Midsomer Norton Life Summer edition 2017

Summer 2017 Issue 23

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

Have your say on the new Town Park Fayre Day, Saturday 8th July 2017

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE A

s usual LIFE is packed to bursting with news and information about the community – but three themes in particular stand out.

There is the consultation on the new Midsomer Norton Town Park. After 40 years of discussion and having now bought the land we are asking the whole community on Saturday 8th July what they want from a new Town Park. Everyone’s views, ideas and suggestions will then be fed into the design process.

Then there are all the events and activities coming up in the next three months – a quite frankly staggering programme for a town of our size. There’s our Pride Festival, the Midsomer Arts Festival, Midsomer Norton Fayre Day including the Town Show and M-Fest – all organised by volunteers and bearing testament to the vibrancy and inclusivity of our community.

Finally there are all the efforts being made to make our town centre more vibrant, increase footfall and ultimately promote local shopping.

Probably the most important of the many initiatives is the Midsomer Norton Shopper Survey - designed to understand what local residents want from their High Street as a basis for encouraging people to shop locally.

Have a wonderful summer and I look forward to seeing you at one of the many town events.

Cllr Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

CIVIC SERVICE & COMMUNITY AWARDS

4

TOWN PARK CONSULTATION

5

TOWN TEAM

6

SHOPPER SURVEY

7

COMMUNITY SOUP

15

CONSERVATION AREA

16

CUMMUNITY CHALLENGE

18

RIVER SOMER

20

PRIDE

22

ARTS FESTIVAL PULL-OUT GUIDE

29

WHAT'S ON

38

SPORTS ROUND-UP

40

TWINNING NEWS

44

NATURE RESERVE

46

MIDSOMER NORTON STATION

48

SCHOOL NEWS

52

MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

61

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

62

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in September 2017. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 14th August 2017.

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 Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH 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 CIVIC SERVICE & COMMUNITY AWARDS 2017

An invitation ited to:

All residents & friends are inv

ice Midsomer Norton Civic Serv & Community Awards

17

6pm on Sunday 18th June 20 Somervale School

The 2017 Civic Service and Community Awards will take place at 6pm on Sunday 18th June at Somervale School and this year will be hosted by Welton Baptist Church.

It’s almost a decade since the Midsomer Norton Society founded the town’s Civic Awards which the Town Council took over when it was formed in 2011. It has now become a regular part of the town’s calendar – providing an opportunity for the whole town to celebrate Community.

We will also be acknowledging those who volunteer time and energy to the Town with the Midsomer Awards 2017. As ever a number of community groups and individuals will be

presented with Awards this year covering a wide range of ages and activities – all nominated by local residents.

What’s significant is that when the awards first began the Society wondered if it would be possible to find enough people to recognise each year.

However, they probably couldn’t foresee the sheer scale of volunteering in Midsomer Norton which helps makes our town so amazingly vibrant.

The whole community is invited to attend the Civic Service at Somervale School on the 18th June.

For further details please visit the Town Council’s website at www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk or ring the Clerk on 01761 418701.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

5

TOWN PARK CONSULTATION THE TOWN COUNCIL’S VISION AND KEY REQUIREMENTS The Park should be a practical, affordable and inspirational space which is a valued community asset that enhances the land’s topography, views and wildlife.

Five Key Requirements • The park should enhance both the River Somer and the Conservation Area • It should provide an event space and attract visitors

P

• It should be a natural haven for wildlife

lans for the new Park are moving forward at some pace now that the land has been purchased and the Town Council has obtained planning permission for the change of use to a park.

• It should provide a connection between communities and offer walking, cycling and other healthy exercise

Critical to ensuring the Park meets the needs of the community in and around the town is finding out what people want. To do this the Town Council has developed a vision and key requirements (these are set out below) and it sought initial views from the community at the Annual Town Meeting in April.

There are many ideas coming forward at this stage and once we have gathered all the suggestions and also considered what people don’t want, we will produce a plan for the Park that takes into account the cost, the feasibility of the site and its layout and the priorities for each of the final proposals.

The next step for consulting people is a series of three targeted events – one with our neighbouring Councils, one with B&NES Council Officers (whose policies and strategies must inform the final plan) and one with a wide range of people with an interest in areas such as groups supporting young people, sports groups, walking and cycling groups, wildlife groups and civic interest groups.

The key event that the Town Council wishes to hold to finalise the plan is an open public consultation on Saturday 8th July alongside the Town Fayre, part of which will be held on the Park.

• It should be a place for younger people to enjoy

A Masterplan will be developed on which we will base our programme of work, any planning permissions that we will need to submit and a realistic budget taking the available funding into account. It is very likely development will be phased so we can ensure we can fund each part of the plan and deliver what people actually want.

Please make Saturday 8th July a date for your diary and come to the Town Fayre to make your views known. This is a unique opportunity for the town and the Town Council – without your involvement we cannot be sure that we will get it right first time!

6

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOWN TEAM WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM YOUR HIGH STREET?

S

ince the town got together to discuss reclaiming Midsomer Norton High Street on the 2nd March, businesses and the community have been working on a range of initiatives that came out of the meeting. Various people have come together to develop ideas based on their particular drives and interests rather than the initiative being led by a single committee – so avoiding the need for endless meetings. Overall the drive seems to be to push ahead with raising the profile of what the High Street with the ultimate aim of developing a clearer identity and a distinct offering to shoppers.

THE TOWN TEAM headed by Steve Bishton of High Street DIY has been working with the businesses to look at pulling together more and working to increase the number of shoppers. “I know its early days but there seems a real willingness to work together to improve awareness of what the town has to offer local shoppers”, said Steve Bishton of High Street DIY. THE PROMOTIONAL TEAM led by Becky Brooks (Journal) and the Midsomer Norton Community Trust is looking specifically at promotion of the High Street whether it be with PR, advertising off the page and new media such as facebook and twitter.

THE EVENTS TEAM have been looking at the role of events in the High Street. Jayne Griffiths of OBJECT has been looking at how events based on core funding from the Town Council can work with the High Street businesses to raise the town’s commercial profile. There’s talk of reviving the model of the iconic Dickensian Evenings on the

first Friday in December, provided that enough businesses can take part. Key to this is rather than simply Reindeer being the attraction and traders spending months distracted from their businesses organising it – how to make Christmas shopping a fundamental part of the event. Equally Alex Davis, Manager at the Community Trust, is looking to the Town Team for a stronger partnership on events such as the Arts Festival, Pride, Midsomer Norton Fayre and M-Fest. The role of a weekly market is also being explored.

THE TOWN’S LANDLORDS are looking to get together shortly in the Town Hall with the help of the Town Council to look at the state of the High Street and develop a more coordinated push to tackle issues faced by the High Street such as maintenance of buildings and the mix of businesses. This will run alongside the ongoing efforts of volunteers backed by the Town Council’s Town Warden and horticultural contractor to have wonderful floral displays and keep a control on litter – all important contributions to helping attract shoppers.

So things are moving ahead in Midsomer Norton and already there are reports from traders that more people are visiting the town as residents back local independent businesses.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

7

MIDSOMER NORTON SHOPPER SURVEY

I

n order for Midsomer Norton’s Town Team to ensure the High Street meets the needs of local residents they’ve designed a Shopper Survey so people can have their say.

“Early on in the Town Team Project someone asked ‘wouldn’t it be a good idea to ask the customers what they want from their High Street?’” said Steve Bishton of High Street DIY and Chair of the Town Team.

It was this simple question that resulted in Midsomer Norton’s first full Shopper Survey led by a teaming up of Ian Nockolds of local firm Cognisant Research, The Somer Valley Chamber and the Journal. The aim is to use the survey results to develop a clearer identity for the High Street and a distinct offering to shoppers The survey is open to all residents in the area

covered by the Journal and will run from Thursday 1st to Friday 30th June 2017. It only takes a few minutes to complete: • online at cognisantresearch.com/shoppersurvey (type this into your browser) or • by picking up a hard copy available from High Street DIY, Jesse Beaus Too, Norton Sports & Camping, Sainsbury’s, The Library and the Town Hall where there are also sealed boxes in which to return them.

Whilst the survey is anonymous the more detail residents can give in their answers the better picture we can get of shopping patterns and needs.

With support from volunteers entering the data, the aim is to publish the results in the summer.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHY SHOP LOCALLY

I

t is very important that we support Midsomer Norton High Street traders by doing as much of our shopping locally as we can.

maintain local diversity. Evidence from numerous surveys shows people receive better customer care and service in local shops. Traders survive by their reputation and repeat business - so shopping By shopping locally we can make a difference to the local means that you get a higher standard of livelihood of the traders and to the landscape of the service.

High Street.

COMMUNITY WELL-BEING Shopping locally is one of the best ways to build Locally owned businesses build stronger a stronger, more prosperous community. It will neighbourhoods by sustaining communities, also heighten footfall to the town, which in turn linking neighbours, and contributing to local will encourage shops that you may like to see in causes and events Midsomer Norton High Street.

