Westfield warbler autumn 2015 issue 16

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Neighbourhood Plan for Westfield The first meeting of the Parish Council’s Neighbourhood Plan Working Group took place on 29th July with an overview of the process and structure from Julie O’Rourke of Bath and North East Somerset Council. A consultation on aspirations and a vision for the parish will take place shortly as the first step in this interesting and challenging process.

Please look at the community section of our www.westfieldparishcouncil. website co.uk for regular updates and when the next meeting will take place.

The Group should represent a wide cross section of the community. If you have some local knowledge and a desire to improve the community in which we live, then please volunteer. Everyone brings something different to the process and we recognise that some people can contribute more time than others. We welcome all volunteers and would like to work with you so that your local knowledge and skills can be used most effectively.

If you would like to be involved in any way contact the parish council on 01761 410660 or council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk

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Welcome to The Contents Westfield Warbler 4 Flower displays

Welcome to the new look ‘Westfield Warbler’. It is a privilege to be Chair of Westfield Parish for the year.

Geoff Fuller, who has done such a great job over the last couple of years, will be a hard act to follow, but I will try my best to do that.

Many thanks for everyone who has contributed in making Westfield a better place over the last few months – to all those who entered the ‘Best Front Garden’ competition, the organisation that went into the funfair and particularly all the work that made the Fun Day such a success. A special thanks to whoever ordered the weather, which was hot and sunny (for a change!).

We are already working on next year’s Fun Day and are looking forward to seeing the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust, who will be taking part in our event.

But as well as some great events, residents also have had to put up with some difficult problems. Traffic and parking in particular continues to be an issue. After the teething problems with the new road layout in Radstock that caused queues to back up to the Westfield shops, we are keeping a close eye on how the new scheme runs now it is fully ‘open’. Also parking around the primary and specialist schools continue to be cause for complaint by local residents. The Parish Council will be inviting traffic management experts from B&NES to attend a meeting to discuss what can be done.

But that aside, Westfield Parish Council looks forward to helping make Westfield a pleasing place to live and work and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.

Cllr Robin Moss Chair of Westfield Parish Council The next edition of The Westfield Warbler will be in December. If you would like your group to be included, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of the 1st Nov. You can view The Westfield Warbler on the Council’s website at www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk The Westfield Warbler is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, G5 Second Ave, Westfield Industrial Estate, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 4BH. Tel 01761 410141.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or it’s 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 Media and Westfield Parish 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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Boules in Westfield

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Grants available

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Front garden competition winner

10 Community Bus 12 Top up your tank 14 What’s On 16 Recreational grounds 19 Dates for your diary 20 Plea to dog owners 22 Things to do 24 Westfield fun day 28 Know your boundaries?

30 Clerk’s message

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Flower displays

in Westfield

The Parish Council would like to thank Avon Trailer Towbar Centre and Integrity Print for their generous contributions to the flower displays in Westfield this year.

Thanks also to Jason Towells and the young people of Fosse Way School who have done a great job of planting and looking after the flowers in the square planter beneath the hanging basket tree (pictured here). The allotment holders at Westfield Allotment and Garden Society have been very hands on with their help in watering and they have planted up the coal trucks and raised beds, for which the Parish Council is very grateful. Thanks too to the Co-op for providing the water around the shops by Jubilee Green.

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Boules gaining momentum in Westfield The Tuesday evening Boules at Westfield’s Norton Hill Recreation Ground is really taking off, with increasing numbers of residents enjoying the evening sunshine at the boules court.

Chairman of the Parish Council, Cllr Robin Moss said, “Many thanks for all the work by Cllr Diana Cooper which has been invaluable in getting the boules going in Westfield. I am sure we will be challenging Bath in the Boules Premiership soon!”

If you are interested in having a go, please turn up on a Tuesday evening at 6pm and you will be very welcome. No experience or equipment needed.

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UP TO £1000 AVAILABLE

The Parish Council is delighted once again to be offering grants to voluntary groups, clubs, non profit organisations and charities operating in the Parish of Westfield. Previous grants have been used to fund play schemes, support groups, local transport, redecoration projects and much more. The aim of the grants scheme is to help promote a vibrant and active local community. The Council recognises and supports the valuable contribution made by many volunteer groups and organisations and the many others who contribute to the well being of the community.

the project meets local needs and has local support. Applicants should be clear about how their project will make a difference “on the ground”. It should also make clear which issues are being addressed and explain why the project chosen is the best option for addressing that particular issue.

To apply for a grant you do not have to be a registered charity, as long as the work you do has charitable aims and you have a constitution (set of rules) and management committee. If your organisation has its own bank account it must have at least two signatories to authorise Committed to enhancing the life of the Parish in payments. as wide a variety of ways as possible, the Grants Examples of previous winners that have Committee would love to hear from groups and benefitted from a grant are Wansdyke Play organisations, both new and established, which Association for play days in Westfield, Radstock are in need of funding to enhance their work. Scouts group for building storage space, WISH Whether for a one-off project or for the on-going for providing holidays and day trips for disabled work of the organisation, all applications are people, Trinity Methodist Church towards the considered equally. refurbishment of exterior windows and St Peters To be eligible for a grant, your organisation Playgroup for nursery chairs. must benefit people within Westfield.

