Bath Echo - Issue 029 - 28/06/2022

ECHO

Your FREE local fortnightly newspaper for Bath

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

“My body is not built for cycling, but it has been a great challenge" Rugby legend Lee Mears takes on 750-mile charity ride - P3

Issue No. 029

FREE TO TAKE!

“Ecologically-sensitive” development planned for Bath's “tufa field" P3

BAT-ON ITS WAY

City prepares for arrival of Queen’s Baton Relay - P2

8,000 families to receive cost of living payment EIGHT thousand in Bath are set to receive a cash payment next month to help ease the impact of the rise in the cost of living.

After Government ministers confirmed initial payments would begin from 14th July, the Department for Work and Pensions has now revealed how many people in each part of the country will receive the new financial support.

It has also been announced that the disability top-up will be paid

into bank accounts in September.

6,400 individuals in the city will be eligible for the September topup.

In the South West, an estimated 7% of families will receive the first cash payment, with 8% of individuals receiving the disability top-up.

The first cost of living instalment will see millions of low-income households across the country receive £326 as the government

works to support the most vulnerable.

Millions of households will receive at least £1,200 this year to help cover rising costs. Work and Pensions Secretary, Thérèse Coffey said: “With millions of the lowest-income households soon seeing the first of two cash instalments land into their bank accounts, we are taking action to directly help families with the cost of living.

“This one-off payment totalling £650 is part of our £37 billion cost of living support package that will put an extra £1,200 into the pockets of those most in need.”

The second instalment of £324 will be sent to qualifying low-income households from the autumn.

The payments are designed to be deliberately slightly unequal to minimise fraud risks from ...

Continued on page 2

Residents thanked for feedback on parking zone schemes P4 Bath's clean air zone “working” despite three sites of concern P5 Warning over cost of living crisis leaving people “trapped” P9 Dorothy House’s annual Midnight Walk event raises £36,000 P10 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk

2

www.bathecho.co.uk

Days to go until Queen's Baton Relay arrives

In this issue...

Top Stories

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

P2-9

Community

P10

Health

P11

Education

P12

Business

P14

Politics

P15

In Other News

P16

We're pleased to be reintroducing the Bath Echo into print. Over the next few issues, we'll be bringing back our usual features, including what's on, puzzles, letters and much more.

We appreciate all of your support.

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: production@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/

THERE are just days to go until the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay is welcomed to Bath ahead of the Commonwealth Games this summer.

The baton will arrive at the Royal Crescent on Tuesday 5th July and will be carried by nine local Batonbearers before making its way down through the city to the Roman Baths.

Batonbearers Ed and Lois Jackson visited the Roman Baths on Tuesday 21st June ahead of the baton’s arrival.

Ed, a former rugby player, was left quadriplegic after a diving accident and with his wife Lois, set up Millimetres 2 Mountains, an initiative taking people with physical and mental ill health on mountain expeditions to aid recovery.

Ed said: “To be able to walk the baton through my hometown is a real privilege and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone out and about on the day so we can say hello.”

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “There’s only two weeks until the epic journey of the baton arrives in Bath and we’re delighted that the city will be part of it.

“This prestigious and exciting

event will showcase everything Bath has to offer.

Don’t miss out – make sure you’re there to watch.”

Lois added: “We are really excited about this opportunity to play a part in the amazing Queen’s Baton Relay. It was such a surprise to even be nominated so to be able to walk through our home city with the baton will be a real honour.”

The baton will arrive at the Royal Crescent at around 9.30am on 5th July and then at the Roman Baths at around 10am before leaving Bath at the Guildhall.

Primary school children will dress in traditional Roman clothing to welcome the baton to the city.

The Year 6 pupils from St Andrew’s Church School will sport Roman togas and form a guard of honour when it arrives at the Roman Baths.

Alongside the children will be the Gloucester-based Ermine Street Guards, the leading society studying the Roman army and its equipment.

Jayne Rochford-Smith, Headteacher at St Andrew’s Church School, said: “St Andrew’s Church School feel

Batonbearers Ed and Lois Jackson | Photo courtesy of B&NES Council

privileged and honoured to be invited to be part of the Queen’s Baton Relay.

“This will be a wonderful experience for Year 6 during their last term at St Andrew’s and also celebrates our long-term collaboration with the Roman Baths and their wonderful education team.”

A map of the route can be viewed on the council’s website.

Further details of the

other Batonbearers are due to be revealed this week, and can be found on the Bath Echo website.

The relay began on 7th October 2021, with Her Majesty The Queen placing her Message to the Commonwealth into the baton.

The baton is now on its 294-day long journey to every corner of the Commonwealth. It is set to travel the length and breadth of England for a total of 29 days, before culminating at the opening ceremony for Birmingham 2022 on 28th July 2022.

Carers urged to book their Covid-19 vaccination CARERS in Bath and North East Somerset and the people they look after are being reminded to arrange their Covid-19 vaccination.

The call to book an appointment follows Carers Week, which celebrated the work being carried out by paid and unpaid carers across the country.

A carer is any person of any age who looks after a friend, relative or partner who is unable to care for themselves due to illness, frailty, mental health or addiction.

At the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, many carers, along with those being looked after, had to remain extra vigilant during

the numerous periods of national lockdown to ensure they avoided coronavirus.

Now, with the lifesaving coronavirus vaccine an easilyaccessible protection against Covid-19, those who have yet to come forward are advised to proactively book their appointment without delay, especially as invitations are now no longer being sent.

Most people need three separate vaccinations, comprising of two primary doses and a third booster dose, to reach full protection against Covid-19.

Those aged over 75 are also entitled to a second booster dose, which experts say will help

prolong the immunity provided through the first three vaccines.

Fiona Hyett, Operations Director at the Salisbury City Hall vaccination centre, said: “Although Covid-19 is no longer the word on everybody’s lips, the virus hasn’t gone away.

“Coronavirus is still very much circulating within our communities, and it still has the potential to make people feel very poorly, which is why it’s so important that those yet to be vaccinated, especially carers and the people they look after, come forward. Vaccination teams are still on hand to provide jabs to those who need them, and many of our vaccine clinics currently

have very good appointment availability, so getting protected, and getting protected quickly, has never been easier.”

Appointments for the Covid-19 vaccine can be booked online at www.nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119.

In some instances, vaccination centres may be able to see people without an appointment, however it is advisable that those intending to drop-in check online beforehand whether a site is accepting walk-ins.

A full list of walk-in vaccination sites, which can be listed in order of distance from a person’s home or place of work, can be found online at www.nhs.uk.

Easing the cost of living Man sought after two crisis for Bath's families women touched Continued from page 1 ... those who may seek to exploit the system.

The eligibility date for the second instalment will be announced soon. If customers are eligible through receiving tax credits only, HMRC will contact them and issue payments automatically, with the first instalment being made from autumn.

The DWP will administer payments for customers on all other eligible means-tested benefits, and customers do not need to contact them or apply for the payment.

Overall support being provided to households across the country includes the direct cost of living payment of up to £650 for over 8 million households on eligible means-tested benefits, a separate £300 payment for pensioners, and a £150 payment for eligible disabled people, which can be paid on top of the £650 payment.

This is on top of £400 for all households to help with energy bills, and an extra £150 for properties in Council Tax bands A-D, meaning millions of the lowest-income households will receive at least £1,200 in support this year.

POLICE are seeking help from the public after a man inappropriately touched two women in Bath.

The women, both aged in their 30s, were touched on the bottom by a man as they walked on a path through Kensington Meadows, near Ringswell Gardens.

The incidents happened between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on Sunday 29th May. Officers are keen to hear from anyone who recognises the

description of the offender.

He’s described as white, aged in his 60s or 70s, approximately 5ft 10ins tall and of athletic build.

He had white curly hair in a short ponytail and a beard and wore a blue checked shirt, a black body warmer and dark jeans.

Anyone who can help police identify the man, or who witnessed the incidents, is asked to call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5222127312.

Issue 029

3

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Rugby legend takes on Specialist bungalows charity cycle challenge and apartments planned for “tufa field"

News in Brief Key witness being sought after assault Avon and Somerset Police have launched an appeal to trace a potential witness as part of an ongoing assault investigation in Bath. A woman came to the aid of a second woman who had been assaulted in a lane behind the Sainsbury’s petrol station off the Lower Bristol Road on Thursday 12th May at 4.30pm.

The victim had been struck by another woman and sustained minor facial injuries.

The potential witness offered the woman her phone to call 999 and officers are hoping to speak with her to understand if she saw the assault. If you are the witness who helped, please call 101 and quote reference number 5222112556.

Japanese restaurant PLANS to create a development discussed with residents last launches new menus The tufa field in Bath | Photo © Kate Groves

Former Bath Rugby player Lee Mears

BATH Rugby legend Lee Mears joined a 750-mile week-long cycle ride to raise much-needed funds for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby.

The Road to Twickenham crosscountry cycle challenge saw Mears join forces with former international rugby stars, GB ParaTri gold medallist Louis Rolfe MBE and local cycling enthusiasts.

A total of 650 cyclists rode from Newcastle to Twickenham, arriving at the home of English rugby in time for the Gallagher Premiership Final.

The group has raised more than £30,000 for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, and local Premiership Rugby Foundations.

Mears said: “We are delighted with the amount raised and would like to thank everyone who

supported the challenge.

“My body is not built for cycling, but it has been a great challenge to be part of. Anything that involves Wooden Spoon deserves my support as the charity stands for everything that I stand for.

“I have done lots of events for the charity and it is always a great chance to meet up with old friends and raise money for a fantastic cause – and the Road to Twickenham was no different.”

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, added: “The riders were an inspiration and demonstrated our core values of passion, integrity, teamwork and fun throughout the 750-mile journey.”

The group stopped off at 11 of the 13 Gallagher Premiership Rugby clubs along the way before the challenge culminated at Twickenham.

on the “tufa field” site on Englishcombe Lane that will be “ecologically-sensitive” have been revealed by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The proposed scheme would provide accommodation for adults with learning difficulties and/or autism, which will help reduce the need for out-of-area placements away from family and friends, and include measures to protect the area’s ecology.

It would see nine bungalows and seven apartments developed within the existing topography of the site to provide a “calm and reassuring” environment for residents.

Initial development ideas for low-carbon housing were discussed with residents in March. A meeting was held last week to discuss the next steps in the council’s ideas for a scheme on the designated development site. It previously had planning consent for 37 homes, but the controversial plan was scrapped in May 2021.

