Midsomer Norton Life

Summer 2012 Issue 3

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

JUBILEE EDITION A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE DON’T MISS

Our What’s On and Things To Do pages

on all of the ils ta e d ll fu r fo e d See insi n in June o rt o N r e m so id M events in

WELCOME TO

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Page 6

The Hollies

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Skate Park

11 13 14 18 Welcome to the third issue of Midsomer Norton LIFE which is appearing earlier this quarter in time to provide details of the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations on the 3rd June 2012.

It’s hard to believe the Town Council recently celebrated its first birthday.

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Conveyancing

Personal Injury

Family Trusts

Commercial Property

Family

Powers of Attorney

Agricultural Law

Landlord & Tenant

Court of Protection

Employment

Company/Commercial

Wills and Probate

Licensing

Dispute Resolution

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Tax Planning

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Much has been achieved in the last 12 months as your newly elected team of 11 councillors, all with independent views, have worked together on a wide range of projects to improve the town.

We wanted to create an efficient Town Council operation that would be responsive and listen to the needs of the people of Midsomer Norton. We’ve created a base at the heart of the community in the original Town Hall which is easily accessible to all and recruited a Town Clerk to manage day to day operations with the help of an efficient assistant.

We’ve begun building links with over 100 local groups in order to encourage and support this valuable community resource that enriches the lives of so many people of all ages and interests within our town.

It’s also been possible to deliver some actual results such as the new lease for Welton Rovers, tarmacking the West Clewes car park, organising regular community litter picks and purchasing more litter bins and distributing grants to community projects such as the Community Cinema and outside broadcast equipment for Somer Valley FM Community Radio.

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Skate Park etiquette for scooter children

Litter

No 1 concern

Future

The future of the town centre

Midsomer Norton Palladium

Film showing for the coming months

Looking after…

The town’s green spaces

Orchard Hall

50th Annivarsary

Our Nortonians

Colin and Anne Robbins

West Clewes

Changes and improvements

What’s On

Packed calendar of events

June Events

Midsomer Norton unveils the events plans

Things to Do

Community activities for all

The River

Your questions answered

Looking to the Future

Plans and ideas from the Town Council

Twinning

Plans for the visit

Local Schools News

What’s happening in your school?

Midsomer Norton Football Club The history and the present day

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in September. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline : 10th August 2012 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.midsomernorton-tc.gov.uk

This is just the beginning of a journey to deliver the full potential of Midsomer Norton for all its residents.

We look forward to seeing as many residents in the marquee as possible at the Diamond Jubilee events on the 3rd June at West Clewes.

Cllr Paul Myers & Cllr Linda Dunford

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A gentleman’s residence

Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Midsomer Norton

Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Ltd, Suite 7, Westfield Court, Third Avenue, Westfield Trading Estate, Radstock BA3 4XD 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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CAFE CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY

On 20th April 2012 Café 3:16 celebrated it’s 3rd Birthday.

Café 3:16 was set up in the Town Hall to provide a regular place for the teenagers of Midsomer Norton to go and spend time relaxing and meeting up with their friends. It is run by volunteers from Welton Baptist Church and is open on Mondays and Wednesdays 3.30 – 5.30 pm and Friday nights 7 - 9 pm. There is a range of activities including table tennis, pool, table football, games, music, Wii etc. and a good tuck shop – where you buy a can of drink and get a free cheese toastie. So, if you’re a teenager reading this, come and see us after school on a Monday and Wednesday afternoon or on a Friday evening and if you’re a parent, try and encourage your teenager to come and see us at Café 3:16.

For more information contact Sally Evans 07971 283595.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIBRARY

It is FREE to join your local library so why not take the time to explore. Midsomer Norton Library boasts a huge range of services for the community including a monthly book reading club, events and activities, sign language and hearing loop services, as well as a host of services for children and teenagers enabling them to access the internet, get help with homework and also introduce babies and children to reading at an early age.

The opening hours of Midsomer Norton library are: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Sunday

SEASONAL FOOD AT THE MARKET

May marks the month when fresh local produce finally emerges from the winter gloom – and hopefully kick starts us into sunnier times. Eating Cliff Besleys Strawberries from Cheddar is now part of the seasonal calendar and this year we also welcome Angus Hilleary from the Square Garden on the Longleat estate who brings along this year’s rhubarb, savoury salad leaves and unusual varieties of white sprouting broccoli.

Angus will also help out lazy gardeners with his range of vegetable plants for a ready-made vegetable garden!

Mendip Lavender will also be bringing along Lavender plants through the summer to add a touch of Provence to your gardens.

The market itself is now 8 years old and has developed a huge following of customers from the town and beyond and the market itself has attracted award winning producers such as the Somerset Cheese Company and Brown Cow Organic Beef.

With support from the Town Council the market is able to open its arms to both local community groups and musicians to inform and entertain the customers.This year guests have ranged from The Midsomer Norton Voices choir to the local gardening and bowls clubs!

So for the best in local cheeses, meats breads and handcrafted food make sure you do your food shopping at the farmers market the 1st Saturday of the month 9am-1pm in Hollies Gardens.

For more information contact www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk or 01373 814646

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THE HOLLIES

Eventually the Council moved out and the property was redeveloped between 1983-5 into offices for Wansdyke District Council and a supermarket – in the format we see today.

...a gentlemans residence

The old house we see today at the Hollies was originally called the ‘Mansion House’ or the ‘Grey House’ and was built as a private gentleman’s residence in the second half of the 18th century.

It is without doubt Midsomer Norton’s grandest building and we are indeed lucky that it has survived numerous town developments over the years A grade II* Listed Building in the Palladiam style it was built at around the same time as Ston Easton Park in the period when local landowners were building fine houses based on profits coming from the Somerset Coal Fields.

The first reference we have to the Hollies is in 1771 recording that the owner was Mr William Kelson whose grave is in St John’s Church Yard and who may have built the house. Originally the plot the house stood in covered 10 acres of park land, which is staggering when you think this would take in a large part of today’s High Street.

Many older residents will have fond memories of the Hollies Gardens which acted as the Town Park.

When the redevelopment took place in the 1980s the town was promised a replacement park but this to date has never materialised.

The earliest image we have is when William Smith drew the house in the 1830s, well before photography was available but the front facade of the main house has changed very little since it was originally built.

However, this wonderful 18th century house continues to grace our High Street even though many of us take it for granted and are unaware of its illustrious past as our towns ‘Mansion House’

The property passed down the Kelsal family line until the end of the 18th century and then it was leased to various occupiers eventually being purchased by the Thatcher brewing family in 1901.

We have a picture of Mr and Mrs Thatcher (nee Beauchamp) inside what eventually became the Council chamber. Then the house passed to a Major General Cross-Barrett in 1926 and then finally to the Foster Yeoman family who in 1937 sold it to Norton Radstock Urban District Council for £1,400.

Thank you to Ann Noad for providing research for the writing of this article.

The Council used the building for their offices as they had outgrown the Town Hall. They also started the Library in the house before demolishing the conservatory and building a library extension.

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SKATEPAR

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Skate Park Etiquette for Scooter Children Before hitting the skate park, young children should learn skate park etiquette so they are respected by everyone else at the park. It sounds cliché, but it always comes down to the “golden rule”: treat others as you would like to be treated. Show respect. And it’s that easy.

Let’s look at a few specific tips you can learn and share with others to improve the image of scooter children.

e Lines Learn th

One of the first things to think about before starting to ride at skate parks is to “watch the lines”. You should stand and watch other riders for a few minutes before venturing into the park so that you can learn the traffic patterns and not ride against the flow of other riders.

This helps reduce the risk of a collision and reduces the interruption to other riders in the park.

ith Care Cross w When young children are first learning their way around a skate park, they often don’t have the skills to move freely and effectively across obstacles. Crossing the skate park from one area to another can be very dangerous to the beginner rider as well as veteran riders who may run into them. Similar to the “learn the lines” lesson, the skate park should be treated like a busy street: always look both ways before crossing. Make eye contact with other riders if possible before crossing to ensure that they see you.

Move quickly across the lines to have the least impact on other riders.

a Snake e b ’t n o D

t’s Hey, tha

Mine!

Just because you see something laying around at the skate park, that doesn’t mean it’s free for the taking. This applies to bags, jackets, scooters, skateboards, bikes, food and drinks, and just about anything else you can think of that someone may bring to the skate park. Sometimes people forget something when they leave. They might remember it an hour later and return to pick it up. It shouldn’t be missing because someone decided they could take it.

nly We’re O

Human

Make sure you are aware of skate park etiquette and why it’s important. But remember, we are only human and we all make mistakes. In the moment, children might not remember these lessons. Be respectful and represent the sport in a positive way. Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen all of the time. But if you remember how to act respectfully even part of the time, you are doing your part to improve the image of scooter children everywhere.

Snaking is the act of taking someone else’s turn on a line or obstacle. This is one of the biggest issues scooter children face in improving their relationship with older children at the park. As with crossing, watch the lines and make eye contact before taking your turn. It is far better to let someone else have an extra turn while you wait than it is to go when it’s their turn. Be the bigger person and be generous with turns, especially if you are still learning your way around the skate park.

ive Support d n a e iv Be Posit

There is a lot of unspoken animosity at the skate park that feeds the “skater vs. biker vs. scooter” mentality. They are all alternative sports people enjoy, what difference does it make what you ride?

If you want to be respected as a scooter rider, then you should respect everyone else equally. Treat skaters and bikers the same way you want to be treated.

ene h the Sc s a r T ’t n Do Always pick up after yourself. Don’t leave your rubbish laying out to be blown around or picked up by someone else. Take care of the skate park as though it was your own. It’s your duty to keep the park and street clean. If there are no bins around, keep your rubbish collected and throw it away later when you leave. If you carried it in, you need to throw it away or carry it out.

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WELTON BAPTIST CHURCH A local and growing evangelical church

This is a lively and growing fellowship which meets each Sunday at 10.30am at Somervale School.

We are a family-focussed church, and our Energy ministries have many thriving activities for our large numbers of young people on Sundays and during the week.

You have probably seen us around the town, at Café 3:16, or you may have visited our annual N’Fest event, taken part in the Record Breaking Street Nativity or even come to our annual Pantomime.

