Somerset Leveller July Issue 2025

'LET'S MAKE IT WONDERFUL'

New owners pledge to put community at the heart of Frome Town FC after ground lease agreed

NURSE

Businesses urged to back skatepark effort

FUNDRAISING for a new skatepark in Wells is progressing apace - with more than £5,000 already pledged.

The Wells Skatepark Project - a community campaign to rejuvenate the city facility - has more than 60 supporters.

Now, project organisers have called on the wider community and businesses to get behind the vision.

The volunteer-led project has seen strong early backing from individuals, families and businesses, including The Square Play Centre, Glenavon Technology, tech YouTuber Tom 'The Tech Chap', Kingdom Training Gym, the Mayor of Wells, Louis Agabani and Wolf Barbers.

Creative fundraising has also played a part, with DJ collective 3SEVEN6 raising funds at The King Arthur, and young skater Bassy collecting £15 from his

neighbours.

"We’re thrilled by the response so far — the support has been generous and heartfelt," said Beverley Smith, trustee of the Wells Skatepark Project. "We want to build up capital and a solid base of

supporters to show potential major funders that this is something the community really wants."

The proposed skatepark will provide a free, safe and vibrant space for young people, families, and anyone on wheels

to stay active, build confidence and connect across generations, organisers said.

Sited next to The Blue School, the vision is for the scheme to become a destination for users from across Wells, Shepton, Glastonbury, Street and more.

Now, to encourage business support, the project has launched the Make Your Mark on the Park sponsorship initiative, offering permanent recognition on the main skate ramp for contributions starting from £250.

“Whether you're a parent, a skater, or someone who just wants to invest in a brighter, healthier future for our young people — we’d love your support,” a spokesperson added. For more information, to donate or sponsor the campaign, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ skatewells, or email wellsskatepark@gmail.com.

Businesses and more are being urged to back the Wells Skatepark fundraising effort

Man admits two Bath burglaries

Robert Jenkins has admitted two burglaries and the theft of a bike in Bath.

The 52-year-old is set to be sentenced later this month after pleading guilty to the offences when he appeared before magistrates in Bath on June 25.

Jenkins was arrested by neighbourhood officers last week in connection with the offences committed in April and May.

He was charged and pleaded guilty to one count of dwelling burglary, one count of non-dwelling burglary and one count of theft of a pedal cycle.

Jenkins was bailed to appear at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday, July 30, for sentencing.

Garage damaged

A GARAGE containing motorcycles – and a lithiumion battery pack – caught fire in Chard.

Fire crews from Chard, Ilminster and Axmister were sent to the scene, in Halcombe, at around 7.10pm on July 4.

“Initial actions by Chard had prevented rapid escalation to nearby houses, cars and fencing,” said an Axminster Fire Station spokesperson.

The incident was under control by around 9pm, but did “affect an adjacent car and a fence”.

Historic clock to return to its home at Somerset church

ACHURCH clock believed to be among the oldest working timepieces in the country is set to return to its home in Somerset.

The much-loved clock at the historic St Catherine’s Church, in Montacute, near Yeovil, has been undergoing specialist restoration since its removal in March.

The clock was previously thought to have been constructed in the 1600s, but new research led by Mark Lidster, buildings adviser for the Diocese of Bath and Wells and clocks adviser to the Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches, confirmed the clock’s mechanism was probably constructed in the early 1400s.

Restoration efforts have now seen the mechanism overhauled and strengthened by specialists in restoring ancient turret clocks, Timsbury Clocks.

The dial has been re-gilded and restored to its traditional colours of blue and gold.

Restorer Symon Boyd has been re-installing the inner workings of the clock in the church, ready for the dial to be fastened back on the tower on July 1.

Nic Laycock, Churchwarden of St Catherine’s and lead on the

restoration project, said: “It is a matter of pride that this Somerset treasure has been restored, and its story will be displayed using entirely Somerset-based specialists.”

A time capsule is being prepared by pupils at All Saints

Church School, which has close links with St Catherine’s, which will be placed behind the clock face, commemorating the restoration for future generations to discover and enjoy.

Pupils will be at the church to watch as the dial is returned to the tower.

A rededication service, scheduled for August 10, will not only mark the return of the clock to its rightful place in the church tower but will also celebrate its extraordinary legacy.

Michael Beasley, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, will preside at the service, when there will also be a village festival with hog roast, Morris dancing, bands and a choir.

Meanwhile, development of a special exhibition space inside St Catherine’s is underway.

The clock room located 15 metres up the church tower has been fitted with new lighting and cameras to showcase the inner workings of the historic clock.

Inside the church, newly installed audio-visual displays will help tell the clock’s story, including fascinating details about its recent restoration.

Among the highlights will be a set of large iron church door keys believed to date back to the Reformation, which were once used by villagers who wound the clock each day.

Nic added: “The clock has served Montacute for centuries. It carries with it a rich human story, from its construction to the remarkable men who cared for it day after day.

“If it could talk, it would recount the history of the church’s witness to the village from medieval times to the present day.

"We know many stories - but there may be much still to discover."

Long-time clock carer Humphrey Hamlin, left, overseeing the latest work

Picture: GRACE Productions Quick news HOMELESS

Three injured as car crashes into house

THREE people suffered serious injuries in a crash which saw a car hit a house near Martock.

The incident, in Long Load Road, Stapleton, happened at just before 12.30am on the morning of Sunday, July 6.

Police said an Audi A4 hit a house - with three people taken to hospital.

"The three occupants in the car have been taken to hospital with serious injuries," an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

"Two of them are believed to have sustained life changing injuries and one is thought to have lifethreatening injuries.

"No one in the property was harmed."

Firefighters from Martock,

Yeovil and Somerton were sent to the scene, using hydraulic cutting equipment to release a person from the vehicle.

"The building has sustained structural damage, therefore crews have used props to stabilise it," a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

The road was closed in both directions while an investigation into the crash got underway - and police are keen to hear from anyone who may have information about the incident.

n Anyone who can help should contact police on 101 and give the reference number 5225188752.

Untaxed cars seized

POLICE seized three untaxed vehicles in Glastonbury in a single afternoon.

Officers were out in Morland Road on Tuesday (June 17) carrying out an operation under DVLA powers, checking the status of vehicles parked in the area.

And an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said Glastonbury Neighbourhood Police officers “seized three vehicles parked on Morland Road for having no valid vehicle tax”.

It comes amid increased activity in Glastonbury amid concerns over crime, which MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Glastonbury & Somerton) recently descrived as a “devastating crime wave”.

ENCHANT PAUL CHANT OUT

By

Iam a farmer, cider maker, dowser, and now, confidently, a musician.

My journey took an unexpected turn when I accidentally fell from a spaceship in 1962. I grew up on a small farm in Buckland Dinham, near Frome, surrounded by loving parents.

My school experience, however, was challenging - I was knocked to the floor on my first day, which ignited my determination to self-educate. I encourage everyone to do your own research!

Initially, my goal in learning music was to raise funds for my school in Southern India, which supports 11 villages. As a dowser, I discovered a crucial water source for that community.

I am driven to use my music to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of the Glastonbury Festival, which poses a serious threat to our village and local businesses. With this album, I am making my voice heard in a peaceful protest against the festival.

The songs on this album reflect eight significant years of my life, encompassing both joy and pain. My song writing is a powerful expression of my spiritual beliefs and my commitment as an eco-warrior. Action speaks louder than words, and I firmly reject money as a motivator - history has shown us the devastation it spawns through wars and greed. A damaged environment leads to disease and decay, which some companies exploit for profit.

Everything revolves around frequency, so let’s stay in tune. In the eyes of our true Creator, we are all equal. Each of us is unique, embodying the divine on Earth, our true paradise. Unfortunately, negative forces mislead us about food and our souls. I stand firm for what’s right, but my fight is not one of guns or violence. It’s about saying no, making ethical choices, and maintaining faith without selfishness. With this mindset, we can achieve remarkable things. The reality is that darkness is simply the absence of light. The time to awaken is now; our planet is in peril, and countless lives, including children, are at risk. If we do not act decisively, we jeopardize the future of our children and our chance for heaven on Earth .

God bless you all... Hey-ho

Paul Chant

Three vehicles were seized by police - in one afternoon

Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

Bridgwater school WILL be rebuilt

ASOMERSET school whose main building was closed by inspectors due to fears over structural safety will be rebuilt.

Operations at Haygrove School, in Bridgwater, were thrown into disarray in 2023 when inspectors ordered the closure of the main building –built just three years earlier – be closed.

The move came after school projects completed by collapsed building firm Caledonian Modular were shut amid fears over the safety of the structures.

Now, after years of lobbying for a rebuild and makeshift measures to continue providing for pupils, staff and parents, the Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed the redevelopment of Haygrove on a site at nearby Queenswood Farm is a ‘priority project’.

“We are thrilled to announce that the Department for

Education has been able to formally confirm Haygrove School’s move to the Queenswood Site this week, with the complete rebuilding of the school designated as a priority project aiming to be ready by September 2028,” a school spokesperson said.

“This marks a significant milestone for our school and the Quantock Education Trust, following an intense period of lobbying for improved facilities

for our students and staff.

“This substantial investment in the Bridgwater area promises to positively impact local families for generations.

“We are extremely grateful to our colleagues at Somerset Council and the Department for Education for their hard work and support of our school rebuilding project.

“The new site will feature carbon neutral, state-of-the-art facilities and resources,

providing a long-lasting, enhanced learning environment that supports both academic and personal growth.”

They said school chiefs were “excited about the future opportunities this development will provide for our school community”.

“Thank you to our students, families, staff, governors and trustees for your continued support to Haygrove School,” the spokesperson added.

The Haygrove School main building was closed in 2023 amid safety fears

Firefighters get glimpse of a railway icon

STEAM is not an unusual sight from the railway embankment at Crowcombe – with the West Somerset Railway passing by regularly.

However, at just before 2pm on Wednesday, July 2, reports of smoke saw fire crews sent to the scene near the rail tracks.

Firefighters from Williton and Taunton were sent to tackle two separate blazes, both in close proximity to the line.

“Williton made quick progress with scotty packs and beaters to extinguish the fire and then proceeded to assist with the nearby larger fire that was involving a grass field,” a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

Crews put out the flames using four hose reel jets, beaters and buckets.

However, as a reward for

their work, the crews also got to see the Flying Scotsman train pass by, on its journey to Minehead.

The iconic locomotive was passing as pat of a residency in West Somerset during part of June and July.

Firefighters caught a glimpse of the Flying Scotsman

Pictures: Taunton Fire Station

Attempted murder probe after attack in Taunton street

AMAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after an incident in Taunton that left another man - believed to be known to him - in hospital.

Police called by the ambulance service to a serious assault in Castle Street, Taunton, at 6.35am on the morning of Friday, July 4.

A man in his mid-30s was taken to hospital with injuries which were “initially considered life-threatening, but he has since been discharged”, a police spokesperson said.

“A man, also in his mid-30s, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and

remains in police custody.

“A scene guard remains in place and investigations continue.

"We believe the incident involved individuals who are known to each other and therefore do not believe there is any wider risk to the public.

“Our investigations continue and anybody with mobile phone or dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incident are urged to contact us.”

n Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact police on 101, reference 5225186945.

Leak

Filteration

Bespoke

Quick news

Tor conductors targeted with tool

A MAN damaged lightning conductors at the Glastonbury Tor using an angle grinder.

Police are appealing for information after an incident at around 3pm on Monday, June 23, which saw a man ‘covered in tattoos’ damage the safety devices.

“We understand there were around 20 members of the public in the area who attempted to stop him,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“The suspect is described as white, in his late 30s, wearing shorts, no T-shirt and is described by one witness as being ‘covered in tattoos’.

“We are calling on any of the witnesses who have not yet spoken to officers to get in touch. We are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have filmed or taken photos of the incident.”

Anyone with information, or who has footage from the Tor, should contact police on 101 and quote reference 5225175321.

Shoplifter jailed

A “PROFESSIONAL criminal” has been jailed after admitting 17 shop thefts in a matter of weeks.

Prolific shoplifter Louisianna Santillo, of Combe Down, received a two-month prison sentence at Bath Magistrates’ Court on July 2 after pleading guilty to thefts from The Co-operative, in Mount Road, Bath, between June 17 and July 1.

Magistrates noted the 44-year-old had a “flagrant disregard for people and their property” and that she “is operating as a professional criminal”.

Santillo also received a two-year criminal behaviour order (CBO) preventing her entering a shops in certain areas.

Water meadow saved after £37,000 crowdfunder joy

THE future of Adderwell

Water Meadow in Frome has been secured following the success of a crowdfunding campaign.

Fears that the 3.5-acre stretch along the River Frome could be developed in the future spurred groups into launching crowdfunding efforts, with £37,000 raised in total.

Groups involved included Friends of the River Frome, who collaborated with the town council to save this precious site from development.

Frome Town Council put the money raised into a trust to ensure the meadow will be protected in perpetuity as a haven for the people and wildlife of the town.

The council said the purchase of the site is a testament to the power of the community and the many hard-working volunteer groups in Frome.

Water meadows are a haven

for wildlife due to their ability to create diverse habitats for many species, and the grass itself is rich in nutrients.

Friends of the River Frome Chairman, Mike Bull, thanked everyone who contributed to the project.

“Without you we wouldn’t be able to save this valuable habitat and open space for the people of Frome,” he said.

“Water meadows are becoming scarcer, but they’re needed more than ever to help with the climate emergency.

“They provide a valuable biodiverse habitat, as well as helping to store water and slow flooding during periods of intense rainfall.

“We’re excited to work with Frome Town Council in the coming months to prepare a management plan for the site.

“We will also be planning an event in the late summer to celebrate and thank everyone

for their help in protecting this important site.”

Frome Town councillor Mark Dorrington praised the community involvement in securing the site’s future.

“Frome Town Council were proud to work with Friends of the River Frome to buy and preserve this important land for wildlife and people – and what a fantastic show of support from the community, from Save Open Spaces Frome and the Rotary to help raise the remaining funds,” he said.

