The Wheel - Issue 2 - Spring 2021

Spring 2021 Issue 2

A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE

Welcome to your community magazine

Acorns Nursery @ Trinity Church School

Learning Growing Believing Together

Fresh, healthy food cooked on site

For more information contact the school office on: 01761 438650 or email: office@trinitychurchschool.com

Trinity Church School, Woodborough Lane, Radstock, BA3 3DE

CONTENTS

Bringing together Clandown, Haydon, Radstock and Writhlington.

Hello

and welcome to the first issue of The Wheel for 2021! We hope this issue finds you well, despite the continuing issues facing the whole country. In this issue you’ll find updates on a number of projects, as well as news from the community.

Our next issue will be published in April, so do get in touch if you want to be involved.

For advertising, contact Zoe on 01761 410141, there are even special discounts available if you want to appear in more than one of our publications! Be sure to speak to Zoe to find out more. If you are part of an organisation, sports club or would like to submit local news, please email us on news@ignyte uk.co.uk.

In the meantime, you can follow our Facebook page and we hope you enjoy this issue of The Wheel! thewheelradstock

WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TO 3000 HOMES IN THE AREA? PRICES START FROM JUST £55

CALL ZOE ON 01761 410141

MAYOR’S MESSAGE FOOD CLUB ORCHID COLLECTION RADSTOCK IN BLOOM RAILWAY HERITAGE LOCAL POLICING big local I LOVE RADSTOCK RADSTOCK MUSEUM New councillor CREATIVITY WORKS YOUTH CONNECT HAYDON BATCH CENSUS 2021 WAR MEMORIAL SWAN TRANSPORT SWALLOW CLERK’S MESSAGE Councillors

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The next edition of The Wheel will be in April 2021.

If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 437962 before the deadline of 5th April 2021.

If you have difficulty reading the print, please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view The Wheel on the council’s website at www. radstock-tc.gov.uk.

The Wheel is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, BA3 4LN. Tel 01761 410141. Whilst 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 Radstock 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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MAYOR’S MESSAGE reading it. I welcome all newcomers to Radstock and hope they will find within the pages of The Wheel, all information and help that they may need. The articles contained might well encourage members of our community to take part in any of the myriad clubs and activities that continue in one form or another, even in these straitened times.

It

is with great joy that I welcome you to the second edition of the Wheel. It comes at a turbulent time for the country at large and anything that we can do to make lives easier for our neighbours is to be encouraged.

On behalf of the town and its council, I should like to thank all those who have contributed to our magazine and fervently hope everyone enjoys FULLY SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS Best quality air dried logs.

Various sized loads to suit.

Nets and kindling also available.

Free delivery within 10 miles for orders over £40.

All timber harvested and processed by us from sustainably managed local woodlands.

Find out more on Facebook (Somer valley logs).

For orders or details, contact us on Facebook or 07900 243572 or 01761 439419 Email: somervalley.ts@gmail.com web: somervalleytreeservices.com

Radstock has always managed to provide comprehensive retail facilities and part of the Council’s mission is to encourage our residents to shop locally, thus reducing our carbon ‘footprint.’ To achieve such a reduction meaningfully we will have to re-examine many aspects of our day-to-day living, but the result should be well worth the effort, since it will encourage new retail businesses and service industries, making Radstock self-sufficient and a good place to live and work.

On the subject of the newly acquired amenity of Haydon Batch and in conjunction with Bath and North East Somerset Council, we have commissioned scoping works relating to fencing, paths and security so that the site can be used to its maximum potential for the benefit of all.

Rupert Bevan Mayor of Radstock

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FOOD Club The FOOD Club really enjoy seeing members each

week and it was particularly special seeing everyone over the Christmas week, exchanging smiles despite being behind a mask! As well as a bumper food week, members were also offered a choice from a toy selection, provided by Family Action’s Toy Appeal.

They were fortunate to receive many generous donations from individuals and organisations and many thanks go to everyone who has and continues to support this programme. We hope this will all help make our member’s lives just a little bit easier.

Volunteers play an invaluable role in the success of the clubs and have the potential to make a marked difference in the lives of our members. I think it is incredible that the FOOD Club have a team of

lovely volunteers who give up time each week for the benefit of others and always seem to have a fab time doing so! If anyone is interested in joining the volunteer team (at Radstock, St Martins or Keynsham FOOD Clubs), please do get in contact.

