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Tuesday, 29th October 2019
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Tributes paid to 15-yearold Beechen Cliff pupil Max McMullen P3
Duchess of Cornwall officially opens new RNHRD facilities
HRH also joins celebrations for 20th anniversary of the Forever Friends Appeal STAFF, patients and guests have celebrated the official opening by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall, of the new RNHRD and Brownsword Therapies Centre at the Royal United Hospital in Bath. The Duchess, President of the Royal Osteoporosis Society and Patron of Versus Arthritis, was given a guided tour of the new £20m purpose-built building during her visit on
Tuesday 22nd October, and shown some of its facilities, including the hydrotherapy pool, specialist treatment areas and physiotherapy gyms. James Scott, Chief Executive of the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We were delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness here again. “She has a long association with the Trust as well as being a former patron of the Royal National
Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases. “The Duchess is a great supporter of our work and we were very proud to show her the wonderful new facilities we have created here.” The Duchess was accompanied on her visit by Trust Chair Alison Ryan. She was introduced to local entrepreneurs Andrew and Christina Brownsword, whose £1m Match Funding Challenge has enabled the hospital charity,
The Forever Friends Appeal, to raise £2m towards the overall cost of the new Centre, with every donation doubled by the Brownsword scheme. The RNHRD and Brownsword Therapies Centre brings together therapies and pain services located at the RUH with many of the services previously located at the RNHRD’s Mineral Water Hospital, known locally as the ‘Min.’ Continued on page 2
Latest design revisions for proposed Stadium for Bath revealed P4 & 5 Bath Studio School told to improve months before planned closure P10 Entries open for the Bath Echo Christmas short story competition P7 Win a family ticket to the Christmas at Stourhead opening night P9 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk
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9% drop in burglaries across Avon & Somerset
In this issue... Top stories Education
P2-9 P10
Health P12 What's On
P14
Community
P16
Business P18 Politics
P20
Puzzles P22 In Other News
P23
Sport
P24
Useful Information The Bath Echo newspaper is produced fortnightly. Thousands of copies are distributed across the Bath area via our dedicated distribution points and at various cafes, venues, waiting rooms and local libraries.
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NEARLY twice as many burglars are being brought to justice by Avon and Somerset Police thanks to the introduction of Operation Remedy, a six-month review has revealed. The operation is a coordinated effort across Avon and Somerset to improve force performance in relation to residential burglary, knife crime and the illegal supply of controlled drugs. In the six months since launching, officers have made around four arrests per day, relating to approximately 1100 offences and 67 warrants. Positive outcomes for burglary offences have increased from 4.3% in April 2019 to 7.7%. There are 661 fewer burglaries across Avon and Somerset, 9% less than the previous year. This reduction is attributed to an increase in arrests and more engagement with the public, who are better prepared to secure their homes. Since the start of Operation Remedy, officers have also seized an estimated £1.3 million worth of illegal drugs. There has been a 7% increase in the number of drug-related arrests compared to the previous six months from October 2018 to March 2019. The increase in arrests can be attributed to intensified operational activity including monthly enforcement and warrant days to tackle drug supplies and a higher number of high visibility patrols in problem areas. Targeted communication campaigns have raised awareness
of the signs of drug-related activity, helped identify vulnerable people and increased reports of suspicious activity. There has been a 45% increase in the number of knife possession offences recorded in Avon and Somerset over the past two years, with 204 individual offences recorded between April and August this year. The high volume of arrests during the 2019 period is a result of the additional resources that have been made available as part of Operation Remedy which has also resulted in a number of knives and weapons seized. Activity to combat knife crime includes 570 intelligence-led stop and searches, multiple knife sweeps and temporary knife arches at train stations including Bath Spa, Taunton and Bristol Temple Meads. Avon and Somerset Police has been working with partners to ensure early intervention, diversion and support is provided to young people most at risk of being involved in serious violence. Assistant Chief Constable, Steve Cullen, commented: “We are now six months into Operation Remedy and I am delighted to see some tangible results, particularly the sustained reduction in the
Bus lane fines issued every 18 minutes Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
A CAR was caught wrongly driving in a Bath bus lane every 18 minutes last year. Seven cameras across the city snapped motorists 28,614 times, and more than half of them were caught out on Pulteney Bridge. Bus lane fines netted Bath and North East Somerset Council £831,600 last year, although appeals and late payments mean those figures do not tally up. The income is up from 2017/18, when 22,427 fixed penalty notices were issued and £616,000 was added to the council’s coffers. The fines were handed out to cars entering bus lanes in High Street, New Bond Street, Northgate Street, Pulteney Bridge, Wells Road, Wellsway and London Road. Drivers who get caught out are encouraged to choose the early payment option of £30. Those who fail to pay in time may have to fork out £60. Some 2,572 drivers challenged their penalty in 2018/19 and 1,350 were successful.
Many more motorists will have to put their hand in their pocket when the clean air zone is introduced at the end of next year. Non-compliant taxis and vans will have to pay £9 per day to enter; the charge for the worst polluting lorries, buses and coaches will be £100. Private cars will not be charged. Councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for transport services, said: “Motorists who feel they have been wrongly issued with a fine are able to appeal to the independent adjudicator. "All our bus lane signage and restrictions comply with the regulations prescribed by central government. “Any money the council receives as a result of bus lane contraventions can be used for bus lane funding, providing passenger transport services and for highway improvement projects.” How the fines break down: • Pulteney Bridge – 14,489 • New Bond Street – 5,539 • High Street – 3,876 • Northgate Street – 1,989 • London Road – 1,407 • Wells Road – 1,124 • Wellsway – 190
number of burglary offences. “We are committed to tackling the crimes that matter most to local people and prosecuting those responsible. “Operation Remedy is a truly coordinated effort involving officers and staff from specialisms across the entire force including response, neighbourhood, investigations and intelligence. “Of course, there is more to be done but I am excited by the progress made so far and hope our efforts reassure the public of our commitment in cracking down on these important issues.” Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Sue Mountstevens, added: “I know local people will be pleased with the Operation Remedy outcomes achieved over the last six months and I am especially delighted with the in-
creased number of positive outcomes for burglary offences. “It is important that, as well as drugs and knife crime, we address the disruptive crime that is burglary. "Many burglary victims have shared with me how upsetting this crime is and it can mean that they live in fear in the place they should feel safest – their own home. “Increasing the policing part of the council tax in April was a big ask and I hope local people are starting to see and feel the difference that the additional officers have made. “There is still plenty more to be done and I know the constabulary will remain focused on tackling the issues that matter most to local people and bringing offenders to justice.”
Royal opening at RUH
HRH The Duchess of Cornwall during the visit | Photos © Paul Gillis / RUH
Continued from page 1 Uniting staff and services together on one site has been many years in the planning, and the RUH has worked closely with patients and staff to design the best new home for services relocating from the Min. The Duchess also attended a reception to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Forever Friends Appeal and its raising of over £25m for patient services at the RUH. She met with donors and volunteers and unveiled plaques to mark the event and officially
open the new centre. During the reception, The Duchess said: “As a past patron of the Min it’s lovely to be able to come here and see what has been done for the new Centre. “I’m incredibly impressed by everything – the hydrotherapy pool looked extremely tempting! There seem to be a lot of very happy patients and it has a very welcoming atmosphere. “I know that all of you here do so much to raise money for this hospital…so thank you for contributing to this wonderful new building.”
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15-year-old Beechen Cliff student dies in “tragic incident" during foreign exchange trip A 15-YEAR-OLD pupil at Beechen Cliff school in Bath has died following a “tragic incident” while taking part in a school exchange trip in the Spanish city of Córdoba. The teenager is believed to have fallen from a window in a block of apartments in Córdoba during the evening of Saturday 19th October. The Year 11 pupil was taking part in a joint Beechen Cliff and Hayesfield exchange trip. In a letter jointly sent to parents by the headmaster of Beechen Cliff Andrew Davies and headteacher of Hayesfield Emma Yates on Sunday 20th October, it confirmed the sudden death of the teenager and said their “thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends within both of our school communities.” Specialist bereavement counsellors were made available to those who want to see them, and will be “available for a long as they are required”. Assemblies were also provided for the schoolchildren, highlighting the support available to them. In a second letter, Mr Davies said: “The School is receiving support from a range of agencies and in particular from colleagues from within the MNSP MAT.
“The Local Authority are also involved as you would expect along with other government agencies.” He also thanked parents for the messages and support that have been received, adding “our thoughts of course, are with the family and friends of our pupil.” The school said that it was “liaising with the local authority and police, and have no further information about the tragic accident at this time”. A parent of a pupil also in Year 11 approached the Bath Echo to praise the way Beechen Cliff was handling the incident and the support that has been offered to the school community. Local police in Córdoba say they are treating the death as an accident. A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesperson said they were supporting the family of the teenager. In a statement on their website, Bath Rugby confirmed that the 15-year-old had been a Bath Rugby Academy player in recent seasons and “truly loved our game". Paying tribute, the club said: “Max was a popular and hugely promising member of our U16
tering holiday apartment, managed by historic buildings charity the Landmark Trust. The Tower’s prominent position on an exposed escarpment outside Bath makes it particularly vulnerable to increasingly extreme weather conditions. Despite regular maintenance, the weather and the timber construction of the Tower lantern together with the fragile metal window frames have resulted in some water penetration and associated risk to the building. It is, therefore, a matter of urgency to raise the funds to restore and repair the lantern and windows. While this is the most urgent conservation work, the Tower Trust’s Lottery bid also contains a plan to engage with local communities and to reconnect the Tower and Museum site with its surrounding built and landscape heritage. The proposals would open up new public spaces and improve access include William Beckford’s former garden, now Lansdown Cemetery, and paddocks within the listed landscape, which will allow public access to the currently inaccessible Grotto Tunnel.
Appeal for witnesses after woman injured Police have launched an appeal for witnesses following a serious collision in which an elderly pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries. The victim, an elderly woman, was injured when she was struck by a car near to the church of St Peter and St Paul in Kilmersdon, at around 12.30pm on Sunday 20th October. A 55-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident and police enquiries are ongoing. If you saw the collision, or have any information which could help, call the Collision Investigation Unit on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5219242914.
15-year-old Max McMullen | Photos via Instagram
squad and the news of his death has left all of us with a deep sense of loss and sorrow. “Our love and thoughts are now with Max’s family, friends and teammates at this incredibly difficult time. “Max joined us in the Academy as an U15 for the 2018/19 season, having spent time in our Developing Player Programme here in the City in the previous year after having played his junior rugby at Walcot Rugby Club, just three miles up the road from our home here at the Rec. “Max was a passionate and committed player. His love for the game is something that many will remember him for, rugby was his
life and the dream of running out here at the Rec and representing Bath Rugby ... was an ambition that he had begun to work hard for in his time as a Bath Rugby player. “Max was not only a player in our pathway, he was not only a member of the Bath Rugby Academy, Max was part of our Club and he will always be a part of our Club." “We will remember Max in our future and forever in the hearts of everyone who knew him, both here at Bath Rugby, and in our community here in the City of Bath." A minute of applause was held at the match against Exeter Chiefs on Friday 25th October, to celebrate Max's life.
Beckford’s Tower added to latest Heritage at Risk Register BECKFORD’S Tower in Bath has been put on the Historic England at-risk register, with a fundraising appeal launched to support its repair and future development. The Beckford Tower Trust and its sole trustee, Bath Preservation Trust, have prepared a £3m programme of works to and activities around the Grade 1-listed Beckford’s Tower and are currently awaiting the result of a bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF). The 120-foot neo-classical Tower was originally a retreat for the wealthy and eccentric writer and collector William Beckford (17601844) when he retired to Bath following exile abroad and the sale of his former home, Fonthill Abbey. The work of Henry Edmund Goodridge, it is regarded as one of the most important architectural designs of the 1820s and is an integral part of Bath’s historic landscape. Together with the museum housed in the rooms at its base, it is an important educational and community focus. The Tower also contains a self-ca-
News in Brief
A new presentation of the Museum display rooms, backed by a significant Photo © ColinPeachey / Shutterstock.com research programme, will tion Trust. extend the understanding of Wil“We are keen to be able to do a liam Beckford, his life and times thorough job in repairing the and address its resonances in the Tower in a way which will really present day. endure, which will involve full John Ette of Historic England scaffolding and specialist craftsaid: “Heritage at Risk architects speople, but this is beyond the and landscape architects vis- Tower Trust’s means without exited to look at the condition of ternal help. the Tower in more detail in 2018 “We know that many people are and 2019 and we will continue to interested in the Tower either for advise and support the Beckford the importance and beauty of its Tower Trust. architecture or for the stories, “The successful delivery of the many of them with resonances Trust’s planned programme will today, about the life of William lead to the building being re- Beckford, and ideally, with the moved from the Heritage at Risk Lottery’s help, we will be able to Register as well as helping re- expand the scope of the project to store key features of the pleasure include the involvement of many grounds; providing a sustainable new audiences. future for the site under the con- “Whatever happens with the Lotservation management of the tery, however, we must get on Trust.” with the conservation needs and “The Tower is a precious Grade to raise as much as possible to 1-listed monument which can be support this programme. seen from across the city of Bath “We would love to hear from anyand for miles beyond,” said Car- one who would like to help us or oline Kay, CEO of Bath Preserva- be kept informed of progress.’
Free lymphoma support workshop at BRLSI On Friday 8th November, Lymphoma Action are holding a one day Live your Life workshop at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute in Bath. They are the only charity in the UK dedicated to supporting people affected by lymphoma, the fifth most common cancer in the UK. The 'Live your Life' workshops have been developed to support people who may have come to the end of their treatment for lymphoma, or those who are being monitored by their healthcare team as their lymphoma doesn’t need treatment straight away. They are led by someone with a personal experience of lymphoma, and aim to provide support in managing the emotional aspects of lymphoma, as well as treatment side effects. They also provide useful information around staying active, nutrition and practical tips to support the general wellbeing of those living with and beyond lymphoma, and they give people the chance to talk to others and to share their experiences. The event is free to attend, and lunch is provided. Places are limited so booking is essential. To find out more, or to book a place, visit https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/events/ live-your-life-workshop-bath-0
Man remanded following Bath burglary 45-year-old Paul Matthews, of Ashley Terrace in Lower Weston, Bath, has been remanded in custody after appearing at Bristol Magistrates Court on Tuesday 22nd October, charged with burglary. Matthews was arrested on Sunday 20th October in connection with an incident earlier that day in which a number of items including a TV, wallet and bank cards were stolen from a property at Windsor Villas on the Upper Bristol Road in Bath. His next court apprearance is scheduled for 27th November.
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News in Brief Interfaith Week 2019 A special event is being held in Bath on Tuesday 12th November to celebrate National Interfaith Week. Hosted by the Bath Interfaith Group, which next year celebrates its 30th anniversary, the event will explore the diversity of the Hindu tradition. Jane O’Hara, Secretary of Bath Interfaith Group, said: “As part of the Diwali season, we wanted to do something that not only celebrated the occasion, but would give people living locally the opportunity to find out more about the richness and depth of Hinduism.” Five speakers from a range of Hindu traditions have been invited to take part in a panel discussion, followed by a Q&A session. The speakers are: • Ashish Rajhansa (Bath Hindu CIC) • Charlotta Chandrika Martinus (Universal Yoga) • Owen Hanner (Mohanji Foundation) • Nathan Hartley (ISKCON) • Cllr Yukteshwar Kumar (B&NES Council) The first National Interfaith Week was held in 2009, after a report from the (then) Department for Communities and Local Government, suggested that more needed to be done to bring about cohesion and unity amongst diverse communities. Over the last decade, communities across the country have been hosting and coordinating events that celebrate diversity, and encourage people from various religious backgrounds, and none, to come together to learn from one another. “Our interfaith event in Bath is a chance for us to learn, understand and celebrate diversity together with others,” added Jane. ‘The Many Colours of Hinduism: A Panel Discussion’ will take place on Tuesday 12th November, 7.30pm at The Weston Hub, Penn Hill Road, Bath, BA1 4EH.