KEEPING THE £ IN THE TOWN There are many reasons to support the High Street Pounds spent in Midsomer Norton High Street including: will have 3 times the impact on the community as pounds spent in national chains and online.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

jobs, fund more services through investment in neighbourhood improvements and development JOB AND WAGES Midsomer Norton traders will almost likely be employing local residents, with more shops opening, more local jobs are created.

PUBLIC BENEFITS AND COSTS Local shops in the High Street require comparatively little infrastructure in the town centre and make more efficient use of the public services.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY Shops in the High Street help to sustain vibrant, compact walkable town centre, which in turn are essential to reducing habitat loss, air and water pollution.

9

PRODUCT DIVERSITY A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based on their customer needs guarantees a broader range of produce choices.

USE IT OR LOSE IT The loss of local retailers often leads to the loss of other local services.

IT’S FUN! Shopping in the High Street can be a much more enjoyable experience than looking around one large superstore. Local shopping gives you the opportunity to interact and socialise with the owners and employees as well as having the chance to bump into friends and family in the town, maybe stopping for a coffee and cake!

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HIGH STREET DIY DIY, hardware and garden store Free delivery within the local area Call 01761 414355 www.highstreetdiy.co.uk 01761 414136 Keep the world looking beautiful Independent Opticians www.eyetech-opticians.co.uk

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Haberdashery Dress and curtain fabric 01761 414390 123 Large range of ribbons, buttons and trims

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THE TOWN’S NEWEST LANDLORD

L

IFE recently caught up with the new owner of the old Casswell's premises, Marcus Squires.

“The old Casswell’s premises have huge potential – just like the whole town with its attractive river and host of independent shops. In the coming months, once I’ve completed renovations, my aim is to offer the Casswell’s space as a single unit, or more likely in smaller units, for rent”, said Marcus Squires.

It will be interesting to see what new businesses are attracted to this prime retail site and we wish Marcus the best of luck in his new venture.

JESSE BEAUS TOO – A RETAILER’S PERSPECTIVE

I

n order to get a retailer’s perspective LIFE visited Jesse Beaus Too at the top of the High Street to the views of an independent retailer: Lynda Guiney owner of Jesse Beaus Too said, “It’s just over a year since I set up my shop which sells designer clothes, mainly for women, at affordable prices. I’ve worked in retail for over 30 years and have a wealth of experience to help customers.

Whether you looking for something special for a wedding, function or party or just something for day wear we have everything for your outfit from the clothes to accessories including handbags, hats, scarves and jewellery. This is all backed with personal service you don’t get any more in the

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national chains or online.

“I guess the biggest challenge for a business like mine in Midsomer Norton High Street is getting the message out there that we are here and what we have to offer. Whilst the natural impulse seems to be to go to Bath for an outfit, more and more people are discovering what there is on offer in their local Midsomer Norton High Street and in particular the benefits of the personal service businesses like mine provide.

“We’re currently working on a fashion show evening in mid-July in the Town Hall. The aim is to showcase what we have – see the local press for details of this exciting initiative.”

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13

THE TWO BIG QUESTIONS: WHY CAN’T THEY GET THE NATIONAL CHAINS TO COME? An almost constant call in the coffee shops in the town and on Facebook is – ‘Why can’t we have more national chains in Midsomer Norton like New Look?’ In many cases it’s said as if no one has ever thought to ask them. Well, they have and the answer is that we lack i) the larger modern premises larger chains require with easy rear access and ii) our footfall isn’t high enough to support many of them and therefore justify the level of investment that would be required. In short we are locked in a vicious circle until we can increase the number of people shopping locally by ensuring they are aware of what is on offer. With 46,000 residents in the Somer Valley a concerted effort would enable us to start turning the town around – but it is likely to be a long process as there are no quick fixes. So the solution is largely in the hands of customers.

WHY CAN’T THEY STOP THE GROWTH OF CHARITY SHOPS? Another question raised is ‘why don’t they stop the Charity Shops coming as they are ruining the town?’. Well in the first place there is no law to control the number of Charity Shops – so there

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is nothing the Town Council or B&NES can really do about it. The landlord of Reflections tried for months to secure a non-charity shop tenant but despite his very proactive efforts – spending days on the phone and advertising there were no takers. There are currently 8 charity shops in the town - People, Care & Share (Salvation Army), Sue Rider, British Heart Foundation, Dorothy House, Children’s Society, Barnardos and Cats Protection League – out of a total of just over 90 retail outlets. Another perspective is, faced with 8 empty shops, is it better that they are being used rather than sitting there empty?

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MIDSOMER NORTON

15

Sponsored by

COMMUNITY SOUP F

ollowing the success of the first Midsomer Norton Community Soup, where St John Ambulance Cadets and Off the Record shared the £300 ‘cash funding pot’ for their projects, a date has been set for next event. It will take place at 7.00pm on Thursday 12th October 2017 at the Town Hall.

“This is a wonderful initiative. The March event where five groups entered showed what an incredible way Soup is of helping local community groups raise their profile and for one group to fund their project”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

Soup may seem a strange name for an event but the principle is very simple. Local community groups can apply for a speaker slot to make a five minute funding pitch. Five groups are selected for the night as reflecting a range of interests and ages. Local people are invited to attend and pay £5 for a ticket which includes a bowl of soup and bread. They arrive on the night, hear the five community group pitches, then have their soup and place a token as their ‘vote’ for the group they think is the best project. All the £5 ticket fees are then awarded as the Prize Pot to the project that gets the most voting tokens.

The event will be sponsored again by local firm of accountants BPB Accounting Solutions Limited – based in Channel House in South Road and offering specialist services for self-employed and small businesses.

For further details and to book your ticket for the second ‘Midsomer Norton Soup’ event, or find out more on how to enter a request for a funding pitch, please visit the Trust’s website: www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or ring 01761 419133.

16

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON & WELTON CONSERVATION AREA

CONSULTATION

The idea is that reviewing boundaries and identifying features which contribute toward the special interest and character of the area, and those that detract from it, provides a basis for developing management proposals for its preservation and enhancement.

Possible enhancements being consulted on include: • Opportunity for new town centre traffic management scheme • Improved pedestrian and cyclist links

T

he historic core of Midsomer Norton and Welton was designated as a conservation area in April 2004. Its character appraisal has recently been reviewed and a public consultation is taking place on Wednesday 13th September.

In summary, the views of the local community are being sought on the draft Conservation Area Character Appraisal and accompanying management proposals as well as eight proposed changes to the conservation area boundary.

A conservation area is defined as an “area of special architectural or historic interest, the character and appearance of which it is desirable to preserve and enhance.” B&NES as a Council has a duty to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of conservation areas in exercising its planning powers, and to periodically reappraise its boundaries to provide a consistent and sound basis on which planning and other applications are determined in the area.

As part of this process local planning authorities are encouraged by government to carry out character appraisals of their conservation areas.

• Improving the appearance of South Road • Addressing the poor condition of some sections of footpath in High Street • Environmental improvement schemes, including the public space at The Island outside the Town Hall and Church Square • Promoting a shopfront and signage improvement pilot scheme • Planting schemes to screen and soften the appearance of car parks

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

17

There will be a consultation evening event at 7.30pm on the 31st May 2017 at the Town Hall hosted by a partnership of the Midsomer Norton Society and B&NES. Then on Saturday 3rd June 2017 there will be a drop-in event at the Town Hall between 10am and 2pm to see the proposals, ask questions and give their comments. Both events are open to the general public.

The full version of the appraisal is available on line by going to: www.bathnes.gov.uk/cacamidsomernorton Hard copy versions can be viewed at the Town Hall or Library in Midsomer Norton.

Public Consultation 30 May - 8 July 2017 Midsomer Norton and Welton Conservation Area

Character appraisal, proposed boundary changes and management proposals (draft) B&NES Council has drafted a character appraisal for the Midsomer Norton and Welton Conservation Area which includes proposed changes to the existing boundary and suggested management proposals.

During the consultation you can view the appraisal documents online or see a hard copy at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall or Library. We would welcome your views on these documents, so please complete our questionnaire online at the link below or at the above locations in the town centre for us to collect.

www.bathnes.gov.uk/CACA-Midsomernorton email: conservation_andplanning@bathnes.gov.uk Tel: 01225 477083

18

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A COMMUNITY CHALLENGE ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR ISSUES A

s Town Mayor, my role is to listen to the concerns of local residents and to find ways to address them – most recently the noise from mopeds, motorbikes and cars within the High Street and Gullock Tyning area.

In this article my aim is to share the journey I’ve been on; I have done my utmost to gather views from adults and young people in the hope that as a community we can come together and work on a solution together. This solution for me lies in recognising that just as in Noah’s Ark – two by two - young and old - harmony lies in us all agreeing boundaries based on understanding the consequences for the community of our actions as individuals – whether young or old.

