Bath Echo - Issue 052 - 23/05/2023

VIEWS SOUGHT ON LIDL PLANS

Roads to close for security improvement works

PEOPLE are being warned about the upcoming closures of Cheap Street and part of Hot Bath Street in the city centre as part of ongoing security improvement works.

The closures will come into effect on 29th May and works are expected to be complete by the end of the year.

While the closures are in effect, Blue Badge holders and other exempt vehicles will still have ac-

cess to Westgate Street and Upper Borough Walls, however, they will need to enter via Westgate Buildings and exit via Upper Borough Walls.

During the works, diversions will be clearly signposted, and marshals will be available to conduct security checks and assist people at Westgate Buildings between 10am and 6pm.

Deliveries will still be possible for both streets before 10am and

after 6pm via Westgate Buildings and Lower Borough Walls, again with traffic marshals present to provide assistance.

Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the works, and necessary measures such as temporary walkways will be implemented to ensure pedestrian safety. The construction activities will not hinder traders or their customers from accessing their premises.

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We will do all we can to minimise disruption and to make sure people are aware businesses are open as usual during this phase of the works.”

The project faces various challenges due to the unique characteristics of the city and the presence of existing infrastructure, such as working above vaults ...

Continued on page 2

Need a new website? With prices from £150, we’ll get you sorted

Top Stories P2-5

Pictures from the Past P6

Crossword P7

What's On P9

Community P10

Health P12

Education P13

Business P14

Politics P15

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank you for picking up a copy of the Bath Echo newspaper!

Useful Information

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

How to get in touch with us...

For news items and press releases: news@bathecho.co.uk

01225 585484

For sport and match reports: sport@bathecho.co.uk

01225 585484

Want to have a letter published? letters@bathecho.co.uk

Subscriptions/Distribution: production@bathecho.co.uk

01225 585484

Advertising & Marketing: advertise@bathecho.co.uk

01225 589789

Contact the editor: Sebastian Hawker editor@bathecho.co.uk

Published by Media Bath Limited Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA Company Number: 09384496

Disclaimer

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

ISSN 2632-7805

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

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

City centre closures for new security measures

Continued from page 1

... and cellars and closely collaborating with utility companies.

The council has conducted preliminary investigations, but the precise timeline and completion dates will be determined once contractors are on-site.

In February 2020, Avon & Somerset Police Chief Constable asked Bath & North East Somerset Council to consider an Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO) covering the wider city centre.

This measure would be implemented in response to a heightened threat, specific intelligence, incidents, or crowded events. Following consultations with Counter Terrorism security advisors, the council decided to introduce permanent restrictions in a smaller area of the city centre, based on the locations identified in the National Counter Terrorism Security Office report. The Chief Constable supported these measures.

The local authority continues to work closely with Counter Terrorism advisors to implement physical measures and provide training for frontline staff in both the public and private sectors to ensure the safety of these areas. Vehicles are also subject to re-

strictions between 10am and 10pm in York Street following the completion of the initial phase of improvement works.

Firefighters set to cycle from Bath to Paris

A FIREFIGHTER is rallying his colleagues and friends to embark on a challenging cycling journey from Bath to Paris in support of his wife who was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer.

Matt Parsons, along with his teammates from Blue Watch based at Bath’s fire station, will be raising funds for Cancer Research UK by swapping their fire pumps for cycle pumps and pedalling their way to Paris.

The team of firefighters will set off from Bath fire station in September on their fundraising mission to contribute to the fight against cancer.

The event aims to raise both awareness and funds for Cancer Research UK, while also providing support for Matt’s wife

Jess, who received her diagnosis in June 2022 when her youngest daughter, Inès, was only six months old.

Jess was on maternity leave at the time from her job in human resources. She explained: “I found the lump when breastfeeding my daughter. I had also breastfed my son Stanley, so I knew something wasn’t quite right, but I had never imagined that it would be cancer.

“It was at such a happy and idyllic time in my life that the thought of having cancer hadn’t crossed my mind.

“The day of my diagnosis, we decided to bring Inès to the hospital with us and I vividly remember my husband holding her – right next to me – when those heart-shattering words were uttered.

“It was a very emotional time. As soon as you hear those words you think you’re going to die. I never thought of myself as invincible or immune to getting cancer, but I still to this day get a moment when I think “this can’t be real. It must be a bad dream – this isn’t how my life is supposed to turn out”, then it hits me that this is my life now.”

Initially, despite being diagnosed with Squamous Metaplastic Breast Cancer, which accounts for less than 2 per cent of worldwide cases, consultants were optimistic as the tumour was small and seemed contained. However, things quickly escalated. The cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and Jess was eventually rushed into surgery to remove a 7.5cm tumour

which had progressed rapidly. The tumour had started tearing through her skin in two places and had attached to the muscle. Jess added: “I’ve had six rounds of chemotherapy, a mastectomy with LD flap skin and muscle graft, fifteen radiotherapy sessions and I’m now benefitting from targeted therapy – a treatment which combines immunotherapy and chemo all in one and which has come about thanks to research developments in recent years.

“I feel very lucky to have access to this drug. I had never appreciated quite how quickly the research against cancer is evolving until now.”

Having taken time off work to get through her treatment, Jess said: “It’s been a tough ride but now I’m reasonably well, I decided to return to work with some adjustments.

“My work has been really flexible and thoughtful and so far I’m loving being back. It’s tiring some days but I’m happy to be back.”

In addition to their long-distance cycling challenge, Matt and the Blue Watch crew have been asked to lead the participants at Bath’s Race for Life event, which will take place at Royal Victoria Park on 2nd July.

The firefighters will kick off the event, guiding men, women, and children through the course as they raise money to support the life-saving work of Cancer Research UK.

Jess, together with her son Stanley, aged 7, will be taking part in the 5K route, joining thousands of others in their efforts to raise funds for this important cause.

An artist’s impression of the entrance to Cheap Street | Image courtesy of B&NES Council

Jess and Matt Parsons with their children and the fundraising team | Photo © Paul Gillis

Chance to have say on plans for new Lidl supermarket

MEMBERS of the public are being given the chance to have their say on plans for a new Lidl store beside Bath RFC’s Lambridge training ground on the London Road. The multi-million-pound development would create around 40 new jobs in the community. The plans include a modern supermarket of a bespoke design, with a sales area of 1,228 m2, offering a range of Lidl’s products. The store would offer facilities including an in-store bakery, along with parking for bicycles, cargo bikes and cars.

If plans are approved by Bath & North East Somerset Council, pedestrian access across the London Road and Gloucester Road junction would be enhanced, including two new signalled pedestrian crossings. The development has been designed to incorporate Bath stone and natural timber cladding. The store design has been developed following initial engagement with Bath & North East Somerset Council and key heritage stakeholders, including Bath Preservation Trust, Historic England and the National Trust, and benefits from the input of the Design West Review Panel of local architects.

Developers say the proposed store would preserve and enhance existing habitats around the site, and improve biodiversity with a net gain of more than 30%. Other enhancements are also proposed, such as:

• Extensive new tree and hedge planting, strengthening and enriching the tree line surrounding the site

• Natural above-ground drainage systems (SUDS) to improve landscaping and habitat

• A green roof incorporating solar panels, which will provide renewable energy for the store while the roofs plantation will help to naturally insulate the building and aid biodiversity

• Energy-efficient air source heat pumps as an alternative to standard heating units

• Sensitively designed LED lighting throughout the store

• Rapid electric vehicle charging spaces for customers The store proposals can be viewed at the consultation website londonroadbath.newstore.lidl.

co.uk and anyone who would like to discuss the proposals can call 0800 089 0361 or email lidllondonroadbath@new-stores. co.uk.

Information leaflets with a freepost feedback form are also being posted to over 14,500 properties

in the surrounding area. Lidl GB’s Regional Head of Property, Glen Stidever, said: “A huge amount of work has gone into developing these proposals for a new discount supermarket in Bath to ensure it best meets the expectations of the local community.

“To get to this stage, we have already undertaken extensive pre-application consultation

Restoration of Royal Crescent lawn underway after phallus removed

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

THE 30-foot phallus which appeared on Bath’s Royal Crescent’s lower lawn earlier this month has been removed, but many are not keen on how it was done.

There is now a large rectangle of grass-seeded earth cut out of the grass around where the member had been. But the job has not impressed everyone.

