Westfield Warbler Winter edition

WINTER 2016 2016 ISSUE 21 21 Winter - Issue

Produced for Westfield Parish Council

Westfield Parish Council

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2 - The Westfield Warbler

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01761 402280

01761 402280

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01761 402280

01761 402280 www.msnsixth.com Midsomer Norton, Near Bath

Midsomer Norton, Near Bath www.msnsixth.com

Midsomer Norton, Near Bath or info@msnsixth.com @msnsixth oremail: email: info@msnsixth.com or email: MSNinfo@msnsixth.com Sixth Form

MSN Sixth Form www.msnsixth.com www.msnsixth.com www.msnsixth.com @msnsixth @msnsixth @msnsixth MSN Sixth Form MSN Sixth Form MSN Sixth Form

Message from Contents the Chairman As we say good bye to the summer of 2016 and run into the Autumn Westfield Parish Council hopes everyone enjoyed the flower display around the Parish. These were really vibrant because they had been lovingly tended to and watered by Diana Cooper and a very willing volunteer Margaret Bridges. Many thanks to them for all their work and to others who chipped in to help.

We have welcomed two new Councillors to the parish, Lesley Mansell and James Honess. There is a small profile on each of them further in this edition of the Warbler.

This is the time for the grant applications and this year there have been 17 received. It was good to see some different applicants this time. These grants, if successful, will help those in the parish with their projects for the coming year and we look forward to seeing the benefits.

As many people using the Norton Hill playground would have seen, there has been some modification to the fence around the area. This has been done after requests from some parents whose children use the playground. The fence has been heightened to help prevent any incidents with footballs whilst children are playing.

The Westfield Neighbourhood Plan is coming along but would still benefit from more volunteers.

If anyone has an interest in working with the Neighbourhood Plan please don’t hesitate to contact the Westfield Parish Council office.

Finally, don’t forget the Christmas lights switch on event. This year the event will take place on Thursday 24th November at 6:30pm by the Christmas tree at Elm Tree Avenue. We look forward to seeing lots of parishioners there.

I would like to wish all those connected with Westfield in any way a very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Cllr Geoff Fuller Chair of Westfield Parish Council

4

War Veterans

5

Your new councillors

6

Run for SWALLOW

7

A Community Centre for Westfield

9

Play area has new fence

9

Christmas Rubbish Collection

10 1964 and all that 16 Christmas Light Switch On 20 What’s On 22 Poems from Westfield School 24 Finding Mardons 28 Mining Memories at Reunion 30 The Clerks Message The next edition of The Westfield Warbler will be in February 2017. If you would like your group to be included, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of the 1st February 2017.

You can view The Westfield Warbler on the Council’s website at www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk The Westfield Warbler is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, G5 Second Ave, Westfield Industrial Estate, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 4BH. Tel 01761 410141.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or it’s editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte Media and Westfield Parish Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

The Westfield Warbler - 3

War Veterans Westfield Parish Council is investigating the most appropriate way to commemorate the Westfield residents who fell in the wars of the twentieth century.

debate in B&NES Full Council in November 2015, Eleanor Jackson persuaded colleagues to provide a designated B&NES officer who would be a kind of ‘one stop shop’ and help to get difficulties resolved.

We would like to hear from anyone who lost a relative, whether in the world wars or in Malaysia, Korea, Iraq or the Falkland islands conflicts.

This point of contact is Council Connect where Veterans’ costs will be managed by four senior members of the customer service team trained to help. 01225 394041. Text 07797 806545 councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk

Cllr Eleanor Jackson is also providing from her ward members initiative money a memorial bench to be placed at right angles to the A367 by the Elm Tree Avenue bus stop, facing the garden area. This will commemorate all those whose military service consisted of being conscripted into the mines here. (The Bevan boys) Again we would appreciate having the names of those whose health was so badly affected they perished.

However, our immediate concern is the plight of serving personnel, veterans and their families who find themselves homeless, in insecure accommodation, debt or ill health. As a result of a

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Veterans should always mention their military service if they are threatened with eviction because they are entitled to extra points in the Homesearch system.

For mental health problems, they can ring 0300 555 0112 or navigate www.swveterans.org. uk to self- refer, though via their GP they can access a specialist GP commissioned by the GP Commissioning Group who will understand their needs.

Your new councillors Westfield Parish Council would like to introduce you to the two new councillors who have joined the team. We asked them a few questions to get to know them better.

Cllr Lesley Mansell

Cllr James Honess

What made you decide you would like to be a Councillor in Westfield?

I stood for election to Westfield council as I have a number of skills and want to make a positive impact.

What made you decide you would like to be a Councillor in Westfield?

I grew up in the area and then lived overseas for quite a few years. When I came back to the area, it was very important to me that I put something into the community that I grew up in.

What do you think you will enjoy about being a Westfield Parish Councillor?

I enjoy working with other councillors, staff and residents. I have been involved with the Radstock and Westfield Econmic Forum, the Big Local Lottery and the Somer Valley Forum so I have already worked with some local people who are making a difference to the parish.

What do you think are the best things about Westfield?

Westfield is in such a fabulous location surrounded by amazing countryside, yet within easy reach of Glastonbury, Wells, Frome, Bristol and Bath.

What would you improve for Westfield?

I would like to see the area make more of the assets it has like the college and the trading estate and linking these more with the community. I am also keen to see that Westfield gets the best out of initiatives like the devolution deal that is being proposed for the West of England.

What do you think you will enjoy about being a Westfield Parish Councillor?

I enjoy getting involved in community projects and finding out about things that are going on, hopefully helping things to run as smoothly as possible.

What do you think are the best things about Westfield?

There is a deep sense of history in our local area, and the people are lovely!

