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Pools future uncertain as flood damage assessed
THE trust behind the restoration of the Cleveland Pools says it has now confirmed the full extent of the flood damage that forced the Georgian lido to close two years ago, but has warned that finding the money to repair and reopen the site remains a major challenge.
In a financial report lodged last autumn, the Cleveland Pools Trust revealed that the January 2024 floods not only ruined plant and machinery in the pools’ plant room, but also damaged the structure and connecting pipework.
Trustees said that repair costs could be “substantial, and beyond the resources available to the trust”, raising the possibility that the pools might never reopen.
The new update, issued on Thursday 19th February, confirmed that a programme of “detailed technical and engineering investigations” has now been completed, covering the condition of the pools, the plant room and the structure beneath the main pool. Those complex surveys, carried out by specialist engineers and contractors, have identified damage to pipework beneath the main pool in addition to the previously reported flooding of
the plant room and equipment.
The Cleveland Pools Trust is now finalising cost estimates for the remedial works needed to restore the site.
Trustees say the scale of work required means that securing the future of the 207-year-old, Grade II* listed baths will involve “a significant funding challenge”, and that identifying a viable route to investment is now their primary focus.
While the original restoration design took account of climate change and flood risk, the trust is also considering whether further changes could be made to improve the site’s resilience to future extreme weather events.
Owned by Bath & North East
Somerset Council and held on a long-term lease by the Cleveland Pools Trust, the riverside baths were brought back from dereliction thanks to support from a wide range of funding sources, including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, other heritage bodies, donors, companies and individuals.
More than £9.5 million was raised, allowing restoration work to begin in April 2021 and completion in 2022.
Before reopening to swimmers in September 2023, the trust sub-let the site to leisure operator Fusion Lifestyle on a long-term, full repairing and insuring sub-lease. The relaunch attracted national attention and multiple awards
for community engagement, volunteering and conservation, including a European conservation prize in 2023, making the closure after the January 2024 floods “deeply disappointing for everyone involved”.
Despite the setbacks, trustees insist they are still working towards a return to swimming. They are exploring options for restoring and reopening the pools, and say some elements of the original design may need to be reconsidered – potentially requiring further permissions and extra time before work can begin.
Alongside that, the trust is rebuilding and strengthening its board, including appointing a new chair, to ensure it has the skills and capacity needed to manage the next phase.
Chair Peter Askew said: “The trustees believe this effort will be worthwhile if the oldest public open-air swimming pools in Britain can once again be enjoyed as a valued community asset, supporting health, wellbeing and year-round access to swimming. “In the meantime, the trust remains hugely grateful to its volunteers and supporters who continue to care for the site and stand behind the future of Cleveland Pools.”
IF you’re one of our long-time readers, you’ll have followed the story of the Cleveland Pools via our website and here in print - and it’s certainly been a journey.
Once again, the fate of the pools graces our front page (five times!), though still not for good reasons.
I won’t go into the depths of the situation surrounding the 2024 flooding, and the current status of the site (see above for more information), though there’s certainly quite a few things that
I know we’d all be keen to know.
There have been plenty of rumours flying around, and speculation from some, regarding the reasons the site was so badly damaged by the river water,
including issues with the way the structure underneath the main pool was built; however I think it’s about time there was a bit more openness.
An update from the Cleveland Pools Trust on 19th February explained that full assessment of the site has now been carried out, and costs are being ascertained to restore the pools to their regenerated state.
“The scale of the work required means that reopening the pools will involve a significant funding challenge” the statement tells us. But why? Was there no insurance in place? If you bought a newbuild house and a wall fell down shortly afterwards, you would go back to the housebuilder and
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demand some answers. There are protections in place to cover this. Was there no relevant cover in place for the Cleveland Pools?
As far as we are aware, there have been no repercussions on the contractors involved in the scheme, whether that’s the architects, construction companies or the operator Fusion Lifestyle who signed a “full repairing and insuring sub-lease” before taking on the running of the site in 2023. We understand Fusion put £340,000 towards advance rent. As we have been reminded a fair few times, the site is owned by Bath & North East Somerset Council, and they have a long lease with the
Cleveland Pools Trust.
More than £9 million was raised, partially with National Lottery funding (£6.5 million), to make this project happen – but how much of that money has now been wasted? When the site was reopened, there was great fanfare about how it was built to survive flooding, as required by the Environment Agency. The plant rooms that were damaged were built high up on the site so they wouldn’t be affected; however they were, along with pipework under the main pool structure. And we now know there will be a sizeable bill to get it fixed. What will come out of the woodwork (or should that be pipework?) next?
From the Editor... Opinion, insight and the stories shaping Bath this week
The Bath Echo newspaper is produced fortnightly. Thousands of copies are delivered and distributed across the Bath area
Queen's special visit to explore arts and culture
THE Queen spent a day in Bath celebrating the city’s arts and cultural life, with visits to the Holburne Museum, the Theatre Royal Bath and independent publisher Persephone Books on Tuesday, 17th February.
At the Holburne, The Queen was welcomed by Chair of the Museum Edward BayntunCoward and Director Dr Chris Stephens before spending an hour touring historic collections and newly opened temporary exhibitions.
Her visit began in the new Schroder Gallery on the lower ground floor, where she viewed one of the finest private collections of Renaissance silverware, paintings, bronzes, maiolica and gems from the Schroder family collection.
On the first floor, she toured Zandra Rhodes: A Life in Print, celebrating the colourful garments of one of Britain’s most influential fashion designers, followed by a display of black and white photographs by renowned photojournalist Don McCullin.
20mph speed limit proposed in Tunley
There are plans to bring in a 20mph speed limit on seven roads in the village of Tunley near Bath. The roads are the B3115, The Woodlands, Tunley Hill, Overdale, Stoneage Lane, Sarabeth Drive, Tunley and Palmers Lane.
Bath & North East Somerset Council says: “It is anticipated that the proposed lower speed limit would improve road safety for all road users in this rural environment and also improve the area for local residents.”
The Traffic Regulation Order reference is TRO 25-053. Anyone wishing to raise any objections or representations, and the reasons, has until 12th March.
The Queen also spent time in The Shape of Care, a group exhibition created by local community participants exploring the theme of care.
She met contributors whose artworks feature in the show, including Debbie, who said: “When I was homeless 10 years ago at my lowest of low, I never thought I’d be doing anything like this. It’s a wonderful experience to be involved in.”
Akers, met key members of the creative team and watched the company perform the prologue from the show. After the performance, Sally Cookson presented cast members including Helen Nowlan (Aunt Pandora), Phil (Pip) Maguire (one of the actors playing David Copperfield) and Catherine Mecredy (Judge Martha Steel).
Dr Chris Stephens, Director of the Museum, said: “It was a true honour to welcome Her Majesty the Queen back to the Holburne. I was extremely proud to showcase the dedication and achievements of my staff and our amazing team of volunteers who make the Holburne a welcoming and inspiring space for everyone.”
The Queen then visited the Theatre Royal Bath, where she has been Patron since 2008 and last visited in 2009.
She was received by Theatre Royal Bath Director Danny Moar and taken into the Main House auditorium to see work in progress on David Copperfield: A Life, an epic community production featuring a company of more than 100 people. There she was introduced to director Sally Cookson and writer Mike
The Queen was then shown the site where a new fringe-style community venue will be built at the heart of the historic theatre complex, before heading to a reception at The Egg Theatre, the Theatre Royal’s dedicated children and young people’s space.
At the reception she met supporters including Linda Hillman, whose late brother David Franklin was a longtime supporter of the theatre, and Trustees of the Miss Beryl Billings Charitable Trust –Chair Judith Peplar, Andrew Mortimer and Tim Rutherford – who have donated a substantial sum towards the new venue. Using a specially designed theatrical prop in the shape of a replica toy theatre, The Queen unveiled the name of the new community venue, previously known as Venue 4.
Archers, whose legacy under the Miss Beryl Billings Charitable Trust has helped support the Theatre Royal Bath’s community and arts work.
David Copperfield producer Katherine Lazare said: “A visit from Queen Camilla is the best endorsement for all the community outreach work we have been doing at the Theatre Royal Bath, and it is brilliant to have that recognition.
“It is amazing that The Queen unveiled that the name of Venue 4 will now be The Billings, a venue which will provide a home for the programme of work we do within the community, a place to invite people into, a place everyone will be welcome”.
It will be called The Billings, in honour of Bath-born actress Margot Boyd, best known for playing Marjorie Antrobus in The
feminist narratives, rescuing lost women’s voices, and how readers are often more familiar with male perspectives on the world wars than female ones.
Director Sally Cookson added: “It was a thrill to welcome The Queen into our technical rehearsal today, it gave us all a buzz and the cast members were ‘all a quiver!’
“Having this recognition from The Queen makes the participants feel seen and valued and made to feel that their work is important, which it is.”
The cultural programme concluded with a visit to Persephone Books, the independent publisher specialising in neglected 20thcentury fiction and non-fiction, mostly by women.
The Queen was welcomed by founder Nicola Beauman and MD Francesca Beauman. Over tea in the shop, they discussed building a literary canon around domestic
The Queen heard about forthcoming title The Prisoner, the work of writers such as Dorothy Whipple, and moved on to chat about Elizabeth Jane Howard, Upstairs Downstairs and Foyle’s War. Francesca Beauman said: “We were thrilled to welcome Her Majesty the Queen to Persephone Books. She came to Bath to visit the Holburne Museum, the Theatre Royal and us. We showed her round the bookshop, then she sat down at the ‘wrapping table’ and had a cup of tea (‘milk and one’, a tiny etiquette drama as we weren’t sure whether to pour the milk for her, or not) and we had a delightful chat about, not to be immodest, why our books are so wonderful.
“Then we showed her the printed sections of our upcoming title, The Prisoner, and the endpapers and jacket (all of which are being turned into actual finished copies of the book as we speak); talked about the marvellousness of Dorothy Whipple; and then morphed into a discussion about Elizabeth Jane Howard, Upstairs Downstairs and Foyle’s War.
“There was a large and affectionate crowd waiting outside as she left (with three of our books, if she ever has time to read them: Crooked Cross by Sally Carson, They Were Sisters by Dorothy Whipple and Mariana by Monica Dickens).”
Trio charged with stealing jewellery
Three people have been charged after items were stolen from jewellery shops in Bath. Diana Lavinia Manea, 21, of Melbourne Road in Leyton in London, 20-year-old Armando Muntiean, of Windmill Lane in Greenford, London, and a teenager under 18 who cannot be named for legal reasons, have all been charged with three counts of shop theft. Police say the trio were arrested on Wednesday 11th February in relation to incidents of theft from several outlets in the city the previous day.
All have been released on conditional bail until their appearance at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 4th March.
Long range forecast: (6th to 12th March)
Rain and strong winds on the way, then easing with a period of dry weather and sunshine. Temperatures around normal, with a chance of some frost.
Panel upholds decision to make traffic trials permanent
Becky Feather Reporter
THE decision to make Bath’s three latest traffic restriction trials permanent has been upheld after a three-hour scrutiny meeting.
The controversial decision to make the Liveable Neighbourhood (LN) scheme for Winifred’s Lane, Gay Street and Catharine Place permanent was signed off in January by the council’s Liberal Democrat cabinet members Manda Rigby (communications and community) and Joel Hirst (sustainable transport strategy).
But after a call-in by a crossparty group of nine councillors, the panel met on Monday 23rd February tasked with either rejecting it, asking the cabinet members to rethink, or send the decision to full council.
There is a through-traffic restriction on Winifred’s Lane, a through-traffic closure at Catharine Place and a ‘no entry’ and turning changes on Gay Street and around The Circus.
Bath & North East Somerset Council designed the trials to work together with the aim of more active travel and removing excessive traffic from residential roads used as short cuts to and from the A46/M4.
Dividing opinion is Winifred’s Lane where bollards prevent traffic from the narrow route previously used by 1,300 cars a day. The council’s own consultation found 84% of
respondents objected to the Winifred’s Lane trial. Even within the immediate trial area, 72% of residents opposed it.
Thirteen members of the public, both for and against the scheme, addressed the panel.
An Upper Lansdown Mews resident said: “More than half a million additional vehicles have now been sent past two junior schools per year through closing Winifred’s Lane.”
A representative of the Heart of Lansdown Conservation Group said an extra 1,649 kilometres per day were being driven around the Winifred's Lane area due to displaced traffic, emitting over 30 more tonnes of carbon per year.
Other speakers praised the council’s actions, with one saying Winifred’s Lane is now a “vibrant active travel area”. Local councillors voiced their support too with Mark Elliott (Lansdown, Lib Dem) saying Winifred’s Lane was a “potential pedestrian death trap” when 1,300 cars a day were hurtling up it and the scheme has reduced northbound traffic by 40%.
He said that drivers still choosing
to take a short cut are now going around the western part of Sion Hill and Sion Road; he would “absolutely” like to see northbound traffic reduce further and more could be done, including working with schools to reduce traffic.
Councillor Lucy Hodge (Lansdown, Lib Dem) said increased numbers of cyclists, schoolchildren and walkers now use Winifred’s Lane. She recognised differences in opinion amongst the residents she represents and had taken on board all comments. She said mostly school-run traffic is still choosing the winding route along Sion Road, “impatient at the need to give way”, and that mitigations would deter pavement driving.
Councillor Paul Roper (Kingsmead), also speaking for fellow Lib Dem ward councillor George Tomlin, said the scheme “is not perfect”, but statistics show “favourable” results. A significant proportion of objectors “are the very commuters who we are encouraging to use alternative main roads”.
Councillor Colin Blackburn (Westmoreland, Independent), the call-in’s lead member, spoke on behalf of the “hundreds of residents in the Lansdown part of this LN who feel unrepresented and frustrated by the lack of genuine consideration for the consultation and facts”.
“Maybe the recent comment by the leader of this council to ‘back off’ when questioned about consultation results is indicative of the attitude
Temporary fire station for Bath approved retrospectively
Becky Feather Reporter
PLANNING permission has been granted retrospectively for the temporary fire station in Twerton that will serve the Bath area for the next 18 months.