Students Harry, Evie, and Charlie were enjoying some time at the Royal Crescent on a Sunday afternoon.

Evie said: “I’d rather there be a penis than a massive patch of dirt.”

But Charlie added: “It’s still sortof there though. You can still see the outline”

Weighing up the benefits of the act of vigilante gardening, Harry said: “I think student crowds would enjoy it more if there’s a penis. I don’t know about tourists.”

But Sarah and Kevin had come from Devon to Bath for the weekend, and Sarah said she thought it had been “brilliant.” She said: “I thought it was perfectly appropriate for the time, and it was absolutely hilarious.” The appendage appeared on

the morning of 4th May, as the city headed to vote in the local elections, and just two days before a party to celebrate the coronation of the new king was set to happen on the lawn.

Commenting on the giant rectangle of earth, Sarah said: “I think they have probably brought more attention to it now.”

Kevin added that it would grow back, saying: “It just needs a bit more rain.”

Chloe and Lewis were visiting Bath for the weekend from Nottingham.

Chloe said: “They probably could have done a better job of covering it properly. They have probably mowed it to the extent that its ruined the grass and its died, so that’s why they’ve put grass seed there.”

Lewis added: “Hopefully in a few weeks it will look fine.”

The Royal Crescent is arguably Bath’s most iconic location, with people paying Bath and North East Somerset Council £4,429 to hire the lawn out for events. The local authority was contacted for comment.

with Bath & North East Somerset Council and local stakeholders, such as Bath Preservation Trust and the Design West Review Panel. Feedback gathered from this important engagement has helped to inform every aspect of the design.

“We are really excited to be able to now share these with the local community. The new Lidl store would be of exceptional quality

design, befitting of the World Heritage Site designation, and will provide residents especially on the eastern side of Bath, with easier access to our quality produce.

“We hope that as many people as possible participate in our public consultation and look forward to receiving feedback from local residents ahead of submitting planning.”

Commemorative stone laid to mark 75 years of link with Alkmaar

BATH recently welcomed visitors from its Dutch twin city of Alkmaar to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the longstanding bond between the two communities.

Led by the Mayor of Bath and members of the Bath-Alkmaar Twinning Association, a special event was held to unveil a new commemorative stone in the city centre, symbolising the enduring friendship between the two cities. Sited next to the Alkmaar Garden in Orange Grove, near the Guildhall, the engraved

stone serves as a replica of the one placed in Alkmaar last year. Its placement in Bath signifies the reciprocal nature of the twinning relationship and the shared history that unites the communities.

The stone was formally unveiled by the Mayor, Rob Appleyard, and the President of the Rotary Club of Alkmaar, Jan Roobeek on 12th May.

The two cities’ Rotary Clubs were instrumental in forging the link between the two cities at the end of the Second World War.

An artist’s impression of the proposed store, viewed from the car park | Image © Lidl

The giant rectangle of earth at the Royal Crescent | Photo © John Wimperis

Unveiling the new stone | Photo © Bath Alkmaar Twinning Association

Care home marks resident’s milestone 100th birthday

RUSH Hill Mews, a care home in Bath, recently hosted a surprise birthday party for one of its residents who turned 100.

Llewela Parrish marked her momentous occasion on 30th April with a special birthday celebration, transporting her back to the 1950s. The event was held in the home’s lounge, which had been decorated with birthday banners and balloons. Llewela was born in Kingsland, Herefordshire, in 1923. She joined the women’s branch of the British Army, the Auxiliary Territorial Service, aged just 16 when World War II broke out. She was soon promoted to Corporal, and it was during this time that she met her future husband, Ken, who worked on military vehicles. The couple married in August 1950 at St Luke’s Church in Stoke Prior, Leominster, and had two daughters, Lyn and Claerwen.

The event was a chance for Llewela to celebrate with her family, friends, and fellow residents, and she enjoyed live entertainment featuring 1950s songs.

Caroline Carter, General Manager at Rush Hill Mews, said: “It was wonderful to listen to Llewela’s achievements from her family and friends and help her celebrate such a momentous birthday.

“Here at Rush Hill Mews, we work hard to support residents to lead fulfilling lives, and celebrating special occasions and birthdays plays a huge part in this. We love any excuse to celebrate the amazing people living here at Rush Hill Mews and Llewela’s birthday was no exception.

“We were honoured to raise a glass to her incredible life so far and are privileged to have her as part of our Rush Hill Mews family – cheers Llewela!”

£100,000 awarded to help with Beckford's Tower restoration

THE Bath Preservation Trust has been awarded £100,000 of partnership funding from Historic England to help and preserve the historic landmark Beckford’s Tower.

Built between 1826 and 1827, the iconic structure was intended to house the collections of books, furniture and art of writer and collector William Beckford (17601844).

Having sold the Gothic Revival Fonthill Abbey in 1822, William Beckford relocated to Bath and began the construction of his eponymous folly Tower.

Riding out to the Tower from his townhouse in Bath’s Lansdown Crescent every morning before breakfast, Beckford enjoyed its quietude and the glorious views from the Belvedere at the top. Now owned and run by the Bath Preservation Trust (BPT), the iconic landmark is a Grade I listed building and is the only museum in the world dedicated to his life and work.

In 2019, the landmark was added to Historic England’s national Register of Heritage at Risk. The funding forms part of Our Tower: Reconnecting Beckford’s Tower and Landscape for all, a much larger £3.9m National Lottery Heritage Fund-supported project that will transform the museum, open up the landscape, provide accessible experiences and also provide digital resources alongside a new learning programme and opportunities for volunteering and community engagement. Beckford’s wealth was secured through owning plantations and exploiting enslaved people.

Our Monthly Talks

The project will enable a better interpretation of Beckford’s story based on a wider exploration of his connections with slavery. In seeking support for the project, BPT has been successful in its bid to secure additional funding from Historic England.

Claire Dixon, Director of Museums at BPT and the lead for the Beckford Tower project explained: “This is fantastic news and being able to demonstrate significant support from Historic England will contribute very positively to the project outcomes.

replacement of damaged wooden panels in the Lantern begins this month and will be complete by the end of the year.

Working with Lead Architect Clive England from Thomas Ford & Partners, a team from Historic England and a local conservation officer, BPT has created a solution that is effective and sensitive to the building.

Rebecca Barrett, Regional Director at Historic England said: “Beckford’s Tower is an extraordinary and unique landmark, a distinctive feature in Bath’s cityscape.

u3a in Bath and Enjoy these Benefits

Join

* Staying active, keep learning and having fun

* Meeting people and making new friends

* Access to online learning and training

* Free attendance to talks and learning events

* Meeting other members with similar interests

* Learning new things and sharing your skills

About u3a in Bath

There are 450,000 of us in the UK and 1,300 in Bath. We are in “u3a in Bath” and our members are all retired or semi-retired. We take part in a range of educational or recreational activities. See the complete list of over 100 interest groups on our website u3ainbath.uk

Come and join us

You can join us by going to our website www.u3ainbath.uk and completing the online application form or you can download the application form from the website and send it to Membership Secretary, u3a in Bath, PO Box 4040, Bath BA1 0EJ

You can also join in person at one of our monthly talks at The Pavilion. Membership fee is only £15 per person per year.

Monthly Talks are usually held on the first Thursday in the month (except August) 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.

Talks take place at:

The Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bath BA2 4EU

Upcoming Talks are:

1 June 2023

THE HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE NORTH SOMERSET COALFIELD by Shane Gould

6 July 2023

WITCH FINDER OF THE WEST COUNTRY : JOSEPH GLANVILL (1636 – 1680) byTony McAleavy

7 September 2023

BRISTOL PORT : PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE by John Chaplin

“I am also really grateful that this grant demonstrates a partnership that goes beyond financial support, providing confidence through collaboration, to adopt the best solutions to repair and conserve this important building.

“This latest grant is in addition to £10k that Historic England has previously provided to support our Development Phase and enables us to move confidently into the final phase of the project, that is now fully funded.”

Historic England’s grant will be invested in the repair of the Tower and address the cause of water penetration that has caused so much damage over the years. Repair work including

“At 120 ft, the Tower has been exposed to the effects of increasingly severe weather over many decades, which has led to the weakening of its structure.

“We’re proud to support BPT in carrying out the repairs this beautiful landmark now urgently needs, and in exploring how it can be made more energy efficient for the future.”