The FOOD Club runs from: • Radstock Library:

Fridays, 1.30 - 3.30pm For further details, please contact: Your local Children’s Centre via brightstartcc@bathnes.gov.uk Or the FOOD Club Co-ordinator via banesfoodclubs@family-action.org.uk

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CHARLTONS’ TIMBERSTORE GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Local

, family-run business Charltons’ Timberstore is a leading supplier of high quality fencing, landscaping materials, gates and so much more.

Not only are they big on quality products, they’re also big on giving back to the local community, in fact we can vouch for this as they kindly donated fence panels to help protect the much loved Christmas tree in the centre of Radstock. We had a quick chat with Tom Charlton to find out more about them…

Tom, most locals will know the name so what do you hope comes to mind when they hear “Charltons’ Timberstore”?

As we’ve been serving the local community for over 100 years now, we’re mostly known for our high quality products, expertise and our customer service, which, as our customers tell us, is extremely valued.

We work hard to have knowledgeable staff on hand helping both trade and retail customers; it’s an excellent team we’ve got and of course, still growing.

100 years, wow! There must have been a lot of changes in that time, are there any more changes planned?

We’re always working towards growing and expanding and we’ve been fortunate enough to see progress

Secure dog walking field in Midsomer Norton Sole use during pre-booked time slot www.pipspaddocksomerset.co.uk Telephone: 07925 374933 pipspaddocksomerset Pipspaddocksomerset All bookings on-line via website, a five minute induction will be held prior to first visit, this will be over the phone during the Covid pandemic.

year after year and hopefully this year is no different.

We’ve got some exciting improvements planned for our site and showroom as well as new product lines to introduce. None of it would be possible without the support of the local community, which is why it’s so important to us to help local charities and causes where we can, especially after such a tough year.

We look forward to seeing what those changes are! Where can we find out more and see the latest updates?

Our website (charltonstimberstore.com) is regularly updated with store news, new products and promotions. Also check out our Facebook page (facebook.com/charltonstimberstore)

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Writhlington orchid collection in the world’s top 30

The recent publication “World Orchid Collections

2020” includes the Writhlington Orchid Project amongst the world’s most significant collections for global Orchid Conservation. The book features thirty institutions from around the world that are cooperating to halt the extinction of orchids especially in tropical regions. The chapter on the Writhlington Orchid Project, written by students from the Mendip Studio School, describes the collection cared for by students from both Writhlington School and the Mendip Studio School, and their work with communities in tropical countries including Malaysia and Rwanda.

13 year old Writhlington student, Lily Jones, said: “It is really exciting to see our work published along with the top botanic gardens of the world, and shows that you can make a difference to our planet through plants.”

18 year old Jess Buckle, who completed her A-Levels at Mendip Studio School and is now studying at Oxford University, is one of the authors. Jess explained: “We were asked to write a chapter for the book by the Committee of the World Orchid Congress and it has been a treat to show that young people are leading the way with conservation, horticulture and science.”

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RADSTOCK IN BLOOM A Year in the life of Radstock In Bloom 2020, this article was written by Andrew Linham of Radstock in Bloom and the full version will feature in this year’s judging portfolio.

baskets, which were in Sean’s polytunnel. By the end of the month the ‘Daleks’ were planted and the hanging baskets hung, followed by the coal tubs and finally the Chandelier.

January January saw Radstock in Bloom’s annual lunch take place at Swallows’ Cafe, while in the media, reports were coming in of a new virus sweeping China.

February The first meeting was moved to a new meeting night, the first Thursday of the month, and still at Trinity Methodist Church.

Coronavirus, as it was known, was spreading in China at an alarming pace, with a cruise ship quarantined in Hong Kong Harbour with no passengers allowed off.

March March saw the arrival of the virus in this country.

The regular meeting was held, but with the spread of the virus, this year’s South West in Bloom Spring Seminar was cancelled, shortly after the Government requested the people enter a lockdown, further legislation followed, closing of cinemas, restaurants, etc.

South West in Bloom cancelled the year’s In Bloom competitions.

April We took delivery of the plant plugs for the hanging baskets, which had been ordered before the virus.

Chairman, Sean Fletcher and his wife, Catherine, set-to potting them. As the Lockdown took hold, it became obvious that the regular meetings could no longer take place.

