Bath Echo - Issue 111 - 29/08/2025

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Attacks on memorial garden to Bath Blitz victims

THERE have been two vandalism attacks in a week at the Oldfield Park memorial garden to the child victims of the Bath Blitz.

Police launched an appeal for witnesses and information after the first attack at the Shaftesbury Road site, which was discovered on Tuesday 19th August.

A metal cross was broken off and a plaque bearing the names was scratched to show offensive language.

The plaque has since been taken away by Chris Kilminster (pictured on page 1), an ambassador for Bath who lost five members of his family in the Blitz in April 1942.

A full investigation is under way.

Police say that a small number of people have repeatedly engaged in anti-social behaviour in the area, and they are committed to working with the community to tackle the problem.

There is no evidence of any political motivation, and officers are treating it as an act of “mindless vandalism”.

Mr Kilminster, from Combe Down, told the Echo this week that he had removed the plaque to get it repaired - but discovered on Tuesday that someone had ripped an edging off the memorial.

He said there have also been recent incidents of people

urinating over it and torching the poppy wreaths.

Mr Kilminster said the police have been “very helpful” but resources are limited and the site is “secluded”.

He has detailed knowledge of the Bath Blitz, including where the bombs dropped, their weight, the damage they caused and the lives they claimed. In total 417 died, including 63 children.

The Luftwaffe flew 168 sorties from occupied France across the English Channel during the three air raids on Bath.

In 2008 Mr Kilminster arranged a service at the Shaftesbury Road site that was attended by German bomber pilot Willi Schludecker, who flew more than 120 sorties including three raids on Bath between 25th and 27th April 1942. Mr Schludecker, who twice received the Iron Cross from Hitler, publicly apologised to the

people of Bath at the service, which was transmitted live to 52 countries.

Speaking about the vandalism this week, Mr Kilminster said: “Because of what is happening here I am trying so hard to get a memorial put in the centre of Bath, ideally for tourists to see what happened to Bath and also for the younger generation. It would be a lot safer there.”

He said he has been working with last year’s Mayor of Bath Councillor Michelle O’Doherty on a project to get a memorial stone put in Orange Grove, near the abbey. It would have a plaque explaining what happened to Bath during the Blitz and list the names of the child victims.

Mr Kilminster, who is 78 and has had heart surgery, said he hopes a sponsor can be found for the memorial and that it can be “fasttracked, explaining: “I want to see

it before I go.”

He was born in 1947, two years after the Second World War ended. His seven-year-old sister Mary was one of 28 people killed at Roseberry Road in Bath when a 500kg bomb hit a public air raid shelter.

It also claimed the lives of four other family members. His sister Shirley, who was four, survived the bombing while his mother lost a leg above the knee after she was hit by shrapnel.

It is believed the intended target of the bomb was either the nearby Somerset and Dorset railway junction or the city’s gas works. A memorial at the new Spring Wharf development at Roseberry Road was unveiled in 2019 bearing the names of those who died in the air raid shelter and is named Mary’s Walk after his sister.

Mr Kilminster has a collection of wartime items dug up at Roseberry Road during the redevelopment of the area, including part of the bomb itself. Anyone with relevant footage or information of vandalism at the memorial garden at Shaftesbury Road is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5225235726. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at https:// crimestoppers-uk.org/giveinformation

Bath surgery’s HMO plans are finally approved

Becky Feather Reporter

A GP surgery’s third attempt to turn a two-storey wing into a four-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) has been permitted by a majority vote of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee. The space at St Michael's in Twerton was a dental practice but has been empty for three years. The practice relocated to Rush Hill. There is also a dentist next door.

In March 2024 the council refused a proposed HMO, mainly because of the risk of “sandwiching” No.14 Walwyn Close between

two shared houses.

There had also been concerns that two of the four bedrooms would only have obscure glazed windows and the property didn’t have an EPC (energy performance certificate) rating of C.

Another bid last autumn involved window changes and noted that there was no evidence of No.12 having become a shared house, and the permission had expired. It also said the EPC could be increased with small upgrades. But it was refused as one of the bedrooms would have “unsatisfactory” living conditions due to an obscure glazed window. The planners also said the scheme failed to secure the correct energy rating.

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Building consultants said the new scheme ensures all bedrooms will have front or rear-facing windows, and EPC upgrades could include new windows to meet lower U-values and applying reflective coating to southfacing windows, along with solar PV panels and loft insulation.

But Councillor Sarah Moore (Twerton & Whiteway, Liberal Democrat) said the plans hadn’t changed significantly and unobscured windows will overlook and open onto St Michael’s car park, providing no privacy for occupants or surgery

visitors. She also said windows will open on to a neighbour's garden and criticised the change of use “at a time of limited access to a doctor or NHS facilities”. Other local objections included the lack of parking and outdoor space. However, the planning officer’s report said the proposal complied with council policies.

Councillor Ruth Malloy (Weston, Liberal Democrat) said she understood the HMO was a “back-up plan” as the surgery would prefer a pharmacy, but that is “not a settled matter”.

The damaged memorial | Photo © Avon & Somerset Police

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Travel chaos forecast as bus drivers set to strike

Becky Feather Reporter

THE Unite union says that more than 1,000 drivers at First West of England will be taking “highly disruptive” action as children return to school after the holidays.

Drivers at six depots have voted to strike over pay. In Bristol, the First West of England drivers work at Bristol Bus Station, Lawrence Hill and Hengrove, which provide inner-city bus routes in the city as well as services for Bristol Airport, local universities and Amazon’s Bristol warehouse.

The other three affected depots are Weston Island in Bath, Weston-super-Mare and Wells. Unite members at the depots have rejected a two-year pay deal, which would give them £1 of extra of pay per hour from now until March 2026, then a “miserly” 30p hourly increase from April 2026. New starters will only be offered 50p extra on the hourly rate, which goes up by just a “pitiful” 10p next April, says Unite.

The union’s general secretary Sharon Graham said: “First Group PLC can clearly afford to pay our members more but are choosing to put profits over people.

“This dispute is entirely of First Group’s own making and any disruption could be easily avoided. Our members will have

Unite’s complete support.”

Unite says drivers will also lose out on backpay, as despite the pay anniversary date being April, First West of England has not committed to giving any remuneration for the past four months of the wage increase.

First West of England is part of First Group PLC, which had an operating profit of £204.3 million in 2024 while share dividends were increased by 45% compared to the previous year.

There will be an initial four days of strikes from Thursday 4th to Monday 8th September, followed by further strikes from Tuesday 16th to Friday 19th September. Cancellations and long delays to services are expected.

Unite regional officer Amy

Roberts said: “While the situation will be frustrating for passengers, our members have no choice but to take industrial action to make their voices heard.

“First West of England could still stop this disruption by coming back to the table with a meaningful pay offer.”

Doug Claringbold, managing director for First Bus in the West of England, told the Echo: “We are disappointed for our customers that the above-inflation pay offer we made to drivers has been rejected and that they will now face nine days of potentially significant disruption across Bristol, Bath, Wells and North Somerset.

“Our pay offer was significantly above the rate of inflation and

amounted to a pay increase of 8% over two years, including 6% this year, which was recommended by the trade union to our Bristol colleagues. However, that has been rejected and just over half of our drivers have voted to strike.

“We have been committed to improving the pay of drivers and continue to do so. Since 2021 a Bristol driver’s basic earnings has increased from just over £24,000 to more than £31,000 – a 31% increase. This pay offer would immediately increase these basic earnings to over £33,000, with many drivers earning significantly more than this.

“Throughout this extensive negotiation process, we have listened to Unite member feedback and made a number of offers in order to try and settle this dispute, to ensure customers are not affected by strike action.

“Unfortunately, rather than work with us to find a resolution, Unite has decided to press ahead with strikes in September at a busy time when schools and colleges are returning.

“We have reminded them that it is our customers who are going to suffer.

“We are continuing to work with the trade union to avoid any strikes. In the meantime, we ask customers to check our website and app before travelling where we will post updates about potential disruption.”

Concerted crackdown on city centre shoplifting

POLICE in Bath city centre have been involved in a concerted crackdown on shoplifters to protect businesses and their staff.

The team say that with help from their dedicated AntiSocial Behaviour Unit, there are currently more than a dozen offenders subject to Community Protection Warnings, Community Protection Notices or Criminal Behaviour Orders relating to shop theft.

The police say these orders help them protect victims and manage offenders, prohibiting them from attending certain shops or areas, or from being abusive towards shop staff.

“They also provide extra consequences for offenders should they be convicted of shoplifting offences while they are subject to these orders.

“These orders are made possible

with the support of businesses who report incidents to us and provide us with statements.

“We understand the impact that shoplifting is having on businesses in the city centre.”

Earlier this month the police teamed up with Bath BID (Business Improvement District) for a Safer Business Action Day. BID marshals, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and police officers - including a plain clothes team - spent several hours conducting dedicated patrols of retail crime hotspots.

There was also a pop-up stall in the city centre where crime prevention advice was given out. Two men were arrested during the day and both were subsequently charged with theft offences.

Last week Nick Bishop, from Bath BID, who manages the Safe and Secure Business Crime Reduction Partnership, said:

“Bath BID fully supports the proactive work of the city centre neighbourhood policing team in tackling shoplifting.

“We know from our members that theft and anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on businesses, not just financially, but also on staff wellbeing and customer experience.

“We have been encouraging all our businesses to report incidents of shoplifting and crime, and we want to thank them for their continued efforts.

“Increased reporting has directly contributed to more arrests and anti-social behaviour orders being issued over recent months, helping to make Bath a safer place for everyone.”

The Echo attends Bath Magistrates’ Court every week and many of the crimes are thefts from shops. This week (see page 9) we report on a man jailed for 18 weeks for shoplifting and flouting court orders, including a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) that banned him from a list of city shops.

In a separate case a man is due to be sentenced in October after admitting six thefts from shops, most recently a £150 haul from Marks & Spencer in Stall Street.

News in Brief

Boat fire in Saltford

A boat caught fire in Saltford on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August,, with the flames reportedly damaging the lock gates. A spokesperson from Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “We were called at 11:57am on Monday 25th August to reports of a boat fire near The Shallows, Saltford. Crews from Hicks Gate, Bath and Bedminster responded to the incident and safely extinguished the fire.

“The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental. No one was injured during the fire.”

Warning after people seen walking on line

Avon Valley Railway has issued a “public safety announcement” after people were seen walking on the line.

There were issues last autumn when people were tying back the gates at the crossing immediately north of Bitton Yard and walking on the tracks to avoid flooding, even when there were operations taking place.

On Thursday 21st August, the volunteer-run heritage attraction posted on Facebook: “It has become unfortunately apparent that members of the public are tying back the gates of the level crossing immediately north of Bitton Station.

“You must not tie the crossing gates back at any time as this poses a risk when trains are passing. This includes not holding open the gates when trains pass. “You also must not walk along the railway line at any times.”

Long range forecast: (5th to 11th September)

Unsettled weather is set to continue, with longer spells of rain. Thunderstorms are also possible, along with strong winds. Temperatures around average.

Disruption is set to begin in early September

Photo © Bath BID

Council did work on historic bridge in Widcombe without consent

considered to be repairs which did not require consent.

BATH & North East Somerset Council is seeking retrospective listed building consent for work it has already done on an historic city footbridge. Halfpenny Bridge links the rear of Bath Spa Station with Widcombe over the River Avon.

The Grade II listed lattice bridge replaced a wooden one that collapsed in 1877, killing 10 people.

A report submitted with the planning application says that in 2013 resurfacing works were carried out, which were

The report says: “However, the ability to create a suitably midline V drainage line was compromised due to limited height on the edge L section channels.

“To ensure that water was discharged at the sides of the bridge, two drainage channels were added just by the toll bridge.

These were unconsented.

“As it transpired, these channels were not only unconsented, but actually problematic and the decision was taken in 2024 to remove them in favour of a slightly more pronounced V, for which the sides needed to increase by a few centimetres.

“This [not only] required localised modification of the asphalt edge restrain L section but the addition of a second plate.

“These works were completed in 2024.”

At the time cement fibreboard boarding up a gap used as a nesting point for pigeons was also replaced with a removable plywood panel to keep them out but allow for inspections.

The report says this change of material is unconsented and the proposal is to paint it green and add bat boxes.

The deadline for comments is 25th September.

The planning reference is 25/02924/REG13.

Park café damaged by fire involving barbecue

Becky Feather Reporter

A FIRE caused thousands of pounds of damage to a muchloved Bath café at the weekend.

A dog walker raised the alarm at Alice Park Café on Saturday, 23rd August and firefighters attended.

Staff at the popular community café say they have reviewed their CCTV and there had been a latenight birthday party outside involving a barbecue.

They say footage shows a girl saying at about 11.30pm that she had set the bin on fire; it is seen smoking at 11.30pm and partygoers are seen adding more cardboard before leaving.

The fire got hold at 12.38am and died away at 2.13am. However, it was still smouldering when a dog walker noticed shortly before 7am and dialled 999.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service said:

“We were called at 6:54am on Saturday 23rd August to fire affecting decking in Alice Park, Bath.

“Crews from Bath attended and safely extinguished the fire. The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental.”

Damage caused has been put at £6,400.

One of the café’s loyal customers, Ciaran O’Connor has set up a GoFundMe page which has

already raised more than £1,300. He said: “We love Alice Park Café with its amazing food. I was gutted to hear about the fire so have set up this GoFundMe to get it back to where it was before the fire. Let’s make it great again.”

Writing on Facebook, the café said it has now introduced a new rule banning disposable barbecues in the park: “We simply can’t risk it happening again.

“We’re so grateful to our amazing local community who came together to help us quickly rebuild the staging area. Your support has been incredible and has made a huge difference already.

“That said there’s still a lot of work to repair the structural damage to our covered area but rest assured, Alice Park Café remains open every day from 9am to 5pm.”

Timetabled bus service to begin between Bath and Radstock

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

THE West of England’s “timetableless” on-demand bus service is set to begin running a timetabled bus route between Bath and Radstock.

