Midsomer Norton Life Winter edition

Winter 2016 Issue 21

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE W

hen the idea of having a town magazine called Midsomer Norton LIFE came about in the autumn of 2011, I could never have imagined that it would go from strength to strength and that five years later I’d be writing the introduction for the 21st issue. In those five years, such as lot has been achieved – all chronicled in the pages of this popular publication sponsored by the Town Council and including content from community groups and schools across the town.

In this issue you can see the full details of our 2016 In Bloom triumph – winning not just South West acclaim but also at the national level competing against places like the City of London of all places and holding our own!

There’s news on the Asset Transfer project as the Town Council approaches the home run with this policy developed over the last few years to secure the future of key community buildings in the town.

Then there’s the new Town Team – looking to promote independent businesses and what they have offer local residents.

As ever there are reports of numerous events and activities ranging from Carnival to the CPRathon and forthcoming events such as the town Christmas evening and Wassailing in the New Year.

One of the many things that always makes me so proud to be Mayor of Midsomer Norton is the energy and vitality within our community to ‘make it happen’. Our positive can-do team spirit will always help us face new challenges and make the most of them.

On behalf of Midsomer Norton Town Council I’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Cllr Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

IN BLOOM RESULTS

4

CARNIVAL

6

COMMUNITY TRUST

11

ASSET TRANSFER UPDATE

15

WHAT'S ON

19

MEDIEVAL HISTORY

23

CHRISTMAS EVENT 2016

24

AGE UK ANNIVERSARY

26

CYCLE NETWORK MAP

27

THINGS TO DO

32

WASSAILING

36

TOWN SHOW

37

SIGHT AWARENESS

38

CPR-ATHON

39

TWINNING EXCHANGE DATES

41

GET FIT WITH NATURE

47

MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

53

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

54

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in March 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 February 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

AMAZING IN BLOOM RESULTS Midsomer Norton Community Allotments Advancing Midsomer Norton Methodist Church - Advancing NYC (Norton Youth Club) - Hollies Bed Advancing Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust – Advancing

M

idsomer Norton achieved stunning results in not just its usual South West In Bloom town entry and It’s Your Neighbourhood but also at the national level in Britain in Bloom.

In the South West In Bloom Competition, the town was awarded not only Gold in the Preece Cup but also overall category winner and brought home a massive silver trophy. In addition the River Somer Project was awarded an overall South West award as Joint Winners of the London & Manchester Trophy for an Outstanding Environmental Initiative. This was on the basis of not only the original planting and its management but also a project with school children to promote awareness of the amount of wildlife from Kingfishers to Mayflies in the river.

The town also entered sixteen ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries and achieved the following results: Midsomer Norton Primary School – Outstanding Welton After School Club Initiative (WACI) Outstanding Welton Primary School – Outstanding Silver Street Local Nature Reserve - Outstanding River Somer Management Team - Outstanding The Hollies Gardens - Somer Valley Gardening Group - Thriving

St Chad's Well Restoration - Midsomer Norton Society - Improving Welton Village Group - Improving Somer Valley Skate & Adventure Play Park Writhlington Sports Trust - Improving Garden of Friendship - Midsomer Norton Society & Partners - Establishing Midsomer Norton Town Park - Midsomer Norton Society - Establishing Wellow Brook Walk - Midsomer Norton Society Establishing Midsomer Norton beat off stiff competition in the National Britain In Bloom Awards to win Silver Gilt in the Town Category. Representatives from all over the country attended the prestigious RHS Awards Ceremony in Birmingham and was

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

one of only six towns from the whole UK chosen to compete in the category. Given the town was up against major players such as the City of London it was amazing to be awarded a Silver Gilt.

As if this wasn’t enough, Patricia Flagg and Paul Myers from the Midsomer Norton In Bloom Committee were named two of the twelve Britain in Bloom Community Champions presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to the Britain In Bloom cause in their community.

“With such amazingly high standards and the fact that we were competing against places like the City of London, we were really pleased with the town’s results and quite frankly, bowled over with the two National Community Champion Awards.

Thanks are due to all those who worked so hard in our community to not only make it look wonderful but bring honour to the town with so many awards”, said Cllr Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

5

6

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ANDREWS MIDSOMER NORTON

CARNIVAL 2016 A

s probably the largest community event in the Somer Valley, it was wonderful to see a fantastic Andrews Midsomer Norton Carnival in the High Street on the 14th November.

Well done to the Carnival Association and all involved.

However, Carnival was possible this year thanks to a range of new business sponsors joining the Town Council this year to fund the event. This in turn was the result in large measure to the support of a host of new sponsors and Midsomer Norton’s B&NES Councillors Chris Watt, Paul Myers and Michael Evans supporting the Carnival Association to help develop marketing packages for this year’s ground breaking sponsorship programme.

The headline sponsors Andrews Property Group, Wickes, The Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce, Farrington Farm Shop and Edwards Opticians as well as all those who have placed adverts in this programme or given support in kind such as Midsomer Norton Community Trust and Midsomer Norton Primary School should feel proud that their support has made Carnival possible in 2016.

– can it continue? Having risen firstly to the health and safety challenge in 2014/15, 2016 has been the year of securing sustainable sponsorship through funding.

However, 2017 needs to be the year of strengthening the Carnival organisation at all levels. As the event has gone from strength to strength the level of work involved in running the event has expanded. We need four new board members and at least six more volunteers to help manage the marketing side of the event.

Town Mayor Paul Myers made an appeal on Carnival night for local people to come forward to a meeting in early December in order to secure the future of Carnival.

Carnival provides an opportunity for the whole community to come together for an evening of glittering spectacle as well as being one of the largest charity fundraisers in the area – raising thousands of pounds for local charities, community groups and good causes.

THE FUTURE APPEALING FOR VOLUNTEERS Whilst there is no doubt that Carnival has been an iconic event in the town’s calendar for many years

DISTRICT CARNIVAL ROYALTY 2016.

Left to right: Prince Reece Dowson, King Lewis Fenton, Queen Lola Callow and Princess Amy King.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CARNIVAL ROYALTY The Carnival Royalty who led the celebrations in the glass carriage were selected at the Grand Final held at Midsomer Norton Town Hall drawn from those appointed over the five week programme including from Peasedown St John, Radstock, Westfield and Midsomer Norton.

Amy King, aged nine, from Westfield was appointed District Carnival Princess and Reece Dowson, aged nine, from Midsomer Norton won District Carnival Prince. Lola Callow, aged eleven, from Peasedown St John was crowned District Carnival Queen while twelve-year-old Lewis Fenton, also from Peasedown St John, became this year’s District Carnival King.

“The response this year has been fantastic in taking the Carnival Royalty competition on the road to towns and parishes around the Somer Valley. We’ve had more entries than ever before and it has been so inspiring to see so many young people wanting

7

to take an active part in their communities and local events in the coming year. “I’d like to thank all those who not only took part, but the volunteers who help arrange the five weeks of competitions,” said Hazel Franklin, Secretary of the Midsomer Norton and District Carnival Association.

Full results table Peasedown St John

Radstock

Colby Barnes - Prince

Jack Wyatt - Prince

Ebony Troy - Princess

Emily-May - Princess

Lola Callow - Queen

Kimberley Darling - Queen

Westfield

Midsomer Norton

Alfie Hancock - Prince

Reece Downson - Prince

Amy King - Princess

Mischa Cripps - Princess

Lewis Fenton - King

Aliya Dowson - Queen

Amber Morrish - Queen

8

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SPORTS ROUNDUP T

he year 2016 represented something of an emotional rollercoaster for our sporting community. On the pitch, Midsomer Norton Rugby Club secured promotion to Level 6 of the rugby pyramid, the highest the Club has ever reached, whilst Welton Rovers Football Club were relegated back to the Western League First Division after only one season in the top flight.

Of the pitch, Midsomer Norton Cricket Club parted company with its long time Captain, Nick Potter, whilst Welton Rovers Manager, Nick Beaverstock and Chairman, Stuart Minall, both left their respective roles at the Club. It was a historic year for our local community radio station as well, with the Somer Valley taking top spot for Sport Show of the Year at the inaugural Community Radio Awards.

Another frustratingly inconsistent summer for the Towns cricketers resulted in a fourth place finish in the WEPL Bristol & North Somerset division, yet success was to come to Withies Lane in the form of the Clubs 2nd XI, who won the Fourth Division of the Bristol & District Cricket Association.

As Christmas approaches, the Towns football and rugby sides are well into their new season of matches.

Midsomer Norton Rugby Club are struggling to come to terms with life in the Tribute South West 1 West Division.

Still looking for their first win of the season (at the time of writing) the Club are hoping that the second half of the season will give

them the chance to compete against a standard of opposition they have not previously encountered.

Welton Rovers, under the stewardship of new manager, Clive Scott, got off to a slow start in August, endured a torrid time in September, but have fought back impressively, starting an unbeaten run of results that dates back to October 8th. The Green Army will be looking at the New Year with renewed optimism, not to mention the prospect of a Coalfield Classico with local rivals Radstock Town, on Boxing Day at West Clewes.

