lot of consultation we decided to continue with the event. “We know this didn’t please everyone, but we followed the advice we were given and I am glad that we managed to stage the event for all those who wanted it to go ahead.”
CLARKSON’S INDEPENDENT F UNERAL DIRECTORS LTD 7 Windsor Place, BA1 3DF 01225 426822
“A truly personal and caring service” contact@clarksonsfuneraldirectors.com www.clarksonsfuneraldirectors.co.uk Runner Hannah Baker had strong support from her two boys
Speeding along is Bath teacher Veryan Cranston with student Finn
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
Saltford branch: 01225 873535 Frome branch: 01373 463888
bathvoice
6
n NEWS
April 2020
Fraudsters conning elderly residents - warnings Residents have lost thousands of pounds to rogue traders – leading the police to issue a plea for information and advice. There have been two recent instances at homes in Cranwells Park, Weston, and Caledonian Road in Oldfield Park. On both occasions elderly home owners have been targeted and approached by unknown men offering to do work for cash. In one of the instances, the suspect offered to clean an elderly man’s gutters before claiming his wall was falling down and agreed to repair it for £2,500. Then, after knocking down the wall, the suspect increased the price to £10,500 which the victim paid. In another incident, an elderly woman is believed to have been taken advantage of by a roofer who has charged
her an excessive amount of money for the work completed. “In light of these recent incidents, we are encouraging local residents to remain alert to rogue traders and look out for any elderly or vulnerable neighbours,” Avon and Somerset police said. “Take note of the following crime prevention advice, particularly regarding rogue traders and distraction burglaries.” • Never open the door to an unexpected caller until you’ve checked their identification – use a door chain or viewer, intercom or a ‘smart’ doorbell. Genuine callers expect it • If you’re not sure, don’t open the door • If you are suspicious of a caller tell us straight away – ring 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated, otherwise call 101 • Store any high value items such as jewellery, passports
and cash in a properly secured and hidden safe or bank vault • Keep windows and doors secured if you’re not in the room • If you see someone calling door-to-door, but only on frail or elderly neighbours, call 999 straight away • Ask a trusted neighbour to
From your local Which Trusted Trader Arrange your free boiler survey today 01225 738 397 | www.gregorheating.co.uk
Gregor Heating are a credit broker. Credit provided by Hitachi Personal Finance, a division of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Gregor Heating, Unit 1, Willcock House, Warmley, Bristol, BS30 5LW. FRN 732800. Credit subject to status and credit check. *On selected Worcester Bosch boilers. Terms and conditions apply.
To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485
help you deal with unexpected callers • Look out for vulnerable and elderly neighbours • Join Neighbourhood Watch. If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5220044191.
Don’t forget to ask us about smart controls for your new boiler
April 2020
bathvoice
n NEWS Covid-19 scams Online shoppers are falling victim to fraudsters, Action Fraud has warned. The body issued a warning to people who are increasingly turning to online shopping during the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 100 victims had been identified with losses of £970,000 as of Friday, March 20. This relates to online scams, where people have ordered protective masks, hand sanitisers and other products associated to the coronavirus. Additionally, Action Fraud has received more than 200 reports about coronavirusthemed phishing emails, which attempt to trick people into opening malicious email attachments or reveal sensitive personal and financial information. If you think you have been a victim then please call 101.
7
Police call for vigilance after man indecently exposed himself Police patrols have been stepped up after a man exposed himself to women in Oldfield Park and nearby Bath neighbourhoods. Multiple calls were made to Avon and Somerset police by members of the public following the incidents. The force urged people to be vigilant after the acts of public indecency and report any information which could assist its investigation. The offender has been described as aged between 20 and late-30s and of an average height and build. He was said to be wearing dark clothing, with his face obscured by a hood or a balaclava. Some witnesses also said he was wearing sunglasses. Inspector Gavin Usher from the Bath Neighbourhood Team said: “There have been
a number of incidents where a male has exposed himself to women within the Linear Park/ Oldfield Park/ Twerton area of Bath. “The incidents have occurred all times of the day and night with women, often alone, either being approached by a male or seeing him hiding in bushes. “On some occasions he has spoken to the women and made sexual comments towards them, however more recently has knocked on a door of a house at night and exposed himself to the all-female occupants.” Mr Usher added: “Needless to say we are taking all these reports extremely seriously. We are conducting extra patrols in the areas where these incidents have been reported. “We would urge the public
PRICE RIGHT BUILDINGS Bespoke Quality Timber Products
30 years experience creating beautiful timber bespoke buildings All of our buildings are built and erected by hand this way we know that the job has been done to our very high standards.
