Bath Echo - Issue 072 - 23/02/2024

In this issue...

Rugby charity seeks runners for Bath Half

THE Bath Rugby Foundation, which helps vulnerable youngsters, is seeking runners to fundraise on its behalf at this year’s Bath Half Marathon.

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The charity, which supports thousands of young people through inspiring programmes that focus on health, education, and employability, has a limited number of places left for the race on 17th March.

The charitable arm of Bath Rugby has signed up 35 runners so far for this year’s half marathon, including a team of 15 people from the law firm Mogers Drewett.

The foundation also needs to find another 42 business and individual sponsors as part of a major fundraising drive to sign up 100 supporters by June this year.

Local businesses are being asked to pledge a minimum of £600 to sponsor a vulnerable student for a year through the foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub, which provides specialist support to youngsters who have been excluded from mainstream education.

David Trick, former Bath & England Rugby International, and current corporate fundraiser at the foundation said: “There are so many amazing charities in our region, I’m always so grateful when individuals or companies decide to support us.

“A lot of training goes into successfully completing the Bath Half, similarly a huge amount of work is undertaken by foundation staff to positively turn around the lives of so many children who often haven’t enjoyed the start in

life so many of us have.

“As with the Bath Half, hard work reaps great rewards.

“If anyone wishes to find out how sponsoring a student can be mutually beneficial for both private individuals or businesses and Bath Rugby Foundation, please make contact (details below) and I’ll happily meet you for a coffee.”

Sean McDonough, managing partner at Mogers Drewett, said: “The Bath Rugby Foundation does amazing work helping young and vulnerable people in the local community.

“So we are proud to be a business sponsor and support the foundation throughout the year.

The Bath Half is also an ideal opportunity for our employees, friends and families to demonstrate their support for the charity. Our team of runners aim to raise £3,000 for the Bath Rugby Foundation and its life-changing work. We will also be promoting the work of the foundation and the fundraising efforts of our Bath Half runners at the match vs Gloucester on March 9th.

“This is a fixture exclusively supporting the great work of Bath Rugby Foundation.

“This is a great example of the many ways businesses can benefit from a partnership with the foundation.”

To sign up to run the Bath Half for the Bath Rugby Foundation, visit https://bit.ly/3UNpp2P.

To find out more about sponsoring a student through the Bath Rugby Foundation, contact David Trick on 07843 283801 or email david.trick@ bathrugbyfoundation.com.

Southlands LTN to stay

ONE of Bath’s controversial ‘liveable neighbourhood’ schemes went before councillors on Monday 19th February for scrutiny, with opponents holding a protest outside the Guildhall before the meeting.

Eleven opposition councillors on Lib Dem-controlled Bath & North East Somerset Council had signed a ‘call-in’ over the decision to make the Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) at Southlands in Weston permanent. The climate emergency and sustainability scrutiny panel heard from several locals, mainly opposed to the scheme. Although it had no power to overrule the decision to make the scheme permanent, the panel could have made recommendations to decisionmaker Cllr Manda Rigby. Instead, the members rejected the call-in by seven votes to one. The through-traffic restriction on Southlands was one of three liveable neighbourhoods launched as a trial in November 2022. The two other trials –Church Road in Widcombe and at Queen Charlton – will also be made permanent.

Meanwhile, five new trials are planned. While some in Bath have welcomed the new schemes, others have also proved controversial. People in the Sion Hill area have warned that a plan to close Winifred’s Lane

to through traffic would push traffic down roads past schools, while a petition against closing Sydney Road to through traffic has amassed more than 3,500 signatures.

Peter Heywood, a resident of Weston Village and chair of local community group Future Weston, told Monday’s scrutiny meeting that local people had been told that the scheme at Southlands would go ahead, partly as it was the only way to get future funding from the West of England Combined Authority for more local infrastructure.

He said Southlands had never been perceived by local residents as a ‘rat run’ but has a parking problem, partly due to the nearby Royal United Hospital.

He explained: “The result of the modal filter has been to make parking worse on one side, with no effect on the other side. This has unfortunately caused the community to split into two – the rich end and the poor end.

“One side is overloaded with cars, many from outside the area, parking on the grass, blocking essential traffic worse than ever, less liveable; the other side is protected, with the open green in the middle.

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“When residents on either side have to drive to somewhere in the opposite direction, they have to loop twice along the High Street, there and back. So this inevitably does cause more traffic on the High Street.

“It is disingenuous to suggest that the modal filters have somehow in themselves reduced the traffic on the High Street.”

Becky Feather & John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

Protesters outside the Guildhall in Bath

Harry Durston & Sean McDonough from Mogers Drewett, Bath players Miles Reid & Tom de Glanville, and Ben Morris & Annie Hill, also from Mogers Drewett

delivered

distributed across the Bath area via our

after call-in on restriction dismissed by scrutiny panel

Another speaker, Mike Earle, accused the council of “invalidating” the residents’ lived experience by stating that traffic data collected did not support their views.

Meg Collin, who lives between the planters at Southlands, said she acknowledged the very real problems with parking on both sides and asked for permits to alleviate these pressures.

But she voiced her support for the low-traffic neighbourhood for promoting, enabling and encouraging active and public transport to help break down mobility inequalities.

Angie Paddock, a resident of Southlands for almost 12 years, said the two council surveys had shown 71% and 57% of residents were against the planters in Southlands but this had been ignored.

She said some residents had been invited to the consultations but not all. “In fact a lot of residents from Weston High Street and Southlands did not know of the consultation meeting. Only those that the planters would impact the greatest were notified of the

consultation.

“During the consultation concerns were ignored, including issues of safety, turning point too small, HGVs, emergency vehicles, all unable to turn around; we now have large vehicles having to reverse down Southlands on to Penn Hill Road, or they try and use the small utility road to leave Southlands.”

Labour group leader Cllr Robin Moss (Westfield), who led the call-in, said there was a lack of public support for the scheme. He told Cllr Rigby: “I hope you reconsider this particular decision, but much more importantly I hope we can have a

Who was on the scrutiny panel?

Cllr Andy Wait (Chair, Lib Dem)

Cllr Fiona Gourley (Lib Dem)

Cllr Jess David (Lib Dem)

Cllr John Leach (Lib Dem)

Cllr Alex Beaumont (Lib Dem)

Cllr June Player (Independent)

Cllr Saskia Heijltjes (Green)

Cllr Ian Halsall (Lib Dem)

‘The heart’s been ripped out of our community’

conversation about the way that we can see traffic schemes in an overall traffic circulation, traffic management in Bath and North East Somerset.”

Councillor Rigby (Bathwick), the cabinet member for highways, said that she had read all the responses people had made but also had to base her decision on traffic and air quality monitoring data and the council’s policies and manifesto commitments.

She said: “The reasons people gave for opposing the scheme, such as fears of displacing traffic and worsened air pollution, are not backed by the evidence recorded.”

She said she completely agreed that the scheme had not addressed the parking issue at all but wasn’t designed to.

She added: “If this doesn’t go forward, we absolutely can’t do the crossings and the other things that people have asked for within

Speaking after Monday’s meeting, Southlands resident Marie John said she and some of her neighbours had not initially realised there would be planters installed to sever their road.

The first they knew of the road block was when it was installed. She claimed that consultation letters had only been sent by B&NES Council “to the side that is now lovely”. She said she had wanted the parking problem tackled but is now sceptical of that issue ever being sorted.

A resident of Southlands for 55 years, she said the council had employed “young “whippersnappers” “to tell us how to live in a neighbourhood” and they felt patronised. She added: “The heart of our community has been ripped out.

“We were a good community, all helped each other, knew each other. Now it’s completely different.”

Marie said that residents in the Sion Hill and Winifred’s Lane area, where another Low Traffic Neighbourhood is planned, are taking a very keen interest in the situation at Southlands: “We have been to meetings up there to give them insight.”

Angie Paddock who spoke at the meeting, said afterwards: “Unfortunately this does prove that going to so-called consultations, completing surveys, and even going through a call-in, makes no difference at all, this council are still going to make the LTN permanent.”

the Weston community.”

Councillor Rigby said the council had spent the minimal amount possible on the Southlands scheme as it had been an experimental order. She said she had already briefed scheme engineers to make improvements, including changing the turning circle.

She said: “I am genuinely, genuinely saddened that the community has felt split in this way. That absolutely was not the intention and I think with the benefit of hindsight, perhaps doing it the other way round, addressing the parking issue before, would not have split the community.”

She urged the panel to turn down this call-in saying she believed the council could work with the community to bring forward more interventions “to make those that are currently feeling very uncomfortable with

this – and I absolutely hear and acknowledge what you are saying – more comfortable with”.

The ward’s two Lib Dem councillors are also divided over the issue. Councillor Ruth Malloy (Weston, Lib Dem) said she had to consider the views of people who were not vocal about the scheme, while Councillor Malcolm Treby warned there was “no mandate” for the planters and called for the scheme to be removed if issues caused on the south-eastern side could not be fixed.

Councillor John Leach (Walcot, Lib Dem) argued that the “clear majority” was the people who had not responded to the consultation who it could be presumed were “broadly happy”. Since Monday’s meeting, a petition has been set up calling on the West of England Mayor Dan Norris to force B&NES Council to produce an integrated, not divided plan for Bath.