Final revisions to Stadium for Bath plans revealed following public feedback
How the new stadium could look from Grand Parade | Photo: Stadium for Bath
THE final revisions to the design of the proposed Stadium for Bath development, along the riverside between Pulteney Bridge and North Parade, have been revealed. The latest designs for the planned community and sporting stadium at the Rec follow extensive consultation with residents and representatives across Bath. A planning submission for the project is expected to be made early in the New Year. Key changes in the latest proposals for the controversial stadium include a 5.1 metre height reduction, the retaining of mature trees along the riverside and a hybrid playing surface available for use all year round. Throughout the process, the team behind Stadium for Bath have sought feedback from a broad range of stakeholders, including residents close to the Rec. They have also consulted extensively with B&NES officers, Historic England and the Environ-
ment Agency along with other statutory stakeholders, and Bath Preservation Trust. If given permission, the new 18,000 capacity stadium will not only retain Premiership rugby in the city centre but it’s also expected to create hundreds of new jobs in construction, operations and hospitality and offer a multi-million-pound boost to Bath’s economy every year through visitor spending. Tarquin McDonald, Bath Rugby Chief Executive said: “For 125 years we have played our rugby at the Rec. This project is about the next 125 years and beyond. “Keeping sport in the heart of the city is the catalyst for this project, but we are also incredibly proud of the opportunity to regenerate the riverside creating an amazing place for everyone to enjoy; of the significant social legacy we will build through the delivery of education and employment programmes being run on the site every day of the year and of the
opportunity to promote grassroots community sport. “We are passionate about the potential to support electric vehicle take-up in Bath; and of the significant boost Stadium for Bath will bring to our local economy. “We have taken time to revisit and challenge every aspect of the design philosophy and to review how best to draw on Bath’s amazing architectural heritage – in particular its World Heritage Outstanding Universal Values – and we look forward to submitting a planning application which we hope will be early in the new year.” Focussing on sustainability and transport, Stadium for Bath say their proposals for the concealed under-pitch car park will not increase the number of parking spaces in the city, but maintain parking provision at current levels accounting for reductions at other sites such as Avon Street, with the benefit of reduced crosscity traffic from spaces located
nearer to the eastern approaches. The car park will include infrastructure to promote the opportunity for growth in electric car ownership for Bath residents by more than doubling the daytime city centre electric vehicle charging provision. In addition, charge points will also be made available overnight for local residents such as those living in flats currently using onstreet parking. Stadium for Bath say they are also committed to providing extensive accessible spaces and provision for bicycles including shower and changing facilities for a dedicated cycling commuter club that will be launched when the stadium opens. Stadium for Bath is expected to submit its Planning Application to Bath & North East Somerset Council early in the New Year. Once submitted, members of the public will be able to comment directly to the Council on the application.
Bath Abbey's Footprint project receives £50k charity boost BATH Abbey has been awarded £50,000 from Allchurches Trust, one of the UK’s largest grant-giving charities, for its innovative Footprint project. The grant will help towards two elements of the Abbey’s project; renovating the old Abbey offices in Kingston Buildings and installing an eco-heating system that will use the energy from Bath’s famous hot springs. Underpinning Bath Abbey and the new spaces created by Footprint is the innovative heating, hot water and renewable energy equipment, which will ensure the Abbey is supported by efficient and environmentally sustainable systems. Using cutting-edge technology to harness sustainable energy from Bath’s hot springs, the new heat extraction system will contribute
approximately 480,000 kWhs of energy, which represents a carbon saving of nearly 60%. The former Abbey offices in Kingston Buildings will be fully renovated and include a new Song School for the Abbey Choirs, local music groups and other musicians, and a dedicated room for volunteers, all of which will now be fully accessible thanks to new lifts and disabled toilets as part of the funding from Allchurches Trust. Allchurches Trust also provided funding towards the Footprint project in 2016 with a £50,000 grant. The purpose of Allchurches Trust is to fund projects which support the repair and restoration of churches and cathedrals as well as enabling people and communities to thrive.
The Revd Canon Guy Bridgewater, Rector of Bath Abbey, said: “We are extremely grateful to Allchurches Trust for their generous £50,000 grant. “By funding this part of our Footprint project, Allchurches Trust is enabling a dynamic hub for the Abbey’s ministry at the heart of our city, which will benefit locals and visitors for many generations to come. “The spiritual, social and environmental transformation made possible by Footprint’s Kingston Buildings development and the
new heating, hot water and energy systems will offer great benefit, through both inspiring, newly accessible spaces and through impactful environmental stewardship.” Allchurches Trust Grants Officer, Paul Playford, said: “Bath Abbey
is one of the UK’s most iconic and important historic buildings, attracting more than 400,000 visitors a year, but it is also hugely important to local people, serving a city of 85,000 people. “Our funding for the innovative Footprint project will enable the Abbey to reach out and support its community even more effectively, and we’re particularly delighted that our most recent grant will be invested in providing a new Song School and in reducing the Abbey’s carbon footprint thanks to energy from Bath’s natural hot springs.” The Footprint project is a £19.3 million programme of restoration, building works and interpretation that will secure the Abbey’s physical future and improve its hospitality, worship and service to the city.
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Number of questions still unanswered on stadium plans Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
DETAILS of changes to plans for a new Bath Rugby stadium at the Rec have emerged, but a number of questions remain unanswered. So what do we know? And what questions remain? The club has been at the Rec since 1865. In 2013 it revealed its ambitions to redevelop the stadium to provide “a world class arena that meets Premiership rugby requirements, sustains the club at its historic home ground and improves facilities for a wide range of uses”. The proposals then were for a stadium with capacity for up to 18,000 people but no smaller than 15,000, with offices, changing rooms and a ticket office. Shops and eateries were also mooted. What has happened since 2013? Legal action caused a long delay after questions were raised about who owns the Rec, the wider piece of land where the stadium sits. That ended with the establishment of a trust to manage the site, but the ownership is still being disputed. Stadium for Bath – made up of Bath Rugby, Bath Rugby Foundation and Arena1865 – said on its website: “We consulted on a design for a brand new facility at the Rec almost four years ago. “Whilst these proposals presented an exciting opportunity for redevelopment at the Rec, we feel that, given the passage of time, it is only right that we should look again at the design for this unique location. “This fresh start also provides us with a fantastic opportunity to revisit the potential for realising the wider benefits redevelopment may bring including the regeneration of the riverside; the creation of a vibrant hub serving professional sport, amateur sport and the wider community; and the realisation of a design solution which not only befits an iconic location, but also complements the renowned architecture of the City of Bath.” The Rec sits in the heart of the World Heritage Site, so will inevitably have a massive presence, but Stadium for Bath says it will not threaten the status. The scale of the stadium is a major concern for residents, as is the proposed car parking and how it would be accessed. Car parking Concept drawings revealed in 2018 suggested there could be as many as 800 parking spaces built under a part or fully synthetic playing surface. Proposals at a consultation event last year included a car park for up to 700 vehicles. That has now been cut to 550 spaces, which will be available on a short-stay basis. Stadium for Bath claims the overall number of parking spaces in the city will not increase, because others are being lost elsewhere in the city.
The Bath and North East Somerset Council-owned 693-space multi-storey car park in Avon Street is being redeveloped as part of the authority’s flagship Bath Quays North project to creating housing and office space. The scheme will only leave 320 parking bays for public use. It is not clear where in the city the other 230 spaces are being lost or what the proposals mean for the existing spaces near the stadium. The car park at the Rec is likely to be open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, although it will be closed to the public on match Past plans for the stadium from the December 2018 consultation | Image: Stadium for Bath days. Stadium for Bath deThe size of the stadium the formal planning application nied that cars driving to the ven- After concerns from residents submission and will be subject to ue would increase congestion, and various stakeholders, Stadi- scrutiny at that stage. saying: “The car park at the Rec um for Bath this week said it had “The environmental statement would not increase the amount would reduce the overall height will include information that may of vehicles coming into the city. of the new stadium by 5.1 metres. reasonably be required to enable “The provision of parking at the The problem is, it is not clear how the local planning authority to Rec would serve vehicles com- how tall it was going to be before come to a reasoned conclusion on the significant effects of the ing from the north and east and that reduction. as a result reduce cross-city traf- Plans shared in December 2018 proposed development on the fic and congestion throughout said the highest points of the environment. Bath’s historic core.” new west, south and east stands “The council can of course ask for The pitch is being raised by 3.9 would be 19.8 metres above cur- further information post submismetres but Stadium for Bath says rent pitch level – about 9.5 metres sion if required.” that is not simply so it can build a higher than the top of the existing Mr Turley said the building footprint would likely be in the region car park underneath. west stand. Bath Rugby chief executive Tar- That was reduced by four metres of 17,500 sqm but added: “We are quin McDonald said in a video on from the “emerging concepts” re- not in a position to confirm the maximum height at this stage, and nonetheless do not consider you need it to satisfy the regulations.” What else is proposed at the stadium? Previous proposals have promised an “enhanced city offer”, including conferencing, events, a market hall showcasing local producers, and a 250-cover restaurant with riverside terrace. The Stadium for Bath website now says there will be space available for independent food and drink providers to showcase their products on non-matchdays, but it is “not creating a retail or market hall”. There will also be a tea-room and How matchday at the new stadium could look, from the Dec 2018 consultation bar overlooking the city. The website says: “We are creatthe Stadium for Bath website that leased earlier last year. ing a civic space, with representraising the pitch is a fundamental Bath and North East Somerset atives of the community involved part of the design and necessary Council officers were among in defining how it should be used, for flood prevention. those asking it to clarify the and a space which helps support It says the Rec is at risk of flooding height of the new stadium when the social purpose objectives for that could leave the grounds out it considered the proposals the site.” of action for months each year, ahead of the plans being formally Responding to comments from with a financial impact each time. submitted. the council last month, Mr BurRaising the pitch is in line with In response, Tim Burden from den said the commercial floguidance from the Environment consultants Turley said the envi- orspace within the west stand Agency, Public Health England ronmental statement in the plan- would amount to approximately and Sport England. ning application will “obviously 1,750 sqm in total, comprising The short-stay car park provides clarify the exact dimensions and of a new Bath Rugby shop, fixed the necessary income to balance operational nature of the pro- concessions, retail pop ups and the initial investment with the fu- posed development in detail”. seating areas, restaurants and ture income streams, Stadium for He said: “We are not required to lounges. Bath says. present the full technical reports, He said there will also be a lounge Meanwhile, the pitch is now set fully drafted chapters, nor the as- for hospitality purposes on match to be a hybrid surface – a mix of sessment at this stage. They will days and flexible conference, real and synthetic grass. appropriately follow as part of meeting or banqueting purposes
on some non-match days. Events areas at ground floor level will be used on occasion as community, charity and rugby club exhibition spaces on non-match days. The pitch will be open for community uses throughout the week, likely to be around 30 hours per week. Start date The screening opinion it submitted to the council said work would begin in May 2020 and would be completed by the summer of 2022. The applicants now sound less certain and the website says the dates are “fully dependent on the planning process”. They face something of a deadline – stands on the north, west and east sides are temporary and the planning permission is set to expire in May 2020. The council said they were unacceptable as a permanent solution but they were allowed to remain “to allow for the site to continue to be used as Premiership rugby venue whilst proposals for a permanent solution for the site came forward”. What has the council said? An officer from the council’s landscape environment team said the “unroofed, simple open form and partly temporary stadium seating allows for continuity of historic views towards the green, undeveloped hillsides within and surrounding the city”. The officer said that the outstanding universal value of the World Heritage Site as a whole is susceptible to a single inappropriate development, and the development could have a significant impact on Grand Parade, Orange Grove, North Parade and Parade Gardens. Any new development will be expected to reinforce the local landscape character and make a positive contribution to views. The Stadium for Bath website says: “Stadium for Bath will not submit any designs for planning approval that are detrimental to Bath’s World Heritage status.” The council officer also said: “I would question whether the inclusion of a significant amount of car parking, retail space and the significant alterations to publicly accessible open space will mean the ‘nature of use will be retained’.” He said the development would result in the loss of a number of trees, and replacing them off site was not acceptable. Stadium for Bath has said that mature trees will be retained along the riverside, with enhanced public realm design. A planning application will be submitted early in the new year. If approved, it will be the first time in the Rec’s history that a permanent, four-sided stadium has been built. Three sides would come together under a horseshoe-shaped cantilever roof, while the north stand would be an open terrace. Stadium for Bath has been asked to clarify the outstanding details.
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Council announces first plastic free champions A CAFÉ in Bath has been the first of six small businesses to receive an award for removing single use plastic, helping the whole of Bath & North East Somerset achieve its target of plastic free status by April 2020. Café au Lait is one of more than 50 organisations that have signed the council’s plastic pledge to tackle unnecessary plastic use by ditching at least three types of single use plastic or using sustainable alternatives, helping the council to achieve Plastic Free Communities status. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can qualify as Plastic Free Champions and receive a wooden plaque to display their status at their places of business. Many community groups, schools, faith organisations and companies have already taken positive action to remove unnecessary single use plastics. Organisations including Wessex Water and Bath Spa University have been added to an online directory of plastic pledges but more businesses are being urged to share what they are doing to avoid plastic use. Councillor Sarah Warren, cabinet member for Climate Emergency at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I am delighted to have presented the award to our first Plastic Free Champion and congratulate all the business, schools and organisations that have signed up to our plastic pledge so far. "I’m impressed by the range of creative solutions that already feature in our directory. We need collective action to eliminate single-use plastic and increase the routine use of sustainable alternatives.
Cafe au Lait's company director Natalie Bonnici, Councillor Sarah Warren and manager Jess Wolfe
“Achieving Plastic Free Communities status for Bath & North East Somerset by April will involve as many people as possible encouraging others in their community to reduce single use plastic. "I am making a call for more organisations to join the pledge and become Plastic Free Champions, because only by working together can we make a positive change.” The other five Plastic Free Champions are Widcombe Acorns Forest Pre-School, Fresh Range,
Consciously You, The Green Stationery Company and KRD Tax & Accountancy Services Ltd. On signing up to the plastic pledge, participants receive a business toolkit and support from members of the Plastic Free team throughout the process. Plastic Free Communities is a nationwide scheme aiming to free communities, however big or small, from single-use plastic and is run by marine conservation charity Surfers Against Sewage.
Bath & North East Somerset Council is asking all businesses which already avoid single use plastic, particularly SMEs, to join the directory of supporters for Plastic Free B&NES . For more information on the campaign or to sign up, visit the Plastic Free Bath and North East Somerset webpage at www.bathnes.gov.uk/plasticfree. The Sustainability team can be contacted via email at sustainability@bathnes.org.uk
WEDNESDAY Corsham Leafy Lane Playing Fields SN13 0LD 9.30am Tel Jane: 07857 147093
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TUESDAY Twerton St Michaels School BA2 1RW 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Sarah: 07881 758292
Bath city centre Percy Community Centre BA1 2BN 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Jane: 07857 147093
Larkhall St Marks School BA1 6NE 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Jane: 07857 147093
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Bath Cancer Unit charity expands fundraising The Bath Cancer Unit Support Group (BCUSG) is expanding its fundraising operations to buy more essential medical equipment for local cancer patients. The BCUSG has launched new fundraising groups covering Bath, Frome, Shepton Mallet, Midsomer Norton and Radstock and is looking for volunteers from these areas to help support its vital work. The charity, which provides a range of equipment for cancer patients at Bath’s Royal United Hospital, has also secured 10 places for the 2020 Bath Half Marathon and is looking for runners. The charity needs to find £369,822 in total for three projects that include an out-of-hours helpline, equipment to target radiotherapy more accurately and funds to upgrade a solid-state gamma camera, which will provide better images for cancer diagnosis. BCUSG chairman Mike Taylor said: “We would like to say well done to all our existing supporters who have worked so hard to raise funds for the cancer unit. We have made considerable progress towards achieving our current fundraising target but more needs to be done “That’s why we are launching new groups in Somerset and Bath and looking for volunteers to come forward to help us. We would also like to hear from any Bath Half Marathon runners who would be prepared raise money for our charity and help us transform cancer treatment at the RUH.” For more information about becoming a volunteer please contact BCUSG chairman Mike Taylor on 07714 087102.