Young or old, there is something here for everyone, whether you’re discovering Christianity, looking for challenging teaching, a lively place for the children, great worship, or an opportunity to really grow your faith in one of our week-night house groups.

Come and find us at Whitfunday or take part in the celebration service we are hosting before the Big Jubilee Lunch on June 3rd.

Do have a look around our web site at www. weltonchurch.org.uk you’ll see what we believe, how we are involved within the community and most importantly how to find us on a Sunday so you can join us in worship, too!

A FAMILIAR FACE RETURNS A FAMILIAR FACE RETURNS TO TO MIDSOMER NORTON  MIDSOMER NORTON  

Having been based at our Chippenham

Having based at our officereturns for over offibeen ce for over sixChippenham years, Jane six years, “home” Jane returnsre-joining “home” re-joining the team the team at our High Street office. at our High Street office.

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Please feel free to pop in a for a chat, coffee and discuss your holiday needs with Jane - don’t forget the biscuits! 

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TO EXPERIENCE OUR EXPERIENCE   CALL 01761 416346 OR VISIT 85 HIGH STREET. MIDSOMER NORTON

NORAD WELCOMES BACK NORAD WELCOMES BACK JANE MARTIN JANE MARTIN

NO.1 CONCERN ... litter Litter was the top concern of residents in a recent survey carried out by Midsomer Norton Town Council to identify concerns about anti-social behavior. Out of the 246 questionnaires returned over 76% of people said they were affected by rubbish or litter lying around.

‘Litter is a real blight on our everyday lives. It has a huge impact on our environment and the way we see and feel about our surroundings as well as a huge financial burden with regard to the cost of removing it. We as a council are determined to listen to local residents concerns and are now undertaking a series of actions to address the problem’ said Cllr Linda Dunford The Council plan to continue the Community Litter Picks throughout the year to encourage residents to join together in a positive way to make a real difference to the areas they live in. The Council has also purchased a number of litter pickers and other equipment including 8 foot pickers to help keep the river clear.

The Council is also taking steps to increase the number of litter bins within the town with the new cycle path being a priority. It is also looking to replace some of the litter bins in the High Street with larger bins which will cope better with the ever increasing amounts of rubbish. The Town Council have already placed an order for new litter bins and expect these will arrive and be installed in time for use by the peak summer months.

Dog waste has now been reclassified as non-hazardous waste and it is now possible to dispose of it in general waste bins and all the new litter bins will be labelled to this effect.

The Town Council has also held meetings with B&NES Council Enforcement Officers in a bid to highlight the need for more regular patrols within the town. Anyone caught dropping litter by the Enforcement Officers will be given an on-the-spot £75 fine, with no warning.

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Residents can also help by reporting areas of litter to B&NES Council on 01225 394041 or email councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk. B&NES Council operate strict response times to reported litter but these can only be met if residents report the litter in the first place.

Tempting tastebuds since 1985 10

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MIDSOMER NORTON TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

Following a very successful year, Midsomer Norton Townswomen’s Guild celebrated its 23rd Annual General Meeting in March.

The secretary’s annual report reminded members of outings to Blenheim Palace, Tyntesfield House and the Cheddar Garden Centre. Visits to Sweet Charity, at the Frome Memorial Theatre and, as special guests, to the Lakeland Store in Bath, were also enjoyed.

Over the year, there were coffee mornings, bazaars, conferences, an autumn soup and crumble lunch, a carol service, a Christmas party, a New Year quiz, a golf club lunch and fish and chips.

The guild also hosted the Bath Federation Summer Lunch at Cameley Lodge and welcomed the High Sheriff of Somerset as its special guest Speakers were numerous and diverse with subjects covering paper money, gardens, friends and family, waste management, aloe vera, the Turin Shroud, hairdressing and campanology.

The guild has again campaigned for the retention of cheques, NHS reforms, geriatric care and the ongoing saga of longer and heavier lorries on Britain’s roads.

It has raised £262 for Help for Heroes, £35 for Paulton Hospital League of Friends and three members, Shirley Blackbourn, Janet Cheasley and Pat Clynes raised almost £1000 for their charities, Macmillan, Jumbulance and SSAFA. Members have knitted blankets for the Ethiopian Fistula Appeal, made pennants for the 2012 Olympic Games and filled shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.

Beryl Tales remains as Chairman for 2012/13 supported

by Barbara Paradise, vice chair, Kate Pugh, treasurer and Glenys Hepworth as secretary. The committee is unchanged from last year, but is joined by Joyce Davie and Lily Humpidge.

The guild is a friendly group of women, concerned for local and national issues but also determined to enjoy as many things as possible. New members are welcomed warmly and quickly become absorbed into the guilds’ activities and camaraderie.

Should you wish to join, meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month, at 2pm, in St John’s Church Hall.

Membership costs £24 annually. All enquiries may be directed to the secretary, on 01761 413528.

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To find out more, call The Family Placement Team on 01225 394949 or email fpt_duty@bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk 12

FUTURE ... of the town centre

The Town Council is keen to see Midsomer Norton realise its full potential and the High Street is a key project at the heart of the town. Numerous plans and visions have come and gone over the years with very little ever being achieved.

Although a lot of work has gone into the new Core Strategy with B&NES, the Town Council are keen to make this a reality this time around by filling in the detail to produce an economically viable plan of action – rather than it being seen as yet another unrealistic pie in the sky dream.

So, the Town Council are aiming to develop a prospectus to attract investment and are currently in the process of underpinning this with a retail study that can provide hard facts and figures to show the potential of the town to people willing to invest in our High Street.

In addition, by developing a more coherent and yet detailed plan, we believe we can help avoid the piecemeal developments of the past which simply don’t fit in with local people’s views on what the town should look like.

Combined with the steps we’ve already started to bring together all the interested parties, we believe that this time we can unlock that much talked of brighter future for Midsomer Norton.

THE PLANT & GARDEN CENTRE Your local family business welcomes you this Spring/Summer • Unwins, Fothergills & Johnson Seeds • Compost, Mulches, Barks etc • Glazed, Terracotta & Plastic Pots • Spring/Summer Bedding, Hanging Baskets etc produced in our Nursery • National Garden Gift Vouchers Sold & Redeemed Local Delivery Service Open Mon - Sat 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Sun 10.30 am – 4.30pm

Norton Green Farm Nursery

Wells Road, Chilcompton BA3 4RR T. 01761 232137 E. nortongreenfarm@tiscali.co.uk

13

AT THE TOWN HALL

Your new local cinema in Midsomer Norton

MIDSOMER NORTON COMMUNITY CINEMA There are two performances on a Saturday; a family matinee at 4pm (doors open 3.30pm) and an evening showcase at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm). Tickets cost £5 adults, children £3 with a special family ticket for £12 (two adults and two children).

Tickets will be sold on the door, subject to availability.

Residents are encouraged to come on down to the Palladium at the Town Hall to see great films and enjoy everything you’d expect in a cinema including as popcorn and ice cream but above all a warm welcome.

Saturday 9th June 2012

Saturday 14th July 2012

Saturday 111th August 2012

Matinee (4pm)

Matinee (4pm)

Matinee (4pm)

THE MUPPETS (U) (Stars Jason Segel, Amy Adams. 103 mins)

PIRATES! AN ADVENTURE WITH SCIENTISTS (U) 88 mins

A revival of the popular TV series from the 80s, in which two longstanding fans go looking for their heroes, and discover that The Muppets museum is about to be destroyed.

Latest and best Aardman animation feature about an incompetent pirate bidding to become Pirate Captain of the year. Queen Victoria and Charles Darwin are also involved.

JOURNEY 2 (PG) (Stars The Rock, Michael Caine, and Josh Hutcherson (Hunger Games). 94 mins)

Evening (7.30pm)

Evening (7.30pm)

Evening (7.30pm)

WOMAN IN BLACK (12A)) 95 mins

BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (12A) Bill Nighy, Judi Dench, Maggie Smith and Tom Wilkinson. 124 mins)

THE DESCENDANTS (15) 115 mins.

Daniel Radcliffe stars in this film of the best selling play and book, set 100 years ago in a creepy house. A young solicitor has come to the sort of the estate of a dead woman.

14

Big commercial hit film, about a group of older people who go to spend their retirement in a hotel in India.

Adventure story set on a remote island, which is full of weird and wonderful creatures. An adventure story, but not suitable for very young children.

George Clooney stars as the hapless father of 2 daughters trying to cope when his wife goes into a coma. From the director of Sideways.

FREE LEGAL AND FINANCIAL ADVICE

The Citizens Advice Bureau provides an outreach service for families with children under 11 across the Midsomer Norton area on Thursday mornings. You can visit them on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the Midsomer Norton Children Centre.

Jane can offer advice and support at drop in sessions and appointments. For further information or to book an appointment, please call 01225 396858.

LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT ADVICE?

Job Centre Plus offer mandatory lone parent assessment appointments at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre every Monday from 9.00am to 3.00pm.

To find out more call Job Centre Plus on 0845 6043719 or Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre on 01225 396858.

MIDSOMER VOICES

The Midsomer Voices choir meet every Thursday evening from 7pm in Midsomer Norton Town Hall.

The lessons and choir practice are not only great fun but also a chance for a cuppa and biscuit too, so if you would like to join the choir, please get in touch.

The Choir is led by professional singer Jenny Peplow.

Jenny has been teaching singing and performing herself for 30 years. As well as learning songs, the choir members receive lessons in singing technique and harmony. Absolute beginners and those who have had bad experiences in the past, such as being told they could not sing at school, now have an opportunity to find their voices.

During their time together they have performed many concerts including recently performing at the evening of community celebration on Thursday 1st March to mark Somer Valley FM’s third anniversary as the local radio station. They have also performed at the Merlin Theatre in Frome as well as various other bookings for Christmas and throughout the year. The choir are building up a lot of bookings for this year and they are preparing for a concert at the Ammerdown Centre.

They even have bookings for 2013!

Jenny’s ambition is to build a choir of 50 ladies and we are almost there. So anyone wanting to join a fun and friendly choir, come and join us, we welcome members young or old and they are assured of an enthusiastic welcome.

If you want to contact the choir please email the secretary on midsomervoices@yahoo.co.uk

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16

As well as an office and reception area where information can be displayed, the new office is much more easily accessible being immediately through the double doors facing the Island which has a ramp for disabled access.

on the move!