May May, and the plants were blooming in the hanging

June A few days before the end of June, the semi-circular bed adjacent to Hope House Surgery was dedicated to Brian Perrett of Radstock in Bloom. At a very low-key ceremony, due to social distancing, a plaque was unveiled by his daughter. Two roses had been planted, one in Brian’s memory and one for Denise James, South West In Bloom secretary, judge and a very good friend to Radstock in Bloom.

July The weather in July was fickle, with extreme heat and severe thunderstorms in some parts of the country, luckily we avoided the most severe weather. The baskets and displays around the town flourished, brightening up the town.

August The plants arrived for the winter planting and Sean and Catherine set about potting them. The weather continued to be a mixed bag, with some very heavy

The Wheel rain which didn’t do much for the plants.

September September brought yet another mixed bag of weather. When on the first Sunday, a small party of ‘Bloomers’ were asked by the Co-op if they would like to rehome the plants from a selection of tubs and beds. The following weekend the work continued clearing the site. Towards the end of the month, on a fine Sunday morning, four members gathered to plant bulbs in the small coal tubs ready for Spring 2021. During the last two weeks of the month, the hanging baskets were taken down and emptied, with the compost added to the Church Street bed, while the containers were all cleaned and stored ready for the 2021 season.

October October brought more gales and five and a half inches of rain. We would have been attending the

presentations of this year’s SWIB competitions, followed by our own presentation evening, but with everything cancelled for the year, there was no reason to.

November November heralded a further deterioration of the Covid-19 situation, with a whole month’s further lockdown on the last day of October, luckily the winter planting had been achieved, before the winter really set in.

December December started with the final fitting of two railway signals.

For some time, it had been the wish to have a visible reminder that Radstock, at one time, had two railways serving the town.

REPORT, VIEW OR DISCUSS LOCAL PROBLEMS Did you know you can report highway and other issues in the area directly to B&NES council at fix.bathnes.gov.uk You can upload pictures and location details of any issues in the area.

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A CELEBRATION OF OUR RAILWAY HERITAGE In Bloom’s former chair, Royston Knight

had put the wheels in motion at the Radstock Town Council’s AGM 2018 to enhance the town and celebrate its former railway heritage.

During Royston’s Chairmanship of Radstock in Bloom, he attended an In Bloom Spring Seminar in the Guildhall, Bath, where one speaker suggested that in order to gain a few more points with the judges, it could help if we were able to boast some sculptures which demonstrated the town’s history.

K.M.Steel Fabrications Ltd, Haydon.

On 6th of December 2019, Western Power kindly helped to put the post in place, with a view to putting the signals up in the spring of 2020. Little did we know then what the spring of 2020 would bring.

The signals were finally put into place after the second lockdown and almost a year to the date of the erection of the post. On December 4th 2020 the project was finally completed.

In recent years, Radstock Town has become quite famous locally, for the Miner’s Wheel on display, commemorating the Mining Heritage of the area.

However, historically, Radstock always used to be “infamous” for the double railway level crossing in the town centre, forever holding up traffic [probably before the words ‘traffic congestion’ had even been invented!] yet there is nothing to commemorate such railway heritage. Royston thought that if we could obtain, at the minimum, a signal, or perhaps a Level Crossing Gate[s] that would rectify the situation.

By putting out ‘feelers’ at, at least, two local associations with which Royston was connected, within the Town, progress was finally made.

Eventually Radstock in Bloom were finally offered two signals.

The only snag was that there was no post available to which we could attach them.

On inspection, the signals were fine.

One a distance (yellow) clearance, the other a stop signal. With financial assistance from Radstock Town Council the signals were refurbished with suitable ‘powder coating treatment’ by the local firm, Williams and Oakey. A suitable post was eventually found and taken along with the newly refurbished signals to

We hope you enjoy this small tribute to our town’s railway heritage as does the Wheel commemorate our Mining Heritage. Radstock in Bloom would like to thank Royston Knight for all his hard work and patience with this project in what proved to be an exceedingly difficult year.

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CHRISTMAS IN RADSTOCK With social gathering restrictions, the Town

Council were unable to host the usual festive lights celebrations enjoyed by so many families. Grateful thanks go to Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions for sending Santa along to switch on the lights.

