Bath Echo - Issue 031 - 26/07/2022

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

BUBLÉ WOWS THOUSANDS AT ROYAL CRESCENT

Issue No. 031

25,000 people come to city for open-air gigs P3

FREE TO TAKE!

Locals encouraged to stand against anti-social behaviour P2

MORE BOOSTER JABS PLANNED Covid-19 booster jabs offered to all over 50s - P2

Independent councillor joins Conservative group AN independent councillor on Bath & North East Somerset Council, Dr Yukteshwar Kumar, who represents the Bathwick ward, has officially joined the Conservative Group.

Cllr Dr Kumar left the ruling B&NES Liberal Democrats in December 2021 and has sat as an Independent councillor since.

At a B&NES Council meeting on Thursday 21st July, Dr Kumar crossed the floor to sit with the

opposition Tory group, increasing its numbers to 11 members.

Cllr Vic Pritchard, Leader of the Conservative Group on Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “I am delighted to welcome Dr Kumar to the Conservative Group.

“He is an extremely hard-working councillor who is well respected in his ward and who holds himself to the high ethical standards we expect to see from those elect-

ed to public office.

“Sadly, over the course of the last few years those standards have not been upheld by the Liberal Democrats.

“With consistently poor decision making, the mismanagement of key public projects, the failure to follow through with previous manifesto pledges and constant public infighting among group members, the Lib Dems have completely lost their way.

“Clearly Dr Kumar recognises this and, like us, believes that B&NES would be much better served under a Conservative-run council, one that better understands the needs of local people and that has the ideas, the skills and the determination to fulfil its local election promises.”

At last month’s Full Council meeting, Dr Kumar supported the Conservatives in ...

Continued on page 2

Photo © Ben Houdijk/Shutterstock.com

ECHO

Your FREE local fortnightly newspaper for Bath

Broadband outage being Locals encouraged to blamed on “planned stand against anti-social maintenance" behaviour P2 P3 “Tap on, tap off” payments introduced on bus services P5 Bath Preservation Trust calls for more ambitious planning P6 Families to receive free school meal vouchers for the summer P7 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk

2

www.bathecho.co.uk

Councillor joins B&NES opposition party

In this issue...

Top Stories

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 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

Continued from page 1 ... condemning attempts to ban people from speaking at public meetings if they fail to provide the full text of their speech beforehand, a policy which has now been reviewed.

He described it as “the murder of democracy” and said he is “delighted” that the proposal has been reversed.

Cllr Dr Yukteshwar Kumar, Conservative ward councillor for Bathwick, said: “I’m thrilled to be welcomed into the Conservative Group and I look forward to working closely with my new colleagues as I continue to do my very best to serve residents in Bathwick.

“Being a member of the Lib Dems was a traumatic experience for me, and over the past three years it has become increasingly clear that their administration has

been an abject failure.

“The vast majority of their 2019 manifesto pledges have not been met, they have consistently made decisions that run contrary to the interests of residents and businesses and they are now completely out of ideas.

“There is a saying in Hindi: Akela Chana Bhand Nahi Todta. It means ‘one fan can’t dispel the fog’, or ‘a sole effort can’t change things’.

“Unfortunately, B&NES has been under the dark fog of the Liberal Democrats for a few years now.

As an Independent, I would’ve been unable to dispel the fog on my own at the next local elections.

“Therefore, to continue my good work in my ward, I have decided to join hands with the Conservatives. “I’m hugely excited to be part of this ambitious team and

Communities urged to stand against antisocial behaviour

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/

Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford

POLICE and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford recently joined a national campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour as part of his ongoing work to keep communities safe.

ASB Awareness Week 2022 aimed to encourage communities to take a stand against anti-social behaviour (ASB) and highlight the actions that can be taken by those experiencing it.

Organised by Resolve, the UK’s leading ASB and community safety organisation, the week featured a series of events all across the UK involving councils, the police, housing associations, charities, community groups and sports clubs.

Recent YouGov research commissioned by Resolve found that more than half of people (56%) believe that ‘more needs to be done’ to tackle anti-social behaviour in their community. However, after they witnessed or experienced ASB, a similar proportion of the public (57%) said that they did not report it to anyone.

PCC Mark Shelford is urging local people not to suffer in silence if

they experience such behaviour.

Various means of support are available, including: • Report: Always phone 999 if feel you are at immediate risk of danger or report to the police via 101 or online.

• Start a community trigger: A community trigger is a way for you to ask for a case review of your ongoing and persistent ASB problem.

• Use the StreetSafe tool: The online tool enables residents to anonymously pinpoint on a map the location where they felt unsafe.

• Access a support service: There are a number of victim providers that support local people who have been victims of ASB including Resolve West and Victim Support.

PCC Mark Shelford said: “We know that ASB can have a long-lasting impact on the lives of victims and communities.

“My message to victims of ASB is to speak up; together we need to challenge ASB and ensure residents know what support options are available.”

Cllr Dr Kumar and Cllr Vic Pritchard | Photo © B&NES Conservative Group

to being helping secure a Conservative majority on the council next May.” A Liberal Democrat spokesperson commented: “It is strange that anyone would choose to associate themselves with a Conservative Party tainted by Boris Johnson’s premiership of lies, scandal and lawbreaking, which has been found lacking in its commitment to the environment

and which is presiding over an accelerating cost-of-living crisis.

“Nonetheless, we are sure Cllr Kumar has found his true political home – for now – at the third attempt.

“We will continue to deliver for all the residents of Bathwick ward who now have a Conservative representing them, rather than the Lib Dem representatives they voted for.”

Residents to be offered latest Covid-19 booster MORE people living across Bath and North East Somerset and the surrounding area will be able to receive a Covid-19 booster vaccine this autumn, it has been announced.

All adults over the age of 50, frontline health and care workers and people under 50 who are deemed to be more at risk of falling seriously ill with coronavirus will be invited to receive a top-up dose.

The NHS will contact those who are eligible when it is their turn to have the vaccine, with the autumn booster offer also being extended to carers over the age of 16 and those who share a home with someone who has a weakened immune system.

Recently, people over the age of 75 were invited to take part in the spring booster vaccine programme.

Many who came forward earlier in the year may now be thinking about their next top-up dose, but health leaders are advising those who had their immunity boosted in the spring to now wait until autumn before having their next vaccine.

This advice also goes out to any person who celebrated their 75th birthday after Friday 1st July, as having the booster now will mean waiting longer in the autumn, when rates of Covid-19 could be higher.

Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “We know we are likely to see an increase in people catching Covid-19 later in the year.

“This is why the next round of

booster vaccines in the autumn will be so important, especially for people who are older and those whose pre-existing conditions make them particularly vulnerable to coronavirus.

“Some people, such as those who have recently turned 75, may be keen to have their booster now, but we would urge them to wait just a few more weeks and have their topup dose in the autumn.

“By doing this, people will be able to have their booster as soon as the vaccinations begin and will also build up a level of immunity that should last for the entire winter period.”

Some people, such as those with a weakened immune system, who have not yet had a booster, should still come forward now.

That also goes for any person who has still not received any Covid-19 vaccination.

Most healthy adults, who are between the ages of 18 and 49, need two primary doses of the vaccine, followed by a booster vaccine, to reach full protection against coronavirus.

Vaccinations continue to be available from a range of locations across the region, including Bath Racecourse, the Steam Museum in Swindon and Salisbury City Hall.

Many smaller community venues are also providing a vaccination service, including pharmacies and GP practices.

People can find their nearest vaccination centre, as well as book their vaccine appointment, by visiting: https://www.nhs.uk/ conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/

Issue 031

3

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

First live music at the Royal Crescent in 9 years MICHAEL Bublé’s two open-air performances in Bath brought more than 25,000 fans to the city, with those involved in producing the event praised for creating such a “major success”.

Michael Bublé’s shows heralded the return of live music for the first time in nine years to the Royal Crescent in Bath, when he performed his spectacular shows on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th July.

The concert, which had been due to take place in 2020, was delayed due to Covid restrictions.

The Royal Crescent Society and Marlborough Lane and Buildings Residents’ Association worked with Bath & North East Somerset Council and promoter Senbla to ensure the smooth running of the large-scale set up on the Royal Crescent Lawn and the Lower Lawn in Royal Victoria Park.

Councillor Kevin Guy, council leader, said: “Bath is bouncing back from the impact of Covid.

Attracting and hosting amazing shows like Michael Bublé’s is a huge boost for the city.

“I want to thank the Royal Crescent Society and the Marlborough Lane and Buildings Residents’ Association, who worked with council teams and the promoter Senbla to make it a memo-

rable weekend for so many.

“It was fantastic to see the city buzzing with fans coming in for the shows as well as the graduation events which will have been a big boost to local business and hospitality over the weekend.

“It is also great to see that the fee received by the Royal Crescent Society for the use of their Lawn has been donated, with other funds to a total of £45,000, to The Abbey Foundation Charity.”

The Royal Crescent Society added: “We set out to help deliver this concert ‘by Bath for Bath’. We wanted to bring real and tangible benefit to the businesses of Bath and our surrounding areas both directly and indirectly as a result of playing our part in such an event.

“We are pleased to say this has been achieved. Most of the food outlets inside the concert arena came from our area and many of the drink products sold over the bar came from local producers.

“The 100 plus people working on the concert have been living in our hotels and spending in our shops for the last two weeks.

“And the local traders we have spoken to say they have benefited directly from the spending power of the 25,000 or so people who came to Bath city centre to enjoy

The crowd at Michael Bublé's performance in Bath | Photo © Ewa Korda

the concerts.

“Although the Society gained no financial benefit, it was good to feel that we contributed to the enjoyment of thousands of people. What a give back to Bath this has been”.

Ollie Rosenblatt, Senbla managing director, added: “It was an enormous privilege and pleasure to have promoted and produced two extremely special nights of Michael Bublé on the Royal Crescent.

