Midsomer Norton Life - Autumn 2022

Autumn 2022 Issue 44

Your local community magazine

PLAN FOR

Back To School

COMMUNITY NEWS reports & InforMation – FIND It ALL INSIDE

INSIDE

midsomer NORTON Live music

COMMUNITY 5k AT THE TOWN PARK

AND LOTS MORE

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE H

ello and welcome to the autumn edition of Midsomer Norton Life, it might feel like Summer has only just begun but we’re already heading towards the end of another year!

In this issue, we will be focusing on staying safe during the autumn months, especially over Halloween and Bonfire Night, as well as top tips for getting ready for the return to school.

This time of year, there are lots of exciting seasonal events taking place, so make sure to check out our Live Local Music section and our What’s On and add those dates into your diary so you don’t miss out.

If you enjoy this issue and want to contribute to future editions, make sure to send your news, photos and events to news@ignyte-uk.co.uk. Our next issue is the Winter edition, where we will be getting ready for our annual Christmas events (too soon?), if you are interested in submitting your community news, photos and events, make sure to get them to us before 1st October.

In the meantime, enjoy this issue and we’ll see you soon!

follow us @MSNLife @midsomernortonlife @MidsomerLife

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

TOWN PARK COMMUNITY 5K

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MIDSOMER NORTON SCOUTS

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MIDSOMER NORTON STATION

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BACK TO SCHOOL

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HIGH STREET HERITAGE ACTION ZONE HEALTH AND WELLBEING CENTRE

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CIVIC AWARDS

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WHAT'S ON

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STAYING SAFE DURING HALLOWEEN

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COUNCIL ROUNDUP

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MIDSOMER MUSIC

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MIDSOMER NORTON TO GALLIFREY VIA WESTEROS

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STAY SAFE THIS BONFIRE NIGHT

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SOMER VALLEY FOODBANK

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SOMER VALLEY FM

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CARNIVAL IS BACK

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THINGS TO DO

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The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in November 2022. If you would like your group or organisation to be included in our next issue, please contact us on 01761 410141 or news@ignyte-uk.co.uk before the deadline of 1st October 2022.

Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN 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 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 Town Park Community 5k

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he new Town Park in Midsomer Norton hosted the first free timed 5k Community Run last Saturday organised by the Welton Church Runners.

The event was started by Midsomer Norton’s Mayor Lynda Robertson, whose husband Richard blew a perfect G on his pocket trumpet! The new course took 70 runners and walkers through the park and up the newly created zigzag path to the Five Arches Greenway. After completing the Greenway and the Batch path, participants made their way down the zigzag again to finish near the Somer Centre. Participants came mainly from the local area and the local running clubs: Somer AC, Westfield TT and Welton Church Runners, were all well represented. The youngest 5k runner was just 5 years old with the oldest runner clocking up

a healthy 66 years. In addition to the 5k, another 20 runners completed the 1.2km fun run. The event was won by Nicholas Beazley-Long in 21 min 15 sec and Marianne Carpenter in 23 min 33 sec.

Free refreshments provided by Welton Baptist Church afterwards in the Somer Centre were very well received and encouraged the community spirit. “Feedback from the runners and walkers was so good that we hope to put on more free runs in the future,” said Eugene Kertzman, co-organiser.

“Welton Church Runners are extremely grateful to the Midsomer Norton Town Trust and The Conservation Volunteers in helping to creating this lovely course through the Town Park”.

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Summer activities at Midsomer Norton Scouts

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idsomer Norton Scouts are looking forward to the summer holidays with the Cubs and Beaver groups getting a well-earned rest and our Scouts off for a week in Sidmouth.

The Sidmouth camp has lots of fun and challenging activities planned from rock climbing and abseiling to sea kayaking and all of the usual camp-side goings-on – zip wire, campfires, and BBQs. Alex Harrington, our Scout Troop Section Leader, said: “We are all looking forward to a week on the beautiful Devon coast – scouts and leaders alike.

We have a full programme planned, learning new skills for some, encouraging everyone to take part and help out on camp. Here’s to a great time of songs, stories and s’mores around the campfire!”

If you are interested in joining our Leader Team, passing on your enthusiasm and helping to build a sense of achievement in our young people, or in enrolling your children in our Beaver colonies, (aged from 6 years), then please do let us know by contacting our Group Scout Leader, Helen Lear, at gsl@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk

Meanwhile back in the Scout Hall, we are hopefully looking at a summer of refurbishment, with plans to redecorate the main hall meeting room ready for the restart in September. We are also looking to rent out the hall and earn some much-needed income.

Income that will allow us to continue to build scouting in the area and offer young people skills for life. Through scouting, we want to actively engage and support as many young people as we can in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

If you are looking for a space to rent for your exercise classes, toddler sessions, handicraft meetings or talking groups, then please do get in touch at bookings@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk and we’d be happy to share our hall.

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MIDSOMER NORTON STATION NEWS

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n Saturday, 4th June, the railway station at Midsomer Norton South, Silver Street, hosted an extremely well-attended party to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, in conjunction with MSN Town Council, who also provided financial support. It was a most enjoyable day and we hope to welcome everyone back to the railway at some point in the future.

We continue to host educational visits for schools, with children experiencing a train ride and visits to the signal box, museum and pill box.

The newly opened Norton Hill Primary School made its first ever visit to the railway on 6th June which they thoroughly enjoyed.

rides in our summer timetable. We are running on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays throughout the school holidays.

We will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the last ‘Pines Express’ and welcoming a guest visit from an Ivatt 2-6-2t tank locomotive on 17th and 18th September whilst Austin 1 will continue as our visiting engine until January 2023.

The big event of the year is, of course, our Santa Specials, so keep an eye out for release of tickets soon.

More details can be found on our website: www.sdjr.co.uk. We look forward to welcoming you to our lovely, friendly railway.