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FRIDAY Combe Down Rugby Club BA2 5DE 9.30am Tel Nikki: 07538 975125
Southdown The Methodist Church BA2 1JN, 9.30am Tel Jane: 07857 147093
WITH Christmas just around the corner, there’s lots of planning ahead to be done; from untangling the lights to present buying, but for the committee of Bath Open Christmas they have a bigger concern - finding a trained commercial chef to do the catering this year. Bath Open Christmas has been running for some 30 years and caters for around 160 guests, 180 volunteers and 60 home delivery meals every Christmas Day, all cooked fresh in the kitchens at Kingswood School. “Our previous chef, Graham Barrett, had been with us for many years and decided Christmas 2018
was his last”, explained David Pendle, the Chairman and Team Leader, “He’ll be a hard act to follow, but we have a duty to support our guests who’d otherwise be alone at Christmas and to Julian House who we also deliver meals to - so a new chef is what we wish for this Christmas!” If you think you can command the kitchen team, are used to commercial ovens and catering on such a scale, please contact volunteers@ bathopenchristmas.com
Tuesday, 29th October 2019
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Bath goes gold again in the annual Britain in Bloom South West awards BATH has once again scooped two gold awards in the Britain in Bloom South West awards, recognising the work of the Bath In Bloom Committee and the Bath Improvement District. The Bath In Bloom Committee won gold in the Champion of Champions competition and the Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID) also won gold in the Royal Horticultural Society’s annual awards. Claire Jackson, Chair of the Bath in Bloom Committee, said: “For the city to win gold once again this time in a category where we were up against the very best in the South West is a tremendous achievement and testament to the hard work which went into our entry. “The judges were particularly impressed by improvements with an environmental focus, such as using perennial planting and also hanging baskets that have inbuilt water reservoirs to reduce water consumption.” The committee worked with Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Parks Department to furnish the city with the best floral displays possible. The Britain in Bloom judges said they were particularly impressed with the involvement of numerous community groups in Bath’s entry. Bath BID makes considerable investment into floral displays for the city, but the award in the BID category is judged on the wider environmental condition of the city. Allison Herbert, Chief Executive of Bath BID, said: “I’m delighted
News in Brief Thermae Bath Spa to close for two weeks
One of the planters situated on Manvers Street in Bath
that for the third year running the work of Bath BID has been recognised with a gold award at South West In Bloom. “We work hard putting together the displays, watering the plants and keeping the city welcoming. "This year we were pleased to support the redesign of the large beds next to the car park on Manvers Street. “The beautiful, bee-friendly planting was designed by Steve Brooks and planted up by Bath in Bloom volunteers. The judges were particularly impressed by the efforts made by Southgate to
include more planting and insect-friendly installations as part of their shopping experience. “We are now looking forward to the Britain in Bloom presentation later this week where Bath BID is up against BIDs from the rest of the country.” Councillor Paul Crossley, cabinet member for Community Services said: “To win gold year after year is a fantastic achievement. Many congratulations to the In Bloom committee, members of the Bath Improvement District, businesses, community groups and the army of volunteers who all
worked incredibly hard to maintain the city’s wonderful flower displays during the summer. “Congratulations must also go to Keynsham for winning a gold award in the Sargent Cup, Radstock for its silver gilt award in the Ayre Cup and Paulton Junior School for being awarded the Clem Preece Memorial Cup. “I’d also like to thank residents for playing their part in making Bath and North East Somerset such a pleasant environment as many house-holders take great care in making sure their gardens look good.”
From Monday 6th to Sunday 19th January 2020, the Thermae Bath Spa will close for planned maintenance and the refurbishment of various areas of the site. Peter Rollins, Director of Marketing & Communications, said: “Thermae has now been operating for over 13 years, during which time we have welcomed many thousands of visitors. “Inevitably the buildings have taken their fair share of wear and tear. “Our maintenance team does an amazing job all year-round to ensure that everything is kept in good working order and a lot of unseen work takes place after we close and before we re-open in the morning. “However, it has reached the stage that we have to replace some key plant and equipment which will necessitate the closure of Thermae Bath Spa for two weeks. “In order to cause the least disappointment to guests, we have deliberately scheduled this work for the first half of January which is our quietest time of the year.” Thermae Bath Spa is thanking local residents, businesses and visitors for their understanding during the refurbishment period. Residents are being encouraged to check their website for future updates on the works at: www. thermaebathspa.com. It is expected to reopen on Sunday 19th January 2020.
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Enter the 2019 Bath Echo Christmas short story competition THE Bath Echo is launching a special Christmas short story competition, ahead of our bumper festive issue out in December. We're inviting people across Bath and the surrounding area to submit a maximum 500-word story to us, based on the theme 'Christmas in Bath'. This doesn't have to be the story title. The winner of the competition will receive a £50 prize, as well as
having their winning entry published in this newspaper. The competition is open to writers aged 14+. Submitted short stories should be fictional, and completely original. Please do not send in stories that have previously been published elsewhere. Your stories will be judged by the Bath Echo team in the run up to Christmas, with the winner being announced in our bumper Christmas issue, out on 10th December.
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How to enter To enter this competition, simply send your 500-word Christmas-themed short story to us by 5pm on Monday 2nd December. You can submit your entry by post to 'Short Story Competition, Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA' or email it to us using the subject line 'Short Story Competition' to shortstory@ bathecho.co.uk. Please include your full name, a phone number, home address
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and email address (only your name will be published if your entry wins). All entries received up to 5pm on Monday 2nd December will be considered and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will have their story published in our bumper Christmas issue, which will be published on 10th December. Terms & Conditions • Your story should be no more than 500 words in length. • This competition is only open to residents with a BA1 and BA2 postcode. It is free to enter.
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• The £50 1st place prize is available as a high-street gift card. No alternative prize is available and it is not transferable. • The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be informed using the details they have provided to us. The full terms and conditions for this competition can be found on our website at www.bathecho. co.uk/shortstory As well as being published in issue 010, available from 10th December, the winning entries will also be published on our website. We wish you all the best of luck!
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BrewDog submits plans to open bar in Saw Close
News in Brief
Stephen Sumner
Residents being urged to take regular eye tests
BREWDOG was so keen to open in Bath it was offering a finder’s fee of up to £10,000. After searching “for some time”, its wait may soon be over now it has launched a bid to turn 8 Saw Close into a bar. The premises was on course to become a Byron Burger but the firm got into financial difficulties before it opened, so the site has been vacant for months. BrewDog offered £5,000 to anyone who could find a bar in Bath for it to move to, or £10,000 for a larger site where it could also brew beer. The application said: “The applicant, a popular and established nationwide and international brewer, bar and restaurant operator, has been searching for a suitable location in order to establish a presence in Bath for some time. “The application site is positioned in the city centre, in close proximity to the core retail area, and represents an ideal location for our client to locate their premises. “They have now agreed to take over a lease on the premises, subject to securing the requisite planning consents.” Founded in 2007 as a brewer of
Throughout Brain Tumour Awareness Week, 26th October – 2nd November, Specsavers in Bath has been urging local residents to make sure they have regular eye tests as they can check more than just your vision. Evidence suggests eye health isn’t something we pay close enough attention to as a quarter say they don’t have a check every two years. However, an eye test isn’t only about checking sight, it also looks at your eye health and can help to identify other health problems. Meera Patel, optometrist at Specsavers Bath, said: “Many people don’t realise that a sight test can check more than just your vision and that it can pick up other health concerns, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and brain tumours. “In fact, only 61% of people are aware that an optician can detect some types of brain tumours. “That is why ensuring you have regular eye checks – at least once every two years or more often if recommended by your optician – is so important."
Local Democracy Reporter
The front of a BrewDog pub | Photo © freemind-production / Shutterstock.com
premium craft beers, BrewDog has more than 40 bars across the UK and another 20 around the world. It offered a finder’s fee to anyone who could help it find premises in Belfast, Chester, Bath, Exeter and Chelmsford, and cities in France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain. The plans for Bath say: “The ethos of the BrewDog bars is on tasting
and sampling beers in a relaxed environment, rather than mass consumption “Food is available throughout opening. There are no dancefloors, DJ or live performances, with background music only.” The bar, with space for up to 225 customers, would open at 10am and close at midnight from Sunday to Thursday and at 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Childen praised by AF&RS for “fantastic" firework posters AVON Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) has recognised sixteen local children for their hard work on a safety poster campaign, highlighting the dangers of using fireworks. AF&RS, along with Bath Building Society and the Rotary Club of Bath, held a ceremony on Thursday 17th October, at the Guildhall in Bath. The awards ceremony came after 6,000 posters were delivered to 40 schools across Bath and North East Somerset, with students asked to design a poster to highlight the dangers of fireworks. Of those 6,000 entries, judges whittled the number down to just 16. The judges included Deputy Mayor of Bath Councillor Manda Rigby and staff from AF&RS, Bath Building Society and the Rotary Club of Bath. All 16 winners, from five age categories, were invited along to the ceremony with their families. The move comes as AF&RS try to reduce the number of people injured at fireworks displays and bonfire nights, and ties into the annual Bath Fireworks Display. Staff from AF&RS have also been visiting schools across BANES, delivering firework safety messaging, including Oldfield Park Junior School where they spoke to 240 students. Darren Clasper, Risk Reduction Watch Manager for AF&RS, said: “This is a fantastic initiative and it is great to engage with so many peoples across the area and utilise such an inclusive programme. “As a Service, we always want to ensure that our communities are safe and this is a great way of engaging with people and also delivering that safety messaging at a young age. “The Rotary Club of Bath and Bath
Building Society, along with ourselves, are delighted to have received so many entries and the level of work has been truly incredible. “We look forward to using these posters to promote safety across the area.” Over half of firework-related injuries every year are to children under the age of 15. The most common injuries are to the hands, wrists and eyes and most of these are caused by sparklers. AF&RS always recommends attending a properly organised display as these tend to be safer than having your own at home. However, if you are celebrating at home make sure you follow advice to keep you and your family safe. Alan Keeling from The Rotary Club of Bath said: “The display is now in its 44th year and it has always been hugely anticipated by children and adults in Bath. "Once again we have launched the event by asking all the primary schools within Bath to enter the Fireworks Safety Poster Competition, and as always the key factor is Fireworks Safety. "The school competition will ensure that even the youngest participants are aware of the potential dangers of Fireworks if handled incorrectly.” Tiffany Hardie-Albutt, a spokesperson for Bath Building Society, added: “It was great to see all the children doing their posters at Oldfield Park Junior School; their enthusiasm and stories of fireworks were brilliant! Our involvement with the Fireworks stands at 44 years this year and in those years we must have reached thousands of local children (who now have children of their own!) with the Fireworks Safety message.”
It would create up to 20 jobs. Byron Burger had been due to open in Bath but hit financial difficulties in January 2018 and had to close a number of its restaurants, including Bristol’s. Investors pumped in extra funding earlier this year to keep it going. Bath and North East Somerset Council will decide the fate of BrewDog’s application for the site in the near future.
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Campaign launched to Recommendations made after stop motorists idling woman fatally injured on train outside school gates
Jane Gascoigne, Headteacher with pupils Louis and Bea, Nick, George and Niamh, together with Councillor Joanna Wright | Photo: B&NES Council
A NEW campaign is being launched by Bath & North East Somerset Council to encourage parents and carers who use their cars to do the school run to switch off their engines and stop idling by the school gates. Idling is when a vehicle’s engine is left running for more than 30 seconds when a car is not moving. Research shows that idling engines produce up to twice the amount of exhaust emissions compared to when a vehicle is moving. This means in areas where there are high numbers of idling vehicle engines, such as outside schools, levels of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide NO2 and particulates build up. These substances are linked to several health issues including lung and heart diseases and young children are particularly vulnerable to their effects. • 12,000 people in Bath and North East Somerset suffer from asthma, and exposure to high levels of NO2 can trigger attacks • Latest research indicates that in the UK between one in four and one in twelve new cases of asthma in children is attributable to NO2 • High levels of NO2 contribute to reduced lung development in children Idling also contributes to air pollution and unnecessary noise, increases carbon footprint and waste fuel and money. As part of the council’s Bath BreATHes 2021 campaign, primary schools across the district are being encouraged to put up posters and banners and hand out postcards encouraging parents to stop idling outside the school gates. Teachers can download the re-
sources which have been designed to support the council’s Clean Air Schools Toolkit. The toolkit was launched earlier this to support teachers with lessons and activities to raise awareness of the causes and impact of air pollution and how to combat it. Jane Gascoigne, Headteacher of Combe Down School in Bath said: “The health of our pupils is of paramount importance and idling outside schools needlessly pollutes the air the children breathe. From a road safety point of view, it’s also harder for pupils to hear moving vehicles when cars nearby are idling. We’ll be using the banners, posters and postcards to encourage parents to take action, switch off and make a real difference.” Councillor Joanna Wright, cabinet member for Transport Services, said: “Air pollution affects us all and idling outside school gates at drop off and pick up means that children are exposed to increased and unnecessary air pollution. There is absolutely no need to idle and by switching off engines air quality can be improved. I’d also urge parents to park appropriately outside schools by not parking on double yellow lines or zig zags. Of course, the best solution is for children to walk, cycle or use buses to get to and from school and I’d encourage families to seriously consider these options.” Getting involved in the anti-idling campaign will help schools to achieve a Modeshift STARS award. The awards scheme recognises schools that have demonstrated excellence in supporting sustainable travel. To access the Clean Air Schools Toolkit and anti-idling resources visit: http://thehub.bathnes.gov. uk/Page/11243.
THE Rail Accident Investigation Branch has made a number of recommendations following the death of a woman after she leaned out of a train window near Twerton last December. 28-year-old Bethan Roper was hit on the head by a tree branch while leaning out of a carriage window near Twerton on Saturday 1st December 2018. The train, a Great Western Railway service from London Paddington to Exeter St David’s, was travelling at approximately 75 mph at the time of the impact. Ms Roper received significant head injuries, and despite the best efforts from staff and passengers with “extensive medical qualifications and experience”, she was later pronounced dead at Bristol Temple Meads station. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has now published a detailed report on the fatal incident, which highlighted a number of contributing factors such as inadequate signage near the window of the carriage door and the fact that Network Rail had not undertaken a tree inspection in the area of the accident since 2009. The 28-year-old was travelling to Penarth via Bristol Temple Meads from Bath Spa station after a shopping trip with a group of friends. The report says that one of the
28-year-old Bethan Roper died after being struck on the head by a tree branch
group opened the window in the carriage vestibule, and at least one other person leant out of the window before Ms Roper. Witnesses said she had her head out of the window for a few seconds before falling back having sustained a serious head injury. A toxicology report concluded that Ms Roper’s blood contained 142 milligrams of ethanol per 100 millilitres, nearly twice the UK legal driving limit. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch says the sign on the inside of the door relating to the risk from leaning out of the window did not adequately convey the level of risk to passengers.
Paying tribute after her death, Adrian Roper, Bethan’s father, said: “She enjoyed life to the full whilst working tirelessly for a better world. “She was also a much-loved sister, daughter, grand-daughter and niece.” The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has issued a number of recommendations following the incident, and also said lessons can be learned, including the value of undertaking regular tree inspections within the interval specified in Network Rail standards to identify trees in poor health. The full report can be read on the RAIB website.
