Bath Echo - Issue 080 - 14/06/2024

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Green light for new schools at Culverhay site

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

A “BRILLIANT opportunity” to bring education back to the site of Bath’s Culverhay School has got the green light from councillors. A new school for children with special educational needs and disabilities and an alternative provision school for vulnerable pupils at risk of permanent exclusion will be built on the site. Current buildings on the site, including the leisure centre facilities will be demolished, but a new hydrotherapy pool and sports hall for “community use” would form a part of the new buildings.

The Department for Education will fund the two new schools, but Bath & North East Somerset Council has to provide the department with a cleared site for them.

On 6th June, the council’s cabinet voted to approve plans to level the Culverhay site and hand it to the department for the new schools.

The Culverhay site has been mostly empty since Bath Community Academy closed in 2018.

Councillor Paul May (Publow with Whitchurch, Liberal Democrat), the council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Our view has always been that this site must be used for education.”

He told the council cabinet meeting: “This is a brilliant opportunity to make sure our children and young people get the best education and start in life they can.”

He said: “We are fortunate that we already have three excellent special schools in our area. However, we still need this extra capacity.

“Because demand has increased substantially in recent years, some local children have had to be placed at expensive specialist schools outside of our immediate area.”

There will be 120 school places at the special school. The alternative provision school — to be called Sulis Academy and be a part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership multi-academy trust — will have 55 school places.

It will aim to support children and young people to rejoin mainstream schooling or towards employment.

The site has been held for educational uses since the school closed, which Paul Roper (Kingsmead, Liberal Democrat), the council’s Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, said had been a “significant drain” on the council’s finances, costing it over half a million pounds over the last three years.

If the two schools do not need to take up all the site, part of the land could be released from this restriction in order to fund the work of clearing the site.

A council report had said this would be used for housing, but Councillor May told the meeting the council would be “keeping

our options open.”

Councillor Roper said that it could be used for the community. He added: “The land I am referring to is not the playing fields. These will be maintained.”

Local councillor for the area

Joel Hirst (Odd Down, Liberal Democrat) told the council cabinet: “Steve Hedges [also Odd Down] would like to celebrate the proposal to secure the Culverhay site for education.

“While our preference would have been for a community school, retaining the site for education is very much welcome.”

Sarah Moore (Twerton, Liberal Democrat) said the school would be “welcomed” by parents in her area but called for the area not to be used for education to be clearly defined and not able to expand further.

She said: “This is a worry for residents as this site is in the perfect location for education provision and we must not lose this. I would also like to ask that community provision is never forgotten and the full sports and swimming facility is reinstated on this site as soon as possible.”

Councillor Hirst said: “Our young people, in particular, deserve swimming pools in local communities.

“We must continue to work hard to ensure that the site has the opportunity to have a swimming pool and fitness facilities on site.” Construction of the two new schools is planned to begin in 2025.

Go Wylde for city nature trail this summer

BATH Business Improvement District (BID) has launched its Biodiversity Bench Project to transform Kingston Parade this summer.

Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID, said: “We are so proud to have transformed the benches outside the Abbey into inviting resting places for visitors.

“But that’s not all. The council has granted us permission to sprinkle a magical trail of tiny creatures throughout the area.

“This project embodies Bath BID’s commitment to a vibrant city centre, where vitality and

biodiversity converge. As you explore, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for our beautiful city’s natural wonders.” Bath’s wildlife is hidden in

the benches with each animal lovingly illustrated by Bath BID’s very own Miriam Zaccarelli. There are 21 to find on the benches surrounding the Abbey. Bath BID has collaborated with Avon Wildlife Trust, Bath & North East Somerset Council, and the Festival of Nature on the project, with each animal or insect featured reflecting rarity, environmental importance, and the role it plays in Bath’s ecosystem. The Festival of Nature team particularly enjoyed seeing the Chalkhill Blue Butterfly featured

on the benches, which is an important species for the Bath region.

Throughout July and August, people can follow the Wylde Creatures of Bath Trail, matching the designs on the benches with their pairs inside shop windows. The trail has been sponsored by jeweller Nicholas Wylde. To take part, pick up a competition book from Bath BID’s office on York Street and participating businesses. Entry gives you a chance to win a silver pendant engraved with your own drawing.

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The site has been mostly unused since Bath Community Academy closed in 2018

Painting the benches in Kingston Parade | Photo © Bath BID

The Bath Echo newspaper is

Water from Roman Baths could help save lives

Becky Feather Reporter

THE Roman Baths is home to a diverse range of microorganisms which could be critical in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance, a new study suggests.

The hot springs have long been considered to have medicinal properties, and now scientists at the University of Plymouth think they might be on the verge of discovering the Romans and others since were correct.

This “very exciting” new research comes at a time when the need for new sources of antibiotics is at unprecedented levels, with resistance of bacteria to currently used medication estimated to be responsible for more than 1.25 million deaths globally each year.

The research, published in the journal The Microbe, is the first to provide a detailed examination of the bacterial and archaeal communities found within the waters.

Scientists collected samples of water, sediment and biofilm from locations within the Roman Baths complex including the King’s Spring, where the waters reach around 45°C, and the Great Bath, where the temperatures are closer to 30°C.

The samples were then analysed using cutting-edge sequencing technology and traditional culturing techniques were employed to isolate bacteria with antibiotic activity.

Around 300 distinct types of bacteria were isolated across the Roman Baths site – among them the key candidate groups, Actinobacteria and Myxococcota, known for antibiotic production – with different examples being more prominent within the varying water temperatures. Further tests showed 15 of these isolates – including examples of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes – showed varying levels of inhibition against human pathogens including E.coli, Staphylococcus Aureus and Shigella flexneri.

Writing in the study, scientists say a significant amount of additional investigation is required before the microorganisms found in the Roman Baths can be applied in the fight against disease and infection globally. However, they add that this initial study has shown there is clear potential for novel natural products contained within its hot

springs to be explored further for that purpose.

The research was carried out by students and academics from the University of Plymouth’s School of Biomedical Sciences and School of Biological and Marine Sciences, working closely with staff at the Roman Baths.

Dr Lee Hutt, Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Plymouth, is the study’s senior author.

He said: “This is a really important, and very exciting, piece of research.

“Antimicrobial resistance is recognised as one of the most significant threats to global health, and the hunt for novel antimicrobial natural products is gathering pace.

“This study has for the first time demonstrated some of the microorganisms present within the Roman Baths, revealing it as a potential source of novel antimicrobial discovery.

“There is no small irony in the fact the waters of the Roman Baths have long been regarded for their medicinal properties and now, thanks to advances in modern science, we might be on the verge of discovering the Romans and others since were right.”

The Roman Baths has been welcoming visitors for almost two millennia, and in 2023 more than one million people toured its hot springs and other collections.

Zofia Matyjaszkiewicz, the Collections Manager at the Roman Baths and a co-author of the new study, added: “People have visited the springs in Bath for thousands of years, worshipping at, bathing in and drinking the waters over the centuries.

“Even in the Victorian period the Spa Treatment Centre in Bath used the natural spring waters for their perceived curative properties in all sorts of showers, baths and treatments.

“It’s really exciting to see cuttingedge scientific research like this taking place here, on a site with so many stories to tell.”

The research is now being expanded through a PhD studentship, which will represent the first in-depth study of a UK thermal hot spring focused on antimicrobial discovery.

Scheduled to start in October 2024, it will apply a variety of techniques to screen microorganisms found in the Roman Baths for antimicrobial activity, with a view to identifying which might have the potential for future clinical use.

Man jailed for six years after raping woman

A RAPIST has been jailed after being convicted of two sexual offences in Bath.

Paul Kibble raped and sexually assaulted a woman at a house in the city last year.

The 42-year-old has now been jailed for six years.

Anyone who reports a sexual offence is entitled to anonymity throughout their lifetime, and the victim in this case shared a statement with the court ahead of his sentencing, explaining the impact of what Kibble had subjected her to.

She said: “It has affected me in so many different ways; words cannot even describe how I feel each day. I cannot step into town to go shopping; I am scared in my own home, and I have been

unable to return to work since the assault. I feel like something has been taken from me, something that I am never going to be able to get back, but I hope that this result will encourage others to speak up.”

Evidence was heard during the trial that Kibble and the woman were in a house last October when he sexually assaulted and raped her. He was said to have refused to take no for an answer and continued to engage in sexual activity for his own gratification without the woman’s consent.

On Friday 31st May, guilty verdicts by a majority were returned by the jury at Bristol Crown Court for rape and sexual assault by penetration. Kibble, who lived in Bath, will also

be placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.

Detective Constable Alice Chandler, of Operation Bluestone, Avon & Somerset Police’s dedicated rape and serious sexual offences investigative team, said: “The bravery and strength the victim has shown throughout this case has been truly commendable. “She has shown a tremendous level of courage from the day of reporting right until the verdicts were received, demonstrating dignity and respect throughout the investigation and trial, despite being the victim of such horrific offences. “We never underestimate the bravery it takes for victims of sexual offences to come forward to police and to

give evidence in court at trial.