Painting the Town Hall The Sarah Anne Trust which manages the Town Hall is paying to have the windows painted in the coming months so the building is increasingly taking on a new lease of life in its 152nd year.

Get your pet off to a flying start. Vaccination course, full health check, microchipping, flea and worm treatment, 4 weeks health insurance, puppy party, free food and nurse consultation all for only £55

NORTH ROAD VETERINARY CENTRE 53 North Road, MIDSOMER NORTON BA3 2QE Tel: 01761 412132

Keen to be as accessible as possible to local residents, the Town Council office at the Town Hall has recently moved to the ground floor.

So, if you want to contact the Town Council in future, you can drop in to the new reception between the hours of 9.30am – 3.30pm Monday – Friday.

Puppy and kitten starter package. Only £55

• 43% off kennel cough vaccinations when given with the annual booster • 25% off the price of all restart vaccinations • £10 off first consultation for all new clients • 10% discount to the over 60s every Wednesday & Thursday on consultations and vaccinations • Reduced price for home visits as part of rounds

TOWN COUNCIL OFFICE ...

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in September. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline : 10th August 2012 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.midsomernorton-tc.gov.uk 17

FLOWERS BY NICOLA ... horticultural contractor

LOOKING AFTER ... the town’s green spaces Midsomer Norton Town Council has recently reviewed the best way to maintain flower beds, allotments and green spaces in the town. As we have a relatively small ‘estate’ to look after it wasn’t economical to employ a dedicated person to work 12 months of the year.

With a fantastic record for delivering probably the world’s largest hanging baskets in the town for the last three years – Nicola Ware is keen to get her hands on the Hollies Gardens and has some amazing ideas to bring a real WOW factor to our summer displays this year.

Working under contract for the Town Council, Nicola is really keen to continue the tradition of working alongside community groups and volunteers in the town so that everyone can make their contribution to making Midsomer Norton Bloom as never before.

So we’ve brought in a series of contractors who can focus on projects where and when we need them – spring and autumn planting, summer grass cutting and checking the allotments, play areas and the state of the town in general.

As you’ll be seeing some new faces around the town in the coming months – we thought it would be nice to introduce them in this issue of LIFE.

All you need for towing slate roof solar PV

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Stockists - of the Indespension Daxara range of trailers. Wide range of trailers and accessories in our showroom. All Daxara trailers come with a full 2 years guarantee.

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MIRANDA WOOD ... town warden contractor It’s often the small things that make a big difference. A broken paving stone, a shopping trolley in the river or a broken bench – all small but they give a sense of things that need doing and reflect on our town.

The key to tackling these issues is to identify what needs doing and by whom – as so often responsibility actually lies with B&NES or others. So the Town Council decided to contract someone to patrol the town identifying problems so action can be taken.

...and take advantage of financial incentives.

Helping our clients achieve low-carbon lifestyles since 1994.

J &K Primrose – Grass Cutting Contractor A local established company, J &K Primrose is well known in the area and will be cutting the grass at Welton Rovers and the Midsomer Norton Allotments on a regular basis during the coming year.

So Miranda Wood will become a regular face in Midsomer Norton and we think she will make a huge difference to the way our town looks in the coming year.

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MIDSOMER NORTON ...library After Hours Events - Tuesday evenings

Regular Children’s Events

Book directly by visiting the library or via Council Connect on 01225 39 40 41 Tuesday June 12th 7-8pm Poetry Liaisons-bring along a favourite poem or one you have written to share. Or just come and listen. Limited numbers FREE Tuesday June 19th 6.30-8.30pm Writing Workshop Tricia Wastvedt author of The River and The German Boy will return for one of her popular workshops. Limited numbers Cost £10 Tuesday June 26th 7-8pm approx. Once Upon a Timehow an audio book is made. By leading audio book publisher WF Howes and featuring Gordon Griffin, one of their actors. Limited numbers FREE Tuesday July 10th 6.30-8.30pm Poetry Workshop Ellie Evans. Following our popular first workshop, Ellie returns from her home in Wales to inspire budding poets. Her theme will be Poetry and Myth. Suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced writers.

Limited numbers Cost £10 Tuesday July 24th 7-8pm Poetry Liaisons-bring along a favourite poem or one you have written to share. Or just come and listen. Limited numbers FREE

Storytimes Mondays at 11am.

Pre-school children FREE Bounce and Rhyme - every 4 weeks on a Wednesday at 10.30am. 0 - 3 year olds FREE Summer Reading Challenge 2012 ’Story Lab’ is this year’s theme. The challenge as every year is to read at least 6 library books over the summer and collect stickers along the way.

Launches Saturday July 14th with Mask Making 10-12 noon at Midsomer Norton Library but runs at all Bath & North East Somerset Libraries until September 8th .

We will also be hosting other events over the summer such as an illustrator talk, drop in sessions and a stories and crafts session. FREE but booking required for some events. Call in at the library from July 14th.

We are also looking for volunteers to help with the Summer Reading Challenge. Contact the Volunteer Centre in Bath for more details on 01225 338105.

ORCHARD HALL The Orchard Community Hall at the end of Pinewood Road celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and as it does so the Trustees are looking to the future.

Originally established by the local community in 1962 using a world war II Nissen Hut it proved such a valuable community space that the current hall was constructed in 1973 using grant funding and money raised by the local community.

Its wooden floor was damaged during 2002 when a tree damaged the roof of the building, but has been restored by volunteers and is now a good surface.

Consisting of a large main hall with a sprung wooden floor, a good sized kitchen, a small stage and three large store rooms it offers great potential for today’s community groups.

In its heyday as well as being the hub of activities in the nearby community, the surplus produced was ploughed back into events which included annual coach trips to the seaside which many local residents remember with great pride.

However, in recent years times have changed and as support has fallen away as people have busy lives, the next generation of volunteers has failed to come forward to take on day to day management of the Orchard Hall.

Midsomer Norton Town Council as part of its recent community buildings audit is looking to work with the current Trustees of the Orchard Hall and B&NES to secure its future role in the community. Proposals are being looked at to run the Orchard Hall in conjunction with the Town Hall – using a single booking system, contracts to cover cleaning and promotion of the facilities which will ensure that instead of groups currently being unable to find a base can use the facilities.

So, 50 years on there’s every chance that by working together as a town we can ensure that the future of the Orchard Hall can be secured – starting with plans to completely redecorate inside and out.

If you are interested in booking facilities at either the Town Hall or the Orchard Hall then call 07790 892 281.

Contact Your Local Travel Counsellor

Maria Foxwell 01761 436160 maria.foxwell@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/maria.foxwell

20

21

Our Nortonians A profile on the interesting characters in our town

22

COLIN AND ANNE ROBBINS ...

Orchard Vale community centre Colin and Anne Robbins met at the tender age of 14 at Writhlington Secondary School, where they both attended. Their romance blossomed a little later from a chance meeting at Midsomer Norton Carnival.

They got married in 1963 at Radstock Methodist Church, both at the age of 18 and have been happily married since.

Anne now volunteers at the Rad stock Museum, is involved with Writhlington Methodist Church and sings with the Westfield Ladies Choir.

Anne originally came from Crumlin, Monmouthshire but moved to Writhlington at the age of 5 years old, when her father came here to work in the Colliery.

Colin was born in Waterloo Rd, Radstock and has been a resident in this area all his life.

When the Community Hall needed a new roof, Colin gave up work to concentrate on repairing the roof. With the help of the community and Colin’s skill, they managed to completely repair the roof and save the Hall and community thousands of pounds.

Colin was employed at Clarks Shoe Factory for 35 years until its closure and then worked at Purnell’s in Paulton for a short while until that unfortunately closed.

Colin decided to become self-employed and dedicated his time to furniture restoration.

He also has a passion for clock making and restoration and in his home has a Grandfather Clock which he made from scratch.

Colin and Anne’s attitude to the Community Hall is one to be admired, they believe that it should be there for the community and would feel guilty if it was not there for future generations to use.

The Town Council and the Sarah Anne Trust are now helping the committee fo the hall, many of whom have worked hard for many years. Anne and Colin are now looking forward to seeing new volunteers becoming involved.

After leaving school, Anne worked in the offices at Standard Check. She then left, to have 4 children, who all live locally. Anne then spent 25 years working as a carer for social services.

Unfortunately, Anne was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer in 2003 and bravely battled the disease, she is now well and fully recovered.

If you are interested in booking facilities at the Orchard Hall, please call 07790 892 281.

This lovely couple has been involved with the Orchard Vale community centre for 20 years.

Colin has only recently resigned as Chairman and Anne is still the seceraty.

23

WEST CLEWES ... recreation

ground

New Tarmac for West Clewes Recreation Ground In response to the concerns of local residents about the state of the West Clewes car park the Town Council recently invested in a complete new tarmac surface which meets the highest specification to benefit local people.

Regular users of the car park had to drive in and avoiding the large pot holes which at times seemed more like an obstacle course challenge than a place to park.

As well as benefiting users of the playground, open space, and the football club and its fans, the improved surface also opens up possibilities such as enlarging the popular Thursday market and holding other events at West Clewes. And, of course, the work has been done in time for the planned Jubilee celebrations on the 3rd June and the Children’s Olympics on the 16th June. We are also exploring other sources of grant aid for further improvements to the Recreation Ground.

“We are extremely pleased with the quality of the work done by our chosen contractor, John Wainwright & Co. Ltd. Liaising with them we were able to programme the job when they were in the area. This helped them and lowered our costs. It also meant that the job was done in just two days, minimising the disruption to users of the recreation ground”, said Cllr Steve Plumley who worked on the project with Cllr Simon Wellington.

To protect the car park and prevent possible abuse of the facilities the Council thought it prudent to install gates at the entrance to close the car park overnight.

The car park will be open as usual during the day for users of the Recreation Ground.

FREE CHILDREN’S CLOTHES

Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre has a large collection of donated nearly new clothes for babies and young children. These are available to anyone needing clothes for their child.

Please phone 01225 396660 and arrange a convenient time to choose a selection of clothes.

