Midsomer Norton Life Winter 2020

Winter 2020 Issue 37

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

Christmas Shopping, Reindeer packs for Children and lots more inside.

When you absolutely definitely have to get on that bus 171/172

Paulton, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Peasdown St John & Bath

Bookable Monday to Friday at bookmybusride.com

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE H

ello everyone, and welcome to this winter edition of Midsomer Norton Life. I hope that you are all keeping safe whilst we are coping with the problem of Covid-19.

It’s sad that we have recently had some problems in the town with anti-social behaviour. The new gateposts put in for the car park at the Somer Centre have been damaged by people swinging on the gate and is going to cost money to be repaired. CCTV footage is being looked at in order to identify the perpertators.

There have also been problems in St Chad's Well Garden recently with both youths and adults accosting people walking through the garden. Why? Why do people behave like this? It’s such a shame that this happens, especially in Midsomer Norton where I have lived since 1993 and can’t ever envisage moving from. Thank heavens we have the Marshalls and the Police around that we can call on when we need them and who, at the Town Councils request, are addressing this issue.

There are some good things happening around the town though. The High Street is looking brilliant with all the poppies along the riverside and The Town has been granted money by Heritage England to help with regeneration of the High Street, so watch out for any consultation events advertised and come along with your ideas.

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

MAKE A WOODEN REINDEER

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TRIBUTE TO REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

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HIGH STREET RENEWAL PROGRAMME

6

NEWS OF THE TOWN PARK

8

SUPPORT THE HIGH STREET THIS CHRISTMAS

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DRESSING OF THE GRAVES

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ARTS FESTIVAL PHOTOMARATHON

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MIDSOMER NORTON ALLOTMENTS

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IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT WELLOW BROOK WALK

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NEWS FROM WELTON ROVERS

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Commemoration Service which everyone was invited to.

With Christmas coming up soon, please remember to do as much shopping as you can within the town. I appreciate that with lockdown with us until the beginning of December that is going to be very difficult. It’s so easy to buy online and have things delivered, but it’s vital that we keep our town thriving and that will only happen if we all shop here. So, if you can wait till December to do your shopping, please do so, and come to the town.

Please read through the magazine as there’s lots of interesting articles and I’ll be back in touch in the New Year. Have a good Christmas Holiday and stay safe.

The Town Park is coming along well with seating in the sensory garden and we have fitted a defibrillator Cllr Lynda Robertson – Mayor of Midsomer Norton in a phone box.

With the notification of Lockdown 2 starting on 5th November it’s a great shame that we were not able to have our regular service at the Cenotaph to commemorate Remembrance Day, or even the service that the Methodist Church were going to put on for us. However they carried out an online

Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Ignyte 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

FREE ‘Make a Wooden Reindeer’ Packs For local children

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idsomer Norton Town Council will be creating free ‘Make a Wooden Reindeer’ packs for local children this Christmas. Each pack will contain seven wooden body parts (a body, head, neck and four legs) a piece of green ribbon for their neck, pom poms for a nose and tail and a set of instructions. The wood is coming from ash and goat willow trees being felled and pollarded in the Town Park in November. The Town Council were keen not to waste the wood and also to provide a Christmas treat for children in Midsomer Norton.

celebrate Christmas.

After the successful introduction of last year’s Children’s Christmas Party and Cinema Night, the Council was keen to host these events again for the children and young people of the Town, along with what would have been the tenth year of the Senior’s Christmas Social. However, in light of the continuing Covid-19 pandemic and government social distancing and lockdown rules, Councillors decided at the Full Council meeting on 7th September, that the events could not safely go ahead. We are very disappointed about this and hope that our ‘Make a Wooden Reindeer’ packs go a little way to helping children in our community

The Town Council are delighted that Midsomer Norton Men’s Shed, who are part of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, have agreed to help with this project. They have offered advice about how the reindeer could be put together safely and created prototypes for the project. The volunteers will be creating the packs using their own facilities at home as they have been unable to meet at the workshop at the Farm Shop in Farrington Gurney since March. We are very grateful for their help with this project.

The Town Council would like children to photograph their finished reindeers so they can be shared on the Midsomer Norton Town Council website, Facebook and Twitter pages. There will be a limited number of packs, depending on the how many can be produced from the wood available. More details about the packs, including how to get hold of them, will be available via the website and social media from the first week of December.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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A TRIBUTE TO commemoratE Remembrance Sunday 2020 T

o commemorate Remembrance Sunday this year, some of the shops on our High Street paid tribute with their window displays, and Midsomer Norton Town Council purchased large poppies from the British Legion for the lamp posts in the High Street and purchased a wreath. They worked with the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion for the laying of the wreaths in honour of the men who have sacrificed their lives in the two World Wars and later conflicts.

Midsomer Norton War Memorial is a listed Grade II monument. The Historic England website says it is ‘an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on the local community, and the sacrifice it made in the conflicts of the 20th Century.’ It is of architectural interest ‘for its design, being a scaled-down replica of Edwin Lutyens' Cenotaph in London.’ The memorial commemorates 73 local servicemen who died during the First World War and was unveiled and dedicated on 11 November 1920 by Rev. RJ Davey.

After the Second World War, a dedication was added to commemorate the 36 fallen of that conflict.

Twins Milo and Fraser Young (10) lay a posy of poppies on the headstone of their great grandfather George Taylor, one of the founder members of the Midsomer Norton Branch of the Royal British legion.

This year the Town Council made the difficult decision to cancel the Remembrance Parade and Service. After considering the government guidelines on mass gatherings and social distancing, brought about by the current Covid-19 pandemic, Councillors came to the conclusion that the Town Council would not have been able to comply with the restrictions and ensure the safety of our residents.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NOTES FROM A SMALL ISLAND: HIGH STREET RENEWAL PROGRAMME AND UPCOMING PUBLIC CONSULTATION

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s announced in August this year, Midsomer Norton has been awarded approximately £2m to secure lasting improvements to the historic High Street by encouraging sustainable economic and cultural growth nearby and celebrating the local historic character of Midsomer Norton town centre.

This funding is part of Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone (‘HAZ’) programme and the West of England Combined Authority’s ‘Love Your High Street’ initiative. It was secured following successful grant funding bids supported by local stakeholders including the Town Council, civic and community groups, local businesses and landlords.

The investment means that a number of exciting projects will come forward along the high street over the coming years. These works will include a new public open space and market square adjacent to the Town Hall at The Island, the regeneration of the thoroughfare between High Street and South Road, investment in historic shopfronts, signage and public spaces through the town centre and a programme of cultural events and activities, amongst other improvements.

To oversee the High Street renewal programme in Midsomer Norton, B&NES, the Town Council and Historic England have appointed Edward Heritage as the Project Manager for the Heritage Action Zone. Edward joins the project team from planning and development surveyors Montagu Evans where he was a heritage consultant advising on redevelopment projects across the country.

Technical work to support the The Island project has now started and ideas are being drawn up for the new flexible public space and market square outside the Town Hall: design references for the space are shown on the images included on this page. The plan seeks to: • Provide a welcoming, safe and attractive place that local people can enjoy; • Create events space with the right infrastructure to support markets, cultural activities and civic occasions; • Enhance the western end of the high street and complement the historic Town Hall and nearby shops; • Support the function of the surrounding retailers and Town Hall.

Input and feedback from local people and businesses will be crucial to the ongoing design process and the overall success of the new public open space and market square at The Island. As such, the initial designs for this space will be shared in the coming weeks and a public consultation will take place online in the week commencing 23rd November, for one month – more information will be available on Midsomer Norton Town Council’s website. In the meantime, please feel free to contact Edward by email (edward_heritage@bathnes.gov.uk) if you would like to find out more.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Improving People's Lives

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEWS OF THE TOWN PARK

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t the time of writing the article in the last edition of Life, phase one of works at the Town Park were nearing completion. Since then these works have been completed, all apart from a few final details.