SHEDS FROM £325
• Garden Sheds • Chalets • Summerhouses • Workshops • Outdoor Offices • Childrens Playhouses • Other Outdoor structures
Lays Farm, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2SE Tel/Fax : 0117 9866172 www.pricerightbuildings.co.uk
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
to be vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to us. And, if you have witnessed something similar to this and not yet called the police, please do so, as your information could help our ongoing investigation.” Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to call 101 and quote reference number 5220046046. Alternatively, call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. • Outraging public decency is an indictable common law offence which is punishable by unlimited imprisonment and/ or an unlimited fine. In law it is an act which is seen to be lewd, obscene or of a disgusting character, which outrages minimum standards of public decency as assessed by a jury.
bathvoice
8
n NEWS
April 2020
Super heroes, burglars and princesses on parade World Book Day was celebrated by schools in a range of creative ways. The children’s book writer Jeremy Strong met the children at St Martin’s Garden Primary to launch its reading matters learning enquiry week. The school in Odd Down used the whole week to champion reading among its pupils. It put on various activities including mystery readers, hot chocolate and reading time, big read, buddy reads, reading selfies, dress a fruit or vegetable as a book character and share a million stories events. Pupils also dressed as their favourite book character for World Book Day itself which fell on March 5. Newbridge Primary School invited its pupils to make a ‘book in a jar’. The children aimed to portray their favourite title in a simple glass or plastic jar,
World Book Day was marked by Orange class at St Martin’s Garden Primary School with a dazzling aray of outfits from the world of books, novels and graphic comics
including carefully chosen items, quotes and clues about its characters or setting. Afterwards, the school said: “How wonderfully creative their ideas were. Throughout the day every class read and completed learning around the
Live In Care
No need for an expensive care home Stay independent at home with your own live in carer Providers of affordable and excellent care since 1986
Tel: 0117 9860710
Email:featherbedhomecare@hotmail.co.uk
www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk
Mon - Wed 9-5.30 | Thursday 9-8 Friday 9-6 | Saturday 9-4 earlier appointments on request 108 Emerson Way, Emersons Green Tel: 0117 957 1528 45 Moorland Road, Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 3PN. Tel: 01225 448887
Great Readers Offer
£5 off*
when you spend over £30*
£10 off* when you spend over £50*
Valid 01.04.2020 to 01.05.2020
book The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt. “Last evening the children came back to school for book at bedtime – a firm favourite on our annual calendar. “Thank you to everyone who made the day and evening
another great success. Many thanks too, to all the parents who helped out with the hot chocolate.” World Book Day is designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books.
Gymnast Aimee makes her school ‘very proud’ A trampolinist has blazed a trail of glory for her Bath school in recent months. Aimee Marsh represented Combe Down’s Ralph Allen School in the British Championships in March. In November she competed at the South West Championships in Taunton and came away with second place at under 14s intermediate level. She then competed against 40 other girls in the Southern Championships in Kent on January 19. Aimee was placed third in the South of England in this event and qualified for the prestigious British Championships. Competing against 32 other girls at the major tournament in Eastleigh on Saturday, March 14, she bagged the silver medal in the Year 7-9 Girls Intermediate Section. The Ralph Allen School’s spokesperson said: “Aimee was absolutely amazing and everyone is very proud of her.”