Win a family ticket to the opening night of Christmas at Stourhead FOR the very first time at Stourhead, the tree-tops will glisten and the garden will shimmer and sparkle with a stunning new Christmas light trail and we’re offering you the chance to win a family ticket to the Opening Night of Christmas at Stourhead on Friday 29th November. It’s definitely the most wonderful time of the year to wander beneath exquisite tree canopies suffused in seasonal colour and dripping with shards of light, frosty snowflakes, stars and baubles. As you walk through the Tunnel of Light festooned with over 100,000 pea-lights, the melodious voices of the Singing Trees can be heard in the distance. Glowing blossom rises high into the night sky and twinkling hedgerows lead you on a path towards thousands of illuminated lights on the ever-changing Fibre Optic Lawn. Stroll towards the lake and marvel at the waterside reflections on its shimmering surface. There are hidden surprises too – step inside the Laser Garden and linger at the scented Fire Garden for a moment of reflection. Have a holly, jolly Christmas and complete your festive walk under the stars with spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate*. Gather around the fire-pit with
family and friends to toast marshmallows* and end the evening browsing Stourhead’s well-stocked gift shop. Why not pick up some treats for the journey home? For the young ones in all of us there are traditional Victorian fairground rides* and don’t forget to keep an eye out for Father Christmas and his elves along the way. Christmas at Stourhead will be open on selected dates between 29th November – 30th December 2019. For more information and tickets, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ stourhead or call 0844 995 1364. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your network access charge. *Additional charges apply.
How to enter To enter, you just need to answer the following question: How many fairy lights festoon the Tunnel of Light? a) 75,000 b) 50,000 c) 100,000+ You can submit your entry via our website at www.bathecho.co.uk/ stourhead The competition closes on 5pm on Friday 15th November 2019. The family ticket is valid for four people (at least one member of the party must be an adult). Terms & conditions are available via the website link above.
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Education Bath Studio School told to improve £15,000 award to bring just months before planned closure smartphone creative writing projects to life
Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
BATH Studio School has been told to improve – just months before it is set to close. The Frome Road school will shut its doors in July 2020 because falling pupil numbers have meant its budget has shrunk. Councillor Tim Ball, who has two grandchildren at the school, branded the inspection a waste of teaching time and public money. “They made the kids suffer and the staff suffer,” he said. “They had to move from the Bath Community Academy when it closed [last summer] and then had the indignity of an inspection at Bath Studio School just before it closes. “It’s an insult. Why waste public money?” In response to the criticism, an Ofsted spokesman said: “We inspected the school in accordance with our legal duty and the timescales set out in our inspection handbook. “Schools that require improvement are normally inspected within 30 months of their last inspection, and we use our risk assessment process to make sure we’re prioritising our resources where they are most needed. “It’s right that we check children are receiving a good quality of education and are being kept safe.” Ofsted rated Bath Studio School
“requires improvement” in all categories. The report said, despite its imminent closure, principal Peter Headeach is “providing the best education possible for pupils so that they have a good start to their next steps in life”. Students at the digital media and film academy produce industry-standard work in some specialist subjects but teaching is unstructured in English and maths, the inspectors said, adding that too many pupils fail to attend school regularly and teachers need to be more vigilant. Bath Studio School provides effective careers advice for pupils but must do more so they understand “British values and have a spiritual and cultural awareness of life in the 21st century”, the inspectors said. The school for 14 to 19-year-olds is part of the Wellsway Multi Academy Trust. Inspectors said trust leaders are “sensitive to the situation” and do not burden staff with unnecessary paperwork. Andrea Arlidge, chief executive of Wellsway Multi Academy Trust, said in a statement: “The inspectors recognised that the Bath Studio School continues to provide a high standard of education in the specialist subjects it was set up to
support. “We are very proud of the media skills our students develop through our ‘unique curriculum’ and are delighted that our sixth-form graphics candidates are already said to be working at industry standard. “We are confident that they will follow a number of others who have studied at Bath Studio School and gone to forge promising careers in the industry. “We are pleased that Ofsted praised our highly skilled staff and the high expectations and other strengths of headteacher Pete Headeach, who is leading the school through the final two years of its life. “The inspectors also acknowledged the support provided by the trust. “We will ensure that we bring in skills and expertise from other schools in Wellsway Multi Academy Trust over the coming months to help address the issues identified by Ofsted so that all the students who remain at Bath Studio School get the best possible education.” A letter from the trust in February said there were then only 123 pupils on the roll, meaning the school was only 41 per cent full. The Ofsted report says there are now only 49 students.
Prestigious placement award for University of Bath student UNIVERSITY of Bath student Molly McMaster has received a prestigious award from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) for her outstanding performance during a placement year as part of her MEng course in civil engineering. Molly, from Southsea, received the CECA University of Bath Industrial Placement Award for her achievements while working with Interserve Construction. During her year, Molly worked on the M5 Junction 6 improvement scheme in Worcester, a major investment project aimed at supporting local economic growth and expansion. She used her initiative to develop a ‘live’ spreadsheet to show how the works were progressing, coordinated drainage operations, worked closely with subcontractors and traffic managers, and produced technical drawings. She also attended the Women in
Construction summit in London, and returned to site with clear recommendations on providing facilities and appropriate PPE for women, which were subsequently shared with Interserve’s diversity team. Paul Santer, CECA South West Regional Director, said that the success of Molly and the other winners highlighted the current opportunities available for young people in civil engineering. He said: “Molly has made a fantastic start to her chosen career and is an inspiration to others of her generation looking for a working life that is well paid, different every day and which rewards talent. "We need more bright, enthusiastic young people like Molly to
CREATIVE writing incubator Paper Nations, which is led by Bath Spa University’s TRACE Centre, has announced the recipients of its 'Beyond the Book' commission, awarding three funds of up to £5,000 to the winners, enabling them to produce creative writing-based projects for smartphones. The first team is multi-prize winning author Lucy Christopher and technologist Rajiv Edward, whose project "The Fog' will create a fictionalised city of Bath, frozen in time-stopping fog. Utilising geolocation and other smartphone sensors, young adult readers will help the protagonist bring Bath, and the story, back to life. Lucy’s novels have been shortlisted for the Costa and Waterstones prizes and won the Printz Honor. The second recipient is Melanie Frances, whose project will take place in a futuristic world. Readers will act as the protagonist, a journalist who is investigating a new technology that claims to allow people to see into alternative dimensions. Melanie is also a theatre maker and a games designer. She is Co-Artistic Director of digital, interactive performance company Produced Moon and has authored several app-based works, including audio adventures that tell the stories of female inventors. Finally, Lucy Telling will use e-tickets stored on smartphones to develop an interactive experience which tells the story behind
every ticket, creating an overarching narrative anchored in a sense of place. Lucy is a playwright and director of Stand + Stare, an interactive design studio based in Stroud and Bristol. Her extensive project-based works include a recreation of two sets from The Muse by Jessie Burton, using touch technology to trigger audio extracts from the book. The winners were selected by a prestigious panel, including Hachette Publishing’s Chief Innovation Officer and Innovation Program Director, Maja Thomas, and the Forward Prize’s highly commended writer, Louisa Adjoa Parker. Louisa said: “The shortlisted applications were all of high quality, with some fantastic, well-thought out ideas. "It shows what a pool of talent there is in the region!” The commissioned winners will showcase their work to international audiences and also write features for The Writing Platform, which shares digital knowledge with writers. The commission was launched as part of Paper Nations’ Writing for All programme, which aims to increase innovation and diversity by working with writers and organisations at all levels to put in place the infrastructure that will create real change and make writing more accessible to everyone. You can read more about the winners of Beyond the Book on www.papernations.org.
Bath's Norland College appoints early years Research Fellow join our construction industry, to bring new skills and fresh ideas and to play a part in building the UK infrastructure fundamental to future prosperity.” The CECA South West Training Awards are presented annually to trainee civil engineers and apprentices in recognition of exceptional performance. Molly received a trophy and cheque for £500 from Dave Ellis, Chairman of CECA South West, at the awards ceremony in Torquay.
NORLAND College has announced the appointment of senior academic Professor Theodora Papatheodorou as Research Fellow at the College. Theodora joins the College with experience in early years teaching and research, with a specific focus on early years and higher education pedagogy. She has experience working in policy development and the provision of education services across the globe, from successfully influencing the expansion of education services for early childhood provision in Kosovo, to conducting a study for the establishment and management of
satellite pre-primary schools in rural Tanzania. Dr Janet Rose, Principal of Norland College, said: “I’m thrilled with our appointment of Professor Papatheodorou. She represents a perfect example of how Norland College looks to recruit experts in the field of early years education. Her commitment to improving early years provision across the world is a testament to herself and her work and we’re delighted to welcome such an exceptional, experienced academic to Norland. I’m sure she will go far in supporting our commitment to excellence in teaching and childcare services."
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24-hour Danceathon raises £2k for the Forever Friends Appeal
THE Paragon School embraced a day of fundraising on Friday 18th October to support their chosen charity, the Forever Friends Appeal at the Royal United Hospital in Bath. Embracing ‘Ted’s Big Day Out’ - a region wide fundraising initiative by the RUH charity, each child brought in their favourite toy along with a donation. Meanwhile, the school’s Registrar Mrs Braithwaite and Philosophy teacher Ms Perrin embarked upon a 24 hour Danceathon. Headmaster, Mr Andrew Harvey
started the glitter ball turning at 8am to the tune of ABBA’s Dancing Queen and the school’s audition choir ‘Joyful Noise’ joined in, entertaining parents and children arriving at school with energetic moves on the balcony of the Music Lodge. Classes took it in turn to join them during the day for a boogie and the RUH’s ‘Ted’ popped along at midday for a visit, demonstrating his dancing prowess which delighted the children. A conveniently planned PTA school disco got the pair through
the early hours of the evening and they then danced through the small hours, encouraged by family, staff, friends and neighbours, as well as a dog called Pepper with a flashing collar. Thanking all of their supporters, the disco divas said that the unconditional support that they received for the duration of the event, was "incredible". The pair reached their target of £2000 early on Monday morning. Further donations can be made to the fundraiser at: https://bit.ly/2Mmn4XW
Bath Spa Uni opens new Locksbrook Campus to students BATH Spa University has unveiled the new-look Herman Miller factory, which it has been restoring for the past few years, transforming it into a new stateof-the-art facility known as Locksbrook Campus. The building has become a purpose-built space for students and the local community. Located next to the River Avon in Bath, the open-plan building has technical workshops surrounded by open, flexible studio spaces, as well as large, open social areas. Originally designed by Sir Nicholas Grimshaw for Herman Miller, the American furniture manufacturers in 1976, Bath Spa University has worked with Grimshaw Architects and constructors Willmott Dixon to ensure many historical features were kept in the redesign. Outside, the original 1970s iconic wall panels have been cleaned, restored, insulated and repainted. Inside, the existing concrete flooring has been finished with a clear varnish seal so the history of the building, including trench marks, can clearly be seen underfoot. Dr Dan Allen, Head of Art at Bath Spa University, said: “The build-
ing was originally designed as an adaptable space that can ‘change with grace’ to meet the needs of its users. “As an iconic furniture factory, this building is part of Bath’s industrial history so it was vitally important to us to keep the integrity of this remarkable industrial, flexible space and celebrate this in the redesign. “The marks of the building’s history can clearly be seen in the concrete floor, the iron-work and colour scheme.” Kerry Curtis, Head of Design at Bath Spa University, said: “In art and design here at Bath Spa, we talk a lot about ‘thinking through making’, so right from the outset, we placed students and their creative practice central to the design of the new campus. “Locating the immense workshop facilities in the heart of the building provides focused support from specialist art and design technicians, and the ability for students to move seamlessly between materials and processes. It is a truly stunning environment for students to flourish.” Martin Crandon, Capital Projects Manager at Bath Spa University, explained how the university
Bath Spa University's new Locksbrook Campus | Photos © Chris Wakefield, Crescent Photography
has worked with B&NES Council, Grimshaw Architects and Herman Miller to bring the iconic building back to life. He said: “We’ve taken extra measures to protect the local bat population along the riverside of the newly refurbished campus. “The River Avon is a protected nature corridor, with many different species of bats coexisting along the river’s edge that could be displaced due to light pollution. “It was hugely important to
everyone involved in the project that we created a building that works well for the natural environment and for the students that’ll be using it, so we partnered with B&NES Ecologists and Lighting Engineers to fit internal louvres to the large glazed windows which have allowed us to keep the architectural integrity of the building while protecting the local bats, and we are thrilled with the outcome.” Martin continued: “In keeping
with the original use of the building, we’ve partnered with Grimshaw Architects interior design team and with Herman Miller to design and place furniture in the main atrium of the campus, including chairs and sofas and a beautiful, bespoke reception desk.” The university is welcoming members of the public, especially local residents, to visit the new building and make use of the cafe, shop and exhibition spaces.
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Health RUH launches service for people diagnosed with sight loss THE Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and the Royal United Hospital have launched a new service providing emotional and practical support to people newly diagnosed with sight loss. A new Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO) works alongside health professionals to offer support and advice to blind and partially sighted people on a range of areas. These include independent living, returning to work, benefit entitlements, emotional support, and coping at home. Heidi Koloska was recruited to the ECLO role at the RUH in June 2019. Heidi said: “I can offer support to people when they might be feeling at their lowest. If someone arrives in clinic and they are told their sight is getting worse, it’s life-changing news. “This applies to those with long-standing sight loss or newly diagnosed.
“It’s always a difficult conversation, but the main thing is to be there and offer a safe place to talk about it. Reassuring the patient they are not on their own, and encouraging a referral to a local/national organisation who can offer further emotional and practical support to enable them to remain independent. “Sometimes I’m the first person a patient will speak to after being told they are losing their sight, so it’s my responsibility to make sure they get the support they need and in a timely manner. “I like to think of my role as a bridge that links the hospital with the local community.” Abi Jones, RNIB ECLO Service Manager for the South West, said: “It can be an overwhelming experience being told you are going to lose your sight. That feeling is compounded if people have to deal with it alone. “ECLOs provide much-needed information, advice and guidance.
Mental Health with Karen Bray
Lighten Up The Winter Gloom
Eye Clinic Liaison Officer Heidi Koloska | Photo © Royal United Hospital
“We are extremely pleased to be working with our partners to bring this support and advice to patients attending the RUH.” RUH Head of Optometry Helen Broadbent said: “A diagnosis of sight loss can be a traumatic experience. The appointment of an Eye Clinic Liaison Officer will
make a huge difference to these patients by providing them with essential support, information and advice when they need it most. “We are delighted that we are now able to offer this service at the RUH, thanks to our partnership with RNIB.”
Local views set to shape plan for health services PEOPLE in Bath have said they want health providers to support them to live healthier lifestyles, offer better access to services and make sure the professionals they see understand their needs. Their views have been collected as part of the recent ‘Our Health Our Future’ engagement campaign run by NHS and Local Authority organisations seeking to find out what people want from future health and care services. The survey results, alongside separate findings collected by independent health champion Healthwatch, will now be used by health and care leaders as they develop plans for how services across the area will be organised over the next five years. The Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Long Term Plan will be published online over the next few weeks. People taking part in the survey said they would like to be given the opportunities, advice and information they need to live healthier lifestyles and be more aware of symptoms of diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure so they could seek help earlier. They said it should be easier to see staff at surgeries and waiting times for appointments and operations in hospitals should be reduced. Lots of respondents also said
they didn’t always feel listened to or taken seriously by the health and care professionals they saw. Younger respondents said they would value better access to mental health services and support. Tracey Cox, Chief Executive Office for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCGs said: “As the wider health and care system in B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire draws up plans for the next five years, it is essential that we listen to the views of local people so we can ensure our
services provide support through every stage of people’s lives and help them start well, live well and age well. “I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to fill in our survey or talk to us. The views they have shared will play an important role in how we develop our health and care services in BSW over the coming years.” Dr Ian Orpen, Chairman of the BaNES, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Board said: “As our population ages and the health and care services we provide come
under increasing pressure, it is going to be more important than ever before to help people live healthy lifestyles and take more control of their own health and wellbeing. “The Our Health Our Future survey has shown this is a priority for local people and it will certainly be reflected in our plans over the coming years. “At the same time, we will also need to take into account the financial pressures our local health and care system is facing now and in the future.”