What would you improve for Westfield?

I think that building a shared sense of identity for the local area is very important. As part of this, helping to facilitate events that foster that sense of being a part of a positive and forward looking community.

Outside Council matters, what are your hobbies or interests?

I really enjoy playing music and am a keen chef.

The Westfield Warbler - 5

Run for SWALLOW

and raise countless smiles On Sunday 12th March 2017, SWALLOW would like you to run for SWALLOW, a local charity supporting people with learning disabilities, at the Vitality Bath Half Marathon, a truly electric event.

Your support would allow us to transform the lives of local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. Our services in and around Midsomer Norton rely on donations, and the money we raise through the Bath Half Marathon makes a huge difference.

Anna Robinson a member at SWALLOW said

“I have been a SWALLOW member for many years, and their work has helped me to live a full and happy life. I hope people choose to run for them and support their wonderful work”.

You’ll receive a guaranteed Silver Bond charity place, a SWALLOW running vest, a bucket load of support from the fundraising team, both before the event and on the day. Registration fee is £25 and we ask that you pledge to raise a minimum £175 in sponsorship.

If you have your own place, there is no minimum sponsorship, and if you choose to run for

SWALLOW, we will give you all the support you need and help you to raise as much as you can.

To take part for SWALLOW, or if you have any questions, please contact Jess Robinson on: jessrobinson@swallowcharity.org or phone 01761 414034.

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A Community Centre in the heart of Westfield As a result of recent consultations, Westfield Parish Council and the Neighbourhood Plan Working Group are looking to provide a new community building in Westfield. Generally community activities generate further clubs and societies, so there is no question of any competition with existing highly valued venues, but we do want to put a real heart in the centre of Westfield.

Having a community centre would mean residents can come together as a group to enjoy group activities, social support, public information and many other purposes that would enrich Westfield.

A community centre is an amazing concept where residents can enjoy meeting new people and making new friends, as well as learning about new hidden passions and talents.

Getting the St Peter’s church hall re-furbished is an important step in the provision of community facilities and BANES councillor Eleanor Jackson has provided Ward Councillors’ Initiative funding to get the existing facilities at St Peters Church hall renovated, and made more suitable for community use.

But we aspire to provide a new community building eventually, possibly with a youth hub, and would like feedback on your aspirations. We especially need suggestions as to location.

Please contact us with your suggestions – council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk or drop a line to Westfield Parish Council, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX.

The Westfield Warbler - 7

International Boules in

Westfield Having just completed our second year, Tuesday evening boules in Westfield continues to grow in popularity. As with all things, we lost some old friends this year, but happily, gained some new. We remain convinced that, the secret of our success, is our drop in, drop out format. It makes for a very relaxed atmosphere, and people know that they will be welcome whenever they come. Everyone lives such busy lives nowadays, so the fact that there is no booking required, and the knowledge that the “boulers� will be there every Tuesday at 6pm, is a comfort.

The highlight of this year, was, of course, the evening that we played a French team, at their own game. The evening was arranged in conjunction

8 - The Westfield Warbler

with the Twinning Association, a buffet and copious amounts of wine, ensured the evening was a great success, it helped that it took place on the hottest night of the year.

Reluctant to say goodbye at the end of the season, we have decided to meet on a monthly basis for a game of skittles. This will take place on the third Monday of the month, at Mardons Social Club at 7pm. We are sticking to the winning format of everyone welcome, just turn up, no booking, no fees. I am delighted to say, that at our first meeting on October the 17th, we welcomed three new members. For more information, ring Diana on 01761 415155.

Norton Hill

play area has a new fence Councillors in Westfield are continuously looking to make sure that people using facilities in Westfield do so with the knowledge that their safety is paramount.

A recent addition to the play area at Norton Hill Recreation Ground was a new fence around the edge where the playground meets the football pitch. While no one can make absolutely sure that no football ever gets kicked into the play area, the height of the fence now makes it less likely for that stray ball to cause damage.

CHRISTMAS RUBBISH & RECYCLING COLLECTIONS There will be no recycling or rubbish collections on Monday 26 December.

If your collection is due this day, your next collection will be on Monday 2 January. All other collection days will remain the same, even if they fall on a Bank Holiday.

There will be no garden waste collections for 2 weeks from 26 December to 6 January. Normal collections will start from Monday 9 January.

Cllr Fuller said “We are always trying to think of ways to make sure our residents can fully enjoy the facilities we provide. This new fence gives added comfort to parents that their children are safer in the play area while there is a football match going on – and they can enjoy the football as well!”

Recycling Centres closed on 25, 26 December and 1 January. Open all other days.

General recycling advice.

We throw away more at Christmas than at any other time of the year. These commonly used Christmas items can all be recycled:

Food bin: turkey bones, left-over cooked food. (You can now put your food in everyday plastic bags). To find out how to waste less food and save money at Christmas go to www.lovefoodhatewaste.com for lots of ideas.

Green box; Paper – greetings cards, gift tags and wrapping paper (white backed, non-foil) Cans, tins and aerosols, including biscuit and sweet tins Glass bottles and jars including mincemeat and cranberry jars Foil including mince pie and quiche cases and take away trays Textiles including unwanted Christmas jumpers Small electrical items including broken fairy lights, toasters and electronic toys (please put in a carrier bag next to your box) Blue Bag: cardboard boxes and packaging, brown paper and drinks cartons The Westfield Warbler - 9

1964 and all that On the 3rd December 1964 Ted and I moved into our new home in the Parish of Westfield together with our eldest son Neil, then aged two. We were exiles from Plymouth but both were very happy to make a new life amidst the coal tips.

I made a lot of friends very quickly because the key that unlocked our dining room door, also unlocked most kitchen doors on the estate. Losing door keys was a hazard in those days.

