Midsomer Norton Life spring 2015

Spring 2015 Issue 14

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE New Youth Club Welton Rovers 2015 Community Events

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE A

s Spring arrives and the days gradually draw out, this issue of LIFE is crammed with lots to do and look forward to in our community.

The thousands of bulbs planted in the Autumn are bursting into life, opening an important year for the Midsomer Norton In Bloom Team, who in 2015 are entering the Champion of Champions Section.

The Midsomer Norton Community Trust is offering more events and activities than ever before from the Community Cinema and National Theatre Live to concerts and the unveiling of a town anthem. Plans are well in hand for a Maypole Festival at Welton Green on 25th May, followed by an Arts Festival commencing on 24th June and then Midsomer Norton Fayre on 11th July. In parallel the Midsomer Norton Town Trust is about to take on the Town Hall and the Orchard Hall under the Asset Transfer from B&NES and St Chad’s Well – holding them in trust for the community.

The Neighbourhood Planning Team have been busy collating all the feedback from their Autumn consultation and are now in the process of drafting formal Policies which will come back to further consultation before being put to the town under a referendum in the Autumn.

As the election approaches in May, I’d like to thank all those who have served on this first Midsomer Norton Town Council, as well as all the Community Group leaders who have given their time and energy for the benefit of the town. As your Mayor for the last four years, I am proud to represent and serve such a dynamic and forward-thinking community which together has achieved so much.

Cllr Paul Myer Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

2015 FAYRE DAY

4

YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

6

GREEN SPACES

8

COMMUNITY TRUST EVENTS

13

THURSDAY MARKET

19

WHAT'S ON

20

TOWN HALL REFURBISHMENT

24

NEW YOUTH GROUP

26

NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

30

THINGS TO DO

32

AN ANTHEM FOR THE TOWN

40

RAMBLERS PROGRAMME

42

2015 COMMUNITY EVENTS

44

WELTON ROVERS

45

SCHOOL NEWS

48

SWIMMING CLUB

53

MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

58

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

59

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in June. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 15th May. If you have difficulty reading the print please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy.

You can also view Midsomer Norton Life on the council’s website at www.midsomernortonlife.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Ltd, First Floor, 2 High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2LE Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its 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 or Midsomer Norton Town 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.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

2015 FAYRE DAY ANNOUNCED T

he date for Midsomer Norton Fayre 2015 has been set for Saturday 11th July, from 12pm to 6pm.

The event is being organised by a group of volunteers working under the banner of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust. It is hoped to gain financial support from Midsomer Norton Town Council as the main sponsor of the event.

“Following on from the success of last year we’re keen to make this year’s Fayre bigger and better than ever – involving many more community groups with double the content for all ages”, said Jenny Hillman, Chair of the Midsomer Norton Fayre Committee,

The event dates back to the Royal Charter granted to Midsomer Norton in 1248 by Henry III and ran almost continually until it closed in the 1960’s. Many local residents were delighted to see the return of the Fayre last year and the chance it gave for the whole community to come together and celebrate the town.

The organising committee is calling on individuals, businesses, community groups, schools , churches etc. to make contact if they would like to take part/ sponsor Midsomer Norton Fayre Day 2015.

For further details ring Alex Davis on 01761 413133 or email manager@midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

VISIT YOUR

LOCAL LIBRARY S

pring is the time to try something new so if you are not a library member or have not visited us in a while why not come along and see what we have to offer. Joining is FREE and only takes a few minutes.

For readers we have recently taken delivery of lots of new books and if you need inspiration, come in and look at our book features. We have ever changing displays using our own books and bringing in books from other libraries. These have recently included teen fiction for adults, Nordic is not just Noir and Real Life Stories. We are about to launch a new Dementia Collection of books and resources for people with memory loss and their carers.

We link up with the Town Hall programme to feature books related to film and performances such as Treasure Island. Staff can help with suggestions and books can be ordered from any Libraries West branch for a £1 fee (free for children).

If you want to look up information, study or print documents you can use our public computers – everybody is entitled to 30 minutes free use per day, extended to 90 minutes for people entitled to

concessions and children. Our regular free computer courses for beginners are very popular. Midsomer Norton Library also has free WiFi. After Hours is our programme of evening music and events, most of which are free. See ‘What’s On’ section for details but new events are being added all the time, so drop by to check out additions to our programme, or use the contact details below.

If writing is your interest, the library’s ‘Joined-up Writers’ workshops offer support for budding authors in getting started or exploring their ideas, and there are ‘Poetry Liaisons’ nights when poets and poetry-lovers can share their own work or just listen, often with a guest poet attending. See ‘What’s On’ for dates.

Our regular children’s events are listed in ‘What’s On’ and ‘Things to do’ Email: Councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk Tel: 01225 394041 Facebook: Bathnes Libraries Twitter: @bathnes #bathneslibraries www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GREEN SPACES IN

MIDSOMER NORTON GARDEN OF FRIENDSHIP In late 2013, the Town Council signed a 30 year lease with Downside Abbey Trustees to enable it to use the Holy Ghost Catholic Church Garden as a community space – to be known as “The Garden of Friendship”. Since then, trees have been cleared and planning permission has been obtained to fit new gates to the entrance alongside the church as well as a new fence to the south of the garden.

Once the fence and gate are in place, plans include a sensory garden and restoration of the border path as well as improving the grass itself.

The garden has already been used by a local guide group and offers groups and individuals a quiet haven and community green space right in the town.

Between 1907 and 1913, plans to convert the Church from the original use as a barn were drawn up by the renowned architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. Scott had been commissioned to design Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral in 1903 and went on to design the outside of Battersea Power Station in 1929. Another project that Scott was responsible for was the K6 Phone box, perhaps the most popular icon of many British towns and cities in the 20th century, for which he won the commission for in 1935.

F

or Midsomer Norton, its green spaces are a hugely important asset and the Town Council has been working on a broad strategy to ensure that they are developed for the benefit of local residents and visitors. The Town Council’s Operations Working Party has brought forward a number of ambitious plans that have seen new spaces become available and long held wishes of the town begin to be realised.

The Town Council plans to erect one of the K6 kiosks (which it recently adopted) in the Garden of Friendship to commemorate the link between the Church and the K6 kiosk and is working with the Royal Institute of British Architects to create an historic information exhibition inside the kiosk showing some of Scott’s original design sketches for both. It is hoped that it will attract interest from residents and visitors and provide budding architects with an interesting and innovative source of inspiration.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ST CHAD’S WELL Another historic site near the town centre, is being acquired by the Town Council as an additional community space. The site was previously owned and managed by the Midsomer Norton School’s Partnership and as part of the agreement to transfer ownership to the Town Trust, fencing to retain Somervale School’s security will be erected and the Town Trust plans to restore the memorial and renovate some of the original features such as the wrought iron fences and the stone plinth and well head below the memorial.

TOWN PARK Perhaps the most ambitious, and until now elusive, hope for Midsomer Norton’s green spaces has been the creation of a Town Park. Since 2011 when it was created, the Town Council has been working to achieve what so many people in the town seem to want. In late 2014, permission to change the use of land along the River Somer from Gullock Tyning towards Wheeler’s Road was granted by the

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local planning authority. Negotiations to purchase the land are nearing completion and, if successful, they will lead to the start of a large and ambitious project to create the largest green community space the town will have seen. The Council plans to consult residents in detail on what they want to see in the park but it is expected to be a natural and sustainable space rather than a formal “ornamental” park, bringing environmental and ecological sensitivity together with access for residents to walk, cycle and relax. The current vision includes options to hold outside events, to offer the basis for outside educational opportunities and, critically, to provide better footpath links across the town.

Funding will be required from a variety of sources including grant schemes and planning obligation funds from developments in the town. The project will almost certainly stretch over a number of years as the park matures and the project responds to residents’ needs.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON RADSTOCK ROUND TABLE Norton Radstock Round Table recently celebrated its 55th anniversary with a Charter Meal at Farrington Golf Club. Fifty gentlemen attended the event, including current and past members of Norton Radstock Round Table, members of Norton Radstock 41 Club, and representatives from several tables in the area.

We were particularly pleased to welcome the national president to the event. There was a beer tasting courtesy of Chew Valley Brewery, and the guest speaker was Andy Willcox, a local and very interesting speaker who entertained us with stories from his time as a paramedic and working on the TV programme Great British Bake Off. Current Norton Radstock Chairman,

Christopher Bridge, said, "The evening was a great success, and a substantial amount of money was raised for the Round Table national charity Children's Wish. We are looking forward to many more years of Norton Radstock Round Table, and welcome contact from anyone who is interested in joining us".

Martyn Plant

The photograph shows the current and past chairmen of Norton Radstock Round Table.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A NEW COUNCILLOR Following the resignation of Cllr John Slade for personal reasons, the Town Council co-opted a new Councillor at its meeting in February 2015. In most cases, when a Councillor resigns, residents have the opportunity to call for a bye-election at which their replacement is chosen. But as John left the Council within 6 months of the forthcoming elections in May 2015, the law provides for a Councillor to be co-opted as it’s not seen as good use of tax-payers’ money to hold a bye-election so close to full elections.