LTNs branded ‘vanity projects’

James Wright, the Conservative candidate who will fighting to become Bath’s MP at the next General Election, was also at the protest outside the Guildhall on Monday.

He told the Bath Echo: “Since being selected the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods have been the number one big issue in my inbox. It’s not just the people who live on the roads but the people who live around as well, “These low traffic zones won’t be effective, they will increase congestion which will lead to more emissions and creating more roads to be unsafe.

“We need to send a clear message to Bath Liberal Democrats that we don’t need low traffic zones; what we need is better public transport, better alternatives.”

He said that’s where the council should be spending money, rather than on “vanity projects”.

Photo: Southlands residents Marie John and Lauren Scharaga

Cllr Manda Rigby speaking during the scrutiny meeting

The group protesting outside the Guildhall ahead of the meeting

Plans to demolish brutalist church slammed by locals

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS to demolish a unique brutalist church in a Somerset village have been overwhelmingly slammed by residents.

The Church of the Good Shepherd in the Northend area of Batheaston is a rare example of 1960s brutalism in the Bath area.

The church closed down during the Covid-19 pandemic and, with declining numbers attending mass, was judged to not be viable to reopen.

The church was the work of Bath architect Martin Fisher, who was also behind the design of St Peter and Paul’s in Combe Down.

It is controversial in the village, with some calling it an “important historical statement” and others seeing it as an “eyesore”.

Rather than a spire, the church’s square roof slopes up to the south east corner with windows which, from the outside, could easily be mistaken for concrete. Inside, there is a revelation of colour as light from across the valley streams in through the windows behind the altar.

Now the Diocese of Clifton hopes to redevelop the site as housing, with worshippers to attend St Mary’s in nearby Bath instead or watch live-streamed mass services.

But the plans have been slammed by locals who love and loathe the church alike.

79 people have lodged objections on the council’s planning portal, with just two comments lodged in support, and two uncategorised. Jonathan Stockton wrote: “This building is of great note. Its brutal

architecture from the mid-1960s may not be to everyone’s taste but it is an important historical statement which has been an important part of the character of Batheaston for over 50 years.

“It would be completely wrong to demolish this building and replace it with the poorly designed and over-bearing block of terrace houses proposed which would dominate and overshadow beautiful listed cottages and houses around it.

“The fact that the Church of the Good Shepherd has been used for film and television location work should also underline its beauty, looks and uniqueness.”

He added: “Why can the Church of the Good Shepherd not be carefully converted into one or two dwellings and retain its historic looks?”

Also lodging an objection, Russell Hudson said: “I consider the existing building to be an extremely good example of 1960’s architecture.

“From Penthouse Hill the building is very low impact visually, being single storey, but manages to fit an impressive sized building on a small and difficult site.

“I understand that the building was turned down for listing by Historic England, which is a great shame.

“Good buildings from this era are very unusual in the Bath area, and should be preserved where possible. Although the church does not fit in with the style of the buildings around it, it is clearly designed sympathetically to its surroundings, when built in 1967.”

Alex Clarke added: “Although not in keeping with the surrounding

buildings, the removal of such a unique structure would be a loss to the architectural heritage of the village.

“It is easy to erase structures built in the mid-century however this removes important historical development of the village.”

But even those who do not like the brutalist church have objected to the plans to build four houses in its place. David Stuart said: “The church is the village joke. Everyone sees it as a disproportionate and ugly mistake.”

But he warned that the new building was “inappropriate” and something close to the character of the rest of the village should be built.

He said: “The villagers have put up with this eyesore at the entrance of Northend for far too long and trust the Clifton Diocese will nominate appropriately experienced architects. Here is

the chance to carefully right a wrong which was committed in the sixties and create good ordinary houses”

Meanwhile, Amanda McGonigle wrote: “I am speaking as one who would be delighted to see the removal of the current church building — which I find architecturally lacking bar the wonderful stained glass window inside — and as someone who would be glad to see new houses in its place.

“However I am dismayed by the current planning application and wish to register my objection to it. I find that the proposed plans are as if an alien entity has been dropped into Northend.”

Clodagh Large added: “The developers insist that it will not be taller than the church. However, the church itself was an eyesore and already cut off views that had been on our property for years.”

Bath Preservation Society,

which normally calls for historic buildings to be protected, was one of only two commenters in support of the plans, stating that the church was “incongruous.” But it warned against making the new homes too “overbearing.”

Meanwhile Alex Heshmaty, who also commented in support, said: “Ever since I moved to Batheaston over three years ago, this has basically been an abandoned building.

“Considering we currently have a major housing crisis in the UK, I absolutely support the idea of converting all abandoned buildings to residential dwellings. “If it could be converted into a dozen flats rather than just four houses, that would be even better!”

Local councillor Sarah Warren has called for the plans to go before Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee.

Join the debate on new blueprint for development in B&NES

Becky Feather Reporter

A SERIES of drop-ins has been announced for people to find out more about the options that Bath & North East Somerset Council has drawn up for future development over the next two decades.

Residents and businesses can have their say during the consultation on the Local Plan Options Document, which runs until Monday 8th April.

An estimated 14,500 new homes are needed in the district up to 2042.

Of those, more than 6,000 will be built on mainly brownfield sites in Bath, that are already committed for development via planning permission or allocated in the current Local Plan.

The council has identified locations that could be developed for housing or jobs, together with the necessary infrastructure, in Bath, Keynsham, Saltford, Hicks Gate, Whitchurch and the Somer Valley. Some of the sites are currently Green Belt.

A series of drop-in sessions from 3pm to 7pm where people can discuss the options with council officers have been arranged at the following locations:

• Trinity Church, Radstock, on Monday 26th February.

• Saltford Hall on Thursday 29th

February.

• The Hive in Peasedown St John on Friday 1st March.

• Bath Cricket Club on Monday 4th March.

• Whitchurch United Reformed Church on Wednesday 6th March.

• Farrington Gurney Village Hall on Wednesday 13th March. Keynsham Town Council has also arranged a further three consultations to ensure residents have the opportunity to review the Local Plan properly and understand what the proposal

means for the future of the town. The first is on Monday 4th March between 10am and noon at Community at 67.

There will also be one on Saturday 9th March from 9am to 1pm at Keynsham Farmers’ Market and one on Wednesday 13th March from 1pm to 3pm at Somerdale Pavilion (Terrace Suite). Printed copies of the document are available at Bath Central Library, Keynsham Library, Midsomer Norton Library, Bath Housing, Welfare and Advice Services, the mobile library and all community libraries.

You can respond at https://beta. bathnes.gov.uk/local-plan

When the consultation closes, the issues raised will be considered and a Draft Local Plan will be produced which will be subject to further consultation. It will then be submitted to the Secretary of State and examined by an independent planning inspector in 2025. If approved, it will be adopted by the council.

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The Local Plan will set out future developments over the next two decades

The Church of the Good Shepherd in Batheaston | Image © Google Street View 2024

Bath Cats and Dogs Home open latest charity shop in city centre

ANIMAL rescue charity Bath

Cats and Dogs Home have opened a new charity shop on George Street, making it their fifth shop in the local area. A celebration to mark the opening was held in-store on Thursday 1st February with guests, volunteers, trustees and employees enjoying drinks and canapés, speeches and a tour of the shop, office space and E-commerce Hub.

The new store covers four floors, with the ground floor featuring high-quality clothing and fashion brands plus books, games and a substantial pet section for animal lovers looking to treat their dogs and cats.

Bath Cats and Dogs Home saw rapid growth in their ecommerce and eBay activity in 2023 with income growing by over a third. To allow for further growth, the E-commerce Hub has moved from the animal rescue centre in Claverton to take over two floors above the new shop and features collectable items and high-end, designer fashion.

The number of eBay parcels shipped by the E-commerce team of employees and volunteers can vary between twenty to over a hundred parcels per day.

From later this year, the shop will also host a programme of workshop events such as

preloved fashion styling sessions and make-and-mend sewing workshops.

Nathan Fuller, Head of Fundraising and Trading at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said:

“We’re thrilled that our group of charity shops has expanded to five stores and this time in the heart of the exciting city of Bath.

“It will be a flagship store for both our retail and E-commerce operations and we have lots of workshops and events planned throughout the year so we hope you will visit us there soon.”

Rachel Jones, Chief Executive at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said:

“It’s great to see our fifth shop opening in such a high profile, city-centre location as George

Street in Bath. Our charity shops and online trading activity help support our animal rescue work, by raising vital funds and awareness. By visiting the store as a shopper, donator or supporter, you can help us continue to care for rescue cats and dogs at the Centre while we look for a new home for them. Thank you for supporting our shops.”

To find out more about Bath Cats and Dogs Home and their five retail outlets visit www.bcdh.org. uk/shops.

To donate items to the new shop and E-Commerce Hub you can park outside the shop at No 6 George Street briefly to unload or there is a loading bay nearby that allows for a twenty-minute stop.