The WESTlink “demand responsive transport” service — where minibuses are booked by app or phone and take people anywhere within a certain zone — was introduced to the area around Bath and Bristol in April 2023.

But now the scheme will begin running one timetabled service, in addition to the current bookable buses.

The new 768 bus will launch on 1st September and use a 16-seater WESTlink minibus

despite following a timetabled route.

It will run from Bath to Writhlington on the far side of Radstock twice a day and stop off in five villages which currently have no timetabled bus services.

The West of England Combined Authority is funding the new route from the government funding for the WESTlink trial.

Metro mayor Helen Godwin said:

“We want to build the kind of bus service that local people deserve, working with local councils and operators to tackle longstanding challenges, and plan to publish a bus plan for the region towards the end of the year.”

Bath & North East Somerset Council ’s cabinet project lead for sustainable rural transport Fiona Gourley (Bathavon South, Liberal Democrat), who has been a critic

of WESTlink, said: “Residents in the Cam Valley have long been calling for reliable public transport, and I’m delighted that this fixed-route, timetabled WESTlink bus trial will help reconnect our villages with each other and Bath and Radstock.

“We’ve worked closely with WECA to highlight the needs of our rural communities, and this marks a welcome shift in approach.

“We hope the success of this trial will pave the way for more frequent and dependable services, enabling rural residents to access education, work, healthcare, leisure, and shopping without relying on cars or neighbours.”

Ms Godwin added: “I know how important bus services are for local people, particularly in

more rural areas of our region.

Residents of these towns and villages in North East Somerset should see and feel a difference – especially in the five villages which do not currently have a bus service.

“I’m looking forward to seeing local people using these buses over the coming months, taking

up the new timetabled bus service between Writhlington and Bath.”

The bus will run Mondays to Saturdays, but not on Sundays or bank holidays.

It will stop in Writhlington, Radstock, Clandown, Camerton, Timsbury, Tunley, Priston, Nailwell, Englishcombe, Bear Flat, and the Ambury stop by Avon Street Car Park in Bath city centre.

The bus will run three services a day, although the first and last bus will only go between Writhlington and Timsbury. Meanwhile another timetabled WESTlink service following a fixed route instead of running on demand could also soon be running between Thornbury and Yate in South Gloucestershire, their MP Claire Young has said.

Becky Feather Reporter

Some of the previously conducted work at the bridge didn't have consent

Photo © Alice Park Café

Photo © John Wimperis

Old toilet block in Weston village can be turned into house

Becky Feather Reporter

A FOURTH attempt to redevelop a block of derelict public toilets in Bath has been successful.

The application to convert the single-storey building in High Street in Upper Weston to a twobed house was submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council in June by Context Planning Ltd.

The application said the site had recently changed hands following three refused planning applications.

The toilet block, which was closed by the council in July 2014, is set back from the street. It is next to a footpath and Brookside House is on one side, and Grade II listed Pen Hill Farmhouse on the other.

The first application in 2017 was to demolish the toilet block and build three one-bed flats of a similar design and appearance to Brookside House.

The reasons for refusal were the harm to both the setting of the listed farmhouse and Bath Conservation Area that would be caused by the height and scale of the flats, which would also have a significant negative impact on nearby homes in terms of loss of light and privacy.

The council added that adequate provision could not be made on site for parking.

The owner then lodged an appeal, but it was dismissed by an inspector.

The second planning application in 2018 was to knock down the block and build a pair of semidetached houses.

The reasons given by the council for refusing that were the lack of a flooding sequential test, harm to road safety, loss of on-street parking, and the lack of private outdoor space.

In 2019 a scheme to convert and extend the block to create two two-bed flats was also refused due to the lack of private outdoor space and parking, which the council said would likely lead to “inappropriate parking” on the road.

In the most recent and successful application, Context Planning said the toilet block will be reused and converted to form a two-bed house.

Additional space will be created with a small increase in roof height and a front-facing, singlestorey extension.

All the new windows and doors will be high-performance, double-glazed units to improve thermal efficiency and reduce heat loss. Bin and bike storage will be provided.

Although there is no parking with the property, the planning consultants said: “A solution must be found as the site has

remained vacant for a significant period of time.

“It is not viable to deliver a nonresidential development, and a residential scheme is therefore the only realistic option.”

They said there had been examples nearby of car-free developments and it is not considered necessary to provide on-site parking at this site given its “highly sustainable” nature and that is of a small scale. There are shops and facilities nearby and the site is well located for bus services.

Although there will only be a small, landscaped area space at the front of the property, Weston Recreation Ground and the Cotswold Way are 300 metres away.

The consultants also said the conversion and extension of the building will enhance the Conservation Area.

The council’s highways team noted that there are parking controls on the street so the occupants will not be able to leave a car for any “meaningful” amount of time.

However, they said: “The council has moved away from minimum car parking standards through the Local Plan partial update and instead adopted maximum car parking standards.

“Given the site's sustainable location and good access to public transport links, officers would not raise an objection to the scheme providing no off-street parking provision.

Cycle parking facilities are also being provided to encourage sustainable modes of transport.”

Although a small part of the site is located within flood zones 2 and 3, council planning officers said the scale and type of development does not require consultation with the Environment Agency. A flood risk assessment prepared by the applicant was reviewed by drainage and flooding officers and no objection had been raised. The drainage strategy is said to comply with building regulations.

Granting planning permission last week, the council officers also said the design and scale were acceptable and there will be no significant impact on nearby residents.

The former public toilets in Weston

Petition launched in bid to save brutalist Batheaston church

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

LOCALS in a village near Bath with an unusual brutalist church are appealing to the bishop to be able to buy it before it is demolished.

Built in 1967, the bold angular design of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Batheaston stands out against the Georgian homes of little Batheaston and it has always divided opinion. While some call the little Catholic church the “village joke,” others see it as an “important historical statement” and it has now been locally listed.

But the church closed in 2020 and the Diocese of Clifton has planning permission to knock down the church and build four houses in its place.

Now locals have launched a petition on change.org urging the Bishop of Clifton to give them the chance to buy it first.

Petition starter Sasha Laskey wrote: “The Church of the Good Shepherd has stood as a beacon of unity and community spirit in Batheaston, a space where individuals from various walks of life came together, fostering bonds of belonging, trust, respect, and pride.

“As the future of this site hangs in the balance, we, as residents

committed to preserving our shared values, call on the Bishop of Clifton, the Right Reverend Bosco MacDonald, to grant our community the first option to purchase the site, and up to six months to formulate a development plan that aligns with our community’s interests.”

She added: “Our community is not averse to redevelopment or repurposing.

“Instead, we see this as an opportunity to shape a new chapter for the site that has been part of our village for over 50 years and that remains true to its original spirit of service to the community.”

The diocese has planning permission to build four homes in the place of the church, which locals say will change the character of the village.

Even people in the village who would be happy to see the church knocked down have objected to the planned new homes.

120 people had lodged objections to the plans, with just one person voicing their support.

Batheaston Parish Council and Bathavon North councillor Sarah Warren (Liberal Democrat) had called in the plans to Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee — but instead the decision to permit

Saltford 01225 873535

Frome 01373 463888

the demolition was made by the council’s planning officers without a vote being cast.

The church was designed by Bath architect Martin Fisher — who was also behind the design of St Peter and Paul’s in Combe Down — and consists of poured concrete blocks.

It does not have a traditional spire, but instead its square roof slopes up to the south-east corner, reflecting the tent of a travelling pilgrim.

Rather than stained glass, it uses blocks of a material called Kalwall, which look almost concrete-like from outside. Their coloured pattern can be

seen from the inside as the light shines in through the window but is only revealed to people outside when the church is lit up from within.

After plans to demolish the church were submitted, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s conservation expert Caroline Power said the architectural value of the building had been “underplayed by the applicants.”

She had the church locally listed as a non-designated heritage asset.

She said: “The church is a landmark structure that contributes towards the character of the locality and is worthy of retention, despite its contrasting materiality and built form. Solutions demonstrating its reuse as part of the redevelopment of this site should be provided before demolition is considered.”

Emblematic of the changing face of the Catholic Church, the Church of the Good Shepherd was the first church in the area built after the major changes of Vatican II and adopted the now iconic brutalist style of the times. Three years later, similar ideas would lead to the construction of Clifton Cathedral in Bristol, the seat of the bishop. Clifton Cathedral was Grade II* listed in 2000.

You can sign the petition at: https://bit.ly/45HDl2c

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The Church of the Good Shepherd in Batheaston | Photo © John Wimperis

Crime & Court

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Peeping Tom who targeted young women is spared jail

A PEEPING Tom who used his mobile phone to record naked young women in changing rooms in Bath for his sexual gratification has avoided a jail sentence.

A forensic analysis by police of images and videos on Thomas Edwards’ phone found he had recorded 32 females in total, believed to be aged between 16 and 18.

Six were in changing rooms, while other recordings were in public and over clothing.

The identity of only one of his victims is known – a 16-yearold who realised she was being recorded under a cubicle at the swimming pool at the University of Bath in October 2022.

During 39-year-old Edwards’ sentencing at Bristol Crown Court on Thursday 21st August, His Honour Judge Hart said the other victims “do not know and will not know”.

Edwards, of St Catherines Close, Bathwick, had pleaded guilty at Bath Magistrates’ Court last month to six charges of voyeurism.

The offences all took place in Bath in 2022 – on 6th February, 29th May, 31st May, 4th June, 2nd October and 23rd October.

Edwards had been on

unconditional bail while awaiting sentence at Bristol Crown Court.

Prosecutor Christine Hart told Court 10 that after the young woman realised someone was filming her on 23rd October while she was in a state of undress, Edwards was detained by security guards at the pool. He had voluntarily provided his phone and PIN and voluntarily gave an interview to police on 1st November 2022, rather than being arrested. In a prepared statement, Edwards fully admitted that the images were for his sexual gratification and that

Man had indecent images of children

A MAN from Bath who made hundreds of indecent images of children and was in possession of animal porn has admitted his guilt.

Anthony Phippen was at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 20th August, facing four charges. The 42-year-old wept as he admitted making 302 indecent images of children rated as category A – the most serious – as well as 158 images in category B and 83 in category C. He also admitted being in possession of 19 extreme pornographic images involving a dog. All offences were said to have taken place on or between 22nd January 2022 and 2nd August 2023 at his Lansdown home. The court heard that Phippen,

of previous good character, is “devastated”.

Duty solicitor Mark O’Donnell told the court that the offences fell in the possession category and there was “no suggestion of distribution”.

Magistrates ordered a presentence report and said they were considering all options. The case was adjourned until 1st October. Phippen, of Pennsylvania View, was granted unconditional bail and was ordered to register his details at the police centre in Keynsham.

You can visit our website at www.bathecho.co.uk to find the latest crime and court stories. The site is updated multiple times every day.

she has to nap three times a day. She also has to spend money on medication to try to ease her symptoms.

She said she feels “vulnerable and scared” and cannot even look at a cubicle. She doesn’t wear skirts or dresses any more.

Now studying at university, the young woman said the incident has affected her studies and fears the trauma will stay with her “for life”.

Judge Hart gave him credit for taking steps to rehabilitate himself over the last two and a half years, including having private therapy.

there were other recordings. The prosecutor read out a powerful statement from the victim, who was in the public gallery to hear the sentence. Given in October 2024, it detailed the devastating impact the incident has had on her.

She spoke of “flashbacks” and how she gets panic attacks a couple of times a week that affect her whole body. A couple of times a month she suffers “really bad ones” when she curls into a ball and can’t move.

She gets chronic headaches and nightmares and is so exhausted

35-year-old

Judge Hart praised her for her bravery and public-spirited action. He said she could take some solace that, despite the “extremely unpleasant nature” of the crime, Edwards had not shared the footage and there is no chance of that ever happening as his phone was taken away.

The judge told Edwards that his offending had caused “shock and dismay” to his “respectable family”.

The image of someone committing such crimes is “a grubby, rather hopeless little man with very little social interaction” and that is the picture people would now have of Edwards, he told him.

He said Edwards has “a considerable cross to bear” but had recognised his “significant character flaw”.

admits

damaging police car

A 35-YEAR-OLD man who caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a police car in Bath and wrecked roof tiles on a property in Southdown has admitted both offences.

Simon Pearson, whose current address is HM Prison Bristol, appeared at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 13th August.

With a violent history and having made a bid to escape from the court during an appearance in 2017, magistrates were asked to consider whether Pearson should appear in the dock in handcuffs. Legal guidance states that unless there is a real risk of either violence or escape, a defendant ought not to be visibly restrained by handcuffs either in the dock or witness box.

Magistrates declined the application after hearing there

had not been issues with his behaviour at recent court appearances.

Three prison officers brought him up from the cells and stood with him in the dock.

The court heard that Pearson had been recalled to prison after committing offences whilst on licence.

On 3rd July he caused criminal damage of £1,800 to roof ridge tiles at a property at Roundhill Park belonging to Curo Housing Association.

Then, on Monday, 11th August, he deliberately damaged a police car at Avon Street car park.

He climbed on the roof and bonnet of the Vauxhall Corsa and stamped on the windscreen. The cost of the damage has been put at £3,998.60.

Bath magistrates adjourned the case to Bristol Magistrates’ Court.

The judge said the Probation Service would give him further support and doubted that Edwards would ever come before a court again for anything. He added that he hoped Edwards could “earn back the trust and support of those who know and love you”.

Edwards was given an 18-month community order. He must do 120 hours of unpaid work over 12 months and complete up to 25 rehabilitation activity requirement (RAR) days with the Probation Service.

As a sex offender, Edwards will be on a barred list for five years. He was ordered to pay his victim £2,000 compensation within six months.

Edwards was dressed in a shirt and trousers for his court appearance. After his sentencing, however he changed into casual clothes, a cap and trainers before darting out of the building and running down Small Street. He covered his face with the suitcase he had taken into court with him in anticipation of a possible custodial sentence.

Why do we ‘name and shame’ in our stories?