If this report has wetted your sporting appetite, tune in to Somer Valley FM every Tuesday at 6pm on 97.5FM for the award winning Somer Valley Sport Show. The community radio station also broadcast a Saturday afternoon results programme, from 4pm, hosted by Richard Burgess, providing live match updates for both Welton Rovers and Midsomer Norton Rugby Club, along with a host of our other local and professional teams.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

9

BOURNEMOUTH & BOSCOMBE V WELTON ROVERS

50TH ANNIVERSARY FA CUP ROUND 1 It’s 50 years since Welton got to the first round of the FA Cup where they played away to Bournemouth and Boscombe on Saturday 26th November 1966.

Founded originally in 1887, making them one of the oldest clubs in the area, Welton Rovers were on the up in the 1960s. They won the Somerset Senior Cup in 1960-61 and retained it for 1961-62 and 1962-63, before returning to professional status.

Former Huddersfield Town and Bristol City striker Arnold Rogers took over as manager and went on to achieve unprecedented success for the club.

The Club won three successive Western League titles. In 1964-65 Welton finished 3 points ahead of Bideford, in 1965-66 finished 11 points clear of Portland United and in 1966-67 they were 5 points ahead of Minehead. In 1964-65 they reached the first round of the FA Cup - losing to Weymouth. In 1965-66 they were unbeaten for the entire season with Ian Henderson scoring a club record of 53 goals (including 6 hat-tricks).

So when Welton Rovers reached the 1st round of the FA Cup again in 1966, there was genuine optimism that the Club could achieve a historic giant killing against Division 3 (League One in today's structure) Bournemouth & Boscombe, better known today as Premier League AFC Bournemouth.

The game was played in front of a crowd of 6,582 at Dean Court, the same site that the Cherries play at today. Whilst Welton gave a good account of themselves on the day, particularly in midfield, their inability to convert their chances allowed their hosts to record a routine three-nil victory. At the time of the match, Bournemouth weren't the

force we know today. The Club had never been above Division 3 at any stage in its history. Yet its ambition to climb the leagues, prompted the Club to change its name in 1972, giving rise to the AFC Bournemouth we know today. At the time that ambition was short lived, despite initial success the loss of manager John Bond and star striker, Ted MacDougall, saw the Club flounder for the next four decades.

The Club were subject to a winding up order in 1997, which they survived through a supporters takeover, but the Clubs troubles didn't end then and as recently as 2009 Bournemouth only managed to secure their league two status on the penultimate game of the season. That great escape prompted one of the most meteoric rises in Football history and in less than a decade AFC Bournemouth have gained promotion to the Premier League, realising an ambition that was 40 years in the making.

If circumstances had been different could Welton have been the team gracing today's Premier League? Probably not! It's not really fair to paint the 66 Cup tie as a "sliding doors" moment, but it doesn't hurt to dream!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

11

COMMUNITY TRUST NT LIVE AT THE TOWN HALL Over the last two years the Town Hall has been home to National Theatre Live, regularly screening live transmissions broadcasts of the biggest theatrical productions from the National, the West End and even Broadway. Broadcast on to the big screen in High Definition and in full 7.1 Digital Surround Sound it gives residents the opportunity to watch world class theatre unfold right on their doorsteps.

Three more fantastic productions have been announced for the upcoming winter season, with the highlight surely great friends Sir Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart performing together in the West End. Tickets are available now for just £12 for adults and £10 for under 18s – with refreshments available from the fully licensed Sarah Ann Bar. To reserve your place head to www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust. co.uk/ tickets or phone 01761 419133. All remaining tickets will be available on the door.

broadcast live to cinemas from Wyndham’s Theatre, London.

One summer’s evening, two ageing writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately house nearby. As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger men.

Also starring Owen Teale and Damien Molony, don’t miss this glorious revival of Pinter’s comic classic. The broadcast will be followed by an exclusive Q&A with the cast and director Sean Mathias.

AMADEUS (12A) Thursday 2nd February 2017, 7pm

NO MAN’S LAND (15) Thursday 15th December 2016, 7pm

Following their hit run on Broadway, Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart return to the West End stage in Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land,

Lucian Msamati (Luther, Game of Thrones, NT Live: The Comedy of Errors) plays Salieri in Peter Shaffer’s iconic play, broadcast live from the National Theatre, and with live orchestral accompaniment by Southbank Sinfonia.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a rowdy young

12

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

prodigy, arrives in Vienna, the music capital of the world – and he’s determined to make a splash. Awestruck by his genius, court composer Antonio Salieri has the power to promote his talent or destroy his name. Seized by obsessive jealousy he begins a war with Mozart, with music, and ultimately, with God. After winning multiple Olivier and Tony Awards when it had its premiere at the National Theatre in 1979, Amadeus was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film.

SAINT JOAN (12A) Thursday 16th February 2017, 7pm Gemma Arterton is Joan of Arc, broadcast live from the Donmar Warehouse.

Bernard Shaw’s classic play follows the life and trial of a young country girl who declares a

bloody mission to drive the English from France.

As one of the first Protestants and nationalists, she threatens the very fabric of the feudal society and the Catholic Church across Europe.

Josie Rourke (Coriolanus, Les Liaisons Dangereuses) directs Gemma Arterton (Gemma Bovery, Nell Gwynn, Made in Dagenham) as Joan of Arc in this electrifying production.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

13

MIDSOMER NORTON COMMUNITY TRUST

AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Although many people in Midsomer Norton have been to an event such as the Town Fayre or M-Fest or seen a film at the Town Hall, few probably realise just how much is going on in the town in recent years has been down to the Community Trust. Despite its striking logo this is probably due to the fact that it spends more time organising things behind the scenes rather blowing its own trumpet. So LIFE decided to catch up with Alex Davis, Trust Manager, to find out more.

WHY WAS THE COMMUNITY TRUST FORMED AND WHO’S INVOLVED? Back in 2011 when Midsomer Norton Town Council was formed there was a realisation that to survive the community buildings needed to offer much more in terms of events and activities in order to develop an audience and an associated income.

The Town Council backed this process by funding the creation of a new limited liability organisation with a full time manager. The Midsomer Norton Community Trust was born on the 24th June 2014 and has since grown into a community engine room for the town with a board of Trustees.

WHAT BUILDINGS DOES THE TRUST RUN? The Trust oversees day to day management of two community buildings within the town – the Town Hall and the Orchard Hall. As such it provides

homes for a vast range of community activities. At the moment they work with the Sarah Ann Trust and the Orchard Recreation Community Association, but in future after the Town Council has acquired these buildings from B&NES under asset transfer the Trust will have its own

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

The Trust has also organised a number of major town events – establishing the popular Midsomer Arts Festival in June and Midsomer Norton Fayre in July alongside new music festival M-Fest in the town’s calendar. With the support of volunteers, it ran the first ever Pride Festival in 2016 to be held in the county as well as providing vital support to Midsomer Norton Carnival - playing a key role in bringing the event back to the High Street. It also provides a base for groups ranging from the In Bloom Team storing everything from hoes to hoses to the new Jessem afterschool club. leases (see page 15 for further details).

As well as having anchor tenants in Midsomer Norton Town Council and the Wansdyke Play Association it also provides a range of spaces that are home or available on an ad hoc basis for over 50 of the town’s community groups – from keep fit to arts and crafts, family activities to health and wellbeing workshops, prayer groups to yoga.

The Trust is constantly working alongside the buildings’ current tenants to improve the facilities.

For example the installation of the 7.1 surround sound system for the Community Cinema at the Town Hall, applying to the British Film Institute for new cinema chairs, the acquisition of professional PA and lighting systems and the building of the fully licensed Sarah Ann Bar. Meanwhile over at the Orchard Hall, work has just been finished on a complete refurbishment of the kitchen to vastly improve the user experience as well as providing exciting new opportunities for the community.

WHAT EVENTS DOES IT ORGANISE? In the last twelve months, the Community Trust has been involved in the organisation of over 100 Community events – including cinema, National Theatre Live, public debates and consultations, markets and a range of live music concerts – including folk, jazz, opera and classical. These have provided opportunities for members of the community that weren’t previously available; for example, the community cinema alone has received over 2,000 visits in the past twelve months.

NONE OF THIS WOULD BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT VOLUNTEERS...

With the exception of Alex Davis, Trust Manager, everything that happens is down to volunteers whether it's serving drinks in the Sarah Ann Bar or locking up every night. So why do people give their time? Talking to many of those who join in at the Town Hall in particular it seems to be all about being part of a community, a sense of belonging, and there never being a dull moment.

When you consider what has been achieved in just three years the achievements of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust are all the more startling and justify the investment in community made by the Town Council.

To find out more about how you could be part of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust team, giving a little or as much time as you can spare, contact Alex on 01761 419133 or visit www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

15

ASSET TRANSFER UPDATE

A

t the November meeting the Town Council approved an application to borrow funds to purchase the Town Hall and the Somer Centre.

This will mean that if and when due diligence work and negotiations with the current owners B&NES and lease holders are complete the Town Council will be in a position to acquire these key community assets for the town.

This represents one more step in a journey started over five years ago when the original Community Buildings Joint Working Study of 2011 set the direction for a policy to acquire community facilities, including buildings, for the town. In July 2012, the Council wrote to Bath and North East Somerset Council confirming the Town Council’s plans to proceed with negotiations to secure community buildings for the town.

The following August, Midsomer Norton Town Council received a report proposing a strategy for community buildings following detailed consideration by the Operations Working Party.

The strategy included a clear intention that assets be secured for the community and that a charitable Trust be established to hold any leasehold or freehold property to ensure that it was protected for future generations.