Under the latest proposals,

week, is a 10m buffer around the tufa site and a bat corridor; alongside protective measures for badgers, reptiles and small mammals.

Councillor Kevin Guy, council leader, who met residents this week, said: “We have listened to people in the area and have reshaped the initial scheme to ensure greater protection of the important local ecology while providing much-needed support for vulnerable people.

“I met with residents and emphasised that this is not about maximising housing density or profit but about providing new facilities for the community in a sensitive way.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the community to make sure we take everyone’s views into account as we work up the proposal in more detail.”

Bath & North East Somerset Council says it will now undertake further work on the scheme including the necessary work before a planning application is submitted next year.

Bath-based Japanese restaurant Robun has announced the launch of two new menus, bringing fresh lunch options available throughout the week.

The Lunch at Robun menu, served from Tuesday-Saturday, introduces both Ramen and Bento Boxes for the first time.

Taking inspiration from Japan’s iconic single-portion boxed lunches, a symbol of Japanese culture and ideals with balanced nutrition at its core, the brand new Bento Box selection gives daytime diners the opportunity to sample dishes from across Robun’s menu of yakiniku, sushi and sashimi. Presented in traditional wooden boxes, meat, seafood and vegetable options are available, all served with Miso Soup, Steamed Rice, Wakame Salad and Japanese Pickles.

For Sundays, head chef Jon Claro has created a sharing menu with the whole family in mind, inviting all generations to experience freshly prepared Japanese cuisine, priced at £30 per person.

Fire service offers water Refugee children create art display safety advice to parents AVON Fire & Rescue Service has issued top tips to help parents ensure their children know how to stay safe around water this summer.

25% of primary school pupils leave school unable to swim, and experts fear that as a result of the pandemic, even more young people will lack the ability to swim or rescue themselves if they get into difficulty.

With many opting for staycations once again this year, the Royal Life Saving Society UK has raised concerns that families will flock to beaches and inland water locations this summer, without considering the potential dangers, putting themselves and others at risk.

Top tips to help you stay safe: • Always supervise children

around the water.

• Never swim alone.

• Avoid throwing sticks or balls near water for dogs, and never enter the water to save them.

• Alcohol can impair your judgement – don’t drink and drown.

• If you’re going wild water swimming, you can download What3Words, to help emergency services find out exactly where you are in the event of an emergency.

• If you find yourself in difficulty in water, float to live. Resist the urge to gasp for breath and lie on your back with arms and legs spread. Move your limbs slowly to help you float. Once your breathing returns to normal, you can call for help.

• Don’t dive into shallow waters.

REFUGEE children in Bath who are supported by two charities in the city have created a special art display to mark Refugee Week.

The week, which ran from 20th to 26th June, is an annual event where the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees are celebrated.

Refugee Week’s vision is for refugees and asylum seekers to be able to live safely within inclusive and welcoming communities.

The theme of this year’s campaign was ‘Healing’ and sought to be a celebration of community, mutual care, and the ability to start again.

Organisers say that healing means recovering from a painful experience or situation so that people can continue to live.

Nobody understands this better than those who have lost their homes and had to build new lives

from scratch.

On 13th June, the Refugee resettlement team at Julian House hosted an art workshop at Elim Church for the children and young people the charity works with, as well as other refugees and asylum seekers living in Bath and surrounding areas.

The children and young adults painted, collaged, drew and stencilled on giant paper leaves.

The drawings were made into a tree and put on display in a window in the centre of Bath.

Sophie, from the Julian House Refugee team, said: “The display of art is a celebration of all of the refugee children and their families living in B&NES. “Our hope is that as well as enjoying the creativity and talent within each piece of work those viewing the display will reflect on the ways we can learn from one another and build a brighter and

Photo © Julian House

fairer future.

“The past few years have presented many challenges and brought to light the power that community and compassion brings.”

The display was available to view in the window of 12 Old Bond Street. The project was supported

by Julian House and Bath Welcomes Refugees, along with the St John’s Foundation which provided the space.

4

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Clarity sought over park home residents as pitch fees soar BATH’S Liberal Democrat MP, Wera Hobhouse, has called for clarity over park homes residents, such as those in Quarry Rock Gardens, who have seen pitch fees soar.

Park homes are movable homes that are placed permanently on private land, where residents pay a pitch fee to the site owner to keep their home there.

Over 85,000 households in England live in park homes, with the majority of people aged over 60.

Pitch fees in England are linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) rather than the Consumer Price Index (CPI), as they are in other countries in the UK. As such, pitch fees increase faster in England than in places like Scotland and Wales.

The Government had previously promised to apply the Consumer Price Index to pitch fees, but the legislation is yet to come forward.

In a question to the Government, Mrs Hobhouse called for a statement on when the changes to pitch fees are coming forward.

Mark Spencer MP, Leader of the House, confirmed that he will look into the matter with the relevant department and update her in due course.

Wera Hobhouse MP commented: “Park home residents are facing soaring pitch fees alongside the cost of living crisis. The Conservatives committed to reforming the way that fees are charged and

have an oven ready solution yet they are stalling.

“Dither and delay is simply not good enough for people who are struggling to pay the bills.

“I am pleased that my colleague Cllr Alison Born raised these concerns with me and that we can work together to pressure the Conservative Government to take action. The Ministers response was reassuring and I will be following up to ensure that progress is made.

“Park home residents have waited long enough. They deserve fair rules and protections so they are not unduly charged or taken advantage of by rogue site owners.”

Widcombe and Lyncombe Coun-

cillor, Alison Born said: “I’m very grateful that Wera is taking up this issue and has put it on the Government’s radar.

“Residents in Quarry Rock Gardens have contacted me with their concerns as their pitch fees are set to rapidly increase in the middle of soaring cost of living.

“Residents will be grateful for Wera’s intervention and Wera and I will keep pressuring the Government to take action to help park homes residents.

“Changing the way pitch fees increase will support residents at such a difficult point and will bring England in line with Wales and Scotland which have already made the change.”

Building society gives out £6,500 EIGHT community groups and charities across the Bath area are set to share £6,500 from Bath Building Society’s annual charity awards scheme.

The scheme was established in 2006 to support as many local initiatives as possible from the growing number of requests that the building society receives each week asking for support.

Kevin Gray, Chief Executive of the Society said: “The Awards are very important to us and are a way for the Society to “give some-

thing back” to the local community. It is amazing the work some of these organisations do and the local people that they help and on such little funding, I’m just glad we can help!

“I am really pleased how the number of applications continues to increase year on year and this year is no different.

“I’d like to thank the Judges for spending their time to help choose the winners of our Awards; Alan Keeling from The Rotary Club Bath, Angela Emms

from The Quartet Community Foundation and my colleagues Tiffany Hardie-Albutt and Layla Jones.

“It was a tough competition, but we found our winners in the end!”

Those receiving funding include: • The Bath Shed – £1,500, • Three Ways School – £1,000 • Share & Repair – £1,000 • Reason – £1,000 • Bath in Bloom – £500 • Voices for Life – £500 • Peter Pan pre-school – £500 • The Willow Tree Centre – £500

Residents thanked for parking zone feedback

PEOPLE who took part in a consultation on plans to create seven new residents’ parking zones in the city have been thanked for giving their feedback.

Over 1,100 responses were received online, and residents and businesses also took part in a series of events to have their say.

Bath & North East Somerset Council has put forward proposals to help create healthier and safer streets linked to its Liveable Neighbourhoods plans.

The schemes aim to tackle commuter parking and reduce vehicle intrusion into largely residential neighbourhoods, while also improving air quality and the environment.

The proposed zones are: • Chelsea Road, Foxcombe Road Area * • Lyme Gardens, Charmouth Road Area * • Sion Hill, Summerhill Road Area • Audley Grove, Edward Street, St Michaels Area • Walcot, Snow Hill, Claremont Road Area * • Entry Hill Area * • Beacon Hill Area Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “I want to thank everyone who has had their say either online or by coming along to the face-to-face events we set up.

“It’s important that we get a range of views in order to weigh up these schemes. We all want healthier

and safer streets, but this has to be done while balancing people’s needs.”

All the feedback is now being analysed and a report prepared to decide whether to proceed to the next stage, which is advertising the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) for further comment or objections.

The residents’ parking zone proposals came out of several public consultations on B&NES Council’s Liveable Neighbourhoods programme, and how the local authority can help communities to create healthier, safer streets.

These seven are in addition to a proposed RPZ scheme for Oldfield Park and Westmoreland.

More than 700 people shared their views in a consultation on this proposal, and a formal consultation on the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is currently underway.

Residents’ parking zones are just one of a range of interventions available to communities looking to create Liveable Neighbourhoods.

In four of the seven zones being proposed, asterisked in the list above, workshops are underway with residents co-designing additional interventions, with the support of transport experts, to help further reduce the dominance of vehicles and make it safer and easier for people to walk, cycle or wheel, especially for short journeys.

COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council

AS

leader of the Bath & North East Somerset Council, your council, I very much welcome the launch of Bath Echo as a print publication. This will contribute greatly to keeping residents informed about local issues.

Bath & North East Somerset is responsible for a wide range of services, including libraries, waste and recycling collections, social care and highways. My priority is to ensure that these are of high-quality and provide value-for-money, and I want to use these regular columns to keep

you updated on what the council is doing.

We’ve recently set up No Place for Litter hubs” in Bath, Keynsham, Radstock and Chew Magna, with equipment community volunteers can borrow to carry out weed removal in their local area.

The council no longer uses the chemical weedkiller glyphosate for regular maintenance, which means more labour-intensive manual and mechanical weed removal.

Transport is also a key issue for the city. So I am pleased we recently ensured that most of the

WECA-supported bus services that serve people in our area will continue as they are until at least April of next year. This will give WECA time to undertake a proper review of the supported bus network to make sure it meets local needs for people to access shops, health services, leisure and jobs.

Also, as part of our efforts to reduce transport emissions, 30 new electric charging points are being installed across the area, following the expansion of the Revive vehicle charging network. Bays are already operating at King-

smead Square, Charlotte Street, Larkhall and Claverton Road car parks in Bath, with more to follow across the area later in the year.

I am also very proud of our new Roman Baths Clore Learning Centre, which opened on 16 June. We’re really looking forward to welcoming school children and local community groups into the centre.

