Bath Voice November 2022

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

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

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

Southdown: Paul Crossley 07718 632959

paul_crossley@bathnes.gov.uk

Dine Romero 01225 477496

dine_romero@bathnes.gov.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS

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

n NEWS Traffic and congestion set to be key issue in 2023 election

Continued from page 1

Conservatives said: “Congestion in Bath and the surrounding area is currently at its worst, and the Liberal Democrat administration has no desire to sort it out.

“The Liberal Democrats are on record saying that congestion is to be welcomed because it will force people to ditch their cars and take up cycling. But this is not how you encourage people to use more sustainable forms of transport –indeed, it is unfair, divisive and, ultimately, counter-productive.”

In terms of through traffic the repairs to Cleveland Bridge has had a knock-on effect, plus the new traffic light system in Queen Square along with road works of various types including the installation of cycle lanes have all not helped.

Residents in roads used as rat runs have been energised in a positive way to organise community or resident groups. Both Entry Hill and Bloomfield Road have created action groups initially in opposition to speeding and unwanted traffic. One of the most contentious issues has been the implementation by the council of the security area in central

Bath. The so-called Ring of Steel prevents cars from entering several roads in the inner city as part of an counter-terror Government initiative. This has led to a fall in the number of cars entering the area around places like Cheap Street, Westgate Street, Upper Borough Walls which has hit retailing and was thought initially was going to be closed to disabled motorists - although that has now changed after an outcry.

issue has been the implementation or not of Residents Parking Zones (RPZs) which many feel in neighbouring areas simply pushes the problem of parking onto the them.

The LibDem Council are keen to solve congestion and encourage more cycling and walking as part of their strategy. Cillr Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, has come in for criticism from the Tories with allegations that the various restrictions have been used by the Libdems to push their ‘anti car agenda.’

For Bath Labour Pam Richards said there were just too many cars and cited the Metro Mayor Dan Norris who has taken a ‘broader

strategy’ across the region on transport issues.

She said doing things piecemeal wasn’t the way and pointed to practical changes the Metro Mayor had achieved with a £550 investment to open new railway stations in Bristol and plus a range of projects spanning public transport, cycling and walking.

A view echoed by the Green Party Cllr Joanne Wright who said the council needed to identify key routes into the city as low-traffic neighbourhood sometimes pushed traffic from one road into another which didn’t solve the problem.

Countering Tory criticisms the Council’s Bath’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) established last year has resulted in less pollution by 21% said the Council. The lowering of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in particular by charging vehicles that don’t meet the higher exhaust standards has had the desired effect - potentially saving lives.

Critics however say the slowing down of through traffic has caused cars to idle in queues and to continue to pump out fumes instead of moving more quickly without

hold-ups. The CAZ has antagonised many owners of older polluting vehicles who have either taken to skirt around the edge of the zone creating new rat runs or object to paying the fees to pass through the CAZ.

The Council’s replacement scheme for older vehicles has seen 722 vans, taxis, buses and HGVs changed to compliant models. And they point to the fact that more than 90% of HGVs, coaches, buses and taxis entering the zone are now compliant. Van compliance rates have also improved from 60% to 80%.

All parties are in favour of less pollution and improved routes for cycles and pedestrians so the main issue is about access for motorists in the city centre, congestion caused by traffic calming and lights, plus whether low traffic neighbourhoods simply move the traffic elsewhere. One thing is true and that is these issues are universal - Bristol has the same problems - all created by a society with more cars than the roads can contain.

Residents go to the polls in 2023 in Bath and North East Somerset.

Labour Party News: With the recent problems for the Conservatives at the national level and to a certain extent for the Liberal Democrats locally the Labour Party in the city believe they are making progress in winning over voters.

That’s the view of the chairman of the Bath Labour Party Pam Richards who is a veteran champion of the political movement having led the Labour group in Bath representing Oldfield Park in the past and has stood for election several times including for parliament.

“We offer a strong alternative to the Liberal Democrats,” she said, “On the doorstep we have found a lot of people are keen to see a change. Dan Norris won the Metro Mayor election and Bath had a big labour vote only coming second to the Tories in that vote.”

On some of the issues facing Bathonians she laid out her views including on housing.

She said there were brownfield sites that should be used for affordable housing and the practice of developers ‘holding the council to ransom’ over sitting on sites until

they ‘get their own way’ must end.

She said the old Pitman site in Bath was an example of how developers sit on sites waiting until they get the planning permission they want while in the meantime there is a huge demand for the

small amount of affordable housing that is available for working people.

On another issue Pam Richards said residents wanted the site of the planned cycle park at Entry Hill to be left as a green space or park and it would be a shame to lose the golf links on High Common. “We must treasure our green spaces,” she said.

As chair of the Protect Our NHS BANES she said there was a crisis in care staff and she advocated the local authority to employ care staff in the future as one solution to increase recruitment and to cut the issue of bed blocking.

RUH appointment news: A former corporate lawyer, businessman and charity executive has been appointed as a new Non-Executive Director of the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.

Paul Fairhurst has been a trustee of national charity Designability, which is based at the RUH, and earlier this year he joined the trustee board of spinal injuries charity Back Up.

Paul, who suffered life-changing injuries following a cycling accident in 2011, said: “The accident changed my life and inspired me to

do all I can to achieve exceptional things that can make a difference for others by creating opportunity, inspiring them or giving them hope.”

Finance News: Zorin Finance have completed the paper work for a £25 million deal with Rengen Developments to create more student accommodation in Bath.

The Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) are at two sites. The former Eveleigh House will have 60 PBSAs plus offices, and the former Scala in Oldfield Park will features 107 PBSAs plus a shop and a community space.

Zorin Finance is based in London while Rengen Developments are in Bristol.

This news is unlikely to be greeted with enthusiasm by residents as there is a groundswell of opinion that there are too many students living in parts of the city which makes finding low cost homes for locals even harder.