To maintain critical emergency services during the redevelopment of the 1930s fire station site at Bathwick Street, fire crews are relocating to the old Unigate Dairies site at Roseberry Place, off the Lower Bristol Road. Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) apologised in December for starting work on the temporary station without waiting for Bath & North East Somerset Council to give approval.
They explained they needed to have it ready in time for the redevelopment of the dated fire station into a modern and fully sustainable facility, scheduled to start this month.
AF&RS applied to the council last August to put up the temporary station. The council’s original target date to determine the application was mid-October but the plans were only signed off by
the planners on 11th February. There has been much controversy over the plans to demolish the Art Deco fire station in Bathwick Street. Design work began on it in 1937, led by architect Alfred J Taylor, who died in 1938 after which his architect daughter Molly Taylor took over the project and saw it through to completion. It is regarded as a very rare prewar project by a female architect, and the only fire station known to have been designed by a female architect.
The station played a crucial role in protecting the city during the Baedeker Blitz air raids of 1942. Historic England wanted the
of this administration that surrounds this decision and why residents feel this trial was predetermined.”
He said a theoretical model had “failed its real-world test”; by closing Winifred’s Lane, the council has displaced traffic onto residential routes and past junior schools. The recommendation to make the trial permanent rested on “unsound data” with critical metrics including speeds and carbon emissions omitted from the reports.
Councillor Blackburn urged the panel to send the decision back to cabinet members and ask them to separate and revert the Winifred’s Lane Experimental Traffic Regulation Order.
Councillor Joel Hirst (Odd Down, Lib Dem) said the call-in notice contained nothing that wasn’t considered in the decisionmaking process and he and Councillor Rigby were satisfied that based on evidence, the Winifred's Lane intervention, in tandem with the other two, has proved to work and meet the objectives.
Councillor Rigby said she and Councillor Hirst had separately come to the same conclusion, adding: “We do not accept that the data we have used isn’t sound.”
Scrutiny panel member Eleanor Jackson (Westfield, Labour) asked about the costs of the consultation to council taxpayers.
Councillor Hirst said the West of England Combined Authority was providing £9.4 million of funding across the whole LN
programme. Pre-empting a possible legal challenge, panel member Duncan Hounsell (Saltford, Lib Dem) said that looking at the reasons needed for a judicial review, he didn’t feel the decision-making process could be challenged.
Panel member Malcolm Treby (Weston, Lib Dem) pressed Councillor Rigby on whether the Winifred’s Lane scheme would be successful without mitigations. She said looking at the data and evidence, the scheme meets all targets without mitigations, but they have acknowledged there may be a need to look at doing some.
Toby Simon (Bathwick, Lib Dem) said the scheme clearly achieved what it set out to do while fellow panellist Tim Ball (Twerton & Whiteway, Lib Dem) felt Councillor Blackburn’s arguments did not challenge the procedure that was taken.
Panel member Joanna Wright (Lambridge, Green) said lots of people want the scheme to be successful, but lots are still unhappy about some of the detail. She added: “I am disappointed by this scrutiny panel because as far as I can see, a group of people haven’t even asked a question of the two cabinet members in front of us when their job is to scrutinise them.”
The panel of councillors rejected the call-in by six votes to one, with two abstentions.
Emergency roof repairs needed at Guildhall
station Grade II listed, but the government said it was “not sufficiently special” and denied it heritage status.
The Twentieth Century Society (C20) has since been trying to save it from demolition even though B&NES Council has granted permission for it to be knocked down as part of the redevelopment.
A review of the minister’s decision not to list it was launched last autumn but the Department for Culture, Media & Sport said that as the designation review process is non-statutory, it was under no obligation to respond within a specific timeframe.
EMERGENCY structural repairs are needed to the roof above the Banqueting Room at Bath’s historic Guildhall, it has emerged.
The Grade I listed building is owned by Bath & North East Somerset Council, which undertook preliminary roof condition survey work which has identified the need for repairs.
A decayed truss and tie beam below the roof area referred to as B2 need urgent repair. No works are proposed to the Banqueting Room itself as part of the repair project.
The planning reference is 26/00468/REG13 and the deadline for comments is 26th March.
Other roof works that are considered necessary will form part of a separate application for listed building consent at a later date, says the council.
The restriction at Winifred’s Lane
The new temporary fire station off the Lower Bristol Road
Becky Feather Reporter
The roof of the Guildhall in Bath
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Man’s body found during multi-agency response in city centre
Becky Feather Reporter
POLICE have revealed that a man’s body was found at the city centre premises where emergency services were called at the weekend.
Crews, including a hazardous area response team from South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, attended an address in Lower Borough Walls at around 4.25pm on Sunday 22nd February in response to a concern for welfare incident.
On Tuesday, 24th February, Avon & Somerset Police said in a statement: “Officers on Sunday
were involved in a multi-agency response to an incident at an address in Lower Borough Walls, Bath.
“Emergency services were called to the scene at around 4.25pm.
Sadly, a man was found deceased at the property. Their next of kin has been informed and our thoughts are with them.
“The circumstances behind the death are considered nonsuspicious and there is not believed to be any wider risk to the public. We would like to thank the public for their patience while our enquiries were carried out.”
Reports of a chemical incident at the scene have not been confirmed.
Council acts over fears that tree loss could bring down hillside
Becky Feather Reporter
BATH & North East Somerset Council has thrown a protective cordon around what is left of a hillside woodland in Southdown after the “wanton destruction” of many trees.
The planning committee agreed on Wednesday 18th February that a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) should be placed on the Ivy Avenue site.
The committee heard from landowner Craig Harding who was objecting. He said prior to his ownership, the trees hadn’t been managed for a considerable period.
He’d received correspondence from the council requesting that overgrowth be cut back from the road and said “limited works” had been done on professional advice. His tree surgeons had identified dieback, decay and structural weakness within certain specimens.
He denied their removal was part of “wholesale clearance” and said he’d fenced the boundary to enhance public safety. TPOs should be reserved for trees of “clear public importance” and the threshold hadn’t been met.
An Ivy Avenue resident, on behalf of more than 40 others in the road and Hillcrest Drive which sits above the woodland, said the site incorporates Mr Harding’s and that of other landowners.
He said there are sycamore, ash, laurel, hazel, elder and cherry trees, some of them 50 to 60 years old, and the site is home to birds, foxes and badgers.
He said the root system prevents soil erosion and the removal of a tree at the top has led to slippage.
He added that Mr Harding had made it clear he wishes to chop down the trees to build houses.
Ward councillor Dine Romero (Southdown, Lib Dem) said: “I was first aware of the wanton destruction of the trees when I received phone calls, emails and texts from several very upset
residents who’d woken up to the sound of chainsaws destroying the place they feel belongs to them and is outlined on their deeds.
“These trees form part of an amenity which those at the top end of Ivy Avenue have a right to. It should not be fenced off or chopped down.”
She said: “We have seen the impact in the past when trees have fallen in storms. The walls at the ends of the gardens of Hillcrest Drive have collapsed.”
She added: “If this TPO is not granted, it will not be long before all the trees are cut down and what then happens to the hillside? This woodland is literally holding this side of the hillside together.”
The committee unanimously supported the TPO.
Police were at the scene late into Sunday evening
Crime & Court
Aston Martin driver hit stationary cars while drunk, court hears
A 65-YEAR-OLD businessman who had only recently got his licence back after a drink-drive conviction was more than twice over the alcohol limit when he crashed his Aston Martin Vantage into cars on the A37 earlier this month.
Gordon Clements appeared in custody at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 11th February to admit he’d been at the wheel while drunk on Monday 9th February.
Prosecutor Maree Doyle told the court that Clements had been on Upper Bristol Road heading towards Pensford when he collided with two or three vehicles waiting at a red light. He didn’t stop but carried on, driving erratically and swerving all over the road.
A member of the public called 999 and when police arrived, Clements claimed a lorry had hit his vehicle and that he had collided with some trees.
Police suspected Clements was intoxicated and he was arrested.
At Keynsham Custody Centre, the lower of two readings was 87 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.
The court heard that Clements, of Hallam Close in Midsomer Norton, had only recently got his licence back after completing a drink-drive rehabilitation course, which had reduced the length of his disqualification.
Solicitor Robyn Rowland, on behalf of Clements, said he should not have got in his car that day as he was a risk to other road users: “He probably did not realise quite how inebriated he was.”
Mr Rowland said that although there were “aggravating features”, Clements had not been charged with anything other than drink-
Man sentenced for criminal damage
A MAN from Bath has been sentenced after admitting being in possession of an offensive weapon in the city centre and causing criminal damage.
On 24th September Lee Beer was arrested for having a metal bar with him in Milsom Street after he had caused more than £1,700 worth of criminal damage to a door at Julian House, the charity which helps people who are homeless.
After damaging the door, Beer had been picked up by CCTV in the city centre and arrested. He had a metal bar concealed in his jacket. He pleaded guilty to the two offences at a hearing in December when Bath magistrates adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report to be compiled by the Probation Service.
Beer, who had been on conditional bail, was back in the dock for sentencing on Monday 16th February.
The magistrates noted that the 37-year-old, of Burlington Street, had some “quite nasty offences” on his list of previous convictions, but there had been a long gap since he had last been in trouble. They accepted the recommendation of the Probation Service to impose an 18-month community order.
This will involve a nine-month mental health treatment requirement (MHTR) with the organisation DHI (Developing Health & Independence) and a nine-month drug rehabilitation requirement (DRR) with the organisation Turning Point. Beer must also complete up to 15 rehabilitation activity requirement (RAR) days.
Rather than ordering Beer to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 prosecution costs as they initially considered, the magistrates decided to award that combined amount to Julian House as part compensation instead. Magistrates also ordered that Beer be deprived of the weapon.
driving, and the 24 hours he had spent in custody had been “chastising”.
Mr Rowland said Clements had indicated that when he is entitled to get his licence back again, it’s unlikely he will reapply for it as during the last disqualification, he used the bus to get to work in Bristol where he runs a rope business employing five people. Magistrates banned Clements from driving for 46 months. They did not offer him the chance of doing another rehabilitation course. He was fined £384 and ordered to pay £85 prosecution costs and a £154 court surcharge.
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Distinctive ring stolen during burglary
POLICE are appealing for information after burglars stole jewellery belonging to a man’s late wife during a break-in at his home in High Littleton, near Bath.
The burglary happened between 5pm and 7.15pm on Tuesday 13th January.
The victim, a man in his 70s, returned to his house to find thieves had forced their way inside and taken a number of items of sentimental and financial value.
Among the stolen items is a distinctive wide-band wedding ring with an engraved geometric design.
Police have released an image of the ring in the hope someone will recognise it.
Also taken were an engagement ring, cufflinks, shirt studs, a tie pin and several gold chains.
Officers have carried out a number of enquiries and the investigation is ongoing. They are particularly keen to hear from pawn shops, jewellers and second-hand dealers who may have been offered the wedding ring or any of the other jewellery for sale.
Anyone with information which
could help the investigation is asked to call 101 and quote reference 5226011363. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at https://crimestoppersuk.org/give-information.
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CPS offers no evidence before start of teenagers’ assault trial
TWO teenagers accused of being part of a balaclava-clad group that beat up a boy have had the charges against them dismissed at a youth court in Bath.
Three other boys have previously been sentenced for their roles in the attack, which happened at a house in Radstock on 23rd December 2024.
The victim was taken to the Royal United Hospital in Bath following the assault, suffering from blurred vision.
Reporting restrictions prevent us from naming any of the children or giving information that might identify them.
Two 16-year-old boys, one from Radstock and one from Peasedown St John, had been due to go on trial on Monday 16th February after denying any involvement. But the charges they were facing of assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH) were dismissed after the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was unable to offer evidence.
Last September, a 14-year-old from the Frome area, who was 13 at the time of the attack in December 2024, admitted assault causing ABH and was given a 10-month referral order by the youth court. Magistrates also
ordered that £200 compensation be paid to the victim.
At that hearing, a video taken on a mobile phone of the attack was shown in court, as well as doorbell footage of the group arriving and leaving the house in Radstock where it took place.
It was said that before the attack, the victim received threats of violence via a social media app due to him talking to the exgirlfriend of one of the group members.
Last August, in the youth court, a 15-year-old boy from the Peasedown St John area admitted causing the victim ABH on 23rd December 2024 and a further assault by beating him on 12th February 2025.
Magistrates made two 12-month referral orders, to run concurrently, and ordered compensation of £300 to the
victim. A 14-year-old boy from Peasedown St John, who was 13 at the time of the attack in December 2024, also pleaded guilty to causing ABH when he appeared in the youth court last August. He received a six-month referral order and magistrates ordered that £75 compensation be paid to the victim. A referral order is a way of dealing with young people aged between 10 and 17 who have appeared in court for the first time and pleaded guilty to the offence. It aims to prevent re-offending by making sure the young person is made aware of the impact and consequences of their criminal activity. It gives the young person a ‘second chance’ of a noncriminal future, provided the Youth Offender Panel agrees that they have kept to the terms of their contract.
Three other boys had already been sentenced for their roles in the attack
Beer was found with a metal bar
‘Heartfelt’ apology to man who was punched
A MAN who got angry after being told to take his dog out of a charity shop in the city centre punched a man, Bath magistrates have heard.
Alex Lawrinson was in court on Wednesday 18th February to admit an assault by beating on Matthew Mahony at the Cancer Research shop on Westgate Street.
Prosecutor Maree Doyle told the court that on 10th September last year, a member of staff told Lawrinson that he had to leave the shop as dogs were not allowed and he got upset and “quite aggressive”.
Mr Mahony, who was working nearby and came into the shop after hearing screaming, was punched in the face by Lawrinson when he stepped in to try to help. He suffered cuts and blurred vision.
Ms Doyle called it a “deeply unpleasant and unprovoked attack” on someone who had come to the aid of a shop worker.