Finally, I was honoured to speak last week with Vadym Rystaiko, the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK, about how we can

strengthen bonds of help and friendship between us and people and communities in Ukraine. I have been invited to the Ukrainian Embassy to explore forging direct relationships with Alexandria (Oleksanriya) in Ukraine. My thanks go to everyone locally for what they have done to help welcome Ukrainian refugees, whether that is sponsors providing accommodation or voluntary and community groups such as Bath Welcomes refugees providing support.

Issue 029

¯

Bath's Clean Air Zone

5

Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789

Data reveals clean air zone “working” despite sites of concern

NEW figures released by Bath & North East Somerset Council Camden Road show a continued reduction Lansdown Road in air pollution following the introduction of the Clean Air Zone in Bath last year.

The data reveals a 21% reduction in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) A4 London Road pollution recorded across the city in 2021 when compared with 2019, before the pandemic.

Cleveland Place Weston Road Bath’s Clean Air Zone was launched in March 2021 to drive A36 Warminster Road down high levels of roadside pollution caused by vehicle Royal Crescent emissions.

It levies a charge on all vehicles, Royal Victoria Park except cars and motorbikes, that don’t meet minimum emission standards to deter them from A36 driving in highly polluted areas.

A4 Upper Bristol Road Queen A report on the zone’s Square performance went before the local authority’s Climate Pulteney Emergency Scrutiny Panel Bridge on 27th June, highlighting BATH improvements in air quality both inside and outside the zone.

A36 Lower Bristol Road It also highlighted improvements North Parade in the number of cleaner, Brougham Hayes compliant vehicles in the city, Bathwick and the investigations which have been made into understanding Hill concerns about potential traffic displacement.

Key air quality findings from the report, compared with baseline figures from 2019, include: A3062 Prior • A decreasing trend in NO2 Oldfield Road Widcombe Hill concentrations at all sites in Bath Park Road A367 Wells Road • A 21% reduction in annual mean NO2 concentrations within The Bath Clean Air Zone boundary the zone.

A 22% reduction in annual mean the zone each week.

2022/23. and the overall direction of travel Joint Air Quality Unit (JAQU) NO2 concentrations in the urban The numbers have halved from The report acknowledges the looks good, with air quality at and awaits the outcome of its area outside the zone 1,148 per day during March to effect of Covid-19 lockdowns to every monitoring station in Bath assessment on whether the zone 8 fewer sites exceeding the limit 550 a day, on average, during reduce traffic in the city during improving on baseline figures. has achieved success with a value of 40 ?g/m3 (as an annual December. This is despite traffic the first half of the year, which “It’s also great to see the city’s ministerial direction to reduce mean) returning to near pre-pandemic may have impacted air quality. most polluting vehicles being NO2 in Bath to within legal limits The report notes that while levels in the second half of the It also notes the impact of replaced with cleaner ones. in ‘the shortest possible time’ and air quality across the city has year. traffic diversions caused by the While there is clearly work to do, by the end of 2021 at the latest. Its improved, with a clear decreasing A financial assistance scheme, restoration works on Cleveland the zone is having its intended assessment is now expected in trend in NO2 concentrations which funded £9.4 million of Bridge, saying: “Because of the effect of changing behaviours autumn 2022. across all 123 monitoring sites, interest-free finance and grants to impacts of Covid-19 and the and improving air quality, so I’d Revenue from charges and fines three sites 0 within the 400 zone local businesses 800 and individuals Cleveland Bridge closure, the like to thank residents for their is used to pay for the running of continue to exceed the EUMetres and affected by charges, has report states that is too early to support. the scheme.

UK limit value of 40 micrograms contributed to this improvement, assess the true impact of the “We know that high levels of NO2 B&NES Council says any money per cubicDocument metre air (?g/m3).

Path: of \\brsfpp01\Proj\Consulting\Projects\674726 B&NES Framework 2016 to 2020\042 Air 720 Quality Strategy\63 Modelling\MAPINFO\Final CAZ Boundary 11.11.2020\FBC_Final_Boundary 11.11.2020.mxd are a public health risk, especially replacing around of theTransport city’s zone alone on Bath’s air quality made over and above Reproduced the by permissi The sites at Walcot Parade, Wells most polluting vehicles with until further data is collected and for people with existing heart and running costs must be reinvested Road and Dorchester Street cleaner, compliant ones. analysed during 2022.” lung conditions. in sustainable transport projects. “remain a concern”, and the More vehicles are expected to be Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy “It can also cause fatal asthma In the first year of operation, council says they will be carefully replaced by the end of 2022 either leader and cabinet member for attacks and affect children’s lung the zone generated £5.6 million monitored. through the scheme, or privately, climate and sustainable travel, development. from charges and penalty charge In 2019, 11 monitoring sites in as businesses and individuals said, “We are heartened to see “What’s been achieved is notices.

Bath exceeded the limit value. seek to avoid zone charges in Bath this data from the zone’s first year therefore very important and I £2.5 million of surplus revenue Additionally, the report and across the UK, including in of operation, and the difference am pleased we are reporting this over the next two years has been highlights that there are fewer London and Birmingham, where it’s making to air quality and achievement to coincide with allocated to the West of England’s chargeable, polluting vehicles zones are already in operation, therefore our health.

Clean Air Day.” Combined Authority (WECA) which don’t meet minimum and in Bristol and Bradford, “Three sites remain a concern for The council has submitted data fund for sustainable transport emission standards travelling in where zones are due to go live in us, but these are being monitored, for review by the government’s improvements across the region.

Appeal launched after man dies following erratic driving POLICE have launched an appeal for witnesses and footage following an incident on Friday 17th June, in which a man later died.

Shortly after 3.30pm, police say they began receiving calls about a van being driven erratically and colliding with other vehicles before coming to a stop on Wellsway.

Members of the public blocked the van, a Ford Transit, with their

vehicles before breaking its window and taking the keys from the ignition.

The driver was subsequently detained by officers who then called for an ambulance after becoming concerned for his welfare.

The man was taken to Royal United Hospital in Bath but died overnight.

His next of kin has been informed and will be supported by a specially trained family liaison of-

ficer.

A forensic post-mortem examination will now take place to determine how the man died.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been made aware of the incident and due to the circumstances, a mandatory referral will be made to them in due course.

Detective Inspector Keith Smith said: “At this early stage of our inquiry it is not currently clear what

happened and what led to the man sadly passing away.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time and we will carry out a thorough investigation to provide them with the answers they deserve.”

DI Smith added: “While officers spoke to a number of people at the scene we believe there are others who witnessed the incident who we are keen to talk to.

“We’d also like to hear from an-

yone who drove on Wellsway, Churchill Bridge or Lower Bristol Road yesterday afternoon who has dashcam footage of the incident, as well as anyone who captured it on their phone or private CCTV. “Similarly, if your vehicle or property has been damaged, please let us know.”

If you can help, call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222143789.

KITCHENS, BEDROOMS, BATHROOMS, LIVING ROOMS & SO MUCH MORE

Providing affordable made-to-measure interior solutions across Bath for more than 35 years Book an appointment with us today to get your project started www.schmidt-bath.com/book | 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE | 01225 337276

Issue 029

7

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Pictures from the Past: Identifying the unidentified Where is this bomb damage?

In this new series for the Bath Echo, we at Akeman Press ask readers if they can help us identify some of our hitherto unidentified pictures.

We begin with four photographs from a set of seven taken by a resident of Bath after the bombing raids in April 1942.

Frustratingly, we have been unable to work out where this damage was, but if we did know, we could find out more about the people whose house it was. Assuming this was their house, they seem remarkably calm about it, judging by the comments on the back.

The first two pictures have no comments but probably give us the best clue. It may be in the Kingsmead area – there are many houses which appear to be Georgian houses nearby.

This photograph of the garden has the most information written on the back. It says: “This is taken from the steps at the bottom of the garden. Of course the telephone pole had blown to pieces but they soon had this new one up . The garden gate was blown into a garden the other side of the road.”

Finally, the writer has written to whoever they were sent to: “You recognise the kitchen and door but the scullery has quite disappeared.”

But where is it and who was writing to whom? What a shock the recipient must have had to see these pictures.

If you can help identify these locations, email news@bathecho.co.uk.

CCG to become integrated care board in bid to improve care AN inaugural public day one meeting has been planned to mark the inception of the soonto-be-established Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board.

Officials from the new integrated care board, which is being established to improve health and care for local people across the area, will meet in public for the first time in Salisbury on Friday 1st July.

The meeting will mark the successful transition from the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group, and see health and care leaders discuss future ways of working for the local NHS and its partner

organisations. Dissolving the CCG and establishing the integrated care board follows Parliamentary approval and Royal Assent of the new Health and Care Act 2022, which outlines how effective collaboration and better partnership working will become commonplace for local health and care providers.

Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) will be responsible for planning and coordinating services on behalf of local people, as well as developing a plan for meeting the health needs of its population, managing the local NHS budget and arranging for the provision of local health services.

The ICB will also bring the local

health and care system together, with its board of officials comprising not only those from within the organisation, but also featuring representatives from local NHS trusts, primary care, local authorities, voluntary organisations and community providers.

Leaders will work collaboratively to improve outcomes in population health, provide better joined-up care, reduce health inequalities and enhance productivity and value for money, while also helping the NHS support broader social and economic development.

Dr Amanda Webb, Chief Medical Officer at the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:

“The formal transition from clinical commissioning group to integrated care board will take place on 1 July, but that is really only the very first step on an otherwise longer journey to bring true cohesion and partnership working to our region.

“We know that by working together, we can boost the partnerships already in place, join up services for the benefit of local people and deliver care and treatment in a way that is both efficient and economical.”

The new integrated care board will be the statutory element of

the larger Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care System, which will also be known as BSW Together.

This is a wider network of local health and care organisations that will, along with councils, community providers and voluntary sector groups, plan and organise how health and care services can be delivered across the region, while also committing to give local people and communities a louder voice in how services are provided locally.

8

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

New information board unveiled at £250k grant towards Odd Down burial ground completion of pools

How the Cleveland Pools previously looked | Photo © Casey Ryder

Cllr Steve Hedges, ward councillor for Odd Down, with attendees at the unveiling of the information board

ANOTHER milestone has been reached at the Odd Down burial ground with the introduction of a new information board to give background details of the site.