The summer running season has been very busy at the station. For the first time – but certainly not the last – we offered cream tea specials, which have proved very popular. There is still plenty of time to enjoy steam, diesel and Wickham trolley

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Get back to school ready It might seem like the summer has only just started but

the new school term will be rolling around soon enough.

Here are our top tips for getting back to school ready with as little anxiety as possible.

Keep the kids’ minds active

With work and life in general taking up most of your time, you likely don’t have the energy for making sure the kids are keeping their minds active during the school holidays and we’re sure they would much rather be out and about with their friends or relaxing in front of the TV. One way to make sure they are ready to return to school is to make sure their minds don’t stagnate over the holidays and you can do this without making them give up the things they want to do. You could get them to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge, challenge them to watch a documentary or two during the week or if they’re going out, talk to them about any wildlife they have spotted along the way. By doing this, they will be in good shape for returning to lessons in September.

Gradually reintroduce routines

Ok, so we all deserve a lie in or two after a hectic summer term but one way to make sure everyone is prepared for early mornings once September rolls around is to slowly reintroduce your term time routines. Start by bringing in a morning routine and set times for lunch and bed, this will make the transition back to school much easier.

Get your equipment ahead of time

While you might want to wait to get your uniform and shoes (kids have this annoying habit of growing at the most inopportune times!) until as late as possible, with the rising cost of living, it is always worth spreading the cost of everything you need out across the summer holidays. That way you can make sure you have pens, pencils, pencil cases, PE Kits and uniforms all ready to go by the time they go back.

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back to school – lunchbox Tips –

If you need some inspiration for the Back to School lunches, here are some top tips for healthy, cost effective lunch boxes that the kids will love.

Use carbs as a base Base the main item of your lunchbox on foods that are high in carbohydrate like bread, rice, pasta and potatoes. These items slowly release energy which will keep their minds active and will also keep them fuller for longer. If you can use wholegrain foods – even better! If your child does not like wholegrain, try easing them in by using one slice of white bread and one slice of brown with their sandwiches.

By utilising your freezer, you can also save money on lots of different items by batch cooking and buying new bread items with every shop and storing them for later, that way you will always have a variety of options, like bagels, pittas and wraps as well as sliced bread on hand.

Get the kids involved Food is always more exciting if you can get involved. Wraps and pots of filling are a hit for kids that like to build their own lunches and food they can eat with a dip will make a nice change from having sandwiches every day and will allow you to use items like breadsticks and crackers, which are low in cost. Similarly, if the kids are allowed to choose things for their lunchboxes, they will be more inclined to eat them!

Keep it healthy Always add salad to sandwiches and wraps – it counts towards your five a day and adds interesting textures and flavours.

Always make a point of adding veg to your lunchboxes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices and sticks of carrot, pepper and celery are all ways of getting healthy snacks into their diet. Bite-sized pieces of fruit are also a good way to help them get a sugar fix without including cereal bars or chocolate – tinned fruit and fruit pots are good options too!

Cut down crisps and fat If your child is a bit of a crisp fiend, don’t take them away completely, just cut down on the amount of days that crisps feature in their lunchboxes, instead why not swap them out for popcorn or rice cakes or even have a go at making your own crisps out of apples or potatoes for a fun activity together.

Variety is the spice of life The main thing to remember is that no one wants their lunch to be boring – be adventurous and mix it up a bit, maybe set up a rota so you can make sure that there are different items each day.

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High Street Heritage Action Zone UPDATE

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s always, the High Street Heritage Action Zone (‘HSHAZ’) Project Team has been hard at work since the last Life update, with progress made across the High Street renewal scheme.

Key updates include: New ‘YourMidsomerNorton.co.uk’ Website A major milestone for the HSHAZ project was the launch of the ‘Your Midsomer Norton’ website this Spring. As well as being the place to go for detailed information and updates on the HSHAZ project, the website is also intended as a community resource and is regularly updated.

Features include blog posts, events listings and recommendations for things to do in the town centre. If you would like to tell us more about an event you are running or have ideas for new features, please get in touch.

Cultural Programme The HSHAZ Cultural Programme – which delivers new and improved events and activities in the town centre – has gone from strength to strength over 2022. In June, a new short film celebrating Midsomer Norton’s ‘High Street Heroes’ was named Best Animated Short by the Cotswold International Film Festival.

Created by filmmaker Howard Vause, in collaboration with Midsomer Norton Primary School children, it tells the stories of unsung heroes who have made a difference in our town, or who have achieved great things in their lives and careers. You can watch the full film on YourMidsomerNorton.co.uk under the Cultural Programme pages.

Next up in the Cultural Programme calendar is Heritage Open Days, which takes place from Friday 9 until Monday 18 September 2022. This national festival will see heritage buildings and little-known historic and natural sites open their doors to visitors for free.

On Saturday 10th September, you are warmly invited to join the Cultural Programme team in the Town Hall (10.00am – 2.00pm) to participate in fun activities for the whole family, learn about the

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building’s past and hear about plans for its future.

Elsewhere, there will be special tours, heritage trails and workshops happening all over Midsomer Norton – visit YourMidsomerNorton.co.uk for more information.

Investigative Works and Traffic Closures at The Island Following lengthy discussions between B&NES Council and the Government’s environmental advisers, we are pleased that structural investigations on the Victorian culvert beneath The Island can now go ahead in early August.

These works, which will include digging trial pits and taking brick core samples, are necessary to determine the structural integrity and strength of the 150-year-old culvert structure for safety reasons and to prepare for the redevelopment of the new Market Square. We have been advised that the Council will be contacting local residents

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and businesses soon and will seek to minimise disruption as far as possible, with access and car parking provided when safe to do so and outside of working hours.

For more information about the HSHAZ Project or Cultural Programme please visit: YourMidsomerNorton.co.uk.

