Midsomer Norton Life Spring 2014

Spring 2014 Issue 10

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE

DON’T MISS Community Survey results Precept 2014/15 Community Trust moves forward See inside for details of the Midsomer Fayre Day on Saturday 12th July

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE W

hen the time comes each quarter to prepare Midsomer Norton LIFE it never ceases to amaze us just how much is going on in our town.

The first results of the Community Survey were available in early January and the Midsomer Norton Forum has begun drawing together a first set of findings which are included in this issue.

After three years we now have both the Midsomer Norton Town Trust and Community Trust up and running – ready to face the challenge ahead of taking on key community assets in the town. In addition it’s even been possible to make a start with the Town Archive this month with training and the first item being offered in the form of the 1812 Tithe Map by Thatcher & Hallam.

As the following pages show, the veritable renaissance in terms of activities and events organised by Midsomer Norton’s community groups continues with something for all ages.

2014 will be a very special year for the town.

On June 21st we will see ‘A Midsomer Knight’s Dream’, a play written for the town, performed; we are looking forward to the return of Midsomer Norton Fayre as our main summer festival including the Big Gig on the 12th July – 766 years after our Royal Charter was first granted; and in the autumn there is every prospect of Midsomer Norton Carnival returning to the High Street.

It’s hard to imagine another town in the UK as vibrant as Midsomer Norton.

Cllr Paul Myers & Cllr Michael Evans Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

VINTAGE MARKET

4

PHOTO COMPETITION

6

MAP INITIATIVE

8

THE PRECEPT

10

WEBSITE AND MOBILE APP

14

COMMUNITY GROUP GRANTS

18

GROWING FOR GOLD

20

NEW YEAR’S HONOURS LIST

22

CARNIVAL

24

RIVER UPDATE

26

COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

29

COMMUNITY TRUST

38

WHAT’S ON

42

THINGS TO DO

44

SCHOOL NEWS

50

TOWN TRUST LAUNCHED

54

MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

57

TOWN COUNCILLORS

58

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in June. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 16th May. If you have difficulty reading the print please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy.

You can also view Midsomer Norton Life on the council’s website at www.midsomernortonlife.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Ltd, 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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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

VINTAGE MARKET

A

s part of its ongoing strategy to attract more people to discover the delights of Midsomer Norton, the Town Council gave a commissioning grant to help promote the new Midsomer Vintage Market in its first few months.

Launched on Saturday 16th November the market has attracted an enthusiastic following thanks to the efforts of market organiser Sarah Brereton.

Visit the What’s On pages for forthcoming dates.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

PHOTO COMPETITION H

ave your photo on the next cover of Midsomer Norton Life!

To celebrate the 10th issue of Midsomer Norton Life, readers are being invited to submit a summer picture which will be used for the cover of Issue 11. If this is successful, it will become a regular feature with each of the four annual issues featuring seasonal photographs submitted by readers.

Take a look at the montage to see the evolution of the cover photo since the first issue and put your creative hat on and see what you can do. The successful pictures will be selected by a panel comprising the Town Mayor, Cllr Paul Myers, the production team at Ignyte Ltd and the Town Clerk, Clive Stilwell. They will be looking for photos which capture the season and reflect Midsomer Norton as a place.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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To submit your “Summer 2014” picture, visit the Town Council’s web site and follow the instructions to upload your photo.

Photo entries must be in colour, portrait format and a minimum of 300dpi.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LOCAL SOLICITORS LEAD

MAP INITIATIVE

L

ocal solicitors Thatcher & Hallam are at the heart of an amazing initiative which will not only ensure that the unique Midsomer Norton Tithe Map of 1822 they hold will be preserved for future generations to enjoy – but their generosity will also mean that many more people will be able to see this wonderful document.

Thatcher & Hallam LLP have been working for the Town Council over the last 12 months on the creation of Midsomer Norton’s new Town Trust and Community Trust which have been highlighted in the local press. What is less well known is that as part of the Town Trust there will be a new

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Midsomer Norton Town Archive, where precious documents relating to the town’s history will be carefully stored and catalogued so that local people wanting to find out more about where they live can access a wealth of information.

“We’re delighted to be the first to pass an item to the Midsomer Norton Archive. The map which we have looked after for many years will be of interest to a wide range of people from keen historians to local people simply wanting to see what Midsomer Norton was like in the early 19th century”, said George Persson, a Partner at Thatcher & Hallam.

The Tithe Map is probably one of the most important documents to survive from the period as it details all the land and buildings in the town in 1822 and would have been used as a basis to calculate amounts paid by landowners to the Church. Tithes were effectively like today’s systems of local rates.

The map which measures almost two metres by one metre is a unique hand drawn document and is in remarkably good condition considering its age. However, thanks to Thatcher & Hallam, the map has been scanned at local design agency ‘The Whole Story’ at Peasedown St John and can now be reproduced. The plan is to have a full size copy framed in the Town Hall and for smaller copies to be printed and sold to raise money for the new Midsomer Norton Archive.

“The inspiration for the Town Archive came from the first President of the Midsomer Norton Society, David Fisher who died last year. It is so fitting that this new store of historical reference material has been dedicated to his memory, with the permission of his widow Brenda. He had a passion for local history and inspired so many people by sharing his knowledge of the town. I know he would have been so delighted to see this project come to fruition”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

Volunteers will begin creating the necessary filing

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systems in the coming months with a view to preparing for the Archive to go live. Radstock Museum recently ran a course for Members of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust and the Midsomer Norton Society - sharing the Museum’s skills in archiving.

The new archive has made it clear that it will only be focusing on documents and photographs and has already formed a strong collaborative relationship with Radstock Museum.

For further details visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THE PRECEPT

2014 - 2015

around 2% consisting of Allotment rental income and a little interest from its reserves.

Funds are broadly split between the Town Council’s three strategic objectives: • To develop a strong sense of community • To encourage civic pride in our town • To be a well-run council which delivers results The budget for 2014-15 amounts to £343,114 and the table below shows planned expenditure broken down in to categories.

Budget 2014/2015

F

or another year Midsomer Norton Town Council has frozen the Precept charge at the same level as last year.

Town and Parish Councils have the power to raise money through taxation – this is known as the ‘Precept’. The Precept is collected by Bath and North East Somerset Council along with contributions for Avon Fire Authority and Avon and Somerset Police Authority and its own Council Tax. The amounts are added together to form a single contribution figure which is applied to all houses in Council Tax Band D. Lower rated households pay a smaller amount and larger households pay a larger amount.

The Town Council has looked closely at what its plans for the next year will cost and has put together a budget that seeks to maintain, as far as possible, funding for its key operations. Where additional costs are likely, reductions have been found elsewhere. The result is that the Town Council Precept for a Band D household will remain fixed at the same rate for another year - £86.16. As there are more houses in the town, total income will rise slightly and this allows any increase in costs to be absorbed without affecting the overall cost to the town’s Council Tax payers. Other income is marginal for the Town Council and will remain at

Central Services - Council Office, Staff and Equipment, Professional Fees

£112,060

Democratic Process - Newsletter, Website, Training, etc

£22,060

Parks and Play Areas - Equipment Maintenance Allotments - Water and grounds maintenance Ground Services - maintaining the town environment Memorials - Maintenance

£3,848 £1,850 £34,500 £600

Street Marshals

£20,000

Community Support - grants

£20,000

Community Events

£30,800

Youth and Children activities

£7,500

Community Plan

£35,000

Town Park Development Costs

£16,300

Capital and Projects - Loans and capital provision

£29,096

Total Budget Expenditure

£343,114

Future Plans The Town Council has set itself a target to bring the level of the Precept down to its rate of 2000/2001 as compared to the Retail Price Index. Outline expenditure plans and projected income show it is firmly on target to achieve this difficult challenge

by April 2015, delivering real value for money to the town’s Council Tax payers.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

YOUTH COUNCIL

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MIDSOMER NORTON YOUTH COUNCIL

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An election is being planned for the spring, following consultation with the group of young volunteers. Advice is being provided by Off the Record who supported B&NES in the recent Youth MP elections and the Town Council will be working with local schools to make sure as many young people as possible can have their say in who will represent them.