An enormous amount of work has since taken place on options to secure asset transfers of

key community buildings with regular reports and updates to Full Council. There followed a consultation in Midsomer Norton LIFE where feedback from the town was positive.

It was in May 2016 an Extra-ordinary meeting of the Council resolved that the Town Council should proceed with asset transfers subject to contract and a range of work on due diligence that would now be taken forward.

Since then work has continued apace with elements such as the submission of charity registration applications for the Town Trust and the Community Trust, purchase and lease negotiations with B&NES and a structural survey of the Somer Centre.

Throughout, as the Town Council seeks to secure the future of the town’s community buildings, the day to day community groups and activities in them serving local residents continue to grow and flourish.

16

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEW BREAKFAST, AFTER SCHOOL & HALF TERM CLUB

F

or parents who both work, childcare is a major issue both in terms of organising it and the cost. So when mother of three Emma Riddle contacted the Midsomer Norton Community Trust to look around the Town Hall to run activities for children, the idea for ‘JESSEM’, a new before and after school club, was born.

Having gone through all the regulatory hoops, including registering with OFSTED, the new JESSEM After School Club was launched in September this year and has since gone from strength to strength.

“We wanted to create an affordable before and after school club where parents could drop off their children and feel confident that they would not only be looked after but benefit from a wide range of activities and/or a space for free play or to do homework. We take and collect the children from school and provide breakfast and an evening meal all within the price”, said Emma Riddle, owner of Jessem After School Club.

Children are dropped off from 7am and breakfast is served before they are walked to school. The Town Hall is an ideal location being in walking distance of several local primary schools. Then in the afternoon the children are collected from school and are served a hot meal between 4.30pm and 5pm with parents collecting them by 6pm.

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Fees are £5.80 for the morning session and £8.50 for the afternoon. There is a sibling discount of £2.50 per additional child per session. It’s possible to book either full time or on an ad hoc basis – subject to availability.

The Club also provides all day Half Term Holiday Clubs, based on two options - between 8am and 3pm (£15.50) or 8am and 5pm £19.50) – with children bringing their own packed lunch.

“My son has been three times and has loved every minute of it. The staff are brilliant and make everyone so welcome. Jessem has freed me to go to work whilst safe in the knowledge that my son’s having a great time”, said Lotte Gay. For further details please email jessemdailyafterschoolclub@ gmail.com or ring Emma on 07468 457216 of visit Facebook: Jessem Club.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT’S ON NOVEMBER 24th - Midsomer Norton Society "History of Midsomer Norton Pubs and Breweries. Town Hall, 7.30pm. All welcome.

25th - Christmas Fayre at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club. 6.30pm - 9.30pm.

19

3rd - WPA Play Cooking Club for Dads and Kids, 10.30am - 12.30pm (inc eating lunch 12 -12.30). The Somer Centre. Contact admin@wpa-play.com or 01761 568242 to book your space.

3rd - Somerset Farmers Market, Hollies Garden in the High Street from 9am - 1pm.

3rd - Church Court Xmas Fayre, Church Court, Church Road, Midsomer Norton at 2pm. Stalls, Tombola and Santa, all raising funds for the residents of Church Court. For more details call 412944.

5th - Town Council Meeting in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

10th - Midsomer Norton Primary School Christmas Fayre, 11am till 2pm.

26th - The BFG, Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 2.30pm.

11th to 12th - Santa Specials at Midsomer Norton Station. Tickets for children visiting Santa can be obtained from the station for £4.00 including a train ride. Adult rides will be £3.00.

26th - Me before You, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7.30pm.

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

26th - St Johns Primary School Christmas Fayre.

14th - Christmas Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under3s. 10.30 - 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

26th - Oblio, The Riverside Bar, from 9pm.

DECEMBER 1st - Blood Donor Sessions, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

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

1st - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers, 2pm - 5pm.

1st - First Thursday Afternoon Social 'Christmas Party' at Welton Rovers, 2pm - 5pm.

2nd - Midsomer Norton Christmas event and light switch on, The Hollies. 6.30pm - 9.30pm.

2nd - Paradis Palm Court Trio, Advent and Christmas Songs, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 12.30pm - 1.30pm.

15th - National Theatre Live: No Man’s Land, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm.

17th - Hayley Mallon at Welton Rovers Social Club from 8.45pm.

17th to 18th - Mince Pie Specials at Midsomer Norton Train Station.

17th - Mendip Male Voice Choir annual Christmas Concert, St Johns Church, Midsomer Norton 7.30pm.

18th - All Age Nativity at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. 10.30am.

18th - Candlelit Carol Service at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Followed by Coffee and Mince pies. 6pm.

18th - Carols by Candlelight at Somervale School, 6pm - 7.15pm.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

20th - Carol Service, St John's Church. A traditional Carol Service with readings, choral music, solos and candles. 6:00pm.

20th - Community Carol Concert led by Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver Band. Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. 7.30pm.

24th - Christingle Worship, Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. 6pm.

24th - Christmas Eve Communion at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Bringing us into Christmas Day, Holy Communion. 11.30pm.

24th - Midnight Mass, St John’s Church. The beauty and mystery of Christmas. Bells, candlelight, incense and the miracle of the incarnation. 11:30pm for 1 hour.

24th - Lee Ross at Welton Rovers Social Club, 8.45pm.

25th - Morning Worship for all ages. Bring your favourite present or an unwrapped one! 10.30am Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

26th - Blood Donor Sessions, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 10.30am - 2.30pm. Book your appointment at www.myblood.co.uk.

26th - Bennie Vee at Welton Rovers Social Club from 8.45pm.

31st - The Amy Mayes Band at Welton Rovers Social Club from 9pm.

JANUARY 4th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s. 10.30 11am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free.

5th - Blood Donor Sessions, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm- 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

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

14th - Wassailing, Midsomer Norton Society, Town Hall. 12-2pm.

16th - Planning Committee in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

18th - Joined-Up Writers Group 1 - 3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring ideas. Open to all and free to attend.

28th - The Secret Life of Pets, Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 2.30pm.

28th - Evening Showcase TBC, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7.30pm.

FEBRUARY 2nd - National Theatre Live: Amadeus, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm.

2nd - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers, 2pm - 5pm.

2nd - Open Events at Bath College, Somer Valley Campus 4pm - 7pm. Find the right course for you.

3rd - Paradis Palm Court Trio, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 12.30pm - 1.30pm.

3rd - Blood Donor Sessions, Community Hall, Gullock Tyning, 1pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 7.30pm.

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

4th - Somerset Farmers Market, Hollies Garden in the High Street from 9am to 1pm.

6th - Town Council Meeting in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

9th - Launch of the Midsomer Norton Archive, Midsomer Norton Society, Town Hall. 7.30pm.

16th - National Theatre Live: Saint Joan, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm.

5th - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers, 2pm - 5pm.

25th - Finding Dory, Midsomer Norton Town Hall Cinema at 2.30pm.

9th - Town Council Meeting in The Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 7pm.

25th - Evening Showcase TBC, Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7.30pm.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ANTENATAL CLASSES AT MIDSOMER NORTON CHILDRENS CENTRE With a relaxed and friendly style, every NCT Signature antenatal course is tailored to the needs of the small group taking part.

An 18 hour course that consists of 3 evening sessions and 2 Saturday sessions. This course includes a session on breastfeeding. There is also a 2 hour reunion for all course participants with their new baby after the births.

More than half of your course will cover the birth of your baby. There's also plenty of time to explore your questions, hopes and anxieties in a safe and supportive space. The course will cover: Pregnancy, birth choices and options available Body awareness, relaxation, breathing and massage

Crossmans Solicitors WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND PEACEFUL NEW YEAR

We are a local firm of lawyers, on hand to help you with life’s difficult situations and decisions.

Conveyancing Family Elderly Services Crime

Sale and Purchase of Residential Property / Transfer of Equity.

Fixed Fee Divorce, Financial Settlement and Access to Children.

Preparation and registration of Power of Attorney.

What happens in labour, the role of your partner and how your baby is born Pain relief - natural and medical methods More complex pregnancies and medical procedures, including caesarean birth Early parenting, feeding your baby and lifestyle changes All our practitioners complete a universityaccredited course before delivering our NCT Signature antenatal courses. They are fully licensed, quality assured and experienced in preparing you and your partner - both physically and emotionally - for the arrival of your baby.

See more information or book a course at www.nct.org.uk

THE HOLY COW A delicious new

winter menu

introducing a winter warming hot dish of the week and new savoury plates and wholesome salads

Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Court - Legal Aid available.

Motoring Offences experts.

Dangerous Dogs Act experts.

With issues such as these resolved, you will be able to move on to the new phase of your life with peace of mind that everything is in order and secure.

Crossmans Solicitors, 2A Fortescue Road, Roadstock, BA3 3PH. Tel: 01761-431688 e-mail: office@crossmans-solicitors.co.uk For further information/fees, please visit our website

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Monday to Friday 8.30am- 4.30pm Saturday Breakfast 9.00am - 2.00pm

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

23

SOCIETY UNEARTHS MORE MEDIEVAL HISTORY

Throughout the summer and autumn the Midsomer Norton Society has been busy unearthing more of Midsomer Norton’s medieval history. The focus has been on going backwards in time to explore the ancestors of the Forz Vivonne family and moving forwards to trace their descendants over the next few generations.