The High Street Project Manager and Cultural Programme Engagement Coordinator would also be happy to hear from you and can be contacted via email at: MidsomerNortonHSHAZ@bathnes.gov.uk / culture@midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk You can also write to the High Street Project Manager and Engagement Coordinator at: High Street Heritage Action Zone, c/o Midsomer Norton Town Council, The Island, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HQ.

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Norton Radstock Swimming Club Rebuilding after Covid

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ur swimming club has existed in Midsomer Norton for over sixty years, currently located at the Dragonfly Leisure Centre in Midsomer Norton. We are a small, friendly club, which operates independently of the centre.

We are currently seeing a steady flow of new members to the club and becoming increasingly competitive at local swim meets as the club grows in strength after Covid restrictions hindered our ability to operate.

Our sessions are lead by A.N.T swimming coaches for children from Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding villages. We also have swimmers from neighbouring counties travel to us to access the quality coaching our members receive. We are an inclusive club with experience of the Para Pathway.

A.N.T. Swimming are proud to have a fully qualified, experienced team of coaching staff.

They provide a bespoke approach to swim coaching, focusing on the individual requirements for each swimmer looking to improve on existing skills and techniques. They work in partnership with the club and our swimmers, helping them develop their performance and mind-set on the pathway to achieving their goals, whether this be

competing at swim meets or simply improving their mental and physical well-being.

Our aim is to provide an opportunity for children whom having reached the recommended stage of Swim England’s Learn to Swim Programme, make a successful transition into a club environment.

Swimmer’s continued development is under pinned by a skills based approach to refine stroke technique and competitive skills. The long term aim is for all swimmers to be developed to their full potential, compete at the highest possible level (where the swimmers wish to compete) and develop a lifelong love of aquatics.

We are affiliated to Swim England South West & Somerset and have the Swim England’s Quality Mark, which recognises the clubs commitment to providing a safe, effective and quality service for the benefit of our members.

We train on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at the Leisure Centre, with swimmers being able to choose to attend several swim meets across the region throughout the year.

For more information about the club, membership or to arrange a taster session, you can email membership@nrswimmingclub.org.uk

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A NEw health and wellbeing centre FOR THE AREA

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new state-of-the-art health and wellbeing centre is opening in Radstock, providing local people with access to expanded GP services, a children’s centre and health and wellbeing support.

The Hope House Centre will provide a new home for the town’s Hope House GP surgery and children’s centre as well as offering a range of other services such as minor operations, chronic disease management and family planning.

It will also offer physiotherapy, a diabetes prevention programme and counselling services which local people would otherwise need to travel to further afield to access.

From Monday 18th July, all face-to-face appointments will take place at the new centre which is situated at 10 Waterloo Road, Radstock, BA3 3EP. There will be on-site parking for patients, as well as dedicated disabled parking spaces and a bike rack next to the entrance.

The centre has received £2.4 million from the NHS England and NHS Improvement Estates and Technology Transformation Fund as well as £4.3 million of investment from Hope House Surgery, Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and the Radstock and Westfield Big Local.

The Hope House Centre incorporates a Community Health and Wellbeing space supported by the Radstock and Westfield Big Local Partnership, with a Big Local grant administered on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund. This space will allow for local voluntary organisations such as Bath Mind and Southside family project to provide additional mental health support, as well as space for child and parent groups, exercise programmes, family support,

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general health improvement programmes and a meeting area for the local community.

Dr Bryn Bird, Locality Clinical Lead for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the new Hope House Centre will be opening on Monday 18th July. The centre will offer local residents a wide range of health and wellbeing services under one roof and reduce the need to travel further afield.

“The new centre will offer truly integrated services, bringing health care, children’s services and health and wellbeing support for the people of Radstock together in one purpose built, easy to access building.”

Stephanie Coombs, Practice Manager for Hope House Surgery, said: “Hope House Centre will allow us to continue to provide general practice services to the growing local population and to develop further enhanced services for our community.

“We know that being able to offer a range of services under one roof is really important and will deliver a number of health benefits to our population from an easily accessible location in the centre of Radstock.

“Existing patients of Hope House surgery in Radstock will not need to re-register and will be able to access services and appointments as usual.”

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Bath & North East Somerset Council will fund the part of the building that will house the children’s centre.

Councillor Dine Romero, Bath & North East Somerset cabinet member for Children and Young People, Communities, said: “Bringing these services together in one fantastic new building helps improve people’s lives for both the residents using the Hope House centre and for the staff delivering services from it. It’s a much-needed and very welcome investment.”

Robin Moss, Chair of Radstock and Westfield Big Local CIC, said: "One of the key questions asked

by Big Local is 'how can we help to improve the health of our local residents?' This financial support for the new Hope House Centre and our partnership with the local GP practice is an important part of the answer."

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TOWN COUNCIL'S Civic Awards

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idsomer Norton Town Council held its first Civic Awards since 2019 on Sunday, 19th June, at St John’s Church.

Community Group of the Year - Wombles of Midsomer Norton and Surrounding Area in recognition of service to the community during lockdown and beyond in keeping streets and public areas free of litter.

The Youth Achievement Award - Sophie Rowe and Ruby Russell in recognition of their qualification for United Dance Organisation World Dance Championships and Olympic Championships, where Team England placed 2nd in the world for hip hop, bringing home the silver trophy.

The Youth Group Leader of the Year - Jon Swift of Midsomer Norton Rugby Club in recognition of the time and energy dedicated to the Junior section refurbishing clubhouse facilities for families to enjoy.

Sports Achievement of the Year - Tom Smith in recognition of his role as Manager of Welton Rovers and managing the team to promotion to the Western Premier League.

Contribution to Community - Martyn Plant in recognition of voluntary contributions to the town’s cultural events and being the vision and driving force behind the Jubilee music day in the Town Park.

The Community Volunteers of the Year - Midsomer Norton Community Pantry in recognition of the establishment and maintenance of the Community Pantry which provides free food and essentials for anyone in need in the town.

The Community Volunteers of the Year - Jon Durrant and Lottie Durrant in recognition of tireless community minded work through the Community Food Network, Welton Rovers, Town Council and Community Trust events.