Criteria and application details are available Applicants must demonstrate how the local on the Parish Council website or by contacting community has been involved in their project the office on 01761 410669 and the deadline and give evidence in their application that for applications is 6th October 2015.

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Stunning floral displays annual Front Garden Residents rallied round to enter their own and their neighbours’ beautiful blooms in this year’s Front Garden competition in Westfield, which saw a pleasing increase in entries on last year and a very high standard of gardens on display. The competition was open to all residents, businesses and community groups in Westfield.

This year, experts Rupert Horsey and Dave Vallance from the department of Horticulture at Bath College’s Somer Valley campus, judged the competition. The pair looked at each entry in detail using a careful points system to judge criteria such as structure, use of aspect, space and quality of husbandry.

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win Westfield’s second Competition The winning garden entry was from Mr and Mrs Holcombe of 48 Waterside Road whose immaculate, colourful front garden wowed judges, councillors and neighbours alike with its healthy blooms and well placed containers.

Mrs Holcombe was delighted with their

Main Photo: Mr & Mrs Holcombe receive their prize.

Inset Photos: Judging in progress.

win, ‘That’s made my day’ she said.

Mr and Mrs Holcombe received a trophy, which is engraved with the names of the winners to date. They also received a smaller, engraved trophy that they will keep and a voucher that was kindly donated by Norton Green Farm Nursery.

Westfield Parish Council would like to thank Norton Green Farm Nursery and Bath College for their kind support of the competition.

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Playbus set to continue in Westfield Westfield youngsters from 5 to 12 years joined in with the holiday playschemes on board the Big Blue Bus in spring and summer of this year. Dylan (age 6) said, “I love the Bus, there’s always so many fun things to do and I make friends too. My favourite thing to do is the junk modelling and bingo.”

With funding from Westfield Parish Council and the Radstock and Westfield Big Local, these sessions where the children are registered and left to play for a couple of hours at each session with quality activities and trained playworkers are becoming regular events in the area.

On the lower deck, there are messy activities such as painting, sand and sticking while the upper deck is carpeted with bench seating and lots of toys. Snacktime and singing is half-way through the session and a small contribution towards refreshment costs is all that is required.

It’s a great way to link up other local families.

For families with babies and children under 5, they are welcome to join term-time sessions on Tuesday mornings 9.30-11.30. This group will resume on September 8th.

You can find the playbus in the car park by Westhill Club, Westhill Road.

Enquiries to Community Bus tel 01761 419557 or communitybus@hotmail.co.uk www.thecommunitybus.org.uk

We are a smaller than average school and pride ourselves on our caring approach and our ability to meet every child’s needs, helping them develop and ensure they reach their full potential, whilst growing in the love of Christ.

We welcome children of all faiths.

We also offer wrap-around care as well as an independent on-site Nursery

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Prattens Bowls Captain Supports Help for Heroes Richard Brimble, pictured in black, is the men’s captain for Prattens Bowls Club and recently gave his time and effort as a member of the support crew for Help the Heroes Hero Bike ride.

Richard had to drive a van full of all types of bicycles to Paris and then act as support all the way back to London.

The Big Battlefield Bike Ride 2015 started from Paris to London with 260 bike riders covering a total of 310 miles taking in war cemeteries and some of the D day landing shores of Normandy.

People and service personnel from America, Canada, Australia, Britain and France took part with amputees and wounded service personnel represented from all of the countries.

Some participants were riding hand bikes, some recumbent bikes and some on normal upright bikes with all raising funds to support

our injured service personnel from all areas of war. Nearly 800,000 pounds were raised from this event.

Along the way Richard heard some amazing stories from injured service personnel of how hard it was to recover from their injuries and the support received from Help for Heroes and other charities.

Richard has frequently been the hero for Prattens Bowls Club on the green but on this occasion, the club were even more proud of him than usual.

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Top up your oil tank before winter Local charity West of England Rural Network is advising householders to top up their domestic oil tanks before expected price rises in autumn and winter. The charity runs a community oil buying scheme which aims to save local people money on their oil bills by placing a collective order once a month. Scheme co-ordinator Jill Baker says “oil prices tend to rise in autumn and winter as demand increases. By placing a single large order we can negotiate with suppliers and everyone pays less.”

The West of England Rural Network are able to offer free memberships to their Community Oil Buying Scheme (normally £20/year) to anyone over 70 living in the West of England who uses domestic heating oil. This is thanks to a second grant awarded

by Quartet Community Foundation from their ‘Surviving Winter’ fund. The scheme is open to all residents of Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Bristol. Local community buildings such as village halls, schools and churches can also benefit from the scheme, as well as businesses such as farms, shops and offices.

The scheme works by using the buying power of a large order to negotiate with all the suppliers who serve our area. The negotiated price is typically 4.5p less than the average price quoted and most members save around £120 per year. If you are interested in joining the community oil buying scheme, call Jill Baker on 01275 333701 or visit www.wern.org.uk/oil.

Mardons Carnival Club

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Mardons Carnival Club was established in the early seventies by the workers of the factory and they have worked hard raising funds and building floats ever since. In the past they have achieved a great deal of success in the November Carnival circuit, the worlds largest illuminated procession.