“This land has vital benefits for biodiversity and in time will create recreational spaces for picnics, forest schools and the access to nature that we know is so important for mental and physical health.”

n To find out more about Friends of the River Frome, visit friendsoftheriverfrome.co. uk.

A 3.5-acre stretch of land along the River Frome has been saved from the risk of development

Pictures: Friends of the River Frome

PCSO Nathan is honoured for work in Somerset town

NATHAN Chard has become a familiar face on the streets of Cheddar through his work as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO).

And his two years of patrolling the town and building relationships with residents has seen Nathan recognised with a special award.

As the force marked Neighbourhood Policing Week, which ran from June 23 to 29, PCSO Chard was recently honoured with a Community Award from the Cheddar Parish Council for his ‘outstanding service to the Cheddar Valley’.

“Nathan is known for his approachable and friendly demeanour, often seen on foot or bike patrol, engaging with residents, business owners, and students alike,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“The children at local schools know him by is first name, and he’s often found joining in on a game of football or having a chat with pupils.

“In addition to his work with young people, Nathan has built

Car stolen after burglars take car keys in Yeovil raids

A CAR was stolen after burglars took keys from two homes in Yeovil.

Police are hunting the people behind break-ins in Summerleaze Park and Ilchester Road between 3am and 4.45am on Friday, June 20.

A spokesperson said the thieves forced entry to two homes before car keys were stolen.

“A grey 2017 Audi S3 was subsequently stolen from one of the homes and efforts to locate the vehicle are ongoing,” they said.

A man involved was described as white, aged in his early 20s and as wearing a light-coloured hoodie, light-coloured tracksuit bottoms, black gloves, dark glasses and black shoes with a white sole at the time.

“An investigation is underway with forensic enquiries completed earlier today,” the spokesperson added.

“Officers are reviewing CCTV footage in the area and are urging any witnesses or anyone with any doorbell or CCTV footage which could help, to come forward.”

Anyone with information about the thefts should contact police on 101, quoting reference number 5225171966, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

strong relationships with local car and bike enthusiasts.

“Cheddar is famous for its motoring meets, and Nathan’s proactive engagement has helped address noise and anti-social behaviour concerns before they escalate.

“Nathan also volunteers at a local youth club, offering a safe space for young people to chill, chat, and play sports.

“It was this commitment to youth engagement that led the youth club leader to nominate him for the award, highlighting his positive influence on the community’s younger members.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Rebecca Wells Cole said Nathan’s efforts showed how the work of PCSOs can have an impact in communities.

“Nathan’s day-to-day work in Cheddar highlights the impact neighbourhood policing can have when officers are embedded in the communities they serve,” Insp Wells Cole added.

“He’s absolutely deserving of this recognition and we’re all very proud of him.”

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Guildhall Young Artists Taunton is a vibrant, creative space, welcoming children and young people to learn and perform music and drama on Saturdays in term time.

Book your trial now gsmd.ac.uk/Taunton

CSO Nathan Chard, right, receives his award from chair of Cheddar Parish Council, Derek Bradley-Balmer Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

Inspectors praise school's improvement

KING Arthur’s School in Wincanton has undergone a “significant journey of improvement” since its last inspection, according to Ofsted.

A two-day inspection at the end of April found the school is ‘Good’ in three of the four main

areas – with improvement needed in the quality of education.

A previous inspection in 2022 found the school required improvement.

The school’s ‘Good’ judgements were given to the behaviour and attitudes and

Potfest South West - A Celebration of all things Clay in the Dorset Countryside

Potfest South West, held at the Turnpike Showground near Shaftesbury, has quickly established itself as a vibrant highlight in the UK arts and culture calendar. Following a successful debut, this annual event offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse and captivating world of clay.

Visitors will be treated to a stunning and diverse array of work from over 90 selected makers, ranging from established artists to exciting new talents. Whether you’re seeking functional tableware, intricate delicate pieces, or bold sculptural forms, Potfest South West delivers a visual feast. It’s a rare chance to connect directly with the artists, understand their creative processes, and acquire unique pieces that each tell a story.

Beyond the sheer volume of beautiful ceramics, the festival cultivates a lively and engaging atmosphere. The popular potters’ competition, with its intriguing themes, sparks creativity and friendly rivalry, offering visitors the chance to vote for their favourites. Demonstrations, talks and raku firings offer an educational and engaging element to the show and all this is set against the backdrop of the stunning Dorset countryside.

personal development of its students, and the leadership and management of its staff.

The report praises the school’s leadership, ethos and culture, and said: “King Arthur’s instils in pupils a belief that they can and will achieve beyond expectations.”

is stronger than ever. The future is very bright, and I’m excited for what comes next.”

The report also commended the school’s wide-ranging personal development offer, including trips abroad, their Aspire programme, and opportunities for leadership roles such as prefects and sports leaders.

Potfest South West is more than just an artisan market and pottery fair; it’s a true celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of clay. www.potfest.co.uk ADVERTISING FEATURE

Inspectors highlighted the school’s happy, safe and supportive environment, strong community ties, and the high expectations for student behaviour.

Pupils themselves were reported to feel a renewed confidence in their school and appreciated staff’s ‘praise hard’ approach.

Headteacher Jonty Archibald, who took up post in September 2024, said: “I am absolutely delighted with this Ofsted report. It reflects the hard work, passion and belief that our entire school community has shown over the past year.

“To have received three ‘Good’ judgements in key areas is a real testament to the dedication of our staff, the resilience and ambition of our students, and the incredible support from our parents and carers.

“King Arthur’s is a school on the rise — full of energy, positivity and potential — and this report confirms what we already know: that our students are thriving, and our community

The report said pupils “benefit from a high-quality programme of enrichment” and that staff morale is high, with professional development and wellbeing actively prioritised.

King Arthur’s is part of SAST, a multi-academy trust of schools across South Somerset and North Dorset.

SAST CEO, David Watson OBE, said: “We are incredibly proud of the progress King Arthur’s School has made.

“This Ofsted report is a testament to the dedication and resilience of the staff, students, and wider school community.

“Under Jonty Archibald’s leadership, the school has made significant strides, and I want to acknowledge the outstanding support from colleagues across the Trust who have worked tirelessly to help support him to drive this improvement

"Together, we remain committed to ensuring that every child at King Arthur’s receives the excellent education they deserve.”

Head Jonty Archibald with King Arthur's pupils

Birnbeck Pier restoration in jeopardy as RNLI pulls out of project

THE RNLI has pulled out of the multi-million pound project to restore Birnbeck Pier in Weston in a move branded “shocking” by a town leader – leaving the ambitious scheme in jeopardy.

On June 27, the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) informed North Somerset Council (NSC) ‘they no longer wish to be involved in the delivery of the project’, which would have seen the landmark Weston-Super-Mare pier brought back to life.

“This breaks the collaboration that the RNLI entered into with North Somerset Council and leaves the phase of work to restore the pier structure in jeopardy, with a £5 million shortfall which the RNLI had previously agreed to fund,” an NSC spokesperson said.

“North Somerset Council continues to have the full support of its other funding partners.

“It worked hard to secure over £20m in external funding to support the project which includes £10.2m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £5.4m from the UK government (former Levelling Up Fund), £3.55m from the National Heritage Memorial Fund (through the UK government’s Cultural Assets Fund) and £1m from Historic England.”

It means a planned vote to award the contract for the restoration work – due to be held at a Full Council meeting on July 8 – was withdrawn “as a direct result of the RNLI decision”, the spokesperson added.

However, the RNLI said it did not have “the confidence needed in the funding or contractual structure to deliver the pier repair project to completion”.

Councillor Mike Bell, leader

of NSC, said: “This is a shocking decision that breaks faith with residents, volunteers and everyone who has worked so hard to secure a future for Birnbeck Pier.

“We feel very let down, as I’m sure many residents will too. For the RNLI, one of our critical partners in this project, to pull their support just days before we were looking to award the contract to restore the Birnbeck Pier structure feels like a real abdication of responsibility to our community.

“Just 24 hours ago, Birnbeck Pier’s future was bright with funding in place, all partners on board, a clear funding plan, and robust independent evidence confirming this project is viable, deliverable, and set to bring lasting economic and social benefits to Weston-super-Mare and our region.

“The RNLI has long said that Birnbeck Island is the safest place from which to launch lifeboats and save lives. Yet today’s decision risks undermining that purpose. After years of collaboration and planning, it is hard to understand why the RNLI would choose to walk away at this critical moment.

“Despite challenges created by the RNLI’s decision, I want to reassure residents that the council, along with our funding partners – The National Lottery

Heritage Fund, the UK government, the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Historic England – and the Birnbeck Regeneration Trust – remain committed to saving Birnbeck Pier.

“We will work with determination to find solutions and close this funding gap so the project can move forward.

“Birnbeck Pier is a treasured part of our shared heritage and a symbol of Weston’s past and future. In just two years since taking ownership of the pier, we have made more progress than in the past three decades in private hands. We will not allow this progress to stall.

“Importantly, this decision does not affect the delivery of other phases of the wider project, and work on the landside buildings will begin next month.”

The news comes after an independent Outline Business Case (OBC) for the pier, in line with HM Treasury Green Book standards, reported on the financial viability of the project.

The OBC concluded that: “Overall there is strong evidence that the Birnbeck Pier project is viable and deliverable and will realise long-term economic and wider benefits for Weston-super-Mare and the region.

“It will also protect a highly valuable, nationally significant

heritage asset and enable the RNLI to use Birnbeck Island to optimise its ability to save lives on this busy part of the British coast.”

The RNLI has a long relationship with Birnbeck Pier, having been based there for many years, before leaving in 2014 due to safety concerns, and currently operates from a temporary station by Marine Lake.

A new RNLI lifeboat station was a key part of the Birnbeck restoration plan.

But Peter Sparkes, chief executive of the RNLI, said the scheme represented an “unacceptable on-going financial risk”.

“While this has been a difficult decision, we believe it is the right thing to do for the charity, our supporters and the community we serve,” he said. “We are incredibly proud of our volunteers and remain committed to retaining a lifesaving presence in Westonsuper-Mare."

He added: “Regrettably, following the viability review, the charity does not have the confidence needed in the funding or contractual structure to deliver the pier repair project to completion, or in the plan to ensure that the long term, ongoing maintenance costs associated with the historic pier will be met."

Van driver avoids prison sentence over crash that killed 27-year-old Destiney

TAUNTON van driver

Alexander Chapman has been handed a 14-week suspended sentence for his role in a crash which tragically killed 27-year-old Destiney Rauh.

Chapman was using a layby on the A361 at West Lyng to turn around when he pulled out into the path of an oncoming motorcycle – ridden by Destiney – in February last year.

Despite swerving to avoid the van, Destiney hit it before hitting the ground.

At Taunton Crown Court on June 19, 39-year-old Chapman, pictured, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.

The court heard Chapman was using a layby to turn around and head back towards his Taunton home at around 4.25pm

on Sunday, February 4.

However, he pulled out directly in front of Destiney who, despite the efforts of emergency services, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

Chapman stopped immediately after the collision and told an officer that he had not seen Destiney when he pulled into the road, the court heard, but was later charged with causing death by careless driving.

Before he was sentenced, a victim personal statement from Destiney’s grandmother was read out in court.

“Destiney was such a big part of our lives as she came to live with us at six weeks old,” she

said. “Her bedroom is still the same as she left it on that Sunday morning.

"Her clothes are still in the wardrobe and her work shoes are still at the bottom of the stairs where she left them.”

Addressing Chapman, she added: “The last thing she saw on this earth was your white van. I will never forgive you, but one day I will be with her and I will be happy again.

“I know you didn’t go out to kill her, but you did and nothing in this world will change that. You took something very, very precious from us.

“If you had only looked our lives would never have crossed, but instead your life will never

be the same as you killed the love of our life.

“I hope what happened to our family never happens to yours as it is hard. You have got to live with this for the rest of your life as have got to live without Destiney.”

Sentencing, Judge Shepherd told Chapman: “What made this careless was your inadequate checks for a motorcycle that caused the death. The aggregating factor is that the victim was a vulnerable road user. It was a momentary lapse in concentration.

“The victims’ statements are heartfelt and devastating.” Chapman was handed a 14-week suspended prison sentence, disqualified from driving for 18 months and ordered to carry out 250 hours of unpaid work.





 No loose and missing teeth, no dentures

 Eat comfortably and confidently



Linda, David Neal Patient

Overloaded substation fire cuts power

AFIRE in the McDonald’s car park in Wincanton is believed to have started after an electrical substation system became overloaded.

Smoke billowed from the car park at Lawrence Hill at just after 2pm on June 27.

Large flames and pillars of smoke were seen by motorists and passers-by as fire crews cordoned off the area to deal with the incident.

The Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said they believe the fire was started accidentally and dismissed social media claims that a car was involved in the blaze.

They did not explain how the fire started, but it is believed that fuses had blown due to the system being overloaded.

Businesses at the nearby business park saw power cuts, including Morrisons, which closed its doors to shoppers.

Power was restored to

businesses affected several hours later.

Teams from Southern and Scottish Electricity Networks were later sent to the scene to evaluate the site.

The fire cut power to a number of surrounding properties Pictures: Tait ap Ellis/Somerset Leveller

A new era dawns at Frome Town FC after ground agreement

After a long-running debate over the future of Badgers Hill - home of Frome Town FC - an agreement has been reach, marking the beginning of a new era for the Robins...

ACONTROVERSIAL

plan to 'sell' the home of a Somerset football club has been approved.

Frome Town Council (FTC) owns Badgers Hill - the home ground of Frome Town Football Club.

Now, the council has agreed to lease the site to private operator Badgers Hill Ltd, a subsidiary of FTFC Ltd - with an 'option to buy'.

The decision came after months of campaigning and deliberation over the plan, a previous form of which was rejected last month amid concerns over guarantees the facilities would remain available to the community in the future.

However on July 2, councillors backed the private bid, leasing the ground, with an option to buy for the market rate with community benefit.

