Midsomer Norton Life Winter 2013 by Tina Veater

Winter 2013 Issue 9

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE

DON’T MISS Youth Council – first steps Community Survey – fantastic response New town markets See inside for details of the Christmas Fayre on 6th December 6-9pm

Legal Professionals When contacting QualitySolicitors FDC Law, you know you can be confident that you are going to speak to a fully qualified Solicitor; a total professional and someone who has a wealth of experience. A lot of solicitors will say they offer hands-on service but may not always deliver it. When you engage us you can rest assured that your file will always be to hand and that the person you appoint will remain the same throughout the legal process. As members of LEXCEL (the gold standard for excellence in client care and case and file management), we will always be Solicitors who take pride in the quality of the legal advice we provide. Please contact your nearest office for a no obligation, initial chat.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE S

ince the last issue of Midsomer Norton LIFE the town’s community survey has been carried out and achieved a phenomenal 25% response rate – thank you to all those residents who took part. With almost 1200 questionnaires to collate it will be possible to produce a first Community Plan for the town which truly reflects the needs and aspirations of residents. Overall, the success of the survey also stands as testament to the strength of our community spirit in Midsomer Norton. The following pages of this issue of LIFE are yet again packed with details of the huge range of things going on in our vibrant town. The first steps have now been taken to create a Midsomer Norton Youth Council to draw in younger people to have their say on local matters. We now have our own team of Midsomer Norton Street Pastors who will be providing practical support and help, particularly to young people, in our town centre on Friday and Saturday nights. A new Midsomer Vintage market has been launched on the third Saturday of the month in the Hollies Gardens. This will complement the existing Farmers Market on the first Saturday of the month and the Thursday Market at West Clewes Recreation Ground. Meanwhile the Town Council continues to move forward with its objective to secure a wide range of community assets from B&NES as well as more green spaces in the town for the whole community to enjoy. Whilst we hope to see many of you at this year’s Christmas Nativity Fayre on Friday 6th December, on behalf of the Midsomer Norton Town Council, we’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Cllr Paul Myers & Cllr Michael Evans Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

COMMUNITY SURVEY

ASSET TRANSFER

STREET PASTORS

CHRISTMAS REINDEER

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK

YOUTH COUNCIL

COMMUNITY TRUST TEAM

RIVER FEEDBACK

NEW MOBILE APP

GREEN SPACES UPDATE

WHAT’S ON

THINGS TO DO

MIDSOMER KNIGHT

NATIONAL AWARD WINNER

MIDSOMER MARKETS

SCHOOL NEWS

DIABETES UK CARE

TOWN COUNCILLORS

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in 2014. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline. If you have difficulty reading the print please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view Midsomer Norton Life on the council’s website at www.midsomernortonlife.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Ltd, Suite 7, Westfield Court, Third Avenue, Westfield Trading Estate, Radstock BA3 4XD Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Midsomer Norton Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY

SURVEY

he first full community survey of Midsomer Norton residents is ready to move to the next stage now that all of the completed questionnaires have been returned. The Midsomer Norton Forum trialled a pilot version of the survey form in August 2013, sending out 500 survey forms to selected streets across the town and used the feedback from the exercise to complete the design of the final survey questionnaire. Over 4,600 questionnaires, all addressed to individual house addresses, were printed in late September 2013 and each was marked with a delivery route code. The addresses were drawn from the most recent electoral roll information provided by B&NES and used to produce the questionnaire. An army of volunteers was mobilised to deliver to houses on over 50 routes across the town.

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Despite some teething problems with issues such as new developments and some rather challenging street numbering systems, questionnaires were delivered in good time for residents to complete them. Support was offered to anyone who needed help to complete the forms. Collection points were also arranged with many local businesses who kindly agreed to position boxes on their premises. At the closing date on 31st October 2013, a total of 1192 responses were received representing a 25% response rate and providing a really reliable sample size for the survey as a whole. Work is now in hand to analyse the data to enable the Forum and the Town Council to draw out the key messages from the survey. These will help with developing a Community Plan as well as providing key input to the Neighbourhood Plan both of which will help shape and influence future development of the town. As an incentive to fill in and return the questionnaire, the Town Council decided to offer two cash prizes drawn from responses to the survey.