Many were able to enjoy the switch on via social media and the Town Council thank Sean Fletcher for skilfully capturing the Christmas lights with his drone.

The Council look forward to once again gathering to enjoy the occasion in 2021.

Other festive activities included a Gingerbread Town Trail specially created by I Love Radstock and a Nativity trial with artwork produced by the Girls’ and Boys’ Brigade.

For more information on your local retailers and special offers, please follow the I Love Radstock Facebook page - www.facebook.com/I-Love-Radstock

ADVERTISE TO 3000 HOMES IN THE AREA CALL ZOE ON 01761 410141

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LOCAL POLICING THROUGH COVID19 Emergency and high priority calls: You will see no changes to the way we respond to emergency and high priority calls. These are a critical function we will maintain to protect the public.

We would encourage people to report non-urgent incidents online instead of calling 101. www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/

COVID-19 breach of restrictions: If you have concerns that an individual or business has significantly breached Government restrictions you can report it using our online form www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/breach-ofcovid-19-restrictions/, ring us on 101 (for nonemergencies) or 999 (for emergencies).

Neighbourhood Beat Teams: Neighbourhood Beat Teams will still be patrolling your area and available to be contacted as normal.

Some public engagement events and surgeries are now taking place. Find your local team: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/your-area/

Protecting our officers and staff: We are putting all measures in place to protect our officers and staff including encouraging home working where possible, moving face-to-face meetings to Microsoft Teams and providing them with daily guidance from Public Health England and the Government. A discussion board has been set up for issues and concerns relating to the coronavirus.

Do you know someone who needs careers support?

Future Bright offers FREE careers coaching, support and access to training.

We are particularly keen to support those who have been affected by COVID-19.

For more information go to www.futurebright.org.uk or give us a call 01225 395555.

Get your career moving today!

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Investments

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Legacy planning & long term care

‘Local, professional financial advice on your doorstep’ www.douglasandyoung.co.uk

Amy Young M: 07496 136197 E: amy@douglasandyoung.co.uk

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PHOTOSHOOT IN RADSTOCK Would

you ever think of the Memorial Garden in Radstock for a wedding photo shoot? Well, local couple Brett and Charlotte did, and what a stunning background the garden was.

Created in 2005 the gardens were designed to reflect Radstock’s coal mining and railway heritage and provide a new home for the town’s war memorial.

The garden has a natural feel which is reflected by the specifically chosen shrubs and herbaceous plants, planted to offer all year round colour and textures as shown in Brett and Charlotte’s beautiful photographs.

Photography: Jamie McDine,Wiltshire Wedding Photography

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RADSTOCK & WESTFIELD BIG LOCAL HELP US INVEST YOUR MONEY! We’re looking for volunteers to help us in our

continuing quest to make good things happen in the community over the next four years – we need you to help us involve more residents, invest our funds well, and leave a legacy for years to come. Please consider joining us!

In 2015 we were given £1m from the Community Fund (was Big Lottery Fund) to invest over the course of 10 years.

Here are some of the things we’ve done so far: Invested about £600,000 in over 100 projects, including funding local health and wellbeing initiatives, providing support for young people, improving community buildings and upskilling local organisations.

Ensured more support was brought in from other places, to the value of around £635,000 essentially doubling our money!

Gladly received support from many, many kind volunteers – more than 65 people have been involved over the years to offer their skills, community knowledge, support and advice for free!

These amazing volunteers have contributed a combined total of over 14,000 hours of their time to make our Big Local programme work! If they were to have charged an average hourly wage, this would amount to over £163,000!

Held 7 community-led Dragons’ Dens – these are special community events attended by over 100 local people each time. Together they decided what local project ideas should be funded.

Had over 3000 resident responses to Big Local (+ project-related) community consultations!

Enabled the new GP surgery to become a community

health and wellbeing hub by investing in a training space that will be used to provide healthy-living sessions to residents, for at least the next 20 years!

Our volunteers ran a hot food service for people in need during the lockdowns, delivering 800 meals and counting!