My first real insight to living in Westfield was seeing an old, slightly mucky bus stopping by the Westfield Chapel bringing the coal miners home from their shift. Men were clambering out of the bus laughing and joking with one another, all covered in dirt and grime.

The very first lesson to be learnt from living “on top of the hill in Westfield” was that when the wind was particularly fierce any washing left hanging on a clothesline was covered with little coal smuts. You needed to rush out to get your clothes very quickly if the weather changed for the worst, otherwise you would have to wash everything again.

Some miners regretted the closure of the mines in 1973, but many were thankful they no longer had to work under such terrible conditions. Mrs Olive

Edwards, who used to live in Inner Elm Terrace told me that during the depression her husband would cycle miles each day from pit to pit to stand outside the pit gate in the hope of being chosen to work on that day In 1966 the Somerset & Dorset train line through Radstock was closed, the Great Western Railway line having closed in 1959. Up until then a grand way to keep a little boy happy had been the promise of seeing the trains go through Radstock.

There used to be two Railway Level Crossings with gates within yards of one another. This caused a lot of traffic jams, but for a little lad good fun to watch the trains go by.

In 1964 there were eight shops on Westfield Green.

A Greengrocer, the Newsagent, a Hardware Store and the Chemist Shop. Around the corner was The Spar Shop, with a Ladies Hairdressers next door. In the 1960s if a gentleman wanted a haircut he went to Midsomer Norton to visit Mr. Stanley Ashman for a short back and sides. Next to the Hairdressers was a Haberdashery selling lovely wool, cottons and silks. The art of knitting was very important in the sixties. Little babies and children all wore beautifully hand knitted clothes. The Co-op had the last corner shop.

Along the main road travelling to Norton Hill there was, and still is, a superb Butchers Shop. Further on a Fish & Chip Shop together with Westfield’s own Post Office. On the main road down to Radstock was a tiny little shop with a corrugated iron roof locally known as “The Shack.“ At the corner of Charlton Cross Roads there was another Newsagent, with a little general shop in Hazel Terrace. Everything was within walking distance. A Coal Merchant delivered coal, two Milk Men vied for your custom, and a Baker delivered bread every day.

10 - The Westfield Warbler

cribbage and darts team. Pub sports like shove-halfpenny and dominoes were very popular and there were many teams of young men either boxing, playing cricket, and football or running just for the joy of it.

Because of the rapid increase in the population of Westfield, the Doctor’s Surgeries had to employ more Midwives to cope with all the new babies born in the year 1965, my youngest son Andrew included. The Surgeries held a weekly clinic in St Peters Church Hall to weigh new babies and check how they were progressing. Nurse Francis, Nurse Thomas and Nurse Evans were the District Nurses attached to the various surgeries.

The younger children of Westfield went either to Westfield Primary School, or St Nicholas School Radstock, depending which side of the Chapel you lived. Mrs Lines was the Head Mistress of Westfield Primary. The Senior School at Norton Hill was also blessed with superb playing fields, the envy of anyone who came from a city environment.

We settled into Westfield and still live here, Plymouth was home, but always on the return journey back to Westfield we were coming home.

BY JOAN PACK Do you have any memories of Westfield you would like to share? Then email us at zoe@ignyte-uk.co.uk

In 1964 the buses went through Westfield every two hours, the 184 Bath to Frome, and the 196 Bath to Bristol bus. If you missed either of these buses, and you needed to go to Bath you walked to Radstock or Midsomer Norton to pick up a connection there.

Norton Hill and Westhill Recreation Parks was a lifeline to all mums. The Miners had subscribed money towards the purchase of playing fields in the area in the early 1900s in order to play football and for their children to have somewhere to play.

At Norton Hill there was a small park set aside for little children to play, with a lovely wooden seat for mums. A slide, a sandpit and four swings made up the equipment for the babies. The tennis courts were very much used and football matches played every weekend with an enthusiastic following of supporters Both the local Churches were the central points of the Parish, with many organisations using the Church halls for monthly meetings or places to meet on a weekly basis. There was also a huge emphasis on sport; every Pub had a skittles,

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The Westfield Warbler - 11

THINGS TO DO Monday Storytime at Radstock and Midsomer Norton Libraries 11:00am-11:00am. Stories followed by craft activity. For 0-5 year olds. Free Little Centurions Stay and Play Group 9 – 11am. Weekly drop in sessions. Best Western Centurion Hotel, Charlton Lane Weight Watchers – St Peters Church Hall, Longfellow Road, Westfield. 10 am, 12:00pm and 6:30pm Prattens Bowls - If you would like to try bowls why not come along to our Club night – from 6pm. Coaching can be arranged by our Club Coaches – bowls can be borrowed so you just need to wear a pair of flat shoes. Prattens Bowls Club A game of skittles. This will take place on the third Monday of the month, at Mardons Social Club at 7pm. Everyone welcome, just turn up, no booking, no fees. For more information, ring Diana on 01761 415155

12 - The Westfield Warbler

Quiz Night at Westhill Social Club - Don’t do anything on a Monday evening!!?? Why not come and try out are quiz night, from 8pm

Tuesday Community Bus at Westhill Club car park 9:30am – 11:30am. Sessions for anyone with babies and young children. Contact 01761 419557 or communitybus@hotmail.co.uk

Wednesday Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10:00am-11:00am. Every fourth Wednesday Westfield Ladies Choir - from 7.15 until 9.00 at St Peter’s Church Westfield. No auditions are required, just come along and sing. Contact Lesley Schofield on 01761 419540 Westfield TT Running Club - beginner’s introduction to running and intermediate runners. Meeting outside St Benedicts School at 7pm

Thursday The Baby Feeding Hub 9.30 -11am, The hub is supported by Health Visitors, an NCT breast feeding councillor and centre staff. Radstock Childrens Centre - Church Street, Radstock Stop Smoking Service 9.30 – 11am, Radstock Childrens Centre, Church Street, Radstock Communion Service - 10am St Peters Church, Longfellow Rd

Radstock Folk Dance Club. English and American styled country dances at St Peters Church Hall.