After the vote Fiona Barrows, chair of FTC, said: "The decision to lease a valued community asset to a private

operator, with an option to buy, is not one we would ever take lightly, and we haven’t.

"This has been a complicated process, with serious legal and financial implications. We know the decision has taken time, and that some would have liked it made more quickly. But due diligence is essential, and I genuinely believe we reached this outcome as fairly, transparently and responsibly as we could.

"We’ve heard from everyone involved, and we’ve listened. This has never been about taking sides. It’s always been about doing what is right for the town and our community — and that principle has guided us throughout.

"We look forward to working with the new operator and with Frome Town AFC to make this a success. We are finalising the heads of terms and entering this next phase in all good faith.

"This project has been marked by division, but we hope that can now be left

behind. Badgers Hill has the potential to be a thriving, inclusive hub for sport and community and we want to see everyone come together to make that vision a reality."

A statement posted online by Badgers Hill Ltd, said: "Thank you, Frome. We’re full of gratitude that the lease for Badgers Hill has officially been approved.

"This moment belongs to you. To everyone who wrote in, showed up, shared a kind word, or simply hoped with us - thank you. Your voices, your belief, your love for this town made all the difference.

"A special and sincere thank you to Frome Town Council - for listening, engaging, and backing a future where Badgers Hill remains a place for everyone. Your support means the world.

"This isn’t just a lease. It’s a chance to build something beautiful together - a home for football, for friendship, for the future. A place that truly

belongs to the people of Frome. "We promise to honour this moment. To care for this ground. To make you proud. "From the bottom of our hearts - thank you, Frome. Let’s make something wonderful, together."

The club has since announced several appointments to the organisation which will now oversee the club - and Badgers Hill.

Courtney Fong has been appointed chair of Frome Town FC, subject to FA approval, bringing what the club called "a strong background in leadership and community development" to the role.

Meanwhile Derek Graham, who served as chair for many years, will take on the role of chair emeritus "for his dedication, leadership, and tireless commitment to Frome Town FC".

Incoming chair Mr Fong said: "This is more than a change in ownership - it's a fresh start built on the passion

and pride of our supporters and community.

"We're committed to making Frome Town FC a club that thrives on and off the pitch, with a home that's open and welcoming to all."

Fans of Frome Town have been divided on the matter, though many reacted with joy to the news.

"I wish to congratulate the council on a very open meeting conducted in a very professional manner," said one. "The council stepped in to save the club in our hour of need for which everyone should be eternally grateful."

Another said: "(It's) been a tough five months but we got there in the end. Thanks for bailing the club out when it needed it, that won’t be forgotten, and massive thanks to those councillors that have been fully involved and understood what this means and backed this from minute one."

And the council's handling of

the passionate meeting where the decision was made was also praised, with one person saying: "Thank you to the Council saving the club (twice) now.

"I think everyone that was at both meetings agreed last night's was absolutely fantastic.

Quiz Night

"The room was laid out much better; clear information; good informative discussion and staying public was great and was a good education piece from the room to see exactly what goes into the process and the voting side of it."

The meeting, above, to discuss the future of Badgers Hill - left and below - heard from all sides of the debate

Pictures: Somerset Leveller/Frome Town Council

Celebrating a good night’s sleep

As third generation family business The Bed Specialist celebrates it’s 60th anniversary, we learn how it all began with a touch of entrepreneurial spirit.

The year is 1965. Ruth and Derek Lush were on a long weekend away in Wales visiting their friends who owned a furniture shop. After seeing how their business thrived and the exciting collections of furniture available, they returned home to Yeovil brimming with ideas, keen to establish their very own furniture shop. After a last-minute dash to post a letter at the general post office in Huish, Derek noticed the old Cooperative stores were up for sale across the street and that same night an offer was made on the premises. The dream became a reality and Preston Furnishing – The Bed Specialist was established.

The shop soon became well known as the go-to destination for trusted advice and quality furniture, building a reputation for stocking household name brands for every budget. Now owned by the third generation of the same family, Nick Stokes learnt his trade from dad Martin who spent 40 years in the business and today, the team at The Bed Specialist continues providing award winning expertise, quality products and honest service to each customer because sleep has never been more vital to maintain good health and wellbeing.

June 2025 sees The Bed Specialist in Yeovil reach their big milestone of 60 years trading in the town and the business continues thrive, welcoming customers back time and again. Nick says “We rely on our happy customers recommending us to friends and family. Customers who purchased their beds back in the 60’s and 70’s regularly return to let us know how our furniture has been at the centre of their homes for generations.”

The Bed Specialist now offers a 100-night sleep trial on every mattress purchased in store with a no quibble swap if it isn’t quite right after the first few weeks of sleep, and the special Anniversary summer sale is

going to be quite something with some of the biggest discounts and offers they have ever managed to negotiate from suppliers such as Vispring, Hypnos, Sleepeezee and Dunlopillo to mark the momentous occasion.

Shop online at thebedspecialist. co.uk or call 01935 423 596 to find out more.

www.theglencarehome.co.uk

Tel: 01749 830 369

Email: reception@theglencarehome.co.uk

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Jiu-Jitsu star Taya aiming for world finals

ARISING Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu talent, Taya Jones, is aiming to bring home more medals at the World Championships.

The 12-year-old, who is a yellow and white belt, trains almost daily out of Gracie Barra Salisbury and Gracie Barra Frome.

Taya has now set her eyes on the World Championships in Abu Dhabi this November after she took home silver at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Rome Open in spring.

The match in Rome was a big step up, as Taya only recently moved to her new belt division (yellow) and underscored her ability to perform on the international stage against elite competition.

This follows on from her maiden European gold in October 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal.

She was also recently named a Gracie Barra UK ambassador athlete for 2025 — a title reserved for the most promising young athletes in the organisation. Her 2025 competition season also featured standout

performances at invitation-only events such as Tanto, held in Weston-super-Mare, and most recently a dominant victory at ENYO, the UK’s premier all-female grappling showcase on June 7.

Hollywood actor and

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor Tom Hardy was in attendance and even signed Taya’s gold medal.

“Taya trains with unmatched dedication — almost every day of the week — and has shown the mindset and talent to compete at the very highest levels,” said her coach Callum Swift at Gracie Barra Salisbury.

“She represents the future of Gracie Barra & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the UK, and I wager that she will become a future black belt world champion.”

Now, with her eyes set firmly on the World Championships in Abu Dhabi this November, Taya is intensifying her training and competition schedule.

To support travel and accommodation costs, a GoFundMe has been launched - and people can also follow Taya's journey on Instagram at www.instagram.com/tayaj_bjj_ tagb.

Gang threatened shop staff during theft

DO you recognise any of these people? Police want to identify them in connection with an incident at a Taunton retail park – which saw shop staff threatened.

Avon & Somerset Police has issued CCTV images of a group officers would like to identify after two large leisure batteries were stolen from a store at Hankridge Retail Park at around 7.20pm on Thursday, April 10.

“One staff member was also subjected to threatening and aggressive behaviour during the incident which caused significant distress,” a police spokesperson said.

The group left the area in a silver Audi A3, the spokesperson said, with officers now working to identify the people pictured.

They are described as:

A man, aged between 20 and 35, around 5ft 8ins tall, with bright white teeth, an Irish accent who wearing a grey tracksuit.

A man, aged between 20 and 35, with dark hair, an Irish accent, who was wearing a black T-shirt and grey shorts.

A man, aged between 20 and

35, with an Irish accent and an orange T-shirt.

Officer in the case, PC Riggs, from the Taunton neighbourhood policing team, said: “We understand that incidents like this can cause concern among retail staff and local shoppers.

“Targeting retail premises and threatening staff is unacceptable, and we are working hard to identify those involved and hold them to

“Neighbourhood officers are conducting high-visibility patrols in the area, and we are working closely with store security teams and community partners to provide reassurance and prevent further incidents.

“We would like to thank the member of staff involved for their courage in reporting the offence, and we encourage anyone affected by crime to speak to us – support is always

available.”

Officers have reviewed CCTV footage and spoken to people in the area as part of their investigation and are now urging anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone who identifies the people pictured – or has information about the theft and aggressive behaviour – should contact police on 101, quoting reference 5225102400 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Floating ecosystems at Bridgwater Docks

BRIDGWATER residents may have spotted some new additions to the town docks recently.

A number of ‘floating ecosystems’ have been installed on the water in a bid to support biodiversity and improve water quality.

The islands have bee planted by volunteers as part of the Bridgwater Blue Heritage Project, which supports efforts to bring “wetlands to urban life”.

They have been installed as part of a partnership between the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT) – which runs the project – and the Prince’s Trust.

Planting on the islands aims to provide habitats for birds, fish and pollinators, who in turn improve the quality of the water and boost biodiversity.

Police want to identify these three people after an incident in Taunton

Pictures: Avon & Somerset Police account.

The islands aim to boost water quality - and wildlife

Pictures: Somerset Council

New mural in Bridgwater unveiled

ANEW mural has been created in Bridgwater “as a living tribute” to the town’s heritage and its people.

The Eastover Mural was developed following input from residents – and some even feature in the artwork.

An official commemorative plaque will soon be unveiled once nearby roadworks are completed.

The mural was paid for through funding from the Bridgwater Town Deal, Somerset Association of Local Councils and Seed (funded by Creative People and Places –Arts Council England), who served as the project’s lead producers.

A Bridgwater Town Council spokesperson said: “Thanks go to all community members who participated in the consultation process, helping to shape an artwork that authentically reflects Bridgwater’s identity and also to local businesses for

their support, particularly the Mercure Hotel and The Eastover Indoor Shopping Centre.”

The artwork is one of three legacy projects that fall under the ‘animating the town deal’ part of the Bridgwater Town Deal programme.

Alongside the mural, a new heritage trail and a celebratory film are set to further showcase

the town’s dedication to creativity and cultural engagement.

However, full views of the piece are delayed, as temporary scaffolding will remain in place at the site, as an active bird’s nest was found within the structure. It is an offence to disturb nesting bids, so the scaffolding will remain until the nesting period concludes.

Quick news

Alleyway assault

A MAN in his 70s was punched in the back of the head in a Chard alleyway.

The victim suffered facial injuries after the attack, between Poundstretchers and Coral towards the Essex Close car park, at around 4pm on Monday, April 28.

Police said he suffered injuries to his hand, arms, elbow and eye, and a cut eyebrow.

The offender has been described as a white man, approximately in his late-20s, with short brown hair and short facial hair.

“We would particularly like to speak to a young, unknown male who was on a bicycle travelling through the alleyway at the time of the offence who may have witnessed the incident,” police said.

Call police on 101, reference 5225118842.

The mayor of Wells was among guests at the relaunch event

Nurse jailed over relationship with patient

PSYCHIATRIC nurse

Adam Culverwell – from Yeovil – who formed a sexual relationship with a vulnerable patient, has been jailed.

The 53-year-old has been sentenced to seven years in prison for 10 counts of sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder by a care worker and one count of inciting sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder by a care worker.

Culverwell had previously been employed by Dorset Healthcare Trust as a community psychiatric nurse and supported the victim from September 2016 through to December 2020.

In June 2021, it was reported to police that Culverwell had been involved in a relationship with the victim while she was under his care.

Culverwell was arrested and

a complex and lengthy police investigation ensued, which involved taking multiple statements, viewing medical records, carrying out CCTV trawls and analysing mobile phone records.

Eventually, in June 2024, officers were able to secure

charges for Culverwell.

The case then went to trial at Bournemouth Crown Court in April.

There, prosecutors successfully argued that due to his position, Culverwell would have been keenly aware about the victim’s mental health issues

Students aim for the top!

TWO Taunton

performing arts students are celebrating after securing places at university to pursue their dreams.

Celly and Becca have been studying at Guildhall Young Artists Taunton (GYA), which offers music and drama classes on Saturdays during term time for young people aged between five and 18.

After taking music classes, where she studied cello and harp, Celly has been accepted to study Musical Theatre at the University of Chichester and urged anyone interested in performing arts to consider GYA Taunton.

"Everybody is very kind and all the teachers really do know what they’re talking about," she

said. "Give it a go and just be yourself."

Meanwhile, Becca has gained a place at Bath Spa University where she will study for a BA in Drama.

She hopes to explore her love of theatre and plan her next career move, having been nervous when she joined GYA two years ago to take singing and drama classes.

"I had a lot of anxiety when I joined Guildhall Young Artists, but that went away very quickly

because not only was everyone very welcoming, but it was also just so relaxed," she said.

"I love it here and I hope they stay doing this for a very long time."

A GYA Taunton spokesperson said: "We wish them both all the best on their university courses and look forward to hearing all about their creative endeavours in the future."

GYA Taunton is part of Guildhall Young Artists, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama’s network across the country, providing performing arts training for children and young people.

n For more information, log on to gsmd.ac.uk/Taunton.

and therefore would be considered to have exploited his position.

He was sentenced at the same court on June 6.

Detective Constable Chloe Riley, of Dorset Police, said: “The victim in this case was a vulnerable individual.

Culverwell was a professional in charge of managing the victim’s complex mental health conditions and exploited his position for his own sexual gratification.

“I’d like to commend the victim for their bravery in coming forward and continuing to support our investigation, as well the court process.

“I hope the investigation and its result sends a message to all victims of sexual offences that we will do all we can to investigate offences, support those impacted, and ensure offenders are brought to justice.”

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We have a monthly newsletter which is sent to everyone with details of new and current members plus details of the events. You can meet members across the group.

We cover all age groups and offer one to one introductions and offer regular socials across the group. We do all types of social events from a simple coffee meet, to picnics, nature reserves & walks, theatre trips, NT visits, gardens and houses, bowling, crazy golf, to name a few and always open for ideas – we try to find things to do of a reasonable cost.

Head over to our website for more info, testimonials videos and more. Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Becca, left, and Celly are off to continue their studies

Adam Culverwell has been jailed for seven years

Picture: Dorset Police

Which Somerset faces could feature on new UK banknotes?

BANKNOTES in the UK are being redesignedand people are being encouraged to put forward 'celebrated notable historical figures' for inclusion in the new-look notes.