Two applications were received and the Council voted in public to co-opt Amy Purchase. Amy lives in Welton and is an active member of the local

11

community. She has taken a lead role in organising the Town’s Maypole Festival and works as a volunteer at Welton School and the after school club there. Amy has been a keen Carnivalite for some years having been a member of the Wells based Globe Carnival Club and has also more recently joined the Midsomer Norton and District Carnival Association. On being co-opted, Amy said, “There is a lot going on out there and sometimes people of my age are oblivious to it and so I want to help make people aware of just what is going on and what help is available."

Amy will attend her first Town Council meeting on Monday 2nd March having signed her declaration of office after the co-option decision.

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13

SOMETHING FOR

EVERYONE

For further details of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust’s programme of events, please visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or ring Alex Davis on 01761 419133.

O

ur town has more arts events and activities going on than ever before, thanks to the amazing programme being run by the Midsomer Norton Community Trust. What’s surprising is that still some local residents don’t realise that there is so much on their doorsteps to enjoy. LIFE sat down with Community Development Manager, Alex Davis, to find out more.

• THEATRE National Theatre Live • FILM Community Cinema • MUSIC First Thursday, Paradis Trio, Midsomer Concert Hall

THEATRE: NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Assembly Room Theatre, Midsomer Norton Doors open at 6:30pm Starts at 7:00pm Ticket Price: £10.00 - £12.00 Rated 12A

Doors open at 6:30pm Starts at 7:00pm Ticket Price: £10.00 - £12.00 Rated 12A NT Live: The Hard Problem Thursday 12 March 2015

NT Live: The Hard Problem Thursday 9 April 2015

Pulitzer Prize-winner Katherine Boo spent three years in Annawadi recording the lives of its residents.

The great Arthur Miller confronts the American dream in this dark and passionate tale. In Brooklyn, longshoreman Eddie Carbone welcomes his Sicilian cousins to the land of freedom. But when one of them falls for his beautiful niece, they discover that freedom comes at a price. Eddie’s jealous mistrust exposes a deep, unspeakable secret – one that drives him to commit the ultimate betrayal.

India is surging with global ambition. But beyond the luxury hotels surrounding Mumbai airport lies a makeshift slum, full of people with plans of their own.

But their schemes are fragile; global recession threatens the garbage trade, and another slumdweller is about to make an accusation that will destroy herself and shatter the neighbourhood.

The visionary Ivo van Hove directs this stunning production of Miller’s tragic masterpiece, broadcast from London’s West End by National Theatre Live.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Doors open at 6:30pm Starts at 7:00pm Ticket Price: £10.00 - £12.00 Rated 12A

Doors open at 6:30pm Starts at 7:00pm Ticket Price: £10.00 - £12.00 Rated 12A

NT Live: The Hard Problem Thursday 16 April 2015

NT Live: Man and Superman Thursday 14 May 2015

Hilary, a young psychology researcher at a brain science institute, is nursing a private sorrow and a troubling question at work, where psychology and biology meet. If there is nothing but matter, what is consciousness? This is ‘the hard problem’ which puts Hilary at odds with her colleagues who include her first mentor Spike, her boss Leo and the billionaire founder of the institute, Jerry. Is the day coming when the computer and the fMRI scanner will answer all the questions psychology can ask? Meanwhile Hilary needs a miracle, and she is prepared to pray for one.

In this Bernard Shaw play, Jack Tanner, celebrated radical thinker and rich bachelor, seems an unlikely choice as guardian to the alluring heiress, Ann. But she takes it in her assured stride and, despite the love of a poet, she decides to marry and tame this dazzling revolutionary. Tanner, appalled by the whiff of domesticity, is tipped off by his chauffeur and flees to Spain, where he is captured by bandits and meets The Devil. An extraordinary dream-debate, heaven versus hell, ensues. Following in hot pursuit, Ann is there when Tanner awakes, as fierce in her certainty as he is in his.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

15

FILM: COMMUNITY CINEMA CLASSIC CINEMA

FAMILY SHOWCASE CINEMA

EVENING SHOWCASE CINEMA

Friday 13th March, 2pm Harvey (1950)

Saturday 28th March, 2.30pm Paddington

Saturday 28th March, 7.30pm The Imitation Game

Friday 10th April, 2pm Film TBC

Saturday 25th April, 2.30pm Penguins of Madagascar

Saturday 25th April, 7.30pm Mr Turner

Friday 8th May – 2pm Film TBC

Saturday 22nd May, 2.30pm Film TBC

Saturday 22nd May, 7.30pm The Theory Of Everything

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER CONCERT HALL

MUSIC: FIRST THURSDAY SOCIAL

A chance to come on down and enjoy all your favourite songs performed by local artist Terry Andrews – plus dancing, bingo and raffle – all at Welton Rovers on North Road Thursday 5th March, 2-5pm Thursday 2nd April, 2-5pm Thursday 7th May, 2-5pm

PARADIS PALM COURT TRIO

A themed concert in the middle of the day in the Town Hall Assembly Room – with home-made cake.

Entry free with collection for musicians.

Friday 6th March, 12.30-1.30pm – Film Favourites Friday 27th March, 12.30-1.30pm – The Aviary Friday 1st May, 12.30-1.30pm – Mozart and Contemporaries

An opportunity to enjoy live music in that time between afternoon and evening on a Sunday. An interesting range of chamber concerts performed by mainly local musicians in the Town Hall Assembly Room – home-made tea and cake on sale. Entry free – collection taken.

Sunday 15 Mar, 5-6pm Michelle Falcon (viola) & Olga Paliy (piano) Sunday 19 Apr , 5-6pm Old Bones: Trombone Quartet Sunday 17 May, 5-6pm Bath Consort Baroque Ensemble: Streams of Pleasure

OTHER LIVE MUSIC

Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston – Sat 11th April, 8pm Phil King (Part of Bath International Music Festival) – Sat 16th May For more info contact Danny Brothers danny.brothers@bathfestivals.org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

17

NEW PIANIST FOR THE

MENDIP MALE VOICE CHOIR He retired in 2003 from his position as Deputy Director of Music at The Arts Educational School Tring, and since then has been increasingly involved in concert performances in the Bath area as both pianist and harpsichordist.

In 2002 the Society of Recorder Players awarded him an Honorary Life Membership in recognition of his contribution to the published repertoire for recorder payers.

Previous experience as a choir repetiteur includes seven years with Brentwood Choral Society and the Essex Choral Union.

Philip was the accompanist for the Bath Male Choir from its inception in 2006 until 2014, performing with them in Germany, Holland, France, Ireland , and Japan, as well as at prestigious venues in the U,K, including the successful participation in the BBC TV series: The Last Choir Standing.

I

t was a great surprise to the members of the Mendip Male Voice Choir on their first night back for rehearsal in 2015 when Musical Director Jamie Knight introduced the choir's new accompanist Philip Evry.

Many of the members knew Philip having worked with him during their time with the Bath Male Choir.

He received his musical education at the Royal Academy of Music, where he studied piano with Harry Isaacs and piano accompaniment with Rex Stevens, gaining the LRAM ( piano teaching ) and the Academy's Certificate of Merit for piano accompaniment.

His career in music, spanning more than 50 years, has embraced: contempory and classical dance, music theatre, publishing ( EMI,Chappell,IMP, Studio Music ) composing, arranging and editing.

The Mendip Men are delighted to have secured the services of this very experienced pianist, who with MD Jamie Knight, will certainly push the choir to even greater heights.

After a very successful 2014 under Jamie Knight the Mendip Men were delighted with his choice of music for the summer of 2015 which will be looked forward to by the choir's many followers.

The choir is building to their Annual Summer Concert at the Methodist Church Midsomer Norton on Saturday July 25th.

As the new music has only been recently distributed to the members now is the time for any man who can hold a note to join this wonderful group; rehearsals are every Monday night at St Mary's School Timsbury at 7.30pm. It's great fun with a serious side, just turn up...

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Coming to Midsomer Norton at the end of April: 5 Ways to Wellbeing A half day workshop exploring what it takes to improve your wellbeing at Midsomer Norton Town Hall. Call 01225 831820 to find out more!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

19

THURSDAY MARKET AT

WEST CLEWES

continues to provide residents and visitors with an alternative to the supermarket, providing a huge range of produce, much of it locally sourced and always reflecting what’s in season.

M

idsomer Norton’s regular Thursday Market continues to be held at West Clewes in the car park of the recreation ground. Local fruit and vegetable man, Andy Payne, has been the anchorman of the market for many years and

The location has seen other stalls come and go but Andy continues to attract a regular and loyal customer base. The Recreation Ground Trust who manage the facility on Trust for the town are always looking for other traders interested in taking a pitch at the car park on a Thursday – contact the Secretary of the Trust, Clive Stilwell, on 01761 418701 if you are interested or know of a local trader who might be. Rents are reasonable and the facilities are ideal for the market to expand, complementing the monthly Farmers’ Market in the Hollies Garden.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT’S ON

13th - Classic cinema: Harvey (1950) at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2pm.

