Bath Echo - Issue 025 - 01/09/2020

ECHO

Your FREE local fortnightly newspaper for Bath

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

Thousands of copies available for pick-up across Bath every fortnight

Our showroom is now back open, by appointment only.

Give us a call today to get your next project started. www.homedesign.schmidt | 01225 337276 1 Park Road (Just off Chelsea Road), Bath, BA1 3EE

www.bathecho.co.uk | Issue No. 025 | FREE

Family pay tribute to man who died following footpath incident P2

Increase in number of COVID-19 cases “worrying” Page 3 Lyncombe Hill Fields to be managed by locals A WELL-LOVED green space, Lyncombe Hill Fields, which boasts commanding views of Bath is to be managed under licence by the local community.

The site lies just above Beechen Cliff and comprises of ten acres of undulating pastureland crossed by footpaths. The land is owned

by Bath & North East Somerset Council and until 2018 was grazed by horses.

From Tuesday 1st September,

the land will be managed under licence by the Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields, a newly formed not-for-profit Community Interest Company (FLHF CIC) working with B&NES Council.

The company aims to enhance the lands' biodiversity while managing it for quiet public enjoyment, outdoor exercise and educational activities.

Richard Samuel, cabinet member for Resources said: “During lock-

down I think most of us gained renewed appreciation of the green open spaces on our doorsteps, but sites such as Lyncombe Hill Fields do need careful management.

“I’m therefore delighted that local residents have risen to the challenge and agreed to take on responsibility for the site.”

Lyncombe Hill Fields contribute to Bath’s distinctive green setting, giving residents access to the

countryside, a crucial component of the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The land commands fantastic views of the city and Bath’s wooded skyline and public footpaths link with a wider network giving access to Bath’s southern slopes and valleys. Pedestrian access is via Alexandra Park, Alexandra Road and directly off Greenway Lane.

Continued on page 2

Queen Square to close for five days due to essential resurfacing work P5 Roman Baths triumphs with two VisitEngland Silver Awards P6 Warning against ignoring symptoms that could be cancer P12 Construction work begins at site of new 76-bed care home in Odd Down P13 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk

Clean air zone plans remain unchanged despite Bristol claims Stephen Sumner

Local Democracy Reporter

BATH’S clean air zone plans remain unchanged despite Bristol’s mayor claiming the city could hit its target without charging any vehicle.

Marvin Rees said if Bristol

can reduce the levels of toxic pollutants without having to impose strict controls it would be “the best of both worlds” as we face “the worst economic depression in 300 years”.

He said upgrades to the city’s walking and cycle infrastructure could lock in the improvements to air quality that had been

recorded during the lockdown.

The same could be said of Bath but its clean air plan is more advanced than Bristol’s and work is already underway, with Queen Square set to be resurfaced next month, after the council has secured millions of pounds from Government.

Councillor Sarah Warren, joint

cabinet member for climate emergency for Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “We have been directed by the Government to continue to develop a clean air zone scheme which ensures compliance.

As such our plans remain unchanged.

“With traffic returning to

nearly normal levels following lockdown, we remain committed to reducing nitrogen dioxide levels in the city to within legal limits and improving air quality in the shortest possible time.”

The council did not comment on whether it felt it had been punished for submitting its...

Continued on page 2

2

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

In this issue...

Top Stories

P2-9

Community P10

Council not revisiting city's clean air plan

Education P11

Family of man who died following incident on footpath pay tribute

Health P12 Business P13 Puzzles

P14

Politics P15 In Other News

P16

We are working hard to reintroduce our normal size and the usual parts of this newspaper as soon as we can.

29-year-old Carl Picken The boundary of the new Clean Air Zone in Bath

Useful Information The Bath Echo newspaper is produced fortnightly. Thousands of copies are delivered and distributed across the Bath area via our dedicated pick-up points and at cafés, venues, waiting rooms and local libraries.

How to get in touch with us...

For news items and press releases: news@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 For sport and match reports: sport@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Want to have a letter published? letters@bathecho.co.uk Subscriptions/Distribution: subscribe.bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Advertising & Marketing: advertise@bathecho.co.uk 01225 589789 Contact the editor: Sebastian Hawker editor@bathecho.co.uk Published by Media Bath Limited

Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA

Company Number: 09384496

Disclaimer Please note, the views expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily the views of the editor, or publisher.

No parts of this newspaper may be reproduced without prior written permission. Liability for advertising in this publication comes down to the individual advertiser, and not the publisher. © Media Bath Limited

ISSN 2632-7805 The Bath Echo is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. We adhere to the Standards Code adopted by IMPRESS, and can only deal with complaints which relate to an alleged breach of the standards set out in this Code. You can find out more about the code on the IMPRESS website: www.impress.press/standards/.

If you believe we have breached this code, you can make a complaint to us regarding it. For more information, please visit: www.bathecho.co.uk/complaints/

Continued from page 1 plans more quickly than Bristol City Council, which is yet to file a full business case.

Speaking last week, Mr Rees said of the Bristol situation: “We have maintained a fair improvement in the quality of air in the city because travel and work patterns have changed [during the lockdown].

“The opportunity that is now before us is that, if we can maintain the best of those changes in those work patterns and lifestyles, we believe we will be able to pursue a plan to get us to compliance in the shortest possible time in a way that doesn’t actually charge households and businesses.

“And that would be the best of all worlds as we go into the worst economic depression in 300 years with the impacts on businesses and households in the city. If we can get to compliance without further compounding their economic woes, that would be the best for Bristol.”

Like in Bristol, the council in Bath hopes infrastructure improve-

ments will get more people walking and cycling in the city, which saw similar improvements to air quality during the lockdown – in some areas nitrogen dioxide levels halved, falling well within the legal limit, but they have since crept back up.

However, the council is not revisiting its clean air plan for the city.

The clean air zone for Bath – which still does not have a launch date after it was pushed back from November – will charge the worst polluting taxis, private hire vehicles, minibuses, LGVs and vans £9 a day to enter.

Buses, coaches and lorries will have to pay £100.

Private cars will not be charged.

The council has secured £23.5million for the scheme.

The figure is less than leaders had hoped for and it will have to scale back its ambitions but they are confident it will be enough.

The money will allow it to implement the zone and mitigate its impacts, including grants to help many of those affected to upgrade their vehicles.

THE family of a 29-year-old man who died following an incident on a river footpath in Bath last week have paid tribute to him, saying “he still had so much life to live”.

Carl Picken, 29, of Birmingham, died following an incident involving a number of people on a footpath which runs along the River Avon, off Brassmill Lane at around 3.15pm on Thursday 13th August.

Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team are leading the inquiry into what happened.

Two men, aged 47 and 53, arrested at the scene have been released on bail, pending further enquiries.

A forensic post-mortem examination was conducted on Friday 14th August, but the results were inconclusive.

Further tests will now be carried out to try and establish how Carl died.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Neil Meade said: “We’re still in the early stages of our inquiry and we continue to build a picture of the circumstances surrounding Carl’s death.

“It may be some weeks before we know what caused his death as the post-mortem examination proved inconclusive. Further tests will now be carried out but these can take some time.

“Trained family liaison officers are providing Carl’s family with support and we will make sure we keep them updated on the progress of our investigation.”

A tribute released by Carl’s family said: “Carl was a loveable rogue.

He wasn’t perfect but no one deserves to be taken at such a young age. He still had so much life to live. He had an amazing heart and was actually a big softy. He adored his children and it’s unbearable to think he now won’t be around to watch them grow up.

We appreciate all the love shown towards him and his death has left a hole that will never be filled.

“Known as son/ dad/ brother/ Fat Carl/ Brummie. He was a real funny character.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information which could help the police, is asked to phone 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5220182766.

Residents to manage well-loved green space Continued from page 1 Councillor Alison Born, ward member for Widcombe & Lyncombe, said: “Lyncombe Hill Fields are a fantastic community resource and I’m delighted to see that the land is now going to be managed by the community for the benefit of the community.

“I am excited by the group’s plans, which will encourage biodiversity and improve access for walkers.”

Following the transfer to community management, work will get underway to clear debris from the land and cut back overgrowth before the winter sets in.

Maurice Tennenhaus, director of the Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields said: “There is some hard work ahead of us, but we will hopefully reap the rewards with many years of pleasure for local residents and visitors, and huge benefits for wildlife.

“We are looking for volunteers to give us hand though, particularly over the autumn months in the

Lyncombe Hill Fields in Bath | Image courtesy of B&NES Council

run up to winter.”

To become involved or to follow progress on the site you can register your interest by emailing lyncombehillfields@gmail.com.

The three unpaid directors of the Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields live locally, and the newly formed company is sponsored by Greenway Lane Social Committee,

Greenway Lane Area Residents’ Forum, Widcombe Association and Bear Flat Residents’ Association, with support from Friends of Alexandra Park.

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

3

www.bathecho.co.uk

Residents told to “up their game” in response to rise in COVID-19 cases in North East Somerset THE Director of Public Health at Bath & North East Somerset Council has called for people in the Somer Valley to “up their game” in responding to a “worrying increase” in COVID-19 cases in the area.

Following an increase in confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Somer Valley area, Public Health England, Bath & North East Somerset Council and Somerset County Council are working together to manage the situation.

The Somer Valley area falls mainly in Bath and North East Somerset but also crosses the border into Somerset.

Bath & North East Somerset Council and Somerset County Council are working closely with PHE and other partners to manage the increase in the Midsomer Norton, Radstock and surrounding areas.

As a precautionary action, this includes supporting licensed premises to ensure that guidelines are followed on social distancing, test and trace and all other preventative measures.

Residents are being reassured that although the number of confirmed cases has gone up, there is no cause for serious concern or for any significant action to be taken.