Beginners are more than welcome and you do not need a partner. £2 per evening inc tea and biscuits.

8:00pm-10:00pm. Call 01458 841400 for more details.

Westfield TT Running Club - beginners and intermediate runners. Meeting outside St Benedicts School at 7pm

Saturday

Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Radstock Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10:00am-11:00am. FIRST Thursday of every month.

Messy Church Art Group at Radstock Baptist Church 10:30am – 12:00pm Not just for kids!

Children should be accompanied by an adult. Call to confirm attendance in case of holiday

Chess Club at 7.30pm, Anyone who enjoys the game of chess is welcome to join them. So if you know the moves of chess and would like to play a game you will be very welcome. Westfield church hall, part of St. Peter’s Church

Frederik: 07811652372

Friday Coffee Morning at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield. 9:00am – 11:00am. Come along for a chat and a cuppa. Catch up with friends and meet new ones. It is held the first Friday of the month from 10am onwards – all welcome.

Golden Oldies sing and smile session, third Friday of each month. From 2:30pm – 3:00pm, St Peters Church Hall, Longfellow Rd.

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Students depart daily 8.20am - returning 6.30/7pm.

3 students x 4 nights £171.00 From 1st April 2017 4 students x 4 nights £228.00 A great fun way to increase your family income!

For further details please contact Carol: 01749 840821 mob: 07877717408 carol763@btinternet.com Or Hannah: 01761 436576 mob: 07720 572047

The Westfield Warbler - 13

Westfield Ladies

CHOIR ON TOUR Westfield Ladies Choir has just returned from a very successful first tour to Penzance.

They had a wonderful time meeting the delightful ladies of the Penzance Orpheus Ladies Choir again. They gave them such a warm welcome on Saturday 10th September and it was a real privilege to sing with them. They were also welcomed on Friday 9th September by the amazing Marazion Apollo Male Voice Choir and thoroughly enjoyed the evening singing with them at Helston in St Michael’s Church. On both evenings the ladies were treated, after the concerts, to a lovely buffet supper with songs and great company. They also managed to squeeze a very nice day trip to Falmouth in so it really was a great weekend.

The ladies would like to say a big thank you to Geoff Miles, the Musical Director for all his hard work in preparing the two programs and getting the choir concert ready. His confidence in them and his encouragement and energy have been inspirational. Many thanks also to Ruth Horler, the

14 - The Westfield Warbler

accompanist who played wonderfully throughout the rehearsals and on both evenings and is such an asset to the choir.

Now is the perfect time for anyone who enjoys singing and meeting people, at the same time as supporting local groups and charities, to join the choir. They are soon to begin rehearsing the music for the Christmas concert in aid of Dorothy House.

The Paulton Concert Band will be joining them on 3rd December at St Peter’s Church Westfield for what promises to be a very entertaining evening. Anyone interested in joining them please contact Lesley Schofield on 01761 419540. If you might be interested in taking on the paid role of accompanist for the choir or sharing it with the current accompanist who also loves to sing, please contact Lesley on the same number. They meet every Wednesday evening from 7.15 until 9.00 at St Peter’s Church Westfield. No auditions are required, just come along and sing.

Norton Radstock Chess Club The Norton Radstock chess club has been in existence for over forty years having celebrated their anniversary a couple of years ago by having a simultaneous chess display against local grandmaster Mathew Turner. He played against almost forty of the club members and lost just one game.

They play in the Somerset leagues with their first team in the second division and the seconds playing in the third division. The club also take part in the Somerset knockout competition and hold their own club championship from September

to April, and a quick play tournament late in November, when they play about five or six games each in an evening and are allowed just seven minutes per game each.

Anyone who enjoys the game of chess is welcome to join them. So if you know the moves of chess and would like to play a game you will be very welcome.

The chess club meets on Thursdays at 7.30pm in Westfield church hall, part of St. Peter’s Church

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T: 01761 413394 The Westfield Warbler - 15

Thursday November 24th At the

Living Christmas Tree Elm Tree Avenue, starting at 6:30pm

• Father Christmas will be in attendance • Free mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies • Westfield Ladies Choir will be singing carols • Songs by the children of Westfield Primary School and the Fosse Way School • Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band

• Children from local schools switch on the lights • The Big Local marquee and knitted nativity hunt • Words by Rev Guy Yeomans • Live broadcast on Somer Valley FM

18 - The Westfield Warbler

So you think you know the

CHRISTMAS STORY?

(by Guy Yeomans, Pastor of Radstock Baptist Church)

Most people who along with their parents have grown up in a western country, especially the UK, even if they rarely attend church, probably think they know the Christmas story backwards.

I have provided the following Christmas Quiz to hundreds of people over recent years, including at several churches in both England and Australia, but even among regular church goers, few have answered even half the questions correctly, and most get most wrong. If we can be so wrong about what is perhaps the best known story of the Bible, and is also a prominent element of our wider culture, then perhaps we need to discover the Bible afresh and God’s truth in it, which sets us free.

4. What did the innkeeper say to Mary and/or Joseph?

5. In what building was Jesus born?

6. Using our current western calendar, on what day, month, season and year was Jesus born?

7. Who were present at Jesus’ birth [or present with the Holy Family, within a few days of it]?

8. How many wise men visited Jesus?

9. What form of transport did they use?

Want to know the answers? Then come to the 10am Christmas Morning Service at Radstock Baptist Church, 6 Wells Hill, Radstock, BA3 3RN, opposite the Co-op supermarket.