The completed entrance area at the end of Gullock Tyning now provides a fitting announcement of the Park's presence, giving a greater sense of there being more beyond and hopefully drawing more and more people to use the Park.

The main element still to be completed here is planting up the sensory garden. The Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club had generously offered to sponsor the planting. New Leaf Studio Landscape Architects have provided a planting design, specifying plants that stimulate all senses – sight, sound, touch, smell and taste. The scheme will thus include scented flowers, such as roses and lavender, culinary herbs such as rosemary and mint (smell and taste), colourful flowers and bold foliage textures (sight) leaves that rustle in the breeze (sound), fruit trees (taste) and plants with different foliage textures (touch). All the plant material is currently being sourced by Stonebarn Landscapes who have previously carried out improvements to the river planting and other areas around the High Street. The intention was that Stonebarn would install the planting in November/December assisted by local volunteers, however in the light of the second national lockdown, this will be reviewed.

Meanwhile, momentum has been building to complete the missing sections of path that are needed to allow formal planning of a regular Parkrun to get underway in the Park. This work will be undertaken by the charity, Trust for Conservation Volunteers (TCV), using their regular Bristol based volunteer team, joined by members

Completed west entrance at the end of Gullock Tyning. Follow the yellow gravel road...! of the local Parkrun steering group. This work was originally due to commence in the spring, but TCV operations were closed due to lockdown. Work is currently planned to commence one day a week from 19th November, pending review of the new lockdown restrictions.

With Phase 1 nearing completion, New Leaf Studio Landscape architects were commissioned to review the original masterplan for the Park and identify potential future works to complete the original and developing vision for the Park. Details are currently under review by the Town Council and sources of funding being investigated to allow the rest of the project to proceed. This is likely to include further works to improve accessibility to other areas of the Park, including to the top of the batch. It is hoped that TCV can assist with some of these works too, with the aim of establishing a regular volunteering group at the Park, providing an opportunity for local volunteers to get involved in outdoor activities that will help make a real contribution to the town. What could be a better combination – getting exercise outdoors, having fun and doing something positive for the local community? Further details of volunteering opportunities will be publicised as plans become clear.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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NEW TOWN PARK DEFIBRILLATOR

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s part of the scheme for the new Town Park, the Town Council have installed a community defibrillator into a restored phone box. As the telephone box in the Town Park does not have an electricity supply, a battery-operated unit has been purchased.

The Zoll AED 3 is the highest specification defibrillator currently available for the community market. It not only covers the temperature issues if there is no power, but also has a visual display unit, CPR active and visual feedback, child and adult use with the same electrodes, and comes with Rescue Wrist, a device to aid in transfer of the rescue data to the hospital. It is also the only community device on the market that can be used on neonates.

The battery has a life of 5 years and a warning is given in time to change the battery.

There is a coded lock on the door of the telephone box. The code will be given to anyone calling 999 needing to use the defibrillator.

Midsomer Norton is a SWAST (South West Ambulance Service Trust) ambulance area. Checks will be made on the unit by the Town Warden and these checks will be reported to SWAST. There are also two other defibrillators in the town.

One is situated at West Clewes and one on the wall outside of Barons on Silver Street.

YOUR HIGH STREET

NEEDS YOU

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOWN PARK VANDALISM M

idsomer Norton Town Council are very disappointed to report continued vandalism at the Town Park. On the weekend of the 25th of October, a new security gate and gateposts were dislodged. Witnesses report seeing a large group of youths working together to deliberately damage the gate. A lock from the gate is missing. The new feature walls at the entrance of the Town Park were also badly damaged, with the topper stones being displaced.

This area of the Town Park is still under construction and Councillors, Town Council staff

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and residents have enjoyed watching it develop over the last few months and are proud of this new community space. It is heartbreaking to see the project being sabotaged.

This is not the first incident. The council reported last month that some stones on the “bridge” over the revised watercourse were dislodged. They were not stolen, rather tipped into the pond. New Leaf have been working with MAC Groundworks to make the stones more tamper resistant but repairing this senseless destruction costs money and is so unnecessary.

The Council have CCTV footage of the latest incident and are working with the police to investigate the damage and the size of the group involved in the vandalism. Groups of up to six people may meet and social distancing rules must be observed. Initial fines for meeting in groups of more than six start at £100, doubling for each repeated offence.

Huge thanks to the witness for reporting this incident, and to the Councillor and Town Warden who sought to make the area safe before repair work could be done.

Reasons to support Midsomer Norton High Street this Christmas

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ith everything that has happened this year, Christmas shopping is going to be much more arduous than usual. Who wants to head into the city and stand about in the cold queuing and trying to avoid other shoppers? Especially when you could find gifts for your family and friends on Midsomer Norton High Street, saving yourself money and stress and also helping with the local economy which has been hit particularly hard in 2020. With lockdown being lifted on the 2nd December (at the time of writing), we encourage you to visit your local shops and buy local.

Here are some reasons why you should use our High Street this Christmas.

Unique and more personal gifts Our local independent and smaller shops source their stock from a wide range of suppliers, meaning you’ll often find products that don’t appear in national chains. If you’re on the hunt for something unique that will really brighten someone’s Christmas, you never know what you might find! From antiques and the unusual, to flowers and beauty gift vouchers, there is something for all.

You can get better service In the city and with national chains, there is no real accountability when it comes to customer service. In a smaller, local shop though, business owners often know much more about the products and can offer better advice as well as being generally friendlier.

It’s much more ethical If you care about the environment, shopping local is the best option. When you visit the High Street, you are using less petrol travelling around and so are your purchases, especially if you shop for products that are made in the area or buy gift vouchers. The High Street also has shops that pride themselves on eco products and recycled goods.

Shopping local boosts the economy and the price of your home!

According to research conducted by local authorities across the UK, every £1 spent in the high street meant 63p for the local economy compared to 40p that came from spending a £1 in a national chain. Shopping locally is vital to keep the economy growing, it creates jobs and it makes the high street look nicer. Plus, research has shown that high streets that are thriving boosts the prices of nearby homes. Apparently, homes near prosperous town centres have risen by an average of £40,000 more than properties near quieter high streets – so that’s something to think about.

Not only that, but shopping in the High Street also allows you to support vital services, like the library, local green spaces and other locally run services.

You can save time This is one of the busiest times of the year, so obviously, you want to try and save as much time as possible so you can spend more of it with your loved ones and less of it stood around hunting for gifts. By popping to the High Street, you can save yourself the time (and the energy) of travelling out of town.

It’s more socially rewarding Yes, we know, Rule of Six, no socialising and the recent lockdown but shopping local is a much more rewarding social experience than shopping in Bath or Bristol. Not only are you being served by other local people, who you might even know personally or know of, but everyone else shopping is local too, allowing you to catch up – from a distance – of course!

By supporting our High Street, you can help create jobs, support the local community and with all the shops in the High Street following the guidelines, it is a safe and convenient way to get everything you need for Christmas.

Magpie Vintage & Curiosities Vintage & Retro Clothing, Jewellery and Collectibles

Save time, save money,

Come and see curiosity corner with fairies & unicorns, witches & wizards, skulls & crystals Affordable cards & gifts by local artists and crafts people 112 High Street, Midsomer Norton Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Tel: 01761 403428 @magpievintage19

Xmas gift vouchers available

@purebeautymsn @pure_beautymsn Tel 01761 568300 www.purebeautymsn.com Pure Beauty offer a full range of nail & beauty treatments, including Skincare, IPL hair reduction & Cryopen treatments.