You can read all about the projects and how to get involved on our website: radstockwestfield.org.uk WE CAN’T EXIST WITHOUT THE GENEROSITY OF VOLUNTEERS - PLEASE HELP US DO EVEN MORE! Contact our worker at robwicke@radstockwestfield. org.uk

Carers’ Centre We’re still here to support unpaid carers in BaNES If you’re looking after someone else during this crisis we’re here to support you. Get in touch for: • Trusted information and advice • Help planning for emergencies • Employment and grant support

0800 0388 885 Monday–Friday, 8.15am–3pm

support@banescarerscentre.org.uk

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I LOVE RADSTOCK STAY SAFE | SUPPORT LOCAL Staying safe and supporting local shopping and businesses is a message continuing to spread across Bath and North East Somerset.

I Love Radstock has been developed by Bath & North East Somerset Council together with partners and local business groups.

With the success from the Widcombe & Milsom Street local support initiatives, Bath and North East Somerset Council are keen to continue promoting small businesses centres through the I Love Local campaign.

The aim is to improve the look and feel of each public realm, provide residents with safe access to their local businesses, support the local traders and help keep our high streets thriving.

Next B&NES will be launching I love Radstock.

Flags & Banners and safety messaging will appear across the locality. Radstock traders have really embraced the campaign and will look forward to ongoing support from Bath & North East Somerset Council, Invest In Bath and the European Regional Development fund over the coming months. Traders in Radstock are encouraging the following of safety guidelines, and have access to funding and strategies to make the centre stronger, more vibrant & resilient in the current economic climate.

While working on this project we have found that Bath and North East Somerset businesses are collaborating with a common goal, sharing ideas, working together and making a difference to their independent businesses.

The I love Radstock campaign is funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Reopening the High Streets Safely Fund.

Call for Phone Box Ideas

The Southfield K6 Telephone Kiosk is in need of a makeover.

How would you like to see it?

If you have any ideas or time to spare, let the Town Council know.

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RADSTOCK MUSEUM Somerset Coalfield Life at Radstock Museum is looking forward to welcoming visitors again in 2021.

Exactly when that happens depends on a certain virus and Government rules and regulations but we hope that the museum will re-open even in a limited way before too long.

When it does, the newly-refurbished Alex Hann Exhibition Gallery (see picture) will include stories of local brickworks and what was happening in our area 100 years ago according to the Somerset & Wilts.

Journal.

Our website (www.radstockmuseum.co.uk) will have up-to-date information on re-opening plans.

Thank you to all those who entered the museum’s Winter Quiz, the answers are published on the museum website.

The prize winners were contacted individually.

Radstock Town Council Grants Are you a charitable or voluntary group?

Do you operate in the Radstock area?

Does your project benefit the community of Radstock?

If so, grants of up to £1,000 are available.

Closing date: Thursday 25th February 2021.

For guidelines, criteria and an application form, visit: www.radstock-tc.gov.uk 01761 437962 council@radstock-tc.gov.uk

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INTRODUCING ADRIAN DODGSON, yOUR NEW Radstock town councillor My

name is Adrian Dodgson and I have recently joined the Radstock Town Council as a co-opted member, representing the residents of the Clandown ward. I have lived and worked in the Bath and North East Somerset area for most of my adult life having previously grown up overseas and in the Midlands. I moved to Radstock in 2005, along with my wife and two of my four children. The children attended local secondary schools and colleges and my wife works locally.

My working background is in retail banking, and I have spent many years working in high street branches, and laterally in the IT department of Head Office in Bristol. I have recently been made redundant and am now looking forward to having a bit more time to catch up on some of the interests and pastimes that I have not had time to do. I am also keen to be more involved in the community and this was a major factor in my decision to become a

local councillor. I am hoping that I can bring some of my skills and experiences to the council committee and meetings and to benefit the residents of Clandown and Radstock.

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CREATIVITY WORKS

Creativity Works, a local arts

organisation, offer a range of free creative resources aimed at supporting your wellbeing during these challenging times. Engaging in some creative activity can really help to alleviate feelings of low mood, anxiety, and isolation.

There’s journaling, creative writing and creative arts and crafts courses being run online via Zoom, plus if you prefer to go at your own pace, resources that you can access online.

Upcoming online courses:

Journaling for Wellbeing

6-week course with Multi-Media Artist, Jill Carter Wednesdays 10.30 am – 12 noon Dates: 3, 10, 17 & 24 February, 3 March 2021

Writing for Wellbeing

5-week course with writer Christina Sanders Mondays 2pm – 3.30pm 22nd Feb – 29th March 2021 Develop your confidence using writing to support health and wellbeing. Using playful, constructive, and focused techniques to help you explore and use your imagination and manage your moods.