Volunteers attended a small gathering to mark the latest step in the long campaign to get the Workhouse Burial Ground at Odd Down properly recognised and to create a place of memory and reflection.

The information board outlines what life was like for those who lived in the workhouse. It gives background details on some of the ordinary people who lived there, the conditions they lived in and what happened to them when they died.

The burial ground contains the unmarked graves of more than 3,100 people who died in poverty in the Bath workhouse between 1858 and 1899.

The project received funding from the Bath Neighbourhood CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) and Odd Down Community Association and is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Ser-

vices said: “This project is good example of how Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding can be used for the benefit of a community.

“Our Parks team have been working alongside the volunteers to transform the site and establish a beautiful and contemplative space which respects the memory of those buried here.”

The event was attended by local historian John Payne whose booklet, Workhouse to Hospital, gives a background to the site and life in the workhouse in the second half of the 19th century.

Councillor Steve Hedges, ward councillor for Odd Down, has been heavily involved in the project.

He said: “I was honoured to unveil the notice board and it was good to see so many people at the event. It is an important step in preserving this site and honouring the memory of those ordinary people who lived and died in the workhouse.

“I am happy to offer my ongoing support to the Odd Down residents who have been fighting to preserve the burial ground for years.”

A group of people who regularly walked the site reading the names of those buried there as part of the Walking the Names project, have been instrumental in the site being properly recognised and in April they were featured in an episode of Open Country on BBC Radio 4.

Episode 2 of the Bathscape podcast, Footprints, which discussed how ancestors and loved ones are remembered in Bath, included interviews with John Payne and Richard White from Bath Spa University who created the Walking the Names project.

You can listen to the episode here: https://footprints.captivate.fm/ episode/death-in-paradise.

Bathscape has been working in partnership with the council’s Parks Department, coordinating the volunteers and planting spring bulbs, wildflowers and a selection of trees.

Future plans for the burial ground include the installation of several benches and additional planting to encourage wildlife.

Bathscape is a National Lottery Heritage Fund supported project, which aims to reconnect people with the natural landscape.

BATH & North East Somerset Council is set to contribute £250,000 towards the completion of the project to restore open-air community swimming at Cleveland Pools.

The £9 million restoration project of the country’s only surviving Georgian lido is expected to be completed this summer and will see the creation of unique openair swimming pools heated by heat pumps in the adjacent river.

The £250,000 of funding will support the final stages of reopening the pools to the public, which include a pool for adults and competent swimmers and a shallower pool for children to enjoy.

The Grade II listed buildings on the site will also be restored.

The local authority had allocated the money from the Community Infrastructure Levy as part of its 2022/23 budget setting, and this has now been approved in a single-member decision by Councillor Richard Samuel, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Economic Development and Resources.

The council owns the property and has agreed to a 150-yearlease with Cleveland Pools Trust.

The additional grant funding comes after grants of £350,000 towards the main project previously awarded by the

council, alongside a further £557,000 grant towards a water source heat pump from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, following a successful bid to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Councillor Richard Samuel said: “It’s exciting that the reopening of the pools is getting closer and I’m delighted to approve this further funding to help get the project finished. It’s the culmination of many years of hard work by everyone involved and will be a huge asset for the community.

“Swimming is known to boost physical and mental wellbeing, so having the opportunity to enjoy the water outdoors in this beautiful setting is going to be so beneficial and relaxing for people to enjoy.”

Anna Baker, Project Director at Cleveland Pools, said: “The Cleveland Pools Trust is most grateful for this grant from Bath & North East Somerset Council which supports the final stages of the restoration process.

“The Pools are a local asset for local people and we are looking forward to welcoming swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

“This grant brings us another step closer to opening, and ensuring as many people as possible can benefit from everything the Pools offers.”

which shows that the South West is the worst region for NHS dentists. It's clear that the Conservatives are not bothered about people's health.

I attended a language school in Bath (Elac Study Vacations) who are working with local charity Bath Welcomes Refugees to offer free English lessons to Ukrainian refugees. It is truly heartwarming to see Bath’s community come together to welcome those fleeing war.

It was back in 2017 that the Government first directed Bath &

North East Somerset Council to take action on dangerously high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in Bath. The Clean Air Zone was created in response and came in force last year.

The latest figures released by the Council indicate that Bath’s Clean Air Zone is helping to reduce air pollution, with a 21% reduction in nitrogen dioxide pollution recorded across the city in 2021 compared with 2019. My Lib Dem Council colleagues are delivering positive results for residents.

COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath

I

am pleased that Bath Echo are relaunching their newspaper, and I am honoured to have the opportunity to write a monthly column.

This month has been tumultuous for the Conservative Government. Their authority continues to evaporate; 42% of their own MPs voted for Boris Johnson to step down. The Conservatives are deeply divided and failing to address the rising cost of living crisis, ambulance waiting times and other burning issues impacting residents.

I know some of you have been affected by the recent rail strikes.

The Liberal Democrats learned that the Government refused to meet with the unions prior to the strikes. It is obvious that they wanted this strike to go ahead for their own political gain.

I have been working on a campaign on rents for park homes, after residents in Quarry Rock Gardens in Claverton Down raised the alarm over the site’s unfair pricing structure. I have been continuing my campaign to free Jim Fitton, a 66-year old former Bath resident who has been detained in Iraq for allegedly ‘exporting’ historical artefacts. I am working to support another

constituent whose elderly mother is still in Afghanistan with the Government failing to allow her into the UK. Bath’s new police station reopened recently after years of campaigning from myself and my Lib Dem colleagues. I am exploring potential solutions to the gull crisis in Bath. Over time, Natural England made changes to the regulations that allowed the gull population to build up here.

Many people have written to me as they are struggling to access NHS dentists. I spoke during a debate in Parliament and my team has uncovered research

Issue 029

9

Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789

Debt charity warns cost of living crisis is leaving people “trapped” A DEBT charity based in Combe Down has said the cost of living crisis is “crushing” those on low incomes and leaving them “trapped”.

Christians Against Poverty’s (CAP) Bath Debt Centre, situated in the Holy Trinity Church, has been offering free debt help along with emotional and practical support, to people across the city for the past 7 years.

Amanda Wetton, the centre manager, said: “We know that everyone’s feeling the impact of the cost of living crisis right now, but if you’re already on a low income, the strain is relentless – plus there’s the added anxiety over future rises in living costs.

“People fall into debt for a variety of reasons. They may have been made redundant, left a job to care for a family member, suffered from a long-term illness, or experienced a relationship breakdown – which cuts many household’s income in half.”

A CAP report, released this month, has exposed the growing impact that the cost of living crisis is having on low income households in Bath, trapping them into debt.

The “To The Edge” report revealed that: • New CAP clients in the South West have a peak debt of over £15,680 • Without free debt help, it would take on average 29 years for a South West household to repay their debts.

Amanda said: “This report shows the reality of the situation for many people. The cost of living crisis is leaving many families on unsustainable budgets, with little

or nothing left-over after covering their basic living costs.

“People are aware that they could suddenly be plunged into large amounts of debt, and they’re scared.

“The detrimental impact of these kinds of debts are significant.

CAP’s report shows that, unsurprisingly, more people are suffering from depression compared to last year, and more are also experiencing anxiety or panic attacks.

“Most concerningly, the percentage of our clients who tell us they’ve attempted or considered suicide, as a way out of their debt, has risen, from last year, from 28% to 36%. This is heart-breaking and doesn’t have to be the case – help is available.”

Serious illness led CAP client Nick to leave his paid semi-pro sporting star lifestyle, into unemployment and debt. He said: “I had a brain tumour which was removed, but I lost my mother dur-

WE ARE U3A IN BATH : JOIN US! About u3a in Bath There are over 450,000 of us in the UK and 1,300 in Bath.

We are in “u3a in Bath” and our members are all retired or working part-time. We take part in a range of activities – from History to Languages, from Tennis to Country Walks.

See the complete list of our 100-plus interest groups on our website - www.u3ainbath.org.uk

u3a in Bath Membership You can join the u3a in Bath by filling in an application form and sending it (with s.a.e) to Membership Officer, U3A in Bath, PO Box 4040, Bath, BA1 0EJ Application forms are on our website or phone 01225 318438.

Membership is only £15 per year.

ing that time. I now suffer from terminal Crohn’s disease.

“Previously I had always worked very hard and had everything under control, but I got to the point where I couldn’t even pick up a can of beans or turn on the kettle. I was suffering badly from depression and became suicidal.”

Nick described how he feels since getting free debt help from CAP, which partners with his local church. “It’s made such a difference. If I had carried on as before, I probably wouldn’t be here now.

I couldn’t see a way out. These people will not judge you, they’re just there to help you.”

Amanda has urged people to seek supporting, saying: “If you need help to break free from debt, contact CAP debt-help charity on freephone 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org today.”

The charity’s client’s name quoted above has been changed to protect his anonymity.

Time to apply for £150 energy rebate payment

PEOPLE in Bath and North East Somerset who do not pay their council tax by direct debit are now able to apply for the Government’s £150 energy rebate scheme.

Those who are eligible for the payment can now fill in a form on B&NES Council’s website.

To prevent fraud, people who pay by non-direct debit methods will get a letter from the council containing a personal access code and council tax account number.

Both of these need to be included on a webform along with bank details so the council can verify their details.

Anyone who is not on the internet can visit Bath Welfare, Housing and Advice Service in Manvers Street (formerly the One Stop Shop) or Keynsham & Midsomer Norton Library and Information Services.

Providing they have their letter and bank details with them, a Customer Services officer will help them to fill in the webform.

Our Monthly Talks People can also conMonthly Talks are usually held on the first Thursday in tact Council Connect the month and start at for guidance on 01225 10.30 a.m.. Doors open at 9.45 a.m. for coffee.

39 40 41.

Bank details must Admission is free for members but a donation of £2 match the council-tax for non-members. If you join U3A in Bath at the payer otherwise they meeting then your admission fee is refunded. will be rejected pendTalks take place at: ing further checks.

The council is advising The Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bath BA2 4EU these will take additional time to process.

Once the council has Upcoming Talks the bank details, under Cabinet Office 7th July 2022 protocol, it needs to ZEPPELIN: SHIP OF DREAMS

by David Skillen verify them through a government system to 1st September 2022 prevent fraud and enSLAVERY EXPLORED sure the £150 gets to

by Gary Best the right people.