To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485
Aimee Marsh has competed in trampoline championships
April 2020
bathvoice
n NEWS
The phone box is being given a new lease of life by residents
9
Creative residents give new life to Widcombe with a touch of TLC A handrail is being erected around a new wildflower meadow in Widcombe. The rail will serve the twin purpose of providing a walking aid for pedestrians and discouraging people from taking a shortcut over the soil. Widcombe Residents’ Association has been working with the council on the conversion of the area at the western end of Widcombe Parade into a colourful wildflower meadow. Hundreds of bulbs have been planted and many are blooming into life. The rail is being created and delivered by Larkhall-based firm Ironart of Bath. They hope to fit it towards the end of March or beginning of April. In 2017 Ironart supplied
a similar, attractive handrail nearby at the foot of the steeply sloping Lyncombe Hill, which has proved invaluable during wet or icy weather. Another Bath firm, Kelston Forge, made an equally good job of installing a communityorganised handrail on the opposite side of the road. Widcombe Residents’ Association said: “One way or another the steep slippery slopes in this part of Widcombe are being made safer.” • More floral touches are soon coming to the neighbourhood with the conversion of a classic red Post Office and Telecommunications telephone box into a herb and flower garden. The electricity supply has been disconnected by BT, whom Beverley Wallis of the
residents’ group adopted the box from for £1. Alongside other members she has spent hours removing the glass and priming the former phone box. The next stage is to apply an undercoat and paint it in the original red colour before planting in the summer. Ms Wallis is also arranging for planters to be placed in the parade and has received the green light from the council to proceed.
“One way or another the steep slippery slopes in this part of Widcombe are being made safer.” Widcombe Residents’ Association
CB HOME IMPROVEMENTS Roofing & Building Solutions FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
Specialists in all types of upvc fascias, soffits and guttering
http://seafoodsfishandchips.co.uk/
Lunchtime Special Takeaway Battered cod loin & fresh cut chips and mushy peas
£6.00
Eat in Special at Kingsmead Square Battered cod loin & fresh cut chips, mushy peas, tartar sauce, bread &butter with tea or coffee
£10
‘Serving the good people of Bath since 1908’
P Re-felting & Batoning P Complete Roof Re-fits P Re-pointing of Ridges, Chimneys & Walls P Exterior Painting P Lead & Valleys Renewed or Repaired P EPDM Rubber Roofs - including all Flat Roof Repairs P Cleaning & Repair of existing Fascias & Guttering
FREE SCAFFOLDING & FREE INSPECTION with photographic evidence on all work undertaken
All Fitters are qualified installers - Public Liability Insurance held for up to £1,000,000. Find us on Trustatrader, Google & Yell.
38 Kingsmead Street, Bath. BA1 2AA 01225 465 190 171 Bradford Road, Combe Down, BA2 5BT 01225 833 913 info@seafoodsfishandchips.co.uk
01179 117360 or 07748 085534
Email cbhomeimprovements@hotmail.com
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
Experience the Safari from the comfort of your own car. Our brand new Safari Ticket allows you and your family to enjoy the six and a half mile drive-through.
Book online at: longleat.co.uk
April 2020
bathvoice
11
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Longleat Safari Park - open for visitors Longleat has announced its drivethrough Safari Park it was open for visitors from 20th March. While Longleat House, walkthrough animal areas and other attractions are temporarily closed as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the worldfamous Safari Park will continue to operate under strict hygiene standards. The Wiltshire attraction believes the fact visitors will remain inside their vehicles for the vast majority of the experience will enable people to adhere to social distancing and hygiene guidelines. “We are keen to be able to continue to give people the opportunity to enjoy the Park in a safe and secure environment,” said Ceawlin Thynn, Executive Chairman of Longleat Enterprises. “In order to comply with the strictest hygiene standards, card payment pads will be disinfected
Finance options available! BUY NOW, PAY OVER 12, 24 OR 36 MONTHS .. contact us
after each transaction and cash will not be handled during this period. “Toilet facilities within the Safari Park will be continuously staffed and disinfected, with additional hand washing and sanitising facilities available for guests. “In place of the usual food and beverage outlets, there will be a takeaway food and drink offering at the beginning of the Safari experience. All of these policies are designed to comply with guidelines on social distancing,” he
Showhomes wanted 5 and 10-year guarantees No job too big or small
added. Longleat has said the decision is under daily review and will be guided by the advice issued by the government and Public Health England.