NOW the clocks have gone back it feels like winter is well and truly here. It may seem there’s a long slog ahead until spring arrives to cheer us up. Up to one in five of us experience Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD - a form of depression usually associated with winter - which makes normal functioning difficult or impossible. For the rest of us, it’s not unusual to feel gloomy and lethargic, making it harder to do the things that would lift our mood. We may need to make a conscious effort to follow these three tips every day: • Get outside and get moving This has the double benefit of waking up a sluggish body and exposing us to more daylight. The NHS recommends going for a run - but if (like me) the thought of that much effort just makes you feel inadequate, a brisk walk to the shops or round the block will do. Sometimes I peg washing on the line, even if it’s threatening rain and I’ll have to bring it in before it’s dry, just to be doing something outdoors. While you’re out there try to notice the things you can see, hear and feel in the moment. • Create cheer Anything that makes you laugh, such as funny films or TV programmes. Anything that connects you to others such as inviting friends round or just connecting by phone. Plan something to look forward to, from a country walk to next year’s holiday. Or do something that gives you a sense of achievement - declutter a room or start a new hobby. • Nurture yourself That means wrapping up warm or snuggling on a cosy sofa (feeling cold can make us more depressed); eating food that’s both comforting and healthy, like hearty stews and soups, and getting enough sleep. Go for early nights rather than late lie-ins though, to maximise the amount of daylight you are exposed to. And if you are struggling to stay active and positive, then you deserve more support, so talk to someone about how you’re feeling and arrange to see your doctor. Further information on Seasonal Affective Disorder can be found via the NHS (https://bathecho. uk/2p5ZoiZ) or mental health charity MIND (https://bathecho. uk/35V0Wgt) websites. Karen Bray (MBACP) is a counsellor with a private practice in Bath. Her website is at www.karenbray.co.uk
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£3 million of upgrade work gets underway at BMI Bath Clinic
CCG merger confirmed after formal approval
£3 MILLION of refurbishment and upgrade work to operating theatres, treatment rooms and en-suite bedrooms has got underway at the BMI Bath Clinic in Combe Down. The private hospital, located in a former Victorian residence, has built a reputation for providing rapid access to diagnosis and treatment for routine and complex conditions. Executive Director Tim Atter explained: “£250 million is being invested in our network of hospitals and it’s pleasing that Bath Clinic forms a part of that. “Being part of BMI Healthcare, the largest provider of independent healthcare in Britain, is really helping to drive our high-tech refurbishment and service expansion programme. “Our clinicians are working with us to provide the services patients need in the comfort of a ‘home from home’ yet ‘hightech-friendly’ environment. “Formerly a private home, the hospital is a beautiful uplifting building in a sumptuous landscaped setting, adjoining a National Trust property, making it a lovely place to stay. “Not only that, but in recent external assessments by the CQC,
THREE groups responsible for the planning, buying and monitoring of health services in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire are to become a single organisation in April 2020. The merger, which has been given formal approval by NHS England and NHS Improvement, follows a period of engagement with the public, staff, providers and other key stakeholders. It has also been supported by GP practices in B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire as well as each CCG governing body. The plan will have no effect on the way services are currently provided across the area but will reduce variation in care and standardise best practice so everyone can access high-quality treatment and services, regardless of where they live. Working as one organisation will also help the CCG meet financial challenges by offering greater buying power, eliminating the duplication of administrative support functions and streamlining governance processes. Tracey Cox, Chief Executive of the new B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Getting the goahead to merge our three CCGs
The BMI Bath Clinic in Combe Down, Bath
we were rated as Good in every category.” Now celebrating its 35th anniversary as a hospital, a key refurbishment programme is taking place including operating theatre and bedroom improvements, as well as major plant replacement. The upgrade, which includes air handling and ventilation, surgical control and power systems, plus purpose-designed lighting, means that consultants can work with the latest technology. For patients, the investment will increase comfort and hygiene, while ensuring staff continue to
provide the highest levels of care. The facilities at the Combe Down hospital incorporate 17 consulting rooms, three operating theatres and 68 en-suite bedrooms, as well as full scale endoscopy, treatment, physiotherapy and imaging suites. It has recently developed new multi-disciplinary service teams with dedicated centres of excellence in areas such as the Spine, Knees, Joint Replacement and Foot & Ankle treatment. The expansion complements the range of medical and surgical health specialities already well established at BMI Bath Clinic.
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is very positive news. Coming together as a single CCG will allow health and care providers in B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire to ensure we are reducing variation in the provision of services. “We also want to concentrate on supporting people to stay healthy and tackle the causes of illness. “This merger will also allow us to meet financial challenges, for example through economy of scale cost-savings and the streamlining of governance and administration which means we can invest more of our budget into frontline services. I believe that as a single CCG, we will be in a stronger position to improve outcomes for patients, whilst still retaining our local voice.” Elizabeth O’Mahony, NHS England and NHS Improvement South West Regional Director added: “Bringing together Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCGs into one single, strategic organisation mirrors developments taking place across the NHS as health and care services move to work more closely together for the benefit of local people and employees.” The new CCG will be responsible for a total annual budget of £1.1 billion.
Inspection finds nursing home patients at risk of abuse Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
A BATH nursing home for up to 70 pensioners puts residents at risk of abuse, an inspection has revealed. Owner Cedar Care Homes said the issues at St Teresa’s Nursing Home are a “temporary setback”, blaming an “unusually high staff turnover” for the failings. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said in August 2018 the Corston Lane home required improvement and now says it has not made enough progress. A recent report rated the home “inadequate” after inspectors found safety concerns, poor leadership and residents not supported to be independent. The CQC said: “People were not always protected from the risk of avoidable harm and potential abuse. “We found people had sustained bruising and that these events had not been recorded as incidents for further investigation to reduce recurrence or identify abuse. “By not analysing these incidents the provider had not ensured appropriate measures were in place to reduce these risks.” One allegation of neglect was wrongly recorded as a complaint. The safety of the home was good in August 2018 but is now rated inadequate. Inspectors found trip hazards and risks of contamination, and in one case a powdered meal substitute was not stored properly. They said if it was eaten it could expand and block a resident’s airway. The way in which the service was run did not encourage friendships
between people,” the report says. “There was very little interaction between people who stayed in their rooms and people living with complex dementia. “Most people in the Gainsborough wing did not move from the lounge all day and remained there for all their meals. “We observed people hunched over their side tables with little or no conversation between them and the staff. “The food service was run like a taskfocused exercise rather than a sociable and pleasant experience for people.” Residents said the staff at the home were good but there were not enough of them and they were often rushed. Others complained about their command of English. The leadership was criticised but staff, relatives and people spoke positively about the registered manager. One worker said: “Of all the homes I’ve worked in this manager is the best I’ve seen; cares about the staff and residents as well.” A Cedar Care Homes spokesman said: “The focus of our resources and efforts is the wellbeing of our residents. “Unfortunately, an unusually high staff turnover at St Teresa caused breakdown in communication protocols, resulting in potential abuse not being reported. “We reviewed stated incidents and promptly made safeguarding referrals. We are supporting our staff and reinforcing our ethos to ensure our residents’ safety and wellbeing. We operate seven homes in Bath, six of which are rated as ‘good’. “This is a temporary setback; we are confident that we are already on course to return to the high standard of care provided at St Teresa since 2007.”
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What's On FilmBath Festival shortlisted for major national award A WIDELY-ADOPTED rating designed to champion women in film has seen the FilmBath Festival shortlisted for a major award. The festival's F-Rating has seen it named as a finalist in the national Screen Awards 2019 in the Game Changer category. Executive director Holly Tarquini said she was delighted to be shortlisted for the accolade ahead of this year's festival, which runs from 7th - 17th November. “Being shortlisted for the Screen Award Game Changer is like receiving a big thank you from the industry – I feel incredibly lucky and privileged to be able to do what I do and so grateful to Screen Daily for shortlisting the F-Rating," she said. “Back in 2014, horrified by the continuing lack of female directors of feature films (fewer than 5% of the top 100), I founded the F-Rating as a Fairtrade-like stamp to guide audiences to films written and/or directed by women.
“My plan was that we would use this in the FilmBath Festival brochure – I had no idea how popular it would become. “The F-Rating is now used by over 80 cinemas and film festivals, from the Barbican and Rain-
dance Film Festival to the Irish Film Institute and IMDb. “I've had so much wonderful feedback about the rating from audience members and film exhibitors alike – such as: “If you want to help women directors get
visibility, but have neither money nor time, this is the single most effective method to do it" – Artfilm. Of the F-Rating, Plymouth Arts Centre said: "Adopting the F-Rating has started so many conversations with customers. Whether people like it or question it, it creates some brilliant debates about representation in cinema – not just around gender but also around sexuality, race, politics and everything in between. “We have had several customers who now come to every F-Rated film we screen – it has encouraged them to make the effort to see some films they would otherwise have skipped over in the programme.” FilmBath Festival, which is now in its 29th year, stages an annual celebration of film in the city, as well as Q&As with top directors and workshops. This year's festival features 37 feature and 46 short films as well as industry events and awards tak-
ing place in seven venues around Bath. 59% of the films in the 2019 FilmBath Festival programme are directed by women. F-Rated films include: Portrait of a Lady on Fire / Portrait de la jeune fille en feu (9th November), Honeyland (13th November), and God Exists, Her Name Is Petrunya / Gospod postoi, imeto i' e Petrunija (12th November). Other highlights include Little Monsters, in which Hollywood star Lupita Nyong’o tries to keep her young charges safe from flesh-eating zombies (November 9), the yet-to-be-released comedy Jojo Rabbit starring Scarlett Johansson (November 17), powerful observational documentary Shooting the Mafia, and The Souvenir – a tender tale of a relationship built on deceit (both November 11). FilmBath will find out if it has won the Game Changer Award on Thursday 28th November.
Preview | Calendar Girls: The Musical Theatre Royal Bath CALENDAR Girls: The Musical, the award-winning stage production based on the true story of the fundraising Women’s Institute members, the Calendar Girls, will tour to the Theatre Royal Bath for the first time, appearing from Tuesday 5th to Saturday 9th November. The production will feature a company of twenty, led by Ruth Madoc (Hi-De-Hi), Lisa Maxwell (Hollyoaks), Sue Devaney (Coronation Street), Julia Hills (Broadchurch), Judy Holt (Cold Feet), Sarah Jane Buckley (Hollyoaks) and Rebecca Storm (Blood Brothers). With music written by Take That’s Gary Barlow and a book adapted by Tim Firth from his own screenplay for the smash hit film and award-winning play,
Calendar Girls: The Musical received a plethora of five-star reviews in the West End. Funny, poignant and life-affirming, Calendar Girls is inspired by the real story of a group of ladies, members of a Yorkshire Women’s Institute, who took a new approach when it came to creating their annual charity calendar for the WI. Determined to raise enough funds to buy a settee for their local hospital in memory of one of their husbands, they decided to make a calendar with a difference by persuading one another to pose nude for the photoshoot. As interest in their calendar snowballed, they hit the headlines and inadvertently sparked a global phenomenon.
To date the original Calendar Girls have raised over five million pounds for Bloodwise, the UK’s specialist blood cancer charity (formerly known as Leukaemia Research), which continues to receive monies from this critically acclaimed stage production. Calendar Girls: The Musical enjoyed a West End season at the Phoenix Theatre in 2017, following sold-out seasons in Leeds and Manchester. Calendar Girls: The Musical is appearing at the Theatre Royal Bath as part of a nationwide tour from Tuesday 5th November to Saturday 9th November. Tickets are on sale at the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 and online at www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Calendar Girls: The Musical | Photo © John Swannell
Firework displays happening in and around Bath Date Event/Location Address Timings Prices 01/11/19 01/11/19 02/11/19 02/11/19 03/11/19 05/11/19 05/11/19 08/11/19
Odd Down AFC & Social Club Light Up Lansdown Bath Fireworks Display Bath City Farm Fireworks to Music - Avon Valley Royal High School Fireworks The Hare & Hounds Display Larkhall Sports Club Annual Display
Combe Hay Lane, Bath, BA2 8PA Bath Racecourse, Bath, BA1 9BU Bath Recreation Ground, BA2 4DS Kelston View, Bath, BA2 1NW Pixash Lane, Keynsham, BS31 1TP Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5SZ Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5TJ Plain Ham, Charlcombe Ln, BA1 8DJ
6pm 5pm-9pm 7pm 6.30pm-9pm 5.30pm-9pm 5pm-7pm 5pm 6pm-9pm
Free to watch From £4pp From 4pp Free From £19 per car From £4pp From £4pp From £3pp
Firework safety advice from Avon Fire & Rescue Service • Follow the instructions on each firework • Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper • Stand well back • Never go near a firework which has been lit - even if it hasn’t gone off, as it could still explode • Always supervise children with sparklers - teach them to hold the sparkler at arm’s length • Explain to them that sparklers get very hot and will burn their skin if not held correctly • Don’t give sparklers to children under 5 years of age, as they may not understand the dangers
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Review | Rambert Theatre Royal Bath
It must be Autumn as it is the much anticipated turn of Rambert to appear at the Theatre Royal Bath. Once again they bring their unique, breath taking brilliance to the stage with a trio of dances equally striking and challenging. Wayne McGregor, Marion Motin and Hofesh Shechter choreograph this excellent triple bill in a true celeJuan Gil, Liam Francis, Daniel Davidson from bration of all that RamRambert performing Rouge by Marion Motin bert do best. Photo © Johan Persson The first piece, Presentient by Wayne Mcgregor was first seen keep going and keep moving. in 2002. There is a driving and The final work In Your Rooms relentless wall of sound that by Hofesh Shechter is a visceral, creates a rich texture of motion challenging work; first commisand rhythm. The dance is often sioned in 2007 it presents a world aggressive and violent fighting that is both alienating and familagainst the structures of the piece iar. resulting in a claustrophobic and There is an apparent lack of conintense experience. trol in the finely balanced work. Rouge by Marion Motin could The score created by Shechter well become a classic. Premiered and Nell Catchpole is performed in May 2019 at The Sadlers Wells, live. This creates a knife edge tenthis is an extraordinary work. sion and atmosphere in this reSet against a power bar of lights, vealing observation of society. bodies fall and reappear in Rambert continue to excel as the the smoke filled stage, fighting international force at the foreagainst the trappings of clothing, front of contemporary dance. routine and striving to survive. The packed house full of admiOnce stripped of all things artificial, there is a chance that they ration for an exhilarating procommunicate more fully away grammes of dance; long may it all from the trappings of the world. continue. Petra Schofield Key to everything is simply to
Bath on Ice attraction set to return for “better than ever” eighth year
POPULAR festive attraction Bath on Ice is returning for an eighth year with festive food and drinks, glow in the dark mini-golf and 1000 square metres of ice to enjoy. Residents and visitors are being invited to enjoy skating, Glow Mini Golf, festive parties, deluxe hot chocolates, mulled wine and wood-fired pizza at Bath on Ice when it reopens on Friday 15th November. This year’s rink will again be 1000 square metres in size, allowing plenty of space to have fun and show off those skating skills.
There will also be penguins and sleighs for young children, with friends and families being able to watch all the action with a hot drink from the rink-side Moguls Alpine Bar. Glow Mini-Golf will also be returning this Christmas, with the 18-hole course lit up in full splendour once again. With glow in the dark balls and atmospheric lighting, visitors can challenge each other to a festive game amongst beautifully lit surroundings within Royal Victoria Park. After a twirl on the ice and a round of festive mini-golf, skat-
ers will be able to retreat to the warm comforting glow of the Moguls Alpine Bar. With hot mulled wine, wood-fired pizzas, deluxe hot chocolates, log burners, warm rugs and a range of festive beers and wines, the Moguls Alpine Bar is returning and parties, families and groups of friends will be able to enjoy the apres-ski surroundings for which Bath on Ice has become famous. With two weeks to go before the big opening, the Bath on Ice Team have been busy preparing. Director Simon Smith said: “As a family business we love seeing friends and families come together to have fun and enjoy being active over the Christmas period. “Bath on Ice is now into its eighth year and we’ve improved our offering year on year since we first opened. “This year the rink, entranceway, Glow Golf and alpine bar will look better than ever and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back onto the ice!” Bath on Ice will open at 4.45pm on Friday 15th November 2019 until 10pm on Sunday 5th January 2020.