Since the introduction of our Crime & Court section in July, we've been contacted on multiple occasions by concerned members of the public, defendants and guilty parties regarding the inclusion of their names, ages, and partial addresses. We are proud to be able to provide court coverage of cases at Bath Magistrates' Court, something that many local newspapers are unable to do due to restricted time for their reporters. Reporting court cases acts as a deterrent against crime. Printing a defendant’s age and address stops anyone with the same name from being defamed. We do not have access to police or CPS files regarding cases, so everything reported is based on what the prosecution and defence say during a court hearing. HM Courts & Tribunals Service encourages and facilitates media access to courts and tribunals. We have the right to attend and report on proceedings held in open court, unless a statutory restriction applies, or a court order prevents this. Our stories are governed by the regulator IMPRESS, the Independent Monitor for the Press. We follow their dedicated Standards Code, which can be found at https://bit.ly/4n0d9qN

Thomas Edwards leaving Bristol Crown Court

Bath Magistrates’ Court

Pearson climbed on top of the police car and stamped on the windscreen

Woman admits six charges of assault

A BATH woman who initially denied five charges of assaulting emergency workers at the Royal United Hospital in Bath changed her plea last week. The incidents on 26th May involved assaults on two security guards and a police officer by beating, and charges of common assault on two paramedics.

On 25th June, Victoria St John Howe appeared before city magistrates to deny the assaults, as well as pleading not guilty to using threatening, abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress outside The Assembly Inn in Bath on 10th March, and of assaulting a police officer by beating on the

same date.

The case had been adjourned until Wednesday 20th August when Ned Kemp, representing 54-year-old St John Howe, told the court that she has “very significant” mental health issues but following a psychiatric report now accepts her guilt as she had consumed alcohol.

St John Howe, of Chantry Mead Road, was remanded on unconditional bail until 1st October for a pre-sentence report to be prepared by the Probation Service.

Magistrates said all options would be considered, including committal to Crown Court whose sentencing powers are greater.

Man is bailed over shoplifting offences

A BATH man was brought before city magistrates earlier this month charged with six shoplifting offences in the city.

Jason Donachie appeared in custody on Wednesday 13th August. A warrant had been issued for the 50-year-old’s arrest after he failed to attend court as required on 5th March. There were three thefts dating from last summer from Sally’s in Avon Street in the city centre. The first was on 9th August 2024 when he stole hair care products worth £79.50.

On 13th August 2024, there was one theft of hair care products worth £164.04 and another the same day of similar products worth £52.75.

On 14th January 2025 Donachie stole meat and cheese worth £57.90 from the Co-op in Shaftesbury Road in Oldfield Park.

On 30th April at Seasalt in New Bond Street in the city centre he stole clothing worth approximately £200. Then on Tuesday, 12th August, Donachie stole towels, hats and sunglasses worth approximately £150 from Marks & Spencer in Stall Street Donachie, of Victoria Bridge Road, pleaded guilty to all six offences and to failing to surrender on 5th March. The court heard he had been forgetful

Magistrates jail 39-year-old man for 18 weeks for string of offences

A MAN was jailed for a total of 18 weeks for shoplifting in Bath and flouting court orders.

In June, we reported that James Sowerby had admitted a series of shoplifting offences and been granted bail by Bath magistrates with a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) put in place banning him from Primark, M&S, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s in both Dorchester Street and Monmouth Street, Tesco in Stall Street and Co-op at Widcombe Hill.

Sowerby had also admitted an assault on a security guard at Waitrose and that he had been in breach of a conditional discharge.

At the time, magistrates requested a pre-sentence report and ordered Sowerby to return to court on 3rd September when they would decide what action to take.

But the 39-year-old, of no fixed address, was brought before them in custody on Thursday 14th August for more thefts, including one the previous day at the Co-op in Mount Road where he admitted stealing items worth £372.60.

Magistrates also heard that he had failed to engage with the Probation Service, as he had been told.

Duty solicitor Ruth Tily told the court that until a year ago,

since being hit on the head with a metal bar.

They also heard he had relapsed with drugs after a gap in offending since 2022.

Representing Donachie, solicitor Sam Stevens said he had “fallen into his old ways” but was remorseful.

His Universal Credit had stopped more than 12 months ago, and he had been managing to survive by “begging, borrowing and stealing”.

Magistrates adjourned the case until 1st October so that a presentence report can be prepared by the Probation Service. Donachie was remanded on unconditional bail until the hearing.

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Sowerby’s life had been stable. He had his own business, a partner and child.

But “everything fell apart for him”. His relationship broke down, his employment ended and he came to Bath in February. “Things went from bad to worse” and he became homeless and started committing offences after having had a gap of not offending since 2014.

She said Sowerby was “ashamed” and apologised. She said he was prepared to engage with the Probation Service if given one more chance to do so.

However, the probation officer in court confirmed that Sowerby had missed three appointments and the service was not in a position to offer a fourth.

Magistrates jailed Sowerby due to the nature and seriousness

Anti-social behaviour at local adventure park

POLICE were called to Avon Valley Adventure Park near Bath after anti-social behaviour by a group of youngsters. The incident happened on Thursday, 21st August, at the family-owned venue at Pixash Lane, Keynsham.

Avon & Somerset Police said: “We received a 999 call to report three children, between the ages of nine and 15, were being abusive and threatening to staff and guests after entering Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, Keynsham, at around 3.15pm.

“Nobody under the age of 16 is allowed entry to the park without supervision of an appropriate adult, and the police were called.

“Knowing officers were on their way, the children left the site, and staff were happy with the outcome.

“Officers attended and gave crime prevention advice to staff, including around the use of CCTV.”

The owners of the attraction posted a message on Facebook thanking everyone who had reached out with messages of support following the “unlawful entry to the park by three young individuals and their anti-social behaviour”.

They said they are “deeply sorry” for any distress caused and that the safety and wellbeing of visitors is their “top priority”.

of the offences, his spree of offending, committed whilst on conditional discharge and on bail, and his failure to comply with the Probation Service in the preparation of a report.

They also ordered him to pay compensation of almost £1,000 to the shops he stole from, which will be payable on his release.

“To protect shopkeepers”, they said Sowerby must abide by an exclusion zone when he is released.

He will also be supervised in the community for up to 12 months.

Sowerby meanwhile has denied two assaults on a woman in Bath, one alleged to have taken place on 7th August and the other on Tuesday, 12th August.

He will face a trial at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 1st October.

Court in Brief

Man in court after hurling racial slur

A drunk man hurled a racial slur at a staff member in the Westgate Street branch of Subway in Bath after his bank card was declined, city magistrates heard.

Arthur Veysey, of Dartmouth Avenue in Oldfield Park, appeared in court on Wednesday 6th August to plead guilty to the racially aggravated offence of causing harassment, alarm or distress.

Veysey apologised and said he had been intoxicated at the time of the offence on 7th March.

The 40-year-old already had 21 convictions for 46 offences, the court was told.

He was fined £120 with £85 court costs and ordered to pay a surcharge of £48.

Somerset man, 83, faces historic rape charge

An 83-year-old Somerset man has appeared at Bath Magistrates’ Court accused of a sexual offence in the late 1970s.

Peter Middleton is charged with the rape of a girl under the age of 16. On Thursday 14th August, magistrates committed Middleton, of Stratton-on-theFosse, for trial at Bristol Crown Court.

He is due to appear on 12th September for an initial hearing. He was granted unconditional bail.

The Royal United Hospital in Bath | Photo © RUH

Sowerby recently admitted a series of shoplifting offences

The children left after knowing the police had been called

A warrant was issued for his arrest

Pictures from the Past

Weymouth House

This week’s archive photo shows a building demolished in 1962 to make way for Marks and Spencer. Weymouth House was built in the 1720s by William Killigrew as a townhouse for Lord Thynne, Viscount Weymouth, of Longleat, and was originally twice the size of the building seen on this early 20th century postcard. The left-hand side was demolished around 1816 when the right-hand side became part of Weymouth House Schools. After the Second World War the building was occupied by the City of Bath Technical School but the entire area was cleared in 1962 when Weymouth Street, St James’s Street South and St James’s Church (whose tower can be seen in the background but which by then had been reduced to a bombedout shell) disappeared under Marks & Spencer.

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

Congratulations to John Wiltshire for winning £20! You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 28

8 Too squared off (4)

9 View unfavourably (10)

10 Indebted (9)

12 Young hooter (5)

13 Zone (6)

14 Computer code (8)

15 Throughout the world (15)

18 Leaving stir too early? (8)

20 Alfred Hitchcock classic (6)

22 Capital of Vietnam (5)

23 Poisonous mushroom (9)

25 Affectionate utterance (10)

26 Afloat on the ocean (4)

1 Kindle buys (1-5)

2 Clearly stated (8)

3 River sediment (4)

4 Cooked Indian-style, perhaps (8)

5 Takers of chances that come their way (12)

6 Woulda partner (6)

7 Tough and pliable (8)

11 Of the earth's surface (12)

15 Kind of glacier (3,5)

16 Inmate to get loose? Never! (2,2,4)

17 Native American field game (8)

19 Second largest country in area (6)

21 Person in the petroleum industry (6) 24 Skin eruption (4)

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 2908, Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA

The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 10/09/2025. They will be notified using the details they provide when entering the competition. Winners will be given the option of receiving a High Street shopping voucher or be provided the £20 via a BACS transfer.

Food & Drink

Tasty Dates For Your Diary

Unmissable pipeline pop-ups at the Village Cafe (Larkhall) include A Taste of Larkhall with Our Table dining on Thursday 4th September, Milk Bun gourmet burgers on Saturdays 6th and 20th September, Raya’s Thai Thali on Saturday 27th September… and regular live music nights too! www.thevillagelarkhall.co.uk

The new midweek À La Carte spectacular has landed at The Elder (South Parade): enjoy two courses from wild food chef Mike Robinson’s inspired menu for just £42 (3/£55) every Wednesday - Friday. www.theelder.co.uk

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of Bath’s most famous former resident by (in)elegantly diving into the Jane Austen-inspired Pride and Pepperoni menu at

Sponsor this section!

Get in touch with Rob Last via rob@mediabath.co.uk

the Bath Pizza Co (Green Park Station) between Wednesday 10th - Wednesday 24th September: Darcy’s Delight, Sense & Salami Love & Friendship Fries and more, all best enjoyed with a Jane & Tonic. www.bathpizzaco.com/jane

Grab “a proper feed” at Juno Bar and Kitchen (SouthGate) every Monday - Friday between noon4pm, when the Juno Burger, Fish Finger Sando, slow’n’low barbecued pulled pork and/ or chicken pesto top the menu charts for just £6 a pop. www.junobarandkitchen.co.uk

“Racing thrills meet culinary delights” at The Best of Bath Food and Drink Festival at Bath Racecourse (Lansdown) on Sunday 14th September: gourmet eats, premium tipples

and flat horse racing set against a vibrant festival backdrop (from £19; discounts for groups of 10+).

https://bit.ly/3HRVF0L

You don’t take your wine too seriously…do you? Find out at the In Pour Taste Comedy Wine Tasting Experience at Komedia (Westgate Street) on Monday 15th September, when comedians Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh will be joined by an illustrious wine expert to guide you through five wines to appeal to savvy sauvignon swiggers and clueless chardonnay chuggers alike (£29pp to include 5 wine tastings).

https://bit.ly/3JDUeDH

It’s the news Bath foodies have all been waiting for: the autumn/ winter season pop-up schedule at Picnic in the Park (Lark Place,

Review Thailand Wok

37 Moorland Road, Bath BA2 3PN 01225 251060 www.thailandwok.co.uk

 @thailand_wok

Thai food is pretty much my comfort zone go-to on any occasion; in my world, too much panang curry is never enough. It’s just as well, then, that we have an abundance of Thai restaurants on our Bath doorsteps, from the casual to the spectacular by way of multiple trusted takeaways. And now, as of just a handful of weeks ago, Thailand Wok has bought a taste of Thailand to Moorland Road, a high street neighbourhood that, despite all manner of ongoing struggles to contend with (traffic regulation/ parking zone controversies; dodgy bus timetables; chain invasion attempts; etc) continues to thrive and boldly fly the flag for independent businesses and traditional high street charms… and this sparkly little Thai diner is a perfect, effortless fit. Thailand Wok is small (around, say, 26 covers max?) but perfectly formed, featuring an open kitchen to the rear of the restaurant and offering a lively,

casual, effortlessly welcoming vibe throughout. And gosh, it’s busy! Fortunately we booked our

off Upper Bristol Road) has been announced and includes Greek, Mexican and Italian-themed spectaculars, Our Table on Friday 19th September, Bush Trek Braai on Friday 17th October and Friday 28th November and much, much more. Early booking for all dates essential!

https://bit.ly/4n4Ht3G

Big ole’ bagels have come to Bog Island! Roll up to the Bath Bagel Co (Terrace Walk) for freshlybaked, fully-loaded bagels served up alongside marvellous milkshakes and more.

 @bathbagelco

Schmooze with legendary chef Christophe Lacroix and his cheffy mate Fred Fetiveau at the unmissable ‘Retour de Chasse avec Christophe et Fred’ event at Christophe’s Bistro Chef HQ

(Brassmill Lane Trading Estate) on Friday 26th September. This event is BYO so it’s up to you what you drink; let’s just say a few bottles of quelque chose de Français are highly recommended (£65pp, limited spaces, booking essential). Email to book via orders@bistrochef.co.uk

Say cheers to £1 off St Austell Brewery own-brand pints at The Moorfields (Third Avenue, circa Moorland Road) every Sunday! www.themoorfields.com

Melissa regularly reviews eateries across Bath. Find out more at: www.theprandialplayground.uk

Follow Melissa on X Find her @ThePigGuide

Thursday evening table a couple of days in advance; if we hadn’t, I think a takeaway might have been our only option.

Options weren’t limited, however, when it came to the menu. From starter classics (spring rolls; satay; soups; salads and a curry puff that I vow to return for) to old friends on a Thai curry theme with plenty of phads, krapows and khings all present and correct, there’s a lot going on here.