ADVERT PAGE 10
· For more information please visit https://www.longleat.co.uk/ visitor-info/coronavirus-faqs · To book tickets, visit https:// www.longleat.co.uk/ticket/ safari-park-ticket
Will Writing & Estate Planning A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out – if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.
Please feel free to call us during office hours on: 0117 952 0698 Specialising in .... n Resin driveways n Stone paving n Resin bonded n Tarmac
or email n Block paving n Landscaping n General building
Get in touch for free estimates and quotes ...
www.stonewaypaving.co.uk | 01179 595894 E: info@stonewaypaving.co.uk
info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk We have a Bristol-based team of trained Will writing consultants who provide a home visiting service and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.
Mirror Wills Single Or Couples FROM £99.00
Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
bathvoice downendvoice
12 April, 2020
April 2020 45
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
We face this challenge together
W
E are living in unusual and unsettling times with the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. In these very exceptional circumstances, the Government announced that all local elections, including those for the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), will be postponed for a year. In light of these developments, I would like to reassure local people that I will of course stay on as the PCC for Avon and Somerset until elections are held. I want to you to know that my office and Avon and Somerset Police are doing everything we can to work with partners in health agencies and local authorities to keep you safe and ensure you can access
essential services during this unprecedented global health emergency. I will continue to work closely with Chief Constable Andy Marsh to ensure Avon and Somerset Police has everything it needs to provide critical policing services and support our communities. My priority as PCC will be to make sure victims of crime are still at the forefront of everything the police do and it is crucial that the most vulnerable still have some level of vital services from the police and partners, despite the unusual measures taken as a result of the pandemic. I am assured by the Chief Constable and his Chief Officer Group that Avon and Somerset Police is in a strong position to
support the response to the virus and I urge you to all follow advice from the NHS, Public Health England and central government, to do your best to lessen the impact of the virus. I cannot stress enough how important our dedicated ‘frontline’ officers, staff and volunteers are. This includes our handy people, mechanics, IT staff and other support functions, who help our officers do their jobs but often go unrecognised. We are all committed to being open with our communities, working in partnership and having courage during these unsettling times and I know officers, staff, teams and volunteers will continue to go above and beyond for our
With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens
communities. Finally, remember to have compassion and look out for one another, especially those who are more vulnerable. We stand stronger when we support each other. We face this challenge together. Stay safe.
Will Writing & Property Services Ltd. Estate Planning
High Quality Please feel free Craftsmanship to call us during covering Bath office hours on: and Bristol0117 952 0698
A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out – if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.
or email
National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting
info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk
APPROVED CONTRACTOR
We have a Bristol-based team Mirror Wills Single Or www.kispropertyservices.co.uk of trained Will writing consultants Couples FROM £99.00 who provide a home visiting service or call 0117 971 3942 and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.