Community Volunteer of the Year - Timothy Grautstuck in recognition of the lifeline offered to neighbours who were shielding during lockdown, shopping for vulnerable and isolated people.

Community Volunteer of the Year - Toby Reakes in recognition of extensive voluntary work undertaken with 3SG, collecting medication for vulnerable people, delivering leaflets and COVID marshalling at Bath Racecourse.

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Contribution to Civic Life - Rebecca Brooks in recognition of service to the community through professional journalism and editorship of the Midsomer Norton, Radstock and District Journal.

Lifetime Achievement Awards - Graeme Savage and Elizabeth Maggs, presented by the Mayor and Deputy, respectively.

Elizabeth Maggs was recognised for years of service through Midsomer Norton Churches Together, managing local Trussell Trust Foodbanks, her work for the Street Pastors, and maintaining a clothing and furniture bank for people in need. Graeme Savage for twenty-four years’ service to the Merriman Theatre Group, offering performance opportunities and skills development workshops for young people in Midsomer Norton.

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New Exhibitions at Radstock Museum Locally made clay tobacco pipes exhibition.

Did you know that clay tobacco pipes were made in Chilcompton, Oakhill, Stratton-on-the-Fosse and Leigh-on-Mendip? Come and see some of these locally made pipes at Radstock Museum.

Clay pipe making in the Radstock, and north-east Mendips area is the subject of a new display at Radstock Museum. Remnants of clay tobacco pipes can be found almost anywhere, even in your garden. The industry started in Norton St Philip in around 1620, and the early apprentices subsequently started their own workshops in the Mendip parishes where they grew up. The display has been put together by Marek Lewcun, whose mother, Daphne was descended from the pipe maker, Thomas Whittock. There will be a display of pipes made in the area, and information panels with copies of old documents to accompany them.

The area can also boast one of the most infamous pirates of the nineteenth century, a fact which was not known until just one year ago. Born in Shepton Mallet, William Watts served as an apprentice to a pipe maker in Ashwick, but his life quickly descended into a life of crime. His trial was an international sensation, and he was the last pirate to be hanged at Execution Dock in London in 1830. To find out the full story, come and visit the exhibition.

The History of Methodism In Our Local Area.

Did you know that several local Methodist chapels were built by coal miners, with their own money and their bare hands?

Deeply embedded in the mining and later, the railway community, Methodist spirituality sustained people through hard times, especially the 1908 Norton Hill mine disaster, and the First

World War. Radstock residents recall Sunday School outings to the seaside and all the fun of the youth clubs and choirs. Several chapels, like Westfield Primitive Methodist Church (1861), were built by the miners themselves, with their money, and their bare hands. The earliest foundation stone found so far, is in Combend, Radstock and dated 1810.

This exhibition will focus on: Redfield Road, Midsomer Norton, the Clandown chapels, Frome Road independent chapel, Radstock Wesleyan Church, Wells Hill United Chapel, and Writhlington. Both exhibitions will run from August 23rd until November 30th 2020.

“A Victorian Christmas” Saturday 26th November at Radstock Museum A date for your diary. A “Victorian Christmas” family event will take place at Radstock Museum during the afternoon of the 26th November. There will be lots to see and do with Victorian themed arts and crafts for children, Victorian Christmas history, and demonstrations, a Victorian style Christmas grotto, warming winter refreshments and gifts. This will be followed at 5pm by the Christmas lights being switched on in Radstock at the Miners’ Wheel, just outside the museum.

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Do you know someone who is struggling with sight loss?

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ight Support social groups are a place where people with sight loss can come together, share experiences, swap tips and tricks for living with sight loss and most importantly, chat, relax and enjoy each other’s company.

This Community Hub is available on a drop-in basis, or you can book an appointment if you prefer. A Community Sight Loss Advisor will be at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on the 2nd Friday of each month.

The groups are run by lovely volunteers who will make you feel welcome. Sight loss doesn’t have to mean being isolated, so why not pop along to one of the friendly social groups.

Please call Sight Support on 0117 3224885 or email us at info@sightsupportwest.org.uk to make an appointment or for more information

The volunteer led social group takes place at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on the 4th Thursday of each month.

Whether its advice and guidance you need, or a friendly get together, we have something for you.

Running alongside the social group is a Community Hub, open from 10.00 am until 1.00 pm, where you can get information and advice on living with sight loss. A Community Sight Loss Advisor will be on hand with a display of daily living aids and resources that can help with everyday tasks. They can provide information, advice and guidance on anything to do with living with sight loss.

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WHAT’S ON AUGUST 17th - Neighbourhood Team Beat Surgery, 11 am at Essence Café, Holly Court 27th - Late Summer Weekend at Midsomer Norton Station 28th - Outfield Festival. Gate 12 noon. Midsomer Norton Rugby Club.

SEPTEMBER 1st - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club 2nd - Autumn Gala, the Pines Remembered at Midsomer Norton Station 3rd - Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market 5th - Midsomer Norton Councillor Surgery, 6pm, at Assembly Rooms, Midsomer Norton Town Hall 5th - Midsomer Norton Town Council meeting, 7pm, at Midsomer Norton Town Hall

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12th - Planning meeting, 7pm, Midsomer Norton Town Hall 14th - Neighbourhood Team Beat Surgery, 11am at Essence Café, Holly Court 17th - The Pines Remembered at Midsomer Norton Station 30th - He’s the One, tribute to Robbie Williams and 2 course meal, 7pm at Centurion Hotel

OCTOBER 1st - Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market 3rd - Midsomer Norton Town Council meeting, 7pm, at Midsomer Norton Town Hall 6th - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club 10th - Planning meeting, 7pm, at Midsomer Norton Station 12th - Neighbourhood Team Beat Surgery, 11 am at Essence Café, Holly Court 29th - Halloween at the Station

Do you have an event over the Winter months you would like to tell everyone about?