“Kibble has continually denied responsibility for his actions, and it is thanks to the victim’s continued support and fortitude that we have been able to ensure a dangerous man is no longer on our streets.”

DC Chandler added:

“Throughout this investigation, we have worked in collaboration with numerous agencies whose services have been invaluable and the positive result in this case goes far in reinforcing the need for effective multi-agency working. Independent advisors have been able to support her throughout the investigation, which often is a great source of help for victims who are going through this process.”

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Long range forecast: (21st to 27th June)

A continuation of sunny spells and scattered showers, with longer spells of rain likely. Temperatures expected to be below normal for mid-June.

The Roman Baths | Photo © B&NES Council

Nine Bath MP candidates announced for 4th July election

Becky Feather Reporter

THE list of candidates standing in the general election on 4th July for the parliamentary constituencies of Bath and the new seat of North East Somerset & Hanham (NESH) has been revealed.

The Bath seat has been held by Liberal Democrat Wera Hobhouse since 2017. At the 2019 general election, her share of the vote was 54.5%.

There are nine candidates contesting the Bath seat. In alphabetical order, they are:

• A.N.ON

• Matthew Alford (Workers Party)

• Dan Bewley (Labour Party)

• Colin Blackburn (Independent)

• Bill Blockhead (Independent)

• Teresa Hall (Reform UK)

• Wera Hobhouse (Liberal Democrats)

• Dom Tristram (The Green Party)

• James Wright (Conservative Party)

Seven candidates are standing in NESH. They are:

• Barmy Brunch (The Official Monster Raving Loony Party)

• Edmund Cannon (The Green Party)

• Nicholas Hales (Independent)

• Paul MacDonnell (Reform UK)

• Dan Norris (Labour Party)

• Jacob Rees-Mogg (Conservative Party)

• Dine Romero (Liberal Democrats)

Council wards from both Bath & North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire are in the new constituency. The former North East Somerset seat had been held by Conservative Jacob ReesMogg since 2010.

The parts of South Gloucestershire that have moved into NESH (Bitton & Oldland Common; Hanham; Longwell Green; Parkwall & Warmley) were formerly in the Kingswood constituency which has disappeared as part of the boundary review.

Kingswood had been held by Conservative Chris Skidmore from 2010 until earlier this year when it was won by Labour’s Damien Egan at a by-election sparked by Mr Skidmore resigning over the Government’s decision to issue new oil and gas licences.

The B&NES council wards of Chew Valley, Clutton & Farmborough, High Littleton, Keynsham, East; Keynsham North, Keynsham South, Mendip, Paulton; Publow & Whitchurch, Saltford, and Timsbury are all

in NESH. However, voters in Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Westfield, Peasedown St John and the parishes in Bathavon South are now in the new Frome and East Somerset parliamentary constituency.

Bathavon North moves over from North East Somerset to join the Bath constituency as part of the boundary review. To vote, your name must be on the electoral register. EU citizens are not entitled to vote at UK parliamentary general elections. If you are not on the electoral register at your current address,

you must register to vote by midnight on Tuesday 18th June. You can do so online at www.gov. uk/register-to-vote

Voters have a range of options for casting their vote – in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote on their behalf, known as a proxy vote.

The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on Wednesday 19th June – you can apply online at www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote

The deadline to apply for a proxy vote is 5pm on Wednesday 26th June – apply at www.gov.uk/ apply-proxy-vote

If voting in person at the polling station, you will need to show an accepted form of photo ID to polling station staff. Voters who do not have an accepted form can apply online for a free Voter Authority Certificate at www.gov.uk/ apply-for-photo-id-voterauthority-certificate Alternatively, an application form can be requested by calling 01225 477333 or emailing elections@ bathnes.gov.uk. Completed applications must reach Bath & North East Somerset Council by 5pm on Wednesday 26th June.

People have until midnight on Tuesday 18th June to register to vote

Helping to get Bath laughing – just like that!

A COUPLE who recently moved to Bath are on the quest to get Bath laughing.

Clive St James and his wife Jackie, who have relocated from Poole, are official Laughter Yoga leaders, trainers and teachers, and say it’s a great way to stay healthy and have fun.

Clive is also a record-breaking comedian, a well-known Tommy Cooper impersonator and a magician.

The couple are inviting people to join them for a free Laughter Yoga workshop at the pavilion in Sydney Gardens on Monday 17th June at 6.30pm.

Attendees will be treated to an insight from Clive into how the late Tommy Cooper got people to laugh.

Laughter Yoga, which is practised in dozens of countries around the world, was developed in the mid1990s by Indian physician Dr Madan Kataria. Clive and Jackie did teacher training with him in India.

At their sessions, Clive and Jackie take people through exercises that involve breathing, stretching and the infectiousness of laughter.

Laughter has many benefits. Ten to 15 minutes of such

exercises can act as a natural anti-depressant, reducing stress, making the immune system stronger and keeping the mind positive during challenging times.

Laughter is a natural painkiller and other benefits are said to include better sleep and lower blood pressure.

Clive’s mother suffered with chronic depression but he recalls that when she watched Tommy Cooper on TV, she laughed. When he was young, he did impressions of the great

comedian and magician to make her feel better.

Clive is 6ft 3in, the same height Tommy Cooper was, and like his hero is a member of the Magic Circle. He is the proud owner of the largest collection of Tommy Cooper memorabilia.

In 2016, when English Heritage unveiled a blue plaque at Tommy Cooper’s house in Chiswick, Clive was called to celebrate and perform.

Clive also has the honour of being the fastest comic in the world, entering the Guinness

World Records nine years ago by squeezing 26 one-line jokes into a minute.

He broke his own world record that same evening when he appeared on BBC’s Newsnight dressed as Tommy Cooper and delivered 32 jokes.

Clive and Jackie invited me to a taster session in Laughter Yoga at their home near Sydney Gardens.

After some warm-up exercises, we did various types of simulated laughing, from Father Christmas Ho-Ho-Ho-ing to cackling like witches.

I soon shook off any inhibitions about how I might look and sound and was quickly laughing for real. Seeing and hearing others laugh is infectious.

I left their flat and walked back to work feeling invigorated, clearheaded and in a great mood which lasted all day.

As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine.

Monday’s session in Sydney Gardens is free but people are asked to register their interest at info@laughter-yoga.co.uk

Classes will be free throughout the summer but donations to Bath Mind would be welcome.

Clive invites charities to talk to him about the benefits of Laughter Yoga at no charge.

If you can’t get to a class, see Clive and Jackie in action at www. laughter-yoga.co.uk and join in with one of the video sessions.

News in Brief

Weston High Street closed to traffic

Improvements are being carried out in Weston Village High Street over the summer which will see it closed to traffic for 12 weeks. The works involve highway resurfacing work, upgrading footways and street lighting improvements. Work got under way on Monday, 10th June, and Bath & North East Somerset Council is advising people to plan their journeys. It says a full road closure is necessary and will be in place for the duration of the works. Businesses will remain open as usual, with pedestrian access throughout the 12-week project. The works are expected to be completed by 16th August. High Street and Manor Road will then be resurfaced in early September.

Gas works at Limpley Stoke completed

Wales & West Utilities says it has completed essential work to upgrade the gas pipes in Limpley Stoke on time and to plan. The £190,000 investment, which started at the beginning of the year, involved upgrading more than 900 metres of pipes in the Crowe Hill area.

Wales & West Utilities liaised with Wiltshire Council, B&NES Council and Highways England to plan the work.

Theatre Review Mind Mangler – Theatre Royal, Bath

WILL the comedy genius juggernaut that is Mischief Theatre ever put a foot wrong?

(Not that juggernauts have feet).

The company, which has essentially taken over the comedy theatre scene, firstly with The Play That Goes Wrong (which has already been touring for ten years, would you believe), Peter Pan Goes Wrong and personal favourite The Comedy About a Bank Robbery, now comes to Bath at the end of a successful tour from New York and London with its latest bonkers rib-tickler Mind Mangler. And yes, it’s another doozy.

Mind Mangler is a much smaller affair than the previous productions, being a two-man show – not including busy-butmute cameraman Percy, played energetically by Tom Wainwright. The eponymous main man is an attention-seeking fusion of magician, mind-reader and medium, played with hilarious pomp and smugness by coauthor Henry Lewis, who sounds like Michael McIntyre and behaves like Toast of London. He takes us through a bewildering number of acts with variable levels of success. Many involve

interaction with the audience – cue much nervousness in the stalls every time the house lights ominously go up – but usually when someone is called up on stage, it is the Stooge (another co-author Jonathan Sayer, or hopeless Dennis from the Goes Wrong shows) playing different audience members very poorly. As expected, Sayer wrings every drop of incompetence and anxiety out of this role, but also gets to take the spotlight on those rare occasions when the Mangler allows.