Last year the Society began with a trip to France to find out more about the town’s 13th century medieval lord Hugh de Vivonne. This in turn led to the discovery in Autumn 2015, thanks to the work of French historian Joel Bibonne, himself a descendant of the family, that Hugh de Vivonne and his brother William de Forz are almost certainly the medieval tomb effigies in Shepton Mallet Parish Church. Since then, the trail has led the Society north to Skipton and Bolton Priory at the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Research led by local historian Monica Evans has revealed not only fascinating details of the ancestors of Hugh de Vivonne's family but also of some of their descendants. Details include for instance the fact that Hugh’s troublesome elder brother William de Forz was one of only sixteen illustrious individuals to have their coat of arms displayed in Westminster Abbey in recognition of the contribution he made towards its construction under Henry III. He was a troubled young man, referred to by historians as one of the worst examples of self-serving unruly barons. In later life he tried to atone for his sins by making donations

to other religious foundations and by taking the Cross as a Crusader.

However, he was never to make it to the Holy Land, dying at sea from dysentery on Good Friday 1241. His body was dismembered and packed in salt to be brought home for burial. It seems there was a partial interment at Shepton Mallet, the parish church of his bother Hugh's main fief, but the greater part of his remains would have been returned to one of his foundations in the North.

It might possibly have been Bolton Priory, where a statue of him dressed as a pilgrim about to depart on crusade reminds us of his close association with that religious house.

This wonderful research project continues to provide new insights into the generations following Hugh de Vivonne and William de Forz including a link to the Midsomer Norton Knight and a connection to the Royal Family itself.

WELTON CABS 01761 417600 Friendly and reliable service 4 - 6 seaters cars Airport runs available Trusted courier service

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

For full details visit www.MidsomerNortonCommunityTrust.co.uk

Invitation

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

25

Christmas Event 2016

For many, our earliest memories of Christmas as children are of dressing the Christmas tree and switching on the tree lights for the first time.

So this year the Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce and Churches Together are creating a Christmas event focusing on just this on Friday 2nd December from 6.00pm in the Hollies Garden and nearby Methodist Church.

Hollies Garden & Methodist Church Friday 2nd December 6.00pm

Traditional Christmas Tree The town’s primary school children will be making decorations for the fence around the tree to create a more festive look and these will be unveiled when the tree lights are switched on with traditional carols, laser lights, a brass band and nativity characters all being part of the evening.

Event Timetable

From 6.00pm - craft stalls in front of the Methodist Church and meet Nativity characters inside 6.15pm – Carols by laser light in the Church 6.30pm - Brass Band outside the Church

6.45pm - Procession to Christmas Tree and unveiling of children’s decorations followed by a countdown to the tree lights switch-on at 7.00pm

7.15pm - Hot Chocolate and non-alcoholic punch will be served outside of the Methodist Church and your final chance to visit the craft stalls 8.00pm - Event closes

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

AGE UK HUB CELEBRATES

ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY A

ge UK B&NES’ Midsomer Norton Hub celebrated its first anniversary on Tuesday September 27th. It celebrated by inviting over 55’s to come along and enjoy some refreshments.

The Stroke Association also attended and offered free blood pressure testing, stroke prevention information and friendly advice.

Since its launch the Hub has proven incredibly popular with local older people. Because of its success, in May it moved from its original location, The Masonic Hall, to larger premises at The Somer Centre. Age UK B&NES was also recently awarded the title of Community Group of the Year by Midsomer Norton Town Council for its work at the Hub.

carers every year, with essential services. It is always looking for more support, funding as well as volunteers.

Age UK B&NES is a local charity that supports around 12,000 older people, their families and

You can find out more about the charity at www.ageukbanes.co.uk.

SINGING FOR FUN IS ON THE MOVE Age UK’s BANES Singing for Fun has moved from the Town Hall in Midsomer Norton to Orchard Hall, Orchard Vale. The group is open to men and women over 50 and they meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 2.30pm to 4pm.

WALKING FOOTBALL Have you heard of Walking Football? It’s a new way to exercise whilst enjoying an accessible, slower version of the nation’s favourite sport. It’s a great way to keep fit as well as make new friends.

Singing for Fun covers all eras from the classics of the 50’s and 60’s to modern day songs, the group is led by pianist Kathleen Still. Song books are provided so there is no need to be able to read music. If you enjoy singing but do not want to commit to joining a choir this is a great way to have fun! The group is run by Age UK BANES as part of the Midsomer Norton Hub.

The rules are the same as the ‘regular’ version of the game, except there is no running! These sessions are being run by local charity Age UK B&NES and are aimed at the over 50s. If you have slight mobility issues or just need to regain your confidence this is a great time to dust off your boots or perhaps put some on for the first time to enjoy a kick-about. The sessions take place every Thursday from 10-11am at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre. Sessions cost £4 per hour and are pay as you play – no sign up fees etc. are required.

To find out more call Ketyn on: 01225 484510 or email: active@ageukbanes.co.ok.

For more information contact Ketyn on active@ageukbanes.co.uk or 01225 466135.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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B&NES CYCLE NETWORK MAP L

ocal group Cycle Bath, supported with input from many other organisations and individuals, have created the beginnings of a cycle network map covering B&NES which shows how to get from A to B on a bicycle. It’s amazing just how many options we have both overall in B&NES and in the Somer Valley/Midsomer Norton element of the map.

Midsomer Norton Town Council contacted Cycle Bath to ensure that the greenway links were included which connect Midsomer Norton into the network and as you’ll see from the map below that we are included.

As a result perhaps this map will not only encourage everyone to cycle in comfort but also help develop over time high quality space for cycling, inclusive for all ages and abilities, connecting communities with schools and centres of employment.

If you are interested in helping develop a walking/ cycling map just for Midsomer Norton, then please ring 07530 042627 or email Cllr Paul Myers on midsomer.myers@gmail.com.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT HAVE MIDSOMER NORTON BUSINESSES GOT TO OFFER? L

IFE did a quick survey of businesses in the whole of Midsomer Norton and came up with the following split which shows just what the town has to offer.

Of the 179 businesses surveyed – 37% were retailers, mainly but not exclusively located in the High Street, covering a wide range of products on offer.

Surprisingly only 8 of the 66 retailers were Charity Shops. The 14 takeaways represented only 8% of the businesses. Both these figures somewhat belie the criticism that the town is dominated by charity shops and takeaways, when they are simply part of the scene and do provide a service which is used by local residents.

Whilst it’s always changing all the time, there are only about half a dozen empty premises in the High Street at any one time which compares favourably with other towns across the country.

In future issues of LIFE the aim is to work with the Town Team as well as getting feedback from local residents to look at ways to talk-up positive aspects of the town’s prospects and try to attract new businesses to serve local residents.

BUSINESSES IN MIDSOMER NORTON

Business category

%

Retailers

37%

Hairdressing, Health & Beauty

11%

Takeaways

8%

Cafés & Restaurants

6%

Pubs & Clubs

5%

Doctors, Dentists & Opticians

4%

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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THE NEW MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN TEAM I

n a bid to promote what Midsomer Norton has to offer, not just to local residents but also the wider Somer Valley, businesses in the town have created a ‘Midsomer Norton Town Team’. It will operate under the wider Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce umbrella and as such will be looking at ways to encourage links with all businesses in the town going forward.

Probably the best way to promote footfall in the High Street and ensure the survival of local independent shops, cafes and businesses, is to ensure that people know they are there and what they have to offer.

Whilst buying on line has its advantages, think how much easier it is to pop down to the town centre to buy this or that, get personal service and be home in a few minutes.

“Midsomer Norton has an amazing mix of great local independent retailers and relatively few empty premises compared to some towns. It’s a question though of promoting what we’ve got”, said Steve Bishton of High Street DIY and Chair of the new Midsomer Norton Town Team.

Banks, Building Soc & Financial Services

4%

Estate Agents

4%

Legal & Insurance

2%

General Businesses

17%

Other

2%

Total

100%

So the team has started by encouraging as many businesses as possible to create a Facebook page for their own business.

Then overall they’ve created Midsomer Norton Town Centre page which they hope to get local residents to friend as a way of communicating offers and updates to local customers.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

ORGANISATION T

he recent Remembrance Sunday event in Midsomer Norton in November was not only the largest one in terms of attendance probably ever, but also the first one to be organised jointly by the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion and Midsomer Norton Town Council.

In so many other towns up and down the country, modern traffic regulations and a lack of volunteers have resulted in Remembrance Sunday events disappearing. However, in Midsomer Norton we have risen to the challenge. A joint working group was formed in the summer of 2016 and it has proved to be a successful partnership with the Town Council managing the road closure, publicity and volunteer insurance alongside the expertise of the British Legion in managing the parade and the event including the wreaths. Along with support from a wide range of organisations and individuals this new partnership looks set to secure the future of this well supported and poignant event in the community calendar.

Cllr Alastair Slade represented the Council on

the working group and laid a wreath on behalf of the Royal Fleet Auxilliary this year. He summed up the work of the group by saying “The British Legion run this event superbly in many villages, towns and cities across the country and the Town Council was delighted to provide some support on the joint group so that this could continue in Midsomer Norton. Thanks are also due to all those organisations and individuals who give up their time to support the event every year.” One person in particular due recognition is Heather Bray who has run the Poppy Appeal for many years and is standing down this autumn.