Prices are clear-cut: most dishes are available in chicken/ beef/prawn/vegetarian/vegan format (average price circa £13), accompanied by jasmine rice or chips for an extra £2.

Pricier Chef Specials, meanwhile, hold the promise of being Very Special Dishes indeed; I’d definitely risk pushing the boat out for, say, the soy glazed tiger prawns.

But if you’re simply in the mood for a satisfying supper and a couple of beers without blowing the eating out budget, there are no risks at stake here.

Of our starters, my coconut-

creamy, lemongrass/lime leaf/ basil-laden soup ticked all my Tom Kha boxes, while the chicken satay was as moist, smoky and nutty as one would hope for and the moreish, meaty oyster mushrooms brought a blast of ‘lesser spotted’ to the feast.

On the main course front, my panang was a little bit too spicy for my tastes - very good (rich, creamy and fragrant) but slightly heavy-handed on the chilli front. But then again, what do I really know? Maybe previous panangs have got it wrong, and Thailand Wok are doing it right.

The chicken prad krapow, however, was a definite keeper: a complex, satisfying, deeply umami savoury/sweet combo that’s topping my ‘most wanted’ charts on my next visit.

This is clearly a kitchen with character, confidence and conviction, specialising in freshly-prepared, bring-a-smileto-your-face food… courtesy of chefs who know far more about panang curry than I do; wok’n’roll indeed.

Melissa Blease Food Writer

The moreish, meaty oyster mushrooms at Thailand Wok

Recipe

Classic Cornish Pasties

The sun is setting on August and September is softly strolling into view. Cross that bridge with these classic UK seaside/picnic treats, perfect for alfresco dining… or munching in a cosy kitchen!

Ingredients (makes 4 large pasties)

• 350g beef skirt or rump steak

• 350g waxy potatoes (eg. Maris Piper)

• 200g swede

• 175g onions

• 500g ready made, all butter shortcrust pastry

• Extra butter for the filling

• 1 beaten egg to seal/glaze To serve: chutney, of course!

Method

• Peel the potatoes, swede and onions and cut into 1cm square cubes. Cut the beef into similarly-sized chunks, put all four ingredients into a bowl, season generously and stir thoroughly to combine. Set to one side.

• Lightly grease a baking tray with butter and reheat the oven to 170c/gas mark 3. Meanwhile, roll the pastry out to around the thickness of a £1 coin and use a suitably-sized dinner plate to cut out 4 circular discs each approx. 25cm wide.

Spoon a quarter of the filling onto one half of each disc and spread to cover, leaving a margin around the edges. Put a knob of butter on top of each filling then carefully fold the pastry over to cover. Brush the exposed edges with a little beaten egg and either use a fork or crimp to create a strong seal (folding the end corners underneath to finish the job off) and place onto the baking tray.

Brush the top of each pasty with a little more beaten egg, sprinkle with salt then bake on the middle shelf of the oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown. If the pasties aren't browning, slightly increase the oven temperature for the last 10 minutes of cooking time.

What's On

Bath Bottled: A Sparkling History

Museum of Bath at Work

29th August – 1st March

Did you know that Bath has a long history of fizzy drinks manufacture?

Discover the fascinating story of Bath’s bottled drinks industry in Bath Bottled, a new pop-up exhibition.

Botanical Watercolours

No.1 Royal Crescent

3rd September, 6pm

Learn and create beautiful flower paintings inspired by the collection at No.1 Royal Crescent. Artist Holly Foskett-Barnes will provide step-by-step instructions on how to paint flowers.

Michael Rosen for Good Days

St Swithin’s Church

5th September, 7pm

In an uncertain world, we need hope and happiness more than ever. So what are the words that can help us find it?

Let Michael Rosen take you on a quest for joy in his Dictionary of Delights.

Jamie's Farm Open Day

Jamie’s Farm

6th September, 11am–3pm

Go and see the farm in action with demonstrations from young people, meet the team, meet the animals and explore the beautiful environment Jamie's Farm has created for youngsters.

Lucky Bag

Slowly Downward Gallery

29th August – 7th September

Slowly Downward Gallery is delighted to be hosting Lucky Bag - the new exhibition by Dylan Moran. Dylan is currently starring in Shakespeare's As You Like It at Bath's Theatre Royal.

Fear Gorta

Rondo Theatre

3rd – 6th September

During a renovation of David Attenborough’s garden, something wrapped and bound in cloth has been discovered. But what is it and how did it get there? Based on a true story.

Gary Davies: Kick Up The 80s

Komedia

5th September, 7.30pm

Join BBC Radio 2’s coveted Sounds of the 80s star... ‘Woo’ Gary Davies at Komedia Bath! 80s dress is encouraged, so dust off your shoulder pads, and break out your best vintage outfits.

Early Autumn Foraging Workshop

Newton Farm

6th September, 10.30am-12.30pm

Explore nature’s larder this September with professional local forager/food producer Chris Westgate of Heavenly Hedgerows. Chris will guide you on a rewarding forage around the estate.

29th August - Thursday 11th September 2025

Massive Family Waterfight

Avon Valley Adventure Park

30th August, 10.30am–5pm

End the summer season with a water fight! Come dressed to get soaked and have fun. Included in the Water Fight Zone: giant slip 'n' slide, paddling pools, 'refilling stations' and foam party area.

Phil Beer

Chapel Arts Centre

4th September, 8pm

Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the West Country’s award-winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands. With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on.

Bathscape Walking Festival

Various Locations, Bath

6th - 21st September

Join in a series of free guided walks in the countryside around Bath. There are sensory walks, nature explorations, history tours and an immersive photography 'walkshop'.

Illustrating Austen

The Holburne

11th September – 11th January

Centring around Austen’s stories and the characters she created, Illustrating Austen will demonstrate how your favourite characters came to life on the page and evolved through the years.

Professor Alice Roberts

The Forum

2nd September, 7.30pm

Join Professor Alice Roberts as she takes us on an investigative journey to establish who spread Christianity, how and why; the story of the fall of an Empire – and the rise of another.

Endgame

Ustinov Studio

4th September – 4th October

Douglas Hodge and acclaimed film and television actor Clive Francis join the previously announced Mathew Horne and Selina Cadell in Samuel Beckett’s macabre comedy.

Clown Town with Mick Herron St Swithin’s Church 6th September, 7pm

Mr B's is thrilled to welcome Mick Herron to Bath for the publication of the much anticipated Clown Town, the ninth book in the critically acclaimed Slough House series.

Emma Theatre Royal Bath 11th – 20th September

The 250th anniversary of Bath’s favourite writer is celebrated in fitting style at the Theatre Royal with a new stage adaptation of Jane Austen’s comedy of manners, Emma.

Fear Gorta

Ria Lina

Emmanuel Sonubi

Impromptu Shakespeare

Stevie Martin

The Naughty List

There’s no

Harm in Trying

Life in our care home might not be what you expect. Pop in and see for yourself. Better still, bring a friend or loved one with you, the more the merrier.

September Taster Day

Relax in comfortable surroundings

Sample tasty treats from our chef

Relax with a soothing hand massage

Saturday 20 th September, pop in between 10.30am - 1pm

RSVP

Sponsored by Howden Bath

www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/bath

Projects awarded £128,000 to benefit the environment

TWO projects in Bath and North East Somerset that have a positive impact on the environment have been awarded £128,000.

The second round of the West of England Rural England Prosperity Fund has supported the Trinity Hub Project with £56,000 of funding, which aims to transform a former redundant Methodist church building owned by Radstock Town Council into a community hub with a library, arts and cultural venue, café, and rentable office accommodation.

The first phase will be completed in 2026 and includes works to improve the buildings energy efficiency, replace the roof, install rooftop solar panels and furnish the main hall.

The project also received a further £255,000 for building works and £28,500 for a community hub manager from the West of England UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in a previous round of funding.

More than £71,000 has been awarded to Fairy Hill Solar Farm at Compton Dando, a community

solar project to generate clean energy, recycle money back into communities, improve biodiversity and enable local people to take greater control over energy.

A key benefit of the scheme is the contribution it makes towards Bath and North East Somerset’s Net Zero target.

The project has been developed by not-for-profit community business, Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) in partnership with the local

community. The planning application for the project has been approved. The funding for both projects was awarded following successful bids made by Bath & North East Somerset Council, after extensive partnership working with Radstock Town Council and BWCE to be ready to deliver the schemes.

Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, said: “This funding

Sunken boat owners being told to pay around £55,000 for recovery

FOUR owners of boats which sank in Bath and had to be removed by the council have been served with a formal demand to cough up a collective £55,000.

Bath and North East Somerset Council raised the sunken boats from the Avon in May and towed them out of the city after warning they posed a hazard to others navigating the waterway. Now it has begun formal proceedings to recover the costs of the operation from the owners of the boats.

Deputy council leader Sarah Warren said: “We informed the owners at every stage that failure to recover their vessels themselves would result in the council seeking recovery of the costs.

“The removals have cost the council approximately £55,000 and we hope to avoid having to take legal action to recover the money.”

The owners have been served with formal demands to either settle the amount they each owe in full or agree to a repayment plan.

The council said that the owners had been repeatedly approached by the council about recovering the boats themselves but this had not been done.

Councillor Warren said: “Boat

owners are responsible for the maintenance and environmental impact of their vessels.

“These sunken boats had been creating a hazard in the waterway and posing a risk to its ecology for a long time, which is why we made every attempt to work with the owners over many months to arrange self-recovery before removing the boats ourselves as a last resort.”

Local homelessness charity Julian House criticised the council for its plan to recover the costs earlier this year, warning that it “victimises the most vulnerable”.

But the council said it had been in touch with the owners to see if they needed support and none was needed.

The council said that the formal

is having a tangible and positive impact on communities in Bath and North East Somerset, empowering them to create local facilities that support both people and the environment.

“I’m proud that our Regeneration Team has been instrumental in making these fantastic partnership projects happen.

“The projects are excellent examples of how communities are enhancing their resilience and contributing to a more sustainable B&NES and I welcome this great news.”

Councillor Chris Dando, Mayor of Radstock Town Council, said:

“We are thrilled to see the phase 2 works proceed.

“Trinity has been a part of the community for over 120 years and thanks to funding and support will now continue to be a space for the whole community for the future.

“Radstock has outgrown the current community library space, which is great news, but to have a new large multi-use space really is incredible. This funding will really mean a huge difference for

Radstock.”

Peter Capener, managing director at Bath and West Community Energy, said: “We are delighted to be working again alongside Bath & North East Somerset Council in delivering another community renewables scheme.

“The grant will help deliver a scheme that will not only reduce carbon emissions within the district but also offer significant community benefit and retain value within the local economy that would have otherwise drained out of the area.”

Helen Godwin, the Mayor of the West of England, said: “It’s important that rural businesses and communities in our region are provided with more funding.

“Our regional authority is investing in projects across the West, working with the council to support productivity and prosperity in rural areas including here in North East Somerset.”

The projects are funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, managed by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.

Owners being urged to keep their dogs on leads in cemeteries

DOG owners in Bath are being urged to keep their dogs on leads while visiting cemetery grounds, following a number of complaints. Issues have been raised about dogs being allowed to run free, as well as dogs fouling on grounds and graves. Bath & North East Somerset Council is now urging owners to keep their animals under control before serious harm occurs.

proceedings to recover the money would be carried out in line with the national protocol on pre-action debt and the council’s own debt policy.

Some of the wrecks, such as the two semi-submerged boats just south of the railway bridge by the river path, had become recognisable features of the city’s riverscape.

Nearby, a yellow buoy used to warn other vessels of a sunken canal boat lying just beneath the surface in the middle of the river.

In May, people living along the Avon between Bath and Saltford, or just passing it on the train, could see the unusual sight of the recognisable boats attached to salvage airbags being towed down the river.

The issues documented as a result of dogs being off-lead have included dogs being allowed to run between grounds maintenance machinery while in operation, being aggressive to staff and frightening other cemetery visitors. These incidents have occurred at all of the council’s cemeteries across Bath and North East Somerset.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for communications and civic services, said: “Thank you to the majority of dog owners who keep their dog on a lead and clean up after them when visiting our cemeteries, however there is a significant problem with some owners letting their animals run free in our grounds – despite us having run social media and poster campaigns to raise awareness and ask them not to.

“There has been regular fouling throughout the cemeteries including – sadly and

disrespectfully – on the graves themselves.

“Dog excrement is dangerous for humans because contact with it can cause an infection, leading to blindness or seizures in rare cases.

“Visitors and staff have also experienced aggressive behaviour from dogs not kept under control by their owners and we are concerned about the serious safety risks for animals too, as there have been instances where dogs have been allowed off-lead near staff who are using large machinery.

“Dogs are not permitted into the grounds of Haycombe Cemetery in Bath at any time, whether on or off the lead.

“We are appealing to dog owners to please respect our open spaces and people’s loved ones in their final resting place and to keep their dogs on a lead at all times.”

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

Removing one of the sunken boats | Photo © B&NES Council

The Trinity Hub in Radstock | Photo © B&NES Council

Landscape and spaces to be celebrated during walking festival

RESIDENTS and visitors are being encouraged to enjoy Bath’s unique landscape during this year’s Bathscape Walking Festival, which runs from 6th September to 21st September. This year’s event will focus on the city’s unique surroundings and the importance of green spaces to Bath and its heritage. The programme for the festival, now in its eighth year, includes more than 50 events for families, groups and solo walkers, the majority of which are free. Several walks are new to this year’s programme: a five-mile walk around some of the historic sites of central Bath led by Alison Wherry-Alimo wholly in British Sign Language, which takes place from 1pm on 27th September; an accessible sensory exploration of Henrietta Park from 11am on 7th September; and a three-hour immersive experience with local artist and Bathscape walk leader Karen Woodfield that blends walking and photography, that starts at 2pm on 20th September from Odd Down sports field.