Notable faces have appeared on £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes since 1970, when William Shakespeare became the first person to feature on currency - other than a monarch.

Now, the Bank of England is looking for suggestions to feature on the new notes.

The bank has unveiled six themes for the new banknotes, and is encouraging people to comment on them, and suggest others.

The suggested themes are: notable historical figures; nature; architecture and landmarks; arts, culture and sport; noteworthy milestones; innovation.

"The chosen theme, or themes, will feature across all of the next denominations we issue (£5, £10, £20, £50)," the Bank of England said.

"We will still include the portrait of the monarch."

People can submit comments online at https://app.keysurvey. co.uk/f/41787873/1bd2, or by writing to Banknote Imagery Consultation, Notes Directorate, Bank of England, Threadneedle Street, London, EC2R 8AH.

The deadline for comments is 11.59pm on July 31.

The launch of the consultation got us thinkingwhich Somerset faces could appear on a new banknote?

Our county has, of course, produced a number of notable historical figures, but who could feature on a banknote?

Here are a few suggestions for Somerset figures who might fit the (pound) bill - some you

may have heard of, others you may not...

Mary Etherington: a horse breeder from Withypool who is widely credited with reviving the Exmoor pony population after World War II.

Frederic Weatherly: a lawyer, author, lyricist and broadcaster, who is said to have penned lyrics to around 3,000 popular songs, including the worldfamous Danny Boy. He was born and raised in Portishead.

Paul Nicholls: Acclaimed as the most successful National Hunt trainer of his generation, the

former jockey is based at his stables in Ditcheat.

Margery Fish (née Townshend): Although born in London, Margery moved to East Lambrook Manor near South Petherton and created the Grade I listed garden there that had a huge influence in creating a template for the classic 'English cottage garden'.

Charles Dowding: Another gardening pioneer, horticulturalist Charles has been an influential voice in organic and no-dig practices for decades.

Michael Eavis: A legend in his own lifetime, the Glastonbury Festival founder would more than qualify in the notable historical figures and arts, culture and sport categories for his impact on British popular culture.

n Who do you think should feature on the new banknotes? Drop us an email to newsdesk@ somersetleveller.co.uk with your suggestions!

Frederic Weatherly, Sir Michael Eavis and Paul Nicholls OBE could fit the bill for the new-look notes

Groups receive £30,000 grant funding boost thanks to town council scheme

ATOTAL of 20 groups across Frome have shared £30,000 in grants to support projects that tackle social isolation and promote inclusion and innovation.

Frome Town Council (FTC) provided the funding to a variety of groups, including those that provide a welcoming space for families, retrofit and reuse projects, as well as for events that bring people together.

Phoenix Project Frome has been given £3,000 to allow them to convert an on-site shipping container into a low-cost, family-friendly, co-working and employability hub - supporting parents who are struggling to balance work and childcare.

Jessie Kazak, from the project, said: “We’re over the moon to receive this support from Frome Town Council. It’s more than just funding; it’s a statement that spaces like Phoenix matter.

“With this grant, we can begin transforming the shipping container into a vibrant, functional hub for co-working, creativity, and connection.

“Every step we take is rooted in the idea that community care and shared purpose can shape a better future, and this funding helps make that vision tangible.”

Elsewhere, Evolve Music received £2,894 to deliver Sound Lab Summer Club, a creative music programme designed specifically for neurodivergent young people between the ages of 14 and 25.

More than 40 young people who may face barriers to traditional summer activities due to autism, ADHD, learning differences or social anxiety are set to benefit from the project.

It will also support their families and carers with structured, accessible provision during school breaks.

Annette Burghes, executive

director

of Evolve Music, said: “We’re so grateful to Frome Town Council for recognising the importance of inclusive, creative spaces for neurodivergent young people.

“Music has the power to connect and uplift and with this funding, we can offer young people a chance to feel heard, supported and part of something joyful this summer.”

The Community Grants fund is for applications of up to £3,000 from groups and organisations who can demonstrate the direct impact of their work on Frome residents, and support the town council’s ambition environmentally sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous town.

The next grant round will open later in the year on December 1 and close on

January 27, 2026.

The mayor’s small grant fund is for grants of up to £300 and are awarded throughout the year.

Cllr Andy Jones said:

“We’ve been able to fund some incredible initiatives that reflect the creativity, compassion, and determination of our town’s groups, all working to make Frome a better place to live for everyone.

“Whether it’s creating inclusive spaces, tackling social isolation, or opening up new opportunities for learning and connection, we’re proud to support these organisations that put our community at the heart of everything they do.”

n More information about the scheme can be found at www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/ grants.

The Phoenix Project Frome, above, has received money to create a new hub for families, while Evolve Music, right, will deliver a summer club for neurodivergent young people thanks to a grant of more than £2,800

Pictures: FTC

UK should rejoin the EU - and Boris to blame for Brexit failure: New poll

THE UK should rejoin he EU – and Brexit has been a failure thanks to Boris Johnson and the Conservative party, according to a new poll.

As the ninth anniversary of the EU Referendum approaches on June 23, polling company

YouGov surveyed more than 2,200 people to find out what they now thought of Brexit –and what should happen in the future.

The results show a significant change in opinion in those nine years – with 56% of those polled saying it was ‘wrong’ for Britain to vote to leave. Just 31% said it was the right decision. Of Leave voters, 68% still believe they made the right choice.

In 2016, the south west voted to Leave – although there were some voting areas which polled to remain; including Bath & NE Somerset and Mendip in the Somerset region.

Across all voting areas in Somerset – Bath & NE Somerset, Mendip, North Somerset, Sedgemoor, South Somerset, Taunton Deane, and West Somerset – with more than 550,000 votes cast, Leave secured 52.33% (288,122 votes), with Remain on 47.67% (262,459 votes).

So, in theory, if 68% of Somerset Leave voters maintain their vote was the right choice, that would mean 32% do not. Translated into a vote, that shift would reduce the 2016 vote to 195,922 (68% of 288,122).

So, a rather crude analysis of the YouGov poll could indicate a solid win for Remain were a referendum to take place today – even if none of those former Leave voters actually switched their vote to Remain (262,459) and simply did not vote.

It’s a crude indicator, but compared to the national trend of the YouGov survey, it seems fair to conclude Remain would win a UK-wide referendum

today – handily.

Who do Britons blame for Brexit going badly?

The survey found 61% of people believe Brexit has been more of a failure than a success, with 20% saying it has neither been a success nor failure and just 13% seeing it as more of a success.

And who do they blame that failure on? The Conservative party and Boris Johnson came out top of the list, with 88% and 84% respectively laying the blame at their door.

Two thirds attribute blame to prime ministers Theresa May (66%) and Rishi Sunak (64%), with a similar number saying so for Nigel Farage (67%).

Just one in three (37%) of those surveyed blame the European Union for Brexit going badly, including 60% of Leave voters.

Keir Starmer (28%) and

Labour (39%) come in for less blame, as does the UK civil service (30%).

What kind of future relationships with the EU would Britons support?

Nine years on from the Brexit poll, the YouGov survey found almost two thirds of Britons now want to see a closer relationship with the European Union (65%), including the majority of Leave voters (60%).

And most Britons (56%) would go further – and actually want to see the UK return to the EU. Of Leave voters, almost a quarter (24%) want to see us rejoin.

Is returning to the EU a priority?

However, the poll showed most people do not see rejoining the EU as a priority. A total of 44% said attempting to return to the EU fold would be the wrong

priority for the government right now, when balanced against other issues. But 37% believe it would be the right priority.

Should there be another referendum – and when?

Britons are divided on whether or not there should be a rejoin referendum in the next five years, according to the new poll – with 45% saying there should, but 42% saying there should not.

That said, the number backing a fresh vote in the next 10 years sees the number rise to 49%, with 34% against.

And 52% said there should be a referendum in the next 25 years – double those against the move (26%).

n For the full results of the new YouGov Brexit poll, log on to yougov.co.uk/politics/ articles/52410-nine-years-afterthe-eu-referendum-where-doespublic-opinion-stand-on-brexit.

Nine years since the Brexit Referendum, views have changed, according to the latest poll...

Signs aim to boost business in seaside town

NEW signs are being installed in WestonSuper-Mare to help townsfolk and visitors get around and boost business.

Upgraded signs are being installed to help people to find their way around the town centre and along the seafront –and to visit places of interest.

North Somerset Council (NSC) has appointed Crestmoor to carry out the work.

The project in Weston includes:

n refreshing the current blue fingerpost signs, including adding Birnbeck Pier

n installing a new ‘breadcrumb’ trail in the pavement to highlight landmarks and places at key locations

n highlighting the route at Spider Lane (between the Royal Hotel and The Winter Gardens) for access between the seafront

and the High Street

n installing three new bicycle racks in the south east corner of the Italian Gardens, opposite NatWest Bank

The scheme is part of NSC’s plan for the town following a successful bid for £20 million from the UK government.

Councillor Mark Canniford, cabinet member for sustainable

places and service transformation, said: “Weston boasts a naturally wide bay, so the town is spread out and that makes efficient wayfinding crucial.

“With a focus on active travel – including walking and cycling – we want to encourage locals and visitors alike to explore the many fantastic

things our town has to offer.

“As part of this project, we’re considering how to assist those without sight navigate around our town. I’m pleased to see that within our engagement work we’ve collaborated with the North Somerset Disabled Access Group, Vision North Somerset and the Sight Loss Council to create an audio trail. More information will be published once this has been completed later in the year.”

Cllr Robert Payne, ward member for Weston-super-Mare Central, added: “Every town, particularly those which attract visitors, require good quality, informative pedestrian signage to guide people between key sites and areas, ideally to distribute spending across the town."

n For more on the project in Weston, visit www.n-somerset. gov.uk/wayfinding.

New signs are being installed in Weston-super-Mare

Picture: NSC

Business, legal & finance

Modernising Wills: What you need to

DID you know that current Wills are still based on the Wills Act 1837?

Wills provide a crucial role, yet the laws they are based on haven’t changed in almost 200 years.

Modern Society has changed almost unrecognisably since 1837, therefore it is highly likely that these laws are outdated and require a major overhaul!

On May 16, 2025, the Law Commission published a report on Modernising Wills Law which set out various recommendations for reform. The report was also accompanied by a Draft Bill with proposals to replace the Act.

In this article, I am going to guide you through some of these changes that the Law Commission have proposed:

Firstly, the introduction of Electronic Wills, with recognition that there would have to be a 'reliable system'.

The Law Commission has said: "The law must support testamentary freedom. Enabling Wills to be made electronically is critical to doing so for future generations."

Electronic Wills would still follow the standard requirements of having a signature of the testator and to also be signed by independent witnesses.

The 'reliable system' would therefore need to find a way to ensure this signature is identifiable as that of the testator and as with a paper Will, it would need to find a way to identify the original document from any copies.

Electronic Wills are bound to lead to contentious issues such as fraud and undue influence,

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however in a world where technology is such a huge part of our lives, it seems only right that the law adapts to reflect the times.

Another major change is decreasing the current age requirement for making a valid Will.

Currently, the law requires a person to be a minimum of 18 years old to be able to make a valid Will. The Law Commission has proposed reducing this age to 16, with an additional power for the courts to be able to authorise under 15-year-olds to make a valid Will, where they deemed the young person 'competent'.

This could be of benefit to those under 15 years old with terminal illnesses and those in perhaps difficult family situations who may prefer their assets/money not to go to their parents.

Many teenagers are in employment ranging from part-time jobs outside of school hours, to full-time apprenticeships. These teenagers therefore are earning their own money, so it seems only fair that they can choose who they leave it to.

Currently, when a couple get married or enter a civil partnership this automatically revokes both of their Wills, unless the Will contains a specific contemplation of marriage clause (which confirms that upon your intended marriage to your named partner you would like your Will to remain valid).

The Law Commission proposes to change this so that marriage does not automatically revoke a Will.

There has been a lot of publicity around 'Predatory Marriages', which is where

Lidl applies for store signs

PLANS for seven signs at a new Lidl store have been submitted. The supermarket chain, via agent Planning Potential, has applied to Somerset Council for permission to install the signs at a new store near the Huntworth Roundabout, between Bridgwater and North Petherton.

Among the proposed displays are two ‘flagpole’ signs, which will be situated on the boundary of the site, near the A38 and Carnival Way.

Other signs will be mounted on the more-than 2,200sq ft building itself.

Plans for the store, west of the roundabout, were approved in February, and include parking for 105 vehicles.

know amid reform proposals

LEGALLY SPEAKING

by MOLLY GIBSON

someone marries a vulnerable elderly person for the purpose of revoking their Will, to be able to gain from their estate. This proposal would not only protect against Predatory Marriage ensuring the Will follows the actual wishes of the deceased but save against people having to change their Will upon marriage, where they would otherwise not have changed it.

Under the new proposals the courts would also have more powers to rectify a Will. Currently, where a Will contains poor drafting and the wording does not accurately reflect the intentions it is difficult to fix this, however the proposal would give the courts greater powers to solve these issues. The courts would also have the power to fix a Will where it

does not meet the formalities for a Will, as long as it is clear what the testator’s actual intention was.

This power is already successful in some other countries, for example in New Zealand.

The Law Commission Report is 500 pages, containing 31 proposals, we have featured just a few of these.

The full report represents a much needed and long-overdue step towards modernising the law on Wills and can be found at https://lawcom.gov.uk/ publication/modernising-willsfinal-report/.

These changes have the potential to increase access to Will-making, uphold testamentary freedom and offer better protection for vulnerable individuals.

We should expect to see a response from the Government

on this report within the next 12 months, and there appears to be a good chance of the proposals being taken forward.

We shall write with an update and with further comments on the report, as developments unfold.

Law firms, such as Pardoes Solicitors, provide a valuable role in guiding clients through the nuances of estate planning, spotting potential issues and ensuring their wishes are clearly and legally expressed.