MIDSOMERNORTONPEOPLE SOCIETY

If you want to promote your business, or club or air your views on Midsomer Norton, then log on to the Midsomer Norton Local People website www.midsomernortonpeople.co.uk The aim of the network is to get as many residents as possible logging on to talk about what’s going on in the town, tell each other what they think about local issues, about themselves and their organisations.

There’s a business directory, events diary, picture gallery to upload photos and a place start a discussion, write a news report, or review a local business.

It’s always a good way to reach a wider audience by social networking as every story you put up on the Midsomernortonsite is then published on the Midsomer Norton Facebook and Twitter feeds.

Community publisher Carla Gale said: “It’s not just for journalists but for everyone to contribute. The site has been going for two years now and we have lots of contributors, but we’d like more to participate.”

To gain access to the website you will need to log in with an email address and create a password.

You then become a part of Midsomernortonpeople society.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIONS

The Midsomer Norton Lions meet monthly on a Tuesday to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, both locally and nationally.

The Lions club is part of a worldwide charitable organisation with over 1.4 million members. The Midsomer Norton and Radstock Lions meet at Paulton Rovers Football Club on the first Tuesday of every month and also hold a number of events throughout the year to raise money for charitable purposes.

If you would like to find out more please contact Barry Rogers on 01761 414140.

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25

WHAT’ ON June 1st Jubilee Party at Welton Primary School from 3.15pm to 9pm, come along and enjoy stalls, demonstrations, bouncy castles, bbq and beer tent etc 2nd Midsomer Norton Farmers market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm 2nd Craft Fair at Midsomer Norton Methodist Hall.

10am - 1pm. Free admission. Homemade refreshments 3rd The BIG jubilee Lunch, at West Clewes Rec ( Welton Rovers) 12.30pm to 3.30pm. A traditional street party in a massive marquee with seating for 400 people. Just bring your own lunch and drinks and party with other Midsomer Norton residents Call 01761 418701 3rd Jubilee Family Party at West Clewes Rec (Welton Rovers) 7pm till 11pm. An evening family event in a massive marquee for the whole town. Entertainment from 2 bands and plated buffet supper included.

Entrance is by ticket only. Tickets for sale at Midsomer Norton Town Council offices, Town Hall, The Island. Call 01761 418701, Adults £8, Children £4, Family Ticket £20 (2 adults, 2 children)

3rd Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station

7th Midsomer Norton Bike carnival workshops from 12

to 2pm at the Skate Park. Come and join WPA in creating a bicycle carnival ready for the MSN Fayre on the 23rd of June 9th Palladium at the Town Hall matinee showing The Muppets at 4pm and evening showing of Woman in Black at 7pm 10th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 10th Gener8 at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre Hall. 9.30am for activities, short time of worship, coffee and papers 11th Town Council meeting, in the Beauchamp Room at the Town Hall 7.00pm

26

13th Summer Lunchtime concert at St John’s Church from 12.30 to 1.30pm

15th Hearing Aid Repair Clinic at Methodist Church Centre, 10:30am until 12:00

16th Midsomer Norton Children’s Olympics at the Welton Rovers Recreation Ground

16th Saturday Night Praise at Midsomer Norton

Methodist Church Centre.7.30pm. Speaker, Praise Band, drama, coffee and cake 17th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 18th Midsomer Norton Town Council Planning committee at the Town Hall 19th - 3th August. Radstock Museum will be hosting a display of the history of local sports clubs 20th Summer Lunchtime concert at St John’s Church from 12.30 to 1.30pm 22nd Art Exhibition at the Town Hall opens 7pm and runs till 4pm 24th June

23rd Midsomer Norton Fayre Day in the High Street,

come along for a fantastic fun day out for all of the family 23rd - 24th Open Day at the Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 24th Midsomer Norton Civic Service at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church 24th Orchard Vale Jubilee Picnic Day at 11am in Orchard Vale Play Area, invite everyone to come and join us and get involved and help create a community celebration. Bring along some food and drink to share 25th PACT meeting (partners and communities together) held in the Town Hall at 7pm 27th Summer Lunchtime concert at St John’s Church from 12.30 to 1.30pm 30th Summer Fayre at Midsomer Norton Primary School

July 1st Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 4th Summer Lunchtime concert at St John’s Church from 12.30 to 1.30pm 7th Midsomer Norton Farmers market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm 7th Table Top Sale at Midsomer Norton Methodist Hall 7th Cajun dance festival at Welton Rovers from 7pm, Sara Savoy and the Francadians Cajun Dance and BBQ as part of the Bath Americana Festival 7th - 8th Merriman Theatre group present Jesus Christ Superstar at Writhlington School, contact 01761 414957 for more details 8th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 8th Gener8 at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre Hall. 9.30am for activities, short time of worship, coffee and papers 9th Town Council meeting, in the Beauchamp Room at the Town Hall 7.00pm 12th Farmers market at St John’s School in Midsomer Norton 14th Palladium at the Town Hall matinee showing Pirates! An adventure with scientists at 4pm and evening showing Best Exotic marigold Hotel 7pm 14th Saturday Night Praise at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre 7.30pm. Speaker, Praise Band, drama, coffee and cake 15th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 16th Midsomer Norton Town Council Planning committee at the Town Hall 22nd Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 23rd AGM and entertainment evening for the Midsomer Norton Society at 7.30pm in the Town Hall 26th - 27th Open Day at the Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 29th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station

August 4th Midsomer Norton Farmers market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm

5th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station

6th Town Council meeting, in the Beauchamp Room at the Town Hall 7.00pm

11th Palladium at the Town Hall matinee performance of Journey 2 at 4pm and evening performance of The Descendants at 7pm 12th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 19th Passenger train operating day at The Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton Station 20th Midsomer Norton Town Council Planning committee at the Town Hall 20th - 25th Nfest is an annual event held by Welton Baptist Church at Somervale School, see www.weltonchurch.org.uk for more details

27

Midsomer Norton Diamond Jubilee Family Party Sunday 3rd June 7pm Ploughman’s Supper & Bar 50s, 60s & 70s live music from The Sneakers & No Mean Feat Bring Family, Friends & Neighbours to the

Massive Marquee at West Clewes!

Tickets on sale from Midsomer Norton Town Council office, Town Hall, Island. Tel: 01761 418701

£8 Children £4 Adults

Celebrating the 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign

(16 and under)

£20

Family Ticket (two adults and two children)

events

Midsomer Norton Unveils Jubilee Plans Midsomer Norton has unveiled a complete day of activities to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee – with the whole town able to come together as a community in a massive marquee at the pitch at West Clewes.

Somer Valley FM will be broadcasting live throughout the day from the event and taking a lead interviewing local residents on their thoughts on the Jubilee day and memories of the Queen’s Coronation.

Backed by the Town Council, local community groups have worked incredibly hard for months to create a fantastic programme for the day based around two events - a BIG Lunch and an evening Family Party.

To take part simply come along on Sunday 3rd June at 12.30pm to West Clewes Rec (Welton Rovers Football Club) in North Road – dressed for the occasion in red, white and blue to celebrate the Jubilee, not just as a town, but with the rest of the country.

The idea of a BIG LUNCH is to create a ‘street party’ atmosphere with long tables fabulously decorated in red, white and blue where all ages can celebrate together. Thanks to the Town Council funding a massive marquee the event has insurance against the famous British weather.

Come along with your family and bring a picnic and enjoy entertainment throughout and lots of free children’s activities.

The Silver Band will play as people arrive, then through lunch will be the judging of the fancy dress followed by a magic show, balloon modeling, recollections of the Coronation, a puppet show, on-table Jubilee Quiz, hat competition prize giving, drama performance and rounded off with a roof lifting Big Jubilee Sing-along.

In addition, there will be plenty to occupy children including craft table workshops, bouncy castle, inflatable assault course, mega slide, Velcro Fly Wall, professional photo booth, face painting PLUS a display of breakdancing and classic cars.

The Midsomer Norton Evening Family Party being run by the town’s sports clubs continues the celebrations inviting everyone to party together. Starting at 7pm and ending at 11pm, local live bands, The Sneakers and No Mean Feat, will be performing on stage throughout the evening with a chance to ‘dance the night away’ with the traditional favourites.

There will be a raffle with the proceeds being distributed between the evening’s organising sports clubs to support youth sporting activities in the town.

There will be a pay bar. A plated supper is included in the ticket price of £8 for adults, £4 for children (under 16) and a family ticket of £20 for two adults and two children.

Tickets are limited and are now on sale from the Town Hall , Midsomer Norton between 9am and 4pm Monday – Friday.

Please ring the Town Council office if you need further details on 01761 418701 or visit the Town Council website at

www.midsomernorton-tc.gov.uk 29

R E M O S MID N O T R NO

Saturday 23rd June 2012 11am - 4pm

fayre day

• medieval demonstrations, workshops and stalls at st johns church • falconry display at the catholic church garden • medieval entertainment and refreshments in the hollies gardens s • visiting brass band performance rch and stalls at the methodist chu in high street • art exhibition at the town hall • performance, activities and y park workshops at the adventure pla

The granting of a Royal Charter to hold an annual Fayre by Henry III in 1248 was one of the proudest moments in our town’s history. So it is fitting that so many community groups have come to together again this year to revive this much loved event.

Opening with due ceremony and a fanfare in the Hollies Gardens at 11am and a closing ceremony at 4pm, this year we’ve got a fantastic day planned.

The Medieval Fayre will include Medieval Knights Encampment at St Johns Church including: Children’s Medieval Pottery Making Workshop, Midsomer Norton Knight, Medieval Barber Surgeon, Medieval Cooking, Medieval Armoury, Medieval Scribe, Medieval Kiddie Drill, Medieval Falconer, Children’s Medieval Games, Medieval Moneyer, Medieval Confectioner and market stalls.

Falconry display at the Catholic Church – as well as discovering about falconry handle the birds under supervision.

Medieval entertainment including the rat catcher, craft making workshops and refreshments in the Hollies Gardens Celebration of Brass and Silver bands with performances from the bands coming as far away as Wooton-under-Edge to play in the town during the day outside the Methodist Church in the High Street and also at a massed band performance at the close of the event.

Art exhibition in the Town Hall organised by Cllr Simon Wellington to showcase the work of talented local artists.

also QUEST presents Battle for the Winds

(A unique theatrical tour to open Weymouth Olympic & Paraolympic sail ing events)

Sat 23 June

30

for y a d c i t s a t a fan mily! a f e l o h w the

Somer Valley Skate & play Park 12 - 4pm All ages welcome See page 58 for more det

ails 31

CIVIC DAY ... 24th June

What’s all this about?