A reminder letter will th 6 October 2022 go out in July, and for DIGITAL MEDIA AND THE FUTURE OF THE NOVEL those who don’t claim

by Kate Pullinger or get in touch by 31st July 2022, the council 3rd November 2022 will credit the £150 to THE REGENCY LIFE IN GEORGIAN BATH

by Dr Robert Morrison their Council Tax account so no one loses out.

Already 43,000 eligible residents in Bath and

The Guildhall in Bath

North East Somerset who pay their council tax by direct debit have now received the payment.

There have been a number of cases where it has not been possible to make payments to existing direct debit payers, for example when bill and bank account names do not match or the bank has rejected the payment.

The council says it has been working to resolve this and expects to make payment in coming days.

The government announced earlier this year that residents living in properties in Council Tax bands A to D will receive a £150 energy rebate as a one-off payment to help with rises in fuel bills. The money does not have to be repaid.

Councillor Kevin Guy, council leader, said: “We have been working hard since the government announced this payment to set systems up to makes sure all eligible residents get their £150 towards fuel bills.

“It has been a huge undertaking distributing almost £9.6million. We have made payments to 43,000 people, who pay by direct debit and I am very pleased to see that for those residents who do not pay by direct debit they too will get their £150 in the coming weeks, provided their bank details are verified.”

Families who do not qualify for the £150 energy rebate, for example those living in bands E and above, may qualify for a discretionary payment if they are on a low income or receive certain benefits. All awards will be for £150.

Residents will be eligible for the discretionary fund if they meet the following criteria: • They are not entitled to the main energy rebate scheme as they are not liable for council tax or their home is in council tax band E or above • They are directly liable for energy costs i.e. their name is on the electricity or gas bill • They receive an income-based benefit including Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit OR have combined household earnings and pensions below £500 per week.

10

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Community Dorothy House’s annual Midnight Walk event raises £36,000

Dementia awareness at city's Specsavers store

MORE than 300 local people came together on the streets of Bath on Sunday 12th June for the annual Dorothy House Women’s Midnight Walk.

The focus this year was to raise vital funds for the Hospice at Home service, which cares for end-of-life patients throughout the night, providing muchneeded respite for their families.

A three-year Covid-19 hiatus served only to boost enthusiasm and turnout this year for the fundraiser.

The Mayor of Bath, Councillor Rob Appleyard, gave a speech before Cheryl Sprinkler led the crowd through her classic ‘Mojo Moves’ to get everyone ready to take on the late-night 5k.

Taking to the streets, each woman wore a vibrant pink Dorothy House t-shirt and on the back wrote the name of who they were walking in memory of.

Karleigh Brailey, who joined the walk, said: “I am taking part in the Woman’s Midnight Walk because it takes place on my Dad’s 65th Birthday.

“We sadly last him in March to lung cancer, so it couldn’t have been more fitting! During his final weeks Dorothy House supported us at night and every single nurse we met was so lovely, kind, caring and compassionate.

“Raising funds and walking in memory of my Dad, on his birthday, is the perfect way to celebrate him.”

As the women walked together, they shared their stories and memories of the loved ones they had lost.

Natasha Shadwell said: “We would have been lost without Dorothy House when my husband James passed away in 2020. They were a true lifeline. It is an honour to be able to help support Dorothy House at this year’s Midnight Walk.”

A MEMBER of staff from Specsavers has taken part in new awareness-raising sessions that will allow them to better understand the needs of customers living with dementia.

The branch on Westgate Street has carried out training as part of an updated Dementia Friends programme, an Alzheimer’s Society initiative changing the way people think, act and talk about the syndrome.

By completing the session, optical dispenser Josh Gaisford is now a recognised Dementia Friend, and has a badge to wear on his uniform to indicate his increased level of dementia awareness to customers.

Phil Lodge, Specsavers Bath store director, said: “Being more aware of dementia is an incredibly positive development.

“Having a Dementia Friend as part of the team will help to ensure any customers living with dementia feel safe and are looked after in a sensitive way.

“We’re always keen to go the extra mile and support our local community and this development should do exactly that.”

Morven Lean, Senior Strategic Change Manager at Alzheimer’s Society added: “It’s fantastic to see Specsavers Bath take this first step to becoming a dementiafriendly business by inviting its staff to join over 3.4 million Dementia Friends in the UK today.

“As we have come out of lockdown, more people are heading to the shops, and it’s vital that businesses are dementiafriendly and provide a wellinformed service and support for customers with dementia.

“There are currently 850,000 people in the UK with dementia and this number is set to rise to one million by 2025, so it’s

Getting involved in the Midnight Walk | Photo © Dorothy House

Over 70 Dorothy House volunteers lined the streets to cheer on the walkers and provide support along the way.

Emily Higgins, who took part in the walk, explained how the Hospice at Home care team had helped their family when her Mum was ill. She said: “The night carers were all so lovely, gentle and kind. They really are Angels of the night!

“I have loved taking part in the Midnight Walk, despite it feeling so soon after losing my Mum. The atmosphere and being with everyone really means a lot.”

The event finished with refreshments and the awarding of the raffle prize, a Portobello Tote, donated by Mulberry, which was won by Theresa Thomas.

She said: “Please give everyone involved a big thank you, the walk was very well organised and a really great atmosphere. I was very lucky to win the Mulberry handbag, I never win anything so that was a lovely bonus.”

The raffle raised £830 and there were final celebrations at the Pavilion before the participants

headed home for a rest at 2am.

Another participant, Kelly Clifford said: “I took part in the Women’s Midnight Walk because Dorothy House helped my family beyond words.

“My Mum, Lisa, had bile duct cancer, and I do not know what we would’ve done without the overnight carers.

“Tonight’s walk was so good!

Since my mum died, I want to live the life she lost. I did the walk for her… and it was brilliant!”

Every woman who took part helped raise much-needed funds to allow Dorothy House to continue to provide their free and compassionate Hospice at Home service.

Emily Aspin, the Community and Events Fundraiser at Dorothy House said: “The Midnight Walkers have raised £36,000 so far for the Hospice at Home.

“We are really pleased and grateful to everyone who took part in this amazing event.

“You walked through the night so that Dorothy House can continue to care for loved ones through the night, and for that, we thank you.”

Photo © Specsavers

never been more important for businesses, organisations and individuals to tackle the stigma around dementia, and transform the way the nation acts, thinks and talks about the condition.”

Specsavers first signed up to Dementia Friends in 2019 and so far, around 6,000 staff have become Dementia Friends.

The updated programme, created

by Alzheimer’s Society, features more interactive modules, updated information and video content, and staff will be joining over 3.4 million people in the UK who have become a Dementia Friends.

It covers all aspects of dementia and discusses how it affects people in different ways.

With particular relevance to Specsavers, it also describes how senses can be affected, including sight and hearing.

People with dementia may experience problems with their sight and visual perception, which can lead to confusion and misinterpretations about the world around them.

Some people living with dementia can also experience hallucinations.

Many people living with dementia may be wearing glasses with the wrong prescription, which can lead to increased isolation and confusion.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

W

ITH all the recent hot weather, I hope many of you have been out enjoying the sunshine.

I know many people will be getting ready for the summer holidays, which can be a busy and demanding time for policing in Avon and Somerset. I’m sure it will be especially busy with festival season now in full swing and many big events making their return for the first time since the pandemic. Indeed, Avon and Somerset Police were working hard at Glastonbury Festival to make sure that everybody stayed safe while having fun. Avon and

Somerset Police were on patrol at the site over the weekend, talking to festival-goers and being on hand in case any issues arose. I visited myself over the weekend to observe the policing operation in action.

I was very sorry to hear about the tragic road traffic collision on the Wellsway a couple of weeks ago.

Road safety is a priority within my Police and Crime Plan and want to ensure that Avon and Somerset Police are working with local communities to make our roads as safe as possible for all users.

With many celebratory occasions planned for this summer I cannot

stress enough how important it is that people drive responsibly, at safe speeds, and do not get into their vehicles after they have been out enjoying drinks in the sunshine.

Speaking of my priorities, some of you may know that I have a national role as the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners lead for Economic and Cyber Crime. As part of this role, I was honoured to be invited to give evidence recently at the House of Lords Select Committee Special Inquiry on Fraud. There is now a drive to make platform providers more responsible for duty of

care to victims who have been defrauded on their sites. This is something I have personally been pushing for as part of my national role. This will involve revising current corporate criminal liability laws to include a new offence of failure to prevent certain crimes, including money laundering and fraud.

Finally, still on the topic of fraud, we have been supporting a national Action Fraud campaign to raise awareness of how to avoid becoming a victim of investment fraud. Many of us have become

comfortable sharing personal and financial information online which gives criminals the opportunity to exploit people by inviting them to invest in schemes or products that are worthless or do not exist.

The key to prevention is education and awareness of the type of scams and tactics criminals are using. Remember, don’t be rushed into making an investment; seek advice first and always check that the company you are investing in is registered with the FCA.

Issue 029

11

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Health New feedback tool for patients and families introduced at RUH PATIENTS and their families at the Royal United Hospital can now easily provide feedback about their experience thanks to new technology.

As part of a pilot project being run in the hospital’s A&E and Orthopaedic departments’ waiting rooms, patients can now give real-time feedback about the service they are receiving from the RUH by simply scanning a QR code on their mobile device or sending a text.

They are able to give feedback on a range of different topics, from their overall experience of the waiting room and what could be improved, to the welcome they received from staff when they arrived and how well they have been communicated with during their visit.

Within A&E, QR codes and stickers have been installed on the partition screens between chairs and in the Orthopaedic department they can be found on display banners and the arms of chairs.

This feedback compliments the RUH’s Friends and Family Test, a national NHS survey which is a simple and anonymous way for patients, their friends, family and carers to give views on the care or treatment they have received at their local NHS trust.

Jo Miller, Chief Nursing Information Officer, said: “To make visiting the RUH or having a stay in hospital the best possible experience, it’s essential to find out from our patients what we’re doing well and where improvements could be made.

“We always encourage patients and their families to complete the Friends and Family Test in person or online via our website, however, we have found that feedback levels have dropped during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We’re hopeful that this pilot project will give patients and visitors

Leading role in groundbreaking stroke research project

Emma Paulett, Fawn Sawyer, Joanne Avis and Hayley Stoney

Jo Miller, Chief Nursing Information Officer and Reshmi Ravi, Senior Sister

a quick and convenient way to share feedback with us while they wait for their appointment or to see a clinician. If it proves a success, we will look to extend it to other areas of the hospital.