Since Christmas residents of Gullock Tyning and in the town centre have been greatly disturbed by vehicles revving and speeding on this circuit, mounting pavements to avoid speed humps and riding on the batch. The reality is that this risks life and limb, not only to the drivers/riders but also to others who may be in the vicinity at the time.

As the days have drawn out I’ve witnessed, for myself, the raucous noise of bikes and the cars. There has also been a reported increase in graffiti, vandalism, damage to property; which includes residents’ cars being damaged and breaking and entering of two derelict properties in the town.

As a result, I arranged a series of meetings with residents and community groups who have witnessed the situation as well as expressing growing concern. However, there were two important considerations at this point. In the first instance, the feedback was coming from adults and secondly it was clear that the core anti-social behaviour largely stemmed from a minority. As a result I felt it was important to meet and talk with the young people

as well as adults to discuss the area of complaint.

Secondly I think it is essential that we don’t label all young people as a problem.

Evidence of what young people felt came initially from a survey carried out at the Norton Youth Club (NYC) – run at the Town Hall by the Wansdyke Play Association and the Community Trust. This survey of 109 young people indicated that whilst there were many community resources available to them - including NYC, what is lacking is a place to go, other than the Skate and Adventure Play Park. Young people want to socialise in a safe environment, in particular when it is cold, dark and/or wet.

Even when it’s dry it seems there is a lack of purely non-membership/free or at least affordable activities for young people to engage in. The picture that emerged is that what adults perceive is not necessarily what young people want. I think we therefore need to work together to try and resolve the issues - peace for older residents and resources for the younger members of our community.

In order to explore this further, I spent an evening with Off the Record Bath & North East Somerset at the Skate Park that enabled me to engage with the young people of our town to discuss the issues faceto-face. This helped me hear first-hand the views of young people. Overall what impressed me was how articulate and positive they are. Their message was clear to adults and community leaders and I thank them for this.

Firstly many were as fed up with the motorbikes and cars racing up and down as the adult residents and wanted it to stop. They didn’t appreciate the increased level of visits from the police and requests to ‘move on'; they felt the Skate Park area was a safe environment and they were supportive of each other’. The key message was that they wanted

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

somewhere to meet and socialise with their peers, plus a request to have flood lighting in the Skate Park. Another important issue was the closure of the Multi Use Games Area that is now the Astro turf - previously they were able to use it to play ball games namely football but now they can no longer use it unless they pay for it. Many young people want more activities to join in with but they don't want this to involve having to belong to a club.

What was brilliant to hear was that many of the young people were keen to join in to help run and organise a café.

We have an emerging picture of the issues involved and I feel that as a community we need to respond and work together. The next step is to bring all parties together in this and to work on a community based answer. This will broadly involve working with the young people to address their needs whilst at the same time seeking to change the behaviour of the anti-social minority by trying to make them aware of the consequences of their

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actions on not only residents’ lives but also their own if they break the law.

In terms of addressing young people’s needs, this very much ties in with proposals to create two Youth Hubs, one at Gullock Tyning and one at Orchard Vale, based in a shipping containers. This idea came from a case study in Bristol – whereby a Hub could be fitted out to accommodate furniture, lighting, a basic kitchen and games equipment so that when opened by Youth Outreach Workers at specified times activity, social educational and support programmes could be run from them. In this way it would be possible to engage with young people as well as providing the space they are asking for.

If this article has raised issues for you, please contact me with your views or information. Email me at midsomer.myers@gmail.com or ring the Town Council on 01761 418701 and leave a message.

Paul Myers, Town Mayor.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LIFE ON THE RIVER SOMER "The management process will take time but it is essential that some invasive plant species are dealt with. Consultation will be undertaken with the Environment Agency, Town Council and other bodies.

“It is quite remarkable the range of wildlife sustained within this isolated stream reach in a bustling town centre".

A

s the new contractor gets to grips with the River Somer, LIFE visited the Stonebarn Landscapes team to find out more about their programme of river management.

Jon Wheatley of Stonebarn Landscapes explained, “Right now the Marsh Marigold is coming to an end but the Flag Iris is still giving a wonderful show of yellow.

“We are currently trying to manage the sheer abundance of growth. Step one is to focus on clearing planting from the river channel back to the edge of the stone berms and maintaining the flow of water to prevent the build-up of silt. It’s this silt which sets off a chain reaction of the water cress getting a foothold which seems to grow as soon as look at it to the point where it clogs the entire channel.

“Thereafter we will be tackling those plants which by their nature try to simply take over – such as the sedge and the couchgrass. At the same time we are thinning out the undergrowth and reducing the height but in the process allowing the wonderful colour of plants like purple loostrife to shine through in August.

FISH There are three-spined stickleback, a species which is currently thriving in their improved habitat since the transformation of the river in 2011. There is also a self-sustaining population of bullheads.

AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES Whilst prior to the river restoration the deep silt deposits supported only very low numbers of freshwater shrimp (Gamarus pulex) the picture today is very different with an abundance and species diversity in the invertebrate community.

Various species are evident including caddis fly (differentiated by the design of their tubular cases), mayfly, crustacean (e.g. shrimp), mollusc and many other invertebrate groups indicating a pristine section of the River Somer.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

This species diversity is not just an indication of the improvement in water quality following the removal of around 100 cubic metres of sludge but also a reflection of the highly varied range of physical habitats now available in the reach. This is because these creatures require a wide range of micro-habitats and employ an equally wide range of feeding methods in order to thrive. Some dwell in recesses under stones in slack water, some cling to stones in the fastest, most turbulent water; some use tiny webs to intercept passing plankton, while others graze on fragments of decaying leaves; others are specialised predators of other invertebrates.

BEES AND TERRESTRIAL INVERTEBRATES A facet of the river restoration that was little mentioned at the design stage is the benefit that the project has brought for terrestrial invertebrates, especially bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and spiders

21

The abundance and variety of flowering plants in the project reach is clearly a great local benefit to these creatures and the extensive high-quality invertebrate habitat provided by the vegetated berms.

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MIDSOMER NORTON

PRIDE F

ollowing the breakout success of last year’s inaugural event, Midsomer Norton Pride is returning for its second year. The only LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) Pride event in Somerset looks to come back bigger and better than before.

We caught up with head organiser Nik Jovcic-Sas to ask him some questions about the upcoming celebration. “As a kid I would have never expected to see an event like this in Midsomer Norton – so for this event to continue for multiple years is extremely exciting. The aim of the event is to celebrate all the incredible people of our community, particularly the LGBT indivuals who live and work in our area. This year we’ve decided to give our main evening event a glamorous Hollywood theme, and also continue our tradition of using it to raise money for charity. Every event is open to people of all walks of life, all backgrounds, straight, gay and even people from Coleford - so I hope you will come along and enjoy what this unique festival has to offer.”

On Saturday at mid-day there will be a bake-off competition in the Town Hall from 12pm in the Assembly Room with a grand prize of £100 and a special Midsomer Norton Pride trophy to be presented by the Mayor. The theme for bakes this year is Marie Antionette (#letthemeatcake) – so bring something fit for a King or a Queen. A free champagne tea will follow the event sponsored

by FDC law and the Co-operative. There will also be a live performance of Bath’s well-loved multigenerational string ensemble, the Ramshackle Orchestra. Attendants are encouraged to dress to impress.

In the evening, this year’s main event “Filth & Fame” will also be taking place in the Town Hall.

The event will feature drag performances from legendary Manchester drag queens, Cheddar Gorgeous and Anna Phylactic. There’ll also be live music from local band Verdisa (formerly known as The Sam Evans Band,) and dance music until late. There will also be stations for face painting and a red-carpet with photographers. A portion of the money raised during the event will be donated to The Russian LGBT network who are currently working for individuals being persecuted in Chechnya.

For further information, find Midsomer Norton Pride’s Facebook page: Facebook.com/MidsomerNortonPride

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

UPCOMING EVENTS

AT THE TOWN HALL CINEMA: THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE (U) Saturday 24th June, 2.30pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall Tickets: £5 adults, £3 children, £12 families In the irreverent spirit of fun that made The Lego Movie a worldwide phenomenon, the selfdescribed leading man of that ensemble – Lego Batman – stars in his own big-screen adventure: The Lego Batman Movie.

BATH OPERA: RIGOLETTO Friday 23rd June, 7.30pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall, £10 Bath Opera's touring company returns with a new production of Verdi's 1851 masterpiece, Rigoletto.

Packed with glorious tunes and intense emotion, it takes the audience on a roller-coaster ride of joy, love, despair and murder.

Based around the court of the libertine Duke of Mantua, this production is set in 1930s Italy.

Arrogant aristocrats mingle with nightclub hostesses, while the Duke's favourite comedian, Rigoletto, pokes malicious fun at anyone who shows the slightest sign of vulnerability. But Rigoletto has a secret: his beautiful daughter Gilda, whom he keeps hidden away to preserve her honour. He doesn't realise that some of the courtiers have already discovered her and, thinking she's his mistress, are planning to kidnap her.