We’re now taking advert bookings for our bumper Christmas issue! Don’t miss out - it’ll be available to pick up from 10th December Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789 to book your space Coming up this week in Bath Tom's Midnight Garden
The Mission Theatre 29th October - 2nd November, 7.30pm It’s the 1950s and Tom has been sent away in quarantine to stay in his Aunt and Uncle’s old house whilst his brother, Peter, recovers from measles. ‘Pay what it’s Worth’ Saturday Matinee (2nd Nov).
Cemetery Twilight Tour
On the way in Bath next week
Gloves Galore
An Evening with Rick Stein
Lysistrata
Fashion Museum Bath 29th - 31st October, 1.30-3.30pm Use a hand template to create glove-like decorations such as a wreath or garland. Take a look at the work by artist Rozanne Hawksley in the Glove Stories display for some inspirational ideas. Free to attend.
Christ Church, Julian Road 5th November, 8pm Rick Stein, favourite chef, food writer, restaurateur and TV personality, returns to Bath to share stories and flavours from his Secret France series.
The Rondo Theatre 6th - 9th November, 7.30pm There’s something rotten in the state of Athens. The Athenian men are permanently at war with someone; anyone and everyone! Currently it’s The Spartans, last month it was the Trojans.
Beckford's Tower 29th October, 5-6.30pm Join Courtney Fleming, the Tower’s Manager, on a tour of Lansdown Cemetery, once William Beckford’s beautiful garden surrounding the Tower and where Beckford himself is buried.
Bath Skyline 31st October, 10.30am - 2.30pm Go wild outdoors this autumn with a day of fire lighting, games, creativity and cooking over the campfire. The event is for children age 5+ and accompanying adults. Taking place in Fairy Wood.
Woodland Adventure Day
Jools Holland
The Duchess of Malfi
Upside Down
Graeme Swann & Henry Blofeld
Autumn Leaves
Bath Mozart Fest
The egg theatre 31st October - 3rd November In a production that quite literally breathes life into drawings on paper, Upside Down tells the story of two characters brought together by a missing cat. Running time of 45 minutes.
Komedia Bath 4th November, 7.30pm After two sell out tours with ‘The Great British Spin Off’ great mates Graeme Swann and Henry Blofeld are back on the road. Don’t miss out on the greatest double act since Morecambe and Wise.
The Forum 7th November, doors at 7pm Join Jools and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra plus support from Christopher Holland & Sumudu. Guests include Ruby Turner, Eddi Reader, Pauline Black and Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson. St Michael’s Without 8th November, 7.30pm Local charity Read Around Bath is celebrating its tenth anniversary with this unique seasonal Autumn Leaves event, led by patron Bel Mooney. Doors open at 7pm.
Bath Spa Uni Theatre 7th - 9th November Webster’s dark tale is an exploration of male rage and female resistance as two siblings try and control their sister, block her marriage and repress her agency with fatal results. Various Venues 8th - 16th November The music of W A Mozart lies at the heart of this critically acclaimed 9-day festival, but it ranges far beyond to those who inspired him, his contemporaries, and those he influenced.
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Community Two awards for Home Library volunteer after 40 years of service A VOLUNTEER from Midsomer Norton has been presented with two awards in recognition of her long history of supporting Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Home Library Service. Eileen Colburn began giving her time to the service more than 40 years ago, and has been coordinating all of the service volunteers for 35 years. The Home Library Service runs across Bath & North East Somerset and is for readers who have severely restricted mobility and are not able to visit a library in person. At a tea party on Wednesday 16th October to thank Eileen for her support, she was given a B&NES Volunteers Award for long service and a Lifetime Achievement award from the Midsomer Norton Community Trust. She also accepted the Trust’s Community Group Award on behalf of the Home Library Service. Councillor Dine Romero, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I would like to thank Eileen for her remarkable ongoing support of the Home Library Service and congratulate her and the team for their well-deserved awards. “There are many housebound people in Bath & North East Somerset who can no longer travel to the library. “Many of them are lifelong readers who would really miss being able to read different books. “Opening the cover of a book and entering another world becomes
Eileen Colburn, who has been giving her time for over 40 years
increasingly important if you‘re unable to step out of your front door, so I would encourage new readers to join and also invite new volunteers to follow in Eileen’s footsteps.” The Home Library Service volunteers visit their local library to collect or return books on people’s behalf. Readers can specify the titles they want and their areas of interest. Eileen is stepping down from her co-ordinator role but is still keen to continue as a Home Library
Co-op manager raises over £400 during 12hour cycle challenge MORE than £400 has been raised for the Children’s Hospice South West charity thanks to a ‘wheely’ good effort from a local Co-operative store manager in Bath. Ben Langford-Young cycled a total of 178 miles during an epic 12hour challenge on a static bike at The Co-operative Food in Bath. He took just 10 minutes break during his fundraising feat and raised £416 for the store’s charity partner – Children’s Hospice South West. A further £291 was raised through a bake sale and charity pot donations. Ben, Store Manager at the Bath store which is part of Southern Co-op, said: “I have only been cycling since February and use this as my main commute into work
which is around 24 miles a day. “We had a mini-competition between our sister stores in the area to see who could raise the most in a month so I decided to give the sponsored bike ride a go. “The customers were amazing. Many of them were offering to buy me things like food and drink to keep me going! “It was hard work but people told me that I didn’t stop smiling – even for the last mile. “A big thank you to everyone who supported me and the hospice. The staff there do amazing things for our local children so it is great to be able to support them.” The retail store in Widcombe Hill is supporting the hospice as part of Southern Co-op’s community engagement programme ‘Love Your Neighbourhood’.
Service volunteer. Eileen said: “I have seen many changes to the Home Library Service since I began to help out in the late 1970s when it was named Books on Wheels. “I feel privileged to have known so many readers and volunteers over the years and to still be part of something that provides crucial social contact for people, as well as encouraging their enjoyment of books. “I welcome new readers and volunteers to join the team.”
Charity warns locals to stay vigilant to signs of meningitis disease CHARITY Meningitis Now is warning local people to stay vigilant to the signs and symptoms of meningitis as cases of the deadly bacterial form of the disease peak during the winter. With the prospect of upcoming colder winter weather, the risk of meningitis increases. People spend more time indoors, closer to others; meaning germs are spread more easily. Fighting common infections like colds and flu weakens people’s immune systems, leaving them more vulnerable to the disease. Each year there are about 2,000 cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK – leaving 10 per cent of sufferers dead and a third of those who survive with after-effects such as brain damage, loss of hearing and sight and, where septicaemia has occurred, loss of limbs and scarring. It’s a disease which can kill in hours, so knowledge of the symptoms, vigilance and quick action are all vital. Dr Tom Nutt, Meningitis Now chief executive, said: “Babies and children under 5 are most at risk of meningitis, with over half of all cases occurring in this age group. “But the disease can affect anyone, of any age, at any time. “Even those who consider themselves ‘fit and healthy’ may be left fighting for their life in a matter of hours.” Meningitis is a difficult disease
to spot as many of its early symptoms can be similar to flu. These symptoms can include : • Fever with cold hands and feet • Vomiting • Headache • Stiff neck • Dislike of bright light • Joint or muscle pain • Pale blotchy skin • Drowsiness • Confusion and, in babies, a dislike of being handled, an unusual cry, rapid breathing and bulging fontanelle. Both adults and children may have a rash that does not fade under pressure, but advice from Meningitis Now is not to wait for a rash to develop before seeking medical attention. Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all. Tom added: “We urge everyone to familiarise themselves with the symptoms, trust their instincts and get urgent medical help if concerned. “Doing this could save yours or a loved one’s life.” Without vaccines for all strains of meningitis, knowing the symptoms is the best form of defence. You can download Meningitis Now’s free symptoms apps or request a credit-card sized symptoms card from its website at www.meningitisnow.org. Anyone affected by the disease or who has concerns can contact the charity’s free helpline on 0808 80 10 388 for information on its free support services.
Nationwide opens £500,000 grant fund to support housing projects NATIONWIDE Building Society is inviting applications for grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 for housing projects that will support the most vulnerable in local communities. Local community housing projects and charities are being urged to put their case forward as Nationwide, the world’s largest building society, makes a total of £500,000 available to help make a difference to communities across South West England. Andrew Manning, Nationwide’s Regional Director for the South West Region, said: “In 2007, our members voted for us to donate at least one percent of our pre-tax profits to good causes and asked that we focus on tackling housing issues. “We recognise there is a housing crisis, resulting in many people living in unsuitable, insecure or unaffordable accommodation.
“So, to help make a real and lasting difference, we are making over £20 million available in grant funding for housing-related charities and organisations across the UK over 5 years. “We are delighted to open the application process and encourage housing-related charities and organisations to apply so that they can collectively benefit from the £500,000 award that is available in their area.” A Community Board, comprised of local Nationwide members and colleagues, will review the applications and award grants of up to £50,000. The Community Board and Nationwide branches within the region will also provide on-going
support to the charities. So far Nationwide has awarded over £7 million in grants to more than 180 projects and will be investing over £20 million in housing projects across the UK over 5 years. The programme is being delivered with support from the UK Community Foundations programme, the national network for all accredited Community Foundations across the UK. Nationwide is inviting applications for housing community projects until 22nd November 2019. Full details can be found at www.nationwide.co.uk/communityfunding or in Nationwide branches across the region. Photo © John Sainsbury / Shutterstock.com
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Bath life saving club volunteers recognised at national ceremony
Appeal for residents to help with Tesco Christmas food collections News in Brief £2k empowerment fund
VOLUNTEERS from a Life Saving Club based in Bath have been presented with awards during a ceremony at Worcester Cathedral. The Royal Life Saving Society recognised the six volunteers who, between them, have given more than 36 years of service to the society. During their Sunday evening training sessions, members of the life saving club learn first-aid, water-based rescue skills and how to keep themselves and their friends safe near water. Club members regularly compete at life saving competitions across the region and the club also runs open-water training sessions so members can practice their skills in a real-life environment. Club Chairman, David “Blondie” Fielding, said: “Over 300 people drown every year in the UK, and most of these deaths occur in rivers and canals.
"The majority of people who drown are walkers and runners who never intended to be in the water in the first place. “Our club aims to teach water safety in a fun and enjoyable environment. “We have a fantastic team of highly-qualified volunteer instructors and committee members who are all passionate about life saving. “It is great to see their dedication recognised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK on the national stage.” Keynsham Life Saving Club trains from 6:30-8:30pm on Sunday evenings at Bath Sports and Leisure Centre. Membership costs just £55 per term and is open to anyone aged 8+. For more information about the Keynsham Life saving Club or to book your free taster session, visit the website www.klsc.co.uk or contact chairman@klsc.co.uk.
CHARITIES the Trussell Trust and FareShare are appealing to people in Bath to volunteer to help in the UK’s biggest food collection for people in need. From Thursday 21st - Saturday 23rd November, the two charities will be collecting food in Bath’s Tesco stores during the annual Tesco Food Collection. They are looking for local volunteers to encourage shoppers to donate so that as much food as possible can be collected. During the collection, customers are encouraged to donate longlife food to help food banks and community groups support people in need at Christmas. Tesco will top up customer donations by 20% to further support the two charities in their work. Last year, 3.5 million meals were collected as part of the Tesco Food Collection and, since its launch in 2012, more than 50 million meals have been donated to the two charities by generous Tesco customers. To make this year’s collection a success, volunteers are needed
to hand out shopping lists to customers so they can see the food items most needed by food banks and community groups in their area, and to encourage people to donate. Emma Revie, chief executive at The Trussell Trust, said: “No one should need a food bank at any time of year – but we know during the lead-up to Christmas our network of food banks see even more people needing help. “Food banks will be doing all they can to provide vital emergency support so that people don’t face hunger this Christmas. “But to make sure there are enough donations, we need your support. “Having your support in this year’s Tesco Food Collection will make a real difference – the more people who volunteer, the more food will be collected from generous shoppers, and the better prepared food banks will be to help local people.” People interested in volunteering can find out more and sign up at https://fareshare. org.uk/tescofoodcollection/
All 59 councillors across Bath and North East Somerset are set to get £2,000 to spend on projects in their area. They will be expected to use the £118,000 “empowerment fund” to address the concerns and needs of their constituents. Members will be able to collaborate across ward boundaries and work with community organisations and town and parish councils. The projects will have to meet at least one of Bath and North East Somerset Council’s priorities – addressing the climate emergency; delivering for residents; focusing on prevention; and giving people a bigger say. Councillors will have to demonstrate that the project is backed by the community, and say where there could be sources of matched funding or volunteer support. They will not be able to spend their £2,000 on individuals, medical research, solely on running costs, political aims, or promoting any religion, faith or belief. All applications will have to be approved by the council. Stephen Sumner Local Democracy Reporter
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Curo housing team Modern-day tapestry created for goes pink for Breast Peasedown St John church Cancer Now fundraiser CURO’S housebuilding team joined the ‘Wear it Pink’ campaign on Friday 18th October, to support Breast Cancer Now’s annual fundraising event. Wear it Pink happens every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and is one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK aimed at facilitating continued vital research into the disease. On Friday, Curo staff sported their best pink outfits, with colleagues working on site swapping their usual green high visibility jackets for pink ones, raising £352 for the cause. Curo Sales Director, Lisa Howells, said: “Curo colleagues take part in many charity fundraising events throughout the year for causes that are close to our hearts. It’s great to see that everyone has made an effort on
‘Wear it Pink’ day and joined the national campaign to help raise money for further life-saving breast cancer research. “We’ve all had fun choosing our outfits for today, baking pink treats and, most importantly, donating. Colleagues looked fabulous in pink both in the office and on our construction sites and we’re already looking forward to making next year’s event even bigger and better.” To mark the occasion, Curo installed planters with pink cyclamen at Mulberry Park in Combe Down. Since launching in 2002, Breast Cancer Now’s Wear it Pink day has raised more than £33 million to fund research and provide emotional and practical support to people affected by breast cancer.
A MODERN piece of tapestry has been created to add a splash of colour to a church in Peasedown St John. An 8-metre quilt, depicting stories from the Bible, is now hanging on the wall inside St John’s Parish Church. Known as an applique, it was designed and created by professional quilt-maker and church member, Mary Warren. The finished item took six months to create. Mary said: “St John’s Church is well-used throughout the week for children’s groups, Bible study, prayer meetings and church services. “We realised some time ago though that for visitors, there wasn’t anything in the building that clearly, and simply, explained what we as Christians believe.” Inspired by the illustrations of Dawn Machell, a Christian artist
who provided story designs for the book ‘Five Minute Bible Stories’ by Fiona Boon and Hayley Down, Mary got to work on presenting 12 panels of fabric, all depicting stories from the Bible. “We loved Dawn’s illustrations enough that we wanted to re-create them, so we contacted the publishing company to get permission to carry out the work. Once we had received it, we decided to create the applique with a scriptural reference to John 3:16, which for many Christians sums up the essence of our faith: ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that who-
ever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.’” Due to the historic status of St John’s Church, the Archdeacon of Bath needed to give consent for the artwork to be hung on church premises. The Church building is open throughout the week, so anyone is welcome to visit and appreciate the finished artwork.