Enrol on the online TASTER session Monday 22nd Feb 2pm – 3.30pm here: conta.cc/33D3UXn Enrol on the 5-week course Mondays 2pm – 3.30pm, 1st – 29th March here: conta.cc/3o9iTzY

Online Peer Groups

Explore the art of rediscovering yourself through creative journaling. Enjoy writing, drawing, doodling and mixed media collage.

Run by members for the members with visiting artists and creative volunteers

Enrol: conta.cc/3o9iTzY

Tuesdays 1.30pm – 3pm

Get Creative art group

The Wheel Visiting artist, Barbara Disney will host sessions until 9th Feb 2021

Contact Philippa philippa@creativityworks.org.uk Phone: 07715 382 877

A peer-led art project exploring different art techniques and new skills with a friendly group of adults that aim to support people who feel socially isolated.

Jaq: jaq@creativityworks.org.uk Phone: 07921 880056 Or visit www.creativityworks.org.uk

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Rather go at your own pace?

Tuesdays 2pm – 3.30pm

If you’d like to get creative in your own time, there are a series of short creative activities via the Creativity Works YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/ CreativityWorks4

A friendly peer-led creative writing project for people of all writing skills. Facilitated sessions with fun opportunities to develop and share your ideas. No previous experience necessary.

Plus a series of downloadable Wellbeing Packs full of creative ideas, quizzes, exercises and wellbeing tips, created in partnership, available from the 3SG website: www.compassioncb.org.uk/wellbeingpacks

Enrol: conta.cc/2JCeW89

If you, or someone you know doesn’t have access to the internet, you can request a Wellbeing Pack to be delivered to their door by a volunteer.

Enrol: onta.cc/33vnS6f

Writing Space

HOW TO BOOK: Limited spaces, please book in advance

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YOUTH CONNECT SOUTH WEST Youth work in Radstock has been funded by

Radstock Town Council, who have been incredibly helpful in engaging with the team about any challenges or conflicts involving young people in the area.

In Autumn 2020, the Youth Connect team ran outdoor group sessions which provided Covid secure activities for young people in Radstock. Following the recent lockdown restrictions, the Youth Work team adapted to walking around the Radstock community on a weekly basis by working in Writhlington, Radstock town centre and parks, Haydon, Tyning and Clandown. The detached delivery provided support around mental health and wellbeing through the Covid-19 pandemic. Youth Connect found ways to become adaptive in lockdown through running online support via Zoom as well as supporting individuals through phone and video calls.

In November, the Youth Connect team handed out hygiene packs to help young people reduce the risk of catching Covid-19, this was funded by the Midsomer Norton Lions. The youth workers provided Christmas hampers to families in need of support over the festive period.

Despite the challenges of Covid-19 and lockdown, Youth Connect’s ongoing support have played a key part in supporting the Radstock community and will continue to be active on a weekly basis in 2021.

Kelly Barresi, who is the North East Somerset youth worker manager, said: “We are currently doing detached work around Radstock to see ensure young people are safe. It looks like mostly all young people are taking this lockdown seriously and staying at home. The youth work team will continue to be active with detached work and encourage any young people who may be out in the community to go home and stay safe. We aim to increase some

daytime detached sessions through the new year and provide online support.”

Youth Connect can offer wider support for individual young people and families. They also provide specialist services around targeted 1:1 work and employability for young people. They’re always keen to engage more with the community and would very much like to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer or who would be willing to donate their time to teach a skill or an activity to young people.

They will continue to touch base with the parish councils in the new year and are available for residents to contact at any time. They will be active on social media so keep an eye out to see their ongoing work.

For more information, please contact: George Saunders – George.saunders@ycsw.org.uk Visit: www.youthconnectsouthwest.org.uk Social Media: - Facebook & Instagram- Youth Connect Southwest

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Haydon Batch: A MASTERPLAN This 20-acre ex-tip site was purchased by

Radstock Town Council in 2019 with the purpose of safeguarding the site for community use for generations to come.

Since the closure of the coal mine in 1973, the area, known locally as the Batch, has been partially flattened and allowed to naturally regenerate. There is now a mosaic of habitats on the site including woodland, unimproved grassland and scrub.