However, it is of the utmost importance that to prevent the virus spreading further in the Somer Valley and beyond, everyone must continue to observe social distancing, wash their hands

thoroughly and regularly and wear face coverings when appropriate.

People returning to the UK from countries on the UK quarantine list should self-isolate for 14 days.

Anyone who thinks they have coronavirus symptoms should book a test via the Government portal or call 119. There is currently a temporary mobile testing unit (MTU) in Paulton until Thursday 3rd September.

Dr Bruce Laurence, Director of Public Health at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We are definitely concerned at this rise in cases.

“It is not yet at a level where we have to consider a local lockdown, but it is absolutely essential that we start to get a grip on the situation right now.

“This depends on all of us doing the right things and doing them properly.

“This means paying close attention to all the rules of social distancing, hygiene, wearing facemasks, and self-isolating and getting a test as soon as any symptoms start.

“It also means isolating for a full 14 days if you are identified as a contact of a case or have returned from a high-risk area abroad.

“We have all seen how quickly this virus can get out of hand in several cities and towns in England already, and maybe we have thought it couldn’t happen here, because it has not done so yet.

“But now is the time to act. If we

News in Brief Man arrested in Odd Down after disorder Police arrested a 36-year-old man following an incident of disorder in the Burnt House Road area of Odd Down on Sunday 16th August.

Officers received reports at around 4.25pm of an incident involving a number of people and a man carrying a knife.

A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a bladed article in a public place. Two knives were recovered at the scene.

Steps such as regular hand washing can help prevent the spread of COVID-19

sit by complacently while case numbers rise next week and for a few weeks more we can soon find ourselves in really dangerous territory where we would have to consider going back to the restrictions and privations of the lockdown period.

“Everything depends on everyone, and that includes you and me.

“Along with asking for your support we are taking all the precautionary steps needed to tackle this situation.

“With our partners we are ensuring that we reach all possible contacts, and we are talking to businesses in the area to support them in managing the risks of Covid-19 as effectively as they can so that they can remain open while keeping customers safe.”

If you have symptoms, self-isolate and get tested via nhs.uk or

call 119.

If you visit pubs, cafes and restaurants, you must complete the test and trace form.

For businesses, if you have a member of staff who tells you they have coronavirus symptoms, ensure the person stays at home, self-isolates and books a test.

If you have two or more possible cases and are concerned and want advice,contact PHE’s Health Protection Team on 0300 303 8162.

If a business in B&NES has one or more confirmed cases, inform public_health@bathnes.gov.uk who can offer advice and support.

If a business has two or more confirmed cases, you need to report these to PHE’s Health Protection Team on 0300 303 8162, who will work with you to assess the risks and advise you on actions to take.

Man charged in connection with armed robberies Detectives who have been investigating two armed robberies in Somerset have charged a 45-year-old man.

Jimmy Young, of Withy Mills in Paulton was charged with five counts of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, two counts of robbery and two counts of driving a motor vehicle which had been taken without the owner’s consent.

The charges follow robberies at shops in Midsomer Norton on 21st July and in Timsbury on 10th August.

In both incidents, a man made off with cash after threatening staff with a firearm.

Nobody was injured in either incident. Young was charged on Friday 21st August, and remanded in custody to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court.

Testing unit extended for second time in response to rise THE temporary COVID-19 mobile testing unit at Paulton Rovers Football Club will now be available until Thursday 3rd September following the rise in confirmed cases in the Somer Valley.

Bath & North East Somerset Council’s public health team has arranged the extension to continue to give people better access to local testing after it reported an increase in cases in Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding areas on Monday 24th August.

People are being reassured that although the number of confirmed cases has gone up, there is no cause for serious concern or for any significant action to be taken.

However, anyone who thinks they have coronavirus symptoms should book a test via the Government portal or call 119.

The mobile testing unit (MTU) is now continuing to operate daily for residents booking a test in advance until Thursday 3rd September.

The facility in the football club’s car park means many people in the district do not have to travel further to get a test.

The mobile testing unit is part of the COVID-19 National Testing

Programme and appointments can be made through https:// www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested.

People without internet access can dial 119 to arrange a test.

Residents attending the Paulton unit for a test should arrive by car and not use public transport.

Only people who are experiencing symptoms of the virus are urged to book themselves in for a coronavirus test at the unit.

You can ask for a test: • For yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste) • For someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms • You can ask for a test for a child who lives with you if they have coronavirus symptoms, whatever their age.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, Safeguarding and Public Health, said: “In light of the concerning rise in the number of confirmed cases in the Somer Valley, I am very pleased we are able to support residents with further access to local testing should they need it. There is no cause for serious concern but it’s essential we all play our part in getting control of

Tests are temporarily available at Paulton Rovers Football club or alternatively at Bristol Airport

the situation locally. This means we all have to take responsibility for correct social distancing, hygiene, wearing face coverings as appropriate, and self-isolating and getting a test as soon as any symptoms start.

“It also means isolating for a full 14 days if you are identified as a contact of a case or have returned

from a high-risk area abroad.

“If anyone is concerned that they have any of the symptoms of coronavirus I would urge them to book themselves in for a test.

“Please remember you need to drive to the unit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The postcode for Paulton Football Club is BS39 7RF.

People with symptoms are also advised to self-isolate at home.

No one in the household or its support bubble should leave home if any one person has symptoms. Tests at the mobile testing unit are subject to availability and if all appointments in Paulton are booked, an alternative testing site will be offered.

We offer programmes in the following sectors:

• Construction • Public Services • Hair and Beauty • Retail and Logistics • Digital and Creative • Catering and Hospitality • Education and Childcare • Business and Administration • Health, Care and Life Science • Legal, Finance and Accounting • Engineering and Manufacturing • Sales, Marketing and Procurement • Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care

FIND THE

RIGHT FIT

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT

bathcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships

01225 328 752 apprenticeships@bathcollege.ac.uk

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

5

www.bathecho.co.uk

Queen Square set to close for resurfacing works ONE of the main routes through the centre of Bath is to close to traffic for five days for essential resurfacing work, ahead of the introduction of the Clean Air Zone early next year.

The work in Queen Square is being carried out from 7am to 7pm from Monday 14th September to Friday 18th September inclusive.

The existing road surface on all four sides of Queen Square will be removed and replaced.

New road markings will also be painted to direct the flow of traffic through new traffic signals, which have been installed in preparation for the launch of the Clean Air Zone.

As the roadworks involve the use of heavy machinery, Queen Square Park will also close for the duration of the works to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

Councillor Joanna Wright, cabinet member for Transport Services, said: “It has been many years since the whole of Queen Square was resurfaced and the tarmac on the eastern side has deteriorated significantly.

“We know it’s an extremely busy route, so we’ve tried to keep disruption to residents and businesses to a minimum by tying in the resurfacing work with preparation work for the Clean Air Zone. All the work will be carried out during the day, so residents

This week, The Pig is mostly...

PARTY on down at Butcombe pubs every Monday-Thursday throughout September to reap big Butcombe Food & Beer Festival rewards including Burger & Beer/Pie & Beer for a tenner on Mondays/Tuesdays, 25% off all food all day for Butcombe Loyalty Club members on Wednesdays and £10 Fish Market Specials on Thursdays. In Bath/nearby environs, we're talking the Pig and Fiddle (Saracen Street), The Methuen Arms (Corsham) and the glorious Quarrymans Arms on Box Hill, but there are several more in the family; plunder the full list of participating pubs here: https://butcombe.com/pubsrooms/.

Queen Square in Bath | Photo © RogerMechan / Shutterstock.com

aren’t disrupted by overnight noise. The park is of course a little oasis in the heart of the city and well used by residents and visitors so we haven’t taken the decision to temporarily close it lightly. However, with big heavy machines operating in the area we need to ensure the safety of

pedestrians. It will of course reopen once the work is complete.”

Throughout the works, diversions will be in operation and clearly signposted. The Clean Air Zone (CAZ), which will not charge private cars, was due to be switched on in November but has been delayed due to the coronavirus

pandemic. A new launch date is expected to be agreed shortly.

The CAZ will operate in the city centre 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Charges will apply to pre-euro 6/VI diesel and pre-euro 4 petrol vehicles, except private cars and motorbikes.

Appeal after three Bath Abbey receives vehicle collision on A46 over £155k of National Lottery funding

The scene of the collision | Photos © Avon Fire & Rescue Service

AVON and Somerset Police have launched an appeal for information following a collision on the A46 north of Bath on Tuesday 25th August.

Three cars, a red Kia C’EED, a white Mini Cooper and a grey Suzuki Alto, were involved in the incident just south of the Crown Inn pub near Dyrham at around 4.40pm.

A woman in her 50s and two chil-

dren suffered minor injuries.

They were taken to hospital but have now been discharged.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision, or may have dashcam footage that could assist their ongoing investigation.

Highways England say the road was closed for several hours.

If you can help, call 101, quoting reference 837 - August 25.

BATH Abbey has received £155,800 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to support it in its recovery from the impact of the closure of all places of worship for over three months.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown in the UK, Bath Abbey was closed for 15 weeks, from 24th March to 6th July, during which time it was anticipated that close to 150,000 people would have visited.

In addition, the Abbey has been unable to hold any events or large-scale services, including during Holy Week and Easter.

In normal times, this is one of the busiest times of year for the Abbey, attracting people from all around the world.

Despite now being open for a month, the number of worshippers and visitors have had to be restricted and are expected to be greatly reduced for the rest of 2020 and beyond.

The loss of visitor donations and inability to hold large-scale services will have a severe and farreaching financial impact on the Abbey.

The Revd Canon Guy Bridgewater, Rector of Bath Abbey said: “We are most grateful to receive this much-needed funding to support the Abbey’s mission, by helping us continue to care for this beautiful building and its role

in the community. In these challenging times the National Lottery Heritage Fund is a lifeline for us and many others, who are passionate about sustaining heritage for the benefit of all. Certainly Bath Abbey has rarely needed it more.”

