GWR to introduce pay-asyou-go smartcards across the West of England P5 Residents thanked for their bus ideas at Southdown meeting P10
FREE TO TAKE!Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022 www.bathecho.co.uk Issue No. 033 ECHO Your FREE local fortnightly newspaper for Bath
Care home staff to take on the Circuit of Bath Walk fundraiser P4
- P3 Enjoy dinner and drinks at WINnewly-refurbishedtheBathamptonMillOurreviewonP7AMEALFORTWO! Shutterstock.com/Words1000©Photo
WAITING TIMES AT A&E RISING
“Variant-busting" booster jab to be rolled out
36% of crimes in Avon and Somerset remain unsolved P3 Fire crews deal with more than 1,000 calls during extra busy week P4
Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk and people who are housebound. The National Booking Service will also open that week ahead of the wider rollout, due to start on 12th September, with the NHS inviting those who are most susceptible to serious illness from covid-19 and those aged 75 and over to book an appointment from that Extensiveweek. planning for the roll out is underway and areas have already booked adult care home residents in for their vaccine to ensure they can get protected at the earliest opportunity. As with previous campaigns, the old est and most vulnerable will be called forward first, with people able to book in online or through 119 for as long as it has been three months since their last dose. The NHS is advising vaccination sites to allow immunosuppressed patients to self-declare and at tend walk-ins to make getting the extra protection as easy as possi Aroundble. 26 million people across England will be eligible for an autumn booster in line with guidance set out by the JCVI. The autumn booster campaign is among a package of NHS meas ures to prepare for winter, includ ing ramping up bed capacity and increasing the number of 999 and NHS 111 staff to deal with any ...
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A NEXT-GENERATION “vari ant-busting” Covid-19 vaccine will be used when the NHS starts its autumn booster roll out, it has been announced. The NHS will become the first healthcare system in the world to use the bivalent vaccine when it starts providing boosters in early SetSeptember.tostartduring the week of 5th September, NHS staff will begin vaccinating care home residents
Thousands having to wait more than four hours
AN afternoon of fun has been planned at Sydney Gardens in Bath on Sunday 11th September to celebrate the completion of the Gardens Restoration project. Visitors will be able to enjoy free family fun, music, circus and spectacle during the event, which is taking place between 1pm and £3.4m5pm. has been spent over the past three years restoring and conserving the historic buildings and gardens, improving the landscape and providing new visitor facilities at the former Regency Pleasure Gardens. The project has been a partnership between Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Parks & Open Spaces Team and the Friends of Sydney Gardens, with the National Lottery providing the majority of funding.
You will also be able to try your hand at tennis, petanque and hula-hoop and ‘Go to the Loo’ on a special tour of the rare and restored cast iron toilets. Booking is essential for the tour, which can be done via Eventbrite.
Top Stories P2-9 Health P11 Education P12 In Other News P16 Business P14 Politics P15 Community P10 2 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022 The Bath Echo newspaper is produced fortnightly. Thousands of copies are delivered and distributed across the Bath area via our dedicated pick-up points and at cafés, venues, waiting rooms and local libraries. How to get in touch with us... For news items and press releases: news@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 For sport and match reports: sport@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Want to have a letter published? letters@bathecho.co.uk Subscriptions/Distribution: production@bathecho.co.uk 01225 Advertising585484& Marketing: advertise@bathecho.co.uk 01225 SebastianContact589789theeditor:Hawker editor@bathecho.co.uk Published by Media Bath Limited Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA Company Number: 09384496 Disclaimer Please note, the views expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily the views of the editor, or publisher. No parts of this newspaper may be reproduced without prior written permission. Liability for advertising in this publication comes down to the individual advertiser, and not the publisher. © Media Bath Limited ISSN 2632-7805 The Bath Echo is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. We adhere to the Standards Code adopted by IMPRESS, and can only deal with complaints which relate to an alleged breach of the standards set out in this Code. You can find out more about the code on the IMPRESS Ifwww.impress.press/standards/.website:youbelievewehavebreachedthis code, you can make a complaint to us regarding it. For more information, please visit: www.bathecho.co.uk/complaints/ Useful Information In this issue... 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.
View from the restored loggia at Sydney Gardens
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“When the time comes, I would strongly encourage anyone who is invited to take up both an au tumn booster and flu jab, to do so as quickly as possible – it will give you maximum protection this Thewinter.”NHS will offer people the new next-generation bivalent vaccine where appropriate, and subject to sufficient supply being made available to the NHS. The JCVI and MHRA have stressed that the original vac cines also continue to provide strong protection and people should come forward regardless of the vaccine offered.
There’s a new play area to explore and there’ll also be ribbon wandmaking, cyanotype printing, donkey rides, a fire engine on show and a Forest School, especially for children. There’ll also be stalls with inventive activities for the whole family in archaeology, astronomy, beekeeping, climate action, local heritage and more. As the Gala coincides with the first weekend of the Jane Austen Festival, attendees can bring a picnic to mingle with ‘Jane Austen’ and her friends on the lawn and experience ‘a whole camp full of soldiers’, with authentic drill displays, music, and talks at the Holburne IfMuseum.youneed a breather, you can take part in a wellness workshop or wander the quiet areas of the Gardens and take a look at the new planting and works to preserve and enhance the space for future generations.
Councillor Mark Roper, cabinet assistant for Neighbourhood Services said: “Sydney Gardens is a real gem in the heart of Bath. “It’s one of the few remaining Regency Pleasure Gardens in the country and the restoration project has been a true labour of love for all those involved.
Well over four in five eligible peo ple received a spring booster ear lier this year, with the NHS urg ing them to get that dose before the end of July in order to ensure enough time had passed to opti mise the protection an autumn booster would provide over win NHSter.
The oldest and most vulnerable will be called forward for their booster first
New booster jab to be used from September
Rachel Pearce, Director of Com missioning for NHS England South West said: “As we move in to the next phase of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, we will be encouraging people who are eligible to get their Autumn booster vaccination, to build their immunity from Covid-19 and keep them safe this winter”. “We are vaccinating the resi dents in our care homes across the South West to ensure they are protected, as well as prioritising our staff that work across Health and Social Care to reduce the spread of the virus.” NHS director for vaccinations and screening Steve Russell said: “This winter will be the first time we see the real effects of both Covid and flu in full circulation as we go about life as normal – and so it is vital that those most sus ceptible to serious illness from these viruses come forward for the latest jab in order to protect
Sparklin’ Sorcha & Juggling Jim will entertain visitors with fireeating, juggling and stilt-walking.
chief executive Amanda Pritchard said: “The NHS was the first healthcare system in the world to deliver a covid-19 vac cine outside of clinical trials, and will now be the first to deliver the new, variant-busting vaccine when the rollout begins at the start of September.
“Wethemselves.knowthat our GPs and com munity pharmacies have been integral to the success of the NHS Vaccination Programme due to their locations and relationships with local communities, and so it is fantastic that so many have opt ed to be part of the latest phase of the “Thecampaign.NHSwill contact you when it is your turn to get an autumn booster and will be inviting the first people outside of a care home to book in ahead of the rollout early September – please book in as quickly as possible when invited to give yourself pro tection this winter.” The NHS will also begin rolling out the flu vaccine and encourag ing eligible people to take up the offer from the first of the month where Eligiblepossible.individuals may be of fered the flu and Covid jab at the same time, with the doses ap proved to be co-administered. Health and social care staff will also be eligible to get the autumn booster in line with JCVI guid ance and in order to ensure NHS staff are protected, all providers are being asked to ensure their staff are offered the autumn jab, co-administering with the flu jab where possible. More than 430,000 Covid-19 vac cinations have been given across Bath and North East Somerset, with over 125,000 people receiv ing a booster or third dose so far.
Afternoon of fun planned in Sydney Gardens
Continued from ... additional pressure.
More than 126 million Covid vac cines have been administered by NHS staff and volunteers since the first Covid-19 jab was deliv ered outside of clinical trials to Maggie Keenan in Coventry in December 2020.
“Historic features including the Loggia and Minerva’s Temple have been restored, lots of work to conserve wildlife has been carried out, the tennis courts have been refurbished and new facilities including a Community Pavilion and boules terrain have been created. It’s now time to celebrate all that’s been Throughoutachieved!” the afternoon, Sydney Gardens will host performances and activities in the true tradition of Regency Pleasure Gardens. Visitors will be able to see the locally-based Rainbow Steel Band and Turkish Folk Band, Chalguh Chengi.
“Our fantastic NHS staff have worked incredibly hard to deliv er 126 million doses to date and behind the scenes they have once again been preparing to deliver the latest phase with the same speed and precision as we have had throughout the rollout.
“We have also recently under gone building work to expand the department and increase the number of people we can care for.
“We do face challenges discharg ing patients from hospital who no longer need hospital care and this impacts on our ability to quickly move patients from our Emer gency Departments into a hospi tal ward bed when they need one. However, we are working with the council and our community part ners to increase capacity outside hospital before winter to help free up hospital beds for those who need them the most.”
“The initiative builds on similar schemes that have been implemented by Better, in the past, for example in response to the displacement of people during the peak of the Syrian Anyonewar.” wishing to apply for the free refugee membership scheme should complete an online form https://bathecho.uk/3K3yPQAat: Over 36% of crimes remain unsolved
Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It’s a real struggle for some people to see their GP, and people are spending hours on the phone, and then being told nothing is available for weeks.
Previously,appointment.there was a target of getting a GP appointment within 48 hours, however this was scrapped more than a decade ago by the Government.
“Our NHS is Britain’s greatest asset but the Conservatives are running it into the ground.”
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“We need a Labour government to get patients treated on time by providing hardworking and car ing NHS doctors, nurses and oth er healthcare professionals with equipment and resources they Thereneed.”are now 6.7 million people in England on NHS waiting lists, as of June 2022, the highest ever Nationally,recorded. the standard of 92% of people seen within 18 weeks of a referral has not been met since 2016. 1 in every 9 people in Eng land are on the NHS waiting list. At the end of June 2022, the Roy al United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust had 35,298 pa tients waiting to start treatment.
12% struggle to make appointment to see GP
COMPETITION
“I’m very worried that these de lays are putting people off going to A&E who need medical help while others are left suffering in “Thepain. Conservative Government’s response to the crisis in A&E is to scrap the zero tolerance for 12 hour waits. That’s clearly the wrong answer.