Wg Cdr RAFVR (T) Rtd Geoff Wilson, Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch President of the Royal British Legion worked with the Town Council on the joint group and agreed that it had been a success, saying “The joint working group allowed us to focus on our own responsibilities but also make sure that everything was covered between us. By taking this approach we should be able to keep this important event alive for the future which is great news for the town”.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LET'S GET MESSY One Saturday a month families gather at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church for some Messy fun. These sessions include messy sensory activities, crafts, games and other activities such as cooking, suitable for all ages. Every month we explore a different theme from Light and Dark to Minecraft to Noah's Ark and much more.

With something on offer for all ages and all types of "messy" people why not come along, each session is free.

Upcoming dates: November 19th 2-4pm Mission Xmas Part 1, December 10th 2-4pm Mission Xmas Part 2, January 14th 2-4pm Jonah and the Whale, February 4th 2-4pm LOVE. For more information contact Helen on 01761 410450 www.msnmcc.org.

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ROOTS BABY & TODDLER GROUP With 'room to grow' Roots group offers plenty of space for those who want to run and ride around and jump but also offers the cosy soft area for those just discovering the world. The toy cupboard is so big we call it the 'black hole' so there's sure to be something to intrigue everyone. Along with healthy snack time and a story and rhyme time each session we also enjoy additional activities crafts, cooking, sensory play.

We'd love to meet you so why not pop in and give the group a go. The group meets every Wednesday (term-time) 1-2:30pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. From birth to school-age all little ones and their "big ones" are welcome.

For more information contact Hanna on 07592 735324 www.msnmcc.org.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY 'Fitstep' exercise classes basic 'Strictly' moves, Cha cha, Salsa etc. Have fun, burn away calories! St. John's Church Hall, Midsomer Norton 10.30am 11.15am and 7.15pm - 8pm. Call 07961056700.

Tai Chi at The Town Hall £4, 11am -12pm.

Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Monday from 1pm to 4pm for viewing only.

Adult Tap Dancing classes (some experience needed). Fun exercises and routines using basic tap steps. St. John's Church Hall, Midsomer Norton, 6.15pm - 7pm. Call 07961056700.

Child-minding group for registered child-minders at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, fortnightly from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Norton Radstock U3A hold a monthly Speaker meeting every 2nd Monday, 2-4pm at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, and a monthly Coffee Morning every last Monday 10.30am – noon at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton.

Lunch Bunch (1st Monday each month and cost varies) midday. Meet at various pubs around the area for a friendly lunch with like-minded people.

Ring 01225 484510 for details.

TUESDAY Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly at 3pm, in the small hall from September to June. The programme covers various topics, including devotional and educational.

Playtot’s at the Town Hall in Midsomer Norton (term time only), 10am until 11.30am.

Story & Rhyme at Midsomer Norton Library 11 11.30am. For 2-5 year olds. Free.

Wellbeing Group improve health and mental wellbeing. 10.30am - 12.30pm, Town Hall, Midsomer Norton. Contact Sue on 01225 396042 or Mandy on 01225 835817.

Children and youth club (in term time) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm to 7.45pm.

Midsomer Norton Townswomen’s Guild meets on the third Tuesday of each month at St John’s

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Church Hall at 2pm. For more information call 01761 413528.

Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly from September to June at the Methodist Church Centre at 3pm, for more information call 01761 235970.

Golden Oldies singing sessions at Greenacres Community Room, Midsomer Norton every Tuesday 2pm to 3pm. Open to all. Call 01761 470006 for more information.

Midsomer Norton Short Mat Bowls Club meets every Tuesday and Friday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Call 01761 418400 for more info.

Pre School Speech and Language Therapy (appointments only) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre. Call 01225 831800 for more info.

Oasis The Listening Project. Need someone to talk to? Feeling lonely or anxious? We are here for you, 10am – 12pm. No appointment needed. MSN Methodist Church.

Age UK 10 - 11am Extend Exercise £3 inc refreshments at The Somer Centre.

11.30am - 2pm Cook & Eat £5 (1st and 3rd Tuesday monthly) at The Somer Centre.

10am - 12pm Gadget Busters at The Methodist Housing Association Lounge, Church Lane £3 including refreshments (commencing July 12th).

11.15am -12.15pm Short Walk leaving from The Somer Centre (1st and 3rd Tuesday monthly).

10 - 11.30am Book Buddies at The Library, High Street, MSN £3 donation (3rd Tuesday monthly).

2 - 4pm Social/Games afternoon including refreshments at The Methodist Housing Association Lounge, Church Lane (donations).

2.30 - 4pm Singing for Fun at The Town Hall £3 including refreshments (4th Tuesday monthly).

To find out more please ring Age UK Active on 01225 484510 or www.ageukbanes.co.uk/activities.

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WEDNESDAY Jenny Peplow Singers meet every Wednesday at 7.15pm at St John’s Church Hall, Midsomer Norton.

For more information call Jenny on 01373 812093.

Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10.30 11am. Every fourth Wednesday.

Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre every Wednesday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior men from 7.30-9.30pm.

The Wednesday Women meet in The Methodist Hall, Midsomer Norton. For details, programmes are available weekday mornings at the church reception or call Helen Chivers on 01761 436770.

Age UK Midsomer Norton Walks 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 10am. Meet outside the Town Hall.

Walking Group Meet at The Town Hall before heading off for a 2/3 mile walk, 10am. (1st and 3rd Wednesday each month). To find out more please ring Age UK Active on 01225 484510 or www.ageukbanes.co.uk/activities Roots Toddler Group (in term time) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church 12.30pm to 2.30pm. For info call 01761 410450.

THURSDAY Norton Radstock Photographic Society meet most weeks at Midsomer Norton Social Club, Stones Cross, North Road at 7.30pm. Mike Witcombe 01761 414261.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club 2 - 5pm first Thursday of each month. A blend of musical entertainment, laughter and even a bit of bingo! The perfect chance to have a laugh and make new friends.

Playtot’s at the Town Hall in Midsomer Norton (term time only), 10am until 11.30am.

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

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.

Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Thursday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.

NYC - Midsomer Norton Youth Club, term time only, 6.30 - 8.30pm. Town Hall.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior ladies from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Age UK Walking Football at MSN Sports Centre pay-as-you-play £4. 12 - 1pm. To find out more please ring Age UK Active on 01225 484510 or www.ageukbanes.co.uk/activities.

Abbey Piano Services Ltd ...in Tune with your needs Rookery Farm, Binegar BA3 4UL Tel. 01761 239006 / 07866 132282

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Extensive piano showroom open Saturday 10am - 5pm All other time please call inc. evening and weekends.

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

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

Whist Club at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2pm to 4pm from September to June.

Casual swimming at MSN Sports centre every Friday from 6.30am to 12pm, 2.30pm to 3.30pm and 7.00pm to 8.30pm.

SATURDAY Oasis The Listening Project. Need someone to talk to? Feeling lonely or anxious? We are here for you, 10am - 12pm every 1st and 3rd Saturday. No appointment needed. MSN Methodist Church.

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.

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

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

The Local Churches Men’s Breakfast Fellowship meet monthly (2nd Saturday) at 8.30am (breakfast from 8am) venues vary. For more information call Midsomer Methodist Centre on 01761 410450.

Saturday Night Praise at 7.30pm on the 2nd Saturday of each month at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Whist Club at the Town Hall. 7.30pm. Ring Alex on 01761 419133.

Saturday Club, term time only, 10am - 1.30pm.

Friendly group for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Cooking, den building, games days, trips and much more. Ages 11 - 19 years. Sarah Ann Room, Town Hall, Midsomer Norton. Call 01761 568242 for more information or email admin@wpa-play.com.

SUNDAY Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for juniors from 9.30am to 11am.

Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Sunday from 10am to 4pm for viewing, museum, wartime pillbox, buffet coach and gift shop.

Sunday service at St John the Baptist Church at 8am and 9.30am.

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Welton Baptist Church Morning Service at 10.30am at Somervale School, morning worship service for all ages.

Evening Worship from 6pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Welton Baptist Church Evening Service 6pm at Somervale School, evening service – café style.

Casual swimming at MSN Sports centre every Sunday from 10.00am to 11.30am and 1.30pm to 7.00pm.

Sunday School at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 1st and 3rd Sundays, 10.30am. For more info call 01761 410450.

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36

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WASSAILING 2017

a pair of Wassailing Cups specially for Midsomer Norton.

Plans for a Midsomer Norton Wassailing event on Saturday 14th January 2017 are progressing in the capable hands of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust and the Midsomer Norton Society.

“I’m really excited about creating a Wassail Cup for Midsomer Norton. With the Midsomer Norton Society we’ve been researching what the cups would have looked like and have come up with a really interesting design – unique to the town. I hope it will be something that can be kept and handed down the generations to be used as part of an ongoing Wassailing tradition”, said Chris Whortley.

Wassailing is an ancient custom that was once popular through Somerset.

The word ‘wassail’ derives from the old Anglo-Saxon term ‘waes hael’ meaning ‘good health’ The idea is that people visit apple orchards and recite rhymes and sing songs to wake the apple trees in order to encourage a good harvest for the coming year.

B&NES Head of Park, Mark Cassidy has been advising the Midsomer Norton Society on the sourcing of apple trees for the town which will be planted in the next few weeks.