The chemistry between the two is electric and allows for much riffing during the two hours.

The acts themselves are a mix of hopeless and surprisingly adroit, and in this way it’s a highly impressive departure from their usual everythinggoes-wrong formula. Much of the magic is beautifully handled, and there was much debate afterwards about whether the audience members being mindread were “plants”. It seems they must be, but an insider from the theatre has confirmed they are not. Mind suitably blown. Amongst all this are running gags, with the Quick Fire Jesus

series being a real favourite, and audience participation reveals some surprising things, such as the existence of the yellowbellied sapsucker (apparently a Canadian woodpecker). And a plot with a real human story is injected into Act Two, which takes the show up another level. What really happened to the Mangler’s mysterious agent Bob Kojak?

This is two hours of endless laughter, pausing briefly for moments of poignancy amongst the mayhem. It’s a total treat and should be made instantly available on the NHS.

total triumph from Mischief Theatre which brought the audience to their

Jackie and Clive, who are official Laughter Yoga leaders

Becky Feather Reporter

Steve Huggins Theatre Reviewer

Another

feet. Just see it.

Mind Mangler is showing at Theatre Royal Bath until 16th June. Box office: 01225 448844

Henry Lewis as The Mind Mangler and Jonathan Sayer as The Stooge | Photos © Pamela Raith Photography

Congratulations to Joss Kennordrie for winning £20! You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 20.

8 Statuette (8)

9 Loudness (6)

10 Very small (3)

11 Eurasian religious symbol, now with appalling associations (8)

12 Belle's boyfriend (4)

16 Alleviates (5)

19 Numbed with fear (9)

21 It supplies tees and caddies (3,4)

23 Mythical horseman? (7)

24 Father of North Korea's current leader (3,4-2)

26 Anaesthetic liquid (5)

29 What the fourth Little Piggie had (4)

33 Cracks (8)

35 Alias, initially (1,1,1)

36 Nosy (6)

37 Takes a leisurely walk (8) Across

1 Scenic vista (4)

2 Follow doggedly (6)

3 Sprite (5)

4 Relaxing music genre (3,3)

5 Declare formally (4)

6 Product of too much food and little exercise (4)

7 Jane Austen's inept matchmaker (4)

11 Type of coat sounds like a ewe's relative (9)

13 Tomb inscription (7)

14 Militarily ready (5,4)

15 Churchill, affectionately (6)

17 Enter violently (5,2)

18 Instruct (6)

20 Special attention, briefly (1,1,1)

22 Snub-nosed dog (3)

25 Liquid way to pay (2,4)

27 Cocktail garnishes (6)

28 Blood component (5)

30 Barbarous person (4)

31 Send forth (4)

32 Narrative of heroic exploits (4)

34 Acquire through merit (4) Down

Entering our competition - via email or post

For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk or via post to:

Crossword Competition 1406, Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA

The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 26/06/2024.

The winner will be notified using the details they provide when entering the competition.

PRESENT

Current polling shows Labour beating the Tories in Bath at this general election

FUTURE?

A Labour MP in Bath will ensure we benefit from our national missions:

Get the NHS back on its feet

More doctor and dentist appointments. Supporting our RUH

Switch on GB Energy

A new, publicly-owned energy provider to bring down your energy bills by up to £1,400 per year and protect our environment

Break down barriers to opportunity

Source: The Economist (8

Dan

Bewley Thurs 4 July

Thousands more teachers and a modern childcare system that works for parents

Take back our streets

More neighbourhood police and PCSOs on our streets, halving violence against women and girls

Get Britain building again

Restoring economic stability, investing in our infrastructure, helping first time buyers

Pictures from the Past

Westgate Street and Cheap Street from Kingsmead Square, circa 1910

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

AT first, beyond the fact this is an old photo dating from around 1910, it does not appear particularly interesting. But look again.

This picture cannot be replicated because several of the buildings have been demolished to widen streets. The work began in 1930. The block with Pearce’s Domestic Stores on the east side of Avon Street was removed, and beyond it, the frontages on the south side of Westgate Street were set back and rebuilt from the

corner of Westgate Buildings right up to the present No 16, now BetFred. Across the street from the junction with Westgate Buildings was a narrow block known as New Westgate Buildings which ended in a pub, the New Westgate House. It is the one with ‘United Beers’ on its wall.

Given its less than salubrious reputation – in 1903 a report stated that the whole cellar was used as a urinal with a sink for the water to run away – it may come as a surprise to discover it was owned by King Edward’s School. It closed in 1938, after the landlord had been abruptly informed that his building had been acquired for ‘public improvement purposes’ and his

application for a licence refused. The whole block was demolished a year later. One group who would have been pleased to see it go were the temperance campaigners, who described Westgate Street as ‘a congested thoroughfare in the centre of the city of Bath, only 150 yards long 11 yards wide, providing a shopping centre for artisans' families, and an evening promenade for youth, especially on Sundays’ before adding that ‘this street has 35 shops, no less than seven of which are licensed to sell intoxicants.’

Beyond the New Westgate House was another pub – Lavington’s – which has survived, now called Flan O’Brien’s. The

COLUMN | Clare Moody, Labour Police and Crime Commissioner

Last week was National Volunteers Week a chance to celebrate those people who selflessly give up their time to support their communities. Many of the people I was able to celebrate during the week help keep their neighbourhoods safe. There are many people and organisations that who understand what needs to be done and where funds need to be spent to prevent crime happening in their area.

These organisations need support for this work and so I’m pleased to let you know the Commissioner’s Crime Prevention Fund is open to bids.

This fund is aimed at reducing crime and promoting safer communities throughout the whole of Avon and Somerset. It offers grants from £1,000 to £10,000 to support projects

working to prevent crime, serious violence, and anti-social behaviour.

This fund is designed to empower local communities to take proactive measures to prevent crime in their areas. By providing financial assistance for innovative projects, communities are able to create safer environments and develop connections across communities.

A wide range of projects are eligible to apply for funding, such as:

• Youth services: Programmes that help young people develop social and emotional skills, to reduce the likelihood of them entering the criminal justice system. This includes youth clubs and initiatives aimed at giving young people a second chance if they've encountered trouble.

• Community events: Activities that bring together people who might not otherwise interact, making connections and working together to combat antisocial behaviour and hate crime.

• Awareness campaigns: Raising awareness, so people are more aware of risks and how perpetrators of crime work. Examples of campaigns that have previously been funded include training for older adults on identifying online fraud, and campaigns that have equipped frontline staff and volunteers to recognise signs of individuals at risk. There have been many past achievements for projects that have used this fund, such as the roll-out of a series of serious violence and knife crime awareness workshops

– successfully delivered across several secondary schools.

present building dates from the mid 19thcentury but it stands on the site of a much older pub called the Birdcage.

Of the other businesses with their signs visible we see Hope & Co., tailors and outfitters; Findley, fishmonger and poulterer; and Smart, boot salesman. The milliners on the corner of Kingsmead Square must be Tucks, but the rest remain elusive.

Further down we can see Cheap Street and in the far distance, towering above the scene, are the slopes of Bathampton Down, topped by the trees of Bathwick Woods. Perhaps surprisingly, that view can still be seen today.

Another example of successful use of the funds is from a youth service in Somerset - they used the grant to run well-attended skate and street art sessions, giving young people interesting activities that can lead to a new direction for them. This fund is dedicated to empowering communities to act. That’s why I’m pleased to be inviting new projects to apply for funding – the deadline for applications to be received by is Friday 28th June 2024. You can apply by going onto the Somerset Community Foundation website https:// www.somersetcf.org.uk/grantsfunding/details/opcc/

As your PCC, I am committed to transparency, accountability, and open communication. During my first term, I’ve been getting out to meet as many different people as I can. I want to understand the issues so I can deliver a Police and Crime Plan that will make a difference. It needs to address the evolving challenges in policing and deliver lasting solutions.

I’m committed to actively listening to the concerns and priorities of all residents and will be running a public survey – I will share how you can take part soon.

Please feel free to reach out to me and my office with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you may have - www.avonandsomersetpcc.gov.uk

Looking towards Westgate Street and Cheap Street around 1910, with the slopes of Bathampton Down in the distance

What's On

Dressing Fancy

Bath Assembly Rooms

14th – 30th June

Find out about the history of fancy dress in the Georgian period and the role Bath Assembly Rooms played in hosting fancy dress balls. The programme includes a free pop-up exhibition.

Collaborators

The Rondo Theatre

19th – 22nd June

A darkly comic satire of Stalinist Russia, ‘Collaborators’ follows writer Mikhail Bulgakov’s surreal journey as he is given the offer of a lifetime: write a play about Stalin’s early life. Or else.