The funding, made possible by National Lottery players, was awarded through The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Heritage Emergency Fund. £50million was made available to provide emergency funding for those most in need across the heritage sector.

The UK-wide fund aimed to address both immediate emergency actions and help organisations to start thinking about recovery.

Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Heritage has an essential role to play in making communities better places to live, supporting economic regeneration and benefiting our personal wellbeing.

“All of these things are going to be even more important as we emerge from this current crisis. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players we are pleased to be able to lend our support to organisations such as Bath Abbey during this uncertain time.” Thanks to National Lottery players, £30 million is raised every week for good causes.

DELIGHTED to hear that, following on from the success of his inaugural pop-up Tasting Menu event hosted by the Peking Restaurant (Kingsmead Square) a couple of weeks ago, superchef Jacky Chan will be returning to the Peking at the end of September to once more showcase his culinary skills. Watch this space for full details... and whet your appetite by reading our review of the first event here: https:// thepigguide.com/review-stagejacky-at-the-peking/ HOWLING with excitement at the news that the Wolf Saloon coffee, beer and wine (what's not to love in that line-up?) courtesy of, of course, those lovely Wolf Wines head honchos - is open for business at 72 Lower Bristol Road. Cheers, guys! (https:// wolf-the-saloon.business.site/) BARTERING my gluts out (!) at the Thoughtful Bakery (Barton Street) – and you should, too. If you have surplus fruit or vegetables loitering in your garden/ larder/fridge, put 'em to good use here – the bakers get incredible local produce to work with, and you get incredible baked goods in return. Fire the ovens up, boys!

I'm comin' atcha with my plums... (https://thoughtful-bakery.myshopify.com/) PLANNING on milking Bath's very first milk vending machine when Somerset farmer Andy Salmon launches his fresh new initiative on Tuesday 1 September at Green Park Station. The milk – from a herd of 240 cows grazed just 13 miles from Bath – will be delivered from Andy's farm every morning, and available in refillable 1-litre glass bottles; now that's very good moos indeed!)

For more news, views and food-related chat, visit The Pig Guide at www. thepigguide.com and follow The Pig on Twitter @ThePigGuide.

6

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

Roman Baths triumphs with two VisitEngland Silver Awards THE Roman Baths has triumphed at the VisitEngland Awards, winning a Silver for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and Silver in the International Tourism category.

The tourist attraction was the only finalist to win two awards at the ceremony, held on Monday 17th August as a virtual event.

Finalists were put forward to the national competition from local award schemes in 2019 and early 2020, and industry experts then selected Gold, Silver and Bronze national winners for each category.

Councillor Paul Crossley, cabinet member for Community Services at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Having recently reopened the Roman Baths we are delighted to have won these two national awards.

“In a normal year, about 40% of our visitors come from overseas, and we are proud to offer them an award-winning welcome with our Silver accolade for Interna-

tional Tourism.

“We work hard to provide an outstanding welcome to all of our visitors and guests and are proud that we were the only finalist outside the capital in the category for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year.

“To be nominated alongside Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich and Warner Brothers Studios: The Making of Harry Potter is a great honour.”

The VisitEngland Awards champion the very best of the country’s tourism industry, celebrating quality, innovation and best practice.

The International Tourism Award Gold was presented to International Bomber Command Centre; Bronze was awarded to Blenheim Palace.

The Large Visitor Attraction of the Year Gold was awarded to Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich; Bronze was awarded to Warner Brothers Studios: The Making of Harry Potter.

The Great Bath at the Roman Baths | Image courtesy of B&NES Council

Pedestrianisation and cycle lanes to deliver “step change” Stephen Sumner

Local Democracy Reporter

REGIONAL transport bosses hope to deliver a “step change” in how people move around Bath.

The West of England Combined Authority and Bath and North East Somerset Council has applied for the second round of active travel funding for projects including pedestrianisation and shutting more streets to through-traffic.

As well as potentially making the pedestrianisation of parts of Bath city centre permanent, it wants to create segregated lanes for bikes and e-scooters, and turn some areas into “quiet streets”.

Weca mayor Tim Bowles said: “Creating safe routes for people to walk and cycle is a key part of my plan to get the region moving.

“We’re already seeing traffic in some parts of the region returning to 80 per cent of pre-Covid levels so we need to work hard to create the positive legacy we would all like to see.

“With Government funding, these schemes will help us create a step-change in sustainable transport provision in the West of England.”

Councillor Joanna Wright, the council’s joint cabinet member for transport services, said: “Helping people get around our area safely and sustainably is a key priority for us. Ten schemes have been identified which will form the council’s bid for money from the Department for Transport.

“In May, Government announced a £250million emergency active travel fund, which was split into two different tranches.

We successfully bid for funding under the first tranche which has paid for temporary footpath

widening and access restrictions which have helped enable social distancing.

“Now the council has been asked to bid for a second tranche of funding to help it create better walking and cycling routes. If successful this will also support our longer-term ambitions for Liveable Neighbourhoods and help improve air quality, health as well as contributing to the council’s climate emergency commitment.”

Here are the emergency active travel proposals for Bath that could be implemented.

Quiet streets “Quiet streets” will be created between Lansdown and the city centre by shutting roads between Gay Street and Sion Hill to through traffic. The project has been “identified through stakeholder liaison and local assessment of cycling potential” and could be made permanent.

The application says this “enables more cycling and walking trips between the Lansdown area of Bath and the city centre, where there are currently no cycle facilities. Also improves walking and cycling access to schools in Lansdown.”

It also “improves the ability of pedestrians to cross the A4 at the difficult Gay St/George St junction which is currently a significant barrier to walking and cycling. Also reduces through traffic in a residential area.”

Pedestrianisation Pedestrianisation of parts of the city centre could become permanent. The application refers to restricting access to vehicles between 10am and 6pm in Cheap Street, Westgate Street, Saw Close, Upper Borough Walls, York Street, Milsom Street and Kingsmead Square, a step already taken by B&NES Council to enable social distancing.

New cycle lanes Some 28 parking spaces will be removed in Upper Bristol Road to create a new segregated cycle lane between Park Lane and Charlotte Street. A new toucan crossing will be installed next month. The change will promote cycle as an alternative to buses on the west of the city and relieve pressure on the Bristol-Bath riverside cycle route, the application says.

A new segregated route for bikes and e-scooters will be created on the A36 between the city centre and the University of Bath.

The application says: “There are currently no cycle facilities or advisory routes between the city centre and the main campus. As part of the Weca e-scooter trial being launched this autumn, there will be a virtual e-scooter

docking station at the campus and virtual docking stations in the city centre. The scheme will also support those people using a lease to long-term hire a scooter.”

A trial bus gate will be installed in North Road, removing through traffic on an experimental basis, although the scheme is intended to be permanent.

It is set to be rolled out by the spring.

Another scheme will improve access to Bath Spa University by providing a dedicated off-road cycle link between the A36 and the A4 that could also be used by e-scooters.

A new contraflow cycling facility will be created along 450 metres of Locksbrook Road to improve links with the Royal United Hospital. Some parking may have to be restricted to achieve this, with

two point closures planned.

A low traffic route will be created in Entry Hill to improve access to Beechen Cliff School.

For each scheme, although those most affected would be consulted directly, any member of the public will have the opportunity to comment and express their views before decisions are made on schemes being made permanent.

A Weca spokesperson said: “Whilst we’re hopeful that the Government agrees with and supports the level of ambition within our submission, the ability to progress some or all of the schemes does rely on emergency active travel funding coming forward from Government.

“We hope to receive feedback on our submission over the next couple of months.”

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

7

www.bathecho.co.uk

Outdoor tables helping businesses get back on their feet CAFÉS, restaurants and other businesses that have created outdoor seating areas for customers after being granted a new pavement licence say the move has boosted trade.

Bath & North East Somerset Council introduced the licences to help traders get back up and running during the Covid-19 pandemic at the same time as allowing people to safely social distance while socialising and eating out.

The council has so far granted 19 licences, which has led to positive feedback from traders who say having an outdoor presence is improving the visibility of their business and increasing custom.

The access restrictions in the city centre introduced by the council to support social distancing are also enhancing the city, making it easier for people to get around, encouraging walking and cycling and reducing the number of vehicles.

Councillor Paul Crossley, cabinet member for Community Services, said: “Our licencing team have carried out many visits to traders to give them advice on their applications and make it as easy as we can for them to get a pavement licence.

“We want to revive trade in our high streets so we are granting applications wherever possible,

whilst taking into account any objections, to support the local economy.

“The access restrictions put in following the Government directive are also helping to create a pleasant atmosphere in the city with fewer vehicles and more walking and cycling.

“Recovering from the impact of Covid-19 is new territory for us all, so I would like to thank the businesses who have worked with us as we have all had to get to grips with the new legislation and make it work for our local businesses.

“Many residents and businesses have been supportive of these applications which is a great example of how our local communities back each other up during these challenging times.”

The pavement licences do not require planning permission and allow a quick turnaround time with a seven-day consultation period.

Businesses are permitted to put seating, tables and other street furniture outside during business hours and store them indoors when closed.

The licences are temporary until September 2021, cost £100 and businesses can apply online.

44AD artspace used outdoor space to celebrate their first exhibition after lockdown.

The 44AD artspace in Bath

Katie O’Brien, manager of 44AD artspace, said: “The council’s pro-active approach of letting Abbey Quarter business know about the changes in licensing meant the opening of our show was a huge success, as we were able to use some of York Street.