“When I was an MP in the last Labour government, I was proud that we guaranteed a GP appointment within 48 hours.
New data has revealed that 12% of people who tried to make an appointment to see their GP in Bath and North East Somerset didn’t get one, and those who did manage to book had to settle for a long wait. The figures, from NHS England, show that over 26,000 residents across the region were forced to wait over a month to see a doctor. 12% of people said they were unable to see a GP or nurse the last time they tried to make an
NEW Analysis has shown that Avon & Somerset Police closed more than 48,000 cases last year without identifying a suspect. Home Office data was analysed by the Liberal Overall,unsolved.48,790andbetweenwereoffencesofshowingDemocrats,thatthe134,043thatcommittedApril2021March2022,ofthemwerethismeans36.40% of crimes in Avon and Somerset didn’t see any offenders brought to Bathjustice.MP Wera Hobhouse said: “These awful figures show criminals are getting away with victimising people on an industrial scale. The Conservative party love to talk tough on crime, but they can’t even get the basics right. “I am calling for a return to proper everyneedtheshouldpolicing,communitywhereofficersarevisible,trustedandfocusedoncuttingcrime.TheGovernmentgiveforcesresourcestheytomakesurethatcrimeisinvestigated.
In England and Wales, the percentage of unsolved cases for the period was 39.49%.
Commentingscheme. on the extension of the initiative, Barnaby Rich, Better Partnership Manager for Bath and North East Somerset said: “We have been delighted by the success of Bath scheme to “Thedate. war in Ukraine and the arrival of many Ukrainians in the UK highlighted the plight of refugees from all over the world and we wanted to do our bit to help. We all know the mental and physical health benefits of sports and exercise and we hope that by offering these free memberships we will enable refugees to more easily integrate into UK society and enjoy some positive recreational activities.
We must reverse years of Conservative neglect that have made our communities less safe and let far too many criminals get away with it.”
• 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.
Hospital's A&E waiting times continue to rise
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Simon Sethi, Chief Operating Of ficer, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust said: “The RUH Emergency Department, like others around the country, has faced a number of challeng es in recent months, this includes the impact of COVID-19 on our services and ever increasing de “Tomand.overcome these challenges we have focused on growing our Emergency Department team and have introduced a number of new roles which are helping to make sure that those who need our care can access it.
Issue 033 3Your City, Your News | Bath Echo
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Free leisure centre membership scheme for refugees extended
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MORE than 3,500 patients had to wait more than four hours at Accident & Emergency at the Royal United Hospital in Bath in July, figures from the NHS have revealed. The rise in waiting times has been blamed on staff shortages and a “crisis” in social care.
The Royal United Hospital | Photo © Andrew Harker / Shutterstock.com
BATH Sports and Leisure Centre operator Better has announced the extension of its free membership scheme for refugees, which was launched earlier this year. The scheme has seen more than 3,000 sign-ups across the country in its first three months. The most popular location in the local area is Bath Sports and Leisure Centre, with 81 free memberships issued as part of the refugee scheme. The scheme initially offered new refugees who had entered the UK within the last 12 months a free three month membership at a Better-operated leisure centre. This has now been extended to six months and is open to both adults and juniors. If recipients are still classified as refugees after this period, they will be eligible to transfer onto Better’s discounted concessionary membership
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Just over half (55%) of patients at the A&E department were seen within 4 hours. The NHS says that 95% of patients should be admitted, transferred, or discharged in that time. The average across England for patients being seen by doctors within the four-hour target is The71%. figures show that perfor mance is currently the worst on record across almost all metrics. West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris warned that patients were dying because of long waits, and called for immediate sup Mrport.Norris said: “There used to be Winter crises in the NHS but now it is struggling in the Sum mer months. Yet the government seem to have lost interest while the intense pressure on the NHS has barely featured in this in creasingly farcical Tory leader ship contest.
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dentswouldtheseforproveproposals,somealreadyhighas,NeighbourhoodLiveablearechosenduetothelevelsofsupportexpressedbyresidentsfortheseandtoquicklyimthesafetyandqualityofliferesidentslivinginoraroundstreets.Vehicleaccessbemaintainedforresiandvisitors,plustheemergencyandotherservices.Intotal,15LiveableNeighbourhoodsareasarecurrentlybeingworkedon,andarebeingshapedcloselybylocalcommunityviews.
For her training regime, General Manager Carol Britton has started walking the two miles to work each day, but doesn’t claim to have any hiking knowhow. She added: “We’re not experienced walkers. I personally have never done a sponsored walk before. But we’re very excited and determined to complete the full 20 Gavinmiles.”Osborn, Community & Events Fundraiser for the charity said: “The walk is now in its 21st year and still going strong, bringing the community together.
• Check for leaks on your internal pipes and fittings, such as taps and toilets. A dripping tap is easy to spot and could be wasting up to 5,500 litres of water a year.
• Check that appliances like washing machines and dishwashers are correctly installed to avoid ‘backflow’
FIRSTLY, I join communities across our area in offering my heartfelt condolences fol lowing the death on 31st July of 16-year-old Charley Bates from Radstock. Charley’s death has shocked our community. I am sure I speak for all of us when I say I cannot im agine the pain Charley’s family must be going through. His is a tragic loss of a young life. The Police, Youth Connect South West and Bath & North East Som erset Council have worked close ly together to provide support. My thanks go to those who have provided help and support to the family and to the local communi ty at this very difficult time The Police investigation contin ues. If you have any information, please call 101 and give the refer ence 5222182800. The cost-of-living crisis contin ues to place great pressure on our communities We expect even greater pressure on house hold finances when the energy price cap is announced later this month. Many more people will be impacted by rises in food and fuel Helpcosts.isavailable. If you are wor ried about the cost of living our Community Wellbeing Hub can let you know what support is out there. You can call the hub on 0300 247 0050. You can also find a wealth of financial and welfare advice on our dedicated cost of living pages
“They’ve set up a Just Giving page and are working really hard to raise as much as they can, all of which will go towards our work with vulnerable and at-risk adults across the South West.” The Circuit of Bath Walk is set to take place on Sunday 25th ToSeptember.signup and book your place, go to www.circuitofbathwalk. co.uk. Tickets are £12 for adults, £6 for children and £25 for a family.
Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, said: “We’re very fortunate in the UK to enjoy safe and wholesome drinking water from our water companies.
Firefighters saw a huge spike in call outs, also known as ‘shouts’, with many taking to social media to share some of the incidents that they had been called to. Despite temperatures dropping, the risk of fire is still high, and Avon Fire & Rescue is still urging Simoncaution.added: “Whilst I know most of us are relieved to have seen some rain forecast for the coming days, we mustn’t forget that the ground around us is still very dry. Where possible, we’d still advise people to avoid having fires of any kind.”
Photo © Avon Fire & Rescue Service
“It’s wonderful to see teams like Midford Manor taking on the challenge for the first time, knowing that every penny they raise will ultimately save lives.
COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
Care home staff to take on next month's Circuit of Bath Walk event
If you find a fire, get to somewhere safe and call 999, asking for the fire service.
• Check for leaks on your water supply pipe, the underground pipe that carries water to a property from the water main in the street. These can be harder to Signsdetect.that you have a leak can be a higher than usual water bill, loss of pressure or reduced water flow at your cold kitchen tap, or an area of lush vegetation in your garden – even during a dry spell.
4 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
FOLLOWING days of incredibly warm weather, staff across the Avon Fire & Rescue Service have been praised for their hard work dealing with more than one thousand calls in a week. Between Monday 8th August and Sunday 14th August, firefighters dealt with 212 fires, 155 false alarms, 101 non-fire calls alongside other incidents, totalling 1306 calls. Compared with the previous week, it’s an increase of 658 calls, which all come into the service’s Control Room based in Lansdown, Bath. Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton said: “I’m incredibly proud of the relentless dedication and commitment that our staff have continued to show to their communities, despite the extraordinarily challenging “Ourconditions.FireControl staff, firefighters and all our valuable Service staff have gone above and beyond to ensure we are able to respond effectively and that we keep our communities protected and safe.”
A TEAM from a care home that will be opening in Bath early next year are set to tackle the Circuit of Bath Walk this September in aid of local charity Julian House. Midford Manor is currently being built on Frome Road and is due for completion in early 2023. The development will offer high-quality residential, nursing and care support for up to 80 Whileresidents.the care workers await the launch of the care home, customer relationship manager Michelle Goreham has signed her team up to raise money for charity Julian House, by taking on the epic 20-mile challenge across the outskirts of the city. She said: “It’s important that Midford Manor supported Julian House. Homelessness is still a big issue in the city of Bath and we want to be an integral part in helping the community.
Tackling water issues to save money
PEOPLE in Bath are being encouraged to ensure their drinking water stays safe and isn’t being wasted through leaks which could lead to increased bills. WaterSafe, the UK register of approved drinking water contractors, has detailed the top five ways for homeowners to look after their water supply. WaterSafe recommends always using an approved contractor, who provides the relevant services, for any plumbing work on your Reducingproperty.waterusage can save energy and money on metered bills. When the contractor visits, you can ask them to make one or more of the following checks:
“We’re keen to try all sorts of fundraising too. It’s a bit new to us as team, but we’re willing to have a go at raising as much money as we can by holding some events and a “We’reraffle.fuelled by enthusiasm and we’re keen to reach a good goal for a good cause. The sky’s the limit!”
• Check for lead pipes – often found in older properties built before 1970, as drinking water supplied in lead pipes can be bad for your health.
• Check the location of your internal stop tap, so your supply can be turned off in the event of a leak or for plumbing maintenance work.
cessholderslaterStreettyAskeyIuk/costofliving.www.bathnes.gov.canalsoupdateyouonsomeprojectsforourcity.partofourcitycentresecurischemewe’llbeclosingCheaptemporarilytovehiclesinthesummer.BlueBadgewillstillbeabletoacandparkinCheapStreet, Westgate Street and Upper Borough Walls but will need to enter via Westgate Buildings and exit via Upper Bor ough Walls. As recommended in an inde pendent engineering report, we are looking to reopen the Grade II* listed Cleveland Bridge to twoway traffic by late September/ early October, subject to a mon itoring system being installed. Safety is our top priority We are also currently ask ing for views on proposals for through-traffic restrictions in four pilot
contamination – when dirty water from inside an appliance flows backwards into the main water supply.