Alongside the repairs, the Bath Preservation Trust is looking at investment in infrastructure and interventions that will improve the efficiency of the building, working to reduce its carbon footprint and demonstrate best practices for those looking to address these issues in historic buildings.

Job Vacancies

Promote your job vacancies in your local newspaper Prices start at just £10 (+VAT) Get in touch to find out more advertise@bathecho.co.uk

01225 589789

100-year-old Llewela Parrish at Rush Hill Mews care home | Photo © Care UK

Beckford’s Tower on Lansdown in Bath Photo © ColinPeachey / Shutterstock.com

Bath Rugby reveals stadium plans for Recreation Ground

BATH Rugby has revealed its new designs to the public for the proposed redevelopment of the current stadium at the Recreation Ground. The plans were revealed at the rugby club’s final home game against Saracens.

Stakeholder and public feedback obtained during previous consultations have influenced the new stadium design, which the club plans to submit to B&NES Council this summer.

As part of the redevelopment, the public riverside space to the West of The Rec will be widened, creating a more inviting and usable space, on matchdays and non-matchdays, and the structure itself will allow for greater community use. Sustainability and environmentally friendly materials are also key to the new proposals.

The proposed capacity of the

stadium will increase to 18,000, with increased provision for accessibility needs, as well as providing a new permanent home for the Bath Rugby Foundation charity.

Speaking before the reveal, Bath Rugby Chief Executive Tarquin McDonald said: “After decades of conversation, we are confident the plans we will submit this summer will both excite and reassure the people of Bath.

“Our club, your club, is the heart of our city and now is the time to bring a stadium that will service world-class men’s and women’s rugby, and our community, all year-round.”

Bath Rugby has said that construction of the development will be phased so that matches can continue to be played. More information can be found on the Bath Rugby website at https://www.bathrugby.com/ stadium-for-bath/

Above: The proposed view from inside the Rec on matchday | Below: Other views of the development | Images © Bath Rugby

Pictures from the Past: In the News

Cocking a snook at the Royal Crescent

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

RECENTLY much has been written about what is described as a phallic symbol reported as being mown into the grass in front of the Royal Crescent.

In fact, it was created using weedkiller which is why the parks department have covered it with soil. It is not known how long it will take to recover.

However, the Victorians also seemed to be unsettled by the fearful symmetry and cool symbolism of the Crescent, and were constantly trying to ‘improve’ it.

In our first picture, which dates from before 1800, we can see how it should look. It is almost devoid of decoration beyond the repeated columns, and the ground in front of the haha had grazing animals – a classic example of rus in urbe

This calm elegance did not fit in with the Victorians’ passion for busy design and they came up with various schemes to enliven it. This one, complete with fountains, formal gardens, and steps breaking through the haha, dates from around 1850.

However, about 20 years later, George Gilbert Scott came up with an idea for a church on the site where Wood the Younger had intended a small chapel –possibly intended as the final resting place of his father. Had the Victorian architect been Charles Hansom, who designed the jewel-like Eyre Chantry at Perrymead, all might have been well, but not only did Gilbert Scott like to build big, he was by now deeply into muscular Christianity mode. He came up with a whopping great church which was too large for the site and obtrusive from any angle, as can be seen in this view from High Common. It simply dominated everything around it, diminishing all the Georgian buildings in the area – which was probably the idea. But the culminating insult to Wood the Younger was the way in which its spire stuck up ridiculously above the roofline of the crescent. Nothing could have

expressed more clearly how much the Victorians despised Georgian architecture than the way in which St Andrew’s literally cocked a snook at what is now regarded as an icon for Bath. However, in 1942, it fell victim to the air raids of 1942. Given that the architectural critic Nikolaus Pevnser was himself German, it was tactless of him later to describe it as ‘happily bombed’ but you

can see why he said it. There are still those who lament its passing on the grounds that it was old – but not everything old was good architecture, as I hope these pictures prove. Fortunately, the good name of Gilbert Scott was redeemed in the 1920s when George’s grandson Giles Gilbert Scott designed the magnificent church of St Alphege in Oldfield Park – one of Bath’s finest buildings.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

The past week I have been busy out and about.

I attended the Outstanding Policing Awards last Wednesday evening, a remarkable opportunity to recognise and honour the outstanding achievements of the men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe. It was a great evening celebrating excellence in policing.

Last week marked the start of Operation Sceptre, a national initiative to combat knife crime. This targeted initiative aims to reduce the prevalence of knife-related violence, increase public safety, and engage communities in the fight against this issue.

Proactively tackling knife crime is central to my Police and Crime Plan. With last week being Knife Crime Awareness Week, I encourage people to safely discard

any weapons or knives they may carry in the weapons surrender bins installed by Avon and Somerset Police (ASP). Weapon surrender bins can be found in areas where we know they are needed and offer people a safe and anonymous way of getting rid of a weapon.

If you know someone who carries a weapon, we ask you to encourage them to surrender it. Find your nearest weapon surrender bin on the ASP website under Crime Prevention Advice.

ASP and its partners already carry out a large range of activities to raise awareness of and combat knife crime, and the Violence Reduction Units' (VRUs) work is at the heart of this. The Police work closely with the VRUs and help to deliver talks to young people in primary and secondary schools, running Blunt Truth workshops

in partnership with the NHS and hosting pop-up information stands around various local areas.

Whilst we have seen a reduction in street-based knife crime across Avon and Somerset, more still needs to be done to ensure people feel safe in their communities. Knife crime ruins lives. Let's raise awareness, educate, and stand against knife crime.

On the subject of crime prevention, I am pleased to inform you all that the Commissioner’s Crime Prevention Fund grant has officially opened. This grant, set up by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) in partnership with Somerset Community Foundation and Quartet Community Foundation, aims to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour through community projects and activities across the

region.

I implore local organisations and community groups to apply for this worthwhile funding to reduce anti-so cial behaviour and make our communities safe.

As the Association of Police and Crime Commissioner’s National Fraud Lead, I also welcome the Government’s commitment to tackling fraud and the publication of this long-awaited strategy, which sets out how the Government plans to tackle fraud and bring more offenders to justice. This strategy, and the accompanying Economic Crime Plan, is an important step forward.

I am pleased to have been able to have a direct impact on two important areas within the strategy which will ensure there national central coordination of preven-

tion and awareness messaging and ensuring banks are delaying and doing extra due diligence checks on large BACS payments out of accounts where they could be fraudulent.

Having said this, the strategy does not recognise some fundamental challenges, including the highly complex landscape of investigating fraud. The National Economic Crime Centre and the City of London Police are doing great work, but this needs to be acknowledged and fully supported. I am calling for more to be done to recognise this crime's significant impact and harm on victims. Fraud can leave lasting mental and physical trauma, with some victims taking their own life. The profound impact of this crime must be recognised.

Photos (Clockwise): The Royal Crescent before 1800, The Victorian Gardens, St Andrew's Church and the spire as seen above the Crescent

You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 16.

Congratulations to Richard Privett for winning £20!

Crossword Competition!

For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk and we'll enter you into our draw.

The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 01/06/2023. Please note: We will not accept crossword entries to our postal address. The winner will be notified by the email address they use to enter this competition.

More than 50 people unable to vote due to not having photo ID

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

56 PEOPLE were not allowed to vote in Bath and North East Somerset’s recent local elections because they did not have ID.

The local elections on 4th May marked the first time that voters in England needed to show ID at the polling station in order to vote.

141 people in Bath and North East Somerset were initially turned away from polling stations for not having an approved form of ID, with 85 coming back with ID and being allowed to vote.

But 56 of the people who were turned away ended up not casting their votes — enough to have swung the election in High Littleton and elected a Conservative instead of a Liberal Democrat, or to have swung one of the Liberal Democrat seats in Saltford for Independent Christopher Warren.

Overall, however, 99.8% of people in the council area who voted at polling stations did have ID and were allowed to vote.

Returning officer Will Godfrey said: “The council provided

Turnout for the recent elections was slightly lower than in 2019

information through our own channels and ran an extensive campaign to let residents know about the new photo ID requirements and we are grateful to all the local organisations who helped us to get the message out.

“Thank you to everyone who helped at the polling stations on the day and helped everything to run smoothly.”

But some people without ID may also have simply chosen not to show up to the polls.

