Bath Echo - Issue 054 - 20/06/2023

In this issue...

Pictures from the Past P6

Crossword P7

What's On P9

Community P10

Health P12

Education P13

Business P14

Politics P15

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Plans submitted for 351-home development

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

ANOTHER 351 homes have been proposed for Bath’s former gasworks to create “a new and modern part of the city”.

But people moving into affordable housing in the new development might need to use a separate door.

Bath and North East Somerset Council has submitted a planning application for four apartment blocks on the section of the gasworks which it owns: a main seven-storey block surrounding a shared garden with a car park below, and three smaller threestorey buildings.

All blocks would have a mixture of ground-floor maisonettes and commercial units, with apartments above.

Affordable housing will mainly be located in the three smaller buildings, but any located in the main block will be accessed by its own separate door and stairwell “to avoid any management complications.”

Once home to the Victorian gas holders which stood out on Bath’s skyline, the disused Bath gasworks site has been vacant since 1971 and now forms part of the Bath Western Riverside development, a formerly industrial area of the city designated for regeneration.

Another developer, St William, is planning 616 apartments on the

rest of the gasworks site. A design and access statement submitted with the council’s application for their 350home development said: “The centrality of the location allows the promotion of a low car use environment, helping the streets to be prioritised for pedestrians and cycles – feeding into the desire that this too will promote transitory foot powered traffic through the site as part of newly created desire lines extending connections across the city.

“The reduction of car-oriented

highways, enables more greenery to be incorporated into the general infrastructure of the site, enabling natural rainwater control, increased biodiversity and in general creating an environment with an inherent natural character.”

The homes will be low-energy and use “non-fossil fuel based heat sources,” with the intention of reducing energy usage and costs for the people who move in. Achieving “Passivhaus” status will be explored, but will be agreed at a later point in the

planning process.

The statement said: “Bath Western Riverside Phase 2 will be a new and modern part of the city but will communicate Bath’s DNA.

“It will poignantly reflect an overwhelming evolution locally from a site which historically consumed and generated energy to somewhere which conserves and actively reduces energy use.”

Work has been undertaken on the site to move the remaining gas infrastructure on the old gasworks to the edge of the site.

Final design for London Road Lidl store revealed

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a new Lidl supermarket on land beside Bath RFC’s Lambridge training ground on the London Road in Bath have been submitted to B&NES Council.

The submission comes after a number of drop-in sessions with the local community, stakeholders and councillors. A public consultation leaflet was also delivered to over 13,000 local properties, which Lidl says generated a “significant” number of responses.

Those in favour of a Lidl on this site welcomed the benefits of having another food store on the eastern side of Bath, with comments highlighting that it is “very much needed”.

Consultees stated that they are currently having to travel across Bath or out of the city completely to access a discount food store. Comments were also made about the need to increase shopping choice, the creation of new jobs, and the design and consideration of local heritage and environment shown in the proposals.

Lidl GB’s Regional Head of Property, Glen Stidever, said:

“This planning submission follows a detailed and sustained piece of proactive engagement with the community, local heritage and architectural

stakeholders, as well as local businesses.

“We are grateful for the significant number of responses we have received for this site and strongly believe our planning application also carefully addresses considerations including biodiversity, heritage, highways and local businesses.”

Danny Sacco, President of Bath RFC said: “This development provides a once in a generation chance to secure the long-term future of the amateur club at Lambridge, our historical home.

“It will enable us to make much needed upgrades to our facilities and ensure that we continue to invest in the next generation of junior, girls and ladies rugby players in the city.

“The relationships between the amateur and professional clubs has never been stronger.” If approved, the multi-millionpound development would create up to 40 new jobs.

The proposed development would provide significant investment into Bath RFC, securing the amateur club’s longterm future at Lambridge.

The proposals feature a bespoke store design, drawn up by local Bath architects, Mitchell Eley Gould, and informed by the Design West Review Panel of architects, as well as engagement

with organisations such as Bath Preservation Trust, Historic England and the National Trust.

The scheme includes a Bath rubble stone wall set back behind a landscaped frontage which shields the store from the London Road.

The plans also accommodate existing and new trees and habitat features such as bee towers, bird baths, a habitat wall, and a wetland area. Surveys have been undertaken to ensure the preservation of key existing habitats around the site, and Lidl’s proposals are expected to secure a biodiversity net gain in excess of 40%.

The proposals include tree and hedge planting, natural aboveground drainage systems (SUDS) and a living green store roof.

The plans also feature solar panels, air source heat pumps,

a heat recovery system to re-use expelled heat from refrigeration units, as well as rapid electric vehicle charging spaces in the car park.

Glen Stidever, continued: “We fully recognise the special qualities of the local area and have worked hard to develop suitable proposals, benefiting from engagement with local heritage and architectural experts to inform this exemplar store design.

“We believe that this work means that we have put together a very compelling case for a new store on this site.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who has participated in the consultation process, and we look forward to working with B&NES Council as the planning application progresses.”

How the proposed development could look | Image © B&NES Council / Stride Treglown

Plans for the Lidl store on the London Road | Image © Lidl GB

16-year-old dies after stabbing at house party in Weston

TWO teenagers have been charged with the murder of a 16-year-old boy from Kingswood in Bristol who was fatally stabbed at a house party in the Weston area of Bath. Emergency services were called to Eastfield Avenue shortly after 11pm on Saturday 10th June following reports of a stabbing. A house party, believed to have been celebrating a birthday, had been taking place at a property on the residential road.

Despite the efforts of members of the public from neighbouring homes providing first aid before paramedics arrived, Mikey Roynon, an aspiring rapper, died at the scene.

A 35-year-old woman was also stabbed during the same incident, and attended the Royal United Hospital. She was later discharged.

Eight people, six boys and two girls, aged between 15 and 17, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder. They had been travelling on a bus and were stopped by police on Lansdown Lane at 11.30pm.

Three more teenagers, two 15-year-old boys and a 16-yearold boy, were later arrested in connection with the stabbing. A post-mortem examination revealed that Mikey died from a single stab wound.

On Tuesday 13th June, Avon & Somerset Police said two teenagers out of the eleven arrested remained in custody, and the others had been released with no further action being taken against them.

Officers were then granted more time to question the pair, a 15-year-old boy from Dorset and a 16-year-old boy from Wiltshire, before they were both charged with murder and possessing an offensive weapon.

More than 100 police officers and

staff are part of The Major Crime Investigation Team inquiry, which has been working to establish exactly what happened.

Following a thorough search of the Eastfield Avenue area, a knife was recovered by specialist officers.

Detective Inspector Mark Newbury, the senior investigating officer, said:

“This is a significant development in our investigation and in our quest to achieve justice for Mikey.

“His family have been informed and specialist family liaison officers continue to support them.

“They have been at the forefront of our minds as we’ve carried out the enquiries which have resulted in these charges.

“The investigation is ongoing and there is still a lot of work for us to do. The support of the local community has been invaluable and I’d once again like to thank them for their patience and understanding.”

Police have said around fifty to sixty people, the majority of whom were children, were inside the property at the time of the stabbing. It is believed Mikey was killed following a spontaneous argument, which is not being linked to any other incident or as a result of any tensions between rival groups.

Members of the public have been reminded that as the investigation continues, it’s important not to share content regarding the stabbing online.

Detective Inspector Mark Newbury said: “I’d like to remind people this is a live investigation and it is extremely important there should be no commentary or sharing of information or images online which could in any way prejudice any future

proceedings.

“It can be an offence to identify anyone who witnessed all or part of the incident as well as those who have been arrested.

“I’d also like to remind people of the impact the sharing of images, footage or even discussing the incident online may have on Mikey’s family. They are already going through the most difficult of times and you may cause them further upset.”

Chief Inspector Ronald Lungu, of the Bath Neighbourhood Policing team, added: “This tragedy is one too many and it should not be allowed to happen anywhere.

“I hear the community’s concerns about this and other recent incidents and would like to reassure them we are doing everything we can to tackle knife crime in Bath, as well as in other towns and cities across our policing area.

“We’re working closely with our partners to educate and divert young people away from crime as we recognise many of them are

vulnerable and need support.

“We also take a strong approach to enforcement and when necessary and appropriate, will robustly deal with offenders and bring them to justice.

“Anyone concerned about Mikey’s death or who has worries more generally about knife crime is encouraged to talk to officers.

“All of my team will be happy to talk to anyone about their concerns and will do everything they can to reassure them.”