Duty solicitor Ruth Tily, representing Lawrinson, said the 37-year-old had taken his dog into the shop before, so could not understand why he was being told to get out. She said he had “snapped” after being grabbed.
The court heard he has mental health issues. In a letter of apology, Lawrinson, of Corby in Northamptonshire, told of his sorrow for the grief he had caused the victim.
Magistrates acknowledged that Lawrinson’s letter was “heartfelt”. They gave him a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered him to pay £200 compensation to Mr Mahony. They made no order for prosecution costs or a surcharge.
Woman admits fraud offence at care home
A WOMAN who stole thousands of pounds from a vulnerable resident at the care home in Bath where she was working has admitted a charge of fraud.
At Bath Magistrates’ Court on Monday 16th February, remorseful Mariyam Yasmin admitted she had dishonestly abused her position at Newbridge Towers Care Home to make a gain for herself of £9,457.84.
her but was “not in the right frame of mind” at the time to sort it out.
The charge related to a period between 29th March 2021 and 12th February 2022.
The 38-year-old had been due to appear in court on 11th February but after she failed to attend, a warrant without bail was issued. It was withdrawn after she turned up in court voluntarily on the 16th.
As activities coordinator at Newbridge Towers, Yasmin had been expected to safeguard the financial interests of a resident with learning difficulties who was partially disabled.
The court heard that although she had helped him with some online shopping, his details were auto-filling when she was buying items for herself, instead of her own account details.
The man moved to another Bath care home - Cleeve Court - in February 2022 after Newbridge Towers closed. He reported to staff there that many transactions had been made from his Halifax bank account without his permission when he was at Newbridge Towers.
Duty solicitor Jo Hooper told the magistrates that Yasmin, who was of previous good character, had been having difficulties in her personal life at the time.
Using his account had been “opportunistic” but she had allowed it to carry on. Ms Hooper highlighted that the care home policy had been “lax”.
She added that Yasmin “feels terrible guilt” and has apologised to the victim via his social worker.
Magistrates committed Yasmin, who now lives in London, to Bristol Crown Court for sentencing next month.
Why do we ‘name and shame’ in our stories?
She knew it would catch up with
The Halifax is looking to recover more than £6,800 and a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) will be considered at the Crown Court. She was granted unconditional bail.
Since the introduction of our Crime & Court section, we've been contacted 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
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Lawrinson said he'd previously taken his dog into the shop
Pictures from the Past
Last train to Green Park
Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press
WHEN the 6.46pm from Bournemouth pulled into Bath Green Park at 10.52pm on Saturday 5th March 1966, it was over an hour late.
All along the line there had been hold-ups – detonators placed on the track, bugles sounding the Last Post, wreaths placed on the smokebox door, and at Evercreech a coffin stowed into the guard’s compartment.
As the train rolled down into the city through Oldfield Park, the whistles of the two locomotives hauling it were held wide open, echoing across the city.
For this was the last train, and, as the gas lamps were dimmed in the station and the doors locked one final time, those who had turned out to witness its arrival were only too keenly aware that this was not only the end of an era but the loss of the Somerset & Dorset – the S&D – one of Britain’s most loved and most celebrated lines.
There would, for those who wanted to see them, be two enthusiasts’ specials running over the S&D the following day.
Come Monday, though, the tracks would be left to rust until they were eventually lifted and nature was left to reclaim a line along which express trains between the north of England and the South Coast had once thundered.
In time, much of the trackbed would be reclaimed and converted into shared-use paths – steam power to pedal power.
These photographs by EW Fry, however, recall a time when the trackbed was immaculately maintained and the infrastructure – and motive power – little changed from when the S&D arrived in Bath back in 1874.
The first, taken on 12th October 1954 gives an idea what you would have seen from the window of a train just after it pulled out of Green Park.
The bridge ahead crossed the Lower Bristol Road, and the building to the left of it is the Royal Oak, which, unlike the S&D, is still going strong.
The second photo, taken the previous day, shows a local train climbing past St Alphege’s Church, whose roof can be seen behind the coaches.
The Two Tunnels Greenway now runs along this stretch of line and the view is almost totally obscured by trees.
Bob Bunyar’s Somerset and Dorset Swansong, a lavishly illustrated account of the final days of the S&D, is available from Wild Swan Books (wildswanbooks. co.uk/Books/Somerset-DorsetSwansong.htm).
Above: The view you would have seen when leaving Green Park
Below: A train climbing past St Alphege's Church on Oldfield Lane
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Entering
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Food & Drink
Tasty Dates For Your Diary
If you’re not bothered about getting exclusive deals, discounts and the hottest food and drink offers in Bath delivered directly to your inbox, then don’t bother signing up for bulletins from Bath Restaurant Week 2026 (Tuesday 17th - Tuesday 24th March) www.bathrestaurantweek.com
Massive congratulations to The Olive Tree at the Queensbury Hotel (Russell Street) for retaining a Michelin Star for the ninth consecutive year under head chef Chris Cleghorn. Also on Michelin’s illustrious selected/recommended list: Chequers (Rivers Street), Oak (North Parade), the Beckford Canteen (Bartlett Street), Upstairs at Landrace (Walcot Street), Montagu’s Mews at the Royal Crescent Hotel and The Bath Priory (Weston Road), who
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all play a big part in cementing Bath’s reputation as one of the UK’s top foodie destinations. https://bit.ly/4s0ovO2
Go forth at your earliest opportunity and wish a very warm welcome to William’s Table Pub & Kitchen: a shining beacon of good vibes, good food and a very good bar on the corner on the corner of Thomas Street/ London Road. @williams_table_bath
Get up close and personal with Slovakian head chef Filip Tencer at the Marlborough Tavern (Marlborough Buildings) on Wednesday 4th March when his 5-course Taste of Home feast brings authentic flavours from central and Eastern Europe to Bath (£45pp; booking essential). www.marlborough-tavern.com
Max out on lunch at vibrant plant-based Indian oasis Sarthi (Walcot Street): 2 courses for £17.95 (3/£22.95) every Tuesday - Friday 12pm-2.30pm. www.sarthi.co.uk
Celebrate the spirit of community at the Locksbrook Inn (Locksbrook Road) on Thursday 5th March when the Community Feast lights up the neighbourhood with a 2/3 course set menu (£20/£25, including a welcome drink on arrival) served at one big, friendly table (booking essential).
www.thelocksbrookinn.com
Go all out for Bao WOW at the Village (Larkhall) on Saturday 7th March when Joseph from Hawker Atelier brings his splendiferous Bao Buns to Bath for one night only. https://bit.ly/4tJpuUm
Melissa Blease Food Writer
They call it ‘dangerous knowledge’, we call it vital intel: massive, fully-loaded 2-for-1 smashburgers (make mine a Big Lebowski, please) at Juno Bar and Kitchen (Philip Street, SouthGate) every Tuesday. www.junobarandkitchen.co.uk
Cheer yourself up with a comforting but chic midweek Winter Warmer dinner at The Abbey Hotel (North Parade): 2 courses for £25 (3/£30) every Monday - Thursday. https://bit.ly/4tSHEmB
Thursday night is Pie, Mash and a Pint night at the perfectly proper pub that is the Pulteney Arms (Daniel Street)! Get cosy with the carbs for just £15 (alternative quaffs are available for the pintaverse).
www.thepulteneyarms.co.uk
Review The Rose and Crown, Larkhall
6-8 Brougham Place
Larkhall, Bath BA1 6SJ
01225 681886
roseandcrownlarkhall.co.uk
@roseandcrownlarkhall
It may only be a mile out of Bath city centre, but in many ways Bath’s ‘urban village’ of Larkhall feels like another country. There’s an excellent butcher, a fabulous baker and probably even an expert candlemaker amongst the long-standing, independent shops, cafes and delis thriving on the high street.
The Rondo Theatre maintains a reputation as one of the top fringe theatres in the South West… and many of the villas, cottages and streets off the main drag look like backdrops to a Richard Curtis film; if you’re looking to experience a living, breathing picture of Bath suburb paradise, you’ve come to the right place — especially if a proper, peoplefriendly pub is your idea of Shangri-La.
comedy sessions, Jazz and Tapas evenings, live rugby screenings and rollickin’ Sunday roasts are supplemented by guest chefs who pop up at the pub every other Wednesday evening, bringing fresh takes on global flavours to the menu.
But Dave’s own, regularlychanging menu offers a unique take on pub grub in its own right: a lively selection of modern British tapas served 4pm-10pm Thursday - Friday and all day on Saturdays, designed to be enjoyed as ‘a little something with a drink’ or grazed on as a full-on feast, banquet style… the latter being the direction we took on this occasion.
The Bath & West Food and Drink Festival returns to the Bath and West Showground (Shepton Mallet) on Friday 20th - Sunday 22nd March featuring the illustrious British Cheese Awards alongside food and drink stands, a bierkeller area, a designated Kids' Zone, chef demos and much, much more. https://bit.ly/4cc4Vty
The new Early Evening Menu at Corkage (Chapel Row) brings 2 courses to the table for just £22.50 (3/£27.50) from 5.30-6.30pm every Monday - Thursday… and every Friday lunchtime too! www.corkagebath.com
Melissa regularly reviews eateries across Bath and the surrounding area. You can find out more on her website at: www.theprandialplayground.uk
Landlord/chef Dave and
The Rose and Crown (Brougham Place) offers a welcome that’s even warmer than the fire roaring in the hearth amongst all the handsome Victoriana that comes with a 100+ year old hostelry, supplemented by a pretty little alfresco terrace for sunny days (remember them?).
customer service veteran Molly have decades of hospitality experience between them, and their easy expertise at the helm shines through at the heart of the pub's proceedings - and there are a lot of proceedings to keep interest levels up here: right now, regular quiz nights, open-mic
Oh my goodness; bring it on, Dave! Creamy cashew nut hummus sprinkled with a smattering of fresh pomegranate jewels. A shoal of plump mussels swimming in a decadent, sweetly savoury cider cream sauce.
A dinky little chicken, ham and leek pie that proved to be notso-little at all, chunks of soft, soft
chicken, umami-rich bacon and silky leeks bubbling away under a super-short shortcrust pastry lid. Meaty, super-fresh sardines - whoppers, not tiddlers - grilled to perfection and slathered in a lemon and chive butter. Smoky, earthy, velvety Dhal Makhani that added aromatic intrigue to our little flavour-bomb party. And oh, the freshly baked ciabatta that came with it all! An exemplary incarnation of the genre indeed. This is the kind of food that you hope to find at a cool city centre hotspot without the pomp, ceremony or prohibitive prices (none of our dishes fluctuated above the £8/£9 mark, with most settling in at £6-£7): delightful, exciting, satisfying, without a single thorn or dull jewel to take the shine off the Rose and Crown in sight.
Cheers to Shangri-La, in Bath.
Follow Melissa on X Find her @ThePigGuide
Cashew nut hummus with pomegranate and bread
Lean on. Shoulder to
We know that experiencing dementia can be scary for you, and your loved ones. Pop along, meet our bighearted team, & discover how we can support you.
Navigating Dementia Together
Wednesday 11th March, 11am - 1pm
What’s Planned:
Advice from our dementia care team Tips on supporting loved ones Drinks, nibbles & a warm welcome
What's On
Bath Art Fair
Bath Pavilion
27th February – 1st March
Original contemporary artwork, ceramics, jewellery and sculpture from over 80 of the nation's leading independent artists, all under one roof. Advance tickets from £6.
Lantern Festival Crafts
The Museum of East Asian Art
28th February, 12-3pm
Celebrate the end of the Lunar New Year with the Lantern Festival at MEAA Head along to the museum and create your own lantern to take home. Learn more about this 2,000-year-old festival.
Operation Mincemeat
Theatre Royal
2nd – 14th March
The Olivier Award-winning Operation Mincemeat is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that helped win World War II.
Sam Nicoresti: Baby Doomer Rondo Theatre
4th March, 8pm
Winner of Best Show at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards 2025. An hour of standup from delusional queer icon Sam Nicoresti about love, insanity, and the hunt for the perfect skirt suit.
Enrico Tomasso - Trumpet
St James Wine Vaults
5th March, 8.30pm
An exciting stage presence and a lively personality, combined with his fine command of his instrument and stylistic invention place Enrico among the finest jazz stars of today.
Chesney Hawkes + Laura Aston
Komedia Bath
5th March, 7pm
Smash It To Pieces Tour - Hawkes became one of the biggest pop stars of his era with his irresistible mega-hit ‘The One and Only’, becoming one of the most recognisable songs of a generation.
An Evening With Nicolette
Roseberry Road Studios
6th March, 6pm
Nicolette returns with her fourth solo album The Infinitive, due for release on her own label Early Records. The evening will feature Nicolette in conversation, then a live performance.
The Lost Trades
Chapel Arts Centre
6th March, 8pm
The Lost Trades are a Folk/Americana Trio, based in the West Country, with a cool Laurel Canyon vibe. With a sound that is reminiscent of the California folk scene of the late 60s/early 70s.
Friday 27th February - Thursday 12th March 2026
Duruflé Requiem
St Mary’s Church
7th March, 7.30pm
The Handful Chamber Choir performs the choral classic Duruflé’s Requiem. A beloved staple of choral repertoire, Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem is an intense meditation on Gregorian chant.
Bath Symphony Orchestra
The Forum
7th March, 7.30pm
Everyone knows the iconic ‘Sunrise’ opening of Richard Strauss’s tone poem
Also Sprach Zarathustra. Now hear Bath Symphony Orchestra's orchestral forces bring the rest of this epic work to life.
National Lottery Open Week
Prior Park (National Trust)
7th – 14th March
As a thank you to National Lottery players, you can get free entry during National Lottery Open Week. Bring your National Lottery ticket or scratchcard and explore Prior Park for free.
The People and Their Protest
Avon Valley Railway
8th March
Remembering 60 years since the railway’s closure. In 1966, Bitton Station was closed by Dr Beeching. Sixty years on, the Avon Valley Railway transports passengers back to that era.