SPECIAL OFFER with this advert:

FREE IPL Patch Test & 50% OFF your first two treatments.

FREE Skin aftercare pack with any Facial treatment taken during November / December.



HIGH STREET DIY

FOR ALL YOUR HARDWARE & DIY NEEDS • Xmas Lights • Tree Decorations • Xmas Gifts • Blow Up Snowmen • Fire Logs

• Heaters • Key Cutting service onsite FREE local delivery service

3 Mansbrook House, High Street, MSN Tel: 01761 414355

e c a l P s Celia’ 07745046994 Shop with us this Christmas

We stock sports memorabilia, football calendars, sports themed stocking fillers.

Everything you need for the camping enthusiast.

77 High Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2DE Tel/Fax: 01761 418972

Lovely Christmas gifts available:

Scrumptious Booja-Booja chocolates, eco-friendly and vegan toiletries, large range of whole foods, zero-waste refills, herbs and spices and delicious take-away hot drinks.

01761 418857 www.greenshopmsn.co.uk

10 South Road, Midsomer Norton – Opposite the free car park

CeliasPlace.co.uk

Eco-friendly, vegan & gender-neutral hairdressing colours!

Comic books, zines, accessories & more!

112 High Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2DA

Order early for Christmas Wreaths, Table Arrangements, Plants and Gifts Deliveries and contactless collections are always available.

109c High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DA

01761 417779 www.sweetpeafloraldesign.co.uk

Broadies Supplements

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0% THC FULLY LEGAL • GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE • CBD BATH BOMBS NOW IN STOCK • CBD PRODUCTS • CBD FOOD AND DRINK AND MUCH MORE

9 HIGH STREET, MIDSOMER NORTON BA3 2LE 01761 568081 • broadies-supplements.co.uk broadies.supplements@googlemail.com #broadiessupplements

DUSTLAND FAIRYTALE ANTIQUES & RESTORATION We sell gift vouchers for the perfect Xmas present

Winter Warmer Special – £35

Hot stone back and upper body massage.

(Offer until end of February 2021)

124 High Street mSn

Tel: 01761 410977 or 07927 153518 Email: edenbeauty2@aol.co.uk www.edentreatmentrooms.co.uk

Furniture • Vintage Toys • Silver Objects • Glassware Ceramic Items • Jewellery • Vintage Coins • Lighting Unusual & Rare Objects • Bric-a-brac ... etc.

All types of furniture restored/repaired (free quote) Free valuations given for insurance or selling.

For enquiries, please phone Sean on: 07454 972 973 129 High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DA (next to One Stop shop)

Open: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Like and follow us on facebook

NORTON DISCOUNTS Lots of bargains for all your Christmas needs Gift ideas and Stocking Fillers Gift bags and wrapping Xmas lights and decorations Chocolates and sweets Plus too much more to list!

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas 111 High Street, MSN.

Norton-Discounts

F O O R P Wellness Centre

Christmas fabric and ribbons Cross stitch and felting kits Art materials, knitting yarn, work boxes Gift vouchers available 123 High Street, Midsomer Norton 01761 414390

Chiropody Clinic Ladies Gym

Gift Vouchers Available

Sunbeds 01761 410021 www.feet1st4u.co.uk 6A-6B The Hollies, Midsomer Norton

Pure Beauty –NORTON Why notLIFE book in for a Xmas 14 MIDSOMER make over or buy a gift voucher so a loved one can get a treatment. From gel polish manicures, pedicures and specialist facials, to brows, lashes, make up, waxing, laser hair removal and tanning.

Pure Beauty is your glam one-stop-shop.

themselves before they reach the shelf. The products can benefit everyone from young to old, so give the gift of CBD this Christmas.

Magpie Vintage & Curiosities sells a

little bit of everything – vintage, retro, weird and wonderful. Clothing and accessories date from the 1950s, to the 1980s and other curios have a mid20th century vibe.

Feet1st4u – Treat your loved ones this Christmas. Gift vouchers can be used for most treatments within the salon. Gym memberships, sunbed courses, beauty and holistic treatments, chiropody, semi-permanent makeup and botox clinics. Piercings also available.We also stock a range of beauty gifts sets with fabulous savings off the RRP.

Curiosity Corner offers a selection of unique vintage and new gifts featuring Fairies and Unicorns, Witches and Wizards, Skulls and Crystals. Pick up something unique and unusual, get that special outfit or gift that no one else will have.

Eden Treatment Rooms specialises in facial skin care, micro blading and massage and holistic therapies, so if someone you love needs to unwind and relax, is suffering from aches and pains or has health issues, why not give them a fabulous treatment as a gift this Christmas.

High Street DIY – With everything you

Dustland Fairy Antiques – Have you

From Xmas trees and lights to Xmas decorations and gifts. You’ll also find everything to keep you warm including hardwood logs and electric heaters.

Norton Discounts – You can find nearly

need for the winter and festive season, this little treasure trove is bursting with goods for Christmas.

Norton Sports and Camping – Do you

have a sports lover in the family? Then see what Norton Sports and Camping have to offer this year. They sell sports memorabilia and football calendars as well as sports themed stocking fillers. Also, everything you need for the camping enthusiast.

Ceilia's Place – Not only can you get your hair coloured like a rainbow at Celia's Place but it also sells comics, pin badges and products like Manic Panic hair dye and evo hair products. Pop in and see what little gems you might find for your comic lover.

The Green Shop stock a large range of whole foods, zero-waste refills, herbs and spices but this Christmas they have some lovely gifts available: Scrumptious Booja-Booja chocolates, a large range of organic and free-from Christmas calendars and gentle, eco-friendly and vegan toiletries. Do your shopping and then buy a delicious hot drink to take-away.

Broadies Supplements – You can trust you

are getting top quality products from Broadies Supplements as all the products are third party lab tested in certified UK labs and tested by Broadies

ever thought of buying antiques for Christmas gifts? These will be gifts that you would not find anywhere else. This Aladdin’s Cave is jam packed with all kinds of things, from silver items, decorative boxes and trench art to gardenalia, vintage radios and enamel signs.

everything you need for the home and yourself in this fantastic variety shop. From toys, hardware, home furnishings, and a selection of groceries to health and beauty products. You’ll find all your Christmas stocking fillers in one place!

Sweet Pea Floral Design has all your floral needs this Christmas. Make your home beautiful with Christmas wreaths, seasonal bouquets, plants and table decorations. Or why not order a stunning delivery to someone special this festive season. Deliveries and contactless collections are always available.

Lilley's Vinyl Revival – The perfect gift for your music lover. Thousands of pre loved records, covering every genre along with music memorabilia. You can even buy record store gift vouchers that come with a choice of gift cards, Blondie, Elvis or Hendrix and a pretty sparkly envelope.

Rose Crafts – Helping customers for over

30 years with all things related to arts, crafts, haberdashery, fabric, sewing and knitting, Rose Crafts is jammed with all your crafting needs. It is one of the biggest shops of its kind in the area, so pop in and get crafty this Christmas.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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MIDSOMER NORTON U3A T

he University of the Third Age (U3A) was founded some 35 years ago and the Norton Radstock branch has been in existence for 21 years.

The movement encourages groups of people in their third age to come together and continue the enjoyment of learning in subjects of interest to them. ”Third Age” is defined by a time in your life where you have the opportunity to undertake learning for it’s own sake. There is no minimum age, but a focus on people who are no longer in full time employment or raising a family.

Norton Radstock U3A meets under normal circumstances twice a month at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton, for a coffee morning and also for a speaker meeting. Although we have 450 members, these meetings attract around half of that number. We have around 30 interest groups run by the members. These groups cover various activities; badminton, table tennis, rambling, computing, creative writing, poetry, singing, ukulele, wine club, mah jong, current affairs – the list is too long to include here, but suffice it to

say that there is something for everyone. If there is something you are interested in which isn’t covered, you can receive help in starting up your own group.