Anyone with information, images and/or footage which could help the ongoing inquiry into Mikey’s death can submit it via the Major Incident Public Portal (https://mipp.police.uk/ operation/5223C92-PO1).

If you prefer to contact the police by phone, call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5223136640. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form. No personal details

“I understand residents’ concerns about knife crime, and I would like to reassure you that the police, our partners, and local communities are working together to tackle the root causes of this issue."

are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.

A GoFundMe crowdfunding page created to help pay for Mikey Roynon's funeral and family expenses has already raised more than £17,000.

You can donate at: https://www. gofundme.com/f/towards-thetragic-death-of-mikey Information in this article was the latest available as we went to print. You can find more recent updates at www.bathecho.co.uk

Concern over availability of WESTlink minibus service

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

METRO Mayor Dan Norris has revealed he has struggled to book travel on his flagship WESTlink minibus service.

The transport service was launched in April by the West of England Combined Authority and neighbouring North Somerset Council, with a fleet of minibuses which do not follow set routes but can be booked to take people between any bus stops in a set zone.

Responding to claims that there had only been 10 of the minibuses in the Somerset area of the scheme — the “south zone” — on Wednesday 7th June, Mr Norris told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “While I haven’t got official figures, I agree that Wednesday was a difficult day as when I tried to book a WESTlink myself, there were none available. But I’ve always

said this would be a gradual roll out and that WESTlink will need more minibus drivers – the national and local shortage of drivers remains a major hurdle.”

The on-demand buses were intended as a way to supplement the existing bus service, but bus cuts across the West of England, after a funding row between the Metro Mayor and local councils saw publicly-supported bus services slashed, have left many people in rural areas forced to rely on WESTlink.

One of the areas worst hit by the bus cuts is rural North East Somerset, where three more buses were removed last week.

Most supported buses in the area had been cut at the start of April, but Bath and North East Somerset Council continued to fund these into June “to ease the transition to the new arrangements.”

Sarah Warren, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet member for climate emergency and sustainable travel, said:

“Residents are anxious about the provision of public transport and their ability to access work, services and leisure.

“WESTlink is supposed to be the Mayor’s flagship public transport solution for areas with fewer commercial bus services. However, the pilot is only for two years and we are already nine weeks in — if services don’t start to ramp up soon, the whole scheme could fail.”

Despite fears from some that WESTlink was facing a drivers shortage, with bus companies able to offer longer-term contracts, Mr Norris said:

“Anecdotally I have heard some drivers have gone from other bus companies to WESTlink, but again, I haven’t been passed official stats to back that up.

“But I can say we are starting to see progress locally on this issue – with support from my West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, over 150 driver roles have been filled since the

beginning of the year alone. But there is still a significant way to go.”

But Bath and North East Somerset Council has said not enough has been done to make people aware of the scheme.

Ms Warren said: “With such a new concept, we expected a communications programme to explain the service to the public — to potential customers — but none has been forthcoming, despite our repeated requests. I have written again to the Mayor this week to urge him to properly promote the service.

“The Mayor has at his disposal a £57m fund, dedicated solely to improving buses. It’s astonishing that the Mayor has chosen a reckless gamble, with failure potentially baked in, through a lack of publicity, rather than using the money to support regular bus routes that were already familiar to residents.

She added: “If B&NES had control over the government fund for

bus services we would use it to reinstate lost bus routes instead.”

Mr Norris said: “My Mayoral Combined Authority ran dozens of face to face and online community, parish and pop up meetings with residents across the areas covered by WESTlink, and I’m pleased we’ve got big companies like Aerospace Bristol and others signed up to promote it among their workers.

“So there has been a lot of work to make sure locals are talking about and using the WESTlinks on the roads right now.”

He added: “I’m thrilled that here in the West of England, we’re aiming high and have started rolling what will become the biggest scheme of its kind in the country. We will be adding more and more WESTlinks to roads later in the weeks and months ahead until we reach our first milestone of 30 full-time minibuses. Stop-to-stop travel is new to us all – it was never going to be plain sailing.”

Above: The police cordon at Eastfield Avenue in Weston

Left: Mikey Roynon (Photo courtesy of Mikey's family / Avon & Somerset Police)

Mark Shelford, Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner

BATH’S NEW PREMIER SPORTS BAR

All live sports, 30 UHD screens, food, drink and the best rooftop

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9 BRUNEL SQUARE, BA1 1SX LUDOBATH.CO.UK

Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen opens in SouthGate Bath

A SPORTS bar has opened its doors at SouthGate Bath, offering locals the chance to combine watching their favourite team with a premium dining experience.

Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen says it is set to provide “the best viewing experience” in the city, as well as a menu of “mouth-watering” dishes and drinks.

The sports bar features a stateof-the-art sound system and 30 ultra-high definition (UHD) screens.

Located in Brunel Square, next to Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Ludo has two rooftop terraces offering views of the Bath skyline. Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, said: “Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen offers a truly unique sports viewing experience and we’re thrilled SouthGate Bath will be the home of its very first venue.

“I’m sure the bar will be a big hit with our visitors, and we look forward to watching our community come together over a game, to enjoy a delicious meal, or to sim-

ply take in the views.”

Ed Martin, Director of Regional Taverns, Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen, added: “We are delighted to be launching Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen at the iconic SouthGate Bath.

“Bath is a great sporting city, and we can’t think of a more fitting location for our state-of-the-art sporting offer.

“Coming into the summer season, we look forward to wel coming guests to our two fantastic roof top terrac es basking in glorious sunshine to enjoy our warm hospitality.

“It will be a wonderful summer of Ashes cricket, tennis, Formula 1, athletics, the restart of Premier League football and the Rugby Premier ship, leading up to an Autumn packed full of sport with the pinnacle of the Rugby World Cup!”

Final chance for people to get first and second Covid-19 vaccination

PEOPLE who have not yet had any form of protection against Covid-19 are being reminded they only have until the end of this month to get vaccinated.

After Friday 30th June, first and second doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, which are needed to build an initial immunity to the virus, will no longer be available. The spring booster vaccine, which has been offered to older people and those at an increased risk of falling seriously ill from Covid-19, will also be withdrawn. Going forward, the Covid-19 vaccine will only be offered to targeted groups of people during seasonal vaccination campaigns, such as that which is due to take place in the autumn.

Gill May, Director of Nursing, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “It is fantas-

tic that the vast majority of people in our region now have a good immunity to the Covid-19 virus.

“This strong position means we can now move away from our current vaccination offer, which is open to everybody, and towards one that ensures protection is given at the right time of year to those who need it most.

“Protecting those who are at risk is incredibly important, and this will become even more so as we approach the autumn and winter months.”

So far, more than two million in-

Council to introduce new 20mph speed limit

dividual Covid-19 vaccinations have been given out across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

Any person who would like to get protected while the offer of vaccination is still available can arrange their appointment through the National Booking Service, which is available online at www. nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119.

People who were eligible for a spring booster vaccine, such as those over the age of 75, will also be able to have another top-up dose in the autumn, which will help keep immunity levels strong during the winter months. Information on when this next booster will be available, as well as details of how to book an appointment, will be provided directly to those who are eligible later in the year.

COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath

THE recent fatal incident in our city has deeply shocked and saddened me as I am sure it has everyone.

Our first focus must be the victim and their family. My heart goes out to all those affected by this tragic loss of life and we have to do everything we can to support them. Keeping our young people safe must be our top priority. This will involve working across the Avon and Somerset police area and with neighbouring forces. We also need to tackle the root causes of these incidents by working closely with local stake-

holders. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the specifics of this incident while the police investigation is ongoing.

Remembering the pain of the pandemic will have been in our minds recently as the COVID-19 inquiry began. It holds a heavy significance for so many. Whether it be bereaved loved ones or those still suffering with debilitating long-COVID, we owe them answers and this inquiry must be how we provide them. The healthcare workers who gave so much to protect us also deserve

answers. They deserve to know why they were exposed to dangerous environments, often without proper support. We need to also learn lessons.

The chaos and turmoil that engulfed so much of the response on a political level cannot ever be replicated again. Lasting and meaningful change must be achieved. Tirelessly hard working nurses here in Bath deserve better. A significant number have been left undervalued. Many contracted NHS nurses, those who work in the NHS but are not directly em-

A NEW 20mph speed limit is set to be introduced on Lansdown Road in Bath as part of on going efforts to improve pedestrian safety. Bath & North East Somerset Council has said the new limit will be implemented between The Paragon and Richmond Road, where St Stephen’s Church is located.