Women of Roman Britain
The Roman Baths
8th March, 8pm
Join this special talk by renowned Roman scholar, Lindsay Allason-Jones OBE. Uncover the lives of women in Romano-British society using archaeological artefacts.
Baroque ‘n’ Roll
The Mission Theatre 10th March, 7.30pm
Get ready for a night where the harpsichord meets the headbang. Baroque ‘n’ Roll features a programme of much-loved Baroque favourites alongside modern classics.
Stolen Ram
Ustinov Studio
11th – 14th March
From the makers of Pot Licker … Zara is in deep trouble. She’s involved with shady, unscrupulous characters motivated only by greed and pursuit of power.
Curious Minds Festival
Various Locations
12th – 28th March
The Curious Minds Festival returns to Bath for over two weeks of talks, walks, workshops, film screenings and performances, bringing together writers, thinkers, artists and audiences.
Popular charity shop raises £350,000 for RUHX
A CHARITY shop on Chelsea Road has raised a huge sum to support the work at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, hitting an impressive £350,000 in donations.
H.U.G.S, which has become a fixture of the local community since opening in 2013, has spent more than a decade fundraising for Cancer Services at the RUH. Its latest efforts are supporting RUHX’s campaign to bring a new PET-CT scanner to the hospital – advanced diagnostic equipment that will help doctors spot conditions such as cancer and dementia earlier and more accurately, so patients receive answers and treatment sooner.
Shop managers Aurora and Marijka said the sense of connection is at the heart of H.U.G.S’ success.
They said: “We find that people love to shop at H.U.G.S because it’s a space that connects us all in one way or another.
“Not only are items and clothes donated and shared, but stories
and experiences too. We are all connected to the RUH and people love to give what they can to help.
“So, from clothes to bric-abrac, please feel free to pop in!
Quality donations are always welcome – especially clothing and accessories from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s!”
The shop has built a reputation not just as a place to grab preloved and vintage bargains, but
Bath arts venue plans win permission
A RETROSPECTIVE planning application for a new arts centre in Bath has been granted.
The Roseberry Road Studios building is close to the Spring Wharf apartments in Twerton - and next to the city’s new temporary fire station off Lower Bristol Road.
With the building’s lawful use being light industrial, the change of use took place in 2024 but the applicant was unaware of the need to secure planning permission.
The change of use is to a mixed use of studio workshops, two large gallery/events spaces used for exhibitions, yoga classes and occasional music events and film screenings. A premises licence allows for the sale of alcohol.
The studios are a short walk from Oldfield Park Station and close to bus stops with regular services to the city centre, Bristol and other key destinations including the universities.
Although there is no off-street parking, the Spring Wharf development has parking spaces which are available for three hours. Permit parking has been introduced on surrounding roads providing controls to manage onstreet parking., There are 10 covered bicycle parking spaces and there is said to be easy access to the local cycle network. The studios are also within walking distance of a significant number of homes, with more being built nearby at the Bath Press site.
The council’s environmental protection team said a noise and neighbour management statement included sufficient measures to safeguard local residents. The application noted that the site is close to Lower Bristol Road, the 24-hour PureGym and the Royal Oak pub while the temporary fire station right next door would contribute to the background noise levels through a “significant” increase in activity in the area.
something back.
“There’s a huge sense of community at H.U.G.S with so many locals visiting each day. It’s a great place to socialise and chat to wonderful people.
“I have benefited from the work of the wonderful nurses and doctors at the RUH and I am happy that I can do my part in supporting them back.”
Laura Snell, Events & Community Manager at RUHX, praised the shop’s long-term commitment.
Bath’s property market is unlike anywhere else in the country.
as a community hub. Volunteers give their time on the shop floor, donors bring high-quality items, and regular customers know every purchase supports patients and families, as well as cutting waste.
One volunteer said their own experience as a patient motivated them to join the team: “I joined H.U.G.S because after having spent a long time in the RUH as a patient, I wanted to give
She said: “We are beyond grateful to the team at H.U.G.S Charity Shop and their customers. Every donated item sorted, every visitor helped and every shift covered helps us go further to give every patient the extra extraordinary care they deserve.
“Reaching £350,000 is an extraordinary achievement and shows the level of passion and commitment of everyone involved.
“Their hard work will have a lasting impact on patients and families in Bath and beyond.”
£20m ‘Pride in Place’ boost to get under way
A MAJOR long-term investment programme is progressing in Twerton and Whiteway, with up to £20 million set to be spent over the next ten years to improve opportunities for local people.
The Pride in Place programme is community-led, with decisionmaking deliberately placed in the hands of residents. Any member of the local community will be able to get involved and help shape how the funding is used.
At the heart of the scheme will be a new Neighbourhood Board, set up to manage the programme and act as champions for the area. The board will be led by an independent chairperson appointed through a competitive process.
The chair role will be a part-time salaried position, while board members will be able to claim reasonable expenses.
Work to bring Pride in Place to life will begin with a series of community events running from 27th February to 8th March. The sessions are designed to give residents, businesses and local organisations space to come together, share ideas and set ambitions for the project. Events will be held at The Annex, Bath Foyer, which is being made available with support from housing association Curo, alongside other activities taking place across the neighbourhood.
Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We have written to all addresses in the area.
“If you get a letter, please spare a few minutes to read about Pride in Place and how you can get involved.
“It is an amazing opportunity for people who live and work in the area to make changes that will improve opportunities for everyone in Twerton and Whiteway.
“One of the first issues the board will be asked to look at is the project boundary. A change of boundary is fully supported by ward councillors who have been campaigning for Whiteway to be fully included.”
Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, added: “We strongly encourage the Twerton and Whiteway community to get involved at the upcoming events as well as the wider Pride in Place programme.
“Neighbourhoods and communities are not defined by lines on maps. They are formed of groups of people who have meaningful relationships and a shared sense of place, identity, or purpose.
“From residents to businesses, charities to clubs all are welcome to participate.”
Applications for the independent chairperson and Neighbourhood Board roles opened in midFebruary. Anyone who is from, living or working in the Twerton and Whiteway ward, holds a prominent community role, or simply has a passion for the area is eligible to apply.
From elegant Georgian townhouses to charming period terraces, buyers are often drawn to the city’s rich architectural heritage and distinctive character. But with this beauty comes complexity, particularly when dealing with listed buildings, something Bath has in abundance. Purchasing a listed property requires careful navigation. Listed building consent is a specific type of permission needed to carry out work on a listed home, and the rules can vary depending on the grade of listing and the local authority. Even if the listing highlights a single feature, the protection can often cover both the entire interior and exterior.
Failing to secure the right consent may constitute a criminal offence and can result in unlimited fines or even imprisonment, making expert guidance essential. Renovating Georgian homes, for example, is certainly possible, but buyers must be aware of the restrictions that come with their listed status. If previous owners have made unauthorised alterations, the new owner can become liable, including for any costs of putting things right. This can also affect future resale. While retrospective consent can be applied for, there is no guarantee it will be granted and therefore other options may need exploring.
At Battens Solicitors, our conveyancing team has longstanding expertise in Bath’s property landscape. We ensure that any previous works identified during the buying process are properly investigated and that the correct consents, whether for listed building work, planning permission or building regulations, are obtained and checked. Where issues arise, we explore practical options to protect our clients and make sure they understand the implications. Bath’s historic homes offer exceptional charm, and with the right legal support, purchasing one can be a smooth and rewarding experience.
For more information speak to Ross Siviter at Battens Solicitors, 7 Gay Street, Bath.
01225 562581
www.battens.co.uk
hello@battens.co.uk
7 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2PH
Volunteers at the H.U.G.S charity shop on Chelsea Road
Becky Feather Reporter
The premises at Roseberry Road in Bath
Bath MP visits A&E department to celebrate staff
BATH MP Wera Hobhouse has praised frontline staff at the Royal United Hospital’s Emergency Department after visiting the unit to see how teams are coping with winter pressures.
Mrs Hobhouse was given a tour of the site on 30th January by Tracey Thorn, Senior Matron in the Emergency Department, who spoke of the significant pressures the department has been facing due to a sustained increase in demand for urgent and emergency care.
This winter has seen an early and challenging flu season, alongside a prolonged cold snap after Christmas, both of which have contributed to increased illness in the community.
The department has also seen many clinically unwell patients with high acuity needs arriving at the Emergency Department and requiring admission to hospital.
Analysis of NHS figures shows A&E attendances at the trust hit 17,521 in June and July last year, an increase of more than 48% from a decade ago.
The increase in A&E attendances is in part attributable to the
difficulty many patients experience in trying to get a GP appointment.
Locally in the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire (BSW) region, waits of over two weeks have increased from 497,427 in 2020 to 1,002,021 in 2025, an increase of 101%.
Waits of over 28 days for an appointment have increased by 89% to 321,299 in the same period.
Previous analysis by the Institute for Public Policy Research found that one in eight of those who could not get a GP appointment
Dementia awareness event at city care home
FAMILIES in Bath are being invited to a free dementia support event at Hallmark Midford Manor Luxury Care Home on Wednesday 11th March.
Hosted by Dementia Care Manager Sonia Seal, the session will offer practical tips, advice and reassurance for anyone living with dementia, caring for someone with the condition, or looking to better understand it. Running from 11am to 1pm, the informal event will cover guidance on day-to-day living with dementia and help attendees find support available for individuals and their loved ones.
Guests will be offered homemade refreshments and shown an informative video by Dr Isabelle Latham, Hallmark’s Researcher in Residence, before
an open Q&A session.
There will also be opportunities to spend relaxed time together with light activities such as flower arranging and crafts.
A family member who attended a previous dementia care event said: “I wish someone had shown me this video years ago and helped me navigate this journey then.”
The event is free and open to all.
To register your attendance and find out more about the dementia support available, visit https:// bit.ly/3MF8Wwf
went to A&E instead.
Mrs Hobhouse also heard how the increase in demand was affected by the new W45 ambulance protocol, Withdraw at 45 Minutes (W45), which aims to ensure that patient handover from ambulance crew to emergency department staff is completed within 15 minutes, but no later than 45 minutes. This was devised with the aim of reducing the wait for ambulance services, however the Bath MP heard how it has presented new challenges for the RUH A&E, which is struggling with increasing levels of attendance and out-of-date infrastructure. This places more pressure on emergency care, which has seen record long 12-hour A&E waits.
In January in particular, the RUH experienced peak demand. Despite these difficult conditions, the Bath MP heard of the dedication of staff, working harder than ever for their patients.
Tracey Thorn, Senior Matron in the Emergency Department, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of our A&E team here at the RUH. This winter has been one of the
most challenging we have seen and they’ve worked tirelessly to cope with the huge demand for treatment. This effort is testament to their incredible dedication to their patients and colleagues.”
Wera Hobhouse commented:
“The incredibly hardworking staff at the RUH are doing their best under these challenging circumstances, which are completely beyond their control.
“Our emergency teams are suffering an emergency of their own. But things won’t change unless we fix the problem in primary care.
“Far too many people are struggling to get a GP appointment when they need one, leaving them waiting anxiously for the care they deserve and all too often resorting to A&E to get treatment.”
Mrs Hobhouse highlighted the Liberal Democrats’ campaign to give everyone the right to see a GP within seven days, or within 24 hours if they urgently need to.
“We would increase the number of full-time equivalent GPs by 8,000, which would increase the number of GP appointments by 65 million”, she said.
Sessions to help spot high blood pressure
RESIDENTS across the region are being invited to a series of free community health drop-ins offering on-the-spot blood pressure checks over the coming weeks.
The events are being held between Monday 23rd February and Friday 6th March to help people understand and monitor their blood pressure, take early action where needed and reduce their risk of heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular conditions.
High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer”, rarely causes obvious symptoms but significantly increases the risk of life-threatening illness.
Many people remain undiagnosed, particularly those who don’t routinely visit their GP or pharmacy. Alongside free blood pressure
checks, visitors will be offered guidance on how to use home blood pressure monitors and given personalised health and wellbeing advice.
Upcoming events include:
• 2nd March, 10am–5pm, Swindon Designer Outlet
• 3rd March, 9.30am–5pm, Brunel Shopping Centre, Swindon
• 4th March, 9.45am–5pm, Bath Sports & Leisure Centre
• 5th March, 10.15am–5pm, Swindon Central Library
• 6th March, 9.45am–5pm, Warminster Library
Why the future of care is about needing less of it
Many families notice the small change first. Mum is still “managing” but she’s moving less. Meals have become simpler. Confidence is shrinking. You’re left wondering: Is it too soon to get help - or are we waiting for a crisis?
At Abney & Baker, we believe the future of care lies not in delivering more hours, but in helping people need less care for longer. Research consistently shows that loss of independence is rarely sudden. More often, it is preceded by gradual decline across five interconnected areas: physical health, cognitive health, nutrition and hydration, social and emotional wellbeing, and home safety. Improving strength, balance, and mobility is fundamental in reducing falls and injuries, which remain one of the leading causes of hospital admissions among older adults. Cognitive health plays an equally vital role. Keeping the mind active and engaged helps protect memory, confidence, and decision-making ability. Nutrition and hydration underpin both physical and mental wellbeing. Poor nutrition is strongly linked to frailty, delayed recovery, and increased care needs.
Social and emotional wellbeing is often overlooked, yet loneliness has been shown to carry health risks comparable to smoking. Staying connected and confident is not a luxury, it is a form of preventative care.
Finally, home safety can include reducing hazards and making living spaces easier to navigate significantly lowers avoidable accidents and unnecessary admissions.
If you’re unsure what help should look like, the next step doesn’t have to be a big commitment. It can start with a conversation, then a comprehensive assessment and a clear plan, shaped around what matters most to you and your loved one. It is about using support intelligently and protecting independence before it is lost. At Abney & Baker, our work centres on these principles. Find out more at our website abneyandbaker.com or call us to have a chat on 0333 043 4880
Wera Hobhouse MP with John Palmer, Managing Director and Kheelna Bavalia, Chief Medical Officer
Interested in sponsoring this section? Get in touch: advertise@bathecho.co.uk
Pupils benefit from rugby masterclass with Jonny Wilkinson
PUPILS at King Edward’s School in Bath were recently given a day to remember when England legend Jonny Wilkinson led an intensive skills masterclass.