To celebrate the 80-year anniversary of Bath’s twinning with the Dutch city of Alkmaar, the twinning association is joining the National Trust to lead a scenic walk from the city centre to Bathford. There will be a picnic stop during the four-and-a-half hour walk, which takes place on

11th September.

The landscape surrounding Bath was a key location for the development of the Picturesque movement in the late 18th and early 19th century, and Dr Amy Frost leads a walk revealing how Jane Austen and William Beckford explored the ideas in fiction and reality on 6th and 12th September.

Councillor Sarah Warren, cabinet member for sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, said: “The Bathscape Walking Festival is a great opportunity to explore the landscape both in and around the city and alongside the perennial favourites – the bat walks and urban tree walks, several events this year offer an opportunity to reflect on how the landscape has shaped Bath in the past and how it can be looked after in the future.

“With more than 50 walks, most free, everyone is sure to find something of interest.”

Returning favourite walks include bat walks in Kensington Meadows on 12th and Weston on 20th September, and the 20-mile Circuit of Bath Walk for Julian House, which takes place on 21st September. A shuttle bus runs between check points for people who don’t want to walk the full distance.

There is a chance to raise money for Parkinson’s UK on a five-

mile route around the Bath Spa campus on 6th September. Tickets for the walk are £12 per adult.

Walkers taking part in the BigBanes100k can use the festival to clock up some extra miles on behalf of Mentoring Plus and Off the Record. Keen walkers can join a 10k trek along the scenic Bath River Line from Newbridge Park to Stambridge in Batheaston on 10th September; a six-mile walk through the Hidden Hamlets of the Woolley Valley on 7th September or a 5.5-mile walk following the Somerset Canal from Paulton basin to Dunkerton on 13th September. People are also encouraged to sign up for events taking place as

part of the Walkers are Welcome groups in Somer Valley and Keynsham (7th September and 21st September) and Bradfordon-Avon Walking Festival (6th and 7th September).

Continuing the theme, Bathscape Reflections: Shaping a Landscape, a one-day conference will be held at the Guildhall on 23rd September, 12pm to 6.30pm.

Throughout the day a series of interactive sessions and speakers will be asking the audience to think about what the future holds for the city’s landscape. Tickets are free, but booking on Eventbrite is required.

The full walking festival programme, booking information and self-guided activities can be

found on the Bathscape website or contact Bathscape on 01225 477265 or by email at info@ bathscape.co.uk.

Some walks are not suitable for dogs, but assistance dogs are welcome on all walks. The full programme gives more information.

Bathscape is also one of the supporters involved in the Forest of Imagination that takes place at Entry Hill, on the edge of Bath, from 23rd September to 5th October.

The greens on the former golf course will become the site of imaginative, nature-based installations co-designed with artists, schools, families and the local community.

A walking trail | Photo © B&NES Council

Hospital’s endoscopy team is recognised with excellence award

THE endoscopy team at the Royal United Hospital in Bath has received a national award for excellence, recognising the care they provide to patients.

The team has received JAG accreditation from the Joint Advisory Group on GI Endoscopy, which is awarded to high-quality gastrointestinal endoscopy services.

Following a rigorous evaluation of its service, including an inperson site visit by inspectors, the RUH’s unit was deemed to meet the high standards required in safety, patient experience, staff training, and clinical quality.

Rowan Neville, Support Specialty Manager for Medicine, said: “We are delighted to have received such prestigious accreditation.

“It was a really challenging assessment process which needed a huge amount of hard work from our clinical, nursing and admin teams.

“As a department we pride ourselves on consistently delivering the highest quality care and outcomes for the people we care for.

“This accreditation is testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone in the team to

continuous improvement, and to ensuring our patients always get the very best care.”

Around 12,000 endoscopies were carried out at the RUH last year, and this number is predicted to increase over the next 12 months.

Working in partnership with Sulis Hospital Bath, alongside additional recruitment and investment, has also led to quicker turnaround times, helping the

RUH to clear a previous backlog of appointments. An endoscopy is a medical procedure where a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted into the body, usually through a natural opening like the mouth to examine internal organs and structures. It’s used for both diagnosis and treatment of various conditions.

Record number of locals getting help for depression and anxiety

A RECORD number of people have self-referred to a local Talking Therapies service to help improve their mental health, including depression and anxiety.

The B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire (BSW) Talking Therapies service received its highest number of referrals for more than five years.

The figures for July follow an ongoing increase in the number of people from the area accessing the service since the start of 2025. The service is run by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP), which provides mental health and learning disability services across the South West. It provides support for adults,

aged 16+, experiencing more common mental health issues, such as anxiety, low mood, and depression who are registered with a GP in B&NES, Swindon or Wiltshire.

Treatment includes cognitive behavioural therapy, group therapy or online support.

Mathew Page, Chief Operating Officer at AWP, said: “It is a national and local priority to increase access rates into the Talking Therapies service so more people can get help and support.

“We have focused on increasing awareness of the service through a range of advertising campaigns, and by working closely with local GPs and other healthcare professionals.

“We have also improved the

Patients help transform outdated diabetes unit

AN outdated space at the Royal United Hospital has been transformed by people living with diabetes to create a bright and welcoming environment.

The hospital’s diabetes unit has been freshened up thanks to the installation of bright, colourful murals designed by local artist Natasha Clutterbuck, as well as small-scale watercolours created by the patients themselves.

The project came about when Dr Laura Rich, Diabetes and Endocrine Consultant and Young Adult Lead at the RUH, contacted Diabetes UK (DUK) for support with a review of the RUH’s services for young adults with diabetes.

Aled Newton, Together Type 1 Youth Coordinator for South West, and the DUK Health Systems Change Team, worked with Laura and other teams at the RUH to focus on patient engagement and find out what mattered most to young people, their families and carers.

Young Leaders from Together T1 and young people who receive care at the RUH then took part in a series of workshops where they identified ways to improve the service, which will include introducing monthly ‘check in’ texts, self-booking appointments, better transition information and peer support events.

One other key area where young people wanted to see improvement was the appearance of the department.

processes within the service so the wait from referral to treatment has also come down significantly, despite the increase in demand.

“More people are reaching out for support, which shows how normal feelings of anxiety, low mood, or depression can be.

“Our message to anyone in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire is that our service is here and ready to support you too.”

The service is free and confidential for people who live and/or has a registered GP in the BSW area. You can self-refer to the service by calling B&NES on 01225 675150.

Alternatively, you can self-refer online at www.awp.nhs.uk/ talkingtherapies.

Following the service review, Diabetes UK provided the RUH team with a grant of £5,000 to start improvement works.

Dr Rich wanted to ensure patients were involved in transforming the look of the department themselves, so contacted Art at the Heart, the RUH’s in-house art and design team, who invited artist Natasha to join the project.

Natasha, who has previously created a series of award-winning murals for the Dyson Cancer Centre, proposed murals with the theme of ‘Precious Pollinators and the Wild River making Its Way out to Sea.’

Natasha said: “My aim was to create a series of murals inspired by the vibrant, natural habitat of the riverbank.

“The narrative carries visitors

from the entrance and along the corridor in a visual journey along a river. Pollinators are precious like the lives of all the people who will use the diabetes unit, including patients and staff.”

In addition to her murals, Natasha also led a series of creative workshops for diabetes patients of all ages to produce their own small-scale watercolour designs. People living with diabetes were able to unleash their creativity and share their lived experiences, with their final pieces being displayed in frames hung amongst the murals in the corridor.

Dr Rich said: “This project has completely transformed our diabetes department for the people we care for and our staff too. It has been a truly collaborative experience –involving patients from start to finish, and with the fantastic support of Diabetes UK, which has helped make all this possible.

“This is about more than just buildings though, through this project we have also put in place several key service improvements for our young people based on their feedback.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for their time, help and support and for their contribution to transforming the look and feel of the RUH’s diabetes department.

“We have now been fortunate to receive additional funding from the Friends of the RUH to continue with our improvement project, so more work is being planned – watch this space!”

The next phase of the project will include the department’s waiting area, with a mural depicting the river’s arrival at the coast.

The improvements have been overwhelmingly well received by service users.

One said of the creative workshops: “I didn’t know how much I would be able to do and I loved it. It inspired me – super event!”

Another said: “It was really inspiring and l’m looking forward to a very calm and creative space to attend appointments.”

Others called the project ‘fantastic’, ‘therapeutic’ and praised its collaborative approach.

The endoscopy team at the Royal United Hospital | Photo © RUH

Part of the new colourful mural at the hospital unit | Photo © RUH

Locals are able to self-refer for the mental health service

RUH marks latest milestone in becoming energy-efficient

THE Royal United Hospital has moved a step closer to its energy-efficiency goals following the delivery of equipment to upgrade the heating infrastructure at Combe Park.

Over the weekend of 16th August, a crane was used to deliver the equipment, as part of the ongoing ‘Project Clean Heat’, which aims to make the RUH a greener, cleaner environment for all those who use it.

The changes have been made possible thanks to a £21.6 million grant from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, administered by Salix.

The grant will also help to fund other important building improvements such as additional solar panelling, better insulation, high-quality LED lighting, and more efficient heating controls.

Toni Lynch, Chief Nursing Officer, said: “This project has been many years in the planning, and we are delighted to see the equipment arrive on site.

“The environment and climate change has a direct impact on people’s health, and it’s really important that as a hospital, we act to reduce our carbon footprint for the benefit of our staff, patients, community, and wider society.

“We have got to this point thanks to a number of partner

organisations: the Carbon Energy Fund (CEF), Salix, and Veolia.

“We are very grateful for their support to help us make these vital changes happen.”

Will Fairclough, Project Manager at CEF, added: “Project Clean Heat is making positive steps to delivering the whole PSDS project scope, funded by Salix.

With the equipment arriving to site, this marks a huge milestone for the project.

“The project team continues to

strive for the RUH Project Clean Heat to be a success and looks forward to integrating the heat pump units, as well as other new technologies, into the trust estate.”

John Abraham, Chief Operating Officer – Veolia UK & Ireland – Industrial, Water & Energy, said: “This weekend marked a major project milestone in our ongoing delivery of sustainable infrastructure upgrades as energy partner to the RUH.

“With the arrival of this new equipment, we can begin to replace the existing heating system with more energyefficient technology. This is just one part of our holistic whole building approach that will help reduce emissions by 45,000 tonnes over the life of the contract.”

A lot of work has already taken place to plan this project in recent years, and moving forward it will be more visible on the RUH site.

As well as cranes bringing in equipment, visitors will see hoardings and scaffolding to enable work on the project to take place.

There will also be changes to parking and driving route arrangements while work takes place, which will be shared in advance via the RUH’s social media accounts.

Director of Public Sector Decarbonisation at Salix, Ian Rodger, said: “It’s important that we celebrate these key milestones in projects, especially when the teams have worked so hard to get to this stage and put so much effort into getting the planning right so that these critical stages are delivered on time.

“They still have some time to go and we’re proud to continue to support the RUH’s ambitions to reach net zero. They are not only creating a better environment for patients, staff and the community but this project is expected to save the hospital significant tonnes of carbon every year.

“This is better for all of us, and certainly for our planet.”

The improvements are due to be completed in 2026, and from then they will save the hospital around 3,212 tonnes of carbon every year – the equivalent of more than 14,500 return journeys from Bath to Edinburgh in the average petrol car.

The equipment being delivered at the Combe Park site | Photo © RUH

Praise from Ofsted for school holiday sports camp in Keynsham

Becky Feather Reporter

A DAY care sports camp that runs in the school holidays in Keynsham has received a positive report from Ofsted.

Progressive Sports Active Camp at Wellsway School caters for children aged four to 12. It is run by JM Sports Education Ltd and there are 60 children on the roll.

The Ofsted visit took place on 25th July with the inspector finding that all requirements were met.

The camp employs three members of staff to work with children, all of whom hold appropriate sports coaching qualifications.

The inspector’s report says that children arrive “eager” and quickly settle into discussions and activities with their friends. Leaders and staff are said to know the children well.

Staff inspire the youngsters to take responsibility for their belongings, helping them to develop independence. They reassure newcomers who soon join in with the varied activities

on offer, which helps build their confidence.

Children are said to be aware of kind manners and receive lots of praise and encouragement from staff, which raises their selfesteem.

Leaders use self-evaluation daily to enhance what they offer for children and families.

For example, children now sit together in a circle during mealtimes, which supports their social interactions. Leaders have

also identified that they would like to further support parents and children to gain a deeper knowledge of online safety.

The Ofsted report adds that children develop their awareness of healthy lifestyles and have ample opportunities for daily fresh air and space to extend their physical skills. There is said to be an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children’s interests first.

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Uni retains top listing in prestigious guide

THE University of Bath has retained its top 10 ranking in the latest Daily Mail University Guide 2026, staying ninth in the United Kingdom.

The Bath institution has also been shortlisted for the 2026 University of the Year award, in recognition of its strengths in graduate employability, reputation in science, technology and engineering and student experience.

Professor Phil Taylor, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, said: “We’re delighted to retain our top 10 ranking and to be shortlisted for University of the Year. This is a fantastic achievement, which reflects our consistent strengths as a university and the talent and hard work of our students and staff.

“I am proud of the way Bath combines academic excellence with a vibrant campus life, preparing our graduates to thrive in their future careers and make a positive contribution to society.”

Alastair McCall, editor of the Daily Mail University Guide, said:

“Bath is an ever-present in the top 10 of the Daily Mail University Rankings, one of the greatest success stories among the 1960s generation of universities.

“As it prepares to celebrate its 60th birthday next year, Bath was shortlisted for Daily Mail University of the Year 2026 in recognition of the outstanding educational and economic impact its academics and students make on the world on a daily basis.

“The university is enjoying a moment with both applications and admissions at record levels. Students love their student experience here: outstanding academic facilities are complemented by social and sporting opportunities that rival the best on offer in British higher education.”

The inspector’s report says that children arrive “eager”

Photo © University of Bath

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Developer loses appeal to create new EV charging site

Becky Feather Reporter

PLANS to create an electric vehicle (EV) charging site in Bath have been thwarted at appeal, with the planning inspector criticising the developer’s failure to address key issues.