“We started working on hosting shows there four years ago so to see it finally come to fruition was so up lifting.

“I’d like to personally thank all the residents of the Royal Crescent, Marlborough Buildings and the surrounding areas who gave

us such wonderful support, guidance and who have been such a pleasure to work with.

“I’d also like to thank every corner of the council and particularly the events team who have been such a positive influence in this process as well as extremely helpful and supportive.

“Thank you Bath from all at Senbla. We are grateful and honoured to have done these shows.”

Frank Mowat, Executive Director at Bath Abbey, said: “On behalf of Bath Abbey I would like to thank the Royal Crescent Society for the very kind donation which has made a massive difference to enable the completion of another phase of the Footprint project.

“We loved the show and hope there will be more in the future.”

News in Brief Bath narrowboats come to the rescue When the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust’s Youth Boat was unable to reach the Bristol Harbour Festival as planned, due to lock closures on the canal, Bath Narrowboats stepped in to provide their luxury canal boat Topsy.

The K&A Youth Narrowboating Skippers decorated the boat with festive bunting and spent two days at the festival, while inviting people on board to talk about narrowboating for youth groups and Bruce Accessible Boats, which allow people with limited mobility to experience a holiday on the canal, having wheelchair ramps, lifts, hoists, and even a hospital bed.

Youth Skipper Ali Cannon said: “We are very grateful to Bath Narrowboats for letting us use Topsy as our base, and we enjoyed staying on the luxury boat complete with jacuzzi bath – a little different from the youth boats we are used to!”

The Kennet and Avon Canal, which stretches more than 80 miles, is a popular destination for canal holidays.

Bath Narrowboats, which is based in the centre of the city, has a range of boats available for hire by the day or week.

City's broadband blackout caused by “planned maintenance" A BROADBAND blackout which saw thousands of home and businesses lose access to the internet on Sunday 17th July was due to “planned" maintenance, according to Openreach.

Residents began losing their connections at around 6.30am on Sunday, leaving many without broadband until later that evening, and in some cases, the next day.

Those affected by the outage included residential customers who use providers including BT, Plusnet Sky, Vodafone, TalkTalk and EE. Those who receive their internet and TV services through the dedicated Virgin Media network were unaffected.

Due to the scale of the problem, which saw hundreds of residents take to social media to question what was happening, it appeared a fault in the Kingsmead exchange in the centre of the city

was to blame.

BT informed customers that they were “aware of a major incident which is currently affecting your area”.

The Kingsmead exchange serves more than 30,000 residential properties in the area, and thousands of businesses.

Those who contacted their internet provider during the day were told that there was indeed a large-scale problem, however a timescale couldn't be given, and engineers were working on a repair.

The Sainsbury's store in Green Park was closed throughout the day as they were unable to trade without an internet connection for their systems.

The issue was resolved for some at around 7pm that evening, though many residents and businesses, including the Bath Echo, did not see a return of connection

until Monday afternoon.

Openreach, which provides the nation's broadband infrastructure, initially said there were no issues reported in Bath, however they have now confirmed that planned work was scheduled to take place to repair equipment, which led to the loss of internet connection for so many people.

An Openreach spokesperson said: “The outage on Sunday 17 July was planned and was needed to repair critical equipment and improve the reliability of the broadband network in the area. Work commenced at 06:00 and was complete by 23:59 and around 7,500 homes and businesses were affected.

“Openreach raised a Planned Engineering Work notice in advance of the work taking place; this is where we notify all service providers (the companies people pay their bills to like Sky, TalkTalk,

Photo © Gary L Hider / Shutterstock.com

Vodafone, BT and many others).

It is the providers’ responsibility to advise their customers.

“This work has been now been completed as planned, on time, and we thank people living near-

by for their patience and understanding. We encourage anyone experiencing any disruption with their phone or broadband service to report it to their service provider who will then inform us”.

Five for £500!

Sorry, this competition is available

COMPETITION

This issue's exclusive code is:

Qu NjRm5 UYE

Your chance to win £500 cash - exclusive to readers of the Bath Echo newspaper!

Collect the third code in our next issue, out on 9th August 2022.

exclusively to our print readers.

Please pick up a copy to take part.

To take part, all you have to do is collect the exclusive code printed in each issue. You'll then submit all five of them together at the end of the competition.

We'll randomly choose one lucky reader who has collected all of the codes. The winner will be announced on Tuesday 20th September.

Terms & Conditions

• This competition is open to residents with a BA1 and BA2 postcode only. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter. The competition is exclusively offered via the Bath Echo newspaper, and is not available digitally.

• Five individual codes will be required to enter the competition, which can be submitted either via post or online via our website. More information will be made available later in the competition on how to submit your entry.

• The closing date is 5pm on Monday 19th September 2022.

• More terms can be found at: www.bathecho.co.uk/about/comp-terms/

4

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Children become “Little Litter Warriors” in Bathwick

Cllr Dr Kumar with schoolchildren from Bathwick St Mary Church School

PUPILS at Bathwick St Mary Church School in Bath went on a litter picking spree earlier this month as part of a campaign by local councillor Dr Yukteshwar Kumar.

On 7th July, more than 30 pupils and staff went litter picking and collected four full bags of rubbish.

In the process, pupils learnt more about why littering is antisocial, the damage it does to the environment and the risk it poses to wildlife.

Councillor Dr Kumar, who

represents the Bathwick ward and started the initiative, said: “It was encouraging to note the amount of dedication and involvement of the pupils in picking the litter and understanding about the damage they create.

“I have not seen schools being involved in the litter picking activities previously in our city and all the teachers and pupils of Bathwick St Mary school must be congratulated for this stupendous work.”

The headteacher at Bathwick St

Mary’s, Mr. Kevin Purkiss added: “At Bathwick not only do we seize every learning opportunity but also seek to be good neighbours to those around us and responsible citizens of our city.

“Children enjoyed the afternoon and importantly it spurred many on to take even greater care of our environment.”

Councillor Dr Kumar has said that he will organise a series of activities in the future for the “Greener Bathwick, cleaner Bathwick” campaign.

MP calls for community energy change BATH MP Wera Hobhouse has called for more to be done to ensure community energy is accessible to all, which will in turn create thousands of jobs.

During a debate on the Government’s Energy Security Strategy, Mrs Hobhouse, who is the Liberal Democrat Climate Change Spokesperson, stressed the importance of community energy in bringing people towards the target of net zero.

Wera previously supported the Local Electricity Bill, which would require the Government to enact a ‘Right to Local Supply’ so that households and businesses can become customers of local renewable energy companies.

Currently, customers can only purchase electricity from nationally licensed utility companies. This means that the money people pay towards their energy bills is not helping to strengthen local economies and build local clean energy infrastructure.

The Environmental Audit Committee has also found that a twenty-fold increase in community energy schemes could create almost 60,000 skilled jobs.

During the debate, Mrs Hobhouse cited the potential of community energy and stressed the importance of the role that it can play in the energy transition.

Wera Hobhouse commented after the debate: “In the past decade, community energy has seen little to no growth.

“It has increased by less than 0.5% of total UK electricity generation.

“Community energy brings

people behind the need to get to net zero.

“We are going to face many disruptions in order to get to net zero by 2050, and bringing people on board is the most important thing we can do.

“Enabling and kick-starting the growth of community energy schemes would create a clear stream of jobs. In 2020, community energy groups had more than 3,000 volunteers and nearly 500 full-time staff.

A twenty-fold increase would create nearly 60,000 skilled jobs.

“The existing energy strategy ignores the enormous potential for community energy to contribute to a more secure and resilient energy supply in the UK. “The Government must include an enabling mechanism in the upcoming Energy Security Bill that will protect individuals, families and the environment at such an important time.

“The proposals are laid out in the Power for People’s Local Electricity Bill which has support from MPs across all parties.”

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

O

VER the past month it has been great to see Bath bouncing back and at its best.

Attracting and hosting Michael Bublé’s open-air shows at the Royal Crescent was a huge boost for the city.

Thanks must go to the Royal Crescent Society and the Marlborough Lane and Buildings Residents' Association, who worked with council teams and the promoter Senbla to make it a truly memorable weekend for so many.

Earlier in the month the city hosted the Queen’s Baton relay, ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. It was fantastic to see so many people out and about in our great city. I was honoured to meet Stan Ford, a 97-year-old war veteran who was among those chosen to carry the baton down Milsom Street.

My thanks to all the baton bearers and everyone involved in making this event such as success.

Bath Carnival also gave a big injection of vibrancy so a huge thank you should go to everyone who helped organise and made it

so special. All this shows our area is bouncing back after a tough period and we’re looking forward to a continued busy summer.

We have been doing well with letting our commercial premises in Bath city centre, supporting the local economy and keeping the city attractive, and bringing in visitors and locals alike. Last year, as reported to our cabinet meeting on 14th July, this meant we gained extra income. We’ve been able to put money aside to deal with contingencies such as rising energy costs.

July has been extraordinary coping with extreme weather while staying safe in record-breaking high temperatures. It has been a reminder about the urgent need to reduce our carbon emissions because of their impact on our environment.

Tackling the Climate and Ecological Emergency is one of our core policies and we are committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Transport currently accounts for 29% of carbon emissions in the B&NES area and we have set out in our Journey to Net

Zero a plan to tackle some of the biggest challenges we face.

Another way we are working towards our net zero ambition is our flagship £39m Keynsham Recycling Hub where work is progressing well.

The first stage of the project is set for completion later in the autumn with the opening of a new Reuse and Recycling Centre. It will be quicker and easier for to use, with expanded recycling provision so you can recycle even more which will in turn contribute to our climate emergency goals. When built, the hub will have on-site renewable energy generation, via a 3800m2 (783kWp) solar panel array, office and welfare buildings designed fabric-first to be sustainable; rainwater harvesting and sustainable drainage.

It's important to stress that our Midland Road recycling centre in Bath will remain open until an alternative like for like Bath site is in place.