Discussions are in hand with local potter Chris Whortley who has been commissioned to create

The plan is to meet in the Town Hall at 12 noon on Saturday 14th January where a ploughmans lunch will be served before the town crowns the Wassail King and Queen and sets out to wake local apple trees in the town.

As the event comes together details will be posted on the Community Trust’s website at www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or see local press nearer the time.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

37

MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN SHOW

SAT JULY 8TH 2017 T

he Midsomer Norton Community Trust are calling all gardeners, artists, and crafters to start the process of sowing, painting or making your article to enter for the Midsomer Norton Town Show in July 2017.

Why not enter that photograph of the 'Sunrise/ Sunset' that you have recently taken or the 'Scene of Midsomer Norton' or a 'Reflection'?

Photographs should not be larger than 7"x 5".

Artists have the choice of painting a 'Landscape' in any medium, producing a 'Pastel Drawing' on any subject or a collage art work. Dimensions no larger than 16"x12".

Make a 'Bag for Life' from recycled material, dress a doll, or enter that lovely tapestry/cross stitch item, a cushion or maybe a hand-knitted garment in 4ply or double knit.

The Show organisers are also calling on woodworkers, potters and basket makers amongst our creative community of Midsomer Norton to enter the Town Show. Come along and take part to show how creative you are! All items entered need to have been created in the last two years.

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Call 01749 346900 www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk Anglo Trading Estate, Commercial Road Shepton Mallet BA4 5BY

Every year the Town Show goes from strength to strength and the 2017 event will be BIGGER than ever so come along and join in with the fun and start the process of producing your entry as early as possible and compete to win one or more of the many cups and medals on offer.

There will also be various sections for gardeners to enter, so get those seeds ready! More information with fuller details will be in the Spring issue of Midsomer Norton LIFE or visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SIGHT AWARENESS T

he Lions World Sight Day 15th October provided an ideal opportunity to raise awareness of issues for blind and partially sighted people with an unsighted walk through Midsomer Norton High Street, visiting various shops and coffee houses on the way.

The group was accompanied by Anne Skinner and Linda Hole (puppy walkers) and Steven Hyde who is himself registered blind. They were also particularly grateful for the company of our Mayor, Paul Myers and our MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg, who discovered for themselves the difficulties that blind and partially sighted people face negotiating the hazards of a busy town. Both Paul and our president, Lion Derek Livsey were blindfolded during the entire event which lasted for nearly two hours.

For Town Mayor Paul Myers, it proved a moving and informative experience: “As a local councillor I was particularly keen to understand better the issues faced by blind and partially sighted people in the town in order to try and improve things – through for example the Neighbourhood Development Plan and my involvement on the town’s Planning Committee.

The first thing that struck me was how sounds around me took on a whole new significance. I realised that had I been able to see I would have been able to filter out and focus the various layers, but without sight they all merged into one and were much harder to understand. In the High Street it sounded like a roar – and sudden unexpected sounds were the worst.

When we sat down for refreshments, pouring tea from a tea pot presented a whole new range of challenges – but conversation was much harder. With no eye contact I struggled to work out who was talking to me and who wasn’t. It was also hard to work out when to break into the flow of the conversation. At one point someone said “we’re talking to you” when I’d settled into a world of my own.

Linda Hole (puppy walker), Mayor of Midsomer Norton Paul Myers and Steven Hyde Probably the most significant issue though was the idiosyncrasies of Midsomer Norton’s pavements.

They go from very wide to very narrow and so despite carrying a white stick I got several sharp elbows in my chest from passers-by in a rush – failing to register my limitations, and that I couldn’t move out of their way in time. A skateboard and a bike whizzing by made me feel incredibly vulnerable. Then there were unexpected double kerbs, no kerbs, drops and slopes to contend with.

While the white stick was a help it could just as easily get jammed in a hole.

Overall, the whole experience gave me an idea of just what blind and partially sighted people in Midsomer Norton live with and learn to overcome – not just for a few hours as I did – but all the time”.

For further details visit www.lionsclub.org Search World Sight Day.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON

CPR-ATHON T

he town’s first CPR-athon on Saturday 24th September proved a huge success with over 100 members of the public taking part.

As a result there is increased awareness of basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in the Somer Valley thanks to the efforts of St John Ambulance and the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

The event was part of the national St John Ambulance’s Save a Life September campaign.

In Midsomer Norton it was possible to keep pumping the chest of the dummy for the full four hours, with people taking part each doing two minutes. Participants were of all ages – which is so important because when faced with a loved one needing CPR it’s essential that whoever is nearby can help.

Helen Jones, Unit Manager of Norton Radstock St John Ambulance Cadets explained to LIFE: "It is amazing how such a simple skill to learn like CPR can save people’s lives – and yet it’s so easy to rush about our daily routines without ever taking the time to learn."

"But how would you feel if you were faced with someone experiencing cardiac arrest and you simply had to stand helpless because you didn’t know what to do? And you can’t always rely on a paramedic being at hand. So now is your chance to learn and possibly save the life of a loved one or a friend, neighbour or stranger."

For more information on St John Ambulance’s work, including first aid advice, how to become a volunteer, details of training for the public, schools and businesses, visit www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 10 49 50.

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40

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SILVER BAND The Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band has had a busy summer. Undoubtably, the highlight of the band’s year was performing at the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain in Cheltenham on the 18th September where the band was up against 18 other Third Section bands from all over the UK. The band’s rendition of the Test piece, ‘Lake of The Moon’, earned favourable comments from both adjudicators. Overall, the band was pleased with their performance on the day and were awarded 13th place which is the highest position the band has achieved in the National Championships.

Over the closed season, the band will be working up the Third Section test piece in readiness for the West of England Regional Qualifier at Torquay in March. A top six placing at the regionals will see the band promoted to the Second Section.

At the beginning of September the band performed at an evening wedding party in Parade Gardens in Bath, an unusual but fun engagement, and in front

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of a well attended congregation at the 72nd Double Hills Memorial Service in Paulton. The latter end of September saw the band perform their final bandstand concert of the year at Keynsham Park.

Looking forward, the band has a number of engagements leading up to Christmas with notable events being a concert on behalf of Arthritis Research at Bishops Sutton in October, the annual Remembrance Day parade in Midsomer Norton in November and the switch on of Midsomer Norton Christmas lights and the band annual Christmas concert at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church during December. The training band has also been in the public eye with performances at Holcombe village day and Midsomer Norton Station open day where their playing was enjoyed by many.

The training band will also be performing concerts leading up to Christmas.

If you would like to see where the band will be appearing visit our website www.msnrsb.org.uk for details and contact information

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41

NEW DATES FOR TWINNING

EXCHANGE 2017

Before the visit you’ll have the opportunity to meet up with your fellow UK twinners and you can either travel with others members of the Association or make your own way there. Once in Ambarès et Lagrave the group stays with local families and a programme of excursions and events is organised for us. There is no need to worry about communication – it is possible to be hosted by a family where English is spoken. Most younger French people speak very fluent English.

I

n a break with tradition, the Midsomer Norton & District Twinning Association will be visiting Ambarès et Lagrave and Bordeaux in the spring next year rather than August. The dates for the Family Exchange will be Saturday 15th to Saturday 22nd April and our French hosts are already busy working on the programme for the week.

The change will offer the opportunity to visit the South of France in the spring when it will be much cooler than the usual slot in high summer.

Being so much further south, the spring weather is anticipated to be balmy by our northern standards.

The Twinning Association is looking to attract some new twinners to join in the family exchange.

The format for the visit is that in the next couple of months anyone interested in going should contact the Twinning Association Secretary Sue Hall (see below). The Association will then make contact with the French Twinning Association and all the arrangements to twin individuals, couples or whole families of all ages with French twinners are made in consultation with you.

We really enjoy the warm sunshine, the blue skies, and the fantastic welcome from our French hosts and the wonderful opportunity to savour the French culture, food and wine first hand – rather than one step removed if we were staying in hotels.

If you are interested in joining in this much loved tradition of a week-long exchange with Ambarès et Lagrave, please contact Sue on 01761 434544.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

FRIENDS OF SILVER STREET Although the weather is getting cooler now, the Friends have been active in the Nature Reserve.

They have cut pathways across and down the meadow making it easier to walk on the short grass, and they will be putting in another seat at the top of the meadow soon.

The Friends enjoyed a 'Wild Fruits & Fungi Walk' with Anne Savage who is very knowledgeable in all things to do with the natural world and the group were joined by 16 new people. They have started to clear some of the Ivy from trees at the top of the woodland where it is very dark, and will coppice the area when they can see what is there and allow light to reach the floor.

A new litter bin is on order to be put by the picnic site to accommodate the rubbish and the Friends would be grateful if any other rubbish could be taken away and not left on site.

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A very successful stall was held at the October Farmer’s Market and a thank you to the members who supplied all the lovely gifts for the tombola, they are planning to have another tombola at the Christmas lights switch on in December.

Finally, The Friends of Silver Street are very pleased that the Nature Reserve was judged as Outstanding by ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood' In Bloom this year. It makes all the work worthwhile to be recognised by a national organisation.

If you would like to join the Friends group, please phone 01761 411292 for more details.

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43

ROCK HALL R

ock Hall has been home to Senior Section, Guides, Brownies and Rainbows in Midsomer Norton since the 1960s and it has been self-funded and managed by volunteers throughout this time.