Flourish Food Festival

Flourish, Glenavon Farm

22nd & 23rd June

Join this two-day celebration with live music, a craft market and family-friendly activities plus the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of quality food and drink. Free entry.

Bath Phil & Seckou Keita

The Forum

25th June, 7.30pm

Bask in the musical sunshine of Senegalese virtuoso kora player, Seckou Keita in African Rhapsodies, a poetic journey sparked by his fascination with crossing cultural borders.

Motets for a Summer Evening

St Mary’s Church

15th June, 7.30pm

Bruckner, Brahms and Rheinberger are the core of Bath Choral Society’s summer concert of motets from the Romantic period of German music. Tickets from £5 to 25.

Iford Jazz Festival

Iford Manor

20th - 23rd June

With music gently wafting over the garden, discover the woodlands, Japanese Garden, cloister, casita, orchard, loggia and more. Musicians will be located across the garden.

Music for a Summer’s Evening

The Guildhall

22nd June, 6pm

Bath Camerata are delighted to introduce their Summer Concert –‘Encores’. Come along to the Guildhall for an eclectic mix of music to capture the essence of Summer.

John Rutter

Bath Abbey 26th June, 7pm

Featuring members of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, this concert promises to be a feast for the senses. Renowned composer and conductor John Rutter will lead the orchestra.

Friday 14th June - Thursday 27th June 2024

Bath Festival of Motoring 2024

Walcot Rugby Ground

15th & 16th June

The weekend will feature an extensive programme of parades, exhibitions, demonstrations and super car rides, alongside competitions, live music and family activities.

Eagles By Candlelight

Bath Pavilion

20th June, 7.30pm

Featuring a cast of West End Singers and an incredible live band, 'Take It Easy' and join us at the 'Hotel California' for an unforgettable evening of Eagles hits as you have never heard them before.

Hand-tied Bouquet Workshop

Newton Farm 22nd June, 10am – 12pm

To celebrate British Flowers Week, join local flower farmer, Sarah from Compton Garden Flowers, in the Corner Yard and create your own spectacular hand-tied bouquet.

Patrick Grant: Less St Swithin’s Church 26th June, 7pm

The respected fashion designer, founder of Community Clothing and beloved Great British Sewing Bee judge comes to Bath to talk about his new book, Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish.

Living with history in a pandemic BRLSI

18th June, 7.30pm

Trapped at home during the Covid-19 pandemic, Emmy award-winning filmmaker Martin Smith broadcast 43 talks for Bristol’s community radio station, BCfm.

Summer Solstice Paint & Picnic

Royal Victoria Park

20th June, 6.30pm

Make the most of the longest day of the year by joining the luxury ladies' picnic in Royal Victoria Park. Participants will enjoy gourmet delights and sip on summer fizz while getting creative.

Vegetarian

Suppers

Topping & Company Booksellers 24th June, 7pm

Vegetables is the new cookbook from food writer Mark Diacono. There are few such talented cooks and growers as Mark, who will showcase a variety of inventive vegetarian dishes.

The Starting Line Bath Abbey 27th & 28th June, 7pm

Join children from local primary schools for the world premiere of the new work The Elements Cantata, written by Russell Hepplewhite and Jamila Gavin. Performed by 250 school children.

Food & Drink

Tasty Dates For Your Diary

Celebrate English Wine Week in sparkling style on the glorious alfresco terrace at The Architect (Orange Grove) on Thursday 20th June with a spectacular event hosted by Rich from the Rachfinny Wine Estate in Sussex; wonderful wines, chic canapés, a super-pretty terrace offering a splendid Bath Abbey backdrop – it's all going on! Should you wish to linger long (over dinner, perhaps?) indulge in a dish from a menu of seasonal British seafood specials with yet more Rachfinny wine pairing suggestions. Tickets for this event are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment (£40pp). https://bit.ly/3Xc8RTz

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

Join MasterChef 2024 finalist Kasae Fraser and her partner Vincent when they pop up at Picnic in the Park (Lark Place, Lower Weston, adjacent to Royal Victoria Park) on Friday 21st/Saturday 22nd June to share an array of sharing plates showcasing local produce, each one curated and presented in Kasae's uniquely tantalising style. https://bit.ly/3VgarB5

If you've yet to experience one of the regular Event Nights at the glorious Good Bear Cafe (Hayes

Meet Kristopher Tillery, owner of the Noble Hill Wine Estate (widely regarded as one of the most exciting new wineries in South Africa), when he pops up at Amathus Drinks (Green Street) on Thursday 20th June to guide guests through six of his splendid wines that showcase the diverse art of winemaking from traditional method sparkling to elegant reds (£27.50pp). https://bit.ly/3XieoYK

Recipe: Salmon en Croûte

Place, Bear Flat), you're seriously missing out. The next one takes place on Saturday 22nd June –and it's Italian Grill Night: grilled meats and cheeses, fresh Italian herbs, marvellous marinades... and lovely company. You'd better move fast if you want to reserve your table, though! Email info@ thegoodbear.co.uk today. www.thegoodbear.co.uk

Get your festival flourish on! Those fabulous Flourish foodies (Saltford) have teamed up with fine food suppliers Cotswold Fayre to present their first ever Flourish Food Festival on Saturday 22nd - Sunday 23rd June; enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, a craft market and, of course, a spectacular range of great food and drink all served up in vibrant surroundings.

https://bit.ly/3xdccHo

The lovely, lively Aperol Terrace at the Green Park Brasserie officially opens for business from 6pm on Friday 23rd June; wear orange, make sure you're one of the first 50 guests to arrive and earn yourself a free Aperol Spritz and a swag bag of Aperol merch! https://bit.ly/3yHpdJs

Tuck into far-from-prosaic pizza in the far-from-prosaic surroundings of super-pretty, historic Iford Manor (nr. Bradford on Avon) on the last Friday of every month; if The Gardener doesn't grab you, The Clucker (or, perhaps, The Oddfather?) most definitely will. Iford's next pizza party takes place on Friday 28th June. Can't make the date?

Put Friday 26th July in your dineout diary today...

https://bit.ly/3xbZhFC

Grab the family, round up the friends and treat yourselves to a tasteful day out in Chippenham (around 19km north-east of Bath and easily accessible by train) when the Chippenham Food and Drink Festival dominates proceedings from Friday 28thSunday 30th June. Street food, brilliant bars, a food market, live music, fairground rides, workshops, children's comedy events – this promises to be a very chipper big weekender indeed. https://bit.ly/3RmPrHJ

Melissa regularly reviews restaurants across Bath. You can find out more at: www.theprandialplayground.uk

Follow Melissa on X Find her @ThePigGuide

This glorious combination of silky salmon in a luxuriously creamy, dill- and watercress-infused sauce all wrapped up in buttery, melt-in-the-mouth pastry is a subtly stunning showstopper indeed.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 500g skinned salmon fillets

• 100g watercress

• 200g full-fat cream cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 500g block all-butter puff pastry

• Egg yolk, for glazing

• To serve: buttered Jersey Royals; steamed asparagus

Method

• Pick the leaves from the watercress (discarding the woodier stalks), blanch briefly in boiling water and refresh under the cold tap before draining completely. Mix the watercress, cream cheese, dill, black pepper and lemon juice together until well combined, either by hand or in a blender.

• Line the base of a baking sheet with greaseproof paper and, on a lightly floured surface, roll just over half of the pastry to around the thickness of a pound coin and approximately 3cm larger than the salmon fillets in diameter. Lay the pastry sheet on the lined tray.

• Place half of the salmon fillets, skinned side down, on the pastry and top with the cream cheese mixture. Lay the remaining salmon fillets on top of the mixture (skinned side up) and brush the edge of the pastry base with a little beaten egg.

• Roll the remaining pastry (again, to the thickness of a pound coin) and drape it over the filled salmon fillets. 'Tuck' the parcel in, seal the edges using a fork, trim the seal for a neat finish then put the whole thing in the fridge to chill for a minimum of 30 minutes (note: you can leave the unbaked croûte in the fridge for up to 24 hours.)

• When you're ready cook, preheat the oven to 220c/200c fan/gas 7. Glaze the top of the croûte with more beaten egg and a sprinkling of salt, make several neat cuts in the surface to allow the steam to escape, then bake for 15 minutes before lowering the heat to 180c/160c fan/gas 4 and baking for approximately 20 minutes more, or until the top is evenly golden.

• Remove from the oven and allow to stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the buttered Jersey Royals and steamed asparagus.

Melissa Blease Food Writer

A Taste of Elegance

DELIGHTFUL AFTERNOON TEA OFFERINGS TO ENJOY IN AND AROUND BATH

HAYWARD’S AT THE GRASMERE

Indulge in an Afternoon Tea at Hayward’s at the Grasmere, an independent, family run restaurant, situated in the town of Keynsham, just outside Bath. Everything is made from scratch on site, using ingredients from local suppliers. Presented on a double layer slate stand, this afternoon tea consists of 5 savoury and 5 sweet items, made up of elements of a traditional afternoon tea, such as finger sandwiches, Welsh Rarebit, Victoria sponge and choux buns.