As the law evolves, so too must the profession by embracing digital tools, while continuing to champion the importance of professional

advice and client care. If you would like to discuss your Will/estate planning to ensure your loved ones/business are being fully protected, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01278 454405 or molly. gibson@pardoes.co.uk. There is no charge for an initial telephone consultation.

Pardoes are proud to work at the heart of our community, with local families, farmers and business owners across the South West.

been here for over 100 years and will continue for generations to come.

For readers of The Leveller, we are offering a 10% discount on fees with code PS10/Leveller. Terms and conditions apply.

'Glastonbury is as delightful as ever!'

LAST month we saw the world’s largest music festival swoop into our little corner of the planet.

Although the event takes place just outside the Glastonbury and Somerton constituency, Glastonbury Festival plays a huge part in many of my constituents’ lives, and is synonymous with the town itself.

It’s quite a surreal experience for many; for a few days in June to be jolted from a quiet life in an idyllic rural setting into the glaring spotlight of the world’s music, art and party scene.

The festival also plays an important part in the local economy as a huge source of revenue and employmentmuch needed in a large rural county like Somerset, which suffers underfunding from central government and has many barriers to opportunity.

'I've

Iby SARAH DYKE Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton

Festival aside, I’ve been focused on several issues affecting Glastonbury and surrounding areas recently.

This historic town embodies such an iconic place to live and work, represents a significant part of Somerset’s heritage as well as a key tourism asset, while offering a character that is truly unique. From the Abbey to the Tor, to all the small businesses that keep the high street thriving - bucking the national trend of rural high street decline - Glastonbury is a truly special place.

While once a year it goes global, as festival fans arrive in their hordes, I’m always committed to shining a light on the town and its thriving culture all year round.

Recent months have seen some regrettable anti-social behaviour in Glastonbury, which has made a few local headlines.

Those responsible are a tiny number of individuals, whose anti-social actions do not reflect the town as a whole. I’m working with police, residents, local business owners and the town and unitary councils to address this as swiftly as possible. In my meetings with them, the police have reassured me the issues will be dealt with not by heavy-handed policing, nor targeting of particular groups or those peacefully enjoying themselves, but by increased presence on the streets and hotspot patrols.

I’m also asking Somerset

Council to reinstate a Public Space Protection Order to assist community officers in being able to take alcohol off those causing a nuisance. But there is always more to the story, and a many-pronged approach is key.

This month I’m meeting with businesses in the area, as well as drug, alcohol and mental health services to discuss solutions and steps forward.

It’s important to stress that Glastonbury is as welcoming, thriving and delightful as ever, and the unique tourism opportunities Glastonbury offers continue to be fantastic.

n As always, I want to hear from you. If you would like to share your views, have an issue I can help with, or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, please don’t hesitate to contact me on sarah.dyke. mp@parliament.uk.

learned so much in first year as MP'

STOOD to be your MP because I wanted to make a difference. To help people with real problems, speak up on the issues that matter to our area, and make sure Bridgwater, Burnham & Highbridge and the surrounding towns and villages aren’t forgotten in Westminster. One year in, I hope I’ve made that difference.

Over the past 12 months, my team and I have helped with more than 5,000 individual cases. The most common reasons for constituents contacting me have been housing, SEND education and transport, the Winter Fuel Allowance, welfare reform, planning, accessing the NHS and the Assisted Dying Bill. I’ve held regular advice surgeries around the constituency and even set up pop-up stalls in supermarkets so people can speak with me directly. I’ve visited schools,

by ASHLEY FOX Conservative MP for Bridgwater

businesses, community groups and parish councils right across the constituency, because there’s no substitute for seeing things for yourself and hearing from people face to face. I’ve also been out regularly on the doorstep, listening to concerns directly from residents.

In Westminster, I’ve spoken in the Commons 124 times and submitted 197 written questions to ministers. I secured a debate on the proposed salt marsh at Pawlett Hams and used it to raise local environmental and flood concerns. I hope I played a small part in seeing off EDF’s absurd plan. I’ve pressed for better broadband connections, challenged tax thresholds that unfairly hit pensioners, and opposed the Sentencing Council’s now-abandoned

guidance that risked creating a two-tier justice system. I’ve also called for changes to employment law to give more support to special constables, who give up their time to help keep our streets safe.

Closer to home, I’ve kept up the pressure on Somerset Council to get a grip on the Celebration Mile roadworks and to sort out the wider roadworks chaos in and around Bridgwater. I’ve raised concerns in Parliament about the lack of bus services in Highbridge. I’ve supported local parents pushing for a rebuild of Haygrove School, and urged ministers to improve access to NHS services in Burnham, Bridgwater and right across the Constituency.

I’ve also spoken out against the “family farm tax”, which

threatens the future of farming in our part of Somerset. I launched the Bridgwater and Burnham Independent Shop Awards to shine a light on some of our brilliant small businesses and I hosted my first annual Parish Council Summit to hear directly from those working at the grassroots of local life.

It’s been a busy year, and I’ve learned a lot. But the most important thing about being an MP is showing up, listening, and doing the work. That’s what I’ve focused on this year - and it’s exactly what I’ll keep doing. There’s still plenty more to do, from lobbying for improved NHS access and local policing to protecting our villages from flooding. I will continue to work on better access to dental care, better broadband and mobile connections and of course improved public transport. Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me.

Free Dino Day event will focus on fossils

AFREE street theatre event offers families a fun way to find out more about fossil history.

Somerset Council and arts company Emerald Ant are opening the Iguanodon Restaurant for a special Dino Day at Ham Hill Country Park on Saturday, July 26, with funding coming from Arts Council England.

The show is billed as a ‘furious romp through 50 years of ground-breaking scientific discoveries’ – all seen through a fictional feast inside Iggy the Iguanodon.

“Imagine it’s New Year’s Eve, 1853, and in Crystal Palace Park a group of eminent professors and geologists are holding a sumptuous banquet in an unusual venue – inside the concrete cast of an Iguanodon,” a spokesperson said.

“Fossil-fuelled fun ensues as

the dinner guests in the Iguanodon Restaurant, famous dinosaur hunters William Buckland, Gideon Mantell, Mary Anning and Richard Owen wrangle over their amazing fossil finds.

“Is it a bird? A giant fish? An ancient crocodile? They debate questions around extinction and evolution – why do dinosaurs no longer exist? What does the stone beneath our feet tell us about the world? And what’s

really in that blancmange? Find out in this highly visual, funny and peculiar performance, which will have British Sign Language interpretation.”

Councillor Graham Oakes, lead member for public health, climate change and environment at Somerset Council, said: “This is a fabulously fun way to learn more about our ancient past in the glorious setting of Ham Hill Country Park and tempt people into our local museums to see prehistoric finds for themselves.”

The Iggy performances will be accompanied on Dino Day by a drop-in workshop for people between four and 104, to learn more about fossils, dinosaurs and of their local museum.

n For more information, visit emeraldant.com/iguanodonrestaurant.

Glastonbury 2025: Context is everything...

FOUR decades ago, one of the biggest mass arrests in English legal history took place. It happened on June 1, 1985, in a field around seven miles from Stonehenge.

That day, police enforced a High Court injunction prohibiting the holding of the Stonehenge Free Festival, by setting up a roadblock preventing a convoy of New Age Travellers and others reaching the ancient site, forcing the procession into a nearby field.

Then, on the morning of June 1, in what became known as the Battle of the Beanfield, the police moved in.

After a brutal operation by police, a total of 537 travellers were arrested, with dozens injured.

The incident has become a landmark of traveller and alternative folklore as a symbol of what they see as the systemic repression of nomadic lifestyles like theirs - but largely forgotten in the wider world of popular culture.

Both before and after the Battle of the Beanfield, many of those involved were to be found each year at an event nearby – Glastonbury.

And in 2025, some 40 years

on from the Battle of the Beanfield, many things have changed, while many others have not.

The traveller community –and their way of life – remains largely outlawed by the Establishment, while the Battle of the Beanfield is completely unknown to many in this country.

But it was commemorated at Glastonbury this year –primarily in the Atchin Tan area, dedicated to all things traveller and an extremely welcome addition at Worthy Farm.

The fact it is there highlights how important the role Glastonbury plays in honouring such events actually is.

For the background, the history, the traditions of events like Glastonbury, and indeed, the role the festival itself plays in educating people on such issues – which they may otherwise never be aware ofare very, very important.

Just as the traveller community has changed in the intervening years, Glastonbury too is no longer the freewheeling festival it was back then. Things change, people change, places change. Rules change.

It all points to a real

challenge the festival organisers face each time they put on the greatest show on Earth, which for me, Glastonbury remains.

Whether we like change or not, knowing and understanding the reasons behind it is important, for context if nothing else.

At Glastonbury 2025, the honouring of the Battle of the Beanfield seemed an apt metaphor for a lot more going on at Worthy Farm.

It struck me as I took a photograph of police officers going about their regular patrols – mingling with festival goers, posing for selfies and even handing my little boy their hat for a picture, which he was thrilled about – against the backdrop of the banner highlighting that fateful day in June 1985.

Some festival regulars will be well aware of the Battle of the Beanfield, and why it should be remembered – at Glastonbury perhaps more than elsewhere.

But equally, the presence of the police is a necessary part of the event now. And they are charming, helpful, and yes, perhaps necessary.

Glastonbury has had to change to thrive, but it strives to

pay tribute to how it came about – and why it has changed. To put things in context.

It struck me again as I watched Sir Rod Stewart prance around the Pyramid Stage on Sunday afternoon.

Glastonbury, for me, represents the struggle for progress. Everywhere you go on that amazing 1,500-acre site, you are immersed in messages of tolerance, of acceptance, of the progressive movement from the Suffragettes to trans (and women’s) rights.

Yet the ‘legend’ of the event still felt the need to have backing singers dressed in short dresses and high heels, as he posed between them with his chest out and stars on his backside, singing about being sexy.

At one point, having returned to the stage following a costume change during which his female bandmates led a rendition of Lady Marmalade (Voulez-Vous Coucher Avec Moi Ce Soir), Sir Rod – in a moment truly befitting Alan Partridge – said, “What about that? Well done ladies…”, as he gestured them all to gather round him.

Hmmmm.

Now, I am not denigrating Sir Rod, not really – he is from

a time where that is what rock stars did. A lot of the Worthy crowd loved it. But for me, you know…

Context, I suppose. Context.

Elsewhere, there was the altogether more serious issue of the Israeli onslaught in Gaza, which was a common theme of campaigns around Worthy Farm.

That all reached a head with remarks made by punk rap duo Bob Vylan, which sparked a criminal investigation, leading news bulletins and adorning front pages ever since.

Yet whatever you think of vocalist Bobby Vylan’s comments, it is worth noting that on the very day he made them, it was reported 81 Palestinians were killed and more than 400 injured after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.

The BBC – which has gone on to condemn its own streaming of Bob Vylan’s set – reported how footage “shows people digging through the sand with their bare hands and spades to find bodies”.

Context, I suppose. Context.

Earlier this month, the UK Government sanctioned two Israeli ministers – Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich – after Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the pair had “incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights”.

Those comments included Smotrich recently saying how Israel is “conquering, cleansing, and remaining in Gaza until Hamas is destroyed”.

The fact these issues are addressed at Glastonbury is important.

Did Bob Vylan go about it in the right way? Perhaps not. But they are artists, entitled to their view – and have no direct influence on politics or military actions in the Middle East. Smotrich and Ben-Gvir are the opposite - but you don’t see them on the front of the Daily Mail each day.

Glastonbury treads a very fine line between preserving the spirit that makes it the greatest festival in the world – and being

'allowed' to take place in a world where the media landscape is dominated by right-wing groupthink that despises everything it stands for.

Organisers will never please everyone. It’s impossible. But they have a darn good go at doing so.

People are given a say, given permission to debate, discuss and protest. And that’s exactly what the festival should do.

children were on site.

Sometimes, lines will be crossed, but that is the danger of free speech – the kind of free speech many of the people opposing Glastonbury laud, while simultaneously being quick to condemn it.

Hopefully, no one at Glastonbury ever asks anyone for their approval of the line-up - and nor should they.

The festival should maintain a focus on giving people the opportunity to find out more about important issues impacting their lives and those of others around the world, and to debate them outside the ‘real’ world; a world where news and print headlines are governed by the same groupthink that continues to insist it is being silenced.

That is what Glastonbury provides. And it should be proud to do so, never ashamed.

It gives context, I suppose. Context.

Away from the political, in a practical sense, as I meandered my way around those fields in 2025, it was clear the organisers had learned some very valid lessons from previous Glastonbury instalments – and acted on them.

There was more space, though it is still very crowded, and the bookers deserve a huge pat on the back – despite the obvious surges for acts such as Kneecap and Charli XCX – as clashes were well planned to split the crowds.

Daily warnings of where congestion was likely to occur were hugely welcomecertainly for me once the

And you know what? My children had a ball - and didn’t once remark on the situation in Gaza. Because that is not why they are there.

They enjoyed singing along with Myles Smith at Woodsies, enjoyed headbanging with the mighty Biffy Clyro, and yes, having a dance with Sir Rod.

Glastonbury is huge, it is diverse, it is a performing arts festival and, I believe, still wishes to represent the views of all - and you can simply ignore them, should you choose to.

Hosting such an event is a behemoth, almost-impossible task, but the festival does an amazing job in allowing people to express themselves.

Does it make mistakes? Yes. And it always will – because true progress and free expression will – and should – push boundaries. Sometimes, those boundaries will break, sometimes there will be negative results. But without that debate, that creativity, society stands still. And a society that stands still is, in reality, going backwards because the world continues to move, whether we like it or not.

Glastonbury makes people think. It enables people to see issues they may never have otherwise considered.

It gives the world context.

But above all else, it manages to highlight real societal issues while enabling people to have the very, very best of times.

And 2025 was a vintage Glastonbury – not despite Bob Vylan and Kneecap, but because of them.

In a way, those controversies encapsulate everything that is good about Glastonbury.

Events

Nobody got hurt. Nobody was forced to agree. But those acts were given a stage, a freedom, an audience to hear what they had to say. We are free to disagree, but without that stage, many will never know there is a different view out there.