14th - Little Pickles Market at the Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton from 10.30am to 12 noon.

15th - Concert Hall with Michelle Falcom (viola) & Olga Paliy (piano) from 5pm to 6pm at the Town Hall.

MARCH

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

9th - Planning Committee at the Beauchamp Room in the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm.

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

10th - Sandy Osborne Self Published writer at Midsomer Norton Library, free but ticket required.

12th - National Theatre Live with Behind The Beautiful Forevers at 7pm in the Town Hall.

24th - Hotwells Howlers ‘Kiss me Now or Never’ at Midsomer Norton Library Free event but ticket required.

25th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30-11 am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

27th - Paradis Palm Court Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the Town Hall.

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28th - Paddington at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2.30pm.

28th - The Imitation Game at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 7.30pm.

28th - Let’s get messy at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre from 2pm to 4pm.

APRIL 2nd - First Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2 to 5pm.

2nd - Informal communion at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church 7.30pm.

3rd - Ecumenical Walk of Witness at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 9.45am.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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4th - Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm.

at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2.30pm.

4th - Saturday Night Praise at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 7.30pm.

25th - Mr Turner at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 7.30pm.

5th - Sunrise Service by Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at Midsomer Norton junior school playing field at 6.30am.

MAY

5th - Ecumenical Service with Welton Baptist Church and Midsomer Norton Methodist Church to include Communion at 10.30am.

1st - Paradis Palm Court Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the Town Hall.

5th - 6pm service at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church to include communion.

7th - Full Town Council meeting at the Town Hall Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm.

9th - National Theatre Live with A View from the Bridge at 7pm in the Town Hall.

10th - Classic Cinema at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2pm.

11th - Live music with Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston at 8pm in the Town Hall.

13th - Planning Committee at the Beauchamp Room in the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm.

16th - National Theatre Live with Behind The Hard Problem at 7pm in the Town Hall.

19th - Concert Hall with Old Bones Trombone Quartet from 5pm to 6pm at the Town Hall.

20th - Annual Town Meeting (public) in the Town Hall, Assembly Room from 7pm to 9pm.

21st - Poetry Liaisons. Share favourite poems or your own work .7-8pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend.

22nd - Joined-Up Writers Group - Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring ideas. 1-3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend.

2nd - Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm.

7th - First Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2 to 5pm.

8th - Classic Cinema at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2pm.

14th - National Theatre Live with Man and Superman at 7pm in the Town Hall.

17th - Concert Hall with Bath Consort Baroque Ensemble: Streams of pleasure from 5pm to 6pm at the Town Hall.

18th - Full Town Council Meeting (Annual meeting) in the Assembly Room at the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm.

19th - Poetry Liaisons. Share favourite poems or your own work .7-8pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend.

20th - Joined-Up Writers Group - Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring ideas. 1-3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend.

20th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30-11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

22nd - Family showcase at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 2.30pm.

22nd - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s.

10.30-11 am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

22nd - Evening showcase: The Theory Of Everything at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall from 7.30pm.

25th - Family showcase: Penguins of Madagascar

25th - Maypole Party at Welton Green 11am - 1pm.

22

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

DRIVER APPEAL FOR COMMUNITY TRUST The Midsomer Norton Community Trust is appealing for volunteer drivers to help staff a driving rota to collect people at agreed stops and drive them in the community bus to the Town Hall to attend concerts, screenings and community events.

The scheme is being developed to meet the needs of those in our community who would like to attend events, but are unable to do so due to lack of transport and/or simply cannot walk due to disability or fear of being out on dark nights alone.

The Community Trust, which is in talks with the Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust, is seeking volunteer drivers who

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must be over 21 and under 70, unless otherwise agreed, with a minimum of 2 years driving experience. Each will be asked to complete a declaration form and undertake an introductory familiarisation session, DBS check and Driver training – now a requirement together with a Health & Safety Policy undertaking.

Each driver would only be asked to cover a small number of events picking up people from around Midsomer Norton. If successful, in time, the aim is to expand the scheme to the surrounding towns and parishes.

To find out more, please ring 01761 419133 and ask for Alex Davis, or email manager@ midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk.

77 High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DE Tel/Fax: 01761 418972

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

23

MIDSOMER NORTON FC GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH local club. Details are available on the club website www. midsomernortonfootballclub.co.uk or by contacting the club secretary Bruce Stephen on 07762 365696.

Midsomer Norton FC continues to grow from strength to strength. The club had 6 teams entered in the Midsomer Norton Youth football league at various age groups from Under 8 to Under 16 in season 2014/15. There is also a thriving junior section who will hopefully provide players for the Under 7 team for season 2015/16. The number of players regularly playing and training has risen steadily during the last few years to a very healthy figure of around 120 players.

The club is an FA Charter Standard club so all coaches are FA qualified and a number are now members of the FA Licensed Coaches' Club which means that they are required to undertake Continuous Professional Development courses to renew their licence each year . One of the club coaches, Darren Cox, was awarded the Somerset FA young volunteer of the year award last season and is off to America for a coaching job.

The club continues to provide very reasonably priced football for all children and are always happy to see more new players or anyone who wants to get involved with coaching coming along to get involved with their

Special mention should go to the Under 16 team (photo attached taken before their final league game) who have just completed their final year of organised youth football after 10 years having started as an Under 7 team in 2006. Five of the players, J Ingham, B Barter, K Brown, L Farrow and M Stephen have completed all 10 seasons for the team.

24

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOWN HALL REFURBISHMENT

GATHERING MOMENTUM P

lans to refurbish the Town Hall in Midsomer Norton are moving forward thanks to a grant from the Homes and Communities Agency.

The funds have been made available to the Town Council and the Town Trust to pay for architectural and associated professional services to be used to develop a concept for the building including returning its ground floor to more closely resemble it when it was first built. If the Town Trust can secure planning permission for the project, it will then tackle the huge challenge of raising the funds required to actually carry out the work.

An amazingly detailed scaled model of the Town Hall has been created and many residents were

fascinated by the options being discussed when the Town Council and the Midsomer Norton Neighbourhood Plan group held consultation events in November and December 2014.

The Town Hall is a Grade II listed building and was constructed in 1860 by Thomas Harris Smith. It is located in the Midsomer Norton Conservation Area and is a key focal point in the town, both as a civic building and home to the Town Council.

Just as importantly it is a community asset used by numerous groups for a wide range of activities including counselling, support groups, a huge range of clubs and societies as well as hosting arts and music events and the community cinema and even

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

25

offers a location in the town for weddings.

Work to develop the planning application is well advanced and it should be submitted to the Local Planning Authority in March 2015. It will include proposals to extend the building to the rear, reinstate some of the original features combined with providing modern flexible meeting rooms, the latest technologies for sound and projection and better access to all floors and rooms. Negotiations to secure a long lease of the building with Bath and North East Somerset Council are well advanced and will enable the building to continue as one of the cornerstones of the local community.

The Sarah Ann Trust, which has run the building on a voluntary basis since xxx will eventually end its

management of the building and hand over to the newly formed Midsomer Norton Town Trust who will hold the lease and ensure investment in the long term structural management of the building.

The Midsomer Norton Community Trust will run it on a day to day basis, bringing community groups together and ensuring its successful programme of events is broadened for the whole town and the surrounding area to enjoy . Without the dedication and immense contribution of a group of volunteers in the Sarah Ann Trust, this project would never have been possible and it is hoped that many of them will continue to work with the Midsomer Norton Community Trust to take the Town Hall forward for another century.

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26

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LOCAL COMPANY SUPPORTS

NEW YOUTH GROUP

like this up and running”, said Stanley Chatt – student from Bath Studio School.

Youth workers from the WPA have been providing support for the growing group of young people shaping this exciting new project in Midsomer Norton – due to launch in March.

Students working on the launch of a new youth group for Midsomer Norton have been learning hands on about designing corporate logos with local company Frome Signs, based at Westfield.

The pilot youth group has been meeting since September last year at the Town Hall in Midsomer Norton, with young people working with students from Bath Studio School. The aim has been to develop a group with all aspects designed by the young people themselves – made possible with funding from Midsomer Norton Town Council. “'It’s been very interesting to learn first-hand how to design a new corporate identity and overall what needs to be done to get a project

“The group has come up with some really exciting ideas and it has been great to help them turn these into something that can be used as an identity for the group and promote it to local young people”, said Rob Ford – owner of Frome Signs In the coming weeks Frome Signs will be working full steam ahead producing a wide range of signage and other launch materials for the group with an unveiling in March.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

27

NEW COMMUNITY MINI BUS

NORTON RADSTOCK U3A

The new Community Minibus for the Somer Valley area was recently commissioned at a ceremony at Welton Rovers Football Club. Owned by Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust, its primary purpose is to enable the disabled, handicapped and frail of the locality access their clubs, churches, luncheon clubs and much more.

The Trust was formed with public support in 1967 and is a registered Charity (No 276166).