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Business Delays to WECA’s accounts cost local taxpayers £17k in extra fees Adam Postans
Local Democracy Reporter
DELAYS compiling the West of England Combined Authority’s (Weca) accounts have cost taxpayers thousands for extra work by auditors. Weca missed a deadline of finalising its accounts by the end of July because it did not yet have enough finance staff in place and had to rely on contractors — accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) — to do the bulk of the work. But the problems were compounded because the computer system it was using required a large amount of manual input of data. It meant extra work for external auditors Grant Thornton beyond the anticipated timescale. Weca, comprising Bristol city, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset councils, has now recruited its own finance team to “own” the process of compiling its accounts. Director of investment and corporate services Malcolm Coe told the regional body’s audit committee members: “We were hoping we could finalise the accounts at the end of July but it has been a difficult process for a number of reasons. “It’s the volume of transactions we had to deal with on a manual basis to put these accounts together because the financial system we have been using is pretty much a blank shell. “The other key issue in our improvement plan is Weca’s understanding and ownership of the accounts. “The finance team 12 months ago
was basically one person who is no longer with us. “We are now reducing our reliance on contractors and appointing internal capacity to own the process going forward. “We need to have more involvement as Weca staff,
we need to get better finance systems and we need to get the information much earlier in the process.” Mr Coe said some of the additional £17,000 auditor’s charge was because the accounts were not ready in time. “We had a contract with PwC who were responsible for putting our accounts together for last year,” he said. “Clearly I will be having robust conversations with them and I will be looking to recoup as much as I can of that £17,000 by reducing fees I’m going to pay to our contractors. “Next year it will be our responsibility. “If and when we do commission support from a contractor, it will be on a bespoke basis for one particular element of complexity, not to do the whole thing for us.” Mr Coe said he was confident Weca’s plans to address the issues would avoid a similar situation
next year. Grant Thornton director Barrie Morris told the meeting on Wednesday, October 16: “Members will no doubt be disappointed we are levying an additional fee in relation to the additional work we had to do. “Malcolm and I had long discussions about what size of fee would be appropriate and we have agreed £17,000, so that takes the fee to just over £37,000. Committee chairman and Bristol city Cllr Geoff Gollop said: “The situation does not suit anybody because if Grant Thornton eventually agreed an extra £17,000 fee with Malcolm, the costs will have been significantly more than that. “You can guess that by simply having heard the amount of work that has been involved. “While we clearly don’t want to pay any more than we have to, we want to pay a fair market rate.” He said it was “very risky” if Weca did not take control of compiling its own accounts. The 2018/19 annual statement of accounts shows Weca spent £699,000 developing the ill-fated Joint Spatial Plan, the blueprint to build 105,000 homes in the region that was thrown out by government inspectors in the summer. It also reveals chief executive Patricia Greer claimed just £103 expenses throughout the financial year. Weca doubled its workforce from 41 to 84 employees during the 12 months. Collectively they claimed £22,000 for staff travel, £1,000 business mileage and £2,000 of miscellaneous expenses.
Publisher to share earnings with mental health charity BATH-BASED magazine publisher Anthem Publishing will be donating 10p from every magazine sold throughout October to local mental health charity, Bath Mind. With one in four people experiencing a mental health problem each year, the company has pledged its support throughout Mental Health Awareness Month. Bath Mind is an independently run charity, which provides information, activities, advice, and support surrounding mental health. They work to not only help those with poor mental health, but also take preventative measures, aiming to maintain and improve wellbeing for as many people as possible.
The collaboration marks another move toward Anthem’s focus on health and wellbeing, who chose Bath Mind as their company charity in April this year. CEO of Anthem, Jon Bickley, said: “We at Anthem take incredibly seriously the work done by Bath Mind, and will support them in any way that we can. We will be working incredibly hard throughout October to promote Mental Health Awareness Month, and raise awareness amongst our audiences of what help is available, and how they themselves can support Bath Mind. We are delighted to be able to donate 10p from every magazine sold throughout October, and hope that our support can make a difference.”
Developer partners with Gregorys to bring new homes to market BATH & North East Somerset Councilowned Aequus Developments Ltd has signed a partnership deal with Gregory’s Estate Agents to bring their new and existing rental homes to market in Bath. The two-year deal, signed by Aequus’ Chair Charles Gerrish and Gregory’s founder, Matt Gregory will see Gregory’s take over the tenancy management of 33 existing homes. Gregory’s will also support Aequus with their future pipeline of properties, that will be refurbished and marketed for rent over the next few years. These homes will be available to rent through Gregory’s Estate Agents and include 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in some of the city’s historic Georgian buildings. Aequus Developments Limited (ADL) was established by Bath & North East Somerset Council in 2016 to develop, deliver, own and manage the local authority’s private residential property. ADL is working to provide good quality refurbished homes in the city centre for young professionals and city workers and to act as a responsible landlord. Aequus’ chair Charles Gerrish said: “I am pleased that following an open competitive tender process, we have been able to appoint a local business to work with to help us deliver our objectives of good quality homes for rent.” Gregory’s is a family-run, independent estate agent, established in 2015 by Matt
Gregory. Commenting on the partnership, Mr Gregory said: “Gregory’s has seen continued success and growth during the last four years and we are thrilled to have now been selected by ADL to work alongside them in this exciting project, bringing quality properties to the Bath & North East Somerset rental market and allowing tenants the opportunity to live in such wonderful surroundings.” Aequus is building new homes for sale and rent, with over 100 homes in the pipeline at two schemes at Riverside View in Keynsham and Sladebrook Road in Bath. Charles Gerrish added: “Aequus seeks to address the need for reasonably priced new homes in the area by bringing forward development on brownfield sites and refurbishing city centre properties. “Recognising Bath & North East Somerset Council’s adoption of the climate emergency policy earlier this year, we are proud that we can achieve a high level of sustainability while ensuring prices remain competitive for the local market.”
Tuesday, 29th October 2019
Record number of visitors bring in £470m to local economy
Photo © gowithstock / Shutterstock.com
A RECORD number of people visited Bath and North East Somerset last year, contributing £470m to the local economy, according to recently released figures. The latest Visitor Impact Report, an independent survey carried out by The South West Research Company, shows that an estimated 6.25 million people visited the district in 2018. The survey also reveals that the value of the visitor economy in Bath and North East Somerset is almost half a billion pounds, contributing £470m to the local economy, an increase of £40m since the last survey was carried out in 2016. During 2018, more than a million people (1.182m) stayed in the area, a third of these staying guests were international visitors. Around a half of the staying visitors opted for serviced accom-
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modation such as hotels or B&Bs, while around a third stayed with family or friends. The survey found that the spend of staying guests was more than £266.5m Bath and North East Somerset also received an estimated five million day-visitors during 2018, spending more than £191 million. Kathryn Davis, Interim CEO, Visit Bath, said: “Compared to the last data set produced for 2016, we have seen growth in both the volume and spend of staying visitors. While the volume of day visitors has also grown, the average spend per visit remains relatively similar to 2016.” Councillor Dine Romero, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council said: “Tourism is a vital part of the local economy and I’m pleased to hear that our beautiful city and its surrounding towns,
villages and countryside remain an attractive destination for so many people. The strength of our visitor economy shows the confidence people have in our city and the wider area, which has to be good news for business owners and employees. However, looking to the future we must continue to develop more sustainable tourism and make sure the longterm interests of the city and its residents are also protected.” Figures from the International Passenger Survey (IPS) for 2018 were released earlier this year, showing that Bath was the 11th most visited town or city in the UK, up from 12th most visited in 2017. In 2018, the estimated top five visitor markets were USA, Germany, Italy, Spain and France, with Australia, Ireland, The Netherlands, Canada and New Zealand completing the top ten.
Gifting company Wild & Wolf announces Born Free partnership AWARD-WINNING design-led gifting company Wild & Wolf has announced a new partnership with international wildlife charity Born Free that will see donated profits from their Yes Studio Animal Multi-Tools go to the charity to assist in their mission to protect wild animals. The innovative Multi-Tools, part of Wild & Wolf’s popular lifestyle brand Yes Studio, have been designed bespoke, and are uniquely shaped to model three endangered animals. They are included in Yes Studio’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection and will be hitting shelves as early as December 2019 in stockists such as John Lewis and Amazon. There are three animal-shaped Multi-Tools in the range: the Giant Panda On-the-Go Multi-Tool, Black Rhino Urban Multi-Tool and Sea Turtle Bike Multi-Tool, each featuring eight different functions such as a bottle opener, hex wrench, flat head screwdriver, comb, nail file and more. The practical gadgets are travel-friendly and can be attached to any bag or keyring via an included coloured carabiner. The global agreement begins in November 2019 and will see 40p/40 cents for every unit sold donated to Born Free to support their worldwide effort protecting wild species & rescue animals from suffering. Matt Smithers, Head of Market-
ing and Fundraising at Born Free, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Wild & Wolf and their range of Yes Studio Animal Multi-Tools. “Born Free has been working to protect wild animals since 1984, and Wild & Wolf shares our vision of a future where animals thrive in the wild, where animals are not exploited and where animals and people-co-exist. “We are confident that these new multi tools will help spread our message to Keep Wildlife in the Wild.” “We are so very pleased to be entering into this partnership with such a respected charity like Born Free,” said Emma Puzey, Licensing Manager at Wild & Wolf, “Their conservation work to protect animals all around the world is such an important cause and we’re happy that our Yes Studio Animal Multi-Tools will be playing a small part in helping them to continue in their vital mission.” The range will be available to purchase from Wild & Wolf’s consumer webstore https://store. wildandwolf.co.uk from January.
ProCook opens in former Kitchens store
Wessex Water meets over 1000 customers at events across city
PROCOOK has opened a brand new store on Quiet Street in Bath, welcome news for the city's home cooks and bakers. Selling own-brand cookware, kitchen knives, accessories and tableware, alongside branded products from household names such as Le Creuset, Brabantia, Robert Welch and Magimix, the brand’s ‘quality first’ has led them to gain a reputation as a leading brand for both home cooks and professional chefs. ProCook Founder, Daniel O’Neill said: “Despite challenges in retail bricks and mortar stores still remain the best way to shop for high quality goods, so we’re delighted to open a shop in Bath
WESSEX Water has met more than 1,000 customers at events across Bath in 2019. At each event, the company provided customers with advice and freebies to help them save water in their gardens, prevent blockages in their homes and stay hydrated. Overall, Wessex Water has spoken with 1,350 customers in the area and handed out 800 refillable water bottles and 100 seed packets. Beth Angle, community events co-ordinator at Wessex Water, said: “This year we have attended multiple events in Bath, including the Bath Festival of Nature and Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life. “We have really enjoyed
as it will give our customers in the area an opportunity to shop ProCook products in person as well as online.” ProCook has gone from strength to strength in recent years, expanding their cookware chain to 50 stores countrywide, and capitalising on the growing trend for home cooking that has accompanied the British appetite for fine dining and TV cooking shows. “Our goal is to make everyone a celebrity chef in their own home” said Daniel. “Excellent home cooking is within everyone’s reach with the right tools, and it doesn’t take much to get you started.” ProCook is situated at the former Kitchens store 4-5 Quiet Street and is open 7 days a week.
meeting with customers and handing out some of our useful freebies, while also finding out about their
experiences with us. “We will be attending more events next year, so we hope to meet and speak with even more customers across Bath.”
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www.bathecho.co.uk
Politics Finance chief “won’t write blank cheque” to increase pay Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
A COUNCIL finance chief will not “write a blank cheque” to pay outside workers the “real” living wage without knowing the full costs involved. Bath and North East Somerset Council already pays its staff at least £9 per hour but Councillor Richard Samuel said requiring the same of contractors would have major implications for the authority’s budget. The real living wage is based on the cost of living but unlike the lower national living wage is not a legal requirement. Leading the real living wage motion at the October 10 council meeting, Labour’s Councillor Chris Dando said: “The Government has set up a pseudo living wage, a national living wage which doesn’t relate to anything and isn’t enough for anybody to live on. “The real living wage is an appropriate amount for people to live on, it’s a basic subsistence income. They aren’t going off to buy Caribbean islands or houses in the Bahamas. “It’s appropriate that people
should be able to live and that we as a council should declare, proudly and openly, that we want to be a living wage employer, and we should take on all the responsibilities that come from it. “I’ve been advised that we can’t do that, so the motion is a watered-down version of our aspirations. “If you can’t afford to pay staff the living wage, you don’t have a viable business.” The minimum wage currently stands at £7.70 per hour for under 25s. Those over 25 have to be paid at least the national living wage, an hourly rate of £8.21. Both are legal requirements. In contrast, the real living wage is voluntary and based on the cost of living. Workers are paid £9 per hour, or £10.55 in London. Labour group leader Cllr Robin Moss said: “We have a whole series of contracts this council dishes out. It’s no accident that within those contracted services it’s primarily women who have to deal with not only low pay but without decent pension rights as well. “I think this is a step in the right direction to say people should be paid a decent wage so they can be a contributor and take part in society in its wider sense.”
The Conservatives took a different view on the proposals, arguing the real living wage should be weighted so higher sums are paid in more expensive areas, not just London. Cllr Karen Warrington said: “I wasn’t that long ago on very close to minimum wage. I earned enough to pay my rent and there wasn’t a lot left over. “There are many roles that are vital for keeping our communities going and they are very often on
the minimum wage, or close to it. “We live in an area that’s incredibly expensive. We believe the living wage should have a location weighting so those who live in areas of the country with high rents are not struggling to afford to live.” Both proposals were rejected by Liberal Democrat cabinet member for resources Cllr Samuel, who said: “I’m proud to say that this council pays all its employees above the real living wage level.
“However, that is to some extent dependent on the council receiving proper levels of funding from the Government to enable us to do our job properly. “We would also like to see employees working for organisations we procure services from also receive fair wages. “However, the problem with this motion is it commits the council to join the Living Wage Foundation and creates an obligation to procure real living wage rates from our outsourced services. “This is likely to see rises in costs, particularly in areas where care is provided, and possibly in some where manual labour is a feature. “I can’t agree to write a blank cheque without understanding the downstream financial implications. My amendment seeks a pause while a more considered look is taken at this issue. “We can assess whether this is something we actually want to do.” Councillors will scrutinise proposals for the council to sign up with the Living Wage Foundation and become a living wage employer.
said there was no evidence of crime and disorder linked to licensed premises in Julian Road, and no justification for extending it. Police licensing officer Geoff Cannon, previously a police sergeant in Bath, said there had been fewer issues in Walcot since Club XL, previously Cadillacs, closed. It is now Walcot House, a cafe, restaurant, cocktail bar, nightclub and exercise studio. Mr Cannon said incidents related to licensed premises in Julian Road were rare and he was “bemused” why it was ever included. Councillor Manda Rigby said residents may complain privately about a pub or club but not report it to the police or the council.
She urged her colleagues to get the message out that people should log incidents so there is evidence when premises licences and policies are reviewed. Cllr Steve Hedges said the Liberal Democrats had originally pushed for the whole city to be covered by the cumulative impact area, but Mr Cannon said that would have been hard to justify. In its consultation response, pub chain Punch Taverns warned the council that cumulative impact areas can cause “stagnation” and “can do as much damage as good”. The committee backed the proposed changes to the area, a decision that will have to be signed off by full council.
Alcohol licensing could be relaxed following drop in crime and disorder are reasons not to. Within the cumulative impact area, that is flipped on its head. “The presumption is that the licence shouldn’t be granted unless the applicant can demonstrate they’re fulfilling the licensing objectives and won’t add to the cumulative impact. “The nature of the night-time
have the evidence to keep it in the cumulative impact area.” A Local Democracy Reporter heat map of incidents linked to licensed premises shows the main hotspot is around Milsom Street, PUBS and clubs will soon find Broad Street and George Street. it easier to open in parts of Bath Others problem areas are around due to a lack of crime and disorthe railway station, Parade Garder linked to licensed premises. dens and James Street West. Police said the closure of venues Julian Road is set to be removed like Club XL means they are rarefrom the controlled zone ly called out to Walcot so but the Marlborough restrictions on the numLane and Buildings Resber of businesses selling idents Association said alcohol on-site can be it “is still quite volatile, relaxed. liable to change and has Residents associations experienced a degree said the controls had of deprivation in recent worked well and urged times”. Bath and North East It said: “Our overall feelSomerset Council not to ing is that the cumulative change them prematureimpact area has worked ly. well in reducing crime in The authority introduced the city centre area and the policy in 2007 after therefore should not be claims Bath had hit satuprematurely changed. ration point for boozers, “The cumulative impact with some wanting the area has enough licences whole city covered. to meet the current deLicensing manager Cathryn Brown told Oc- This heatmap shows the common areas of alcohol-related incidents mand for alcohol in our view.” tober 16’s licensing committee meeting: “In 2007 there were economy has changed in the last The Royal Crescent Society and concerns about the number of li- five years [when the policy was the Circus Area Residents Assolast reviewed]. ciation agreed and asked if the censed premises in a small area. “Licensing is a permissive regime “The proposal is to condense boundary could be extended to – if someone applies for a licence the area and not include areas Royal Victoria Park. Responding you should grant it unless there around Walcot Street – we don’t to the comments, council officers
Stephen Sumner
Tuesday, 29th October 2019
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Joint Spatial Plan failed “because West of England went first” Adam Postans
Local Democracy Reporter
THE ill-fated blueprint for 105,000 new homes in the West of England was thrown out because the region “went first”, a council leader claims. Last month, government inspectors rejected the Joint Spatial Plan (JSP) and ordered the four unitary authorities — Bristol city, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath & North East Somerset — to go back to the drawing board. Now, South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage has blamed the failure on the fact such a masterplan had not been produced before and that they faced unknown obstacles. His comments at South Gloucestershire's full council meeting on Wednesday 16th October came as opposition Labour leader Pat Rooney announced her group would no longer take part in cross-party talks on the JSP because “all trust has broken down” with the Conservative administration. Campaign group Trapp’d (Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development) also lambasted the council and demanded an apology to householders over the JSP “fiasco”.