“I would like to reassure everyone that takes the time to leave us feedback that we take on board all comments and suggestions – whether that’s praise or criticism.

“Our patients are at the heart of everything we do, which is why we are so keen to encourage feedback and make sure we take action when improvements are needed.”

The project is being run in partnership with Hello Lamp Post, an

engagement platform which uses everyday objects, such as benches, lamp posts, bus stops and information points to communicate with people, share information and gather feedback in the moment, through a simple text message interaction.

Tiernan Mines, Chief Executive of Hello Lamp Post, said: “Our technology is playing a crucial role in enabling the RUH to gather more feedback from its patients.

“By automating the feedback process, Hello Lamp Post is able to save staff time by gathering patient and visitor feedback, and provide it all directly into the hands of the hospital.”

THE Royal United Hospital has become the first trial site to go live for a new research programme aimed at helping stroke patients to recover the ability to swallow again.

The RUH is one of only two sites taking part in the South West.

The PhEAST study aims to help stroke patients who are unable to swallow food and drink to retrain their brain so that they can swallow independently again.

The study uses special nasal gastric tubes, which are used to feed patients, fitted with tiny electrodes.

The electrodes are used to deliver short bursts of current directly to the muscles and nerves that are used for swallowing.

It is hoped that by stimulating these nerves, the electric current will help to re-programme the swallowing centres in the brain.

The stimulation can barely be felt by patients.

A stroke can cause swallowing problems in half of patients, many of whom still have abnormal swallowing a year later.

Swallowing problems lead to chest infections, poor nutrition,

the need for a feeding tube inserted into the stomach, long hospital stays and disability.

Having a long-term feeding tube reduces quality of life and adds to the physical, mental and emotional cost of stroke.

Emma Paulett, a speech and language therapist at the RUH who is helping to run the research, said: “We are delighted that the RUH has been chosen to take part in such an important piece of research, which we hope will make a really positive difference to the recovery of stroke patients.

“This really is a groundbreaking study which will be using the very latest in medical technology to benefit some of our most seriously ill patients.

“The RUH already has an excellent reputation for its research, and it reflects very well on the Trust that we are the first trial site in the country to go live with such an important study.”

The study is being led by Professor Philip Bath from the University of Nottingham and the special tubes being used for the research are being supplied by Phagenesis Ltd (Manchester, UK).

Diversity celebration with arrival of 300th international nurse A RECRUITMENT strategy by the RUH in Bath has seen the 300th nurse relocate from overseas to work at the hospital.

The milestone comes after the Royal United Hospital launched an international recruitment campaign in 2018, which has seen it welcome nurses from countries all across the world including the Philippines, India and Tibet.

Mandy Rumble, Divisional Director of Nursing for the Medical Division, who led the launch of international recruitment at the Trust said: “Since the inception of the NHS, patients have benefited from the expertise, commitment

and compassion of staff who have come to work in the NHS from around the world.

“Our international nurses make such a difference to both our staff and patients and we are so grateful for the enormous contribution they make to the RUH.” Filling nursing vacancies is a challenge shared across the whole NHS, and international recruitment is just one part of the RUH’s overall recruitment strategy. Other initiatives include apprenticeships, supported re-entry routes for qualified nurses and midwives who have left the profession but wish to return,

and supervision and mentorship for students taking a traditional degree-led training pathway.

Although fully qualified in their home country, international nurses must pass further examinations to register in the UK. The RUH is one of the few trusts in the country to have a team dedicated to supporting international colleagues to gain these qualifications and settle into their new lives.

Mark Doblas, Lead Clinical Practice Facilitator, leads the team that supports international nurses at the RUH. Mark said: “When nurses come from overseas to

work with us, we want to make sure they settle into their new country and job as easily as possible.

“As well as providing support to help them pass their exams, we also help our nurses with practical things like registering with a GP practice, setting up a bank account and finding accommodation.

“It can be really daunting coming to a foreign country so we do all we can to help people with the transition. Many of our international nurses come to Bath alone, without any family or friends, so another key focus for us is making

sure we provide opportunities for people to meet other staff across the hospital and build support networks.

“We organise regular social events and activities to help facilitate this.”

The RUH celebrated welcoming the 300th international nurse with an event at Lansdown Cricket Club last month. It was attended by over 170 members of staff and their family members.

Flowers were given to Edah Bellezar and Carla Cadano in recognition of their positions as the first and 300th international nurses to join the RUH Trust.

12

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Education Students being encouraged to donate their unwanted items STUDENTS who are moving out of their homes in Bath for the summer are being encouraged to drop off their good quality, unwanted items at British Heart Foundation collection banks.

The Student Move Out campaign is an initiative being led by the Student Community Partnership, working with Bath and North East Somerset Council and the British Heart Foundation.

Fourteen collection banks have been dropped at temporary sites across the city and the donations will provide much-needed items for the charity’s network of shops.

Donated clothes, utensils, electronic equipment and books can all be resold to help fund future life-saving research into heart and circulatory diseases and their risk factors and cut down on waste going to landfill.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “We’ve had a great response from students in the past and we hope that with the extra collection points we can make it even easier for departing students to drop off unwanted items.

“Donating helps to prevent unnecessary waste and carbon emissions being released into the atmosphere, and enables the British Heart Foundation to continue providing defibrillators and CPR training for local organisations across B&NES.” The SCP is a partnership of the University of Bath, Bath Spa

University, Bath College and their students’ unions and with Norland College and Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Last year, despite the low number of students on campus, the campaign raised £19,404 and collected almost 2,000 bags of donations.

Ghika Savva, Student Community Partnership Community Liaison Co-ordinator said: “The Moving Out Campaign is a highlight of the year for the SCP team.

“All the partners: Bath and Bath Spa Universities, Bath College and Norland College, the Student Unions and Bath and North East Somerset Council, working together to minimise the environmental impact of students leaving the city for the summer.

“Throughout the ten years of this collaboration with BHF over 375 tonnes has been diverted from landfill, equivalent to 3,818,736kg CO2 emissions and over £656,000 has been raised by students in Bath.

“These funds go towards the provision of Heart Start Schemes, defibrillators, free Heart Health resources, CPR training, supporting the BHF Retail shops and research grants.”

Tim Reeves, university account executive at British Heart Foundation said: “We are really grateful for the continuing support in Bath.

“The bag numbers last year, considering all the challenges,

Cllr Dine Romero with Tom McGrath, SCP Warden and Ghika Savva, SCP Community Liaison Co-ordinator

outweighed our expectations and contributed in a large way to the recovery of the British Heart Foundation after the losses of 2020.”

This year there will be an additional five clothing banks situated across the city. They will be in position until the end of July.

• Beechen Cliff Villas, Widcombe & Lyncombe (alongside the onstreet Grit Bin) • Bridge Road, Southdown (next to the former toilet block)

New university scholarship to help asylum seekers study in Bath THE University of Bath has announced a new Sanctuary Scholarship scheme that will waive tuition fees, enabling undergraduate asylum seekers to study in Bath for free.

Following a crowdfunding campaign led by staff and students, the scholarship will also provide a £5,000 bursary towards their study costs.

The University of Bath was designated a University of Sanctuary in 2020, in recognition of its support for refugee students, at both undergraduate and post-graduate level.

This includes year-round accommodation and a dedicated team in Student Services who provide 1 to 1 support, advice, and signposting, from pre-application all the way to graduation.

Asylum-seeking students have been offered ‘home’ fee status at Bath for some time, and there are also a number of specific funding packages aimed at students from forced migration backgrounds, including post-graduate sanctuary scholarships, a dedicated

bursary, and a ring-fenced place on the University’s flagship Gold Scholarship programme each year for an undergraduate refugee student.

In addition to supporting all refugee and asylum-seeking students whilst studying at Bath, the University has worked closely with current students and charity partners, to develop a set of resources for those from forced migration backgrounds considering studying at Bath.

It has launched an E-mentoring scheme where prospective students who have experience of forced migration can talk to a current or former student who has been through a similar experience before coming to study at Bath.

The University’s Student Experience webpages also provide an insight into life at the University and tell the stories of some of its students, helping those considering studying at Bath.

Mohammad, a previous Post-Graduate Sanctuary Scholar at Bath, is now using his experi-

ence to support potential future students.

He said: “I am currently working in a pathology department at an NHS hospital as a medical laboratory assistant.

“We process thousands of samples in our department each week which are essential for diagnosis of illnesses and monitoring patients’ health.

“The sanctuary scholarship gave me a chance to study at university and gain some laboratory experience, which helped me to be selected for this role.

“I didn’t have any other options to improve my career prospects, as I was not allowed to work and did not have access to a student loan. The sanctuary scholarship helped me continue my education and follow my dreams of becoming a scientist, otherwise I would have been left far behind and would probably come to a situation when it was impossible for me to achieve my goals.

“The scholarship helped me feel accepted into society and motivates me to work hard."

• Brook Road, Westmoreland • Dartmouth Avenue, Southdown • Holloway, Widcombe & Lyncombe (at the bottom of the steps to Carlton Walk) • Julian Road, Lansdown • Locksbrook Road, Newbridge (Outside Bath Spa University Campus) • Oldfield Lane, Oldfield Park • Shaftesbury Road, Oldfield Park (Outside Coop – permission pending) • Canterbury Road, Oldfield Park • Twerton High Street,

Southdown • Victoria Road, Westmoreland • West Avenue, Westmoreland • Widcombe Baptist Church, Widcombe & Lyncombe The SCP Donation Map shows where the donation points are located and what can be donated.

In addition to the collection banks, SCP officers, council employees and student volunteers have been knocking on doors in the area to give advice to students on recycling using the regular waste collection boxes.

Marking Clean Air Day SCHOOL children across Bath celebrated Clean Air Day on Thursday 16th June with giant signs, flyers and posters and called for action to be taken to improve the environment.

Children at St Stephen’s School marked the campaign with signs and flyers to show how much the school community needs clean air and traffic-free streets near the school gates.

Pauline Harris from community action group FACE (Families Acting on Climate Emergency) said: “Children and young people get very little say in what happens in their local area, but they are the ones most affected by dirty air and cars taking up too much space in our city. Older generations can stick up for them and help make their voices heard along with the voices of drivers who dominate the conversation.”