And don’t forget, it’s easy to avoid any political sloganeering on Worthy Farm, should you wish. And it is just as easy to find out more about a raft of important issues.

If those publications decrying the festival offered the same, perhaps we might be in an altogether healthier situation.

Thankfully, and in part because of events like Glastonbury, people will still remember the Battle of the Beanfield in 40 years’ time. And hopefully, they will also remember the issues highlighted by the likes of Kneecap and Bob Vylan, whatever happens.

But we should also remember what Glastonbury is, and what it has always been; a place where all are welcome, where all can find out more about everything from food security to politics, from famine in the Third World to the future of green energy – if they want to.

Otherwise, they can simply have the time of their lives, completely isolated from the ‘real world’.

Without Glastonbury, thousands, if not millions of people may never have considered a number of the world’s biggest humanitarian crises. And even at Glastonbury – thousands still won’t.

So never be ashamed, Glastonbury. We live and we learn, more so than ever when things go ‘wrong’.

But context, and the ability to hear opposing views, are everything.

So in four decades’ time, whether in this life or the next, I will remember Glastonbury 2025 as a huge success.

PAUL JONES

f Open Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays

f Meet the horses and ponies

f Enjoy a farm walk

f Coffee shop serving light lunches & homemade cakes

f Hobby horse fun!

f Teddy bear picnics

*For more information and to book your visit, go to: www.worldhorsewelfare.org/visit-us/glenda-spooner-farm

West End star to lead theatre school

AWEST End theatre star will offer her considerable experience to participants in a Taunton summer school.

The Musical Theatre Summer School is back at Taunton Brewhouse from August 11 to 15 August, offering five days of immersive training in singing, acting, and dancing.

And those attending will have the chance to work with West End performer, Rachel Rawlinson.

Rachel brings a wealth of professional experience and star power, with an impressive list of theatre credits including Shucked (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Six the Musical (Vaudeville Theatre), Heathers (Theatre Royal Haymarket), The Sound of Music (London Palladium), and Mary Poppins (Prince Edward Theatre).

The Musical Theatre

Summer School is open to young performers aged from 13 to 19, with the group producing and rehearsing an end-of-week showcase, which will then be shared with family and friends as part of a special Studio Theatre performance.

Rachel said: "Bring your jazz hands! We are going to have the most fabulous week of learning and creating, and I can’t wait to be inspired by the talent of Taunton."

Musical Theatre Summer School is delivered in collaboration with Rest End Ltd, which provides accessible, industry-led performing arts opportunities for schools, colleges, and theatre-loving individuals, including workshops, musical theatre parties, and private coaching.

n To find out more and to book a place, visit www. tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk or call 01823 283244.

• Be inspired by renowned

• Get stuck in at workshops and

• Explore a handpicked selection of sustainable traders

• Book your table for brunch in the Garden Cafe, made with seasonal & sustainable produce

Ideas wanted for town event!

PEOPLE are being encouraged to hear from anyone interested in taking part in a major Bridgwater celebration.

Bridgwater Together will be hosting the annual celebration of diversity at Bridgwater Town Hall and The Engine Room on November 15 - and the organising committee is keen to hear from anyone who would like to get involved.

Each programme item involves the contribution of individuals as well as groups and new ideas are encouraged and new volunteers warmly welcomed.

This year, the organisers are keen to showcase games from around the world such as Mah Jong, Catan and Carrom, and want to hear from anyone who could help introduce attendees to these games and more. Other ideas include short talks by individuals about music from around the world.

Deb Richardson, who represents Somerset Film on the committee, said: “If you are passionate about a performer or genre of music that is significant to your culture and would be willing to share that with others then we would love to hear from you."

The annual event’s programme also features films and food, as well as performances and information stands.

Anyone who would like to get involved, or has a suggestion for the event, can get in touch by email to phil@somersetfilm. com, or on 01278 433187.

CHARITY BOOT SALE 2025

Charity No. 235579

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY Commences 6th April 2025

SELLER’S FREE PRIZE DRAW

Sellers

Gates Open 7.30am: Cars £6

Campers/Vans/Van based People Carriers £11

Merchant/Commercial Vans £16

Trailers - additional £5

Buyers

Strictly no trading or access to stalls prior to 8.30am

Car Entries up to £2

Pedestrians/2 wheeled vehicles £1

Children free

WE ARE DOG FRIENDLY OFF A37/A303 ROUNDABOUT BA22 8NZ

Mobile: 07967 280754 Facebook: Ilchester Charity Car Boot

www.bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk - 01935 428401 - office@bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk

Bideford for the day 5th July

£52.00/Senior £49.00

Minehead & Lynmouth 15th July

Adult £49.00/Senior £47.00

Ilford Manor & Warminster 29th July

Adult £55.00/Senior £52.00

Taunton Flower Show (3 left) 2nd August

Adult £45.00/Senior £43.00 Teignmouth 5th August

Adult £45.00/Senior £40.00

Bridport Market & Seaton 9th August

Adult £34.00/Senior £32.00/Child £29.00

River Exe Cruise - Stuart Line Cruises (4 left) 11th August

Adult £41.00/Senior £39.00/Child £36.00 West Bay & Weymouth (HALF FULL) 14th August

Adult £32.00/Senior £30.00

Hestercombe House & Gardens 16th August

Adult £51.00/Senior £47.00

Canonteign Falls & Exeter 19th August

Adult £55.00/Senior £51.00/Child £43.00

Lyme Regis 28th August

Adult £38.00/Senior £35.00

Dorchester Market & Sculptor by the lake 3rd September

Adult £48.00/Senior £46.00/Child £40.00

Jurassic Coast Cruise 20th September

Adult £47.50/Senior £45.50/Child £42.50

Kent Caverns & Torquay 25th September

Adult £58.00/Senior £52.00 (with cavern tour)

Adult £43.00/Senior £37.00 (without tour, just Torquay)

RHS Malvern Autumn Show 27th September

Adult £76.50/Senior £73.00/Child £43.00

SENIORS: 65+. PICK UP POINTS IN: Yeovil, Martock, Cartgate, Somerton, Sparkford,

Sherborne & Wincanton.

A summer of fun at Somerset museums!

MUSEUMS in Somerset have unveiled a raft of events this summer and beyond - including the school holidays.

The South West Heritage Trust (SWHT) charity, founded in 2014, aims to "celebrate and protect our rich heritage, helping everyone to enjoy it now and in the future".

And the organisation has unveiled a range of events, exhibitions and displays taking place across the county in the coming months, as well as details of museums and attractions open all year round.

They include:

Wow! Amazing Science in Children’s Books

The Museum of Somerset July 22 – November 1

This family-friendly exhibition brings together vibrant artwork and surprising facts to investigate the wonders of the world around us. Journey from outer space to deepest underground, and into the workings of the human body, through the creations of artists including Oliver Jeffers, David Macauley, Marcia Williams and Yuval Zommer.

Plus, themed drop-in activities Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday including science shows, a cardboard buffet art installation, Bugfest crazy creatures and a robot dog.

The Museum of Somerset is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Admission to the Museum and exhibition is free, with donations welcome.

Tractored by Beetles

Somerset Rural Life Museum

Alice Crane, Jon England, Liz Gregory, Fiona Hingston, Tim Martin, André Wallace.

Until September 14

In this exhibition six artists display works inspired by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage's poem 'Fugitives' dedicated to the National Landscapes of the UK. The artworks - ranging from sculpture, film, and

painting to textiles, printmaking, and photography - encourage fresh connections between the landscape, rurality and creativity.

Somerset Rural Life Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm.

With Museum Unlimited, visitors pay once then visit for a whole year free of charge.

Somerset Brick and Tile Museum in Bridgwater

At the Somerset Brick and Tile Museum there are lots of

chances for young creatives to ‘play with clay’.

On select days potter Ella Phillips will be at the museum to give expert tuition to those wanting to try their hand at throwing a pot.

There will be a chance to model a gnome world and create a seascape in clay. There’s also a special Lego brick day.

Opening days vary – see somersetbrickandtilemuseum. org.uk for details. Admission to the museum is free, with

booking required for activities.

Avalon Archaeology, Glastonbury

Avalon Archaeology is open every Saturday and Sunday during the school holidays (July 19 – August 31). Visitors can immerse themselves in thousands of years of local history as they explore replica buildings including a Saxon longhall and a Roman villa.

There are some special family days during the summer holidays. On ‘Roman Day’ children can meet Marcus the Medicus and learn more about Roman health care. There’s also a chance to celebrate the changing seasons with ‘Hærfest’, when visitors can gather to honour the harvest and ancient traditions.

Admission entitles visitors to free re-entry until the end of the year.

n For more information about all the sites run by the South West Heritage Trust and summer events visit swheritage. org.uk.

The Museum of Somerset hosts the Amazing Science of Children's Books, above, while Tractored by Beetles is on display at the Somerset Rural Life Museum, including work by Andre Wallace, below Pictures: Marcia Williams/SRLM

www.sherbornearts.org

One of Sherborne’s most popular annual events, the Open Art Exhibition, returns to the Digby Hall from 19th to 27th July 2025. This long-standing Exhibition was relaunched in 2022 by the Sherborne Art Club, in partnership with Sherborne Arts, and has quickly established itself as a ‘not to be missed’ event in the town’s calendar.

Entry to our independently judged exhibition, which showcases the region’s enormous wealth and variety of artistic talent, is open to all artists, amateur and professional, emerging and established, giving quality and diversity to the Exhibition. Around 400 pictures and 3D artworks will be on display, and most will be for sale, along with unframed folios.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we are able to offer a range of prizes, including, for the first time this year, one for young artists under 25. We will also be arranging additional fringe activities, such as art demonstrations and family events, during the week, and we will have a weekend café with teas/coffees and homemade cakes.

Last year we had more than 2,400 visitors and we look forward to welcoming as many, or even more, this year. Please come along to support the 250 or so talented artists taking part and maybe find an original work to take home with you.

The Sherborne Open Art Exhibition will be at the Digby Hall, Hound St., Sherborne DT9 3AA (next to the library) from 19th to 27th July 2025, 10am to 5pm each day (except 27th July, when it closes at 1pm). Admission is free.

Full details of the Exhibition, including the list of prizes, can be found on the Sherborne Arts website: https://sherbornearts.org/sherborne-open-art-exhibition/ and updates will be posted in our social media accounts: https://www.instagram. com/sherborneartclub/ https://www.facebook.com/SherborneArts

Science in Children’s Books

Sat 19th - Sun 27th July 10am - 5pm (1pm on the

Fiona Sansom - Romano Peppers Moira Ladd - Hegderow Heaven

The Digby Hall, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AA

27th)

Food & Drink

Pair's 'difficult decision' to close eatery

THE owners of a popular Taunton restaurant have closed the venue down "after a lot of reflection".

Andrew and Tran Stephenson said they had taken the "difficult decision" to close Block, in Magdalene Street, due to the impact it was having on their home life.

The pair commuted from Barnstaple each day and said two hours' travel each day had "taken a real toll".

"It’s been a joy and a privilege to be part of the town’s food scene, but the time has come for a change," they said.

"We’ve been commuting from Barnstaple every day — nearly two hours of travel — and over time, it’s taken a real toll on our home life. As much as we’ve loved being here, it’s no longer sustainable for our family.

"To everyone who’s supported us: thank you. Whether you stopped by once or became a regular, we’ve felt so lucky to serve you. Your kindness, loyalty, and love for good food made this a truly special chapter.

"We also want to give the biggest shoutout to our amazing

team — none of this would have been possible without you. Your hard work, talent, and energy made Block Taunton what it was. Thank you, truly.

"The good news? The space isn’t staying empty. We’re handing over to another brilliant independent who’ll be bringing their very popular street food

vibe to Magdalene Lane - we know you’ll love what they do.

"And if you ever find yourself in Barnstaple, you can still find us there — bringing something different to the table for brunch, lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Saturday.

"Thank you again, Taunton. You’ve been brilliant."

Popular Chinese eatery in Bruton is on the move

A POPULAR Chinese restaurant has closed - as it moves to new premises.

SunM, formerly of Quaperlake Street in Bruton, has closed as it prepares to relocate to a new home in nearby Evercreech.

The proprietors of the restaurant said the

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Hay-fever?

move is expected to be complete by the middle of August, with an exact opening date to be announced in the coming weeks.

"SunM is temporarily closed as we are moving to a new location at Showroom 1, Evercreech Junction, Evercreech, Shepton

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Mallet," they said.

"We'll be back as a restaurant and better than ever in mid-August.

"We will make an announcement of the exact opening date soon. Sorry for any inconvenience caused - see you soon."

PENDRA’S FISH & CHIPS

1 Parrett Close, Langport, TA10 9PG Tel 01458 250519

All parties order catered for Opening Hours

Tuesday: 11.45am - 2pm 4.30pm - 8.30pm

Wednesday: 11.45 am - 2pm 4.30pm - 8.30pm

Thursday: 11.45am - 2pm 4.30pm – 8.30pm

Friday: 11.45am - 2pm 4.30pm - 8.30pm

Saturday: 11.45am - 2pm 4.30pm - 9.00pm

Sunday: Closed Monday: Closed Bank Holiday Mondays: Closed

Address: Great Street, Nortonsub-Hamdon, TA14 6SG

Phone: 01935 881200

Email: nortonshop@outlook. com

What does the business do?: Norton Community Shop and Post Office is a convenience store and stockist of some of the finest local produce in the area, run as a community-run not-for-profit organisation.

We currently stock more than 300 lines from more than 30 local farmers, growers and producers and pride ourselves on our fantastic range of great local produce.

Within eight miles of the shop we have award-winning rare breed meats, fruit and veg, cheeses, bakery, puddings, fresh

sandwiches and rolls, cakes, pet foods, ciders and cider brandy, apple juices, greetings cards, fresh flowers and other local produce from further afield in Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.

We also stock all the usual grocery items you would expect from a convenience store including frozen foods, tinned foods, cold drinks, confectionery, cleaning products, stationery, cards and gift wrap, over the counter medicines, logs and kindling and lots of alcohol!