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The winners of the prize draw were randomly selected by the Chair of the Community Forum, Jenny Hillman and Community Trust Development Manager, Alex Davis, under the watchful eye of Town Clerk Clive Stilwell. The first prize of £100 went to retired couple Alan and Jean Starr from Dymboro Avenue. The second prize of £50 went to Nicola Helps and Joe Hopton of Bluebell Rise. The cash prizes were presented by Jenny Hillman to the lucky winners. Mr and Mrs Starr said “We wanted to have our say about the future of the town but can’t quite believe that by filling in this survey paper we have won this amount - it is quite a shock! We have lived in Midsomer Norton since 1975 and we find the people very friendly. The footpath past our home to the town is very handy for us when going shopping. We are hoping our three great grandchildren, who have all been born this year, will be able to benefit from this prize money.”

BEAUTY AND THE BEATLE If you’ve never been to the annual Pantomime you’re missing a treat! Full of silliness, song, laughter, dodgy accents..... and the occasional tap dancing cat(!) the Lighthouse Drama group from Welton Baptist Church have developed a reputation for putting on a fun show truly suitable for the whole family. Never quite the original, this year’s plot sees a twist on the tale of Beauty and the Beast with three performances scheduled at Somervale School on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th January including a matinee. For more info visit www.weltonchurch.org.uk or call the church office on 01761 410274.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY

ASSET TRANSFERS

After a number of exploratory meetings, B&NES is now planning to enter a period of formal consultation with a view to coming to an agreement to lease these assets to the Town Council from April 2014. The Town Council hopes to agree long leases on the buildings and open spaces so that investment can be made in their development, enabling them to become true community assets. Plans for the Town Hall are being developed which will see its original Market Hall reinstated on the ground floor, allowing it to resume its role as a key civic and community building. The Orchard Hall and Town Hall will be brought under the umbrella of the newly launched Midsomer Norton Community Trust which will manage the buildings and maximise the access of community groups to their facilities.

n an exciting new development for Midsomer Norton, the Town Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) are considering the potential transfer of some key community assets, including buildings and green spaces. As part of the Town Council’s response to the Government’s Localism Bill, we are embracing a policy to “mobilise the assets within a community to meet their needs and aspirations”. Midsomer Norton Town Council has identified key community assets: • Town Hall • Orchard Vale Recreation Hall • Landscaped areas including The Hollies Gardens, land to the west of the Telephone Exchange, land to the west end of Rackvernal Road and the planters alongside the River Somer outside the Library.

The open spaces will continue to be enhanced by the Town Council in partnership with its horticultural contractors to improve the appearance of the town and increase civic pride. Adding the Hollies Gardens to the properties under the management of the Community Trust will provide a key community space for the promotion of markets and as a centrepiece of the town centre for events such as the various fayres in the town. Provided the Trust operates the buildings and uses the open spaces for the benefit of the community only a peppercorn rent will be in place.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SPRINGHEAD SAVED Friends of Silver Street Nature Reserve have been working hard to restore the ancient springhead, which used to supply water to Norton House. The Duchy Estate Map of 1787 shows the grounds of Norton House acquired by Thomas Savage Esq. that stretched from Midsomer Norton Railway to Redfield Road and Somervale School’s playing fields. Thomas Savage was one of the wealthiest gentlemen in the town and later that year he laid out his plans for Norton House. Norton House was constructed and Thomas Savage arranged for mine sinkers to build the springhead on a hill overlooking the house, so running water could be supplied to

the house. Whilst it was thought the pipes had decayed long ago, recently volunteers uncovered some of these pipes. With the formation of the Midsomer Norton Water Works Company in 1881, the springhead was no longer required. With the demolition of Norton House and the sale of the park in the late 1930s, the springhead was abandoned. In order to prevent it from deteriorating an architect was consulted to advise the Silver Street Nature Reserve team on how they could safe guard the structure from further decay. Midsomer Norton Town Council applied for a £1,850.00 grant and so restoration of the springhead is now moving ahead. Once completed there will be a new path to this wonderful feature along with an information board detailing the history of the springhead. For further details, please visit www.silverstreet-lnr.co

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STREET PASTORS IN

MIDSOMER NORTON O

n 12th October 2013, the Midsomer Norton Street Pastors Service was commissioned at a ceremony in the Town Hall. As part of a world-wide initiative which began more than 10 years ago, Street Pastors now operate across the country involving 900 trained volunteers in over 250 teams. They seek to provide practical support and help, particularly to young people, on the streets of towns and cities. Most of the teams engage with young people during the evening and night to offer support and a friendly face and this is the case with the Midsomer Norton team. Pastors come from the membership and leadership of many denominations of churches and undertake a comprehensive training programme to equip them to help care for, listen to and support young people in difficult situations.