Inclusive of bottomless hot drinks, including a selection of tea flavours from Bath-based The Leafy Tea Company.

HAYWARD’S AT THE GRASMERE 22-24 BATH ROAD, KEYNSHAM, BS31 1SNHAYWARDSATTHEGRASMERE.CO.UK 0117 9862662

£25pp

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL

Indulge in a quintessentially English tradition at the iconic Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea - served 1-4pm, pre-booking advised - of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of delectable pastries, complemented by a choice of Hoogly teas and the option of a glass or flight of Taittinger Champagne. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this idyllic setting offers the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, along with a choice of alfresco dining on the terrace or the lawn.

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA 16 ROYAL CRESCENT, BATH BA1 2LS

WWW.ROYALCRESCENT.CO.UK 01225 823333

£45pp

ABBEY HOTEL BATH

Visit the charming and delightful Abbey Deli that is the original Modiste Dress Shop as featured in the huge Netflix Series ‘Bridgerton’. Try one of the two themed Afternoon Teas ‘Modiste’ or ‘Madame Delacroix’ and escape into the world of romance and passion whilst enjoying a sumptuous spread of fresh sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, sweet treats and Modiste Tea (with a glass of Prosecco for the Madame Delacroix Tea) all within the beautiful City of Bath.

THE ABBEY DELI ELTON HOUSE, 2 ABBEY STREET, BATH BA1 1NNWWW.JJBEANOS.COM 01225 313037

£22.95pp

The Abbey Tea Bar has opened in central Bath at the Abbey Hotel, offering a classic British teatime experience. Partnered with Hope & Glory, they provide a variety of fine English teas paired with delicious cakes and sandwiches. Guests can enjoy a full afternoon tea or an appetising selection of sourdough and finger sandwiches from 11am to 5:30pm. In the evening, the menu includes classic favourites and a range of cocktails and drinks. Located opposite Bath Abbey, with indoor and outdoor seating available, The Abbey Tea Bar provides a serene escape for locals and an authentic experience for tourists.

ABBEY HOTEL NORTH PARADE, BATH BA1 1LFWWW.ABBEYTEABAR.COM 01225 461603

£30pp

THE ABBEY DELI

Whether your idea of the perfect A ernoon Tea includes dainty sandwiches, cutesy cakes and proper scones slathered with jam and clotted cream, a unique twist on the classic theme or an impromptu tea’n’cake break, Bath has more tantalising mid-a ernoon tea time treat options than Jane Austen had bonnets.

Dress up and sit down to a tiered tower of treats served up in historic surroundings, chill out in a chic, contemporary setting or dive into a huge pot of tea and a massive slab of homemade scrumptiousness at one of Bath’s many café society hangouts – whatever your preference, skip lunch and make time for tea instead.

ROBUN

Taking inspiration from across Japan, Bath’s premier Japanese Restaurant Robun has an Afternoon Tea that offers a truly unique experience. Swapping sandwiches for sushi and scones for bao buns, this beautifully presented Afternoon Tea features some of the standout dishes from Robun’s menu of yakiniku, sushi and sashimi sharing plates, alongside sweet treats including Miso Cake and Mochi Ice Cream. All served with a selection of traditional Japanese teas and the option of sparkling wine. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Served daily midday until 5pm.

ROBUN

4 PRINCES BUILDINGS, GEORGE STREET, BATH BA1 2EDWWW.ROBUN.CO.UK

01225 433200

£28pp

THE MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY

Step into a whimsical world at our family-run Alice in Wonderland-themed café, where every meal is a delightful adventure. Enjoy light lunches featuring freshly-made sandwiches, toasties, salads, jacket potatoes, and flavourful paninis. Alongside, enjoy our delightful Afternoon Tea, which comes with unlimited hot drinks including tea, coffee or hot chocolate, delicious cream tea, which is warm scones with clotted cream and jam and you also get a slice of our yummy homemade cake. Dive into the rabbit hole for an unforgettable and fantastical time, where tradition meets a vibrant café atmosphere.

THE MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY

5 ORANGE GROVE, BATH BA1 1LP

WWW.MADHATTERSBATH.CO.UK

01225 571314

£24.50pp

AVON VALLEY RAILWAY

Visit the Avon Valley Railway for a unique Afternoon Tea experience. Take your seat in our First Class dining carriage and enjoy a welcome glass of local Three Choirs sparkling wine. Then, as your steam-hauled journey begins, choose from our selection of Tregothnan Tea (the tea grown in England) or Nespresso coffees. Then, our attentive staff will bring your cake stand to the table so you can enjoy your Afternoon Tea of finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones and a selection of dainty cakes. This experience lasts two hours and costs £49 per person.

AVON VALLEY RAILWAY BITTON STATION, BATH ROAD, BITTON, BRISTOL BS30 6HDWWW.AVONVALLEYRAILWAY.ORG 0117 932 5538

£49pp

SWEET LITTLE THINGS

Treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea experience at Sweet Little Things, a family-run tea room and bakery located in the heart of Bath.

Indulge in a delectable spread of sweet and savoury treats, paired with your choice of teas. And for those looking for a little extra indulgence, we also offer a bottomless drinks package to accompany your afternoon tea. Come and join us for a truly sweet and memorable time at Sweet Little Things. Regular afternoon tea: £29.95 or we offer a bottomless drinks package for £40.00.

SWEET LITTLE THINGS

5 OLD BOND STREET, BATH BA1 1BWWWW.SLTBATH.CO.UK 01225 592108

£29.95pp

Scheme to help combat furniture poverty being extended

Becky Feather Reporter

A PILOT scheme providing essential furnishings to residents across Bath and North East Somerset has been extended to support more households and reduce social care costs.

The Cosy Start scheme, which supports residents at greatest risk of furniture poverty, is run by Bath-based housing association Curo and funded by social enterprise Fusion 21 and community charity St John’s Foundation, which supports hundreds of residents every year through its Crisis Programme. In 2023 Cosy Start paid for essential furnishings for 15 homes in the region to combat the impact of furniture poverty. Moving into a new home can often affect individuals’ physical, emotional, social and financial well-being, particularly those at a critical time of adjustment, such as those fleeing domestic abuse or those who have resettled after being homeless.

Twelve months later, all 15 households remain in their tenancies with zero rent arrears

– compared with the average of 18% among Universal Credit new tenancies – highlighting the scheme’s positive impact on housing stability.

David Hobdey, chief executive officer of St John’s Foundation, which also provided £203,000 to more than 300 individuals and families through its Crisis Programme in 2023, said: “Behind the veneer of Bath and the surrounding area, there are several thousand people living in poverty, including around 1,500 children.

“Moving into a property with no furniture can be socially isolating and lead residents to resort to debt which can quickly spiral

and ultimately jeopardise the tenancy.

“Living without essential household appliances also significantly increases household bills, for example, by not having the means to cook or store fresh food.

“Removing this cause of stress has an extremely positive impact on individuals and families who are already coping with upheaval and adjusting to new circumstances.

“This is why we are very pleased to continue our funding for another year to support more households.”

Furniture poverty is defined as the inability to access, or afford

Students leaving city encouraged to donate their unwanted items

BATH students who are leaving their homes in the city at the end of the academic year are being encouraged to recycle any unwanted items to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

Bright red donation banks have been installed at temporary sites across the city and will remain in place until the end of July for donations of clothes, books, DVDs, CDs and bric-a-brac. The donations provide stock for BHF’s network of shops and are resold to help fund lifesaving research into heart and circulatory diseases.

The donation drive is part of the annual Student Move Out Campaign, an initiative led by the Student Community Partnership (SCP) that will also see officers from Bath & North East Somerset Council’s waste team joining SCP, university and student volunteers

knocking on doors to give advice to students on recycling using the regular waste collection boxes.

Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “Last year the campaign was a great success; we collected more than 5,000 bags of donations to support the British Heart Foundation in their work providing defibrillators and CPR training for local organisations.”

The SCP is a partnership of the University of Bath, Bath Spa University, Bath College and their students’ unions, with Norland College and the council.

SCP’s manager Ghika Savva said: “Last year the items left in the temporary donation banks yielded £41,790 worth of donations and diverted 23.8 tonnes of items from disposal.

“Two additional sites for Bath College brought in a further 126 bags of donations worth up to

to buy or maintain, household furniture or appliances that are essential to achieving a socially acceptable standard of living.

Cosy Start helps those at greatest risk of furniture poverty such as refugees, care leavers, resettled homeless people and those fleeing domestic abuse, with funding covering essential items such as furniture and carpets, white goods, and a welcome pack comprising of a kettle, toaster, crockery, saucepans and bedding.