IP

Cllr Sara Box is leading on behalf of the Town Council and she is delighted with the response so far. “It’s been great to see young people being enthusiastic and coming along to the Town Hall to talk about the Youth Council. There is still some work to do and we will be looking to hold elections for the new Council in the spring. The Town Council wants to involve younger people in decision making and also to help them understand how communities work and see how they can help.”

SS

The group has agreed a draft constitution and have created some logos that are being professionally reproduced so that the best one can be chosen and taken forward. A series of events is being planned including a summer fayre in which the Youth Council will play a full part.

NE ND KI

ver the winter, a group of young people has been working with the Town Council to establish a Youth Council for Midsomer Norton.

The Town Council has offered its full support and provided a budget to help get the Youth Council started.

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The new design of a Youth Council logo is underway.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SOMERVALE PROPELLED TO SILVER Recently, six students from Somervale School were awarded Silver at a University based trampoline competition held in Bristol.

The six students, Mara Burgess, Mollie Chivers, Bailey-May Tucker, Lily Axford, Lauren Watts and Jack Barter were selected to represent the school and B&NES in the trampolining competition which was held at UWE Sports Centre. The competition was part of the West of England Winter School Games. The school games are held in forty five regions across the UK, twice a year. The games include a variety

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of sports, ranging from gymnastics to indoor rowing and everything in-between. Other schools in the competition included: Nailsea, The Grange, Hanham and John Cabot.

The competition comprised three different elements; these included body management, set skills and then a routine. The students were said to have worked incredibly hard to learn the three different elements (which had to be learnt on the day) yet despite the high pressure, they individually performed to a very high level, vindicated by winning the coveted silver medal. Somervale School is extremely proud of their troupe of talented trampoliners, and looks forward to seeing them in action in the near future at other regional contests.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON COUNCIL

WEBSITE & MOBILE APP

K

eeping you informed – on the web and on the move is a priority for the council.

A new look web site has been produced by the Town Council team in partnership with Skills on Toast. With a clear, fresh layout and greatly improved access to Council information, the new site has been available since late January. The Council team has been trained to maintain and update the site, to keep information in an easily accessed format and to measure how visitors are using it so that their needs can be met.

Features include an updated events capability, an

enhanced Councillors’ page, a more accessible minutes and agendas section that has been grouped to prevent long pages for visitors to scroll through and the development of a gallery of photographs which is continuing as work in progress.

At the same time a mobile site app is being launched, making the web site content more accessible from devices other than a PC. The app will enable the Town Council and the Community Trust to tailor information to people who download it and complete a profile. This will help with targeted publicity about events and news as well as enabling the Council and the Trust to

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

encourage input and information from everyone who downloads it.

This is a key requirement if the Town Council is to successfully encourage younger people to become more involved, as research shows that smart phone app usage is at its highest with younger people.

The app will be free to download and it is planned that by using GPS, the app will be capable of alerting people to offers and opportunities within a certain distance of their current location.

Photos and videos can be submitted and if approved by the Council and/or Trust they will be available for others to access. Links will take people to information about Council projects, news, information about community groups and also access to information about spaces that can be hired.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A SECOND DEFIBRILLATOR

DONATION V

ital life-saving equipment will be installed at the Island end of the High Street following a donation of a public access defibrillator (PAD) by the Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton and Radstock. The Town Council have placed an order for a 24 hour access cabinet, identical to the one at West Clewes Recreation Ground which was launched in October 2013.

The cabinet and PAD will be installed on the wall of Baron’s Property Services, opposite the Town Hall.

As with the West Clewes unit, the defibrillator will be linked through local company AED Locator with the Ambulance Service who hold details of all PADs on their emergency system.

Providing access to a PAD at either end of the one-way High Street has been an objective of the Council since July 2013 when it received its first donation from the Rotary Club of the Somer Valley.

The Town Council is delighted that the town centre

can now offer these vital facilities within easy reach of the busy town centre and for incidents that might happen across the town. “Over the Christmas period, one of the Midsomer Norton Street Pastors helped with the deployment of the PAD from West Clewes after a young man was taken ill in the High Street. Although the unit was not required to discharge a shock on that occasion, the fact that it was able to make an initial assessment and was on stand-by until the paramedics attended was a huge reassurance” said Clive Stilwell, Town Clerk.

Midsomer Norton’s Street Pastors have been instructed how to use PADs as part of their comprehensive training programme. Nevertheless, many PADs have been deployed by members of the public who are talked through the whole process by the Ambulance Service and the units are designed to provide voice prompts at all stages of their use.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MAKE A DIFFRENCE “Contact the Elderly” is looking for a few more volunteers of any age to get involved with the new Somer Valley group. The charity sets up local tea party groups, hosted by volunteers, to help brighten up Sundays for older guests aged 75+ who perhaps find it harder to get out alone, and don’t necessarily have local family/friends who can pop in. We are nearly ready to start!

Just a couple of hours once a month on a Sunday afternoon is all you need to help out as a driver, or perhaps you would like to be a host and welcome a small group into your home for tea just a couple of times a year (downstairs toilet and no more than 3 steps required).

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Great excuse to buy or bake a few cakes! Finally we are also looking for a Coordinator – just a couple of hours admin a month to make it all happen. Groups are small and friendly , and the service is unique.

The charity, which was set up in 1965, now has 29 groups in the area and is still growing. Helen Ker, Regional Development Officer, hopes that the Somer group can be number 30! We’re hoping that the Midsomer Norton Community Trust can get involved, and link in with some of the events for the elderly that they are organising too.

For details about the scheme, to volunteer or take part as a guest, contact Helen: 01225 873812 or email: Helen.ker@contact-the-elderly-org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY GROUP

GRANTS

“To make awards to organisations that bring people together, promoting understanding, tolerance and responsibility or that support people in the community by alleviating hardship”.

Since it was created, the Council has made awards totalling over £50,000 to a wide range of community organisations. Here are a few of the recent projects that the Town Council grants have supported: • Midsomer Norton Street Pastors were granted money to help fund specific training for the volunteer Pastors and to assist with uniform costs

The Silver Street Nature Reserve is restoring an ancient spring head with the help of a grant from the Town Council.

M

idsomer Norton Town Council continues to award Grants to local organisations to support a range of activities in the town. Because the Council has responsibility for the use of public funds, the Council works to a clear Grant policy so that it complies with legislation.

Each year the Town Council allocates a specific amount of funds from its budget to be used to award Grants to local organisations. The aim of the Council policy for Grants is:

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• Midsomer Norton Social Club was given a grant to help fund materials to refurbish some toilet facilities. The work has opened up access to a function room for people with disabilities and was carried out almost entirely by volunteers • Midsomer Norton Rugby Club successfully applied for a grant to help them install a public access defibrillator in a specially designed cabinet.

This key life-saving equipment complements the units around the area, in particular at other sports clubs such as Welton Rovers and Farrington Golf Club.

• SWAN Advice Network were awarded a grant to help them with specific transport costs supporting their Access to Health project • WISH was granted funds to support volunteer carers who give up their own time to help disabled people on day trips or even holidays – without this help some of them might never be able to enjoy time away.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GROWING

FOR GOLD

D

uring April, free ‘Growing for Gold’ Sunflower seed packs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to all appropriate groups who register their interest with the Midsomer Norton In Bloom Team.

After success in winning a Gold Pennant in last year’s Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) South West in Bloom Awards, Midsomer Norton will be taking a fuller part in the 2014 competition which marks the 50th Anniversary of RHS Britain in Bloom. The RHS is encouraging Community Groups across our town to plant golden pollinator-friendly flowers this year.