These can be because of economic or family reasons, because of alcohol or drug misuse or simply because they feel marginalised for any reason. The Pastors carried out their first patrols on Friday 18th October and Midsomer Norton Co-ordinator Julian Sheppard was heartened by how things had gone – “Although Friday night was quiet, on Saturday there were some really good reactions from people who could understand what we were doing and why.” Julian reported that efforts to improve the evening environment in the town such as the ban on drinking in public places around the High Street area and the introduction by Midsomer Norton Town Council of a Street Marshal service had clearly been successful. “We no longer have problems with smashed glass –

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

we found just two glasses on a fenceâ&#x20AC;?. The pastors help wherever they can and will even help clean up glass or anything else that might cause a hazard on the streets at night. Local MP Jacob Rees-Mogg and his wife showed their support by visiting Pastors out on patrol and were joined by B&NES Councillor and Town Council Deputy Mayor Michael Evans. The Street Pastors provide practical help and support, handing out flip flops to revellers who have lost their shoes or who need something comfortable to wear, providing water to help those who may need some hydration or simply chatting to people, giving them sweets and helping them find their way home safely. They operate every Friday and Saturday from 10.00pm to 3.00am from a room in the Town Hall, provided and equipped by Midsomer Norton Town Council, which they share with the Street Marshals. They are supported by a number of other organisations

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with subsidised or free equipment such as Tesco Supermarket and the Bath and District Crime Reduction Partnership and have been helped in their launch by both Bath and Chippenham Street Pastors and by Radstock Police. For more information on the scheme, visit www.streetpastors.org.uk, send an e mail to streetpastorsmsn@gmail.com or call 07970696878.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

REINDEER TO RETURN TO

MIDSOMER NORTON T

his year’s Midsomer Norton Christmas Nativity Fayre on Friday 6th December will open with live reindeer pulling Santa down the town’s High Street followed by a packed evening with something for the whole family. Once the very special guest from the North Pole has arrived with his reindeer, the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on followed by

an opportunity to see the traditional Christmas Nativity unfold before your very eyes and sing carols in the Hollies Gardens. There will also be a fabulous fancy dress competition with a Nativity animal theme – costumes will be judged during the Nativity performance. Throughout the evening, roving street entertainers will be in the High Street for everyone to enjoy along with the a great opportunity for Christmas shopping and the chance to win £100 in the event competition. “We’ve had some fantastic Christmas events in recent years ranging from the visit by Wallace and Gromit to the word record breaking Nativity event. Given the tough economic climate for many businesses this year, the Town Council has stepped in to provide funding to ensure that the whole town can come together as a community for what looks set to be a fantastic evening for the whole family to enjoy”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton. Certainly looking at the programme that’s been planned, preparations must have been in hand for months. Thanks are due to a dedicated organising team of community groups led by the Chamber of Commerce and including Welton Baptist Church, the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, Somer Valley Rotary , Somer Valley FM and the Carnival Association. You don’t have to wait until the 6th of December to enjoy the fun. A free children’s lantern making workshop has been planned for Saturday 30th November at the Town Hall between 2pm and 4pm. For full details of this year’s Midsomer Norton Christmas festivities visit: www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

FIRST THURSDAY AFTERNOON SOCIAL Regular attendees at the First Thursday’s Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers, 2pm -5pm, will be celebrating the decision to fund in principle the event into 2014. Since being launched last year by the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, the monthly First Thursday at Welton Rovers FC has developed into a popular event in the social calendar. Local entertainer Terry Andrews provides a blend of musical entertainment, laughter and even a bit of bingo with hot and cold refreshments available from the Welton Rover’s bar. Entry is just £3. Originally funded by the Midsomer Norton Arts Programme after popular demand for a monthly event in the

same vein as the Town Council’s Christmas socials – the event has gone from strength to strength and is almost self-funding. “It’s great to see so many people coming out and enjoying live music in the Town and new faces always receive a warm welcome. So if you’re at a loose end on Thursday at 2pm come on down to Welton Rovers,” said Alex Davis, Community Development Manager. Please note: January’s Social has been put back a week to the 9th of January 2014, due to the New Year!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ALL IN A