If you don’t have access to a recent version of the Bible check out www.biblegateway.com It has the Bible in dozens of languages and English versions (all free). You’ll find nearly all the answers in the opening two chapters of the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Check out the New International Version (NIV), from which I have obtained the answers.

It has the advantage of not only being in modern English but being continually updated as scholars find better translations of the original Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament) languages used by the Bible’s writers.

SO - answer the questions below, based only on what the Bible states regarding the Christmas story:

1. The First Noel contains two statements not supported by the Bible – what are they?

2. What form of transport did Mary use to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem?

3. Approximately how long before the birth did Mary arrive in Bethlehem?

We are a smaller than average school and pride ourselves on our caring approach and our ability to meet every child’s needs, helping them develop and ensure they reach their full potential, whilst growing in the love of Christ.

We welcome children of all faiths.

We also offer wrap-around care as well as an independent on-site Nursery The Westfield Warbler - 19

WHAT’S ON November

3rd - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30 - 11am at Radstock Library. Free

7th - Westfield Parish Council Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm

8th - Westfield Parish Council Environment and Development Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm

12th - Supper and Film evening at Trinity Westfield Methodist Church at 6pm.

15th - Poetry Liaisons 7 - 8pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Share favourite poems or your own work. Open to all and free to attend.

15th - Science in Radstock Talk, 7.30pm at Radstock Working Men’s Club £3: Biologics – the new kids in the medicine cupboard by Dr Nick Hall.

19th - Children in Need coffee morning from 10am at Trinity Westfield Methodist Church.

19th - Train To Skaville - Free entry,

Mardons

Social Club, from 7.30pm.

23rd - Westfield Parish Council Finance and Personnel Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm

24th - Christmas Light switch on at the living Christmas Tree at Elm Tree Avenue, starting at 6:30pm.

Father Christmas will be in attendance and there will be free mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies.

Carols, music, nativity hunt and much more 25th - Quiz Night 7:30 for 8pm start at Radstock Hotel (skittle alley). Raising funds for the restoration of the Market Hall Clock.

Join us for our pub quiz! £4:50 per person includes buffet supper, teams of 4. To Book your team email Lucy Tudor at publicity@radstockmuseum.co.uk 20 - The Westfield Warbler

26th - Supper and Film evening at Trinity Westfield Methodist Church at 4pm.

26th - Skinny Dippers - Free entry, Mardons Social Club

30th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30 - 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free

December 1st - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30 - 11am at Radstock Library. Free 3rd - Christmas Event at the Radstock Museum. The museum will be open at no charge between 11am and 5pm with a Victorian Christmas event from 2pm and 5pm leading up to the Christmas light switching on ceremony at the Mine Wheel.

3rd - Breakfast with Santa at Trinity Westfield Methodist Church at 10am. Bring your children along and enjoy!

3rd - Growler - Free entry, Mardons Social Club.

From 7.30pm

4th - Community Carol Service, Trinity Methodist Church. From 6.00pm 5th - Westfield Parish Council Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm 10th - December: Christmas Fayre at the Radstock Museum. 10am – 4pm.

A sparkling event of Christmas music and gifts, hand made crafts and the museum book and gift shop will also be open.

10th - Call The Shots - Free entry, Mardons Social Club, from 7.30pm.

12th - Westfield Parish Council Environment and Development Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm 14th - Christmas Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s. 10.30 - 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free

14th - Westfield Parish Council Finance and Personnel Meeting in the boardroom, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way 7:00pm

17th - Tundra & Mardons Christmas Party Free entry, Mardons Social Club, from 7.30pm.

18th - Christingle Service, St. Peter’s Church, Westfield at 4pm.

18th - Carol Service, Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield at 6pm.

22nd - Carols around the Christmas Tree, St Peter’s Church, Westfield at 6.30pm.

24th - Children’s Crib Service, St Peter’s Church, Westfield at 3pm.

24th - Midnight Mass, St Peter’s Church, Westfield at 11.30pm.

25th - Christmas Day Sung Eucharist, St Peter’s Church, Westfield at 10am.

25th - Christmas Day Service, 10am Radstock Baptist Church 26th - St Stephen’s Day Holy Communion, St Peter’s Church, Westfield at 10am.

January 4th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30 - 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free 14th - Limited Edition - Free entry, Mardons Social Club, from 7.30pm.

17th - Poetry Liaisons 7 - 8pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Share favourite poems or your own work. Open to all and free to attend.

18th - Joined-Up Writers Group 1 - 3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring ideas. Open to all and free to attend.

21st - Trip the Switch - Free entry, Mardons Social Club, from 7.30pm.

February 1st - Museum opens with Tools and Trades Exhibition until 30th May 2017 The Tools and Trades History Society is an educational charity, whose aim is to further the knowledge and understanding of hand tools and the trades in which they were used.

YOUTH CONNECT Youth Connect will now be working out in Westfield.

We are currently running projects, activities and support for young people aged 13-19 on a Tuesday and Wednesday evening between 6pm and 8pm at the Westhill club park.

Come down and join us we will be doing a number of things including cookery and arts workshops and a number of issue based sessions.

We have already had a DJ join us for our launch party and will hopefully be doing more events like this soon.

We plan to provide a youth centre in the local area, and we are also looking for adult volunteers to help us with running this youth provision.

I am happy to come out and meet anybody who would like more information or would like to be involved.

For more details please contact Katy on 07966880422

28th - Freeze - Free entry, Mardons Social Club, from 7.30pm.