On two occasions they have won the highest prize possible for a comic feature float - the Comic County Cup. The first time was in the seventies with the entry Busby Chatterbox. More recently they repeated the achievement with Abbattoir - Gimme A Ham After Midnight.

The carnival club is a great way to meet people and learn new skills.

If you’d like to know more, email socialclubinfo@googlemail.com

Radstock Folk Dance Club are a social dance club who meet on most Fridays from the beginning of October through to the beginning of August. We meet at St Peter’s Church Hall, Longfellow Road from 8.00pm to 10.00pm We do a variety of english and american country dances led by a caller each evening.

Many of our callers are club members, although we do have guest callers from time to time. Beginners are welcome and you do not need a partner.

We have a charge of £2 per evening which includes a cup of tea and a biscuit at half-time.

If you are interested in joining us please come along to St Peter’s. We start the new season on 2nd October 2015.

If you want to find out more, please contact Dick Shilton (Chairman) or Jean Shilton (Secretary) on 01458 841400

Here at Golden-Oldies we believe that singing is the best way to put a smile on your face. You don’t need a fantastic voice, but if you like singing, listening or dancing to the hits of the 50s onwards, then Goldies is for you.

Golden Oldies is open to everyone, of all ages.

It’s a great way to meet friends old and new.

Why not pop along to our next session at St Peter’s Church Hall and meet Jacqui, our wonderful Session Leader. Come and see if Goldies is for you!

St Peter’s Church Hall Longfellow Road, Westfield, BA3 3YZ THIRD FRIDAY of each month From 2.30pm-3.30pm We ask for a £1 donation from all participants, but nobody is turned away. No need to book, these are drop in sessions, everyone is welcome and a great time is guaranteed.

For information about our other sessions, please have a look at our website www.golden-oldies.org.uk or call the office on 01761 470006 to speak to one of the very lovely Goldies team.

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What’s On SEPTEMBER

4th Coffee Morning @ Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield, 9:00 am – 11:00 am (with bacon butties!)

Come along for a chat and a cuppa. Catch up with friends and meet new ones.

From 10am onwards, bring along your knitting, sewing etc and join us for coffee and a chat while you enjoy your craft, or learn new ones.

All welcome.

5th – Live Band, Big Mama & The Misfitz plus support Disco at Mardons Social Club 7th – Parish Council Meeting 7pm.

7th – 27th Radstock Museum will be hosting the 27th Miners’ Reunion which is a free event open to all former workers in the Somerset Coalfield. Doors

Sponsored by

open at 11.30am for a light lunch starting at 12 noon. Tel 01761 437722 14th – Environment and Development meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 15th – Radstock Museum’s exhibition on the Centenary of the Woman’s Institute – an exhibition celebrating the development, growth and influence (both locally and nationally) of the WI over the past 100 years. Runs until 29th Nov. 19th – Live band Panama at Mardons Social Club 23rd – Finance and Personnel meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 26th – Live Band, Freeze at Mardons Social Club.

Parish Council Meetings All residents are welcome to attend and make comments before the start of all meetings of the Parish Council. All meetings are held in the Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX. Please sign in at Reception and make your way to the first floor by stairs or lift, where you will find the boardroom on the right hand side.

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For more information, please contact the Student Advice Centre: Address: Bath College, Avon Street, Bath, BA1 1UP Telephone: 012250 312191 • Email: enquiries@bathcollege.ac.uk Website: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

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OCTOBER 2nd Coffee Morning @ Trinity Methodist Church,

Westfield 3rd – Live band Elevation at Mardons Social Club 5th – Parish Council Meeting 7pm 10th – Live band RaZaR at Mardons Social Club 12th – Environment and Development meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 17th – Rock N Roll with The Woods at Mardons Social Club 21st – Finance and Personnel meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 24th – Irish Night with The Ceili at Mardons Social Club 31st – Halloween Fancy Dress Party with Limited Edition band at Mardons Social Club

Do you run a club, group or association in Westfield?

Would you like your details included in the next issue?

Contact us on 01761 410141 or email enquiries@ignyte-uk.co.uk to be included

NOVEMBER 2nd Parish Council Meeting

6th 7th – Live band The Mutineers at Mardons Social Club 9th – Environment and Development meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 14th – Live band Call The Shots at Mardons Social Club 18th – Finance and Personnel meeting 7pm Boardroom at the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX 26th – Christmas Tree Light Switch on 6:30pm in front of the local shops at Elm Tree Avenue we will have our annual Christmas Tree lights switch on with bigger and better displays every year, mulled wine, mince pies, carolling – fun for all the family.

Also at this event will be the presentation of Grants awarded to local organisations from Westfield Parish Council.

29th – Christmas Craft Fair at Westfield Sports and Social Club. There will be an opportunity to purchase the crafts you need for the festive season. Admission is free and there will be refreshments available. If you would like a table at a very reasonable rate please contact Cllr Phil Wilkinson on 01761 431355 or email philipdwilkinson@btinternet.com

Coffee Mornings @ Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield

9:00 am – 11:00 am Westfield Methodist Church Coffee Morning (with bacon butties!)