It was the Midsomer Norton Society who first proposed that we celebrate pride in our town by getting together on Midsummers Day - the 24th June.

This year’s service will take place on Sunday 24th June at 7pm, Midsomer Norton Methodist Church in the High Street and the whole town is invited to attend.

A number of people have commented that Midsummer’s Day is the 21st June - but this is in fact the equinox - the longest day rather than the traditional festival based on the Feast of St John The Baptist which is linked to our Parish Church ‘St John’s’.

The first Midsomer Norton Civic Day took place in 2011, when local residents along with dignitaries such as the High Sherriff of Somerset and the local MP assembled at St John’s Church to celebrate the town and all those who give their time and energy to the

community to help others. To this end the Midsomer Norton Society presented a number of awards to groups and individuals ranging from the designers of the river project to volunteers who tirelessly collect litter in the street and help make the town a better place to live.

Midsomer Norton Town Council is asking residents to nominate individuals who they think have made a significant contribution to the community and which therefore should be acknowledged by the town. You can send your nominations which need to include the name and address of the person you wish to nominate with no more than 100 words on why you think they should be acknowledged. Submissions should reach Michael Curry, the Town Clerk by email at townclerk@ midsomernorton-tc.gov.uk or by letter to ‘Midsomer Awards’, Midsomer Norton Town Council, Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HQ latest 5pm on Monday 18th June 2012.

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THING TO DO MONDAY Job Centre Plus Midsomer Norton Childrens Centre 9.30am - 3.00pm. Appointments or drop in.

Veterans Football League at Norton Hill Sports Centre at 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Storytime: Stories for 0-5 year olds for free. 11.00am 11.30am at Midsomer Norton Library.

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

Longvernal Play Session Orchard Vale Hall Every Monday @ 3.30pm. After school fun & activities with the Play Rangers – Wansdyke Play Association 01761 420660.

Playzone (parent & toddler group) Longvernal Primary School 1.15 – 3.00pm Term Time Only 01761 418226.

Little Puma’s Tae Kwon Do group at Norton Hill Sports Centre ages 4 to 6 from 5.15pm to 6pm, juniors and adults 6pm to 7pm.

Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Monday from 10am to 2.30pm for more information call Justine on 0171 413039.

FISH Trampoline Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre Juniors 5pm to 6pm, Adults 7pm to 8pm.

Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 5.45pm to 6.15pm.

Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 11am to 2pm.

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

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Somerset and Dorset Railway Heritage Trust is open every Monday from 1pm to 4pm, for viewing only contact 01761 411221.

Wesley Guild at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 4.00pm fortnightly, a Christian services, devotional, cultural, social and musical interests with invited speakers.

Monday youth club (term time only) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm for children aged 3 7 and 7.45pm for children aged 7 and above.

The early shift café at Longvernal School. Coffee and cake in conjunction with Longvernal Tweenies group for parents or carers of preschool and school aged children 8.45am to 10.45am.

Café 3:16 from 3:30pm-5:30pm at Old Town Hall; youth café open to teenagers to hang out for a couple of hours after school.

Five-a-side football from 9pm -10:00pm at Norton Hill School with Welton Baptist Church, five-a-side football in the Gym. 20.20.20 classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 11am, every Monday.

Healthy Back, stretch and tone classes at South Wansdyke Sports Centre at 12 noon.

Kettle Ball classes to strengthen and tone at South Wansdyke Sports centre from 6.00pm.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports Centre at 6.30pm.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Drop in Baby Clinic Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre 10.00 – 11.30.

Family First (for carers of children with additional needs) 12.30pm - 2.30pm. First Tuesday of the month, Barnardos Children Centre.

Somer Athletic Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre for adults 7pm to 9pm.

Dance class with the Desert Divas at St John’s Church Hall from 7pm to 8.30pm. For more information call 01761 416671.

Short mat bowls every Tuesday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and 7.00pm to 9.00pm contact 01761 418400.

Football with a qualified coach can be played at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on the outdoor pitch.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 10am, 12pm to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 4pm.

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

50+ swimming at South Wansdyke Leisure Centre 11am to 12pm.

Mass is celebrated at St John the Baptist from 12pm every Tuesday.

Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.00pm to 6.30pm.

Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly at the Methodist Church Centre at 3pm, for more information contact 01761 235970.

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 10am to 10.45am.

Senior Rugby training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 7.30pm, contact 07773 567 887 or 01761 419750.

Stop off at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church for morning coffee and lunches from 11am to 1pm.

Women’s fellowship at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 3pm fortnightly from September to June, varied programme.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 6.45pm.

Gentle exercise classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.45am.

Box circuits classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 7.30pm.

Playtots from 10:00am - 11:30am at the Old Town Hall for pre-school children,babies and their carers.

Housegroups starts at 7:45pm at various localities offering a chance to meet in smaller groups for prayer, bible study and general ‘this and that’! Contact Church Office 410274 - leave message if necessary.

Summer hockey league at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 7.30pm to 9pm, seasonal only.

FISH Trampoline club for Juniors at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 5pm to 7pm.

Ballroom and Latin American dancing for beginners at the Town Hall from 8.00pm to 9.00pm, contact 01225 461834.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.

Under 8’s junior football training for Midsomer Norton Football Club at Norton Hill astro pitch from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, contact 01761 434758.

Junior badminton coaching every Wednesday at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 5pm to 6pm for 11 to 14 years, 6pm to 7pm for 14 years and over.

High Street Wives Group meet on alternate Wednesdays at the Midsomer Norton Methodist Church and welcome ladies of all ages, for more information contact 01761 436770.

Under 10’s junior football training for Midsomer Norton Football Club at Norton Hill astro pitch from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, contact 01761 434758.

Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 10am to 2pm.

Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm, for more information call Justine on 01761 413039.

Adult Dance classes every Wednesday evening at the Old Town Hall, contact Paula on 07860 839 560 for more details.

Toddlers group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 12.30pm term time only.

Wives Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 2.00pm fortnightly, speakers on various topics.

THURSDAY Citizens Advice Bureau 3rd Thurdsay of the month at The Childrens Centre Midsomer Norton 01225 396858 for appointments.

Summer hockey league for adults at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

Dance class with the Desert Divas at The Old Town Hall from 12.15pm to 1.15pm. For more information contact 01761 416671.

Welton Vale over 50’s club meet in the Community Room from 2pm to 4pm, for more information call 01761 417960.

Somer Valley Gardening group meet at the Town Hall on the 2nd Thursday of every month, for more information call 01761 417252.

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Somer Athletic Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre for adults and juniors at 7pm to 9pm.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 11.00am, 11.30am to 2.00pm, 3.00pm to 10.00pm.

Chilcompton Ladies Choir every Thursday at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre from 7.30pm to 9.00pm contact 01761 416127.

Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Thursday from 10am to 12pm, for more information contact Justine on 01761 413039.

Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 8pm to 10pm.

Health and Beauty Group at St John’s Church Hall at 7.30pm to 8.30pm all ages welcome from 30’s to 80’s.

Contact Annette on 01761 414163.

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.

Early support stay and play group at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre every Thursday from 1.30pm to 3.00pm, for more information contact 01225 396660.

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 12.45pm to 1.30pm and 8pm to 8.45pm.

St Johns Ambulance adults and cadets: cadets can be aged 11 to 16 and meet at 6.30pm to 7.45pm and the adults meet at 7.45pm onwards: St Johns Ambulance Hall, Radstock Road.

Senior Rugby training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 7.30pm, contact 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

Gentle Exercise classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 9.15am.

Body conditioning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.30am.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 7.45pm.

Playtots from 10am - 11:30am in the Old Town Hall.

For pre-school children, babies and their carers.

Housegroups at 7:45pm in various localities for a chance to meet in smaller groups for prayer, bible study and general ‘this and that’! Contact Church Office 410274 - leave message if necessary.

FRIDAY Bosom Babes Pows Orchard Midsomer Norton 12-1pm.

Supporting Breast Feeding Mums 01761 408388.

Stay & Play 9.30 – 11.00am @ The Children’s Centre.

Norton Radstock Folk Dance club meet at St Peter’s Church Hall in Westfield from 8.00pm to 10.00pm, for more information call 01761 411292.

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

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Under 7’s and under 9’s junior football training for Midsomer Norton Football Club at Writhlington Sports Centre from 6.00pm to 7.00pm, contact 01761 434758.

Inflatable session in the swimming pool at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Friday from 6pm to 7pm. Children 8 to 15 years old.

Under 11’s and under 13’s junior football training for Midsomer Norton Football Club at Writhlington Sports Centre from 7.00pm to 8.00pm, contact 01761 434758.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 1.30pm, 2.00pm to 8.30pm.

Junior and adults Tae Kwon Do at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 7pm to 8pm.

Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.00pm to 6.30pm.

Adult social badminton club, every Friday at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 6pm to 9pm.

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

Pop in for coffee at Midomer Norton Methodist Church at 10am.

Craft Tea at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2.00pm to 3.00pm.

Whist Club at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Choir practice at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 7.30pm.

Yoga fitness at 11am at South Wansdyke Sports centre.

Zumba at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 1pm.

The Early Shift from 8:30am-10:30am in the Old Town Hall for parents or carers (after doing the school run) to have an early coffee and a cake and a bit of a chin wag!

Spinning classes at 6.30pm at South Wansdyke Sports centre.

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

Children’s Dance classes every Saturday afternoon at the Old Town Hall, contact Paula on 07860 839 560 for more details.

Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 9am to 2pm.

The local churches Men’s Breakfast Group meets monthly at 8.30am, for more information call 01761 41450.

Praise and worship at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 7.30pm.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.00am

SUNDAY Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 10.00am to 1.30pm and 2.30pm to 8.00pm.

Said Mass at 8.00am at St John the Baptist Church.

Family Sung Mass and Sunday School at St John the Baptist Church at 9.30am.

Junior badminton coaching every Sunday at Norton Hill Sports Centre. 10am to 11am for 7 to 11 years, 11am to 12pm for 11 to 14 years and 12pm to 1pm for 14 years and over.

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 6pm to 7pm.