For some of the city’s businesses it’s good news and for students the news is also welcome - there are close to 28,000 in total if you include the college, Bath Spa University, Bath University and the overflow from Bristol University.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Acting News: Tiana James of Corsham is aiming to become a full time actor in the future after applying for a place at drama school.

The 23 year old and venue assistant at Burdell’s Yard who attended school in Bath is appearing this month in David Hare’s play Racing Demon at the Mission Theatre.

“I was in the youth theatre group at the Mission,” she said, “and this is my third role for the Next Stage Theatre Company having been in Arrivals and Departures and the Sweet Science of Bruising.”

Two quite contrasting rolesone a school girl and the next a Victorian boxer.

“I am playing Stella Marr in Racing Demon,” she said, “it’s not a role I’ve played before but I can relate to the character as she is a broken and hurt person which is sad in a way.”

Tiana said she got the acting bug when as a small child she liked to dress up as a princess and when on holiday in Disney Land she was inspired by the actors who brought the famous Disney characters to life.

“It was a jaw dropping moment,”

she said, “my eyes lit up and knew this what wanted to do.”

Racing Demon runs at the Mission Theatre from November 30 to December 3.

Bingo News: Lady Margaret’s Bingo Nite fundraiser is at Widcombe Social Club on December 2nd .

Tickets are now on sale with concessions for WSC members, and every ticket includes 10 free games.

There will be a grand raffle and a visit from a mystery fashion guru, who will talk on the history of Lady Margaret’s frocks.

Also on the night are additional acts and the Winsley Ladies Choral Society plus music from The Pramophone. Lady Margaret will be assisted on stage by her new… ahem… toy boy, Valentino, and the glamorous Betty Bootstrap will be in charge of the prize trolley. You have been warned!

Afghan News: Student Natasha David of the Royal High School Bath has raised over £1,680 for Afghan Aid.

Year 12 Natasha was shocked by the atrocities in Afghanistan and wanted to do something to help.

Working with Afghanaid, and making the most of her contacts, she organised for her father Saul David who is an author and historian, to give a talk about his latest book, SBS: Silent Warriors

More than 50 people attended the talk and the event raised £840 for Afghan Aid; however, with the match funding from the UK government, this brings the total to £1,680.

Natasha said: “It was wonderful to see so many people turn up to

support the event. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets or donated to raise money for this amazing cause.”

Since the Taliban came to power the land locked nation has been in crisis. To donate visit www. afghanaid.org.uk/

Music News: Bath Abbey Choirs’ new CD ‘Caritas’ has been released. ‘Caritas’, meaning Christian love of humankind, is a beautiful collection of choral works celebrating love, hope and charity through music that consoles and uplifts.

Recorded in February 2022 by Regent Records, this is the first recording made by the Choir of Bath Abbey under director Huw Williams since singing resumed after eighteen months of lockdown. The CD is available at the Abbey to buy and makes a nice Christmas present .

Theatre News: Bathonians Sam Cochrane and Alan Prescot and their show The Bean Spillers: The Improvised Musical are back at the Rondo Theatre on 3rd December with special guests Beth Kerridge (from Bristol Improv Theatre) and Jon Monie (panto super star) plus pianist Jordan Paul Clarke.

Tiana James hopes to become a professional actor and appears in David Hare’s Racing Demon at the Mission theatre this month

Pam Richards at the Walcot Road Labour HQ

Sandpits

Cllr Jess David (pictured)

“I put it on

history, please contact: Lynne Whitfield via: lbwhitfield38@gmail.

Fracking News: The Conservative MP of North East Somerset near Bath Jacob Rees Mogg recently caused an outcry when he suggested he endorsed the newly relaxed Government views on the renewal of fracking.

He even said he wouldn’t mind if firms were to dig for shale gas in his back garden as there would be compensation.

His views were not shared by the local Conservatives. Cllr Vic Pritchard said: “In B&NES, we believe fracking is highly inappropriate.”

she said, “

someone sent me a press

opening calling

the ‘seaside in the city.’

“It showed a photo of lots of children in 1923 at the park when it opened on the 6th of August in that year.”

Jess and a number of parents have a Facebook group called love the Sand Pits! - and they want to organise a picnic or an event in the park next year.

If you would like to get involved, and/ or know about the park’s

That was before the contentious vote last month in the House of Commons moved by the Labour Party to ban fracking.

The Liberal Democrats, the Labour Party and the Green Party in Bath are all opposed to fracking leaving the MP’s views somewhat isolated.

Fracking is the drilling of holes into a shale rock bed and water, sand and some additional chemicals are injected at very high pressure to induce fractures in the rock to allow methane gas to be collected at the surface and eventually fed into the mains gas supply.

It’s generally related to areas where coal and oil have been extracted in the past with the nearest potential places in parts of Somerset near Bath.

One possible place is the East Mendips where coal used to be mined - as late as the 1960s - but the general consensus is that it is unlikely - but the jury is still out.

Theatre News: The Rondo Theatre are to launch a fundraising appeal to upgrade the venue in Saint

Saviours Road.

The seating will be replaced with more comfortable and modern furniture as well as essential maintenance to the theatre.

Fundraising is an ongoing activity as the theatre does not receive any public cash, with volunteers who help to run the performance space. To support the theatre visit https://rondotheatre. co.uk/support-us/

Tables, chairs, sofas - this Bath group has it sorted

By Ed Major: Let Genesis Trust’s Furniture Shop help you enhance your home as you help them support homeless and vulnerable people from crisis to independence from despair to hope.

Genesis Trust is a Bath-based charity that has been supporting homeless and vulnerable people since 1995. The charity exists to offer immediate practical help to people who are hungry, homeless, and vulnerable, and provides long-term help and opportunities for them to rebuild their lives.

With that mission in mind, Genesis has an online Furniture Shop where they collect and sell good quality, pre-loved furniture and the profits support the charitable work of the Genesis Trust.

You can get to their eBay shop by going to their website (www. genesistrust.org.uk), click Furniture Shop at the top of the page and then click Online Shop. Once you buy a piece of furniture, you can arrange to collect it from their warehouse, or you can arrange a delivery.