We also offer a laundry and dry cleaning service with a local company picking up and dropping off once a week.

As well as Royal Mail stamps and postage the Post Office offers free cash

Meet some of the amazing businesses helping you shop all things Somerset...

withdrawal and deposits, bill payments, Post Office Travel Cards, currency and Euros and is an Amazon and DPD hub. We also stock One for All Gift Cards and the shop also acts as a box office selling tickets for most events that take place in the village.

Last but by no means least,

we provide work experience placements for secondary school students and volunteering opportunities for Duke of Edinburgh participants. People visit the shop not only to get their shopping but to socialise and catch up on local news and feel part of the community.

Norton Community Shop & Post Office

Brazier Coffee Roasters

Address: Unit 10-11 Tonedale Business Park, Wellington, TA21 0AW

Phone: 01823 666585

Email: info@ braziercoffeeroasters.co.uk What does the business do?: Our coffee story began on a hot afternoon in the dusty centre of Australia, where founder Claire is from.

Drinking fabulous coffee in the outback, we talked of how there was nothing similar in our corner of England, and decided to do something about it. After much tasting, talking

TheOrchardInn

About us

and training with some of the best roasters in Australia, we bought our own Giesen roaster, and set up in the Somerset countryside in 2015.

Ten years later, and we’re now based at the heart of the Fox’s Tonedale Mill site in Wellington, with our roastery and on-site café breathing new life into this historic site.

We’re passionate about sourcing, roasting and sharing exceptional coffees. From Seed to Cup.

The café is open seven days a week, and Brazier also offers

We serve homemade traditional dishes to suit every taste, wherever possible we use locally produced ingredients. We make everything in house which enables us to cater for dietary requirements such as Gluten Free and Lactose Free diets.

Tel: 01963 440751

Email: info@orchardinngalhampton.co.uk

Website: www.orchardinngalhampton.co.uk

Orchard

full coffee solutions for your business - from equipment supply,

and emergency engineering support and barista training and of course, freshly-roasted coffee.

Address: Myrtle Farm, Station Road, Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA

Phone: 01934 822862

Email: info@thatcherscider.co.uk

What does the business do?: Down on the Thatchers family farm, they are all slightly obsessed perfectionists, making cider with nothing but love.

That’s why they don’t just grow eight types of apple, they grow 458, and turning those juicy apples into a refreshing pint of cider is a craft they’ve spent 120 years and four generations perfecting.

It’s their dedicated attention to detail that delivers the perfect pint of Thatchers, every time.

Their passion for quality has led to an unrivalled range of premium ciders. Using their expert knowledge of apple varieties and 100% green electricity, they craft innovative ciders that are full of flavour and distinct character, including flagship brand Thatchers Gold, Thatchers Haze and Thatchers Blood Orange.

Visitors to Myrtle Farm will find the Thatchers pub, The Railway Inn, nestled in the foot of the Mendip Hills, the pub and restaurant offer fabulous food and exclusive ciders.

You'll also find the much-loved Cider Shop selling exclusive ciders, local produce and gifts.

Thatchers Cider

Wyke Farm Shop

Address: Wyke Champflower, Bruton, BA10 0PU

Phone: 01749 814710

Email: info@wykefarms.com

What does the business do?: Here in the Somerset village of Wyke Champflower, we’ve been making England’s Cheddar to our secret family recipe for four generations.

Crafted the same way for 160 years, with respect for the land and our heritage, Wyke is a slice of England.

Find our lovely Farm Shop in the heart of Somerset where you will be greeted by our lovely staff. Whether you are searching for our delicious cheddar or craving a some tasty hot food, we are confident we can meet your foodie needs.

The Farm Shop is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.

Tell us about your Somerset business! Complete the form at: somersetleveller.co.uk/buy-

DISCOVER

Supporting Local – It’s a Match Made in Somerset Heaven ADVERTISING FEATURE

At the Trading Post Farm Shop, we’re proudly independent – but what really makes us special is just how many other incredible local businesses we support under our roof. When you shop with us, you’re not just backing one small business, you’re giving a boost to dozens of Somerset’s finest makers, growers, and producers.

From cider, beer, and locally distilled spirits to hand-raised meats, smoked fish, and wines made just down the road –our shelves are packed with the best of the West. We stock fresh loaves and cakes from nearby bakeries, handmade chocolates and sweets, small-batch hand scrubs and soaps, and not forgetting the stars of the season – our colourful organic veg, harvested on site. You can’t get fresher than that.

We’ve always believed that food (and gifts!) taste better when they’re made with love – and when you shop local, everyone wins.

So next time you visit, know that you’re not just supporting us, but a whole network of passionate local producers. We think that’s a match made in heaven.

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New doctor appointed at private GP service at Yeovil Hospital

APRIVATE Somerset GP service has taken on its third doctor – with a specialism in treating people who have difficulties sleeping.

The Kingston Wing – the private unit of Yeovil Hospital – has welcomed Dr Jonathan Tham as its third GP.

His weekly clinic in Yeovil will offer routine GP consultations, but it will also be one of the only clinics in the south west to assess and treat both chronic insomnia and obstructive sleep apnoea.

Dr Tham, who is also an NHS GP in Crewkerne, qualified in London and ran a specialist insomnia clinic, supported by the University of

Oxford.

He now also spends a day a week working under the umbrella of the National Institute for Health and Care Research, working on developing new treatments for sleep conditions.

The 34-year-old said: “When you consider we spend a third of our lives sleeping, this is a fascinating and in many ways under-researched topic.

“I am excited about working with the Kingston Wing to offer patients in this area the chance to talk to me about their sleep problems. And of course I will also be running routine GP consultations.

“The aim of my research is to

develop a simple ‘tool kit’ which GPs and practice nurses can use to help people with sleep conditions as part of short routine appointments in the future. There is nothing like it available at the moment.”

Dr Tham joins Dr Katie Thomas and Dr Charles Middle on the Kingston Wing, which has been running for almost 18 months.

Hannah Pitman, private patients service manager at

Kingston, said: “What is being offered now in Yeovil is designed to complement the existing NHS GP service and not replace it.

“We are particularly excited to welcome Dr Tham. His specialism in sleep conditions offers a new dimension to the services we offer. The combination of treatments for chronic insomnia and sleep apnoea will make his clinic unique in this area.”

Dr Jonathan Tham is the latest recruit at the Kingston Wing

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'Sweet' Binky needs a supportive home - can you help?

BINKY, a tri-coloured terrier of around two years old, takes centre stage this month.

On arrival at St Giles, it was discovered that she has a condition that affects the hip joint, leading to severe pain and lameness.

This disease is typically found in dogs of less than a year old, so it is possible that she has been suffering for some time.

The disease is Legg-CalvéPerthes and is a complex condition for which Binky will require surgery.

The cost of the surgery is over £1,200. St Giles has set up a fundraising link on their Facebook page to help raise the funds required. If you are able to contribute any amount big or small St Giles and Binky would be so grateful.

Being a terrier, Binky would normally be active and busy but the disease has hampered her natural instincts.

Once the surgery is complete she will want a loving home. She is such a sweet and pretty dog.

If you are familiar with

by JACQUI BUDD for St Giles Animal Welfare

terriers and their charming eccentricities that make them the energetic, spirited, bold and loyal dogs that they are, please consider Binky.

She loves humans but wary around other dogs. She will need to be the only pet in the household.

She is undergoing socialisation training at present and will need a family committed to continuing this.

Binky walks well on her lead although when excited has a tendency to pull. She could live with children of 14 plus.

n If you are able to give binky a secure and loving future please visit stgilesanimalwelfare.co.uk/ adoption/binky to find out more about her.

And to find out more about her condition, contact the staff caring for her on 01823 490333 and they will happily update you.

Police issue warning to pet owners over dogs in hot cars

POLICE have issued a warning to dog owners as temperatures continue to hover around the mid-20s in Somerset.

Officers have issued advice to dog lovers as they highlight an increased number of calls from people concerned over the welfare of animals left in hot cars.

“Over the last couple of days we have had an increase in calls regarding people leaving their dogs in cars,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

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“With temperatures reaching over 30 degrees this weekend, leaving a dog in a hot car can be fatal.

“Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a parked car can rise dangerously high in just minutes – putting your dog’s life at serious risk.

“Heatstroke can happen fast and be fatal.

“If you’re running errands, leave your pets at home where it’s cool and safe. Let’s protect our furry friends.”

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Energetic Binky is looking for a new home

Home & Garden

• New Owners

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Lavender for laundry - and garden

by Sally Gregson

LAVENDERS have been part of our domestic lives in this country since we started gardening.

Their very name is associated with ‘laundry’ and washing clothes – the words have the same Latin root. For centuries we have tied bunches of lavender flowers, or put lavender bags between the washed sheets, but to preserve the sheets from the attentions of moths and mould.

Over the years, gardeners have selected the best forms, with the largest, most highly scented flowers. Lavenders such as Lavandula angustifolia ‘Seal’ were selected by a commercial laundry for its long stems and big ears of flower.

Lavender heads were picked in the morning before the flowers were fully open and bunched and tied just below the heads with thread. The stems were bent back down to enclose

the flowers in a cage of stems and tied together. The ‘bag’ was then tied up with ribbon and placed among the linen.

In traditional gardens, English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, was preferred to the French Lavender, L. stoechas, which is less tolerant of wet English winters.

But French lavender is well worth taking the extra trouble to grow. It has big ears and is perfumed of eau de cologne rather than traditional lavender and has a wider colour range than English lavenders. Lavandula stoechas ‘Rosea Kew Red’, is especially striking. It has bright white petals over magenta flowers. Lavandula stoechas is happy grown in a large pot all summer. It could be moved into the shelter of a cold greenhouse for the winter, just to keep it from drowning. Cut it back in spring and move it outside to a sunny place for summer.

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9 Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.

Home & Garden

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Curtains Made to Measure

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DIY Supplies & Foam Cut to Size

With more than thirty years of experience, Suttons are happy to advise on all upholstery & soft furnishings - from re-covering a much loved sofa to making loose covers, cushions and curtains.

We have a wide range of contemporary and traditional fabrics to choose from, to suit all styles and budgets.

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Sudoku 3D puzzle

Across

8 Lacking advanced coaching for cooking Italian food (7)

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

9 Learner with lack of difficulty getting contract for term (5)

10 Sound of calm in musical work (5)

11 Western Republican taking in Arab port, martial type (7)

12 Film about fashionable circle with drawing of images? (12)

16 Polite matron mistaken about a big city? (12)

Killer Sudoku Pro

20 A number with line penned by guitarist, abnormal phenomenon (7)

23 Head working with charge (5)

Down

1 Opening in Austria and Spain for feast (5)

2 Home was altered over time to a degree

3 Treat favourably expert point about Cuba

4 Inspection that is taking place in Volkswagen (4)

5 Hymn about love a girl arranged (6)

6 Revolutionary religion rejecting society in African country (4)

7 Withdraw extremists from rule over region

13 Blunder largely showing sentimentality (3)

14 Most burdensome struggles in warm condition (8)

24 Small shoot to appear with no end of rain (5)

25 Unusual prude’s detaining soprano in masquerade (5,2)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

15 Declaration by dinosaur, maybe, in stalemate (7)

17 Ohio with set of mountains producing fruit

18 Island more attuned for chemical substance (6)

19 Foolish writer held up during appeal (5)

in Austria and Spain for feast (5)

21 Brutish type restrained by progressives

2 Home was altered over time to a degree (8)

3 Treat favourably expert point about Cuba (6)

22 Odd day about old Star Wars character

4 Inspection that is taking place in Volkswagen (4)

5 Hymn about love a girl arranged (6)

6 Revolutionary religion rejecting society in African country (4)

7 Withdraw extremists from rule over region (7)

13 Blunder largely showing sentimentality (3)

14 Most burdensome struggles in warm condition (8)

15 Declaration by dinosaur, maybe, in stalemate (7)

17 Ohio with set of mountains producing fruit (6)

18 Island more attuned for chemical substance (6)

19 Foolish writer held up during appeal (5)

21 Brutish type restrained by progressives (4)

22 Odd day about old Star Wars character (4)

The Alpine A390: True racing spirit in practical fastback form

YOU can’t have your cake and eat it. We all get the point of course, but it’s always seemed quite a silly thing to say because what’s the point of cake if you can’t eat it?

It would make much more sense if you said something like, “You can’t have your sportscar and take the family out for the day”. Except that’s not really true either, not now the brandnew Alpine A390 has been unveiled.

A single obsession drove the creation of the new Alpine A390: driving pleasure. This all-new sport fastback combines the exhilarating driving experience of the fabulous A110 with the added versatility of an SUV.

To quote Alpine, the A390 is “a racing car in a suit”.

The A390 is the second model in Alpine's Dream Garage, following the A290 hatchback launched last year, and soon (hopefully) to be joined by a new, all-electric version of the A110.

This latest addition to the line-up combines the French brand’s iconically-sporty lines with a roomy and comfortable interior for five passengers.

The Alpine DNA in the A390 is clear from its coupé proportions and helmet visorshaped rear window. And as with all electric cars, aerodynamics is vital to the efficiency of the powertrain.

From the spectacular sculpted bonnet and skirt, the guided air

passages that sculpt the body, to the rear diffuser and spoiler, form follows function to result in a perfect balance of air flow and elegance.

The A390 also boasts a unique lighting signature. A cluster of illuminated triangles in the front bumper called 'Cosmic Dust' come to life in a welcome sequence as you approach the car while a projection of the Alpine logo surrounded by snowflakes is

also directed sideways at ground level. The lights themselves are contained within stylishly thin LED light bars at the front and rear.

Six body colours are available, and depending on your chosen specification, the roof can also be finished in contrasting black to complement the gloss black sill panels and wheel arches.

The new A390 is fitted with exclusive aerodynamic Cristal

wheels inspired by endurance racing, finished in either 20-inch gloss black diamond-cut or Atelier 2025 matt black. 21-inch wheels offer a further option with several finishes available including gloss black diamondforged (GTS) or matt black forged. And as the A390 is French through and through, it also boasts its very own range of exclusive Michelin tyres as well.