Zest Eco appealed to the Secretary of State to try to secure permission for four EV charging bays in May Lane, a private road off Evelyn Road at Newbridge. The freehold land was sold at auction last year for £12,500. The company had accused Bath & North East Somerset Council of “falling short” of its duties after four times delaying a decision on whether to permit the commercial site.

People living nearby had raised objections about the plans, saying the narrow lane is unsuitable, and is well used by pedestrians, cyclists and dog walkers, providing access to local schools, doctors’ surgery and the Royal United Hospital. It was flagged up that the lane acts as an access to and from seven homes and some lock-up garages, that there is no lighting, and that charging bays being used round the clock could

impact on residents.

Zest Eco, which is backed by the government’s Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund, initially sought to install five charging bays but reduced it to four.

The application was submitted in May 2024. In its appeal statement, Zest Eco said that between August 2024 and February 2025 it had agreed “in good faith” to four requests from B&NES Council for extensions of time.

The council said in its statement to the Planning Inspectorate that had the planning officer made a recommendation, it would have been to refuse permission due to concerns about the impact on a public right of way and a lack of information about biodiversity net gain (BNG).

The footpath runs from Newbridge Hill to Chandler Close and provides access to the western end of May Lane.

Planning inspector Gwilym Powys Jones said in his report that Zest Eco had not taken the opportunity to comment on the council’s statement, or on local residents’ comments and concerns.

He noted that the council’s statement said that four letters of objection had been received but based on the information

made available to him, the level of public comment “far exceeded that”.

The EV charging facility was being proposed at the end of the lane where it joins Evelyn Road. The intention was to remove greenery, surface this part of the lane with asphalt and lay out the facility in accordance with the plans.

In his assessment, the inspector considered that users of the public right of way would not be put at an “unacceptable level of additional risk”.

However, he questioned the accuracy of the analysis which showed that the facility would not impede the accessibility of others, including emergency

vehicles, as it was not based on a site survey but created through desktop exercises.

He also said that a lot of key information had not been provided by the developer.

He wrote: “The appellant says that the parking bays’ dimensions have been designed in accordance with recommended guidelines, but omits to identify the guidelines.

“I know of no recognised planning-related guidelines which recommend a parking bay width of 2.0 metres, as seems to be proposed.”

“Absent” information included what provision had been made for the space requirements of disabled drivers; whether the

layout design took account of the fact that charging ports appear on both sides of vehicles; whether commercial vans would be allowed to use it; the estimated level of use in the day and at night, and how long drivers would stay and whether they would wait with their cars.

The inspector also queried how the facility would operate in the dark and whether external lighting would be needed; whether the equipment would generate noise and, if so, at what levels; and whether refuse vehicles collecting residents’ waste need to use the lane.

The inspector concluded that in the absence of “important relevant information”, he was unable to make a proper assessment. Regarding biodiversity, he was critical of the report provided, saying “its content comes nowhere near addressing the minimum information requirements”. He said he had “no alternative” but to dismiss the appeal.

Following the result of the appeal, which was published on 7th August, Zest has withdrawn its application for advertising consent for three small polemounted signs promoting the site for EV charging.

Five-bed HMO approved despite ward councillor’s concerns

Becky Feather Reporter

A BATH councillor who spoke out against another proposed house in multiple occupation (HMO) in her ward failed in her bid to get the application decided by the planning committee.

The proposal for 11 Hazel Grove was submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council by 18-25 Properties.

Councillor Jess David (Moorlands, Liberal Democrat) objected to the plans to change the three-bed mid-terraced house to a five-bed HMO. Her reasons were the loss of family housing and increased pressure on the area in relation to parking, with the potential for

five adult residents to bring five more vehicles, causing further congestion.

She said: “From my observations in the ward, HMO properties bring with them additional vehicles compared to

unconverted dwellings. This has an unfair impact on other residents and people using the surrounding streets.”

Councillor David also voiced concern about the loss of another house suitable for families to rent

or buy to a HMO rental property.

“There is a growing number of HMO properties around the Poplar Close and the Moorlands estate – although only the larger sized properties are viewable on the HMO register.

“I believe the comments received from residents reflect these concerns.”

She asked for the plans to be decided by the planning committee, but the request was declined by both the chair and vice-chair, who said it should remain delegated to planning officers.

In approving the plans, the officers said the proposed HMO is policy compliant.

They said evidence indicates there would not typically be a significant increase in car parking as a result of a HMO.

The property in Hazel Grove was said to be in a sustainable location, with good access to public transport links. The plans also show provision for bicycle storage.

The report said the change of use of the property would result in a 5.3% concentration of HMO properties within a 100-metre radius, below the 10% threshold, so there would not be an unacceptable loss of housing in terms of mix, size and type. They also said the change of use would not ‘sandwich’ a house between two HMOs, so would not cause significant harm to neighbours.

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The property at Hazel Grove

May Lane in Newbridge

New bid to build 130 homes in North East Somerset village

A DEVELOPER has submitted an outline planning application to build up to 130 homes on four fields in a village in North East Somerset.

It is the second time that Gladman Developments Limited has tried to get permission to build a new estate on 18 acres of land off Farrington Road, on the edge of Paulton.

Already more than 50 comments of objection have been sent to Bath & North East Somerset Council since the application was lodged earlier this month.

In March 2022, similar plans from the same developer were refused on six grounds. At the time the council said:

The proposed estate would be outside the housing development boundary.

The loss of “best and most versatile agricultural land” would not be outweighed by the proposed sustainability benefits. There were not enough facilities, amenities and employment opportunities in Paulton to limit future residents from having to travel by car, and the development would not be “genuinely accessible” by sustainable transport.

There was a lack of suitable childcare and early years needs provision to cater for the proposed development. They had concerns about the impact of the access on road safety.

The scale, location and visibility of the development would have a harmful effect.

Gladman Developments Limited has submitted the new application “within the context of the government’s renewed focus on boosting housing supply and delivery to significantly greater levels than seen in the past to resolve what the Secretary of State has called the most acute

housing crisis in living memory”.

The developer says B&NES currently has a shortage of housing land supply, and Paulton is identified as a sustainable settlement and is suitable for additional housing.

The plans include 30% affordable housing, public open space, landscaping, a sustainable drainage system, access and the demolition of a farm building.

The application says there are very good opportunities for bus travel near the site as well as good cycle access. All homes will have cycle parking provision.

Biodiversity will be protected, diversified and improved through new hedgerow and tree planting, gardens and formal and informal green spaces.

Overall, the proposal will achieve a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity.

One of the comments posted on the council’s planning portal says: “Paulton has already had large developments within the village without the ‘promised’ services being put into place.

Some of the properties within these developments still remain unsold. Why build more when there are properties unsold?”

Another objector says people in Paulton are already struggling with getting doctors’

Top tips on how to coparent after separation

However you decide to coparent, we have prepared this guide to help you work together to prioritise your children’s needs post separation, and create a child-centric co-parenting plan.

1. Try to keep routines fairly similar across both households. Whilst you may have different parenting styles, prioritising your children’s welfare by keeping things consistent can help them adjust to this new normal.

2. Communicate with each other respectfully and clearly. Whilst you are no longer in a relationship, effective communication is the

of successful co-

Plans submitted for repairs to former school on Broad Street

stonework and some of the windows of the old school building.

appointments and dental appointments, adding: “The traffic has also increased through Paulton and parking has increased on the main roads. I have lived here all my life and it breaks my heart to see such a small village turn into a mini-city.

“The new building plans will affect me and my family dearly as we love seeing the wildlife (deer) roam through our fields and the beautiful views we see every day. I am strongly objecting to these plans as I love where I live.

“We have always been a strong community and we simply just don’t need more housing. We can’t cope with any more pressure on Paulton as a whole.”

Another observes: “The wildlife has decreased massively in the area recently.

“With new housing popping up all over the Radstock, Westfield, Paulton and Midsomer Norton area, they’re running out of places to go.

“Traffic is at an all-time high and the local residents and wildlife are massively suffering.”

The deadline for comments is 12th September. The planning reference is 25/03044/OUT.

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Legal Expert

parenting. If communication is strained or difficult, think about whether a parenting communication app may help. There are a lot on the market, such as Our Family Wizard and AppClose.

3. Be flexible and willing to compromise. Remember that, sometimes, arrangements may need to change as your children’s needs change. Even the best laid plans can go awry and family events and illnesses can crop up, meaning that plans may need to change. Be open and flexible to this.

4. Keep the long-term perspective. What do you want your children to say about their parents’ separation in years to come? Co-parenting is not just

PLANS have been submitted to carry out repairs to a “handsome” building in the centre of Bath which has been falling into a dramatic state of disrepair for decades.

The former King Edward’s School building on Broad Street has been described as looking like it has been “used as an ashtray”, a dusty relic in an otherwise thriving area of the Georgian city.

Now, Samuel Smith Old Brewery has submitted a planning application seeking permission to carry out repairs to the Grade II listed building.

The famously idiosyncratic pub chain has owned the building since 1989, and this is not the first time it has submitted plans for it to Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Samuel Smith’s first received planning permission to turn it into a hotel in 2010.

Although the planning permission has since been renewed and amended, the building has remained empty.

It is now on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register.

But plans submitted this month are now seeking the green light to finally carry out repairs which had been mandated as conditions of earlier planning permission.

These concern repairs to the

While it is not clear how long this repair work has been needed, one of the drawings submitted with the application of the work planned was dated 2018 and another was dated 2006.

Two years ago, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s cabinet resolved to appeal to Samuel Smith’s to either make repairs to the building or potentially be forced to sell up.

Then deputy council leader Richard Samuel said at the time: “The owners of this building are not looking after it and it is on the national risk register and that is a disgrace for a city like this.” He said that he walked past the building every day and had seen it decline, adding: “It looks like it has been used as an ashtray.”

Last year, a former pupil of the school who used to sneak into the empty building to train acrobats hung four signs reading “what a waste” across its windows.

Scott Harrison, of Captain Bob’s Circus on Weston Island in Bath, called for it to be turned into a circus school. The signs however were quickly removed.

Samuel Smith’s is well known for its strict rules against swearing or using mobile phones in its traditional pubs. The brewery has also been criticised by some for the number of unused historic buildings in its property portfolio.

about the here and now, and your children are going to need you both in the future.

5. Try and present a united front on important issues, even if you disagree privately. Don’t have those disagreements in front of the children. If you are struggling, think about utilising mediation to discuss issues that are a sticking point.

6. Co-parenting teenagers can bring added complications. Teens need to feel heard, and it’s important that they have the chance to talk about their feelings and understand they are valid, even if you disagree. They need their privacy and independence in the same way as if their parents were still together.

7. Remember that your children love you both. Never talk negatively about the other parent in front of your children, they won’t want to hear this.

8. Ensure that you liaise with each other over important issues such as school and health. When one parent feels isolated from decision making, this can lead to resentment. Think about the use of a parenting plan and consider the “what if” scenarios.

At Stone King, we have a team of dedicated professionals who can offer support and guidance, whatever stage of separation you are at.

If you would like to find out more about how we can help, please get in touch with our team today.

Rebecca Eels

Becky Feather Reporter

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

There have already been more than 50 objections to the scheme

The old King Edward’s School building in Broad Street | Photo © Stephen Sumner

Intersex Progress flag can now officially fly at the Guildhall

Becky Feather Reporter

BATH & North East Somerset Council can officially fly the Intersex Progress flag after a retrospective planning application was approved.

The flying of the flag above the Guildhall in Bath divided opinion, with 25 objections and more than 50 comments of support received by the council.

B&NES Council has flown the Rainbow flag – commonly known as the Pride flag – for many years to mark events including Pride as a visible demonstration of inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ communities.

The application for advertisement consent for the new flag said that the council had been advised to apply for permission following discussion with both the chief executive and the leader of the council.

It said that in recent years, many civic bodies and organisations have adopted the Progress Pride flag.

The updated flag was designed in 2018 and incorporates the original Rainbow flag and an additional chevron of black, brown, light blue, pink, and white

stripes to represent historically more marginalised groups within the LGBTQ+ community, including those from black and minority ethnic communities and transgender people, plus a purple circle on a yellow background representing intersex individuals. Comments of objection to flying the flag in Bath included one who called it a “politically charged and divisive flag” that risked damaging the reputation of Bath.

Other objectors said:

• Flying the flag does not align with the recent Supreme Court ruling on gender.

• It would be an “inflammatory and divisive gesture”.

• It excludes non-LGBTQ+ people.

• Flying the flag would deter visitors who object to the political message.

• The council should support LGBTQ+ people in more “hands-on, less tokenistic ways”.

Supportive comments included:

• The importance of the council demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity.

• The flag is a positive, supportive, welcoming and inclusive symbol.

• It represents equality, compassion and fairness and

represents anti-discrimination.

• It is a meaningful gesture given current and ongoing attacks on LGBTQ+ groups and their rights.

• Its removal would be far more detrimental to perceptions of Bath.

Liberal Democrat councillor Shaun Stephenson-McGall (Timsbury) said in his letter of support: “Unsurprisingly as B&NES Council’s member advocate for LGBT+ issues, I strongly support the application by the council to fly the Intersex Progress flag from the permanent flagpole on the roof of the Guildhall, Bath.”

He said the proposal involves no substantial changes beyond the updated flag design.

Fellow Liberal Democrat

councillor Ian Halsall (Oldfield Park) wrote to say he is “proud to live in and represent such an inclusive city where we respect the values and individualities of all our residents, visitors and those who work here and the contributions they make to our communities and economy”.

He added that “there is no politics in planning” and the application was purely to seek retrospective advertisement consent to consider the impact of the flag and its design on public safety and amenity.

Meanwhile Councillor Lesley Mansell (Radstock, Labour) said: “The flag is a powerful emblem of Bath and North East Somerset’s dedication to inclusion, equality and civic representation.