Cllr Savage said: “I make no apologies for the level of ambition we showed as a sub-region in embarking on what was at the time the first such city region-based planning document in the country. “We were the first to go down this route. “There is something to be said for not going first because we have faced all the issues that others have been able to learn from us. “I make no qualms about the level of disappointment we have that all that time and effort has gone into this plan. “It was many, many hundreds of hours of officer work, not to mention the time councillors and members of the public have put into attending meetings as this process has gone through its respective stages. “There will be work that we can carry through to whatever the next step of the process is. “The challenges we had when we started the JSP process have not gone away and we still need to plan for future homes and jobs for our city region.” Cllr Savage said he expected more information by December outlining the next steps to revive the JSP, which took 16 months to get to the public examination stage, following discussions with the other local authorities.
A report to full council said the authority would keep members abreast of developments through the policy advisory group (PAG), which includes group leaders. But Cllr Rooney said: “We, as a Labour group, have been involved in PAGs before but because all trust has broken due to recent PAG decisions imposed by this administration, we will not be attending PAGs. “However, we are not abdicating our responsibilities and will be holding separate opposition meetings with directors and the CEO.” Cllr Savage said he was “very disappointed” by the decision. “I do not quite understand how you can be taking your responsibilities seriously if you do not want to be in that room shaping things as we are on this journey. “That will be a big disappointment to communities of Staple Hill, Filton and Patchway who won’t be represented in the process moving forward. “We will continue to issue you with invitations and if you do not attend the meetings, that’s entirely a matter for you.” Lib Dem Cllr Mike Drew told Cllr Savage: “You should not try to excuse yourself but accept the whole process has been a failure. “The actual means and goals of the plan should be started afresh.
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“Please apologise and accept that the plan you produced is not fit for purpose, as the inspectors said.” Trapp’d co-chairman Roger Hall told the meeting the JSP had been “roundly demolished” by the government officials. He said: “Councillors and planning officers are like rabbits in the headlights, not knowing what to do next, out of touch with reality but producing hopelessly optimistic statements. “This holds the council up to ridicule. “This plan was five years in the making and has been an appalling waste of time and public money. “The headline cause of the prob-
lem may be the failure of councillors to properly assess spatial alternatives in an objective manner but the underlying reason goes much deeper into the culture. “The sheer arrogance of a small, unaccountable cabal who thought they could decide from the outset which locations should be developed based on political preference, then wrap it all up in a contrived strategy, is simply breathtaking.” Mr Hall added: “We are happy to work constructively and cooperatively with you. If you try to push the old plan through again, we will join forces with other campaign groups and fight you at every opportunity.”
Residents fear “putrid” smell from planned biogas plant Stephen Sumner
Local Democracy Reporter
LORRIES full of organic waste could visit a massive new biogas plant planned in Keynsham every seven minutes. Residents fear the roads will be choked with juggernauts and claim the “putrid” smell already emanating from the Charlton Field Lane site makes them feel physically sick. If given the go-ahead, the anaerobic digester will process up to 92,000 tonnes of food waste and “energy crops” every year – more than three times the capacity of a facility approved in 2014 that was never completed after the firm went into administration. The plant, sitting in the green belt, will produce biogas that can be used to generate electricity for the local community, or exported as a renewably sourced gas. A couple who live nearby said in their objection: “The smell two weeks ago was so bad we couldn’t open our windows or doors to sit in the garden as the smell was making us feel ill.” A man added: “I cannot stress how awful this smell is – it’s putrid and vile, to the point where it makes you feel nauseous. We have gone from having sweet smell of chocolate and caramel floating across the air to a foul-smelling faeces smell that sticks in the nostrils and throat.” A woman with a lung condition said the odour had made her “physically sick”. The former quarry opened as a composting site in 2001. Residents said the traffic, noise and smell of that
caused them “significant” harm. Planning permission was granted in 2015 for an anaerobic digester capable of processing 25,000 tonnes of food waste and energy crops each year. A consultant representing three of the 30 objectors said the impact will be on a “totally different scale” to the last plans. He said work on the previous plant had resulted in neighbouring homes frequently being flooded with a “pungent, foulsmelling waste”, and warned that could be exacerbated. A man who lives downwind of the site, in Bilbie Green, said: “Not only are we contending with poor quality house builds, we are now being asked to contend with a possibly rancid smell which could force some people into staying indoors. This would make it extremely difficult to sell property.” The plant will be open daily from 7am and 9pm and up to 58 lorries are expected to go to and from the site each day – equal to one every seven minutes. Another objector said the smell would be a “constant harassment of the senses” and feared the “juggernauts” would be a “nightmare” on the already congested roads. He said the facility would be better placed in Avonmouth, Chittening or Severn Beach as the roads are better suited and emergency services are trained for industrial incidents. The plant will help divert food waste from landfill. It will use energy crops like maize from local farmers who will in turn be provided with nutrient rich bio-fertilise. Ward councillors have called for the application to come before the planning committee. A date has not yet been set.
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Puzzles
Solutions will be shared in our next issue - out on 12/11/19
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27 Small restaurant (6) 28 Elongate (8) 29 South American boa (8) 30 Person in the petroleum industry (6)
Sudoku Easy
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In Other News.... New manager joins Citizens Advice B&NES
RUH's specialist optometry team sets its sights on top national award THE Optometry team at the Royal United Hospital in Bath has made it to the finals of a national competition and now needs help from patients and the public to scoop the top prize. The team is on the shortlist in the Hospital Optometry Team of the Year category in the Association of Optometrists (AOP) Awards 2020, which recognise the highest levels of achievement in UK optics. Voting is now open and members of the public can cast their votes on who they think should take the top accolade. The 2019 AOP Awards attracted more than 20,000 votes from both optical professionals and patients. Head of Optometry Helen
Broadbent said: “Making the shortlist in such a prestigious competition is a real honour. “I hadn’t told the team that I’d submitted a nomination so when they found out we were one of the finalists it was a complete surprise for them, they couldn’t believe it. “I’m so proud of all the team and how we’ve pulled together with a joint vision of delivering excellent patient care, while looking at innovative ways we can improve the service we offer our patients. “In our awards category we are up against some really excellent teams like Moorfields Eye Hospital and Sheffield Children’s Hospital, so we’re trying to stay realistic about our chances – but if the public get behind us, you never know!”
CEO Les Redwood with Douglas Eason
Among the reasons for being shortlisted was the team’s introduction of a new virtual clinic for patients, which has helped to free up clinical space, streamline the service and cope with an ever-increasing number of patients – ophthalmology now sees the most outpatients of any speciality in the NHS. AOP Chief Executive Henrietta Alderman said: “Many of our members will view providing high-quality eye care simply as the norm but the AOP Awards is great way to show that optometry, even the day-to-day, incorporates exceptional performance and tremendous passion.” Members of the public can cast their vote by visiting www.aop. org.uk/awards before 5pm on Wednesday 18th December.
BATHONIAN Douglas Eason has joined Citizens Advice Bath & North East Somerset in a new role as Business Development and Marketing Manager. Douglas will be supporting CEO Les Redwood in delivering a new strategy for the charity. Douglas has worked for Capita Software, Innovate UK and Screwfix and brings knowledge and experience in Marketing and Strategic Business Management, and a motivation to create a positive impact for citizens throughout Bath & North East Somerset. Raised in South Africa, but originally from Bath, Douglas has involved himself in numerous community events and charities in the county over the last 20 years. These have included the MS Society, RUH Forever Friends Appeal, Bath Mind, and Dorothy House. 2019 is proving to be a significant
year of change for Citizens Advice Bath & North East Somerset, with Les Redwood taking over as CEO and the introduction of a new business strategy. Douglas' arrival sets the scene for more positive changes for the charity in 2020. Douglas commented on how prolonged political uncertainty has emphasised the essential support service that Citizens Advice provides to residents with complex issues. He said: “While debt management, housing and benefit issues continue to feature largely in the 8500 enquiries our charity deals with annually, new concerns around immigration are increasing the demands on expert advisers." “These increasingly complex issues are why it’s so important that we implement this strategy as quickly as possible and take a new approach to how we deliver our service.”
Last issue's puzzle solutions Crossword Across: 1 Scram, 4 Assistant, 10 Mayonnaise, 11 Upon, 12 Reverends, 13 Spree, 15 Kits, 17 Leopardess, 19 Leominster, 21 Peat, 22 Scold, 24 Satisfied, 27 Belt, 28 Sketchbook, 29 Iron horse, 30 Tenth. Down: 2 Cease-fire, 3 Alone, 5 Skiddoo, 6 Idea, 7 Trumped-up, 8 Noose, 9 Underline, 14 Hairpiece, 16 Simpleton, 18 Scapegoat, 20 Travels, 23 Cheer, 25 Fable, 26 Oslo.
Sudoku
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Hard Sudoku Medium No.306
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Sport
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Bath Rugby President urges locals to Swimming legends join him at upcoming Rec Sleep Out inducted into Hall of Fame for Sport
Bath Rugby President John Hall
BATH Rugby President John Hall has urged people from across the city and surrounding area to join him at the Rec Sleep Out 2019, taking place on Wednesday 6th November. Having played for Bath 277 times over a 14-year senior career, Hall is no stranger to being in uncomfortable situations at The Rec, but being temporarily stuck at the bottom of a ruck is nothing compared to the prospect of spending an entire night outside in the November cold and rain. Hall already works closely with Bath Rugby Foundation, focused particularly on leadership development and the mentoring of teenagers and young people from challenging backgrounds. He is leading the Andes Challenge, which will see 10 current and former Bath Rugby Founda-
tion participants take part in a life-changing cycling challenge in Chile in November. He said: “Having seen the young people who take part in Bath Rugby Foundation programmes who do not have a safe and stable place to spend the night, signing up to spend one night out in the open was an easy decision to make. No matter how cold it gets, the knowledge that the money we raise helps youngsters in a terrible situation and the publicity this event gives to a very real issue will keep us going.” Bath Rugby Foundation works with more than 3,000 children and young people annually and staff are increasingly aware that more and more of the participants on the charity’s programmes do not have the security of a permanent home.
Many young people find themselves sofa-surfing or moving between various types of temporary accommodation. Sadly, there are often times that young people arrive at the charity hungry. Hall, who was announced as Bath Rugby’s President in August this year, said: “Youth homelessness is a very real issue in this city and I feel that people who have had opportunity should help young people who have had a tough start to life climb a few steps up the ladder. "I would urge all Bath Rugby fans, businesses and individuals across the area to support this event and join us at The Rec Sleep Out on November 6.” You can sign up to take part in the Rec Sleep Out at: https:// www.bathrugbyfoundation.com/ Event/the-rec-sleep-out-2019.
Team Bath Netball to stage six-club pre-season tournament TEAM Bath Netball's annual pre-season tournament is returning in December - and this year it is bigger and better than ever. Instead of the three teams of recent years, there will be six competing over two action-packed days (7th-8th December) at the Team Bath Arena to be the first-ever winners of the Lyn
Gunson Trophy. The Blue & Gold will be joined at the tournament by fellow Vitality Superleague franchises Saracens Mavericks, Severn Stars, Strathclyde Sirens and Surrey Storm plus special guests Knights, the UK’s leading men's netball team. There will be 16 matches over the weekend, nine on the Saturday and seven on Sunday, each comprising
of four eight-minute quarters. Two points will be awarded for a win and the two teams with the most points after the round-robin matches will meet in The BiG Showdown final on Sunday at 3.45pm. Day tickets are priced at £20 for adults, £10 concessions and £40 for a family ticket (two adults and two children or one adult and three children).
PARALYMPIC champion Stephanie Millward and Olympic swimming coach Dr Andrei Vorontsov have become the latest inductees into the University of Bath Hall of Fame for Sport. Millward, who trains with Team Bath AS in the University’s London 2012 Legacy Pool, has won an incredible 49 medals at major international championships during an illustrious career, including ten while representing Great Britain at the Paralympic Games. Vorontsov is one of the world’s most respected swimming coaches having guided a host of athletes for GB, Sweden and his native Russia to medals on the Olympic and World stage, while also producing more than 130 research papers and books in the field of biomechanics and its impact on swimming. He is currently in his third spell with the Team Bath family, assisting Mark Skimming with coaching the University’s student swimming squad. Vorontsov and Millward were welcomed into the Hall of Fame for Sport by Stephen Baddeley, Director of Sport at the University of Bath, during a joint ceremony attended by families and Bathbased swimmers past and present this morning. “Stephanie and Andrei are two thoroughly deserving inductees into our Hall of Fame,” he said. “Andrei is the kind of guy who goes about his daily business without fuss or fanfare and yet, as a visiting high-performance swim coach said to me just yesterday, he is a living legend within his sport. It is a real privilege to have him on our coaching staff. “Stephanie continues to enjoy an incredible swimming career but to be considered for the University’s Hall of Fame, people have to also contribute to our sporting environment – and Stephanie does that every day. Not only is she an inspiration to others but she supports and cares for those around her, especially aspiring young swimmers and those in the Team Bath AS club with whom she trains and is an ambassador.” Millward’s induction came just a month after she won her latest global titles at the London 2019 World Para-Swimming Championships, the 34pt 4x100m freestyle and medley crowns taking her world gold medal tally to ten. She is now training towards Tokyo 2020 which, should she be selected, will be her fourth Paralympic Games. She won five medals
Keep an eye out for the next issue of the Bath Echo - due out on Tuesday 12th November 2019
apiece at both London 2012 and Rio 2016, including double gold at the latter in the S8 100m backstroke and 34pt 4x100m medley relay. “Thank you to all at Team Bath and the University of Bath for this honour,” said Millward, who is a patron and ambassador for nine charities. “To be inducted into the Hall of Fame and, through that, find myself linked to some of the country’s greatest swimmers, athletes, coaches and performance directors is truly humbling. Vorontsov also enjoyed success at London 2012 and Rio 2016 as Head Coach of the Russia and Sweden national teams respectively, with his athletes winning seven Olympic medals in total – including a historic gold for Sweden’s Sarah Sjostrom three years ago. He had previously prepared swimmers in Bath for the Sydney 2000, Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Games while based at the University, first as British Swimming coach from 1999-2004 and then as University of Bath coach from 2006-2008. “I am very pleased, honoured and overwhelmed to be here at such a ceremony,” said Vorontsov, whose sport science expertise has made him a key speaker at conferences and clinics around the world. “The 20 years since I first came to Bath have gone in an eye blink and I am very grateful to all the swimmers and athletes I have worked with. Thank you for this honour.” Millward and Vorontsov are the fifth and sixth swimming inductees into the University’s Hall of Fame for Sport, joining Olympic medalists Michael Jamieson and Paul Palmer, multiple World Champion Mark Foster and seven-time Paralympic Champion Sascha Kindred. There are now 26 inductees into the Hall of Fame for Sport.
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