Come along for a chat and a cuppa. Catch up with friends and meet new ones. Bring along your knitting, sewing etc and join us for coffee and a chat while you enjoy your craft, or learn new ones. It is held the first Friday of the month from 10am onwards – all welcome.

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ACTIVITIES AT WESTFIELD RECREATIONAL GROUNDS Why not take advantage of the several sporting opportunities in Westfield?

Both Westhill Recreation Ground and Norton Hill Recreation Ground have excellent facilities for sporting and fun activities whether you are a group, club or just individual looking to take up some exercise.

FOOTBALL PITCHES FOR HIRE An opportunity has arisen at both Norton Hill and Westhill to accommodate football teams for the forthcoming season. Changing facilities are available at both grounds and rates are very competitive. Charge per Season (based on up to 20 matches): Norton Hill Recreation Ground – £408 pa (Senior) and £112 pa (Junior – for clubs 17yrs & under) Westhill Recreation Ground – £377 pa (Senior) and £92 pa (Junior – for clubs 17 yrs & under) Holding a charity event? The pitches can also be hired on a one off basis subject to availability.

Contact Emily on 01761 410669 for further information.

We welcome residents of Westfield to freely use the Recreational Grounds available but please have some consideration for neighbouring residents while using all facilities and make sure all litter and dog mess is removed.

Facilities at Norton Hill Recreation Ground:-

Football pitch – available for hire Tennis court that is a community resource for use by all – the court is always open and operated on a first come, first served basis Boules pitch which, again, is available to all to turn up and play. A weekly club is also held on a Tuesday at 6pm and all are welcome and you don’t need any equipment as it is brought along by the organisers.

Basketball Court - free of charge, always open and operated on a first come, first served basis All-weather concrete table tennis table– free of charge, always open and operated on a first come, first served basis Children’s Play Area including Swings, Climbing Frame, Kidabout Roundabout, Springers, Toddlerzone Climb and Slide, Nest Swing and Low Rotator

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Facilities at Westhill Recreation Ground:-

Football pitch – available for hire Recently tarmacked BMX track Youth Shelter Children’s Play Area including Swings, Slide, Birdsnest swing, Springers, Rotator (small dish roundabout), Climbing wall/fireman’s pole/ladder and slide tower slide, Trapese rope suspended /log trail, Log walk, Wooden timber trail with monkey bars and balance beams, Bridge over mound.

Westfield Sports and Community Centre open each evening for events or just meeting up.

See their website www.westfieldclub.co.uk for more information.

We are happy to report that we have received a grant from Awards for All to upgrade the play area here, and there will be a consultation with local children shortly to get their views on what they would like to see there.

All Beef Pork and Lamb from local farms, prize winning sausages, pies and faggots.

Gold awards for our home cured s Bacon from Pigs reared st a on the Mendips Hog ro le b availa Home produced OR cooked meats. ked Pigs coo to Local deliveries for you Freezer orders serve . taken yourself Westfield Radstock BA3 3XS

Tel 01761 412109

www.gmitchardandsons.co.uk

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Trinitea Lions Charity Golf Competition and Coffee

Golfers throughout the area joined together for the Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club annual charity golf competition, played at the Farrington Golf Club. The proceeds were shared between EVS Freewheelers (Blood Bikes) and Lion President Margaret’s local charities.

Thanks are extended to local businesses for their hole sponsorship and raffle prizes. In a damp and cloudy day, the competition was completed before rain stopped play!

Winners were D. Metcalf & M. Bradbury with a score of 46, runners up were T. James & S. Mitchell with 44, P. Bryant & L. Salter, R. Clarke & D. Brown, P. Thompson & T. Waldron all with 43.

The event was well organised by Lions Geoff Moore and Derek Yelling, ably assisted by Lions Trish Rouse and President Margaret Small. It was a great success despite the damp day.

Thanks are extended to Farrington Golf Club for their hospitality and help in running this competition and to the golfers in the area for their support.

at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield

Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield hold a coffee morning on the first Friday of the month from 10am, serving tea, coffee, homemade cakes, quiches, pies and bacon butties. There are also stalls selling books,and homemade jam, chutney and marmalade.

Every few months they serve a full english breakfast from 9.30am costing just £5.

The church also hold film and supper evenings and will be supporting Macmillans “Big Coffee Morning” Please see the notice board for worship times and banners on the railings for events.

They would be pleased to see you.

Suppliers and Installers of PVCu and Aluminium windows, doors, conservatories, curtain walling and Bi-fold doors.

Unit D, First Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate Radstock BA3 4BS Tel 01761 417654

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

On Thursday 26th November at 6:30pm in front of the local shops at Elm Tree Avenue we will have our annual Christmas Tree lights switch on with bigger and better displays every year, mulled wine, mince pies, carolling – fun for all the family. Also at this event will be the presentation of Grants awarded to local organisations from Westfield Parish Council.

Then on Sunday 29th November there will be an opportunity to purchase the crafts you need for the festive season at the Christmas Craft Fair at Westfield Sports and Community Centre, Westhill Road. If you would like a table at a very reasonable rate please contact Cllr Phil Wilkinson on 01761 431355 or email philipdwilkinson@btinternet.com Admission is free and there will be refreshments available.