“Checking for leaks is more important than ever, to help keep bills down and with water supplies increasingly under “Plus,strain. being aware of lead pipes, having correctly installed appliances and knowing where your internal stop tap is will help safeguard your home’s drinking water for years to come.”
The Midford Manor team | Photo © Gavin Osborn
Fire crews praised for dealing with over 1,000 calls in one week
For more advice on keeping your drinking water safe from lead, visit watersafe.org.uk/lead.
Fares Adult Junior Family Refreshments available to purchase on board. Junior fares available. Tables for two can be guaranteed in First/Premier for a £30pp supplement subject to availability.
Premier £299 £225 £936 First £199 £155 £631 Standard £129 £105 £416
219975
Great Western Railway to launch pay-as-you-go smartcards
Visit the historic port city of Plymouth The Plymouth Flyer Sunday 18th September 2022
“And with money tight it’s good to know you’ll always be charged the best value walk-up, flexible “Thisfare. is an important first step and I look forward to working with GWR on further future im provements to make it easier to top up, to integrate with other types of public transport and one day to be able to use debit cards to tap in.”
First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll, a Danish pastry and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
RAILDAYTRIP
“The new pay-as-you-go GWR touch smartcard makes it easier for pas sengers making local journeys across the West of England May oral region, letting people breeze through the ticket barriers rather than having to queue in the sta tion for a printed ticket.
Join us on this special steam hauled train from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth. We pick up at Bath, Bradford-upon-Avon, Westbury and Taunton and our route includes travelling along the internationally famous sea wall at Dawlish and along the edge of Dartmoor to Plymouth.
The service is expected to be available to customers at the be ginning of September and is the first step before expanding wid er schemes to other areas of the GWR Futurenetwork.planscould also see the inclusion of bus services and oth er transport modes to offer a mul ti-modal solution. You can get a touch smartcard now, and GWR will let you know when you can start enjoying payas-you-go travel. To get your card, register for a GWR.com account or log in if you already have one. Go to ‘Manage smartcards’ within your account and choose ‘Apply for a smart card’ from the drop-down menu. Then fill out the form and submit your order. You should usually receive your free smartcard within five work ing days.
TRAIN operator Great Western Railway is set to introduce a new pay-as-you-go smartcard to roll payments and tickets into one, to ensure customers are getting the best value. The GWR touch smartcard will be available to use across the West of England area and is valid on GWR, Cross Country and Trans port for Wales rail services within the pay-as-you-go boundary. The card will enable passengers to get the best value on walk-up fares for the day of travel, plus Weekly Season ticket price cap ping applied to end-to-end jour neys between two stations over a Monday to Sunday seven-day Metroweek. Mayor Dan Norris said: “If we are going to reach our really ambitious net-zero-by-2030 tar get, we need to make it as easy and affordable as possible for West of Englanders to use public “Thistransport.will help us cut conges tion, improve road safety and be gin to clean up our air too.
Faye Keane, Heather Cullimore, Don Alexander, Tan Dhesi MP, Dan Norris and Tom Pierpoint © GWR
The pay-as-you-go map area card with pay-as-you-go, except a Flexi Season ticket.
Green
GWR Head of Retail Lee Edwor thy added: “We’re delighted to be able to introduce this innovative new product, making it easier for people to take advantage of using the train in the Bristol area. “We’re really excited about the impending customer launch of the scheme and the future oppor tunities it provides in other areas and incorporating other modes of Userstransport.”willno longer need to buy a train ticket before jumping on a train in the pay-as-you-go travel Theyarea. will need to just touch in and touch out on yellow smart card readers on the ticket gates or platform validators for each jour ney they make, and at the end of the day they’ll be charged the best walk-up fare. Should a journey be delayed, the train operator will let the custom er know if you’re eligible for com Trainpensation.tickets and season tickets can also be stored on a smart
Interested in advertising? Call 01225 589789 5Issue 033
There are three classes available: Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner served at your seat.
GWR advises that a Flexi Season ticket is not used in combination with pay-as-you-go and cus tomers should obtain a separate smartcard for these products.
| Photo
Bob SKUTEAM
£129from EST.
Have a great day – The Safe Way – your welfare is our priority and our Covid-19 travel procedures are available on our website. Organised by The Railway Touring Company. The Railway Touring Company’s standard conditions of booking and travel apply – see website or brochure for details.
01553 661 www.railwaytouring.net500
Join us from Bath to visit Plymouth – steam hauled throughout.
THE Care Quality Commission has rated Extra Care housing services in Bath and North East Somerset as “Good” following their first inspection after being taken over by B&NES Council. The services were inspected by the CQC independent regulator in June and received a ‘Good’ rating in all five assessment areas. Services delivered were said to be “safe, effective, caring, responsive and Councillorwell-led”.Alison Born, cabinet member for Adult Services and Council House Building said: “I’m delighted with this inspection report for the five extra care services based at Avondown House, The Orchard and St John’s Court in Bath, Hawthorn Court in Keynsham and Greenacres Court in Midsomer Norton.
I HOPE you are all enjoying your summer breaks. At the time of writing, A Level and GCSE results have not been released yet. I wish those of you waiting for results the best of luck in what has been another tough Withyear. Parliament away for the summer, you would have expect ed that things would have calmed down and that the Government would be putting plans in place for the impending cost of liv ing crisis that is due to get much worse in the Autumn. Across the UK our health service is on its knees. With soaring am bulance waiting times, people are unable to get GP appointments, dentist appointments, and can cer waiting times are soaring. It is now clearer than ever than we need a change in Government. Once a new Prime Minister takes their place, we need a general election to give the country the refresh that it needs. As energy bills continue to soar, the Liber al Democrats have put forward a plan to cancel the October price cap increase which would save £1,700 off energy bills in Bath. I know many of you will be wor rying about the winter and we need bold action to avoid a disas ter. Hard-working families across Bath and North East Somerset are already struggling to make ends meet, they need urgent ac tion from this Conservative Gov ernment. Instead, they are pre occupied with arguing with each Bathother.business is booming. Bath is the base for 21% of new business es in the South, research from the House of Commons Library has revealed. The data shows that businesses registered in Bath in creased by 90 between 2020 and 2021 which compares to the South West where the total was 425. It is fantastic to see our city growing and its a testament to the hard work of our local Lib Dem-run FromCouncil.the creative industries, to high-tech enterprises, to high street shops, Bath is proving a great place to do business. Some of you may be having is sues with your passport. There are huge delays with the Passport Office with the Govern ment losing passports and failing to return others on Recentlytime. data re vealed by my team showed an increase of 181 per cent in the number of passports lost of the Pass port Office. This pitiful pattern of chaos is what we have come to expect from the Government. Thank you again for reading the Bath Remember,Echo. if you have any issues please feel free to raise with my team. You can find details on my www.werahobhouse.co.uk.website:
David Wood, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “The council’s Clean and Green team is helping to improve specific areas, but we also recognise that there are lots of active volunteer groups across Bath and North East Somerset who work hard to keep their community clean and green. “I am keen to encourage residents and local groups to get involved by organising their own Clean and Green community action days, because they make a positive difference.
A NUMBER of communities in and around Bath have benefitted from the efforts of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s “Clean and Green” team. Peasedown St John, Timsbury and Bathavon North have all been visited by crews, who carried out enhanced cleaning, litter picking and weed removal as well as responding to Fix My Street reports of overhanging vegetation, dirty signs and instances of graffiti. In some locations, a team from Highways also carried out gully clearing and investigated the need to replace signs. In Temple Cloud and Weston, local councillors, volunteer litter pickers and council staff came together for a community action Councillorday.
1www.schmidt-bath.comParkRoad,BathBA13EE01225337276 Made-to-measureinteriorsolutions
Born added: “This inspection report shows just what rewarding places Avondown House and the other extra care schemes are to work at. “We have lots of opportunities available in a wide variety of roles right across Adult Social Care. “You can find out how you can make a real difference to people’s lives by visiting our ‘Proud to Care’ website.”
Keynsham will benefit from an action week between 22nd and 26th August, with a community action day planned on 26th Volunteers,August. councillors and staff will work alongside the Keynsham Wombles litter picking and using the new community weeding equipment.
The CQC report said people were protected from the risk of avoidable harm and the care provided was designed to be responsive to individuals’ needs through personalised care plans. The service was also praised for helping people to maintain their independence through maximum choice and control of their lives, supported by staff working in their best interests while upholding their right to Councillorprivacy.
6 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
“Clean and Green” team keep communities tidy
The volunteers will meet at the Federated Estate and St Francis Church at 10am and finish at Residents12pm. and community groups considering organising a community event can behoes,Communityforcleanandgreen@bathnes.gov.ukcontactadviceandinformation.weedingequipment,shovelsandbrushes,canborrowedfromtheNoPlace for Litter hubs in Keynsham, Radstock, Chew Magna or Bath. The 12-month Clean and Green project was funded by a one-off investment of £950,000 from the council’s 2022/2023 budget to help clean up neighbourhoods across the district. As part of the project, a newly employed team member has so far removed graffiti from 10 residential properties across the area.
Housing services rated as “Good” by CQC
Cllr David Wood with some of the equipment available to borrow
COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath
The Extra Care Services were taken over by Bath & North East Somerset Council in October 2020 and are delivered in partnership with Registered Housing Landlords Guinness, LiveWest and Curo. Care and support are provided to older people with some care needs, including people living with dementia and those with learning difficulties. People are supported to live as independently as possible in their own rented self-contained purpose-built or adapted flat across five supported living Atsettings.thetime of the inspection, 139 people were using the service. CQC Inspectors highlighted the “caring nature” of staff, who they said treated people with dignity and respect. Comments from service users included: “Friendliest, most professional, very caring and conscientious staff.”
“We have equipment that you can easily borrow, just get in touch with our Radstockteam.”has a very active volunteer group, the Radstock Wombles, who are out almost every Sunday litter picking and keeping the community clean. Their hard work was supplemented by the Clean and Green team in the town last week.
“Our staff work extremely hard to maintain high standards and deliver the right care at the right time to those who use the service.”