We were even able to set up a

70-year-old to walk 300 miles for RUH’s cancer services A 70-YEAR-OLD Bath resident is planning to walk 300 miles throughout September to raise money for the Royal United Hospital’s cancer services, as a thank you for 11 years of outstanding care.

Alan Morley is aiming to achieve his goal by taking part in The Forever Friends Appeal’s virtual walking event My Walk of Life Marathon.

The event is open to people of all ages who would like to fundraise for the hospital by walking 26.2 miles during September.

Alan said: “I had bowel cancer in 2009 and after surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy at the RUH I was given the all clear in August 2015.

“However a year later it was discovered that I had a different and rare cancer called pseudomyxoma peritonei which affects three people per million per year worldwide.

“My treatment was done at one of the two hospitals in the UK that treat this cancer, however all my ongoing diagnostic tests and oncology consultations are conducted at the RUH. “So, I am fundraising to say thank you to the staff for looking after me for the last 11 years.

“I have been walking during lockdown in anticipation of the annual Walk of Life.

I thought 26.2 miles in a month would be easy, so I have decided to walk at least a marathon a week until the end of September – I have set my target of 300 miles.”

There’s still time for people to sign up to

take part in the My Walk of Life Marathon which aims to raise much-needed funds for the Royal United Hospital.

Karlie Evans, Events and Community Officer said: “We are grateful to people like Alan who have signed up to support our local hospital and we hope his story inspires others to take part.

“With this year being so different for all of us, we have replaced our physical Walk of Life event with this virtual walking event.

“It’s completely up to you how you decide to complete the 26.2 mile challenge, you can do it your own way over 30 days.

“Why not take this opportunity to get out and discover the great outdoors or tot up your miles in your own home or garden.”

By taking part in the virtual walking event for The Forever Friends Appeal, the charity will be able to provide funding for the hospital’s wards and departments and towards its major campaigns and appeals such as the Dyson Cancer Centre and Speech Therapy Appeal.

Participants can also choose to donate their sponsorship to a particular ward if they wish.

To make your step count for RUH staff and patients sign up to the My Walk of Life Marathon today. It’s free to register and if you raise £100 by 30th September you will receive a medal.

For more information, visit: www. mywalkoflifemarathon.co.uk.

‘wine window’, which kept our visitors happy!”

The Grapes in Westgate Street, which won Best Bar in Bath earlier this year, were granted permission for space outside The Little Theatre.

Owner Ellie Leiper said: “The pavement licence has helped us

enormously in what would have otherwise been a very difficult trading period. We have had so many positive comments on the use of the space and overall, the street being closed to traffic in the day and our new ‘beer garden’ have improved the ambience around the pub.”

Get the latest Bath Echo newspaper delivered through your letterbox every fortnight

Pay just £4/month, £10 per quarter or £35/year to receive every issue

To start your subscription, visit subscribe.bathecho.co.uk or call 01225 585484

8

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

Futuristic hydrogen-powered trams Council houses 42 a cheaper alternative for Bath rough sleepers during coronavirus lockdown Stephen Sumner

Local Democracy Reporter

FUTURISTIC hydrogen-powered and wire-free trams could be the transport solution Bath has been looking for, a lobby group claims.

The Bath Area Trams Association chair Dave Andrews said the cutting edge technology could overcome many of the stumbling blocks for previous options – and it could be funded without a cost to the taxpayer.

He is in talks with an American firm, TIG/m, which has an international track record and could design, build and operate the system.

Early analysis shows a kilometre of track could be built for £7million, a fraction of the £25million needed for conventional heavy trams, although there would be significant sums on top for legal, engineering and planning work.

Mr Andrews said: “The overhead wire-free tram would be ideal for Bath where some heritage groups have naturally questioned their suitability, and because the tram is considerably lighter than a

A wire-free tram | Image © TIG/m

normal tram the concrete slab on which the tracks are laid will protect the precious Bath vaults from any further damage by existing heavy road vehicles.”

He said the talks are at an early stage and traditional heavy European-style trams may yet prove to be the most suitable, but added: “Given that this proposal offers to be dramatically lower in cost, avoids overhead wires which many people object to, and faster to install than the alternative approaches we need to look closely at this option, and hope that the West of England Combined Authority and its consultants WSP

will also.”

Mr Andrews said the new infrastructure could significantly reduce congestion and pollution and regenerate the city.

Tenbroeke Engineering founder Sherman Havens, who is also working on the project, said once permission is granted the network could be built in three years, and it could be funded by private capital.

A 2017 study by Bath and North East Somerset Council found that there were “no show stoppers” to prevent the introduction of “some form of light-rail tram system” in Bath.

BATH & North East Somerset Council rose to the challenge of finding emergency accommodation for rough sleepers during lockdown, housing 42 people within days of the government’s instruction to get ‘everyone in’.

As all emergency accommodation had to be suitable for self-isolation and social distancing all communal night shelters, including B&NES Safesleep winter accommodation, were closed.

Following advice from the government and Public Health, ten residents were moved out of Manvers Street Homeless Hostel to reduce the risk of transmission and to create space for residents to socially distance and self-isolate if necessary.

The council adopted a hybrid approach to providing accommodation using vacant council-owned, self-contained accommodation (suitable for self-isolating and social distancing) and securing self-contained accommodation in a hotel for a relatively small number of clients.

Within 10 days of the government’s directive all rough sleepers had been found suitable accommodation.

Organisations including Julian House, DHI, AWP Mental Health Partnership and SDAS (drug & alcohol treatment agency) worked together to bring “everyone in” and the approach has proved sustainable.

Cllr Tim Ball, cabinet member for Housing, Planning and Economic Development said: “The scale of the challenge we were faced with in providing emergency accommodation for rough sleepers cannot be underestimated. However, through a partnership approach we were able to rise to that challenge. “Getting ‘everyone in’ provided a valuable opportunity to work with people who have had little or no contact with support services in the past and we continue to work on a daily basis very closely with the agencies providing support to those accommodated during lockdown."

The council's work was supported with £12,750 from the Rough Sleeping Contingency Grant.

New map produced to Vegan food bank opened thanks to help Bath residents find demand during pandemic disabled parking bays Stephen Sumner

Local Democracy Reporter

A MAP to help local motorists locate disabled access parking bays in Bath has been produced by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

There are dozens of disabled access parking bays located across the city, but as a result of the introduction of social distancing measures, a number have had to be temporarily suspended.

To ensure disabled motorists are supported to continue to park safely in accessible spaces, the council has now produced a map showing the location of all disabled access parking bays across the area.

Councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for Transport, said: “Although we’ve had to make some temporary changes to the layout of roads to facilitate social distancing, we want to ensure that disabled people can easily find accessible parking bays.

“Our new map clearly shows the location of every disabled parking bay in the centre of Bath and I hope disabled motorists, and those carrying passengers who

are Blue Badge holders, find it a useful resource.

“We know disabled access bays close to shops are a vital resource, particularly for those with mobility problems, and we are currently looking at where we can install some additional temporary on-street disabled access parking spaces in the city.

“We hope to have them in place later this summer.”

As well as the council’s on-street provision, disabled parking bays are also available in the city’s car parks: • Charlotte Street – 24 • Avon Street – 11 • Manvers Street – 6 • Kingsmead Square – 4 • Broad Street – 4 • Bath Sports & Leisure Centre – 6 • Lansdown Park and Ride – 16 • Newbridge Park and Ride – 8 • Odd Down Park and Ride – 26 Blue badge holders may also park for free on single and double yellow lines where no loading ban applies (maximum stay of 3 hours). To view the new map, or download it, visit: https://bit. ly/2YBf7VC.

A NEW group is feeding the hungry in Bath – without animals suffering.

Helen Wright founded Vegans Against World Hunger to promote like-minded causes around the globe but the coronavirus pandemic gave it a new project.

When demand for food banks hit unprecedented levels, she decided to set up one of her own to ensure fellow vegans and non-vegans got the help they needed.

The Bath resident has followed a vegan lifestyle for eight years after being a vegetarian for two decades, saying: “I didn’t realise the cruelty involved in the dairy industry and egg farming.

I wanted to make sure my beliefs aligned with my actions.

“Then I learned about the other benefits. We use food, land and water [for farming meat]. The more people that are vegan, the more people we would be able to feed.

“The food bank was set up because of the coronavirus pandemic. I wanted to do something to help. There’s no other vegan food bank in the area.

“One person I spoke to went to another food bank and would take out anything that wasn’t vegan from their food parcel, but it wasn’t always replaced [with something vegan].”

The vegan food bank current-

ly feeds about 16 households a week, with food parcels including beans, lentils, fresh fruit and vegetables, vegan alternatives to milk, and a treat.

“Being vegans, we don’t provide non-vegan products but you don’t have to be a vegan to use Volunteers Ruth Malloy, Jude Piper, Alison Young, the food bank,” said Alex Duarte-Davies and Julian Wilkinson Helen, who works in human resources. ment for Digital, Culture, Media “We’re open to anyone who de- and Sport. clares they are financially suffer- The money will help it support ing. As long as we can afford it people who are struggling finanand have the food available we cially due to the coronavirus but will support people for as long as not for other reasons, so it has they need it. launched a fundraiser via www.

“We currently run the food bank justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ from home and are hoping to find bathveganfoodbank. some free premises to operate The food bank currently delivers from and would be really grateful to Bath and North East Somerset or any offers of help with this. residents in the BA1, BA2, BA3 “We’re also looking for more and BS31 postcodes. volunteers. We currently need It needs more volunteers and is drivers to collect donations and seeking premises to store proddeliver the food parcels. If we do ucts that it can access once or find new premises we’ll also need twice a week. Vegan food, toiletvolunteers to help sort the dona- ries and household products can tions and pack the food parcels. be donated at the food bank’s “We have a house-to-house col- collection points in The Vegan lections permit (issued by B&NES Café in Moorland Road, Newleaf Council) and are also looking for Healthfoods in Shaftesbury Road, volunteers to collect food in their and Seasons Natural Health Store local neighbourhoods on a con- in George Street. For more infortact-free basis.” mation or to help, email info@veThe food bank recently received gansagainstworldhunger.org or a grant from the National Lottery call 07367 400636 between 10am community fund and the Depart- and 2pm Monday to Friday.