Every child at Oldfield Park Junior School was given the chance to make their views known to local councillors during a Clean Air Day assembly.

Children wrote and drew their messages on large posters. Their wishes included “more walking

paths to schools which are safe”, “better pavements” and “cheaper public transport”.

Headteacher Dave Goucher said: “At OPJS we know how important walking, cycling and scooting to school is for children’s health and wellbeing. Today our children sent a very clear message that they want cleaner air and safer streets.”

Widcombe Infant and Junior Schools both had Clean Air Day assemblies. Children on the Infant School Council have written to B&NES Council asking them to take action on pollution and some classes designed anti-idling stickers to go in their parents’ cars.

At the Junior School, pupils wrote individual pledges for their clean air action. Parents at both schools signed a letter to B&NES Council expressing their concern about air pollution and supporting urgent action to improve local air quality.

At Bathampton Primary School, children talked about air pollution, what causes it, and why it’s a problem. Clean Air Day is organised by Global Action Plan.

APPLY NOW for September

Bath College can get you the career you want

Andrew • Sport & Exercise Science Level 3 • Sport, Coaching & Exercise Science FdA

After Bath College I’m going to University to do a PGCE degree so I can become a PE teacher. The courses at college have helped me learn multiple new skills and gain experiences that has increased my confidence to pursue my career goal.

Emma • Animal Management Level 3 I have always loved animals and I especially enjoy studying the aquatic subjects at college.

I want to work in Marine Rehabilitation and Rescue, so I’m going to University to study Marine Biology.

To apply go to:

www.bathcollege.ac.uk

@bathcollege

14

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

Business SouthGate Bath shopping centre unveils summer installation THE SouthGate Bath shopping centre has unveiled its annual summer installation, transforming St Lawrence Street and The Place with a bright butterfly display.

Following the success of last year’s display, this year’s multicoloured canopy is made from 190 coloured butterflies, providing a perfect photo opportunity for visitors.

The installation also includes a living selfie wall with giant butterfly wings, two large floral butterfly planters, and the return of the popular rainbow bunting.

As part of its ongoing community work, this year’s design has been chosen in support of one of SouthGate Bath’s charity partners, Trauma Breakthrough, which helps adult survivors of trauma and abuse by providing specialist therapy and support, wellbeing services and mental health courses for the public.

Butterflies are a symbol of freedom, and the large floral planters are fitted with QR codes where visitors can make a small donation to the charity to help support the crucial work it does in the local community.

Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, said: “We’re

incredibly excited to reveal this year’s installation.

"Not only will it bring a smile to those who visit us this summer, it will also help to raise essential funds for our charity partner Trauma Breakthrough.

“Our summer installations always prove really popular with our visitors, and we expect this year’s to be no different.

“It creates a real spectacle in the city, and contributes to an amazing atmosphere – we can’t wait to see everyone’s photos!”

Giles Lascelle, CEO at Trauma Breakthrough, said: “SouthGate Bath’s installations brighten up the city each summer and we are delighted to be part of it this year.

“We hope that the installation will help to raise awareness of the needs of trauma survivors, and every donation will go towards supporting people across the South West who need support to help them recover from the long-term impact of trauma and

The butterfly installation at SouthGate Bath

abuse.”

The installation will be on display until September

and visitors are encouraged to take photos and share them with @SouthGateBath on

Facebook and @southgate_bath on Instagram, using the hashtag #SummerAtSouthGate.

Operator for Cleveland Pools announced ahead of opening

Law firm team doubles fundraising target

THE Cleveland Pools Trust, which is restoring the historic Cleveland Pools in Bath, has announced its future operating partner as Fusion Lifestyle.

Following the completion of the ongoing work this summer, Fusion Lifestyle will manage the day-to-day running of the site.

This will enable local people to enjoy swimming at the facility once again, following a major campaign and capital project to restore the venue.

Fusion Lifestyle is a registered charity created to promote the benefits of healthy lifestyles and encourage participation in sport, physical and cultural activity.

It manages around 60 facilities on behalf of its partners, most of whom are either local authorities or trusts.

Fusion Lifestyle operates existing renowned and successful outdoor swimming pools including Saltdean, Brockwell Park and Shepton Mallet lidos.

Paul Simons, Chair of Cleveland Pools Trust said: “Fusion Lifestyle is an ideal operating partner for the Trust, they have a wealth of experience in the leisure sector and a real passion for engaging with communities to ensure maximum local benefit.

“We are very pleased to be working with them to deliver

A TEAM from Bath law firm Stone King has doubled their original fundraising target of £1,000 following a charity hike in the Peak District.

The seven-hour hike, which included an 850m ascent, took place on a paid workday and formed part of the firm’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) scheme for which people are encouraged to take a day every year to support charitable causes.

Nicole Reed, Senior Associate at Stone King who organised the hike, said: “It was a great day, we had a good mix of people from all levels and ages and from across our national offices.

“Some had joined during lockdown and others I hadn’t seen in a long time so it was great from a social point of view, as well as being an opportunity to fundraise.

“The most challenging part was facing the final climb, we were all getting tired with aching muscles and feet but there was great camaraderie and we encouraged each other along, even though we were almost blown off Mam Tor!” Guides from Peak Walking Adventures, paid for by the firm, guided the group of 15 Stone King walkers and told them about the history and geology of the

How the pools could look | Photo © Ben Holmes

access for all to this remarkable, restored unique heritage pool.”

Anna Baker, Cleveland Pools Trust Project Director said: “I am delighted with the progress we have made this year.

“Securing an operator for the project is the next step in ensuring the Pools’ long-term use after years of hard work by so many people.

“The Trust set out to save this unique site which was at risk of being lost forever – thanks to community backing and huge volunteer efforts we are proud to say the Pools have been saved.

“The installation of the pontoon

and water source heat pump later this year will complete the work required to make the site fit for purpose for many generations to come.”

Anthony Cawley, CEO at Fusion Lifestyle added: “Fusion Lifestyle is delighted to be selected by the Cleveland Pools Trust as operators of this unique pool.

“The work that has been done by the Trust and volunteers to restore the pool is incredible and we look forward to working with the Trust and local community to ensure that as many people can benefit from access to this fantastic site as soon as possible.”

National Park along the way.

Richard Tower of Peak Walking Adventures said: “It was great walking with such a determined team who exceeded their challenge and remained positive and cheerful throughout, even as they faced their last steep challenge to the summit of Mam Tor! It was a privilege to spend the day with them.”

The walkers pledged to raise £500 for each of the two charities, but have so far raised £822.50 for food bank charity The Trussell Trust and £900 for Refugee Action, which supports refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK. In addition, the Stone King Foundation, the firm’s charitable arm which is run separately with a board of trustees made up of Stone King volunteers, has voted to award an additional £250 per charity, bringing the fundraising total for both to more than £2,200.

Issue 029

15

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Politics Council leader calls for "significant change" at WECA Adam Postans

Local Democracy Reporter

A COUNCIL leader has taken the unusual step of publicly criticising top local government officers.

Cllr Kevin Guy, of Bath & North East Somerset Council – one of three local authorities, along with Bristol and South Gloucestershire, that make up the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) – has called for heads to roll at the regional body.

Without naming chief executive Patricia Greer, who he crossed swords with at a recent committee meeting, or other senior directors, Lib Dem Cllr Guy said “significant change at the top of WECA” was needed to improve collaboration between the combined authority and its three councils.

Asked by BBC Radio Bristol’s John Darvall whether he meant elected Labour metro mayor Dan Norris, who heads WECA, Cllr Guy said he was referring to officers, who are neutral, employed, unelected officials similar to civil servants.

Tensions between Mr Norris and

the political leaders of the three unitary authorities – Cllr Guy, Bristol city Labour mayor Marvin Rees and South Gloucestershire Council Conservative leader Cllr Toby Savage – have been apparent for months.

But a schism along similar lines has also emerged recently among the chief executives of the four authorities.

Asked by Mr Darvall what would make the combined authority “combined”, Cllr Guy said: “That probably needs significant change at the top of WECA.” The mid-morning show host asked: “Are you talking about the officers or are you talking about Dan Norris, the elected mayor?”

Cllr Guy replied: “I’m talking about the officers, yes.”

Asked if he believed the officers needed replacing, the council leader said: “I think there needs to be a significant change at the top of WECA and I will leave it at that.”

Both Mr Norris and WECA have declined to comment.

Cllr Guy’s comments came in the last 30 seconds of a 50-minute slot to answer listeners’ questions.

Earlier he insisted the leaders

were getting on with each other despite a series of public fallouts, including Mr Norris branding the council leaders the “Hokey Cokey Three” and criticism from the unitary authority heads that the metro mayor and WECA are working secretly in a silo and not collaboratively with them on policy.

Told by Mr Darvall that many residents found the ongoing spats an “absolute joke”, Cllr Guy said: “I disagree with the premise we are not getting on.

We are getting on.”

Speaking on Wednesday 15th June – the day after the four politicians finally struck a deal at the second attempt to save underthreat subsidised buses – he said: “There was a clear example yesterday that I wasn’t going to let anyone leave the Guildhall until we came to a solution.

“We did come to a solution, so it’s quite clear we are getting on.

“There are fundamental issues

York Street closure plans to go ahead

Adam Postans

PLANS to close York Street in Bath as part of “ring of steel” anti-terrorism measures have been given the go-ahead following a public inquiry.

B&NES Council has welcomed the decision by a transport inspector to allow the proposed restrictions to be implemented.

Mr Rory Cridland, the inspector appointed to conduct the inquiry, said he found a clear and compelling case for the making of the traffic order and considered it to be a “proportionate response”.

He also found that the local authority had carried out an extensive consultation exercise and that all those who should have been consulted had been given an “adequate opportunity” to make their views known.

He concluded that not proceeding with the traffic order would, in his view, “materially undermine the council’s overall approach to security in this part of the city.”

The public inquiry was held after one objector upheld their right to object, triggering the inquiry into the council’s Traffic Regulation Order for anti-terrorism purposes to close York Street, as part of a city centre security scheme for Bath. The inspector noted there were initially 111 objections to the Order, all but one of which was subsequently withdrawn before the inquiry.

SUBSIDISED buses across the West of England have been given a reprieve after the region’s elected leaders finally hammered out a deal.

Marathon negotiations behind closed doors lasting four-anda-quarter hours between metro mayor Dan Norris and the leaders of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset councils succeeded in breaking a deadlock over who pays how much.