COMPETITION
• More terms can be found at: bathecho.co.uk/about/comp-terms/www.
• There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter.
EAGERLY anticipating saying konnichiwa to Joe Prout, speci ality brands whisky ambassador from Nikka Whisky Distilling Co, when he visits Robun (George Street) to host the restaurant's first whisky masterclass on the evening of Thursday 22nd Sep tember. Expect a welcome drink on arrival followed by six expres sions from the Tokyo-based dis tillery accompanied by a selec tion of zensai (appetisers) all for just £45pp, plus the very gener ous offer of 25% off dinner in the restaurant on the day of the event (a highly recommended experi ence in https://bathecho.uk/3QSOlkpitself).
GETTING cheesy at Novel Wines on Thursday 25th Au gust when a unique wine and cheese tast ing offers us a chance to taste a selection of wines from around the world expertly matched with cheese from Nib bles, Bath's oldest and best chee semonger. Can't make the date? There are more in the pipeline, the next one being on Thursday 8th https://bathecho.uk/3K3ZbBNSeptember.
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INTRIGUED by the Coppa Club Bath Townhouse, the rather so phisticated new kid on the Old Bond Street block (where Gap used to be), serving everything from breakfast and lunch to late night snacks in unique-to-Bath https://bathecho.uk/3wdOlU7surroundings.
• This competition is open to residents with a BA1 and BA2 postcode only
For more news, views and food-related chat, visit The Pig Guide at www.thepigguide.com Bathampton Mill, Bathampton
• The closing date is 5pm on Monday 5th September 2022.
Alternatively, scan the QR code to the right and it'll take you straight to the page to enter.
NUDGING all those who love to cook great food, serve great food, make new friends or just general ly enjoy Doing Good Things!
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PLANNING on getting up-closeand-personal with Dame Prue Leith when the legendary, iconic GBBO judge offers us a sneak pre view of her one woman work-inprogress show at the Rondo The atre on Tuesday 20th/Wednesday 21st September. Forget the Holly wood Handshake; the Prue Pat is where it's https://bathecho.uk/3AsBfVKat!
You'll be able to try out the fantastic new menu, relax and enjoy the splendid countryside surroundings, without having to worry about the bill!
The Bath Echo received a meal for two for the purposes of this review.
The Bathampton Mill has reopened following significant investment haddock florentine fishcakes for main, both of which again were well presented and perfectly cooked in a timely manner. For dessert, we opted to try out a couple of items from the vegan menu; the blackcurrant mousse, which was delicious, and the salted caramel billionaire's bar. Although a little rich, the chocolate treat was incredibly tasty, along with the ice cream alternative on the side. The mousse, drizzled in a blackcurrant compote, was equally well-received. The changes made at the Bathampton Mill, along with the wide-array of menu options, will certainly put this location back on the map for many residents.
For your chance to win, simply visit out website at: www.bathecho.co.uk/bathamptonmill
A free, detailed project
IF you've visited the Bathampton Mill on Mill Lane in the past few years, you'll be in for a pleasant surprise when you next pop in for a drink or a bite to eat. The exterior of the building has been given a refresh, and heading inside you'll enjoy the stylish new look that has been implemented Athroughout.warmwelcome awaits when you head through the door, with the sleek and modern bar area benefitting from views over the water, with custom wallpaper and a wide selection of beverages to choose fromperfect to start off your itstherunninggoldstrongYou'lltobeforeexperienceheadingthetable.noticeablueandcolourpalettethroughoutpub,takingcuesfromsurroundingsnextto the Artworkweir. around the restaurant is sure to catch the eye, and provides plenty to talk about. The all-day menu offers a selection of starters, small plates, grill options and sharers, as well as salads, burgers and pizza. We opted for the duck parfait and tempura squid to start, both of which arrived quickly and looked stunning, almost too picturesque to eat. With both plates empty, the quality of the produce and care put into the cooking was evident. The friendly and attentive staff were happy to discuss the menu and provided recommendations for the various dishes on offer. We chose a steak and the smoked
Issue 033 7Your City, Your News | Bath Echo
• The prize consists of dinner and drinks for two people up to the value of £120 • Anything above this amount must be paid for separately.
Right now, The Pig is mostly...
We've teamed up with the Bathampton Mill to give one lucky person the chance to win a meal for two at the newly-refurbished pub, bar and restaurant.
BREATHING a huge sigh of relief at the news that Goulash (which specialises, as the name might suggest, in glorious goulash in tradition al, panini, wrap, bap and veggie formats, all made to order from a secret family recipe using locally sourced, organic ingre dients) hasn't disappeared from the scene, and has actually just relocated from Green Park Sta tion market to bigger premises at 78 Lower Bristol Road, open from 4pm-11pm seven days a week. https://bathecho.uk/3w9c0oDHoorah!
• No cash alternative to the prizes will be offered.
Win a £120 meal for two and try the menu
The fabulous FoodCycle Bath peeps need your skills every Wednesday evening at their Nex us Methodist Church HQ (Nelson WantPlace).to contribute to the Food Cycle vision to make food pov erty, loneliness and food waste a thing of the past for every com munity? Here's your https://bathecho.uk/3oUErmoopportunity!
In article, left to right: Manager Josh Cook and co-worker John Littleworth at the Grumpy Baker, Tina Mallon at The Red Cross charity shop and Steven Bishton and Jason Paulton from Francis DIY |
8 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
WHAT A summer this has turned out to be! I love seeing Bath in the summer time, especially as the whole city buzzes with life. While the long hot days will be coming to an end in a few weeks' time, we still have a Bank Holiday to enjoy. I urge you to keep safe during the longer weekend and to act responsibly. Moving on, earlier this month I held my second Performance and Accountability Board, which sees me hold the Chief Consta ble to account and raise local people’s concerns. The meeting, which was broadcast live to local people and partners, covered the deliverance of efficient and effec tive policing, police performance and priorities for the force. If you didn’t manage to catch the meeting, the recording can be found on my website. The Chief Constable, Assistant Chief Constable and I discussed a number of topics including Vio lence Against Women and Girls, disproportionality, summer de mand and the National Police Race Action Plan. As PCC, it is important that I put forward the questions of local people to en sure the Chief Constable is de livering an efficient, effective and legitimate police service that keeps our communities safe. Our next Performance and Ac countability Board will take place on 2 November so, if you have any concerns that you want to be addressed, please do get in con tact via my website.
“There’s so much to consider and the community is working together and trying its hardest to put objections across and we hope we are being taken Atseriously.”Newsfor You newsagents, Raj, said: “We are already noticing a difference in our trade. With the Co-op closing, it’s incredible the impact it has had as we have lost parking spaces. This, of course, will be heightened further with the introduction of parking Ownerpermits.”of No 45 Hairdressing, Natasha Bishop said: “It’s going to be a nightmare. With the loss of parking facilities, where will staff from all the businesses be able to park? People travel in from all over to work here. The chances are that clients won’t be able to park long enough with an hour’s parking to enable them to get certain treatments and we may lose them to other “Peoplesalons. live such busy lives today and struggling to find a place to park may not be top of their list when it comes to how they spend their time.”
The only pharmacy on Moorland Road, John Preddy and Co Ltd, also feels that they may lose out to parking restrictions. “We are so convenient for local people’s needs,” said pharmacist Nisha Patal. “Like others, we have certainly noticed it’s much quieter here since the loss of the Co-op parking. Moorland Road is an amazing community of people that work together and support one another and the shoppers, visitors, socialisers all come here for so many reasons and we want to be able to continue being here for Councillorthem.”
Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport said: “Our aim is to improve people’s lives and the Residents’ Parking Zone (RPZ) for Oldfield Park has been put forward to prioritise available on-street parking for local “Itresidents.aims to tackle commuter parking and reduce vehicle intrusion into the largely residential neighbourhoods of Oldfield Park, improving air quality and the environment for the local “Throughoutcommunity.theprocess we have listened to residents’ and business owner’s views and will take into account community responses as we make our “Wedecision.want our communities to thrive and so we always work closely with local businesses and residents as we develop a scheme for their area” Mr Pye concluded by saying: “It’s vital that we keep this area going and all that it stands for. We want to have an open and honest dialogue with the council and ensure that all options are fully considered to reach a favourable outcome.”
David Pye, owner of This “n" That gift shop said: “Moorland Road is the heart of this community. It’s a vibrant shopping area with a great culture that emanates from every direction and it’s vital we keep this going.”
Above: Moorland Road in Bath
What’s so reassuring is that the current custodians have their roles and contributions to add so that future generations can look back in awe at what they too have Theachieved.building of Oldfield Park began in the late nineteenth century, when Bath was expanding rapidly due to the housing needs for railway, gas works and post office employees, it was very much a workingclass area. It was and still is a place where people come together and support one another. This is evident in what local resident, Jo Kingston had to say when she voiced what everyone I spoke to felt, and said: “I love the sense of community here. Everyone has the time of day and nothing is too much trouble. We are very proud of what we have here and what we are always building on together.” Moorland Road is as popular today as it has ever been and is easily accessible by car, by train with Oldfield Station so close and by cycling or walking. The residential area that surrounds it houses young families and older generations and provides accommodation for the influx of students during term time at university. The fact is, this historic street offers a range of services as well as feeds the emotional needs of many in and out of the immediate area.
Spotlight on... Moorland Road
Manager of Dominoes, Lewis Caunt, echoed the views of other business by saying: “We are more than a thriving shopping and eating area, we are a lifeline for some and it’s important we sustain that.”
At The Red Cross charity shop, manager Tina Mallon said: “How are we going to get volunteers in to help us if they have to pay to park or there isn’t anywhere to park? Like many others here, we are more than a shop, we provide people with a place to socialise and have a chat, especially if they live alone.
Photos © Cheryl Hughes
Cheryl Hughes Reporter
What became apparent as I spoke with so many of the people in Moorland Road, is that businesses here are feeling threatened by the possibility of the council bringing in parking zones and limited parking permits to the area. “The Moorland Road Association’s main concern is that spaces for shoppers, workers and residents is not being fully considered enough,” said Mr Pye. “It’s a reality that some businesses may not survive if they lose trade and I have to say that trade is already falling since the closure of the Co-op and its car park. Add parking zones to this and we fear it will deter people from coming. The big question then will be, who will monitor all of this? It will be open to abuse “It’sanyway.”abig family along here,” said Sarajane also from This ‘n’ That. “We are all worried for each other as well as our own businesses, there’s people’s livelihoods at stake.”