Naturally, during lockdown we have been unable to meet in the usual way, but that hasn’t stopped our members pursuing their interests. They have embraced many different ways of meeting including Zoom. These difficult and changing times mean that we have to find new ways of doing things. We are lucky to live in an era when most people are aware of, if not fully conversant with, social media and the internet. Our national website contains much of interest, quizzes, competitions, workshops and so much more. It is well worth exploring what is on offer. U3A is alive and well and raring to go, albeit via different methods than in the past. Check out the website – you will not be disappointed or ring 01749 938650 for more information.

Ginny Edwards – October 2020

YOUR HIGH STREET

NEEDS YOU

MidsoMer NortoN

ChristMas FarMers Market

Takeaways always available Winter menu Hot Drinks and Hot Chocolate Keep upto date with opening times and Covid measures on Facebook jacarandascoffee

saturday 5th december 9am-1pm hollies Gardens Ba3 2dP

Next market Feb 6th 2021

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOWN COUNCIL GRANTS

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very year, Midsomer Norton Town Council give out £20,000 in grants to charities and community groups in the town. The grants are used to help the community of Midsomer Norton.

Welton Rovers for a new boiler, The Air Cadets to provide first aid training in the Community and SWAN to provide transport for the disabled and elderly, to name a few.

Since 2011, £245,000 has been awarded to groups including MENCAP, Age UK and the Youth Club.

Anyone can apply for a grant. The application forms are available on the website or by contacting the Town Council.

There are 3 different types of grants that can be applied for – Small Grant – grants of up to £500, Community Grant - for larger projects and Revenue Grants which are paid over 3 years.

Applications are sent to the Town Council who discuss the details in the Finance and Operations committee meetings and decide whether to grant the request. Certain criteria must be met including the project having an impact on residents of Midsomer Norton.

Last year grants were used for the Town Fayre, by

Grants awarded so far this year: Age UK – £3,000 SWALLOW – £1,500 Farmer's Market – £1,200 MENCAP – £1,000 Dial a Ride – £1,000 MSN Cricket Club – £3,500 MSN RFC – £3,000 Nature Reserve – £500 Bath Play Area – £500

TOWN CHRISTMAS LIGHTS & TREE

T

he Christmas lights in Midsomer Norton were switched on during the third week of November.

There was no countdown and there were no crowds this year. Instead there was a ‘soft switchon’, with electricians turning them on individually.

The lights were then photographed and filmed and shared on the Midsomer Norton Town Council website and social media sites.

The Town Council are hopeful that the lights and the Christmas tree can be enjoyed by local residents and visitors to the High Street and bring some Christmas spirit to our town.

The challenges of the second lockdown to local businesses cannot be underestimated. You are encouraged to shop local if possible and find out if shops are offering delivery or taking orders online.

I SUPPORT INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

WHO'S WITH ME?

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

17

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION REVIVEs 'DRESSING OF THE GRAVES' T

he Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion on Sunday, 1st of November, held a Dressing of the Graves.

A spray/posy of poppies, was laid on every Commonwealth War Grave in the local area.

Twins, Milo and Fraser Young (10), lay a posy of poppies on the headstone of their great grandfather George Taylor, one of the founder members of the Midsomer Norton Branch of the Royal British legion.

Standard Bearers and guests social distance during the short service at Midsomer Norton Cemetry.

The president of the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion said, "We decided that we would revive the tradition of 'Dressing the Graves'. This took the form of placing a spray of poppies on each grave. Each spray was sponsored by a local person or business. The act of commemoration is the ultimate point of today’s ceremonies which are concurrently taking place at nine local cemeteries.

"Remembrance Sunday normally commemorates all service men and women who gave their lives, and this is central to the whole Act of Remembrance. However, many of the service men and women remembered today are not included on the local war memorials so they are in danger of getting forgotten and it is important to ensure that in future they will not remain forgotten.

Nathan Hall (18) puts a posy on a grave.

Jacob Hall (15) lays a posy on a war grave.

This is not about glorifying war but about ensuring that the young people of today understand and appreciate the sacrifice made by our service men and women in defending the right of free speech and a desired way of life. Without the people who now lay at rest, the lives of today’s youngsters might well be different."

18

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Friends of SiLver Street GREEN FLAG AWARD

T

he Friends of Silver Street, who are part of the Town Trust, were very pleased to receive our 9th Green Flag, a national award for excellence in a green space. This prestigious standard wouldn’t be possible without the support of the members who volunteer and others who donate to the upkeep of the Nature Reserve.

We have been working on freeing the paths from leaves; while very pretty, these can cause a hazard.

Our mature trees are very valuable, as no matter how many saplings are planted, it takes years for them to help combat global warming.

The Friends were fortunate to receive a grant from Midsomer Norton Town Council towards the cost of cutting of the meadow, for which we thank them. This is a yearly job carried out by B&NES for payment. The volunteers have now planted some plug plants to enhance the flowers growing in the meadow and do not like to compete with

long grass. They have also planted 200 Crocus bulbs donated from the Rotary Club which will be fantastic when in bloom this spring.

The Friends of Silver Street have noticed that in these uncertain times many more people use the Nature Reserve and are encouraging them to use the seats in the meadow and woodland. One seat in particular at the top of the meadow, was given by a member in memory of their beloved pet. As it is made from recycled materials there is no need to paint it like the others.

MIDSOMER NORTON STATION

T

he Gardens Team are smartening up compost facilities at the station with boxes made on site which have been placed strategically around to make it easier for weeding.

Gardeners have had some very hard work clearing after lockdown but the summer flowering has been magnificent this year. Work continues on clearing the borders in preparation for next year whiilst other volunteers have been doing some major stock moving and renovations to new

acquisitions like the BR mini buffet coach and wagons for the proposed goods train.

We would welcome more volunteers especially in the gardens to help keep them award winning.

Contact us on the website to volunteer.

The next events will be the Santa Specials in December, which will be happening but in a protected environment. Booking for all events and rides is through the website: sdjr.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

19

MIDSOMER NORTON UNAUTHORISED SIGNAGE

I

t has been brought to our attention by a resident that there are more and more advertising boards being erected around the Town, and some are even being fixed to highway signs.

The resident provided several pictures as examples of advertising boards being fixed to highway signs, all of which were recently taken within five minutes of each other.

Signs and advertising boards which are put up on highway assets without permission are regarded as unauthorised signs and can be removed in accordance the Highways Act 1980. Section 132 of the Act says it is an offence to “affix a sign, picture or letter onto the surface of the highway, a tree, structure or works in or under the highway”.

Where we are notified of such an incident, we will endeavour to contact the relevant business

or owner of the sign, requesting that the signs be removed. If it is not possible to contact the owner, then signs may be removed in any event by Bath and North East Somerset Council. B&NES state on their website that - “Placing an illegal sign is an encroachment of the highway. If a person without lawful authority or excuse in any way wilfully obstructs the free passage along a highway, they are guilty of an offence. In such cases Bath & North East Somerset Council has legal powers to enforce the removal of all illegal signs”.

To report road damage or obstruction on the highway please contact Council Connect on 01225 394041Council_connect@bathnes.gov.uk If you have any concerns regarding unauthorised signage in the Town, please get in touch. All our contact details can be found at www. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk.

UPDATE FROM MIDSOMER NORTON METHODIST CHURCH

A

s the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect all of us, it also affects what we as a church are able to offer in the lead up to Christmas. We anticipate there being no Carol Services or Christingles that many of the community attend in the building but we will be looking to offer such services online at least, which you would be most welcome to be part of.