Nicola Ware, the Town Council’s Horticultural Contractor said “We are really keen to involve as many schools, clubs and community groups as possible, so if you are proud of your group’s gardening, nature or horticultural achievements, please get in touch and let us know. We will also be making every effort to get as many interested

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

groups on board as possible and we will lend a hand with support and advice wherever we can!”

Nicola went on to say “With the wholehearted support of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust and the Town Council, we are really pulling out all of the stops to make our town look as florally colourful as possible. We have a few new planting ideas in the pipeline which will look fantastic once they’re in place. We are looking forward to making our ‘In Bloom’ entry a real team effort this year”.

The RHS has lots of categories to enter giving us a fantastic opportunity to recognize the many groups within our community for all of the hard work and effort they put in all year round.

Anyone interested in taking part in this year’s RHS entry should contact Nicola via an email at midsomernortoninbloom@gmail.com or visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SHIRLEY NAMED IN QUEEN’S

NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST What do you think is the most important thing to being a good volunteer?

Well for me the key thing is that I’ve always enjoyed working with people to help others. So, if you’re not enjoying what you do there isn’t much point in doing it.

What would you say has been your most proud moment?

I think it was when I was made first lady president of the Chamber of Commerce. As someone who has lived and worked in commerce in the High Street all my life I felt I had a wealth of hands on experience to bring to the role.

Your time must have involved a lot of meetings – didn’t they drive you mad at times?

S

hirley Steel was awarded a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours in recognition of more than 67 years of voluntary service to Midsomer Norton. Midsomer Norton LIFE recently caught up with Shirley at her home to talk about her long life in volunteering.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

What do you think is your biggest achievement?

It’s a close contest between being a founder member of Radstock Museum and the Somerset & Dorset Heritage Railway Trust. When I see people of all ages today appreciating heritage which might otherwise have been lost – I feel really proud that I was able to help make this happen.

They always say people regret what they didn’t have time to do – is there anything you wished you’d done?

Being so involved as a volunteer on top of having five children didn’t leave much time for book learning and further education. I did four O Levels when I was 42 but I’d loved to have had the opportunity to go on to higher education. But that option was wasn’t open to people in my day. At 14 my life started working in our family shop – even though I’d passed the Eleven Plus.

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Now in her 82nd year Shirley is still actively involved on ten Committees including the Somerset & Dorset Railway as a Trustee and a Director, Sarah Ann Trust, Somer Centre, Whisty Community Hall, Radstock Museum, Longvernal School Governor, Somer Valley Partnership, Nature Reserve and Dial-a-Ride. In short, Shirley is not just a Midsomer Norton treasure – she a national treasure.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

CARNIVAL W

ith the prospect of Carnival returning to Midsomer Norton, it is timely to take a look at the history of this iconic event which so many people have fond memories of.

The first Midsomer Norton Carnival took place on the 12th November 1948, which was a huge success bringing light and fun in the dark days immediately following the Second World War. However, recent research by the Midsomer Norton Society has revealed that early in 1961, by refusing to allow either event to have fairground activities in the High Street, Norton Radstock Council effectively killed both the Carnival and Midsomer Norton Fair.

It was to be another 15 years before Midsomer Norton Carnival was revived in 1975 - by which time the town had lost its slot in the main Carnival Circuit, which it has never been able to regain.

Concerns over speeding at the top of the High Street were eventually to lead to the widening of the pavements there which in turn resulted in Midsomer Norton Carnival being moved to

Westfield in the 1990s. Westfield has largely kept the event alive in recent years.

Meanwhile, with the support of their local councils, the other Carnivals in Somerset have flourished – bringing thousands of visitors to market towns like Bridgwater, Wells and Glastonbury every year.

Over the last 15 months the Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Association have been working on a new route which would see the Carnival return not just to Midsomer Norton, but also Westfield and Radstock. A test run for the new route was carried out on Sunday 23rd February 2014 and the only sticking points proved to be two small road adjustments needed outside the Town Hall and at the top of the High Street in Midsomer Norton – which it is hoped that B&NES can carry out before November 2014.

How fantastic it would be, to see a new era of Carnival, which could bring our community together across the Somer Valley.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LION’S IN MIDSOMER NORTON Lions is the world’s largest service organisation with 1.35 million members in 208 countries. Lions have helped with relief for victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines with more than $1million already distributed to the Philippines. There are many clubs in the Philippines which means that we have the essential support networks already in place. These clubs have been distributing aid and will continue to do so for a long time to come.

Clubs in Haiti are still helping with relief as a result of the earthquake there nearly four years ago.

Lions are in it for the duration!

Your local Lions Club rounded up 2013 with the traditional carol float collections in Midsomer Norton and the surrounding villages. We were fortunate with the weather this year, only having to cancel two collections due to rain.

On Monday 23rd December and Christmas Eve, we were grateful for the shelter provided by Tesco’s entrance foyer; the carol float itself braved the elements and survived, even if it got rather wet.

We were supported both days of collection at Tesco by the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver band, led by Jo Sykes.

During the month we collected approximately £4000 which will be used to help those less fortunate than ourselves, in both the local

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Lion President Trevor, Tesco Duty Manager, Alli Ure, Father Christmas and Jo Sykes, Silver band Musical Director and band members.

area and internationally. Lion President, Trevor Hipwood and club members thank all who contributed and helped. You can be sure that the money will be put to good use.

We are a mixed club having 19 members, including 2 ladies. If you are interested in joining us and our wonderful organisation, then contact any lion or visit our website www.rmnlions.org.uk, to find out more about us.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

RIVER

UPDATE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

the programme to clear and replant W hilst the River in Midsomer Norton has been delayed by the wet weather, work is progressing with a view to reaching Martins News Agents by the end of March this year.

The problem has been two fold; on the one hand there was concern not to disturb the river bed at a time of such increased water flow and risk flooding, on the other volunteers having been drenched to the skin on two separate attempts and were reluctant to try again until conditions improved. In order to speed up the process Saturday working has been introduced and Community Payback will be focusing their efforts alongside volunteers from the beginning of March.

In the meantime, volunteers have taken the opportunity to look at how much rubbish gets

27

thrown into the river and what can be done to reduce it. It was during this process that we discovered that one volunteer who clears the river EVERY day of the week had been keeping a daily tally for the last four and a half years. And the results are fascinating. A simple graph shows that since August 2009 the amount of rubbish being removed daily has fallen by two thirds.

What is also interesting is to note the point at which the River Somer Transformation Project was implemented in May 2011 and then again when the Street Marshals started work in the Autumn of 2012.

Both these factors seem to have had an impact and moved our river forward significantly from the bad old days of 2007 when it was full of rubbish.

So well done to Ray Jean who works so hard to keep our River Somer free from rubbish.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

£100 WINNERS

Sam, Molly and Alfie are the proud winners of £100 for entering the ‘find the word’ competition at the Midsomer Norton Lantern Fayre evening in December.

The children visited each shop on the list and wrote down each letter they found, once all letters had been gathered they put them together to spell a Christmas word.

All of the correct entries were put into a prize draw and Sam, Molly and Alfie’s family were the lucky winners of £100 to spend as they wish.

Sam and Alfie attend Midsomer Norton Primary School and Molly attends Fosseway School.

The competition was sponsored by HEY! Magazine and we were proud to present the children with their cheque.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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MIDSOMER NORTON FORUM

COMMUNITY SURVEY The results from the community survey carried out by the Midsomer Norton Forum in late 2013 have now been analysed and they provide some important and persuasive arguments about the future of the town and the priorities of those who live here.

RESPONSES A total of 4683 questionnaires were delivered by a number of volunteers across the town despite some challenges caused by new developments and street numbering systems. 1192 questionnaires were returned to the collection points across the town – a response rate of over 25%. This is better than expected and provides a really reliable sample on which to base some key actions for the

Community Plan and the proposed Neighbourhood Development Plan.