Serving the community for over sixty years is Francis DIY and Hardware. It has a real presence on Moorland Road and Steven Bishton, who has worked for them since he was thirteen said: “This is a family run business and prides itself on serving its customers in every way it can. It’s ridiculous to bring in parking permits, how are people supposed to carry heavy goods to their cars? We are worried for shops along here and how the impact may penalise owners who are such a big part of the area Colleaguenow.”Jason Poulton added: “The one-hour parking on the road outside the shop is just not long enough anyway. “If people come here to support local businesses and spend their money here, then they need to have parking facilities or everyone loses out.”
ONLY a stone’s throw away from Bath city centre, you will find the thriving community of Moorland Road in Oldfield Park. A hive of activity, from independent shops and cafés to butchers and hardware stores, it has it all. It offers a sense of vibrancy and welcome alongside a glimpse of the history that has gone before. This central shopping road has over 100 years of stories to tell. As far back as 1890 it’s recorded that Moorland Road had many skilled traders living and working in this area: carpenters, brewers, a blacksmith, a policeman, upholsterer - the list continues.
Josh Cook, manager of the Grumpy Baker, said: “This community is special, we all know each other and we are all happy to recommend each other for what people need. We know what’s going on with each other and this really adds to the strength of the place.
COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner
“It’s a proper high street and even more so nowadays, people need places like this. We would hate to see it disappear through lack of parking facilities.”
On a separate note, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate for Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMIC FRS) recently issued the ‘Finding time for crime’ report, focusing on outcomes for burglary, robbery and theft victims. It was outlined that both nationally and, in Avon and Somerset, very few of these crimes result in jus tice for victims. Off the back of this report, I will be holding the Chief Constable to account, seeking assurances as to what improvements are going to be made. Attendance and investigation of these crimes must be improved as well as ensuring that the victim receives the best possible service at all times from ini tial contact with call handlers to speaking to officers to accessing victim support. My team and I will continue our work around funding and com missioning initiatives that sup port all victims of crime and re duce crime in our communities.
It seemed like a good idea at the time – the decline of estate pubs
Finally, we come to a story with a happy ending, even though the building is no longer a pub. The Victoria in Millmead Road, Oldfield Park, opened in 1898, the licence being transferred from the White Hart in Twerton High Street. It had always been a locals pub, but when the last landlord left in 2018, it did not reopen. However, the community saw the building as an asset, and fought off two planning applications, one as a nursery and one as an HMO, by having it declared an asset of community value. Today, there are flats on the upper floors, while the ground floor will be a children’s nursery during the day, and a dance studio in the However,evenings. nothing is being drastically altered, so when the 10-year lease runs out, it could be converted back to a public house. However, just to prove that some estate pubs still survive, the Moorfields in Third Avenue, remains triumphantly open.
Above: The sign for The Castle pub on Forester Avenue
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Above: The Englishcombe Inn on Englishcombe Lane | Below: The Moorfields in Third Avenue
AS Bath grew, with new estates springing up on the outskirts, breweries decided to cash in by building pubs to serve them. Although magistrates tried to restrict the issuing of new licences, breweries offered to close disreputable or nonprofitable pubs in return for licences for their new ones. However, over the years, many estate pubs, often ostentatious on the outside and grandiose on the inside, have struggled. The Castle, on the Forester estate in Bathwick, seemed small enough to survive, although it was much bigger than the original pub, which opened around 1840 to serve the people then living in the area. After a pleasure garden here called Villa Gardens closed about 1792, the villa was bought by Dr Trusler, while in its former grounds a little shanty town sprung up. In James Tunstall’s Rambles about Bath and its neighbourhood, published in 1847, this part of Bathwick was described as ‘a primitive and sequestered spot, denominated the Villa fields, which lie between the railroad and river. Its cottages are detached, built each in its own plot of ground, apparently just as the whim of the settler suggested; for we have heard that this curious suburb resembles, in a great degree, a colonial settlement.’ The settlement had a lecture room, warehouses and a boatyard in addition to the pub. By 1887, the Duke of Cleveland improved the area for poorer residents by building Powlett Road, and when Captain Forester inherited in 1895, he decided to build decent houses across the estate. It was at this time that the pub was rebuilt. It remained a community pub for years, but by 2007 its random opening hours meant trade declined drastically. It was converted to housing in 2009 but its splendid sign Theremains.Englishcombe Inn opened in 1934 to serve new houses built after World War 1 and was described as being on absolutely modern lines. Its most famous landlord was Graham Moffat, who played Albert in the Will Hay films, but retired early to become a landlord, taking on the Englishcombe Inn in 1958. The pub was probably always too large for the area, and despite a major refurbishment in 2003, permission was granted in 2009 for it to become a care home.
Below: The Victoria in Millmead Road, Oldfield Park
Pictures from the Past: Lost pubs
in Bath There are
All dogs who take part will receive a ‘Wag Walk’ doggie bandana to wear on the walk and take home as a memento of the day. The walk will finish back in the grounds of Bath Cats and Dogs Home, where walkers are encouraged to stay for a picnic with their new Wag Walk friends, collect their dog-friendly goodie bags and enjoy the refreshments and activities available in the field. To register for the Wag Walk, visit dogsdelightedDollyfaithfulGreenwoodcelebrityTVandorunwanted,willandreceiveTopsupportinaencouragedandsponsorshipreceiveAllyearschildrenpersonEntryorg.uk/wagwalk.www.bcdh.costs£15perandisfreeforunder16anddogs.entrantswillapersonalisedformwalkersaretoraisesuggested£40sponsorshiptothecharity.fundraiserswillaspecialprizeeverypoundraisedbeusedtocareformistreatedabandoneddogscats.presenterandvet,DrJamessaid:“MyLabrador,andIaretobejoiningandwalkersat the Wag Walk event to support Bath Cats and Dogs Home.
Community
“Every animal deserves their best shot at a happy ending and every step of this process is reliant on donations so your support at this event will be greatly appreciated.”
1st
“Please join me on the walk as all proceeds raised will help support rescue pets who desperately need our Rachelhelp.”Jones, CEO at Bath Cats and Dogs Home added: “The Wag Walk is always a really fun day out for walkers, animal lovers and their dogs.
“I’ve also volunteered at the Wag Walk and it is always a fabulous event which walkers, dogs and their owners absolutely love.
activities –
We are in
in Bath” and our members are all
3rd
Photo © WECA
We take part in a
“Our aim is for all our rescue pets to have a bright future with a new family of their own so if you’re looking for a new pet please adopt if you can.
Cats and Dogs Home to hold annual Wag Walk
Photo courtesy of Bath Cats and Dogs Home
1st
10 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
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The Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bath BA2 4EU Upcoming Talks September 2022 SLAVERY EXPLORED by Gary Best 6th October 2022 DIGITAL MEDIA AND THE FUTURE OF THE NOVEL by Kate Pullinger November 2022 THE REGENCY LIFE IN GEORGIAN BATH by Dr Robert Morrison December 2022 WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY by David BaileyU3A in Bath Open Day is on Thursday 20th October 2022 at the Pavilion from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm
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WEST of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris has praised local residents for taking the time to share their ideas on buses at a “Big Choices on Buses” meeting in Bath. Around 100 people attended the meeting, which was held on 21st July at Southdown Methodist Church, where discussions were held on the challenges faced by those using local bus services. Residents heard about the critical shortages of bus drivers with over 100 vacancies across the region, spiralling inflation and the end of Government Covid-19 funding looming in October. The bulk of bus services in and around Bath are commercial, run by First Bus, Stagecoach, Faresaver and other providers. Around 60 bus services across the West of England region are currently taxpayer subsidised. In Greater Manchester, Mayor Andy Burnham gets £67 per person per year from local councils to fund transport. However, here in the West of England, Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council contribute just over £20 per person. This funding gap means the West of England Metro Mayor has much less money to invest in services. As well as hearing from Dan Norris, residents and local councillors worked in groups to discuss potential solutions to challenges and the trade-offs and compromises they would be willing to make. Most attendees favoured reliability over frequency of services and many suggestions on new routes were made. The concept of shuttle minibuses was popular, transporting people from more rural places around Bath, into the city, to Keynsham, Bristol or to main roads to catch bigger buses. The big difference that term-time made was noted, with suggestions that the University of Bath and Bath Spa University should also contribute to local buses.
Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “There are very real challenges on the buses right now – not enough drivers, fewer farepaying passengers and a looming financial cliff edge when government support ends in October. The truth is we can’t have a perfect service and we need to be honest about the trade-offs required and some big choices need to be made.
See the
Andrea Parkes, from Bath, who works as a volunteer at Bath Cats and Dogs Home said: “I’ve volunteered at the Home for over six years and enjoy a variety of roles including the socialisation of shy or anxious rescue cats and dogs, it is so rewarding to see the animals grow in confidence so they can be rehomed.
Residents thanked for their ideas following Southdown bus meeting
AN annual fundraising challenge, the Wag Walk, is to be held by Bath Cats and Dogs Home on Sunday 4th September for local people, walkers and animal lovers. The walk, which is being sponsored by Bath Vets, will raise vital funds for the care of unwanted, stray or mistreated cats and dogs looked after by the Startingcharity. from the rescue centre in Claverton, the event offers a choice of a 2-mile flat route staying close to the Home or a 5-mile route along the National Trust Bath Skyline with more challenging terrain.
In April 2023, new money will become available for buses after Mr Norris secured the second highest funding award for buses.
“I have experienced the incredible animal welfare work that the Home does to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome rescue cats and dogs, so I’m looking forward to grabbing my trainers and getting out into the beautiful Bath countryside to help them with their fundraising mission.
“Luckily local people have some great suggestions. I sensed a real appetite for on demand mini buses in more rural areas (which would free up drivers). Thank you for the suggestions on different routes and how to price tickets. I was really encouraged by how people came with an open mind.”