If you need to contact the church and for updates of when we will be reopening our building and activities please use one of the following means: www.msnmcc.org msnminister@btinternet.com 07957414970

20

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON ARTS FESTIVAL PHOTOMARATHON

B

etter late than never? After a summer of cancelled events, there was some positive news as Midsomer Arts Festival returned for 2020. The Midsomer Norton Community Trust organised this year’s Arts Festival following sponsorship from the Town Council. Although the second lockdown forced the live-stream to be postponed, the popular Photomarathon went ahead four months after the original event had been planned.

This year due to the restrictions on groups gathering the event happened remotely, with entries uploaded online. Members of the public were invited to take part in exploring

Sarah Johnson the local area in an imaginative and unfamiliar ways, using their camera. Entrants were asked to take one photograph for each of this year’s six chosen themes: Circle, Home, Comfort, Outside, Shine and Alone.

Organisers encouraged participants to be as creative and unique as possible, with the photos set to be displayed in various forms around the town.

Mandy Dando

Here are a select few of the entries, not all files were able to print, the full selection of photos, as well as news when it arrives on the rescheduled live-stream, can be viewed online at www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust. co.uk/artsfest

Suzanne Ladd

Tania Roswell-Jones

Jenny Short

Harry Diggle (age 5!)

Jo Corbett

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23

CELEBRATING LOCAL RADIO DAY

S

omer Valley FM, the local radio station for North East Somerset, based in Midsomer Norton, celebrated Local Radio Day on Monday, 12 October. Over 150 local and community radio stations took part across the UK. Returning for its fifth year, the event is organised

by Local Radio Alliance. This year, local radio has achieved new heights of relevance; the need to unite during isolation, to join meaningful and supportive networks, has never been greater.

Local radio has proved an invaluable medium to facilitate such connections.

The theme of the day was ‘Communities making waves: turning the tide on isolation’.

Over the course of the day, Somer Valley FM broadcast 17 hours of live and fresh content. From breakfast through to the evening schedule, the aim was to bring our community closer together.

Special guests included Jacob Rees-Mogg MP for North East Somerset, and Lynda Robertson, Mayor of Midsomer Norton. Interviews were held with shoppers in Midsomer Norton High Street, and Jacarandas' customers and owner Sarah Malik, beforehand. Questions were then asked and discussed with the Mayor live on the radio, on the day.

Richard Burgess, new Station Manager at Somer Valley FM, commentated: "It was a fantastic day for our radio station. The local people responded brilliantly when asked to be involved in our special day, we couldn’t have asked for better guests, and we felt our radio programmes were particularly relevant for the theme. The commitment and quality of our shows from our voluntary team of presenters and producers was professional, well planned, and a great listen!"

After the success of the vox pops (short interviews and questions from members of the public), the station wants to develop the idea further; "We regularly interview Midsomer Norton and Radstock’s Mayors, councillors from Westfield, Midsomer Norton and BANES, along with Peasedown St John, and now our MP! I want to give our community the chance to ask questions and influence the decision making at parish, town and county levels. Our radio station will reflect local public opinion – we will be out on the streets again to get the pulse of our area," Richard added.

So get in touch! – contact the radio station: 01761 411755, studio@somervalleyfm.co.uk, or find us on Facebook or Twitter.

24

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GOOD FOR THE MIND AND BODY – MIDSOMER NORTON ALLOTMENTS

G

oing to your allotment is classed as a form of exercise by the Government during lockdown, and many people have found tending their plot and growing produce to be a huge benefit.

Allotment holders have been able to connect with nature and wildlife and maintain physical health and mental well-being. A sense of pride, achievement and satisfaction comes from producing tasty, home grown, fresh and seasonal produce. Allotments can also help to beat loneliness and allow you to develop friendships with other allotment holders, although this has

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proved challenging with social distancing rules to follow. Rules about using allotments have varied across the country, and those people self-isolating have been unable to visit their plots at all. People have experienced shortages of compost and seed, and, in England, there has been a long, hot summer through which to keep watering. Many plot holders have been sowing seeds without knowing if they’ll be allowed to harvest them.

There are approximately 70 plots of varying sizes at the Midsomer Norton Allotments. Until 2012, the allotments were under the direct control of the Midsomer Norton Council, but now the allotment holders' committee manage their day to day running. This opens up the opportunity for the Midsomer Norton Allotment Association to apply for funding from other bodies to bulkbuy seed and plants etc. and to facilitate social events. The Association manages the waiting list and allocates plots when they become available.

The Association undertakes management of the allotment gardens and paths between them, to maintain the code of conduct for allotment holders and decide on any necessary transfer to

25

new tenants. The Association invoices all tenants and collects all rents into its own bank account.

In return for the reduction in officer time spent managing the allotments, an annual sum is then paid to the Council for the following services: • General maintenance of the access road, boundary fences, car-parking areas • Public Liability Insurance • Provision and maintenance of the current water supply • Payment of all rates and taxes as may be charged upon the Allotment Garden • Provision of any necessary pest control measures If you wish to contact the Midsomer Norton Community Allotment Association, or wish to enquire about a plot vacancy please call 01761 415473 or send an e mail to the secretary: bsnellgrove@fastmal.fm The current Allotment Association Web Site is: www.msnallotments.net

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27

FIRST BUS ROLL OUT PAULTON TO BATH Book my bus ride C

ustomers on the 171/172 services, a Somer Valley route between Paulton and Bath, can now book a space on the bus ahead of their journey.

This route, services Paulton, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and Peasedown St John, before terminating at Bath Bus Station.

Bookings can be made up to seven days in advance of the journey, with the flexibility of being able to reserve a space, subject to availability, right up to 15 minutes before departure. Customers will have the option of buying a ticket with their reservation or booking at no extra cost if they already have a pre-paid First Bus ticket or are a concessionary card holder travelling after 9.00 am.

With capacity onboard currently reduced due to social distancing, the reservation will secure a space on the chosen bus rather than a specific seat. Bookings are made on a new,

dedicated website, www.bookmybusride.com, with customers receiving an email booking confirmation that needs to be shown to the driver with an existing ticket/concessionary card if payment has not been made at the time of booking.

Bookings are possible for all Monday to Friday journeys , with just under 50% of the socially distanced capacity being bookable and the remaining seats left available for customers to board and pay as normal without a booking.

For customers who are not able to make an online booking, a dedicated phone line is available on 07866 977586, Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm (excluding Public Holidays). Confirmation of all phone bookings will be sent in the post and First recommends making phone bookings seven days in advance of your journey to allow time for this delivery.

CHRISTMAS FARMER'S MARKET

M

idsomer Norton Farmers' Market has certainly risen to to some immense challenges in 2020 but has returned better than ever! Funding was awarded for new branding of our website, leaflets, banners and verge signs and since we re-opened the market after the 1st lockdown the market has continued to be the 'go to 'place for the best in local produce from award winning local farmers, growers, bakers and other artsian food producers. With support from both Thatcher & Hallam and the Town Council and the

huge numbers of local customers, the market is certainly a regular event the town should be very proud of!

Come and join us on the 5th December for our Christmas event and then we'll be taking a break in January and resuming the 1st Saturday in February.

More information can be found on www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk plus our social media.

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29

MIDSOMER NORTON YOUTH CLUB

M

idsomer Norton Youth Club was back up and running just before the new lockdown.

It is a safe space for local young people to come together alongside youth work staff to play games, have fun, meet peers, and access support, if they wanted to. Young people plan and lead on the content of the sessions and what they do at Norton Youth Club. So far they have played Xbox, made milkshakes and created spooky decorations.

The club look forward to welcoming new and existing members after the Winter lockdown.