Email us at zoe@ignyte.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Do you have what it takes to be CARNIVAL ROYALTY?

O

n Friday, 23rd September, Midsomer Norton & District Carnival will be looking for this year’s Carnival Royalty. The first competition since COVID cancelled events for the last 2 years.

The Royal party traditionally lead the grand illuminated carnival parade along the route through Midsomer Norton, overseeing the route from the Royal glass coach.

As well as the honour of being carnival royalty,

there is also some prize money up for grabs across all four of the positions available, these include: Carnival Queen – (Age 10 to 18) Winning £50 Carnival King – (Age 10 to 18) Winning £50 Carnival Princess – (Age 5 to 9) Winning £30 Carnival Prince – (Age 5 to 9) Winning £30 To enter, just complete the form on the website www.illuminatedcarnival.co.uk and then go along to the competition on Friday, 23rd September at Prattens from 7.30pm.

Staying safe during

Halloween H

alloween can be great fun, especially for kids.

And lots of us enjoy seeing local children out trick or treating in their costumes. However, for some people, it can be a worry – especially if they’re home alone and concerned about callers after dark.

While none of us wants to spoil the fun, we also shouldn’t have to feel scared or anxious in our own homes. Here are some simple things we can all do to make sure Halloween remains good fun for everyone.

If you're concerned about staying safe: • Always put the door chain on and look out of the window or spy hole to see who's there before opening the door.

• Take particular care if there's more than one person on your doorstep.

• Only open the door if you feel safe to do so. If you're in any doubt or don't feel safe, don't – it's fine not to answer the door if you don't want to.

• If you're really worried, invite a friend or relative around and spend the evening together.

If you're out trick or treating: • Remember that some older people and other members of your community might not want to be disturbed. A good rule of thumb is to look for a pumpkin outside the house – that's a sign the house is happy to receive trick or treaters.

• Be mindful of noise late at night.

• Don't persistently ring someone's doorbell, knock on their door or return to their house later. If they don't answer, it's best to move on.

• While it is tempting to wear dark, creepy clothes for Halloween, it does get dark earlier at this time of year, so wearing something reflective and bright will keep you visible to motorists.

• When the kids get home, make sure to do a quick sweep of their treats and to get rid of anything that isn’t in the original wrapper or looks like it has been opened already.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Council Roundup

T

he Annual Meeting of the Town Council was held on the 9th of May in the Assembly Room at the Town Hall. Cllr Lynda Robertson was re-elected to serve as Mayor and Cllr Gordon Mackay was elected as Deputy Mayor for the Municipal Year 2022/2023. The Council resolved to disband the Finance and Operations Committee and incorporate these matters into Full Council meetings which will now be held monthly. The Planning Committee will continue to be held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings start with a public questions item and residents are encouraged to attend.

The new gate at the Garden of Friendship has been installed along with the new flowerbeds, steps and pathways. The new hedge alongside Sainsbury’s car park, will be planted in the autumn.

Along with the existing benches, this attractive space is now a great place to meet friends. The project received £3000 of funding from our Local Authority councillors through the Ward Councillor Empowerment Fund.

Work on the Town Hall Transformation project will be starting soon, meaning the building will be closed for a considerable time. Please refer to our website for the latest information as the situation develops.

A new Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) has been completed with the help of National Lottery Funding at West Clewes, comprising of a Penalty Shootout, Wicket Cricket, a Hot Shot Target Wall, Tennis, Basketball and 5-a-side Football.

The Council’s new website continues to be well received and has a greatly increased audience.

The Council also regularly updates its Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and new YouTube channels.

The website launch prize-raffle has now ended, and we’ll soon be contacting the lucky winners.

Thanks to all those who signed up.

Further to a public procurement process, the Town Council have awarded a new Street Marshal contract to Midas, an established security firm based in Bath. All the Marshals hold the relevant Home Office and SIA accredited licenses, as well as qualifications from across a multitude of areas.

The marshals will be on duty every Friday and Saturday night patrolling the town centre area to offer assistance and provide peace of mind to residents and visitors to Midsomer Norton.

For more details about Council projects and to keep up with the latest news and developments from the Town Council and for links to our social media, visit www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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SHORT MAT BOWLs - Give it a try

T

his July, the club celebrated it’s 25th anniversary playing an afternoon of bowls followed by a party. Over the last few months, the club have also played friendly matches against clubs from both the Mendip and Bristol and District leagues.

If you are looking for a new interest, make new friends and get some gentle exercise, then why not give short mat bowls a try?

The club meet on Tuesdays and Fridays for a 2pm start and finishing at approx. 4pm with tea, coffee and biscuits. All you need is a flat pair of shoes or slippers and the club have various sets of bowls you can use.

They welcome members of all ages – so why not pop along and give it a go?

For further information, you can contact, Peter Barter on 01761 418400 or Roy Kerley on 07596890827.

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Midsomer Music MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

AUGUST

13th – Rock solid at Riverside 9pm 13th – Goodnight Lois at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 20th – Elton John essential tribute band at Riverside 20th – Big Mama’s Bannned at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 27th – 80s/90s Party with Fantastique at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 27th – Rough justice at Riverside

SEPTEMBER 3rd – Angel heart at Riverside 3rd – Jukebox Engineers at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 10th – The Skinny Dippers at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 10th – Apache Storm at Riverside 17th – 52nd State at Riverside 17th – The Offshoots at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 24th – The Haus Band at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 24th – Phoenix River band at Riverside

OCTOBER 1st – Voodoo Seven at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 1st – Powerload at Riverside 8th – The Walker Close Band at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 8th – Doc Rock at Riverside 15th – Elevation at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 15th – Nightlarks at Riverside 22nd – Down and dirty at Riverside 22nd – AngelHeart at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry 29th – Reboot Band at Riverside 29th – Halloween Party with Limited Edition at Mardons Social Club, 9pm, free entry

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

West Clewes Multi Use Games Area now open

M

ayor of Midsomer Norton, Lynda Robertson, has officially opened the new Multi Use Games Area at West Clewes.