Jane Langford, a happy customer said, “I’m delighted with my Genesis

wardrobe. It fits perfectly in the space had, it does exactly what I need it to, their staff were efficient and friendly and I was very pleased it could be delivered.”

Other things are happening through their Furniture Shop. Some of the furniture that is donated to Genesis is used to support people in need. Local welfare support agencies contact Genesis and they help by

providing necessary furniture for social housing. Their goal is to provide good, quality furniture for everyone.

Another thing the Furniture Shop provides is work experience for people who have been out of the work force for various reasons like mental illness or drug and alcohol addiction and want to get back to work. Ross Jones volunteered with the Furniture Shop and the Bath Foodbank and has

recently been hired. He said, “I had been volunteering for 18 months and it helped me with my social skills and self-confidence. Plus, there’s a lot of satisfaction from helping others.”

Most of the furniture Genesis sells comes from the generosity of our community. As a charity, the Furniture Shop is dependent on donations of good quality, second-hand furniture from people like you. They provide a free collection service for donations. If you are interested in donating some furniture to Genesis Trust, please go to their website, click Furniture Shop at the top and then click Online Form. After you fill out the donation form someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.

Please consider donating to Genesis Trust the next time you want to redecorate or need to make some space in your home. But please remember, if you wouldn’t buy it, they won’t be able to sell it. Genesis cannot accept furniture that is damaged.

Thank you for reading and remember, your purchase from Genesis Trust’s Furniture Shop or your donation will make a huge difference to homeless and vulnerable people.

Have van and can deliver furniture - the guys that are ensuring pre-loved furniture helps Bathonians

Lyncombe Hill Fields: the fields were visited last month by The Mayor of Bath Rob Appleyard and the Mayoress Mrs Amanda Appleyard who were given a grand tour by The Friends of the Fields’ Maurice Tennenhaus and Anita Breeze - they were also joined by ecologist David Goode. Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields, is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company who took on the transformation of the pasture lands turning them into a community green space and wild life refuge

Refugees: the city has a long history of welcoming refugees stretching back to the French Huguenots of the late 16th and 17th centuries to the Syrians and Ukrainians of today.

The charity Bath Welcomes Refugees founded in 2017 continues the work of integrating and helping those fleeing from persecution and war zones through education, language courses and accommodation.

Alice Herve is the language support coordinator for the group with 118 volunteer teachers. caught up with her at the Manvers Street Baptish Church cafe.

“We are mainly reliant on donations to do what we do,” She said, “we have fund raisers but by and large we rely on the generosity of the public.

“We work closely with the council, and some of the refugees come with a small amount of funding through Government schemes and schemes like the UK Resettlement scheme and Community Sponsorship Scheme.”

Volunteers run various sessions from gardening to DIY and IT plus the English language courses.

“We began in 2017 with the Syrians and then the Afghans came

and now the Ukrainians,” she said, “and we have also work with asylum seekers from other nationalities such as Eritrea and some young people who are moving from foster care to independent living.

“At the moment we have over 300 Ukrainians in B&NEs with education centres in places like the Chew Valley and Radstock to give them support.”

She said many of the host families for Ukrainians signed up for six months which is now coming to an end. New hosts are needed to accommodate them she said although the scheme is being renewed.

Alice was a teacher of English as a

Foreign Language having worked for British Airways in the past and got involved in Bath Welcome Refugees when she volunteered to teach English.

English is the key to integration she said, with many of the adult refugees having been out of education for years so learning a new language is a challenge. Male refugees are very keen to learn, to get a job and a driving licence and support their families.

Back to the origins of refugees coming to Bath - Alice’s heritage is of Huguenot origins - thus completing an unusual connection to the charity.

For more on the charity visit https://www.bathwelcomesrefugees. org.uk/

Cost of living: Clean Slate is a not for profit organisation that is funded through grants and is dedicated to helping people tackle the cost of living crisis.

Based in Manvers Street the group gave these tips: check you are claiming all you’re entitled to; save by upping your online skills as you can save over £200 a year b making use of money saving tips online; audit your finances by making a list of everything you spend - and seeing where savings can be made.

For more visit their website at

https://www.cleanslateltd.co.uk/

Friends of Holburne Museum: The Friends have a book sale on Sunday 6th November from 11am to 4pm, plus have organised a concert on Saturday 26th November featuring the young singers from Dowland Youth Works, in A Winter’s Tale, an evening of song and music from Tudor England.

Widcombe floods: heavy rain led to shops and businesses being flooded in the Widcombe Parade area with photos posted online of water levels turning the shopping street into a lake.

Leaves clogging drains plus the downpours on October 22-23 were blamed with the authorities criticised by many for not clearing drains and culverts of autumn leaves.

Widcombe Hill like several roads in the city also create flowing rivers during downpours with those at the bottom suffering from the cascades.

Christmas: Santa’s charity float will be at the Orange Grove by the Abbey on Saturday the 3rd December at 3.30pm for an hour before moving off around the city.

Pub sale: Twerton’s Full Moon pub is up for sale for £325,000. The Grade II-listed 19th century inn overlooks the high street and has been a prominent social focus point in the village.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bloomfiield News: Bath’s latest community association has come about as a direct result of speeding traffic in one of the city’s notorious ‘rat runs.’ Bloomfield Bath Residents’ Association (BBRA)was established by former USA Nurse Manager Julie Ingerfield who lives in Bloomfield Road.

“I put a notice out on social media during the pandemic when you could meet with five other people saying would the first five people who are concerned about the speed of traffic meet in my front room so we can do something about it,” she explained.

The meeting took place and Julie said they took inspiration and advice from the Entry Hill Community Association that had just been set up.

“They were getting things done,” she said, “Katina Beckett was very helpful in how to set up an association.”

From the magnificent six the association soon had 18 members, a constitution, a Facebook site called Bloomfield Bath Online and they petitioned their local councillors and linked up with other groups on the road.