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he Town Council team has been at the centre of a long lost friend saga and has successfully linked up twinning friends from Midsomer Norton and Ambarès et Lagrave. When they were contacted by Anita MacLeod, a senior manager of a laboratory instrument company based in Leicester, Town Clerk Clive Stilwell and Town Council Administration Officer Carole Sims were unaware of the challenge they were about to be set. Anita was hosting a visitor from France, Sophie, who had told her that she remembered making friends with an English girl from Midsomer Norton called Helen as part of the twinning relationship many years ago. Indeed the families had also become quite close as a result of the friendship as they visited each other’s houses and Helen had even lived in France for a year.

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Anita contacted the Town Council having “googled” Midsomer Norton and, despite it being one of more unusual requests, the Town Council team set about trying to help. After some complicated detective work and some phone calls, “Helen” was tracked down – or at least her mum, Audrey, was! One hurdle was that Audrey Savory was now Audrey Norman but that was eventually overcome. Two calls and some e mails followed and then Sophie Bourdieu and Helen Savory (now Sophie Gentilhomme and Helen Sinclair) were in touch and able to reminisce over memories of their respective trips to each other’s towns. Since then they have been using Facebook to keep in touch and compare notes about their respective families. Town Clerk, Clive Stilwell, explained that the Council receives a wide range of calls and e mails but that this was a little different from the usual questions about services and Council information. “I am not sure we want to be doing it every day, but it was all worthwhile when we heard that they had made contact again.”

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THE SALVATION ARMY The Salvation Army offer many activities for the local community including movie evenings, toddler groups and cameo. CAMEO, a time for food, fellowship and friendship is held every Monday and is a great way for local residents to meet new people whilst having lunch. Many people who have attend are often lonely and this maybe their only way of socialising with like-minded people. A two-course lunch is served at approx. 12.15pm for a cost of only ÂŁ2.50. The next movie evening will be on Friday 6th December at 5.30pm and they will be showing Arthur Christmas. Parents

can stay or can leave the children in safe hands. Major Sharon Robinson then discusses the film they have watched in Good Morning Sunday. Good Morning Sunday is an interactive worship for all ages that takes place on the 1st Sunday of the month from 10.30am. Please pre-book for Cameo by contacting Major Sharon Robinson on 01761 420170. The Salvation Army is based at 1 Radstock Rd, Midsomer Norton and the building has on going renovations including a new boiler, new roof and internal decorations, but is operating business as usual. You can keep up to date with The Salvation Army on their Facebook page, Salvation Army Midsomer Norton.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A YOUTH COUNCIL FOR

MIDSOMER NORTON M

idsomer Norton Town Council has resolved to create a Youth Council, drawing in younger people to take part in the most local level of Government and encouraging them to have their say on local matters.

establishing Midsomer Norton’s first ever Youth Council and voted to establish a budget, delegating the process of finding young volunteers and setting up the Youth Council to Cllr Sara Box and Clive Stilwell, the Town Clerk.

At its Full Council meeting in September 2013, the Town Council was unanimously in favour of

Plans have been developed to call the Youth Council’s first meeting, at which its constitution and election processes will be established, in November 2013 with a view to having a fully elected Youth Council in place for early 2014. It is envisaged that the Youth Council will probably mirror the Full Council with 11 elected members, a Chair and a regular meeting schedule at which it will make resolutions, consider proposals from the Town Council and decide what to bid for from the Town Council in its budget.

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remember but times have changed and we need to offer our children an opportunity to have a real say on the matters that might affect young people. By having a Youth Council, we can reach out and involve younger people in the decisions that will affect them and help them in turn to engage with their peers in the town.” Cllr Box will be directly supported by Midsomer Norton Town Clerk, Clive Stilwell, who will be offering his time as an unpaid volunteer. “Supporting the Town Council is my job and I am paid to make sure they have the administrative and executive effort they need to implement their decisions” he said. “But the Youth Council also needs that support and by offering to give them my time for nothing I feel that I can try to make a difference for them and kick start this really important initiative”. The Youth Council will be consulted where appropriate on major Council decisions to ensure that the voices of younger people are heard and will also be empowered to organise events that young people actually want, perhaps helping to make them more proactive in voicing their needs. Ideas currently being considered include Saturday morning drop in sessions enabling parents to do some shopping in the town, entertainment events and staging a teenage market (see www. theteenagemarket.co.uk). The Council is also looking at how social media and even smart phone applications might be used to

help with communication and to generate interest in this key initiative. If you are interested in becoming involved, either as a Youth Councillor or even as an adult who might be able to give some time up to help establish the Youth Council and provide support, give the Town Clerk a call on 01761 418701 or e mail him – townclerk@midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk.