When the Midland Road site is vacated, it will be released to build much-needed new homes

supported by Homes England grant funding.

Last month we undertook lengthy negotiations with other council leaders at the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), Bristol, and South Gloucestershire to address the threat of cuts to supported bus services across the region.

In June, The West of England Combined Authority, which is the transport authority, agreed to extend most supported bus contracts in Bath and North East Somerset until April 2023. This was to allow time to undertake a full review of the supported bus network across the West of England to make sure it meets local needs.

So I was extremely disappointed and concerned to learn that bus companies have announced they plan to cut services including the 42 (Odd Down Park and Ride to RUH), 171 (Bath City Centre to Paulton), and 178 (Midsomer Norton to Bristol) in October.

There is also proposed route

changes to the 172 and 173. First West of England has also declined to run the 11 and 12 supported services. We know fuel and driver costs are rocketing and meeting passenger needs is a huge challenge. We will continue to push WECA to demand a better and value-for-money network which our residents deserve.

Finally, now that our schools and colleges are on their summer break I want to thank teachers and staff across Bath & North East Somerset for their continued dedicated hard work under challenging circumstances over the past academic year. And for families who are eligible for free school meals, please be aware vouchers worth £90 per child, to help prevent holiday hunger, are available. Anyone eligible for benefit-related free school meals and has not claimed a voucher previously can make a claim through council’s website www/ bathnes.gov.uk or call the Benefits team on 01225 477777 (option 4).

Issue 031

5

Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789

“Tap on, tap off” payments introduced on First Bus services

Charity appeals for walkers to join Bath Marches fundraiser

Photo courtesy of Bath Marches / Mentoring Plus

BATH-BASED charity Mentoring Plus is appealing for people to join the upcoming Bath Marches event, to raise money to support young people in local communities.

Mentoring Plus helps over 250 youngsters each year with mentoring programmes and activities.

The support helps to increase confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing, while also providing access to new experiences, opportunities, and connections within the community.

The charity is asking residents to join the Bath Marches, taking place on Saturday 3rd September, and raise vital funds for those that are facing significant challenges in their lives and who need the services of Mentoring Plus.

The Bath Marches is suitable for all the family. You can choose

from a 15, 9 or 4-mile walk.

Routes are all marked out and there are stops and snacks along the way.

Fundraising Manager Jenny Perez said: “We have teamed up with the Bath Marches for the third year in a row to raise muchneeded funds for the charity.

“We are still very much feeling the impact of the pandemic and are still experiencing a huge demand for our services.

“Funds raised will enable us to keep providing support to young people in need through our mentoring programmes.

“We would love for members of our community to join us on a fun day and help us fundraise.”

If you are interested in taking part, email community@ mentoringplus.net or by visiting www.mentoringplus.net/events/ bath-marches.

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 on our website or phone 01225 318438 Membership is only £15 per year.

U3A in Bath Open Day is on Thursday 20th October 2022 at the Pavilion from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm

First West of England Managing Director Doug Claringbold and Metro Mayor Dan Norris | Photo © WECA

BUS operator First West of England has teamed up with the West of England Combined Authority to help make travelling across the region easier.

The new “Tap On, Tap Off” (TOTO) system is a simple way for people to pay for their bus travel using their contactless card or device without having to buy a ticket on the bus.

Using TOTO, passengers simply tap their card or device against the reader when they get on the bus and again just before they get off.

First then work out the correct fare for each journey and ensure

that customers don’t pay more than the relevant Day ticket fare each day they travel, no matter how many journeys they make.

As customers travel more over the week, the system also ensures that each extra day costs less.

TOTO, which will be officially launched across all First West of England’s services on Sunday 17th July, thanks to funding from the West of England Combined Authority, will make bus travel simpler, especially for new customers, with no need to know which zone you are in or which ticket to buy.

The system also gives customers visibility of what they’ve been charged for all their journeys through a simple online portal.

Doug Claringbold, Managing Director at Our Monthly Talks First West of England, said: “We’re making it Monthly Talks are usually held on the first Thursday in easier to use the bus the month and start at with the introduction 10.30 a.m.. Doors open at 9.45 a.m. for coffee. of Tap On, Tap Off. Admission is free for members but a donation of £2 “Simplicity is a key for non-members. If you join U3A in Bath at the part of our plan to welcome back existing meeting then your admission fee is refunded. customers and Talks take place at: encourage people who may not currently use The Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bath BA2 4EU buses to give them a try, especially at a time when alternatives to Upcoming Talks the car are not only the environmentally friendly option, but 1st September 2022 the most cost-effective SLAVERY EXPLORED too.

by Gary Best “With Tap On, Tap Off, customers will have 6th October 2022 the peace of mind of DIGITAL MEDIA AND THE FUTURE OF THE NOVEL knowing their costs

by Kate Pullinger will be capped, and in boarding more 3rd November 2022 quickly through not THE REGENCY LIFE IN GEORGIAN BATH having to buy a ticket,

by Dr Robert Morrison everyone who uses the new system will be 1st December 2022 contributing to faster WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY journeys.”

by David Bailey Dan Norris, Metro Mayor of the West of England, said: “I want

to make it as easy as possible for people across the West of England to use buses.

“More journeys by bus across the West of England will help us reach our ambitious net-zeroby-2030 target and deal with congestion and pollution. “’Tap On, Tap Off’ makes it easier for passengers, and by simplifying and streamlining the payment process, it speeds everything up.

“If it’s good enough for the capital, then it’s the very least that we should expect here in our region.”

How does Tap On Tap Off work?

Tap On Tap Off works with any valid credit or debit card, including pre-paid debit cards.

It can also be used if you have Google or Apple Pay on your mobile phone or smart device – but remember to use the same device every time or you may get charged extra.

All you have to do is tap on when you start your journey and tap off when you leave the bus. The First Bus system will then automatically calculate the correct adult fare for you.

What are the benefits of the scheme?

Tap On, Tap Off simplifies using the bus for customers who would otherwise need to work out which ticket they need.

It also removes the risk of wasting a ticket when plans change, as it will only ever charge customers for the travel they actually make.

This could benefit someone who buys a Day ticket expecting to use several buses but then only makes a return journey, or a worker who buys a Week ticket upfront but then doesn’t have to go into work as often as they expected.

Not having to buy a ticket from the driver also speeds up the boarding process, benefiting all passengers.

Tap On, Tap Off has been launched by First Bus in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority using Government funding.

6

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

Views being sought on latest active travel scheme proposals PEOPLE in Bath are being given the chance to have their say on two new proposed cycle and walking schemes connecting schools, residential areas and the Bath Quays development.

Bath & North East Somerset Council is inviting residents to comment on the proposals, which aim to improve walking and cycling routes in Bath and encourage more active ways of travelling.

The Scholars’ Way scheme proposes the introduction of cycle routes connecting residential areas to educational establishments across the south of Bath.

The first section aims to provide a cycle route between Claverton Down, Combe Down and Odd Down and includes: • Upgrading the existing shared path between Quarry Farm and Claverton Down Road via Rainbow Wood to a hard surface, to improve conditions for cycles and pedestrians. In the next phase, the council is looking at options to provide a direct cycle route to Ralph Allen School, giving more pupils the opportunity to cycle to and from

school.

• Upgrading the existing zebra crossing on Claverton Down Road (east of Shaft Road) to a parallel crossing for pedestrians and cycles.

• A new zebra crossing on Claverton Down Road, adjacent to Ralph Allen School.

• An in-carriageway cycle route on Church Road and Combe Road, Combe Down, with painted cycle markings. A new cycle and pedestrian route from Combe Road to St Martins Garden Primary School, via Mulberry Park, including off-road sections and improved pedestrian and cycle crossings.

Last year, the local authority consulted on improvements to pedestrian and cycle facilities at Copseland, Claverton Down.

In June 2021 the council’s cabinet agreed to progress a new parallel crossing for pedestrians and cycles at the Copseland/Oakley junction and improvements to the footway and an informal crossing at the Copseland/ Widcombe Hill junction.

These schemes will form part of the improved route for pedestrians and cycles between

Claverton Down and Combe Down.

The Bath Quays Links scheme will integrate the new bridge at the Bath Quays development into the existing cycling and walking networks to increase opportunities for active travel.

The bridge, which is due to open by the end of 2022, connects Bath Quays North to Bath Quays South and will improve connectivity for active travel between the riverside, Bath city centre and the Oldfield Park area.

The proposed improvements include: • New cycle lanes separated from pedestrian and motor traffic on the A367 Green Park Road between the Midland Bridge Road and the bridge at the Bath Quays development.

• New and improved crossings for cyclists and pedestrians on the A367 Green Park Road.

• New cycle lanes on the A36 Lower Bristol Road between Westmoreland Road and Oak Street.

• Two new traffic signalcontrolled (toucan) crossings on Lower Bristol Road, for pedestrians and cycles.

• Widening of the northern footway on Lower Bristol Road between Oak Street and the Churchill Bridge gyratory to a minimum of 1.6m.

You can read more about the proposals and respond to the consultation at https://bathecho.uk/3B0rsXz. The consultation runs until 12 noon on 8th August.

Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: “Active travel schemes are about making walking and cycling for short journeys safer and more pleasant, whilst cutting emissions and protecting people’s health.

“We are committed to providing a realistic alternative to travelling by vehicle in and around the city, in particular, giving our young people the opportunity to travel to school independently. These two schemes are a next step in making this a reality.

“Safe and accessible infrastructure allows people to make travel choices that are emissions free and help tackle the climate emergency, but these routes have to be practical for

people to use in their everyday lives.

“That’s why it’s important for communities to help shape the designs, so please have your say in our consultation.”

If you don’t have internet access, you can request printed copies of the consultation and survey.

To request this or other formats, call 01225 39 40 41 or email active_travel@bathnes.gov.uk.

Both schemes have been identified as priority projects by the council and West of England Combined Authority.