Soon they were armed with speed monitors forming a community speed watch group and had meetings with

Highways to see what could be done. They quickly found the average speed of traffic was 34mph when the speed limit is 20mph.

“We’ve been at it for over a year,” she said, “on average 20% of traffic is speeding in Bloomfield Road which is terrible.”

The next stage is a feasibility study on more traffic calming measures.

In March of this year £90,000 was approved to improve road safety conditions for cyclists and pedestrians on the road.

“It marks a huge progress for the community association in just over a year,” she said, “and the association has brought people together and has led to other things such as a potential history group.”

Energy News: Community owned renewable energy organisation Bath and West Community Energy has been installing solar power on the rooftops of Beechen Cliff and Hayesfield School and are planning to install on Three Ways School this term.

They provide free installation for schools, manage the system and sell the solar electricity to them at a discount. Surplus income goes into their fund for distribution to community projects such as Bath City Farm and Bath Share & Repair.

Julie Ingerfield has been the force behind the creation of the Bloomfield Community Association founded to tackle the issue of speeding traffic in local roads

This autumn they are issuing a community share offer to raise cash for more installations. Details of how to invest at www.bwce.coop

Moorland Road News: The business group, the Moorland Road Association are concerned that a proposed residents’ parking scheme will damage trade in the shopping street.

They feel it will deprive shoppers of being able to park near the stores with most of the available spaces given over to residents’ parking permits.

The traders have asked residents for their views with a survey at http:// tinyurl.com/MRAParking

Fairfield House News: Fairfield House Bath Community Interest Company (CIC) has a new two year lease from the Council. The former wartime home of Ethiopia’s Haile Selassie is used as a community hub and day care centre for the elderly.

The lease means the CIC can continue to with its work and to apply for further grants. The intention is then to apply for community asset transfer or a new longer lease in two years’ time.

Fairfield House site comprises a villa in Kelston Road and a bungalow in Burleigh Gardens.

Alice Herve of Bath Welcomes Volunteers

Firework News: The Rotary Club is this month running its annual ‘Fireworks on the Rec’ once again, after an absence of two years due to the pandemic, and is hoping to raise several thousand pounds for two more local charities, Glasshouse Academy and Youth Connect SouthWest.

The Fireworks display takes place on Saturday 5th November in central Bath on the Recreation ground, and tickets are available online via the club’s website: www. rotary-bath.co.uk

Rotary News: The Rotary Club of Bath’s Festival of Motoring broke all records this year, delivering a record-breaking donation to local charities of over £26,000.

The popular classic car and motorbike event is organised by the Rotary Club every June. Some 5,000 visitors get the chance to see over 500 vehicles up close, and even have the chance to ride in the last ‘supercars’ in exchange for a donation to charity.

As a result of the funds raised, two main charities, Dorothy House, and Nova Sports, both received donations of £8,500.

Other donations were made to the local Inner Wheel organisation, and also to local Air and Army cadet groups who helped with stewarding. The balance has gone to the Rotary Club’s own Trust fund, for distribution to other charities

locally and internationally.

“This year’s Festival of Motoring was the best yet, thanks to hard work by the Rotary team, the vehicle owners themselves, and our professional sponsors and helpers,” said Rotary President, Roger Morris.

“I would like to thank particularly the many thousands of members of the public who

attended in such large numbers, making for an extremely friendly and enjoyable weekend.”

The Rotary Club is an international voluntary organisation that helps to support communities as well as being a brilliant social group as well. New members welcome.

Cancer News: In Bath there is a new campaign to encourage men aged 56-74 to take a simple free test which could save their lives.

Bowel cancer screening is a simple test that can be done at home. It is designed to detect early signs of bowel cancer. People in the 56-74 age bracket who are registered with a GP will receive an NHS bowel cancer screening kit through the post every two years, and the campaign aims to get more men to take the test using the free kit. The signs and symptoms of bowel cancer often go unnoticed until the disease is well-developed.

For more information visit: cruk. org/bowelscreening

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

We must stand together against hate crime

MY team and I recently recognised National Hate Crime Awareness Week.

Hate crime is an offence that is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability and gender identity, instead of something they have done, the result of a disagreement or being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Being targeted because of your age, race, sexual orientation, religion or any other reason is unacceptable and, as communities, if we see this behaviour we must challenge it and report it.

We must help give victims of hate crime the confidence to speak to the police or partner agencies about their experience.

If, as a victim, you do not feel like you can talk to the police for whatever reason, there are still many options available for support,

or VOCAS, the Victims of Crime Advocacy Service.

VOCAS provides an enhanced advocacy service to those victims of crime who feel they need it and an opportunity to talk in confidence to someone who understands how race, sexuality, disability, mental health, age and/ or exclusion can contribute to you struggling to have your voice heard or understanding your rights and options.

To tackle hate crime, we must stand together and fight for a stronger and fairer society.

also want to let you know about courier fraud scams, which appear to be increasing.

Unsuspecting victims receive calls from criminals asking them to withdraw cash and leave it for a courier to collect.

In one scam, the criminal pretends to work for the victim’s bank and says they are investigating counterfeit notes at their local branch.

money, and not to tell the bank what they have been asked to do.

The criminals then send someone to the victim’s house to collect the notes, claiming they will be checked to see if they are counterfeit – in reality, they just drive off with the victim’s money.

Another scam is when the fraudster claims to work for the police and says they have arrested someone using a cloned card belonging to the victim.

The victim is urged to withdraw money as part of the investigation - but is simply giving it to the fraudster.

These scammers pose as trusted officials and apply pressure in the hope people will let their guard down.

want us to be one step ahead of them.

So, what should you do if you are targeted?

Take your time and consider if the police or your bank would really ask you to do this. If the answer is no, hang up - as long as

With Police and Crime Commissioner

Mark Shelford

you have not provided your bank details, your money is safe.

If you want to call the police or your bank, using an advertised number, leave it at least 10 minutes or preferably use a different phone - fraudsters often stay on the other end of the line, keeping the connection open and pretending to be whoever you have dialled.