The Westfield Warbler - 21

Poems from Westfield School The Owl, by Savannah Dempster Rabbit Class, Year 2

Flying over beautiful flowers,

The Eagle Owl, by Ellen Bailey Bumble Bee Class, Year 1

The Eagle Owl is adorable and cute.

Washing in a bubbly bird bath,

It looks very heavy.

Hovering over a pond of lily pads,

They have a sharp beak.

Fluttering over pretty houses,

They have big, beautiful, orange and black eyes.

Hovering over an old school.

What am I? By Lola Jones Panther Class, Year 5

Busy, busy I am, Gathering food ready for hibernation.

The Eagle Owl has claws to grab things like mice and rabbits.

The Fox, by Zac Denning Squirrel class, Year 2

Sniffs in the shady, dark, windy woods,

It is autumn time.

Creeps into the bushes to catch his prey,

The busiest time of year.

Hunts for stinky garbage,

Scurrying across the grass

Howls to call for his friends.

I look for hard nuts.

You think that I am a thief, but I am not!

I can’t wait until hibernation, Not at all!

The Bat, by Maisie Bancroft Squirrel class, Year 2

Hangs upside down on the smelly dark roof, Flies through the sky and finds a dark garden, Swings through the sky and swishes into a dark noisy cave.

22 - The Westfield Warbler

Fosse Way School CELEBRATES 100% EXAMS SUCCESS Students and staff at Fosse Way, Radstock’s outstanding special school, are delighted with this year’s examination results. Each year the school enters students for an ambitious set of qualifications at both GCSE and Entry Level. Key Stage Four pupils at Fosse Way are able to follow GCSE courses in up to five subjects. These include English, Mathematics, Science, Performing Arts and Art. Entry Level qualifications are designed for those students for whom GCSE is not a suitable choice. Courses at this level enable students to gain qualifications that demonstrate their achievement and understanding in a variety of subjects.

Fosse Way students were able to pursue such qualifications in Physical Education, Information Technology and Home Cooking Skills as well as the core academic subjects.

This year a record seventeen pupils - almost 70% of the year group - were entered for one or more GCSE qualification. Results day on 25th August brought the exciting news that Fosse Way’s students had achieved an amazing 100% pass rate; every pupil had gained a grade in every subject for which they had been entered! For many their achievements far surpassed what they and their parents had thought possible on commencing their key stage four courses two years ago. Five students gained GCSE qualifications in four subjects.

Amongst these one gained grades of ‘C’ in both Science and English while achieving ‘D’ grades

in Art and Mathematics. Meanwhile another of Fosse Way’s students, who is educated at a nearby comprehensive school with specialist support from Fosse Way staff, gained an impressive nine GCSEs in the A* to C range. This achievement included one A* grade and two grade As. The student concerned has now taken up study at ‘A’ level.

Other young people at Fosse Way worked with great determination to overcome their learning difficulties and achieve a combination of GCSE pass grades and Entry Level qualifications.

Teachers at the school are determined to ensure that all pupils are equally valued and able to gain national qualifications that demonstrate the skills and abilities they have each developed. To this end some students’ study of traditional academic subjects is supplemented by the opportunity to gain certificates in a variety of shorter course that include ‘Adventure and Residential’, ‘Enterprise’ and ‘Expressive Arts’.

The staff at Fosse Way are thrilled by the success that so many have achieved and are looking forward to supporting students to reach their academic goals over the year ahead. Principal, Justin Philcox commented, “Our students throughout the ability range have achieved remarkable examination results. We are extremely proud of them and wish all well as they go to further study or enter the world of employment.”

The Westfield Warbler - 23

FINDING Mardons Despite being resident at the new building on the Linden Homes development on the Nightingale Estate in Westfield for more than a year, Mardons Social Club are finding that many locals may still be unaware of the club’s location or at least have yet to discover it.

As part of the residential estate it’s very easy to miss the busy and thriving venue. It sits beyond the green public area at the entrance to the new part of the development and its car park is accessed via a narrow road (Mardons Close) which casual passers-by can easily overlook.

In an effort to raise awareness, the club have created ‘drive through’ youtube videos and have added detailed descriptions and maps to their website.

As a community facility it is very important that local people know what is on offer to them. The social club, although operating a membership option, does welcome non members and encourages the community to make use of the facility.

Mardons provide quality entertainment weekly, with many of the areas best musicians performing on Saturday nights and entry is totally free. Friday 24 - The Westfield Warbler

nights are often available for party bookings and have proven popular for birthdays, retirements and other events - again, there is no hire charge for large group bookings (although 18th and 21st birthdays cannot be accepted). With charity groups like SWALLOW and other new community groups now starting to make use of the club, Mardons hope that word will spread and more residents of the Westfield Parish will find their way to the social club ... it’s well worth taking the time to find!

The club has a busy website: www.mardonsclub.co.uk and they keep visitors up to date via: Facebook.com/mardonsclub

Westfield TT

RUNNING CLUB Westfield TT running club is proving popular with all classes as this year has progressed.

Meeting outside St Benedicts school near the Centurion Hotel at 7pm we offer the following:

New and popular for Saturday afternoon are Hill reps and speedwork sessions from Wansdyke sports centre/the pit path from 3pm.

Wednesday evenings - beginner’s introduction to running and intermediate runners.

Sunday morning trail runs, (approximately7-8 miles off road) at 10am from outside St Benedicts school.

Thursday evenings - intermediate and faster running groups. Usually7-8 miles Friday evenings - beginners and intermediate groups.

Contact John on 07745351278 for more information. Friendly groups with a great social atmosphere throughout.

PRINTING

DIGITAL PRINTING

FINE ART CARDS REPRODUCTIONS

WEDDING STATIONERY PHOTOCOPYING

INVITES, POSTERS

& MORE!