Sixteen Year 8 pupils and 14 kickers from across the Senior School took part in the special session, which focused first on passing accuracy under pressure before moving into a dedicated place-kicking clinic.
The visit was arranged through the Global Rugby Players Foundation, of which Wilkinson is a founding member.
Across the morning, Wilkinson challenged students to raise their game not just technically but mentally, looking at training habits, decision-making and how to execute skills in high-pressure match situations.
He then broke down the elite technical routines and mindset that underpinned his own kicking career, sharing detailed insights from his time at the very top of the sport.
Sean Lilley, Head of Rugby at
KES, said: “It was an incredible experience for our Year 8 pupils and kickers to learn from the very best.
“Jonny took them through a range of passing and kicking exercises and hearing how he mentally prepares before taking a kick, the process that he goes through and the focus required, was truly inspiring.
“Combined with the hands-on technical coaching, where his attention to detail and individual guidance was tailored to each pupil’s needs, the session will undoubtedly stand out as a highlight of their school and sporting lives.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in organising the masterclass, including the Global Rugby Players Foundation.
“We are delighted to support the Foundation and shine a light on the vital work it does to help players transition into life after their professional sporting rugby careers.”
Karina Murtagh, Interim CEO at the Global Rugby Players
Access improvements at Prior Park approved
A SERIES of improvement works to the historic Mansion House at Prior Park College, including installing a lift, have been approved.
The Catholic independent day and boarding school at Ralph Allen Drive is within the Prior Park estate.
The Grade I Mansion House, which dates from 1748, is the main hub for the school and is described as “the architectural centrepiece of the site, with expansive views over the parkland and Bath”. It is used for events, including weddings.
The house was built for Ralph Allen to designs by John Wood the Elder and completed by Richard Jones for Ralph Allen. It has been in use as a school since 1829.
The building was subject to remodelling following a fire in 1836, restoration following bomb damage in the Second World War and extensive restoration following a fire of 1991.
Some demolition work will be required as part of the access improvements for which Bath & North East Somerset Council has granted planning and listed building consent.
A new lift will link the basement, ground floor and first floor, improving access through the building, including the main entrance, reception, function
Foundation, added: “It’s great to see the success of this session. A huge thanks to Jonny for leading such a fantastic morning, and to all the pupils for getting involved in support of GRPF.
“What a memorable day for everyone.”
spaces, dining/catering facilities and administrative offices.
Historic England agreed that the position chosen for the lift in the mansion is the “least harmful”, as the rooms affected are secondary, and for the most part reconstructions after fire damage.
The main impact will be the loss of a small section of the historic vaulted ceiling to accommodate the lift but that is considered to be outweighed by the clear public benefit of improving and ensuring equal access throughout the building.
The works also include replacing a lower ground-floor window in the west wing, converting it into a door, and installing a ramp to improve accessibility between the rear garden and the dining hall.
In the initially submitted plans, the proposal included a ramp with railings, but Historic England and the council planning officer raised concerns about the look of the railings.
The plans were revised and now feature a gentle earth ramp, which won’t need railings.
Launched in 2024 by 11 former international players including Wilkinson, Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Rachael Burford and Siya Kolisi, the Global Rugby Players Foundation aims to help ex-professionals build new careers after rugby.
Supported by World Rugby and the International Rugby Players Association, it runs local and global programmes to support financial wellbeing, mental health and post-career opportunities for players around the world.
Praise for ‘highly-inclusive’ infant school in new-look Ofsted report
Becky Feather Reporter
A BATH school has received the new-look report card from Ofsted following an inspection. The 11-page report on Widcombe Infant School at Archway Street was published on 12th February following the visit by a team of inspectors on 6th January.
Alongside other reforms, Ofsted’s newly introduced report card offers more detailed information for parents and providers and a five-point grading scale with the top grade being exceptional, followed by strong standard, expected standard and needs attention, with urgent improvement at the bottom.
The inspectors said Widcombe Infant School is at the expected standard in five categories – achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; early years; and leadership and governance. For inclusion, and personal development and wellbeing, it is judged to be of a strong standard. The safeguarding standards are said to be met at the school, which is part of Palladian Academy Trust.
In the section exploring what it’s like to be a pupil at the school, the report says: “Pupils enjoy attending this highly inclusive and friendly school. They benefit from the warm welcome they receive from staff. Staff know pupils well.
“They forge positive relationships with pupils and their families.
This ensures a positive start to the school day and that pupils are ready to learn.
“Pupils demonstrate the school’s values of friendship, kindness, honesty, respect and perseverance. Pupils of all ages play well together during social times. They are adamant that any form of bullying does not occur.
The report notes: “The compelling sense of belonging is a golden thread that runs throughout the school.
“Pupils know they can talk to adults about any worries or concerns they may have. This helps pupils to feel safe.”
The report adds that pupils typically live up to the school’s high expectations for behaviour and have a “thirst for learning”.
Staff routinely identify and remove any challenges that the most vulnerable pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, face.
This helps pupils to succeed in their learning.
Most pupils attend well and where attendance falls below the school’s high expectations, leaders work closely with families to understand and overcome any barriers.
Pupils are said to participate enthusiastically in a wide range of enrichment opportunities and take considerable pride in the leadership roles offered by the school, such as house captains, librarians and play leaders.
“Parents and carers express unanimous support and trust for the school.”
The report highlights that there are 178 pupils at the school, slightly below the 180 capacity. The national average for an infant school is 272 pupils.
A total of 11.24% of pupils at the infant school are eligible for free school meals, below the national average of 26.3%. The number of pupils with an education, health and care plan is 2.25%, close to the national average of 3.5%.
The proportion of pupils with reported special educational support needs at the school is 6.18% of pupils, well below the national average of 15%.
Under the Next steps section, Ofsted says leaders should ensure that teachers design learning activities that consistently build and deepen pupils’ knowledge, understanding and skills across the wider curriculum.
They should also ensure that staff in the early years consistently maximise opportunities to engage children in high-quality interactions.
Behind every school gate is a leader balancing long-term vision with the day-to-day realities of modern education, from wellbeing and behaviour to recruitment, budgets and the changing needs of pupils and students. For this special feature, we speak to headteachers and college leaders to find out what matters most in their schools right now. In their own words, they share the priorities they’re focused on, the challenges they’re navigating, and what they want families to understand about school life today.
Bath Academy is a small, friendly, independent tutorial college in the centre of Bath that specialises in personalised tuition in small personalised classes, and a record of supporting achievement.
How did you get into teaching / education?
I was educated at a boarding school on the North Yorkshire moors by Benedictine monks who instilled a deep love of learning and the importance of community in my psyche. I taught in a wide variety of state and independent schools and colleges and I was Vice Principal at Mander Portman Woodward. I was appointed Principal of Bath Academy in 2010.
How does your school differ from others in the area?
Bath Academy is more like a tutorial college offering very small class sizes (often 3 or 4 students, with no class larger than 8), which allows for personalised attention and individualised learning. This year’s admirable results reflect the quality of our teaching - an impressive 92% of our students gained places at their first choice university.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
Education is deeply personal. Meaningful learning occurs when students feel safe, and understood. In my early years, I tried to answer the question, “How can I make this person change and progress?” Now, I would ask the question, “How can I provide a relationship and environment which this young person can use for their own personal growth?”.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
For me, real satisfaction comes from seeing individuals achieve their potential. Everything in our college is arranged so the strong have something for which to strive and the less confident do not withdraw in self-doubt. We look not for academic brilliance, but for the burning desire to learn - our students go on to contribute to their community.
St Gregory’s Catholic College is a highperforming, co-educational school for ages 11–18. With an inclusive family atmosphere, young people flourish: academically, personally and spiritually.
Headteacher: Melissa George
How did you get into teaching / education?
When I was 18, the gap year organisation Project Trust sent me to teach in a university in Yogyakarta, Indonesia for a year. Prior to this, I had always wanted to write or act but teaching in Indonesia made me fall completely in love with the teaching profession and I knew that I had found my true vocation.
How does your school differ from others in the area?
St Gregory’s is the only Catholic school serving Bath and the surrounds. As a Lasallian Associate school, we belong to a global network of faith schools united by respect, inclusivity and quality education. Students from across the world, including Spain, Italy, China and Japan, learn alongside ours, creating genuine international connections.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
Relationships are at the heart of everything at St Gregory’s. I’ve learned that genuinely knowing our students, staff and families transforms their experience. In a school where we truly are a family, this personal knowledge allows me to support each child’s journey and ensure every child is seen, supported and reaches their potential.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
Education is about now! Every young person gets one chance, so our focus on excellent teaching and enriching experiences, ensures they flourish into their best, truest selves, fully prepared for university, careers and life beyond. Watching students achieve this every day - that’s what keeps education exciting and meaningful.
Headteacher: Tim Naylor
Kingswood School
Kingswood School is one of the South West’s leading independent, co-educational boarding and day schools, located in Bath. It comprises The Garden Nursery, Kingswood Prep and Kingswood Senior Schools.
Andrew Gordon-Brown
How did you get into teaching / education?
St Mark’s School
Bay Tree Road, Bath BA1 6ND 01225 312661 www.st-marks.org.uk info@stmarks.mnsp.org.uk
St Mark’s is a C of E secondary school in Bath’s Larkhall area. Known for its warm community and strong pastoral care, it inspires students to ‘Let their light shine’ through resilience and aspiration.
Headteacher: Clare England
How does your school differ from others in the area?
After 12 years working in banking and finance, I saw the light and switched careers to become a teacher. I realised that I wanted to work in a setting that gave me an opportunity to have a positive difference on the lives of others. I started out as an Economics teacher but wanted to combine my interests of education and business by becoming a Head.
How does your school differ from others in the area?
Bath is full of very good schools. Kingswood has full and thriving Nursery, Prep School and Senior School segments, and our day school pupils benefit from being part of an internationally minded, diverse boarding community. We have a reputation for excellence in all areas of school life and our real superpower is the strength of our community.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
It’s both a privilege and source of real optimism to lead a school that has a great heritage and the independence to offer a really well-rounded education. Those who graduate from Kingswood each year have been given a life transforming education and leave us armed with the academic qualifications and personal qualities to go on and lead meaningful lives.
What’s your “non-negotiable” when it comes to school?
The pastoral care of both pupils and staff is the single most important thing we do. I observe each day that our young people love coming to school because they feel known and valued, and this creates the conditions for them to grow in self-confidence, making the most of the incredible range of opportunities on offer to find and fulfil their talents.
St Mary’s Calne is one of the UK’s leading boarding and day schools for girls aged 11–18, set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside with a vibrant community of around 350 pupils.
Headteacher: Anne Wakefield
How does your school differ from others in the area?
St Mary’s Calne is a unique school where our values of curiosity, courage and compassion sit at the heart of our ethos. We are an all girls boarding and day senior school where every pupil is supported and known as an individual. St Mary’s Calne has a genuinely happy environmenta place where pupils can live, learn and grow with confidence and joy.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
I honestly learn something new every day. At St Mary’s Calne, the pupils are truly inspiring and continually remind me that embracing opportunities - and welcoming the unexpected - builds confidence, resilience and creativity, all of which are key to success here.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
The pupils that I have the pleasure of working with. They are extremely hard working, ambitious and down to earth. They strive for success in the kindest of ways. They are humble, and not at all arrogant. To have been a part of their educational development is a privilege and one that I hugely respect.
What’s your “non-negotiable” when it comes to school?
I believe in a truly child-centred approach, where every decision is guided by what will lead to the very best outcomes for the young people in our care. It’s also about nurturing a community in which every member actively upholds and respects our shared values.
What sets St Mark’s apart is our small school feel within a powerful partnership. Because of our size, every child is known and valued individually. As part of a multi-academy Trust, we offer a warm, nurturing community, combined with the elite resources and expertise of a larger network, ensuring that our students access an enriched education.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
Strong relationships are the key to a great school. The bond between staff and students ensures children feel safe and valued, allowing academic success to follow. In a digital world, the ‘human’ element of mutual respect is vital. We foster a sense of belonging where every child is celebrated for who they are, not how they appear online.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
The resilience and social conscience of our students is a constant source of optimism. It’s exciting to see them flourish into ambitious, capable young adults with a massive appetite for learning. We take pride in seeing them grow into a force for good citizens who are not only academically successful but genuinely ready to impact the world.
What’s your “non-negotiable” when it comes to school?
For me, it’s high expectations - for everyone. Holding students to a high standard is a vote of confidence in their potential. My non-negotiable is a calm environment with firm boundaries on mobile technology, gifting students the space for deep thinking. We never settle for ‘just okay’ when we know our students can be truly extraordinary.
Adult Learning at Bath College
Headteacher:
Millfield Preparatory School
Millfield Prep School is a co-educational day and boarding school for ages 2-13. Set in 200 acres of Somerset countryside, the school offers a range of subjects, sports, arts and activities.
Headteacher: Dan Thornburn
How does your school differ from others in the area?
We encourage pupils to try everything and discover what they really enjoy. With 10+ hours of sports and co-curricular sessions weekly, pupils embrace everything from sports and musicals to bake-offs and camps. We are also incredibly proud to have been named the Best Sports School in the UK for the 12th time.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
If I had to choose, it’s this: children and staff value moments far more than efficiency. No one has ever thanked me for replying to an email quickly, but they notice when I stop to hear about a football match, lost tooth, or a colleague’s day. Those tiny interactions, often unplanned, build far more trust and joy than a perfectly managed inbox.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
Millfield Prep is a busy place, but seeing how our pupils embrace this and make the most of all the opportunities we offer brings me such joy. They are what keeps me optimistic about education. Seeing what they go on to do is truly inspiring. I’ve never worked in a school that helps former pupils achieve so much and do such incredible things!
What’s your “non-negotiable” when it comes to school?