Finally, report it to Action Fraud, online or on 0300 123 2040.

Rotary Club donations: Alex Johnson of Nova Sports, Di Gill of Inner Wheel, Rotary’s Roger Morris, and Dan Varley from Dorothy House

Continued

Fri 11-Sat 19 Nov. Bath Mozartfest. Fri 11 Nov, Takács Quartet. One of the world’s finest string ensembles –Assembly Rooms; Mozartfest Supper 2022, Opening Night Supper – Woods; Sat 12 Nov, Leonard Elschenbroich and Alexei Grynyuk. Mozart, Brahms and Beethhoven – Assembly Rooms. The Sixteen Choir & Orchestra. Welcome Songs & Coronation Music for King James II – Bath Abbey; Sun 13 Nov. Simon Trpceski. A brilliant pianist’s Mozartfest debut – Assembly Rooms. Jennifer Pike. Beautifully lush and poignant music from a master violinist – Assembly Rooms; Mon 14 Nov. Nash Ensemble, a unique ensemble at the heart of British music making – Assembly Rooms; Tue 15 Nov. Amatis Trio, a truly international trio – Assembly Rooms. Williams and Allan, a Birthday Celebration for Ralph Vaughan Williams – Assembly Rooms; Wed 16 Nov. The Teyber Trio, three gifted young instrumentalists – Assembly Rooms. London Mozart Players, an outstanding reputation for top quality playing – Assembly Rooms; Thu 17 Nov. Elias String

Quartet one of the leading ensembles of the current generation – Assembly Rooms. Alina Ibragimova and Samson Tsoy. two Mozart works from a worldclass violinist – Assembly Rooms; Fri 18 Nov. The Cardinall’s Musick, a celebration of Felix Mendelssohn –

Are you interested in an evening out with entertainment, coffee, cake, and chat?

Then why not come along to “Coffee Plus” November’s talk is: A Christian visit to Rwanda by members of Bath Methodist Church.

Guest speaker is Hetty de Rooij. We meet monthly, usually the 4th Monday of the month, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. A warm welcome awaits you.

Assembly Rooms; Sat 19 Nov. Pavel Haas Quartet, warmth, intensity, and fearless confidence – Assembly Rooms. Champagne Reception. The Forum. BBC Symphony Orchestra, the resident orchestra of the BBC Proms –The Forum.

Sat 12 Nov-Tue 3 Jan. Bath on Ice. Royal Pavilion, Royal Victoria Park. Yes, winter is here as Bath on Ice, Moguls Alpine Bar and Glow Golf returns to put you into a winter wonderland - even if it doesn’t snow this winter.

Sun 13 Nov. Bath Contemporary Arts Fair. Green Park Station. Includes fine art, photography, sculpture, textiles and much more.

Sat 19 Nov. St Alphege’s Church,

A Trust family in which every school is unique

‘We love being part of our Trust family’ – that’s the loud and clear message from schools across Bath and Somerset which are part of the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust.

The Trust supports schools in a huge variety of communities, from busy city centre locations to small rural villages, but the common thread is a vision to deliver an excellent education for every child.

Headteachers and governors have described the ‘incredible impact’ the Trust has had on their schools and the positive effect of the ethos and vision of the Trust.

There are currently 35 primary schools which are part of the BWMAT, including 11 in the wider Bath area, and the past academic year has seen 13

Ofsted inspections, all of which resulted in ‘Good’ verdicts with one nursery setting judged ‘Outstanding’.

In October the Trust welcomed its 35th school, Lydeard St Lawrence Primary near Taunton. The Ofsted inspections during 2021/22 were overwhelmingly positive and headteachers have noted the connection between ‘Good’ judgements and the work of the Trust.

BWMAT chief executive Nikki Edwards said: “We are so proud of our schools, with all these ‘Good’ judgements coming just after the pandemic, which challenged schools in a way most of us in education had never seen before.

“Our Trust works hard with our schools and their

Oldfield Lane. Cappella Nova: Dona Nobis Pacem. Bath-based chamber choir Cappella Nova in a concert featuring William Byrd’s Mass for Four Voices. The programme includes music by Tallis, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov and Grieg. The concert is in aid of Three Ways School, Odd Down and St Alphege’s Church Fabric Fund. 7.30pm. Tickets £12, more details at www.cappellanova.org.uk

Sat 19 Nov. Bear Flat community market 9.30am – 12.30pm, in the Methodist Church hall in Bruton Avenue. The Bear Flat community market is on the third Saturday of the month from 9.30am – 12.30pm, in the Methodist Church hall in Bruton Avenue. The café serves coffee, tea, hot chocolate and a range of cakes. Our vegetables come from the Rich family market garden in Batheaston – we always have a good selection of seasonal veg – come early for the best choice as we usually sell out. We have a book/DVD swap table each month.

If you make, bake, brew, draw or sew and would like to sell your wares, we charge £5 for a small table and £10 for a large table. To book, please contact us via market@bearflat.org.uk.

Sat 19 Nov. The Forum. Mozartfest: BBC Symphony Orchestra.

Conducted by Kevin John Edusei, the German-Ghanaian Chief Conductor of the Munich Symphony Orchestra and fresh from a stint at the Royal Opera House, this delightfully

popular concert will feature first the peerless pianist Sir Stephen Hough performing Brahms’ epically masterful Piano Concerto No 2. Then Dvorák’s New World Symphony, a universal favourite guaranteed to be as rapturously received today as it was when first performed in New York in 1893. 7.30pm. Doors open 6.30pm.

Sat 19 Nov. Bath Farmers’ Market. Green Park Station. The goods are sold directly by the people who produce them and everything usually comes from within a 40-mile radius of Bath.

Sat 19 Nov. Bath Walcot antique and Flea Market. Bath Cattle Market. The Saturday Walcot Antique and Flea Market has been a feature of Walcot Street for over 40 years. With new plans to develop the area its days could be numbered.