General Builders • Carpentry • Electrical • Plumbing • Maintenance
Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures
ToToadvertise, contact erica@bathvoice.co.uk callsales@downendvoice.co.uk 07402 441485 advertise, contact Gary Erica on 0779on946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. or Email:
Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
April 2020
bathvoice
n TAKE A BREAK
PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE
Txtpert
The FIEND 6
4 2
6 9
4
13
7
8 4 1 9
Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST
Theme: US states & capitals 1
2
3
4
Across 1. 74246663 3. 287846 5. 43246 6. 8824 7. 6234766
5 6
3
Down 1. 7253444 2. 64776874 3. 252752 4. 4692
7
3 7
4 7 3
5
8 9 1
For younger readers Solutions Txtpert
Maths
1. 3 2. 14 3. 13 4. 6
5 1
K S
G
A
I
D
L
E
A
L
3
D
I
S
6
H
U
T
N
S U
S
O T
M O
R
H
2
H
W
I C
A
O
A I
O
R 4
I N
N D
Fiend
A
8 7 9 4 1 2 6 5 3
6 3 1 8 9 5 7 4 2
5 4 2 7 6 3 1 9 8
2 1 8 5 3 6 4 7 9
7 6 5 9 2 4 3 8 1
3 9 4 1 8 7 2 6 5
9 8 7 2 4 1 5 3 6
1 5 6 3 7 8 9 2 4
4 2 3 6 5 9 8 1 7
3 4
3
M
4 1
7
Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square. In the version for younger readers, the numbers 1-4 need to appear in each row, column and 2x2 square
5 6
H
2 8
DECORATIVE FINISHES Italian Plastering & Decorative Painting & Venetian Plastering Call: 07967 702626 | Email jarvis540@gmail.com Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
April 2020
bathvoice
14
n BATH LIBRARY BOOK REVIEWS AND NEWS Titles for all Adult Fiction The Sculptress – Minette Walters This book was published in 1994 and has just been re-issued and this edition is a real treat. It begins with a simple fact – Olive Martin murdered her mother and sister. She pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life imprisonment where she spends her days carving miniature human figures out of wax and so earned the nickname ‘The Sculptress’. However a struggling author, Rosalind Leigh, is persuaded to research Olive’s story to try to resurrect her own literary career. However as Rosalind interviews Olive and researches her background, she begins to suspect that there may be a huge
miscarriage of justice. Olive Martin is menacing but at times a very vulnerable character and her relationship with Rosalind makes the story very gripping. All through the book you are left guessing if Olive is really guilty or innocent – in fact right up to the last page. Rosalind’s story also weaves throughout this book. I found this an excellent read and in fact could not put this book down. Well written and pacey and has made me want to seek out more books by Minette Walters.
Adult Non Fiction
Plants, beds and borders - Katie Rushworth As Easter approaches, and let’s hope the weather gets warmer and sunny – why not grab a book to inspire you in the garden. This delightful book is full of tips and ideas. The book concentrates on borders and
ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FROM JUST
£65
+ VAT PER MONTH
Bath Voice is delivered every month to homes in the Bear Flat, Oldfield Park, Widcombe and Combe Down area We offer an affordable platform to advertise your business To advertise, contact Erica Benson
07402 441 485
erica@bathvoice.co.uk
smaller gardens. There are some great ideas to create a Mediterranean garden; more formal borders and an urban jungle garden. Each section includes ideas on preparation for your beds or boarders, design and plants to get. All set out in clear pictures to help you develop and maintain your garden. A useful and actually really clever book. The Family Travel Handbook, Lonely Planet. Sub-titled: Everything you need to know to take unforgettable trips with your children As reviewed by Emilie Bioud, Keynsham Library Assistant Lonely Planet strikes again with a book quite big (you can’t put in your pocket) to help you plan your family holidays. Like when they did a special edition about “Exploring France”, I think this one is here to give you tips their usual editions of guidebook won’t give. Lonely Planet rarely has tips for families, and little ones, here they try to fix this mistake by giving you a book entirely on the subject. It could help you find some ideas, plan trips, prepare the right documents , visas and know what to put in your luggage. But what I found lazy is the fact that it is not intended as a guide for British people. Let me explain, Lonely Planet is an Australian based guidebook and clearly all the destinations they consider “low budget” are not here in the UK, but there in Australia… Or within their reach, like Hawaii, USA, etc.… They could have made the effort to do an edition for other countries, but no, they haven’t seen the purpose of it and you end up thinking you can’t do anything cheaply because what they suggest is way out of reach. Nice to flick through but I won’t be using their advice when I will plan my next trip.