As many people as possible in each household were encouraged to participate in completing the questionnaire. In total, 1468 people were involved in completing the questionnaire of which 46% were male and 54% female. There was a broad distribution in terms of age with an even 50/50 split of responses from people under 60 and over 60 years of age.

There were 5 key sections in the survey – A - Stronger and Safer Communities B - Economic Development C - Healthier Communities D - Environment and Sustainability E - Families and Young People.

PEOPLE FEELING PART OF THE COMMUNITY 72% of all responses said that, as a household, they felt part of the community and this figure was the same when looking at responses from households with nobody over the age of 60.

AREAS OF THE TOWN THAT GAVE PEOPLE CONCERN

700

OTHER - 55

MOBILITY ACCESS ROADS - 89

MOBILITY ACCESS TO SHOPS - 116

CYCLE PATH CONDITION - 126

SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE - 160

COLLAPSED DRAINS - 218

ROAD CROSSING - 232

FOOTPATH LIGHTING - 244

ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR - 391

0

FOOTPATH CONDITION - 446

100

PAVEMENT CONDITION - 489

200

ROAD SURFACE - 659

300

DOG FOULING - 664

400

LITTER - 506

500

PUBLIC TOILET PROVISION - 652

600

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

EMPLOYMENT IN MIDSOMER NORTON When asked where people in the household work, 66% of those who were employed travelled outside Midsomer Norton to their workplace. This confirms the very high level of “out-commuting” in the town.

When asked what they thought of employment opportunities in the town, the highest score was ‘poor’ and the results were similar for the under 60 households to the overall survey numbers.

ALL RESPONDENTS

200

VERY POOR - 80

POOR - 193

AVERAGE - 175

0

GOOD - 16

50

VERY GOOD - 2

100

VERY POOR - 173

POOR - 431

GOOD - 38

AVERAGE - 394

150

VERY GOOD - 4

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

UNDER 60’S ONLY

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF CURRENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE TOWN?

SPORTING ACTIVITIES

OTHER - 81

BOXING - 4

BASKETBALL - 4

EXTREME SPORTS - 12

NETBALL - 15

BADMINTON - 19

TENNIS - 21

SQUASH - 22

MARTIAL ARTS - 30

CRICKET - 31

RUGBY - 46

BOWLS - 49

GYMNASTICS/DANCING - 56

0

FOOTBALL - 97

50

FITNESS/AEROBICS - 134

200 150 100

SWIMMING - 349

250

GYM - 140

350 300

CYCLING - 214

400

ATHLETICS/RUNNING/WALKING - 269

Many households reported a wide range of sporting activities that they pursued in Midsomer Norton and the long tradition of active swimming participation came to the fore.

IN WHICH SPORTING ACTIVITIES DO MEMBERS OF YOUR HOUSEHOLD PARTICIPATE IN MIDSOMER NORTON?

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

BUSINESSES PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO SEE IN THE TOWN There was very strong support for keeping a shopping centre in the High Street with 96% saying that it was important or very important. When asked what businesses they would like to see there was a wide range of responses.

900 800

OTHERS - 66

ESTATE AGENTS - 4

PUBS AND BARS - 67

CAFES - 79

SPORT SUPPLIERS - 120

HEALTH AND BEAUTY - 137

SPECIALTY - 139

SUPERMARKETS - 152

RESTAURANTS - 166

ADVICE CENTRES - 233

ENTERTAINMENT - 328

BOOKS - 436

0

ELECTRONICS - 441

100

DIY - 817

200

WEEKLY MARKET - 601

300

CLOTHES - 754

400

MAJOR CHAINS - 608

500

IND FOOD RETAILERS - 524

600

HEALTH SERVICE PROVIDERS - 67

700

PRESERVING THE CHARACTER AND HERITAGE OF THE TOWN There was clear evidence that people care about the character of the town and its heritage.

91% believe it is very important/important to preserve the character and heritage of Midsomer Norton.

700 600

0

NOT AT ALL - 8

100

UNIMPORTANT - 17

200

NEUTRAL - 77

300

IMPORTANT - 392

400

VERY IMPORTANT - 685

500

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO PRESERVE THE CHARACTER AND HERITAGE OF MIDSOMER NORTON WHEN CONSIDERING NEW DEVELOPMENT?

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32

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOWN PARK There was huge support for the proposal to create a Town Park, with 81% agreeing/strongly agreeing and similar percentages from below age 60 and across the whole group.

300

120

250

100

200

80

150 100 50 0

60 40 20 0

STRONGLY DISAGREE - 6

140

DISAGREE - 9

350

NEUTRAL - 86

160

STRONGLY DISAGREE - 13

400

DISAGREE - 21

180

NEUTRAL - 193

450

AGREE - 475

200

STRONGLY AGREE - 467

500

AGREE - 187

UNDER 60’S ONLY

STRONGLY AGREE - 189

ALL RESPONDENTS

VERY POOR - 37

PORR - 139

HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE GENERAL APPEARANCE OF THE TOWN CENTRE?

AVERAGE - 471

Generally people felt more positive than negative about the appearance of the town centre.

GOOD - 431

THE APPEARANCE OF THE TOWN

500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

VERY GOOD - 69

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PROPOSAL TO CREATE A TOWN PARK?

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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IMPROVEMENTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

OTHER - 15

ARTS AND CRAFTS FACILITIES - 90

0

SPORTS FACILITIES - 98

50

PLAY FACILITIES - 102

100

EVENTS - 141

150

SAFER NIGHT TOWN ACCESS - 159

200

LEISURE FACILITIES - 160

250

SHOPPING OUTLETS - 213

300

SAFE PLACES TO SOCIALISE - 243

In the final section, only households with children under 18 were asked to respond.

WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF FACILITY DO YOU FEEL MOST NEED IMPROVEMENT IN THE TOWN?

DON’T KNOW - 145

VERY POOR - 12

POOR - 49

AVERAGE - 107

GOOD - 33

160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0

VERY GOOD - 4

THE LEVEL OF SUPPORT SERVICES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

HOW DO YOU RATE THE LEVEL OF SUPPORT SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE TOWN?

WHAT NEXT? The Forum has a huge amount of data from the survey, not just in in the numbers set out in the graph above, but also in the comments that were added to the questions by so many of you. These are now being analysed to ensure that everything that has been put forward in the questionnaires can be considered.

From all of the information the Forum will be developing a wide-ranging action list for the Community Plan which itself will guide the Neighbourhood Development Plan. The plans will be presented back to the community for

their comments before being finalised – the Neighbourhood Development Plan will need to be approved by an independent inspector and be put to the community through a referendum.

This is a great start to setting out some key principles for the future for both the community as a whole and for a major opportunity to shape development in the town for many years to come.

Full details of the data results from the survey will be available on the Midsomer Norton Town Council web site and a hard copy will be available for residents to view at the Council’s offices in the Town Hall.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MAYPOLE FESTIVAL

ANNOUNCED M

idsomer Norton’s schools and community groups are being invited to take part in a Midsomer Maypole Festival to be launched as part of the Town’s Fayre Day on Saturday 12th July at Gullock Tyning.

Local B&NES Councillors Paul Myers and Chris Watt have purchased five Maypoles with part of their Ward Councillor Initiative Funds which will be held by the new Midsomer Norton Community Trust and loaned out to groups in the town wishing to learn to dance. A competition is being organised

for July with a chance to win a glittering array of trophies and medals.

The Maypole kits are easily transportable in sections and come with a music CD and set of dance instructions. They only take a few moments to assemble and are ideal for use either outside or in a hall. There is even a pole available for wheel chair users.

The first workshop, led by Cllr Myers, took place last Saturday morning with a group of pupils from Welton Primary School at the Town Hall.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

“I’ve always been fascinated by Maypole dancing.