Musical direction by Peter Blackwood, stage direction Alexandra Denman.

But there are big changes brewing in Gotham, and if he wants to save the city from The Joker’s hostile takeover, Batman may have to drop the lone vigilante thing, try to work with others and maybe, just maybe, learn to lighten up.

CINEMA: LION (PG) Saturday 24th June, 7.30pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall Tickets: £5 adults, £3 children, £12 families Five-year-old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Kolkata, before ultimately being adopted by an Australian couple.

Twenty-five years later, armed with only a handful of memories, his unwavering determination, and a revolutionary technology

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known as Google Earth, he sets out to find his lost family and finally return to his first home.

CINEMA: MANCHESTER BY THE SEA (15)

This powerful drama features great performances from Dev Patel, Rooney Mara, David Wenham and Nicole Kidman.

Saturday 22nd July, 7.30pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall Tickets: £5 adults, £3 children, £12 families After the death of his older brother Joe (Kyle Chandler), Lee Chandler (Casey Affleck) is shocked to learn that Joe has made him sole guardian of his nephew Patrick (Lucas Hedges).

NT LIVE: PETER PAN (PG) Sunday 25th June, 2.30pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall Tickets: £12 adults, £10 under 18s

Taking leave of his job, Lee reluctantly returns to Manchester-by-the-Sea to care for Patrick, a spirited 16-year-old, and is forced to deal with a past that separated him from his wife Randi (Michelle Williams) and the community where he was born and raised. Bonded by the man who held their family together, Lee and Patrick struggle to adjust to a world without him.

This film won two Academy Awards: Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor (Affleck).

All children, except one, grow up… Captured live at the National Theatre, a recorded performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale screens in cinemas this summer.

When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A riot of magic, music and make-believe ensues.

A delight for children and adults alike, Sally Cookson (NT Live: Jane Eyre) directs this wondrously inventive production, a coproduction with Bristol Old Vic theatre.

NT LIVE: YERMA (15) Saturday 31st August, 7.00pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall Tickets: £12 adults, £10 under 18s The incredible Billie Piper in her Evening Standard Best Actress award-winning role. A young woman is driven to the unthinkable by her desperate desire to have a child in Simon Stone’s radical production of Lorca’s achingly powerful masterpiece.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

The unmissable theatre phenomenon sold out at the Young Vic and critics call it ‘an extraordinary theatrical triumph’ (The Times) and ‘stunning, searing, unmissable’ (Mail on Sunday). Set in contemporary London, Piper’s portrayal of a woman in her thirties desperate to conceive builds with elemental force to a staggering, shocking, climax.

Could you spare time to help at the Community Trust?

As little as an hour a month putting out chairs, helping on the bar or working on reception could help your community For further details ring Alex on 01761 419133

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COMMUNITY TRUST VOLUNTEERS Hardly a week goes by these days without the Midsomer Norton Community Trust launching a new initiative, event or activity which contributes to the vitality of the town. However, this phenomenal drive and energy is only possible thanks to the many people who volunteer their time.

What marks the Trust out from many traditional organisations is that it asks for people to help, not sign their lives away. Alex Davis, Trust Manager explained the Trust’s philosophy to LIFE: “We have a pool of volunteers who come in to do quite small tasks – often working as part of a team. So for example the cinema team is listed on the event rota one Saturday a month. It consists of two people to put out the chairs, one person to do the black out, someone on box office and two

people behind the bar. Whilst they all get a free ticket to see the film – the real prize is knowing that thanks to their efforts the Town Hall is hosting a community event that in turn is contributing to fund a good cause,” On Wednesday 13th September 2017 at 7pm in the Town Hall, the Trust is having an open evening to recruit new volunteers and show them what it’s all about. We’re looking for people to help set our chairs, sell tickets in the box office, be marshals at events, staff the Monday to Friday Trust Reception Desk, help paint the building, deliver publicity leaflets etc. We offer training and a chance to join in with a vibrant and friendly team.

To find out more prior to the meeting contact Alex on 01761 419133 or email manager@ midsomernortoncommunitytrust. co.uk

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WELCOME Welcome to the third annual Midsomer Arts Festival, a showcase of the visual and performing arts. Our aim is to celebrate the rich diversity and quality of artistic expression in the area, to promote artists and performers from outside the area, and to encourage and support the local community in engaging and participating in the arts.

We hope that you will find something to enjoy in the varied programme we have organized. These include music workshops, extensive displays of art works around the town produced by school students and members of the community, music performances and film screenings. There will be the usual art and craft market in the Hollies, with entertainment, food and drink, workshops for

young and old, and this year a graffiti artist.

Our patron is Rodney Matthews, renowned artist and graphic designer, who was born and raised in the local area. We are grateful for his continuing support of the Festival.

The organizing team would like to thank the trustees of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, without whose help and support this event could not take place. Thanks also to the groups and individuals who have worked under the umbrella of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust to make the third Midsomer Arts Festival possible.

We would like to thank the following for their support and generous sponsorship of the eventMidsomer Norton Town Council Midsomer Norton Community Trust Norton Radstock Round Table Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club Wickes Templegate Electrics Tesco Sainsbury

ARTS TRAIL 2017 Follow the trail encompassing over 90 shops & businesses.

Vote for your favourite artwork created by students from both Norton Hill and Somervale.

Maps and voting forms are available from the Library and Jacarandas.

OUTLINE OF EVENTS A celebration of the Arts in Midsomer Norton and the Somer Valley area organised and delivered by the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

• Exhibitions of art work made by the community in a variety of venues throughout the event

FRIDAY 16TH JUNE

SATURDAY 24TH JUNE • Art and Craft Market Hollies Garden (10am - 4pm) • Art display, workshops and live entertainment Hollies (10am - 4pm) • Music Recital - Musicians South West Midsomer Norton Town Hall (Morning)

• Helena Softley Live in concert Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7pm)

• Guitar Workshop with James Rippingale Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall (2pm)

SATURDAY 17TH JUNE

• Cinema: The Lego Batman Movie Midsomer Norton Town Hall (2.30pm)

• Difference & Diversity Art Exhibition Midsomer Norton Town Hall (Deadline for entries Saturday 10th June)

• Cinema: Lion Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7.30pm)

• Photo-marathon by Fringe Arts Bath Midsomer Norton Town Hall (10am-1pm)

SUNDAY 25TH JUNE

• James Rippingale – Classical Guitar Recital Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7.30pm)

• National Theatre Live: Peter Pan Midsomer Norton Town Hall (2.30pm)

WEDNESDAY 21ST JUNE • Singing Workshop - Helena Softley Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7pm)

• Open Mic Event Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7.30pm)

Please get in touch for further information Martyn Plant 07903951168

THURSDAY 22ND JUNE • National Theatre Live: Salome Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7pm)

FRIDAY 23RD JUNE • Bath Opera: Rigoletto Midsomer Norton Town Hall (7.30pm)

Alex Davis (Community Trust) manager@midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk 01761 419133 www.midsomerartsfestival.weebly.com www.midsomenortoncommunitytrust.co.uk Visit our Facebook page

STAR THEME FOR 2017 This year’s Arts Festival theme is a Star. Many members of the local community, both individually, and within groups and organisations, have been busy decorating large wooden stars. We are very pleased that both youth and adult groups have once again been involved.

The stars are constructed from five individual points, which are assembled to create one large whole. They will be displayed around the town centre in various venues during the Arts Festival, with all of them on show on Saturday 24th June, during the Market Day. There will also be several creative activities based on the Star theme during the Arts Festival market. In previous year’s the themes for community art works have been a coal shovel and a flower, and these art works have always been an eye-catching part of the festival

LARGE AT WORK Students at Midsomer Norton secondary schools are creating large art pieces that will be displayed in supermarket shop windows, and in other venues around the town. There will also be art works from primary schools and other groups displayed around the town. Details of all these will be available during the Festival itself.

A DAY OF CREATIVE ACTIVITIES SATURDAY 25TH This year’s Art Trail of secondary school pupils’ work now encompasses over 90 shops & businesses, with work displayed all around Midsomer Norton, but focused on the high street.

We are very pleased this year to welcome Bristolbased graffiti and street artist Deekay, to the Arts Festival. He will be creating a large piece of art at the top of the Hollies.

Trail leaflets with students’ names, a map and voting slip, are available from various venues (Town Hall, library, coffee shops, secondary schools and supermarkets) Both Norton Hill and Somervale school are displaying work, by students from Years Seven to Thirteen (ages 11 to 18).

ART AND CRAFT ACTIVITIES There are several stalls & groups offering activities, such as Lions Club Victoria Art Gallery Arts Festival Star & Flower making The Potting Shed Radstock Museum Kidzcrafts Sand Art Most are free but some may make a small charge.

There will be refreshments, sweets and ice creams available in the market, as well as the usual town outlets.