“There is something for every age and ability and it’s a wonderful opportunity for adopters to return and show their dog’s progress. What a great way to help raise funds for the Home while enjoying the Bath countryside.” Bath Cats and Dogs Home rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes cats and dogs who are unwanted, neglected, or mistreated, taking in animals from Bath and North-East Somerset and parts of Somerset and Wiltshire. The charity needs to raise over £1.8 million every year to continue its animal welfare work, both at the Home and in the local community. u3a over 450 ,000 of the UK and 1,300 in Bath “u3a retired part-time. range of from History to Languages, from Tennis to Country Walks. complete 100-plus - www.u3ainbath.org.uk u3a can join the u3a in Bath by filling in an application form and sending it (with s.a.e) to Membership Officer, U3A in Bath, PO Box 4040, Bath, BA1 0EJ Application forms on our website or phone 01225 318438 Membership is only £15 per year. Our Monthly Talks Monthly Talks are usually held on the first Thursday in the month and start at 10.30 a.m.. Doors open at 9.45 a.m. for coffee. Admission is free for members but a donation of £2 for non-members. If you join U3A in Bath at the meeting then your admission fee is refunded. Talks take place at:
Health
To support RICE’s appeal, visit enable“Thistreatmentsfacingwehavethat“Byreachsuccesshopehas“WeMedicalDrsupport-us/.https://www.rice.org.uk/TomasWelsh,ResearchandDirectoratRICEsaid:arethrilledthattheappealhadastrongstartandwetobuildonthisearlyoverthemonthsaheadtoourtargetof£200,000.2030,itissadlyexpectedover1millionpeoplewilldementiasoitisvitalthatlearnaboutthechallengesfamiliesandfindthebesttomeettheirneeds.ongoingappealwillustogrowourresearch programme and allow the charity to improve care and support for those affected by dementia and other conditions of older age.” Cara Charles-Barks added: “I am delighted to support the launch of this appeal as we are so fortunate to have RICE based in Bath with its internationallyrenowned research institute and memory clinic.
“The RICE Centre does an excellent job of supporting people in the Bath area facing age-related challenges such as dementia and I’m excited to hear RICE’s plans to expand its research into new areas such as “I’dParkinson’s.liketo thank Professor Roy Jones for his valuable contribution to dementia care in Bath and beyond and to lend our support to Dr Tomas Welsh and his team at RICE as they continue to build on this outstanding legacy. Good luck for a successful Inappeal.”aspeech, The Mayor of Bath, Councillor Rob Appleyard said: “The work at RICE resonates with me as I am a trustee of a local dementia charity and I believe it’s important to raise awareness of how people are living with these challenging diseases.
Service Manager Lisa Tolson said: “We’re really grateful to Jim and his friends and family raising money for us, in such a meaningful way. “It was great to catch up with Jim when he visited to present the cheque, and hear about how the gigs had gone. “On behalf of the whole team, we wish him all the best on his continued recovery.”
Jim has now finished radiotherapy treatment but will continue having regular check-ups. He added: “The care I had at the RUH was exceptional. I’m so grateful to everyone. “I would encourage anyone to go and get checked if there’s something they’re worried Radiotherapyabout.”
“Without local people supporting the research at RICE we wouldn’t understand as much about dementia support, care and treatment. On behalf of the city, I thank the team at RICE for all the work they do, the charity is a little gem in Bath, of which we are extremely proud. “I hope this Appeal will raise the profile of RICE so more people understand the need for dementia research and the care provided by RICE’s Memory AsClinic.”well as researching treatments for dementia, RICE hosts the NHS Memory Clinic for Bath and North East Somerset which receives referrals from GPs, assesses patient memory and provides treatment and medication for dementia. The RICE Centre also runs courses for carers and patients and The Memory Clinic has cared for over 12,000 local people and supported their families.
The seven-piece band dusted off their instruments, dug out their repertoire of 70s and 80s disco covers, and hit the stage for a series of three comeback gigs. They raised £1010.70 for the hospital’s charity RUHX, to be spent on improvements in the radiotherapy department.
“Professor Roy Jones, who joined RICE in 1985, should be thrilled
Residents urged to support health services
A DRUMMER from Wiltshire has reunited with his band for their first gig in 25 years, following treatment for prostate cancer at the Royal United Hospital. 67-year-old Jim Hamersley, from Rowde, was diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer in November 2021, after noticing he was needing to urinate more Jimfrequently.had 20 sessions of radiotherapy at the RUH and, wanting to raise money to say thank you to the team caring for him, he called on his old band Astral Plane. He said: “We’d been talking about getting back together for a reunion gig for a while, and this was the perfect reason to do it. “I’d kept up with my drumming all these years, but we hadn’t played together since 1994. “It was really special, made even better by the fact we were raising money for a fantastic cause.”
LOCAL charity RICE, the Research Institute for the Care of Older People, has said that early donations have seen its latest appeal already raise £80,000. The Delivering Healthy Ageing –President’s Appeal aims to raise £200,000 to fund a dementia research programme and support the growth of RICE’s clinical and research capability into new areas of age-related illnesses. The appeal’s launch event featured speeches from the Mayor of Bath, Dr Tomas Welsh, Research and Medical Director at RICE, Linda Mansell, wife of RICE patient, Roger Mansell and Professor Roy Jones, President at RICE who announced two donations on the night. The early appeal donations were a grant for £75,000 contributed by late author Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld Foundation, and £5,000 donated by an individual supporter of the charity. Other guests at the launch included patients, carers, staff and trustees from RICE, Cara Charles-Barks, CEO of the Royal United Hospital, along with other senior staff. Other attendees included Age UK, Bath Mind, The Peggy Dodd Centre, Quartet Community Foundation and 3SG.
Gill May, Chief Nurse at Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board said: “We are lucky enough to live and work in a beautiful area which people from all over the country are keen to visit, especially during the school “Asholidays.weexpect to see an increase in visitor numbers, we would like to thank those staying with us on holiday, as well as those who work and live in the area, for thinking carefully about how to use local health and care services.
Drummer reunites with band for cancer care fundraising gigs
Cara Charles-Barks, CEO at RUH, Dr Tomas Welsh, Research & Medical Director and Melissa Hillier, CEO at RICE with the progress that the charity has made in the last 35 years.
Issue 033 11Your City, Your News | Bath Echo
Jim Hamersley presenting the cheque to Radiotherapy Service Manager Lisa Tolson | Photo © RUH advice. Visit the NHS website, www.nhs.uk, for a complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help.
PEOPLE living in and visiting Bath are being asked to carefully consider their options for healthcare due to continued pressure on the local NHS. With health services still experiencing intense demand, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing number of Covid-19 cases, health leaders are appealing to the public to make use of pharmacies and be prepared to treat minor conditions themselves rather than relying on A&E departments and doctors’ surgeries. They are also asking local people to have their Covid-19 jabs if they have not already done so, and to not visit people in hospital if they feel Pharmaciesunwell. across the region are available for people to drop in to for expert advice on many common illnesses such as headaches, sore throats and aches and pains, and there is no need to book an appointment. Pharmacies can also give help and information on different medicines people can buy over the counter to help manage their Manyillness. minor conditions and symptoms can also be managed at home without seeking further
Research activity at RICE focuses on improving three areas of health for older people; Thinking Clearly, Moving Well and Staying RICE’sStrong. aim is to fight for a cure for dementia and the appeal will help fund research into Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s disease and the decline of bone and muscle health which impacts greatly on the wellbeing of older people and their families. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, only £90 per patient is spent on dementia research per year despite the total annual cost of dementia to the UK reaching £26 billion.
Early donations to dementia research appeal top £80,000
“By doing so, they will be helping our under-pressure health services during this busy time.”
Education
Volunteers sought for new cholesterol study
Amelia Brimson, 17, said: “I feel overwhelmed. I didn’t even think I was going to pass, but I did so well so I can relax now!” Katie Bowles, 17 said: “I’m shocked and happy, I’ve done a lot better than I thought and I’m really impressed with Nataliamyself.”
Ceri Baker, newly appointed Assistant Principal for Curriculum, and T Level lead at Bath College said: “It’s a real testament to the hard work of our teaching staff that all our T Level students passed their first year. “I’m incredibly proud of them Bathall.”
Dr Bradshaw continued: “Volunteers who take part in the study will be able to benefit from key information about their health gathered at the start and end of the trial. “They will be able to fit exercise sessions into their daily home life, either in the morning or evening, or at a local park.
Bath College Education and Childcare T Level students decided to gather in-person on campus to collect their results rather than online. Every student passed, standing them in good stead for their final grades next year, which will be Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.
Uni celebrates hundreds of teaching graduates with honorary degrees
College T Levels subjects include Digital, Health and Education and Childcare, with Business and Engineering starting in Nationally,September.92.2%of learners achieved a ‘pass’ or above in their occupational specialism, and the Bath College T Level learners came out with a 100% pass rate. Receiving their T Level results
BATH Spa University has awarded Honorary BA Education Degrees to more than 740 of its teaching alumni who previously studied at one of its predecessor colleges. Three days of ceremonies took place across the University’s Bath and Corsham-based campuses earlier this month to mark the conferring of the honorary degrees, and to celebrate the achievements of those who completed their courses as far back as the same year the National Health Service was Duefounded.to an overhaul of the education system in the 1940s, and a shortage of teachers after the Second World War, many new training colleges were Bathestablished.SpaUniversity is made up of three predecessor institutions; Bath Academy of Art, Bath College of Domestic Science, and Newton Park Teacher Training College – each of them tied together through the training of Vice-Chancellor,teachers.
The research team has already conducted a small-scale study on men, finding that men who exercised before breakfast had a reduction in cholesterol at the end of the study, and now they want to extend the project for longer term results and to assess the impact for Participantswomen.willtake part in a 12-week exercise training
For more information on the study, and to contact the research team, https://bathecho.uk/3dnYkj8visit:
“We know exercise can be highly effective at helping to reduce certain types of cholesterol, but we don’t know enough about whether eating before or after exercise is best, and whether this differs for men and women.”
healthmonitoringClavertonofattailoredprogrammetotheirownhealthandfitness.TheywillneedtomakethreevisitstotheresearchlabtheUniversityBathcampusatDownforandsimpletests.