19 CHRISTMAS EVENT NOTICE

WESTFIELD CHRISMAS CRAFT & GIFT SALE. SUNDAY 29th NOVEMBER, 2pm-4pm @ WESTFIELD SPORTS & COMMUNITY CENTRE.

DO YOU HAVE CHRISTMAS CRAFT or CHRISTMAS GIFTS TO SELL?

IF SO WHY NOT BOOK A TABLE FOR OUR EVENT (Limited Number of Tables Available) TABLES BOOKABLE AT A COST OF £5 each For more details contact: Phil Wilkinson Tel: 01761 431355 or 07803927626

2016

When you buy your 2016 diary at the Craft Fair you can put these dates in: Annual Parish meeting - Thursday 28th April. This is an opportunity for you to come along and talk about the Parish and what is happening here.

Westfield Annual Fun Day - Sunday June 5th Funfair at Norton Hill – watch this space for a date in May

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Westfield is in sympathy with Clutton and other Parish Councils that are struggling to deal with the amount of dog fouling in public places. The two Trust grounds in Westfield are victim to a small number of irresponsible dog owners who spoil the enjoyment of the grounds where children play, responsible dog owners walk and football league matches take place.

Councillor Pat Williams said “it is irresponsible and unnecessary: dog mess is a real danger to children and adults alike. There is a small minority of irresponsible dog owners who seem unaware of the health risks to children from dog mess and it spoils a recreation ground that is supposed to be for the enjoyment of all.�

Meeting up with BANES Dog Warden, Kim McGarva - who regularly patrols the area - Parish Councillors Eleanor Jackson, Ron Hopkins and

WESTFIELD JOINS THE PLEA TO OWNERS TO CLEAR UP AFTER THEIR DOGS

Pat Williams walked the two recreation grounds, talking to responsible dog owners and marking examples of offences. They discussed new approaches to tackling the problem in the area and new signage to encourage users of the grounds to report offenders immediately when they see it happen.

Responsible dog owners are particularly frustrated at the few who do not clean up after their dogs and the reputation that this gives an otherwise responsible community of residents; so the Parish Council is appealing to any member of the public who sees a stray dog or dog fouling offence to report it to the Dog Warden giving a description and a time.

Any witnesses to dog fouling should report it as soon as possible to BANES Council Connect service by calling 01225 39 40 41 or by emailing councilconnect@bathnes.co.uk

The main reason for dog fouling laws is because dog faeces is unhygienic and a health hazard. Dog fouling is unsightly, unpleasant and can lead to toxocariasis in humans.

Toxocariasis causes serious illness and even blindness. It is caused by a parasite known as Toxocara Canis (also known as Roundworm). Eggs are released in the faeces of infected animals and contaminated soil. If someone ingests infected material, the eggs may hatch into larvae and can lead to toxocariasis.

Symptoms of toxocariasis can include seizures, breathing difficulties, a very red and painful eye, and clouded vision, usually only in one eye. Left untreated, toxocariasis can cause permanent loss of vision in the affected eye.

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Westfield Allotment and Garden Society It has been a funny old spring/summer this year.

With cold nights well into June harvest is running really late.

Two Norton Hill students did odd jobs on the allotment site this spring. Allotmenteer Mike’s grandson, Taylor Parfitt, and his friend Liam Shaw helped out while working on their Duke of Edinburgh award. Thank you Taylor and Liam for all your hard work.

Westfield Parish Council asked us to design and plant the black miner’s tubs, flowerbeds and raised beds in Jubilee Green, the park outside the shops in Westfield. Unfortunately, there is no water source in Jubilee Green so we would like to thank Smiley’s

Grill and the Co-op for the use of their taps and water. Jerry cans are being carried in a vehicle to get water to the miner’s tubs. We really do hope you enjoy all the plants.

Martin, our Chairman, and Heather, one of our allotmenteers, judged the raised beds of students at St. Nicholas Primary School’s Eco Committee recently. Martin and Heather were very impressed with the quality of the entries. The students in Radstock showed great interest and skill.

For those wishing to put their name on the waiting list Margaret Rogers

please contact the Secretary, Margaret Rogers via email at westfieldallotments@hotmail.co.uk

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

Our Services include:Conveyancing Sale and Purchase of Residential Property/Transfer of Equity.

Family Fixed Fee Divorce, Financial Settlement and Access to Children.

Elderly Services Wills, Power of Attorney and Probate.

Crime Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Court, including Motoring Offences.

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

We offer free home visits if you are unable to attend the office and a free initial assessment for all matrimonial and family matters on Friday mornings, please ring to make an appointment.

Crossmans Solicitors 2A Fortescue Road Radstock BA3 3PH 01761 431688 office@crossmans-solicitors.co.uk

www.crossmans-solicitors.com

22

Things to do MONDAY

Jigsaw Come along to our pre school ‘Parent and Toddlers group’ held on Tuesday mornings in our school room at Radstock Baptist Church (10:00 – 11:30 – during school terms). We have lots of fun toys, craft activities and led singing allowing space for parents and carers to chat and gain support. Children’s snacks and drinks are provided as well as tea, coffee and biscuits for the adults.