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NEW ARTS TEAM AT THEY

COMMUNITY TRUST W

ith the rapidly growing number of concerts, cinema screenings and events being organised by the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, a new team has been created to coordinate an arts programme for the town. Midsomer Norton LIFE recently met up with the team to find out more about this programme made possible by sponsorship funding from B&NES Arts Team and the Town Council. “We have some fabulous cinema, music and drama projects in Midsomer Norton right now taking place in some amazing community buildings. My vision is to support the development of these projects and bring them together in order to promote an arts programme for residents not just in Midsomer Norton but the whole Somer Valley. In this way the arts can play their part in the regeneration of Midsomer Norton with a wide range of events to take part in”, said Annie Perrott – Director of Arts for the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

COMMUNITY CINEMA As well as coordinating the overall arts programme, Annie Perrot will also be managing the development of the Community Cinema – given her personal passion for silver screen. From its beginnings in 2012 the Community Cinema has grown to three monthly screenings; Family Showcase Matinee on a Saturday afternoon, Evening Showcase on a Saturday night and most recently the Classic Cinema on Friday afternoon. Unlike many village hall cinemas, the Community

Cinema has plush armchair seating, a 19 foot by 8 foot screen, full digital projection and sound system, pop-corn and ice cream – in fact everything you’d expect from a fully commercial cinema and all for £5.00 entry for adults, £3.00 for children. Over the past year we’ve developed a loyal audience of mainly local people who enjoy the opportunity to go out in their town, rather than having to drive miles to a cinema. We have an exciting programme of screenings for the year and there’s a warm community welcome for those coming for the first time. For full details of the current programme see What’s On – page 26.

MUSIC Well-known local pianist Jacquelyn Bevan – Musical Director, has devised a ground-breaking musical programme for 2014 consisting of the existing Paradis Palm Court Trio, Chamber concerts and tea dances. Paradis Palm Court Trio – continuing the popular programme established in 2013, these monthly lunch time recitals of romantic trio music on a Friday have gone from strength to strength. The audience can listen to a wide variety of music, from light classics to jazz to songs from the shows and ...Continued Overleaf

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MEMBERSHIP FORM

To become a member of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust for just £1.00 and receive our regular newsletter - as well as personalised email updates on activities and events in the town simply complete the following Membership Form and return it to us” with £1.00.

All information is solely for the use of Midsomer Norton Community Trust and will not be passed to any third parties. Personal Information - All information provided below is optional except for fields marked *, as to become a member of the Community Trust you must provide us with your name and at least one of the following contact details: address, mobile number, email. Title First Name(s) * Surname * D.O.B. Address Line 1 * Address Line 2 * Town/City * Postcode * Email Address Mobile No. House Phone No. Contact information - Tick to confirm how you wish Midsomer Norton Community Trust to update you (Please choose at least one). Text

Hardcopy(mail)

Whilst we are happy to provide hardcopy if necessary, the Community Trust would prefer to contact you electronically for environmental reasons. Signature:

Date:

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YOUR INTERESTS Help us personalise your updates from the Community Trust by ticking the boxes next to your interests. If you wish to receive updates on all aspects of the trust please leave the following blank. Please return this form with £1 and a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope to: Community Development Manager, Midsomer Norton Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton, Bath, BA3 2HQ. Current Events Cinema