Junior rugby games and training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 10.30am, contact 07773 567 887 or 01761 419750.

Somerset and Dorset Railway Heritage Trust is open every Sunday from 10am to 4pm contact 01761 411221.

Gener8 at Midsomer Norton Methodists takes place on the 1st Sunday in the month in November and December and the 2nd Sunday in the month for the rest of the year from 9.30am, includes activities, lively bible stories etc.

Morning worship Youth church and crèche from 10.30am at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Evening service from 6pm at St John the Baptist.

Evening Worship from 6.00pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Morning Service at 10:30am at Somervale School; morning worship service for all ages. eNeRGy groups at 10:30am at Somervale School for groups for all ages from 3-11 during the main morning service.

Evening Service 6:00pm at Somervale School; evening service - ‘café style’.

Ignite (14-18’s) at 8pm-9:30pm at Welton Baptist Chapel for young Peoples group for age 14 – 18.

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SATURDAY Saturday Club @ The Somer Centre Midsomer Norton.

A range of activites for disabled & non disabled children 10am – 2pm Wansdayke Play Association 01761 420660.

Tricknology testing at Midsomer Norton Skate park, contact MOJO for more details on 07840 904 083.

Inflatable session in the swimming pool at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Saturday from 4pm to 5pm. Children 8 to 15 years old.

Active 8 Saturday Kids Club at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 9.30am to 12.30pm for 8 to 12 year olds.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 11.30am to 5.00pm and 6.00pm to 7.00pm.

Midsomer Norton Methodist Cricket Club, meet every Saturday in season, for more information contact John on 01761 412328.

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37

THE RIVER ...

your questions answered

One year on the newly transformed river channel in Midsomer Norton is settling down but many people still ask questions concerning the work done. We asked the river team to answer some of these for you: Why did you change the river?

In Victorian times when the weirs were constructed in the High Street, the silt that collected behind them was periodically dug out by hand and carted away. However in those days the river still flooded on occasion and this helped wash silt deposits away.

When the flood bypass tunnel was built in the 1980s the flow of the river in the High Street was not only reduced but it remained largely constant. The silt built up and it became more and more expensive to remove it, to the point where there was 400 cubic metres of sludge in the channel and nothing much could survive in it.

So the recommendation of river experts was to remove the weirs and return the river channel to a more natural state with meanders just like upstream in Withies Park and downstream toward Wheelers Drive. Not only does the river now in its restored natural state carry the silt away, but it also provides a haven for the ducks and wildlife in general. Recent studies show a huge array of wildlife and even a family of otters has been sighted in the river outside Martins.

Why isn’t there more water?

The amount of water flowing down the channel is set by the Environment Agency in order to avoid flooding.

When it rains, quite a lot of water feeds into the channel off the road and so it is a question of ensuring there is no repeat of the floods of the 1970s in the High Street and the misery that it caused.

Why are there no fish?

The fish that used to be in the river channel lived in a very restrictive habitat and those that were not eaten by the family of otters that appeared in the autumn and spring of 2010/11 were moved to Redfield Road when the river project was implemented.

The Wild Trout Trust has praised the new habitat, conferring a major award on the project last year. Fish are returning naturally now and will settle in the river and grow to a size which the local eco system can support naturally.

Why isn’t the river weeded and maintained like the other flower beds?

When the river bed was planted last year with native river plants the aim was to create a natural habitat which would not only hold the river banks together but which would be sustainable. The river team have had to leave all the weeds for the first year in order to allow a mat of roots to form which hold the river banks together. One year on, we can now begin to manage the planting once the higher spring water level period has passed.

What happens to the ducklings each year?

When the ducks lay eggs, these are gathered by local volunteers and taken to a local farm where they are put in an incubator to hatch and grow before being reintroduced to the river in the High Street. When the ducks were left in the High Street the conditions were less than ideal and many failed to hatch or grow to maturity. By the time they return they are able to fly away if disturbed and many spend the busy part of the day on the areas upstream.

How can I get involved in helping to maintain the river?

To find out more about how you could take an active role in managing the river, please contact the Town Clerk, Michael Curry on 01761 418701 and he will put you in touch with the River Somer Management Team who look after the river channel as volunteers.

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ST JOHN’S CHURCH SUMMER LUNCHTIME CONCERTS St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton is renowned for its musicality. Good acoustics, a warm, bright, pleasant environment and the high standard of musicians it attracts assures music lovers of a very enjoyable hour at any of our concerts.

Bi-annual lunch-time concerts on Wednesdays 12.30 – 1.30 prove very popular and the Summer Series has just started. The talented musicians of Norton Hill School launched the series on Wednesday 9th May followed by Giles Chiplin whose concert heard the newly rebuilt fine Wadsworth organ played publicly for the first time by St. John’s Church organist, Margaret Whatley. Another six concerts of equal calibre follow:

These concerts are free with a retiring collection for those who wish for the upkeep of St John’s Church.

Money raised over the last few years has contributed greatly to the refurbishment of St John’s and in particular the new Choir and Organ gallery.

Light refreshments are available and people who work are encouraged to come and go as time allows during their lunch break.

Everyone is welcome to join us for this hour of stillness and musical enjoyment.

May 23rd Somer Valley Singers May 30th Vivienne Moon (Voice) June 13th St John’s Primary School June 20th Claire King (Clarinet) June 27th Christopher Chiplin July 4th Westfield ladies Choir

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BOOKSTART 20 ...

Readers of all ages are being encouraged by Bath & North East Somerset Council to share their favourite books as part of the Bookstart 20 campaign.

Bookstart 20 invites everyone to celebrate the early years reading programme’s 20th anniversary by making a simple pledge to share 20 books in 2012. This can be by sharing books with children of family or friends or by sharing books with children in a school, pre-school or library.

The pledge can be made on a postcard, available in all of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s libraries, or online at www.booktrust.org.uk/bookstart20.

Local people are also being asked to name their favourite picture book and to say why it is their favourite. A “Top 20” of picture books will be compiled as the year progresses.

People can join in by nominating their favourite picture books at any Bath & North East Somerset Council library, online at www.facebook.com/bathlibraries or on the Council’s Twitter feed @bathnes with the hash tag #BANESbookstart20.

Dads and male carers, including granddads are particularly welcome to get involved as part of the Council’s Celebrating Fatherhood campaign.

The Bookstart 20 campaign celebrates everything that the early years reading programme has achieved since it began in 1992.

Over 64,000 free books have been given in Bookstart packs to the children of Bath and North East Somerset since the programme was launched here in 2005.

Berry Barn is Blossoming Just 18 months after opening, Berry Barn Gift Shop is delighted to announce that the venture has been so successful that it is set to expand!

If you haven’t yet discovered Berry Barn, you are missing out on a real delight. Open every day, it’s conveniently situated in the courtyard of Farrington’s Farm Shop at Farrington Gurney. The shop is always filled with an imaginative collection of affordable gifts which people love to give, to receive, or simply buy to spoil themselves.

So, when the next door shop became vacant, due to the business relocating to larger premises, it was an easy decision for Berry Barn’s owners to decide to take it on The idea for the gift shop came from Samantha Easton and Sheryl Hucker, who have put their hearts and souls into making the shop the success that it is today. Sheryl told us, “We met at the school gate and have been friends ever since. Now we’re in business together, we adore what we do and work tirelessly seeking out new ideas and original gifts.”

Sheryl and Sam are taking the opportunity offered by this re-opening to launch a Loyalty Card, which will reward customers with a stamp for each £10 spent in one transaction. When a card is filled with 10 stamps, the customer will receive a £5 gift voucher to spend.

To keep up to date with Berry Barn’s latest news, visit the website at www.berry-barn.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

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Generating leisure and recreation opportunities Whilst some may argue that the days of the traditional High Street are over, as a community we have a Town Centre which has been 900 years in the making. It’s still the focal point of Midsomer Norton and so in order to ensure that it remains vibrant during the day and in the evening, we need to manage the transition, probably towards greater usage for leisure, as traditional shopping patterns change.

LOOKING ... to the future During our first full year, the Council has been concentrating on creating a core administration to meet the ongoing needs of the town as well addressing key issues like Welton Rover’s lease.

In our second year we have the ability to lay the foundations for longer term projects including: Public Buildings and Green Spaces The town has a number of community facilities but in the long term a number of them including the Town Hall and the Orchard Community Hall will need support to secure long term leases from B&NES and put them on a secure financial footing. The traditional model of community groups running these buildings is beginning to break down as rising costs and issues of public safety and liability mean that people are not coming forward to run them.

As part of this process of securing the future of community assets, the Council is keen to move beyond simply letting spaces to a new model that actually develops community activities in not only buildings but also our open spaces such as the Hollies Gardens. A good example of this is the Community Cinema in the Town Hall offering residents a night out on their door step. Equally the Hollies Garden could be a performance or market area and draw people into the town.

Youth engagement in the town Whilst the council is keen to address services for all ages, there is no doubt that we need to pay particular attention to opportunities for young people in Midsomer Norton. Whilst Skate/Adventure Play Park is a fantastic facility we need to consult with young people to understand their needs across the board.

We’ve allocated funds to support projects and will be developing ways to engage young people in the decision making processes to shape the future of the town they live in.

ANTI-SOCIAL

Anti-social behaviour Midsomer Norton is not alone in its experience of antisocial behaviour. In many ways we probably are better off than some small market towns. However, as council we want to try and work with the community through initiatives like the Community Alcohol Partnership to ensure that one person’s ‘laugh’ on a good night out doesn’t become another person’s experience of antisocial behaviour. It’s all about sharing places like the High Street and understanding that dropping litter, dog fouling, graffiti and vandalism are not acceptable in our community spaces.

Public realm Midsomer Norton has a wonderful setting but with the help of our newly contracted services the council will bring up the standard of our green spaces to the standard of other towns throughout the country. Much of this work will involve establishing a good working relationship with partners such as B&NES. Economic Development With a commute out rate of around 60% Midsomer Norton needs more local jobs and we need to protect and development employment sites. Whether it’s the High Street or outlying industrial estates the Town Council will be looking at ways to enhance employment as therein lies our future as community. We’ve set up the Midsomer Norton Economic Development Partnership to bring people together and with the Midsomer Norton Forum will use the new localism legislation to ensure the needs of community are held paramount.