‘Kindness’ is my non-negotiable. ‘Be Kind’ is one of our school values, and as Head, I unashamedly remind pupils and staff about the importance of kindness, both to one another, and being kind to ourselves. It is essential that kindness remains at the heart of everything. To me, kindness is the bedrock of all truly happy and successful schools.
Monkton is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 2–18. Its integrated house system earned it Independent Boarding School of the Year 2025.
Headteacher: Bradley Salisbury
How did you get into teaching / education?
Teenagers. Across a wide range of roles in state and independent schools, the constant joy has been working with teenagers — no two ever the same. I can think of no role more important, varied, frustrating, exciting, funny, testing or stimulating than helping shape the future lives of individuals, families and communities.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
Talk less, listen more, take a moment. As a Head, you must see the whole picture by listening to young people, hearing parents’ perspectives and valuing professionals on the ground. In a busy term and a fast-moving world, taking time to understand before deciding next steps has guided me through many challenges.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
We are seeing real progress in the science of learning and a better understanding of how screen time, social media, sleep, diet and exercise affect mental health and cognition. Middle achievers are better supported, alternative pathways gaining status, AI freeing teachers to teach, and hopes for a future with less racism, misogyny and prejudice.
What’s your “non-negotiable” when it comes to school?
Freedom. Every child should feel free to move through school, ask questions, try new activities, or sit where they like at lunch. At times, they will face restrictions. Our role is to help them see it can improve and that they have a part in protecting the freedom of others at school and beyond beyond the gates.
The Paragon, an independent school in Bath for ages 3–11, combines strong academics with creative and sporting opportunities. New classrooms and a STEM wing launch this spring.
Headteacher: Malcolm Bond
How did you get into teaching/education?
I came into teaching through a mix of inspiration and experience. I was inspired by my wife, who was already a teacher, and by training recruits in the Royal Marines. Coaching cricket and fishing, and lessons from my parents, showed me the joy of helping others grow and led me to a career in education.
How does your school differ from others in the area?
At The Paragon, we let children be children, valuing curiosity, imagination, energy and fun alongside strong academics. Our holistic approach knows each child as an individual, with a broad curriculum and 65+ after-school clubs to explore, grow, and build confidence.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned since becoming headteacher?
Since becoming Head, I’ve learned you don’t need all the answers, but you do need to listen. Being present in corridors, on the playground, or in quick chats at the gate matters. Leadership is about people, trusting your team, and helping everyone feel valued and supported.
What keeps you optimistic about education right now?
What keeps me optimistic about education is the children. Their curiosity, energy, humour, and kindness are inspiring. Watching them learn, take risks, and support one another reminds me daily why education matters and makes it impossible not to feel hopeful about the future.
Waiters’ Race to return ahead of Bath Restaurant Week 2026
BATH Restaurant Week is set to return for its second year from 17th to 24th March 2026, and festivities will get under way with the return of the Bath Waiters’ Race on the Royal Crescent.
The event, on Monday 16th March, will once again see waiting staff from venues across the city race around the sweeping curve of the landmark, trays in hand, carefully balancing glasses and plates as they compete for speed, style and bragging rights. Cheered on by crowds, the race celebrates the people at the heart of Bath’s hospitality industry.
Launched in 2025, the Waiters’ Race has become the curtainraiser for Bath Restaurant Week, bringing together teams from restaurants, cafés and bars in a light-hearted competition that showcases their agility, teamwork and dedication to great service.
Once the race is over, Bath Restaurant Week will see venues across the city, from cosy cafés to fine-dining restaurants and lively bars, putting on special menus, offers and events.
Diners will be able to browse participating venues and their deals via the Bath Restaurant Week website, with everything from tasting menus and signature cocktails to lunchtime offers and new dishes on show.
Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Bath Restaurant Week is a celebration of the city’s
incredible food and drink scene.
“The Waiters’ Race captures the energy and fun of our hospitality community – it’s the perfect way to kick off a week of discovery, flavour, and togetherness.”
This year’s Bath Restaurant Week is once again being sponsored by the Echo, as well as RWK Goodman, Carlsberg Britvic, Eat PR, Deliveroo and Zonkey.
Fashion brand ME+EM set to open new store
Becky Feather Reporter
LUXURY women’s fashion brand ME+EM is opening a store in Bath.
The British label has stores in London, Manchester, Harrogate and Edinburgh, as well as in the United States.
The company is planning to take over the empty unit at 46 Milsom Street that was formerly occupied by Ted Baker but has been empty for some time.
ME+EM has applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council to carry out a series of proposed
works to the Grade II building, which is said to be a good example of a high-status Edwardian shop created within a modified late Georgian building.
The list of works includes an internal fit-out, a replacement staircase and flooring and the restoration and redecoration of mouldings and plasterwork. New lighting, mechanical and electrical services, and some remedial damp-proofing are also among the works planned. The planning reference is 26/00267/LBA, and the deadline for any comments on the listed building consent application is 26th March.
The premises on Milsom Street where ME+EM will open
Underground car park dropped in Aequus’s Midland Road redesign
Becky Feather Reporter
BATH & North East Somerset Council’s housing company
Aequus has re-drawn the approved plans for the development of Midland Road waste and recycling site – including scrapping the underground car park.
Aequus Construction Ltd has permission to build 176 new affordable and market homes, but the revised plans include three fewer units, as well as changes to the mix of properties.
There will be just 53 car parking spaces – 71 fewer than the 124 originally permitted. There will, however, now be 356 covered bike spaces compared to the previous agreed figure of 176.
The site is part of the new Western Riverside residential quarter for which proposals were submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council in 2006 and approved in 2010. Aequus’s plans for Midland Road were approved under a reserved matters application in December 2020.
Aequus says the revised application follows a comprehensive review and liaison with the owner and developer of the adjoining Victoria Business Park site, where there are plans to build up to 272 co-living studios.
Minor revisions to the priority junction providing vehicular access to both sites are part of the revised package of proposals.
Aequus highlights in the application that over the last 19 years, there have been substantial changes in travel habits and council planning policy.
“When costed in more detail, the basement covering a large part of the site was taking an oversized part of the total cost of the project.
“The scheme presented within this application proposes to remove this element, with the car parking, cycle parking and plant room functions previously provided for in the basement repositioned at ground level, with parking reduced.”
The primary impact of this change will be lower levels of car ownership and a “significant reduction in the vehicle trip generation of the development compared to the proposals within the outline and reserved matters consents”, says Aequus.
Spaces will be leased to residents on a first-come, first-served basis. The 53 car parking spaces includes 12 for Blue Badge holders.
The application adds: “Given that the development is in an area of Bath which has existing residents’ parking schemes in place, including on-street parking restrictions across the Riverside development, it is considered unlikely that the
change proposed would lead to any off-site parking pressure as the walking distances to streets outside of the controlled parking areas are some way from the site.”
The revised plans include slightly more one-bed homes (89) and a lower proportion of two-bed homes (74). There is no change in the number of three-bed homes with 10 still proposed.
The revised mix means there will need to be changes to the individual residential blocks and site-wide landscaping. The energy strategy and drainage strategy have also been revised as part of the proposals.
To reflect the greater reliance on active travel modes for residents, improvements are proposed to the new active travel link between the development and the riverside path which provides a traffic-free route to the edge of the city centre and to Bristol via the Bristol & Bath Railway Path.
The approved retail/community space is retained in the revised Midland Road scheme.
The planning reference is 26/00486/EVAR and the deadline for comments is 4th April.
Alterations planned at Green Park Station
their refurbishment following the deluge of firefighting water that flooded into the space, and getting ready for letting.
THERE are plans to replace five external doors at historic Green Park Station in Bath.
Listed building consent is being sought to replace the doors along the south side of Midland Bridge Road, and the glazed doors to the main entrance of the station concourse.
The application has been lodged by Sainsbury’s, which has a store next to the Grade II listed station and is responsible for its upkeep.
A report with the application to Bath & North East Somerset Council says a significant fire in 2023 caused extensive damage to the station and water damage to the vaults, while in recent months, a storm destroyed most of the glazed door to the old booking hall.
As a result of the fire, crews needed to gain access into the vaults and broke through a door which is boarded up.
The report says: “Sainsbury’s have assessed the remaining doors are in need of replacing, with paint peeling and rot setting into joints. “The vaults are close to completion on
“The replacement doors will only enhance the appearance of these interesting and vital local offices, together with the recent works to the timber boarding above.”
Green Park Station, which was formerly known as Midland Station and later Queen Square Station, was constructed by the Midland Railway, and opened in 1869. The station was a branch terminus of the Birmingham to Bristol line.
It was linked to the Somerset & Dorset line in 1874.
The station closed to passengers in March 1966 and goods at the end of May 1971. The site was purchased by Bath City Council in 1974.
The station was redeveloped in the early 1980s to provide shops and other facilities, this being a trade-off to get the station restored whilst allowing the development of the adjoining site by Sainsbury’s. Sainsbury’s has the site and Green Park Station on a long lease.
The planning reference is 26/00505/LBA and the deadline for comments is 26th March.
Council leader helps launch One Waterside development
SALES have officially launched at Berkeley Homes’s flagship
One Waterside scheme in Bath, with 12 homes already reserved off-plan and strong demand reported for the 662 properties planned on the former gasworks site.
Representatives from Bath & North East Somerset Council, including council leader Councillor Kevin Guy, recently toured the marketing suite and live construction areas to see how one of the city’s largest regeneration projects is progressing.
Set beside the River Avon, One Waterside is turning a longdisused brownfield site into a new neighbourhood. Once complete, the development will provide hundreds of low-carbon private and affordable homes, together with a new riverside park, public river walk, café and children’s nursery.
On site, groundworks are now fully under way, marking a key milestone for the scheme.
Work continues on the complex remediation of the former gasworks, while construction has already started on the riverfront homes.
A substantial share of off-site infrastructure, including energy, water and drainage connections, has also been completed. By bringing these works forward, Berkeley says it has been able to reduce disruption for neighbours by finishing key highway works while construction traffic remains relatively low.
In the coming months, residents can expect to see buildings rising above ground level, the last phases of remediation drawing to a close and the first riverside trees being planted.
The regeneration of One Waterside represents a major investment in one of Bath’s largest brownfield sites, delivering new homes alongside public spaces and infrastructure designed to benefit the wider community.
The project is expected to support up to 3,000 jobs over its lifetime,
with a focus on training and apprenticeship opportunities for local people. Through the planning process, Berkeley Homes will contribute more than £2 million in Section 106 funding towards local infrastructure, including over £1 million for highway improvements, around £700,000 for parks and green spaces, and additional funding for education and training.
Elkie Russell, Chairman at Berkeley Homes, said: “We
are excited to transform this redundant brownfield site into a new landmark place to live in the heart of Bath. We are hugely proud to be delivering these works in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council and our strategic partners.
“We have worked closely with the council, Historic England, ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites) and others throughout the planning process to create a sustainable city-centre neighbourhood that
respects the site’s heritage and setting.
“This partnership has also enabled us to secure £18.2 million in funding to remediate this complex site, and we look forward to continuing our work with the council to deliver this important regeneration project for the city.”
Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, added: “There is an overwhelming need for more housing locally, so it is encouraging to see such strong progress on site.
“Access to affordable, safe and high-quality homes is vital for residents and for the local economy.
“This is a strategic regeneration project and, once the current remediation and enabling works are completed, it will play an important role in delivering the council’s commitment to affordable and high-quality housing as set out in our 2025–2030 Housing Plan.”
BATH & North East Somerset Council has approved a 4.99% council tax increase as it faces a cut in government funding.
The 4.99% hike is the maximum that councils can raise their tax without government permission or holding a referendum.
The rise, which applies to the Bath & North East Somerset Council section of the council tax bill, will come into effect from April and see an average band D household pay £90.97 more a year, or £1.75 a week.
The annual charge will be £1,914.03, still below the national average of £2,062.
Council cabinet member for resources Mark Elliott (Lansdown, Liberal Democrat) told the full council meeting on 24th February, where councillors voted on setting the new council tax level and budget: “Under huge financial pressure and with significant cuts from central government, we have produced a robust plan that balances our ambitions for the area with prudence and realism about the continuing very significant rises in social care costs and other inflationary pressures.”
It includes new investment in preventative social work. Councillor Elliott said: “The only ways to arrest these huge inflationary pressures across the council, whether in social care or any of the other services
the council delivers, will be to intervene earlier in an effort to prevent higher costs materialising later. But that is not easy in an environment where central government is cutting funding.”
The government has cut its funding to Bath and North East Somerset by £2.4 million as part of its “fair funding review,” with the cut set to rise to £12.55 million in three years.
The council’s budget sets out £4.65 million of cuts and “cost reductions” and £2.59 million of new income generation, including by increasing the cost of parking permits for larger vehicles and increased enforcement of yellow boxes. Despite concerns these were being used as a “cash cow”, Councillor Elliott insisted the council was not having to make the kinds of cuts some councils
were forced to.
The council’s Labour opposition criticised plans to save £250,000 by cutting £10,000 from each of the council’s top 25 contracts. Leader of the Labour group Robin Moss (Westfield) proposed an amendment to exempt the contract for running public toilets and those held by charity and voluntary groups from the “salami slice” cuts, but the amendment was voted down. He said: “£10,000 off the top 25 contracts without exempting charity and voluntary sector is wrong. It sends the wrong message out to partners, and for that reason, without those guarantees, the Labour group will be voting against this budget.”
Councillor Elliott said that the council spends £1.2 billion on its top 25 contracts, including £5 million for the one to run its public toilets.
He said the administration was committed to maintaining and improving public toilets, but added: “It is absolutely the right thing to do to target the officers responsible for managing those contracts with savings targets to make sure they are focused on providing value for money for the taxpayer.”
Councillor Steve Hedges (Odd Down, Liberal Democrat) added that it was the Labour government’s reforms which were seeing the council lose £12.55 million in funding over the next three years.
He said: “Money doesn’t come out of fresh air and nor does care, so I suggest the leader of the Labour group write to his Prime Minister and say: ‘Can we have our money back that you’ve nicked please.’”