Currently a maximum of 15 attendees is able to attend, so please get in touch to sign up to avoid disappointment, by email - harrietrose@ offtherecord-banes.co.uk or text 07487642761 Follow us on social media, @otrbanes on facebook and instagram or Norton Youth Club on facebook to keep up to date with the current situation.

NEW SHELTER AND FENCING FOR WEST CLEWES

F

ollowing on from a successful £10,000 lottery grant obtained by the Town Council and further funding in the region of £20,000, West Clewes has, over the last couple of years, seen the installation of a new play park and outdoor gym equipment. After a spate of vandalism to the equipment last year, the CCTV at West Clewes was upgraded to cover a wider area, including the park.

This year, continuing with the maintenance and improvements to the area, will see the installation of new fencing and a teen shelter. The existing wooden fence at West Clewes is now in a poor condition with rotting fence posts, of which, at least four need replacing. The fence has previously been fixed in various locations three times costing a total of nearly £4,000 over the years. The fence around the play park will now be replaced with bow top metal railings with a green polyester powder coating.

The signage in the play park clearly states that it is

for the under twelves only. The local police have advised that in this case, the youth shelter should not, therefore, be inside the park. The police asked whether it would be possible to move the shelter out of the park and locate it closer to the wall/pedestrian entrance from North Road. Thus, enabling them to evict any over twelves from the play park without argument. They struggle to do this whilst the youth shelter remains inside the park. Councillors decided that as the shelter in the play park is for the under twelves and their parents, that we would not relocate the existing shelter but look at purchasing another shelter for outside the area. This has been done and a new youth shelter outside of the play park will be installed in November.

If you have any concerns with vandalism or notice anything you think we should be aware of at West Clewes, or indeed, anywhere else in the Town, please get in touch. All our contact details can be found at www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk.

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33

IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT WELLOW BROOK WALK I

mprovement works at Wellow Brook Walk were approved at a Full Council Meeting held in Midsomer Norton on September 7th 2020.

Wellow Brook flows through Midsomer Norton beneath Thicket Mead bridge and on to the north of Wheeler's Hill. It then joins up with the River Somer and eventually the River Avon. The area of land in the town through which the brook flows is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, who lease it to the Town Council, and who have been contacted to seek approval for the works.

Improvement works are expected to begin once the full construction detail package of information has been completed. The aims of the works are to improve the appearance and arrangement of the area, while at the same time maintaining the ecology of this diverse area and its abundance of wildlife. In order to protect the local species, Darwin Ecology have been asked to advise on any mitigation procedures to safeguard any potentially protected species during the work and to provide a working management plan. Data available on the site has also been obtained from Bristol Environmental Records Centre, which will feed into this process. The Council has again consulted with Andy King at New Leaf Studios for the project, a chartered landscape architect based in the area. The Council have already worked extensively with Andy King on the Town Park.

Works to be undertaken include: improving the main through path; replacing fencing and the kissing gate at the west entrance from Northmead Road; clearing vegetation to provide a view of the brook; removing existing dilapidated post and wire strand fencing; installing a new seat along the same lines as the seating on the riverside walk in the Town Park and installing a picnic bench to attract people to the area. The meadow area

will also receive attention and will be managed to maintain a balance of grassland and scrub and reduce the over dominance of coarse plants.

The Himalayan Balsam in the area will also be brought under control. Mowing will be undertaken periodically to provide space for the public to use. The plan for the works also identifies two locations for new, improved interpretation signage. The design of these signs has not yet been agreed. However, it is envisaged that the signs will be similar to those in the Town Park. By improving this green space in the Town, it is hoped that the area will be an attractive, natural, and usable space for the residents of Midsomer Norton to enjoy.

Councillors discussed concerns raised during consultation with B&NES about the use of motorbikes on the paths when fencing and kissing gates are replaced at the west entrance. Council members were keen to open the land at Wellow Brook Walk to ensure full disabled access. They agreed to monitor future use of the site and reevaluate if any problems arise.

GO ONLINE FOR TRIo PARADIS

T

rio Paradis are the trio in residence at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, where during normal times they perform a monthly themed 'cafe concert' on the first Friday lunchtime of every month.

Meanwhile we are very much looking forward to playing live once again in Midsomer Norton Town Hall, which we hope will be in the spring. We are aiming for 1,000 YouTube subscribers in our first year - it's free after all!"

Since lockdown, the trio - Jacquelyn Bevan (piano), Lisa Betteridge (violin) and Linda Stocks (cello) , have recorded the concerts live and have made them available on YouTube.

The 10 to 45 minute long concerts are available free (with donations invited) on the Trio Paradis YouTube channel, just type trio paradis in the search bar. To join the email list, contact trioparadis@icloud. com.

"We are really missing our lovely audience, and want to keep in touch with them", said Jacquelyn Bevan, "and thanks to social media we now have viewers and subscribers from all over the world.

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You can check when the Trio will be live at the Town Hall again at www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk/live-music

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Wishing everyone well these troubled times.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

35

HELP AVAILABLE AT DIAL-A-RIDE

F

ollowing a 3-month enforced shut down due to Covid-19, Midsomer Norton and Radstock Dial-a-Ride (registered charity) has been back up and running since the beginning of July.

We have transport available Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 4pm. All our buses are fully accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs.

We are available to take members door to door within BANES (excluding Bath City Centre) and provide transport to doctors, dentists, shopping, visiting friends or any other journeys required.

Covid-19 precautions are in place with buses deep cleaned daily, and between trips, and

hand sanitiser available. Our 15-seater buses are currently only carrying a maximum of 4 passengers at any one time (unless in a social bubble) to allow for social distancing.

If you would like to register as a member, or require any further information, please call the Dial a Ride Office on 01761 417504 (office hours 9-3 Monday-Friday) and we will be happy to answer any questions.

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Keep up to date with current information regarding the Health Club, Restaurant and Hotel on Instagram and Facebook @centurionhotel @CENTHEALTH @CENTHOTEL

The Centurion Health Club is celebrating its 20th anniversary of opening this year. Although this milestone has passed during challenging times, I am immensely proud to be the manager and be able to welcome so many of our members back to the gym.

The Centurion is one of the longest established gyms in the area with an excellent reputation for personal and professional service.

Our members’ health and safety are always our number one priority.

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37

TOWN COUNCILLOR SURGERIES M

idsomer Norton Town Councillors were very keen to recommence surgeries in order to provide the opportunity for residents to speak to them face to face. Before the second lockdown was announced, we took advice about the risks this would involve and planned possible ways to hold surgeries whilst maintaining social distancing and keeping Councillors and residents safe. Unfortunately, with cases of Coronavirus on the rise and now the pronouncement of a second lockdown, we regret that we cannot recommence surgeries this year. Midsomer Norton

Town Council will defer surgeries until the end of January 2021, and consider starting again in February 2021.

We urge residents to look at our website, www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk, for up to date information about the dates of Town Council meetings and for the minutes of meetings.

Look at our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ MidsomerNortonTC, for the latest news. Contact details for Councillors and the Town Council staff are also available on the website.

Council Meetings Dates All meetings to take place via Zoom until further notice – Zoom joining details will continue to be published online and on the noticeboard outside of the Town Hall.

December 2020 8th December - Finance and Operations 14th December - Planning January 2021 11th January - Planning 12th January - Finance and Operations February 2021 1st February – Full Council (Budget & Precept) 8th February - Planning 9th February - Finance and Operations

March 2021 1st March – Full Council 8th March - Planning 9th March - Finance and Operations April 2021 12th April - Planning 13th April - Finance and Operations 26th April – Annual Town Meeting May 2021 10th May– Annual Meeting of the Town Council 11th May - Finance and Operations

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39

Your Local Library Digital Library We’ve had such a great response to our Virtual Library whilst our libraries were closed during lockdown that we are continuing to expand and develop our service so you can continue to enjoy more of the library from the comfort of your own home!