It is hoped the 20mph speed limit will reduce the risk of collisions and increase the safety of all road users, including those walking and cycling. The local authority introduced multiple 20mph speed limits in Bath last year. Approximately 18 new 20mph signs are being installed and road markings will be changed, with seven new 20pmh roundel markings added. The council will be replacing road

signs and markings shortly and expect the works to be completed by the end of June. Disruption to traffic is expected to be minimal.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport said: “By introducing more 20mph speed limits in our city we’re reducing vehicle speeds and keeping our highways as safe as possible for everyone. 20mph limits are becoming more prevalent in towns and cities and we anticipate that introducing this new speed limit on Lansdown Road will encourage more walking, wheeling and cycling. Feedback from other schemes is that the experience of all road and footway users is enhanced with lower motorised vehicle speed limits where appropriate.”

ployed by the organisation, in Bath are missing out on an average of £2,000 which was agreed to be given to nurses in the recent NHS pay dispute. It is deeply unjust. The NHS is a crucial pillar of our society and every person who contributes to the service must be valued highly. These contracted nurses deserve the pay award. I have raised it with the government and await their response as to their reasoning over this fundamentally unfair decision.

The Liberal Democrats are also continuing to hold the government to account and have demanded that they bring back a Bill which would end puppy smuggling in the UK. The Conservative Party promised to deliver this Bill in their manifesto, and the government even drafted the wording of the new law. Therefore Ministers should have no problems backing it. Conservative MPs should not be breaking their promise to protect animals from cruel smuggling gangs.

The new sports bar is located in Brunel Square, replacing Graze | Photos © Ludo Sports Bar

Pictures from the Past In The News

Ups and Downs in the story of Cleveland Baths

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

OVER the past 206 years since the Cleveland Baths opened on 1 May 1817, its story has been something of a roller-coaster ride.

Recent events are typical. In September 2022, swimmers had the chance to try out the newly refurbished pools, but they are still not officially open. One major delay is for a pontoon to be built on the river, so that people can arrive by boat. It will also protect the heat pump, which warms the water on chilly days. But another delay was due to the floods in January. This is not new – the site was ready for flooding. The extent of the floods was not as bad as in 1894, when the water level rose above the roofs of the changing rooms and up to the first floor of thecottage. Floods also delayed swimming in 1903, when the pools had to be drained and cleaned out – as they were in January this year. Another low point was during the construction of the Great Western Railway, when the springs which fed the pools were contaminated. The good news is that on 13 June this year the Pools won the prestigious European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards. The regeneration of Cleveland Pools is one of just 30 projects to be honoured as an ‘outstanding heritage achievement’, from a wide range of applications from across Europe. It was the second award in as many months, as on 10 May, they won a prestigious Museum and Heritage Award in the Restoration or Conservation Project of the Year category. Their renaissance took a long coming. After a long period of decline, the pools closed in 1974. They reopened briefly in 1983 when work was carried out on the sports centre pool but closed again in 1984. After a brief spell as a trout farm, the pools closed

again – this time apparently for good. There they lay, getting more and more derelict until, in 2003, they were put up for sale. A group of local people formed a trust to save them, and it is their dedication that has brought the pools to the brink of reopening. There are those who say they will fail again because people cannot drive there, but the first picture shows that did not deter people in earlier years. Here we see champion swimmer Leslie Harris diving into the main pool about 1920.

However, the second photograph shows the baths at a very low point. Taken in 2003 when the Cleveland Pools Trust opened the site to the public, it shows the changing rooms devoid of doors, plants growing through the paving and rubbish dumped in the water. It all looks very

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

Ihope everyone has been enjoying time outside in the sunshine and has stayed safe whilst doing so.

Firstly, I am aware of the deeply distressing and tragic incident in Bath on 10 June, in which 16-year-old Mikey Roynon from South Gloucestershire was killed. I would like to pass on my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the young man. The police have been working tirelessly to investigate.

Two boys, a 15-year-old from Dorset and a 16-year-old from Wiltshire, have been charged with possessing an offensive weapon and murder in connec-

tion with the incident.

As your Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) I have sought assurances from Avon and Somerset Police, that they are proactively working closely with local partners and the community to put support in place for those affected by this terrible incident.

I understand residents’ concerns about knife crime, and I would like to reassure you that the police, our partners and local communities are working together to tackle the root causes of this issue.

I would urge anyone with information, images or footage of the incident, who hasn’t already

been in touch with the police, to please contact them at the earliest opportunity. Please give the reference number 5223136640. Last Wednesday (14 June) I put questions relating to knife crime and increased summer demand for police support to Chief Constable Sarah Crew at the latest Performance and Accountability Board.

I know that the police get exceptionally busy in the summer, but local people still rightfully expect a high level of service.

As well as discussing knife crime prevention, we also discussed police volunteers and the work that they do, as well as rape and

sexual assaults in hospitals.

If you would like to listen in to the conversation, you can view our Facebook live video that was recorded and has been posted to the OPCC Facebook page.

Lastly, I would like to highlight the 159 service, launched by Stop Scams UK. If you think someone is trying to trick you into handing over money or personal details, I urge you to stop, hang up and call 159. This is a short-code phone service that connects people safely to their bank’s fraud prevention service.

This free phone service should be used when either you or someone you know may have provided an unknown person with your bank card or banking information over the phone, allowing you or your loved one to report financial scams as fraud may be potentially taking place. Individuals should still report any suspicious calls about financial matters to Action Fraud. I would like to thank everyone for their continued support and contribution towards keeping our communities safe and wish you all a safe and happy week.

Above: Leslie Harris diving into the main pool around 1920 | Below: The Cleveland Pools after years of neglect in 2003

different today. Let us hope that the pontoon and heat pump are soon operational, especially

in such warm weather, and everyone can enjoy open air swimming.

The Cleveland Pools Trust website is www.clevelandpools. org.uk.

Congratulations to Margaret Ducker for winning £20!

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

Down

1 Abnormally white (6)

2 Discussed (6-2)

3 "Walkin' back to Happiness" singer (7)

4 How critical things may come (2,1,4)

5 Conveyor (7)

6 If it's in place it's in this (4)

7 Charge per unit (4)

13 Darted (7)

15 Pivotal (7)

17 Not easily hoodwinked (3)

19 The fifth of twelve (3)

20 Flightless bird (3)

22 In poor health (3)

24 Attendance check (4-4)

25 Pitched abruptly (7)

26 Proposition demonstrated by reasoning (7)

27 Registers (5,2)

30 Not quite (6)

33 Small cells (4)

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 29/06/2023. 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.

“One Big Thank You” for charity fundraiser

Locals hit out at plans for two more residents’ parking zones

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

NEW residents’ parking zones are set to arrive in two Bath areas, but locals in one claim the scheme is based on an outdated survey and now want it dropped.

Work to install the Walcot, Snow Hill and Claremont Road residents’ parking zone (RPZ) started yesterday, Monday 12th June, and it will be in force from 31st July alongside the Oldfield Park and Westmoreland RPZ.

A FUNDRAISER for the Royal United Hospital was recently surprised by Angela Rippon from the BBC’s The One Show, after walking a marathon every day for seven days.

Nicola (Nic) Noble took on the walking challenge in memory of her sister, Vanessa (Ness) Kyte.

Nic and Ness had started fundraising together for new cancer facilities at the RUH after Ness was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000.

When Ness passed away in 2007, Nic promised she would carry on their passion for fundraising.

To mark the final part of her promise, Nic decided to walk a marathon every day in the leadup to the Walk of Life 2023, a sponsored walk organised by RUHX, the official charity of the RUH.

The Walk of Life was started thanks to Nic and Ness in 2006, which now sees hundreds of walkers take on a marathon or 10 mile walk along the Kennet & Avon canal every year to raise

money for the RUH.

Nic has led the way at the sponsored walk ever since, keeping her sister’s legacy alive. She completed her final marathon walk on Saturday 20th May alongside 240 RUHX supporters, where she was surprised by Angela Rippon and The One Show team as part of their “One Big Thank You”.

Rhyannon Boyd, Head of RUHX said: “We are so proud of Nic for completing her seven day marathon challenge. “To have raised nearly £1million for our Cancer Appeal is incredible and her achievement will be brought to life when our new Dyson Cancer Centre opens later this year.”