Norton Radstock University of Third Age Provides a positive and creative approach to retirement.

We are open to anyone no longer in full time employment. We offer interesting monthly speaker meetings and social coffee mornings at the Somer Centre, MSN, various coach trips and holidays.

The Committee is very grateful to Midsomer Norton Town Council and a number of town organisations for their financial involvement in acquiring the new Peugeot minibus which can seat up to 12 people, though fewer if wheelchairs are being used, and has an electric tail-lift.

Mavis Perrett of the Thursday Club which meets in the Somer Centre writes, ‘All our members use the minibus with the devoted help of the volunteer drivers who provide a door to door service.

For some of our members, it’s their only means of communication with the outside world.’

So, local groups, why not consider using the Community Minibus? Do contact Stephen Powell (Bookings Co-ordinator) on 01761 413975 or David Shearn (Secretary/Treasurer) for more information.

Thank you!

Members may also join any of the 40+ interest groups, run by U3A members, ranging from Art, Music, and Books, to Psychology, Languages, Current Affairs, to Line-Dancing, Table Tennis, and Yoga, and many others in between.

Anyone interested should contact Barbara Brophy (Chairwoman) 01761 436198 or Bob Paine (Groups Coordinator) 01761 451506.

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Bring the outside inside and vice-versa...

Here’s a great project that was inspired by the need to make better use of the garden space, after extending the house. It looks amazing, and the sensitive approach to the use of materials has made it even more successful. By choosing Tongue and Groove effect panels, with the boards running horizontally to match the timber cladding on the house, this encourages a feeling of cohesion to the look of the whole outdoor space, it blurs the lines between house and garden, and brings the outside inside, and vice-versa.

John Horswill sent these lovely photos of the completed project (thanks very much John) and here’s what he told us about it:

The project was initiated by our need to provide more living space on the ground floor of our town house.

The garden area is very small - only 50 square metres, so we were limited in the size of extension that the available space could support. Our solution was to build a very simple fully glazed bay window extension, at the same time redesigning the garden to complement the additional area created within the house.

We raised the terrace up to ground floor level, providing more apparent space, particularly when the bi-fold doors are fully open.

Most of the existing shrubs were retained and new raised beds added.

John’s extension and terrace with bi-folding doors creating the longed for extra space.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

29

John’s garden with the Tongue and Groove effect panels with Premier Trellis topper panels.

One of the most important aspects of the design was the fencing and we were attracted to the simple lines of Jacksons’ products. We faced the external walls of the house with cladding to match the upper floors, and needed to extend that theme into the boundary treatment.

We are very pleased with the results, in particular the balance between trellis and panelling. And as a bonus, we had ordered enough components to build a new shed and garden gate, integrated into the fencing.

The contractor made an excellent job of it and used more or less all the components. Note the shed, which was built into the fencing and works really well - I’m hoping to add a ‘green’ roof at a later date. All in all, I am really pleased, it’s a very successful project - John Horswill.

You can find out more about the Tongue and Groove effect panels and the square Premier Trellis topper panels used in this project by going to your local page.

There’s also a link there to the customer project story with more photos of this lovely garden and many others. Plus up to date info on any special offers and winners of previous free prize draws.

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30

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

FEEDBACK ON NEIGHBOURHOOD

PLAN CONSULTATION

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING TEAM

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

F

31

irstly thank you to everyone who came along to the two sessions at the Town Hall in November/ December, which were very well attended, as well as those who wrote in.

Overall the feedback on the Vision and Objectives were very positive with a number of specific points raised which the Neighbourhood Plan Team went through in detail at their meetings as follows:

THE CONDITION OF PAVEMENTS IN THE TOWN CENTRE A number of people expressed concerns over the poor state of repair of many of the pavements ranging from broken stones to uneven blocks as well as accessibility issues.

IMPROVING THE BREADTH OF THE RETAIL OFFERING This was an issue of concern to a lot of people who wanted consideration given to getting more retailers into the town centre – including national chains.

PROVISION OF A CEMETERY Although this has been consulted on in an earlier issue of Midsomer Norton LIFE a number of residents raised the issue of future cemetery provision, given that the St John’s Church Yard in Church Lane is almost full.

There was also a range of points which were outside the scope of the Neighbourhood Development Plan as they would be the subject of a future planning application e.g. South Road.

The NDP Team have now updated the V &O and will consider all comments made in the context of developing a Neighbourhood Plan for Midsomer Norton. There will be other opportunities for further consultation later in the year before ultimately the plan goes to a public referendum.

The next step for the NDP Team will now be to focus on developing specific policies in consultation with groups and stakeholders relating to the various subject areas. For example we are looking to run discussion groups ranging from property developers and builders to head teachers and health care professions during March 2015.

This will enable the group to test the developing policies with the very people who will be central to implementing and working with them in the future.

32

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Monday from 1pm to 4pm for viewing only.

Storytime at Midsomer Norton Library 11-11.30 am. Stories followed by craft activity. For 0-5 year olds. Free.

Columbard Pet Supplies 62 High Street • Midsomer Norton 01761 412957 A warm welcome and friendly, helpful service in our traditional family run pet shop. You will be pleasantly surprised at our range and at how low all our prices are.

Large selection of feeds, bedding, treats and accessories for all your pets including reptiles.

Tropical and Coldwater fish, tanks and supplies.

Variety of wild bird feeds and feeders.

Top quality UK grown bedding plants available from March plus compost and gro-bags always available.

IF WE DON’T HAVE SOMETHING IN STOCK, WE CAN GET IT – PLEASE JUST ASK!

Monday children and youth club (term time only) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm to 7.45pm.

Child-minding group for registered child-minders at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, fortnightly from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre, 8pm to 8.45pm.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Monday at 6.30am to 11am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 8.00pm and 9.00pm to 10.00pm.

Norton Radstock U3A hold a monthly Speaker meeting every 2nd Monday, 2-4pm at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, and a monthly Coffee Morning every last Monday 10.30am – noon at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton.

TUESDAY Midsomer Norton Townswomen’s Guild meets on the third Tuesday of each month at St John’s Church Hall at 2pm. For more information call 01761 413528.

Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly from September to June at the Methodist Church Centre at 3pm, for more information call 01761 235970.

Golden - Oldies singing sessions at Greenacres Community Room, Midsomer Norton every Tuesday 2pm to 3pm. Open to all. Call 01761 470006 for more information.

Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Tuesday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.

Midsomer Norton Short Mat Bowls Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday at The Somer Centre

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

from 230pm to 4.30pm. Call 01761 346838 for more info.

Baby reflex, yoga and massage with Sally Teall at the Methodist Church Hall, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information.

Pre School Speech and Language Therapy (appointments only) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre. Call 01225 831800 for more info.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Tuesday at 6.30am to 10am, 12.00pm to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 4.00pm.

WEDNESDAY Jenny Peplow Singers meet every Wednesday at 7.15pm at St John’s Church Hall, Midsomer Norton.

For more information call Jenny on 01373 812093.

33

Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10.30 11am. Every fourth Wednesday.

Toddler Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, term time only.

Aqua Zumba at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 12.30pm to 1.15pm.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Wednesday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior men from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Wednesday Women’s Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre meets alternative Wednesdays at 2pm. Various speakers and topics.

For more information call 01761 436770.

34

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Welton Vale over 50’s club meet in the Community Room from 2pm to 4pm, for more information call 417960.

Short mat bowls every Friday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Contact 01761 418400.

The Old Bakery Artists meet on the last Thursday of every month except December at The Fromeway in Radstock, for more information call 01761 418956.

Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Thursday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.

Midsomer Norton Short Mat Bowls Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Call 01761 346838 for more info.

Toddler Yoga with Sally Teall at the The Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information.

Meet for prayer at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 9.45am.

Whist Club at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2pm to 4pm from September to June.

Stay and Play (parent led) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre from 9.30am to 11.00am.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Friday at 6.30am to 12pm, 2.30pm to 6.00pm and 7.00pm to 8.30pm.

SATURDAY

Chi Gong, gentle movement and relaxation at Dorothy House from 12.15pm to 12.55pm, Peasedown St John. Contact 01225 722988 for more info.

Workdays take place every Saturday at Silver Street Nature Reserve from 10.30am. Please meet by the notice boards in the woods. For more information contact Lucy or James on 01761 411292.

Age UK Midsomer Norton Walks 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 10am.

Meet outside the Town Hall.

Mass is celebrated at St John the Baptists from 9am every Saturday.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Thursday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 3.00pm to 8.00pm.

The Local Churches Men’s Breakfast Fellowship meet monthly (2nd Saturday) at 8.30am (breakfast from 8am) venues vary. For more information call Midsomer Methodist Centre on 01761 410450.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior ladies from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Saturday Night Praise at 7.30pm on the 2nd Saturday of each month at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Back to basics exercise to music for able bodied adults who prefer to work in smaller groups at Midsomer Norton Town Hall in the Assembly Room from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Saturday at 11.30am to 4.00pm and 6.00pm to 7.00pm.