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TWINNING TWINNING Final arrangements are in hand for the visit of our twinning partners from Ambares et Lagrave starting on Monday 20th August 2012.

This year’s visit is a historic one as a new twinning charter will be signed between Midsomer Norton Town Council and Ambares et Lagrave at the Town Hall on Tuesday 21st August. The event marking the formal signing of the new charter is open to all residents of the town and will commence at 1pm. Then there will be a short tour of the town followed by a traditional afternoon tea served in the Catholic Church Garden at 3pm.

For the two twinning associations, 2012 is also the 30th anniversary of the signing of the original charter.

Over the last three decades many twinning families have seen their children grow up together and very strong ties have been developed between the two communities. To this end there will be a further ceremony to celebrate the anniversary during the visit.

Norton Radstock Twinning Association, as this year’s hosts has arranged a programme of events and activities to give our French visitors a warm welcome to the area. Beginning with a welcome reception at Farrington Village Hall there will also be a day trip to the Penderyn Whiskey Distillery near Brecon, with lunch and a trip on the Brecon mountain railway. There will also be a dinner dance as well as free time for our visitors to explore the area with their twinning partners.

If you are interested in finding out more about twinning, please contact Jenni Randles twinning president on 01761 412130.

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Since 2005 over 130 of our students have reached black belt level and beyond Over 100 students have become champions at national level Our instructors are among the best at helping children and adults achieve all of their goals Drop in to the academy to see why

BEGINNERS CLASSES STARTING NOW Call 01761 420683 to book your place

1ST MIDSOMER NORTON SCOUT GROUP The Scout Association has an aim to help the young people of Midsomer Norton and district to achieve their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.

The group welcome young people of both genders between the ages of 6 and 14. Midsomer Norton Scout Group has 7 sections, a Beaver colony aged between 6 and 8, 3 Cub packs aged 8 to 10½ and 3 scout Troops age 10½ to 14. At least one section meets on each evening of the week from Monday to Friday at The Scout Hall on Radstock Road.

Everyone involved enjoys active participation in a range of activities including Sailing, canoeing, caving, climbing, walking and camping as well as other skills training.

If you would like to know more about the 1st Midsomer Norton Scout group contact the group scout leader Clare Spearman on 07967 666982.

THE MERRIMAN THEATRE

Ladies Fashion Footwear, Mens and Childrens Shoes

14 years ago Graeme Savage created the Merriman Theatre Group in Midsomer Norton with the ambition of enabling young people to build their confidence and skills through workshops, weekly rehearsals and taking part in the annual shows.

The Theatre group has 2 divisions, the junior group which are aged between 6 and 9 and the senior group which are aged between 9 and 18.

If you are interested in joining the theatre group then please call Ann Savage on 414957 or visit the website at www.merrimantheatre.com

Images are for illustration purposes only.

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Available from Radstock Superstore Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

GUIDES, BROWNIES AND RAINBOWS

Girl guiding UK is the United Kingdom’s largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women, with around half a million members including about 100,000 trained volunteer adult Leaders and supporters.

Midsomer Norton has a thriving Group of Guides, Brownies and Rainbows that meet on a weekly basis in Rock Hall, Midsomer Norton.

Rainbows are aged between 5 and 7, Brownies are 8 to 10 years old and Girl guides are from 10 to 14. Midsomer Norton also has a senior section who are aged from 15 to 26.

The aim of guiding is to help girls and young women to develop emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually so that they can make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.

If you are interested in joining please contact Mrs Sue Bendall on 0171 411878.

SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE

Do you have questions about your child’s development?

Or have a child with an additional need in your family?

Norton Radstock Children’s Centre run an Early Support Stay and Play group for parents with concerns about their child’s development or who have a child with additional needs. Come along to Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, Pows Orchard, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HY on Thursday afternoons from 1.30 – 3.00pm.

We offer a time and place where parents, carers and children can spend quality time playing together and finding out what support is available to you. (Access to the Sensory room is also available.)

One parent commented “Having met other parents with special needs children, I feel less isolated”. “It enables me to have one-to-one time playing and learning with my daughter”.

For more information about Norton Radstock Children’s Centre Services or the groups we run across the area, please call 01225 396660.

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in September. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline : 10th August 2012 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.midsomernorton-tc.gov.uk

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LOCAL RADIO Ever since Somer Valley FM’s trial broadcast in 2006, sport has featured at the heart of the community radio stations focus on local programming. From the very beginning, current Sports Show presenter, Ian Nockolds, has been ever present in the sports studio.

“Sport, like the media, works on a pyramid system. The biggest broadcasters cover the biggest teams, local coverage is often little more than an afterthought.

That’s why the Somer Valley sports team have worked so hard to make ours a sports show for local Clubs, offering them the chance to cover their news, results and matches in the same way you hear professional sport covered.”

My proudest moment was covering the 2010 Somerset Cup Final, following Welton Rovers to Yeovil, where they played Bridgwater Town. Listening back to the commentary, my first, most of it was pretty cringe worthy! But we knew on the night that we had achieved something special, because we could hear the fans in the stands, phoning back the result, being told that news of Welton’s historic victory had already reached Midsomer Norton, because they’d heard it on the radio.”

Since the first internet broadcast in 2008, the Somer Valley Sports Show has covered the fortunes of local; football, rugby, cricket, hockey, tennis, target shooting, bowls and boxing. Over the last season Ian has followed Welton Rovers Green Army, home and away, commentating on five matches with help from club Chairman, Maurice Down, Press Officer, Bob Allard, former player, Simon Wellington and Norton Hill student, Joe Tanner.

2012 also marked an historic first for the station’s commentary team, when Club Captain, Jack Rowles joined, Ian and Simon Wellington to cover Midsomer Norton Rugby’s home game against Tor.

Listen online at www.somervalleyfm.co.uk or on 97.5fm

Anyone wanting to contact the Sports Show looking to promote their Club, or interested in getting involved, can call 01761 411755 or email sport@somervalleyfm. co.uk.

The Somer Valley FM Sports Show is broadcast, live, every Tuesday from 6pm. Broadcasting online at www.somervalleyfm.co.uk and 97.5 Somer Valley FM is the community radio station serving the people of Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding villages.

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Midsomer Norton Schools

DANCE UMBRELLA AT ST JOHN’S

A group of girls from St John’s Primary School have taken part in the Dance Umbrella performance at The Forum in Bath. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the evening and are all very proud of their achievements.

VISIT TO PRIOR PARK

A PORTRAIT FIT FOR A QUEEN

A select group of pupils at Somervale School, created a black and white portrait of the Queen as a young lady as part of the school’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Visiting Artist Mark Karasick joined Year 7 and 8 children for the project. He worked with the pupils on the design which was formed from 20 individual panels.

The young artists did not know what the completed image was to be so they were forced to shade tonally to replicate what they saw instead of what they perceived.

He told the students it was an important discipline for all artists and a good exercise for them because when they go back to individually making work, their capacity to observe should be heightened.

Somervale School will be sending a replica print of the final piece of artwork to the Queen as a gift for her Diamond Jubilee.

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Every child at Midsomer Norton Primary School was invited to make an Olympic Torch as a homework project.

This picture shows some of the entries.

One winner will be selected from each class and go through to the final which will be judged by a panel from Sainsbury’s regional managers. The winning torch will be carried by a runner on the last leg of the South West Sainsbury’s run from Frome to Midsomer Norton on Sunday 13th May. The standard is incredibly high!

DIDGERIDOO

This term, Years 3 & 4 at Midsomer Norton Primary School are learning about Australia. Last Friday afternoon, three classes were lucky enough to be given a didgeridoo performance by Jacob’s father, Mr Cotterill.

The children were enthralled by the haunting sound and enjoyed having a go themselves, although they struggled with the circular breathing!

Children from St John’s Primary School had a sensational time at Prior Park and will never forget the wonderful memories that came with it. We arrived at 10:00am to find an elated mature man also greeted us and introduced us to the remarkable park.

We sauntered down a steep hill to find a welcoming pond, also a magnificent view that rested against the sunlight. Next we stalked through green arms that arched above us protecting us from the scorching sun.

On the other side we traipsed to a splendiferous view to sketch the scenery before our eyes (we would later paint it at school).

We waddled through the bending trees again as they were whistling in the gentle breeze. Our next activity was to write a fascinating poem about the aqua blue pond. Then we shuffled down a flight of stairs and sat in an enormous circle as the sun beat against our back then we read out our poems like a lullaby.

After a while we trekked towards the picnic area. On the way we saw a superb squirrel that scurried at the speed of a bullet train. Eventually, we reached the picnic benches and began our yummy lunch.

Soon after lunch we decided to stride round the peaceful, calm lake. Before long we found a graceful swan that was constructing its messy nest. We stood there amazed for ten minutes until we finally moved on. Happily, we strolled on to find a crowd of massive carp that looked like blobs of blackcurrant jelly. Then we wrote a description of our favourite animal in the lake accompanied by a beautiful drawing.

Just before our trip came to a halt we had one more activity to do it was to study graffiti on the bridge and make up an imaginary person from the graffiti details.

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NEW HEADTEACHER ANNOUNCED

SIXTH FORM CHARITY EVENT

The Governing body of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership today named Alun Williams as Headteacher of both Norton Hill and Somervale Schools. This will take effect from 1st September 2012 following the retirement of Peter Beaven at the end of August.

Alun has been Headteacher at Brimsham Green Secondary School in Yate since 2008 where he has driven rapid improvement by establishing a clearly focused and shared vision for the school. His initiatives and strong leadership were singled out for high praise during the school’s OFSTED inspection. Prior to his time at Brimsham Green he was Deputy Headteacher at Castledown School in Wiltshire.

Chair of Governors Stuart Warrener commented: “All Governors are pleased and excited to have recruited Alun to take the baton from Peter Beaven who has skilfully guided both schools since their federation in 2009. We look forward to welcoming him to our schools in September”.

A native of Trowbridge, Alun holds a Geography degree from the University of Wales, Swansea. He is married with three children and the family lives in Rowde. His hobbies include renovation of historical buildings, cycling and sea kayaking.

Speaking of his appointment Alun said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as Headteacher of both Norton Hill and Somervale Schools. I am looking forward tremendously to the challenge of leading the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership and particularly to working with students, staff and parents from both schools”.