James, who works in hospitality in Bath, said on election day that he was not going to vote as he did not have a form of ID, and had not seen about signing up for

Swimming Classes for Adults

Tuesdays and Thursday evenings

Kingswood School pool, Lansdown Road, Bath

Sympathetic tuition, tailored to the individual

temporary ID or postal vote. He said: “I wanted to vote in person because I enjoy it. If I did know about this I would have done it by post.” Turnout at the election dropped slightly from the last election, with 38.95% of eligible voters turning out compared to 40.76% in 2019.

The Liberal Democrats won a landslide second consecutive term, winning 41 seats on the council. Labour, who won five seats, are now the official opposition. Five seats were won by Independent councillors, with the Conservatives and Green Party both winning three seats.

Solar tech to help improve road safety

BATH & North East Somerset Council is set to undertake a series of improvements and resurfacing works to enhance the safety of a rural bend near Bath.

The Hogwood bend along the B3110, situated between Midford and Hinton Charterhouse, will benefit from a range of safety enhancements.

These measures include the installation of solar-powered road studs, high friction surfacing, replacement of existing road signs, and the addition of new signs to warn drivers of the approaching bend in the road.

In a first for B&NES Council, 120 solar-powered road studs will be installed to illuminate the approach to the bend. These studs will provide advanced warning to drivers, allowing them more time to adjust to the upcoming road conditions and enhancing the visibility of the bend.

To facilitate the work, a full road closure will be implemented from 7pm to 7am between 22nd and 26th May. During this time, resurfacing works and vegetation clearance will also be carried out.

A significant area of 8,480 square meters, equivalent to 32

tennis courts, will be resurfaced, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience for motorists.

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader, Bath & North East Somerset

Liberal Democrat Group said:

“Keeping our highway network safe for everyone is a priority, and we look at all the options available to help us achieve this.

“The bend at Midford Hill is a great example of a location where these solar powered road studs can be used effectively to increase safety. We’re glad we could carry out resurfacing works to the highway at the same as this will minimise disruption for residents and motorists that use the road regularly.”

Diversion routes for traffic will be in place and advanced notices have been positioned along the route to warn road users.

We are qualified Level 2 coaches who have started this swim school after many years’ experience of coaching younger swimmers from beginner up to competing at district and national level. We also have an Open Water Coaching qualification to support the relatively new interest in triathlons and wild swimming etc.

Beginners: Many nervous swimmers have been helped by us to overcome their fears with support both in and out of the water, within a friendly and supportive group.

Improvers: For those who can swim but who wish to either learn new strokes and/or be taught correct technique, again tuition is per individual.

Triathletes/Open Water: If you want to work on your stroke to improve your times and endurance then you will be given full technique instruction, together with the option to work with session plans aimed towards competition or just fitness training

We successfully work on both the mind and body to enable the individual to achieve previously unattainable goals, whatever your level of ability.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me, June, today on 07908 671966

What's On

Stumped

Theatre Royal

23rd – 27th May

Stumped is a play which explores what the friendship between two playwrights may have looked like. Starring Stephen Tompkinson as Samuel Beckett and Andrew Lancel as Harold Pinter.

Renaissance Marriage Portraits

The Holburne Museum

26th May – 1st October

This lavish exhibition explores the role of portraiture in the process of marriage in Renaissance Europe. Including prestigious loans from the National Gallery and the British Museum.

Saara El-Arifi

Topping & Company Booksellers

30th May, 7.30pm

The Final Strife was Saara El-Arifi's debut novel, the first part of a trilogy inspired by Ghanaian folklore and Arabian myths. Now, she joins us for the sequel in the series, The Battle Drum.

English Wine & Food Festival

Avon Valley Railway

2nd June, 6 - 9pm

Join an evening of tasting delicious English wines. This charity event will see a wide range of wine from some of the best English vineyards for you to taste and enjoy over the course of three hours.

Little Shop Of Horrors

Rondo Theatre

24th – 27th May, 7.30pm

A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre-goers for over 30 years.

Tickets from £12.

A Shining Intimacy

Ustinov Studio

27th May, 8pm

A Shining Intimacy explores two of Britain's best loved stage animals, Maggie Smith and Kenneth Williams, both on a journey together to master their craft. Tickets from £20.

The Rabbitts

Chapel Arts Centre

31st May, 8pm

Norwich based folk duo ‘The Rabbitts’ are acoustic at heart but experimental in nature; they set out to avoid the well-trodden path and instead define their own unique sound.

Free Family Bird Walk

Bath City Farm

2nd June, 10 - 11.30am

Join a walk designed for families as we learn about the birds who call the farm their home and learn how to spot them by their songs. The event is free but booking is essential.

Tuesday 23rd May - Monday 5th June 2023

Fleetwood Bac

Komedia

26th May, 7pm

Fleetwood Bac are the world’s first and best Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself, the only Mac tribute to authentically replicate the classic ‘Rumours’ line-up.

Le Vent Du Nord

Widcombe Social Club

27th May, 7.30pm

Combining a great stage presence with an energetic, dynamic flair, Le Vent du Nord are one of the leading names in Québécois folk music performing original songs inspired by their tradition.

Bath’s Pleasure Gardens

BRLSI

1st June, 7pm

Bath’s pleasure gardens are gone beyond recall. Yet in their heyday they were as central to the city’s social life as its assembly rooms, pump room or parades. Tickets are free.

Fold My City

The Egg

3rd June, 11am - 4pm

You are invited to create an origami model city inspired by your local area. Come whenever you like, create your own large origami house, boat, car or landmark and be part of this installation.

Bath Fringe Festival

Various Locations

26th May – 11th June

The Bath Fringe is a festival of all the arts, with few rules as to what should be in or out – it’s what people want to do, and what venues in Bath want to put on. Programme: https://bit.ly/3pMpKWh

Making mothball lavender bags

No.1 Royal Crescent

27th May – 4th June, 10am - 4.30pm

Make a traditional pest deterrent from aromatic herbs and spices. Hang up your lavender bag at home to protect your clothes against moths and pests, and make your room smell lovely.

Ben Fogle: Wild

The Forum

1st June, 7.30pm

Ben Fogle’s new show WILD brings to life on stage, stories and tales of hope, possibility, and positivity from his extraordinary encounters with the human and natural world.

Roman Day

Alice Park

4th June, 10am - 5pm

Alice Park is hosting their very own Roman Day with the largest Roman reenactment group in the UK, The Ermine Street Guard, who will perform accurate military displays all day.

Families being invited to visit attractions during half-term

FAMILIES across the Bath area are being invited to enjoy a range of activities on offer at the Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery this May half-term.

Children can make a mini Roman garden and search for crowns in the collection at the Roman Baths, while animal-loving kids can create anime-style dogs and dog bookmarks at the Victoria Art Gallery.

There’s also a chance to tour Bath’s Local History Store in Lansdown, and see fascinating Victorian spa equipment.

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader, Bath & North East Somerset Liberal Democrat Group, said:

“We hope young visitors will enjoy exploring our museums and taking part in the craft sessions, trails and tours on offer over the half-term holidays.

“All are free for local residents with a Discovery Card, which you can sign up for on the Council’s website.”

All activities are suitable for children aged 3+. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Glorious Gardens

The Roman Baths 29th May to Saturday 3rd June 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm

Find out about plants the Romans introduced to Britain and create a mini Roman garden to take home,

using card, pens and toy moss. Included in admission price. Free for local Discovery Card holders. No need to book for the activity –just pop in during your visit to the Roman Baths. Advance booking recommended for Roman Baths admission tickets.

A Royal Roman Quest trail

The Roman Baths

Until Sunday 4th June Oh no, the Emperor has lost his crown! The whole family can get involved in searching for a new crown for the Roman Emperor: for younger visitors, crowns will be hidden for them to spot as they explore the Roman Baths, while older children will be encouraged

COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath

THIS past month was marked by important milestones locally and nationally.

My Liberal Democrat colleagues on B&NES Council won a resounding victory. We celebrated the crowning of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. And The Bath Festival put on its annual vibrant celebration of music and literature, showcasing a plethora of local and international talent. I would first like to thank all those residents who have put their faith in my friends on the Council to provide another four years

of a positive, ambitious agenda.

I would also like to congratulate all the candidates and volunteers who made this historic second term happen. The fantastic result was reflected across the country too, with the Conservatives losing over 1,000 seats. The public has shown that they have no confidence in Rishi Sunak and his out-of-touch Conservative Government whose neglect of the NHS is touching so many in our community.