Fosseway Press email: fossewaypress@btconnect.com

7 Frome Road Radstock BA3 3PT

Tel: 01761 431919 www.fossewaypress.com

The Westfield Warbler - 25

Come on Board our

NEW BLUE PLAY BUS The Community Bus is a double decker, fully converted as a mobile community centre.

She is kitted out with a kitchen and toilet, electricity, lighting and heating. Upstairs is a carpeted seating area, sensory toys, dressing up and library. Downstairs we have a messy play area, arts & crafts, sand box and lots more.

They are a small charity based in Radstock and their sessions are funded by the Lottery for another 2 years. The Play Together sessions are run in different areas on a weekly basis (Term time only).

You can catch the bus on: Tuesday: 9.30am - 11.30am in Westfield More details can be found on their website: www.thecommunitybus.org.uk The Play Together sessions are for families with babies up to preschool children, there is no need to book just come along and play.

Jackie (Senior Playworker) and Maureen (Playworker) offer a welcoming environment for parents, carers and children.

They provide a wide variety of toys and equipment for good quality play experiences and relaxed atmosphere for adults to chat in.

The Play bus is an intimate space where babies/ children and adults feel comfortable to play and socialise.

The cost of the bus was £21,600 and the conversion was approximately £78,000, the Community Bus paid 50% with the Lottery paying the remaining 50%.

A couple of quotes from parents who regularly attend the sessions:

“We’ve made a whole new group of friends” “My child talks about the bus all the time and can’t wait for Wednesday”.

“I have noticed how much more confidence my child has since attending the bus sessions”.

Last year 1431 children attended our Play together sessions at the 6 different locations, with 251 sessions held over the year.

COME AND PLAY ON THE BIG BLUE PLAY BUS.

NEED A NEW BOILER?

LEVEL ACCESS SHOWER?

OR

WET-ROOM SPECIALIST DESIGNED TO YOUR SPECIFICATION APPROVED BANES CONTRACTOR SHOWROOM DISPLAYS

We ask for a voluntary contribution, but money is dealt with in a discreet way so lack of cash won’t put people off coming to the Bus. For a free quotation

26 - The Westfield Warbler

Warming beef stew with swede

• 50g piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated • 2 tsp paprika • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped into large bitesized pieces • 1 medium swede, peeled and chopped into large bite-sized pieces • 500ml bottle of ale

serves 4

• 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes

This is Riverford Cook Kirsty’s alternative to a Sunday roast, which she serves with lots of greens and mash on the side. If you don’t have a casserole that will go on the hob, prepare it in a saucepan and then bake it in an ovenproof dish covered with foil. You can also cook it very gently on the hob from start to finish, keeping a fairly close eye on it and topping up with some water if it starts to dry out. Once ready, the stew can be left in the oven at a low temperature (100–110°C/ Gas ¼). It reheats and freezes very well.

• salt and black pepper

• 1 onion, sliced

Heat the oven to 150°C/gas 2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-based flame- and ovenproof casserole. Fry the beef on both sides over a high heat to brown it. Transfer to a plate. Turn the heat down. Fry the onion in the same pan for 10 minutes, until soft, adding a splash more oil and/ or water if needed to stop it catching and burning.

Stir in the garlic, ginger, paprika, carrot and swede, then add the ale and chopped tomatoes and return the beef to the pan. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat until bubbling, then cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for 2–3 hours, until the beef is very tender (stewing beef can vary in the time it takes to soften, depending on the cut and age of the animal). Check the seasoning before serving.

• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped or crushed

www.riverford.co.uk/recipes

• sunflower oil, for frying • 4 thick pieces of beef braising steak or beef shin (700–800g)

The Westfield Warbler - 27

MICHAEL EAVIS Shares

Mining Memories At Reunion

A team of Radstock Museum Volunteers led

by Julie Dexter laid on a luncheon for the treasured former mine workers from our local Somerset Coalfield. Radstock Co-op provided lovely food for the occasion and Pam Young, a representative from the Co-op who has been employed there for most of her lifetime, joined us.

Pam’s husband had been a miner at Norton Hill Colliery and her father had been a miner at New Rock Colliery where Micheal Eavis of Glastonbury Festival also worked.

Michael Eavis is the President of the Somerset District Miner’s Welfare Trust supporting former miners and their families. He joined fellow mine workers including Chair of the Trustees Francis Phelps Hillier now 87, for a catch up.

Around 70 former mine workers enjoyed sharing memories and stories over their lunch. Radstock Museum volunteer Dennis Chedgy was Master of Ceremonies.

left to right: Bill Morris (Secretary), Francis Phelps Hillier (Chair), Michael Eavis (President), Bryn Hawkins, (Trustee), Clive Norman, (Trustee) Miner’s reunion, Autumn 2016.

VOLUNTEER AT THE MUSEUM If you think you would like to become a volunteer, we would love to hear from you. Visit the volunteer page on our website for more details.

SUPPORT THE MUSEUM The Museum relies on public support and grants for its survival; if you are able to make a donation, please visit our website and click on the DONATE button on the home page.

MUSEUM NEWSLETTER Radstock Museum is planning some significant changes to a number of its displays in 2017. We hope these will offer an even more exciting visit, 28 - The Westfield Warbler

so please keep following our news. If you would like to be kept up to date with “What’s On” at the museum, why not sign up to our news update email? Just follow the simple instructions, also on our website. www.radstockmuseum.co.uk Our annual entry tickets give you free unlimited return visits during normal opening hours, for a whole year! Visit our website for a full list of prices and opening times. You can enjoy hot and cold drinks and cake in the tearoom and browse the book and gift shop without purchasing a museum ticket, just call in when you’re passing. We look forward to welcoming you very soon.