“Its presence affirms the rich diversity of our community and amplifies voices that have historically been marginalised within the broader LGBTQ+ spectrum.”

She said that just as flags are flown to mark Remembrance Day or cultural celebrations, the Progress Pride Flag plays a “symbolic civic role, not a political one”, adding: “It honours human dignity and shared belonging, not policies or partisanship. Flying the Progress Pride Flag does not

create division, it bridges it.”

In granting advertisement consent for the new flag on Friday, 15th August, the B&NES planning officers said the proposal is compliant with relevant planning policies and legislation. Their report said: “The application highlights that the Progress Flag incorporates the original Pride Flag along with additional colours and symbols to represent historically more marginalised groups and that the flag will only be flown during appropriate relevant occasions.

“Greater visibility and representation of these groups may advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations, in addition to tackling prejudice and promoting understanding between those who do and do not share these characteristics.

“In addition, Pride-related events, during which the flag would be displayed, for example Bath Pride, are open to participation from all members of the public should they choose to, whether they consider themselves as LGBTQ+ or not.”

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Green light for new children’s home at property in Odd Down

BATH & North East Somerset Council has granted approval for a property in Odd Down to become a children’s home.

Mainstay Housing and Support Ltd submitted the application for a house at Old Fosse Road last month, saying: “Our mission is to support Bath and North East Somerset Council in meeting the growing demand for suitable housing for looked-after children.

“The Bath and North East Somerset area faces a significant shortfall in family-style accommodation for children in care.”

The application sought permission to change the house to a children’s home, which will be Ofsted-regulated and accommodate up to three looked-after children aged seven to 17. The home will offer short and medium-term placements, providing 24-hour care in a “nurturing, family-style environment”.

The applicant said up to two vehicles will be used for school runs, appointments, and community activities and will be

parked on site. The level of vehicle use will be “consistent with a typical residential household and not impact local traffic or parking

availability”. Council planners said that the house being occupied by three children with two carers is a “compatible use” with the

COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council

This month, I’d like to start by congratulating Bath & North East Somerset Council Children’s Services, who recently received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. This is a major achievement for the team and is testament to their hard work and dedication in supporting children, young people and families across our area. It’s been a busy summer in the city, and special events will continue this September with the return of the Bathscape Walking Festival.

This year’s festival runs from Saturday 6th September to Sunday 21st September and is themed around Bath’s unique landscape and the importance of the green spaces to the city and its heritage. Search ‘Bathscape’ for more information on over 50 organised walks (most free of charge), as well as self-guided activities, a one-day conference and the return of the Forest of Imagination event. Looking ahead to the autumn, I want to highlight the significant work that is getting underway to shape the future of our area.

In October we will begin a consultation asking for your views on how Bath & North East Somerset will look over the next decade – focusing on housing, areas of employment growth and how we travel around.

A Local Plan Options document will go before the cabinet in September and, if agreed, will then go out for public consultation. This is a vital first step towards a final Local Plan, which will establish the planning framework for Bath & North East Somerset up to 2042.

All councils are legally required to produce Local Plans. These plans contain a vision, strategy and policies to guide and manage how a district grows and changes over the next 15 to 20 years, and how planning applications for new development are decided. We will update you on this process over the coming months. Please check our websitehttps://www.bathnes.gov.uk/ local-plan - and social media for more detail on how you can get involved and have your say.

surrounding residential area and there were no concerns from the highways team.

The report said: “The children would be integrated into the community, attending schools and using services.

“There is no evidence to demonstrate that the children will be anti-social, cause intimidation or result in an increase in crime.

“It should also be noted that this property could be occupied by any ‘unknown’ family and/ or people at any time without needing planning permission.”

In the meantime, we have boldly set out our high expectations of property developers. This is about leadership: making it known that development for private profit must be matched by tangible investment in our communities. We will seek increased financial contributions from developers, which could be used to provide home to school transport, GP surgeries, Early Years provision and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision.

The Intersex Progress flag

Appeal started against enforcement notice on land at Upper Weston

A LANDOWNER is appealing against an enforcement notice issued by Bath & North East Somerset Council ordering him to remove caravans, waste and a barn from the site on the edge of the city.

The appeal by Hisnain Mahmood relates to the site known as Parcel 3263 at Deanhill Lane, Upper Weston.

The land is within the Green Belt and Cotswolds National Landscape.

Mr Mahmood, who has an address in Birmingham and is connected to property and pharmacy companies, first

submitted an application to the council in September 2024 for a Certificate of Lawfulness to enlarge three barns by no more than 25%.

At the time, he said he planned to keep chicken, livestock and horses in the barns.

The application was withdrawn in early November and a week later the council received a consultation request to operate a certified exempted camping site on the land.

That request was withdrawn in early December.

Then in January 2025, Mr Mahmood asked the council for prior approval to put up a 22.5 metre by 22 metre barn to keep livestock, saying his 30 calves would die outside in the cold

Business Directory

winter without it, so he needed it built “asap”.

Later that month, the council ruled that the proposal did not constitute permitted development and that full planning permission would be required.

The council issued an enforcement notice on 5th June, identifying that the landowner should cease using the site as a residential caravan site and stop importing and storing waste materials, as well as removing an agricultural building.

Mr Mahmood lodged his appeal with the Planning Inspectorate on 10th July.

The hearing has been scheduled to take place on 14th October at the Guildhall in Bath.

Public Notices

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

Prabesh Gurung applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 24th August 2025 for a licence to use the premises: The Mad Hatters Tea Party 5 Orange Grove Bath BA1 1LP for the sale by retail of alcohol (on and off premises) Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 18:00 and Sundays 10:00 – 17:00.

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

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 21st September 2025

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: 27/08/2025

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

City Taprooms Ltd applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 27th August 2025 for a licence to use the premises and trading name The Edge, 14/15 Milsom Place, Bath, BA1 1BZ for the sale by retail of alcohol during the hours 12pm until 11pm Sunday to Wednesday and 12pm until 12am Thursday to Saturday.

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

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 23rd September 2025

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: 27/08/2025

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Becky Feather Reporter

The access to the site from Westmead Gardens, off Deanhill Lane

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City three games unbeaten thanks to fine point at relegated Fleet

Richard Briggs Reporter

BATH City stretched their unbeaten run to three matches as they secured an excellent point at Kent side Ebbsfleet United on August Bank Holiday Monday.

The Romans followed up wins over Salisbury and Eastbourne Borough to draw 1-1 at The Kufflink Stadium in Northfleet on 25th August.

Although the stalemate meant that City slipped from eighth to 10th place in Enterprise National League South, they are just a point adrift of the play-off zone.

Like Bath, Ebbsfleet went into the match with only one league defeat to their name this season.

But the relegated South Easterners needed a last-gasp equaliser to preserve their unbeaten home record.

The Romans took an 11th-minute lead in front of a crowd of 1,395 that included 135 travelling fans who braved the bank-holiday traffic, Scott Wilson on target after a free-kick by Will Jenkins Davies.

United felt aggrieved by the goal, saying their players had waited after hearing the referee blow his whistle following the free-kick. However, the referee signalled for play to continue and Wilson ran on and shot past keeper Mark Cousins to record his first goal of the league campaign.

Brad Ash twice went close to extending the lead before the break – and in the second half, Dan Greenslade fired over the bar after Cousins parried a shot from Alex Fisher.

However, full-timers Ebbsfleet had a lot of possession and they equalised in the 89th minute.

Tom Dallison headed the ball down after a cross from Ben Chapman – and substitute Dominic Samuel pounced to fire past City custodian Harvey-Wiles Richards.

Bath manager Darren Way said:

“Super proud of the players, team effort.

“We knew the players were going to have to play under pressure and fatigue just because of the quick turnaround.

“We were excellent in the first half and caused them a number of problems. We were unlucky not to go 2-0 or 3-0 up.

“We knew their staff were going to get into them at half-time. They came out in the second half and started flipping the ball down the channels and we had to deal with free-kicks, corners.

“But overall that’s a fantastic performance away from home against another full-time team.

“Really pleased with the concentration levels. We limited them to only a few chances.

“What a great point away from home for this part-time team.

“There’s a real belief in the group.

Last year we probably wouldn’t have seen that game out.”

Bath: Wiles-Richards, Raynes, Greenslade, Tomlinson, Batten, Parselle, Jenkins Davies, Wilson

(Fisher, 61), Ash, Tillson, Russe. Unused subs: Clark, Horsell, Sweeten, Beardmore, Matthews. The Romans will play at the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park twice in the league over the next week.

Dorking Wanderers will provide the opposition on Saturday 30th August (3pm). Discounted tickets are available here.

And Maidenhead United will be the visitors on Tuesday 2nd September (7.45pm). Discounted tickets are available here.

Meanwhile, Bath City Women will complete their programme of pre-season friendlies on Sunday 31st August when they host Frampton Rangers from the higher-grade Shield Services Group South West Regional Women’s League Premier Division.

The match against Yate-based Rangers will be played at the University of Bath (2pm).

City have endured a tough preseason so far, losing 13-0 to Bristol Rovers and 8-0 to AEK Boco.

Bath gain revenge in style with 180-run rout

Richard Briggs Reporter

BATH 1st XI gained revenge for their June defeat by Downend 1st XI in brilliant style, destroying the South Gloucestershire men by 180 runs at North Parade in West of England Premier Cricket League Premier One.

The city side, who elected to bat, recovered from 9-1 to race to 2985 in their 50 overs on Saturday 23rd August, Sam Young and James Arney putting on 150 for the fifth wicket in 18.2 overs.

Young cracked three sixes and 11 fours in making 107 off 112 balls.

Arney finished undefeated on 65 – featuring two sixes and three boundaries – from 56 deliveries.

Opener Brad Porteous hit 51, with two sixes and eight fours, off 56 balls.

The guests’ Alvin Cameron took 2-48 from nine overs.

Masoor Khan – who smashed an unbeaten century in the earlier game at the WG Grace Memorial Ground – and Cyrus Shafi put on 59 in 11.4 overs for Downend’s first wicket.

But the tables were soon turned as Bath ripped through the visitors, reducing them to 66-6.

Downend were skittled for 118 in 26.3 overs, Khan (32), Blake Sculthorpe (23) and extras (21) making the only contributions larger than 17.

Five of the guests’ batters were removed without scoring, Spencer Gammon and George Axtell doing the damage. Gammon bagged 3-25 from six overs but was outshone by Axtell, who returned a fantastic 5-24 off 7.3 overs.

Victory lifted Bath into third place in the table with one game to play. That match is at eighthplaced Frocester on Saturday 30th August.

Bristol & District Cricket Association Senior Division champions Bath 2nd XI crashed to a shock reverse at Claverham (Yatton), whose 27-run success on Saturday 23rd August moved them off the bottom of the table.

The hosts clocked up 221-7 in 45 overs after opting to bat, skipper James Copeland (59),

Callum Watts (50 not out) and Lloyd Richardson (49) getting the bulk of the runs. Copeland and Richardson put on 85 for the second wicket.

Hamish Bell was the most successful Bath bowler, snaring 3-30 in five overs.

Visitors’ opener Mike Staves made 49 from 54 balls but wickets fell around him, Bath slumping to 40-4.

Number seven Harry Allen scored 43 and added 57 for the seventh wicket with Ross Newman (33) but the champs were all out for 194 in 42.1 overs, Dominic Hooper pocketing 3-32 off eight overs.

Bath 2nd XI will wrap up their league season at home to their Downend counterparts – who lie in second place – on Saturday 30th August.

Another week, another defeat for Bath 3rd XI, who slumped to their fifth straight loss in Bristol & District Cricket Association Division One when they were undone by visitors Keynsham 2nd XI on Saturday 23rd August. The league title is now out of reach for former table-toppers Bath, who are in fifth place with one game to go – at second-bottom Bristol West Indian Phoenix 2nd XI on Saturday 30th August. Keynsham posted 255-7 in 40 overs at the Brownsword Ground after being told to bat – and the total was enough for a 36-run victory.

Ben Whittington’s top-scoring 89 off 107 balls contained 10 fours. He and Ollie Hemmings (39) shared an 89-run stand for the fifth wicket. And then Whittington and Sam Parsons (44) added 79 for the sixth wicket. Luke Welsh (2-50 in eight overs) and Tim Scott (2-53 from eight overs) were the main wickettakers.

In reply, Bath tumbled to 52-4 and were restricted to 219-8 off 40 overs, number six Charlie Pritchard leading the way with 58 from 59 balls. His knock included four sixes and three boundaries. John Ormesher weighed in with 41 not out from 33 deliveries and put on 66 with Pritchard for the seventh wicket.

Matt Curzon claimed 4-57 in seven overs and Charlie Husband snaffled 3-31 off eight overs.

Wanderers win West of England title for third year running

Richard Briggs Reporter

BATH Wanderers 1st XI have secured the West of England Premier Cricket League Women’s Premier Division championship for the third year running.

The unbeaten city side recorded the expected victory over lowly Frenchay 1st XI on Sunday 24th August to win the title with one match to go. But the South Gloucestershire outfit certainly

did not make life easy.

The Wanderers – champions in 2023 and 2024 – emerged 48-run victors, although Frenchay defied the form book by dismissing the visitors and getting close to 200 in the chase.

Asked to bat, Bath lost two wickets in the 30s. But opener

Katie Dolman (33) and Maddie White restored order with a thirdwicket stand worth 50.

White (28) went on to add 53 for the fourth wicket with captain Charlotte Phillips, who finished as top-scoring batter with 55 off

51 balls. Phillips, who was fifth out, struck nine fours. However, the leading contributor was extras – 70, including 45

wides – and the Wanderers were removed for 240 in 37.1 overs.

Frenchay’s Emily Austen claimed 5-44 in 7.1 overs, her victims including tail-enders Connie Osborn, Jenni Hargreaves and Katie Shields as Bath slipped from 234-7.

And the Wanderers really had a battle on their hands as the home side recovered from 2-1 in response to reach 72-1.

Then two wickets from Shields and one for Dolman had Frenchay reeling at 78-4.