After all these years of constant use, the hall now needs major renovation work.

The Rock Hall committee, which is made up of Unit Leaders, are very keen for it to stay a dedicated and usable space for Girl Guiding for years to come.

So we are now at the beginning of what is going to be a large-scale project requiring some very committed fundraising!

Having already held successful fundraising events within our units at Rock Hall, and a very popular quiz, the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Senior Section members were given the opportunity to help customer’s pack their shopping by Tesco. Over £400 was raised, which has kick started the fund for the project and given us the motivation needed to push forward.

Guide unit leader Jenna Taylor, “Members of the community approached us to talk about what they did as a girl guide and in particular at that hall. It was lovely to hear so many people have happy memories of using Rock Hall and used Girl Guiding to make new friends and learn new skills, we want to keep that going for as long as possible.”

If you are interested in helping the project in any way please contact GirlguidingRockHall@hotmail. com or if you or your daughter would like to join Girl Guiding, please send us a message and we can register your interest. We are always looking for volunteers to help run the units and join our team!

We currently have spaces available at our Brownie packs for ages 7-10 and Senior Section for young women aged 14-25, the more the merrier at Rock Hall!

Please look out for further fundraising events for the Rock Hall Fund in the near future, they are grateful for every donation and we would love your support.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CHRISTMAS RUBBISH & RECYCLING COLLECTIONS There will be no recycling or rubbish collections on Monday 26 December. If your collection is due this day, your next collection will be on Monday 2 January. All other collection days will remain the same, even if they fall on a Bank Holiday.

There will be no garden waste collections for 2 weeks from 26 December to 6 January. Normal collections will start from Monday 9 January.

Recycling Centres closed on 25, 26 December and 1 January. Open all other days.

GENERAL RECYCLING ADVICE We throw away more at Christmas than at any other time of the year. These commonly used Christmas items can all be recycled: Food bin: turkey bones, left-over cooked food. (You can now put your food in everyday plastic bags). To

find out how to waste less food and save money at Christmas go to www.lovefoodhatewaste.com for lots of ideas.

Green box: Paper – greetings cards, gift tags and wrapping paper (white backed, non-foil).

Cans, tins, aerosols, including biscuit and sweet tins.

Glass bottles and jars.

Foil including mince pie and quiche cases and take away trays.

Textiles including unwanted Christmas jumpers.

Small electrical items including broken fairy lights, toasters and electronic toys (please put in a carrier bag next to your box).

Blue Bag: Cardboard boxes and packaging, brown paper, drinks cartons

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

45

NORTON RADSTOCK

SWIMMING CLUB

Sea in the first round gala of the Winter Series.

Due to the late withdrawal of teams, two teams were selected by each club,with their combined scores totalled together to decide the winners.

This new format meant that many of the clubs younger swimmers were given the opportunity to compete in a team environment for the first time.

A total of 27 new Personal Best times were set and NRSC finished the victors by 31 points.

N

orton Radstock Swimming Club benefitted from 2015 MSN Community grant funding to deliver Master Classes from former club member London 2012 Olympian Stacey Bromley, (nee Tadd) and support the continued development of the volunteer workforce.

Stacey delivered four Master Classes in the Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn terms to support the club’s competition calendar. The success of these sessions is measureable by the continual improvement in the strokes and competitive skills which have equated to medallists at meets and excellent Team results league throughout 2016.

This is a huge achievement by the swimmers considering NRSC is a small club with limited access to pool time at the Midsomer Norton Leisure Centre.

At the final Master Class Stacey focused on reaction times in starts and turns. This certainly benefitted the swimmers who competed at the Somerset ASA Development Meet held at Millfield over the 1 & 2 October. In total the team won 14 medals, 3 Gold, 5 Silver and 6 Bronze.

On 8 October NRSC were hosts to Burnham on

There were individual wins for Georgia Vause, Will Gold, Rosie Boby, Joseph McLachlan and Liam Willcox in the Breaststroke. Leah Lovell, Will Gold, Elliot Lewis and Tom Barrow in the Butterfly.

Leah Lovell and Liam Willcox in Backstroke. Elliott Lewis and Tom Barrow in Freestyle. Tom Barrow also won his Individual Medley event. The relay teams also produced several wins and second place finishes.

One of the highlights of the evening was Stacey making a guest appearance in the Girls Open relay teams.

Stacey commented, “Competing again for NRSC brought back so many good memories, so I really enjoyed myself. It was lovely to see and hear the swimmers support their team mates, which resulted in a win for us. Being made Team Captain was a real honour for me. I hope that I can spur on the younger generation of swimmers at the club.”

The atmosphere was tremendous with a large number of parents, including Stacey’s mum, cheering the swimmers on. Thanks also go to the volunteers who supported the organising and running of the event.

The sustainability of the club is dependent on the support of the community. For further information or to arrange a trial visit us at www.nrsc.info.

46

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MONDAY NIGHT SEEKERS

SERVICE VEHICLE TRUST

Midsomer Norton Methodist Church offers a new activity for anyone who has questions to ask about any aspect of life that they are seeking answers to.

Hello Readers,

The meetings are for ANYONE: • For people who have faith or no faith.

• For people who attend church and those who don’t.

• For SEEKERS looking for some kind of meaning to life.

The meetings take place on a Monday night at 7.30pm at the church. For exact dates, please get in touch via the details below.

For more information, contact the Minister, Stephen Robinson 01761 410574 or msnminister@btinternet.com.

Are you looking for a vehicle that will take your group to organised functions etc?

The Community Mini bus seats up to 12 people, it has a tailgate lift for wheelchairs which is easily accessed, making this ideal for the elderly and disabled. (All operated by our volunteer drivers) For further information please contact our Coordinator Mrs Debbie Gunfield on 01761 416910 or our Transport Manager Mr Nick Rogers on 01761 413872.

Registered Charity No. 276166.

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For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GET FIT WITH NATURE

H

ave you ever thought about improving your fitness and giving something to the community at the same time? The Town Council is considering launching a project with the Green Gym to encourage people in the town to come along to the Wellow Brook Walk and take part in some conservation work. The Green Gym forms part of The Conservation Volunteers, a community volunteering charity.

47

the services of an Ecologist to assist with the long term plan, to advise on priorities and to help with monitoring which is critical if wildlife diversity is to be created.

For more information, contact the Town Clerk on 01761 418701.

Activities will be designed to meet individual capabilities and involve simple tasks which can improve your strength and stamina, boost your practical skills and confidence and benefitting your local green spaces. Whether it’s managing and improving footpaths, building refuges for hibernation, improving vegetation, tackling problem weeds or helping establish nest boxes for birds and bats, the work will greatly benefit the beautiful stretch if land that runs from Northmead Road bridge east towards the old swimming pool site.

The Wellow Brook Walk consists of three distinct meadow areas running alongside the brook. An ecological assessment was carried out in 2016 and recommendations are now being taken forward.

These include promoting the natural diversity of the site by cutting back scrub, improving the grassland and creating habitat for a wide range of reptiles and flora and fauna which has been declining. The Town Council is planning to retain

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48

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SENTINEL STEAM LOCO NOW A RESIDENT WORK HORSE

T

welve years ago, a little engine called Joyce arrived at Midsomer Norton Station in a bit of a state. Now many working hours later she is smartened up and ready for work.

Before

On Sunday 13 November Joyce will be back at work hauling the trains. This will be the first time the Sentinel Steam locomotive has been officially rostered for passenger trains after her official naming ceremony by Paul Atterbury earlier in the year.

In December, she will be pulling the Santa Specials on December 11th and 12th and giving rides for the Mince Pie specials on December 17th and 18th.

Tickets for children visiting Santa can be obtained from the station for ÂŁ4.00 including a train ride.

Adult rides will be ÂŁ3.00. There will also be Santa snacks from the buffet car. No booking is required for the Mince Pie Specials.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

49

NORTON RADSTOCK PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Norton Radstock Photographic Society is a well established club that has been meeting regularly on Thursday evenings for the past 40 years, at various venues through out the area. Curently we meet at the Midsomer Norton Social Club in North Road, Midsomer Norton.

We have recently recommenced our weekly activities after the summer break. We have a varied programme which is made up of visiting professional speakers giving talks on various aspects of photography, competitions, and evenings when we would have activities such as still life photography in the club room and evenings when members would show examples of the work they have been doing. In addition there is a group of members who are particularly interested in making Audio Visual shows selecting a set of

pictures on a particular subject and setting them to appropriate music. This group meets once a month on a Monday evening at the Welton Rovers club house.

During the summer break over the last two or three years several female members have arranged a short break to places of interest for the purpose of taking photographs.

We hold an Annual Exhibition in the autumn each year at the Methodist Hall in the High Street, Midsomer Norton, when we display around 250 mounted prints of the members' work. This exhibition is open to the general public and is free entry.

Details of our Programme can be found on www.nrps.org.uk. Alternatively by telephoning the Secretary Mike Witcombe on 01761 414261.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON HILL OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AT NORTON HILL SCHOOL FOUR RISING ARTS STARS

Norton Hill School is extremely proud to announce the destinations of a number of recent performing arts students.

Michael Wootton left Norton Hill this summer and has just started a three-year acting course at the prestigious ‘Guildford School of Acting’ one of the few accredited Drama Schools in the country.

