CHRISTMAS SOCIAL EVENTS

Ch i

Social Events

fter the successful introduction of last year’s Children’s Christmas Party and A Cinema Night, the Council was keen to host these events again for the children and young people of the town, along with what would have been the tenth year of the Seniors' Christmas Social. However, in the light of the continuing Covid-19 pandemic and with government social distancing rules in place, we do not believe that we can proceed safely, even though halls have been booked and planning for the celebrations was well underway. Therefore, the decision has very sadly had to be taken by the Town Council to cancel all three of this year’s Christmas events in order to protect the community.

Current government restrictions state that it is necessary to maintain social distancing from people you do not live with or who are not in your support bubble. The Government also recommends washing your hands regularly – which is not always easy with small children at a party! (This helps to protect you and anyone you

come into contact with.)

Hand washing and maintaining social distancing is critical to keeping everyone as safe as possible, which is our priority during these uncertain times. Capacity level restrictions in venues would also mean that fewer people would be able to attend each event. For the Seniors' Social this is not ideal as it regularly attracts a great deal of interest with over one hundred attendees, and more on a waiting list.

“We are hugely disappointed that the Council will not be able to hold these events because of the existing coronavirus restrictions, however, we do hope that in 2021 we will be able to proceed with all of the Christmas celebrations and make them bigger and better than ever before!” said Lynda Robertson, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

SAFE HANDOVER AT The

Lions

? t the Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club outgoing Lion President, Sarah A Oughton, handed over the chain of office virtually at a Zoom meeting during the summer lockdown to the incoming President, Colin Marsh, to stay safe but continue with business as usual. The club's new President joined Lions in 1981 when living in Surrey, where he belonged to two clubs in the South East before moving to this area in 2015. Although this is the first time for Colin as President of Radstock and Midsomer Norton, Colin has plenty of experience of the role serving as President in both his previous clubs, as well as serving Lions in most other offices.

Lions have continued to embrace technology and have been meeting on Zoom to plan for future activities and look at what kind of fundraising activities are possible in the new socially distanced world. Many of the events planned for this year have been put on hold and we hope to deliver them next year but other activities are gradually starting up again. Look out for Lions at the Farmers' Market and our litter picks will recommence on Saturday 12th September and anyone wishing to join us would be most welcome. All safety equipment will be supplied.

Telephone 0345 8339601 or 01761 235556 or email contact@rmnlions.org.uk

Jacarandas Award Winning Coffee Shop

New Autumn menu A fresh new look reopened for takeaways one way system with 2 doors for social distancing

Although the way forward is not easy in these uncertain times, Lions are always looking at how to serve and help the community. The club is adapting and evolving all the time and would welcome any help from the public to volunteer with us or join us as a full member. If you are a creative personality who cares about your community and wants to do positive activities in your spare time we would love to hear from you.

Magpie Vintage, Retro & Alternative Clothing, Jewellery & Curiosities Crystals & Gemstones

112 High Street, Midsomer Norton Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Tel: 01761 402428 @magpievintage19