Sat 19-Sun 20 Nov. Widcombe Christmas Market. At the social club and various venues from 10.30am daily. See http://www. widcombechristmasmarket.com/

Sun 20 Nov. Bath Independent Market. Green Park Station. Expect art, design, handmade products, eco-friendly gifts, top local beverages, music and a buzzing atmosphere.

Mon 21Nov. Walcot Methodist Chapel, Nelson Place, Walcot. Coffee Plus. November’s talk is: A Christian visit to Rwanda by members

Continued on

Children and schools thrive as part of our Trust family

23

communities to give them the tools and support which will help them thrive. But we do it in a context of ensuring each school preserves its own identity because the schools know their communities best.

“Ofsted inspections are important, but we know our schools are ‘Good’ in so many different ways. Our Trust family

works with families and local communities to make our schools places where children arrive curious and excited and leave as well-rounded, confident young people ready to take on the world.”

To find out more about the BWMAT, visit www.bwmat.org, email enquiries@bwmat.org or call 01749 372700.

rich and ambitious curriculum’

school where children become the best versions of themselves’

ready for life now and in the future’

school where children blossom’

warm and welcoming place to learn’

welcoming and caring school which embraces all pupils’

‘Values of joy, love, courage and creativity’

To find out more about our Bath schools, visit www.bwmat.org

St Saviour’s Infants and Junior schools were judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted last year

Advertising Feature

Monday November 21st at Walcot Methodist Chapel, Nelson Place, Walcot.

n SPORTS NEWS IN BRIEF

Football: Bath City FC play in the Vanarama League South, the sixth tier of the English league system.

This month they play Chelmsford City at home on Tuesday 1st November, Dulwich Hamlet on the 8th, Worthing on the 12th and Welling United on the 3rd December.

Away days are Tonbridge Angels on Saturday 5th November - St Albans City on the 26th - plus there is an FA Cup 2nd round of games on Saturday 19th November.

Bear Flat FC: The Bears look to consolidate their position in the third division of the Bath and District Sunday League.

More Football: Other local teams include Bath United FC who have a number of youth internationals in their squad, Larkhall Athletic; and Bath Arsenal Juniors. We would like to hear from these clubs and their junior and female sides - drop us a line with an email so we can keep up with your news.

Blue, Black and Whites: Bath Rugby play at The Rec in the Gallagher Premiership The Gallagher Premiership awards 4 point for a win, 2 points for a draw, plus1 point will be awarded to a team that loses a match by 7 points

or less and to a team scoring 4 tries or more in a match.

Home games this month are against Leicester Tigers on the 11th and the Harlequins on December 2nd.

The team are away to Newcastle Falcons on Saturday 5th November, Worcester Warriors on the 19th (if they are allowed to play during administration) and Exeter Chiefs on the 26th. Those last two games are the in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

Their European campaign gets underway on the weekend of 16-18 December with an away game against Toulon.

Bath Ladies Rugby: The 1st XV play Henley at home on the 20th November with Reading abbey on the 11th of December. Away fixtures are London Irish on the 6th, Richmond on the 13th, and Blackheath on the 4th of December.

Saracens Rugby: Bath Saracens are an amateur rugby club competing in the Dorset & Wilts 2 North.

Formed on 13th March 1947, Bath Saracens are still going strong 70 years on.

Bath Saracens play at home this month against Melksham on the 12th and are away to Sherborne on the 26th.

Combe Down Rugby: Combe

Down Rugby Union Football Club was established back in 1896.

The club has mini, senior and junior sides and welcomes new players.

For more details of the club and to join or watch the team play visit http://combedownrfc.rfu.club/

More Rugby: There are more clubs in Bath including Walcot RFC; Old Culverhaysians RFC; Old Sulians RFC; Oldfield Old Boys RFC and Bath Old Edwardians RFC. Send you news to Bath Voice - email below.

American Football: for fans of the

sport Bath has its own team in the Killer Bees based at the University. The Killer Bees have been a University club for 25 years with many former players going on to play for senior American Football teams across the UK and even the GB American Football team.

Home fixtures this season are Plymouth Blitz on Nov 6th; Aberystwyth Tarannau on Dec 11; Worcester Royals on Jan 29th with local derbies against UWE Bullets 2 on Feb 5th; and another cruncher against Bath Spa Bulldogs on Feb 12

at Bath Spa.

For details of how to join the team or simply to watch the games visit www.thesubath.com/ AmericanFootball

Hockey 1: City of Bath Hockey Club were formed from a merger between Bath & Phillipians Hockey Club’s at the turn on the millennium. The club field 4 Men’s & 2 Ladies’ teams and have a thriving junior section. The men’s 1st XI competes in the West Hockey League Championship North.

Hockey 2: Team Bath Buccaneers Hockey Club are based at The University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY. See www. teambathbuccaneers.co.uk Bath Lacrosse: The club enters one Men’s squad at senior level into the South of England Men’s Lacrosse Association competitions and one Women’s squad into the South West Women’s Lacrosse Association Competitions.

Their home games are at Odd Down Playing fields, Chelwood Drive, Off Bloomfield Road, Bath, BA2 2 PR. The club has a strong links to the University of Bath. Cycling: Bath Cycle Club have reported that their Friday women’s

rides are back after the Summer break. These highly sociable rides have groups ranging from steady to medium to quicker. The quicker rides have longer routes to the cafe stop to make sure they all get there at the same time for a good chat. The club has a long and storied history, dating back as far as 1880.