Whist Club at the Town Hall. 7.30pm. Ring Alex on 01761 419133.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SUNDAY Morning Worship Youth Church and crèche from 10.30am at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Sunday from 10am to 4pm for viewing, museum, wartime pillbox, buffet coach and gift shop.

Morning Service at 10.30am at Somervale School , morning worship service for all ages.

Sunday service at St John the Baptist Church at 8am and 9.30am.

Evening Worship from 6pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Welton Baptist Church Evening Service 6pm at Somervale School, evening service – café style.

35

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Sunday at 10am to 2pm, 3pm to 8pm.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for juniors from 9.30am to 11am.

Midsomer Norton Choral Society 6.45pm, Town Hall.

PROMOTE YOUR LOCAL EVENT Call Zoe on 01761 410141 or email:

zoe@midsomernortonlife.co.uk

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37

AIR AMBULANCE DONATION

FROM THE ROTARY CLUB R

otary Club President Larry Taylor and Past President Rob Porter travelled to a rather windswept airport in Bristol to present a cheque for ÂŁ3,000 to Air Ambulance.

The new ambulance is better equipped and is also able to carry more medical staff which means that they are able to treat patients during the flight to hospital.

The money was raised by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Rotary Club to help support a new larger air ambulance for the area.

It was Rob Porter's wish to give a donation to this worthy cause while he was President, but the opportunity has only just presented itself on the arrival of their new, larger helicopter.

38

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SIRONA HEALTH & CARE HEARING AID HELP A clinic for re-tubing of NHS hearing aids, is being held at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre on Fridays and run by the Hearing Therapy Volunteers.

Dates for 2015 are: 16th February, 20th February, 20th March, 17th April, 15th May, 19th June, 17th July, 21st August, 18th September, 16th October, 20th November, 18th December.

The clinic is open from 10.30am to 12pm.

Batteries are available at this clinic, but please note replacement hearing aids, moulds and fine tunes are not available at these clinics.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

39

THE FRIENDS OF SILVER STREET The Friends of Silver Street have been busy through the winter months. In November we planted small trees, bulbs and flowers in the woodland and are waiting to see how they grow. The snowdrops are flowering now, a sure sign that spring is on the way.

Soon we will be planning our programme for the coming year.

We have been concentrating on the woodland pathway leading to the bottom end of the reserve.

Although this winter has not been particularly wet there were a lot of muddy places that we have now filled in with hardcore.It's amazing how much we can achieve on a Saturday morning with our volunteers.

LOCAL COMMUNITY TRUST BENEFITS FROM EXERCISE Kay, a professional Exercise to Music instructor, is running her "Back to Basics" classes in the locality, donating proceeds to the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

Kay said, "Back to Basics" consists of easy to follow, fun exercises, providing a full body workout. The friendly classes are suitable for able-bodied adults who prefer to work in smaller groups. No previous experience is needed as I adapt the classes to suit everyone who attends. I use a variety of inspiring music, including Latin, "Strictly", Boogie-woogie, Salsa and old favourites."

Midsomer Norton Town Hall Assembly Room Thursdays 13.30 - 14.30 Just ÂŁ3 per class Contact Kay for more details: 01761 435383, Facebook: Kay Alford Twitter: @KazeStyle1.

We hope to have our new notice board put up at the Silver Street entrance soon This was generously funded by our Midsomer Norton Town Council and will replace the old one. It was difficult to put up posters on very hard wood and even laminated ones get wet after a time so we can advertise our events and goings on in the Nature Reserve and lots more beside.

We notice that so many people use the Reserve for walking and enjoy the experience so why not get involved with the Friends group? You don't have to be particularly active as we need a strong membership to move forward.

Contact our membership Secretary on 01761 411292 for more information.

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PARTS AND SPARES - we stock a wide range of towing accessories and security products.

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40

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

AN ANTHEM FOR

MIDSOMER NORTON community events and activities W ithtakingso many place in the town, the Midsomer Norton Community Trust has enlisted the help of Kilter Theatre as part of an ambitious and exciting new project of collective song writing. Rather than call in a composer, the aim is to get all the citizens of the great town of Midsomer Norton to contribute their ideas for a new town anthem.

The song will celebrate all the wonderful things about Midsomer Norton and Kilter Theatre would like as many people as possible to help write the lyrics. They will be visiting different community groups and schools during March to gather ideas

for the foot-stomping, pride-inducing anthem. In addition, they will be taking up residency at the Town Hall during three dates in March so that the people of Midsomer Norton can come along and try their hand at the creative lyric-writing exercises inspired by our collection of Midsomer objects.

The project is supported by funding from Midsomer Norton Town Council and B&NES and will culminate in a mass sing-a-long of the brand new anthem at a public event in the summer. Everyone in the town will be able to learn the song and pass it on to future generations of Midsomer Norton.

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We offer a FREE 30 minute appointment with one of our mortgage advisers every Thursday, until 8pm. You can discuss whatever you need, from home improvements, debt consolidation to lower monthly payments. *Limited availability, advance booking essential. A fee of ÂŁ199 will be charged for further mortgage advice along with commission from the lender.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

41

FRACK-FREE SOMER VALLEY

well attended. At this meeting the group shared information about Fracking, their our concerns, and there were many positive contributions from those present.

Frack Free Somervalley is a group of local residents concerned about the effects of unconventional gas extraction and hydraulic fracturing (Fracking) in our area.

The group will be attempting to raise the profile of the issues around Fracking over the coming year, and encourage the local population to find out more. We meet regularly to discuss the issues around Fracking, to become better informed and to plan appropriate activities.

The group was founded in December 2014 by a small group of Midsomer Norton and Radstock residents, who have concerns about the potential consequences of Fracking on health and the local environment. They are concerned both about the drilling process and it's impact, and the manner in which it is being administered from central government, without appropriate safeguards and control. They feel the consequences of Fracking have not been fully investigated, nor residents’ rights and opinions taken into account.

The current membership consists of approximately thirty active members, and a large number of supporters. They welcome new members to the group or contact from any members of the public who wish to find out more about the issues around Fracking. They can be contacted through our website, www. frackfreesomervalley.weebly.com, our facebook page, or by phoning 01761 410026.

Around the country small groups of local people are successfully standing up to the Government and the energy companies’ desire to pursue Fracking. In some countries, such as Scotland, Fracking and unconventional gas extraction has been halted whilst the process is investigated. The benefits that some have promoted have not been proven, and there is little evidence of economic benefits locally or nationally.

The group held a public meeting at Midsomer Norton Town Hall in January, which was very IAN MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES LTD

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42

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON RADSTOCK RAMBLERS

WALK PROGRAMME SUNDAYS - FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL, MAY Date

Time

Area

Walk start

Distance

Leader

Contact no.

15 March

9.30am

Radstock Meet Leader at 10am at start

Mill Road Radstock ST 696549

10 miles

Bryn

07709282394

Dundas Aqueduct CP. Ref 782621 Free CP Don’t forget clocks have gone forward

6.5 miles

Alice

01373 474695

22 March 29 March

See website for latest info 9.20am

5 April

Dundas Pipehouse Meet Leader at 10am at start

See website for latest info

12 April

9.40am

Farrington Litton and Hinton Blewitt

10am Farrington Gurney. Pitway Lane, grid reference 627556. .

7 miles

Paul

07976 603766

19 April

10.00am

Old Sodbury Meet Leader at 10am at start

Church in Old Sodbury Map OS 167 & 168 Ref: 756818

10 miles

Pam

01179 674030

26 April

9.30am

Stanton Prior and Priston.

Meet Leader at 10am at start

Conygre Hall, Timsbury, Explorer 142 Ref 669589

8 miles

David

3 May

9.00am

Ilchester/Ashington

Public Car Park, Limington Road, Ilchester, BA22 8LX Exp 129 ST 523 226 May need change for parking.

8.5 miles

Tessa

01761 470453

10 May

9.00am

South Cadbury

10am start Cadbury Castle Car Park South Cadbury Ref 632254

6 miles

Rose

01761 435178

17 May

9.40am

10am Layby Peasedown flat

(Opposite Camerton turning) Ref 689563

5/6 miles

Geoff

01761 436186

24 May

8.45am

Chitterne/Imber Range Perimeter Path Meet Leader at 10am at start

Codford Rd where it joins B390 opposite pub at Chitterne.

ST Exp 143 991 438

6.5 miles

Sarah

07869591189

31 May

9.30am

Orchardleigh ,Lake and Golf Course Meet Leader at 10am at start

Roadside parking near Woolpack Pub, Beckington.

Exp 143/142 ST 801 518

6.5 miles

Sarah

07869591189

All Sunday walks start from South Street car park from where we car share to the walk start proper. Car or lift not guanteed. The map references refer to the walk start proper, for start times or any other walk details please contact the walk leader. Walkers are reminded they should be properly clothed and shod, should carry adequate food and refreshment and should carry a personal medical kit.

Walks Secretary: Rose Rogers 01761 435178.