“It’s her legacy, it makes sense, and it has healed me,” said Nic. £43,000 has been raised so far by everyone who took part in the Walk of Life 2023.

Registrations for the Walk of Life 2024 will open soon. To register your interest, go to https://ruhx. org.uk/events/walk-of-life/

Join u3a in Bath and Enjoy these Benefits

* Staying active, keep learning and having fun

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* Free attendance to talks and learning events

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* 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.

Bath & North East Somerset Council says the zones will tackle commuter parking and improve people’s health and environment, but locals have said the plans are being brought in against their wishes.

A local campaign group calling themselves ’70percent’ — after the proportion of residents who opposed the Walcot, Snow Hill and Claremont Road RPZ when consulted — have written an open letter to the council urging them to scrap the scheme.

A petition run by group organiser Tony Robbins calling for the scheme to be reversed has attracted 873 signatures.

The group, which is made up of people living in and near the planned Walcot, Snow Hill and Claremont Road RPZ, accused the council of being “deliberately dishonest” and said: “The council’s track record for consultations is very poor.” 70percent wrote a first open letter in February but said they received no acknowledgement

Our Monthly Talks

from the council. Now they are questioning the reasons and evidence behind the scheme. When they sent an FOI request asking what parking surveys had been done ahead of the scheme, the council referred them to a survey conducted in 2016.

70percent said: “A seven-yearold survey, conducted prepandemic and before the change in work patterns must surely be considered inadequate to assess this now?

“There is no indication that in the last 7 years nor in the run-up to the decision to impose the Walcot RPZ that any of the further work recommended to ascertain any possible benefit of introducing an RPZ has ever been undertaken, assessed or evidence gathered.”

They also challenged the claim by some councillors that the RPZ would reduce air pollution from traffic, stating: “The council’s own air quality data showed that NO2 levels on London Road had been below legal limits since 2019 and, in any case, air quality is excellent in the residential areas affected by the RPZ.”

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:

6th July 2023

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

byTony McAleavy

7th September 2023

BRISTOL PORT : PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE by

John Chaplin

5th October 2023

ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN THE POST-COVID ERA

by Graham Cope

Manda Rigby, the council’s cabinet member for transport, had said that she had been “bombarded with requests” from Snow Hill residents to bring in an RPZ, but 70percent have said this is tantamount to bringing the scheme in based on “hearsay.”

They stated: “What we didn’t hear from Councillor Rigby was how many of the people canvassed didn’t raise a concern about parking. We didn’t hear of the people who disagreed with the RPZ proposal. “Surely, that was what the consultation process was for?”

The group has called for the scheme to be cancelled.

But Ms Rigby defended the plans. She said: “We are serious about tackling congestion, air pollution and our climate emergency

and the zones help address these important issues.

“The clean air zone, liveable neighbourhoods including residents’ parking zones are a package of measures set out within the council’s ‘journey to net zero’ policy that contributes to improving local air quality, cutting congestion and improving travel choices.

“Earlier this year we successfully installed five residents’ parking zones. We are now installing zones in the Oldfield Park and Westmoreland, and Walcot, Snow Hill and Claremont Road areas of Bath.

“All seven zones were proposed by ward councillors on behalf of their communities and they have been agreed following extensive consultation. “Residents were initially invited to share their views on the proposals during informal public consultations in autumn 2021 and spring 2022.

“There was further opportunity to comment on plans revised in the light of the feedback received during formal consultations in June 2022 and autumn 2022.

“Feedback from all our consultations on the level of support for the zone is very important to us, however decisions are also based on how the zones would support key policies including ‘journey to net zero.’

“In deciding to go ahead with the schemes, including Walcot and Snow Hill and Claremont Road, we listened and talked with residents, businesses and organisations.

“Many residents said they found it challenging to park near their homes because of commuter parking, but businesses have raised concerns about the impact of the final design on trade and we are looking at how we mitigate any potential impacts.”

Permits for the RPZs will be priced based on your vehicle’s emissions, with a permit for an average eight-year-old 1.6L engine family car expected to cost between £100 and £125 a year.

The zones will be in force between 8am–6pm, 7 days a week but not on bank holidays. Blue badge holders will be able to park in permit holder bays for as long as they require. You can apply for a permit from 3rd July onwards.

A local campaign group is calling for the zones to be scrapped

Angela Rippon with Nic Noble | Photo © RUHX

What's On

Florence Given

Topping & Company Booksellers

20th June, 7.30pm

Enjoy an evening in Bath with feminist author and illustrator, Florence Given to talk about her debut novel, Girlcrush - a dark feminist retelling of Jekyll & Hyde. There will be a chance to ask questions.

Feast Over Fire Night

Newton Farm Shop

23rd June, 7pm

An alfresco evening of home-produced Newton Farm Meats cooked over wood and charcoal fires in front of your eyes with special guest Adam Ball. Booking required.

The Half

The Rondo Theatre

29th June, 8pm

Hilarious, intelligent and seriously moving, Danielle Ward’s play is a noholds-barred look at being a woman in comedy. Two comedians walk into a dressing room… Tickets from £12.

The Snail and The Whale

The Egg

1st - 2nd July

A play with music inspired by the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Join a young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world.

Solar Observing: Summer Solstice

Herschel Museum of Astronomy

21st June, 10am - 4pm

Visit the Herschel Museum of Astronomy to have the opportunity to take part in daytime astronomy on the day of the summer solstice from the garden the Planet Uranus was discovered in 1781.

A Night at the Opera

Bath Abbey

24th June, 7.30pm

London Concertante present a sensational evening at the opera with an array of the finest opera arias and overtures, including works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, Mozart and so many more.

The Beat

The Forum

29th June, 7.30pm

The Beat are a 2 Tone ska revival band founded in England in 1978. Their songs fuse ska, pop, soul, reggae and punk rock, and their lyrics deal with themes of love, unity and sociopolitical topics.

All-American Summer Party

American Museum & Gardens

2nd July, 10am - 6pm

A fun day out celebrating American Independence Day. Enjoy a range of live music, a KidzFun zone, classic American cars on display and American food and drink options.

Tuesday 20th June - Monday 3rd July 2023

Argyle String Concert

St. Luke's Church

22nd June, 7.30pm

Join Argyle String Orchestra for an evening of classical music with special solo violinist Dennis Simons. This is Tim Robb's final concert after 35 years conducting the Argyle String Orchestra.

Teddy Bears' Picnic

Avon Valley Railway

24th & 25th June, 11am – 4pm

Children will travel for free on this special weekend if they bring their Teddy Bear. Enjoy a 50-minute steam-hauled journey. Then enjoy magic shows, balloon modelling and face painting.

Extraordinary!

Bath Abbey

30th June, 6.30pm

Led by George Bevan and accompanied by professional musicians, join 200 local primary school children and the Voices for Life Children's Choir for this performance of Extraordinary!

Caitlin Moran – What About Men?

Komedia

3rd July, 7.30pm

Caitlin Moran is back on the road to discuss her new book – and this time, it’s all about the men. Come and join the start of a new, urgent, but also often amusing conversation.

The Good Life BRLSI

22nd June, 7.30pm

Are you living the best life you could be?

Join Dr Don Cameron to discover how the great philosophers can begin to help you find happiness.

Tickets available from £3.

Jewish Cemetery Open Day

1 Greendown Place BA2 5DD

25th June, 11am - 4pm

Around 100 people from Bath's 18th and 19th century Jewish community are thought to be buried in this peaceful semi-secret place behind high walls. A printed guide will be available.

Enchanted Visions

Victoria Art Gallery

1st July – 1st October

Artist Candace Bahouth creates grand rococo mirrors decorated with porcelain and china pieces. Inspired by the beauty of china itself, her works are in numerous collections, such as The V&A.

TONY! (Tony Blair Rock Opera)

Theatre Royal

3rd - 8th July

The story of how one man went from peace-loving, long-haired hippy and would-be pop star to warmongering multimillionaire in just a couple of decades.

Families missing out on £75,000 of free food every year

FAMILIES across the Bath area are missing out on more than £75,000 worth of free food each year due to unclaimed Healthy Start benefits.

Almost a quarter of the eligible families in Bath and North East Somerset don’t benefit from the free fruit, vegetables, vitamins and milk they are entitled to.

Bath & North East Somerset Council estimates that there are 290 families who are not yet receiving Healthy Start and is encouraging them to come forward if they think they might be entitled to the support.