To join visit www.bathcc.net Swimming: Based at Bath Leisure Centre and established in 1899, Bath Dolphin Swimming Club (BDSC) is one of the oldest swimming clubs in the South West Region. They provide competetive swimming opportunities for young swimmers through to a masters swimming group. As a holder of the Swim England quality accreditation, Swim Mark, they offer a year round competitive swim team with high quality coaching and technique instruction for all ages and abilities. Netball: Eleven members of the squad that reached the Grand Final during 2021 have recommitted to the Blue & Golds for another title challenge change when the season restarts in February. They are Imogen Allison, Kim Borger, Betsy Creak, Sophie Drakeford-Lewis, Layla Guscoth, Serena Guthrie, Kirsty Harris, Hannah Passmore,

Romans Basketball: beginning in 2019 the Romans train every week and competes in the South West Regional League against clubs from Swindon, Exeter and Plymouth to give competitive opportunties as well as recreational ones. The Romans Youth Section began in September 2021 after significant demand and popularity! Siblings are very welcome. Contact Alex Johnsonby email at alex@novasportsandcoaching.co.uk and check out their Facebook page for more details

Tash Pavelin, Jess Shaw and Rachel Shaw.

Lacrosse: Bath Lacrosse Club (BLC) was founded in 1983 and is affiliated to the England Lacrosse, the National Governing Body (NGB) for the sport, and enters one Men’s squad at senior level into the South of England Men’s Lacrosse Association competitions and one Women’s squad into the South West Women’s Lacrosse Association

Competitions.

The club has strong links with Bath University, allowing students from around the world to take up the stick at weekends and joining the various sides put out to do battle with clubs from around the UK.

To join the club or for more information visit http:// bathlacrosse.com/wp/

Back in the day: Bath Rugby 22 Worcester Warriors 19 - they are slated to play on Nov 5th

Trudging up Holloway and whizzing down the hill on a bicycle

of the

the. bombed

were

in the same style and those remaining updated they would be now very desirable.

small house next to Magdalen Chapel was once a leper hospital and I think there is an inscription/plaque on its staircase.

There were a number of shops at the bottom of Holloway and some

of the oldest houses in Bath. The ones I remember are a Newsagents, a Music Shop with its windows covered with sheet music, the Dolls Hospital where dolls were mended and a shoe repairer. There was a fish and chip shop where you could also eat in, in brown painted cubicles I think The establishment was known by us for some reason as Frumps, the speciality being scallops, potatoes in batter. On the corner of the lane leading to St Marks Church were the Church Parish Rooms (the Workman’s Rest) where I think the St Marks Scouts met. On the other side of the road there was an Electrical shop and a couple of Pubs, near the bottom the Angel Tavern and half way up The Young Fox. On the way to school we would stand at the bottom corner by the paper shop to wait for the train from Swindon to pass, The

loco would be on a running in turn and probably a cop.

Off of Holloway by the lane leading to St Marks Church there were various courts, not then a smart place to live. My grandmother told me that in the 1920’s policemen patrolling the area always went around in two’s, on foot of course.

Riding Down Holloway was a different matter, there were traffic lights at the bottom where Holloway met Wells Road. You

always hoped they would be green, it was then a straight run to zoom over the Old Bridge and up Southgate Street without peddling.

can not recall ever hearing Holloway referred to as the Fosse Way but I have no doubt that it was a Roman Road. e

• This informative and interesting response from Rob was to an article in last month’s issue - if you would like to write in with memories of the past - or views on the present prompted by Bath Voice see the email below.

Gone but forgotten: part of old Hollowayphoto from Rob Coles

Menopause News: Hot Flush Disco was set up during Covid by Paula Smith after she was made redundant from the National Trust at Prior Park.

The dance fitness class is for women experiencing the menopause and also to socialise and find support from other women.

She said: “I have been overwhelmed by the demand and enthusiasm for the classes. So much so have expanded and will as of 15th November be running a class at Widcombe Social Club.

“The menopause is everywhere in the media at the moment and it seems that local Bath women are really embracing what’s out there to enjoy about middle age and rather than being negative are keen to support each other and hold each other up.”

For details visit www.hotflushdisco. co.uk

Book News: Local author Margaret Rosina Rayner has announced her third novel centred on Bath is to be published soon.

After The Bath Blitz follows on from When Bombs Fell On Bath and Bath Ablaze completing the trilogy of stories about a dramatic period in the city’s history.

She said: “It is an exciting tale set in Bath and France, a stand-alone story with some characters from the earlier books.”

The trilogy concerns the stories of those caught up in World War Two, from those fleeing Nazi oppression to those facing the terror of the Bath Blitx.

The term Bath Blitz refers to the air raids by the German Luftwaffe on the British city of Bath, Somerset, during World War II.

Bath was bombed in April 1942 as part of the so-called Baedeker raids leaving more than 400 residents dead, hundreds more wounded and numerous homes flattened.

E-Scooter News: No more struggling up Widcombe Hill for some students as they can now jump on an e-scooter and zoom up the incline and lose any excuses for being late for lectures.

The third phase of the e-scooter trial in Bath, which was introduced

in 2020, now extends to over eight square miles to enable more people to easily commute or take short journeys around the city, including up Widcombe Hill to reach the University of Bath.

The West of England is one of only four Future Transport Zones in the country, set up to trial new transport technologies, such as e-scooters, to help reduce congestion, improve air quality and lower carbon emissions.

The e-scooters, which have replaced approximately 90,000 car journeys say the organisers Voi - the firm behind the enterprise - since being introduced, can be hired by anyone aged 18 and over with a provisional or full UK driving licence, between 6am and 10pm. They are limited to 12.5mph, even when coming down Widcombe Hill, for additional safety and all users are strongly encouraged to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, and follow Voi’s safety guidelines.

Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and sustainable travel, said: “I am delighted our successful e-scooter trial is being extended to incorporate the University of Bath. With over 3,500 employees and nearly 20,000 students, the university is one of our area’s largest organisations. “

However she has been sharply criticised by Cllr Joanna Wright who told the Bath Chronicle that council officers and Voi warned the route was not one that they would advise and that Widcombe Hill was ‘dangerous for Voi e-scooters, due to the sheer steepness of this particular route that leads to the university.’

She reminded the Council that two cyclists had died on the steep hill in the past and said it was not a suitable route to the University when North Road was safer.

To find out more, visit www. voiscooters.com or download the Voi app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Cast of 30

set to bring G&S to life

By Harry Mottram: A send up the British class system, the absurdity of monarchy and criticism of company limited liabilities The Gondoliers is one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most successful satirical operas.