Emma Owens, director of customer accounts and lettings at Curo, said: “We’re delighted that the pilot has proved extremely successful, and residents have been unanimous in their recommendations of the scheme.

“We now plan to expand our reach to further alleviate furniture poverty and assist more individuals in need, with the support of funding from our partners.

“Over time, we hope to make this a sustainable initiative that contributes to social and financial stability within the community without the need for external funding.”

Prior to the scheme’s implementation, a survey of 150

customers within the scheme’s target beneficiaries assessed its potential impact. The results revealed significant demand, with 69% expressing that they would benefit from the scheme and 51% stating that they incurred debt while purchasing essential items.

Alarmingly, 34% reported having no furniture at all upon moving into a house, whilst 79% spent time in their homes trying to get by without the essentials to live. One respondent also highlighted that this support was particularly important for those fleeing domestic violence, because moving from a property where you have everything to nothing risks the fleeing parent returning to their abuser for the security of their family having a bed. Reflecting on the life-changing scheme, one pilot participant said: “The items I have received have given me a sense of freedom and increased independence because we’re able to function normally and are less dependent on others. I worry less about money now as a result of the items I have received because I can store food for longer, I don’t have to use the launderette and I don’t have as many takeaways.”

Gardener applauded for 43 years of service

£1,764.

“In 2023 the total Bath campaign raised over £81,186 for BHF, diverting 46 tonnes of material for reuse and recycling.”

Tim Reeves, the charity’s university account executive, said: “The British Heart Foundation is proud to work side by side with Bath Student Community Partnership and Bath & North East Somerset Council. Donations given by both students and staff have done so much to help us fight the challenge of heart and circulatory diseases through life-changing research.”

The donation banks are at:

• Dartmouth Avenue, Southdown.

• West Avenue, Westmoreland.

• Canterbury Road, Oldfield Park

• Oldfield Lane, Oldfield Park

• Bridge Road, Southdown.

• Widcombe Baptist Church, Widcombe & Lyncombe.

• Beechen Cliff Villas, Widcombe & Lyncombe (alongside the onstreet grit bin).

• Victoria Road, Westmoreland.

• Twerton High Street.

• Holloway, Widcombe & Lyncombe (at the bottom of the steps to Carlton Walk).

The charity does not take donations of electrical items, kitchen equipment, furniture, duvets and pillows.

A BATH & North East Somerset Council gardener who has dedicated more than four decades to cultivating parks across the district is being celebrated for his long service.

Bob Scammell, 61, began working for the former Bath City Council in 1981 on a youth training scheme at Parade Gardens before tending to all the council’s gardens and green spaces across the district.

I’ve seen fashions and practices change – a lot for the better.

He currently works at the Royal Victoria Park nurseries.

Bob recently received a Long Service Award from the Mayor of Bath, Dine Romero, in recognition of his dedication.

Bob, a father of two and grandad of four, lives in the city and is a keen runner as well as a gardener.

He said: “I’ve always loved my job and working for the council, mainly because of the people I work with. We’re a team and I have great teammates.

“After 10 years at Parade Gardens, I spent five years at the Botanical Gardens and many more at all our council gardens in Bath, Keynsham, Peasedown St John and Midsomer Norton.

“We plant around 50,000 plants every year and over my 43 years

“We only use peat-free compost, no chemicals and we do so much more with wild flowers now. I’m a big fan of No Mow May because it’s so good for pollinators –spring is my favourite time of the year. Members of the public are always so complimentary when the team is out working in our parks. The most common request I get is, “Can you come and do that for my garden?

“It was a real honour to meet the Mayor of Bath and to be presented with a Long Service Award. I think I’ll be ready for retirement in a couple of years’ time but it’s been a blooming marvellous career!”

Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I am so impressed by Bob’s devotion and commitment to our green spaces. His meticulous care has helped make our beautiful parks and gardens what they are today.”

Councillor Romero said: “I was delighted to have been able to give Bob a 40-year badge for continuous service with the same Bath firm, which he truly deserved.”

The scheme supports those at greatest risk of furniture poverty

Ghika Savva (SCP Manager) and Councillor Paul May | Photo © B&NES Council

Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk

St John Ambulance celebrates 135 years of service in Bath

Becky Feather Reporter

CURRENT and former volunteers from St John Ambulance’s City of Bath unit have celebrated 135 years of service in the city at a special event.

The unit is among the oldest in the country still in existence.

Eighty visitors were present for the celebration event, held on 23rd May at the unit’s HQ at Weirside Court.

They included Mohammed Saddiq, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Somerset; Andrew and Mel Taylor, from the Bath Half Marathon, an event which the volunteers have supported for many years; and David Medlock, whose Medlock Charitable Trust was a principal funder of the unit’s headquarters.

Past leaders of the unit also participated, including the current unit manager and four former unit managers and divisional superintendents.

The celebration was also well

attended by current and past volunteers of all ages including many Cadets and their parents.

During the evening, awards were presented including certificates for around 20 young volunteers.

A further seven Cadets were enrolled to begin their volunteering journey with St John, and a new Cadet Corporal, Kay Wirick, received her rank slides.

The adult volunteers were also given various awards including service hours certificates, four Coronation Medals and a 10-year service medal. The unit event lead, Thamira Joy Valentine,

received a District Manager’s Commendation for service in the local area.

With a very active Cadet group based at the unit, with many young volunteers training to be the next generation of lifesavers, it fell to Cadet Amelia Douthwaite to act as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, introducing the various elements of the event, first aid demonstrations and a special video of the history of the unit.

Ruth Foreman, City of Bath unit manager, who was recently admitted to the Order of St John in recognition of her service to the charity, said: “I cannot even estimate the number of patients our volunteers will have helped over 135 years, nor the number of lives that will have been saved due to their skills and prompt intervention.

“It was wonderful to see current and old friends at our special event and we are very grateful to our VIP guests for sparing the time to come and celebrate with us. Here’s to the next century of service for the City of Bath unit.”

Get your Covid-19 jab before vaccine programme ends

THE NHS is urging all eligible people who haven’t yet had their top-up Covid jab to come forward and get protected before the end of June.

Figures show that more than half a million people in the South West have taken up the offer since April when the spring campaign was launched, including nearly two-thirds of care home residents in the region.

Around 884,000 people in the South West region are eligible for a spring Covid-19 vaccination, including anyone aged 75 or over by 30th June, along with older adult care home residents and people with a weakened immune system aged six months and over.

For the first time, joint bookings can be made for those who use the online booking system or NHS 119 to get their jab. If anyone wants to get their vaccine at the same time as a loved one and they are both eligible and over 18, only one appointment will need to be made. Depending on the vaccination site, those

who have booked a joint appointment may be vaccinated at the same time or may have back-to-back slots.

From now until 30th June, there are thousands of appointments available every day across the country, including at pharmacies and GP practices.

Some areas also offer walk-in options, with a full list of walk-in sites available online.

Covid-19 can still cause severe illness and hospitalisations in some cases, particularly among those most at risk. The vaccine is said to give the best protection against the virus and its different variants and helps reduce the risk of serious illness.

Dr Matthew Dominey, the South West regional screening and immunisation lead, said: “We’re really proud of the fact we have one of the best take-up rates in the country with over half a million people into the South West, and nearly two-thirds of our care home residents, coming forward to get their all-important Covid-19 vaccination.”

Ivybank House Care Home opens its doors

IVYBANK House Care Home at Entry Hill in Bath is opening its doors to the public every Wednesday in June between 10am and 2pm.

Visitors can expect a warm welcome from the home’s new management team, who will provide a tour and introduce guests to the care, facilities and services provided.

The 43-bed care home is expanding its services and from the summer will also be offering specialist residential dementia care to residents.

Ivybank House offers a varied activities programme and dropin guests will be able to find out more about some of the most popular activities available.

Following their tour, visitors will

be invited to stay and chat to the team and enjoy complimentary refreshments in the garden with residents.

Marta Szemborska, Ivybank House home manager, said:

“We are really looking forward to welcoming drop-in guests to Ivybank House every Wednesday.

“It is a wonderful home which rightly enjoys an excellent local reputation due to the top quality, personalised care we offer.

“We know from experience that people often have many questions about life in a care home so this is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in finding out more about the facilities and services we provide to come and see for themselves in a friendly and relaxed environment.”

The Lord-Lieutenant cuts the 135th anniversary cake | Photo © Tom Astill

Packaging firm set up by university professor secures £4m investment

KELPI, a firm that uses seaweed to create sustainable packaging, has taken a step closer to market after securing major new funding.

Co-founded by Professor Chris Chuck from the University of Bath’s Department of Chemical Engineering, the firm recently secured £4.35 million in investment to help launch its pioneering biomaterial technology in the food and drink and cosmetics and personal care sectors.