Prayer Meeting 7:30- 8:30 Radstock Baptist Church, Wells Rd. Our prayer meeting is a place where we can come and share what God is doing in our lives, our hopes, dreams and struggles. We pray for our community and fellowship. If you would like prayer or for the group to pray for a specific need either come along or feel free to contact us.

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

Fosse Way School and City of Bath College Community Learning Service have been running Family Learning sessions at School every Friday 10-12:20. These have been for parents/carers of students at Fosse Way School and have been funded through City of Bath College’s Community Learning Service.This has included knitting, weaving, ceramic, glass painting and sculpture wiring.If you would like to join the group please contact the school office, all welcome and no expertise in art needed.

Golden Oldies Sing and Smile session THIRD FRIDAY of each month From 2:30pm3:30pm St Peter’s Church Hall, Longfellow Road, Westfield, BA3 3YZ

Boules at Norton Hill Recreation Ground 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Each week through the summer there will be a boules competition at Norton Hill Rec. Boules can be provided and the emphasis is on everyone having a lot of fun!

Community Bus @ Westhill Club Car Park 10:00 am – 12:00 pm The Community Bus is a double decker playbus converted for families and children to meet up and play. Sessions for anyone with babies and young children will find lots of activities such as painting, sand, dressing up, books, cars, construction and loads more which changes every week. Contact details for more information: 01761 419557 or communitybus@hotmail.co.uk

Slimming World 9:30am and 11:30am Prattens Social Club, Charlton Lane, Westfield, Slimming World 5:15pm and 7:15pm St Hughs Catholic Church, Wells Hill, Radstock

FRIDAY

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23 Radstock Folk Dance Club. Join us for english and american styled country dances at St Peters Church Hall. Beginners are more than welcome and you do not need a partner. ÂŁ2 per evening inc tea and biscuits. 8pm - 10pm Starting 2nd October. Call 01458 841400 for more details

SATURDAY

Messy Church Art Group @ Radstock Baptist Church 10:30 am – 12:00 pm Not just for kids! Children should be accompanied by an adult. Call to confirm attendance in case of holiday. Frederik: 07811652372

SUNDAY

Engage - Engage is a group for teenagers on the 2nd Sunday of the month from 4pm to 6pm. Games, film clips, discussion and food.

Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield.

Water Babies offer structured swimming classes for babies and toddlers from birth to four years old. Classes are kept small and held in private warm-water pools. We teach classes at Fosse way School on Sunday morning between 8.30am and 12.30pm. For more information and to book a course please contact us on 0117 946 6919 or visit our website www.waterbabies.co.uk.

Do you hold a regular event in Westfield and would like to let the local community know?

Send your details by email to

zoe@ignyte-uk.co.uk or call Zoe on

01761 410141

Interested in advertising?

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24

A GLORIOUS AFTERNOON OF FUN IN WESTFIELD Fun Day organisers are delighted after the 4th annual Fun Day in Westfield proved to be its most successful yet.

The Westhill Recreation ground was full of happy visitors enjoying the beautiful sunshine as well as the many stalls, rides, activities and the show ring entertainment.

Motoring enthusiasts roared around the ring to wow the crowds. Also on display were young masters of taekwondo from the Jamie Woodland Black Belt Academy, the ever

popular dancers from Susan Hill School of Dancing and Stardust majorettes as well as Midsomer Norton Silver Band and the Radstock Devils Scooter Club.

Congratulations to Mo Phippin for winning the Meat Voucher donated by Mitchard’s butchers in Westfield and a huge thank you to all local businesses that donated draw prizes. Also thanks must go to Archers Marquees for providing the marquee, tables and chairs for the day free of charge.

Anyone interested in getting involved in either event can contact Phil Wilkinson on 01761 431355 or email the Parish Council council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk

Chair of the Fun Day Committee, Cllr Phil Wilkinson, said “we are thrilled that the day was such a success once again and we already have bigger and better plans for next year so we need lots of residents to get involved in the planning!”

Next year’s event will take place on Sunday 5th June.

The next major event in the Westfield calendar will be the Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday 29th November this year at Westhill Sports Club.

25

Westfield Sports & Community Centre Westhill Road, Westfield, Radstock BA3 3TE - Telephone 01761 568020 If you live in Westfield, your choice of somewhere to go for a drink is somewhat limited - especially if you don’t want to drive, then Westfield Sports & Community Centre is the place to head to.

Situated in the geographical heart of Westfield, in Westhill Road, we welcome well behaved children too.

Currently, two skittle teams call the club ‘home’ and we still have vacancies for more Paulton & District teams.

If Pool or Darts is your thing then that’s catered for as well.

Regular users of the function suite are a line dancing class on Thursday morning and SWALLOWS organisation are there every Thursday evening.

The self contained function room is also available for private hire (at very attractive rates) for Children’s parties, family parties, christenings or meetings.

Additionally, the club can be booked for funeral wakes at any time of day.

To find out more, give us a call on 01761 568020 Opening hours can vary, according to season

All change for St Peters Playgroup On Monday 7th September, the former St Peter’s Playgroup will be moving into new premises and changing their name to Teddy Bear Nursery.

The new nursery will be based at the new Mardons development, Mardons House and will offer a bright new space for the children.