The vision for Haydon Batch is to provide a welcoming greenspace which is easily accessible, yet retains its wildlife value and natural feel.

It will be a space where people from surrounding communities (Haydon and Westfield are the closest, but Radstock, Midsomer Norton and Kilmersdon are all within walking distance) can easily access and enjoy the views, the nature and the sense of history.

Brown Argus

Teasels at Haydon Batch

It will be a space that people will be encouraged to use to benefit their physical and mental health and wellbeing and it will be a suitable site for small scale events. The local community will be engaged in both the development of the site and its long-term management. The site will be designated as a Local Nature Reserve.

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Census 2021 is coming Households across Bath and North East

Somerset will soon be asked to take part in Census 2021, which will give a snapshot of modern society.

The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.

It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.

“A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said.

“This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them.”

Census day is on March 21, but households across the country will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March.

The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

For more information, visit census.gov.uk

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ADDITIONS TO RADSTOCK WAR MEMORIAL Some of you may have noticed recently, the

addition of two new plaques to the town War Memorial. This was the result of a petition made to the town council earlier in the year, that the name of a soldier who served in the first World War, was missing from the town’s War Memorial. The name in question was that of Mr Arthur Coward of Writhlington, and an investigation was initiated by the council to establish the facts and consider what action should be taken.

Using the internet, it was established that Mr Coward’s name was on the roll of honour, located in Norwich Cathedral, for the signal regiment in which he served. Records show that he was wounded in action and sent to Norwich to recover.

Shortly afterwards, Mr Coward died of pneumonia and it is understood that he is buried in St Mary’s Churchyard, Writhlington. Mr Coward’s name also appears on the 1911 census as having lived in Foxcote and Writhlington.

At this stage, the council had now reached an impasse in their investigation, and it was necessary to try a different method rather than the internet in the hope of finding further information. The most promising one involved locating any rolls of honour relating to Writhlington in the Radstock area, and making a comparison with the names on the Town Memorial. This promised to be a heavy task, but fortunately early in the process, Esther Parker, Churchwarden at St Nicholas’ Church, approached the council to let them know that the Writhlington Roll of Honour was held at the church, having been transferred there following the closure of St Mary’s Church in Writhlington. A visit was arranged and a comparison made with a list of names from the town memorial, to the council’s great delight, Mr Coward and three additional names not on the memorial were found on the list! To complete the exercise a

comparison was repeated for the 1939-1945 list and two more names were found for inclusion on the town memorial.

The following names were added to two new plaques sited on the rear of the memorial

1914 – 1918: Edwin Baker, Arthur Coward, Victor Penny, John Raisey.

1939 – 1945: Walter Bendle, Kenneth Best.

This was a very interesting exercise but a very sobering one. These Radstock men have now rightfully joined their comrades on the town memorial, and will be remembered at the next Remembrance Sunday. Looking down the tragically long list of names, brings home the terrible blood price Radstock paid for the preservation of democracy. For the sake of democracy, let us never forget.

C.A. Currie - (Cllr Radstock Town Council)

28

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SWAN TRANSPORT Still responding to need Swan Transport’s brilliant team of

volunteer drivers have been busy and they continue during this third, and hopefully, final lockdown to provide essential journeys to older and disabled people in Bath & North East Somerset. Swan has extended its service to not only help people to get to hospitals in B&NES but also to essential health trips in Bristol and to help as many people as possible get to their Covid-19 vaccinations.

The scheme is following the latest guidelines from the NHS, Government and the Community Transport Association to keep everyone safe and volunteers are working with all their colleagues in the other Community Transport schemes to keep as many people without access to transport moving and independent and travelling with the appropriate service.

Swan Transport has been operating since 2001 and provides friendly provision to access services typically

delivering 5,000 journeys a year to people unable to use public transport. This year, they won’t be able to provide as many journeys, but they will do what they can to help people get to the services they need in the community for their health and well-being and prevent further isolation.

If you need help with transport or you want to find out more about volunteer driving with Swan please call 01761 439548 Or email swan.transport@btconnect.com Swan Transport is part of Swan Advice Network Charity number 1141396. Co No 6883950.