Mike was selected from hundreds of applicants and to secure a place at the age of eighteen is an impressive achievement. Mike took the leading role in a number of school productions including the recent performances of ‘Company’ and ‘London Road’.

The school is also very excited to announce that Joanne (Jo Jo) Dixon has just secured a place at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. Jo-Jo will be leaving Norton Hill for America in early 2017 to begin her two-year course. As with Michael, Jo-Jo has been in all of the school productions and successfully achieved an ‘A’ in GCSE Drama this year.

Ellie Williams, who achieved an ‘A’ at A-level in Drama is now studying Drama at Birmingham University, one of the highest rated arts courses in higher education.

Additionally Minna Davies has gone on to the prestigious York University to study a course entitled ‘Theatre: Writing, Direction and Performance’.

Norton Hill School prides itself with a thriving performing arts scene with an orchestra, smaller instrumental groups and over 150 pupils taking instrumental lessons. Dance and Drama set high standard in both formal productions and in-class opportunity. Challenging extra-curricular material combined with high academic rigour enhances the chances of pupils seeking the very highest level of Arts based courses.

This year's Upper School production is ‘City of Angels’ a Broadway musical based on the Hollywood film industry. The production will take place on February 9, 10 and 11 2017.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON HILL – TOP OF THE LEAGUE TABLE IN B&NES Another stunning set of outcomes sees Norton Hill ranked 1st in B&NES for progress children make under the new measure introduced by the government (Progress 8). On average every student achieved ½ a grade higher in every subject than the national average rates. This excellent outcome is made all the more spectacular when compared to other schools locally and around the country with many posting negative scores showing children have performed less well than expected.

These fantastic outcomes follow a visit to St James’ Palace where Mr Williams was delighted to support students from the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership as they received their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. This was particularly pleasing because 9 out of the 50 students in receipt of this prestigious award studied at Norton Hill or Somervale.

Alun Williams, Headteacher, said "I knew that the results were exceptionally strong because that is what we have come to expect at Norton Hill, but to be so far ahead of other schools is yet more evidence of the hard work of children, staff and parents. When I looked at the data yesterday I couldn’t believe that we were well into the top 150 schools out of over 6000 nationally. I’m so proud of the students here and particularly of our middle and lower ability children who were the highest performing groups."

Norton Hill prides itself on a traditional approach to education where the very highest standards are expected of everyone. That said, we strive to embrace state of the art technologies and remain cutting edge across all areas of the curriculum.

The tables for comparison are available online: www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk

H.H. EVANS

GET FIT FOR LIFE

South Road, Timsbury, BA2 0EU

LOOKING FOR GREAT INDOOR TRAINING THIS WINTER? Come and visit our gym for a variety of classes to keep you fit this season.

Independent Funeral Directors (John & Sheila Preston)

TYNDALE HOUSE, WINTERFIELD PARK PAULTON, BRISTOL BS39 7RY TEL: 01761 412364

Small, Fun, Friendly, Welcoming

FITNESS FOR EVERYONE

P R I VAT E C H A P E L O F R E S T

Check our website for personal training and other classes.

24 hr Personal Caring Service Funeral Plans available

balancelifestyleandfitness.co.uk

www.hhevans.co.uk

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07776 147 920 / 07780 683 598

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

RUN FOR SWALLOW AND

RAISE COUNTLESS SMILES

and their work has helped me to live a full and happy life. I hope people choose to run for them and support their wonderful work”.

On Sunday 12th March 2017, SWALLOW would like you to run for SWALLOW, a local charity supporting people with learning disabilities, at the Vitality Bath Half Marathon, a truly electric event.

You'll receive a guaranteed Silver Bond charity place, a SWALLOW running vest, a bucket load of support from the fundraising team, both before the event and on the day. Registration fee is £25 and we ask that you pledge to raise a minimum £175 in sponsorship.

Your support would allow us to transform the lives of local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. Our services in and around Midsomer Norton rely on donations, and the money we raise through the Bath Half Marathon makes a huge difference.

Anna Robinson a member at SWALLOW said “I have been a SWALLOW member for many years,

If you have your own place, there is no minimum sponsorship, and if you choose to run for SWALLOW, we will give you all the support you need and help you to raise as much as you can.

To take part for SWALLOW, or if you have any questions, please contact Jess Robinson on: jessrobinson@swallowcharity.org or phone 01761 414034.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

53

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK This is the 21st edition of LIFE Magazine! I’ve been looking at some of the highlights from previous editions and it has been an education in what goes on in Midsomer Norton.

Some ground-rules were set back in April 2011 when LIFE was launched which included the look and feel of the publication, a commitment not to compete with local newspapers and to deliver it by hand to every house in the town boundary (which had been confirmed with the creation of the Council in April of 2011).

Early editions referred to regeneration of the town centre (still a key topic), town twinning, the River Somer in the High Street and also tracked the launches of a number of community events.

Carnival itself became a hot topic in 2013 when the idea of bringing the annual event back to the High Street began to gain some momentum. By the time you read this we will have seen the third procession wind up the High Street – hopefully in drier weather than the first two!

Our partnership with Ignyte, who we sponsor to produce LIFE for us, has gone from strength to strength as we work on each edition of LIFE. Without Tina, Zoe and the rest of the Ignyte team we would not have such a dynamic and informative magazine so many thanks to them all.

Here at the Town Council, life has evolved too.

The Government’s Transparency Code means that we publish far more information on a regular basis so that people in the town can see what the Council spends their element of Council tax on. Our accounting systems have been radically improved since those early days and we have

matured as a Council, adopting the General Power of Competence earlier this year to enable us to do more for and in the town.

Our income has remained relatively level since the Council collected £320,000 in 2012 - this year will see our income total around £350,000. The individual Council tax element is now around £88 for a Band D property compared to around £86 in 2012. Despite this, the Town Council has grown its reserves so that it can fund a modest capital programme and keep expenditure under control on its commitments in the town ranging from the amazingly successful horticultural work (more awards from In Bloom again in 2016!) to improving safety in the town centre at the weekends and supporting community groups with a total of over £127,000 being awarded as Community Grants. Perhaps most notable has been the purchase of the land to create the Town Park – promised for so many years!

By the time LIFE reaches its 30th edition I’m sure that we will have seen many other examples of progress along with the growth of the community events which the Council has sponsored. Rest assured that as Officers of the Council we will do our best to support our Councillors in all that they decide to do.

I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Clive Stilwell (MILCM) Town Clerk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

Alastair Slade 07714 898902 alastair@alastairslade.com

Richard Robertson 01761 415629 therobertsons@fsmail.net

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

Amy Purchase 01761 411860

Lynda Robertson 01761 415629

amymarch@sky.com

therobertsons@fsmail.net

Jane Lewis 01761 410216

Brian Lawrence 07701 007277

Michael Evans 01761 235996

Glyn Davis 07713 353430

janelewis@clara.co.uk

bcml@hotmail.co.uk

michevans@gmail.com

rickyrocky774@hotmail.com

Steve Plumley (Deputy Mayor) 07913 952901

Luke Barnes 07531 080008

Paul Myers Mayor 07530 042627

s.plumley@sky.com

lukebarnes@somervalleyfm.co.uk

paul.myers@bathasu.com

We’re here to help you to look after your own health and wellbeing

W

e are here to help and support you to improve your wellbeing by helping you improve your knowledge, skills and confidence. We offer a variety of courses and activities which are mainly free and are open to all B&NES residents who are aged 16 and over, or people who are registered with a GP in B&NES. If you would like some 1:1 support and guidance we can offer you a free Wellbeing Advice session. Our adviser can meet up with you for an informal chat at a suitable location near to where you live.

Improving Computer Skills for over 50s

Also some great opportunities from the Carers Centre for carers:

Indian Head Massage

Experience some time for you with a relaxing noninvasive, fully clothed treatment of shoulder, arm, head and hand massage.

Thursday 24th November appointments, 10.00am & 11.00am, Radstock Carers’ Centre.

Call 01761 431388 for more information or to book your place.

Winter Concerts

Join us to celebrate our birthday! We are holding a special birthday concert and we’d love to see you there! Saturday 26 November 7:30pm.

St John’s Church, Church Lane, Chilcompton, Radstock BA3 4HP with music from Mendip Male Voice Choir & Sing Your Heart Out ladies’ choir.

Tickets are £8 each (£7 for carers) with all proceeds going towards our work in the community.

Call 01761 431388 or email info@banescarerscentre.org.uk for tickets.

To book onto any of our courses call 01225 831 820 or email enquiries@ wellbeingcollegebanes.co.uk.

For more information and all of our courses go to: www.wellbeingcollegebanes.co.uk.

Thursday 2nd March 2017 2pm-4pm Paulton Hub, BS39 7QG A 4 week course for people over the age of 50 who have some basic computer skills but are still beginners and now want to go that bit further. Or maybe you haven’t used your computer for a while and feel a bit rusty.

During this gentle 4 week course we will show you how to do more with the internet, such as saving favourite websites, using tabs, creating WordPad documents and sending and receiving email attachments.

5 Ways to Wellbeing May 2017 This half-day workshop will introduce the Five Ways to Wellbeing and explore opportunities for participants to put them into action in their own lives. It is for anyone who feels they might benefit from making positive changes to their health and wellbeing. The workshop will be available at a variety of venues and times across Bath and North East Somerset throughout 2016 and 2017