Not only is it great fun, it’s a great way to get people exercising and it symbolises for me how a community can come together. It would be fantastic if we could establish Maypole dancing as a regular part of Midsomer Norton Fayre Day. I’d particularly like to see my fellow Town Councillors form a team and take up a set of ribbons as this is an activity for people of all ages”, said Cllr Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

With six months to go to Midsomer Norton Fayre, there’s plenty of time to get a team together. Any groups or Schools interested in taking part need to contact Community Development Manager Alex Davis on 01761 419133 or visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WANSDYKE PLAY MOVES IN WITH COMMUNITY TRUST Wansdyke Play Association will be moving its operation from Redfield Road to a new base at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, enabling it to work more closely with the newly formed Midsomer Norton Community Trust and other resident community groups.

Wansdyke Play Association, founded in 1993, has developed an outstanding reputation for positive work in supporting children’s play and the development of stronger communities through play both in the Somer Valley and on the national stage. Their work includes management of local steering groups, regular communication with the police and youth offending teams, links with social care, schools, and community groups. They ensure on-going dialogue with the local authorities to inform strategic development of services at a local level. In addition they give support and advice to local residents groups and advocate on behalf of children and young people

“We’ve witnessed the veritable transformation in recent years of the Town Hall into Midsomer Norton’s premier community hub, and as an organisation are keen to work with the new Community Trust to expand support for children’s play in the area. With additional facilities such as the Orchard Hall and green spaces in the town there is enormous potential for partnership working with the Trust”, said Emma Hamilton, of the Wansdyke Play Association.

Practical arrangements to achieve the move are well in hand so that the Wansdyke Play Association should be resident at the Town Hall by the end of March 2014.

NORTON RADSTOCK SWIMMING CLUB Norton Radstock Swimming Club were privileged to welcome Paralympian, IPC World/European and Commonwealth champion swimmer Stephanie Millward to the Annual Disco & Presentation evening held at Paulton Rovers FC on the 24th January. Also in attendance Midsomer Norton Mayor Paul Myers and honoured Life Members Dennis Barter, Kay Harvey and London 2012 Olympian Stacey Tadd.

The Major presented certificates and medals to all the finalists from the club’s annual gala held last November. He also presented Stacey, with her UKCC Level 2 Coaching certificate which she

achieved with the help of a grant from Midsomer Norton Town Council.

Georgia Boulton received the Junior Victor Ludorum and Liam Willcox won the senior award for the highest number of first places. Katie Ball was awarded the Endeavour Cup for her commitment to volunteering on poolside. Awards for the most improved times went to Elliot Lewis, Daniel Milverton, Hannah Brooks-Scully, Katie Boby, Jessica Pinches and Georgia Vause.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

INTER SCHOOLS SWIMMING GALA On the 29th of January some St. John’s Primary School pupils attended the inter- schools swimming gala in Midsomer Norton. The children had to compete against 15 other schools and they came came 3rd.

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We are all very proud of our achievement.

Thanks to: Camron Haris, Luka Williams, Charlotte Stokley, Ella Parfit, C.Callaway, L.Anderson, Mia Francis, Alex Bennet, Cerys Ford, Holly Derrick, Charlie Francis and Joe Wollacott.

1st places were gained by Girls Medley Team which included: Mia Francis 1st in 25m Freestyle 2nd in 50m Freestyle Cerys Ford 3rd Freestyle Holly Derrick, Charlotte Stockley, Alex Bennett

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY TRUST MOVES

FORWARD

On the airwaves The Trust has teamed up with the South West’s station of the year Somer Valley FM to broadcast a new weekly radio programme Somer Valley Life.

Covering a wide range of community activity in Midsomer Norton and the surrounding towns and villages that make up the Somer Valley, the show aims to raise awareness of all community events and the hundreds of community groups within the region. So if you want the latest news tune in to Somer Valley FM every Wednesday from 11am-12pm at 97.5FM or www.somervalleyfm.co.uk.

If you can’t catch it live fear not, it repeats every Thursday 7pm-8pm.

Blockbuster Cinema Programme

T

he Community Trust has moved forward as never before since the last issue of LIFE expanding the Cinema, launching the Midsomer Concert Hall and Tea Dances and taking on responsibility for Midsomer Norton Fayre. As a result there is more than ever to do in the town: MIDSOMER FAYRE DAY – Saturday 12th July This year, a collaboration between the Community trust and various other local organisations sees a new format for the Midsomer Fayre on Saturday 12th July. Including a a Fam Jam at the Skate Park, Community Fayre and Maypole Festival, the day will particularly focus on young people in the town and coincides with the Big Gig at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club and other events throughout the town – more details to follow so keep checking www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

The Spring means one thing for the Community Cinema – great films. On Saturday 22nd March at 7.30pm the gripping Gravity brings its stunning visual display to the Town Hall’s cinema screen as George Clooney and Sandra Bullock star in the blockbuster which stole the show at the BAFTA awards. At the same time on Saturday 26th April we also bring you the heart-warming story of Walt Disney and the writer of Mary Poppins in Saving Mr Banks.

We also have some treats for the whole family with our Family Showcases which continue in the new 2.30pm slot. On Saturday 22nd March we bring you the zany Cloudy and the Chance of Meatballs 2 and on Saturday 26th April we bring you the favourite for the Animated Feature Oscar Frozen.

The Classic Cinema continues to give you the unique opportunity to see the some of greatest films in HD on the big screen in its 2pm Friday afternoon slot. So far our Ealing comedies have proved very popular, so audiences should be delighted with The Ladykillers on Friday 14th March. A slightly different tone follows as we celebrate those spring showers with the classic musical Singin’ In The Rain on Friday 11th April.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

More live music We have more live music than ever coming up over the next few months with some new offerings joining our regular favourites.

The Midsomer Concert Hall has some fantastic Sunday Afternoon concerts lined up in its tea time slots (5-6pm). On the 16th March we have the Mendip Ensemble on Sunday with a concert of light-hearted tunes with a party theme. We also have Cressida Nash & Jacquelyn Bevan with Baroque n Roll (13th April) and the much anticipated piano recital from Brenda McDermott (18th May).

Our popular regular offerings continue with The Paradis Palm Court Trio continuing to delight audiences at the Town Hall on the First Friday of the month, 12.30-1.30pm and The First Thursday Afternoon Social bringing popular music and laughter to Welton Rovers FC on the first Thursday of every month, 2-5pm.

A slice of nostalgia returned to the town with the launch on the 9th February of the Midsomer Tea Dance between 3pm and 5pm on Sunday once a quarter at the Town Hall. With all the gusto we’ve come to expect from the Trust team they’ve created an authentic event, making 1920’s waitress outfits and gathering cake stands, tea cups, kentia palms and damask tablecloths backed with a frenzy of baking traditional fare, including seed cake, Victoria sponges and cucumber sandwiches -

39

with the crusts cut off, of course! As well as piano music played by Jacquelyn Bevan on the Bechstein grand, there were original tracks from the great bands of the 1920s and 30s. The next event is on Sunday 27th April 2014.

On Wednesday April 2nd, impressive live performer and highly original writer, Steve Knightley, will be at the Town Hall as part of his Grow Your Own Gig Tour – tickets are £16 and can be obtained from Bath Box Office on 01225 463362 or online at www.facebook.com/steveknightley.

For full details of all the above events as they are announced, head to www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or phone 01761 419133.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CEMETERY PROVISION

IN MIDSOMER NORTON S

ince time immemorial, there has been a graveyard in Midsomer Norton– either around the Parish Church of St John or since the 1830s in Church Lane. However, in a few years the town cemetery in Church Lane will be full and so the Town Council has been looking well in advance at options for the future and is now seeking the views of Midsomer Norton residents.