After the fantastic success of Midsomer Norton Sixth Forms previous event, the ‘Elderly Citizen Christmas Party’, the Sixth Form embraced their charity week with great energy and enthusiasm.

For several weeks prior to the week, the Sixth Form student Council met weekly, planning the events carefully, to gain maximum proceeds for their chosen charities.

The Sixth Form gave great consideration to deciding on which charities to support. They finally decided on Cancer Research UK, Help for Heroes and local charity; Time is Precious. They all agreed they knew someone who had been affected by cancer or war casualties, and they believe that Ben Halford has touched the hearts of everyone in our community.

The Council decided to offer a range of activities that they hoped would appeal to all year groups across both schools. The week was a huge success with staff and students supporting each event, from yummy cake sales, a raffle, a school quiz (with Sixth Formers beating the staff ), Super Heroes fancy dress with lots of ‘pink clothing’ during dressing up day, culminating in the finale of a football match between the Sixth Form and staff which ended in a draw. A great time was had by all!

The sixth form students agreed that they had thoroughly enjoyed participating in the charity week, were thrilled by the support and were delighted to hand over cheques to the chosen charities and hoped it would put a smile on many faces.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Year 10 students from Norton Hill School are volunteering their time and gardening skills in order to create a community garden which is situated in between Charlton Road and Silver Street. Shyam Sawhney (10Q2) who was a Deputy Member of Youth Parliament was given the land by the Parks department of the local council and a £300 grant from the O2 Think Big scheme in order to establish the garden. Working in liaison with Simon Memory (BANES) and Jamie Colston (Green Vision), he then set up a steering group of 15 students to draw up plans. On Wednesday the group attended a session on permaculture run by Sarah Pugh (Shift Bristol) who helped them to turn their plans into reality. This session was a great success and the group have now marked out their vegetable patches and flower beds. After Easter, the project will be opened up across the rest of the school as they move onto the planting stage. The group’s plan is to plant fruit trees, vegetables, wild flower seeds, bulbs and trees. They are also planning to install a bird bath. The group are really keen to make their garden an area that can be enjoyed by the whole local community. They are very excited and can’t wait to share their progress with everyone.

Miss Lilley, Head of Quantock House: “I have been very impressed with the students’ dedication to their community garden project. It is a fabulous idea and will be a great area that the whole community will benefit from. It has been inspiring to see the students take the lead on such a big project, they really have run this by themselves with only minimal assistance from their teachers. This makes their achievements to date all the more commendable. I am as excited as they are to see their plans come to life and can’t wait to see the newly created beds full of flowers and vegetables. This is a project which will continue on for years to come and it will be incredibly fulfilling for the students to see their garden being enjoyed in the future.”

YEAR 4 CAMP

Last month, Year 4 children from Midsomer Norton Primary School enjoyed a three day residential trip in the beautiful surroundings of Greatwood near Bridgwater.

The children slept in wooden cabins and spent their days creating dens and shelters, building dams, lighting fires, singing around the camp fire and walking in the woods.

The children said it was “amazing” and “awesome” and Poppy said “It was the best experience of my life so far!”

Current Headteacher Peter Beaven added: “Alun Williams will provide clear and strong leadership to take the two schools forward. He was the clear favourite in the eyes of staff and students who are all looking forward to his start in September, and I know he will be fully supported.”

52

53

MSN

football club Midsomer Norton Football Club is going from strength to strength as they come to the end of their football season.

Working in association with Welton Rovers the club has seen an increase in player numbers and also success on the pitch.

The Club was founded in 1990 by a group of parents as a youth football club. They resurrected the name West End United and in 1998 the Club became associated with Welton Rovers FC and consequently changed its name to Welton Rovers Youth FC. On 2nd June 2009 the Club made the landmark decision to change its name to Midsomer Norton Football Club.

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The roots of the Club as it is today can be traced back to before the First World War, to West End Rovers FC. Organised boys or youth football in those days was predominately played at school, football clubs were all men’s teams. The name West End Rovers was chosen because its players comprised mainly of men who worked for the coal mining industry in the “west end” of the Somerset coal fields. First records available show that the Club played in the Bath & District League from the 1919-1920 season, winning the League and Cup double in the 1920-1921 season. By 1932 the Club played in the Mid-Somerset Football League.

The Club won the League twice in the late 1930s including another League and Cup double in 1937 and also reaching the quarter-finals of the Somerset Cup in the same year losing 0-2 to Shepton Mallet.

In 1952 West End Rovers became West End United and it continued initially to play in the Bath & District League then moved to the Mid-Somerset League winning the Division 3 title in 1955 and the Cup in 1958. A return to the Mid-Somerset League in 1964 saw promotion to Division 2 but in the following season the Club withdrew from the League and no further records remain so as far as we can ascertain West End United folded around about 1965.

In 1990 West End United was reborn but this time it was a youth football club for ages Under 7 to Under 16 playing in the Midsomer Norton & District Youth Football League as indeed we still do today. From its rebirth the Club flourished. Most memorable was the Club’s then

Club trip to Yeovil Town FC during the season legendary annual six-a-side tournament which attracted over 100 teams each year.

In November 1998 the Club became associated to Welton Rovers FC, Midsomer Norton’s senior football club, hence the change of name to Welton Rovers Youth FC. The clubs went their separate ways for a while but have now reformed an association with Welton Rovers providing a home for Midsomer Norton FC who have 6 teams in the Midsomer Norton Youth Football League for season 2011/12.

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Our youth teams are growing rapidly and we welcome new players into the team from under 7’s to under 16’s.

A new under 7 team for season 2012-13 needs children who will be in school Year 2 after the summer holidays to join.

If you want more information on the club please visit the website midsomernortonfootballclub.co.uk or contact the club secretary Mandy on 01761 434758 or the club welfare officer Bruce on 01761 419692.

We look forward to seeing you.

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A MESSAGE FROM As you will have seen from the introduction to this edition of MSN Life it has been a very busy year for the Council’s officers – Carole Sims, Administrative Officer and myself, Town Clerk.

When I arrived in Midsomer Norton in August I faced the very rare opportunity of creating a new organisation from scratch as the Council was only a few months old. During the last ten months as Council officers we’ve been able to not only to put in place the essential foundations but have also begun to deliver tangible results.

Each year there are a number of core administrative tasks that the Council has to do such as setting the precept, holding the Annual Town Meeting and completing the annual return. Being the first year of the Council each time we have completed these we’ve had to start with a blank sheet of paper. However help was, and is, at hand from the Somerset Association of Local Councils, the Society of Local Council Clerks and councils locally. It is nice to look forward to the coming year with a sense of building on a firm foundation.

It has been great in the past year to help Midsomer Norton’s dynamic team of councillors work towards achieving their vision for the town. And this is just the beginning.

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the clerk

Your

TOWN COUNCILLORS

Want to talk to the council?

Council Office Opening Hours: The Town Council office is open five days a week and Michael Curry and Carole Sims will be happy to take your calls and discuss any issues with you.

Brian Lawrence Finance Area: Redfield

Jane Lewis Planning Area: Welton North

John Slade IT and planning Area: Welton Centre

Linda Dunford Community groups & activities Area: Charlton Park

Lynda Robertson Community groups & activities Area: Welton centre

Michael Curry 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 and Transport Area: Welton centre

Simon Wellington Culture and Sport Area: North Road Area

Steve Plumley Sport and Culture Area: Radstock Road Area

You can drop in between 9.30am and 3.30pm but it is probably best to ring the main Midsomer Norton Town Council number 01761 418701 first.

Councillor’s Surgery Appointments: You can request an appointment through the Town Clerk to meet with a Councillor to raise issues or concerns.

We are currently piloting appointments and will review the situation at the end of June.

To book a Councillor Surgery Appointment Ring the Town Clerk on 01761 418701

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LOCAL COMMUNITY MINIBUS

For 45 years, this minibus and its predecessors have been travelling around the Somer Valley and beyond taking housebound, elderly and disabled plus sometimes youth clubs and schools to their activities in the area and beyond. It’s not much fun being unable to get out and meet with your friends at local organisations, clubs and churches, so the vehicle and its volunteer drivers are available at your service.

The minibus can accommodate up to 12 passengers though fewer if a wheelchair is transported. It has a rear lift fitted for a normal size and weight wheelchair - check with us well before the hire date to avoid disappointment.

Who we are: Midsomer Norton and Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust (Registered charity no. 276166- founded in 1967) Who to contact: Enquiries and group bookings only to Stephen Powell ( co-ordinator) on 01761 413975, or alternatively Barrie Dando (vehicle manager) on 01761 412705. Bath & North East Somerset Council supports the Trust with a grant and hiring organisations (we cater only for groups, sorry!) pay a rate per mile.

Can hirers use their own drivers?

Yes, subject to clearance by the Trust and their Insurers.

So what is there stopping your group from using the minibus?

Financial support may be available from local charities for transport costs.

We may be able to direct you to some.

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WEDS 99P DAY!

THE ART EXHIBITION AT THE TOWN HALL

An exhibition of local art and sculpture will be on display at The Town Hall from 7pm on Friday 22nd June to Sunday 24th June.

Midsomer Norton’s two secondary schools will be taking over the whole of the second floor for a joint Somervale, Norton Hill exhibition of the best art produced by pupils and students. The ground floor and main second floor hall will house the work of local artists.

The exhibition is open to amateur and professional artists and sculptors, who are invited display their work without limitation.

If you are interested in displaying your work please contact the Town Hall on 01761 418701 or you can download a form from www. simonwellington.co.uk Anyone wishing to give help on the days, or offer sponsorship to the event can contact Simon Wellingon at s.wellington@tiscali.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON THURSDAY CLUB

The Midsomer Norton Thursday Club is a group of local citizens that meet every Thursday at 2.30pm in the Somer Centre. The group enjoy socialising and occasionally take coach trips and other activities.

For more information call Gay Pullom on 01761 412061.

MIDSOMER NORTON SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

The Midsomer Norton short mat bowls club meet every Tuesday and Friday at the Somer Centre and enjoy playing both inter club and competitively in a friendly and social atmosphere. The club would like to welcome new members of all ages. If you are interested in finding out more please contact Peter Barter on 01761 418400.