You can find out about the latest updates, events, activities, information and book related news. We also have a brand new blog where you can also find printable kids' activities, book reviews, author interviews and much more.

To access our Virtual Library visit: Facebook: @BathnesLibraries1, Twitter: @BathnesL, Instagram: @bathnes_libraries, Blog: bathneslibraries.wordpress.com Book Drop Would you like some library items to be dropped off at home? Library staff will select books for you - you can tell us what you would like and we’ll do our best to accommodate. Our volunteers will collect them from us and drop them off at your home, complying with social distancing guidelines at all times. This scheme is open to all existing Home Library Service members and new customers who may benefit from the service. For more information, please

email: HomeLibraryService@bathnes.gov.uk or telephone 01225 394041 December – A Festive Fatality Fancy cosying up with a crime story with a bookish twist? Can you decipher the clues in our library themed festive thriller? Polish your magnifying glass and get ready to inspect ‘12 Days of Murder: A Festive Fatality’. We’ll be sharing more information over the next few weeks on our Virtual Library and Blog. If you correctly guess ‘whodunnit’ you could be in with a chance of winning a book-themed prize!

BBC 100 Novels campaign We’re taking part in the BBC's 100 Novels That Shaped Our World campaign, where we’ll be celebrating and highlighting titles that have been chosen by a panel of critics and judges who have chosen books that had an impact on their lives. We’ll be promoting the campaign online and in our libraries with displays. You can reserve titles featured in the campaign, free for Bath and North East Somerset library members by visiting www. librarieswest.org.uk For more information on the campaign visit: bit.ly/100NovelsLists

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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41

FUNDRAISING FOR SWALLOW

S

WALLOW members, local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities have been keeping busy during the pandemic. Even though some of the SWALLOW activities have had to close during the first lockdown, the charity has continued to provide support throughout the crisis.

In October, members decided that they wanted to do something to raise money for SWALLOW and 25 members took part in a number of sponsored walks. Here are some photos of members getting fit and raising money at the same time: This article was written just as the second national lockdown was starting and, knowing the hugely negative effect the first one had on people with learning disabilities, causing anxiety and mental health issues, SWALLOW is doing everything it can to keep activities going and to provide support where it is needed.

SWALLOW provides a lifeline to its members, giving people hope and support. As they look

towards Christmas, they are asking the local community to support their work, and there are a number of ways people can get involved: • Christmas Raffle – Tickets available at £1. Prizes include a luxury Christmas Hamper and many other exciting prizes.

• Christmas Hampers – products made at the SWALLOW Café • Christmas Cards – packs of 6 cards for £5 – 2 of each design: • Make a Christmas donation – www.swallowcharity.org/support-us If you would like to support SWALLOW, please contact Nicky Tew on nickyt@swallowcharity. org or phone 01761 414 034 or go to www. swallowcharity.org, or find them on facebook.com/SWALLOWCharity

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

43

DOROTHY HOUSE TO COLLECT CHRISTMAS TREES

D

orothy House are excited to confirm that they will be sending out teams of volunteers to collect Christmas trees over the weekend of 8th, 9th and 10th January. For a donation to the Hospice, your tree will be collected from outside your home, chipped and shredded, then recycled.

The local hospice will be collecting trees in: BA1, BA2, BA3, BA4, BA11, BA12, BA13, BA14, BA15, SN12, SN13, SN14 and SN15.

Book your collection online when the website goes live at the end of November. You have until 5th January 2021 when web sign-ups close. www.charityxmastreecollection.com If you have any questions or want to get involved by volunteering a van, get in touch with Steph Cox: steph.cox@dorothyhouse-hospice.org.uk or ring 01225 721480.

JANUARY RE-OPENING FOR PANDAS SUPPORT GROUP

I

t is hoped, once lockdown is lifted, that the face to face classes of Midsomer Norton PANDAS support group at Sally Teall's Holistic Hub will go ahead on Jan 6th 2021 from 10.30am to 11.30pm for 6 weeks.

The classes help parents with pre and postnatal depression and anxiety. The sessions will give you time to talk, relax, get some relaxation tips and offer further support if necessary.

There will be 8 spaces offered and at this time bookings are the only way to attend.

This will become a bubble group for 6 weeks, and all parents will be required to wear a mask on entering the building until fully socially distanced within the bubble.

Parents can come alone or with children but please inform the group in advance, so they can be aware of numbers. More guidelines will follow at the time of booking.

If you would like to book, message Sally Teall on 07974820944, and you will be added to the list or waiting list.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

45

News From Norton Radstock Photographic soCIETY

G

iven that Lockdown has made photographing sports events nigh on impossible since the Spring, NRPS members could have been forgiven for not being as enthusiastic as usual for the competition entitled 'Sporting Life', postponed from earlier in the year. However, this was not the case, and although judge Steve Hallam was less impressed with the black and white images, he felt that the colour entries were certainly up to standard.

We again gathered virtually on club night and were joined by a potential new member, Alex Montacute, who contacted us through the website. In these times of isolation, it is clearly important to be visible on the internet! Alex was warmly welcomed and we hope he will be back.

Steve was looking for sporting action, and gave fair and helpful feedback and commentary upon the range of images that covered motor sports, cricket, skateboarding, rugby, judo and the everpresent horses. Steve gave us some helpful hints on the technical aspects of sports photography on focusing, exposure and sharpness, and threw in some humour to boot. I particularly liked his comment that one photographer at the Bath Marathon had, in addition to achieving a sharp image, managed to “get light on the runners behind!” We thoroughly enjoyed his comments and learned from them. The best photos from the evening are listed below and can be found under the Competition results gallery online.

In the black and white section Graham Nicholls and Tony Nineham were commended for their rugby and motor racing photos and Tony also achieved highly commended together with Bill Collett and Jill Toman. Bill’s “Not out” in a village cricket match was placed third, with Jill Toman’s “Sport of Kings” in second place. It was Tony

Nineham again in the frame this week taking first place with his cycling photo “Teammates”.

In the colour section, Bill Collet was commended for his Bath Marathon shot (and for getting light on the runners behind), and was also commended for the dynamic “Surfer” as was Jenny Short for the cricket shot, “The one that got away”. Highly commended were Janice Cuer for a rare polo shot, Graham Nicholls for “By the Seat of his Pants” and again Tony Nineham who was on a real roller, with “Muddy Corner”. Graham Nicholls’ skateboarder “Going Down” took 3rd place, with Jenny Short’s “Eye on the Ball” in 2nd place. The winner in this section was Jill Toman for “Rounding the Bend” at a local Point to Point. Congratulations to all the winners and well done to everyone for entering!

Jenny Short 16/10/20

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

News From WELTON ROVERs T

he recent Coronavirus lockdown has seen the temporary cessation of all non-elite sport, meaning Welton Rovers supporters will enjoy the view from the top of the Toolstation Western League Division One table, for the duration of the month of November.

The Midsomer Norton team sit top of the table while they enjoy their joint best ever start to a league campaign, so far matching their record in the 1965/66 season when they went the whole campaign unbeaten. Rovers have seen their crowd sizes grow since September’s footballing restart, as locals have looked for affordable, outdoor weekend entertainment, including a number of people who ordinarily would watch the Bristol clubs, or Bath City. Those that have lent their support to Welton Rovers have been treated to outstanding attacking football, as Rovers have won eight and drawn two of their first ten league games and had two impressive FA Vase wins against opponents from Devon, along the way.

The final game before lockdown saw Welton's best performance of the season so far, as they ran riot at Hengrove Athletic on their way to a 5-1 victory. Star man that evening, and on a couple more occasions in the Autumn, was wide-forward

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Photograph: Mark Pile Dawid Regula. Regula struck a hat-trick on a chilly night at Hengrove, his second three goal haul of the season, amongst his nine goal tally to date.