Councillor Moss said councillors were speaking to Labour ministers, but he insisted: “I have no apology for a Labour government looking at fair funding that is reversing what the Tories did of channelling money to Richmond in North Yorkshire and Richmond in Surrey rather than areas of deprivation.”
He added that the government was writing off 90% of SEND deficits, was providing £20 million for Whiteway and Twerton under the Pride in Place scheme, and was making a longawaited tourist tax possible.
Councillors voted to approve the council tax rise and 2026/27 budget by 46 votes in favour to six against, with three abstentions.
HMO decision deferred over data accuracy issue
Becky Feather Reporter
A DECISION on whether to permit plans to turn a fourbed family home in Whiteway into a seven-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) has been deferred over concerns about the accuracy of the data presented by council officers.
Councillor Sarah Moore (Twerton & Whiteway, Liberal Democrat) had objected to KBR Developments Ltd’s proposal for 26 Wedgwood Road, believing it did not pass the HMO concentration test.
The proposal also drew objections from seven local residents regarding the high number of HMOs in the area already and the “appalling” parking situation, as well as concerns about “overdevelopment” of the midterraced house.
Bath & North East Somerset Council planning officers had calculated that the conversion would result in 12 of 122 residential properties within a 100-metre radius being HMOs,
equating to 9.8% which is just under the 10% threshold.
They said no residential property would be ‘sandwiched’ by HMOs, the area is well-served by buses, and a parking shed for seven bikes would be provided. They said there were “no unacceptable impacts” to warrant refusal.
But at the planning meeting on Wednesday 18th February,
An example HMO bedroom | Library image
Councillor Moore queried whether 18 flats had been counted in Blocks 1 to 19 of Wedgwood Road where there are actually only 10 as they are odd number properties.
She said the row of seven houses in Wedgwood Road already has four HMOs in it, and the occupants are having to park in Kelston View. She highlighted that the
Serviced apartment plans submitted
Parkstone Estates (Chippenham) Ltd has revealed plans to carry out alterations to the groundfloor commercial unit and the basement of 55 New King Street in the Kingsmead area. Following conversion works in 2024/25, the upper floors of the Grade II listed building have been become apartments whilst the ground floor and basement have remained vacant. The applicant plans to bring back into use the basement, which has been empty for a couple of years, by converting it to create a serviced apartment providing visitor accommodation. The currently empty self-contained commercial unit will be offered to a tenant. Applications for both planning permission and listed building consent have been submitted to the council. The planning reference is 26/00229/ LBA and the deadline for comments is 26th March.
EV chargers approved at Lower Swainswick hotel
Bath & North East Somerset Council has granted permission for the installation of three electric vehicle (EV) chargers in the car park of Bailbrook House Hotel at Eveleigh Avenue, Lower Swainswick. The plans were revised during the application process to reflect a request from the council’s conservation officer to reposition the units to minimise the impact on the Grade II* listed mansion. The chargers will provide provision for six parking spaces, with each unit arranged to serve two bays for use by hotel guests and staff.
Permission for car-free homes in Westmoreland
university bus service is subsidised and currently at risk so might not continue and was concerned that occupants of the proposed HMO would not use bikes as they would have to be carried or wheeled through the house from the rear garden.
Planning committee chair Councillor Tim Ball (Twerton & Whiteway, Lib Dem) also raised the possibility of inaccurate calculations, saying Flats 1 and 2 Meade House had not existed for at least 20 years as they are leased out to Southside Family Project.
The planning officer at the meeting said calculations had been based on latest council data which should be accurate.
Sarah James, the council’s deputy head of planning management, said that given the uncertainly, it was acceptable to defer the application and bring it back to the next planning committee.
She said this would give planning officers the opportunity to investigate every single property that councillors were concerned had not been counted, so they could come back with “absolute clarity”.
Plans to build three homes in the Westmoreland area of Bath have been given the green light. The two new buildings will be on land described as brownfield at the rear of Thornbank Place. One of the buildings will have two one-bed flats and the other will be a one-bed detached property. The homes will be car-free but there will be cycle storage and the site is said to be a five-minute walk from the city centre with “excellent connections” to public transport and key facilities. Each home will have its own outdoor space and there will be a communal rear amenity area. Bath & North East Somerset Council received nine objections to the proposals, highlighting concerns including over the design, scale and lack of parking and impact on privacy. But council planners said that the design, scale, massing and siting of the proposed development would not cause significant harm to any occupiers or neighbours. The said a car-free development is acceptable given the location and suitable alternative travel options available. As the site is within an existing residents’ parking zone, the future occupants will not be entitled to parking permits.
The increase will see an average band D household pay around £91 per year more
City's heritage said to bring in equivalent of £150 council tax rise
John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter
BATH’S Roman heritage is helping the council to balance its budget and deal with the increasing cost of providing social care.
Built in the mid-first century AD for the health and wellbeing of what was then known as Aquae Sulis, the Roman Baths may no longer be suitable for bathing, but they are still serving public wellbeing in another way – by bringing in millions which Bath & North East Somerset Council uses to fund vital services.
The council’s income from the Roman Baths, together with the Pump Rooms and Victoria Art Gallery, is equivalent to how much it would make from charging an additional £151.23 a year in council tax for an average band D household.
Heritage Services is projected to deliver the council a surplus of £13.3 million in the next financial year.
Council cabinet member for resources Mark Elliott (Lansdown, Liberal Democrat) told a council scrutiny committee: “The income that we gain from things like heritage services benefits the whole area. It gets spent on things like social care.”
Social care is increasingly the main part of what councils spend their money on, making up 78% of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s net budget. The council is now investing more in preventative services to reduce the number needing social care, which it says will be better for people as well as council finances in the long term.
Adult and children’s social care is a statutory service for councils,
but costs in the sector are rising more quickly than councils’ abilities to generate income.
Like most councils responsible for social care, Bath & North East Somerset Council is again raising council tax by the maximum 4.99%.
This will bring in just over £7 million more in council tax next year, but Councillor Elliott said the council also had to spend an additional £6.4 million on adults and children’s social care, after savings were taken into account.
right way of putting it. But that bonus does come with significant cost – and is that a bonus worth having if it stops us generating income in other ways through growth in the economy?”
He said: “I know that we sometimes get asked: ‘where does my council tax go?’ Primary, that is the answer. It goes on supporting the most vulnerable people in the area.”
Buying a ticket to visit the Roman Baths helps to do the same thing. Bath and North East Somerset residents do not need to buy a ticket to see the attraction, as they can get in for free with a council Discovery Card.
The council had considered introducing a “small charge” for the currently free cards to make a £50,000 saving, but dropped the proposal after a public outcry.
The idea of introducing a charge for the cards generated about a third of all responses to the council’s budget consultation.
Councillor Elliott was speaking at a council scrutiny committee meeting on 3rd February to scrutinise the council budget, but part of the meeting ended up being a debate over the merits of Bath’s status as a tourist hotspot.
Chair of the committee, Councillor Robin Moss (Westfield, Labour) said: “£150 for the average household is a significant bonus if that’s the
He said that when he had moved to the area 18 years ago, the council had been focused on highvalue and creative industries.
He told the meeting: “I think that we have lost that focus and actually moving to a tourist economy with the pay that goes with retail, that goes with tourism, that goes with hospitality is to the detriment of Bath and North East Somerset, Bath in particular.”
He said: “Many people that service the tourism industry in Bath have to live in North East Somerset because there isn’t housing and they can’t afford housing in Bath.”
In December, the council’s opposition Labour group, who all represent areas outside of the city, called for the council to “fully assess” the economic benefits of Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status. It is part of a row over whether the city should drop the prestigious status in order to enable more development.
Councillor Elliott said he did not agree that Bath’s tourist destination status did prevent other forms of economic growth. But, speaking later in the meeting, he said that there was also an “acknowledged downside” to being one. He said: “I love the fact that we are a major tourist destination, but using the tourist levy to be able to raise funds to mitigate against some of the impact of that will be useful to us.”
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003
Paul Wadsworth applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 13.02.26 for a licence to use the premises at The Paddock, High Acres, Tunley, Bath, BA2 0DR for the sale of alcohol, use of recorded (amplified) music and live music performance.
Timings as follows;
Sale of alcohol 26.06.26 (1800hrs-2300hrs), 27.06.26 (1100-0001) and 28.06.26 (1100-2300hrs).
Recorded music 26.06.26 (1800-2300hrs), 27.06.26 (1200-0001hrs) and 28.06.26 (1200-2300hrs)
Live music 27.06.26 (12000001hrs) and 28.06.26 (12002300hrs).
Notification of the application made to the Licensing Authority is available on a register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ publicregisters
Representations should be made in writing to: Bath & North East Somerset Council Licensing Services Lewis House Manvers Street Bath BA1 1JG or by email to licensing@bathnes.gov.uk by 14th March 2026
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: 27/02/2026
Notices
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003
Sonder Coffee & Events Ltd applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 18th February 2026 for a Premises Licence to use the premises at Sonder, 14 Green Street, Bath, BA1 2JZ for: The sale by retail of alcohol for consumption on the premises Tuesday to Thursday 10:00–16:00 and Friday to Saturday 10:00–22:30; The provision of regulated entertainment, namely performance of dance, live music and recorded music (indoors) Friday to Saturday 18:00–22:30.
Notification of the application made to the Licensing Authority is available on a register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ publicregisters
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 19th March 2026
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: 27/02/2026
Councillor is told to ‘back off’ during cabinet meeting
THE leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council warned a councillor to “back off” in a bizarre council chamber moment.
Liberal Democrat Kevin Guy (Bathavon North) gave Labour opposition councillor Chris Dando (Radstock) the warning at a recent cabinet meeting, in a row over the relatively niche issue of how many people responded to its budget consultation.
Just 59 people had their say on the £193 million budget and the proposals to raise council tax by the maximum 4.99%.
Councillor Dando told the cabinet meeting on 12th February that he thought the tiny number of responses must have been a typo. He said: “That’s something like
0.03% of eligible adults.”
But Councillor Guy told him: “It’s probably 49 more people than Rachel Reeves got in the national budget to reply to hers – so I would back off I were you, Chris, on that one.”
Councillor Dando replied: “This is serious matters and I don’t appreciate the tone.”
The cabinet member responsible for communication, Councillor Manda Rigby (Bathwick, Liberal Democrat), said that the council had published two press releases, had a “wide social media engagement platform”, sent it to all parish and town councils, and asked all councillors to help promote the consultation.
She said: “We are not the only council who finds that when something is largely approved of, we get very few responses.
“Had there been things in the budget that people were furious at, we would have had far more.”
Despite the low number of responses, two measures were dropped due to the reaction in
the public consultation. Plans to save £200,000 a year by reducing the hours at Bath Recycling Centre and Old Welton Recycling Centre in Midsomer Norton and to make £50,000 a year by introducing a “small charge” for the council’s Discovery Cards were both cancelled.
Councillor Mark Elliott (Lansdown, Liberal Democrat), the cabinet member for resources, said in a statement: “The council is committed to listening to residents and I want to thank everyone who took part in the budget consultation. As a result of your feedback, we will keep the same opening hours for our waste and recycling centres and won’t be changing the terms of the residents’ discovery card.” Defending the low level of responses, he told Councillor Dando: “We have to have a consultation; we can’t force people to respond to it.”
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Olympic glory for Bath skeleton aces Weston and Stoecker
Richard Briggs Reporter
BATH-BASED Matt Weston has become the first British male skeleton athlete to claim Winter Olympics gold – and he was a double champion before the weekend was out.
Weston, 28, and his fellow Team GB skeleton and bobsleigh athletes train at the University Bath.
He was part of the 13-member skeleton and bobsleigh contingent representing Britain at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy.
And his gold glory on Friday 13th February handed Team GB their first medal of the Games.
Weston set two new track records on the first day of competition and carried that form into the decisive third and fourth runs, his combined time of 3 mins 43.33 secs putting him nearly a second clear of silver medallist Axel Jungk of Germany.
Victory at the Cortina Sliding Centre means Weston is now the holder of all the sport’s major titles, adding to his World, European and Overall World Cup titles.
It also capped a season of total dominance for Weston, who won gold in six of his eight international races and was runner-up in the other two.
Surrey-born Weston said on Friday: “I literally can’t describe
it.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to win World Championships, European Championships and other things as well, and this blows them all out of the water.
I can’t describe the feeling, I almost feel numb.”
Marcus Wyatt, another of the British sliders who trains at the University of Bath, produced his best time in the fourth run to place ninth overall in 3 mins 45.77 secs.
Team GB’s Tabby Stoecker, Freya Tarbit and Amelia Coltman, who all train at the University of Bath, secured top-10 finishes in the women’s skeleton on Saturday 14th February on their Winter Olympics debuts.
Stoecker was the pick of the Britons as she completed her four runs in 3 mins 50.48 secs to bag fifth place overall, with Tarbit seventh, 0.3 secs behind her.
The trio all recorded top-four
placings across the individual heats, Coltman doing so during a strong final run to finish ninth overall.
Stoecker, 25, said of her fifth place: “I feel so proud of myself. The Olympics is at the end of this four-year cycle where we’ve been preparing and working really hard with the team.
“So to get to the Olympics in the first place is such an honour.
“Then to compete and to just do my very best… I’m just feeling really, really proud of myself, the team, the girls, and the boys yesterday.”
Tarbit said: “I don’t think many people can say they’ve got to go to their first Olympics with their best friends, so it just adds to the whole experience.
“This is our first Games and we’ve all finished in the top 10 – I think that’s something we’ve been really, really proud of.”
Coltman said: “I’m pleased that
Romans bounce back to take point off high-fliers in derby
Richard Briggs Reporter
BATH City recovered from their humbling by Hampton & Richmond Borough to take a priceless point from a drab Somerset derby with 10-man Weston-super-Mare on Tuesday 24th February.