Rugby players join community litter pick

OVER forty rugby players recently joined forces with the Student Community Partnership and the leader of B&NES Council as part of a litter pick in Moorland Road in Bath. The litter pick saw players from the University of Bath Performance Rugby Squad join Councillor Kevin Guy and other volunteers on the busy shopping street.

It was organised by the Student Community Partnership (SCP), which recently received a grant of £47,000 in the last round of Neighbourhood CIL funding. The funding will support its Community Warden and Administrator for another year and allow the warden to focus on areas with a high density of students, aiming to increase engagement with the community. Councillor Kevin Guy said: “The SCP is an important partnership which supports the whole community and acts as a bridge between the universities, their Students’ Unions and the council. “I’m delighted to have been able to join in with the litter pick and see everyone come together for the benefit of the environment and the local community.

“Picking up litter is a quick way to

for getting stuck in.”

Ghika Savva, the Student Community Partnership Manager, said: “We are hugely appreciative for the support of the CIL funding for the Community Warden scheme which has transformed the way that the Student Community Partnership operates and the impact it has on the community.

“Over the past three years, the SCP has significantly expanded its community campaigns, now covering 80+ streets across nine wards, reaching 4,0006,000 students and speaking to thousands of residents.

“The number of issues raised and resolved annually with the SCP has tripled over this period, a testament to increased reach and engagement with both student and long-term residents.

“The Community Wardens have established a presence across six wards of Bath where daily rounds take place and have become well known by residents.

“Having a friendly warden on hand when an issue comes up enables a quicker resolution and improves community cohesion.”

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a planning charge introduced to help deliver infrastructure to support the

The new charity shop on George Street in Bath | Photo courtesy of BCDH

Pictures from the Past The metamorphosis of Bath

The view from Beechen Cliff

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

IT is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words.

In this conclusion to the series on the Metamorphosis of Bath, we prove the

point with four views from approximately the same spot on Beechen Cliff, dating from 1757 to 2018, to show how the city changed.

The first is from a south-west prospect of the city by Thomas Robins, a print which the Akeman Press Archive was fortunate enough to acquire from at a collectors’

books and print fair at the Assembly Rooms.

The second dates from after 1841, after the Great Western Railway arrived. The third shows Bath in the late 1930s, by which time the old Full Moon Inn had been replaced by Churchill House, and the matching curved corner, known to locals

by the 1960s as Television Corner, had just been built.

Finally, we have a photograph taken by Andrew Swift in 2018.

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COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

Today I want to start by looking at my recent engagement day and how the stakeholder meetings I have interlace with the current issues we face.

It started with a video interview with Richard Wyatt of the Bath Newseum speaking about the new station planned for central Bath Police and the enhanced presence it will bring. This will start at the end of this year and will be ready for next.

Then onto a sit down with Jacob Rees-Mogg, the MP for North East Somerset, in Keynsham, where we delved into the issue of shoplifting plaguing the Keynsham high street.

During our discussion, we looked at the critical importance of promptly reporting all instances of shoplifting to the police and

the innovative measures some supermarkets are implementing, such as facial recognition technology, to complement existing security protocols in stores experiencing elevated levels of organised retail theft.

Mr. Rees-Mogg also took the chance to inquire about the Channel 4 documentary 'To Catch a Copper.' In response, I expressed my full support for Chief Constable Sarah Crew's decision to allow the Channel 4 team access to the Professional Standards Department and Counter Corruption Unit. Transparency and openness are integral to fostering trust and confidence in law enforcement, particularly in light of the challenges faced nationally.

My day then led me to Bath Police Station, where I engaged

with officers, including Inspector Dudley Bond and temporary Chief Inspector Jon Nash, to address any policing and crime concerns specific to the area. The dialogue was fruitful, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of law enforcement within Bath.

While in Bath, I also had the privilege of meeting with Wera Hobhouse, the MP for Bath, to discuss strategies for combatting knife crime. We explored the significance of community collaboration and partnerships in addressing this pressing issue, underlining the importance of a multifaceted approach.

As part of the response to the recent awful incidents of knife crime, I have been bringing together council and community

leaders together from across Avon and Somerset so we can look at how we can prevent further tragedies. We have excellent partnership organisations and anti-knife crime initiatives in place, but we must not be afraid of asking: are they working? How can we increase the pace of change? We’re looking at what else is possible.

My day concluded with a visit to Bath City Football Club Foundation, where I had enlightening discussions with Geoff Stevens, Operations Manager, and Paul Benjamin, Foundation Coach and Bath City Youth Development Officer. Our conversation revolved around the Foundation's

commendable efforts, particularly their partnership with Young Bristol, aimed at engaging youths in constructive activities and mentoring sessions.

I proposed the inclusion of sessions on recognising unhealthy relationships and addressing violence against women and girls, emphasising the pivotal role of education in fostering a safer community. As always, these engagements give an important opportunity for me to hear from people working across various sectors and their ideas and the work happening to address the diverse challenges facing our communities, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for all.

Until next time, fare thee well…

Bath in the late 1930s, with Churchill House having just been built

Looking out from Beechen Cliff in 2018

A south-west prospect of Bath by Thomas Robins

After the Great Western Railway arrived in Bath

Crossword

Across

2 Red bramble fruit (9)

8 Relinquish (4)

9 WWII US general --- Bradley (4)

10 Prognosis (7)

11 Energetic person (6)

12 Scat queen (4)

15 Chaise longue (6)

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

16 Governmental administrative unit (6)

17 Cut (4)

18 Advertises (5)

21 Clumps (5)

23 Otherwise (2,3)

25 Prepares for publication (5)

27 King Cole's fiddlers, for example (4)

28 Fit for service (6)

30 Manners of speaking (6)

32 Capital of Azerbaijan (4)

35 Samples (6)

36 Traumas played out southwest of Malaysia (7)

37 Long mediaeval spear (4)

38 Female servant (4)

39 Moral decline (9)

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Down

1 Poker call (3,3)

2 Signal of imminent attack (3,5)

3 Left waiting (5,2)

4 Incoherent (5)

5 Starts up again (7)

6 Symbol of slavery (4)

7 Irish legislative chamber (4)

13 Russian revolutionary leader (5)

14 What a gangrene sufferer may become (7)

16 Soak spot (7)

19 Male child (3)

20 Acquire (3)

22 Light sharp blow (5)

24 Frightening (8)

25 Constantly present (7)

26 Piano pedal (7)

29 Has a duvet day (4,2)

31 Plumped (5)

33 Middle Eastern bigwig (4)

34 Secondhand (4)

Our Monthly Talks

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:

7 March 2024

THE HISTORY AND RESTORATION OF THE KENNET AND AVON CANAL by Graham Horn

4 April 2024

THE TITANIC DISASTER by Paul Barnett

2 May 2024

THE SS GREAT BRITAIN by Ian Caskie

People sought for scientific study on Keynsham High Street's cycle lane

Becky Feather Reporter

PEOPLE who have fallen or stumbled at the cycle path in Keynsham High Street are being asked to share their experiences for a scientific study.

Prof Ute Leonards, from the School of Psychological Science at the University of Bristol, has linked up with Keynsham councillor Hal MacFie to get a properly based analysis. They need more evidence from a scientific point before they suggest to Bath & North East Somerset Council what action should be taken. Since the cycle lane was introduced nearly two years ago, more than 100 people have injured themselves, some seriously.

Last summer Prof Leonards and two colleagues, Nick Scott-Samuel, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Bristol, and vision scientist Prof Simon Rushton, from Cardiff University, visited the cycle lane and wrote a report for The Medium entitled ‘False expectations cause falling pedestrians’.

They said the design is compliant with current government guidance, but their report argues that guidance does not take into account the way the human visual system works to guide movements. They predict that pedestrians are more likely to fall when they cross the cycle path from west to the east than vice

versa because the step is obvious in one direction but not the other.

Prof Leonards is now following up on that initial visit and has been back to Keynsham to meet up with Cllr MacFie who put letters into local shops asking them to hand them out to people who fall.

Cllr MacFie said: “Have you or your loved ones stumbled or fallen in Keynsham High Street?

If so please join our study and take a 10-minute interview. I have collected some preliminary information from 22 individuals, but Ute and her students will conduct an in-depth interview that should enable us to pinpoint the reasons that so many people have stumbled or fallen.”

Prof Leonards’ research is in vision and action, primarily how we use the visual system to walk. She explained: “The physical world can be quite different from

the visual world.”

The layout of the cycle lane is inconsistent and Prof Leonards says one of the places where people stumble or fall is the section outside the Post Office, opposite Coffee #1. She explains that from the pavement, there is no visual cue for a kerb, no depth perception: “If I am planning to walk I am relying on the visual input I am having and I am not getting this, so I might go over. I can do this if I am crossing the road, or I can do it when I am actually just passing someone else and I think I can pass by.”

If you are interested to relate your own or a relative’s experience, email visionandfalls@gmail.com with the subject ‘Keynsham High Street’.

Prof Leonards added: “Once we have sufficient evidence, we can start to think about how to fix it.”