Healthy Start is an NHS scheme to help anyone more than 10 weeks pregnant or with a child under four, who meets the eligibility criteria, buy healthy food and milk.

The Healthy Start benefit is added onto a digital card to spend at shops that accept Mastercard.

Those eligible can receive £4.25 each week of pregnancy from the 10th week, £8.50 a week for children from birth to 1 and £4.25 a week for children aged between 1 and 4, plus free multivitamins. There is no limit to the number of children that a family can apply for.

Nationally, the number of households where children are experiencing food insecurity has nearly doubled in the past year, with an estimated 3.7 million children at risk of going hungry.

Becky Reynolds, Director of Public Health at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We encourage all families to check at www.healthystart.nhs.uk/ whether they might be eligible for Healthy Start support.

“In addition to receiving a digital card with four weeks’ worth of benefit to spend on healthy foods, those eligible can collect free

National day of action sees Blue Badges seized

vitamins during pregnancy and breastfeeding and vitamin drops for babies and young children.

“We would love to see more eligible families in B&NES making the most of this benefit.”

Parents on Universal Credit who are at least 10 weeks pregnant or have at least one child under 4 years old can apply if their monthly take-home pay is £408 or less from employment.

Families receiving Child Tax Credit earning £16,190 or less a year can also apply if they don’t also receive Working Tax Credit. The Healthy Start Card can also be used to collect free multivitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding mums, and vitamin drops for children under 4 not on first infant formula.

Healthy Start can be contacted on 0300 330 7010 by anyone who does not have access to the Internet.

BATH & North East Somerset Council recently joined forces with 82 other local authorities across the country in a nationwide campaign to crack down on the misuse of Blue Badges.

On Friday 26th May, the council carried out 146 checks on Blue Badges as part of the coordinated effort to support disabled motorists and tackle fraudulent use of the badges. All of the council’s Civil Enforcement Officers participated in the day of action, with additional assistance from their partner, OneWest. With over 7,600 registered Blue Badge holders in Bath and North East Somerset, the aim was to identify and remove any instances of misuse to ensure the badges are used by those who genuinely need them. Misuse of Blue Badges can take various

forms, including using a badge when the holder is not present in the vehicle, using a badge that belongs to a deceased person, or using an expired badge. During the action day, checks were conducted on 146 Blue Badges and the council discovered several cases of misuse, resulting in the seizure of three Blue Badges.

This initiative marks the second year of the nationwide Day of Action, following the success of last year’s campaign held in London, which led to the seizure of numerous Blue Badges.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport said: “We’re glad to support the campaign and continue our efforts against Blue Badge misuse.

“The disabled parking bays throughout B&NES are a lifeline to vulnerable residents.”

Man sentenced after pleading guilty to child sexual offences

A MAN from Bath has been sentenced after admitting to three child sexual offences which occurred in the 1970s, with his victim urging others to speak out.

66-year-old David Matthews was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Friday 2nd June after pleading guilty to the offences, all of which occurred in the 1970s while he was a teenage juvenile. His crimes were reported to the police after the woman he sexually abused approximately 50 years ago read a story in a local newspaper in 2018 saying he had been jailed for 11 years and six months for a dozen similar offences he committed as an adult.

The woman has now urged all victims of non-recent sexual offences to report what happened to the police.

Judge Julian Lambert said the impact of Matthews’ offending had been ‘severe’.

Matthews, formerly of Bath, was jailed for two years to be served consecutively after his previous sentence is completed. He will also be on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.

Anyone who reports a sexual offence against them is legally entitled to remain anonymous, regardless of whether anyone is charged, appears in court or is convicted.

The woman who was abused by Matthews stood in court and read a personal statement to explain how the abuse changed her life forever and ‘nowhere seemed safe’ as he was ‘manipulative’.

She said: “I was a child and yet I never felt comfortable in David Matthews’ presence. He was a very quiet man, he would stare at me and was not afraid to be touchy feely, sliding his hand up my skirt.

“I was an innocent child who should have been full of joy, yet inside I was screaming out for help, especially when things progressed.”

She went on to reveal that the abuse she was subjected to continues to affect her life.

She said: “Almost fifty years later and I remember the places where he abused me like photographs in my mind, I can remember his tobacco breath.

“He turned the bright, happy, and fun-loving little girl that I was into a secretive, introverted, stupidly submissive and very fearful girl.

“David Matthews stole my innocence and dignity; in fact, he stole my life and his actions have scarred me for life. Having discovered the article in the Bath Chronicle, I felt compelled to share my story and mentally I needed to do it to free myself of the baggage that I had been carrying around with me for most of my life.

“I plucked up the courage and made that phone call to the police and five years later here we are.

“Through my life I have been to hell and back, been mentally destroyed, but today is like finishing a bad book, I can finally close the last chapter, the end.”

Addressing Matthews directly, she added: “You may feel hard done by being incarcerated but I

would take your place anytime; I would much rather serve your time in jail because you gave me a life sentence of terror, misery, and mental trauma.

“I would like him to tell me why he would want to do the things that he did to me and that if he realised how damaging, terrorising and cruel his actions were, would he still have done them?

“If he knew how his actions wrecked my life and destroyed my sense of self-worth, would he have thought twice or is he just pure evil and would have acted upon his urges regardless?

“However, my life starts today, I am no longer your victim.”

The woman hopes her story will encourage other people who have been sexually abused to come forward.

She thanked her family and her Independent Sexual Violence Advisor for helping her throughout the court process.

She says the officer in her case, Detective Sergeant Ben Dallas, ‘supported me right the way through’ and words cannot do justice to how thankful she is for the work he carried out.

She said: “People have lost a lot of confidence in the police of late, however I have to say that especially given the nature of this case, the professionalism, patience, and support afforded to me throughout has been second to none.

“I would like something positive to come out of me having reported this to the police and if anyone is out there and worried

about reporting sexual abuse of any kind, I would urge you to please not be afraid and to come forward. Don’t be a victim, be a happy survivor.

“I owe so much to so many people for helping me through this, I was a broken person and now I feel as though I finally have my life back.”

DS Dallas said: “I would like to commend her for having the courage to come forward and report her experiences to the police, and for the strength that she has displayed throughout the course of this investigation.

“This result illustrates the predatory nature of David Matthews whose sexual abuse of children spanned several decades. Today also marks a new chapter in the life of the woman he abused when she was a child, who has shown great humility in

wishing for her experiences to act as a springboard for others who have experienced sexual abuse to feel supported in coming forward and reporting to her police.

“As she says, she is no longer ‘his victim’ but a ‘happy survivor ‘ and I wish her well for the future.”

Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can selfrefer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year.

You can visit their website at www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call 0117 342 6999. You can also visit www.thisisnotanexcuse. org for details of charities and organisations that are experts in supporting victims.

Details of how to report rape and sexual abuse to the police are available at: https://www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ report/rape-and-sexual-assault/

66-year-old David Matthews | Image courtesy of Avon & Somerset Police

Dorothy House urges people to “Give a Shift”

LOCAL charity Dorothy House Hospice Care has launched a new volunteer recruitment campaign, encouraging locals to “Give a Shift”.

The new initiative aims to rally the community to contribute their time and skills to making a positive impact in the lives of others, whilst also offering individuals the opportunity to meet new people and develop new skills. With the belief that every act of giving counts, the Give A Shift campaign invites people from all walks of life to participate, whether they can spare an hour, a day, a week, or a month.

The flexible approach recognises that everyone’s time and lived experience are valuable resources that can make a significant difference in the community.

Rowena Midgley, Head of Retail for Dorothy House said: “Volunteers are the backbone of our organisation, and their contributions are essential to our mission of ensuring that everyone has access to outstanding palliative and end of life care in our community.”

There are a variety of ways for volunteers to get involved in the campaign. Opportunities range from till operators to customer

Cycling scheme to continue despite funding disappointment

PLANS for a travel scheme that will connect some of the city’s residential areas to educational establishments will continue despite an unsuccessful bid for funding, it has been confirmed.

Bath & North East Somerset

service and back-of-house roles.

Rowena continued: “Our goal is to make volunteering accessible to everyone. We understand that people lead busy lives, and it’s not always easy to commit to long-term engagements.

“With #GiveAShift, we hope to inspire individuals to take that first step, give what they can, and experience the joy of making a positive impact on the lives of others.

“Whether you are a student, a professional, a retiree, or someone simply looking to make a difference, there is a place for you in our volunteer community.