“When the new Town Council was set up in 2011, it became apparent that unless land could be found for a new cemetery, the only option for local people to be buried would be at the main B&NES facility at Haycombe near Bath. This would mean a long journey and for many the feeling that having lived in Midsomer Norton all their lives, they would need to leave when it came to finding a final resting place. Given the sensitivity of this issue we wanted to try and balance the need, ensure that people were aware and gather their views, without causing distress”, said Councillor Steve Plumley.

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At the time the Council was formed, Councillors were confident that, even though no provision had been made by our predecessors, it would be possible to purchase a piece of land. However, despite extensive investigations over the last three years it became apparent that not only are there very few sites left in Midsomer Norton for a cemetery, but that those which could meet the town’s needs are increasingly unaffordable due to the growing frenzy of house building in the town sending land prices through the roof.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Although the Council requested the Midsomer Norton Forum to put a question about the future of the cemetery in the Community Survey carried out last October, the organising group rejected the request on the basis that across the 14 focus groups they’d organised, no one mentioned the issue despite it having been in the press. Whilst on the face of it this was entirely reasonable as the Community Plan content was owned by the people and could not be determined by the councillors, it has left the Council in a dilemma.

DATA PROTECTION ACT: The personal details provided as part of the consultation will only be used in connection with the administration of the consultation and will not be shared with any other organisation. Your personal information will not be used for any other purpose other than mentioned. It will be held and stored securely and will be securely destroyed in line with legislative requirements. As with all Council held information, consultation information will be subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act legislation and may be disclosed to the public if requested.

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The Town Council is therefore launching a consultation and an appeal.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION: Midsomer Norton Town Council requests town residents to respond to the question: “Do you think there should be a cemetery in Midsomer Norton in the future?” by writing or emailing the Town Clerk (details below) with their views. You can write as little as yes or no or much more, but the aim of the consultation is to establish what local people think.

AN APPEAL TO LANDOWNERS: Midsomer Norton Town Council is also appealing to landowners and developers to be aware of the likely need for space for a new cemetery in the town, and requests that anyone who would be interested in selling land located within the town boundary to make contact with the Town Clerk. Any initial approaches will be treated in strictest confidence if requested.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT’S ON MARCH 14th - Midsomer Norton Palladium at the Town Hall showcasing The Ladykillers at 2pm.

15th - Midsomer Norton Vintage Market at The Hollies Gardens from 8am to 2pm.

16th - Concert Hall at Midsomer Norton Town Hall showcasing the Mendip Ensemble from 5pm to 6pm. Free entry – donations appreciated.

17th - Planning Committee meeting at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm.

18th - Poetry liaisons. Share favourite poems or your own work in a friendly environment.

Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

19th - Joined-up writers. A free workshop for developing your story and poetry-writing skills and ideas. 1-3pm Midsomer Norton Library.

22nd - Little Pickles Market- Baby and Toddler nearly new sale. Entry is £1 for adults, children free. Goody bags for the first 50 guests! Market runs from 10.30am to 12.00pm The Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

22nd - Midsomer Norton Palladium at the Town Hall showcasing Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 at 2.30pm and Gravity at 7.30pm.

25th - Singer-songwriter Sue Harding performs upbeat songs and heartbreaking ballads. Midsomer Norton Library 7pm. Free, tickets from the library.

26th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3’s. Sing along nursery rhymes. 10.30am – 11am Midsomer Norton Library.

27th - Midsomer Norton Society, Town Hall 7.30pm. History of the Somerset Guardian.

27th - Stand Up Comedy Club, The Wunderbar, High Street, Midsomer Norton.

APRIL 2nd - Steve Knightley from Show of Hands will be showcasing live at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 8pm. Tickets via Bath Box Office www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 01225 463362 or locally via 07977 737621.

3rd - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers from 2pm to 5pm, £3 entry.

4th- Paradis Palm Court Trio at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, free entry – donations appreciated.

5th - The Cheaterslicks, The Wunderbar, High Street, Midsomer Norton.

5th - Somerset Farmers Market at the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm.

7th - Full Council meet at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm.

11th - Midsomer Norton Palladium at the Town Hall showcasing Singin’ In The Rain at 2pm.

13th - Concert Hall at Midsomer Norton Town Hall showcasing the Cello & Piano : Bach, Moscheles, Beethoven from 5pm to 6pm. Free entry – donations appreciated.

16th - Joined-up writers. A free workshop for developing your story and poetry-writing skills and ideas. 1-3pm Midsomer Norton Library.

16th - Easter Pop Quiz, The Wunderbar, High Street, Midsomer Norton.

19th - Midsomer Norton Vintage Market at The Hollies Gardens from 8am to 2pm.

19-20th - Easter Bunny Weekend at Midsomer Norton Station from 11.30am - 3.30pm. Easter Egg Hunt, tickets in advance, £6 per child - available from the station shop. The Somerset & Dorset

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Railway Heritage Trust, Midsomer Norton Station, Silver Street, Midsomer Norton, Telephone 01761 411221.

43

28th - Planning Committee meeting at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm.

MAY

21st - Give Blood, Donor Sessions. 10am till 2pm, The Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

1st - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers from 2pm to 5pm, £3 entry.

23rd - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3’s. Sing along nursery rhymes. 10.30am – 11am at Midsomer Norton Library.

2nd - Paradis Palm Court Trio at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, free entry – donations appreciated.

24th - Welton Chapel, Welton Village Group 7.30pm. History of Blatchford Engineering.

3rd - Craft Fair at Midsomer Norton Methodist Hall. Handmade crafts from local makers.

Something for all the family. Free admission.

Homemade refreshments. 10am-1pm.

26th - Midsomer Norton Palladium at the Town Hall showcasing Frozen at 2.30pm and Saving Mr Banks at 7.30pm.

27th - Tea Dance at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 3pm to 5pm, £4 per head for traditional afternoon tea plus tea and cakes.

3rd - Somerset Farmers Market at the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm.

7th - Give Blood, Donor Sessions- 13:30-15:30 / 16:30-19:15. The Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY Somer Artists meet every Monday from 3.15pm to 5.15pm at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton to draw and paint, and have frequent workshops for those who want to learn new skills. For more information contact Peter on 01761 434428 or Kate on 01225 421842 or visit our website at www. somersetartists.co.uk.

Norton Radstock U3A at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton. Speaker-meeting every second Monday 2-4pm, Coffee morning every last Monday 10.30-12 noon.

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

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 in years 3 to 6 and 7.45pm for children in years 7 and above.

Job Centre Plus Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre 9.30 - 3.00 Appointments or drop in.

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.

20.20.20 classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 11am, every Monday.

Job Centre Plus Midsomer Norton Childrens Centre 9.30 - 3.00 Appointments or drop in.

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

Storytime Stories for 0-5 year olds for Free.

11.00am - 11.30 am at Midsomer Norton Library.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 6.30pm.

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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.

Golden-Oldies singing session at Greenacres Community Room, Greenacres, Midsomer Norton BA3 2RD every Tuesday 2-3pm. Open to all, voluntary donation of £1 per session. Please call the office to check your session is on and for more information 01761 470006.

Midsomer Norton Townswomen Guild meets on the third 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 12 noon.

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

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45

Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly from September to June 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 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

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

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

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

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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

THURSDAY

Housegroups with Welton Baptist Church from 7.45pm, a chance to meet in smaller groups for prayer, bible study and general this and that.

Jenny Peplow singers meet every Thursday at 7.15pm at the Somer Centre, for more information call Jenny on 01373 812093.

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

Norton Radstock Ramblers meet for a walk every Wednesday, contact 01761 435178 for more details.

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

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 12 pm, for more information call Justine on 01761 413039.

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

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

Dynamos from 6:30pm-7:45pm, at Welton Baptist Chapel a childrens’ group for age 6 to school year 4.

Superchargers at 6:45pm-8:00pm in St. John’s Ambulance Hall from childrens’ group for school years 5 & 6.

Voltage from 7:00pm-9:00pm in the Town Hall for Teens group for school year 7 to age 14.