Transform your bathroom with a stunning made-to-measure solution from Schmidt.

We’re currrently open by appointment only - give us a call today to book your visit.

0% INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE NOW

Providing bespoke made-to-measure interior solutions across Bath for more than 30 years bath.home-design.schmidt Find us at 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE or call 01225 337276

10

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

Community Cancer survivor thanks Coinstar for Community holds firstdonating £1 million to charity ever sunflower growing competition A BATH cancer survivor has congratulated people across the city and further afield for donating £1 million of their loose change to Cancer Research UK at Coinstar machines.

Over a 19-year fundraising partnership between Bath-based Coinstar and the national charity, donations, which passed the million mark this month, have helped fund research to beat cancer sooner and ensure more men, women and children survive.

Receiving the landmark gift on behalf of Cancer Research UK was Tina Angell, from Bath, who has helped raise thousands of pounds for the cause since being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2003.

Coinstar, which has its HQ in Old Bond Street and is a world-leader in self-service coin counting, operates a network of nearly 2,000 machines located in supermarkets across the UK. Customers can take unsorted change to the machine where it is counted and converted into a voucher that can be exchanged for cash or used towards shopping.

Thanks to Coinstar’s ‘Coins that Count Programme’, users can choose to donate their coins directly to charity, resulting in the £1 million raised for Cancer Research UK. Tina was just 24 years old when she was told she had bowel cancer. She had experienced 18 months of being unwell following the birth of her son, Jake, before being diagnosed.

Now 41, she recalled: “I remember the consultant’s exact words: ‘We’ve had the results back and I’m so very sorry to say its cancer’.

I was only 24 with a toddler to look after. I was scared that cancer was about to take everything away from me.”

Tina underwent surgery and five months of chemotherapy. Today, she is clear of cancer.

She added: “I am very grateful for research that enabled me to have treatment that saved my life and allowed me to see my son Jake,

Paul Ogle, Tina Angell and Sarah Chappell Photo © Paul Gillis / paulgillisphoto.com

who is now 19, grow up.

“Cancer Research UK’s work is at the heart of progress that continues to be made, helping more families, like mine, have a future together.”

Following her cancer experience, Tina, who works in Bath in the hospital’s radiology department, wanted to give something back and became a dedicated fundraiser and ambassador for Cancer Research UK. She explained: “Over the years I have taken part in many charity collections and know how much time and effort goes into sorting and counting all the change that the public generously put into our collection tins.

“For fundraisers, being able to simply take loose change from home, or from a charity collection directly to a Coinstar machine, makes raising money so easy.

“All you have to do is pour coins into the machine and select Cancer Research UK as the recipient on the screen.

“It has been an honour to receive the £1 million pounds on behalf of Cancer Research UK and also to say thank you to Coinstar from all those people, like me, who are still here to enjoy life to the full thanks to research. Here’s to the next million!”

Paul Ogle, Coinstar Country Manager, said: “Coinstar is proud

to support Cancer Research UK in its vision to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to make it easy and convenient for customers to donate to Cancer Research UK and we encourage people in the region to donate their spare change at a Coinstar machine near to them.”

Sarah Chappell, Client Relationship Manager at Coinstar, said: “We want to thank all those people who have already used Coinstar to so generously donate their change to Cancer Research UK. “Tina’s story reminds us all how important the money raised is to those facing cancer.”

In the UK, one in two people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. The good news is, thanks to research, more people are surviving than ever before.

Alison Birkett, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for Bath, added: “We would like to pass on our sincere thanks to Coinstar.

Reaching the £1 million milestone this month demonstrates that when added together, every penny really does count.

“Cancer survival has doubled in the last 40 years in the UK and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress.

“But there is still so much more work to do, that’s why we need to raise even more money.”

Ava Noonan, Cllr June Player and Helen Cooke | Photo © Jack Sterling Leemans

OVER 25 households on West Avenue in the Oldfield Park area of Bath have joined together in the street’s first-ever sunflower growing competition.

Sunday 16th August saw the finale of the competition with Councillor June Player measuring each entry independently. The winning plant reached a whopping 259cm in height.

Resident Helen Cooke organised the competition, collecting seeds, sowing them in small pots and then distributing the baby plants to households.

Participants donated £1 for their seedling with the grower of the tallest sunflower winning the money.

Ms Cooke said: “It’s something a few of us thought about previously, as there’s one house that grows giant sunflowers every year.

“The greater sense of community created by the Covid lockdown has brought everyone together and the street started meeting at our front doors once a week in March.

“We’ve all met neighbours that we didn’t really know at the beginning of the year and this competition has been part of that community cohesion.

“You don’t need green fingers to grow a sunflower and neighbours of all ages and abilities can take part.

Ava Noonan grew the tallest sun-

flower and younger sister Orla was runner up. She said: “It’s been getting competitive and progress of everyone’s plant has been a talking point.

“A few weeks ago I had no idea my sunflower would end up being the tallest. There are lots of different types of sunflower along the street, with some houses growing several.

“Taking part has been brilliant and I think everyone’s a winner.

My top growing tip is just leave it to enjoy the rain and water it if the weather’s hot.”

Councillor June Player added: “This competition is a great idea that any street could participate in – plus they are so cheerful looking and really lift one’s spirits.

“It would be fantastic to see sunflowers all over Westmoreland/ Oldfield Park next year.

“I was really delighted to be invited to judge this competition and have been to the houses with the tallest sunflowers armed with my own measuring tape!

“I love any kind of event like this as it also helps to promote pride in our community and I shall be suggesting my street follows suit next year.”

Residents are being encouraged to collect some of their seeds to plant next year and then save the rest for the birds to enjoy over the cooler months.

Outdoor therapy and mindfulness on offer for people in Bath LOCAL cancer counselling charity We Hear You (WHY) is once again offering WHYoutdoors, nature connection for wellbeing, in Bath and Evercreech this October.

The planned course for June 2020 went ahead via Zoom, with considerable success, but the charity is delighted to be able to return to an outdoor group setting for the October course.

WHY are also offering anyone af-

fected by cancer a further opportunity to access WHYbemindful, a mindfulness course facilitated

by Chris Barker of the University of Exeter and specifically designed for people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis.

The mindfulness course will run over Zoom, alongside We Hear You’s one-to-one counselling service and Covid-19 telephone support service, which continue to run remotely.

Course organiser and WHY counsellor Barbara Gonzalez said: “We are very pleased to be able to run WHYoutdoors again, offering an opportunity to explore the benefits of nature connection for people living with and beyond cancer. Many thanks to Combe Grove Manor Hotel and Chesterblade Hills for their generous support and use of their lovely settings.

“This practical, interactive six-

week course has been designed

by Bristol-based Natural Academy and will be facilitated by experienced and qualified WHY therapists. We’ll explore techniques for grounding using our natural environment and ways that we can foster mindfulness and nature connection to improve wellbeing.

“The workshop will involve walking around woodland and other natural settings, with uneven

ground, so participants will need to have a reasonable level of fitness to take part.”

WHYoutdoors is a six-week course. In Bath, at the Combe Grove Hotel, it starts on Wednesday 6th October from 10am to 3pm. WHYbemindful runs weekly on Thursdays from 1st October until 26th November, with no session on 29th October. To refer yourself, call 01373 455255 or email info@wehearyou.org.uk.

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

11

www.bathecho.co.uk

Education Schools “responding positively” to challenges of reopening SCHOOLS and academies across Bath and North East Somerset are set to reopen their doors after making a range of changes to make sure pupils can return to school safely.

The schools have received advice and support from Bath & North East Somerset Council to help them achieve safe reopening in line with Government guidance to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The council reports that all schools, including those maintained by the council and those run by academy trusts, are “responding positively to the challenges of reopening” and have been looking creatively at how they are ensuring all pupils can return safely.

The council has offered advice on completing risk assessments, which will be available to view on each school’s website so that parents are reassured their child’s

school has been individually assessed and made safe.

Schools are making their own arrangements for managing the school day, but across the district the changes to practices include: • Staggered start and end times for the school day • Staggered lunch times and break times • Making best use of all available entrances and exits where possible to keep year groups apart • Defining ‘bubbles’ by year group • Enhanced cleaning regimes • Risk assessments for each school or academy Councillor Kevin Guy, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “Local schools and academies have worked incredibly hard to prepare for the new term and adapt their sites to change how pupils move around them, to ensure that any risk of Covid-19 spreading between pupils

is minimised when they return to school.

“This has not been a simple task.

Every school site is unique and brings its own particular challenges.

“Parents should be able to see the risk assessments on their school’s website and schools will be communicating with parents directly about specific local arrangements for children attending.

“We would ask that parents support schools to help minimise the risk of infection spreading, by following their advice and guidance.

“We anticipate that all schools will be fully open in September, which is a massive achievement on their part.”

Parents who may have questions about their child’s particular school should in the first instance contact the school directly.

The council has been supporting schools with their risk assess-

ments by providing information on how to reduce the risk of infection, ensuring schools are aware of how to manage any cases of COVID-19 and putting them in touch with services that support the mental health of staff and pupils.

Adequate bus provision for the start of the term has also been addressed by the council, which has been working with First Bus, Faresaver, and the transport authority WECA to ensure there are enough bus spaces available to comply with social distancing.

Schools and students across Bath welcome GCSE results Cheryl Hughes

Community Reporter

GCSE results days are notorious for raising anxiety and stress, for both students and their teachers alike.