I asked the government directly when the RUH would be getting

its long-promised midwifery unit. We were promised a new birthing unit in 2020, but three years later it is still not up and running. The responding minister pointed to new provisions in Cornwall and Wiltshire as proof of investment reaching our region. Investment in Cornwall and Wiltshire is not going to compensate for a lack of provision in Bath. This delay on investment is typical of a Conservative Government that has starved the health service of resources at every turn. That trend needs to be reversed,

to look out for headwear suitable for an Emperor within the collection, from wigs to laurel wreaths (included in admission price). Free for local Discovery Card holders. Advance booking recommended for Roman Baths admission tickets.

Local History Store Tours

Local History Store, Lansdown

Wednesday 31st May 10am, 12pm and 2pm Go and explore the weird and wonderful objects in the Local History Store, from Victorian spa equipment to Georgian furniture. Free but booking essential on romanbaths_enquiries@ bathnes.gov.uk.

The Wild Escape – Dog Gone

Victoria Art Gallery

Tuesday 30th May to Saturday 3rd June, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Create a characterful anime dog portrait on a paper plate, or a dog bookmark. This activity is part of The Wild Escape, a nationwide project that invites children to find nature in museums. Free activity. No need to book, just drop in.

and they can start by giving the RUH its long-promised midwifery unit. Social housing is in very short supply, and pro viders have a duty of care to their residents. It is unacceptable that Sanctuary, a national social housing provider active in Bath, did not respond to the concerns raised by myself on behalf of constituents within a reasonable time. These providers must be held accountable, so I raised this to Penny Mordaunt and asked for

a debate on the topic in government time. I joined residents who came together to celebrate the coronation at Bath Abbey and at St. Luke’s Church. These events are just a few of those that brought our community closer together, and The Bath Festival kept the celebratory spirit going strong.

My Liberal Democrat council colleagues and I will continue to work tirelessly to make our community a better place for all.

Community

Residents are amongst the country’s biggest M&S “Shwoppers”

NEW data from M&S has revealed that people in Bath are among the country’s biggest ‘Shwoppers’.

The retailer said that shoppers in the city have donated more than 1,400 clothing items over the last two years.

M&S’s Shwopping programme, run in partnership with Oxfam, encourages customers to donate pre-loved clothing, regardless of whether it’s from M&S, to be resold, reused, or recycled instead of throwing it away.

May is one of the most popular months for people to participate in the programme, and M&S is encouraging everyone to consider donating any clothing items from their Spring cleans to the Shwopping initiative.

M&S Sparks customers can donate their pre-loved clothes at the in-store “Shwopping Point” and scan the QR code on display. A free treat, such as a bag of Percy Pigs, will be automatically added to their Sparks loyalty scheme account via the M&S app.

Louise Aubrey, Store Manager at M&S Bath, said: “The quality of our clothes is too good to waste and we’re proud to have been working with Oxfam for 15 years now to offer Shwopping to our customers.

“Every time you place pre-loved clothes in one of our Shwop boxes they’re resold, reused or recycled. All these upcoming

Bank Holidays are a great time to clear out with a clear conscience!”

Max Dibden, Oxfam Shop Manager for Argyle Street in Bath, added: “We are delighted to see so many shoppers in Bath taking part in the Shwopping initiative, and helping to extend the life of pre-loved clothing.

“It’s a simple way that we can all make a difference and raises funds for Oxfam’s work supporting people to beat poverty worldwide.”

M&S launched its Shwopping partnership with Oxfam in 2008, and since then more than 36 million items of clothing have been donated, worth an estimated £23 million for the charity’s work across the world. Pre-loved clothing is either resold, reused or recycled helping to reduce the amount of textiles going to landfill.

Cleveland Pools Trust wins national award ahead of summer opening

WORK to restore the historic Cleveland Pools in Bath has been recognised with a prestigious accolade at the Museums and Heritage Awards.

The Cleveland Pools Trust won ‘Restoration project of the Year’ at the awards, ahead of its opening for the 2023 summer season.

The award was presented to some of the project’s team at the annual ceremony which celebrates excellence in the heritage sector.

The judges acknowledged the ‘grit and determination’ of everyone involved in the 20-year campaign to save the pools.

They also recognised the unique challenges of the site and the community support and

involvement that has made this restoration project possible.

Anna Preedy, Director of Museums & Heritage Awards commented: “What is particularly wonderful about the Museums + Heritage Awards is the vast and varied range of organisations represented on our shortlist – from large, national museums to small, local heritage organisations and everything in between.

“The Awards provide a rare opportunity to recognise and celebrate the determined, confident, and creative work of our extraordinary sector and are the ultimate stamp of approval!” The accolade follows a

challenging few months for the Cleveland Pools after winter floods and ongoing contractual negotiations but coincides with news that works to install the pontoon and Water Source Heat pump, which will heat the pool water, will start this week. The pontoon will enable visitors to access the site via the river, encouraging the use of greener travel options.

This latest phase of work means the pools will be able to open for warm water swimming later this year.

Tickets for swimming will cost between £4.50 – £6. For more information, visit www. clevelandpools.org.uk.

Student takes on half-marathon after bone tumour diagnosis

A 20-YEAR-OLD music student who was diagnosed with a rare bone tumour as a teenager is set to take on this year’s Bath Two Tunnels Half Marathon on 4th June.

Becky Farrell is taking part in the event to raise money for the charity that gave her a second chance of life after being diagnosed with Osteofibrous Dysplasia, the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) Charity.

Becky was just 15 when she found a lump on her right shin which turned out to be a bone tumour inside her right tibia. She underwent an eight-hour operation at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore, London, to have the tumour removed and reconstruct her tibia with a bone graft and metal implants. She said: “The diagnosis was really scary as I was at a pivotal point in my teenage years – 16 years old – when I just wanted

to be out enjoying life with my friends but instead, I was in a lot of pain with reduced mobility which at some points meant I couldn’t even walk to the bottom of my street without a walking stick. Something which knocked my confidence greatly.

“Although the recovery was not easy the specialist knowledge,

facilities, and care that RNOH provided me made my time as an inpatient as comfortable as possible and allowed me to have my life back.

“This is why I want to undertake this challenge, to say thank you for all its support. In the years following my surgery with the help of the rehabilitation team

at RNOH I was able to take up running and even completed a 5k race which was a huge achievement at the time.

“Unfortunately, late last year I started to get a pain in my right tibia and noticed a lump in my shin which has been diagnosed as a second tumour.

“This summer, as I graduate from university, I will be undergoing my second surgery which will put me back to square one with all my mobility progress.

“With no guarantee of how well I will recover or how long it will take I am determined to take the most of my mobility whilst I can and do something positive for the charity that has supported me through this journey.”

The charity supports the work of the RNOH, which treats patients of all ages suffering from neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including spinal cord injuries, bone cancer, scoliosis, and acute hip and knee problems.

Becky hopes to raise more than

£1,000 for the charity, which recently launched its new campaign, ‘Impossible, Possible’ which aims to raise awareness. As well as funding the overall improvements to the patient experience and clinical research, the money raised will also fund specific items such as state-of-the art imaging equipment, transforming the spinal cord injury centre’s day room and, further pioneering musculoskeletal research and ground-breaking developments. Vicky Brady, community fundraising manager of the RNOH Charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Becky for her amazing efforts, hers is such an inspirational story.

“The funds raised will ensure we can continue with our life-changing support to those suffering from neuro musculoskeletal conditions, like Becky, and help them to believe they can make the impossible, possible.”

An illustration of the Cleveland Pools site | Image © Ben Wu-Holmes

Becky will be running to raise money for the RNOH Charity | Photo © RNOH

M&S in Bath | Photo © Roger Utting / Shutterstock.com

£7m boost for West of England electric charging points

PLANS for an extensive expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the West of England have received a major funding boost.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris has secured £7 million to accelerate the region’s “electric car revolution”.

The West of England Combined Authority (WECA), led by Mr Norris, has been awarded up to £6.6 million from the government to purchase and install hundreds of additional EV charging points across the region.

An additional £560,000 has also been allocated for the administration of the new charge points.

The funding is contingent on the development of suitable plans in collaboration with government officials and local authorities.

It complements the existing £5 million investment already earmarked by Mr Norris as part of the £60 million Green Recovery Plan, which aims to establish an extensive network of charge points throughout the West of England.