The funding round will allow Kelpi to expand its operations, grow its team and run scale-up pilots to plot a pathway to launch.

The equity funding round attracted investment from Blackfinch Ventures, Green Angel Ventures, Kadmos Capital, QantX, Evenlode Foundation and the South West Investment Fund, as well as follow-on investment from Bristol Private Equity Club (BPEC), One Planet Capital and private angel investors.

The funds will be used to advance manufacturing pilots and gain regulatory approval

for proprietary coatings for paper and card and continue a commercial roll-out which has seen the firm win research and development contracts with global leaders including L’Oréal, Diageo, Waitrose and its tropical fresh fruit supplier Blue Skies.

Professor Chuck said: “It has been fantastic to be able to leverage the University’s capability in sustainable technology research, and with support in those early months, develop an idea all the way through to creating genuinely novel materials on scale.

“The materials themselves not only have advanced functionality but will readily biodegrade if released into the environment.”

Kelpi’s bio-material is unique

in matching or even exceeding the performance of plastic, in particular with a strong water barrier and resistance to greasy contents or acidic foods.

Kelpi uses only renewable feedstocks, sourcing seaweed farmed sustainably, ensuring a positive impact upon the environment as seaweed sequesters huge amounts of carbon dioxide as it grows, deacidifying the ocean and providing a rich environment for fish.

Kelpi’s CEO Neil Morris said: “This landmark investment enables Kelpi to scale up our pioneering work and take to market our world-leading packaging material that is already being chosen by clients.

“Kelpi can now play a key role in ending our dependence on fossil fuels to create single-use packaging and so eliminating a major source of plastic pollution.

“We’re delighted to receive this backing from investors like Blackfinch and Green Angel Ventures to allow us to accelerate our pioneering work.”

Kingswood appoints Senior Deputy Head

KINGSWOOD School in Bath has announced the appointment of Mat Chataway as Senior Deputy Head and Vice Principal of the Kingswood Foundation.

Following a 16-year career spanning three schools in London, Mr Chataway will be leaving his position as Deputy Head Pastoral at Latymer Upper School to join Kingswood in September alongside his wife and two children, who will be joining Kingswood Prep School.

Mr Chataway said: “From the first moment I was in touch with Kingswood, I was overwhelmed by the sense of community the school held.

“There was an obvious warmth and kindness throughout my interactions at every point, and it was clear that pupils and staff alike really seemed to care about school and each other.”

Headmaster and Principal of the Kingswood Foundation, Andrew Gordon-Brown, said: “We had an outstanding field of applicants for this position of Senior Deputy Head, and I am sure that Mr

Chataway will be a worthy successor to Mr John Davies.

“The Governors and I were hugely impressed by the considerable pastoral and leadership experience that Mat will bring to complement our senior team.

“Mat’s personal connection to our school’s mission and identity is very strong and we very much look forward to welcoming him and his family to the Kingswood community from September.”

Kingswood School is a coeducational day and boarding school with more than 1,300 pupils including the nursery.

Professor Chris Chuck | Photo © Laurie Lapworth / University of Bath

Mat Chataway | Photo © Kingswood

Early stage plans for homes on Homebase land

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

500 HOMES could be built in Bath, a stone’s throw from the city centre, amid plans to redevelop the former Homebase site.

The huge homeware and hardware shop shut in 2020 and the 4.5 acre site — located just across the bridge from Sainsbury’s and Green Park Station — is now just a large concrete slab. But now developers hope to turn it into a new neighbourhood with 200 “shared living” homes and 300 other homes.

HUB, a developer specialising in co-living, has held multiple public exhibitions of their plans for the site in recent months, which they are calling the “Pines Way Redevelopment”.

Exhibition boards said: “We want to transform the site into a vibrant mixed use community space, comprising professionally-managed rental homes, affordable housing, commercial and retail spaces, enhanced public realm areas and new pedestrian and cycle routes.” Planning permission had

previously been granted in 2021 to build a 288-unit care complex on the site.

Bath & North East Somerset Council rejected the plans but approval was won on appeal from the Planning Inspectorate, however the development never happened.

No planning application for HUB’s plan has yet been submitted, but it has submitted a request to the council for whether an environmental impact assessment is needed — generally the first step in the planning process before an application goes in.

Plans shown in exhibitions show two larger and two smaller blocks planned, with planting on wide streets and squares around them. Buildings would range from two to six storeys in height, although exact plans for the buildings could change when a planning application is submitted. Homes would range from one to three bedrooms in size, either available for shared living or constructed as “build to rent.”

HUB’s exhibition boards described the shared living concept as “a lifestyle choice centred around sharing”. They stated: “Studio homes are

CHIPPENHAM

MONKTON PARK

well designed and furnished for one and two people with communal spaces at the heart of the proposals to foster a community. Residents will have access to a number of necessary spaces with a variety of facilities such as laundry rooms, post collection boxes, large meeting/ dining rooms and workout spaces. Shared Living is an emerging housing type that offers an alternative to either a house share (HMO), which may be poorly managed and have limited access to shared space.”

The other homes will be “build to rent” homes, owned by a single company and available to rent, but also with additional facilities not available at most standard rented properties such as gyms, shared lounges, and gardens.

Up to 1,400 square metres of commercial space is also planned as part of the development, clustered in one area.

Exhibition boards said: “We believe a commercial hub will create a focal point for community interaction and activity but away from more sensitive residential areas.”

A planning application is planned to be submitted in the autumn.

News in Brief Permanent ‘parklet’ proposal submitted

Plans for a ‘parklet’ at a city centre pub have been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. Star Pubs and Bars have lodged the application for The Trinity Inn in James Street West, near Kingsmead Square. They say they want to improve the outside drinking area where there is currently a pavement licence for customers’ use, consisting of picnic benches, umbrellas and café barriers.

The intention is to remove the portable furniture and provide a new more permanent structure in the form of a timber-framed parklet with seating booths, with all sides and roof sections provided with a clear plastic rollup wind protector which would be securely fixed and locked when not in use.

The parklet would also have heaters and festoon lighting.

The application highlights that The Trinity is in a vibrant area with bars and restaurants, most of which already have external seating areas.

The planning reference is 24/01762/FUL. The deadline for comments is 20th June.

Great grocery foods and quirky crafts, superb street foods and liberal libations from bars of distinction together with park party entertainment including live music stage, fairground rides, children’s comedy and workshops. Here’s to feeling chipper in Chippenham with a big serving of foodie fun!

www.zoomevents.co.uk

The former Homebase site in Bath | Image © Craig Auckland / Fotohaus

Raft of concerns over Tufa Field bungalows

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 16 supported living bungalows on a rare ecological site in the south of Bath have prompted around 50 objections.

The site behind 89-123 Englishcombe Lane is known as the Tufa Field and the councilled development is controversial as it is an important nature reserve due to its tufa flushes, a rare type of limestone spring, and is a treasured green space home to a variety of wildlife.

Bath & North East Somerset Council says it has an ecologically sensitive and landscape-led approach to the proposed development to provide adults with learning disabilities and/ or autism the opportunity to live independently.

The scheme includes a communal hub where accommodation for carers is also proposed.

But as part of the consultation, the council’s own drainage and flooding team have flagged up that more information is required regarding the natural watercourses.

And safety and security concerns have been raised by the officer at Avon & Somerset Police who is responsible for crime prevention through environmental design projects in B&NES.

In his report, he says the scheme is not acceptable in its current format and there is a general lack of consideration documented that would show that safety and security have been adequately considered to comply with legislation.

The lack of a “robust perimeter treatment” could lead to crime such as burglary and anti-social behaviour which is of increased concern when considering the “potential vulnerability” of residents, he says.

He is also critical of the car park’s “remote and secluded location”

and says vehicles parked there would be “vulnerable to attack”.

The officer also highlights that low-level lighting on pathways does not work to support CCTV and that a CCTV plan has not been submitted.

Among other concerns raised during the consultation is the impact of the development on Bath’s mineral waters, with one objector noting: “Tufa limestone is unique. Bath is one of the only places in the UK with this form of rock. Tufa deposits form an important habitat for a diverse flora. Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts, etc.) and diatoms are well represented. The porosity of the deposits creates a wet habitat ideal for these plants.

“This is the only site within Bath that exhibits this phenomenon.

Mineral waters of Bath could be affected if this work goes ahead.

I urge B&NES to find another location for this much-needed accommodation.”

Another local objector observes:

“The residents surrounding the site understand the issues around water flow and drainage and how their properties and environs are affected at present. They observe and are subjected

to changing water flows, land slips and flooding.

“Can anyone really accurately predict the impact of disrupting this challenging environment by digging down into it then covering it over with bricks and concrete?

“If this project does go ahead, the adjacent properties ought to be indemnified by the council for future yet unknown damage or impact on quality of life.”