This year has been particularly difficult with the unprecedented addition of the COVID-19 pandemic and no exams. This left the fate of students’ grades being decided much more outside of their control.

A lot of students did not get the chance to end their school careers demonstrating the knowledge they had learnt and what they are capable of as individuals.

One student from Bath said: “I’m really saddened by the way I had to let go of sitting my exams. I know some students are relieved, but I would have liked the opportunity, for my own satisfaction, to have known what I could have achieved on my terms.”

Headteacher of King Edward’s School, Mr Martin Boden, said: “Although the unique circumstances this year led to the cancellation of summer exams, the results for our pupils are once again excellent and in keeping with the School’s tradition of outstanding academic performance.

“This is the first round of exams in which pupils have received only numerical grades, as opposed to a mixture of numbers and letters, making direct comparison with previous cohorts difficult.

“However, this year group’s evident academic strengths have been reflected in the 81% of grades awarded 9-7, equivalent

to A*/A in the past, the fourth time in the last eight years that the 80% mark has been exceeded.

“I am so pleased that our pupils have received these outstanding results after what has been such a difficult and nerve-wracking time for them and so many other young people.

“They worked extremely hard over the two years of their GCSE courses, and I feel very sorry for them and their peers that they were unable to put all that effort into practice in the exams this summer.

“They should nonetheless feel proud of their achievements and can look forward with confidence to the next stage of their education, whether at King Edward’s School or elsewhere.

I congratulate them on their success and wish them all the very best of luck in their next steps.”

Mrs Emma Yates, headteacher of Hayesfield School, said: “Having secured the title of ‘best school in B&NES’ by the Real Schools Guide for the second year running, we had equally high expectations for our GCSE class of 2020.

“It has been a tumultuous five months for our year 11 cohort, but today they were rewarded with the results that they have worked so hard to achieve.

“Over one quarter of students achieved a staggering 8 or more GCSEs at the top grades of 7-9, A and A* in old money. 88% of all students secured a Grade 4 or above in English and Maths, 70% secured a strong pass and a whopping 52 students secured Grades 7-9 in both of these key subjects.

“In total, 94% of students gained 5 or more standard passes at GCSE with 69% of all students gaining 5 or more strong passes, including in English and Maths at Grades 5 and above.

“I am so pleased to see such an exceptional set of results for an exceptional year group in these exceptional times.

“Our students have been rewarded with the results that accurately reflect their academic achievements.

“I know that many of our students were disappointed not to sit the exams they had prepared so well for but I am hopeful that today’s results have made them super proud of their achievements. I know that my staff and I couldn’t be happier for them.”

Mr Steven Mackay, headteacher from Oldfield School, reflected the same feelings regarding their cohort: “We were very pleased with the results for our year 11 and year 13 students.

“The results were in line with our high expectations for both groups of students.

“We had been confident that year 11 would achieve excellent results this year and their efforts over the last two years have be rewarded.”

Bath Academy headteacher, Mr Tim Naylor, is also pleased with the outcome for their students.

He added: “We teach students with a wide range of abilities and we are pleased with our GCSE results of 72% grades 9-5.

“Sadly, the exam boards seem to be pushing the onus for any anomalies back at schools to deal with.

“For example, some of our A-Level grades were down by 4

No exams were held this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic

levels and then corrected back to the deserved grade, which inevitably caused a lot of distress for some students.”

“Over the past few months, I have been continually impressed by our students’ support for each other, their sense of humour and unfailing positivity. This outstanding set of results is just reward.” Says Ms Cusack headmistress at St Gregory’s School.

“Every year the results and headline percentages only tell part of the story and none more so than this year. Whilst the grades demonstrate unequivocal academic success, behind the statistics and the politics there is always a young person who has achieved so much more, both inside the classroom and beyond.

“This year, almost 30% of all GCSE results were graded 7-9, an outstanding accomplishment that maintains the strong

academic record at Saint Gregory’s. 70% of grades secured a strong pass with an impressive 88% of grades achieving a standard pass grade.

“Our year 11 students have absolutely earned these results, demonstrating their skills and talents throughout their GCSE studies, allowing us to submit compelling and well-evidenced Centre Assessed Grades to the exam boards.

“I am immensely grateful to all of our teachers who worked through an incredibly rigorous process of assessment and internal moderation to arrive at the grades.

“Our year 11 cohort have consistently demonstrated incredible determination, commitment and hard work.

They thoroughly deserve their outstanding grades and I am extremely proud of each and every one of them.”

12

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

Health Warning against ignoring symptoms RUH seeking new that could be cancer Public Governors A DROP in the number of people across Bath seeking help from their GP for symptoms that could be cancer has prompted a warning that not getting checked could lead to serious consequences.

Dr Ruth Grabham, the CCG’s Medical Director, has issued a stark appeal, for any person with concerns about their health, to not sit on their symptoms and to not hesitate in contacting their GP for further advice and information.

It comes as new data reveals that GP referrals for patients, with suspected cancer, to each of the region’s hospitals during April, May and June plummeted.

Salisbury District Hospital saw the biggest drop, with referrals down 47 per cent in comparison to the first three months of the year.

The Great Western Hospital in Swindon witnessed a 31 per cent reduction in referrals, while the Royal United Hospital saw its numbers fall by 35 per cent.

Dr Grabham said: “Practices across our region have remained open throughout the last few months, with more and more patients getting the care and support they need over the phone or by video call in the first instance.

“Face-to-face appointments have still been taking place too, for issues that do not lend themselves

as well to a virtual consultation.

“So, with these points in mind, what my GP colleagues and I want to stress the most is that our services are available, our practices are safe, and we really want to hear from anyone worried about their health.

“Whether it’s unusual bleeding, a new lump or something else that just doesn’t feel right, let us know so that we can look into it and arrange further help.

“Putting it off could only make whatever the issue is more difficult to treat in the long run.”

Dr Grabham’s call comes on the same day that a new campaign is being launched by Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG to encourage people to act early when it comes to their health and wellbeing.

The Don’t Wait and Worry campaign, which will be promoted through a series of regular radio adverts, also reinforces the message that the NHS, regardless of coronavirus, is always ready to offer care, help and support to those who need it.

GP practices and hospitals, amongst all other NHS services, have taken and continue to take a range of measures to ensure they are safe for people to attend.

Additionally, the campaign shines a light on mental health, with one of its key aims being to reassure people that it is perfectly

Dr Ruth Grabham

normal to feel isolated, run-down and anxious.

Across the local area, many mental health services have adapted to the coronavirus pandemic by moving help and support to a telephone-based model, such as the Breathing Space in Bath and North East Somerset, the Riverside Sanctuary in Salisbury and the Junction in Swindon.

A GP referral is not required to use any of these services, meaning people can call up to receive support at the very first sign of noticing a difference in their everyday wellbeing.

Details of how to contact the services, as well as information on a wide range of health matters, can be found online at www.bswccg. nhs.uk.

THE Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust is looking for seven Public Governors to help shape its services and plan for the future.

The vacancies, created by the current seven Governors coming to the end of their term of office, are in the City of Bath, Mendip, South Wiltshire, North Wiltshire, North East Somerset and the Rest of England and Wales constituencies.

The role of a Governor is to help ensure that the Trust delivers services that meet the needs of patients, carers, staff and local stakeholders, and that the views of local people are heard and fed back to the Board of Directors.

Alison Ryan, Trust Chair, said: “The last few months have been among the most challenging that the Trust has ever faced. The COVID-19 pandemic – a health crisis like nobody had ever seen before – placed unprecedented challenges and incredible pressures on the RUH and NHS services across the country. Coronavirus required us to work in new ways.

“Many staff volunteered to be redeployed to other roles across the hospital, ensuring we had staff where we needed them most.

“We also held more virtual clinics with patients – one of several successful new ways of working that we will continue to use going

forward. Now, as the RUH begins to return to ‘business as new usual’, we’re looking for members of the public, patients and anyone who has an interest in shaping our services for the benefit of the community to consider becoming a Public Governor.

“This is an exciting time to be joining the Trust and we welcome candidates who have time, energy, enthusiasm and a strong desire to be involved who will make enthusiastic ambassadors for the hospital.

“Currently our BAME communities are under-represented on the Council of Governors so we would particularly welcome candidates from a BAME background.”

Nominations for the Public Governor roles opened on Thursday 27th August and will close at 5pm on Tuesday 22nd September.

You can request a nomination form directly from UKEngage or via the details below: • Tel: 0345 209 3770, 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday • Email: ruh@uk-engage.org Web: nom.ukevote.uk/ruh • Post: UK Engage Image House, 10 Acorn Business Park, Heaton Lane, Stockport SK4 1AS Voting opens on Wednesday 7th October and will run until 5pm on Friday 31st October.

The results will be announced on Monday 2nd November 2020.

Company embarks on 34-day challenge

Pregnant women urged to protect their babies from whooping cough

A LOCAL firm has embarked on a 34-day fundraising challenge to say thanks for the care given to their colleague who fell ill with COVID-19 and spent 34 days on a respirator at the RUH in Bath.

Gavin Davis, owner of Halsall, a construction and development firm, fell seriously ill with the virus and was admitted to the unit on 3rd April.

Thankfully he is now out of hospital, and continuing his recovery at home.

The team at Halsall and the Davis family wanted to show their gratitude to the RUH and embarked on the challenge to raise £3,400 in recognition of the 34 days he spent on a respirator.

The company were overwhelmed to have more than doubled this target and handed a cheque to The Forever Friends Appeal charity for a £8,288 for the Pierce Intensive Care Ward.

Hannah Taylor, Office Manager, Halsall said: “The care that Gavin received while in the Pierce In-

AS the NHS returns to a ‘new normal’, pregnant women are being urged to receive their free vaccination against deadly whooping cough.