Wives Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre meets alternate Wednesdays at 2pm. Various speakers and topics. For more info or confirm date ring 01761 436770.

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

Family First (for parents and carers of children with additional needs) 1.30pm to 3.00pm. Come along on the first Thursday of every month to Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre.

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 on the 2nd Thursday of every month, for more information call 01761417252.

Golden-Oldies singing session at Welton Vale Community Room, Welton Vale , Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2BG every Thursday 10.30-11.30am Open to all, voluntary donation of £1 per session. Please call the office to check your session is on and for more information 01761 470006.

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.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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 1.15pm to 2.00pm.

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

St John 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 John Ambulance Hall, Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton.

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

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 7.45pm

47

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

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 1.15pm to 2.00pm and 8pm to 9.00pm.

FRIDAY Stay & Play 9.30 – 11.00 at The Children’s Centre.

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

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

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

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

After school appointments available Tuesday - Friday Contact lenses from £18.50 per month including solutions & aftercare New patients welcome | A wide selection of frames Visit us in store: 2 Mansbrook House, 15 High Street, Midsomer Norton

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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 Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 10am.

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

The Early Shift from 8:30am-10:30am in the 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!

Yoga fitness at 11am at South Wansdyke Sports centre.

Zumba at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 1pm.

Spinning classes at 6.30pm at South Wansdyke Sports centre.

Café 3:16 at the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm. A youth café open to teenagers to hang out for a couple of hours in the evening.

Inflatable session at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm.

SATURDAY Workdays take place every Saturday at Silver Street Nature Reserve from 10.30am. Please meet by the notice boards in the woods. For more information contact Lucy or James on 01761 411292 or 07595 604248.

Saturday Club at The Town Hall Midsomer Norton from April. A range of activites for disabled & non disabled children 10am to 2pm. Contact Wansdyke Play Association 01761 420660 or email admin@ wpa-play.com.

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 6pm to 7pm.

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

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

Children’s Dance classes every Saturday afternoon at the Orchard, contact Paula on 07860 839560 for more details.

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

The local churches Men’s Breakfast Fellowship meets monthly ( 2nd Saturday excluding July and August) at 8.30am ( breakfast from 8am) venues vary. For more information call Midsomer Norton Methodist centre on 01761 401450.

Saturday Night Praise at 7.30pm on 3rd Saturday each month at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.00am.

Inflatable session at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 4pm to 5pm.

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.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

49

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

Evening Worship from 6.00pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Junior rugby games and training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 10.30am, contact 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

Morning Service at 10:30am at Somervale School; morning worship service for all ages.

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.

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

Welton Baptist Church Evening Service 6:00pm at Somervale School; evening service - “café style”.

Ignite (14-18’s) at 8:00pm-9:30pm at Welton Baptist Chapel for young Peoples group for age 14-18.

Norton Radstock Ramblers meet for a walk every Sunday, contact 01761 435178 for more details.

Evening service from 6pm at St John the Baptist.

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50

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

AFRICAN ADVENTURE

Tim Chandler, the Midsomer Norton Schools’ Partnership Outdoor Education Co-ordinator commented, “This is an incredibly exciting trip for us and I know the students are looking forward to it massively, albeit with a little trepidation. Seeing firsthand the poverty that exists in the region will be a shock, but we all hope to make a small difference through the work we will be doing. The wonderful donation and on-going support of the local branch of the Royal and Commonwealth Society is really encouraging and gratefully received”.

The 21 students travelling to the Nakuru area of Kenya, North-West of Nairobi, will be spending time working in a school and on other community projects. There will also be an opportunity to travel through the nearby National Park where they will encounter wildlife, cross the equator and visit the spectacular ‘Thompson Falls’.

S

tudents from the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form will be embarking on a ‘once-ina-lifetime’ trip to Kenya this July. A trip of such magnitude is never cheap, but this hasn’t dissuaded the Sixth Form students who have been tirelessly fundraising to help reduce the costs. On top of the students’ efforts, the Sixth Form has recently received some fantastic news to help support the venture. The Bath and District Branch of The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) contacted the Sixth Form with the pledge that they would donate a financial contribution towards the cost of the project - welcome news for all involved in the expedition.

The RCS is an educational charity working in Bath and the surrounding area to help promote international understanding through the vehicle of the modern Commonwealth. It does this by promoting awareness of the Commonwealth, sponsoring educational travel projects and organising Commonwealth related events, much like the trip organised by the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form.

Tim Chandler concluded by saying, “The students have worked extremely hard over the past year to raise funds for this expedition and are truly thankful to RCS Bath for their financial support which is helping to make this incredible opportunity a reality, not just for a select few but for all”.

MIDSOMER NORTON SCHOOLS’ LEAD THE WAY IN GOVERNMENT PERFORMANCE TABLES

R

eleased this week were the 2013 Performance Tables for Schools which show that once again Norton Hill and Somervale School are leading lights in the Norton Radstock area and across Bath and North East Somerset. Both schools, under the leadership of one Headteacher, Alun Williams, have provided excellent teaching to ensure all students achieve extremely well at both GCSE level and in the joint Midsomer Norton Sixth Form. Both schools have exceeded the national value-added target of 1000 points (the progress

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

51

made by pupils between the ages of 11 and 16).

This measure looks at all the subjects studied by students at GCSE level and averages the combined grades from these to give a score for every school nationally.

There was further good news across the two schools in English and Maths where the students’ progress was much improved on 2012 levels. Both schools also exceeded national benchmarks for the percentage of students achieving the English Baccalaureate, the group of GCSE subjects most valued by universities. The results overall confirmed the ‘good’ judgement that OFSTED gave the two school last year as both schools are exceeding national averages in the vast majority of measures.

Alun Williams commented; ‘I am delighted by the outcomes achieved by both Norton Hill and Somervale schools. Students worked incredibly hard with their teachers last year, despite the

Government making exams more difficult to pass; however, our students at both schools have achieved some of the best results’. He added that; ‘It is particularly pleasing that students at both Somervale and Norton Hill study subjects that are challenging and academic in nature and therefore well-regarded by sixth forms, employers and parents. No wonder so many of our students were smiling in August last year’.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LOCAL PRIMARIES GO HEAD-TO-HEAD FOR ATHLETIC WIN

O

n Thursday 16th January, over 120 Year 5 and Year 6 children from 6 local Primary schools gathered in the Sports Hall at Norton Hill School to compete in the region’s ‘Sports Hall Athletics Competition’. The schools included High Littleton, Midsomer Norton Primary, Paulton Junior, St John’s, Westfield and the Academy of Trinity. All schools performed well with some exceptional performances from Westfield pupils. Due to Westfield’s sheer grit and determination, the school emerged as overall winners with Midsomer Norton Primary closely behind in second place and Paulton Junior in third. The overwhelming screams of support from fellow pupils were a testament to the passion, enjoyment and camaraderie shown by these young athletes of the future.

This particular event could not have taken place without the help of the Norton Hill Sports Leaders, who gave up their time to help coordinate each of the sporting event stations. Many of the Sports Leaders have already achieved their Silver Award in Leadership with over half the academic year still left to go! Beth Jones, the School Sports Partnership Manager stated that, “The Sports Leaders were a great help acting as officials throughout the event.

Each of the primary schools should be immensely proud of their pupils’ sporting achievements. We look forward to seeing them all at our next sporting event in the very near future”.

COMPUTING CLUB IMPRESSES COMPUTING GIANTS

N

orton Hill School was awarded five Raspberry Pi computers to be used within the school as part of their after school ‘Computing Club’ initiative. This achievement was the result of a selection of superb entries, which were submitted to the ‘Hour of Code’ event, which took place across the globe. During this event, students were required to ‘code for an hour’. The students could use a programming language of their choice, which included languages such as industry standard ‘Python’ and the more visual ‘Scratch’.