The Romans were thrashed 4-0 by relegation rivals Hampton & Richmond Borough at the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park on Saturday 21st February but showed resolve to earn a goal-less draw with the visiting Seagulls in front of a 1,303-strong crowd. And the stalemate with promotion-chasing Weston, who are managed by former Bath star Scott Rogers, pulled City two points clear of the drop zone, with between one and five matches in hand on all four of the teams below them. Weston dominated the first half and had its best opening, Luke Coulson’s 37th-minute half-volley following a Will Dawes pass being blocked by Jaiden Putman.
But Darren Way’s Bath grew into the match after the interval. Their best chances of the evening came when Luke Russe drove narrowly wide in the 63rd minute and Luke Skinner fired just over the bar three minutes later. And City felt they should have had a penalty in the 57th minute, for Dan Ellison’s challenge in the box on Owen Windsor. The referee did not agree and booked Windsor for his protests.
But the Romans’ hopes were raised when Weston’s former Ross County first-teamer George Robesten was shown a straight red card for retaliating to a tackle by Joe Raynes in the 79th minute.
I have positive feelings to take away from the race because it wasn’t my best three runs before that. But I’m really happy to end on a positive note.”
However, there was much better to come for Stoecker on Sunday 15th February, when she partnered Weston and Wyatt was joined by Tarbit in the new mixed team event. The competition resulted in another gold medal for Team GB.
This time Weston and Stoecker became champions, and Wyatt and Tarbit were so close to joining them on the podium. Wyatt and Tarbit missed out on bronze by just 0.11 secs.
Weston’s latest gold medal means he is only the second British slider to win two Olympic titles – emulating double women’s champion Lizzy Yarnold (2014 and 2018) – and the first to win two medals at the same Games.
Stoecker put Team GB firmly in medal contention with a solid first run.
But Weston, who was last down the track, had 0.3 secs to make up on German duo Jungk and Susanne Kreher.
A rapid reaction time of 0.12 secs meant the gap was wiped out quickly – and Weston scorched down the track in 58.59 secs to give Team GB a combined winning time of 1 min 59.36 secs.
Tarbit capped an excellent week by setting the fastest time of all 14 female athletes – 1 min 0.47 secs. That was built on brilliantly by
Wyatt to lead the board with three teams to go.
But Team GB were just edged out of third place by Germany’s Jacqueline Pfeifer and Christopher Grotheer.
London-born Stoecker said on Sunday: “It was everything you dream of but are not sure if it’s going to happen or not.
“This morning I woke up and I was trying to stay really present and remember that I had one more run and I tried to make it better than yesterday. For this outcome, I’m just so, so happy.”
Weston said: “Obviously the individual one has a special place in my heart, it’s everything you dream about in the sport – but now we’ve had the introduction of the team race, this was another goal.”
Tarbit and Wyatt said they had mixed emotions after the close of Sunday’s competition.
Tarbit said: “Obviously it’s such conflicting feelings.
“We’re so, so happy for Matt and Tabby to do so well and we’ve seen some of our closest friends just win gold so, on the one hand, we’re absolutely buzzing for them but on the other hand it’s obviously gutting to miss out on a medal.”
Wyatt added: “A mix of emotions, like Freya said, but we did what we did and just missed out. “It was probably my best run [at the Games]. There were still some mistakes there but I just tried to do my best.”
Combination raises thousands for charity
Richard Briggs Reporter
THOUSANDS of pounds were raised for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation when the Bath & District Combination representative side played Bradford-on-Avon in the Lewis Moody charity match on Sunday 22nd February.
However, Bath had to settle for what was an impressive point against the Seagulls, who could well feature in the end-of-season play-offs.
The Romans face a crucial match at fellow strugglers Enfield Town on Saturday 28th February (3pm) before returning to the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park on Tuesday 3rd March when they host mid-table Slough Town (7.45pm).
City will take heart from the fact that while they were drawing with Weston, Enfield were being drubbed 8-0 at Maidstone United – this only three days after the North Londoners dismantled Farnborough 5-0.
Moody, a former England captain who played for Bath and Leicester Tigers, revealed in October 2025 that he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
And last weekend’s game at Ashley Lane raised more than £2,500 for motor neurone disease charity the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, with cash donations and proceeds from an auction yet to be added.
A hard-fought match saw the Combination beat Bradford 33-22, having led 21-17 at the turnaround.
One of the winners’ joint coaches was Combe Down head coach Jimmy Rees.
And the Combination squad
included Echo-area players Tom Carey (Old Sulians), Joe Childs (Oldfield Old Boys), Rhys Davies (Old Sulians), Charlie Fallows (Avonvale), Andy Hakes (Combe Down), Ed Harris (Walcot), Elis Jones (Combe Down), Robbie Lawrence (Bath Saracens), Iain Parris (Avon) and Jake Penrose (Avonvale).
The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation was founded by former Scotland and Newcastle player Doddie Weir following his motor neurone disease diagnosis in 2017.
The Combination is aiming to raise £5,000 for the charity and has a Just Giving page for anyone wanting to donate.
Biggest crowd of season at Camella Stadium see Larks fall to Frome
Richard Briggs Reporter
LARKHALL Athletic pulled in their biggest home crowd of the league season when they faced neighbours Frome Town at the Camella Stadium on Saturday 21st February.
The Pitching In Southern League Division One South match was watched by 405 people, smashing the previous best this term of 355 for the visit of Bristol Manor Farm over Christmas.
But whereas Athletic fans went home happy from the match with Manor Farm, the Larks winning 3-2, the clash with the league’s runaway leaders Frome ended in disappointment for the hosts.
The Robins prevailed 4-1, meaning the Bath side have suffered two big defeats in their last four matches, having lost 5-0 at Hartpury on Saturday 24th January.
Larkhall have taken only four points from that quartet of fixtures after their brilliant run of five successive victories at the start
of manager John Durbin’s reign.
But they are in a very respectable ninth place in the table.
Frome’s success at Plain Ham took them 14 points clear at the top of Division One South.
But Athletic gave them a tough afternoon, levelling the game 18 minutes into the second half.
And they would have emerged with a narrow 2-1 reverse had the guests not scored twice in the closing stages.
Hosts’ keeper Liam Armstrong saved from Zac Drew early on but was beaten in the 11th minute.
Jack Goodall fouled Archie Ferris in the box and Drew converted the resulting penalty, although Armstrong dived the right way.
Town had the better of the opening half but the Larks raised their game in the second period and almost equalised through Ryan Beckinsale’s 52nd-minute free-kick which went narrowly over the bar.
Larkhall got back on terms in the 63rd minute, Freddie King netting. But the Robins edged in front seven minutes later, Albie Hopkins stabbing home from
a melee. With nine minutes remaining, Frome’s Sam Meakes volleyed in to make it 3-1. And he struck again in injury-time to complete the scoring.
Larkhall starting XI: Liam Armstrong, Jack Goodall, Spencer Dymond-Hall, Sam Boulton, Lewis Graham, Will Banks, Jeff Forkuo, Ryan Beckinsale, Dawid Regula, Harvey Pritchard, Jack Camm. The Larks’ next game will be at Swindon Supermarine in the league on Friday 27th February (7.45pm).
Larkhall Development had no scheduled match in the Corsham Print Wiltshire Senior League Premier Division on Saturday 21st February. But they will be back in competitive action on Saturday 28th February when they take on Pewsey Vale at the Camella Stadium in the league’s Fountain Trophies Senior Cup quarterfinals (3pm). The Devs’ next league game will be away to their Royal Wootton Bassett Town counterparts on Saturday 7th March – a month since they last played in the Premier Division.
Women’s 1s go top by routing
Robinsons
Richard Briggs Reporter
TEAM Bath Buccaneers’ women’s 1st XI romped to victory when they visited Clifton Robinsons 2nd XI on Saturday 21st February – and the result took them to the top of the table.
The Buccs powered to a 5-0 success in the England Hockey Women’s Conference West game played at Clifton College, Bristol. And that scoreline lifted them into pole position, on goal-difference, at the expense of Cardiff & Met 1st XI, who are now in second spot after a 2-1 home defeat by Hampshire outfit Trojans 1st XI, another of the high-fliers.
a hat-trick before Tabitha Tinniswood finished the rout in the 69th minute.
A rousing comeback was unable to earn Team Bath men’s 1st XI a draw at their Clifton Robinsons counterparts on Saturday 21st February.
Robinsons looked to have the England Hockey Men’s Conference West match sewn up when they led 3-0 after 34 minutes, thanks to an early strike from Chris Wiseman, a goal from a penalty corner by Ben Shardlow and an effort from Micah Smithard.
Christian Moody pulled one back in the 56th minute and Ben Taylor reduced the deficit further by netting seven minutes later. But Team Bath could not find an equaliser.
Priya Kerfoot fired Team Bath into an 11th-minute lead. It remained 1-0 until the 33rd minute, when Izzy Usher struck. Usher hit two more goals – one a penalty stroke – to complete
In a floodlit match on Friday 20th February, Kynon GriffithMcCann scored as Team Bath men’s 2nd XI drew 1-1 at home with Clifton Robinsons 2nd XI in West Hockey West Men’s Premier.
Cup tie with Gloucester is must-win for Bath
Richard Briggs Reporter
BATH Rugby will go into their sold-out PREM Rugby Cup Round 10 clash with Gloucester Rugby on Saturday 28th February knowing that only a victory will do if they are to reach the semi-finals.
A 31-19 defeat at Sandy Park against a much more experienced Exeter Chiefs side in Round 9 on Saturday 21st February means the Blue, Black & White lie third in Pool A, three points adrift of the Cherry & Whites and seven behind the table-topping Devonians.
first points when, in the eighth minute, Will Butt stretched to down the ball to the left of the posts. Will Roue majored.
Exeter responded with an 18thminute try in the left corner from Dan John. Harvey Skinner missed the conversion.
Two more Exeter tries in the space of six minutes turned the game on its head. In the 23rd minute, Olly Woodburn went over on the left to finish a move that owed a lot to a superb run on the right by Paul Brown-Bampoe.
Skinner converted. And it was soon 19-7, Lewis Pearson setting up John for a score in the left corner and Skinner adding the extras.
Butt admits try may not have survived scrutiny
Richard Briggs Reporter
WILL Butt admitted that his try for Bath Rugby against his future employers Exeter Chiefs might have been ruled out if the refereeing team had included a television match official.
Centre Butt skippered the Blue, Black & White at Sandy Park in the PREM Rugby Cup Round 9 tie – and he stretched to down the ball and hand his team an eighthminute advantage.
“So some big defensive sets today, some big defensive efforts. I hope we can be proud of that.
“We’ve set ourselves up now. We’ve got a game against Gloucester [in Round 10] at home, at The Rec, and an opportunity to put ourselves in the semi-finals. So it doesn’t get a lot better than that for us. It’s a must-win game. We win, we put ourselves in with a chance of going to a semi-final. We lose and definitely don’t. It’ll be a test.”
The talk before the Chiefs-Bath tussle was how Exeter named a very strong matchday 23, whereas the visitors gave lots of youngsters a chance – as has been the Somerset club’s policy all season in this competition. Bath took an early 7-0 lead and stayed ahead until the second quarter. But Exeter – with Henry Slade and Greg Fisilau both coming off the bench around the hour mark – hit back for the expected win, although the guests battled bravely.
The Chiefs ended up with 62% of the possession and 64% of the territory. They gained 449 metres in attack, the Blue, Black & White gaining 229 metres.
Exeter got into the travellers’ 22 on 14 occasions, Bath managing eight incursions.
And the guests were forced to make 192 tackles, the home side making 126.
Still, Bath started well. They were held up on the right in the sixth minute but scored the game’s
Exeter were held up five minutes into the second period. But they secured the four-try bonus point six minutes later. Zack Wimbush was the scorer, capping a great run by forcing his way over on the right. Skinner was unsuccessful with his conversion attempt.
Bath added their second try when – in the 57th minute –Sam Winters crossed on the left and cut inside to dot down near the posts, Roue kicking the two points.
Exeter unleashed Slade in the 58th minute and Fisilau three minutes later. Home supporters were energised by Slade’s presence, and the versatile back got onto the scoresheet when he converted the Chiefs’ fifth try.
Jimmy Roots bulldozed over just to the right of the posts in the 74th minute and Slade slotted over the extra points.
The last word went to Bath. Play was in the 80th minute when Dan Frost scored from short range in the left corner. James Linegar was unable to convert.
But at Bath’s press conference following the Saturday 21st February match in Devon, he said: “I think I might’ve been a little bit lucky with that [try].
“If there’d been been a TMO I wonder if it might’ve been a little bit short, but there wasn’t so it stands.”
Butt said that the Blue, Black & White could be proud of their efforts against the Chiefs, despite the 31-19 setback that leaves them needing to beat Gloucester Rugby at The Rec on Saturday 28th February if they are to reach the semi-finals.
“We knew that they’d be a physical team, and they were,” said Butt.
“They’ve got a lot of big ball carriers. Zack Wimbush carried really well today. He was a bit of a handful for us.
“I think they kept the ball really well, and we were forced to defend for long periods of time.
“Something that we were proud of was that we stuck in those defensive sets.
“There was that one right before half-time, if felt like it went on forever, but we managed to win a turnover at the end and survive.
Butt acknowledged that the PREM Cup is a special competition for Bath’s youngsters.
The 26-year-old said:
“For the group that you saw playing today, the PREM Cup is probably where we get most of our rugby, so it’s a special place because that’s our opportunity to put on the Bath shirt and show what we can do.”
But he admitted that the way Exeter play was instrumental in him penning a three-year contract at Sandy Park.
“They’re a team that have had a lot of success over the last 10 years,” he said.
“You look at the way that they’ve started this season, they’ve started incredibly well.
“I think you’d probably say they’re the most-improved team from last season to this one. They’ve got a pretty young squad and you see the way they attacked today, holding the ball for long phases as well, I think that’s an exciting way that they play the game.”
As for the situation of playing for Bath at Exeter and knowing he will soon become a Chief, Butt said: “I suppose it’s a little bit different for me – not something I’ve experienced before, but it was good, it was fine.”
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