Young Adult’s Fiction
A Curse so Dark and Lonely Brigid Kemme Reviewed by one of our younger reviewers, Erin Conlon An inventive take on the wellloved fairy tale Beauty and The Beast. However more than just a
To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485
curse stands in the way of happy ever after. For Rhen and Harper, love just isn’t going to make an appearance. Masquerading as a princess of Imaginary Disi, Harper must also help Rhen defeat an invasion. The problem is who will fight when the people are starving? Break a curse; stop an invasion; feed a kingdom. Shouldn’t be too hard! Gripping and suspenseful, this is an improvement on the original and beauty is no helpless princess! Sorcery of Thorns - Margaret Rogerson Reviewed by one of our younger reviewers, Erin Conlon Elisabeth’s sworn duty is to protect the powerful Grimoires that dwell in the great libraries, and also to protect everyone else from the maleficts that Grimoires can become. Her dream is to be able to fulfill this duty is shattered, when, in a desperate attempt to stop a released malefict implicates her in the crime! Elisabeth is judged by Sorcerers, who are her sworn enemies. Unwittingly caught up in a heinous scheme, how can she hope to stop a plot centuries in the planning? Only Magister Thorn is willing to help. Their trust is rather tenuous. If all fails then the veil between this world and the next will be destroyed and chaos will reign! Sorcery of Thorns is very tense and has no end of plot twists. An enchantment woven to lure you in, then trap you.
Library News
All of Bath & North East Somerset libraries have a successful social media presence and are buzzing with community groups, activities and events. Never miss a thing, by following our social media accounts at:www.facebook.com/ BathnesLibraries1 and www. instagram.com/bathnes_libraries’ Sing along to your favourite rhymes at Baby Bounce & Rhyme, now every Wednesday during term time at Bath Library, at 11.15 – 11.45am. Also come and listen to stories and rhymes at Story Time every Thursday during term time at Bath Library from 11-11.30am.
April 2020
nLOCAL SERVICES AERIALS
bathvoice
15
Advertising on this page is very cost- effective. Call Erica on 07402 441485 DOMESTIC SERVICES
n NEWS Library’s 700 books The book stock at Moorland Road Community Library was boosted with an exciting donation of more than 700 children’s titles. The new range includes something for everyone, from toddler board books to teenage fiction. Chair of trustees Liz Hearn said: “Our wonderful team of volunteers has been hard at work getting our new books onto the shelves and they are looking fantastic. “Our children’s section is now packed with great books, ready for our lovely community to borrow. We hope that there is something for everyone.” The donation was made by Ecclesiastical Insurance and supplemented the existing stock of Libraries West books. They were only available to borrow off the shelves and online for a short while in March, however, as the library was forced to close over the Covid-19 pandemic. “Thank you for your continued support for our community library through these unusual circumstances,” the library posted on Twitter. “Don’t worry about late book returns. “We are sure you’ll look after them whilst we are closed and bring them back when we are open again.”
ASPECTS • Professional reliable service • Qualified engineers • Bench marked digital aerials • Friendly and efficient • Residential & Business • Fault finding (signal analysis) • Freesat & Freesat HD Installations • Sky, Sky+ & Sky HD Installations • Family run business • Integrated Reception Systems (IRS) • IRS Sky Q Upgrades
Tel: 01761 462804 or Mob: 07890 700 932
KENNELS AND CATTERY
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£17.08 +VAT
Per month
01225 459611 CAR BODY REPAIRS
CALL ERICA
07402 441485 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Unit 8, Durley Lane, Keynsham, BS31 2AJ
G Benson Plastering
faulty
Electric showers repaired,sold & fitted competitive rates rates fast fast service service competitive Tel Paul Paul at at pj pj Home Home Electrical Electrical Tel 07774747834 or or 0117 0117 2302010 2302010 07774747834
07774 747834 approved approved
W: www.latchetskennels.co.uk PLASTERING
Shower Cosmetic Damages • Smart Repairs Resprays • Paint Correction Custom Cars & Vans Light Accident Damage Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Classic & Sports Cars • Motorbikes For Free Estimate: 07795 423996
Redlynch Lane, Chewton Keynsham, BS31 2SN T: 0117 9862658 E: info@latchetskennels.co.uk
Keynsham Keynsham based based
website: bathshowersbristol bathshowersbristol website:
Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Sam on news@bathvoice.co.uk
No Call Call out out No Charge Charge
A Specialist in: Internal & External Plastering Rendering & Dry-lining Fully insured. Contact George Benson
Mob: 07970 767 606
www.gbensonplastering.co.uk
bringing homes to life
Design and build services for high quality residential projects
mobiushome.co.uk
t: 0117 403 8560 @mobiushomeuk