Charlcombe Lane closes for annual toad migration

A ROAD in Bath will be closed for the next few weeks as part of a national campaign to help save the common toad from disappearing in the region. With the weather turning milder, volunteers from Charlcombe Toad Rescue will be on hand every evening in Charlcombe Lane and will carry toads over the busy road to help them reach their breeding lake at the bottom of the Charlcombe Valley. Charlcombe Lane closes to through traffic every year to aid the migration. Those who live on the lane will still have access as well as delivery drivers and refuse collectors, ahead of the lane reopening on Monday 25th March. Around 20 tonnes of toads are killed on UK roads each year. The Charlcombe Toad Rescue Road Patrol has been running for over 20 years, and during this time they have rescued thousands of amphibians. In 2023 the group helped 840 toads, 1022 frogs and 556 newts to make the journey. Migration started early this year

and more than 50 volunteers have already saved 100s of amphibians.

Patrol manager Helen Hobbs said: “We are looking forward to a busy few weeks ahead and are grateful to motorists for finding alternative routes during the lane closure.”

Charlcombe Toad Rescue is supported by VolkerHighways and Wessex Water.

VolkerHighways helps with the lane closure by providing signage for motorists at either end of the lane so they can use alternative routes, and Wessex Water provided a grant from the Wessex Water Environmental Fund which goes towards the costs of closing the lane.

The common toad is believed to be experiencing decline in the UK, in some cases caused by the effect of road traffic as toads travel slowly back to breeding ponds, often used for generations.

The volunteers are part of a national campaign named ‘Toads on Roads’, coordinated by the national wildlife charity Froglife, and supported by ARG UK, a national network of volunteer groups concerned with amphibian and reptile conservation.

Over the coming weeks, thousands of volunteers across the country will be preparing to help toads across roads in a coordinated effort to help save the common toad.

Chief Constable says things have changed since documentary

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

THE Chief Constable of Avon & Somerset Police has insisted that things have changed since the shocking events seen in the recent To Catch A Copper TV documentary.

The Channel 4 documentary, the third and final episode of which aired on Monday 12th February, took a look into the force’s own real-life AC-12 investigating misconduct by officers.

But many viewers have been shocked by how little repercussions officers seemed to face. Meanwhile, many serving officers have felt “let down” by the documentary which has been criticised by the Avon and Somerset Police Federation.

In an anonymous comment, one officer said: “I feel disappointed that the force has put me in the position of having to defend myself as a good police officer.”

At Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford’s regular performance and accountability board on 13th February, he said some of the officers’ behaviour shown in the

documentary had been “truly appalling” and “absolutely disgusting”.

Chief Constable Sarah Crew told him: “It’s important to recognise that most of our officers and staff provide excellent service to the public and they really want to see poor standards and behaviour tackled.”

She said: “Policing is a difficult and challenging job and we saw a bit of that in the documentary. And people in policing are

human and they make mistakes, and honest mistakes with good intent in Avon and Somerset will always be dealt with as such. And mistakes for which we often apologise but from which we learn both as individuals and the organisation.”

But she added: “Where the intent is bad, it's criminal, it's in breach of our standards of professional behaviour, or indeed where it offends our values then be assured misconduct processes

will follow and where misconduct is serious, my default position as chief constable is that there is no place in Avon and Somerset for those people.”

She said: “Most reports into our counter-corruption unit come from colleagues, and I see that as a really positive thing.”

CC Crew insisted that things had changed since the documentary was filmed over the course of four years. She said: “Quite a lot has happened since then.”

She said that the professional standards department had been increased by 25% and had a dedicated inspector, and that the force had run a campaign on sexual misconduct and a “race matters” programme to tackle disproportionality.

She added that the force’s vetting processes had also been strengthened, and the force was checking people not just when they were hired but throughout their careers.

CC Crew said that the force had conducted an in-depth review of its own culture through the last year.

She said: “We recognise it’s through culture that we will drive that public confidence.”

Speaking to BBC Points West, CC Crew said: “What we are seeing in this documentary are the exception, not the rule.”

But she defended the documentary to host David Garmston, stating: “There have been incidents that have happened across the country and we have seen some in Avon and Somerset where confidence is dented and it’s important we face up to that and we do something about it.”

Looking at the High Street cycle lane from two different perspectives

Chief Constable Sarah Crew | Image © Avon & Somerset Police / PCC’s Office

Friday 23rd February - Thursday 7th March 2024 What's On

Bath Art Fair

Bath Pavilion

23rd – 25th February

Original contemporary art work, ceramics, jewellery and sculpture from over 80 of the nation’s leading independent artists, all under one beautiful roof.

Earl Okin: Legend

Rondo Theatre

28th February, 8pm

Earl Okin has been one of the UK’s top Jazz and Bossa Nova singers for decades and is one of the finest songwriters. Added to that, he’s been a headliner on the comedy circuit since the 1980s.

The Music Of Adele By Candlelight

Bath Pavilion

1st & 2nd March, 7.30pm

Featuring one of the UK's leading Adele tributes with an incredible live band, 'Rumour Has It' that this is going to be an unforgettable evening packed full of best loved Adele Hits!

Maven Grace + Diana

St James Wine Vaults

5th March, 7pm

Evocative alt-indie-pop due Maven Grace expand on the widespread acclaim of their debut album with a sweepingly cinematic live show. Real strings, vintage synths & layered vocals.

Miriam Elia Talk

Victoria Art Gallery

24th February, 7.30pm

Join author, artist, and comedian Miriam Elia in a special talk at the gallery. Miriam’s Dung Beetle Books have sold over 250,000 copies and been featured in various publications.

Lucy Worsley on Agatha Christie

The Forum

28th February, 7.30pm

Following a sell-out tour in 2022, the Queen of History, Lucy Worsley, is heading back out on the road to share stories from the fascinating life of the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie.

Sacred Bruckner

Prior Park Chapel

2nd March, 7.30pm

The spacious chapel of Prior Park College will resound to a trio of trombones as they introduce Bath Bach Choir’s spring concert of sacred works by Anton Bruckner.

The Light of Asia

Topping & Company Booksellers

6th March, 7.30pm

This enjoyable book by acclaimed author of Japan Story, Christopher Harding, explores the many ways in which Asia has influenced Europe and North America over the centuries.

9 to 5 The Musical Theatre Royal

27th February – 2nd March

Bath’s award-winning amateur theatre company return with Dolly Parton’s smash-hit musical. This tells the story of three workmates pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss.

Boxed In

The Egg

29th February – 3rd March

A playful show about (mis) understanding the rules. Boxed In follows the journey of someone who can't make head nor tail of the unspoken rules that surround us all.

Stephen Bailey: CRASS

Burdall’s Yard

2nd March, 8pm

Star of BBC’s Live at the Apollo and Would I Lie To You?, comedian Stephen Bailey makes a welcome return to the stage with his brand new live show, CRASS.

Mad Woman Komedia

7th March, 6pm

Pioneering author, podcaster and activist Bryony Gordon has long been open about her mental health, lifting the lid on a subject that was taboo for many years.

Farm Tots Group

Bath City Farm

27th February, 10am – 11.30am

The new monthly outdoor toddler group for under 5s. Meet the farm animals, enjoy a toddler snack, play in the Roundhouse garden, connect with other parents and sing farm-themed songs.

The Life Machine

The Mission Theatre

29th February – 2nd March

Technology constantly refines and redefines human lives so what if somebody invented an artificial intelligence to give you the perfect life advice at any moment?

Extraordinary Women

BRLSI

4th March, 7.30pm

The second evening talk in the Extraordinary Women series. Sometimes referred to as the world’s first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace has become an icon for women in technology.

Curious Minds

Various Locations

7th – 28th March

This brand new Bath festival features over 30 book talks, live performances, film screenings, writing workshops and walking tours. Taking place across a range of venues in the city.

AMERICAN ROAD TRIP

More than £4 million pledged to support region’s apprenticeships

MORE than £4 million has now been pledged to support people across the West of England in developing new skills through apprenticeships.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris recently called for large firms in the region to sign up for the ‘Share to Support’ scheme.

Nuffield Health has pledged £100,000 to support smaller firms with their ambitions to become apprentice employers.

Mr Norris said: “It’s fantastic over £4m has been raised through Share to Support for apprenticeship training in the West.

“This will help ensure more locals get the skills they need. It’s great we’ve been able to achieve this important milestone in National Apprenticeships Week!

“Thank you to Nuffield Health for such a generous pledge to the West of England Share to Support scheme run by my Mayoral Combined Authority.”

Alison Day, Nuffield Health’s

Learning and Employability Partner, said: “Nuffield Health is delighted to be working with WTPN to help support small and medium-sized socialenterprise organisations with their aspirations to support their employees’ careers through qualifications, on-the-job experience and employment opportunities.

“Strategic, values-based partnerships like these are important in helping to deliver our purpose of building a healthier nation by creating opportunities in the community for all.”

The Share to Support Apprenticeship Levy Share Scheme is managed by the Western Training Provider Network (WTPN).

Alex Richards, Managing Director of the WTPN, added: “I am absolutely delighted that the Mayor’s call to action resulted in more funds to the scheme and that we have crossed the

£4m mark, and thrilled that Nuffield Health have joined other large businesses in making a difference. This is the second pledge in just a week; Aviva, who have a local base and workforce, gifted £100,000.