Paradis Trio

First Thursday Social

Activities Art & Craft

Dancing

Heritage

Music

Martial Arts

Pets

Fitness Class

History

Sport

Drama

Singing

Cookery

Cinema

Live Music

Drama

NORTON GREEN FARM

All

Modern

Classical

Classic Plays

NURSERY & GARDEN CENTRE

Classic

Country/Folk

Modern Drama

Children

Blues/Jazz

Comedy

You can be assured of a warm welcome this winter

Silent

Rock & Pop

Musical

Spoken/Rap

Pantomime

Opera Other

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popular songs whilst they sample fabulous homemade cakes. The whole effect is to transport the audience into an oasis of elegance equal to anything to be found in a well-known local spa town! Midsomer Concert Hall - a series of free chamber concerts to be held at the Town Hall in a regular mid-monthly 5pm Sunday afternoon slot. Artists already signed up for the series range from operatic soloists to Romantic piano trio, jazz clarinet recital to wind ensemble. Midsomer Tea Dance – seeing a return to the Town Hall by popular request, there will be a quarterly tea dance starting on Sunday 9th Feburary 2014 at 3pm. To be held in the Town Hall Assembly Room there will be live musicians, a sumptuous tea with cucumber sandwiches (with crusts cut off) and home-made cake which will transport you back to the Downton Abbey era. Whether you choose to dance or simply come to enjoy the music and ambience – everyone is welcome.

DRAMA MIDSOMER THEATRE COMPANY This initiative is being led by our drama director, freelance professional Petra Schofield. The Midsomer Theatre Company was founded by the Community Trust in August 2013.

It meets on a Wednesday evening at the Town Hall in term time 5.30pm – 7.00pm (under 12s) and an adult (over 12 years) evening session following between 7.30pm and 9.00pm. Petra is also Artistic Director of Magic Penny Productions and was responsible for creating the community theatre work celebrating the centenary of Peasedown St John primary school.More recently the Company has been selected from over 200 applicants to work with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) to produce their own Shakespeare production. This prestigious opportunity to be part of the RSC Open Stages Programme has been awarded as the result of an innovative proposal to create a community play entitled ‘A Midsomer Knight’s Dream’ – based on Shakespeare’s classic comedy and drawing for its title on the poem created by Irene Benson in 2008. A Knight’s Dream will be written by Petra Schofield, who will be drawing on the central themes of the Medieval Knight effigy, a wealth of local local history and the town’s name. The scheme will see Midsomer Norton’s play feature alongside a lineup of other projects from around the UK such as Macbeth performed in a Cardiff Shopping Centre, Much Ado About Nothing performed by serving members of the Royal Air Force, the Tempest in a quarry in Durham and Richard III performed in Leicester Cathedral by Leicester University students where the King’s newly discovered remains will be buried. Overall, 90 productions will form the UK’s biggest amateur theatre project – Open Stages. For further details visit www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or our facebook site www.facebook.com/ MidsomerNortonCommunityTrust

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

RIVER

FEEDBACK T

hank you cards have been appearing recently on the railings along the river in Midsomer Norton, praising the efforts of volunteers who have transformed the river. Originally there were four cards, and one was removed for safe keeping and is photographed here with the message, “The river banks have been a joy all year. Thank you”. The river transformation project has not been without controversy since the weirs were removed and meanders put in their place in May 2011. The original aim of the project was to find a way of avoiding the build - up of silt which at one stage was two feet deep down the full length of the High Street. Not only was it unsightly but cost tens of thousands to remove every five years. “I get a lot of feedback on the River as Mayor and it seems to me that the river scheme we have now is like Marmite – people either seem to love or hate it.

gradually clearing back the planting, starting at the Town Hall end, in order to introduce a more managed planting scheme in the long term. Ultimately we want to find the balance between encouraging wildlife and a visual planting scheme suitable for a town centre”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.

Certainly I personally agree that as the plants have matured and despite the best efforts of volunteers in removing large amounts of water cress the plants haven’t been kept in check – particularly in the summer months. More recently we’ve begun

Despite winning a national award last year, it seems likely that the debate about the river planting will continue, but for now it is probably heartening for the river volunteers at least to get some more positive feedback.

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The picture shows the Thank You card with the message ‘The river banks have been a joy all year. Thank you’

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NEW MOBILE

APP

idsomer Norton Town Council is investing in new technology to improve its ability to communicate with residents and involve younger people in the town in its activities. The Town Council is working with a local company to develop an “app” for smart phones that can be used to tell people about events, encourage them to share ideas and allow local businesses to promote offers to visitors and residents. Increasing numbers of residents will be using smart phones which allow access to the internet and the use of applications (apps) to virtually interact with others, keep up to date with news or other information, play games or simply browse and email friends or work colleagues. An opportunity therefore exists for organisations to contact new audiences through new media. Half of the UK population has a smart phone and this is expected to reach two thirds by 2016. Between the ages of 12 and 24, the figure is already over 80%. Even in the range from 25 to 55, smart phones usage levels are expected to reach 90% by 2016.