Radstock Folk

Bath in Bloom Winner’s Cup

Radstock Folk Dance Cub have now started dancing for the 2016-7 season. New members are welcome, you do not need any previous experience, neither do you need a partner. Folk dancing is a good all-round activity that includes gentle exercise with a little bit of thinking. All sessions are led by an experienced caller.

After two years of gardening activities, the children at Westfield School have achieved a Gold medal in Bath in Bloom and overall winner in the school’s category.

Dance Club We meet at St Peter’s Church Hall, Longfellow Road on Friday evenings from 8.00 pm to 10.00 pm.

For further information, contact Jean Shilton on 01458 841400.

Children all through the school enjoy gardening activities, such as growing potatoes in sacks, making gardens from old crates and growing seeds from space. The garden club enjoy growing crops and flowers in our new Giving Garden which was kindly supported by our local Buildbase and Bath College, Radstock horticulture students. Pictured are the members of Gardening Club with teacher Mrs Ross.

Tell us about your club Email Julie@ignyte-uk.co.uk

Crossmans Solicitors WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND PEACEFUL NEW YEAR

We are a local firm of lawyers, on hand to help you with life’s difficult situations and decisions.

Conveyancing Family Elderly Services Crime

Sale and Purchase of Residential Property / Transfer of Equity.

Fixed Fee Divorce, Financial Settlement and Access to Children.

Preparation and registration of Power of Attorney.

Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Court - Legal Aid available.

Motoring Offences experts.

Dangerous Dogs Act experts.

With issues such as these resolved, you will be able to move on to the new phase of your life with peace of mind that everything is in order and secure.

Crossmans Solicitors, 2A Fortescue Road, Roadstock, BA3 3PH. Tel: 01761-431688 e-mail: office@crossmans-solicitors.co.uk For further information/fees, please visit our website

www.crossmans-solicitors.com

The Westfield Warbler - 29

The

Parish Clerk As the evenings draw in and summer is behind us, the Parish Council begins the process of focussing on the year ahead and putting together its budget for 2017/18. We start with an action plan. The plan highlights both on-going work and one-off projects and includes items such as new fencing at the tennis court at Norton Hill Recreation Ground; provision for youth services, which is building momentum at Westhill Recreation Ground; provision of another allotment site and a series of three heritage walks in Westfield.

Last year a local resident asked if we might have an area in Westfield to commemorate those who died in service for their country. The Parish Council was supportive of the suggestion and has been working with Radstock Co-op Funeralcare for a plaque to go on the stone above the time

capsule at the top of Elm Tree Avenue, to read, “In memory of those who gave their lives in service for their country. Lest we forget.� At the time of writing, this is scheduled to be installed between 7th and 10th November.

A huge thank you to our voluntary Snow Wardens.

The Parish Council has three pavement gritters which are taken out by our volunteers during the bad weather. Their commitment to this work during the most inhospitable time of year is an inspiration.

Finally it remains for me to say we hope that you will join us at the Christmas Lights Switch on at 6.30pm on Thursday 24th November at the junction of Elm Tree Avenue and Wells Road.

This year we are working to extend the Christmas lights along the A367 to make the display through Westfield bigger and brighter.

May I wish you a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Lesley Welch Parish Clerk

Do you hold a regular event in Westfield and would like to let the local community know?

Julie@ignyte-uk.co.uk 01761 410141

Send your details by email to or call Julie on 30 - The Westfield Warbler

Your Parish

Council

Cllr Andrew Butcher 07814 530 723 abwpc10@gmail.com

Cllr Diana Cooper 01761 415155 dianacooper18@btinternet.com

Cllr Kevin Docherty 07826 170147 kevindocherty1966

Cllr Lesley Mansell 07980 695117 cllrlesleyamansell@yahoo.co.uk

Cllr Ron Hopkins 01761 435852 sueron1@sky.com

Cllr Geoff Fuller 01761 439198 / 07540 998603 geoffrey.fuller@outlook.com

Cllr Eleanor Jackson 01761 438968 eleanor_jackson@bathnes.gov.uk

Cllr James Honess jameshoness@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Bryan Wallbridge Vice Chair 07974 939776 westfield.wallbridge@gmail.com

Cllr Phil Wilkinson 01761 431355 / 07803 927626 philipdwilkinson@btinternet.com

Cllr Pat Williams 01761 432630 patwilliams21@talktalk.net

The Oval Office, Cobblers Way St Peters Business Park, Westfield BA3 3BX Telephone: 01761 410669 Email: council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk @westfield_pc Wesfield Parish Council The Parish Council is open from Monday to Thursday, 9am - 4.30pm. Due to the small number of part time staff it is advisable to telephone before visiting.

The Parish Council is accessible for the public, with a lift to the first floor office.

The Westfield Warbler - 31

It’s Christmas at...

Visit Santa in his grotto at the Radco Superstore Admission £3 per child, includes gift from Santa arriving

Saturday, 3rd December in his Grotto from 12 noon

Grotto opening days/times Wednesday to Friday ..............12pm–4pm Saturday ................................10am–4 pm Sunday ..................................10 am–3pm Santa’s last day is on Friday 23rd December

Children’s Christmas Colouring Competition Entry forms available from your local Radstock Co-operative Store.

Closing date 4th December.

Winners notified 8th December.

Prize giving at Santa’s grotto within Radco Superstore 16th December at 6 p.m.

Post a letter to Santa in one of Radstock Co-op store’s collection boxes by 10th December to receive a reply.

Radstock Co-operative Society Limited, 3 Wells Hill, Radstock BA3 3RQ 01761 431555 www.radstockcoop.co.uk