Women who are between 16 to 32 weeks pregnant should contact their GP practice or midwife to make an appointment.

Although vaccination rates are generally rising in the South West, significant numbers of women are still not taking up the offer of protection for their babies.

Whooping cough, known medically as pertussis, is an infection which can create serious breathing difficulties, particularly in babies and young children.

It can lead to major health complications such as brain damage and pneumonia and can be fatal.

Ian Biggs, Director of Primary Care and Public Health Commissioning at NHS England and NHS Improvement, said: “People often think of whooping cough as an illness from days gone by – but it is a real threat to babies and young children right now.

tensive Care Unit was nothing short of remarkable. We were therefore inspired to show our appreciation for the NHS Staff and the Pierce Intensive Care Unit by taking on this fundraising challenge.”

For 34 days, a series of fundraising events were organised all themed around the number 34.

Activities included challenges such as eating 34 crackers without a drink, walking 34km, cycling 34km for 34 days, cycling 340 miles in 34 days, and a 34hour spinathon.

Jo Common, Corporate Officer, The Forever Friends Appeal said: “We are so pleased to hear that Gavin is home and recovering well, and we would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the team at Halsall and the Davis family for taking on this wonderful challenge.

“The staff in our Intensive Care Unit are overwhelmed to hear that such an incredible amount has been raised, to thank them for their exceptional care.”

“Our GPs and maternity services have stringent measures in place during the pandemic to protect both mother and baby. All our dedicated NHS staff will be using the correct infection-control measures and protective equipment – to ensure we can vaccinate in the safest possible manner” Dr Matthew Dominey, Public Health Consultant at Public Health England, added: “We know that getting vaccinated while you’re pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from pertussis during the early stage of life.

“The best time to be vaccinated is between 16 and 32 weeks of women’s pregnancy and I would encourage all women to talk to their GP or midwife to obtain this important vaccine.”

Nationally, the number of confirmed cases of whooping cough in infants less than 1 year of age was higher in 2019 than in 2018.

The vaccine routinely available to pregnant women is highly-effec-

tive at protecting infants before they can have their first vaccinations, at two months of age.

Research published from the UK vaccination programme shows that babies born to women vaccinated at least a week before birth had a 91% reduced risk of becoming ill with whooping cough in their first week of life.

An additional benefit is that the mother will lower her own risk of infection and of passing whooping cough on to her baby.

For added convenience, the vaccine can also be given at the same time as flu immunisation, once the annual flu programme gets underway this September.

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

13

www.bathecho.co.uk

Business Construction work begins at site of new 76-bed care home WORK has begun on the construction of a new 76-bed care home in Odd Down, which will provide residential and dementia care and create 140 local jobs.

Midford Manor will be managed by family-run care provider Hallmark Care Homes.

It is being built by their sister company Savista Developments at a total project cost of £14 million across a 1.6-acre site at Frome Road, next to the Sainsbury’s supermarket.

Hallmark’s Managing Director Ram Goyal, Chair Avnish Goyal and the site’s construction team were recently joined by Deputy Mayor Gerry Curran and Head Teacher Claire Parfitt from St Martin’s Garden Primary School, to officially mark the start of the build.

The care home will feature a café, ice cream parlour, a state-of-theart cinema, a hairdressers and therapy room. The home will have a specialist dementia community as well as outdoor space on all floors, including terraces, a roof

garden and orangery where residents will be encouraged to take part in gardening and enjoy the sun all year round. The site team also plan to work closely with neighbours and students at St Martin’s Garden Primary School including creating a unique sculpture for the home.

Chair of Hallmark Care Homes and Managing Director of Savista Developments, Avnish Goyal said: “We are so excited to have started our fifth care home project with Savista since launching in September last year.

“We have a wealth of knowledge and experience building award-winning care homes and we cannot wait to create this luxurious care home for the community of Bath and deliver exceptional care in award-winning designs for the benefit of future residents to be supported to lived active and fulfilled lives.”

Midford Manor is scheduled to open its doors to its first residents in Spring 2022.

Above: Avnish Goyal, Gerry Curran, Claire Parfitt and Ram Goyal Inset: How the new development will look

New WECA innovation fund to help local businesses bring ideas to life NEW help for businesses to get their cutting-edge ideas off the drawing board and into reality has been launched by West of England Mayor Tim Bowles.

The Business Innovation Fund can award grants to eligible businesses and partner them with the West of England’s worldleading research institutions to progress research, development and innovation.

The three-year programme, managed by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), will help small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) to develop innovative new products, processes and services to fulfil market demand.

News of the new fund was welcomed by the West of England Regional Recovery Taskforce, which met on 18th August to work on the regional recovery plan, focussing on business recovery, skills and employment and infrastructure and places.

Business leaders welcomed the fact that actions are being taken quickly to address some of the immediate and long-term challenges being faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

West of England Mayor Tim Bowles said: “The West of England has a terrific track record for producing innovative and imaginative ideas.

“Research, Development and Innovation can help your business adapt for the future and get ahead of the competition,

West of England Mayor Tim Bowles

create new products, processes and services to reach new customers, and improve sustainability and productivity.

“Investment in innovation is critical to business survival and driving growth. I’m making sure that our innovative companies get the support they need to not only come through the challenges presented by Covid-19 but to build back better.

“My Business Innovation Fund will help by providing small firms with bespoke support to bring new products, services and processes to market – making the most of future opportunities in growth areas.”

The Business Innovation Fund will provide funding of either £20,000 or £50,000 for projects

in a range of business sectors, as well as offering support to help firms move from concept to commercialisation.

It offers funding and support for SMEs based in the West of England, covering Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

Tim added: “The Business Innovation Fund is the latest in a package of measures I’ve announced to help support our region’s economy and people’s jobs following the Coronavirus pandemic.

“As we start to see the scale of the challenge facing us, it’s more important than ever that the right help is in place to help our businesses rebuild.”

Komedia Bath receives £20,000 emergency funding boost THE government has announced a £3.36 million fund to save grassroots music venues across the country which are at immediate risk of closure, including one in Bath.

The fund is providing vital support to 135 venues, which otherwise could face collapse due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The list includes 10 venues in the South West, which will share a total of £226,789.

Komedia Bath on Westgate Street is set to receive £20,000 from the fund.

Three venues in Bristol have been awarded money, including Motion Events Ltd in Pennywell Road (£79,906), The Old Bookshop in Bedminster (£46,101) and The Louisiana in Wapping Road (£5,500).

Also receiving funding is 23 Bath St in Frome, which will receive £11,000.

Accelerated funding is being provided to cover running costs incurred during their ongoing closure, including rent and utilities, so that some of the country’s most treasured venues can survive. The support is on top of the £500 million in grants being delivered to cultural organisations

by Arts Council England, which is

still accepting applications until 4th September.

All this funding forms part of a £1.57billion rescue package for culture and heritage from the government to see these sectors through the coronavirus pandemic.

Indoor performances can now restart with socially-distanced audiences, so some music venues are now able to reopen safely, alongside other culture venues and heritage sites.

Ministers and MPs across the South West are encouraging everyone to visit reopened venues and support cultural organisations starting to put performances back on.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This government is here for culture and these grants show we are determined to help our exceptional music industry weather the Covid storm and come back stronger. Grassroots music venues are where the magic starts and these emergency grants from our £1.57billion fund will ensure these music venues survive to create the Adeles and Ed Sheerans of the future. I encourage music fans to help too by supporting music and cultural events as they start to get going again.”

14

Puzzles

Solutions will be shared in our next issue

Crossword - Win ÂŁ25!

Across 4 Fit out (5) 9 Release (7) 10 Capital of Tibet (5) 11 Sift (5) 12 Italian little one (7) 13 Covered with water (5) 14 Thin fogs (5) 17 One or the other (6) 18 Receiving device (6) 19 Gemstone (4) 20 Separated (6) 22 Vast (6) 25 Inspires dread (4) 26 Best (6) 29 Swordsman (6) 31 Forest god (5) 34 River horse (Abbr.) (5) 35 Doctors (7) 36 Obscure road (5) 37 Chocolate ingredient (5) 38 Place in order (7)

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

Codeword

39 Pertaining to the kidneys (5) Down 1 Unsustainable boom (6) 2 Curved sword (8) 3 Long-haired cat breed (8) 4 Derby venue (5) 5 Consumers (5) 6 Make happy (6) 7 Adventurous expedition (6) 8 Universal in extent (8) 15 Irreverence (7) 16 Baby powder (4) 20 Prediction (8) 21 Individual facts (4) 23 Capsize (8) 24 Tubular pasta (8) 27 Themes (6) 28 Line on a weather map (6) 30 Dared (6) 32 West Welsh seaside resort (5) 33 Saudi Arabian currency (5)

Crossword Competition!

For your chance to win ÂŁ25, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk and we'll enter you into our draw. The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on Friday 11th September 2020.

Please note: Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we will not accept crossword entries to our PO Box postal address. The winner will be notified by the email address they use to enter this competition.

Sudoku Easy

Medium

Hard

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

15

www.bathecho.co.uk

Politics West of England Mayor launches cycling and walking campaign RESIDENTS in the West of England are being invited to ‘find joy in the journey’ by swapping short car journeys for walking or cycling to help reduce congestion and improve air quality in the region.

The new campaign from the West of England Combined Authority promotes the benefits of cycling and walking to boost health and wellbeing as well as helping to build a cleaner, greener future for the West of England.

It comes as the number of people cycling and walking reached record levels during lockdown and new cycling and walking measures have been put in place to build confidence and enable residents to cycle and walk more easily.

West of England Mayor, Tim Bowles said: “During lockdown many people have taken advantage of quieter roads to walk or cycle more regularly.