A former autism education specialist has raised concerns that the site is not an appropriate place to house neurodivergent people who require supported living: “There are no shops with easy access, nor are there public bus stops on that part of Englishcombe Lane.

“Traffic along the road is busy, and despite the speed limit being reduced to 20mph, the road continues to see accidents and near misses. Englishcombe Lane has steadily become more busy and I would be genuinely concerned for the wellbeing of anyone who is vulnerable enough to need supported living if they found themselves alone on Englishcombe Lane.”

A local resident fears that the

scheme creates a clear precedent that could lead to further infill behind the houses on Englishcombe Lane.

There have also been some comments of support including:

“The application provides critically needed accommodation for people who are poorly served by the current availability and offering.

“The plans are proportionate in that they balance the need for the site's use with its ecological conservation. The key word here is balance. All sites can conceptually be considered ecologically important in some manner, but the balance must come with community need. Here the balance is struck carefully and in the context of significant social need.”

The consultation has now closed and the council’s planning team is considering all responses.

There was a previously approved scheme for the site which the council decided not to pursue; in 2020 the planning committee had granted permission, subject to completion of a legal agreement and compliance with 34 planning conditions, for 27 open-market homes on the site.

Planning Round-up

18-bed student block scheme in Twerton

A planning application has been lodged with Bath & North East Somerset Council to convert a unit built in Twerton for employment use into student accommodation. The application relates to the change of use of the two-storey Baker’s House, part of the Old Bakery Yard in Jews Lane. The site contains two recently constructed buildings. The larger one is already in use as purposebuilt student accommodation, providing 63 beds.

The smaller two-storey building at the rear of Old Bakery Yard has been completed to shell specification and is vacant. It has consent for flexible employment use, but the lack of investor and occupier interest since March 2022 has prompted consideration of its potential for alternative use. Turning it into accommodation for 18 students is now being proposed. The property has a courtyard area with six parking spaces and a servicing/yard space. The planning reference is 24/02034/FUL. The deadline for comments is 21st June.

Balcony safety concerns at two blocks of flats

Concerns about balcony safety at two blocks of flats in Bath have prompted planning applications to be submitted to the council. The applications relate to Hampton House and Easton House on Grosvenor Bridge Road at Lambridge. The blocks, which were constructed around 1970 and incorporate 38 flats, are managed by Adam Church Ltd. Chartered surveyors have been appointed to submit planning applications for the replacement of the failing timber balcony guarding at both blocks. The applications say although regularly maintained, the current guardings have reached the end of their life and have started to fail, “resulting in an unacceptable risk to the occupiers”.

At Hampton House there is an application to replace 19 guardings with steel ones. At Easton House, 15 need replacing.

Becky Feather Reporter

How the new bungalows may look | Image © Arcadis / Bath & North East Somerset Council

Upcoming Fixtures Sport

Bath Cricket Club (1ST XI)

Team Bath Netball pledge to ‘go out with a bang’

Becky Feather Reporter

TEAM Bath Netball say they are determined to “go out with a bang” as they prepare for their last ever Super League fixture this weekend.

At the end of May the University of Bath-based team were devastated after being informed by England Netball that they had not been granted a licence to continue in the Netball Super League past the end of this season.

In a statement they said: “Team Bath Netball have actively engaged with England Netball throughout the consultation and tender process for NSL 2.0 and have not only supported the ambitions of the league but have committed time and resource to proactively prepare the franchise for the next chapter of elite netball in the UK.

“Despite submitting a tender that we believe presented an exciting and ambitious proposal for Netball Super League in the South West, our tender did not meet all of the expected operating standards.

“One specific area in which the tender fell short of the expected operating standards related to the lack of arena provision.

“Moving netball into larger

arenas is a core part of England Netball’s roadmap for NSL 2.0, and whilst discussions have been ongoing with potential partners in respect to this area, at present there are no arenas in the region that meet England Netball’s NSL 2.0 requirements.

“For more than two decades, the University of Bath has been an ever-present leader and supporter of high-performance netball, and the success of the Team Bath franchise is considered, by many, as the catalyst for the journey elite netball has been on in the UK.

“In addition to being a founding member of the Super League, Team Bath remains the most successful club in the history of the league, having won the title five times, and it has been the origin for countless legends of the game – many of whom are still leading the way in elite netball.”

Whilst the panel’s decision

excludes Team Bath from taking part in the NSL 2.0 competition, the team have said they are actively working with England Netball to safeguard the future of the Team Bath pathway.

Stephen Baddeley, Director of Sport for Team Bath, praised the dedication and determination of all the staff and volunteers and thanked the fans for their steadfast support.

He added: “We would also like to record our appreciation to our main partners, Bath Building Society, Rengen Developments and Flyhawk, who have given the franchise and the players such great support and who have consistently shared in our passion for netball.”

This Saturday (15th June) the Blue & Gold make the journey across the Severn Bridge to face Cardiff Dragons (6pm centrepass) and will be cheered on by

a contingent of travelling fans at the Utilita Arena.

The match, round two of the Battle of the Bridge, is also being shown live on BBC Sport.

Team Bath go into the match on the back of a 72-57 defeat at semifinalists Severn Stars last Friday. It was a last-ever home match for Stars, who are also leaving the Super League at the end of the 2024 season.

Bath Netball Head Coach Asha Francis said her players want to put on a show on Saturday: “This is one last opportunity, one last chance to play together, and we will give it everything.

“There were just six goals separating the sides when we met at the Team Bath Arena in April and we know there is a real opportunity to win this game.”

Asha added: “It might be the end of Team Bath but it’s not the end of the players’ careers and they are true professionals. They are all competitors and want Team Bath to go out with a bang.

“We are all human and we saw in our final home game against Strathclyde Sirens that it is hard to park those emotions.

“There is no doubt some of that will still be there but we have had more time to process the news now and we are determined to put out a performance to be proud of.”

Plans for new spectator stand win approval

PLANS for a replacement spectator stand at Larkhall Athletic FC’s ground at Charlcombe have been approved by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The club are affiliated to the Somerset County FA and play in the Southern League at Step 4.

In 2005, the club bought the site from the council with much public support and have steadily made improvements to the ground and facilities. They need to provide 250 covered seats as part of their licence requirement to play at Step 3.

The new four-row stand, which

includes an accessible facility space for two wheelchairs, replaces the current one which is a repurposed Stothert & Pitt cycle shed that has been in place since the 1970s.

The new stand will be in the same location as the existing one but will be higher and more

Crossword answers - Issue 079 (31/05/2024)

substantial although shorter in length.

The site is within the Green Belt and Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but planning officers agreed that the new stand will maintain the character and appearance of the area.

Across: 8 Twelve, 9 Golf club, 10 Snob, 11 Indus, 12 Do in, 13 X-Files, 15 Sustains, 17 Sung, 18 Ebony, 20 Thor, 22 Pectoral, 25 System, 26 Pith, 28 Cajun, 30 Fake, 31 Proposed, 32 Needle. Down: 1 Swine flu, 2 Blob, 3 Key issue, 4 Aged, 5 Blasts, 6 Iced, 7 Julian, 14 Leg it, 15 Stool, 16 Altos, 19 Yes and no, 21 Overkill, 23 Emigre, 24 Recess, 27 Hope, 29 Jedi, 30 Feet.

Saturday 15th June – 12pm Bath vs Bridgwater (Home - North Parade) WEPL

Sunday 16th June – 1pm

Bath vs Potterne (Home - North Parade) ECB National Club Championships

Thursday 20th June – 6.15pm

Bath vs Lansdown (Away) Somerset Cup

Saturday 22nd June – 12pm Bath vs Bishopston (Away) WEPL

Lansdown

Cricket Club (1ST XI)

Saturday 15th June – 12pm Lansdown vs Bedminster (Away) P1

Saturday 16th June – 2pm Lansdown (W) vs Chard (Home - Combe Park) T20 Blitz

Saturday 22nd June – 12pm Lansdown vs Frocester (Home - Combe Park) P1

Get Involved

Whether you'd like us to include your upcoming fixtures in the newspaper, or submit a match report for publishing, we'd love to hear from you.

Please send fixtures lists for your team to sport@bathecho.co.uk and we'll add your next event to our sports calendar.

If you have photographs that we can use, we'd also like to include them here, on our website and social media.

We're happy to host match reports from across Bath and the surrounding area. Send them to sport@bathecho.co.uk with the subject Match Report.

To ensure we can include your report in our next issue, please limit the length to around 400 words - a photo from the event would also be useful.

Team Bath in the Netball Super League | Photo © Will Cooper / Fever Pitch

For that early morning cuppa. For when ‘7 across’ has you stumped. For peace. For quiet. For when a custard cream tickles your fancy. For a hand to hold when it all feels too much.

For when you fall in love, again. For that fit of giggles after a serious chat. For “namaste”.

For that homely feeling, even though you just moved in.

For every moment, we’re here.

hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk/midford-manor