From whizzing jet-pack games to conversational virtual robots and Raspberry Pi tinkering, students produced an assortment of fantastic games and programs which didn’t go unnoticed by computing giants Google and the Raspberry Pi foundation.

Norton Hill School achieved Maths and Computing specialist status several years ago and is upheld to this day. The school is nationally recognised for the quality of support it offers its students in developing their mathematical and ICT skills.

The new Raspberry Pi computers will be used during the afterschool club, where students can learn how to code fun games and complex programs, become a Linux administrator or create their own computer network.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

PROFESSIONAL PUSHES STUDENTS TO ARTISTIC LIMITS

O

n Monday 13th January, a group of Year 12 Dance students from the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form had the unique opportunity to meet Batel Magen, founder and choreographer of the Bristol based Neshima Dance Company.

Neshima Dance Company is a conceptual dance theatre company which examines and unpicks humanistic themes and reconstructs them through expressive dance, text and original musical scores.

Batel Magen, by her own admission seeks to push boundaries in her work through challenging technical physicality and by including emotional content.

During the workshop, the enthusiastic students were asked to perform a ‘technical warm up’, followed by a range of travelling exercises and yoga positions. Batel proceeded to teach the students ‘phrase of movement’, which formed a small section of a much longer dance routine. Throughout the day, the students worked tirelessly to home their skills in completing a fully choreographed performance, designed and led by Batel.

Student Milly Russell commented; “We picked up Batel’s choreography pretty well, however there were sections of dance which proved to be extremely challenging, including a walking shoulder balance, high kicks and floor work.”

The Sixth Form would like to extend its gratitude to Batel Magen, for taking the time to come and teach its students invaluable skills, especially to those who intend to follow a career in dance performance.

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Contact Your Travel Counsellor

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

TOWN TRUST LAUNCHED A

s part of its programme to secure the future of the town’s community assets, the Town Council has created the Midsomer Norton Town Trust, which in future will hold community buildings and green spaces in trust for the benefit of local people.

Midsomer Norton Town Council has put a great deal of effort into trying to create a way of protecting the town’s assets from the vagaries of different elected administrations and local government reorganisations. In 1933 when Midsomer Norton Urban District Council was merged with Radstock, the ownership of assets such as the Town Hall and the Gullock Tyning Recreation Ground passed to Norton Radstock Urban District Council. At some point the assets were passed onto Wansdyke District Council, but when B&NES took over they inherited everything.

“When B&NES eventually transfer the Town Hall, Orchard Hall and flower beds under the long promised asset transfer process, the Town Council intends to pass these leases onto the

Town Trust. Added to these will be the recently signed lease for the Catholic Church Garden and hopefully ownership of St Chad’s Well and the new Town Park. The Trust can hopefully ensure that community assets in the town will be held for future generations to enjoy”, said Cllr Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

The intention is that the new Midsomer Norton Community Trust, which was launched on Midsummer Day last year and led by ‘Community Trustees’, will manage the Town’s buildings and spaces on a daily basis. The Community Trust has already made quite a mark in the Somer Valley with the Community Cinema, Arts Programme, Concerts and Drama.

Meanwhile with the new Trusts in place the stage is set for B&NES to conclude the asset transfer arrangements and thereby acknowledge all the hard work involved in Midsomer Norton stepping up to the mark to manage its own community assets.

y

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SILVER ST NATURE RESERVE WORKDAYS

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For further information please contact Lucy or James Edwards -Telephone: 01761 411292 or 07595 604248.

Workdays are every Saturday morning from 10:30 am until further notice. Please meet by the noticeboards in the woods as usual depending on how many turn up at the time determines what kind of tasks they tackle, of course this is all down to the weather. The pathway remains one of the important jobs and we would like to complete the Withies Lane Entrance by connecting the two paths up. Then we will concentrate on the path between the Springhead and Withies Lane after restoration work has finished.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON RADSTOCK RAMBLERS WALKS PROGRAMME Date

Time

Area

Walk Start

Length Leader

Contact

16 Mar

9:15

Winscombe.

Meet leader to start walk at 10am

Park in the free car 8.5 park in the middle of Winscombe, next to Woodborough pub. Maps 141 & 153.

Ref: 420576

Pam

0117 9674030

23 Mar

9:15

Alhampton, Hornblotton.

Start walk at 10am

Park in village, meet at green tin Chapel in No Through Road.

Ref: ST 628 346.

7/8

Tessa

01761 470453

6 Apr

9:30

Buckland Dinham, Lullington and Hapsford.

Start walk at 10am

Junction of Coalash Lane and Cuckoo Lane Ref: ST 773 496

6/7

John D

01761 419085

13 Apr

9:30

Wellow Shoscombe.

Meet leader to start walk at 10am

Old Station Car Park Ref: ST 738 581

6.5

Rose R

01761 435178

27 Apr

9:30

Wells-Penn HillWookey Hole.

Meet leader to start walk at 10am

East end of Ash Lane Wells BA5 2LW. Ref: ST 548 464

7.5

Rose D

01749 670697 07804645206

4 May

9:40

Hemington, Hardington Faulkland.

Start walk at 10am

Radstock, car park behind the Library.

Ref: ST688547

10.5

Paul

07976603766

11 May

9:30

Lye Hole.

Meet leader to start walk at 10:15am

Wrington east end of village.

8

Simone

0117 9323518

18 May

9:30

BathSkyline.

Meet leader to start walk at 10am

Clevedon Walk Ref: ST 762 647

6.5

Sarah

07869591189

All Sunday walks start from South Street car park from where we car share to the walk start proper. Car or lift not guaranteed.

The map references refer to the walk start proper, for start times or any other walk details please contact the walk leader.

Walkers are reminded that they should be properly clothed and shod, should carry adequate food and refreshment and should carry a personal medical kit.

Walks Secretary; Rose Rogers 01761 435178 For further details, and up to date information, log onto our website at www.nortonradstockramblers.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK

57

We will continue to try to find a resolution when we receive calls and we are always here to help but we would like to encourage residents to call B&NES Council on the number above in order that the issue can be resolved.

Public Toilets

H

elping our customers help themselves.

Many people call the Town Council every day concerning a very wide range of problems in and around the town. The Town Council Officers do all that we can to either help resolve the problem or use our contacts to identify the organisation that can resolve it.

In many cases we are able to contact a B&NES Council Officer to look in to a problem or advise one of the B&NES Ward Councillors who are able to take up an issue on the resident’s behalf.

However, the most effective way that residents can pass on complaints or report issues is for them to call B&NES Council Connect line as this ensures that the issue is logged and will be resolved.

If you have an issue or complaint, the number to dial is:

B&NES Council Connect 01225 394041

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? Call Zoe on 01761 410141 or email her at:

zoe@midsomernortonlife.co.uk

Improvements to the Town Hall are being planned that will allow us to provide a public toilet in the Island during working hours. The Automatic Toilet alongside the Town Hall was seriously vandalised in February and has been removed from service.

We are doing all that we can to make alternative arrangements but the work will take a few weeks and we ask for your understanding whilst we complete the building work. There are also additional public toilets in Gullocks Tyning that remain open for use.

Clive Stilwell - Town Clerk

Lar range ge o slabs f patio now i stock n

58

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

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

Brian Lawrence Finance Area: Redfield

Jane Lewis Planning Area: Welton North

John Slade IT and planning Area: Welton Centre

Linda Dunford Community groups & activities Area: Charlton Park

Lynda Robertson Comminuty groups & activities Area: Welton Centre

Clive Stilwell Town Clerk

Michael Evans Law & order Area: Town Centre South

Paul Myers Mayor; Civic Area: Redfield

Pete Mocock Planning Area: Hayes Park

Richard Robertson Allotments & Transport Area: Welton Centre

Steve Plumley Sport & Culture Area: Radstock Road

Sara Box Children & Young People Area: Withies Park

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