Over 200 charging points are planned for installation in the current financial year.

The expansion of charging infrastructure is considered crucial for driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, as

it ensures convenient access to charging facilities.

Metro Mayor Norris envisions a seamless experience for local electric vehicle (EV) owners, with charging their vehicles being “as easy – if not easier – than filling up at the pump”.

Presently, the West of England boasts over 580 publicly available charging points. However, projections indicate that more than 1,800 charging points may be required to achieve the ambitious net-zero-by-2030 target set for the West of England region.

Mr Norris said: “In order to have an ‘electric vehicle revolution’ we need to turbocharge efforts to make charging your car as easy –if not easier – than filling up at the pump.

“That’s why this is such a big win for our region as my West of England Mayoral Combined Authority accelerates the rollout of easily available, reliable and straightforward to use charging points in the West of England – to make it easier than ever to own an electric car, wherever in the region you live.

“That’s also a vital step if we are going to reach our very ambitious net-zero targets.”

Sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans in the UK will be banned from 2030.

Firefighters join convoy of lifesaving equipment heading to Ukraine

A GROUP of firefighters from Avon Fire & Rescue Service were among a 25-vehicle convoy carrying lifesaving equipment donated to support Ukraine. More than 8,000 items of firefighting equipment were donated by 17 fire and rescue services across the country. With the distance totalling over 1,250 miles, a team of six volunteers joined colleagues from across the UK as they made the four-day journey from Avonmouth to a handover point in Poland.

Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton said: “It was an incredible sight to see so many appliances, staff and pieces of equipment travelling together to support this important cause.

“It’s an honour to have been able to support our fire service colleagues in Ukraine and provide them with resources to help them continue their lifesaving work. “I’m extremely proud of all those who have made the journey over to Poland and would like to thank them for their service.”

The Avon Fire & Rescue Service team was made up of staff from across the area.

Firefighter Ross Larner said: “It was an extraordinary honour and privilege to be given the opportunity to be part of the team selected for this mission.

Dorothy House invites women to get involved with Midnight Walk

“This was a very challenging few days for many reasons, but I couldn’t have wished for a harder working, committed and professional group to share the experience with.

“Regardless of any preconceptions about the trip, none of us could have predicted the shared emotion we felt during the speech given by the General from the Ukrainian Fire Service at the handover ceremony. This was a truly humbling experience.”

The convoy was the fifth of its kind, organised by the National Fire Chiefs Council, FIRE AID and International Development, with support from the wider sector and the Home Office. Items were also donated by police forces coordinated through the National Police Chiefs Council.

DOROTHY House Hospice Care is gearing up for the return of its 5km Midnight Walk on Saturday 17th June in Bath.

The annual fundraiser is the largest women’s event in Bath, and it provides a chance for the community to come together, celebrate, and remember loved ones while raising money for local hospice care.

The event promises to be a night of fun and laughter as women aged 12 and over come together with their friends and family, including mothers, daughters, aunts, grandmas, and sisters.

Participants will meet at the Bath Pavilion, where they can expect

a carnival atmosphere complete with glitter, feathers, and sequins.

Starting at midnight, the 5km walk will take participants on a route through the city, where they can experience the beauty of Bath at night. The walk will conclude with party celebrations at the Pavilion until 2am.

Dorothy House is asking each participant to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship or make a donation in lieu of sponsorship. The money raised will fund vital patient care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across the local community.

who has participated in the walk, said:

“The Women’s Midnight Walk is a really nice celebratory way of remembering someone that has benefited from the work of Dorothy House while supporting the charity. You come away from the night feeling very emotional, very humble, very proud, and very grateful to be there.” To register for the event, interested individuals can visit the website at https://bit.ly/3pMCYSG. Dorothy House also welcomes volunteers to help on the night; interested individuals can contact Clare Way at clare.way@ dorothyhouse-hospice.org.uk.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris examining an engine | Photo © Freia Turland

Getting involved in the Midnight Walk event | Photo © Dorothy House Heather Cox,

The Avon Fire & Rescue team

Health

Reminder to check for ticks after spending time outdoors

AS the weather warms up and more people head out to the countryside, residents are being reminded to check for ticks after spending time outdoors. Ticks tend to live in long grass and wooded areas, and they are especially common during this time of year.

They can carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease and tickborne encephalitis (TBE), although the chances of catching TBE are low.

Matt Croughan, a Minor Injury Unit manager for Sirona care & health, said the easiest way to combat ticks is to prevent them from biting you in the first place. He said: “If you’re out walking in the countryside, or your kids are playing in long grass, this spring or summer, be sure to cover up: wear long trousers tucked into your socks and long sleeves to protect your skin from exposure to ticks.”

Additionally, people should stick to clear paths when possible and use insect repellent on clothes, preferably those containing DEET.

After a country walk, Matt advises walkers to check themselves and their children thoroughly as tick bites are not always painful so people may not know they have been bitten.

He explained: “Tick bites are more common when it’s warmer and the grass is longer. Because ticks like the warmth, areas like your armpits and groin are common hotspots for ticks to attach themselves to you.”

If you do find a tick, Matt says they can be easily and safely removed by anyone when done correctly.

He said: “Make sure you have a tick remover tool – available in pet shops, vets, and online – in your home first aid kit.

“Slide the head of the removal tool around the tick, making sure to grip the tick as close to your skin as possible – this will ensure you get hold of the tick’s entire body.

“Twist the remover tool slowly clockwise to unwind the tick; as you do this, steadily and gently pull the tick away from your skin – this should ensure the whole tick is removed.

“Wash the tick down the plughole and then wash your skin with soap and water, then apply antiseptic cream to the skin around the bite.

“There is no need to seek medical attention unless you develop

Ticks can carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease

a bullseye rash or flu-like symptoms within three months, which could be signs of Lyme disease, in which case contact your GP. While ticks can carry serious disease, they are easy

to prevent and can be removed safely by anyone. Remember: buy a tick remover now, coverup, check yourself and your kids, then twist ticks out and monitor for symptoms.”

Do you run a small business in Bath?

If you’re struggling with the amount of admin and paperwork involved, let our team of virtual assistants take care of all the effort for you

People urged to challenge perceptions of dementia

AGE UK Bath & North East Somerset is urging people across the local area to challenge their perceptions about dementia with new artwork to get people talking about the condition. Over half of us know someone who has been diagnosed with dementia, however there is still stigma about the syndrome which affects 1 in 11 people aged over 65.

During Dementia Awareness Week and beyond, Age UK Bath & North East Somerset are touring libraries and public spaces with the ‘Changing Perceptions’ art display, which has been created by group members from the charity’s Memory Groups and local artists. The display is an honest, moving, and frank explanation from people who are living with dementia about what it is like and how they feel they are perceived.

Comments include:

• ‘Where oh where has my memory gone, it was fine yesterday but now it’s gone’

• ‘I know what I want to say, but I can’t find the words’

• If there is something I can’t do I find a way to do it’

• ‘I feel that people see me as an idiot’

• ‘I’ve kept my sense of humour’

• ‘Sometimes I feel terrified and isolated’

• ‘I’ve learnt how to live with it and I’m not scared of it anymore’

Paul Watermeyer, Memory Group Lead said: “Our mission is simple really, we want more people to be talking about dementia and how we can all play a part in helping people to age well.

“More of us need to recognise that issues with memory are not uncommon and that early to mid-stage dementia does not necessarily stop someone from leading

an active and happy life.”

Age UK Bath & North East Somerset offers memory groups that are empowering and fun, specialising in Maintenance Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (MCST). Due to a significant rise in demand, they are expanding their services and will soon be running eight groups per week. Paul continued: “Over 3,000 people are living with Dementia in Bath and North East Somerset – quite a number! So it is no surprise that our groups are in high demand.

“We are all about adapting to the needs of our wonderful community and are genuinely excited to be expanding our Dementia service ensuring that everyone has the support and information they deserve.”

Currently, the display is in Keynsham Library but will be moving around public areas throughout Bath and North East Somerset.

To find out more about the Memory Group which Age UK Bath & North East Somerset runs, the artwork or for any dementia support, visit www.ageukbanes. co.uk or call 01225 466135.

Over half of us know someone with dementia

Graduate launches app to highlight oral hygiene issues Students visit Mulberry Park development

A NEW smartphone app has been launched by a graduate from the University of Bath that can scan dental plaque and flag potential oral hygiene issues.