MIDSOMER ARTS FILM FESTIVAL All films at the Town Hall 2.30pm The LEGO Batman Movie (U) 7.30pm Lion (PG)

S, EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES JUNE 10AM - 4PM ART AND CRAFT STALLS

We have a wide variety of performers at the market, covering musical theatre, dance and singing, some local and some visiting artists.

The following acts are confirmed.

There will be a wide variety of art and craft stalls, with something for everyone. There will be prints and cards, cakes and sweets, ceramics and paintings, glass painting and jewellery, furnishings and toiletries. Some local businesses and art groups will be represented such as Cam Valley Artists.

Writhlington School music/performance Somervale School Production Bluebird Acoustic artists Moonlit Poachers, Folk music

There will be music performances by a piano trio in the Town Hall during the morning.

Norton Hill School Production Sue Hill Dance Group

In the afternoon there is a chance to learn classical guitar for beginners from renowned guitarist James Rippingale.

Merriman Theatre Group Folk singer Rob Winder Singer-songwriter Paul Rogers Singer-songwriter Natasha

KEY TO MIDSOMER NORTON MAP A

Graffiti Artist

C

Live Performances

B

Art & Craft Market/Workshops

D

Art along the river

A C B

D

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SCHOO

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SOMERVALE SCHOOL

OPEN EVENING

Thurs 28th September 2017 18:00pm to 20:30pm

SCHOOL TOURS

SCHOO

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Thurs 21st September 2017 17:45pm to 20:30pm

SCHOOL TOURS will be available throughout September and October.

Please contact Emily Sibley on 01761 412557 or email headspa@nortonhillschool.com to book one of our small group tours.

Norton Hill School, Charlton Road, Midsomer Norton, Bath, BA3 4AD T: 01761 412557 W: www.midsomernortonschoolspartnership.com

N TO OR

SCHOO

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The Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership

PA

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O MIDS MER N

Please contact Tanya Iles on 01761 414276 or email headssec@somervaleschool.com to book one of our small group tours.

OPEN EVENING

O MIDS MER N

Tues 26th Sep - 09:15-10:30 am Wed 4th Oct - 09:15-10:30 am Wed 4th Oct - 13:45-15:00 pm Fri 6th Oct - 09:15-10:30 am Mon 9th Oct - 11:00-12:30 pm

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT’S ON

22nd - NT Live: Salome at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, doors open at 6.30pm for 7.00pm start.

Tickets: Adult £12 and Under 18’s £10.

23rd - Bath Opera: Rigoletto at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £10.

24th - The Lego Batman Movie (U) at Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 2.30pm. Tickets: Adult £5, Child £3, Family £12.

JUNE

24th - Lion (PG) at Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 7.30pm. Tickets: Adult £5, Child £3, Family £12.

9th - MSN Pride Cinema: The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert (15). 8pm Town Hall Assembly Room, donations to the Trust.

25th - NT Live: Peter Pan at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, doors open at 2.00pm for 2.30pm start.

Tickets: Adult £12 and Under 18’s £10.

10th - MSN Pride Bake-Off: Let Them Eat Cake! at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm. The best bake will receive a PRIZE OF £100! The winner will also receive the highly coveted Midsomer Norton Pride Bake-Off Trophy! All ages and abilities are encouraged to attend and enter!

26th - Norton and Radstock U3A coffee morning at 10.30am, The Somer Centre.

10th - MSN Pride present Filth & Fame at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 8.00pm. Free admission.

12th - Planning Committee in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

13th - Blood Donor Session, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

Book your appointment at www.myblood.co.uk.

16th to 28th - Midsomer Arts Festival – see pull out programme in this issue.

17th - Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Somervale School. Two performances 3pm and 6pm, tickets £5.

17th to 18th - Midsomer@Midsomer. WW2 themed event at Midsomer Norton Train Station from 10am to 4pm. Trains running.

18th - Civic Service and Community Awards – Somervale School at 6pm.

21st - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3’s. 10.30 to 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

27th - Blood Donor Session, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

Book your appointment at www.myblood.co.uk.

29th - Midsomer Norton Society AGM and ‘Trip down memory lane with a delve into the archives’.

JULY 1st - Somerset Farmers Market, Hollies Garden in the High Street from 9am to 1pm.

3rd - Full Town Council Meeting in the Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

6th - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club from 2pm - 5pm.

7th - Paradis Palm Court Trio At Midsomer Norton Town Hall: A Night At The Opera from 12.30pm 1.30pm.

8th - Midsomer Norton Town Fayre. 12.00 5.00pm, Gullock Tyning.

8th - M-FEST 12.00 - 9.30pm, High Street.

8th to 9th - Sentinel and Vintage Vehicles Weekend at Midsomer Norton Train Station. The resident Sentinel steam loco, Joyce, will be hauling

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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trains. There will be a display of Sentinel and other vintage road vehicles at the station.

heyday of the S&D when you could take a day trip to Bournemouth! Trains running.

10th - Planning Committee in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

14th - Norton and Radstock U3A speaker meeting at 2.30pm, The Somer Centre.

19th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3’s. 10.30 to 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

16th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3’s. 10.30 to 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

20th - NT Live: Angels in America - Part 1 Millennium Approaches at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, doors open at 6.30pm for 7.00pm start.

Tickets: Adult £12 and Under 18’s £10.

16th - Blood Donor Session, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

Book your appointment at www.myblood.co.uk

22nd - Manchester by the Sea at Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 7.30pm. Tickets: Adult £5, Child £3, Family £12 24th - Norton and Radstock U3A coffee morning at 10.30am, The Somer Centre.

27th - NT Live: Angels in America - Part 2 Perestroika at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, doors open at 6.30pm for 7.00pm start. Tickets: Adult £12 and Under 18’s £10.

AUGUST 4th - Paradis Palm Court Trio At Midsomer Norton Town Hall: A Midsummer Nights Dream from 12.30pm - 1.30pm.

5th - Somerset Farmers Market, Hollies Garden in the High Street from 9am to 1pm.

13th - Family Fun Day at Midsomer Norton Train Station. Family seaside attractions. Relive the

26th - Hacksaw Ridge at Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 7.30pm. Tickets: Adult £5, Child £3, Family £12.

30th - Blood Donor Session, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

Book your appointment at www.myblood.co.uk.

31st - NT Live: Yerma at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, doors open at 6.30pm for 7.00pm start.

Tickets: Adult £12 and Under 18’s £10.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SPORTS ROUND-UP first team rugby. The club are looking forward to life in Western Counties North, and renewing old rivalries with the likes of Wells and Chew Valley.

FOOTBALL

Photo by Will Nicol

RUGBY After a difficult season in the South West Division 1, which ultimately ended in relegation, Midsomer Norton Rugby Club travelled to the Rec to meet Chippenham in the Final of the Bath Combination Cup. Midsomer Norton have narrowed the gap on their Wiltshire rivals in recent years, but despite their heroics on the day, Nor weren’t able to end their season with a famous victory, losing by 12 points to 35.

However, the club has not been idle in the first few weeks since the season ended with plans already well in place for the new season. Tom Fear replaces long serving captain Matthew Denning who has been at the helm during the most successful period in the club’s history. Alongside Matthew the club’s coach, Tom Lovell, is also relinquishing his duties due to work commitments.

Together they oversaw two league promotions and several cup successes. New Captain, Tom Fear, is a product of the clubs outstanding junior section. He plays at lock and back row, and has already enjoyed several successful seasons of

Welton Rovers Western League campaign ended in disappointment, with the Green Army enduring a difficult 2017, which saw the West Clewes side win only twice since the turn of the year. However, one undoubted highlight was the three nil win over promotion chasing Keynsham Town on March 4th, suggesting there are better things to come next season. A special mention should also go to Welton marksman Aaron Seviour, who scored 19 times this season.

CRICKET At Withies Lane, Midsomer Norton Cricket Club are gearing up for life in the WEPL Bristol and North Somerset league. Following their inconsistent form of last season, our cricketers will certainly be looking up rather than down, as a barometer of success, targeting in particular the two 20 Twenty Cup competitions the Club will compete in this season. Indeed, the season has started brightly for new First Team Captain, Nick Pang, who put in an impressive performance with both the bat and the ball against Knowle CC, scoring 54 in a run chase that saw Norton secure a 5 wicket victory in their opening game.

In other sports news, Midsomer Norton Judo Club entertained 22 players from Ambarès et Lagrave, their twinned club in France, in April of this year.

The exchange has been going for 34 years and the friendship between the two clubs grows stronger every year. Midsomer Norton Judo Club look forward to their trip to France next year to keep the exchange going.

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HOCKEY Mendip Hockey Club Ladies 1st team finished a creditable fourth place in WCWHL East Division this season, whilst the seconds held off the threat of relegation to finish 8th in Brunel 1, and the thirds maintained their position in Brunel 3 with a sixth place finish. The ladies' section are currently enjoying the Mendip and District Summer League, with all three teams represented.