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The Council’s web site is an important addition to its communication capability, enabling more up to date news and information to be released. The downside is that users need to “pull” information from it by making a specific decision to visit the site. It is also relatively slow and inflexible for access by mobile devices.

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The app will be able to allow the Council to: • Upload information and data direct from the Council and Community Trust web sites. • Build and manage the capability of the application. • Provide direct feeds to our current social media pages. • Enable a messaging service for targeted information to be sent to residents, for example those who have shown an interest in specific events. • Have a capability for people to upload video and photos, subject to moderation. • Create a “geo-fence” capability allowing us to send a message to a user as they pass through a boundary, capable of being finely tuned and centred around a shop, junction, town or wider area.

In addition, the app can enable advertising and sponsorship, providing a potential income stream that can reduce costs to the host which can be managed by a provider on the host’s behalf. Advertisements can range from local to national or international brands depending on the app’s usage. Geo-fences can be used to advertise offers such as a free drink at a café or price reductions for a limited time, all of which would be given on showing the e voucher on the phone screen to the retailer. Users download apps from mobile sites using the smart phone. In a scenario such as that potentially identified for the Council and Trust, the app is free to download and word of mouth is often the most effective tool to increase take up. It is hoped that the app will go live towards the end of 2013 and that its capability will grow as the Council develops it.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

INTERNATIONAL

FOOTBALL DEBUT

overing a football match involving an international team must be considered the pinnacle of any commentator’s career and this was the case for Somer Valley FM football commentator Ian Nockolds at Yeovil Town’s match against Latvia in November. The match was poignant for Ian as he returned to the ground that he and Somer Valley made their debuts at in May 2010 when they covered Welton Rovers’ dramatic Somerset Cup win. Ian also travelled back to Huish Park when Radstock Town were the visitors for another Somerset Cup match. “I think the Yeovil Town Press Officer thought I was winding him up when I asked if Somer Valley FM could cover the

Radstock game. It was an incredible experience for me to commentate on professional players at a professional club. The listener figures we had that night, as well as the feedback on twitter, was incredible. I watched Yeovil’s results and when I saw the Latvia game I wondered whether there was any media interest. Within minutes of sending my email the Club called me to ask whether I was interested in covering the match.” Ian is pictured with Andrejs Štolcers, a former Latvian international and Yeovil Town player, who joined him in the commentary box. The match finished one nil to Latvia, thanks to a 75th minute goal from Valerijs Sabala. Ian reflected on the match – “I wouldn’t have had the confidence to approach Yeovil if it hadn’t been for the experience and support I’ve received from Somer Valley FM. I’ve worked with some incredible people and the support we’ve had from Welton, Paulton and Radstock has been incredible and we will continue to cover local clubs every week on the Sports Show.’ The Somer Valley Sports Show is broadcast every Tuesday, between 6 and 7:00pm.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GREEN SPACES

UPDATE G

arden of Friendship Now that this tranquil piece of green space has been acquired on a lease by Midsomer Norton Town Council plans are under way to rename the garden “The Midsomer Norton Garden of Friendship”. Alongside its new name, the gardens are being considered for improvements to fencing and options for a more ornate and effective gate at the entrance alongside the Catholic Church are also being explored. Inside the Garden, horticultural improvements are being considered including removing overgrown trees and bushes to open up the space for people to enjoy.

St Chad’s Well - The Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership have reached an outline agreement with the Town Council to transfer the ownership of the area known as St Chad’s Well on a permanent basis, subject to approval for the Secretary of State for Education. If the transfer takes place, remedial works identified in a recent survey will commence as well as changes to fencing and the grass around the obelisk and along the river, allowing residents to enjoy this historic site much as it was originally intended. Town Park - The Town Council continues to explore how it can acquire land to establish a Town Park, despite this being in local plans for decades. The outline concept shared by the Town Council earlier this year remains valid and technical assessments are due to be undertaken to establish the viability of the change of use ahead of any formal permissions being sought for a park.