For further details, and up to date information, log onto www.nortonradstockramblers.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

43

WEDNESDAYS - FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL, MAY Date

Car Park, High Street, Paulton BS39 7NW

Area

Walk start

Distance

Notes

4 Feb

9.20am

MENDIP RING Circular

Faulkland Inn, Faulkland BA3 5UH 10a.m.

Walking North of Faulkland OS 142 Ref: ST 737 544

6 miles

Park in back car Park of Faulkland Inn. Soup or drink in pub after the walk.

18 Feb

9.00am

SAMARITAN WAY SOUTH WEST Linear

Henton Village Hall, top car park, BA5 1PD 10a.m OS 141 Ref: ST 496 453

6 miles

We will transfer to Glastonbury and walk back to Henton.

4 March

9.20am

MENDIP RING Circular

Faulkland Inn, Faulkland BA3 5UH 10a.m.

Walking East of Faulkland OS 142 Ref: ST 737 544

7 miles

Park in back car Park of Faulkland Inn. Soup or drink in pub after the walk.

18 March

9.00am

SAMARITAN WAY SOUTH WEST Linear

Street Youth Hostel at Cockrod BA16 0TX 10a.m.

OS 141/140 Ref: ST 480 345

8 miles

We will transfer to Sutton Mallet and walk back to Street.

1 April

8.30am

WHITE HORSE TRAIL Circular

Large layby West of Cherhill at Quemerford, on A4.

SN11 8QH 10:15a.m.

OS 157 Ref: SU 026699

6 miles

Cherhill Hill to Morgan Hill.

15 April

8.15am

SAMARITAN WAY SOUTH WEST Linear

Provisional Cemetary on A39 (Quantock Road), Bridgwater 10a.m.

OS 140 Ref: ST 281 371

8 miles

A hilly walk for the first half of the walk. We will walk at a leisurely pace over the hills. Fyne Court to Bridgwater.

29 April

8.30am

WHITE HORSE TRAIL Circular

Avebury Circular. Car Park West of Cherhill at Knoll Down 10:15a.m.

OS 157 Ref: SU 076 693

6 miles

An extra walk so that we can complete the White Horse Trail this summer!

6 May

8.15am

WHITE HORSE TRAIL Linear

Avebury to Overton Hill Public Parking area Overton Hill 10:15a.m.

OS 157 Ref: SU 118 681

8 miles

Transfer to Silbury Hill and walk to Tan Hill earthworks, then north to Overton Hill.

20 May

8.00am

SAMARITAN WAY SOUTH WEST Linear

Cosgate View Point, Malmshead 10:30a.m.

OL 9 Ref: SS 794 487

8 miles

Walk to Exford Common.

Please inform Tessa at least one week before the walk as we will use community transport to transfer back to the start (with a cost).

All walks include part of a recreational path. Contact tel: 01761 470453 or 07811008567 (on the day).

The Ramblers welcome new walkers. Try a few walks and if you like the experience join the Ramblers, to access over 500 led walks each week across England.

Mid - week walks start at a variety of times, please check programme. We also gather at High Street Car Park, Paulton, (by Golden Fields Chinese Take a Way) to share car driving. Please join us where it is easier for you. Please wear clothing suitable to weather conditions and wear stout shoes or boots. You will require a drink and some food to sustain you. A small first aid kit should be carried. Please inform the walk leader of any medical condition you have that may be affected by exercise. Norton Radstock Ramblers Mid-week walks are themed to include a stretch of the many recreational paths. The group also walks on Sundays, meeting at South Road Car Park, Midsomer Norton.

If you would like to lead a Wednesday walk, please talk to Tessa or Rose R.

New website for membership enquiries www.ramblers.org.uk/membershipenquiries

44

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MAJOR COMMUNITY EVENTS

FOR 2015 M

in the Town Hall and an art display along the ‘Left bank’ of the River Somer. There will be the first ever Midsomer Norton Film Festival in the Town Hall on Saturday 28th June.

idsomer Norton can look forward to a number of events in the coming months thanks to the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

Saturday 11th July 2015 Midsomer Norton Fayre Day – building on the success of last year’s event this will include:

Monday 25th May 2015 Midsomer Maypole Festival at Welton Green, 11 am- 1pm. Local schools are being invited to bring along teams of pupils to participate in a range of traditional maypole dances.

There will also be a selection of community groups stalls and light refreshments on sale.

• Town Show • Maypole Festival • Skate Jam • Egg Theatre performance • Community Stalls • Victoriana Tea Rooms

24th June – 30th June Midsomer Arts Week – headed up by Norton Hill and Somervale Schools, this event aims to celebrate arts in the Somer Valley. As well as an Arts Trail there will be events

• Punch & Judy • Children’s craft and music workshops • Play events • Brass band performance • Dance displays • And much, much more

For further details, see press or visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

NORTON GREEN FARM

NURSERY & GARDEN CENTRE Well worth a visit this Spring

• Vegetable Plants • Garden Tools • Spring Bedding • HTA Gift Vouchers • Shrub & Trees • Pots & Containers • Soft Fruit & Trees • Bird Food & Feeders • Seeds • Compost & Manures • Seed Potatoes • Bark & Mulches • Onion Sets and much more • Summer Bulbs Also a large range of • Fencing • Paving • Gravels • Grits Norton Green Farm Nursery, Wells Road Chilcompton, Nr Bath Tel: 01761 232137 Email: nortongreenfarm@tiscali.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10.30am-4.30pm

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

45

WELTON ROVERS ROUNDUP

A

s 2014 ended Welton Rovers chairman Stuart Minall looked back at 2014 and forward to 2015.

'Its been a hugely busy year for this club once again.

The enthusiasm that the volunteers behind the scenes at this club has is exceptional. One or two more would help though....

At the beginning of 2014 we said that we would get the new stand built and up and that's what we have done. This is the biggest change to the ground since the clubhouse was rebuilt in the 1980s and it replaces a stand we think was erected in the 1920s. We are still looking for a local business to come forwards and sponsor the stand, something which we think should be of great interest!

After a lot of thought we've also restructured the way in which the clubhouse is run. Traditionally we've hired a barman and volunteers have run the events we host, we've changed that; our Bar Steward is now also responsible for planning and managing an exceptionally full social calendar. We've recruited well known local entertainer Terry Andrews into that role and he has already made a noticeable difference - we're even serving meals every Friday night. Terry's got a great deal of contacts and we're genuinely excited about the coming year. He's already got a

lot of acts booked for the club and these will be advertised on our website and Facebook page.

In May we hosted our first Charity Day in aid of Dorothy House. This was fantastically well supported by the town, and we will be doing the same again this year.

In October we hosted a dinner with Liverpool legend Jan Molby which was a hugely successful evening.

We had a number of local businesses represented and I know that they had a great time. We're now planning the 2015 event and will be announcing the details soon.

Finally the football is going well across all of our three teams. The first team are well placed (at the time of writing) to push for promotion this season.

It's pleasing to see that we've attracted around an extra 25 people on average to our home games this season and I'd like to think we could be regularly getting another 25 on average by the end of 2015.

We know that Welton Rovers has been in the doldrums for a few years - but a huge amount of effort has gone into breathing some life back into the club. We'd like a few more people to come along each Saturday and support us and then 2015 will be another year to celebrate.'

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

47

RECIPES METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

SPINACH QUICHE INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup butter • 3 cloves garlic, chopped • 1 small onion, chopped • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained • 1 (4.5 ounce) can mushrooms, drained • 1 (6 ounce) package herb and garlic feta, crumbled • 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese • 1 (9 inch) unbaked deep dish pie crust • 4 eggs, beaten • 1 cup milk • salt and pepper to taste

2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Saute garlic and onion in butter until lightly browned, about 7 minutes. Stir in spinach, mushrooms, feta and 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese.

Season with salt and pepper. Spoon mixture into pie crust.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

Season with salt and pepper. Pour into the pastry shell, allowing egg mixture to thoroughly combine with spinach mixture.

4. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Sprinkle top with remaining Cheddar cheese, and bake an additional 35 to 40 minutes, until set in center.

Allow to stand 10 minutes before serving.

STRAWBERRY MUFFINS INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• 1/4 cup canola oil • 1/2 cup milk • 1 egg • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 cup white sugar • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup chopped strawberries

1 Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) oil an 8 cup muffin tin, or use paper liners.

2. In a small bowl, combine oil, milk, and egg. Beat lightly. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, baking powder and sugar. Toss in chopped strawberries and stir to coat with flour. Pour in milk mixture and stir together.

3. Fill muffin cups. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 25 minutes, or until the tops bounce back from the touch. Cool 10 minutes and remove from pans.

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48

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LIONS CLUB GIVES EQUIPMENT TO HORTICULTURE GROUP The Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club have donated £200 worth of gardening equipment to SWALLOW, a local charity supporting people with learning disabilities. The equipment, including a set of lightweight long handled tools that will benefit members with mobility issues (bending, reaching and grip) will be used in the Thursday horticulture work skills group. Here SWALLOW members learn skills such as planting, weeding and garden maintenance.

water; it's a great start to the year”.