The new play and sports area was funded

by B&NES and the National Lottery with a contribution from West Clewes Recreational Trust, planning permission was granted last year and work on the games area began in May. The new equipment features everything you need to enjoy a range of sports and leisure activities, including penalty shootout, wicket cricket, hot shot target wall, tennis, basketball and football and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

From Midsomer Norton to Gallifrey via Westeros

D

id you know there are a host of wellknown people from the Midsomer Norton area? Here are some of the famous folk that have called Midsomer Norton and the surrounding area home, how many of them did you know?

The Beauchamp family If you’ve driven up near the White Post recently you may have noticed the estate has the name Beauchamp – this comes from the prominent family that lived in Midsomer Norton in the 1880s. Sir Frank Beauchamp was the owner of several of the local coalmines, while his relatives, Joan and Kay Beauchamp were famous for a very different reason. Joan Beauchamp founded the Communist Party of Great Britain and was a Suffragette with associations with the Pankhursts. She was also known to be a journalist during WWII and was subsequently injured in a bomb raid. Her sister Kay was also a prominent suffragette and member of the Communist Party, founding a newspaper called the Daily Walker, which later became the Morning Star. The sisters lived at Welton Manor Farm.

Chloe Davies The British paralympic swimmer competed in the 2012 Summer Paralympics and was Britain’s youngest competitor in those games. She was born in Midsomer Norton and learned to swim in Trowbridge.

David Fisher Award winning artist David Fisher starter his career as a signwriter in Midsomer Norton before going on to become a freelance artist and designer. He began his own business in Church Square, Midsomer Norton, painting pub signs for a host of local pubs and other businesses. During the course of his career, he was part of the Old Bakery Artists group that meet in Radstock.

Roald Dahl Yes, ok, the children’s author was from a Scandinavian family and grew up in Wales, but his first job was working as a door to door salesman in Midsomer Norton!

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Anita Harris Star of the Carry On films, the actress and singer had a number of chart hits during the 1960s. She appeared on the Morecambe and Wise Show and Basil Brush before appearing in a variety of theatre performances. In recent years she has appeared on Celebrity MasterChef, EastEnders and Midsomer Murders.

Gareth and Kim Paisey The Paiseys are part of Los Campesonos! A seven piece band that formed after meeting at Cardiff University – though none of the members are Welsh. Gareth is credited as being the band’s vocalist and for playing the glockenspiel, while Kim plays keyboard and flute. Gareth Paisey is also known locally for his association with Welton Rovers FC. The band’s music was most recently featured in the film the Mitchells vs the Machines.

Chris Urch Born and raised in Midsomer Norton, Chris Urch, attended Somervale School before moving to London where he trained as an actor before turning to writing plays. His first full length production, Land of Our Fathers told the story of the coalmines and received wide critical

29

acclaim and transferred to the West End before embarking on a nationwide tour. His second also won multiple awards.

Maisie Williams Best known for her role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, Maisie Williams grew up in Clutton and attended school in Midsomer Norton and Radstock. She began her professional acting career at the age of 12 on the hugely popular Game of Thrones before moving into film, theatre and other cult television programmes including Doctor Who. She is currently appearing in Pistol, a biopic about the Sex Pistols which is streaming on Disney+.

Steve Voake Author of 23 books, Steve Voake grew up in Midsomer Norton, after leaving school he sold ice creams in France before returning to the UK and following in his father’s footsteps to become a teacher. His teaching career took him to Midsomer Norton County Primary School and Kilmersdon Primary School, where he wrote in his spare time. His work has been published all over the world and there was a bidding war among publishers for his first book, Dreamwalkers. He still has connections to the area as he works with Bath Spa University and as a Royal Literary Fellow at the University of Exeter.

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Stay safe this bonfire night

30

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

We would always recommend going to an organised display where you can be sure of safety measures and help contribute to fundraising for the local area. If you are choosing to host your own display in your garden, here are some top tips to make sure everyone has fun and stays safe at the same time.

It has been reported that over 5,000 children are rushed to hospital every year for burns sustained over bonfire night. It isn’t just the kids that can become injured, so make sure to stay safe.

Make sure to store your fireworks safely – follow all the instructions on the box and keep them hidden until it is time to use them.

On the day, make sure to follow the safety instructions that come with your fireworks. The safest place to be is around 18 metres or 60 feet from a bonfire, so it is advisable to set up a parameter so you and your family will know where best to stand. You should set up well away from any buildings, trees, hedges, fences or sheds and be sure to tell your neighbours before setting any fireworks off. You should also be aware that you should not be letting off loud fireworks after 11pm.

When you are ready to light your fireworks, have a bucket of water at the ready and read the individual instructions carefully. Remember to

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always hold the fireworks at arm’s length and to light it with a taper or specialised lighter. Don’t go back to the firework once you’ve lit it, even if it takes some time to get going. If you’re in charge of lighting the fireworks, avoid any alcohol – you should be in control at all times.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 31 Indoor pets (cats, dogs, etc)

If you have pets that generally live indoors, make sure to keep them in on nights you know your neighbours are planning to have fireworks or the local organised displays are going on.

When you’re finished, don’t throw spent fireworks into the bonfire. Clean up after yourselves and use gloves or tongs to collect any rubbish.

Once your pets are inside:

If you are planning to have sparklers, be aware that they can reach up to 2,000 degrees. Never give them to children under five and keep a close eye on any that do have one. Children should never hold one with their bare hand, run with a sparkler or wave one around. Spent sparklers are still very hot, so do not let anyone pick them back up!

• Close blinds and curtains where possible

• Shut and secure doors and windows to stop them running outside • Build them a den or cover any area they like to sleep with blankets so they have somewhere to hide.

• Try putting on the TV or music, anything that sounds familiar will be comforting.