If the council receives enough positive feedback following this consultation, it will progress the schemes and seek funding from WECA.

Bath Preservation Trust calls for more ambitious planning A MORE ambitious plan to transform the city of Bath for the future is needed following the publication of the Milsom Quarter Masterplan, according to the Bath Preservation Trust.

The Bath Preservation Trust (BPT) said it welcomed the masterplan’s recent consultation, but is calling on Bath and North East Somerset Council to come up with a long-term strategy for the whole city.

CEO of Bath Preservation Trust, Alex Sherman, said: “We think the plan in isolation is good, but has the potential to be excellent.

“Developing a vision for one part of the city highlights the more pressing requirement for a strategy for the whole of Bath so that this masterplan, and others, are not considered in isolation.

“We need much more integration with a vision for

the future of Bath as a whole – this masterplan should sit alongside a comprehensive overarching strategy or strategic plan for the development of the city, which includes city-wide public realm, transport and movement, commercial vision and sustainability.

“That vision does not currently exist, and it really needs to.”

In a statement, BPT says the current condition of the wider public realm is one area which requires “urgent attention”.

It said the Milsom Quarter Masterplan, which includes the Broad Street area, should be accompanied by a “robust and compliant” maintenance strategy that sets out the approach and timetables for “essential and overdue” repairs to landscaping and guideline-compliant materials.

Another of the observations BPT makes about the Milsom Quarter plan is its “disproportionate” emphasis on fashion-led renewal.

It says the retail industry is fragile with little evidence that consumers are returning to the High Street in the numbers necessary to facilitate significant growth, hence the currently highly variable occupancy rates in Bath.

Alex Sherman continued: “The ‘build it and they will come’ approach needs a solid understanding of the market and the potential for private investment, which is not there right now.

“Also, Milsom Street represents the communal heart of Bath in the present day for major events and civic functions, and more should be made of this in the vision for the area.”

BPT has also raised concerns that the long-term vision for the city centre fails to protect the character of historic Walcot Street.

It said the Cattlemarket site is the gateway to Walcot Street and “deserves development that responds to the character of Walcot” and protects views to Bathampton Down.

The Bath Preservation Trust concluded by saying Bath & North East Somerset Council is “missing a huge opportunity” to lead on sustainability.

With a high percentage of property within the masterplan area under the council’s

ownership, it marks a significant opportunity to facilitate and undertake sustainability retrofits, switch from gas to electric, and introduce micro-renewables.

City Football Club to hear about their plans with regard to redevelopment and was also briefed on the exciting plans for the Milsom Quarter. In Parliament, I attended a reception and met with members of the Bath Rugby Foundation. It was fantastic to hear about the excellent community work that they do.

I have been continuing my campaign to bring back Bath’s buses and I was shocked to learn about more routes at risk.

The Conservative Government

must provide a longterm solution to our bus crisis.

I have also taken over the Transport portfolio for the Liberal Democrats which will allow me to take on the Conservative mismanagement of the UK’s transport system.

Finally, I know delays with passports have been a big issue for many of my constituents.

I have been pressuring the Government to address these massive delays that are affecting so many of you.

Broad Street in Bath | Photo © BPT

COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath

W

ITH the Government collapsing, the last month has been tumultuous.

Boris Johnson leaving Number 10 was long overdue but he must now go immediately. We now have a zombie government that is unable to effectively function.

We need a general election as soon as a new Conservative leader is in place. That way the British people can give their verdict on the Conservatives and kick them out of power for good.

This month also saw extreme heat cause huge issues across the country and Europe. Make no

mistake, this is climate change; pure and simple. We have drawn up a plan for a £150 billion green recovery plan which would create thousands of jobs while cutting emissions and ensuring that the UK is leading the world.

As it stands, the Conservatives are delaying climate action with leadership candidates failing to talk about climate change.

Locally, I have voiced my concerns about the Sulis Down proposed developments. I am deeply alarmed by the development and the impact that it will have on Bath’s residents. The develop-

ment plans to build a further 300 homes at Sulis Down, which, in addition to the 171 already built, is considerably more than the 300 outlined for the area in the local plan.

I met with the South of Bath Alliance and Cllrs Steve Hedges and Bharat Pankhania to discuss the situation.

The development will put huge pressure on our local communities, traffic, transport, schools, GP surgeries and dental practices. All of which are already struggling to cope with demand.

This month I also met with Bath

Issue 031

Search is on for young journalists

Last year’s winning team | Photo © Bath Festivals

YOUNGSTERS in Bath are being given the opportunity to become a Junior Journalist at this autumn’s Bath Children’s Literature Festival.

They will be able to meet their favourite authors face-to-face and go backstage at Europe’s largest children's book festival.

The Junior Journalist role will offer the chance to ask authors and illustrators questions about their work.

Talented young people can win one of three places as Junior Journalists at this year’s festival.

There are three age groups available for the competition, 7 – 9, 9 – 11 and 12 and over.

7

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

If you are 9 before 1st September 2022, you qualify for the 9 to 11 age category, if your ninth birthday is after September 1 2022, you should enter the 7 to 9 age group.

To enter, simply write a review of your favourite book in no more than 200 words and why you would recommend it.

Send your entries to info@ bathfestivals.org.uk by the deadline of Wednesday 31st August. Don’t forget to include your name, age, address and email contact.

You’ll also need to be available with an adult, someone 18 or older, for the weekend of Saturday

24th and Sunday 25th September and/or the weekend of Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October to attend Bath Children’s Literature Festival.

The three chosen Junior Journalists will join the festival team. They’ll get to wear a Junior Journalist lanyard, attend a number of events (to be decided between the winners and the festival organisers), report on those events and go behind the scenes to meet the visiting authors.

Reports by Junior Journalists will be posted on the festival website and there will be a bundle of free books to take home.

Families to receive free school meal vouchers FAMILIES across Bath and North East Somerset that are eligible to receive free school meals will be provided with vouchers worth £90 per child for the summer holidays.

Families will receive an email from Bath & North East Somerset Council offering supermarket vouchers worth £15 per child per week.

Once confirmed, a second email will be sent containing ‘Select’ codes with a web link to the council’s supplier, Hawk Incentives, taking them to a page where they will be presented with a selection of supermarkets to choose from.

The reward total can be split between different supermarkets and codes can be added for each qualifying child to increase the reward total.

The scheme is funded by the Government’s Household Support Fund to support vulnerable households.

New rules set by the Government earlier this year about how the fund should be spent meant vouchers offered by the council from the May 2022 holiday onwards are now £15 per child, instead of the £20 per child offered in previous holiday

periods.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “I am disappointed that government changed the rules around the distribution of the Household Support Fund, however I am pleased we are in a position to provide this support to families over the upcoming six-week holiday which can be a financially challenging time for people already on low incomes.

“With the rise in the cost of living we hope this funding will provide a significant boost to families who need it in Bath and North East Somerset.

“Anyone who is struggling can get in touch with us. We can help you access other support with food across the area, including via our Welfare Support Team and the Community Wellbeing Hub.” Anyone eligible for benefitrelated free school meals that has not claimed a voucher previously can make a claim through the council’s free school meals vouchers web portal. Anyone eligible for the vouchers who does not have electronic means of contacting the council should telephone the Benefits team on 01225 477777, using option 4.

Recognition for supporting armed forces community THE Royal United Hospital has been recognised with a prestigious accolade for the support it shows to the armed forces community in the local area.

Representing the highest badge of honour, the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award identifies businesses and organisations that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.

To win the award, organisations must show that they provide 10 extra paid days leave for reservists to attend training and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, reserves, Cadet Force adult volunteers and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.

They must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the armed forces community, by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme.

Cara Charles-Barks, RUH Chief Executive and Honorary Colonel for 243 (Wessex) Field Hospital, part of the Army Reserve Medical Services, said: “I’m delighted that the RUH has received such a prestigious award, which recognises how importantly we take our responsibility towards the armed forces personnel and community.

“We are extremely proud of our staff who serve in the armed forces as reservists and also our veterans and their families and are committed to giving them all the support they need.

“Just last year we were also awarded Veteran Aware accreditation in recognition of our commitment to leading the way in improving NHS care for veterans and

Cara Charles-Barks Photo © RUH

members of the armed forces community.

“To receive two such important accolades reflects very positively on the RUH and our commitment to be an outstanding place to work where our staff can flourish.”

Surgeon Commander Richard Graham, RUH Deputy Medical Director, has served with the Royal Naval Reserve since 2005 and has undertaken two tours of duty at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, as head of the radiology department and consultant radiologist.

He said: “This award is a reflection of our commitment to our reserve forces and cadet volunteers.

“We value the vital contribution our military staff make to both our Trust and wider defence and have proactive and supportive staff policies in place which ensure they have the opportunity to be able to serve.”

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 031

9

Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789

Pictures from the Past: Identifying the unidentified The Museum of Bath at Work asks – do you know these people?

WE end this short series of unidentified pictures with a few portraits held, not by the Akeman Press Archive, but by the Museum of Bath at Work.

They would love your help in gathering more information about them.

The Museum has 503 glass plate negatives from the photographic studio of T.C. Leaman at no.7 The Corridor in Bath. Each plate is in an envelope with a surname, but nothing else – no date and no address. The dress of the sitters indicates they date from the 1890s through to about 1910, but it is hard to date them because the dress of working people did not significantly change over this period (in contrast to high fashion). A small selection of the portraits is displayed in the Hudson Gallery at the Museum and a team of researchers is working on identifying them, ready for a much bigger exhibition in 2023.

The people are not grand – they are school teachers, milliners, apprentices, pub landlords – although some come from professional families. All we know about these people are their names. One of the purposes of the research is to find out more about their lives. The daily life of ordinary people in the community is often forgotten so this is a chance to tell us more.

The first, a fashionably dressed young woman, has the surname Boulton. Did she buy this blouse, or did she make it herself? There are one or two details of the stitching which suggests this might be the case.