The Testmyteeth app enables users to measure the levels of plaque build-up on their teeth and identify areas where users are failing to brush adequately, which is one of the primary causes of dental disease.

The app was developed by James Russ, an Integrated Design Engineering graduate, with support from the University’s Enterprise and Entrepreneurship programme.

The university programme helps staff, students, graduates, and local entrepreneurs with their entrepreneurial ambitions.

James Russ said: “I was in my first year of university when I had trouble with my wisdom tooth –the treatment ended up costing over £100 of my limited student budget.

“This was particularly frustrating as it could have been easily prevented had I taken better care

of my oral hygiene. It inspired my vision for a dental app to assist patients at home.”

He set to work on the Testmyteeth app after completing an industrial placement in the design and development team at innovative household appliances manufacturer Dyson, an experience he said was “fast-paced and exciting”.

He continued: “Oral disease affects around 3.5 billion people worldwide and I thought it would be great to have an app that focuses on the preventative side of dentistry.

While his studies helped with the practical side of building an app, Russ developed his business acumen through opportunities such as Dragons’ Den, part of the University’s Enterprise offering. Students pitch their start-up to a panel of alumni donors for investment but, unlike the television show, there are no equity or stakes taken. He said the experience gave him the confidence and the means to turn Testmyteeth into a reality.

CURO’S Mulberry Park, an award-winning residential development, recently hosted students from the University of Bath who are studying civil engineering and architecture.

The aim of the visit was to teach the students about the innovative construction methods and housing designs that are featured in the development.

Curo is committed to supporting educational and training opportunities in the local area. They have formed a partnership with Bath College and local construction firms to provide accredited work placements and apprenticeships at Mulberry Park and across its housing and support organisation.

“Using AI, Testmyteeth will tell you areas where you have missed when brushing and highlight plaque accumulation.

“More than that, we’ll also provide educational guides on how to improve your brushing technique and what the early signs of tooth decay and gum disease look like.”

James added: “Since graduating, I was granted a University of Bath Alumni Innovation Award and that’s been a game-changer. It enabled me to work on the business full-time, teach myself full-stack app development, and build the AI which drives the app.

“The support has made such a huge difference to what I’ve been able to achieve in a year.”

Image © James Russ, Testmyteeth

During the visit, the students, led by their lecturer Gavin Knowles, were able to see first-hand the latest building techniques and structural engineering practices. Mulberry Park was designed with modern family living at the forefront, and the students had the opportunity to explore this concept first-hand. They were particularly interested in the diverse range of homes that are available at Mulberry Park. Properties range from smaller apartments and terraced townhouses to larger detached houses.

By 2020, Curo aimed to deliver 100 work and educational placements, 70 jobs with training, and 15 apprenticeships at Mulberry Park. They are pleased to report that they achieved and exceeded these targets.

Alan Mapston, Senior Site Manager at Mulberry Park, said:

“We were delighted to welcome the Bath University students to Mulberry Park and share with them our innovative approach to creating a family-friendly, sustainable community.

“It’s always inspiring to see the next generation of architects and builders developing their skills.”

New CEO for Bathbased Buro Happold

BURO Happold, the Bathbased engineering, design, and advisory practice, has appointed Marc Barone as its new Chief Operating Officer. In his role, Marc will join Buro Happold’s executive and global leadership teams, overseeing the efficient and effective operation of the business. His responsibilities will include delivering on the company’s strategy, managing risk, expanding its reach and impact, and ensuring positive client outcomes.

reduction and digital innovation in order to tackle our clients’ biggest challenges. “We will maximise the potential of our exceptional teams to strengthen our unique capabilities and market offering.”

Consultation launched on mixeduse Wells Road development

MEMBERS of the public are being invited to have their say on plans to redevelop a site on Wells Road in Bath to create a mixed-use site with co-living studios.

Commenting on his appointment, Marc said: “I’m looking forward to building on existing successes at Buro Happold, extending our highly collaborative culture by infusing rigour and pace to target setting and decision-making.

“The changing market and technology environment mandates that our operations proactively drive carbon

Oliver Plunkett, Chief Executive Officer at Buro Happold, added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Marc to Buro Happold, with his substantial credentials that will help drive our organisational growth in line with our 1-3-6 strategy and the positive impact we have on people, places and planet.

“His skills and experience align perfectly with our aims to continue to grow our offer in Europe, the United States and elsewhere across the world, as well as broadening our established and premium position in the UK.”

Kosy Co Living is bringing forward its plans for 1 – 4 Wells Road, which would retain existing businesses whilst introducing studio accommodation with shared areas and co-working facilities.

The proposals also include the refurbishment of the public path adjacent to the site, and two key pedestrian/cycle passageways, connecting Wells Road with Lower Bristol Road and the city centre.

The plans include over 400m2 of employment floorspace on the ground level which will be made available for the existing tenants Great Wine Co and charity Designability, in modern and upgraded retail and workshop spaces.

Three upper floors of accommodation would comprise 77 co-living studios with

communal spaces, plus a rooftop amenity area with a fitness suite for Kosy Co Living residents. Members of the public can read

more about the proposals and provide feedback by visiting the consultation web page at https:// www.kosyliving.co.uk/wellsroad

Kellaway Bath Same Service New Look

How the new development could look on Wells Road | Image © Kosy Co Living

Photo ©Buro Happold

Politics

Former leader didn’t expect Tory “wipe out”

THE former local Conservative leader in Bath and North East Somerset Vic Pritchard said he did not expect the recent local election result, which saw the Conservatives “wiped out.”

The Liberal Democrats won a second term running Bath and North East Somerset Council with their seats increasing to 41 — meaning they control twothirds of the seats on the council — while the Conservatives were left with only three. Labour, who won five seats, will now take over from them as the official opposition.

Mr Pritchard, who lost his seat after 36 years, said: “I didn’t know we would get wiped out.”

He said: “I thought there was an outside chance of us taking control or being in a hung regime. I thought we would have done reasonably well in Bath.”

He added: “We couldn’t have done very much worse. We have only got three seats now.”

Only one of the previous Conservative councillors is remaining on the council after Thursday’s election — Keynsham South’s Alan Hale — but one new and one returning face were elected for the Conservatives in Midsomer Norton Redfield.

Tim Warren, who had led the council until he lost his Mendip seat in 2019, made a surprise return to the council after standing as a “paper candidate” in the seat, with new councillor Sarah Evans also winning election. But Mr Pritchard said: “It’s a bit cruel really because she had potential to be a good councillor but she’s not going to have much chance to develop.” He added: “They are not going to be taken any notice of at all. All they can do is their ward work.”

Mr Warren has now been named as new Conservative group leader.

Mr Pritchard warned: “It’s not a healthy regime now because you have got 41 Lib Dems ... They have got no one to challenge them on anything.”

He added: “There’s such a

dominance of Lib Dems they are scrutinising themselves.”

Speaking about losing his own Chew Valley seat, which was the last seat on the night to declare in a bitter final blow for the Conservatives, Mr Pritchard said: “I have been doing it for 36 years and suddenly it’s taken away. It’s quite a vacuum to fill.”

He said that, in his time on the council, he had been most proud of what the Conservatives

Public Notices

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR'S LICENCE

GroundShore Ltd of 164 Field End Road, Eastcote, HA5 1RH, is applying to use the Cross Hands Service Station, Bath Road, Old Sodbury, Bristol BS37 6RR, as an operating centre for 5 goods vehicles and 5 trailers.

had done with social care when they ran the council, giving the contract to Sirona, then Virgin, and now HCRG.

He said: “That’s especially important and that makes up the bigger part of the council budget. That’s what I was proud of, the service we gave to the most vulnerable.

“That’s to be watched now because [the Liberal Democrat council] are bringing it in house.”

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner's office.

Promote your business in our new directory! Prices start at just £10 (+VAT)

Calls for reform after central government funding drop

A GROUP representing local authorities has said the funding of local government by Westminster needs reform, with two local authorities losing almost a sixth of their central government funding since 2010.

According to figures from the Special Interest Group of Municipal Authorities (SIGOMA), which represents urban councils, funding from central government still made up 55% of council’s core spending power as recently as 2014.

But now it only covers 37%, with local authorities having to raise revenue such as council tax to make up the shortfall.

North Somerset Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council both saw their funding cut by 15% since 2010, according to the group’s figures.