“This gift will enable further business and residents to prosper through the development of skills and access to apprenticeships.

“Put together, our impartial small business apprenticeship information and guidance service and the ‘share to support’ scheme have now supported and funded over 400 apprenticeships to date.

“We get regular requests for levy share funds from hard-pressed, smaller businesses keen to utilise apprenticeships to power their workforce – it’s crucial that we can support them.”

The project forms part of the Mayoral Priority Skills Fund, part funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Healthcare worker praises opportunity to develop new skills

TO coincide with the recent National Apprenticeship Week, healthcare worker Josie Keenan shared her experience of doing an apprenticeship at the Bath Clinic.

Josie, who’s 30 and from Melksham, left education 15 years ago and admits that at first, she was nervous about going back.

She began her journey at Bath Clinic, part of Circle Health Group, where she joined as a healthcare assistant. She has had a passion for working in healthcare since her teens. Keen to learn new skills and develop her knowledge in the sector, an apprenticeship was a great way to achieve this.

Josie explained: “I didn’t have A-levels or any previous experience. The apprenticeship programme was the perfect way for me to gain the skills and knowledge without having to return to full-time education. I could earn a full-time salary along with working at Bath Clinic and that was a big draw for me in wanting to do an apprenticeship programme.”

She discovered that Circle Health Group was offering nursing apprenticeships and last year enrolled on to a Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship programme, accredited through Teesside University, Josie said: “The Level 3 Senior Healthcare Assistant Apprenticeship programme gave me the skills that I could pick up and use in my role at Bath Clinic. The apprenticeship programme gave me the confidence that I could move forward during the first steps in my career in healthcare. This meant I could

take the skills that I had learnt and develop them in a clinical environment.

“I’ve been doing my apprenticeship since August and the tutors at the college have been amazing. They are so understanding and helpful. I enjoy the study days and having time to work towards my qualification.”

Josie is due to complete her qualification in August 2025. Reflecting on her experiences so far, she admits it’s not always been easy. “Having left education 15 years ago, I was nervous about how I would cope with the assignments and managing my time. Balancing my studies alongside being a single parent has also been a challenge. However, my tutors have been very helpful. They’ve been able to point me in the right direction when I have been stuck on a particular assignment or topic, so I’m grateful for that.”

She added: “Doing an apprenticeship programme has allowed me have better career prospects in the future.

“I hope to finish my current course and then work towards becoming an Occupational Departmental Practitioner by enrolling onto another apprenticeship programme.” Josie is one of eight apprentices who are working towards or have completed their qualifications at Bath Clinic.

In 2023 alone, Circle Health Group supported more than 200 apprentices to complete their qualifications. Since launching the apprenticeship programme in 2017, there are now 35 bespoke programmes aimed at recruiting and retaining talent in clinical and non-clinical roles.

Knife crime awareness events being held for parents

BATH and North East Somerset’s Violence Reduction Partnership is running a series of knife crime awareness events, including one in Bath, for parents who would like to know more about the dangers or are concerned their children are at risk.

An event was held at The Space in Keynsham last November and now more are lined up around the district.

One is being held at Hayesfield Girls’ School in Bath on Thursday 29th February (6pm to 8pm) and then at Cameley CEVC Primary

School at Temple Cloud on Monday 18th March (6pm to 8pm).

The Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) is a multiagency partnership that aims to prevent and reduce violence in the area. It works to understand and address the root causes to prevent further violent crimes from occurring in the future. The VRP also provides resources and supports the work of professionals and community groups who help children at risk or involved in serious violence.

At the awareness events, there will be guest speakers who have been personally affected by knife crime.

There will be a presentation by the national charity StreetDoctors, which puts young people at the centre of emergency first aid provision and empowers them to become part of the solution to violence. A panel discussion with the opportunity to ask questions will follow.

Tickets for the free events can be booked via Eventbrite. To find out more email VRU_Events@ bathnes.gov.uk.

As part of an initiative to prevent deaths from knife crime, Avon & Somerset Police have been working with the NHS and defibrillator supplier HeartSafe to install more than 140 ‘bleed kits’ around the region, with the first being unveiled outside Keynsham

Library last September.

Such kits allow the public immediate access should a person suffer a catastrophic bleed. They provide initial emergency aid to those in need before an ambulance arrives and help to avoid a potentially tragic outcome.

Included in the kits are trauma dressings and tourniquets to help manage bleeds, as well as gloves, scissors, and an instruction guide.

There is a map showing locations at https://www.heartsafe.org.uk/ bleed-kit-map/

Metro Mayor Dan Norris with apprentices from B&Q – another Share to Support gifter | Photo © WECA

Host families needed for international teenage students* attending our city-centre, year-round language school throughout 2024

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We offer twin-room accommodation to our students, and offer host families the BEST rates in Bath

*we also need more hosts to take group leaders

Food & Drink

Tasty Dates For Your Diary

Legendary Bristol falafel experts Eat A Pitta open their doors on Westgate Street in Bath on Monday 26th February.

Think you know all there is to know about falafel (and related Medi-themed delights)? Prepare to have your preconceptions seriously challenged!

www.eatapitta.co.uk

Earn 25% off your food bill at the marvellous Marlborough Tavern simply by enjoying an early dinner there between 4-7pm any Monday-Thursday from now until the end of February. www.marlborough-tavern.com

Indulge your senses at the Royal Crescent Hotel's exquisite Italian Wine Dinner on Thursday 29th February. Following a sumptuous canapés reception, a meticulouslycrafted 4-course menu will be perfectly accompanied by a

Sponsor our new Food & Drink section! Get in touch via advertise@bathecho.co.uk

fascinating selection of Brunello di Montalcino wines of Capanna, who will be hosting what promises to be an enchanting gastronomic experience.

https://bit.ly/49mtZZX

Enjoy two main courses for £25 at the ancient-but-thoroughlymodern Griffin Inn (Monmouth Street) every MondayWednesday between 12noon4pm.

Menus change on a very regular basis, but wholesome, hearty, strictly seasonal and largely locally sourced grub is always trending!

www.thegriffinbath.co.uk

Steak and Malbec Night returns to Newton Farm (Newton St Loe) on Friday 1st March.

Beef from the South Devon Pedigree herd that graze on the farm's grassland has been hung and dry-aged for 28 days or more

Recipe: Classic Ratatouille

in the farm's butchery ready to be made into your required cut. Triple-cooked chips, sauces, sides, half a bottle of excellent Malbec per person plus a glorious dessert comes as standard with the £55 ticket price. To book (essential!), email cafe@newtonfarmfoods.co.uk, call 01225 873707 or visit their website.

https://bit.ly/3uHppHi

Fascinating foodie hotspot Flourish are hosting not one but two spectacular Street Food Nights in March. Get yourself along to their Saltford HQ on either Friday 1st or Friday 8th (or both!) and prepare to dive into their hip'n'happening street food menu, wrought from locally sourced, strictly seasonal ingredients. To book a table (from 6.30pm), call 01225 536644 (ext. 4), email kitchen@flourishatglenavon or

visit their website.

https://bit.ly/3SlU9Fi

Enjoy a whopping 50% off A La Carte menu prices at super-stylish Japanese restaurant Robun (George Street) every Sunday!

Quote SUNDAY50 when making that all-important booking.

www.robun.co.uk

Bath's monthly Vegan Platform will be flourishing again at Green Park Station on Sunday 3rd March. Expect to encounter a wide, fascinating selection of 100% vegan produce and meat and dairy alternatives alongside a broad range of ethically-sourced, sustainable beauty products, clothing, household items and gifts.

www.theveganplatform.co.uk

Make the very most of the midweek special at the Elder Restaurant (South Parade) for

A luxurious taste of Mediterranean sunshine, rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre.

Ingredients (serves 6)

• 2 large red onions, peeled

• 2 large aubergines

• 2 large courgettes

• 2 large red peppers, deseeded

• 6-8 large, ripe tomatoes (preferably plum)

• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

• 2 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar

• 2 tsp sugar

• 1-2 tsp dried oregano

• Pinch of dried chilli flakes

• Olive oil, for frying

Method

Melissa Blease Food Writer

as long as it lasts: three courses from their spectacular menu for just £45 every Wednesday and Thursday until... well, until the deal ends!

Simply quote Elder45 when booking or on arrival, and tuck in to an absolute bargain.

www.theelder.co.uk

Start Whisky Social season at the super-characterful Dark Horse (Kingsmead Square) in fine style on Wednesday 6th March by tasting your way through a fascinating portfolio from Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchants Berry Bros & Rudd, who have been distilling in the City of London for over 100 years. Cheers!

https://bit.ly/48nof19

Melissa regularly reviews restaurants across Bath and the surrounding area. Read more at: www.theprandialplayground.uk

• Chop the onions, aubergines, courgettes, peppers and tomatoes into similarly-sized large dice but keep them in separate piles and put the chopped tomatoes into a bowl so none of the juices go to waste.

• Heat approx. 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan and sauté the aubergines until soft (around 5 minutes.) Add the courgettes and continue to sauté for a further 5 minutes. Remove the aubergines and courgettes from the pan with a slotted spoon and set to one side.