“Together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant Wiltshire that benefits us all.”

For more information about the #GiveAShift Volunteer Recruitment Campaign or to get involved, visit https://www.dorothyhouse.org.uk/get-involved/ volunteer/give-a-shift.

Council applied for grant funding for the Scholars’ Way scheme as part of an application submitted by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) to the government’s Active Travel Tranche 4 scheme.

Council staff had submitted a bid for £2.7 million to complete the first section, which would see the creation of a cycle route with pedestrian facilities between Claverton Down, Combe Down and Odd Down.

In total WECA submitted 10 projects, seeking a total of £6.5 million, and was granted just under £3.5 million.

One of the schemes which received funding will see the district receive an additional 20 on-street cycle hangars, each accommodating six bicycles. Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel said: “We believed this was a strong bid and of the usual high standard that

has been successful previously, so this is obviously hugely disappointing news.

“Investment in cycling, walking and wheeling infrastructure is important if we are to tackle the climate emergency, reduce congestion and transport emissions and facilitate healthier lifestyles.

“The council received strong positive feedback to the initial consultation last year and we have committed to progress this scheme together with the Bath Quays Links scheme.

“We will seek alternative sources of funding to help make this project happen.

“We also want to work with WECA to better understand the

criteria it uses to prioritise applications under the active travel programme, before passing these on to government, so that we can ensure B&NES receives a fair share of funding in the future.

“That said, we are pleased to be receiving an additional 20 cycle hangars. Added to the 4 already in place and the 20 already planned for installation this year, it will enable 264 residents to store their bicycles securely.”

The Bath Quays Links scheme which will integrate the new bridge at the Bath Quays development into the existing cycling and walking networks, will go forward to consultation later this year.

A total of £6.5 million of funding was sought, with only £3.5 million granted

New e-cargo bike helps RUH staff visit patients in community

A NEW e-cargo bike is being used to help staff from the Children’s Therapies team at the Royal United Hospital visit their patients in the community.

The bike is on loan to the team for a year and will mean they can travel on two wheels to see their patients, avoiding traffic queues and reducing air and noise pollution.

An e-cargo bike is a cargo bike with an electric motor. Batteries from e-cargo bikes are detachable and come with a charger which can be plugged into the mains electricity network via a typical three-pin socket.

The bikes are already being used across the country by delivery companies and for things like street cleaning, park maintenance and waste collection.

The initiative is a result of the work of the RUH’s Sustainability Team, which won funding from Greener NHS as well as resources and training from the West of England Mayoral Combined

Authority to support a project with the aim of making staff travel more sustainable.

The team has partnered with the Future Transport Zone team at the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority to trial the use of one bike for a year to see if it will provide the expected benefits to staff.

Annelore Hill-Verhaegen, a Specialist Occupational Therapist in the Children’s Therapies Team, said: “As a team we’re really keen to do what we can to be more sustainable, so the new bike is going to be so helpful.

“It means that when we go out to our community visits in Bath and the local area we can travel in a much more sustainable way and hopefully get to our appointments more quickly too as we won’t be stuck sitting in traffic.”

Maya Loaiza, from the RUH’s Sustainability team said: “The Children’s Therapies team wanted to try out a more

sustainable mode of transport to attend their community-based patient visits, so they were the team chosen to trial the e-cargo bike for the year.

“As well as the environmental benefits of cycling to appointments, we’re hopeful that staff will see the mental and physical benefits that physical exercise brings.

“It is also reducing costs for the NHS as it means a lot less fuel will need to be purchased for the team to travel to their community appointments.

“This is a one-year trial, but if it proves a success we will look at buying a bike which can continue to be used by the Children’s Therapies team as well as exploring other opportunities for e- cargo bike use at the RUH.” Metro Mayor Dan Norris said:

“I’m delighted that the RUH is trying out green, clean e-cargo bikes for their community visits. “Whether it’s groceries or medical supplies, e-cargo bikes offer a

Worker given prestigious award for her breast cancer support

A WORKER at the RUH who set up a bra fitting service for breast cancer patients following their surgery has won a prestigious award.

Karen Read, who joined the hospital in 2020, scooped gold in the Clinical Support Worker of the Year Award category at the Our Health Heroes Awards, delivered by Skills for Health. In addition to helping patients who have had a mastectomy or have breast asymmetry get fitted for bras, Karen established a dedicated prosthesis fitting service and has even trained in nipple and areolar tattooing

for patients who have had reconstructive surgery.

Speaking at an awards ceremony in London, Karen said: “It’s amazing. It’s a lovely achievement, a surprise, but I’m really, really grateful.

“We work as a really close team, and I work with some amazing colleagues.

“We all have our own part to play, but we all work as one and it’s really nice to think that they value what I do.

“The whole team is really behind the awards, and it’s helped to give a little bit of happiness into what’s been a really long couple of years.”

Congratulating Karen on her award, Kate Hope, Breast Clinical Nurse Specialist at the RUH, said: “We are delighted that Karen, who is an amazing member of our team, has been recognised through this award for her incredible hard work and innovation in this role.”

Local stroke patients being sought for key research study

PEOPLE who have had a stroke are being sought to help with an important study looking at speech and language recovery at the Royal United Hospital. The Predicting Language Outcome and Recovery After Stroke (PLORAS) study, run by University College London (UCL), aims to help researchers predict how soon after a stroke a patient might be able to recover their speech and language ability. The study looks at scans of stroke patients’ brains to identify

which area of the brain has been affected and, alongside patient questionnaires, aims to more accurately predict when patients may be able to speak again.

Stroke Research Nurse Telma Costa said: “One of the questions that we hear the most from stroke patients is when will they be able to speak again, understand what’s being said to them, or read again too.

“This study aims to help clinicians understand why different types of strokes can have different

recovery times when it comes to speech and language, and help us to give patients a clearer timeline about when they might expect to recover these skills.

“If you’ve had a stroke and been a patient at the RUH, please do get in touch if you can help with this research. All we need you to do is fill in a questionnaire that you can do from home – there’s no need to visit the hospital.”

If you can help with the research, email ruh-tr.strokeresearch@ nhs.net or call 01225 824120.

great transport option for West of England firms large and small, plus they can help cut congestion and clean up our toxic air – a winwin!

“Under my leadership, the West of

England Combined Authority is doing all it can to ensure polluting vehicles are a thing of the past – so, so important in helping us reach our super-ambitious netzero targets locally.”

MP calls on government to give nurses £2,000 payment

BATH’S Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse has raised concerns over the exclusion of NHS contracted nurses from the latest pay award, which could see them miss out on thousands of pounds.

Many contracted NHS nurses, those who work in the health service but are not directly employed by the organisation, are missing out on an average of £2,000 which was agreed to be given to nurses in the recent NHS pay dispute. The £2,000 is a lump sum, to be paid this year, and does not form part of the general uplift in pay that was recently agreed.

The exclusion of contracted nurses from the uplift has raised questions about the fairness and equity of the pay award. Responding to a question from

Ms Hobhouse, Leader of the House, Penny Mordaunt, stated that she would write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Steve Barclay, on behalf of Mrs Hobhouse to raise the Bath MP’s concerns.

Wera, who is the Lib Dem Shadow Leader of the House, commented: “Tirelessly hard-working nurses here in Bath deserve better.

“They have been left feeling undervalued and being left out of the pay uplift is deeply unjust.

“The NHS is a crucial pillar of our society and every person who contributes to the service must be valued highly.

“It is crucial that we implement greater transparency and accountability in awarding pay increases to prevent such situations from happening in the future.”

Annelore Hill-Verhaegen, Specialist Occupational Therapist, on the new bike

Many contracted nurses aren't directly employed by the NHS

Graduates create app to improve safety for lone women

TWO graduates from the University of Bath have launched a smartwatch app that monitors heart rate and body motion to sense distress and send emergency alerts if the wearer is attacked.

The Epowar app, which is primarily aimed at improving women’s safety, eliminates the major issue with conventional rape alarms and personal safety products which need to be physically activated, which is often not an option in a violent assault.

The smartwatch app uses AI to respond immediately if a user is attacked when walking or running alone.

The app detects distress, sends an alert to the wearer’s contacts and automatically records and stores evidence, including microphone data, GPS, vital signs and movement in a cloud system. The app is available on the App Store and will be rolled out to other devices, such as Fitbit, Android and Garmin, later this year.

Epowar co-founder E-J Roodt said: “We are so excited that after three years of continual research, painstaking experiments and

trials, we can finally launch the Epowar app.