Both councils raised their council tax by the maximum amount possible in their recent budgets, passed in February.

Drawing up the Bath and North East Somerset Council budget at a cabinet meeting in February, the cabinet member for resources Richard Samuel said the Conservative government had “chipped away” at the council’s revenue support grant, reducing it from £30m in 2013 to £800k in the last financial year.

Although, as the full council met to agree the budget later that month, former Conservative opposition group leader Vic Pritchard accused him of “blaming” successive governments but leaving out Liberal Democrats’ time in coalition.

Meanwhile in February, at North Somer-

set Council’s budget meeting, executive member for children, young people, lifelong learning and skills Catherine Gibbons accused the government of creating “a kind of hunger games for councils.”

She said: “They identify people who are in need and say: ‘Here’s a pot of money and you’ve got to compete for it.’ So we have competed for money.

“That means we have won it which is great for our residents but there are other equally needy areas of the country who didn’t get it.

“And it’s just an unsustainable way of supporting our communities in my opinion.”

But North Somerset Conservative opposition group leader Nigel Ashton said: “No central government has ever or will ever give local government enough money.

“Local government is more than ever about providing statutory services and not imposing on our residents pet ideological policies.”

But both the councils escaped with cuts below the average for England, which SIGOMA states was almost 20%.

The group allege that the 10 most deprived local authorities have seen cuts three times higher, on average, than the 10 richest — a group in which they include Bath and North East Somerset.

Chair of the group and Barnsley borough councillor Sir Stephen Houghton said: “The system needs serious reform.”

He added: “The poorest areas have seen the biggest cuts and for “levelling up” to mean anything the Government should be looking to reverse these cuts and create a funding formula that [allocates] funding according to council needs.”

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

Former Conservative group leader Vic Pritchard | Photo © B&NES Conservatives

In Other News...

Youngsters being warned about danger of carbon monoxide

WALES & West Utilities has launched a new campaign called “Game Over” to increase young people’s awareness of the life-threatening dangers of carbon monoxide.

The gas emergency and pipeline service for South West England and Wales is urging people to take simple steps to protect themselves from CO poisoning. With a lack of awareness contributing to carbon monoxide-related deaths and injuries, Wales & West Utilities is calling on young people to stay alert and protect themselves. CO alarms, which detect the presence of CO, are widely available and relatively low-cost. Carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer,’ and can pose a serious threat to your health.

It is a poisonous gas that is odourless and invisible, and is produced when fossil fuels such as coal, wood, oil, or natural gas do not burn properly.

In the UK, approximately 40 deaths are caused by CO poisoning each year, and 4,000 people are treated in hospitals as a result of CO poisoning.

The ‘Game Over’ campaign is digitally led, aiming to raise awareness of the dangers of CO among the 16-24-year-old demographic.

It features short films and audio ads distributed through social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Snapchat, streaming services like ITVX, All 4, and Spotify, and digital radio via DAX and Octave

Audio.

The campaign also includes a bespoke retro arcade game and student ambassadors from 16 universities across the UK.

The campaign is led by Wales & West Utilities and SGN, in partnership with Northern Gas Networks and Cadent.

It will include a university roadshow that complements other on-campus work. By promoting awareness of CO dangers and measures to stay safe, the campaign aims to reduce CO-related deaths and injuries, particularly among young people.

Clive Book, Head of Operations at Wales & West Utilities, said: “Research carried out collaboratively by all GDNs in 2020 highlighted that young people, aged 16-24, are one of the most at risk groups from CO harm as they are less aware about the dangers of CO.

“Raising awareness amongst this demographic is vital, so we are delighted to come together as a collective GDN group to launch this campaign – targeting those most at risk. It’s no shock that young people aged 16-24 are often leaving their family home for the first time and need to look after themselves in a way that they unlikely to have done before.

“We want to make sure that young people are equipped with the information that can, quite literally, save their lives.

“This campaign seeks to explain the risks and symptoms of CO poisoning, as well as setting

out the simple steps that young people can take to stay safe. “We urge everyone to stay safe by getting an audible carbon monoxide alarm and to ensure that all their gas appliances are serviced annually, including gas boilers, cookers and water heaters…. or it could be Game Over.”

Additional findings from the joint GDN research in 2020 found that:

• Awareness of CO poisoning fatality was significantly lower amongst younger people (82% for 16–24-year-olds, compared to 92% overall)

• 16–24-year-olds are far less likely to have a working audible CO alarm (26% compared to 63% of 65 – 74-year-olds) and;

• 16–24-year-olds are also less likely to think it important to have gas appliances serviced

annually (79% compared to 97% for 65-74-year-olds).

Dan Edwards, Gas Distribution Network (GDN) CO Collaboration Group Chair and SGN’s Social Impact Programme

Lead, said: “Educating young people about the dangers of CO is a high priority for us as GDNs and forms a major part of our collective strategy due to the low levels of awareness and CO alarm ownership within this higher risk group.

“This initiative – ‘Game Over’ – is aimed at 16-24-year-olds to help raise awareness of the dangers of CO and provides easy to follow advice on how to stay safe.

“Through our activity and student brand ambassadors we will engage as many young people as possible to arm them with the knowledge and tools to stay safe

from CO harm and prevent it from being ‘Game Over’ for them, and others in their household.”

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, shortness of breath and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be similar to those of food poisoning and the flu. However, unlike the flu, carbon monoxide poisoning does not cause a high temperature (fever).

To stay safe, people are urged to:

• Get an audible carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a gas appliance and test it regularly.

• Make sure that gas appliances are serviced annually: that includes gas boilers, gas cookers and gas water heaters.

• Know the signs of carbon monoxide: Look out for the flames on your gas appliances burning a floppy yellow or orange, not crisp and blue; pilot lights on boilers frequently blowing out; extra condensation inside your window; soot or yellow stains around appliances.

• Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: similar to the flu or food poisoning without a high temperature.

• If your alarm sounds, or you suspect carbon monoxide, take action: move outside into fresh air, leaving doors and windows open as you go. Then call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Wessex Water encourages households to reduce ‘footprint’

LOCAL residents are being encouraged to take advantage of May’s unpredictable weather by embracing rainwater collection and making their gardens more sustainable.

Bath-based Wessex Water is marking Waterwise’s annual Water Saving Week campaign by offering advice to help people reduce their ‘water footprint’, emphasising the importance of saving every drop for the benefit of the planet and individual finances.

Wessex Water is advising its customers to ditch the sprinkler and hosepipe in favour of more efficient alternatives.

Using watering cans allows for better targeting of the roots of

outdoor plants, while installing a water butt makes it easy to collect rainwater that even houseplants prefer.

By making these simple changes, people can reduce their water

Crossword answers - Issue 051

footprint and contribute to water conservation efforts.

A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “Keeping tabs on the water you use in the home and garden makes financial sense, especially

(09/05/23)

if you’re on a meter or regularly using the washing machine and other appliances that impact your energy costs.

“Using a watering can, ideally with rainwater collected from a water butt, is one of the easiest ways to make a big saving –sprinklers and hosepipes can use 500 litres in an hour, which is more than an average family of four uses in a day!”

Unlike some regions, Wessex Water has not imposed a hosepipe ban during recent hot summers.

Approximately 75% of the water supplied by Wessex Water comes from groundwater sources, which means there is less reliance on reservoirs compared to other

parts of the UK. Significant investment in a £230 million supply grid enables water to be efficiently distributed across the area to meet changing demands. Wessex Water says it fixes more than 1,000 leaks every month and has reduced leakage by 30% in the last 20 years, while its long-term water resources management plan ensures further steps are being taken to meet demand from 2025 to 2080.

Across: 9 Rainstorm, 10 Prowl, 11 Perhaps, 12 Sparkle, 13 Arrive, 16 Swirl, 18 Rope, 19 Upset, 20 Sagas, 21 Boil, 22 Testy, 24 Liners, 26 Amalgam, 28 On a date, 30 Incur, 31 Pentecost.

Down: 1 Erupt, 2 Bier, 3 Iscariot, 4 Lobster pot, 5 Imps, 6 Sprays, 7 Folk singer, 8 Sleepless, 14 Resistance, 15 Spellbound, 17 Australia, 20 Sun-baked, 23 Yogurt, 25 Sects, 27 Mope, 29 Atom.

Approximately 40 deaths are caused by CO poisoning each year

Using a watering can instead of a hose can save hundreds of litres of water

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

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