A-level students praised for their resilience
First batch of T Level students at college collect mid-course results
RESEARCHERS at the University of Bath are recruiting up to 100 volunteers for a major new study on the effects of eating and exercise on lowering cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood, and having high levels of it can block blood vessels, raising the risk of heart problems or Morestroke. than two in five people in England have high Arounddisease.ofatwhichcholesterol,putsthemsignificantriskdevelopingheart6.5million adults in England are currently taking lipid-lowering drugs such as Drstatins.Louise Bradshaw, from the University’s Department for Health, who is leading recruitment for the study, said: “Regular exercise is recommended by the NHS to lower cholesterol levels.
“Some participants will be asked to eat before they exercise, and others after, to enable us to study the different impacts on health.”
Professor Sue Rigby, said: “I am delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to all our alumni who are receiving an Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Education “TheDegree.award is given in recognition of the academic rigour demanded by the Certificate in Education and for subsequent services to education they have all given. “Together we are celebrating Bath Spa University, the colleges that came before, and all the lives that have been touched through “Theteaching.impact of education and teaching has been and will continue to be one of the most defining areas of growth throughout our communities; and we thank you for all you have done during your careers. “It is our honour to bestow this recognition on you. On behalf of all the staff, students and lives you have touched, we wish you every happiness.”
Head of School of Education, Bath Spa University’s Newton Park Campus Kyriaki Anagnostopoulou, added: “I’m absolutely delighted that we’re offering honorary degrees to our alumni. I think it’s a brilliant idea, and a wonderful opportunity to showcase their contribution to society as a whole and to the region, as well as nationally and internationally. “My message to them is; ‘you’ve had amazing careers. You have influenced so many lives, and you’ve done an amazing job. Thank you for giving back’.” Bath Spa University’s School of Education is one of the highestrated providers of teacher education in the country, and the largest provider of teacher education in the South West.
Cllr Dine Romero
STUDENTS who received their A-level results on Thursday 18th August, have been praised for the perseverance they have shown in their first year of sitting exams after the coronavirus pandemic. Students have been congratulated for their “resilience”, after having their GCSE exams cancelled in Councillor2020.
“For those students whose results aren’t what you expected please don’t panic or worry, there are lots of options available to you. “Take advantage of the wealth of advice and support available – your school or college will be able to signpost you to the most appropriate service for your needs.”
RESULTS day on Thursday 18th August was the first since Bath College began offering T Levels, with students being applauded for their hard work. Students received their midcourse results, the equivalent of opening AS Level results, alongside the college’s BTEC and other higher technical qualification results. Launched in 2020, T Levels are two-year courses which are taken after GCSEs and are equivalent to A AroundLevels.80% of study takes place at the college, with 20% on work placement, the opposite of an apprenticeship, but still offering on-the-job experience.
Gorska, 18, added: “I wasn’t expecting to get what I got, the work I put into it has paid off. SarahWow!”Demirci, Curriculum Team Leader for Early Years and T Levels said: “I feel absolutely ecstatic and am so proud of my “Theystudents.worked so hard and have done so well in their first year of the T Level.”
Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “For many A-level students this was their first experience of sitting academic examinations as their GCSEs two years ago were cancelled due to the Covid “Bothpandemic.they and our schools and colleges have coped with the challenges they’ve faced over the past two years incredibly well. “Students from across Bath and North East Somerset have performed strongly, and I would like to congratulate them all on their “Manyachievements.willnow be making exciting decisions on where their future lies, be that continuing their studies or looking to start work, and I wish them the very best for their future endeavours.
12 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO APPLY for September Get the career you want at Bath College Sport & Exercise Science Level 3 Sport, Coaching & Exercise Science FdA Animal Management Level 3 I have always loved animals and I especially enjoy studying the aquatic subjects at college. I want to work in Marine Rehabilitation and Rescue, so I’m going to University to study Marine Biology. To apply go to: www.bathcollege.ac.uk After Bath College I’m going to University to do a PGCE degree so I can become a PE teacher. The courses at college have helped me learn multiple new skills and gain experiences that have increased my confidence to pursue my career goal. ANDREW EMMA @bathcollege SCAN coursesBrowseMEour
F.Hinds to return to city after 35 year absence
The National Gallery has licensed artwork by Vincent van Gogh, Paulus Theodorus van Brussel, and Paul Gauguin, which has been wrapped around the labels of Grüner Veltliner, Grenache Rosé, and Old Vine Garnacha Vincentwines. van Gogh’s oil on canvas Sunflowers (1888) features on the Canned Wine Co. Grüner 2021, an Austrian white wine made from hand-harvested Grüner Veltliner by the Huber family in PaulusNiederösterreich.Theodorus van Brussel’s Flowers in a Vase (1789), an oil on mahogany painting, is the artwork for the Canned Wine Co. Grenache Rosé 2021. The varietal, light pink rosé is made by winemaker Thierry Boudinaud in Pays d’Oc, southern France. Paul Gauguin’s A Vase of Flowers, detail (1896) is the oil on canvas painting chosen for the Canned Wine Co. Old Vine Garnacha 2020. Norrel Robertson MW is the winemaker for the red, sourced from old vines at high altitude in Aragon, Spain. Canned Wine Co.’s head wine buyer Ben Franks added: “Our wines are sourced from some of Europe’s finest winemakers
A COMPANY in Bath which produces canned wine has released several new products with limited edition labels in an exclusive deal with The National Gallery in London. The multi-award-winning Canned Wine Company has launched three new canned wines featuring artwork from Vincent van Gogh, Paulus Theodorus van Brussel, and Paul SimonGaugin. Rollings, co-founder of Canned Wine Company Ltd, said: “We’re proud to announce our new collaboration with National Gallery in London to showcase some of art’s great masterpieces on our wine labels. “Part of the proceeds from our National Gallery Editions go towards supporting the gallery, helping to maintain and continue free access to paintings.”
The Touchstone team volunteering for DHI EMPLOYEES from a property management firm in Bath have volunteered their time to help renovate the garden of a supported living house in the city. Staff from Touchstone helped Developing Health & Independence (DHI) at one of their properties. The charity supports people with issues including homelessness, alcohol or drug problems or mental health problems. Touchstone is headquartered in Bath and has been a supporter of the charity for the last few years. The Touchstone team spent a day working alongside DHI cutting back greenery, installing a new bike rack, building new privacy fencing and planting a wide variety of late summer plants. The garden needed considerable updating, so as well as volunteering, Touchstone partfunded the work and paid for plants, a bike rack, new tools and Sarahmaterials.Lawes, Touchstone, said: “Our charity work is massively important to us, and being based in Bath, we love working with DHI where we can make a tangible difference. Our colleagues have loved giving their time to renovate this garden. It’s fantastic knowing their hard work will have such a positive impact for the current residents and many others in the Rosiefuture.”Phillips, Chief Executive, DHI, said: “We are so grateful to Touchstone for their support. “Now this garden is renovated, it will benefit the residents to have a spot to relax and let nature aid their recovery.”
Wine company begins partnership with The National Gallery
Photo courtesy of F.Hinds with a focus on quality. We have worked with our winemakers to make the wines ready for the canned format, with maturation in tank or barrel prior to canning so they taste at their best.
JeremyAdvisors.Hinds, Sales Development Director at F.Hinds said: “This isn’t the first time F.Hinds has settled in Bath. “We first opened a Hinds store in 1949 at 12 Union High Street until its closure in 1987 and we are very much looking forward to returning to Bath and bringing our exciting new offering to the Fittedarea.” with modern furnishings that compliment F.Hinds’ branding, the store will offer the same customer service that the company is widely known for. With diamonds, to jewellery, branded watches and gifts, the new Bath branch will provide a wide range of products for every age, moment, taste and occasion, as well as popular services including gold for cash, jewellery and watch repairs, watch battery replacements, insurance, valuations and more. Well-known brands including watches from Bulova, Citizen and Seiko and jewellery from Fossil, Tommy Hilfiger and Radley will also be stocked. Those interested in working in the store can browse vacancies and apply online https://bathecho.uk/3dvDVsxat:
Judith Mather, the Buying and Brand Licensing Director at the National Gallery Global Limited, said: “We are delighted to be working with Canned Wine Co. who have created a range of beautifully designed canned wines that showcase the National Gallery’s artworks in a very fresh and original way.”
Business
“Given the legendary status of the artists we’ve secured for the cans, we made sure the finest wine is canned inside.” The limited-edition cans are available to buy from The National Gallery and as three packs online.
ONE of the country’s longestestablished family-owned jewellers, F.Hinds, will be opening a new store in Bath this autumn, returning to the city after a 35-year absence. The premises will be located on Union Street in Bath and will be the company’s 115th store. F.Hinds has been operating since 1856, surviving two world wars, numerous financial crashes and Apandemics.totalofsix jobs will be created, and recruitment has now started. Positions include vacancies for a Store Manager, Part Time Sales Advisors and Full-Time Sales
Jewellers
The three limited edition products | Photo © Canned Wine Company
Volunteers help renovate DHI garden
14 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
Issue 033 15Your City, Your News | Bath Echo
Liveable Neighbourhoods aim to create healthier and safer outdoor spaces for everyone to Typically,share. they feature fewer vehicles, improved routes for walking, cycling and wheeling, and more pleasant outdoor Aspaces.range of measures are used to create a Liveable Neighbourhood, such as wider pavements, new cycle lanes, additional crossings and outdoor Through-trafficseating. restrictions on four residential streets are being proposed because of the high levels of support already expressed by some residents for the proposals, and to quickly improve the safety and quality of life for residents living in or around these streets. The council is now asking the wider community to confirm its support, or share views, before it considers whether to trial the restrictions in the autumn under Experimental Traffic Restriction Orders (ETROs). The engagement period, which runs until 5pm on 30th August, is on the following streets: • Southlands, Weston • Church Street, Widcombe • Tennyson Road and Cork Street • Queen Charlton Lane, Whitchurch Village In all four pilot locations, solutions are being proposed to restrict through-traffic and prevent queue jumping. Vehicle access would be maintained for residents, visitors and the emergency services. The temporary through-traffic restriction could be a droppable bollard, a gate or a planter depending on the individual circumstances, and after seeking views from agencies, including the emergency services. Vehicle turning areas would be provided, which in some cases may require a loss of on-street Pedestrians,parking.
Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Planning and Licensing said: “The council’s priority is for homes for social or affordable rent as they best meet the needs of our residents who can’t afford or access open market “Implementinghousing. the First Homes policy could impact on the amount of the more affordable social housing types that the council could provide. “We’re launching this consultation to give people an opportunity to have their say on our Interim Position Statement.” Bath and North East Somerset’s current affordable housing policy requires developers to provide 75 per cent of affordable homes as rented, and 25 percent as shared Inownership.orderto retain the 75 per cent proportion of rented affordable homes, if the council implemented First Homes, it would replace the Shared Ownership portion with First TheHomes.proposed Interim First Homes Position Statement can be found at toandhttps://bathecho.uk/3ppPDrttheemailaddresstorespondisfirsthomesconsultation@ Thebathnes.gov.uk.deadlinefor comments on the statement is 5pm on the 23rd September 2022.
Consultation launched on new First Homes housing policy
“We want to check residents’ views before we trial the restriction on each street under an Experimental Traffic Order Regulation (ETRO). “The order would allow people to formally comment on the restriction as they experience it over 12 months before making a final commitment on whether they would like to see it permanently installed. “Along with physical interventions, we are working with residents – especially where issues have been identified – to reduce their reliance on cars where they can, especially for short trips that could be walked or “Thiswheeled.istohelp reduce congestion on all roads, improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions. Reducing car use also offers personal health, wellbeing and financial “Developingbenefits. Liveable Neighbourhoods is not all about introducing physical interventions and will rely in part on everyone finding healthier and more sustainable ways to do
Bath & North East Somerset Council has said that monitoring would be undertaken, both prior to the modal filter being installed and during the trial. As part of the Liveable Neighbourhoods Programme, ward members also brought forward proposals for seven resident parking zones which have been consulted on, and reports are now being prepared.
https://bathecho.uk/3K0atqGshortjourneys.”Lettershavebeensent to residents living in or near the roads where the restrictions are Betweenproposed. last November and January, more than 1,600 people responded to a series of questions about Liveable Neighbourhoods. 51% supported Liveable Neighbourhoods schemes, 36% expressed neutral views, and 13% were against their Theimplementation.engagement found many areas expressing a wish for changes to improve pedestrian safety, more traffic calming measures, and improved cycling Additionally,infrastructure.a desire for general improvement of the public realm was Severalexpressed.concerns were also raised. These included the potential impact of vehicle access restrictions, which some residents were concerned might move an existing problem from one area to another.
Politics
Views sought on plans to restrict traffic on residential roads
cyclists and people with buggies, wheelchairs or driving mobility scooters would be able to pass through the restrictions unhindered.
A CONSULTATION has been launched on whether shared ownership of homes in Bath and North East Somerset should be replaced with First Homes, a national housing policy. First Homes is a new government affordable housing policy which aims to provide wouldbe homeowners with the option to buy a new-build home at a Itdiscount.requires 25 per cent of the affordable homes in each new build scheme to be First Homes. In Bath and North East Somerset, this would mean that First Homes would replace Shared However,Ownership.Bath & North East Somerset Council’s analysis of recent shared ownership sales in the district showed that less than 2 per cent of buyers in the area would have been able to afford a First Home equivalent of the house they bought. The proposed Interim Position Statement outlines the local authority’s intention not to include First Homes as a mandatory element of planning policy for that reason.
Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: “These four locations were identified as suitable pilot interventions – ahead of wider improvements in the Liveable Neighbourhood Programme –following a previous engagement last December and again in recent community workshops where residents again expressed support for traffic restrictions in these locations to tackle antisocial driving.
VIEWS are being sought from residents on proposals for new restrictions to be put in place in four trial locations to help tackle “anti-social driving” and speeding on residential streets. The schemes, being put forward by Bath & North East Somerset Council, are part of the Liveable Neighbourhoods Programme. A month-long online and inperson engagement has been launched to gather comments about the four pilot locations, which are within the 15 areas due to be improved under the first phase of the Liveable Neighbourhoods Programme.
Bath & North East Somerset Council says that all feedback will be considered in the creation of the final Position Statement. This will feed into the new Local Plan and be published online. The consultation can be found at:
The Guildhall in Bath
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“Our ‘Upstairs at The Townhouse’ space is also a first for Coppa Club and adds another dimension to our all-day venue.
Over 200 Ukrainian refugees welcomed to the local area
Man jailed for failed attempt at deceiving woman in romance scam
Useful information on the support available for refugees in Bath and the local area is available on the council’s website at: https://bathecho.uk/3c5vfJh
Coppa Club’s The Bath Townhouse opens
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Several groups have been set up to support sponsors and guests across the area, including: • Bath Welcomes Refugees –which has been commissioned by the council to support guests across B&NES with English language classes, creating a local network so that guests and sponsors to chat online and organise face-to-face social events, as well as befriending, assisting with furniture and donations and much more.
“By offering a new idea to the Bath all-day dining scene, we hope to cement our place within the community. ”
•
Keynsham Ukrainian Support Network – The Information Hub is designed to provide support to sponsors. The network also helps sponsors and their guests •connect.Saltford Community Association – As well as offering mutual support, it provides every arriving family with a Welcome Pack including an iPad donated by Futura Learning and a free SIM card from Vodafone. The contents of the pack are either donated or bought using funds donated by residents to the association’s Saltford Support •Fund.Chew Valley Ukrainian Refugee Support Network – The network consists of sponsors, Ukrainian guests and volunteers, who work together to ensure all Ukrainians coming to the Valley feel welcome, supported and part of a community. As well as face-to-face meetings and events, the Network has created a private website for guests to help them find the support they need to integrate with the local community. The Network organises a free weekly drop-in event for adults and children at the Hub at Bishop Sutton Village Hall. Transport to the Hub can also be provided.
A NEW space called The Bath Townhouse has opened on Old Bond Street, offering visitors the chance to eat, drink and relax in the city centre. The site is the Coppa Club’s newest location, which opened on Tuesday 16th August. It is their 11th property and the second in the South West of England. Opening with a “bi-level concept”, the site offers two separate floors, allowing guests to use the space in different ways to suit their Themoods.ground floor hosts a main restaurant, bar and café space. On the second floor, guests can experience ‘Upstairs at The Townhouse’, an all-day loungebar serving cocktails and food. At twilight, ‘Upstairs at The Townhouse’ is candle-lit and the atmosphere shifts from relaxed daytime to an intimate bar. Yishay Malkov, CEO of Coppa Club, said: “We are hugely excited to announce the opening of The Bath Townhouse. “It’s a unique and intriguing space, characterised by its art deco staircase and Georgian façade, right in the centre of the city and with its very own loucheluxe concept. “We hope it will provide an exciting new offering for locals and tourists, a place for guests to come no matter the time of day for a fun, vibrant atmosphere.
THE Homes for Ukraine scheme has seen 240 Ukrainian refugees welcomed to Bath and North East Somerset in the past five months, it has been revealed. Under the scheme, 148 adults and 92 children and young people have escaped the war and are currently settled in safe, secure accommodation provided by local residents.
Photo © Yanosh Nemesh / Shutterstock.com
A 30-YEAR-OLD man has been jailed after trying to deceive a woman he met through a dating site to transfer money to him. Sebastian Timmis, of Marksbury, was jailed on Monday 1st August after pleading guilty to fraud by false representation for a romance fraud he attempted. On 1st May this year, Timmis began communicating with a woman via a dating site. Within a 24-hour period, he told her he was looking for someone to fall in love with and that she did not need to keep her dating profile anymore now they had found each other. He then quickly asked her to transfer him £50 for petrol, telling her his wallet had been stolen. When challenged, he claimed his friends couldn’t help him, his family were abroad and he was unable to get to work without her financial Suspicioushelp.ofwhat she was being told, the victim chose not to transfer him any money. She did an internet search and found media stories showing Timmis had previously been sentenced for multiple romance fraud Timmis,offences.of Hill View in Marksbury, was handed a 12week prison sentence at Bath Magistrates Court. He was also recalled to prison to serve the remainder of a previous sentence he received last year for similar offences and therefore will not be eligible for release until January 2024. Officer in the case PC Rory Everitt said: “Timmis has repeated his behaviour, again trying to scam his innocent victim into giving him money. He clearly had no regard for her feelings and tried to prey on her “Timmis’generosity.scam was typical of romance fraud cases involving dating sites and shows many of the red flags that victims should be wary “Firstly,of. the incredibly early declaration of love or talk of a long-term relationship. In this case it was without them meeting each other in person. “Secondly, that Timmis claimed to be a victim of a theft. This is a typical romance fraudster’s ploy to pull at the victim’s heartstrings.
In Other News....
“And thirdly, he got the victim to communicate with him privately over Snapchat so it couldn’t be monitored. Moving off the dating app is a common tactic. “We would urge anyone in a similar situation not to hand over money or personal details and to talk it through with family or friends if you feel under pressure.
The Bath Townhouse | Photo courtesy of Coppa Club
13 other refugees who arrived in the district have since left to return to Ukraine or another Thecountry.refugees and their sponsor families are being supported by Bath & North East Somerset Council and other local partners. An additional 81 refugees have been matched with sponsors in the area, but are yet to make the 1700-mile Councillorjourney.DineRomero, cabinet member for Children, Young People, Communities and Culture said: “I’d like to thank all our residents who’ve opened up their homes to people fleeing this terrible war. “Many of those seeking safe haven within our communities have witnessed unimaginable horror, been separated from their loved ones and don’t know when they will be able to safely return “Thehome.compassion shown to them by so many in our communities has been overwhelming.”
“If the person you’ve met online genuinely cares for you as they claim, they will not object to you being cautious.
“If you feel someone is trying to scam you, please report it to the police or Action Fraud – you could save yourself and others from falling victims to predatory PCCfraudsters.”Mark Shelford said: “Firstly, I want to commend the victim for coming forward when she felt the demands of Timmis were not right; she recognised the red flags and didn’t give into “Instead,pressure. she reported to the police and, thanks to her efforts, a fraudster has been brought to “Romancejustice. fraud is an awful, heart-breaking crime and romance fraudsters do not care about the feelings of their “Ifvictims.you or a family member or friend is a victim of this terrible crime, please come forward to the police or Action Fraud for support.”
Sebastian Timmis
| Photo © Avon & Somerset Police 16 www.bathecho.co.uk Tuesday 23rd August - Monday 5th September 2022