To learn more about how SWALLOW supports adults with learning disabilities visit www. swallowcharity.org, find them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter or ring 01761 414 034.

Alexia Scott who leads the group said “this gift from the Lions club will make a real difference to the group, we have been able to buy adapted tools that will enable members to keep active and be involved in tasks that some have struggled with in the past.

Members of the Lions club presenting the We also now have a water butt to help to conserve equipment to SWALLOW.

t help a Need e? hom vice! d ree a f t Ge

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Free drop-in at Paulton Library Community Hub: first Monday each month 1pm - 4pm WE Care & Repair is funded by Bath & North East Somerset Council to help older and disabled people improve, maintain and adapt their properties so they can continue living independently in their own homes.

Come to our free drop-in to find out how we can help you ...

0300 323 0700

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUNG VOLUNTEER WINS TOP AWARD Shyam Sawhney, a volunteer with St John Ambulance’s Norton Radstock Unit, in Somerset, has been recognised for his commitment to the nation's leading first aid charity with the presentation of a Grand Prior Award.

49

an honour to know Shyam and see him develop from a shy, young lad to a talented, bright and promising young man.

‘Shyam will go out of his way to help anyone, especially with training; I find he has an amazing ability to be able to explain things in simple terms to our youngest volunteers, right up to our older Cadets.

‘He is an excellent role model and richly deserves this award.’

Shyam joined St John Ambulance in 2008 and has since clocked up over 600 voluntary hours, including gaining his Operational First Aider qualification and achieving the rank of Cadet Sergeant.

The award is the highest a Cadet can achieve and reflects the fact that Shyam, from Midsomer Norton, has shown a sustained effort studying 24 different subjects – including first aid, communication and working in the community.

In 2013, he helped to train many young people in Midsomer Norton – including the local Brownie group – in basic first aid, as part of the ‘90 for 90’ challenge celebrating nine decades of St John Ambulance Cadets.

He is the first Cadet from Midsomer Norton to gain the Grand Prior and was presented with his award on Sunday February 1, at a ceremony where guests included the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Councillor Paul Myers, along with St John Ambulance Area Manager, Geoff Clark and Area President, David Bird.

Shyam has also been awarded a Cadet Achievement Award, presented by HRH The Princess Royal, who is St John Ambulance Cadets’ Commandant-in-Chief.

Helen Jones, Norton Radstock Cadets’ Unit Manager said: ‘Over the last six years, it has been

For more information on St John Ambulance’s work, including how to become a volunteer and details of training for the public, schools and businesses, visit www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 10 49 50.

50

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

WELLBEING GROUP E

very Friday 10.30am to 12.30pm at the Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton

For people in Midsomer Norton who wish to improve their mental wellbeing, help is now even closer at hand thanks to a new service that has been launched.

The Community links service, run by Sirona Care & Health aims to raise awareness around health and mental wellbeing and this is initially being promoted by the launch of the group in Midsomer Norton which takes lace every Friday at the above venue.

Many people can face mental health issues for a range of reasons, such a living in isolation, loss of

employment, bereavement, divorce or illness, but individuals can now find help to improve their health and mental wellbeing at the group meeting, where social contact can improve individuals confidence and self esteem and members can discuss and agree any activity or courses they feel would benefit them.

If you consider this group would benefit you, or if you simply wish to meet new people then please contact: Sue Barrow on 01225 396042 or Heather Bonsey on 01225 835817.

The service can also be emailed at mhsls@sirona-cic.org.uk

ARLEEN COACH HIRE - DAY EXCURSIONS 2015 Phone: 01761 434625 Fax: 01761 436578 www.arleen.co.uk

In 2015 we celebrate 90 years of coach travel. As a special thank you to all our customers past, present and future we have reduced some of our prices on our most popular day trips.

Date

Tour

Adult

Child/OAP

Sun 1st March

POOLE VIA THE NEW FOREST

£12.00

£11.50

Sun 8th March

SIDMOUTH

£12.00

£11.50

Sat 21st March

LONDON IDEAL HOME SHOW - PLUS ADMISSION, OR TAKE THE TUBE IN TO TOWN, STATION OPPOSITE THE SHOW

£14.00

£13.50

Sun 15th March

WEYMOUTH

£12.00

£11.50

Sun 22nd March

BUCKFASTABBEY & TRAGO MILLS

£12.00

£11.50

Sun 29th March

TORQUAY

£12.00

£11.50

Sat 4th April

HALF TERM SPECIAL, LONDON SCIENCE AND THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUMS. CHILDREN 15 YEARS & UNDER HALF PRICE. FREE ENTRY TO MUSEUMS

£14.00

£10.00 OAP £7.00 Child

Sun 5th April

BOURNEMOUTH

£12.00

£11.50

Mon 6th April

PAIGNTON

£15.00

£14.50

Sun 12th April

BLENHEIM PALACE (BIRTHPLACE OF SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL)

# £12.00

# £11.50

Tues 14th April

ABERGAVENNY MARKET

£12.00

£11.50

Sun 19th April

EXMOUTH

£12.00

£11.50

Sun 26th April

BURNHAM ON SEA

£10.00

£9.50

We now pick up from Coleford and Holcombe Cross Roads, Mells. * Price includes admission # price excludes admission. Full payment on any booking. Booking office open 09:30 to 17:00 Mon to Fri, Sat 09:00 to 13:00 hrs 01761 434625. See over for our pick up points valid on all trips all year round.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

51

TOWN COUNCIL HAS

GONE CLONKERS!

C

lonkers Fitness Boxing Club has been using a grant of £1000 awarded by Midsomer Norton Town Council to purchase an assortment of Boxing equipment, safety gear and fitness training accessories including , punch bags, gloves, wall to ceiling balls, med balls, coaching gear and much more.

The Club is a self-funded fitness boxing group for both genders above the age of fourteen, and has been around for many years. All the coaching is done by volunteers and the club is experiencing a growth in popularity within the community in recent years. It is renowned for its hard work outs, which are boxing specific, with high energy cardio and intense endurance sessions - great for improving fitness, releasing stress, looking and feeling stronger and shedding the pounds.

“We are excited to have the Town Council’s support and really appreciate the funding which has given us so much more opportunity. We can now develop and grow within the community. We can involve fresh unique training routines which will improve our students’ skills and abilities and perform a wider range of boxing techniques to

increase the challenges. Together we can break down our barriers and achieve our goals”, said Jon Sawyer, a fully qualified fitness trainer who applied for the grant.

“I have been with Fitness Boxing for 8 years and originally I used it as a stress release and strengthener towards my other sports, while my friend used it to lose weight, gain confidence and seek a healthier life style. With the new kit this will gain even more interest, I feel it’s a huge leap forward, enabling us to achieve much higher levels, greater goals and train specifically. I hope from being a community group with support from the Town Council, we can keep moving in the right direction”, said Club member Darol aged 22, an experienced student of Clonkers.

The Club is looking to reach out further in the community to encourage diversity, support a variety of age groups and abilities and create positive activities for young people over 14, within a safe and social environment. The Club’s elite night on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15pm, has two places available. For further details contact clonkersboxingfitness@hotmail.com

52

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ARTISTS BI-ANNUAL ART TRAIL

For information on all the venues and activities please visit www.oldbakeryartists.co.uk.

The Old Bakery Artists Group is holding its biannual Arts Trail on 9th & 10th May 2015.

Whilst many of the group’s members will be showing their work in their homes, eight are joining forces to put on a show at the Town Hall which will include not just an exhibition of their work but also live demonstrations. The Town Hall exhibition will be open on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th of May between 10am till 4pm and is being sponsored by the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

There will also be a decorated duck competition at the various venues which people can take part in.

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Mothers Day Gifts and Cards Range of Garden Products Confectionary for Easter Homeware/Toiletries and much more ...ALL AT DISCOUNTED PRICES

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

53

SWIMMING CLUB DISCO & PRESENTATION

On Friday 30 January Norton Radstock Swimming Club held their Annual Disco and Presentation Evening at Paulton Rovers. Guests of honour were Midsomer Norton Mayor Paul Myers and Paralympian, IPC World Medallist, BBC & Sky Sports Presenter Kate Grey.

Two hundred and twenty eight guests including Life Members Charleen Green, Kay Harvey, Jim Isles and Olympian Stacey Tadd gathered to celebrate the achievements of all the swimmers and volunteers in 2014. Guests were met by a dazzling display of cups ready to be presented by the guests of honour to winners of the Annual Gala held in November. Certificates and medals were also presented by Club Captain Liam Willcox and Chairperson Nicky Vause to the top three placings and to the youngest members who swam in the Mini Gala.

The final award of the evening saw Liam presented with an engraved silver whistle, in recognition of his outstanding commitment to aquatics.

In 2014 Liam won B&NES Chairman’s Young Volunteer Award, SW Aqua Force Young Volunteer and was the national winner of the 2014 Aqua Force Award. British Swimming nominated him for the SOUK Young Official award, receiving runner up and he was also runner up in the Young Volunteer category at the Wesport Awards. In addition to volunteering at club Liam regularly assists coaches at Aquae Sulis and SW Disability sessions. At the end of March he will be attending the International Para Meet in Glasgow with the SW Disability Squad.