The men's 1st team had an excellent season, finishing a very close 2nd in West Central Division, with the second team securing their place in West Central 2, finishing in 8th position. The Junior Section continues to flourish, with a notable number of senior players having learnt their trade in the junior ranks. For more information about joining or supporting Mendip Hockey Club, you can visit www.mendiphockey.org.uk If this report has wetted your sporting appetite, tune in to Somer Valley FM every Tuesday at 6pm on 97.5FM for all the latest news from our local teams. Saturday Live, broadcast from 4pm every Saturday, provides live match updates for Midsomer Norton Cricket Club, along with a host of our other local and professional teams.

FOOTBALL PRESENTATION EVENINGS Midsomer Norton FC celebrated another successful season with two presentation nights held at Welton Rovers on 12th and 19th May. With numbers increasing again it was necessary to hold separate evenings to accommodate the number of players and their families. The first presentation night was for the Juniors, Under 7s, Under 8s and Under 10s with medals presented to the juniors and individual trophies for the other age groups along with Player of the Year, Players Player of the Year, Supporters Player of the Year and Clubman for each of these age groups.

The second night was for the Under 12s, Under 13s, Under 14s and Under 16s. Special mention should go to the U16s who played their last year of youth football in the Avon Youth league. The club thanked all players, supporters, coaches, managers and the committee for their efforts throughout the season. The club intend to enter 7 age groups in the youth leagues next season and are looking for players going into school year 2 after the summer for the new Under 7 team.

Further details on the club can be found on their website www.midsomernortonfootballclub.co.uk or by contacting the club secretary Bruce Stephen on 07762 365696.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TEAM EFFORT FOR AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR VISIT Methodist Church in order to promote awareness of the needs of destitute and orphaned children in Africa. The concert raised a stunning £3,000 towards continued development and support of the African Children’s Choir Programmes.

The Choir’s international educational endeavour provides unique training for the children. Once Choir members have completed a concert tour, they return to their homelands with the tools necessary for bettering their future.

The world famous African Children’s Choir came to Midsomer Norton on Saturday 20th May at 7pm thanks to an stunning team effort on the part of the town led by a partnership of the Community Trust, the Methodist Church and some amazing local families who offered accommodation.

The Choir arrived on the Friday night and met their volunteer Host Families for the first time.

They then put on a fabulous concert on the Saturday - performing at Midsomer Norton

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Over the past twenty years, the children have appeared in thousands of concerts around the world, most recently performing at the Commonwealth Observance Day in the presence of The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Westminster Abbey. Already on this tour they have met the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese at her residence in Dublin.

The Choir comprised African children, aged 7 to 10 years. Many had lost one or both parents through the devastation of war, famine and disease. On their tour of the country, the children have melted the hearts of audiences with their wonderful performances, accompanied by ethnic instrumentation. The programme featured wellloved children’s songs, hand clapping, traditional spirituals and contemporary tunes.

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LIONS IN FASHION D

uring April, M&CO ran a fashion show for Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions. It was much enjoyed by the people who attended.

Lions Colin, Sally and President Derek and his wife Lynne were amongst the models, together with the "royalty" from the Carnival Club.

A very enjoyable time was had by both the models and the audience. Our thanks to M&CO for organising this excellent event and to the Carnival Club for supporting us.

Lion Colin, Lion Sally, Lion President Derek and his wife, Lynne.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TWINNING LINKS

STRONGER THAN EVER T

he annual Family Twinning Exchange between Midsomer Norton and Ambarès et Lagrave in France showed that, post the Brexit vote last June, the links between people of our two towns are if anything stronger, with a determination to remain firm friends.

The French invited Midsomer Norton’s Mayor, Paul Myers to unveil a transformed K2 red telephone box gifted years ago. The box will now serve as a facility where local French people can exchange books – free of charge. Renovated by local offenders the phone box mini library stands in front of French Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) in the centre of the town. Cllr Myers personally donated a series of Shakespeare Plays and a copy of Jane Eyre.

At the Civic Ceremony later the same day, Midsomer Norton presented the Mayor of Ambarès et Lagrave with a Wassail Cup and gave an illustrated guide to Wassailing which included the crowning of a wigged and cloaked Cllr Steve Plumley as ‘Wassail Queen’. The hope is that the French might stage a matching Wassail Ceremony in Ambarès et Lagrave in January 2018 – providing another link between the two towns.

The French presented Midsomer Norton with

a framed picture to hang in the Town Hall of the Cité du Vin, opened in June 2016, which the twinning group had visited earlier in the week. This new fabulous attraction in Bordeaux expresses the soul of wine in all its aspects. Housed in a modern purpose designed and built building the group spent an amazing morning discovering wine.

During the visit, the Bordeaux based ‘Midsomer Norton’ named tram, named in a ceremony in 2013, passed by purely by chance to loud cheers from the English.

“Twinning is a great way for people of all ages to form links with other countries and exchange ideas and new ways of thinking. However, if such cultural exchanges are to continue into the future we need to re-double efforts to open up the benefits of twinning for more people to enjoy – particularly the young and members of our many community groups”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

The rest of the twinning week saw an amazingly diverse programme of many events and activities ranging from a tour of Bordeaux and a local chateau to ten pin bowling and a trip to an exhibition of modern art.

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SILVER STREET

NATURE RESERVE stewardship of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership – it being part of the original Somervale School site.

The creation of this veritable gem is thanks to the very active and dedicated Friends of Silver Street Nature Reserve group who not only manage the site but also run a staggering array of events and activities for the whole community through the year.

The Friends stated aim is ‘to conserve and enhance the biodiversity of Silver Street Nature reserve, for the community and future generations to enjoy’.

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onsisting of a semi-natural broadleaved woodland, with several springs, a pond, and woodland ground flora including bluebells and an adjacent meadow of grassland, Silver Street Nature Reserve offers a haven of all year round interest for the town.

A typical event which took place recently was on Sunday 30th April 2017 when the Reserve teamed up with the Wansdyke Play Association. The event included a workshop for children in the wood to give an appreciation of the colours of nature and included bark rubbing.

Originally the Reserve began under the umbrella of the Somerset & Dorset railway with the B&NES owned two hectare main woodland site as part of their lease. The adjacent meadow is in the

At the same time there was an amazing pond dipping session where it was possible to ‘meet’ some of the vast array of creatures that live there.

Children and a number of adults, including the

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COMMUNITY DIARY 2017 Here are entries from the Friends’ work diary for January 2017 illustrating how much volunteer effort goes into managing the Reserve:

Town Mayor, were gripped by seeing smooth newts, tadpoles and other mini beasts in their natural habitat.

The next event is on Sunday 25th June 2017 at 3:00pm: A Country Walk and Afternoon Tea. This will include a stroll along the Somer Valley Railway Path towards Chilcompton and return to the Nature Reserve for sandwiches and cake. Meet by the picnic area in the Woods. There are places to park your car in Park Way. The event is free but donations towards the upkeep of the Reserve are always welcome.

To book your place or find out more about the work of the Nature Reserve - telephone Lucy on 01761 411292 or 07595 604248.

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7TH JANUARY Lots of helpers cleared the gulley near the pond, the pathways and made a field fence by the pond, cut hazel and went in the pond to get rid of unwanted weeds. We raked the silt and did some dredging near the inlet as well as making a big impact with clearing the stream down to the pond and digging out the channel for water, more needed next week if it is mild as it was today. Several robins were keeping us company which was such a delight on this cold January day.

14TH JANUARY Volunteers did sterling work in collecting litter and cutting the ivy from the tree by the signal box that we had been asked to do by the Station helpers as well as making good some of the fences at the lower end by Withies Lane.

21ST JANUARY Very cold today but we planted the Bluebells.

28TH JANUARY Good turnout today and we cut the overhang from the footpath by Park Way then got out all the logs from the pond as well as the usual litter pick O TW FREE ST S FIR SION ES

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SUMMER TIME AT MIDSOMER

NORTON STATION S

ee the wonderful gardens at Midsomer Norton Station during the summer. The station is open for visitors on a Sunday from 10am until 4pm and on a Monday from 1pm until 4pm.

Train rides are on special event days.

The next event is Midsummer at Midsomer with a special Father’s Day treat on June 17th and 18th of riding on the footplate with a photo opportunity on Joyce, a tour of the signal box, an engineman's breakfast and a Father's Day card. Tickets £20.00 and numbers are limited. The 2nd World War theme includes vehicles and the Berkeley Bluebirds singers.

July 8th and 9th is the Sentinel weekend with a vintage vehicle display and a working steam lorry.

Joyce, the resident steam loco, will be pulling the trains as usual.

August 13th is Family Fun Day when there will be activities for children and parents and rides on the train.

More information can be found on the website www.sdjr.co.uk - or you can call 01761 411221 on a Sunday or Monday from 10am until 4pm.

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NORTON RADSTOCK

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY A

n opportunity to share personal interpretations of the set subject Anything Old was the focus of the NRPS weekly meeting on 4th May. There was a wide range of images on offer, with some concentrating on historic sites and buildings visited, some on time-worn faces of people in far-away places, and others on old artefacts personal to themselves or recorded on leisurely visits. Every image told a story, and the dialogue that developed between members, stimulated by the visual images on show was lively, informative and engaging.