Jenny Huyton, Manager, said “We had the opportunity to move into this purpose built building and obviously couldn’t refuse after being in a church hall at St Peter’s Church for over 40 years” The nursery will be open school hours, 5 days a week with drop off between 8 - 8 30 am and pick up between 3 – 3.30 pm. They take children from age 2 years and accept 2 year funding. Telephone 07759859025 for more information and to enrol your child.

26 Westfield Ladies Choir are a group of people who love to sing and try to entertain and share our enjoyment with others. As well as performing, we enjoy quite a variety of social occasions throughout the year including an annual dinner, a New Year party and a range of visits and celebrations.

One of the aims of the choir is to support local charities and organisations. We recently held a Celebration of 70 Years of Singing Concert at which we raised over £1,200 for The Radstock Carers Centre and the Dorset and Somerset

Air Ambulance. We have a wide and varied repertoire and are happy to sing in large or small venues. Please contact Lesley Schofield, the choir’s Chairman, on 01761 419540, if you think we may be able to help you or your organisation or you would enjoy hearing us perform.

Any ladies who are interested in singing will be very welcome to join Westfield Ladies Choir.

No auditions are required and we rehearses every Wednesday evening at St Peter’s Church Hall, Westfield from 7.15pm to 9.00pm. Please contact Lesley Schofield for more information.

Westfield Ladies Choir celebrates 70 years of singing

27

Mardons Social Club have a brand new home

Mardons Social Club have now officially opened their brand-new building, now found on the Nightingale Estate, opposite Norton Hill School, follow Nightingale Way until the new part of the development. On the lefthand side, there is a green public area and beyond that is the Social Club. The club car park is accessed via Mardons Close.

Although essentially a members’ club, visitors are encouraged. Membership currently stands at £5 per year, which is easily recovered as members receive considerable discounts on bar prices.

The purpose-built Club has been fully furnished and fitted out by the committee at considerable expense and features lounge-style seating, new tables and chairs and a much-improved, dual-sided bar. There is a quiet outside area at the rear of the building, with picnic tables and bench seating, with a barbecue for occasional use.

The club’s new, dedicated pool room means the table no longer needs to be moved around and can be maintained in great condition. With multiple TVs and a brand-new HD projector and big screen, the club will once again be a leading venue for showing major sporting events. With the skittles season starting soon and six skittle teams playing home games at Mardons, plus a darts team in the league and potential for more, the club looks set be a hive of activity in the future.

Entertainment at Mardons has always been of the highest standard and that will remain the case in the new building. Some of the area’s leading bands perform at the club, many of whom don’t generally play public venues. Variety and a constant stream of new bands asking for bookings keep things fresh and interesting for visitors and staff.

Although it’s a fresh start for the club, the committee is determined to maintain their policy of zero tolerance towards such things as drugs and drunken/anti-social behaviour etc. and are proud to be part of the local ‘Pub Watch’ scheme. Having operated successfully as a family club for well over thirty years, the club will remain a safe, trouble-free environment.

Children are welcome as long as they are with an adult and supervised at all times – parents are reminded that children are not permitted on the dance floor when bands are performing, unless accompanied.

For further information and the latest updates, visit: www. mardonsclub.co.uk and ‘like’ the Facebook page, which is found at: www.facebook.com/mardonsclub

28

Do you know your Boundaries?

Think you live in Radstock, when you’re actually in Westfield?

Always presumed the house opposite you was in the same parish?

Where does Westfield end and Midsomer Norton begin?

Westfield was formerly part of the parish of Norton Radstock, along with Radstock and Midsomer Norton until May 2011, when it became a parish in its own right.

The boundaries were then created as shown on the map.

Westfield reaches into Radstock, taking in part of St Nicholas Church graveyard and also the Radstock Co-operative store, reaching along Somervale Road and the Greenway to Norton Hill.

Charlton Lane is dissected, with one side in the parish of Westfield and the other in Kilmersdon.

Most of Charlton Road is in Midsomer Norton, with just Pratten Terrace being in Westfield.

Confusing? Well, we hope this map will help you get in contact with the correct parish/town council.

Community Directory LIBRARIES

Radstock Library

The Street, Radstock Tel: 01225 394041

Midsomer Norton Library

119 High Street, Midsomer Norton Tel: 01225 394041

DOCTORS

Westfield Surgery

Waterford Park, Westfield. Tel: 436333

EDUCATION

Westfield Primary School

29

Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths

The Hollies, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP Opening Hours: Wednesday 9am – 4pm, Thursday 9am – 12:30pm, Friday 9am – 4pm.