Liam is also a qualified Judge 2 and is a past graduate of the National Officials Talent Programme. In 2014 Liam officiated at competitions in the SW and nationally. National appointments have included Sports Relief, Invictus Games and Sainsbury’s School Games.

In April Liam will officiate over five days at the British Championships to be held at the London Aquatics Centre.

The Committee thanked all volunteers who help out regularly as teachers, poolside helpers, desk helpers and at times evenings. The club cannot operate without such willing support.

On behalf of the committee Nicky awarded Life Membership to Tara Howells in recognition of her outstanding volunteering service, with a bouquet presented by Tara’s daughter Mia.

The evening concluded with a buffet and entertainment from Ricky & Rocky Disco which also included singing, games and balloon modelling.

Team Manager and Lead Teacher, Kay Willcox presented certificates to swimmers Hannah, Katie, Millie, Kate, Finley and Louise who have helped on poolside regularly throughout the year.

If you would like to find out more about the club, or book an assessment, please contact the Enrolment Secretary – Kay Harvey on 01761 416050 or harvey2310@btinternet.com.

54

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

SOMER VALLEY FM SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP C

ommunity broadcaster Somer Valley FM and The Midsomer Norton School’s Partnership have signed a new Service Agreement for five years.

The radio station has worked closely with Somervale School since launching in 2008. The school owns the building the radio station uses as its principal base for studios and offices in

Midsomer Norton. This is offered at a pepper corn rent in return for educational services such as curricular support to media qualifications and training and work placement opportunities for students. It is estimated that over 600 students have benefited since summer 2008.

I NSU R A NC ET H A T ’ SO N Y O U RD O O R ST E P H av ing a l o c alo f f ic e me ans w e ’re ac c e ssibl e ,w h e t h e r yo u ne e dt omak e c h ange st oyo ur po l ic y,mak e ac l aim o r ne e df inanc ialadv ic e .

We c an h e l p yo uw it h : •H o me &C ar I nsuranc e •Busine ss & C o mme rc ialV e h ic l e I nsuranc e •R e t ire me ntP l anning •P ro t e c t io n NF UM ut ualF inanc ialA dv ise rs adv ise o n NF UM ut ualpro duc t s and se l e c t e d pro duc t sf ro m spe c ial istpro v ide rs.We ’l le xpl ain t h e se rv ic e sw e o f f e r and o ur c h arge s.

F o r a re alc o nve rsatio n abo ut yo ur ne e ds c al l0 1 7 61239382 o r po p intoo ur branc h NF UM ut ual,T h e O l d St abl e s,M ano rF arm,,St rat t o no nt h e F o sse , BA 34 Q F A ge nto fT h e Nat io nalF arme rs U nio nM ut ualI nsuranc e So c ie t yL imit e d.F o r se c urit y and t raining purpo se s, t e l e ph o ne c al l s may be re c o rde d and mo nit o re d.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Somer Valley FM started as a classroom project at Somervale and progressed to being the Radio Academy’s South West Station of the Year in its first five years. Ofcom have recently awarded a second license that means the station will be broadcasting until at least 2019. The new SLA will cover that period and has been drafted to reflect the station's relationship with Norton Hill as well as Somervale School.

INCLUSION QUALITY MARK PRESENTED

W with the Inclusion Quality Mark which has elton Primary School has been presented

been awarded in recognition of its dedication to ensuring everyone at Welton is listened to and cared for. This includes all pupils, staff, parents and carers.

Somer Valley FM’s manager, Dom Chambers, said “Community broadcasting works best when education links with business in a professional media setting. We came out of Somervale School and links with education remain at the heart of what we do. Our strong association with Somervale and Norton Hill Schools has provided a firm platform for us to build strong community engagement with maximum social impact. I am delighted that this important relationship is confirmed for another five years and very much look forward to developing our work with the schools to complement the education and well being of young people”.

Alun Williams, Head Teacher of both schools said “I am absolutely delighted that we can continue to support the fabulous work undertaken by Somer Valley FM. They have made a real difference to lives of many Somervale and Norton Hill Students and I know they will continue to do so into the future”.

BROOKES NEWS

More than just a Newsagents

Off Licence National Lotter� Convenience store Newspaper deliver�

Your local friendly store 01761 412378

Redfield Rd, Midsomer Nor�on

55

WELTON CABS 01761 417600 TAXI & COURIER SERVICE

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

HI-VIS VEST DONATION FOR WELTON PRIMARY SCHOOL

W donation of hi-vis vests with their elton Primary School received a

school logo printed on the front from Avon and Somerset Constabulary. This will enable the school to ensure children can be seen whilst on trips outside of school.

The children would like to express their thanks to Avon and Somerset Constabulary for their kind donation.

Speedcoat Specialists

For servicing, repairs and sales of all makes of caravans and motorhomes • • • •

Caravan Servicing Annual Habitation Checks Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers Warranty Maintained

• • • •

Damp Repairs Accident Repairs Insurance Repairs Accessory Fittings

Full range of accessories and equipment in our shop Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 1pm

Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade, Bristol BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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BRISTOL UNIVERSITY MATHEMATICS STUDENTS VISITS SOMERVALE SCHOOL

S

omervale School once again welcomed Mathematics students from Bristol University who led an afternoon of investigative mathematic challenges for Year 8 pupils.

Pupils worked in pairs answering problems that required mathematical thinking skills and

team work. Challenges included completing magic squares, finding the ‘shortest’ route and breaking codes. Pupils were awarded certificates in recognition of their efforts, enthusiasm and success at completing the tasks. The afternoon was enjoyed by all pupils and we look forward to Bristol University visiting us again in 2016.

FOOD DRINKS ALCOHOLIC DRINKS

55 High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DQ 01761 411192

TAPAS

coco

cocolounge.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK

The 2015-16 Precept and the Town Council’s Budget WHAT’S THE “PRECEPT”?

It’s the part of your Council Tax that comes to the Town Council for it to carry out its responsibilities.

It’s collected with your Council Tax by Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council and you will see it on your Council Tax bill along with the B&NES Council Tax as well as contributions towards Fire and Police services in the area.

Each year, the Town Council sets a budget for delivering its services and informs B&NES of the amount of money it needs to raise from Council Tax to cover these costs. This year, the budget has increased by just under 3%. But with additional houses being built and therefore more households paying Council Tax, it hasn’t been necessary to raise the amount charged to each household.

The basis for calculating the amount each household pays is the Tax Band of the house, expressed as a letter ranging from A to H with A paying the lowest and H the highest. Tax Band D is used as the “average” and with the Town Council Precept Figure for 2015-16 set at £86.16, Band D households will pay this figure for the year. Those in lower banded homes A-C will pay less and those in higher banded

Jacarandas

Award Winning Coffee Shop Easter/Spring Menu Healthy Options Menu Daily Hot Specials Homemade Food Recent winner of the Gold Eat Out Eat Well Award 109B High Street, Midsomer Norton 01761 410888

home E-H will pay more. For a Band D home, you pay about £1.66 a week.

WHAT’S THE TOWN COUNCIL’S BUDGET USED FOR? The budget for the coming year is £350,202 to be precise! The Town Council allocates funding to three key areas on a broadly equal basis – • Running Costs of the Council including staff costs, rent, insurance, room hire and professional fees • Things the Council has to do – its legal obligations such as maintaining play areas and allotments as well as keeping our equipment and property safe • Things the Council wants to do – the things that add real value such as making Grants to community groups, supporting youth programmes and big town events such as the Fayre and the Carnival The Town Council also has to make sure that it holds a reserve fund in the event of major unexpected expenditure and also to build reserves for special projects such as a capital projects like the Town Park.

WHO KEEPS AN EYE ON OUR FUNDS? The Council has to formally agree the budget and Precept in public and this happened on February 2nd this year. Our accounts and controls are audited twice – by a Town Council appointed auditor and then by an externally appointed company. We publish the audit notices and dates and copies of the accounts can be inspected here at the Town Council office.

Clive Stilwell Town Clerk

SPARE ROOM?

Families required to accommodate short stay German, American and French students.

Students stay 2/3/4 days - 2/3/4 students per family.

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

3 students x 4 nights £165 4 students x 4 nights £220 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

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

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Midsomer Norton Town Council Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton Bath BA3 2HQ - 01761 418701 townclerk@midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk

Brian Lawrence Finance Area: Redfield

Jane Lewis Planning Area: Welton North

Amy Purchase Community Groups and Young People Area: Welton

Linda Dunford Community groups & activities Area: Charlton Park

Lynda Robertson Comminuty groups & activities Area: Welton Centre

Clive Stilwell Town Clerk

Michael Evans Law & order Area: Town Centre South

Paul Myers Mayor; Civic Area: Redfield

Pete Mocock Planning Area: Hayes Park

Richard Robertson Allotments & Transport Area: Welton Centre

Steve Plumley Sport & Culture Area: Radstock Road

Sara Box Children & Young People Area: Withies Park