In the preceding week the club took part in the annual Tri-Battle competition with Wessex and Selwood clubs in Frome. After the digital section, NRPS members were riding high in second place.

Frome Wessex were the eventual overall winners but NRPS members were delighted with first placings in 7 of the subsequent 15 categories in the print section, and certainly gave Frome Wessex a run for their money this year!

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EMPLOYMENT TRAINING BOOSTING PROSPECTS FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES SWALLOW is a charity supporting local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. All our services are influenced by what our members tell us they need and want to achieve. One goal for many of our members is to make a positive contribution through employment.

At SWALLOW we support them to reach this goal by offering employment skills training including at our Community Cafe in Radstock and in our horticulture and craft based groups. In April we launched Spring for SWALLOW fundraising campaign where we are aiming to raise £6,000 to employ more people with learning disabilities.

The importance of being part of a working environment extends beyond having an income,

it is about fulfilment and progression. Chris a member of SWALLOW says “Working at the Cafe has improved my confidence, because I work with people who understand me; they also have learning disabilities, we are a great team and this makes me feel happy. Working at the cafe allows me to challenge myself and reach new goals”.

The first and most important steps into employment for our members is to have access to work experience. We are asking local employers to contact us if you think you could offer voluntary placements or paid work to people with learning disabilities. If you would like to find out more please contact, Nicky Tew at nickyt@ swallowcharity.org

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AGE UK B&NES A

ge UK B&NES runs a host of activities across the week for over 55s in Midsomer Norton.

Whether it’s exercise, cooking skills or help with technology – there’s a group for you.

There are two Tai Chi sessions every week (Monday and Wednesday), an Extend exercise class on a Tuesday morning, a Wednesday Walking Group and Walking Football on Thursday mornings.

Recreational activities include a monthly Lunch Bunch, a group who travel in their own cars to pubs around the area for pub lunches.

The Tuesday Cook & Eat sessions are a fantastic way to not only learn to cook/refine your cooking skills, but also to socialise and make new friends.

Age UK B&NES’ friendly and patient Gadget Buster volunteers are on hand every Tuesday morning to help with any problems with laptops, tablets and smart phones. Perhaps you want to learn how to shop on-line or use Ebay; learn how to send emails or use Skype to connect with friends and family who live far away. Come along and you will be given help on a one-to-one basis.

The Singing for Fun group is very informal with no vocal expertise required.

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Book Buddies meet once a month at the library and take part in a friendly discussion about the book they have just read.

Details of all the activities can be found in the diary pages; some need to be booked, others you can just turn up to. To find out more please contact Age UK B&NES on 01225 484510 or email active@ageukbanes.co.uk You can find out more about the charity at www.ageukbanes.co.uk. You can also follow Age UK B&NES on Facebook and Twitter: www.facebook.com/ AgeUkBathAndNorthEastSomerset or @AgeUKBathNES

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE A number of the Free Rangers Forest School Nursery Team in Welton are stretching their legs in preparation for the 24 hr Three Peaks Challenge they are aiming to complete on Saturday 3rd June this year.

By ascending the three highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours the Free Rangers' team hope to raise much needed financial support for families within our community whose children need our help.

Two children need specialist medical equipment.

One is raising money for an electric wheelchair to enable her a greater freedom and quality of life. Another girl needs a specialist pair of support shoes. Another family's parent is fighting an inoperable brain tumour and we'd like to offer this family financial support during such a challenging time.

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‘BASSHUNTER 20’ MUSIC ENDURANCE CHARITY SLEEPOVER 28th - 29th April saw Norton Hill School students take part in a unique fundraising event which raised nearly £2000 for the school’s two chosen charities for the 2016-17 academic year – ‘Alzheimer Research UK’ and local charity ‘Wilberry Wonder Pony’. Thirty students and staff gave up their Friday night to take part in a music endurance charity sleepover, where they raised sponsorship to ‘endure’ the Justin Timberlake song ‘Can’t Stop The Feeling’ on repeat for 20 hours.

The event started at 4pm on Friday with the first playing of the song. Soon after, Ian Peters from Wilberry Wonder Pony came to speak to the students about the charity’s work. Students learned of the story behind the charity, which was started by former Norton Hill and Quantock House student Hannah Francis following her cancer diagnosis, to raise funds for bone cancer research and grant equine wishes to seriously ill people.

The song was left playing overnight, leading to varying amounts of sleep and some tired students in the morning! The students then enjoyed breakfast and some games outside while they continued to listen to the song. Finally, after an estimated 350 playings of the Justin Timberlake song, another countdown led to the end of the event at 12pm on Saturday (along with a lot of singing and dancing!). Students enjoyed a different piece of music for the first time in 20 hours before being collected by parents and taken home for some well-deserved rest.

Norton Hill School would like to thank the local business community who truly threw its weight behind the fundraising event. Event t-shirts were sponsored by Radstock Cooperative Society, and food and drink to see the group through the twenty hour marathon was kindly donated by L&F Jones Food Services, Whitstone’s Fish & Chips in Westfield, as well as Norton Hill’s own catering

Grace Campbell, Tom Clapham and Lewis Baldwin service. The fantastic refreshments that were donated kept the students going!

Alun Williams, Headteacher, Norton Hill School said, "The fact that so many students in Quantock House were willing to take part in this charity fundraising event is a great tribute to their public spirit.

The two charities were chosen by the students themselves and they raised nearly £2000. This is a fantastic amount and will really make a difference.

We must not forget the staff who gave up their time to support the event. To spend a Friday night supervising a large group of teenagers having a sleepover with the constant playing of a modern dance track does not sound like fun – but the staff endured this to support the students and make the event possible. I am proud of them all. Well done!"

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(l -r) Ciaran Skinner, Bryan Chalker, Amy Rogers, Ted Slocombe, Daniel Chard and Tracey Pike.

SKILL-ME-UP CERTIFICATES AWARDED Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Youth Connect have awarded four Skill-Me-Up certificates to Somer Valley FM trainees from Somervale School. These recognise skills gained through volunteering and are accredited under the national ABC Qualifications for life awards.

operation manager for Youth Connect. Mr Chalker is a longstanding radio professional who came to the West Country as a founder presenter on Bristol’s Radio West in 1981 and now presents for Somer Valley FM.

Tracey Pike Said, “It is great to see young people The certificates were awarded during Somer Valley enthusiastically learning communications skills with FM’s recent public meeting in Midsomer Norton Town Somer Valley FM as they will be so useful to them Hall which brought together local businesses, schools, whatever they end up doing.” charitable groups and sports clubs.

Attending the meeting on behalf of BPB Accounting The students had all completed their After Schools Solutions Bev Iles said, “This was a very informative Training course at Somer Valley FM which gives them evening. It was lovely to see young local people a grounding in communications and media skills. All receiving their awards for skills they have developed the students are now contributing to both the local through working with Somer Valley FM. It is clear radio station and Somervale School’s own radio that these programmes not only benefit the service which will soon be launched. individuals but also the wider area as media skills are now essential in the business community.”

Year 8 students Amy Rogers, Daniel Chard and Ciaran Skinner and Ted Slocombe, who is Year 10, received Somer Valley FM is currently training 15 school their certificates from former Chairman of B&NES students and aims to deliver at least 12 Skill-MeAlderman Bryan Chalker and Tracey Pike who is the Up’s per year.

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ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD The opportunity arose early on in Year 12 to apply for the “Rotary Youth Leadership Award”, a week of leadership development training based at the Dartmoor Training Centre and generously paid for by one of our local Rotary Clubs. I was initially a little anxious about applying since I hadn’t been involved in this kind of activity before, but now I couldn’t be more happy that I did. The idea of ‘leadership’ was something that had intimidated me but this award has shown me that there is more to it than simply being the ‘bossy boots’.

On the first Saturday, having barely had chance to get to know anyone, we were divided into two random groups, around which the activities were to be based.

Half of the course was dedicated to practical team building tasks which included activities like Rollerball, Rain Drain and Bull Ring. These tested our ability to communicate effectively, listen to those who might be pushed aside and willingness to give things a go.

The other half of the course was based around psychology. We looked at different personality types and learned how to modify our behaviour to help us interact with different people. We looked at how a positive mind can improve performance and how leadership is a bigger and more complex picture than most people realise. I can honestly say my attitudes towards life have changed and it has encouraged me to try to influence some of those around me too.

On the Tuesday, we enjoyed an expedition on Dartmoor, where we walked, rock climbed and abseiled. Having a significant fear of heights, I knew from the start that this wasn’t going to be the easiest day for me. Although nerves caused a teary moment at the top, I am proud to say that with the fantastic support of my team, I successfully abseiled down the 80 foot cliff. Once I had reached the bottom of the cliff, we all shared an emotional moment with many more tears, but all for the right reasons this time.

Twenty one of us arrived as a group of strangers and left as a team of best friends. It has taught me so much about myself and the people around me.