Appointments Tel: 01225 477234

SWAN Advice Network Housing

Tel: 01761 432445

Welfare Benefits

Tel: 01761 437176

Volunteer Transport

Tel: 01761 439548

Neighbourhood Watch

Longfellow Rd, Westfield BA3 3XX Tel: 01761 413662

Contact Bath and North East Somerset Council Administrator Tel: 01225 842480

Longfellow Rd, Westfield BA3 3AL Tel: 01761 412198

HALLS/ROOMS FOR HIRE

Fosse Way School

St Benedicts School

Charlton La, Radstock BA3 4BD Tel: 01761 418594

Bath College, Somer Valley Campus South Hill Park, Wells Road, Westfield, BA3 3RW. Tel: 01761 433161

POLICE

Radstock Police Station

Wells Road, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 3SG

Trinity Methodist Church

Radstock Tel: 01761 431417

Trinity Methodist Church

Westfield Tel: 01761 432478

Radstock Baptist Church

Tel: 01761 433761

Radstock Scout Hall Wells Road, BA3 3RP

(available for daytime or school holiday hiring only)

POST OFFICES

Booking Secretary: John Mander Tel: 01761 412007 the.manders@btinternet.com

within Radco, 3 Wells Hill, Radstock Tel: 01761 432142 Sorting Office – 0845 6113014

Westhill Road, Westfield, BA3 3TE Tel: 01761 432 437

122b High Street, Midsomer Norton Tel: 01761 413211

La, Radstock, BA3 4BD Tel: 01761 418596

Radstock Post Office

Midsomer Norton Post Office

Westfield Sports and Community Centre Prattens Sports and Social Club. Charlton Mardons Social Club

Nightingale Way, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 4NL Tel: 01761 412137

30

The

Parish Clerk

The Parish Clerk is often someone who works behind the scenes, with little public contact - except when there are overgrown footpaths to be cleared or traffic and car parking problems to contend with! So it came as a welcome surprise to be asked to write a column for the Westfield Warbler, and be given this chance to let you know what is going on in the Parish Council office. It is always a friendly place to work and a hive of activity.

For the Parish Council to work effectively in the community we in the office need to have solid financial and ethical frameworks in place, which are completely transparent and open. This was a priority when the Parish Council was established in 2011. The fruit of this groundwork has been seen in the smooth running of our audits. We are audited twice each year to ensure our accounting of public money is correct and to check for fraudulence.

If the Auditor has a query, then the Parish Council is charged for the time it takes them to investigate. So a good audit saves time and money.

We are also part of the Local Council Award Scheme, which demonstrates that we work

to nationally agreed standards, and we are the “Locally Trusted Organisation” for the Big Local in Radstock and Westfield. This means that we hold their funds, make their payments and record their income and expenditure. The fee (5% of their grant) is to be fed back into the Westfield community. So that is the internal side of the Parish Council, which, important as it is, is perhaps not as exciting as what goes on externally!

Looking at just one aspect of what we are doing in the community, we were fortunate to be awarded a grant from Awards for All this summer, to spend on some new play equipment at Westhill play area. Initial consultation with local residents highlighted the need for more interesting play equipment and a re-surface of the bmx track. The track was revamped a couple of months ago. We will now be consulting the young people and children on exactly what they would like at the play area and are hoping for lots of fun and inspiring ideas.

Lesley Welch Parish Clerk

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Your Parish Council

31

Cllr Andrew Butcher 07814 530 723 abwpc10@gmail.com

Cllr Diana Cooper 01761 415155 dianacooper18@btinternet.com

Cllr Kevin Docherty 07826 170147 kevindocherty1966@googlemail.com

Cllr Ron Hopkins 01761 435852 sueron1@sky.com

Cllr Geoff Fuller 01761 439198 / 07540 998603 geoffrey.fuller@outlook.com

Cllr Eleanor Jackson 01761 438968 eleanor_jackson@bathnes.gov.uk

Cllr Robin Moss Chair 01761 432224 / 07543 626184 Robin_moss_@hotmail.com

Cllr Angie Seaman-Moss 01761 432224 cllrangie@hotmail.com

Cllr Bryan Wallbridge Vice Chair 07974 939776 westfield.wallbridge@gmail.com

The Oval Office Cobblers Way St Peters Business Park Westfield BA3 3BX Telephone: 01761 410669 Email: council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk @westfield_pc Cllr Phil Wilkinson 01761 431355 / 07803 927626 philipdwilkinson@btinternet.com

Cllr Pat Williams 01761 432630 patwilliams21@talktalk.net

The Parish Council is open from Monday to Thursday. Due to the small number of part time staff it is advisable to telephone before visiting.

The Parish Council is accessible for the public, with a lift to the first floor office.

32

Use your dividend MONO whee card at any of Radst co-op these stores ...

Proudly serving the Westfield Community

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Instore departments including: • Post Office • Café 1868 • Travel • Electrical • Bon Marché

• Just Elegance • Roman • Wood’s Gifts • Brantano Footwear • Rectella

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• Childrens Clothing • Homeware • Camille lingerie • In store bakery • Extensive Food Hall

ACCESS

Radco Superstore: Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3RQ 01761 432142 www.radstockcoop.co.uk

Convenience stores are located at: Fosseway Westfield 32 Fosseway, Westfield, Midsomer Norton BA3 4AX. • Wines, beers & Spirits • Fresh Produce • General Grocery • Chilled / Frozen Food • News & Magazines • Card & Stationary • In store bakery • Costa Coffee Express • Food to Go Tel: 01761 412888

1 Elm Tree Avenue, Westfield, Radstock BA3 3SX. • Wines, beers & Spirits • Fresh Produce • General Grocery • Chilled / Frozen Food • News & Magazines • Card & Stationary

Tel: 01761 434291

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