The home side crashed to 139-

8 but a ninth-wicket stand of 45 frustrated the Wanderers. When last batter Nina Clegg was bowled by Phillips, Frenchay were all out for 192 in 39.2 overs and the Wanderers could celebrate their title treble. Opener Sindhu Rani made 41 but there were 52 extras.

Lily Day was Bath’s bowling star, capturing 4-20 in eight overs. The Wanderers’ final league game will see them travel to Hatherley & Reddings 1st XI, based near Cheltenham, on Sunday 31st August.

Scott Wilson, here challenging for possession during pre-season, notched Bath City’s goal at Ebbsfleet United | Photo © Simon Howe

The Frenchay ground Photo © Richard Briggs

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Seven-race card as midweek afternoon racing returns to Bath

Richard Briggs Reporter

THERE will be a seven-race card when Bath Racecourse stages its next fixture, on Wednesday 3rd September.

Sponsors for the meeting at the Lansdown track are the British European Breeders Fund, Bath Holiday Rentals and BetWright. Gates will open at 12.20pm, with the first race off at 2.20 pm. Advance tickets are available until Sunday 31st August.

Tickets are available at http://bit. ly/45Jxo4Q

The course is also building up to its double-header weekend of racing in mid-September.

The Wurzels LIVE Raceday, on Saturday 13th September, will feature seven races, the Bath Cider Festival and live music from The Wurzels.

Best Of Bath Food & Drink Festival Raceday, on Sunday 14th September, will feature seven races and a mouthwatering mix of food and drink traders ready to serve up something special.

Odd Down hit five in opening win of Western League season

Richard Briggs Reporter

ODD Down have chalked up their first win of the Jewson Western Football League Division One season – and they did it in style, destroying visitors Calne Town 5-1 on Tuesday 26th August.

Starting brightly, the Down went 1-0 up from the spot. Alfie Andrews was fouled in the box and Harley Prior buried the resulting penalty.

The hosts continued to apply pressure and were worthy of their lead, dominating play. However, a long, wide throughball released Calne’s Nat Bell to lob debutant keeper Matt Green for the equaliser.

Calne then had a short spell of pressure and looked a threat from corners, but the Down defended well and went on to finish the half strongly.

They regained the lead after 35 minutes. Jack Kelsey sent a wellstruck long-range shot towards goal, the ball bounced awkwardly and Town gloveman Gorazd Gigov appeared to spill it into his own net.

Calne made three substitutions after the break, and the changes seemed to rattle the Down for 10 minutes.

But following a 65th-minute corner, home man-of-the-match

Charlie Saunders calmed nerves with an acrobatic shot into the right-hand corner of the net to make it 3-1.

Home pressure continued and Trey Andersen volleyed in from close range after 85 minutes.

Then debutant striker Nick Taylor completed the scoring in the final minute.

The result lifted the Down into 13th place in the table, while Calne – who were beaten in the play-off final last term – were left two places above the relegation zone.

Odd Down bowed out of the Isuzu FA Vase on Saturday 23rd August, when they were beaten 2-0 at Thatcham Town in the first qualifying round.

The Berkshire team, Vase winners in 2018, were members of the Step 4 Pitching In Southern League Division One South last season.

The Down started well and looked the more likely to take the lead, their best chance a James Hare effort that was saved

by Thatcham custodian Maciej Wieczoreck.

The home side took the lead in the 35th minute thanks to a well-taken header by Kaser Chowdhary after a pass from Oscar McClure.

However, the Down considered themselves unlucky to be 1-0 down at the break as they felt there had been little between the sides during the opening half. Then Odd Down suffered a blow in the 53rd minute when Kelsey was sin binned for dissent. Thatcham’s numerical advantage ensured they had plenty of possession, and only a clearance by guests’ keeper Callum Heal prevented a second goal. But the match was settled in the 69th minute. Thatcham’s Ada Cruz was brought down in the box and Callum Willmoth sent Heal the wrong way from the spot to make it 2-0.

The Down pressed late on but the hosts held firm and set up a match Western League Division One outfit Avonmouth in the next stage.

Odd Down felt they made a spirited display with some fine individual performances. They named Lewis Bahadur their top performer.

The Down will be looking for another Western League Division One success on Saturday 30th August, when they visit Longwell Green Sports (3pm).

Lansdown 1st XI beaten by leaders for first loss in eight games

Richard Briggs Reporter

LANSDOWN 1st XI will finish as runners-up in West of England Premier Cricket League Premier Two Bristol/Somerset. Needing to overcome leaders

Midsomer Norton 1st XI handsomely if they were to take the title-race into the final weekend of the season, they made a brave fight of it but were beaten by two wickets at Withies Lane on Saturday 23rd August. The Down’s defeat was their first loss in eight league matches. Put in, Lansdown made 230-9 in their 50 overs. Skipper Jordan Smith and George Scott shared a superb opening stand worth 135 from 29 overs.

Smith departed for 65 – featuring three sixes and seven fours – from 97 balls.

When Scott was sent back 5.1 over later for an 87-ball 62 that included a six and eight fours, the guests were 154-3. That became 182-6 but Noah Davis (29) and Sam Pearce (22) added important runs.

Ed Walker, Callum Harvey, JC

Harding and Nick Pang each took two wickets for the home side. In reply, Norton were 144-3 but slipped to 172-6. Then two wickets from Luke Charlesworth reduced them to 216-8 after 39.1 overs.

But Josh Rodd (5 not out) and Harding (10 not out) took the hosts to the crown at 223-8 from 42 overs, opener Morgan Skipp’s 58 the biggest contribution. Unfortunately for Lansdown, they gave away 34 extras including 25 wides.

Charlesworth returned 3-54 from 10 overs.

Lansdown will complete their campaign at home to thirdplaced Congresbury 1st XI on Saturday 30th August.

There was also disappointment for Lansdown 2nd XI when they faced Midsomer Norton 2nd XI at Combe Park on Saturday 23rd August in Bristol & District Cricket Association Division One. The visitors prevailed by seven wickets.

The Down elected to take first knock and crashed from 51-2 to 103 all out, Sam Athay (17) the best of the batters in the 32-over innings. However, extras (21) top-

scored.

Nick Potter (4-15 from six overs) and Tiger Sherred-Isles (3-10 in four overs) starred with the leather for Norton. With Martin Cox making 45 and Sherred-Isles striking an undefeated 39, the travellers reached 107-3 in 22.2 overs, Matthew Thomas bagging 2-24 off 6.2 overs.

Norton are now four points clear

at the top of the table with one game to go. The Down, who are seventh, will wrap up their season at championship-hopefuls Lodway 1st XI on Saturday 30th August.

Lansdown 3rd XI trounced hosts Timsbury 3rd XI by 146 runs in Bristol & District Cricket Association Division Nine East on Saturday 23rd August. The Down recovered from 38-3 to

post 236-6 off 40 overs after being inserted, Ashton Williams (50) and Andy Cox (59 from 49 balls) leading the charge by putting on 104 for the fourth wicket. However, Timsbury contributed greatly to their downfall by gifting the visitors 65 extras – including 46 wides. Max Steeds gave away 15 wides but still had impressive figures of 3-25 from seven overs, two of which were maidens. Extras (33) top-scored in the Timsbury response, which ended at 90 all out from 24.4 overs. The villagers had been 36 without loss. The pick of their batters were William Rawlings and Paul Sage, who managed 16 apiece. Christopher Edwards grabbed 3-10 in four overs, and Will Harrison, Xander Priscott and Sam Lindsley each took two scalps.

Lansdown 3rd XI will conclude their league season at home to neighbours Hampset 1st XI on Saturday 30th August. Runnersup spot is still on offer for the third-placed Down.

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Lansdown 1st XI will have to settle for runners-up spot

Bath will stage its next meeting on 3rd September | Photo © Richard Briggs

Photo © Odd Down FC

Bath City FC

Derby clash brings Larks opening league win

Richard Briggs Reporter

IT took a while coming but Larkhall Athletic have chalked up their first victory of the Pitching In Southern League Division One South season.

In front of a sun-drenched crowd of 320 at the Camella Stadium on August Bank Holiday Monday (25th August), the Larks emerged 3-2 winners of a pulsating derby to zoom out of the relegation zone and into mid-table.

Athletic were beaten in their three previous league matches –by heavyweights Bishops Cleeve and Malvern Town and, most recently, promoted Brixham – so there were some nerves among home fans before kick-off.

Melksham, playing down the slope in the first half, made the early running.

Home keeper Liam Armstrong parried a 25-yarder from Will Christopher after seven minutes. And shortly afterwards, Devanti McInerney set up Jamal Lawrence, who drove wide under pressure from Larkhall captain Sam Boulton.

With 15 minutes gone, McInerney held off the hosts’ Will Banks and sent a 14-yard angled drive narrowly wide.

The Larks’ first good chance came two minutes later. Ryan Beckinsale fed Dawid Regula but Melksham skipper Mark Cooper cleared at the centre-forward’s feet.

However, Larkhall broke the deadlock in the 20th minute, Boulton shooting in from six yards. The goal was the first that the visitors had conceded in the league this term.

Boosted by the goal, the Larks almost added to their tally four minutes later, Max Williams lashing narrowly over the bar from 25 yards.

Crossword

Melksham’s former Larkhall man

Aysa Corrick headed wide from eight yards following a corner in the 28th minute. But Asa White could have made it 2-0 shortly afterwards, only to send his 18-yarder at guests’ custodian Adam Forster.

Then two goals in three minutes turned the game on its head.

After 38 minutes, McInerney fed Ralph Graham, and the former Swindon Town professional buried the ball from five yards to level matters.

And Graham pounced again, netting from 15 yards after a bad clearance fell to him in the 41st minute.

With Larkhall shellshocked, the travellers almost made it 3-1 in first-half injury-time.

The dangerous McInerney held off three defenders and worked his way into the box, but his effort was parried by Armstrong.

And the interval failed to disrupt Melksham’s rhythm – as four minutes into the second period, Graham forced a flying save from Armstrong.

The Larks thought they had a way back into the game in the 53rd minute. They appealed for a penalty after what they thought was handball in the box, but

referee Paul Collier ruled that it was case of ball to ribcage. Regula took his protests too far and was booked.

Armstrong dived to take a 61st-minute free-kick from Christopher. And five minutes later, the gloveman beat away a 17-yard shot from Archie Milne. But Larkhall weathered the storm and got back into the match. A 30-yard rocket from Beckinsale whizzed just over the bar in the 70th minute. And three minutes later, the hosts equalised. Substitute Alex Camm squared for Harvey Flippance to fire in from 12 yards. Soon it was time for Melksham to be shellshocked. In the 78th minute, with Camm again the provider, Beckinsale struck from an angle six yards out to put Athletic back in front.

Eben Mortimer-Taylor almost extended the advantage in injurytime, Forster pushing behind his low, angled 20-yarder.

But there was late drama at the other end, Melksham’s Josh Bennett blazing over from six yards.

However, the Larks could not be denied a crucial success.

Larkhall starting XI: Armstrong, Banks, Goodall, Boulton, White,

answers - Issue 110 (15/08/2025)

Beckinsale, Williams, MortimerTaylor, Flippance, Regula, J Camm.

Athletic had slipped to penultimate place in the table on Saturday 23rd August when they lost a 2-1 lead at Brixham and went down 3-2. It was 0-0 at the break but the Fishermen moved ahead early in the second half through Charlie Johansen, who netted via a deflection.

White restored parity and Regula put Athletic in front from the spot after a penalty was awarded for handball, only for Brixham to equalise through Aaron Wellington’s free-kick.

An 83rd-minute penalty from Johansen handed the Devonians their first win of the league campaign.

The Larks’ reverse was a tough one for them to take because they hit the bar twice and had an effort cleared off the line.

Larkhall starting XI: Armstrong, Banks, Goodall, Boulton, White, Sage, Williams, Mortimer-Taylor, Flippance, Regula, J Camm.

The Larks are now without a match until Saturday 6th September, when they will visit Tavistock in the Isuzu FA Trophy first qualifying round (3pm).

Across: 1 Crib, 4 Honourable, 9 Other woman, 10 Oats, 11 Unlimited, 13 Meany, 16 Remy, 17 Cadet, 21 Otter, 22 Ria, 23 Vow, 24 Niece, 25 Necks, 28 Suva, 31 Camps, 34 Acquiring, 36 Upas, 37 Painkiller, 38 Tape player, 39 Gist. Down: 2 Rotunda, 3 Beehive, 4 Hawaii, 5 Number, 6 Urns, 7 Arose, 8 Latin, 12 Delve, 13 My own, 14 Aztec, 15 Yards, 17 Cynic, 18 Dream, 19 Tress, 20 Larva, 26 Earplug, 27 Kennels, 29 Acuity, 30 Bunker, 32 Alpha, 33 Posse, 35 Opal.

STAIRLIFTS

Saturday 30th August – 3pm Bath City v Dorking Wanderers (Home) League

Sunday 31st August – 2pm Bath Women v Frampton Rangers (University of Bath) Pre-Season

Tuesday 2nd September – 7.45pm Bath City v Maidenhead United (Home) League

Saturday 6th September – 3pm Bath City v Chesham United (Away) League

Sunday 7th September – 2pm Bath Women v Hereford (Away) FAC1Q

Bath Cricket Club (1ST XI)

Saturday 30th August – 12pm

Bath 1st XI v Frocester (Away) WEPL – Premier 1

Sunday 31st August – 1pm Bath Wanderers 1st XI v Hatherley & Reddings CC, Glos- Hawks 1st XI (Away) WEPL - Womens Premier League

Lansdown

Cricket Club (1ST XI)

Saturday 30th August – 12pm Lansdown CC – 1st XI v Congresbury CC – 1st XI Prem 2 Bristol/Som

Saturday 30th August – 1pm Lansdown CC – 2nd XI v Lodway CC – 1st XI First Division

Get Involved

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Larkhall, blue, force Melksham to defend in numbers at the Camella Stadium | Photo © Nigel Battrick