The rescue package means an initial seven-month extension to current contracts for the 80 supported bus services, which are important routes serving areas like rural communities and hospitals but are not commercially viable so have to be propped up with public money.

It will allow time for an urgent review of where buses should run across the region ahead of new four-year contracts for services, including brand new ones, being agreed with operators, with the new timetable kicking in from next April.

The political leaders agreed that supported services will be funded through contributions from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), led by Labour’s Mr Norris, and the three local councils which comprise it.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “I am very, very pleased at the decision reached by the inspector which upholds our decision to close York Street and which also acknowledges this as a proportionate response.

“I am also delighted that the inspector acknowledged the council’s extensive consultation particularly on the work to balance the needs of disabled users with the need to protect the city centre from terrorist attack.

“I was very pleased to see the high level of support this scheme received from the police, residents, and businesses and am delighted that their views were given weight against the individual requests of one objector.

“This has been a costly inquiry however we will now follow the process of closing York Street and work to install protective measures to reduce risks associated with vehicle-borne threats posed by terrorists and criminals.

“Work on the city centre scheme will get under way this summer with access measures for Blue Badge holders in place.

And we will continue to work with businesses, residents and disability groups as we implement the scheme.”

with the governance of WECA. There are issues in the way it was set up, it needs to be looked at.

“It is impossible for local authorities to make decisions when papers are coming out of WECA a few hours before a meeting, a day before a meeting.

“There is no way we are able to make informed, quality decisions if the flow of information from WECA to local authorities is not there.

“I’ve spoken to Dan about this on many occasions, I’ve spoken to Marvin and Toby as well.

“It’s just about us getting around the table and working it out.”

At a meeting of the West of England joint committee – WECA plus North Somerset – in April, Cllr Guy clashed with Mr Norris and Dr Greer over plans by the four council leaders to partially break away from WECA, forge their own identity and have more say over financial decisions.

Dr Greer warned that the

political power struggle over who controlled up to £600million of investment in the region, overseen by the joint committee separate to WECA’s funding, put the entire money at risk because it would breach an assurance agreement with government that it was spent correctly.

Cllr Savage dismissed this as a “red herring” and Cllr Guy told her: “There is nothing that will fundamentally change the way we deal with government, there is nothing that will fundamentally change the system at all.

“What you’ve said, Patricia, is wholly inaccurate and misinterpreted what this paper is about.”

That decision to plough ahead with the breakaway was calledin by WECA scrutiny councillors who voted by 12-0 in May to urge the four council leaders to reconsider. Mr Norris told the committee that officers at the combined authority and councils worked well together and that the difficulties were at “very senior levels” only.

"They reside with the chief executives who do not get on with each other,” he added.

Reprieve for subsidised bus services Local Democracy Reporter

They also agreed that any subsidised routes in future would be subject to a “value for money mechanism”, a suggestion that had created an impasse and was largely to blame for the urgent talks being adjourned without agreement last month.

This had been a red line for the metro mayor who said he was shocked to discover one school bus from Pucklechurch to Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in Oldland Common, South Gloucestershire, cost taxpayers an eye-watering £426 return per pupil a day and was not sustainable.

The reconvened extraordinary meeting of the WECA committee was due to start at Bath Guildhall at 2pm on Tuesday 14th June but was delayed for Mr Norris, Bristol’s Labour mayor Marvin Rees, South Gloucestershire Council leader Cllr Toby Savage and B&NES Council leader Cllr Kevin Guy to thrash out a deal in private.

When the “public” meeting finally started at 6.15pm, it was all over in two minutes and 15 seconds, primarily because several staff in the building should have already ended their shifts and needed to lock up.

Cllr Guy formally withdrew the proposal backed by the unitary authorities at the May committee and a new resolution tabled by Mr Norris was unanimously accepted.

But it was not read out, so the press and public had no idea what had actually been agreed.

To compound the confusion, the politicians forgot to switch on their microphones for any of the 135-second duration, which meant the dozens watching the live stream heard only silence before seeing everyone leave.

Conservative Cllr Savage has previously criticised the West of England mayor for not holding pre-meetings to agree proposals and agenda reports ahead of WECA committee, a common practice under Tory predecessor Tim Bowles.

And while Mr Norris last month slammed that previous way of working as “deals being done in smoke-filled rooms behind the scenes”, insisting at a WECA scrutiny meeting that those days were over, the four-hour private talks followed by the briefest of public sessions to announce vaguely that something had been agreed suggests that is far from the case.

Nevertheless, both sides welcomed the breakthrough which secures the 80 supported services at least until April, including 26 that were at risk of being axed had an agreement not been reached.

The metro mayor said afterwards that the long-term funding plan heralded an important new era for the region’s buses.

16

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 28th June - Monday 11th July 2022

In Other News....

Resident recognised for raising over £200k for cancer charity BATH resident George Harding has been awarded the prestigious British Citizen Award in recognition of his extraordinary service raising more than £200,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

George has been fundraising for the charity for over 23 years.

He was honoured by the Mayor of Bath with the coveted British Citizen Award Medal of Honour for services to Volunteering & Charitable Giving, in the Mayor’s Parlour at the Guildhall on 9th June.

Now in its eighth year, The British Citizen Award in partnership with One Stop recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities throughout the country.

Speaking of the award, Jonny McQuarrie, from BCA partner One Stop, said: “This year’s medallists have reminded us of how many amazing people are supporting our communities,

especially during such a challenging time.

“At One Stop we serve many communities across the country, and we know how important voluntary work is to support those in need.

“We’re proud to be partnering with the BCA again and to play a small part in helping each medallist to be recognised.

Our congratulations go to all honourees.”

The Mayor, Councillor Rob Appleyard, added: “It was a privilege to meet George and acknowledge his fundraising efforts with the British Citizen Award Medal of Honour.

George’s commitment to both volunteering and the community is nothing short of exceptional.

“George ran his first London Marathon in 1998 and could be regularly seen running around the streets of Bath and taking part in the annual Bath Half Marathon, raising funds for Macmillan.

“His fundraising efforts have not only helped those affected by cancer but local patients in the Royal United Hospital Bath through his support of RUH X, formerly known as the Forever Friends Appeal.

“For the last 23 years, George has dedicated his time to fundraising and raising the profile of Macmillan. It is fantastic that he has now raised more than £200,000.

“His passion and dedication to Macmillan and helping those living with cancer is only just showing signs of slowing down, even now at the age of 86.”

George has undertaken fiftytwo UK and overseas Macmillan challenge events over the last 23 years. Having lost his wife and other family members to cancer, George is committed and dedicated to the work Macmillan does, and the need for the service motivates him with all of the challenges he undertakes.

Kaeti Morrison, George Harding and Cllr Rob Appleyard | Photo © Macmillan

Kaeti Morrison, Relationship Fundraising Manager in the South West, said: “The funds George has raised could pay for a Macmillan nurse for over three years or support the cancer information support team that runs the Macmillan support line

service for six weeks.

“These funds could also provide over 560 people affected by cancer with a Macmillan Grant, which is a one-off payment of £350 each to help with the extra costs that living with cancer brings.”

Herschel Museum set to celebrate life and achievements THE bicentenary of the death of Bath-based astronomer William Herschel is to be commemorated with a major exhibition to highlight the achievements he made.

The Bath Preservation Trust will hold the exhibition at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy, showing William Herschel’s contribution to our understanding of space.

It will take place in the very same building in central Bath where William and his sister Caroline lived, worked and made several important discoveries during the late 1700s.

It was in the garden of 19 New King Street in 1781 that William Herschel became the first person ever to identify Uranus as a planet.

The exhibition, organised in partnership with the Royal Astronomical Society and the Herschel family, will also bring collections to Bath for the first time and reveal the family’s story through original artefacts.

Herschel 200 explores William’s early life as a musician teaching and performing in Bath and travelling across the UK, whilst also developing his interest in astronomy.

Visitors will find out about his innovations and discoveries, collaborations with his siblings, Caroline and Alexander, and the legacy he left behind.

For the first time, the museum is working in partnership with Slough Museum, as William and Caroline moved to Observatory House in Slough, when William became the King’s Astronomer and Caroline also took a salary as a professional astronomer.

William Herschel | Photo courtesy of the Bath Preservation Trust

The exhibition will feature the Slough story and an accompanying exhibition will be on display in the Slough Museum.

The Royal Astronomical Society has loaned William’s observing notebook, which includes his notes from the night, 13th March 1781, when he first observed

the planet Uranus, as well as a catalogue of stars recorded by Caroline.

Also on display will be neverbefore exhibited letters from William to his brother Alexander, loaned from the Herschel family collection.

A miniature portrait of William

has also been loaned by the family and will be proudly on display in the museum as part of this special anniversary year.

The exhibition has been cocurated with local students who had the opportunity to develop content and learn curatorial skills with the support of the Museum’s professional staff.

Claire Dixon, Director of Museums for Bath Preservation Trust, which runs the Herschel Museum of Astronomy, said: “The 200th anniversary of the death of William Herschel has provided us with opportunities to develop new partnerships, working with Slough Museum and the Percy Community in Bath for the first time to connect with new audiences both in the city and beyond.

“The project has been made possible thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and through the exhibition and our programme of wider activity we aim to inspire people not just with the family story, but their contemporary relevance to science and music today, encouraging young people in particular, to participate.

“The project will inform future plans to transform the museum so that it realises its potential.”

Mike Edmunds, President of the Royal Astronomical Society added: “I am really delighted that the Royal Astronomical Society is able to lend historic archive material for the Bath exhibition celebrating William Herschel’s work.

“He contributed to so many astronomical fields in which intensive work continues to this

day. I feel a particular connection as I have just become President of the Society – and William was the very first, elected in 1820.”

In addition to the landmark exhibition, there are a number of additional activities and events to be enjoyed as part of the 200th anniversary commemorations, including planetarium shows and free workshops.

On 25th August, a commemorative stone will be unveiled in the garden of 19 New King Street, to not only mark the anniversary of William’s passing but also serve as a telescope platform.

The stone will mark the very spot where Herschel first glimpsed Uranus, allowing visitors to contemplate the moment, during a crisp March night in 1781, that William spotted the planet using a homemade telescope.

It is an object that at its closest to earth is 1.6 billion miles (2.6 billion kilometres) away, and at its furthest 1.98 billion miles (3.2 billion km).

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 2022