“We believe it will make a major contribution to women’s safety.

“The key is that it all happens automatically – an assailant would have little or no time to prevent this, which is not always possible with conventional panic buttons, rape alarms or your mobile phone.

“Many women feel scared to walk or run alone – we’re afraid of becoming a victim of violence. Technology alone cannot make women safer on our streets, but tech like Epowar can play its part, giving women back some power and control.”

Inspiration for the app came to Roodt, a BSc Business graduate of the University’s School of Management, while jogging in a poorly lit park and worrying about the risk of an attack.

Roodt, a keen smartwatch user, was aware of the advances in wearable technology and how it was being used to detect heart attacks.

She wondered if those concepts could be applied to women’s safety and took her ideas to Maks Rahman, an engineering student. Together, they co-

founded Epowar. They started building Epowar whilst studying, supported by the University’s Enterprise and Entrepreneurship programme, which included funding and a business mentor. They have continued its development full-time since graduating – Roodt in 2022, Rahman a year earlier.

The AI-powered system was built on extensive research into detectable responses to physical distress and an analysis of thousands of samples of

physiological and motion data. The AI models can distinguish incidents of distress from regular activities and exercises, such as walking.

Rahman said the team was keen to avoid the privacy issues that have clouded other security apps, which may include tracking the user.

Epowar’s software does not track or identify the wearer, up to the point where an alert is issued.

Currently, users must switch on the app for specific journeys

where they feel there is potential risk but, in future, users will be able to run the app permanently. Any data collected is used to finetune the app and is completely anonymised.

Rahman said: “I’m used to walking my female friends home whenever it’s late or they feel unsafe. I have two younger sisters, I wondered what it would be like for them and if someone would do the same. I hope they use Epowar to be safe and also independent.”

Businesses encouraged to protect workers during hot weather

EMPLOYERS across the West of England are being encouraged to do more to protect their workers during the hot weather this summer.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris wants bosses to take pre-emptive action, with forecasts suggesting temperatures in excess of 30ºc during the summer months. While temperatures around this level have been recorded in June in the past, it is early in the month for it to be so hot. Meteorologists say the chance of Britain experiencing a hot summer is now 45%, which is 2.3 times the normal figure.

The warning leaves the nation braced for a possible repeat of last year’s record-breaking heatwave which saw temperatures break the 40ºc record in the UK for the first time.

The hot weather prompted a 1000% rise in workers seeking advice from the Health and Safety Executive.

Although there’s no legal maximum temperature for

Private hospital recognised for “outstanding” cancer services

workplaces, Mr Norris says heat is a hazard and should be treated as such by local employers.

Mr Norris has also raised concern over outdoor workers, who are three times more likely to develop skin cancer.

The Metro Mayor is calling on employers to do things like allowing flexible working with different start and finish times and keeping workplaces cool on days with particularly high temperatures.

He also wants all employers to have an open discussion with their workers on hot days to manage risks better.

Dan Norris said: “Last summer should have been a wakeup call for all of us, not least ministers – once again it is unusually hot because of the climate crisis we all face, and that spells trouble for West of England workers.

“The truth is the extreme weather we saw will only get more frequent over time, not less.

“That’s why we need clear public health messaging for employers.”

THE Bath Clinic, a private hospital in Bath, has been recognised for the “outstanding” cancer services it offers.

Assessors who visited the hospital in May noted the privacy and dignity afforded to patients, as well as the accessibility and welcoming atmosphere.

This is the third time the hospital in Combe Down has received the prestigious award.

The Macmillan Quality Environmental Mark was set up in 2010, in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and the Department of Health to better meet the needs of patients living with cancer.

The award recognises hospitals, hospices and support centres that go above and beyond in the way they design a cancer service that provides a welcoming and supportive environment.

The Rainbow Ward is one of the few dedicated private cancer centres in the area.

The service was designed to provide patients with a relaxed and welcoming environment, in

a quiet wing of the main hospital. Four categories are evaluated before the award can be given. This includes how the clinical environment is designed, through to service experience and the patient voice.

To meet the standards required, organisations being assessed must meet an overall average of 80% in each category.

Bath Clinic’s Rainbow Ward achieved its highest score yet and was recognised as offering an excellent service to patients being treated for a range of cancers.

Assessors took special note of how staff at the hospital continually engaged with patients and their families and as a result, directly adapted services and practices to meet the needs of the patients they were treating.

Commenting on the award, Sonia Clark, Clinical Lead for Oncology said: “This award is a recognition of the contributions from the whole team – from oncology nurses and pharmacists to our housekeeping and catering staff.

“The team have worked tirelessly to ensure that each of our patients

receive the care and support they need in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment.

“The Oncology team go above and beyond daily to deliver the care this award recognises.”

Kogie Naidoo, Executive Director of Bath Clinic said: “We are proud to have been awarded the Macmillan Quality Environment Mark for the third time.

“It is a testament to the incredible hard work and dedication of the Oncology team to the patients they see daily at the hospital.

“We continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the patients in our care are always treated in a friendly and peaceful environment.”

Kellaway Bath Same Service New Look

Sonia Clark with some of the oncology team | Photo © Circle Health Group

Locals forced to use dial-a-ride service after bus routes axed

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

RESIDENTS in North East Somerset have been left “frustrated” and relying on dial-a-ride services after their bus services were axed.

The 82 between Paulton and Radstock, and the 179 and 768 which both run between Midsomer Norton and Bath, all stopped running at the weekend after a funding row left no branch of local government agreeing to pay for them.

Marion Harrington, 90, who lives in Westfield has lost her regular bus. She said: “We haven’t got the freedom we want.”

Ms Harrington used to get the 82 into Midsomer Norton but said she has had to use dial-a-ride to get to appointments and the shops since it has been cut. She said: “Instead of being able to go out and get the bus and go when I want to, I have had to book when they can fit me in. And it’s costing me £4.50 per

journey. So already I have spent £9 this week.”

She added: “At the moment we are all really frustrated. We can’t go out when we want to.”

On 25th April, Ms Harrington addressed Bath and North East Somerset Council’s annual meeting, urging them to find the money to keep the bus running.

She told them: “The 82 bus service is a lifeline which has enabled us to go to the dentist, doctors, and post office, and to do our shopping.”

She presented the council with a 468-signature petition to keep the bus and said: “There’s been a lot of people relying on me tonight to get this message across.”

The 82, 179, and 768 are supported bus services, meaning that they are funded by local government because they would not be profitable to run on a commercial basis.

Work begins to tackle overgrown verges

The West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, is the “transport authority” responsible for commissioning buses across the West of England but, with no power to raise taxes, Mr Norris has relied on a transport levy paid by local councils to fund buses.

But after Bath and North East Somerset Council — together with Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council — failed to increase this levy in line with inflation, cuts to services across the West of England were announced. Bath and North East Somerset Council leader Kevin Guy has said Mr Norris should use some of the £57.7 million “bus service improvement” funding he was given by the government to pay for the supported buses, and Mr Norris has recently indicated he could fund some routes on a 50/50 basis with local councils.

THE HIGHWAYS team at Bath & North East Somerset Council have begun cutting back vegetation along verges in order to enhance road safety in rural areas.

Over 1,015 kilometres of highway verge will be tidied throughout the area, with the work expected to be completed by mid-July.

Trimming back the vegetation is vital in improving sight-line visibility at junctions and bends, resulting in safer navigation for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, and motorists.

The initiative also ensures that traffic signs remain visible. Additionally, it creates pedestrian refuges in areas without footpaths and helps maintain vegetation and brushwood at manageable levels.

The council says it will aim to minimise disruption during the project, prioritising the safety and convenience of road users. In areas where it is deemed safe to do so, some verges will be left uncut to provide ecological benefits to local wildlife and the

environment.

The presence of long grass and wildflowers serves as a valuable food and shelter source for insects, birds, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “Having good visibility at junctions is important for the safety of everyone using our roads, and these works are essential to help us achieve that.

“However, as we’ve done in previous years, we’ll leave suitable areas uncut for longer periods to encourage wildflowers, bees and other pollinators to thrive which is better for the environment.”

The highways teams cut verges twice a year to make sure roads are kept as safe as possible.

Planning granted for new house despite concerns

PLANS to build a house at the end of a “historic” long garden in a Somerset village have been given the go-ahead.

Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee granted planning permission for the two-storey, three-bedroom house to be built in Peasedown St John at their meeting on 7th June.

Mark and Sarah Jones had submitted plans to build the house at the end of the 71-metre garden of their Fairfield Terrace house which runs next to Braysdown Lane. They had faced opposition from neighbours who said the row of cottages and their distinctive long gardens were a part of the village’s heritage.

Speaking at the planning meeting, parish councillor Conor Ogilvie-Davidson urged committee members to turn down the plans. He said: “Braysdown Lane is characterised by ranks of historic miners’ cottages.”

He added: “The proposed site is at least 20 metres from those dwellings, becoming an incongruous single dwelling in an otherwise harmonious and historic site.”

Local Kevin Matthews added that the hedge which ran alongside the gardens, part of which would be removed to allow access to the new dwelling, was a historic marker of the edge of the houses, which he said were among the first built in the village.

He said: “The houses and the gardens and the hedgerow are an important part of heritage. Heritage isn’t just for Bath.”

But the agent for the applicants, William

Drewett, said that they and the architect had strived to ensure the design was in keeping with the village, stating: “It’s clear that the area has a distinct character.”

He said: “It’s difficult to see how the design and appearance is out of character and therefore unacceptable when the design matches the neighbouring properties.

Councillors voted 5-3 to approve the plans, with Midsomer Norton Redfield councillor Tim Warren proposing approval. He stated: “They have ticked all the boxes. I think it is very difficult to refuse an application and go against the officers’ recommendation when you look at it overall.”

But some councillors had concerns. Lansdown councillor Lucy Hodge voted against, after arguing that councillors should go on a site visit before making a decision, with Midsomer Norton North councillor Shaun Hughes also voting against the plan.

He said he was concerned that allowing the building could set a precedent, and make it easier for other houses to be built in the gardens of Fairfield Terrace.

Planning agent William Drewett with applicant Sarah Jones | Photo © John Wimperis

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

In Other News...

Bath BID announces return of Summer Sundays events

SUMMER Sundays, run by the Bath Business Improvement District, will be returning for a third year, with free family-friendly outdoor activities and events on offer in the city centre.

Running every Sunday throughout July and August, visitors will be able to enjoy balloon art and face painting, as well as live music and performances from the Natural Theatre Company.

Along with Bath Festival and The Garden Theatre Festival, the Herschel Museum and Bath Astronomers will be offering craft activities.

Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID, said: “Our Summer Sundays programme is designed to encourage local families and visitors to make the most of Bath as a vibrant city for all.

“Bath is wonderful in the summer, with its historic streets and green spaces, and we have added a bit of extra fun and colour for families to enjoy.”

New for 2023 is the “How much is that Doggie in the Window” trail competition.

Hosted in shop windows throughout the city centre, the public is invited to follow the trail and find all 25 hand-felted dogs. Competition entrants will have to say which dog breed is featured in which shop window.

With 25 dogs to find, it may take a few visits, but entrants have until 31st August to submit their forms.

HOW MUCH IS THAT DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW?

Coffee morning raises “fighting fund” cash

The winning entries will be collected, and a random entry from all the completed correct forms will win a Bath Gift Card worth £100, which can be spent in almost 200 different shops in the city centre. Entrants will also be invited to bid for their favourite felted dogs. Winning bids will be collected, and all the money will go to Bath Cats and Dogs Home at the end of the Summer.

Laura Taylor, Community and Corporate Partnerships Fundraiser at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said: “We are so grateful to Bath BID for supporting us with their new Dog Trail activity as part of their Summer Sundays’ event programme.

“Bath businesses have always been fantastic supporters of Bath Cats can be and Dogs Home, and we look forward to continuing to work with many of them over the year ahead. The funds raised by the Dog Trail will go directly to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming our vulnerable rescue cats and dogs at the Home.” Summer Sundays will also feature the first-ever Bath Safari Choir, featuring a guided walk with song stops, launching on 30th July. Guests will follow the Horizons Choir of Bath on a specially devised walk. Each time the choir stops to sing, two of Bath BID’s welcome ambassadors, Jeff and Bryan, will share historical facts.

A RECENT coffee morning held by the Bath Preservation Trust has raised much-needed funds to help challenge and raise standards of local policy planning.

The team at Bath Preservation Trust (BPT) put their baking skills to the test in order to raise money at The Packhorse Pub in South Stoke.

All proceeds from the coffee morning have been donated to the charity’s “fighting fund”, which challenges and holds developers to account.

The event, which was held on 6th June, attracted people from Bath and surrounding areas, many of whom took the opportunity to pick up advice and guidance from BPT’s team on issues ranging from land use to energy efficiency improvements. Representing the charity at the event were CEO Alex Sherman,

Design Conservation and Sustainability Manager Joanna Robinson, and Planning and Conservation Assistant Alex Best.

Alex Sherman said: “Bath may be picturesque but it is also a living city so its architecture and infrastructure must meet the needs of the people who live and work here. Engaging with Bath’s various communities is one of the most important things we do here at Bath Preservation Trust; it is imperative that we keep abreast of new issues so that we can continue to challenge and hold developers to account. “Our Advocacy and Campaigning team has over 20 years of experience between them so we do encourage our members and non-members to approach us with any questions they might have regarding planning, land use, listed buildings and energy efficiency improvements.”

Heritage award for Bath’s 200-year-old Cleveland Pools

THE regeneration of the historic Cleveland Pools in Bath has been recognised with a prestigious European award.

The revival of the 200-year-old pools was noted as an ‘example of rescuing open-air pools’ for northern Europe, as it was announced as a winner of the Europa Nostra Awards 2023.

The regeneration of Cleveland Pools is one of 30 projects to be honoured as an ‘outstanding heritage achievement’, from a wide-ranging field of applications from 21 countries across Europe.

Europa Nostra Awards judges highlighted that the restoration of the 19th-century open-air Pools had been ‘driven by the local community’.

They also praised the use of “green energy and a holistic approach to reinstate the site’s original function while adapting it to 21st-century standards”.

Responding to the award, Paul Simons, Chair of Cleveland Pools Trust said: “After three national awards, the Cleveland Pools Trust is delighted with this European Heritage Award from Europa Nostra.

“It is further evidence of the appreciation of the amazing achievement of all involved. With the construction of the pontoon to provide a riverboat bus stop now underway, the project is in its final stage, and we look forward to opening the Pools for swimming in the coming months.”

The Cleveland Pools first opened

to the public in 1817 and closed in the 1980s.

This site has now undergone a comprehensive restoration thanks to a community-based, volunteer-driven campaign.

The project to restore and reopen Cleveland Pools began in 2004, when a campaign to oppose the sale of the site for commercial

Crossword answers - Issue 053 (06/06/23)

development gained significant support from heritage organisations in Bath and at a national level.

The regeneration project is focused on restoration, conservation and environmental sustainability, prioritising accessibility for the whole of the local community in and around Bath.

The Cleveland Pools Trust is an independent registered charity and company. It has played a crucial role in the project by prioritising community engagement and involving large numbers of volunteers with a diverse range of backgrounds, skills and knowledge.

The project has received financial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Eng-

Across: 1 Casualty, 5 Cancun, 10 Thrusts, 11 Reunion, 12 Minimally, 13 Anil, 16 Regains, 18 Exotics, 19 Wry, 20 As a rule, 22 Sizable, 24 Marc, 25 Itinerary, 29 Long run, 30 Vilnius, 31 Sledge, 32 Oklahoma.

Down: 1 Cuts, 2 Surging, 3 Auspicious, 4 To sea, 6 Abut, 7 Chianti, 8 Nonplussed, 9 Trolleys, 14 Treadmills, 15 Mozzarella, 17 Sweating, 21 Arrange, 23 Burrito, 26 Novak, 27 Brag, 28 Asia.

land, Bath and North East Somerset Council, and the Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund, as well as from individual donors, charitable trusts and foundations, and crowdfunding.

The European Heritage Awards/ Europa Nostra Awards were launched by the European Commission in 2002 and are run by Europa Nostra.

The Cleveland Pools is now in the final stages of the restoration and aims to open later this year.

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ISSN 2632-7805

© Media Bath Limited 2023

THIS SUMMER, DOGGIES INVADE THE SHOP WINDOWS. WILL YOU BE ABLE TO FIND THEM?

The trail competition is taking place across the city centre | Image © Bath BID

Photo © Anthony Brown

Funding raised at the coffee morning will be used to hold developers to account

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