• Don’t make a fuss or get angry with any strange behaviour, just act as you would normally.

Outdoor pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc) If possible, move your pets inside, if not, then you can move their hutches or pens into a garage or shed.

If you can’t move them inside: •C over up their hutches/enclosed areas with a breathable blanket, this can help deaden the sound but also block out the light.

While we’re on the subject of fireworks…

One of the biggest complaints about fireworks is the effect it has on our pets. If you have pets or know someone who does, here are some suggestions to make sure your pets are just as happy and safe as you are.

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You can also find a number of products that can help keep your pets calm and happy, you can speak to your vet if you have any concerns or want to know more.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

How the Somer Valley Foodbank works and a big THANK YOU

T

he Somer Valley Foodbank provides emergency food parcels, free, to those “in crisis” — i.e.- with nothing in the cupboard and no money to go shopping. Plenty of people are in that position: our role is to stop those people from starving. Helping clients to get further help to get them out of their crisis is also an important part of our work. We are also looking at other ways of helping people such as possibly setting up a fuel bank and by getting them access to advice about how to maximise their finances.

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People cannot just turn up and get food. Clients must be referred by an agency such as social services, health visitors, the probation service, welfare support or schools who have seen that they are in need of emergency help. There is a limit to how many referrals you can get, such as five three-day food parcel per crisis, but this is only a guideline and not a rule.

The foodbank handles long life food and clients get what they are given from a standard checklist:

Fresh and local pork, beef, lamb and chicken cut to your specification.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

for a single person it’s a box of cereal, 500g of rice or pasta, some chocolate and biscuits, long-life milk, teabags, juice and tins of soup, vegetables and so on. Each parcels provide a nutritionally balanced diet. In addition to the food parcel, clients also get toiletries and household cleaning materials, cat and dog food, if we have them in stock. There is also a ‘help yourself’ table of items that are slightly out of date or items that have been donated but are not recommended for the standard food parcel.

The Somer Valley Foodbank depends on donations from the local community and we have collection bins in the local supermarkets and many churches.

Businesses and schools also donate great amounts at seasonal times such as Harvest and Christmas.

The donations from the people in this community have been fantastic as shown by the results of the collection held in Tesco recently, when we

33

collected 1,800kgs of food, which was 150 crates of food or 360 carrier bags! We are indeed very thankful and want to say a great big THANK YOU to all those who gave. We also want to give a big thank you to the local Tesco store for letting us hold the collection.

There is a growing demand in the area and thanks to the local support of this community, the Somer Valley Foodbank can continue to support people in crisis in this area. Thank you.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

35

SWALLOW Charity – get involved with our fundraising

S

WALLOW is the local charity supporting teenagers and adults with learning disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.

SWALLOW relies on fundraising and donations to be able to continue its work.

SWALLOW members love to get involved with fundraising, and this year, we are repeating a very popular event – a three hour Zumbathon on 17th September 2022 from 11am – 2pm at the Hive Community Centre in Peasedown St John.

Here are some photos from last year.

Please email Charlotte Sayers at charlottesayers@swallowcharity.org or ring her on 01761 414 034 for more information.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Lions fundraising and Autumn events

R

adstock and Midsomer Norton Lions had a successful Duck Race on the town's river Somer raising just short of £660 on the Queen's Jubilee Celebrations in Midsomer Norton. Thank you to all those who purchased a duck for the race or simply made a donation.

The Lions club has now donated £500 of this money to the local Scout group who were targeted by vandals earlier in the year. The donation will go towards a security system to prevent this happening again in the future. £250 was also awarded to the Small Stuff Baby Bank, based in Radstock, during July.

Moving into Autumn, the next Lions event will be free prostate screening on 10th September, at the Midsomer Norton Methodist Hall. Lions are funding free screening for 150 men. This has been organised in conjunction with Somerset Prostate Support Association. Booking for this event is essential, please go to: /spas.mypsatests.org.uk Then, Lions are raising money for Children’s Hospice South West putting on a charity fundraising concert on Saturday 1st October at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall featuring Frome Rock Choir.

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37

Welton PrimarY School Nursery

W

e are excited to announce the opening of our brand new nursery class at Welton Primary School in September 2022.

Welton Primary School Nursery is open every day, 8.30am -5pm and is part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership.

Children are welcome from age 2 - 4 years and will have the opportunity to learn through play, in our wonderful woodland environment. Our children are independent, inquisitive, happy and enjoy high quality provision in our unique and exceptional setting, both inside and out.

Contact Welton Primary School office for more information on 01761 413131 office@weltonprimaryschool.co.uk Spaces available!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Outfield Festival UPDATE

T

here is less than a month to go before the gates open at this year’s Outfield Festival on 28th August.

Organisers have been busy getting ready to welcome everyone to the biggest party in the town this year, with the full line up now announced and a great selection of activities for younger audiences too.

Joining headliners Scouting For Girls, are Mesh, Gabriel Templar, Irie Fire, The Entitled Sons and Taynee Lord & The Crookes. Recent additions to the schedule – The Entitled Sons are the sons of TV presenter, Sarah Beeny, and are already being booked for multiple festival slots, including this year's Car Fest. Taynee Lord & The Crookes have already achieved a number one on the UK iTunes country chart with their single “No God Of Mine,” and promise to give you music for sunsets and highways from Bristol to Nashville. With such a fantastic line up coming to Midsomer Norton, this really is not an event to be missed.

The family zone continues to grow with a silent disco, bubble disco, face and glitter painting, balloon modelling, music and instrument workshops, selfie station, crafts and soft play. The area will also have a quiet zone for any children needing to take a time out and relax at the event.

Tickets are on sale now but are selling fast and expected to be sold out before the event, www.outfieldfestival.co.uk/tickets

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

39

more shows AT SOMER VALLEY FM

S

omer Valley FM, the local radio station based in Midsomer Norton, continues to grow its listenership into the Autumn season.