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SWALLOW COMMUNITY CAFÉ gets a makeover The

SWALLOW Community Café in the St Nicholas Church rooms has received a makeover during lockdown. Thanks to the help of local supporter, Roger Winsley and the church, the café has been decorated and a new ceiling has been installed – it is a great way to start the New Year.

SWALLOW is also very grateful for a donation of brand new tables from the Radstock Town Council – the tables are curved which means that they will be able to accommodate a lot more people.

The café has been working hard throughout the pandemic to offer a service to its customers, during lockdown they are offering a contactless take away

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service including a range of sandwiches, paninis and soup and daily specials. When allowed, it also offered a socially distanced eat in service and even managed to serve 28 Christmas lunches in December.

SWALLOW is using the skills and hard work of the trainees and staff to prepare food for vulnerable families which is being distributed through the local family centre and families of St Nicholas school. They are very grateful to St John’s Foundation and Bath and North East Somerset Council for their support for this project.

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CLERK’S MESSAGE Well, having now completed my first year with Radstock Town Council, I reflect on the whirl wind it really has been. It’s definitely not been a smooth sailing first year, I’m not sure you would call our last year even a bumpy one. However, I remain positive. I look at the things we have achieved – Wheel Painted ,  Virtual Meetings held ,  maintenance and ground works completed ,   food club launched , library ,the list has a few ticks!  Last time I said THANK YOU and I still say thank you. My little boy had kindness elves this year who arrived at the beginning of December and every day he had a challenge set to be kind. I’m a great believer in the ‘random act of kindness’ not mainly for the good it does for the person who is receiving it, but also for me or my little boy who is doing the good deed. I was always taught it is better to give than receive. Maybe I am getting old, but I can now see this. These little wooden elves have really taught both me and my little boy something over Christmas and it really does cost nothing to be kind – Thank you my little wooden elves.

I also consider myself very lucky as I have a great team of little elves around me all year round, not just at Christmas. I think we all have our team of elves and I hope I am an elf too. I hate naming my elves (mainly because I have so many – told you I’m lucky) but hopefully you all know who you are!

Whether that is the BathNES elves who delivery food to support the food club every week, help with switching on the Christmas lights or provide advice and support. The local elves who have given up their

time to help fix lights in the public toilets, paint, tidy or even just report issues. The trades elves and contractors who provide great service to the Council.

The outdoors elves who keep the parks and grass neat and tidy.

Some of you may know the Council’s team of elves… If you don’t please meet; Diane – the office and communications manager who keeps projects alive and kicking, Sharon – who keeps our finances and admin in check and Julia – who keeps the library running. Together they are very elf-ful (helpful) - they also put up with my bad jokes.

All my elves keep me positive when times are not, I also believe to earn your elf stripe you need to be able to ask a fellow elf for help. I do ask all my elves for help and I am not ashamed to say so!

I must say I’m ready for this year – I know Covid is far from gone but for my own health and wellbeing I focus on the positive and we do have some exciting projects coming… I leave you with one question – What would you like ‘Haydon Batch,’ ‘Kilmersdon Tip’ called?

Take care.

George Clutten - Town Clerk

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YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

Cllr Gary Dando Radstock Haydon Ward T: 01761 432739 M: 07813 904923 E: gary@dando41@gmail.com

Cllr Chris Dando Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 432918 M: 0771 3103380 E: chrisdando3@gmail.com

Cllr Mrs Elizabeth Derl-Davis Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 439119 E: edegarry48@gmail.com

Cllr Rupert Bevan - Mayor Radstock Centre Ward M: 07980 607127 E: rupert.s.bevan@gmail.com

Cllr Mike Boulton Radstock Haydon Ward T: 01761 436681 E: cllr.mike.boulton@gmail.com

Cllr Nick Toogood Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07715 939804 E: n-toogood@sky.com

Cllr Bruce Shearn Radstock Clandown Ward T: 01761 751117 E: bruceshearn@yahoo.co.uk

Cllr Colin Currie Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 420296 E: colinandrewcurrie11@gmail.com

RADSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL Radstock Community Hub The Street Radstock Somerset, BA3 3PR T: 01761 437962 E: council@radstock-tc. gov.uk Cllr Robert Langley Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07970 708216 E: roblangley04@gmail.com

Cllr M Shearn M: 07710 263998 E: m.shearn3198@googlemail.com

Cllr Adrian Dodgson M: 07812 046091 E: awdodgson@gmail.com

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