The Alpine A390's five doors provide easy access to an elegant but sporty interior featuring a dashboard, centre console, and door panels wrapped in leather. The cockpit is driver-oriented, with 12.3inch and 12-inch high-definition screens angled towards driver and all the physical controls within easy and intuitive reach.

The heated sport steering wheel is also finished in Nappa Bleu leather and features the flat bottom and marked centre point of a proper racing wheel. It integrates all the usual controls for driving modes, phone functions, voice assistant, instrument panel display modes, and audio controls.

On top of that, two specific (and colour-coded) controls inspired by Alpine’s Formula 1 experience adjust the energy regeneration levels (blue dial switch) and the boost available for overtaking and launch control (red button). The A390 also features electrically adjustable and heated sport seats for support and comfort.

Two trim packages, GT and GTS, are available, each

corresponding to a specific powertrain. Google Maps GPS navigation is standard across the range, as is the Google Assistant voice assistant. Some options are also common to both versions, such as the twill or forged carbon packs available on the GT and GTS.

The entry-level GT features 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, anodised brake callipers, and chrome logos. Inside, the sports seats are electric and heated, you get a 360° peripheral view on the central screen, and a 13-speaker sound system.

GTS versions upgrade to the 21-inch forged wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tyres. The GTS interior sees the addition of electrically adjustable Sabelt bucket seats with heating and massage functions, an upgraded audio system, Alpine Telemetrics Expert system, and the Driving and Parking Pack (semi-autonomous driving and automatic parking) as standard.

In terms of powertrains, the new Alpine A390 uses a similar setup for both trim levels with

three motors providing allwheel drive – the rear wheels get a motor each and the third drives the front axle, giving the A390 more of the feel of a rear-wheel drive car. The only real difference between the two versions is in the power output.

The GT develops 400bhp, sprinting to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and on to a 124mph top speed. The GTS boosts the power to 470hp, allowing it to do the same sprint in 3.9 seconds and increasing the top speed to 135mph.

Thanks to its generous 89kWh battery capacity, the A390 GT offers a range of up to

340 miles on a full charge depending on your chosen specification and wheel size. DC fast charging can reach 190kW, allowing for a battery top-up from 15% to 80% in less than 25 minutes. An 11kW on-board charger (a 22kW option is also available) and a heat pump to optimise interior temperature and preserve battery range are included as standard too.

So, it turns out you can have your cake and eat it after all, although anyone wanting a slice of this particular cake will have to wait a little longer for it to finish baking.

It’s quite an exclusive cake too, as you’ll also need to fork out around £60k for an A390 GT, £70k for the GTS specification.

Alpine hasn’t confirmed all the details yet, but the general expectation is that order books will open in November with the first lucky customers taking delivery of their new A390 in early spring.

Motoring

Vehicles seized during festival operation

MORE than 20 vehicles were seized as festival goers arrived and departed the Glastonbury site.

Avon & Somerset Police and the MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau) carried out checks on vehicles as they headed to – and left – Worthy Farm on June 25 and 30.

Using number plate recognition cameras and insurance databases, officers checked vehicles for insurance, seizing a total of 21 vehicles found to be uninsured or inadequately insured.

“The two-day operation was timed to coincide with the busiest arrival and departure days, ensuring maximum impact,” a spokesperson for the operation said.

During stops, police also detected a range of other criminal activity, including:

n Stolen vehicles

n Drivers who had been disqualified, had expired licences, or were attempting to

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n Three vehicles with fraudulent number plates

n 10 vehicles being driven without a valid MOT and 11 without having paid road tax

“Uninsured driving remains a serious problem across the UK, with someone falling victim to an uninsured or hit-and-run driver every 20 minutes,” the spokesperson went on.

“Removing uninsured vehicles from the road helps protect all road users from potential harm.

“Additionally, uninsured

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drivers are frequently linked to other criminal activities, including drug or drink driving, excessive speeding, and organised crime such as drug running.”

Matt Boiles, Roads Policing Inspector for Avon & Somerset Police, said: “Glastonbury is the UK’s largest music festival, bringing a significant increase in vehicles and traffic to the area each year.

“This operation enabled us to target uninsured vehicles both entering and leaving the site, helping to improve safety for those attending the festival, using surrounding roads, and living in the area.

“Our ongoing partnership with MIB ensures we can focus our efforts where they’re most effective, making a real impact in reducing the number of uninsured vehicles on the roads every day.

“High-profile opportunities like Glastonbury send a clear message to those who choose to

break the law – you will be identified, and your vehicle will be seized, no matter where you are.”

Martin Saunders, head of uninsured driving prevention at MIB, added: “Uninsured driving is a problem every day of the year. Utilising events like Glastonbury, where there is a large influx of vehicles, allows us to not only target those who choose to drive uninsured, but provides us with an opportunity to educate those who are unaware.

“We urge all motorists to check their insurance policy is in place, is appropriate for their needs and to reach out to their insurer if they are unsure on any part of their policy – we don’t want any driver to become uninsured in the first place.

“We will continue to work with Avon and Somerset Police year-round to make sure that those choosing to drive uninsured have nowhere to hide.”

Police seized 21 vehicles during the busy festival period

Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

Rising temperatures bring drop in milk production: Study

ANEW study has revealed how hot weather can impact milk production on farms such as the many dairy holdings in Somerset.

As the world faces rising temperatures - which have brought record-breaking summers in recent yearsscientists have been investigating the impact on farming.

And a new study by the University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy has revealed how extreme heat can reduce milk production by up to 10%.

Researchers said the study, published in Science Advances, found one day of extreme heat - which the study found to be wet-bulb temperatures above 26C which combine air temperature and humidity - can cut the milk yield on dairy farms, with cooling systems employed on some farms only able to mitigate around half of those losses.

Eyal Frank, assistant professor at the Harris School of Public Policy, said: "Climate change will have wide-ranging impacts on what we eat and drink, including that cold glass of milk. Our study found that extreme heat leads to significant and lasting impacts on milk supply, and even the most high-tech, well-resourced farms are deploying adaptation strategies that may be an insufficient match to climate change."

The team analysed 12 years of data from more than 130,000 cows on farms in Israel - home to an advanced dairy farming industry - alongside detailed local weather records and farmer surveys.

"The dairy industry in Israel is a good testbed because farms are scattered throughout the country and experience a wide range of temperatures and humidity that represent conditions for top milk producing countries around the

world," said Ram Fishman, associate professor at Tel Aviv University. "Plus, almost all farmers have already adopted ventilation and spraying systems to keep their cows cooler.

"What’s more, Israeli dairy farms are some of the most technologically advanced in the world, so whatever impacts they suffer are likely greater in other regions."

The study found the threshold of 26C led to marked declines in milk production, while days with a wet-bulb temperature around 20C, cooling systems reduced milk losses by 50 per cent. At 24C, this dropped to 40 per cent.

"Dairy farmers are well aware of the negative impacts that heat stress has on their herds, and they use multiple forms of adaptation," said Ayal Kimhi, associate professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

"Adaptation is costly, and farmers need to carefully balance the benefits they obtain versus the costs.

"This is why we see some investment in cooling measures, but not a complete insulation of cows from their environment,

which would be far too costly to implement."

Modelling by the research team - analysing potential impacts in the top-10 milk-

producing countries around the world - showed rising temperatures due to climate change could cut average daily milk yields by 4%.

Former Somerset police station - with cells and court rooms - up for auction

AFORMER Somerset police station - complete with cells and a court room - is set to be sold off this month.

The huge former police property, in Minehead, weighs in at 17,380sq ft and is set to go under the hammer at a Hollis Morgan auction on July 23, with a guide price of £550,000.

Sitting in a plot of around 0.8 acres, the listing said the property has potential for a "wide range of residential or commercial

development opportunities", subject to planning permissions.

"As with all municipal style buildings this offers over 17,000 square feet of imposing and substantial brick-built accommodation being offered with vacant possession," a Hollis Morgan spokesperson said.

"Developers' minds may run wilder than the ponies on Exmoor as the residential and commercial opportunities presented by this outstanding property reveal themselves

- obviously subject to obtaining any necessary consents.

"With a modest price guide of £550,000 I anticipate keen bidding from many developers who will be keen to be 'locked into this deal at the fall of my gavel'."

A number of former Somerset police properties have been sold off in recent years, including in nearby Williton - which has been converted into luxury homes - and in Taunton, where the town centre building could be converted into 42 homes.

Work to begin on new city police station Property

WORK is set to begin on a new police station in Bath this summer.

Avon & Somerset Police has confirmed work to refurbish Plymouth House, in Monmouth Street, to create a new base in the city will begin in August.

The work is expected to take nine months, with the building becoming the new home of policing in Bath next summer.

Plymouth House, pictured, will replace current police stations at the One Stop Shop in Lewis House, Manvers Street, with the Bath City Council offices, and at Redbridge House, in Lower Bristol Road.

“Until the new station is ready, our officers and staff will continue to work from those locations,” a police spokesperson said.

The former police station in Manvers Street was sold off in 2015 due to high “ongoing maintenance costs and its suitability for modern policing”,

the force said, with teams relocated to Redbridge House and Lewis House.

Plymouth House will create a single dedicated police station in Bath, with all policing teams based at the site, as well as an enquiry office open to the public.

Area Commander for Bath

It will bring our neighbourhood and response teams under one roof, providing them with a modern, fit-for-purpose and productive place to work together in the heart of the city, enabling us to deliver outstanding policing in Bath.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Clare Moody, said: “One of my key priorities is to strengthen neighbourhood policing. I have strongly supported the commitment to ensure Bath has a dedicated police site, enabling community focussed policing and welcome this announcement.”

and North East Somerset, Chief Inspector Scott Hill, said: “Our priority is to provide the best service we can for the community, and that means ensuring our officers and staff have the most efficient and suitable facilities.

“This is what the new station at Plymouth House will give us.

n For details of the current opening times of the police Enquiry Office at Lewis House, Bath, visit www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ contact/police-stations/bathpolice-station and to contact the Bath City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, see www.avonandsomerset. police.uk/your-area/bath-citycentre.

Recruitment

'Groundbreaking' Jobcentre changes

JOBCENTRES are set to offer more services to those looking for employment - with a trial scheme now underway.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said the "groundbreaking new approach" will include a new Coaching Academy; careers events focused on local growth sectors, and more personalised appointments, as part of the "biggest reform of Jobcentres in decades".

As part of the Government's Get Britain Working initiative, a Jobcentre in Wakefield, Yorkshire, has become the first to trial a new scheme working with local employers called Pathfinders, which will be rolled out across the country in the coming months.

Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, said: "Our

one-size-fits-all, tick box approach to jobs support is outdated and does not serve those looking to better their lives through work.

"We are building a proper public employment service in partnership with local leaders that truly meets community challenges and unlocks opportunity.

"The launch of the Pathfinder in Wakefield is the first step in this transformation as we continue to Get Britain Working, boost living standards and put more money in people’s pockets, under our Plan for Change."

The Pathfinder scheme will look at new ways to support people looking for a job - or a new role.

As an example to other regions, it is being co-designed with leaders from West

MANAGER VACANCY Future Roots Young People’s Service

Based on 30-acre care farm

Annual Salary Range: £33,000-£36,000 37 hours a week

Start Date: September 2025 or soon after

Based in rural West Dorset, Future Roots is a long-and well-established provider of complimentary education and re-engagement services for children and young people. Working with schools and Dorset and Somerset’s Children’s Services we use a farm environment and our animals to offer young people learning and therapeutic experiences to help them overcome trauma and challenges. We are now looking for someone to join our team as a Manager, to manage key aspects of our Young People’s Service and to deputise for the Director. We need someone who can bring demonstrable skill and experience from a background of working with children and young people, and who has an affinity with the outdoor environment and animals.

The role will cover: Strategic Leadership in key aspects of the Service, Safeguarding, Quality Assurance, Contract Management, Compliance and Relationships with commissioners and funders as well as generating new business and income streams.

Please read the job description for the specific detail of the role.

For further information about the role contact Julie Plumley (Director Future Roots) on 01963 210703 or via email: office@futureroots.net

Applications to be returned to office@futureroots.net by 1pm Monday 14th July

Please visit our website www.futureroots.net to see the full range of what we do.

Yorkshire Combined Authority and Wakefield Local Authority.

As part of the trial, and in direct response to research showing only 9% of employers currently recruit through Jobcentres, a series of careers events focused on local growth sectors will be put on in

Wakefield to match local talent with local opportunities. Changes to appointments will also mean DWP services in Wakefield will provide more personalised support for claimants to help them move into stable, long-term work, the DWP said.

Branch Manager, Bruton

Lodestone Property is an award-winning, independent Estate Agency based in Wells and Bruton, Somerset We are currently looking for someone who can manage our successful office in Bruton

The successful candidate will have:

• Bags of motivation

• Experience in winning residential instructions - mid/high end of the market

• Leadership skills for management of the office and its team

• Proven delivery of outstanding customer service

• Commitment to building lasting relationships

• Strong communication both inside and outside the business

• Excellent IT and digital skills for this fast-moving sector

• Experience working with new build developers

• Experience pricing new build schemes

• The desire to help drive the business forward

We are a small agency with a big heart This role provides a great opportunity for someone looking for career progression and development Salary and package will be commensurate with experience Full UK driving licence required

If you would like to be a part of our dynamic team in a forwardthinking, professional and modern agency, please send us an introductory email with your updated CV to: will@lodestoneproperty co uk

Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern Picture: UK Parliament

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01935 317585

Advertising

Ruth White - Advertising Manager ruth@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 07714 289418

Editorial

Paul Jones - Editor in Chief newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 01963 401177

Sales Director

Debi Thorne - Sales Director debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net tel: 07714 289409

Publisher

Lloyd Armishaw - tel: 01963 401177

: www.somersetleveller.co.uk

Editorial deadlines are the Wednesday the week before publication. Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week before publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to space. CLASSIFIED ADVERTS: adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

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