• Add a splash more oil to the pan if necessary and sauté the chopped onions and peppers for around five minutes or until soft.

• Add the crushed garlic and chilli flakes to the onions and peppers and cook for a further minute or so before adding the tomato puree, sugar and vinegar. Bubble and stir the mixture for two minutes before adding the tomatoes and their juice.

• Allow the tomatoes to cook out for around 3-5 minutes before introducing the aubergines and courgettes back to the pan. Stir well, season generously and bring the mixture to boiling point, then turn the heat right down and simmer, partially covered, for at least 40 minutes (stirring occasionally, and adding the odd splash of boiling water if necessary) until the sauce has thickened slightly and the vegetables have almost melted into each other but still retain their shape.

• Serve with rice, jacket potatoes or pasta, or as a stand-alone superstar in its own right, accompanied by crusty bread and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. Leftover ratatouille can sit happily in the fridge for up to three days.

Special guest presents cheque to Bath brain injury charity

AT their January meeting, Bath’s Beaufort Townswomen’s Guild members were joined by TV presenter Will Glennon who presented a cheque for £250 on their behalf to the charity Headway Bath & District.

The charity’s operations manager, David Maxwell, and development worker, Jessy Sweet, gave a short talk on the work of the charity which helped Will when he suffered a serious head injury.

Jessy said: “We are so grateful to Beaufort Townswomen’s Guild for raising this money. It will go a long way in helping us support local people with acquired brain injuries in their recovery and also to lead independent lives.” She added: “Headway Bath provides specialist relief, cognitive rehabilitation, and support to adults who have suffered an acquired brain injury, along with their family and carers. “We rely on donations such as this to continue providing the support for local people in their recovery journey so are very thankful to the Beaufort Townswomen’s Guild in their efforts in raising the

money.”

Will said: “It was great to hear about the terrific work that Headway Bath do to help people with brain injuries, and to be able to present them with a cheque.

“The money raised will go towards them continuing their valuable service. As someone with personal experience of serious head injury I know just how vital Headway can be and my family will always be grateful for the support they provided.

“It was a pleasure to see the members of the TG group too who welcomed me so warmly and listened carefully to my talk. Always kind and friendly, I was

honoured to be asked to be a part of their presentation.”

You can find more information on Headway Bath & District at www.headwaybath.org.uk.

Beaufort Townswomen’s Guild members meet on the second Tuesday of each month in the Pulteney Room at Manvers Street Baptist Church. They have a varied programme of speakers, social events, entertainment and outings. They are twinned with Bristol Uplands & District Townswomen’s’ Guild, enjoying combined events several times a year. New members are welcome and anyone wishing to find out more can call 01225 316700.

£66,000 grant to help provide mentors

CHILDREN in Bath who are facing challenges including bereavement, isolation and domestic violence are set to benefit from extra support thanks to a grant from Somerset Freemasons.

The grant of £66,000 to the Mentoring Plus charity will help support 48 children to be matched with a trained adult volunteer mentor who will give them the space to feel safe, respected, heard and valued. All sessions include a positive activity that the child is supported to choose, everything from horse riding to magnet fishing, geocaching to musical theatre. The children are able to talk about the things that they are experiencing with a kind, consistent, non-judgemental adult.

Behind the scenes, Mentoring Plus practitioners work with schools and local agencies to ensure the child and their family get the support they need outside of the mentoring relationship. The grant will allow Mentoring Plus to train and support 48

volunteer mentors to provide vital help for children facing tough challenges.

Training and support will build vital skills for volunteers and the organisations to whom they belong and build cohesion in the community. Together, volunteer mentors will donate a combined total of 3,744 hours over the grant period.

The grant from Somerset Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

The Mentoring Plus CEO, Ruth Keily, said: “We’re very grateful to Somerset Freemasons for their generous grant, which will make a big difference in the lives of the children we work with.

“Mentoring helps children feel happier, more confident, more connected with their community and more engaged with education. They have better communication and social skills, better relationships with their family and friends, and feel more hopeful about the future.”

Judith Smith and Will Glennon with Jessy Sweet & David Maxwell from Headway

Wellbeing garden at hospital set to provide “sanctuary”

A NEW wellbeing garden is being created at the Royal United Hospital to offer peace and relaxation to its 5,000 staff members.

The new garden will help staff take time out from the pressures of a busy hospital and connect to the environment around them. The project has been funded by the official hospital charity RUHX, supported by NHS Charities Together.

The Friends of the RUH have provided community volunteers to plant the new borders and maintain the gardens in the future. Patients and visitors will also have access to the wellbeing garden, with plans to use ‘green prescribing’ which encourages people to spend time outdoors and connect with nature-based activities to help with a wide range of health problems.

Being in contact with a natural environment contributes to an improved sense of wellbeing, which can have a positive impact on peoples’ rehabilitation and help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Nickie Jakeman, Emergency Department Consultant, who has been the champion and driving force for the project, said: “We believe that we need to rekindle our connection with nature and the sense of wellbeing this provides, and to reinvigorate a sense of community with people and the planet around us.

“The RUH community wellbeing garden is an opportunity for us to work together to develop a food-producing landscape that sustains the environment and benefits the community.

“It will undoubtedly have a massively positive impact on our

staff, patients and their families.”

The garden will include:

• A walkway which will provide an accessible and safe route to the entrance of the hospital for all to use away from traffic;

• Picnic furniture to create additional external dining space and provide benches to entice visitors to rest and connect to the tranquil environment around them;

• Vegetable and herb growing spaces offering an opportunity to get involved with gardening activities, growing food and learning about planting, growing and harvesting;

• A range of wildflowers and plants that have been chosen for their aesthetic and multisensory qualities.

Work on the space started in early February and will be completed this spring.

High praise for maternity services

PARENTS have praised maternity services at the RUH in an annual survey published by the Care Quality Commission. The RUH was found to score better than other hospital trusts in several areas, and there was particular praise from parents for the support they received from staff, especially regarding how they felt involved in decisions around antenatal and postnatal care.

The 2023 National Maternity Survey also saw praise for the mental health support provided to women and birthing people and for treating parents with dignity and respect.

Those surveyed said they felt listened to, were given plenty of opportunities to ask questions and felt their concerns were taken seriously.

The survey, which went to those who gave birth in February 2023, looked at the whole experience of maternity care, from antenatal appointments through to giving

birth and postnatal care. There were no areas where the RUH scored worse than other trusts that took part in the survey.

Zita Martinez, Director of Midwifery at the RUH, said: “This is really impressive feedback and testament to the continuous hard work and commitment of our staff.

“The people we care for are at the heart of everything we do so it’s always great to hear how they feel treated with kindness and compassion by our maternity teams and fully involved in decisions around their antenatal and postnatal care.

“We know we can still improve further though and will continue to proactively ask parents for their views on our maternity service to ensure we continue to provide a positive experience for all new and expectant parents.”

The survey covers births at the RUH’s birthing centre and in the community birth centres in Chippenham and Frome.

RUH on course to deliver ambitious sustainable travel plan

THE Royal United Hospital is on course to successfully deliver its ambitious five-year sustainable travel strategy, meeting 92% of its planned actions.

The RUH Trust launched the Non-Patient Travel Plan in 2020. The plan informs and supports staff and visitors to travel to the hospital in a way which is environmentally and socially sustainable as well as costeffective.

The RUH is scaling up a number of initiatives alongside its community partners to reduce air pollution in the area, including:

• More than doubling the cycle storage space onsite

• Introducing an e-bike loan scheme for staff to trial

• Children’s Therapies using an e-cargo bike to visit patients in

the community

• Launching the “Join My Journey” staff car-sharing scheme

• Offering e-scooter discounts and a salary sacrifice scheme for electric and ULEV cars

• Supporting the “Kick the habit” campaign by encouraging everyone to turn their vehicle engines off when stationary

• Increasing air quality monitoring

• Increasing the value of bicycles available through the staff salary sacrifice cycle purchase scheme

• Subsidising staff discount for travel on First Bus services

• Encouraging use of public transport, including Park & Ride facilities.

Ruth McNab, RUH Sustainability

Manager, said: “We have been conducting staff surveys, running site audits and working closely with our community partners to reduce the negative environmental impacts of travel as well as enabling equal access, regardless of ability. I wanted to thank staff, patients and visitors for their energy and enthusiasm in ensuring that we make steadfast progress towards achieving our remaining sustainable travel targets by 2025.”

The RUH is also progressing several other sustainability initiatives, including:

• Cutting carbon –Decommissioning anaesthesia nitrous oxide manifolds (fixed gas pipelines) and replacing with portable cylinders which has removed substantial risk of

leaks of the potent greenhouse gas, estimated to be nearly 300 times worse than carbon dioxide for the environment.

• Investing in sustainable built environments – The new Dyson Cancer Centre has a targeted BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The building is assessed at various stages during construction for its environmental sustainability and wellbeing benefits for patients, staff and the wider community.

• Finding ways to reduce waste – such as replacing sterile packaging with reusable metal containers saving environmental costs by 84% and reducing single use plastic disposal by 5.5 tonnes annually.

• Green spaces – Works have started on a wellbeing garden

for staff and patients launching this Spring.