Looking forward, I can’t wait to put everything into action; to leave people and places better than you find them. Thank you to the local Rotary Club who so generously sponsored my attendance on this course - it really was an amazing experience and I am really looking forward to coming to tell you all about it soon. By M Harris, Norton Hill School

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SOMERVALE SCHOOL HOST ZAMBIAN STUDENT TEACHER VISIT Staff and students at Somervale School welcomed a group of trainee teachers from Zambia to their school on Tuesday 4th April. The trainee teachers and their tutor are all from Mulfulira (a copper mining town in Zambia). The visitors got to experience life in a British secondary school through observing lessons, talking to teachers and being interviewed by students. They even got to enjoy a school dinner and experience a practice fire drill!

The visitors were extremely impressed by the welcome they received and how engaged the students were with their learning.

from another part of the world and embrace the differences as well as celebrate the similarities in Headteacher, Joanna Postlethwaite said “It has been a our cultures has been invaluable. I am really looking forward to reading the reports the students have fantastic experience for us as a school. Being able to give the students the opportunity to talk to someone written today”.

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57

SCHOOL SPRING GAMES

YEAR 3 & 4 GYMNASTICS

Midsomer Norton Primary School children took part in the School Spring Games on the 27th of April where they won bronze medals in both the cycling and hockey events. Finn M. also won a gold medal for best boy cyclist overall. The archery team worked hard and had a fantastic day but unfortunately were pipped to the post in the medal placing.

8 of Midsomer Norton Primary School’s talented Year 3 and 4 pupils took part in the local schools gymnastics competition. In the Level 1 competition they were placed 4th and in the Level 2 competition they were placed 2nd. Darcy won a gold medal for best girl overall.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LOCAL MAGAZINE EDITOR GETS CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT Martin B Dymond, Editor of ‘The Ambo’ Magazine at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, received an impressive Certificate of Achievement at the Annual Meeting of the Association for Church Editors held at Westminster Central Hall in London in early May. The Awards Scheme forms an important part of the Association’s support for the outstanding work of volunteer editors of church magazines across the country. The Awards cover the essential aspects of producing high quality, interesting magazines for churches.

The presentation of the framed certificates followed a fascinating speech entitled “The Editor’s Gift” by Helen Frewin, a business psychologist, who spoke about the editor’s purpose, story and mission.

Members were reminded of the incredible value

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of church magazines to the congregation and nonchurchgoers alike. She showed how the magazine editor can help in praising God for the opportunity He provides for magazines to remain resourced and refreshed in spreading encouraging and challenging news into the community. Ideas were shared for connecting evangelistic opportunities, for dealing with the challenging realities of editing a magazine, and remembering the value of the written and printed word in a world of online communication.

Details of the Association for Church Editors are available on the association’s website, www.churchmag.uk or from the treasurer and membership officer, Alan Rickards, e-mail acetreasurer@aol.com or phone 01477 534193.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

59

MIDSOMER NORTON & RADSTOCK COMMUNITY SERVICE VEHICLE TRUST CELEBRATES ITS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY On Friday 28th April, We celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Community Mini Bus! The celebration took place at Welton Rovers Football Club, where a buffet lunch was held for everyone who was connected to the Mini Bus, past and present.

Also present, were Mayor and Chairs of local Councils, Member of Parliament, Jacob Rees-Mogg, and local Churches and Lions Club representatives.

Founded in April 1967, the bus was commissioned to enable the elderly, disabled, and small groups of the public, who found difficulty in getting to and from their houses, to go to their Lunch Clubs, Church Services, outings etc. without worry! This, in turn,

helped them to feel part of society, and not to miss out on events around the area.

And, we are pleased to say that the Bus is still thriving today! We have many stories of how the bus has been a great help to so many people.

Perhaps you can remember an occasion when a member of your family was able to get out with the aid of the Community Mini Bus? If you would like to know more, or would like to use the Mini Bus, or perhaps become a volunteer driver! Please contact our Co-ordinator Mrs Debbie Gunfield on 01761 416910 for information, or our Transport Manager Mr Nick Rogers on 01761 413872.

FOSSEWAY BOWLS CLUB Fosseway Bowls Club had a very successful annual tour to Bideford. The hotel was the second year we had visited it and it was equally as good. The food and accommodation were excellent. We played at Rock Park on Tuesday, Braughton on Wednesday and Byeways on Thursday. The weather on the Wednesday was very nice, but the other two days were cold and we even had hailstones on the Tuesday. Even though we lost all three games, we all enjoyed the matches and made some new friends.

Our annual Plant Sale and Coffee Morning is on 20th May and all proceeds go to Macmillan Nurses.

We are a friendly club with members still supporting us as Social Members after their bowling days are finished. We have a very full programme for 2017, with both Men’s. Lady’s and Mixed matches. We have an away day playing at Den Bowling Club in Teignmouth. We hold “club” nights on Monday evenings and welcome anyone who would like to learn the game of bowls. All equipment and coaching is free. Details can be obtained from Ray Soby, Club Secretary on 01761 453218.

If you look after someone, who looks after you?

The Carers’ Centre provides free advice, support and breaks for people who care for family or friends.

If you’re looking after someone who is ill, disabled or frail, we’re here for you.

Call weekdays 10am —1pm on 0800 0388 885 for advice, or visit banescarerscentre.org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THE NORTON AND RADSTOCK U3A Norton and Radstock U3A meets at The Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton on the second Monday of each month at 2.30pm for a speaker meeting and again on the fourth Monday at 10.30 for a coffee morning. The speaker meeting each month varies from Surinda Sandham Bairns' talk on The Dalai Lama Trail to Martin Saunders' career as a cameraman on the David Attenborough Living Planet programmes. Coming up later in the year we have talks on Village Friendly Societies, Medical Detection Dogs, Poetry and the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. There are some forty individual groups run by members of U3A ranging from creative writing, art appreciation, drama, photography and mah jong as well as singing, ukulele and recorder playing. They are too

numerous to list them all here but there really is something for everyone.

Organised theatre visits are very popular and groups have recently seen Evita and Funny Girl, both at the Bristol Hippodrome, Andre Rieu in a filmed concert at Wells Cinema with a classical spectacular at the Albert Hall booked for November. A trip on the Avon and Kennet in a horse drawn canal boat is coming up next month and earlier in the year members enjoyed a day out at The Bath Fashion Museum and a visit to Sheppey’s Cider Farm in May. If you would like to find out more please telephone 01761 479606.

Ginny Edwards

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

61

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK Throughout this issue you can read about the ongoing work on one of the Town Council’s key projects – the Park. Having purchased the land and obtained planning permission for its change of use, our focus now is to develop a masterplan for the Park which reflects what people in and around the town want. To do this we will be running a series of consultation events culminating in a large public event at the Town Fayre on Saturday 8th July.

Whenever the Town Council consults over its proposals, we generally receive ideas and input from a small proportion of the community. But the Park will be for everyone, young and old, active and less active, regardless of whether they live near the park or in the housing developments around the outskirts of the town. Please find some time to think about what you would like to see in the Park so that we can deliver something for everyone. The article in LIFE sets out in some detail where we are and what we want to know from you.

The spring saw us finalising our accounts for last year and the Council will sign off the requisite statements at its meeting on June 5th. In the meantime we will be undergoing an internal audit of our financial controls and ensuring that we can explain any variations in our expenditure and income for an external audit. Until the accounts are approved it’s always a slightly tense time for us as Officers. Despite the detailed and comprehensive accounting work carried out by Carole Sims who runs our finances, it's only when we receive confirmation in August that we have met the high standards expected that we can breathe a sigh of relief and press on!

Finally, I hope that you will see the benefits of all of the work done by our horticultural and grass cutting contractors throughout the town despite some of the driest and coldest weather we have seen at this time of the year.

Clive Stilwell (MILCM) Town Clerk

Repairs Restoration Removals Tuning Sales Tuition PianoDisc

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5p Al All other other her time timess by info ormal appo appointm intm ntm tment tm ent incl i luding Evenings includin Ev E and Sun ndays Telephone 01749 840880 Rookery Farm, Binegar, Bath BA3 4UL

www.abbeypianoservices.co.uk sales@abbeypianoservices.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

Paul Myers Mayor 07530 042627 midsomer.myers@gmail.com

Steve Plumley (Deputy Mayor) 07913 952901

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

Luke Barnes 07531 080008

Glyn Davis 07713 353430

lukebarnes@somervalleyfm.co.uk

glyn.davis@mail.com

s.plumley@sky.com

Michael Evans 01761 235996

Brian Lawrence 07701 007277

Amy Purchase 01761 411860

Lynda Robertson 01761 415629

michevans@gmail.com

bcml@hotmail.co.uk

amymarch@sky.com

lyndarobertson70@gmail.com

Richard Robertson 01761 415629

Alastair Slade 07714 898902

rkwrobertson@outlook.com

alastair@alastairslade.com

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