The second is an elegant young man, whose name is Bowyer.

He looks ready to go somewhere smart – but why does he looks so wistful? The third is a charming photograph of Mrs Cole with her son – though we do not know his name. The flowers in her lapel are lilies of the valley which is said to be a lucky flower but was popular with brides, and also symbolises a return of happiness. Is she perhaps widowed but about to remarry? Perhaps she just liked

them. Finally we have a rather stern looking young man with the surname Symons. If you think you know any of these people, or

any of the others in the present selection in the Hudson Gallery, the research team would love to hear from you. You can contact

the Museum on 01225 318348 or leave a message on the contact form on the website www.bath-at-work.org.uk.

Don’t forget to watch out for news of the full exhibition next year, when there will be a booklet to go with it.

tomers inside.

every Monday, £10 curries every Tuesday, 2 House Cocktails for £15 between 3-7pm on Wednesdays and a complimentary pint of a medium glass of wine with a boisterous burger every Thursday.

large plate or a fully loaded Taco Dosa plus unlimited Prosecco, premium cocktails or alcohol-free alternatives for 90 minutes non-stop for just £35pp.

Pushing the boat out? Upgrade to unlimited Moët and Chandon Champagne for just £55pp.

Right now, The Pig is mostly...

ALREADY getting VERY excited about Novel Wines' Annual Wine Tasting Party at the Hilton Hotel on Saturday 24th September.

Expect to experience over 100 unique wines from the NW selection alongside samples of luxury spirits, cocktails, premium ciders and with-drinks nibbles courtesy of local charcuterie, chocolate and cheese suppliers, resulting in a proper wine party that you won’t forget for a very long time.

Tickets cost just £35pp… or £30pp if you make the most of the Ear-

ly Bird ticket offer and book your tickets before 30th July. https://bathecho.uk/3uZaLYO CAMPING out at Bath City Farm's utterly gorgeous, recently-revamped community café and tucking into delectable homemade grub made from strictly locally sourced ingredients (much of it grown on-site) while swooning at the far-reaching views across the city, best viewed from one of the café's two alfresco terraces. Weather not complying?

There's space for up to 40 cus-

HAVING those “I wish it could be pizza every day” wishes fulfilled courtesy of the Bath Pizza Co, who are very generously offering a pizza (choose from Margherita, Pepperoni or Marinara) and a pint (or a glass of Prosecco) for just £12.50 between 12noon-6pm every Monday-Friday. Hoorah!

MAKING the very most of the fabulous Weekday Wonder deals at The Moorfields (Third Avenue, nr. Moorland Road): 2-4-1 pizzas

TAKING the notion of an Indian Summer literally by Bottomless Brunching at Bandook Kitchen (Milsom Place) every Saturday-Sunday from 12noon-3pm.

Choose one small plate and one

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

10

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Community Dorothy House to hold second Big Avon Paddle event in September

FareShare seeking volunteer van drivers

Van drivers are needed to help deliver surplus food | Photo © FareShare

Last year's Big Avon Paddle | Photo courtesy of Dorothy House

KAYAKERS, canoeists and paddleboarders will be coming together again in September to raise much-needed funds for Dorothy House Hospice Care.

The Big Avon Paddle is set to take place on 17th September, with participants taking to the water from 10am at The Boathouse in Newbridge, Bath.

Dorothy House launched the event last year with support from Channel Kayaks and The Boathouse.

Participants paddled a collective 763 miles on the day and raised over £12,000 for local hospice and end-of-life palliative care both in the community and at Winsley.

This year, all attendees will be treated to live music throughout the day along with an outside bar.

Any form of ‘paddle powered’ craft is welcome to take part. En-

try is being managed by Dorothy House via their website.

The entry fee is £20 and all entrants will receive a free event t-shirt as well as refreshments along the route on the day.

Tracy Smith, who took part in the event last year, and has signed up to participate again this year, said: “I lost my lovely mum to cancer in 2015 aged just 60. During and after her illness Dorothy House supported not only my mum but our whole family.

“My daughters were young, and the art therapy sessions were invaluable in helping them to remember my mum and process our grief.

“We have since made small donations through various appeals but I always felt I wanted to do more!

“I saw the first Big Avon Paddle advertised and I knew this was

the event for me as paddle boarding is a hobby of mine; it was perfect.

“A very good friend signed up to support me and we paddled the full course in memory of my mum. The day was fantastic – well organised, great atmosphere, friendly encouraging organisers and a perfect venue.

“Even the sunshine was on order for us! Channel Kayaks were the perfect partners and I ended the day with sore arms and a sense of accomplishment having raised just over £400. We enjoyed a complimentary meal as the sun set and we raised a glass to my mum.

“We agreed there and then that we would be back the following year to do it all over again for such a fantastic cause.

“Thank you Dorothy House.”

FOOD charity FareShare South West has launched a search to find volunteer van drivers who can collect and deliver surplus food to charities, schools and community groups in Bath.

The Driving Out Hunger campaign aims to reach drivers across the region who can spare a couple of days every month to get food to people who need it most.

Last year, the FareShare South West van crews helped redistribute 2,041 tonnes of good quality surplus food, enough for nearly five million meals, to more than 400 different frontline charities.

The UK produces more than 3 million tonnes of surplus food each year, but last month, a million adults across the UK reported going without meals for a full day because they couldn’t afford to buy food.

To meet this need, FareShare South West is expanding its operations this summer and launching new van routes across the region.

Kieron, one of FareShare’s vol-

unteer van drivers said: “Delivering food to local charities and schools is a way to help people directly.

“We all know there are families, children, older people out there struggling to put food on the table – this is one very simple, very effective thing we can do to support them.

“You don’t need to be rich to help people, all you need is a driving license and some time!”

To volunteer as a van driver for FareShare South West, you must be 18 or over, have a standard driving license and be able to commit to 2-4 shifts per month (9am – 4pm daily).

You’ll get dedicated support from the charity’s volunteer coordinators, as well as a full induction and training.

To apply to become a volunteer, visit www.fareshare.org.uk/volunteer and enter your postcode to find the warehouse nearest you. Alternatively, you can email volunteer@faresharesouthwest. org.uk or call 0117 954 2220.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

T

HIS past week, I have enjoyed watching the good weather lift everyone’s spirits.

Bath has so many fantastic green spaces and so I hope that you have been able to make the most of the sunshine, especially now that schools are breaking up for the holidays.

Last week, I supported Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Awareness Week, encouraging our local communities to stand against ASB and highlighting the actions that can be taken by those experiencing it.

Also participating in this impor-

tant awareness week, Avon and Somerset Police has launched a new ASB Service Standard to ensure they are delivering a service that supports victims of ASB and deals robustly with perpetrators.

The new force standard means that the police service will speak to all victims of ASB and check for any hidden crimes. I very much support this new standard and hope that local people will have the confidence to report ASB, knowing that it will be taken seriously.

I would like to let you know about the launch of the StreetSafe tool;

an online tool that enables residents to anonymously pinpoint locations where they feel unsafe, which will then notify police and local partners. The StreetSafe should not be used to report crime but, instead, the tool helps identify areas where there are fears caused by ASB and environment issues including lack of street lighting, abandoned buildings and vandalism.

A crime doesn’t always have to be committed to feel unsafe but this feeling of unsafety is still very much justified. Information provided will be considered

alongside the extensive evidence already gathered by police forces and used to inform community safety activities. You can visit the StreetSafe tool via: https://www.police.uk/pu/ notices/streetsafe/street-safe/ Finally, I am happy to share that the success of Operation Scorpion continues following a second week of action. Working with other police forces and PCCs in the south west, the intensification week targeted illegal drug supply and drug crime across the

region. In Avon and Somerset, there were almost 700 acts of disruption including 17 arrests for drug related offences, thousands of pounds worth of class A drugs and cannabis and 147 visits to address of vulnerable people.

Avon and Somerset Police’s work to tackle drug supply, misuse and harm in local communities continues and I urge anyone with any information or concerns about illegal drug activity to report to the police by calling 101 or reporting online.

Issue 031

11

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Health Scheme introduces targeted lung health checks for residents A NEW scheme to help save more lives by diagnosing lung cancer at an earlier stage is being introduced in Bath.

Targeted Lung Health Checks, launched by the NHS in Somerset, Wiltshire, Avon and Gloucestershire (SWAG), is a new service offered to people aged 55 to 74 who are at a greater risk of developing lung cancer.

Following an initial conversation with a health professional and, if needed, a simple scan, the Targeted Lung Health Check can identify signs of cancer at an early stage when it is much more treatable, ultimately saving move lives.

When lung cancer is diagnosed early there are more options for treatment and a higher chance of survival.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “Sadly, due to there being few to no symptoms at an early stage, lung cancer is regularly diagnosed late.

“An NHS lung health check aims to find out how well your lungs are working and can help find

any problems early – often before you notice anything is wrong.

“Lung cancer currently causes more deaths than any other cancer in the UK, but if caught early, it’s much more treatable and the survival rate is much higher. Attending a Targeted Lung Health Check could save your life.”

Offered to current or former smokers aged 55-74, the Lung Health Check starts with a checkup from a specially trained health professional.

If necessary, you will be offered a simple scan to take a picture of your lungs, to check for signs of lung cancer. If you are eligible for a Lung Health Check, you will be sent a letter in the post inviting you to a telephone appointment in the first instance.

Individuals may then be invited for a scan following this initial check.

The Lung Health Check began on Wednesday 20th July and will take place at a mobile CT unit.

The scanning is planned to continue for at least three weeks and the unit will then move onto the next site.

The unit will then return in three months to pick up any patients that have been identified for a three-month recall. Safety measures have been put in place to protect both participants and staff members on board the mobile unit.

Current and former smokers, who are aged over 55 but younger than 75, living in the western side of Bath and registered to the following three GP surgeries: St Michaels Surgery, Junction Rd Surgery and Rush Hill Surgery, Bath will be the first patients asked to take part in this programme in Bath and North East Somerset.

Becky Reynolds, Director of Public Health and Prevention at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I’m delighted that the mobile unit is coming to B&NES. I urge everyone who is eligible for a free lung health check to take up the offer.

“When lung cancer is diagnosed early there are more options for treatment and a higher chance of survival.

“If you are not eligible for a scan, you will still be provided with

information and support as part of the programme and can ask questions, discuss lung health conditions, common symptoms and how to get support to stop smoking.”

If you are worried about a symptom of lung cancer, contact your GP and do not wait for a lung health check appointment.

The symptoms are: • A persistent cough or change in your normal cough • Coughing up blood • Being short of breath • Unexplained tiredness or weight loss • An ache or pain when breathing or coughing • Appetite loss.

RICE charity launches appeal to fund dementia research LOCAL charity RICE, the Research Institute for the Care of Older People, has launched its latest appeal to fund a dementia research programme.

The Delivering Healthy Ageing – President’s Appeal will also help to support the growth of RICE’s clinical and research capability in new areas of age-related illnesses.

Research activity at RICE focuses on improving three areas of health for older people; thinking clearly, moving well and staying strong.

The charity’s aim is to fight for a cure for dementia and the appeal will help fund research into Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s disease and the decline of bone and muscle health which impacts greatly on the wellbeing of older people.

Based at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, RICE is an internationally recognised research institute, treatment centre and memory clinic dedicated to improving quality of life for older people through its research and support for people with dementia, their families and carers.

Dementia is a hidden disease with significant social costs carried primarily by unpaid family carers as well as health and social care services.

Research into dementia is underfunded in the UK. According to Dementia Research UK, 1 in 14 people over 65 have dementia yet only £90 per patient

is spent on research.

As well as researching treatments for dementia, RICE hosts the NHS Memory Clinic for Bath and North East Somerset.

The RICE Memory Clinic receives referrals from local GPs, assesses patients’ memory and thinking skills and provides treatment and medication for dementia.

The RICE Centre also runs courses for carers and Cognitive Stimulation courses for patients.

To date, the Memory Clinic has cared for over 12,000 local people with memory problems and supported their families.

Lady Pratchett, Patron of RICE and wife of late Sir Terry Pratchett, said: “I am proud to be the Patron of RICE. My family and I know from personal experience that the care and support provided by the charity is exceptional.

“The dedicated and experienced staff at RICE help families to deal with the life changing news of living with dementia as well as carrying out vital research.

“In the future, the high-quality services provided by RICE will be ever more important as the number of people impacted by dementia and other conditions of older age is rising.

“Increasing the clinical and research capacity of the Research Institute is vital so that even more people can benefit. Please support this appeal and help to improve life for us all as we age.”

Melissa Hillier, CEO at RICE added: “With the launch of this

appeal we are celebrating a new vision for the future of RICE as we seek to deliver an expanded research programme aimed at helping older people to Think Clearly, Move Well and Stay Strong.

“We are thrilled that Professor Roy Jones will continue his support of RICE as our President as we build a lasting legacy of patient led care and research at the charity. Please get in touch if you’re interested in supporting the appeal.”

Dr Tomas Welsh, Research and Medical Director at RICE said: “We are greatly indebted to Professor Roy Jones for his lifelong commitment to RICE and it’s been an honour to work alongside him in recent years.

“Roy established one of the first memory clinic services in the UK, a service which has now been widely replicated in the UK and is best practice across the NHS. “Today, dementia is on the increase with more than 1 million people expected to have the illness by 2030, so it is important that we learn more about the issues facing families so that treatments can meet their needs better.

“This appeal will enable us to grow our research programme and allow the charity to enhance its knowledge-base and help us improve care and support for those affected by dementia and other conditions of older age.”

Professor Roy Jones, President of

Beth Fine, Kristen Keen, Melissa Hillier CEO, Melissa Nolan and Dr Lorraine Courcier from RICE | Photo © RICE

RICE said: “I am delighted to be leading this Appeal in my new role as President and to hand over the reins of RICE to a talented team whom I know will take the Research Institute and Memory Clinic from strength to strength.

“It is my privilege to have led RICE since 1985 with the support of a dedicated and loyal team. I am particularly proud that we started one of the first UK Memory Clinics in Bath in 1987 and since then Memory Clinics have had a vital role in the revolution in dementia care.

“Earlier and enhanced recognition of dementia has been critical in developing support for those affected by the disease.

“RICE played an important part

in identifying improvements in care for patients and their families as well as in the development of the first drug treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.

“RICE has achieved recognition both nationally and internationally as a Centre of Excellence for research in dementia and for the care and treatment of our patients.

“This was confirmed by the ‘Outstanding’ rating we received from the Care Quality Commission in 2021.

“After the difficult years of the pandemic, the President’s Appeal will help to ensure that RICE can develop its vital research programme for the benefit of people everywhere.”

12

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

www.bathecho.co.uk

Education College announces sponsorship of Bath Half Family Fun Run BATH College has confirmed its ongoing support for the Bath Half Marathon following the announcement it will be sponsoring this year’s Family Fun Run. Bath College will also provide massages in the Runner’s Village to those who are running the half marathon the following day.

The BATHALF Family Fun Run returns in 2022 in a new format, as the highlight of the new community day in Royal Victoria Park on Saturday 15th October, the day before the half marathon.

The Family Fun run is open to all ages and abilities. This year the course is 1 mile long and completely traffic-free, around the perimeter of Middle Common in Royal Victoria Park.

Entries for the 2022 BATHALF Family Fun Run are now open

through the event website.

Entry to the Family Fun Run costs £6.80 for a child under 16yrs and £10.80 for an adult, and there is a free t-shirt for every entrant and a medal and goody bag for all finishers.

Race Director, Andrew Taylor said: “We are delighted to welcome Bath College back as a local partner for the Bath Half. As the largest community event in the city, we particularly value the support of the local community.

“The Family Fun Run is an ideal way to introduce people to running in a safe race environment and to find out what it is like to run a bit of the main course too.

“It is great fun and open for people of all ages and abilities to take part. It is hugely popular and every year the fun run sells out

very quickly, so if you are keen then my advice is to sign up as soon as you can.

“Our half marathon runners particularly appreciate the services of Bath College’s excellent team of providing massages to tired legs after the half marathon.”

Jayne Davis, Principal and Chief Executive at Bath College added: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the BATHALF Family Fun Run again this year and to be providing masseurs for the half marathon from our Sport, Complementary/Spa Therapy and Beauty students and their tutors. We know what an important event this is to the Bath Community and as a college with our roots in the heart of the city, we feel this is a fantastic partnership.”

Taking part in the family fun run | Photo © Artur Lesniak

Business to offer drama and singing Contract awarded to lessons to children across B&NES support children who can’t attend school

Photo © Little Voices

A BUSINESS based in Twerton in Bath is set to provide drama, singing and theatrical experiences to local children this summer.

Little Voices NW Wiltshire & Central Bath will be offering the training to children who receive free school meals, as part of the HAF (Holiday Activity and Food) Programme.

The acting and singing school has been awarded the contract to offer their performing arts training to those who benefit from the school meals scheme.

Principal, Lorraine Mahoney, commented: “We are thrilled to be able to offer drama and singing training to children across BANES this summer.

“It is incredibly important to us that we are inclusive to all children. We know that sometimes our theatre weeks

and lessons are unachievable for families that have a lack of disposable income. By offering our performing arts training through the HAF Programme this summer, we can help more children to build their confidence, nurture their creative talents and give them skills for life.

“The HAF Programme is funding that all local authorities have at their disposal now for children on free school meals. Marcus Rashford was pivotal in ensuring that all children receiving free school meals could also have activities and food in the holidays not just when they are at school.

“Since there are 13 weeks of holidays every year it is critical that children have access to healthy food and supervised activities when they are out of school.”

Jane James, founder of Little

Voices said: “We are thrilled that we can offer our inspirational drama and singing lessons to even more children.

“Many franchisees across the UK are working with their local authorities to do the same. EVERY child has something amazing to share and we truly believe this.

“We are an inclusive organisation at every level and we are thrilled that the HAF Programme has been implemented. Every child regardless of their family financial background should be able to access arts training. It gives them creative skills for life.”

When not working with the local authority and HAF Programme, Little Voices is a performing arts school that trains young singers and actors through its programme of after-school lessons and school partnerships, such as after-school clubs.

YOUNGSTERS in Bath who cannot attend school due to their health needs will be able to access specialist educational support thanks to the awarding of a new contract by B&NES Council.

The Partnership Trust will manage the B&NES Hospital Educational Reintegration Service (HERS) from September.

Specialist staff within the service help prevent students with health needs from slipping behind their classmates and support them to reintegrate successfully back into school as soon as possible and gain their qualifications.

The service also supports the social and emotional needs of pupils.

Following a competitive tendering process, Bath & North East Somerset Council awarded the Trust, which runs a number of schools across the district, a fouryear contract with the option to extend for a further two years.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities said: “It’s vital that children who are unable to attend school due to a health condition are supported in their studies to thrive and reach their potential.

“By providing individually focussed teaching and working closely with the home school, family and other relevant stakeholders the HERS service aims to ensure pupils don’t fall behind and are able to

successfully return to the classroom as soon as they are well enough.

“The Partnership Trust has a strong record of improving outcomes for young people and manages a diverse family of schools including city schools, small rural schools and Special Schools.

“Their remit will include working with schools to help them understand their responsibilities for and best practice in supporting pupils with medical needs, to ensure the support they offer is as effective as possible reducing the need for pupils to be referred to HERS.” The service will be managed by The Mendip School on behalf of The Partnership Trust.

Emily Massey, Chief Executive of The Partnership Trust, said: “The Partnership Trust and The Mendip School are delighted to be working with Bath & North East Somerset Council to support schools through HERS to work effectively with children and young people whose studies are impacted by their health.

“Our aim is to ensure the best possible outcomes for these pupils and we’re really looking forward to working with colleagues within the service from September onwards.”

The Trust also provides the Specialist Autism Support Service based at Fosse Way School, on behalf of Bath & North East Somerset Council.

IT’S NOT TOO

LATE TO APPLY for September

@bathcollege

Get the career you want at Bath College

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 have 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.

SCAN M E

To apply go to: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

Browse our courses

14

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

Business Metro Mayor marks Frankenstein attraction’s first birthday WEST of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris tried out a new puzzle-based experience at the Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein museum in Bath last week, during a visit to celebrate its first birthday.

Mr Norris visited the attraction, which is the UK’s first and only Frankenstein-themed museum, as part of his campaign encouraging Bathonians to “explore local” this summer.

Birthday scarers from the House of Frankenstein will be hiding copies of the famous novel throughout the city containing prizes to mark the occasion and will be offering free entry to people called Mary later in the summer.

In addition to this, the unique Bloody Mary’s Bar will be serving Frankenstein-themed cocktails.

Since opening its doors on Gay Street a year ago thanks to a £10,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority, House of Frankenstein has become Bath’s one-stopdestination for those looking for a spooky insight into how Mary Shelley penned her bestselling novel in the city, welcoming over 24,000 visitors.

It features four floors of artefacts and vintage items, including some of Shelley’s original letters, interactive rooms and an eightfoot animatronic replica of the monster recreated for the first time exactly as Mary Shelley described.

But opening a visitor attraction in the middle of a pandemic has been tough, as the Metro Mayor learnt when he met co-founders Chris Harris and Jonathan Willis.

With footfall in city centres still around 10% below pre-pandemic levels, the daunting duo

Information suite opens for new Midford Manor care home

Metro Mayor Dan Norris at Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein

explained why it is so important Bathonians support local attractions, including ‘hidden gems’ like Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, this summer.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “If you’re looking for a fun, spooky and educationally thrilling day out this summer, then look no further.

“But I should warn locals: this one ain’t one for the fainthearted. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein has everything you could want – interactive environments bringing the iconic Frankenstein novel to life, vintage artefacts and a creepy setting for those of us who can’t resist a bit of horror – and I’m so pleased it’s all been made possible thanks to a grant from the West of England Combined Authority I lead.

“But times are tough right now for our brilliant tourism industry, so I encourage all Bathonians and other visitors to get out there and give this gem of an attraction, and our other fantastic museums, galleries and other local attractions across the region, the support they deserve

this summer.”

Speaking about the visit, Chris Harris, Co-founder & Creative Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Metro Mayor Dan Norris to Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein as part of the Explore Local Campaign as we celebrate our first anniversary this month.

“From a journey through Mary Shelley’s tragic life, interactive challenges like The Body in a Suitcase game and our Frankenstein themed Escape Room to our Frankenstein book hunt, there’s so much we’re offering Bathonians this month to join in with our birthday celebrations.

“Establishing a new visitor attraction during a socially uncertain and economically challenging period has not been straightforward, so we are especially grateful to the 24,000 visitors, the West of England Combined Authority and local businesses who continue to support us on our ambitious journey. Here’s to the next birthday.”

Carol Britton, Ben Moxham, Anna Pickard and Michelle Goreham

A NEW information suite has been opened in the centre of Bath for people to find out more about Midford Manor, an 80bed care home opening in Odd Down.

The home, which will provide residential, nursing and dementia care, is set to create 100 jobs.

Whilst it is being built, the information suite, situated at 6 Broad Street, will be open Monday – Saturday, 9am-5pm.

At the suite, visitors will get the opportunity to ask the Midford Manor Care Home team, any questions they have about the home or employment opportunities and get an idea of what the development will look like once completed.

Opening in early 2023, Midford Manor, on Frome Road, will feature award-winning design innovations and home comforts.

Facilities will include a stateof-the-art cinema room,

hairdressing salon, wellness room and garden bar.

Each bedroom will have an ensuite bathroom and those on the ground floor will have access to their own patio.

Other communal areas comprise a café, outdoor roof terrace and several dining rooms which will enable relatives to have a meal with their loved ones on occasion.

Customer Relationship Manager at Midford Manor, Michelle Goreham said: “We have years of knowledge and experience of building award-winning care homes and we are excited to be able to create an engaging new care community in Bath.

“Midford Manor will provide residents with a place where they feel safe and supported to live an active and fulfilled life.

“If you have any care queries, or if you live locally and simply would like to say hello please don’t hesitate to pop in and see us!”

£3 million expansion plan at Homewood hotel approved A £3 MILLION extension project planned at the award-winning Homewood hotel near Bath has been approved.

The latest announcement forms part of ongoing plans by owners Ian and Christa Taylor to target longer stay leisure and multigenerational travellers by further enhancing its spa and leisure offering.

The approval of the plans follows a 3-year-long process working with local architect Kevin Murphy of Aaron Evans.

Sustainability has been a focus of the project, with the use of renewable energy sources such as ground source heat pumps and solar panels to minimise the hotel’s carbon footprint.

Improvements will be added

to the north of the main hotel in the grounds of Homewood Lodge, refurbished in 2020 into 10 luxury bedrooms, now known as Mallingford Mews.

The development provides six new luxury guest suites each with its own private terraces along with hot tubs boasting views overlooking the Avon Valley and a small meeting and events space.

In addition, extensions to the existing spa will create a new entrance foyer, additional double treatment room, fitness suite and post-treatment relaxation space.

As part of the masterplan, new landscape planting, gardens and additional parking will be also provided.

Homewood is situated on the outskirts of Bath. The proposals

comprise the replacement of a number of existing buildings and the extension of others being retained.

To secure consent, the design has been granted approval by Green Belt policies whilst overcoming significant ecology and visual impact constraints.

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Mr & Mrs Smith Collection, Homewood already offers 31 rooms, a garden spa with outdoor pool, and Olio Restaurant.

Ian Taylor commented: “Since we took ownership of Homewood in 2018, I have had ambitions to make the most of its heartcapturing location overlooking the beautiful Somerset countryside which sits in Green

Belt and AONB. “I have always seen great potential with the barn, outhouses, and spa; and it has been our vision to transform them into spaces for luxury experiences with a touch of playfulness.

“It is a key objective of this project to focus on sustainability and achieve a design that is sympathetic to our neighbours in the local community, by taking into full consideration, ecology, and light spill, given our location on the top of the hill.

“I am delighted with the final result, which marks the last piece of the jigsaw in the Homewood rejuvenation project, quickly developing as a market-leading boutique hotel.”

Homewood is part of The

Homewood hotel near Bath

Kaleidoscope Collection, an independent hotel group which includes The Bird, a boutique townhouse also found in Bath and Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa in Wiltshire.

Issue 031

15

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Politics

Public Notices

Traffic offence enforcement to begin in Bath MOVING traffic offences, such as stopping in yellow boxes and driving in formal cycle lanes, are to be enforced in Bath following the approval of powers by the Government.

Bath & North East Somerset Council is to begin enforcing the offences, including banned turns, to help make roads safer and tackle congestion.

The council has become one of only twelve local authorities in England, outside of London, to be given the new civil enforcement powers.

The council undertook a public consultation in the spring where residents and stakeholders were asked for their views on the use

of these powers at five initial locations where restrictions are often contravened.

The consultations included a series of drop-in information sessions and a webinar.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We’re pleased that our application was approved, and we can now make our roads even safer for users. When road users ignore restrictions, it not only poses a real danger to others but can also create congestion, so I welcome the Government’s decision to change the regulations to allow civil enforcement locally.

“It’s important to stress that this not about raising revenue, it’s

about educating drivers, changing behaviours and improving road safety for everyone.

“We’re giving road users time to adjust to these changes so for the first six months at each location we enforce, we’ll be educating motorists and reminding them of the need to comply with the existing restriction by issuing warning notices for their first contravention at each location, rather than a penalty.”

The council will be enforcing restrictions with ANPR cameras at the following initial locations, which are expected to go live later this summer: • Charles St/Monmouth Street: Yellow box and banned turn

• George Street/Gay Street: Banned turn • Brook Road, Bath: Commercial vehicle weight restriction • Newbridge Road/Newbridge Hill, Bath: Banned turn • High Street/Bath Hill/Temple Street, Keynsham: Banned right turn.

Council’s constitution set to be “modernised" UPDATED proposals being backed by Liberal Democrats in Bath will safeguard the right for members of the public to speak at meetings of Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Plans have been announced to modernise the council’s constitution and ensure the rules it works by are “accessible, streamlined and up to date”.

Councillors will consider a draft text later this month, following months of preparation by a cross-party working group of councillors and council officers.

The working group has looked at the current arrangements for formal statements at meetings.

This comes following a decision earlier this year that meant people would have to submit a full copy of their speech at least two days before a meeting, which led to some residents raising concerns that the stricter rules would deter people from speaking.

Updated proposals will safeguard the right to speak at meetings for any member of the public who wishes to do so.

The new wording will clarify that it is “strongly recommended” for speakers at meetings to provide their statements in advance, but this will not be a condition of securing a speaking slot. The rule will apply to councillors as well as members of the public.

In addition, new safeguards will be included to support Chairs of meetings in managing debates.

Speeches which are “defamatory, frivolous or offensive” will not be allowed. Procedures around written questions will also be updated.

A statement from Bath & North East Somerset Council said: “At no point was there any suggestion that politicians would have the right to censor speeches, and it should be remembered that as the broadcaster of the meetings via YouTube, the Council would be liable for any defamation

claim. Neither was there any suggestion of limiting what could be covered in statements.

“The previous version of the Constitution reduced the risk of the Council facing legal problems; this new proposal attempts to do the same but by helping the Chair to stop frivolous or defamatory statements.”

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of B&NES Council, commented: “We felt it was important that B&NES should have a modern, fit-for-purpose Constitution.

“It must be clear and easy to understand, whilst including all the safeguards Council needs to work effectively. That’s why we initiated this review.

“During the working group’s deliberations, it became clear the arrangements around access to public speaking needed to be updated.

“In May, Councillor Samuel and I both undertook to work with officers and the Constitution Working Group to make sure there was no reduction in access to public speaking.

“We have listened carefully to concerns and we’ve found another way to manage the speaker slot, ensuring rules are followed, whilst minimising the risk of excluding anyone.

“Most people do provide their statements in advance, and this helps officers and Councillors a lot. For example, following along if the acoustics are difficult and compiling the minutes.

“However, this doesn’t need to be a condition of speaking, so we’ve found a lighter-touch way forwards. This is the right outcome for B&NES residents.

“The discussion over public speaking has also highlighted perceived barriers to participation, that we must remove to ensure Council is as open and transparent as possible.

“Accordingly, more practical support is being offered to

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003 Notice is hereby given that Chew Valley Distillery Ltd. has applied to South Gloucestershire Council for the Grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises at Chew Valley Distillery Ltd. Unit 13 Unity Business Park, Bath Road Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HZ. Recorded music Monday – Sunday 8am – 10pm Supply of alcohol Monday – Sunday 8am – 10pm Hours premises are open to the public: Monday – Sunday 8am – 10pm A record of the application made to the Licensing Authority will be kept on a register at South Gloucestershire Council, Licensing Service, Engine Common Lane, Yate, South Gloucestershire, BS37 7PN. Any person wishing to submit representations to the application must give notice in writing to the South Gloucestershire Council, Department for Environment and Community Services, Licensing Service, PO Box 1954, Bristol BS37 0DD or by e-mail to: Licensing@ southglos.gov.uk.

The Guildhall in Bath | Photo © chrisdorney / Shutterstock.com

potential speakers and guidance is being improved, with a particular emphasis on the needs of disabled people.

“Members of the public will also be able to table more written questions to meetings, as the limit is being increased from 2 to 3. This will help to further open up the Council to the public.

“I’m pleased the updated proposals were unanimously agreed at the Constitution working group and will come before Council on 21 July.”

Councillor Tim Ball, who was involved in the Constitution Working Group, added: “A modern, accessible Constitution will be of enormous benefit to B&NES Council, Councillors and members of the public going forwards.

“The update will be future proofed with digital compatibility and legibility across screens, as well as the inclusion of hyperlinks and searchable text.

“In addition, an overview of how the Council operates and a glossary will benefit anyone who

isn’t familiar with the working practices of local government.

“This refresh is all part of our approach to modernising and opening up the Council. Over the last three years, the Lib Dem administration has introduced new ways of listening to the public and ensuring that residents are able to have their say. Indeed, ‘giving people a bigger say’ is one of the core policies that underpins our entire B&NES Corporate Strategy.

“Our innovations include investing in webcasting and publishing recordings on YouTube, new online webinars and consultations, and pioneering co-design and Citizen’s Jury processes.

“We are still keen to enable people to speak by video link at an in-person meeting, as soon as we have the technology in place.

“The Lib Dems are committed to listening to residents and putting them first. This new Constitution will help open the Council up to the public and enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.”

For further assistance, please phone 01454 868001.

Any representations must be made by 12/08/2022 after which date, no objections will be considered.

Copies of all representations will be included in the papers presented to the Licensing Sub-Committee and will therefore pass into the public domain.

Representations must relate to one of the four licensing objectives.

IT IS AN OFFENCE, LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A FINE OF UP TO LEVEL 5 ON THE STANDARD SCALE (UNLIMITED) UNDER SECTION 158 OF THE LICENSING ACT 2003 TO KNOWINGLY OR RECKLESSLY MAKE A FALSE STATEMENT IN CONNECTION WITH THIS APPLICATION.

Dated: 26th July 2022

16

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 26th July - Monday 8th August 2022

In Other News....

Bath rugby player to go behind the scenes in Birmingham Tom Masters Sportsbeat

BATH Rugby are blessed in the tighthead prop position at the moment and in Vilikesa Sela, they have another potential star of the future in their ranks.

Sela, 17, is a part of the Bath academy and has his eyes set on joining the first-team next year, where he will have England international Will Stuart for competition.

But Sela’s talent is clear to see, and as a result he was rewarded with selection to the Team England Futures programme this summer, which will see over 1,000 talented young athletes and aspiring support staff given the opportunity to attend the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, watch live sporting action and take a first-hand look behind-thescenes.

And the front row star is hoping to learn off all of the other talented athletes from a number of sports, with handling the pressure high up on his list.

“I’m really proud to be selected to be honest, I feel included and like I’m kind of making it to be included here with so many incredibly talented athletes,” said Sela, speaking at a Team England

Futures Immersion Camp in Loughborough, where athletes and support staff had the chance to meet each other, visit Kitting Out and experience workshop sessions on topics such as working with the media, mental wellbeing and anti-doping.

“I get to learn a lot here and learn off some very good sportspeople.

“One of the big things for me is I want to see how other people deal with the pressure because I don't know how to do that.

“Sometimes I just go blank in the head, and I have off games and things like that. So to come in here and look around to see how people deal with would be a good lesson to learn.”

The Team England Futures programme seeks to better prepare athletes to deliver medal-winning performances as either Team England, Team GB or ParalympicsGB debutants at future Games, while also giving support staff a first-hand look at the opportunities they could be presented with, as well as challenges they may face, at a multi-sport competition.

And getting to see the Commonwealth Games is a big positive for Sela, who is particularly excited at seeing sevens rugby played.

He added: “I’m pretty excited

for the Commonwealth Games, I want to see what it is like to be behind the scenes and see how they deal with all the pressure before games and events and things like that.”

Sela’s future is incredibly bright, and he has set himself the ambitious target of trying to break into the Bath first team in the coming years.

That goal would be tough at the best of times, and with Stuart, who starred for England in the recent series win in Australia, a key member of the club’s first XV, it becomes even more tricky, but it is not a challenge that Sela is shying away from.

“My goal in the next few years is probably to try and get a contract with Bath and try and get into the first-team over the years,” he said.

“It's going to be a hard competition. But that's what my goal is.”

Commonwealth Games England has appointed SportsAid to lead on the development, management and operational delivery of Team England Futures at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. You can find out more about the programme by visiting https://www.sportsaid.org.uk/ partnerships/team-englandfutures/.

17-year-old Vilikesa Sela | Photo © Beat Media Group

Bus services to be cut due to driver shortages and funding issues

Hundreds of children inspired to read

BUS driver shortages along with the withdrawal of Covid-19 funding by the Government means residents will face more cuts to services later this year.

Bus companies have announced they plan to cut services including the 42 (Odd Down Park and Ride to RUH), 171 (Bath City Centre to Paulton), 173 (Bath City Centre to Wells) and 178 (Midsomer Norton to Bristol) in October.

There is also a proposed route change to the 172. First West of England has also declined to run the 11 and 12 supported services.

The majority of bus services in Bath and North East Somerset are run commercially, with the remainder fully or partly subsidised by the West of England Combined Authority.

Of the 87 ‘supported’ bus services in the region, only 36% will run past October without any conditions and eleven routes will be cancelled.

This is despite the Metro Mayor Dan Norris offering to continue to subside these services.

On top of the shortage of drivers, and the upcoming end of funding decision, there are also fewer passengers, around 75 per cent of pre-Covid numbers, and costs to

MORE than 250 children from Twerton Infant School, St Michael’s Junior Church School and St Martin’s Garden Primary School have taken part in storytelling sessions organised

by SouthGate Bath.

The events, aimed at helping children fall in love with reading, saw the youngsters hear stories from a professional storyteller, Grethe Mangala Jensen, and were part of the Young Readers Programme, an award-winning initiative sponsored by SouthGate Bath’s co-owner British Land and run-in partnership with the National Literacy Trust.

During the literary-focussed events, pupils from the three local schools also learnt how to choose books they will enjoy and were able to take home a book of their choice.

British Land and the National Literacy Trust are celebrating 11 years in partnership this year.

Since the programme launched in Bath, it has supported more than 2,100 school children and seen over 6,400 books donated across the city. Research by the National Literacy Trust has shown that owning a book means children are more likely to say

run the buses have risen.

Mr Norris said: “I am sorry that people in Bath and NE Somerset will feel these cuts in October, when private bus companies withdraw their services on the less profitable routes.

“My heart goes out to people who will lose buses which I know are so important for getting to work, seeing family and caring for others.

“I have warned repeatedly there will be bus cuts in the autumn, and now sadly we are seeing these fears realised.

“We all know the issues – government support ends in October, but passenger numbers are still not back to where they were pre-pandemic, and the inflationary costs of running services is rocketing. And the huge, huge problem is there are not enough bus drivers.

“When it comes to funding, I will always step in to save vital buses where I can, but there isn’t an unlimited pot of cash and even if there was, I can’t magic up drivers.

“Over the next weeks and

throughout August I will work with local communities and bus companies large and small to see where we might be able to step in, if other providers might take on different routes, or if we can come up with different innovative solutions.

“There are trade-offs and compromises to make but I know local people will have some great ideas about how to use drivers most effectively, which is why I will be engaging with as many people as possible to make this the least painful it can be.

“While this is a difficult time, I urge everyone to use the buses that are running because every journey you make creates a virtuous circle of more fare income and so better buses. Plus, it’s so very vital for our net zero targets.

“There is also hope on the horizon.

The Combined Authority I lead is supporting bus driver recruitment and training and the new money I’ve won for buses will kick in next year. So hang in there!”

they enjoy reading and are more inclined to read in their free time.

However, almost 6% of children in the UK do not own a book, which equates to almost 415,000 children across the country.

With reading for enjoyment proven to have a positive effect on children’s reading skill, as well as their wellbeing and mental health, the Young Readers Programme initiative aims to give support and help with the development of children in underprivileged areas by giving them access to books.

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