The Trust is also hosting an RUH Sustainability Day in the lead-up to Earth Day in April 2024, which will focus on staff sharing ideas on reducing waste. The event will also host speakers from Greener NHS.

Cara Charles-Barks, RUH Chief Executive, said: “We have a wide range of initiatives underway to reach our sustainability targets.

“These are important to us because we know that many of the actions needed to respond to the climate emergency also have positive health impacts. For example, cutting emissions and restoring biodiversity improves air quality and can reduce the incidence of asthma, heart attacks and stroke.”

How the new garden at the hospital will look | Image © RUH

Some of the maternity team at the RUH | Photo © RUH Bath

Zara planning to use former Iceland store in Bath as a stockroom

Becky Feather Reporter

FASHION retailer Zara has submitted a planning application to use the former Iceland store in Bath city centre for storage for three years.

The existing back-of-house storage space at Zara, 50 metres away in Southgate Place, would then become retail floor space to effectively create a larger shop.

Iceland left 4 Ham Gardens in April 2022 and the ground-floor unit has remained vacant since then.

The bid for a temporary change of use has been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council and includes minor internal operations. No external changes are proposed.

The application says that the change of use would result in the temporary net loss of 391sq m of retail space but points out

that the site has been vacant for two years and at present provides “no meaningful contribution” to the shopping area or wider city centre.

Instead the proposal would bring the site back into “active commercial use”.

Vehicular and servicing access is provided along Ham Gardens via Kingston Road.

The planning reference is 24/00574/FUL. The deadline for comments is 15th March.

Region's businesses being urged to “switch off the light at night”

WEST of England Metro Mayor

Dan Norris has joined forces with the Herschel Museum of Astronomy in Bath to encourage residents and businesses to help reduce light pollution.

Mr Norris is calling for people to “switch off the light at night” to save energy and encourage dark skies.

Light pollution is reported to be increasing around the world, with a recent study finding it has risen by 10% every year since 2011. It can have serious side-effects, beyond ruining astronomy, with it being especially harmful to insects and other pollinators.

Dan Norris is calling for the United Kingdom to join countries such as France and South Korea in legislating to protect nightscapes through things like better-designed lighting and streetlight dimming schemes. The Mayor is urging the public to play their part too, including by learning more about the growing problem through stargazing sessions, talks and other events planned by the New King Streetbased Museum as part of its ongoing Dark Skies campaign.

Mr Norris said: “A truly dark sky blanketed with stars is one of the natural world’s most magical sights, and for thousands of years

the night sky has inspired so many around the world.

“But a lot of the time, and particularly in recent years, it’s been thick hazy, yellow fog and thinly-veiled disappointment for people wanting to experience this truly natural wonder – especially in more built-up areas. It’s left humans and wildlife alike paying the price.

“That’s why I’m urging everyone to help me tackle light pollution in the West of England.

“Every simple measure, like turning off those unnecessary lights and shutting curtains and blinds when we turn on lights indoors, will prevent light from spilling into our gardens and wild places.”

Tackling light pollution is a key priority for the West of England Combined Authority. The Local Nature Recovery Strategy is proposing to do things like add colour filters to LED streetlights and minimise lighting on the road network where it’s safe.

Canal-based bike repair business under threat of closure

Becky Feather Reporter

A BIKE repair business run from a traditional narrowboat on the Kennet & Avon Canal is under threat of closure.

The Bike Boat is a popular repair and servicing workshop which owner Ollie Key has operated for the last two and a half years.

But after being told by the Canal & River Trust that he doesn’t meet licensing requirements, he has started a petition on the change.org website (https://bit. ly/48nSZiH)

He says: “The Canal & River Trust has informed me that I do not meet their licensing requirements.

“Paraphrasing their reasoning, ‘mileage is fine, but spend too much time in towns’; this is despite spending one third of my current licence continuously cruising in the countryside.

“To trade I need to spend most of my time in towns, particularly the only big one on the Kennet and Avon Canal, Bath.

“Therefore I can’t both meet the Canal and River Trust requirements and make a living.

When I have traded in rural areas, on most days I take nothing.

“If I was to continue my current trading and movement pattern and not meet their cruising requirements, in time, it would ultimately mean the threat of losing my boat, which is my home. I am working on other options to continue bike repairs elsewhere, but unless the Canal and River Trust changes their position, the Bike Boat will be forced to close on 28th February.”

More than 800 people have already signed the petition, which can be found here.

Comments of support include:

“I am a strong believer in encouraging cycling in Bath, to reduce pollution from motorised transport and to keep people fit and healthy. Having the Bike Boat just outside the city helps with this objective and does not cause any trouble.

“The Canal and River Trust should be supporting this goal too, and not hindering the Bike Boat’s business.”

Another said: “The canal system needs traders for its character and heritage. These people are the lifeblood of the canals and provide a lifeline to the

community.”

In a statement, the Canal & River Trust said: “Boating businesses offer a great service and we are keen to support them where we can, however when someone sets up as a roving trader they are declaring that they will be

moving from place to place on a continuous journey throughout the course of their licence.

“The Kennet & Avon Canal is very busy in some places, particularly around towns, and we need to be fair and consistent for all our boaters, providing the same

guidance on what’s expected under the terms of their licence.

“We would urge anyone planning on setting up as a roving trader to consider the requirements of the boat licence, and whether they may need to take up a mooring instead.”

The former Iceland store in Bath, which closed in 2022 | Photo © Claudio Divizia / Shutterstock.com

Ollie Key has been providing his services for more than two years | Photo courtesy of The Bike Boat

Fencer prosecuted after failing to carry out work

A FENCER who failed to carry out work after taking deposits has been prosecuted by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Trading Standards team.

47-year-old Mark Harris, trading as A/M Fencing and Repairs of Lower South Wraxall, Bradfordon-Avon, pleaded guilty at Bath Magistrates' Court on 17th January to one offence under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. He returned to court on 14th February for sentencing.

The court heard Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Trading Standards Service began an investigation into Harris after receiving a complaint from an elderly resident.

Harris took a deposit of £840 for materials and failed to carry out the agreed fencing work for his customer and then failed to return the money he had taken as a deposit, despite the consumer’s

requests for a refund.

The fencer must now pay a fine of £384, a victim surcharge of £154 and prosecution costs of £1,734. Since pleading guilty, Harris has refunded the consumer their £840 deposit.

Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Householders should be able to trust contractors they employ to safeguard any monies paid to them for materials and to complete the job in line

with the specification.

“We hope that this prosecution sends out a clear message that our Trading Standards team will not hesitate to investigate and take action against those tradesmen who commit crime.”

The local authority runs an approved trader scheme called ‘Buy with Confidence’ where residents can search for local businesses which have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards.

Anyone looking for a local business to carry out some work is encouraged to visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Anyone who thinks they might have fallen victim to a rogue trader in the local area should report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service who work in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Trading Standards. You can contact them via telephone on 0345 40 40 506.

Register to vote ahead of upcoming elections

THOSE wishing to vote in Bath and North East Somerset have been urged to ensure they are on the electoral register at their current address and have photo ID they can use when voting.

The next scheduled elections in the district are for the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Avon and Somerset on Thursday 2nd May.

The PCC is responsible for making sure that the local police in their area are meeting the needs of the community.

Residents can find out if they are registered to vote by emailing

elections@bathnes.gov.uk or calling 01225 477333.

If you are not registered or you have changed your name or address, you can call 01225 477333 or apply online. It only takes five minutes to complete the form at www.gov.uk/registerto-vote.

The Elections Act 2022 that came into effect on 4th May 2023 introduced the need for people voting in person to provide photo ID. A list of accepted forms of photo ID is available on the council website or by calling 01225 477333.

Voters without an accepted form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online via www.gov.uk/apply-for-photoid-voter-authority-certificate or by completing a paper form.

Will Godfrey, the returning officer for Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Please make sure that you are registered to vote, especially if you have moved house recently or you have just turned 18. If in doubt, contact us on 01225 477333 or elections@ bathnes.gov.uk.”

Residents wanting to apply for a postal vote can now apply online.

MP calls on government to make electric cars more accessible

WERA Hobhouse, the MP for Bath, has called on the government to ensure that electric vehicles are more accessible for families.

Mrs Hobhouse, who is also the Lib Dem spokesperson for Energy, Climate Change and Transport, questioned the government’s plans to ensure that electric vehicles were a genuine and accessible alternative for existing car owners.

Speaking with Anthony Browne, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Roads and Local Transport, the MP stressed the importance of encouraging people from all socio-economic backgrounds to participate in the “green transition”.

Mrs Hobhouse said this could only be achieved once electric vehicles were made an “affordable and accessible option” for all car

owners. Despite electric vehicles generally being cheaper to run than petrol and diesel cars, there are some hidden costs to owning one which can exclude many hard-working families.

Examples include charging, where doing so at home costs less than half the price of using public charging points.

The Bath MP has called for the government to close the gap by helping to reduce the cost of at-home charging points to ensure that no one is priced-out of choosing greener modes of transport.

Anthony Browne shared Mrs Hobhouse’s enthusiasm for the green transition to electric vehicles, confirming that electric cars were cheaper to run on average than petrol and diesel alternatives.