“As more people begin to return to school, college and work we have a real opportunity to capture the positive changes we have seen to improve the physical and mental health of residents, improve air quality and ease congestion across the West of England.

“That’s why I’m encouraging more people to find joy in the journey by swapping a short car journey for walking or cycling whether commuting to work, taking the kids to school or popping to the shops.

“Not only will walking or cycling boost your mood but it will also help us on the road to a greener

future for the region.”

Jon Usher, Head of Partnerships at Sustrans said: “Our research shows that even before the Covid pandemic, a majority of residents in the West of England supported measures to improve walking and cycling on high streets and the restriction of traffic outside schools and on residential streets.

“As schools and workplaces reopen in September we need to take this opportunity to make active travel the obvious choice for all ages and abilities.

“It’s great to see the measures that the West of England Combined Authority and councils in the region have already taken and we fully support the vision for the future.”

The campaign has been planned in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council as well as many partner organisations across the region.

Business West’s latest business survey shows that COVID-19 has accelerated many business’ plans to encourage employees to walk and cycle more.

54% of the 500 businesses surveyed said they are putting in plans to increase the uptake of cycling amongst employees, with a further 34% saying that they are investing in supporting infrastructure to help store bikes securely.

James Durie, Chief Executive of Bristol Chamber & Initiative at Business West said: “We are

strongly helping support this new campaign as we know there is a growing appetite amongst employers across the city region to encourage employees to travel more sustainably and reduce their impact on the environment, particularly as awareness of climate change only grows.

“In short, it makes sense in economic, environmental and health terms to accelerate what has been happening.

“We are pleased to see new investment led by Mayor Bowles and the West of England Combined Authority into cycling and walking together with this campaign to help us lock in long term the benefits this change will bring.

“In turn this makes this city region a better, healthier place to live and work.”

The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has agreed £13 million of investment in measures to enable cycling and walking in the region. £3m will underwrite the cost of short-term measures such as widened pavements and temporary cycle lanes to help people to maintain social distancing while walking and cycling.

A further £10m has been agreed for longer-term solutions to encourage active travel in the region.

WECA has recently submitted its second bid to government for active travel and has recently adopted the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure plan.

Plans to redevelop Keynsham police station allowed on appeal

Plans to redevelop Keynsham’s old police station | Image © Hawkfield Homes

Stephen Sumner

Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS to demolish Keynsham’s police station to build 26 flats have been allowed on appeal.

Hawkfield Homes secured permission to build nine homes after its larger scheme was rejected by Bath and North East Somerset Council members.

The developer now has two options for the Bath Hill site after the decision on its original proposals was overruled.

Contrary to what the council’s planning committee said, planning inspector Adrian Hunter said overlooking from the larger of the two buildings would not significantly affect

neighbours, and its height would not damage the conservation area.

He said the provision of 43 parking spaces, nine fewer than council policy requires, was not a significant shortage.

Eight of the flats proposed would be affordable after negotiations with the council and funding from Homes England boosted the number up from six. That makes the number policy compliant.

Avon and Somerset Police sold the 1960s brick building in 2018 for £1.24million, which it said would be reinvested in growth areas.

Planning consultant Chris Dance said Hawkfield Homes was “very pleased” with the outcome of the appeal.

Last issue's puzzle solutions Crossword

Congratulations to Hannah Grant who won £25 in our last issue!

Across: 9 Earthworm, 10 Octet, 11 Encores, 12 Ensnare, 13 Problematical, 20 Hi-fi, 21 Allot, 22 Mayo, 23 Temperamental, 32 Stomach, 33 Support, 34 Rouse, 35 Surveying.

Down: 1 Jewel, 2 Grocer, 3 Cherub, 4 Mousse, 5 Amoeba, 6 Bonsai, 7 Ottawa, 8 Utter, 13 Print, 14 Odium, 15 Lease, 16 Malta, 17 Tithe, 18 Comet, 19 Loyal, 24 Exodus, 25 Peaked, 26 Rehash, 27 Misery, 28 Nephew, 29 Adonis, 30 Tsars, 31 Stags.

Sudoku Easy

Codeword Medium

Hard

16

Tuesday, 1st September 2020

www.bathecho.co.uk

In Other News....

Chewing gum recycling Deliveroo rider awarded for efforts points installed across during coronavirus pandemic the centre of Bath THE streets of Bath are set to be a little cleaner thanks to the Bath Business Improvement District’s new Gumdrop chewing gum recycling points.

The bright pink bins can be found in various locations around the city centre, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way for people in Bath to dispose of their chewing gum.

It costs councils around the UK £150 million per year to remove chewing gum litter from their streets, and although putting chewing gum into a standard bin helps keep the streets clean, chewing gum disposed in this way will end up in landfill.

Gumdrop Ltd was set up to tackle the global problem of chewing gum litter and is the first company in the world to recycle and process chewing gum into a

range of compounds that can be used in the rubber and plastics industry.

The Gumdrop recycling points themselves are manufactured from used chewing gum, and once full, the whole Gumdrop along with the waste gum is recycled and processed to manufacture new Gumdrops.

Bath BID CEO, Allison Herbert, said: “We are delighted to be spearheading this initiative in Bath, which offers a great way to improve the cleanliness of our streets, save money and help the city become more eco-friendly.

“In the current climate, people are more conscious than ever about cleanliness and avoiding germs, and our new Gumdrop recycling points will help ensure Bath’s city centre is a clean and safe place to spend time in.”

A RIDER from Bath has been recognised for his efforts to go the extra mile for his community during the COVID-19 crisis, after Deliveroo announced the winners of its annual Rider Awards 2020.

Simon Bucknell, a Deliveroo Rider for almost four and a half years, has been working in his own time to support NHS staff and those in need around the community.

Since the start of the lockdown, Simon has worked almost 900 hours as an NHS volunteer while working over 50 hours a week with Deliveroo.

He had originally joined the NHS Volunteer Scheme to help support elderly people, but was so inspired by this that he decided to launch his own campaign.

In April 2020, Simon launched his own fundraising campaign, #feedtheruh, with the aim of delivering free food to hospital staff, and the children’s ward, at Bath’s Royal United Hospital.

He was able to raise £500 towards food for the hospital, which was spent on sandwiches that he delivered himself.

On top of this, Simon was able to work with a local restaurant, The Oven, who cooked him over 40 pizzas which he then delivered to the RUH. This year, Deliveroo is celebrating riders who have demonstrated heroism and helped improve the lives of others in their local community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The winning riders have demonstrated how they have played a vital role during the pandemic as key workers and gone above and beyond

to support and provide for vulnerable members of their community.

Deliveroo CEO and founder Will Shu said: “Our riders are heroes and at the heart of everything we do.

“They have worked tirelessly this year to provide for and support their local communities, and have proved themselves to be invaluable during the Covid-19 crisis. We are very proud of all they have achieved and the enormous contribution they make to people’s daily lives.”

PCC welcomes £98k funding boost Law firm Stone King to support vulnerable young people to offer free trustee training for charities

AVON and Somerset PCC Sue Mountstevens has announced £98,101 of additional funding for 10 charities who support vulnerable children and young people at risk of exploitation and violence.

The Police and Crime Commissioner and her team were successful in their bid to the Home Office department responsible for tackling serious violence.

The additional funding is being directed towards smaller charities that provide critical frontline services for children and young people, to ensure they can respond to the needs emerging as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as continuing their day-to-day work.

The smaller charities carry out a variety of work at a community level to support parents and families, holiday schemes, befriending projects, counselling and therapeutic activity, provision of food parcels, streetbased youth work and intensive mentoring programmes.

Welcoming the news, PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “We know lockdown has had a significant impact on children and young people in our communities.

“I have been inspired by the work of our smaller local charities who

Avon and Somerset PCC Sue Mountstevens

continue to respond quickly and effectively to issues they see in their local communities and so often without fanfare or support.”

“The extra funding will be divided amongst 10 hard-working organisations who go above and beyond to ensure children and young people receive the support they deserve. This additional funding will strengthen local support services’ response to any change in demand as life starts to return to some sort of ‘normal’.

“I hope these grants go a little way to acknowledging their

important work and help them continue to be there for our most vulnerable children and young people in these uncertain times.”

Local charities were encouraged to apply for the funding and a significant number of highquality bids were received.

Following careful consideration, the PCC’s commissioning team have allocated the funding to small organisations whose work closely aligned with the PCC’s number one policing priority, to protect the most vulnerable from harm.

LAW firm Stone King is offering free virtual training sessions for trustees and senior management teams at local charities, including guidance on managing the effects of the coronavirus crisis.

Reema Mathur, Partner in the firm’s Charity & Social Enterprise team, said: “In current circumstances even those who have been charity trustees for many years may feel uncertain or have gaps in their knowledge on how to steer their charity through the effects of the coronavirus.

“We’ve built our training around the Charity Commission’s core guidance and look at recent case reports to illustrate the key principles, but we also cover very pertinent issues such as financial governance and resilience in the current climate, how to hold meetings and decision-making in a virtual space and recognising and reporting serious incidents.”

The firm’s ‘Essential trustee and governance in practice’ training programme has been designed to equip charity trustees and staff with the knowledge they need to carry out their roles effectively.

The sessions look at best practice and how to prevent problems, but also give advice on how to deal with any issues that do arise. There will also be an opportunity for Q&A at the end of each session.

The free, one-hour training webinars are running on 24th September at 2.30pm and at 10am on 26th November. More information and how to book can be found at https://bit. ly/3gv3ndv.

This newspaper is produced using paper from sustainably-managed forests.

Please recycle When you’ve finished reading, please make sure this newspaper is recycled. Just pop it in your green recycling box, or use it for something handy around the house, such as lining your kitchen food caddy.

ISSN 2632-7805 © Media Bath Limited 2020