Even in a comfortable victory there was drama, as a floodlight failure with just 12 minutes to go threatened the abandonment of the game.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

able to ensure the result which sends Welton into this lockdown in very high spirits and four points ahead of their nearest rivals, Corsham Town.

"Of course it's frustrating to have a break in play while we're doing so well", said manager Tom Smith, a Midsomer Norton man very proud to be helming his hometown club, "but we recognise the importance of keeping everyone safe as we head into Winter, and we're really pleased to be in such high spirits while we wait for the opportunity to play again. I thought the win at Hengrove was our best display of the season so far, and that shows we're still able to improve week on week, despite already being at a great standard."

Coronavirus has been a very interesting backdrop upon which to run an amateur football club and its associated bar, but it's one that the club has handled expertly, offering sport fans and customers a very safe sense of normality, while winning plaudits from the Western League hierarchy and opposition sides.

Rovers vice-chairperson, Gareth Paisey, took on the role of club Coronavirus Officer early in the year, and says he has been delighted with the reaction of patrons: "We worked incredibly hard over the Summer to put in measures which guaranteed the wellbeing of our supporters and players, while also ensuring an authentic and enjoyable match-day experience. Those who frequent the club have paid us back on that hard work by respecting every element of our Covid

47

regulations, and providing the best support of any club in our division at the same time."

As it stands, Welton are unable to train or play matches until the lockdown's scheduled end of Thursday 3rd December. They'll see 4 matches postponed in the meantime, making for a packed fixture schedule when football returns, but Smith is certain his side are well prepared for this: "We've got an excellent squad that while competing for each other's places, are incredibly supportive of each other. This strength in depth is going to be really important to make sure we continue with the good results, and I know our supporters are right to feel excited to get back to West Clewes to see how our great season continues!"

Football Secretary Welton Rovers Football Club

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON CRICKET CLUB

2

020 proved to be a challenge with very little opportunity to play any meaningful cricket. That said a limited programme of competitive senior and ladies cricket and coaching took place and we were also able to run a restricted 6 week youth coaching programme.

Thanks to all players, youth players, parents, friends and social members that supported us.

We were also delighted to welcome our local MP Jacob Rees–Mogg to the club and many thanks to him for taking time out of his busy parliamentary schedule.

So 2020 was a huge disappointment following the successes of 2019 when all senior sides either won their leagues or came runners up. In addition, in 2019 we had over 120 children from ages 6-16 enjoying top class coaching and for under U-11s to U-15s there were also competitive league matches.

Let's hope that we will be able to recommence a full season from the end of April 2021 for everyone. Ready for this, improvements to the square are being undertaken to improve further the playing facilities for all members as well as Somerset Over 50s and 60s who use the ground on a regular basis.

During lockdown, the club took the opportunity to undertake a huge amount of work to improve facilities for cricketers, social members and the local community. The clubhouse had a complete

FOLLOW US

refurbishment and for this a huge thanks must go to Martin Cook and Colin Barlow for all their hard work and efforts. As well as this, the trees surrounding the club undertook a safety check with any dead and dying trees being removed as well as tidying and making safe the many remaining trees. Work on the new changing rooms is almost complete and hard wearing flooring will be in place before the start of the 2021 season.

The Club continue to work closely with the local community and it is great to see that the facilities are being used by several local groups and voluntary organisations. We are delighted that Somer Valley Sports FC are again using the clubhouse as their base and wish them every success for the 20/21 season. If you think that your organisation may be able to make use of the facilities, please contact the Clubs secretary, Alan Elkington on mnccsecretary@gmail.com So let's look forward rather than back. In 2021 (covid rules and regulations permitting) we will be running 3 Saturday sides, 2 Ladies' softball cricket sides, All Stars (U-6 - U-9), Dynamos (U-9 - U-11), U-11s, U-13s and U-15s.

If you are interested in joining the club or want to find out more about us whether as a playing member, youth member or social member again please contact Alan Elkington on mnccsecretary@ gmail.com

@midsomernortonlife @MSNLife

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

49

MIDSOMER NORTON ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION

I

n this time of stress, it has been a blessing for many of the residents of Midsomer Norton to get into contact with nature through maintaining their allotment and enjoying the produce from it. It is not necessary to wear masks whilst outside that we can breathe in our full allocation of oxygen.

We have noticed an increasing interest from young people particularly those with young families.

These are particularly welcome for many reasons.

We see that too many children are preoccupied with their mobile phones and they often lose contact of or understanding of the joys that nature can provide in terms of peace of mind and focusing on good food. One plot holder brings along his three-year-old and has given him a small plot to look after and plant simple things such as lettuces and radishes.

The recent lockdown does not ban us from working on our allotments. We had our general meeting this year in October via Zoom. 16 people managed to join us in what is new technology for some and we were able to vote on various matters including how many deliveries of manure are required, what types of vegetables succeed most in these particular conditions etc.

With forecasts of cold and rainy weather in the years to come, we need to rely more on what we can grow ourselves. Many believe that basic foods will rise in price so anything we can do to dampen the effect of this would be a good idea.

We are grateful to the local Council for providing this facility and support and encouragement on a day to day basis. We particularly appreciate the supply of water. Many other allotments in the area have to rely on storing rain water.

Next year, we will be having an open day and will

announce this locally.

We have no vacancies at the moment. There is a short waiting list so if you want to apply you can do so via the site www.msnallotments.net and we will be in touch. Members are kept in touch via e-mail and we look forward to going from strength to strength.

Brian Snellgrove

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50

LOCAL LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK As the nights are closing in and the weather changing from what was a relatively sunny summer, I for one am reflecting on the year we have had and the circumstances we found ourselves in for 2020. This year has been like no other year and will go down in history.

With a second lockdown announced from the Government taking effect from the 5th November we all once again find ourselves with tough times on the horizon. With cases locally beginning to rise we must all act now to control the spread of the virus and be vigilant against complacency, continuing as we have done to keep ourselves and others as safe as we can.

valuable green space for the community to enjoy.

With a recent spate of criminal damage, we are hopeful that the new installed CCTV will combat these issues and enable the work that has been completed to be enjoyed by all. Autumn and winter are a beautiful time to take a walk and with exercise still allowed please try to visit the park and enjoy a walk down by the river and appreciate the colorful vibrant and autumn leaves the town park has to offer.

From the team and I, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

With events being cancelled this year we can only hope that 2021 will be bigger and better then any other year we have known.

The Town Council team have been working hard to continue with vital services this year and provide support to those who need it. The community has come together, and we can only hope that we learn from this to appreciate what we all have and the people around us going forward.

The town park is now nearing completion from the recent stage of works and is providing a

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in February 2021. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 25th January 2021.

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. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk

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LOCAL LIFE

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

Cllr Lynda Robertson (Mayor) 01761 415629

Cllr Steve Plumley (Deputy Mayor) 07913 952901

lyndaroberston@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

steveplumley@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Michael Evans 01761 235996

Cllr Sue Graham 07896 411 840

michaelevans@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

suegraham@midsomernorton towncouncil.co.uk

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

Cllr John Baker 07827 994171 johnbaker@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Brian Lawrence

(Chair of Finance and Operations Committee)

07701 007 277

brianlawrence@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Pete Mocock 07891 380197 petemocock@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Michael Moxham 01761 419960 07593 185850 mikemoxham@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

51

Cllr Richard Robertson 01761 415629 richardrobertson@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Lynne Clement 07855 037805 01761 414003 lynneclement@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Gordon Mackay (Chair of Planning Committee)

07806 604 302

gordonmackay@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk