Bath Echo - Issue 032 - 09/08/2022

ECHO

Your FREE local fortnightly newspaper for Bath

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

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FIVE NEW RECRUITS TO HELP KEEP CITY SAFE Bath's fire station welcomes latest firefighters - P11

FREE TO TAKE!

Issue No. 032

Photo © B&NES Council

18-year-old remanded in custody following Radstock murder P3

FRESH HOPES FOR BRIDGE

New monitoring system for Cleveland Bridge - P2

Warning issued over Green Belt land development THE Bath Preservation Trust has warned that despite public commitments to address the climate emergency and reduce carbon emissions, the Bath Green Belt is at risk of being slowly eroded.

At the recent Local Plan Partial Update examination, Bath & North East Somerset Council attempted to push forward the removal of land from the Green Belt, citing “exceptional circum-

stances”. The University of Bath has also expressed a similar intent.

These “exceptional circumstances” are to enable both organisations to build new buildings or install infrastructure.

The Bath Preservation Trust (BPT) has urged the local authority and the University to think again, as developing on the Green Belt goes against the ‘green’ agenda and their commit-

ments.

BPT has said it is concerned that the reason for the attempts to remove land from the Green Belt is due to it being cheaper to do so than obtain planning permission.

It is possible to obtain planning permission within a Green Belt, but conditions require development sizes to be limited and mitigated to protect views, with more landscaping provided.

If land is removed from the Green

Belt, it opens the potential for any development to be bigger and more imposing.

In the long-term, it can put a significant premium on the land as a site for future housing development within a green setting, but with less rigorous planning restrictions.

Land recently requested for removal may only be a small proportion of the Green Belt, but...

Continued on page 2

Cheap set to close Locals Street encouraged to for months foranti-social security stand against scheme works behaviour P2 P5 Six spaces awarded prestigious Green Flag status P6 Route launched for walkers to explore city from every angle P8 Changes to proposed housing in village welcomed P14 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk

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Monitoring system a “precautionary” measure

In this issue...

Top Stories

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

P2-9

Community

P11

Health

P12

Education

P13

Business

P14

Politics

P15

In Other News

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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.

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ENGINEERS say Cleveland Bridge in Bath could be reopened to two-way traffic followings its repairs if a new monitoring system is installed.

A detailed independent engineering report says that a monitoring system would be a “reasonable, precautionary” measure to allow the bridge to reopen.

The report has recommended a staged approach to the reopening of the bridge.

Initially, the 18-tonne temporary load restriction would remain, and if the monitoring showed there were no issues, the bridge could open to normal traffic loads of 44 tonnes.

A passive support system would be designed to provide longer-term surety.

Engineers have carried out detailed assessments and further computer modelling following the discovery of unexpected corrosion in hanger bars at the start of the year.

More recent accurate information on the degree of section loss to the worst affected group of bars has become available using castings of the bars.

Engineers have recommended the use of a monitoring system to provide ongoing confidence that the bridge remains safe once brought back into service.

The report says an intelligent system could be deployed relatively quickly and allow the structure to be brought back into service

Inset: The corroded hanger bars | Above: Work underway on the bridge | Photos © B&NES Council

following a brief, initial period of monitoring under test loads. It says using the monitoring system would provide early detection of the onset of changes in the characteristic ‘fingerprint’ response of the structure and enable the introduction of control measures to ensure public safety in a “considered, timely and measured way”.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “Safety remains our number one priority. As the renovation of the bridge progressed, and previously unknown issues like the hangar bars have challenged the

Green Belt concerns

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Bath's Green Belt | Photo courtesy of BPT

Continued from page 1 ... if allowed it would set a precedent, which BPT believes would embolden the further release of undeveloped sites under “exceptional circumstances”.

The recent Local Plan Partial Update saw requests received from B&NES Council. In 2023-2024 a new Local Plan will be created, in which it is expected more submissions for the removal of Green Belt land will feature.

Green Belts were established more than 50 years ago to limit urban sprawl and demarcate conurbations from rural areas.

CEO of Bath Preservation Trust, Alex Sherman, said: “The Green Belt of Bath is intrinsic to the city

as a World Heritage Site, which lists the green setting as part of its Outstanding Universal Value.

“It should be untouchable for large development and protected for future generations.

“Adult trees within the Green Belt absorb huge volumes of atmospheric carbon, so are essential in the fight against climate change, with each adult tree absorbing up to 25 kilos of carbon.

“We believe more trees are needed and the Green Belt should be extended, not eroded.

“As well as the environmental benefits, our green spaces are important for physical and mental wellbeing and wildlife and must be protected.”

renovation, we have followed expert advice from independent engineers.

“The latest report before us by independent bridge engineers recommends using a monitoring system to allow the bridge to be safely brought back into service as quickly as possible, this option is being progressed with the aim of opening the bridge to two-way traffic by late September/early October.”

The severe corrosion on the Grade II* listed structure was revealed when sections of concrete were removed from the hanger bars, which support the main trusses of the 200-year-old bridge.

An independent engineering report produced in April set out the complex challenges to repair the critical sections. It recommended subsequent careful detailed assessment and computer modelling to find out if a bearing was a feasible repair option on the hangar bars.

While the assessments have been carried out, other works have continued with main concrete repairs to the deck and trusses.

Scaffolding on the bridge will start to be removed in August and the work is anticipated to take up to six weeks with the current traffic signals remaining until the monitoring system is operational.

Entries open for the “Brain of Bath” quiz CHARITY Julian House is once again inviting companies in and around Bath to put their knowledge to the test in the upcoming “Brain of Bath”.

Taking place on Thursday 13th October, 24 teams will battle it out in the charitable quiz.

Now in its 21st year, the event will see teams compete for the coveted Brain of Bath trophy through ten rounds of challenging and fun questions at the Assembly Rooms.

Rounds include a variety of tricky topics and feature the fun and unique ‘smells round’.

Organiser Matt Redmore said: “We are absolutely delighted to be running the Brain of Bath again this year. This is always a popular event and teams have a great time. Last year we sold out our limited capacity despite the uncertain circumstances.

“The event is a great opportunity to team-build, provide a night of entertainment for clients and demonstrate your values, your organisation’s social values and commitment to Corporate & Social Responsibility.

“By attending, teams are helping us to continue our vital work supporting vulnerable people in Bath and across the South West.

“We are very grateful for the support of local businesses who attend and for that of Battens Solicitors and the Battens Charitable Trust who are very kindly sponsoring the event.”

The Head of Commercial Property at Batten’s Bath office, Patrick Mears added: “Battens Solicitors and the Battens Charitable Trust are delighted to be the main sponsors of the prestigious Brain of Bath event.

“Julian House is highly regarded in Bath for the valuable role the charity plays in the city in improving the lives of homeless and vulnerable people.

“The BCT has supported the Brain of Bath quiz in the past and we look forward to taking part again in what is always an outstanding fundraising evening and great fun for all those involved.”

Entry is open now for up to 10 people per team, and tables can be booked on Julian House’s website.

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Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Issue 032

Man charged with murder of Radstock teenager AN 18-year-old man from Frome has been remanded in custody after appearing in court following the murder of a teenager in Radstock.

Joshua Delbono, of Slipps Close, has been charged with the murder of 16-year-old Charley Bates.

Emergency services were called to a car park in The Street in the town near Bath at around 6.40pm on Sunday 31st July, where they found the teenager critically injured following disorder involving several people.

Despite receiving emergency treatment at the scene, Charley Bates died.

Delbono appeared before magistrates in Bath on Wednesday 3rd August, and at Bristol Crown Court the following day.

He has been remanded in custody ahead of his next court

appearance at the same court on Friday 30th September.

A provisional trial date has been set for Monday 23rd January.

Three other people arrested in connection with Charley’s death have been released under investigation, and all are now residing outside the Avon and Somerset area.

Charley’s family have paid tribute to the teenager, saying: “Our beautiful Charley boy. We are all so very proud of you. You are desperately missed by so many.”

If you have any information which could help the investigation, call 101 and give the reference 5222182800.

Alternatively, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online without being tracked or traced via Fearless, https://www. fearless.org/en/give-info.

Charley Bates | Photo courtesy of Charley’s family / Avon & Somerset Police

News in Brief Museum of Bath Stone to hold open day The Museum of Bath Stone will be opening its doors between 10am and 4pm on Sunday 18th September, as part of the national Heritage Open Days event.

Residents will have the opportunity to discover artefacts saved during the city’s £154m stabilisation project, and explore the visual records created by archaeologists to preserve the heritage of the Combe Down Stone Mines. The museum is currently undergoing an extensive development programme and is searching for new trustees and volunteers to support its evolution.

If you are interested in finding out more about the stone mines or the organisation, attend the open day, where you'll be able to find more.

£1 million fund to support bees across the West of England

Popular pub reopens after refurbishment

GRANTS of up to £100,000 are to be offered to projects across the West of England which support the region’s bees.

The new funding was launched

by Metro Mayor Dan Norris on Thursday 4th August, at Grow Batheaston.

Whether it is planting blooming wildflower meadows in schools, installing bee-friendly green roofs on community buildings or working hand in hand with local people to construct brand-new “bee paths”, the grants will help pollinator-loving groups who are encouraged to apply.

Habitat loss and bee-harming pesticide use mean 35 UK bee species could go extinct in the next few years. However, simple steps such as planting trees and wildflowers can make a real difference.

Speaking ahead of the visit to Grow Batheaston, Metro Mayor Dan Norris who has pledged to make the West of England the “Bee and Pollinator Capital of the UK”, said:: “I’ve made bees a priority for the West of England Combined Authority I lead.

“Bees are quite simply vital to make sure crops are pollinated

THE Bathampton Mill has reopened to the public after undergoing a significant refurbishment that has seen the pub given a new look.

The Bathampton Mill continues to offer food inspired by the seasons and modern trends, alongside a range of grill dishes, Asian influences and healthier and lower calorie options.

Its new and improved décor has taken inspiration from the UK’s most luxurious country dining and drinking hotspots. The design combines earthy, wooden tones with a warm palette, brass finishes and smooth leather, creating an opulent and cosy feel.

Open log fires, plush velvet seating and feature lighting will also add a touch of glamour.

Expertly crafted furniture, eyecatching artwork and feature finishing touches help to make the pub unique.

The Bathampton Mill’s new look has also been inspired by its name and location, with waterinspired elements reflecting its

and we have food to eat. But our pollinator pals have faced a tough few years so they need a helping hand.

“That’s why I am delighted to announce this £1 million for projects looking to protect and expand habitats for our food heroes. Together, let’s “Bee” the change we want to see.”

Grow Batheaston is a Bath charity set up during the first Covid lockdown. It has inspired the Batheaston community to

plant their very own wildflower meadows to help the region’s food heroes.

Thanks to their efforts, over 500 native trees, 50 fruit trees and wildflower meadow have been planted, with the area now home to bees, butterflies, hoverflies and ladybirds. They also started their own Bee Club for residents to learn how to keep bees and get their very own beehive.

The closing date for applications is 18th September 2022.

location on the River Avon.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by a plush green leather buttoned feature, with high-backed, scalloped seating in the dining room.

Custom landscape wallpaper lines the back bar, reflecting the pub’s location by taking cues from the surroundings.

General Manager, Kiran Purewal said: “My team and I are excited to see the new look Bathampton Mill – we knew we were in for a change, but the results are already breathtaking.

“The pub is undergoing a true transformation, while still retaining popular features like our terrace, gorgeous garden, and three open fireplaces. I’ve been at The Bathampton Mill for two and half years now, and I can’t wait to welcome our regulars back and show off the refurbishment!

“New guests are sure to be impressed too, and with our fabulous new look I think we’ll have a lot walking through our doors – my fantastic team are ready to welcome all.”

Five for £500!

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COMPETITION

This issue's exclusive code is:

4 Xu g UYw S r J

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

Collect the fourth code in our next issue, out on 23rd 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/

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Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

Holidaymakers being encouraged to pack self-care essentials LOCAL health leaders are encouraging residents to pack self-care essential to help them enjoy the summer safely, whether they are at home or further afield.

The simple advice comes as many families will be going away for the first time since the start of the pandemic, and at a time when NHS services are experiencing an intense level of sustained demand.

A holiday first-aid kit, which contains the usual items found in the average home’s medicine cabinet, as well as travel essentials, such as sun cream, antihistamines and plasters, can help prevent unnecessary trips to

the nearest hospital emergency department or walk-in centre.

Sun-safe clothing and accessories, such as sunglasses, hats and loose-fitting clothes, should also feature on the suitcase checklist, along with painkillers, bite cream and aftersun.

Being prepared with the right kit, as well as knowing how to deal with minor illness and injury when it occurs, will mean treatment can be applied quickly and helps to ensure busy frontline NHS teams to focus their attention on people most in need of their care.

Gill May, Chief Nurse at the Bath and North East Somerset,

Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “The advice we’re giving out is nothing new, but it may help as a timely reminder amid the excitement of a long-awaited trip away.

“Planning ahead, being prepared and remembering all the usual holiday precautions, such as not drinking to excess, wearing sun cream, packing prescription medicine and staying hydrated, will help people enjoy their getaway, while staying safe and healthy.”

People enjoying a summer staycation are also encouraged to plan ahead to see what local health facilities, such as community pharmacies, are near

their destination.

Pharmacies can be a good resource for people unfamiliar with where they are staying, as not only can pharmacists provide quick health advice without the need for a person to be registered at a nearby GP practice, they can also dispense prescriptions and advise on other overthe-counter items.

Those heading abroad are also advised to pack a first-aid kit,

and to download the NHS App to their smartphone or table, so that health advice and information is instantly available whenever required.

Gill May continued: “It’s also really important to remember that Covid-19 is still with us and those who start to show symptoms of Covid-19 while on holiday should, wherever possible, limit their contact with others and rest up until feeling better.”

Pensioners urged not to miss out on cost-of-living payment PENSIONERS across Bath on a low income are being urged to claim for Pension Credit now, or risk missing out on £650 of extra help towards the cost of living this year.

Age UK Bath & North East Somerset say residents have until Thursday 18th August to put in a claim for Pension Credit in order to qualify for the Government’s £650 cost-of-living payment.

The charity is urging all older people who are struggling to make ends meet and who are not already in receipt of Pension Credit to put in a claim without delay, so they don’t risk missing out.

Announced as part of a support package in May, the government’s Cost of Living Payment will be paid to those in receipt of Pension Credit and other qualifying benefits in two lump sums of £326 and £324.

The first will be paid automatically between mid-end July and the second will be paid in the autumn.

To be eligible for the first lump

sum, older people must have been entitled to a Pension Credit payment, or later found to be entitled to a payment, in the period 26th April – 25th May 2022.

Because a successful application for Pension Credit can be backdated by three months, those who begin the claiming process before 18th August are guaranteed to meet the eligibility criteria.

Age UK is stepping up its call for people to put in a claim for this benefit.

As well as providing a muchneeded income boost and automatically qualifying them for the government’s Cost of Living Payment, Pension Credit also opens the door to a wide range of additional support including: • A Cold Weather Payment of £25, paid automatically when the average temperature is 0°C or below over seven consecutive days • £140 off electricity bill thorough the Warm Home Discount Scheme (if eligible)

MONEY SAVING TIPS SAVE ON FOOD BILLS

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ELCOME to the latest in our series of features aimed at helping residents across the Bath area to save money. With the everyday cost of living rising significantly in recent months, we'll be offering top tips in coming issues on certain topics. This time, we're offering advice on food, including cutting your bills and making the most of what you've got in the cupboard.

■ Set a budget for your shop When heading off to do your food shop, or before you start your online order, set a budget. This will help focus your spending, and then if possible you can try and spend less. If you're not sure what budget to set, take

• A free TV licence (if over-75) • Free NHS dental treatment and help towards the cost of glasses and travel to hospital • Help with Council Tax and rent • Cheaper phone and home broadband deals • Reduced water bills • An extra amount of Pension Credit for some carers worth up to £37.70 a week.

Pension Credit tops up the weekly income of a single pensioner to £182.60 or a pensioner couple to £278.70, or higher in some circumstances.

Pension Credit comes in two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit and it’s separate from the State Pension.

Despite considerable financial benefits, a third (34 per cent) of pensioners eligible to claim Pension Credit are still missing out.

The government’s own figures show that 770,000 eligible pensioner households are not receiving their Pension Credit payments, worth around £1.5 billion every year, an average of

£1,900 a year, per household.

Age UK says it has been inundated with stories from older people who are struggling to get by and worried about rising bills and how they’ll cover all the extra costs of living this year.

Gayle is in her mid-70s and lives alone. She struggled financially until Age UK organised a benefits check.

She said: “Age UK’s help was lifechanging and meant I didn’t have to worry about bills for the first time in my life.”

However, with high inflation, the increasing cost of living, and huge energy prices, Gayle worries that she will once again struggle to make ends meet.

Gayle commented: “Having the Age UK benefits check has made a huge difference to my life.

“That little bit of extra money has made difference to what I can do on a day-to-day basis.

“My energy bills are safe until after the new year, but when you see prices going up and up and up, it makes you worry about what might happen when my

deal runs out.

“How can pensioners afford these increases when the state pension doesn’t cover half of it?”

Simon Allen, CEO at Age UK Bath & North East Somerset said: “It’s not too late – there is still a window of opportunity for older people on low incomes to qualify for the first part of the government’s £650 cost-of-living payment this year, so we urge people to claim without delay, so they don’t miss out.

“Pension Credit not only gives a significant boost to people’s weekly income; it also opens the door to a wealth of extra support including help with energy bills, a free TV licence and discounts off household bills.

“We know that around three quarters of a million pensioners are missing out on this important benefit right now.

“Contact us today for more information.”

To contact Age UK Bath & North East Somerset, call 01225 466135 or email advice@ageukbanes. co.uk.

Helping Bath's residents with the cost of living crisis

a look at your receipts for the past few months and create an average figure. By doing this, you can see what products you're spending most on - there may be an alternative that's cheaper and still tastes just as good.

■ Cooking from scratch For some people, cooking from scratch isn't possible due to time constraints, however it's one of the best ways to save money on your food bills. Buying ingredients and cooking meals yourself, instead of purchasing ready meals isn't just cost effective, it can also be healthier. Try to buy as many store cupboard ingredients as possible when they are on offer.

Tins and dried food are perfect for those on a budget, and pasta, rice, noodles and pulses can be used to bulk out or become the base of many meals.

■ Buy frozen (if you have space) Frozen food used to be regarded as lower quality, but you'll be surprised at what's now available.

Buying frozen goods such as meat, fish, fruit and vegetables can save you up to 50 per cent when compared to buying fresh.

If you've spotted reduced items that are on their sell-by date that day, it's well worth buying them.

Milk, butter, bread and grated cheese can all be frozen and defrosted when required.

■ Bulk buying Many supermarkets offer attractive pricing for larger packs of products, however only make the purchase if you'll actually use them. The majority of the time, buying in bulk will save you money, however check to see if the smaller packs are on offer - occasionally it will work out

cheaper to buy two smaller packs of the same item than the larger multipacks.

■ Storing your food properly It may not seem very important to store your food as directed on labels, however if it saves you throwing food away, it's well worth it.

Around 20 per cent of food is thrown away, so ensuring items are suitably stored will help with this. For example, potatoes and onions should be stored in a cool, dry place instead of the fridge, but they shouldn't be kept together as the gases they produce will harm each other.

The majority of vegetables can be stored in your fridge, though it's best not to keep them at the bottom as this is where they are coldest. Keep them in a container

on a shelf higher up in the fridge and you'll have fresh vegetables for a few extra days.

■ Organise your cupboards We're all guilty of buying products that we already had in the cupboard, but had forgotten about. Have a sort out in your food cupboards and see what's hiding at the back. As well as rediscovering items, it's also a perfect opportunity to clear out ingredients and old items that you won't use, and it will make all-important space for your next shopping trip.

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Cheap Street set to close this summer for security works CHEAP Street in the centre of Bath could be closed for a number of months due to planned works as part of the implementation of new security measures.

Residents, businesses and Blue Badge holders are being advised about the upcoming closure, and have been invited to a webinar on Thursday 11th August.

They will be able to discuss the works taking place and planned access arrangements with Bath & North East Somerset Council’s project team and contractor.

As utilities at the entrance to Cheap Street are being diverted, contractors will need a full road closure with no access for any vehicles at any time.

It is anticipated the closure will start later in the summer and run through into the winter, though dates for the closure have not yet been confirmed.

Blue Badge holders will still be able to access and park in Cheap Street, Westgate Street and Upper Borough Walls but will need to enter via Westgate Buildings and exit via Upper Borough Walls.

When the works start, the diversions will be clearly signposted, and marshals will

be available to do their usual security checks and help people at Westgate Buildings.

Pedestrian access will be maintained for people who are walking or wheeling and the works in footways will be subject to pedestrian controls to facilitate works and keep people safe.

The local authority has said that the construction works will not prevent traders, or their customers, from accessing premises.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We are holding a webinar so residents, business owners and Blue Badge holders who will be affected by the temporary closure, can speak to the project team.

“We will do all we can to minimise disruption and to make sure people are aware businesses are open as usual during this phase of the works.”

Due to the unique nature of the city and highway construction, there are a number of challenges within the planned security improvements programme.

These include working above existing vaults and cellars, working in close proximity to

Cheap Street in Bath | Photo © Colin Peachey / Shutterstock.com

utility apparatus and maintaining access to the restricted streets for exempt vehicles.

The council has carried out

investigative works but until contractors get on site the construction timeline is estimated and completion dates

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD Fraud and cybercrime are the most common criminal offences in the UK. As the threat continues to grow and evolve, it’s important to remember one thing - most of it can be prevented.

By following just a few steps, you can make it harder for fraudsters to steal your money or personal information when online, on the phone or at your front door.

can’t be guaranteed.

Those wishing to attend the webinar should register at: https://bathecho.uk/3w5hbGv

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Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

Six spaces awarded prestigious Green Flag award status

MP backs bill to ensure regular bus services

A NUMBER of parks and green spaces in and around Bath have been awarded a prestigious status, recognising them as some of the best in the country.

Alexandra Park, Bloomfield Green, Henrietta Park, Hedgemead Park and Royal Victoria Park have all retained a coveted Green Flag award.

Haycombe Cemetery, also run

by Bath & North East Somerset Council, achieved its first award since 2015 for its green spaces.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Councillor Mark Roper, cabinet assistant for Neighbourhood Services, said: “I’m delighted to hear the announcement of these six Green Flags for Bath, which recognise that residents are

BATH MP Wera Hobhouse, the Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson, is supporting a new law that would ensure people can access healthcare using public transport.

The Bus Bill, tabled

by Lib Dem MP Helen Morgan, would place a duty on the Government to ensure that every town with a population of more than 10,000 people has a regular bus service operating seven days a week.

The Bill would also ensure that local health services, including hospitals and GP surgeries, are served by those buses.

Mrs Hobhouse, who recently took over the transport brief, has lauded the Bill as an opportunity to better connect those left isolated by “shockingly poor” bus service provision.

She has blamed Conservative “mismanagement” for bus service cuts and poor provision in rural areas.

Mrs Hobhouse has been

Volunteers, Councillor Roper and parks staff at Hedgemead Park

working alongside the council to improve our green spaces.

“Thank you to all the volunteer groups and Friends groups who do trojan work in maintaining our parks, helping to increase biodiversity as well as the quality of our public spaces.”

Any green space that is freely accessible to the public is eligible to enter for a Green Flag Award.

Awards are given on an annual basis and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag Award status.

A Green Flag Community Award recognises quality sites managed by voluntary and community groups. Green Heritage Site Accreditation is judged on the treatment of the site’s features and the standard of conservation.

campaigning to bring back Bath’s buses after the Government refused to extend funding to alleviate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rural areas surrounding Bath have also been badly affected.

Wera Hobhouse said: “It is astonishing that so many people in rural areas are forced to fork out for taxis to access basic services like healthcare because of shoddy public transport.

“This Conservative Government is leaving people disconnected from vital services.

“In Bath and North East Somerset bus services have been cut again and again. Helen’s Bill would ensure that people are not left disconnected from essential services and I hope that the Government decides to take action and backs this Bill. We need a long-term plan for buses across the country. It’s clear that the Government’s current approach is simply not working.”

STOP. CHALLENGE. PROTECT.

WANT TO KNOW MORE

Go to www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk for more information on keeping yourself safe and to provide feedback.

DON’T FEEL PRESSURED

Just because someone knows your basic details doesn’t mean they’re genuine.

YOUR MONEY

Protect your money. Don’t feel rushed into handing over money or financial information, take time to think about it and talk to someone you trust.

SOCIAL

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Your bank, or any other official organisation, won’t ask you to share personal information over the phone, email or text, be aware of unexpected contact. If you are asked for personal information check that it’s genuine, call them directly using contact details on their official website or correspondence.

STAY SAFE

CREATE STRONG RANDOM PASSWORDS FOR YOUR DEVICES KEEP YOUR DEVICES UP TO DATE VERIFY WHO YOU ARE TALKING TO ONLINE, OVER THE PHONE OR EVEN AT YOUR DOOR

/aandspcc

If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or alternatively call 0300 123 2040.

If you receive a suspicious email report it to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you receive a suspicious text forward it to 7726 (free of charge)

7

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Issue 032

No cost of living support available for park home residents

Construction underway at battery storage site

BATH MP Wera Hobhouse has criticised the Government for “abandoning” park home residents after it was revealed that they will be excluded from cost of living support.

The MP had raised concerns that residents, like those who live at Quarry Rock Gardens, were being overlooked, and the funding support will instead go to the owner of the land.

Park home residents will not be entitled to receive the £400 energy bill rebate, which was announced by the Chancellor earlier in the year to support households with rising energy costs.

Over 85,000 households live in park homes, meaning that site owners will be saving up to £34 million from the scheme, with no guarantees that any savings will be passed on to residents.

Park home residents are also suffering from rising pitch fees, an issue that Wera Hobhouse raised in Parliament earlier in the year.

The fees are soaring because they are linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) rather than the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is much lower.

The Government has stated its intention to switch the cap on pitch fee rises from the RPI to the much lower CPI but has not yet brought forward the legislation.

Wera Hobhouse MP commented: “Park home residents like those in Quarry Rock Gardens are rightly worried about the soaring cost of living.

WORK has got underway on the creation of a new battery storage site in the town of Midsomer Norton near Bath, which is hoped will help power thousands of homes.

Conrad Energy held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site on Thursday 28th July, attended by the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Councillor Lynda Robertson, alongside cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel and deputy leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, Councillor Sarah Warren.

The battery storage project will help towards the local authority’s net zero strategy.

Chris Shears, Conrad Energy’s Chief Development Officer, said: “The role of battery storage in our future energy mix is increasingly important as we strive both as a nation and at the local level to balance the rapid growth of renewable energy sources as we accelerate towards net-zero carbon emissions.

“The project fits with Conrad Energy’s strategy to support the energy transition through owning and operating resilient and flexible power generation and storage assets that provide vital grid services particularly at times of low wind production and when demand is high.

“We will have 200MWh of batteries operational by the end of this year and plan to deploy 1000MWh in the coming years to support our vision for Conrad Energy as a full-service

“Now, they are being excluded from the energy bill discount as well as facing escalating pitch fees. The Conservatives are asleep at the wheel.

“Residents are being denied the support that they have been promised and that they deserve.

“Park home residents are often older and living on low and fixed incomes.

“This makes them extremely vulnerable in this cost of living crisis. Instead of receiving muchneeded support, wealthy site owners are taking advantage.

“Whilst the Conservatives argue amongst themselves over who should be Prime Minister, there are thousands of people who are slipping through the cracks.

“The Government needs to focus on the task at hand and ensure that park home residents receive the support they so desperately

need.”

Cllr Alison Born commented: “Once again residents in Park Homes are being overlooked by the Conservatives.

“Some residents in Quarry Rock Gardens have to buy their energy through the site owner and are worried that they may be excluded from cost of living support.

“They are entitled to the £400 discount and the government must ensure that it finds its way to Park Home residents instead of wealthy site owners.

“The Government must also stick to their promise to bring the methods for calculating pitch fees into line with other countries in the UK. Changing the link from RPI to CPI is an easy measure that would help ease the soaring cost of living and would make a big difference to residents.”

Cutting the ribbon at the site Photo © Rebecca Faith Photo

power solutions provider, supporting both the grid as well as commercial and industrial customers.”

Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: “We are very pleased to be playing host to this significant new battery storage facility from Conrad Energy and applaud the role it will play in creating the smarter and more flexible energy system we need to get us to net zero 2030.”

Breaking ground at the site marks the start of a three-month construction project, which will incorporate Tesla Megapacks which will supply power equivalent to the average power needs of nearly 14,000 homes for two hours as well as providing grid stability services to National Grid and Western Power Distribution.

The scheme is anticipated to be fully operational in November 2022.

Fire service sees 17 per cent increase in emergency calls AVON Fire & Rescue Service saw a 17% increase in emergency calls in the year ending April 2022, an annual report has revealed.

Control firefighters answered nearly 21,000 calls in the past 12 months, compared to almost 18,000 the previous year, seeing increases in all incident types across the community.

Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton

said: “The past 12 months saw a significant increase in calls across the board.

“The pandemic has continued to bring about societal change with how people live and this is continuing to have an impact on the number and nature of incidents we have attended.”

Following the increase in calls, firefighters attended 2,763 fires in 2021/2022, compared to 2,605 in

the previous year.

470 accidental fires in residential homes were recorded, with most incidents taking place at mealtimes and involving cooking, often caused by distractions.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service have a duty to attend all fires and dedicate resources to reducing risk in the community by preventing fires.

Simon continued: “By better

understanding the causes of fires and risk in the community, we can dedicate our efforts to raising awareness of fire risk and keeping local people safe in the community.”

The fire service has increased the offering of free Home Fire Safety Visits to include more residents with wider eligibility criteria.

Local residents are encouraged to request a Home Fire Safety

Visit to receive personalised fire safety advice for their home by using the online safety checker.

Simon added: “While it is impossible to gauge the extent of the impact of the pandemic, I am incredibly proud of the Service all of our staff have provided to the community and ultimately, helped us in Making Our Communities Safer and Making Our Service Stronger.”

waste a thing of the past for every community? Here's your opportunity! https://bathecho.uk/3oUErmo

ready when you are; grab yours today at either the Larkhall or Widcombe branches of Larkhall Butchers (who also supply the meat used in all of Ping's non-vegetarian options). www.larkhallbutchers.co.uk

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Right now, The Pig is mostly...

EAGERLY anticipating experiencing the results of The Bathampton Mill's significant revamp and glamorous transformation, which was revealed to the public on Saturday 6th August; dive in! www.thebathamptonmill.co.uk GRABBING every opportunity to go Bottomless Brunching at the Green Park Brasserie. Of course, you don’t have to go Bottomless (as in, complement the Classic Brunch menu with unlimited Prosecco, Bloody Mary, etc) for your 2-hour/£37pp residency between 11am-3pm Friday-Satur-

day and 11am-7pm on Sundays… but hey, it’s the weekend!

You can afford to treat yourself to a little siesta afterwards, yes? https://bathecho.uk/3bzIPEo NUDGING all those who love to cook great food, serve great food, make new friends or just generally enjoy Doing Good Things!

The fabulous FoodCycle Bath peeps need your skills every Wednesday evening at their Nexus Methodist Church HQ (Nelson Place). Want to contribute to the FoodCycle vision to make food poverty, loneliness and food

SOLVING that “what are you having for dinner this evening?” conundrum by chilling out, digging into my freezer and unearthing an authentic Malaysian ready meal created by none other than MasterChef champion Ping Coombes.

All the dishes in the Ping at Home range are freshly cooked using locally sourced ingredients before being fast-frozen, making them

GEARING up to indulge in festival fever on the 19/20 August when the UK's largest Gin & Rum Festival tour comes to The Pavilion (North Parade Road).

Expect samples a-plenty from guest distillers, masterclasses

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

8

www.bathecho.co.uk

20-mile route launched for walkers to explore Bath from every angle

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

Trips and falls lead to changes in Keynsham

Nicole Daw from Cotswolds National Landscape and volunteers who have helped with waymarking the route

A WAYMARKED circular route has been unveiled by Bathscape for walkers to explore the countryside and view the city from every angle.

The 20.5-mile Circuit of Bath takes in river, canal, meadows, woodland and valleys and provides the opportunity to walk in any season.

It passes classic Bath landmarks in the landscape, including Little Solsbury Hill, Beckford’s Tower, Dundas Aqueduct, the Kennet & Avon Canal, Millennium viewpoint and the Wansdyke.

The route also includes the villages of Woolley, Upper Swainswick, Bathampton, Monkton Combe, South Stoke and Englishcombe.

With its compact layout and surrounding hills and valleys, Bath is known as one of the most beautiful and most walkable cities in the UK. Bathscape project manager, Dan Merrett, said: “This is a significant milestone in our project and one of which we are very proud.

“Through our project partner, Cotswolds National Landscape, we have made physical improvements to the route including installing waymarkers and we now have trail guides ready to use, splitting the route into four sections.

“Walkers can really challenge themselves whilst experiencing the best of Bath as a landscape city. We’re grateful to the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens and

Bath Ramblers for all their work and to the players of the National Lottery, which are funding the project.”

Bathscape has worked with a group of volunteers to complete the improvements and waymarking and has recently recruited a team of volunteer rangers to look after the route.

Working with experienced wardens, volunteers have taken on a stretch of the route that they walk regularly, keeping it well maintained and easy to walk.

The new rangers recently joined the volunteers who worked on the path improvements at a thank you event.

Councillor Mark Roper, cabinet assistant for Neighbourhood Services, said: “Many people enjoyed taking walks in their local area during the pandemic.

“This new walking route offers a longer connected path around our beautiful city and surrounding countryside. It’s also a great motivator for people who want to improve their fitness or wellbeing.

“The Circuit of Bath walking route is accessible by public transport and the easy-to-use guides and waymarking will get you round safely. For people who already know the route, why not take a couple of hours a month to help as a ranger and help others enjoy our beautiful local landscape?”

The route is based on the Julian House Circuit of Bath walk, which the Bath-based charity has been

checking and refining every year since 2001. People looking for a challenge who want to try to walk the full distance in one day can sign up to the sponsored walk on Sunday, 25th September. You can register for it at https://www. circuitofbathwalk.co.uk/.

On this date, Julian House will provide checkpoints, with water, snacks and toilets and a shuttle bus in case you want to shorten the walk.

You’ll be able to raise vital money to support people experiencing homelessness and escaping domestic abuse.

The Julian House walk is the finale of the annual Bathscape Walking Festival, featuring more than 60 walks on different themes and in different locations.

For a more leisurely approach to the route, the walk has been divided into four sections linking to public transport stops.

The route maps, step-bystep instructions and travel information are available at https://www.bathscape.co.uk/ activity/circuit-of-bath-hikingroute/.

A team of volunteers have been checking and rechecking the instructions, but continued feedback on the walk and the guides is welcomed by emailing info@bathscape.co.uk.

Bathscape has said it will continue working with Cotswolds National Landscape and Bath Ramblers to carry out more improvement works on the route.

Keynsham High Street | Photo © B&NES Council

Alex Seabrook

Local Democracy Reporter

BIG changes have taken place on Keynsham High Street after a number of reported trips, falls and collisions.

The new cycle lane along the High Street has been changed to make it safer, after Bath and North East Somerset Council received complaints.

Red tarmac has been installed along the length of the cycle lane, and more cycle symbol markings painted along the lane.

The width of the solid white lane marking the edge of the lane has also been reduced.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for transport, said: “People’s safety is our first priority. We have listened to concerns from residents and sought advice to solve the issues that have been raised.”

A recent road safety audit of the High Street scheme referenced “the risk of trips and falls, cyclists being unseated and conflicts with vehicles”, but the council said the audit team ultimately found “no fundamental issues” with the design or construction.

The new changes are intended to make the cycle lane easier for pedestrians to see, as well as avoiding any trips and falls.

Cllr Rigby added: “We are acting on both recommendations from the audit and the design exercise.

“We will also add some extra planters in the forthcoming months, which we hope will further improve safety by directing people more clearly towards the pedestrian crossings.

“We are sorry for any inconvenience while the improvement works are carried out next week, but we are working hard to minimise disruption to the High Street.

“We are keeping the High Street under close review and will be meeting on a quarterly basis with the Highway Authority to ensure safety is maintained.”

The audit report noted that between June 2014 and February 2017 there were three slight collisions and four serious collisions along the High Street – four between vehicles and crossing pedestrians, two between cyclists and vehicles, and one ‘rear shunt’.

Between then and the latest period on record, up to May 2022, no personal injury collisions were recorded according to the report.

However, the audit noted that “pedestrian trips and falls had been raised as a concern locally” following the regeneration scheme.

This included 46 reports in total, of which 17 were in the fortnight after opening, 21 in the following month (April) and eight in May. It was noted that some of the logged reports were multiple reports about the same event.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

A

UGUST has arrived and the summer season continues.

It has been brilliant watching Bath reopen post pandemic.

Indeed, this past month there has been much for people to enjoy.

Bath’s Smoked and Uncut festival returned with great success and the parades at Bath Carnival were enjoyed by many.

I have loved seeing all the festivities while I have been busy on engagement days and supporting

key initiatives across Avon and Somerset.

It was a real joy to join Radio Bath’s Simon-McNeil Richie recently to discuss policing issues in Bath, like anti-social behaviour (ASB) and making our streets safer. We also talked about my first year in post as Police and Crime Commissioner and my ambitions for Avon and Somerset Police under my Police and Crime Plan.

On the topic of ASB, I also recent-

ly met with Bath’s new neighbourhood police commander, Chief Inspector Ronnie Lungu, and MP Wera Hobhouse to talk about issues like (ASB) and how we can protect young people from getting involved in entry level drug taking and serious violence. ASB can have a long-lasting impact on the lives of victims and communities and so I am actively supporting Avon and Somerset police and their new ASB ser-

vice standard which ensures they are delivering a service that supports victims of ASB and deals robustly with perpetrators.

On another note, I’m excited to share that the Home Office has awarded Avon and Somerset nearly £1.4 million to tackle neighbourhood crime such as burglary, robbery and theft from a person or vehicle crime.

Bath and North East Somerset will receive £329,152 of this money to improve lighting and CCTV provisions, especially in Bath city centre. The fund will also be used to support youth outreach to support young people and divert them from offending. Great news for preventing crime and keeping our streets safer in Bath.

Until next time, fare thee well.

Issue 032

9

Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789

Pictures from the Past: Lost pubs - Lost in Larkhall IN 2003, Akeman Press published its first book – Bath Pubs. This narrated the story behind all the pubs then existing within the city of Bath, illustrated by our own recently-taken photographs.

We little thought then what an historic document it would prove to be, and what changes those photographs would show nearly 20 years on. Pubs have closed at a terrifying rate and Bath Pubs

today would be a much slimmer volume.

Last week we looked at three lost pubs in the southwest corner of the city. This week we travel right across Bath to Larkhall to discover two pubs lost in recent times. By and large, the area has managed to cling on to its watering-holes successfully, despite some ups and downs.

The first pub to go, perhaps surprisingly, was the Brains

Surgery, formerly the Royal Oak, at 36 and 37 Dafford Street. The building is extremely striking – a typical late 19th-century redbrick pub looming over its neighbours, a row of early 19thcentury terraced cottages. The row originally ran further north, into what is now the middle of the road, ending at No. 38, which was a pub which opened in 1841 as a grocery-cum-beerhouse. By the 1890s it was run by George Biggs, an experienced landlord.

He applied for permission to build a new house at Nos 36 and 37, with a full licence, in return for handing over No 38 to the council, so that they could demolish it and widen the street.

Not surprisingly, the councillors accepted. Eventually, the pub was taken over by Brains Brewery of South Wales, who rechristened it the Brains Surgery. It even

featured in one of Peter Lovesey’s books about his fictional detective Peter Diamond. But in 2010 it was deemed not to be a community asset and permission was granted for it to be converted to student digs.

On the southern corner of Larkhall, at 1 Beaufort West, was a pub latterly known as FILOs – an acronym of its original name First In, Last Out . The main part of the building dates from around 1820. In 1858, Henry Burford opened a post office and bakery at 8 Balustrade, while next door, at 1 Beaufort West, was Mr West, who opened a beerhouse, which later became a wine merchants.

Around 1900, James Butcher, a carriage painter, turned it back into a pub called the First In, Last Out. Eventually, the pub took over the shop – maps indicate this was postwar, when it was owned by

Ushers – and added an extension, removing the Italianate front of No. 1 seen in our postcard.

In 2009 it began a series of name changes. First it became the Beaufort. A year later it was renamed One Beaufort but kept switching between the two.

Finally, in 2018, it ceased to be a pub and became a vegan restaurant called Nourish.

However, there had already been one attempt by the owners, West Country Pubs Ltd, to turn the place into accommodation and in 2019 they reapplied. Despite objections from the public and the council’s own economic development department, which stated there was no evidence to support that the claim that there had been no interest when the property had been marketed for its original use, the application was granted.

The unidentified identified - Men on a jolly READERS may remember that a few weeks ago the paper featured this picture of a group of men on a coach trip.

The message on the back told us it was sent from 5 Julian Road, and that one of the young men, a hairdresser, was nephew to Bob Jarvis. The card was sent to Mr Jarvis at Lyneham. Could anyone supply more information, we at Akeman Press asked. For once, the answer was yes.

I received an email from Jon Cope, who lives in Bath, and he told a curious and eventually tragic story. The hairdresser was Arthur William Jarvis, born in Battersea, in 1889, but by 1891 he is listed at 19 Beauford Square, Bath, as ‘a nurse-child’, indicating he was being cared for by Job

Hadrill, a carpenter, and his wife Marianne. The Jarvis family lived in Lyneham and the Hadrills originally came from Kington Langley, so there may have been a family connection. Job was 52 at this time and Marianne was 62, with a grown-up family of their own. Marianne died in 1901 and Job in 1911, by which time Arthur was already a hairdresser. Two years later, he married Rosina Westlake, eventually settling at 2 Brunswick Place, where he lived until his death in 1961.

But what of the senders from 5 Julian Road? Although Mrs Crook lived there, and seems to have been the sender, it was also a fruiterers, run by James Baker.

He was secretary of the Salisbury Club in Walcot, which, in July 1911, had organised a day trip

to Cheddar for the Bath Junior Conservatives.

As the three open-topped buses were making their way back, James Baker, steward on the middle bus, went upstairs to make a collection for the driver.

He was suddenly swept off the top of the bus by an overhanging tree branch and fractured his skull. He died shortly afterwards in the farmhouse at Plummer’s Farm, near Priddy. He was just 40 years old.

Mr Cope is a relative of James Baker and without his help, we would never have known that, behind this postcard of a cheerful outing in 1912, lay such intriguing and tragic stories.

A longer version of the stories will be published in the September edition of the Local Look.

Akeman Press kindly provides archive images both here in our newspaper, and in our email newsletter, the Bath Echo Weekly.

Subscribe today by visiting www.bathecho.co.uk/subscribe

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11

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Issue 032

Community ‘My City, My Shirt’ portrait project embarks on local tour A SPECIAL project celebrating the diversity of Bath City FC fans has embarked on a tour of the city following its launch earlier this year.

The ‘My City, My Shirt’ project, which launched in May, aims to promote the message of inclusivity and local identity across Bath and was first exhibited at Twerton Park.

Since its launch, the exhibition has been displayed at the World Heritage Centre in York Street and is now touring the city on a Park and Ride bus before guesting at other venues.

Local photographer Nick Smith created the portraits for the project, a partnership between Bath City FC and antidiscrimination organisations Fans for Diversity and Kick It Out, with support from Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The photos were taken at significant Bath locations and convey what being part of Bath City FC means to the person in the photo, both through the image and through their personal thoughts displayed below it.

Thoughts like: “I love that all the players and the managers talk to you”, “It’s so inclusive”, “It’s so friendly” and “There’s a real

sense of belonging” capture the strong sense of community at the club.

After its tour of the city, the exhibition will be placed on permanent display at Twerton Park to highlight the club’s inclusivity message now and in the future.

Jane Jones, Bath City FC’s Community Director, said: “These portraits, and more importantly the stories that they represent, are a great celebration of all that Bath City FC has to offer in terms of being a welcoming, friendly club that celebrates the breadth and depth of all our community.

“We are thrilled that the portraits are now heading off into the city to share the celebration!”

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, Communities and Culture, added: “It’s great news that My City, My Shirt is visiting different parts of the city for more people to enjoy. It reflects and celebrates the diversity that sport attracts and the unity it can achieve.

“We are pleased to support this excellent project which encourages tolerance, empathy and understanding in our communities.”

Cllr Kevin Guy, Seb White, Cllr Dine Romero & General Manager Carole Banwell | Photo © B&NES Council

Five new firefighters to join Bath’s fire station after 14-week course

Funding to support Ukrainian refugees

AVON Fire & Rescue Service has welcomed five new firefighters to the station in Bath, following the graduation of recruits on Friday 29th July following an intensive 14-week course.

To mark the occasion, an official ceremony was held at the fire service’s training centre at Severn Park in Avonmouth.

The cohort of 23 trainee firefighters showcased their newly learnt skills during the event, demonstrating the training they have acquired throughout their rigorous firefighting course.

Having successfully completed their intensive training, the recruits will put their new skills into practice as they join Bath Fire Station across its four watches and kick-start their firefighting careers at Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

AF&RS Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton said: “I am incredibly proud of all the new recruits’ efforts, and am pleased to welcome them into Avon Fire & Rescue Service for what I hope will be long and successful careers.

“Aside from the challenging training that they’ve undertaken, the recruits have also had to contend with the after-effects of a pandemic.

“I’d like to extend my thanks to

GROUPS in Bath that have been supporting the arrival of refugees from Ukraine to the local area are being invited to bid for a share of new Government funding.

The B&NES Ukrainian Support Fund will support the integration of Ukrainian guests into communities to help promote their wellbeing, independence and skills.

The funding made available in the first round is £10,000 and bids are invited from charities, volunteer and community groups to benefit the groups of refugees they are supporting.

Organisations can apply to Bath & North East Somerset Council for up to £500 for a one-off event, or up to £2,000 to establish new services or extend an existing one.

The money allocated by central government could be used to provide services for groups such as access to translation, organising community events or working with faith groups to signpost the right advice and support.

The fund has been set up primarily to support people arriving from Ukraine, but the projects to be supported could be widened to include refugees from other countries.

Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton, FF Chapman and Chair of Avon Fire Authority Cllr Brenda Massey | Photo courtesy of Avon Fire & Rescue Service

the recruits’ for their hard work and for the unwavering support of their families.

Those joining the station include FF Shepherd, from Green Watch, who said: “I am really looking forward to getting onto my watch in Bath and serving the community to the best of my ability.”

FF Chapman, from Blue Watch said: “I can’t wait to get started at Bath, Blue Watch. Working in the city I grew up in and helping the community I know so well.”

FF Gapper, Blue Watch added: “I am looking forward to new challenges the job will pose and

the progressive learning that will be needed.

“With many opportunities available, I’m very excited to see where the service can take me.”

Joining Red Watch is FF Reader, and FF Roberts will be joining White Watch.

FF Reader said: “I’m really happy to be part of the AFRS team. I want to make my wife, family & friends proud as well as being an example to my daughter due in November this year.”

FF Roberts added: “After finding out that I’m being placed at Bath White Watch, I can’t wait to get started and meet the team.”

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “Councils continue to play a key role in helping Ukrainian guests integrate into our local communities and this new fund will help to strengthen those connections.

“It will also promote the wellbeing and future prospects for our Ukrainian groups.

“The money could be used to support them to improve English language skills, employment skills and independence.

“Local organisations who have detailed understanding of the needs of the groups they support are invited to bid for a share of the £10,000.

“The grants will help people who have arrived from Ukraine to thrive in their new communities.”

The first round of funding will be available until 20th January but will close earlier if all funds have been allocated.

To apply to the fund, visit: https ://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/ apply-ukraine-support-fund.

Certain criteria must be met for organisations that apply, which is available via the website link.

Anyone needing help to apply can contact Mark Hayward on 01225 396975 or email mark_ hayward@bathnes.gov.uk.

12

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

Health Feedback leads to further improvements at hospital

Locals urged to spend more time outside

FEEDBACK received from patients and visitors has helped towards improvements in departments across the Royal United Hospital The hospital encourages patients and visitors to let them know what is working well and what could be improved, with the feedback collated by the RUH’s Patient Experience team.

The team then works with departments and clinical areas across the site to act on the feedback and introduce improvements where possible.

Recent improvements have included: • Improved signage – Patients said that more signage was needed to help them find the Fracture & Orthopaedic Clinic and the Trauma Assessment Unit. In response, the Estates and Facilities team installed new signs and relocated others to improve wayfinding.

• The Breast Radiotherapy Consultant Service developed a questionnaire to review the service and the information they provide to patients. As a result of the feedback, the team improved the information available for patients, ensuring they had all the information they needed about the service • The Osteoporosis team reviewed their patients’ experience of telephone consultations. As a result of the feedback, they made changes to the information in appointment letters to explain what patients can expect at their appointment. They also ensured that appointment options for patients with a physical or sensory impairment were clear and easy to understand.

• The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provided a

PEOPLE are being encouraged to take advantage of the warm weather and longer days to spend more time outside and improve their mental health and wellbeing.

During National Allotment Week, taking place between 8th and 14th August, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) NHS Trust, is urging everyone to embrace the environment and feel the benefits.

AWP is part of a pilot project, known as Green Social Prescribing, which enables health care professionals to refer people to nature-based activities.

From exploring green spaces and connecting with the environment, to exercising outdoors and growing your own plants and produce, many studies have shown that bringing nature into your life can improve your mood, help you be more active, reduce stress, boost your confidence and open opportunities to connect with others.

In research following the pandemic, the Mental Health Foundation reported that 70% of UK adults agreed that being close to nature improves their mood, with 62% feeling the benefits of spending time in the countryside.

Ashley, a resident from Bath who suffers from anxiety and depression, said: “Just having the chance to get outside in the fresh air and sunshine makes me feel motivated. The smell of the freshly mown grass and the music of the birds is so soothing and gentle, it really helps to clear away the cobwebs.”

Mathew Page, Chief Operating Officer at AWP, said: “We know that connecting with nature has a huge range of physical and mental health benefits, so we

Jason Sellars and Reece Paginton, alongside one of the new signs | Photo © RUH

questionnaire to parents to help them to understand their experience of the Psychology Support Service available in the Neonatal Unit. As a result, the team improved the information about the Psychology Support Service and introduced a parents’ group.

Sharon Manhi, Lead for Patient and Carer Experience, said: “We really encourage hospital teams to collect patient and carer experience feedback, and to understand and use this feedback to improve services.

“We want to make patients’ experiences of the RUH as positive as possible, so we are always keen to hear what is working well or what we could be doing better.

“Thank you to everyone who takes the time to tell us about their experience – your comments are helping the RUH to continue to improve the services it offers to our patients and visitors.”

The Friends and Family Test is a national NHS survey which is a simple and anonymous way for

patients to give views on their experience of NHS services.

To share your experience of the RUH, you can complete the Friends and Family Test questionnaire here.

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

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

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

want to encourage people to use this month to get outside more.

“Whether it is walking with friends, open water swimming or growing your own fruit and vegetables on your allotment, you can start anytime and soon reap the benefits.”

AWP also runs an allotment project for veterans being treated within the mental health and wellbeing service called Op Courage.

The veterans are encouraged to share their experiences in an outdoor environment while transforming an overgrown allotment plot into a thriving garden of plants and produce.

Joanne Lawson, an occupational therapist who runs the allotment project, said: “Many veterans can feel quite isolated and alone, and have already tried more traditional help like medication, therapies and counselling.

“The allotment project offers them a project to focus on, meet others, share their experiences and improve how they are feeling.

It’s something they have become very passionate about.”

There are many ways you can embrace nature and the environment to help improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Top tips from AWP include: • Take time out from your busy day; notice the environment around you and appreciate your connection with nature.

• Start a gardening or outdoor project where you can relax and enjoy outside space.

• No garden? Visit a local park, community farm or walk through the countryside to connect with a friend.

• Exercise outdoors in the shade and stay hydrated.

Ambulance crews encourage people to Save Lives Together THOSE living across the South West of England are being asked to help save lives this summer with the South Western Ambulance Service and the region’s five air ambulance charities.

Data released by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) revealed that in the last six years, it has responded to and provided a resuscitation attempt for over 21,000 patients, following a cardiac arrest.

75% of these patients experienced a cardiac arrest at a private location such as a home or holiday address.

An out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a medical emergency when a person’s heart stops

beating suddenly, causing them to fall unconscious and to stop breathing normally.

Over the past six years, 65% of patients who experienced such an emergency were able to receive bystander CPR (chest compressions) before the arrival of the first ambulance response.

Together, SWASFT, Cornwall Air Ambulance, Devon Air Ambulance, Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance are encouraging residents and tourists to plan ahead to help Save Lives Together this summer.

They are asking people to: • Know how to describe their exact location in a remote or rural

area using What3Words – a free app which converts your location into a unique three-word address – so the emergency services can find you.

• Spend 15 minutes learning how to do CPR by visiting the SWASFT Saving Lives Together website.

Learn where the nearest defibrillator is to their home or holiday address by visiting the SWASFT Saving Lives Together website.

Ollie Zorab, Clinical Lead for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest at South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “With a high proportion of cardiac arrests taking place at a private location, it will sadly mean that you’re more likely to perform CPR on a loved one, than

you will on a stranger.

“We wanted to empower people this summer to know what to do, should the worst happen, so you can help us to help you.

“I often hear people say they would be worried about hurting somebody when performing CPR or using a defibrillator.

“In reality, when someone has a sudden, unexpected cardiac arrest, doing nothing is the only way of making their situation worse.

“Public access defibrillators are simple pieces of equipment

which are easy to use and don’t require any training, if you have to use a device, it will provide clear instructions telling you what you need to do.” Saving Lives Together is being supported by the region’s air ambulance charities.

Last year, around one in three missions for the South West’s air ambulances were to patients experiencing a cardiac arrest.

Air ambulance Critical Care teams are a crucial part of the SWASFT team, especially for time-critical emergencies such as cardiac arrest.

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Issue 032

Education Training academy to support disadvantaged groups in Bath

Plan to scrap BTECs deemed “short-sighted”

A NEW training academy to support people facing challenges with their mental health, homelessness, or overcoming addiction to find jobs has been launched.

The academy, which will support fifty people, was opened on Wednesday 3rd August and is located on St James's Parade.

Funded by £80,000 from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), which is led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris and delivered by the Bath charity Developing Health and Independence, the ‘West of England Peer Academy’ will help participants gain new skills and confidence to assist them when applying for jobs.

There will be digital skills courses and work placements, and peer mentors will use their own experience to help others going through similar situations.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who officially launched the fully accredited training scheme which will run until December, said: “We need to harness the skills of everyone if our brilliant

BATH MP Wera Hobhouse has called for BTEC qualifications to be saved, following plans by the Government to replace them with T-Levels.

During a debate in Parliament, Mrs Hobhouse called for a review of the upcoming defunding of BTECs and to reinstate their use to ensure that students from all walks of life and ability have the “opportunity and access” to education and learning for their future.

The Department for Education confirmed plans to introduce a ‘twin-track’ system of A-Levels and T-Levels, where most young people would undertake one of these qualifications at the age of 16.

As a result of this, funding for most BTEC qualifications would cease. Over 100 MPs and peers have urged the Secretary of State for Education to reassess their plan to scrap the majority of BTEC qualifications.

The Liberal Democrats oppose the removal of BTECs. The party argues that while there is value

Metro Mayor Dan Norris at the launch of the West of England Peer Academy

region is to prosper.

“I’m so pleased an £80,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority I lead will give people a helping hand to find good jobs and live

independent and fulfilling lives.

“The West of England Peer Academy will ensure people who just need a bit more support have the opportunities to build up their skills.”

in rationalising qualifications now and again, forcing students to choose between A-Levels and T-Levels will “narrow the choices for students and impact their transferable skills”.

Speaking after the debate, Wera Hobhouse MP said: “Scrapping BTECs threatens student choice.

Don’t get me wrong, T-Levels are a welcome development and I hope that they give future generations the technical skills they need to succeed.

“But, BTECs do that as well.

Removing them altogether does nothing but restrict choice for those at 16.

“The Conservatives must also give further education the attention it deserves.

“It is the worst funded sector in our cash-strapped education system.

“Earlier this year, Jayne Davis, the new principal of Bath College, told me that further education in this country is at a tipping point.

“The sector needs a long-term funding strategy, not just catchup funding.”

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www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

Business Truespeed connects 300th business £3,000 bus driver pay rise welcomed

BATH-BASED broadband provider Truespeed has connected the 300th business to its ultrafast network, helping transform the service offered to customers.

Hundreds of local businesses are now benefitting from Truespeed’s full-fibre broadband, including the 300th business customer Kelston Vets, who have been able to improve animal diagnostics.

Slow broadband speeds and unreliable connectivity prevent many businesses from growing in an age when a good connection can be vital to success.

Truespeed’s state-of-the-art network delivers symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 900Mbps for small to medium businesses, and up to 10Gbps for enterprise businesses.

Kelston Vets says the introduction of the fibre service has transformed animal diagnostics, helping pets recover and be reunited with their owners as quickly as possible.

Ian Cardiff, Veterinary Practitioner at Kelston Vets said: “’Our in-house laboratory equipment and digital x-ray system rely on a fast and reliable connection.

Connecting Kelston Vets to the Truespeed network

“Truespeed’s broadband allows us to send, receive and share patient’s results instantly, leading to a more rapid diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

“Truespeed took the time to understand our business and suggested a package that best suited our broadband requirements. We’re looking forward to growing Kelston Vets knowing all our online needs are covered, so we can continue

providing exceptional care for animals and their owners.”

James Lowther, Truespeed CEO commented: “Truespeed is working tirelessly to improve connectivity across the South West and we’re thrilled to have connected 300 businesses to ultrafast broadband.

“It’s great that Truespeed is helping so many local businesses thrive by providing full fibre broadband they can rely on.”

A PAY rise for bus drivers in the West of England has been welcomed as a key step to helping to fill more than 100 vacancies across the region.

New First bus drivers will see their base pay going up from over £24,000 to just over £27,000.

One of the issues causing cancellations and timetable changes in recent months has been a driver shortage.

The Covid-19 pandemic and bus drivers being “poached” to be HGV lorry drivers have been cited as causes.

The new pay deal will also help existing drivers deal with the cost-of-living crisis.

Drivers at First depots in Bath, Hengrove, Lawrence Hill, the central bus station in Bristol, Weston-super-Mare and Wells all supported the proposal.

The West of England Combined Authority is also working with First in supporting skills training to help people into the bus industry.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “This is part of the solution to tackle one of the long-term

challenges on buses – the serious driver shortage.

“I welcome this plan and praise the hard work from both First bus and Unite to reach this agreement. We must do all we can to recruit and retain drivers: they are vital key workers and we need more of them.

“There is no way we can meet our ambitious net-zero targets or make buses work better for passengers without them.

“With steps like this, the West of England is stepping up and tackling this challenge head on.”

First Bus Managing Director Doug Claringbold said: “The pay offer agreed with Unite members is part of a wider series of measures to make bus driving a hugely attractive and rewarding career, including flexible shifts to fit better around people’s lives.

“We are working with the Metro Mayor and his team to help give everyone the skills and the opportunity they need to join us through full, paid training.

“For more information about the opportunities as a driver at First please go to our website.”

Community leaders welcome changes to proposed housing COMMUNITY leaders in Peasedown St John near Bath have welcomed changes to a proposed housing development in the village.

Curo, a registered provider of social housing and homes developer, had received permission from Bath & North East Somerset Council to build 89 homes in Greenlands Road.

Despite public opposition to the plans and a petition of more than 1,000 names submitted to the local authority, permission was granted on appeal.

Following lobbying from the village’s councillors, major changes have now been made to the plans.

Local councillor Sarah Bevan (Independent) said: “We’re pleased that huge changes have been made to Curo’s house building plans in Peasedown St John.

“It shows they’ve listened to the concerns of local residents and have been willing to modify their proposals.

“Since planning permission was granted some years ago Cllr Walker and I have kept in regular contact with the organisation’s

directors, asking for updates and a re-evaluation of just how many houses they would build.”

The new, revised scheme now being put forward by Curo for Greenlands Road, Peasedown St John, includes: • A reduction in the number of homes from 89 to 51 • A 56% increase in open space within the development • An increase in green buffer between Hillside View properties and the new builds’ back gardens from 7m to 18m distance • A new central play area • A reduction in the number of driveways egressing on to Greenlands Road • Improvements to address the gradient of the site with splitlevel homes • Curo maintaining the vegetation and landscaping after the completion of the development.

Cllr Karen Walker (Independent), who chairs B&NES Council’s Environment Committee, said: “Cllr Bevan and I are not opposed to new housing in Peasedown St John, but we always had concerns with new homes being built in Greenlands Road.

“The site isn’t suitable for such a

Inset: CGI of the homes © Curo | Above: Gavin Heathcote, Cllr Sarah Bevan and Cllr Karen Walker at the development site

large number of new properties in an already highly populated and dense part of the village.

“We’re pleased therefore that Curo has decided to radically reduce the number of new builds from 89 to 51, a 45% reduction.

“We’re also pleased that Curo has made a commitment to look after all the vegetation and public open spaces after all the homes have been built.”

Curo will now submit a revised

application to B&NES Council in the autumn with a decision expected next year.

Gavin Heathcote, Chairman of the Peasedown Community Trust, also welcomed the amendments to the plans.

He said: “I’m pleased that Curo has listened to the representations sent in by local residents.

“Their previous plans just didn’t work and would have placed a strain on the already creaking

country roads around the outskirts of the village.

“I’m particularly pleased to see a 56% increase in the amount of open space in the development.

“The Peasedown Community Trust’s village-wide Environment Survey last year showed that vast numbers of people want to see more open spaces created where children can play and families can spend time during the warmer months.”

15

Your City, Your News | Bath Echo

Issue 032

Politics Opposition to Bristol Airport expansion plans reaffirmed COUNCILLORS on Bath & North East Somerset Council have reaffirmed their opposition to the expansion of Bristol Airport.

Meeting at the Guildhall in Bath on Thursday 21st July, councillors highlighted the impacts of the airport on local residents, including pollution, noise and traffic, as well as the contribution of aviation to the climate crisis.

Councillors from all political parties voted to support the motion, which also recognised the conflict between airport expansion and the action being taken by councils across the West of England to tackle the Climate Emergency.

The vote comes ahead of a High Court planning review of Bristol Airport’s plans later this year.

They have also called for all airport growth applications to be considered on a national and cumulative basis.

Councillor Shelley Bromley, who proposed the motion, commented: “The Inspector’s decision at appeal to allow Bristol Airport’s plans for an extra 2 million passengers a year has caused widespread local dismay.

“It not only flies in the face of local democracy, but also of all attempts to tackle the Climate Emergency, not least the government’s own stated aims of achieving zero carbon by 2050.

“Local residents already suffer from noise, pollution and traffic congestion related to the airport.

“These problems will only get worse with the planned

additional flights and passengers.

“Bristol Airport Action Network are now taking the decision to the High Court, and I am delighted B&NES Council has agreed to back them.

“The Airport’s expansion plans should be rejected as they will hinder the UK government’s stated aims to reach Net Zero by 2050 by adding to dangerous pollution levels, are contrary to local Councils’ Climate Emergency declarations and are not supported by the very poor access routes to the airport and lack of affordable mass transit options.

“B&NES Council has called on the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to “call in” the expansion for an inquiry and consider all airport expansion applications on a national rather than an individual basis.”

Councillor Sarah Warren, Cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, added: “The Climate Change Committee has said the government should assess airport capacity on a national basis in the context of Net Zero, rather than piecemeal, and that there should be no net expansion of UK airport capacity unless aviation starts hitting carbon targets.

“The Committee also called for more low carbon rail to replace shorter flights and reduce demand for aviation. This would of course take away the business case supporting Bristol Airport’s

How Bristol Airport could look if plans for the expansion go ahead | Photo © Bristol Airport

expansion.

“In the context of this critical progress report from the Committee and, given just how damaging the expansion will be both to local residents and to the climate, it would be wrong for the High Court to permit expansion from 10 to 12 million passengers per year, and wrong of the Secretary of State to take any subsequent decision in support.

Bristol Airport is big enough.”

Wera Hobhouse, the city’s Liberal Democrat MP, said: “There is no justification for expanding Bristol Airport whilst the Conservative Government fails to meet climate change targets. The recent heatwaves were a wakeup call and a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of climate change. Short-term thinking and a refusal to face up to the climate emergency will have a terrible impact on our

planet.

“I’m pleased that my colleagues from Bath and North East Somerset Council have reaffirmed their opposition to Bristol Airport expansion and I fully support their calls for airport expansions to be considered on a national basis. We are in the midst of a climate emergency and the Conservatives are burying their heads in the sand, hoping that it goes away.”

B&NES councillors back climate bill Residents being asked to check voter registration details

COUNCILLORS have voted to back the proposed Climate and Ecology Bill, to help transition away from fossil fuels and reverse damage caused to nature.

The plan would create a legal requirement for the UK to achieve the climate and nature targets needed to keep global heating down to 1.5°c and would give the Secretary of State a duty to implement a strategy to achieve those targets.

The legislation would also lead to a new public Climate and Nature Assembly and a commitment to reversing the destruction of nature by 2030.

In adopting a motion to support the Climate and Ecology Bill, councillors have ensured that the district will join over 150 parliamentarians, representing all major political parties, and 193 councils already listed as official supporters and calling for the Bill to be made into law.

Councillor Paul Crossley, who proposed the motion, commented: “As a society we should clearly be able to recognise

that climate chaos is already upon us. We know the facts and we know the consequences.

“We also have a good idea about the solutions and collectively we have the means to implement those solutions. The only question is whether we have the will.

“The Climate and Ecology Bill is the only proposed legislation before the UK Parliament that ensures a comprehensive and joined-up approach to the emergency.

“This motion adds our voice as a Council to those demanding a strategy to address the full extent of the climate and nature crisis in line with the most up-to-date science. We must commit to targets and crucially meet or exceed them. It is pointless saying we are only a small country – let’s be a small country that leads and locally let’s be a small authority that leads.”

Councillor Sarah Warren, the Cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, added: “This

motion came before Council in a week which saw UK temperature records tumbling, with extremes that are unprecedented in recorded history, according to the Met Office. It should be clear to all that we truly face an emergency.

“Despite this, the government isn’t doing enough. This month, the High Court ruled that the UK’s Net Zero Strategy breaches the Climate Change Act, as it doesn’t show how its legally binding carbon budget will be met.

“The Climate Change Committee found last month that credible plans exist for just 40% of the government’s planned carbon reductions required to hit its net zero target date of 2050 – and that date, of course, is much later than demanded by the Paris Agreement.

“Clearly in the current context, this Bill is an absolutely essential addition to the government’s legal framework and must become law as soon as possible.”

LOCAL residents are being asked by Bath & North East Somerset Council to check their electoral registration so they can vote on decisions that affect them.

People who have previously provided their email address will receive an email on behalf of the Electoral Registration Officer at Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The email will ask residents to check their household details via a dedicated secure portal where they can either confirm that the information is correct or, if necessary, make any changes.

If residents have not provided an email address, they will be sent a letter in the post, which will explain what action they need to take.

With local elections taking place in May 2023, this is an opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part.

Will Godfrey, Electoral Registration Officer and Chief Executive of the Council said: “We want to make sure that we have the right information for every household in Bath and North East Somerset, so everyone who is eligible to vote is able to do so at our next elections.”

More information on updating your details can be found at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/annualcanvass.

16

www.bathecho.co.uk

Tuesday 9th August - Monday 22nd August 2022

In Other News....

Special alpaca visit to care home RESIDENTS at a care home near Bath recently enjoyed a special animal therapy session with two alpacas, Alfred the Grey and Almond.

The pair, who visited the Shockerwick House Bupa Care Home, were provided by Alpaca Adventure, a company which facilitates wellbeing-orientated alpaca activities.

The residents made the most of the occasion, spending the afternoon cuddling and playing with the alpacas in the gardens of the home.

The session was designed by the care home staff to support the wellbeing of the residents, including those who find the presence of animals calming and mood-boosting for their mental health.

Brionne, the activity coordinator at Shockerwick House, commented: “I came across Alpaca Adventure online and thought they’d provide a fantastic experience for our residents.

“As soon as I mentioned it to our residents, they were all so excited and I knew I had to make it happen.”

Those at the care home have long been animal fans thanks to

Meeting the alpacas at the care home | Photo © Shockerwick House / Bupa

Chester, the resident cat.

Brionne continued: “Whilst we love all our animal friends who pay a visit to the home, Alfred the Grey and Almond provided an experience like no other.

“They were both so lovely and the residents really warmed to them.

I have a feeling we will have to have them back for more cuddles again soon.”

Sylvia Curtis, a resident at Shockerwick House, commented: “The alpacas were so wonderful – I was surprised by quite how soft and friendly they were. It was one of my favourite afternoon activities we’ve ever had!”

As the event was such a success among staff and residents, the home hopes to plan more animal visits over the next few weeks.

Sharing spaces where you don't feel safe PEOPLE in Bath are being encouraged to use a new tool to anonymously tell Avon and Somerset Police and its partners about public places where they feel or have felt unsafe.

StreetSafe has been introduced as part of the Government’s response to tackling violence against women and girls, but all local people are being encouraged to use the tool to help identify areas where there are fears caused by anti-social behaviour and environment issues including lack of street lighting, abandoned buildings and vandalism.

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

The information provided will be considered alongside the extensive evidence base already gathered by police forces and used to inform the community safety activities of police and partner agencies such as local authorities.

No crime needs to have been committed in order to indicate

where local people feel unsafe, though the StreetSafe tool should not be used to report crimes.

PCC Mark Shelford said: “I very much welcome this free online tool; a crime doesn’t always have to be committed for you to feel unsafe but this feeling of unsafety is still very much justified.

“The police and partners want to understand local people’s experiences to help inform their community safety activities.

“I’m delighted that such activity has taken place already in Weston-super-Mare and I know local policing teams are eager to undertake further action.

“I encourage local people to continue to use the tool so, together, we can make our communities safer.”

Superintendent Paul Underhill, Neighbourhood Policing, Avon and Somerset Police added: “StreetSafe is a fantastic tool, allowing people to quickly and easily report exactly where and why they feel unsafe in certain areas.”

The StreetSafe tool can be found at: https://bathecho.uk/3oZ6L72

New tech to help children relax while undergoing MRI scans

Neil Halford, from Time is Precious, and Di Pressdee, Team Lead Radiographer, standing beside the screen | Photo © RUH

NEW technology has been installed at the Royal United Hospital to help distract and calm young children when they undergo MRI scans.

On one of the walls in the MRI anaesthetic room, a ‘living picture’ has been installed.

The illuminated screen can show a variety of both static and moving pictures, with eight different scenes to choose from.

One shows an underwater shipwreck scene complete with swimming tropical fish, while another shows a calming Caribbean beach scene with waves lapping on the shore and palm trees blowing in the breeze.

It is hoped that the living picture, which has been funded thanks to the charity Time is Precious, will help to relax anxious young children who are about to have a

general anaesthetic before their scan.

Di Pressdee, Team Lead Radiographer, said: “The living picture is a fantastic addition to the Radiology department.

“It has really brightened up our MRI anaesthetic room and is a great distraction for the children when they arrive for their scan as they are often anxious.

“When they wake from the

anaesthetic they can sometimes be upset, so it is a really useful relaxing influence in the room. It really has helped create a much more pleasant and calming environment.

“I’d like to thank Time is Precious for funding such a wonderful bit of technology which will have such a positive impact on the experiences of some of our youngest patients.”

Time is Precious charity was set up in 2011 by Neil and Nicky Halford in memory of their son Ben, who passed away from cancer aged just five.

Ben was treated at the RUH, as well as Bristol Children’s Hospital and the former Frenchay Hospital.

The aim of the charity is to help create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for children and their families in hospital and at home, by purchasing equipment and refurbishing areas for children. To date, it has donated more than £300,000 to the RUH in the form of equipment and refurbishment projects.

Most recently, the charity paid for a specialised DVD player to be installed in one of the MRI scan rooms in the Radiology department, allowing patients to watch their favourite movie while they have their scan.

The charity also raised £33,000 for improvements to the RUH’s Children’s Ward garden.

Neil said: “We are honoured to support the RUH. It remains a special place in our hearts, especially after the care given to Ben. “Everything we have purchased would have benefitted him so much – distraction is a big key whilst in hospital, especially for children. We appreciate everyone who supports us. It means we can help children whilst they are in hospital, as this is such a stressful time for them and their family.

“We appreciate every bit of support. If you would like to fundraise for us to help the RUH please email us at contactus@ timeisprecious.org. We have some very exciting projects coming up, and we will need everyone behind us to make a difference.”

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