"With over 60 volunteers, I’m never short of new ideas being thrown at me," a happy Richard Burgess, Station Manager, remarked. "Presenter requests have included direct contact with listeners whilst on-air. That’s sorted, with our new WhatsApp function enabling anyone to message us and receive a reply in all live shows. We broadcast locally on FM, an expanded DAB later this year in Bristol, smart speaker, and online via our website. And our listen back function for all our programmes, available via our website, means we offer a complete on-demand service which few local radio stations do.

"Being online means we can monitor the numbers of people tuning in. It’s heartening to see continual increases in our listenership numbers to record highs.

Richard continued: "Thankfully with lockdown easing, we’ve been getting out and about in our communities. It’s been a joy to attend local Jubilee Festivals, Midsomer Norton Fayre and Farmer’s Markets. Along with the Clutton Flower Show and Outfield Festival, we’ve had a glorious time meeting listeners old and new, receiving some great feedback on our shows, and gaining some gold radio nuggets interviewing people at the respective events."

The broadening roster of shows continues.

Launching soon will be a Community Show, jointly hosted by Age UK, The Big Local, The Carer's Centre and Creativity Works.

"Since we launched in 2008, communitydriven exposure and support has always been fundamental to us. I’m delighted we’ll be promoting such worthy local charitable concerns in our Community Show."

After her well-received LiveLaugh Brunch Show commenced airing, Sally Vinyl now shares Drivetime hosting with Seb Bailey. New shows launched since May include Rob Mark’s Midday Magazine, Around The World With George Dorrity, Congo Iain’s Reggae Show, and Claudia Zunn’s What’s On Late. Production facilities are also available for use, resulting in the Paulton Amateur Dramatics (PAD) group recording their scripts onsite for podcast airing.

"We remain actively keen to explore all media avenues. I’m pleased to be editing and producing PAD’s podcasts. In conjunction with Sound Vision CIC, we enable newly trained young people the opportunity to air shows within their 6pm Tuesday Sound Vision on Somer Valley FM slot".

Richard continued: "There’s still much for us to do. Supporting local community organisations, improving our listener experience, and developing new presenters brings me huge joy and pride. So we’ll be doing more!"

To contact Richard Burgess, Station Manager, call 01761 411755, richardburgess@somervalleyfm.co.uk, or via social media.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CARNIVAL IS BACK Monday 14th November 2022!

A

fter 3 long years with no Illuminated Carnival due to COVID, Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Association are working hard to bring back the traditional spectacular Carnival

reaching Midsomer Norton town centre. The procession then travels up the High Street to the Stones' Cross and then along Radstock Road in the direction of Radstock towards Welton School.

This year, the Carnival is probably one of the most anticipated in a generation and once again, they’re planning for the spectacular illuminated entries and elaborately decorated walkers to descend on our town and provide the people of the whole district with the very brightest night of the year.

The procession will require the closure of several key roads beginning from 5:30 pm to allow for not only the procession and to keep spectators and participants safe, but also for the forming and dispersal of the large entries that attend the parade and therefore, some disruption to traffic should be expected around the area. However, Midsomer Norton & District Carnival will do their best to minimise this and further details can be found on the website and live traffic feed on their social media accounts during the event.

The route for the grand Illuminated parade is unchanged from the last event in 2019 with the start line located at the roundabout on the A367 adjacent to Charlton Lane. From here, the colours, lights and sound of the Carnival will spread along Charlton Road and down Silver Street before

Of course, Carnival not only lights up our town

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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on a cold (and probably wet) November winter night, but it also brings together our community and helps to provide an opportunity to fundraise for local charities, and good causes and to help Midsomer Norton & District Carnival put on an event the following year.

The Illuminated Carnival is organised by a small solely voluntary organisation that works tirelessly all year round to raise funds to support the organisational costs associated with operating this large community event.

During the Illuminated Carnival parade, you can support the event and help secure the following year’s carnival by donating what you can directly to the collectors, or you can donate online via the website IlluminatedCarnival.co.uk, they’re a registered charity (charity no 1078139) and every penny raised is used to fund the event.

Let’s get back to enjoying ourselves, bring the family and immerse yourself in the traditional Somerset Illuminated Carnival atmosphere.

If you would like to marshal, fundraise or help organise the event please get in touch via the website IlluminatedCarnival.co.uk Photo credit: Graham Price Photography

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY • Toddler’s Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, term time only, 9am – 10.30am.

• Carer’s Café from the Carer’s Centre, Mardons Social Club, 10 am, first Monday of the month.

• Knit and Natter at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 1.30pm – 3.30pm.

TUESDAY • Greet and Eat Lunches at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, hot drinks from 10.30 am and lunch from midday – 1pm, the 2nd and 4th week of the month.

• Westfield TT Running Club, Fast Running Group, 6.30pm, find out more on Facebook.

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY • First Thursday Afternoon Social, first Thursday of the month, 2-5pm, Welton Rovers Football Club • Westfield TT Running Club, 6.30pm. CATs running group and advanced beginners’ and intermediate groups. Find out more on Facebook.

FRIDAY • First Friday Worship, Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 11.30 – 12 noon, first Friday of the month.

• Coffee and Chat at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 1pm – 12noon.

SATURDAY • Westfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook.

• Arts and Crafts at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 10am – 4pm, third week of the month.

SUNDAY • Sunday Worship at Midsomer Methodist Church, 9.30am weekly and 6pm monthly.

•A fternoon Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 2-4pm, 2nd and 4th weeks of the month.

• Westfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook.

•W estfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook..

• 5 aside football, 4.30-6pm at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre. Mixed age, mixed ability, friendly but competitive football on the Astro turf.

• Arts and Crafts at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 10am – 4pm, third week of the month.

• Bingo at Westfield Sports and Social Club, 7.30pm • Bingo at Midsomer Norton Social Club, 8pm.

@MSNLife @midsomernortonlife @MidsomerLife