It was to run continually for 18 months when it opened on the 7th December in 1889, and has been staged ever since around the world.

The Mission Theatre is set to be the venue for the Bath Gilbert and Sullivan Society’s latest production when the show opens next month.

The vice-chairman of the society Nick Lee said: “The Mission Theatre has been our home for number of years.

“We will have a cast of 30 of all ages and an audience of around 90 and the opera is directed by Juliette Coad with musical direction by Peter Blackwood and it will be staged in the round so there’s nowhere to hide!”

And it should be mentioned the choreography is directed by Nick’s wife Delia who is a dance and choreography teacher at the Zenith Youth Theatre.

It was a school production in 1975

that gave Nick the G&S bug and it is fair to say he’s been infected ever since having played a female role in The Pirates of Penzance when at school along with many other roles not only in G&S but musicals as well.

“This time I’m in the chorus and also play Giorgia which is one of the main Gondoliers singing as a bass baritone,” he said, “after university in Southampton University reading Geography where was in the Light Opera Society I returned to Bath my home town and joined Bath Operatic & Dramatic Society.”

He said the Savoy operas of G&S opened up the world of performing arts introducing him to musical

theatre, drama and opera.

“We have branched out from G&S in the past, performing Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld,” he said, “and The Merry Widow as well in recent years we’ve done old time musical hall which goes down really well.”

These shows together with concerts in places like Martock, Keynsham and Bitton help to fund the main productions which are staged twice a year.

This year they have worked in collaboration with the Full Tone Orchestra in Devizes with a concert in Bath Abbey where they staged The Pirates of Penzance.

“It was a fantastic experience he said with an orchestra of around 45 musicians - it was a big sound,” he said.

The Gondoliers is a fanciful story of a young bride and heir to the kingdom of Barataria who arrives in Venice to join her husband who cannot be identified as he’s been mixed up with another Gondolier.

Yes, it’s getting confusing as the two chaps have got married anyway and the bride is in love with someone else.

Set in far away Italy the satire didn’t upset the British Establishment since songs such as When a Merry Maiden Marries and Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes won over audiences which included Queen Victoria. The show runs from 6-10 December.

Young musicians on film in Bath

As part of the Film Bath Festival 2022 on the 7th November there is a screening at the Little Theatre of The Children of Las Brisas.

It’s an intimate portrait of Edixon, Dissandra and Wuilly, three Venezuelan children from the impoverished ‘Las Brisas’ neighbourhood, in their quest to become professional musicians within the ranks of “El Sistema” music program.

A story of resistance, resilience and perseverance that explores the power of discipline and classical music as tools for survival.

Scooting to Uni: Councillor Matt McCabe, Ian Blenkharn, Councillor Sarah Warren and Alfie Marsh riding the e-scooters at the University of Bath’s Claverton Down campus

The promotional image of the show to be staged at the Mission Theatre

Continued from page 15 of Bath Methodist Church. Guest speaker is Hetty de Rooij. We meet monthly, usually the 4th Monday of the month, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start.

Wed 23-Sat 26 Nov. Green Park Brasserie Live Music. The music varies in style, from dynamic duos and modern trios to a Hot Club-style quintet. The music is always melodic, quiet enough for conversation and of a high standard. Regular performers include Mike Collins, Dan Reid, Gavin Lazarus, Andy Kinsman, Jon Green and Rob Wilson, plus guest artists.

Thu 24 Nov, 7.30pm. St Luke’s Church, Wellsway. The Argyle String Orchestra. Winter ConcertMusic of Europe through the Ages. You’ll enjoy beautiful Baroque masterpieces including Concerto Grosso No.12 by Handel and Double Violin Concerto in A minor by Vivaldi to rare treats from lesser-known composers such as Hans Rott, Asger Hamerik and Ukrainian composer Mykola Kolessa. Tickets £10 on the door or online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ argyle-string-orchestra. www.facebook.com/ ArgyleStringOrchestra

Thu 1 Dec. The Pavillion. U3A. Talk on Wildlife Photography. To join call 01225 318438 or complete the online form on their website

Sat 3 Dec. Bear Flat Artists. Christmas Art Fair & Market. 10am to 5pm, Free Entry. Methodist Church Hall, off Wellsway, Bruton Ave, Bear Flat BA2 4QJ www.bearflatartists.co.uk

Diary Events outside of Bath

Mon 7-Thu 17 Nov. Bristol. We are Afrika Eye. The South West of England’s biggest celebration of African cinema and culture presents its 17th edition of the festival with a 11-day programme featuring new and classic films, street art, spoken word, dance, music food and photography at city-wide venues. Visit https://www.afrikaeye.org.uk/ for details.

Sun 27 Nov. Bradford on Avon. Kennet and Avon Winter Floating Fayre. 1am-5pm. Come and join us live-aboard boaters for a weekend of family fun along the canal. With live music, delicious homemade food, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts - and boats.

Exhibition Picks American Museum, Bath. Hatching The Past An exhibition about American Dinosaur Explorers. Until 31 December.

Victoria Art Gallery. Peter Brown exhibition until 15 Jan. This exhibition features over 100 new oil paintings and prints by the ever popular Bath-based artist, ‘Pete the Street’.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Commemorating 200 years since the death of William Herschel. The museum will be exhibiting some artefacts on loan from the Royal Astronomical Society and Herschel Family Archive which will showcase William’s achievements. The exhibition will also acknowledge the important contributions of those working with William, including his sister Caroline Herschel. Until Dec 31.

Widcombe Social Club: Photography exhibition by Emma Delves. Until 31 December.Viewings available Friday nights and when club is open. Waterside Bar. Deadly is a series of images of supernatural explosion of sensuality and femininity. Emma has styled the models as Vampire, Bride of Frankenstein, Witch, Ghost and various Mythological Creatures and Goddesses. Free entry.

Do you have an event you would like to be included in the next edition - email Erica at erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call her on 07402 441485.