However, he didn’t commit to introducing incentives to make electric cars more affordable for all.

Wera Hobhouse commented:

“Electric vehicles are totally out of reach for the majority of people, especially hard-working families on lower incomes.

“The government needs to bring everyone along on the green transition, otherwise there is little hope of reaching our net zero targets.

“Many car owners have shown willingness to transition to an electric alternative, especially as they are cheaper to run than petrol and diesel cars.

“Yet, the Conservatives are intent on making it difficult for them. They must ensure everyone gets a fair deal so we can all do our bit to drive us down the road to net zero.”

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003

Paxton & Whitfield applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 15th February 2024 for a licence to use the premises at 20 Green Street, Bath, BA1 2JZ for the sale by retail of alcohol between 10am and 11pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm and 10.30pm on Sundays.

Notification of the application made to the Licensing Authority is available on a register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ licensing-register.

Representations should be made in writing to:

Bath & North East Somerset Council Licensing Services

Lewis House Manvers Street Bath BA1 1JG

or by email to licensing@bathnes.gov.uk

by 14th March 2024

You must be registered to vote before you can apply and you will need to prove your identity as part of the application process. The Elections Act 2022 also introduced changes to some of the rules relating to proxy voters. Voting by proxy is an easy way of voting if you are unable to get to the polling station because it allows you to appoint someone you trust to vote on your behalf. Under the new rules, a voter can only act as a proxy for two people. Previously a person could act as a proxy for an unlimited number of close relatives and two others.

Representations made will be disclosed in an open meeting should a hearing be necessary.

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and is subject to a fine of any amount on summary conviction for the offence.

Dated: 16/02/2024

Over 1m miles covered by TIER vehicles

USERS of TIER e-scooters and WESTbikes across the West of England have covered more than one million miles since the scheme was introduced in September 2023.

TIER is celebrating the milestone by offering users a discount code to thank the people of Bath and Bristol, and to encourage more people to try out the service. The fleet consists of 3,000 vehicles across the two cities, making it the largest tendered scheme in the UK, with further expansion due later this spring.

It is the first multi-modal system for the West of England region, featuring e-scooters, WESTbike e-bikes and WESTcargo e-cargo bikes, the first of which were launched earlier this month. The milestone follows TIER enhancing aspects of the service based on user feedback.

Additional parking bays have been added, in co-operation with the West of England Combined Authority and local councils, and the parking verification process has been simplified.

TIER has additionally launched Park Assist, a tool which shows users where the nearest free parking bay is if the bay at their destination is at capacity.

To celebrate reaching the milestone, 1,000 new and existing users can claim a free unlock and 10 free minutes using code MILLION2024.

Jessica Murphy, Head of Public Policy UK at TIER, commented: “Reaching a million miles in just a few months is testament to the importance and popularity of micro-mobility in the West of England. This milestone showcases a stable, reliable, convenient service.”

The tradesman was ordered to pay more than £2,000 by the court

Sporting Fixtures In Other News

Bath City FC

Museum of Bath Architecture set to reopen

THE Museum of Bath Architecture will reopen on 30th March, the Bath Preservation Trust has announced, after being closed since December 2019.

The museum will be open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 10am4pm, every week.

As part of the reopening, a consultation will take place asking the public to contribute ideas towards the future of the museum.

This will ensure the collection remains relevant, and the building is sustainable for current and future users.

The Museum of Bath Architecture closed in December 2019 and, following the emergence of Covid-19 in 2020, didn’t reopen.

As the pandemic waned, and the Bath Preservation Trust’s (BPTs) other museums reopened, the Museum of Bath Architecture remained closed while the team considered its future.

The museum tells the story of the rich architectural history of Bath, from its transformation from a small medieval town into the world-famous Georgian city, to the Victorian expansion and 20th century demolitions.

The collection includes maps, models, drawings, videos, paintings and tools that tell the

story of how eighteenth-century architects and craftspeople helped turn a small walled town into the destination of choice for Georgian high society.

Celebrating the distinctive Georgian architecture that makes Bath special, and which has contributed to it becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlights of the collection include a 1:500 scale model of Bath, giving a miniature bird'seye-view of the whole city.

Alex Sherman, CEO of Bath Preservation Trust, has urged residents and architecture

enthusiasts alike to take the opportunity to see the museum in its current format.

He said: “BPT’s theme across all of its museums for 2024 is futureproofing, and this is very much front of mind for the Museum of Bath Architecture.

“Built in 1765, the Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel, which is home to the museum, needs routine maintenance and conservation and like many Georgian buildings, is cold and draughty.

“We want to breathe new life into the unique Chapel and will be

seeking feedback from visitors and stakeholders about how they believe the Chapel and its adjoining buildings should be redeveloped, and what they would like the future of the museum to be.

“The Chapel and its museum are an important part of BPT and through sensitive conservation, refurbishment and renewal it will continue to engage visitors of all ages for many years to come.”

Patrizia Ribul, Director of Museums for Bath Preservation Trust, said: “We are thrilled to be opening up this special museum to the public again; the fascinating scale model of Bath alone is worth a visit, but there are plenty of other items – such as an original stone acorn from the famous Circus – that will delight any fan of architecture or history.

“When Beckford’s Tower reopens this May, all four of our museums will open at the same time for the first time since 2019.”

Ticket prices, which include a free return pass valid up until 15th December 2024, are:

• Adult: £7.00

• Concession: £6.00

• Under 18s: Free (must be accompanied by a paying adult)

• Discovery Card discount: 25%

• Art Fund discount: 50%

£100k fundraiser launched to create new forest

Becky Feather Reporter

THERE are plans to create a new forest near Keynsham which will be the biggest woodland in the South West in a generation, but the community’s help is urgently needed to turn the dream into reality.

Avon Needs Trees has launched an ambitious crowdfunding campaign.

The charity says it has just one month to fundraise £100,000 to help buy the land at Compton Dando and establish a 420-acre new woodland which will see 100,000 trees planted, alongside the creation of wetlands, hedgerows and species-rich grassland.

When put together with nearby woodland, the proposed new Lower Chew Forest would be bigger than Leigh Woods or the Downs (Clifton and Durdham) in Bristol, and 12 times the size of Royal Victoria Park in Bath.

Avon Needs Trees has been creating permanent woodlands since 2019, with four established woodlands already planted.

Chief executive Dave Wood said: “When Wick Farm came onto the market, we knew we had to act. It’s rare for such a large amount of land to come up in one go, particularly somewhere like Compton Dando which is so close to Bristol and Bath, and we know that biodiversity recovery is far more effective across a large area.

“It really is the biggest opportunity in a generation for us to turn around the critically low percentage of woodland cover in our region and create a forestsized woodland.

“We have just 7.8% woodland cover in the West of England, compared to 13.2% average across the whole of the UK.

“The benefits of increasing this cover include helping to mitigate climate change, improving biodiversity connectivity and offering a place for people to

volunteer, learn and connect with nature.”

The charity says the land also provides opportunities to explore regenerative food production and agroforestry.

Analysis by the Environment Agency shows this new woodland, along with leaky dams and wetland habitat, would help reduce downstream flooding in local villages, Keynsham, and Bristol.

A new, large woodland also offers significant health and wellbeing benefits for people, as well as great potential for

Crossword answers - Issue 071 (09/02/2024)

education opportunities and skills development for the green economy.

With government and other grants coming together to pay a portion of the cost of the land and woodland creation, and an environmentally-focused bank interested in loaning the charity some of the money, the charity says it is “incredibly close” to being able to make this nationally significant new woodland a reality.

£100,000 is needed to help buy the land and plant the trees. You can find out more and make a pledge on the crowdfunding website at https://www.crowdfunder. co.uk/p/lower-chew-forest

There are a range of rewards to individual and business supporters. These include opportunities to sponsor threemetre by three-metre plots and exclusive site tours.

The crowdfunding campaign closes on 8th March. More than £37,000 had been raised as we went to print.

Across: 2 Political, 8 Axle, 9 I A E A, 10 Kneecap, 11 Blouse, 12 Stir, 13 Sartre, 14 Orbit, 15 Icon, 17 Tiara, 18 Brunch, 20 Cognac, 23 Reich, 24 Spat, 26 Slyly, 27 Sweats, 29 O P E C, 31 U N I C EF, 32 Rookies, 33 Zulu, 34 Lots, 35 Defensive.

Down: 1 Explorer, 2 Peruvian, 3 Likes, 4 The Organization, 5 Cockroach, 6 Lips, 7 Benito, 16 Con, 17 Thrown off, 19 UV A, 21 Gullible, 22 Ailments, 25 Pops up, 28 Sushi, 30 Crud.

Saturday 24th February – 3pm

BC v Havant & Waterlooville (A)

Vanarama National League South

Tuesday 27th February – 7.45pm

Bath City v Braintree Town (H)

Vanarama National League South

Saturday 2nd March – 3pm

Bath City v Slough Town (A)

Vanarama National League South

Tuesday 5th March – 7.45pm

BC v Maidstone United (A)

Vanarama National League South

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Photo © The Museum of Bath Architecture / Bath Preservation Trust

The land at Compton Dando, where the new forest is proposed

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