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WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 2nd - Full Council meeting at the Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm. 5th - The first Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2pm to 5pm. 5th - Age UK walk, Chilcompton and Downside, 2.6 miles (park by Co-op Chilcompton) for more information visit www.ageuk.org.uk. 6th - Paradis Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at Midsomer Norton Town Hall. 6th - Midsomer Norton Christmas Lantern Fayre in the High Street from 6pm to 9pm. See Santa with his real reindeer and the switching on of the Christmas lights.in the Hollies from 9am to 1pm. 7th - Midsomer Norton Farmers Market at the Hollies from 9am to 1pm. 7th - Welton Rovers vs Almondsbury UWE 3pm kick off away. 14th - Santa at the Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton from 11am to 5pm. Santa’s grotto opens at 1.30pm. £6 per child includes a present from Santa and a drink and cake in the buffet coach. 14th - Welton Rovers vs Cheddar 3pm at home. 14th - Terrible Tinsel and Manky Mistletoe! Performed by The Merriman Theatre Group at St John’s Primary School from 7pm, for more information contact the box office at www.merrimantheatre.com. 15th - Santa at the Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton from 11am to 5pm. Santa’s grotto opens at 1.30pm. £6 per child includes a present

from Santa and a drink and cake in the buffet coach. 15th - Terrible Tinsel and Manky Mistletoe! Performed by The Merriman Theatre Group at St John’s Primary School from 3pm, for more information contact the box office at www.merrimantheatre.com. 16th - Planning Committee meeting at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm. 19th - Age UK meet at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 10am for the Underhill Lane walk, 2.8 miles over mud and lanes. 20th - Midsomer Norton Palladium, Classic Cinema showing It’s a Wonderful Life at 2pm at the Town Hall. 20th - Songs, etc. with Sophie Baxter, voice and Graeme Savage, piono and guests. An evening of Christmas classics to kick off the festive holiday at St John’s School, Midsomer Norton from 7.30pm. for more info visit www.merrimantheatre.com. 20th - The Hearing Aid Repair Clinic is held every third Friday in the small hall of the Methodist Centre 10 30am-12noon. For general maintenance and advice. 21st - Vintage Market, 8am - 2pm in Hollies Gardens.

JANUARY 2nd - Age UK meet at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 10am for a Folly Hill (or Clapton Road) walk, 3 miles including steep uphill, mud, fields and a stile. 4th - Midsomer Norton Farmers Market at the Hollies from 9am to 1pm. 4th- Welton Rovers vs Roman Glass St George, 3pm kick off home. 6th - Full Council meeting in the Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm. 9th - The first Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2pm to 5pm. 10th - Midsomer Norton Palladium, Classic Cinema showing The Titfield Thunderbolt, 2pm at the Town Hall

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

11th - Welton Rovers vs Westbury Utd, kick off 3pm home. 16th - Age UK meet at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 10am for the Kilmersdon and Radstock walk. 3,2miles with steep up hills and lanes. 17th - The Hearing Aid Repair Clinic is held every third Friday in the small hall of the Methodist Centre 10 30am-12noon. For general maintenance and advice. 18th - Vintage Market, 8am - 2pm in Hollies Gardens. 19th - Midsomer Concert Hall, live music. Town Hall at 5pm

10am for the Riverside walk, 2.7 miles urban and uphill. 7th - Paradis Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at Midsomer Norton Town Hall. 8th - Welton Rovers vs Oldlands Abbotonians, 3pm kick off home. 14th - Midsomer Norton Palladium, Classic Cinema. Rebecca, 2pm Town Hall 15th - Vintage Market, 8am - 2pm in Hollies Gardens. 17th - Planning committee meet in in the Beauchamp Room, Midsomer Norton Town Council from 7pm.

20th - Planning committee meeting at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm.

20th - Age UK meet at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall for the Tesco, Paulton and Welton walk. 3.5 miles across fields, mud and hills.

23rd - Workshop on the future of Welton by Welton Village group at 7.30pm. For more information visit www.midsomernortonsociety. co.uk

22nd - Midsomer Norton Palladiaum. 2.30pm Matinee and 7.30pm Showcase. Programme to be confirmed. Town Hall.

24th - Beauty and the Beast in pantomime by the Lighthouse Drama Group from Welton Baptist Church. For more information visit www. weltonchurch.org.uk or call the church office on 01761 410274. 25th - Beauty and the Beast in pantomime by the Lighthouse Drama Group from Welton Baptist Church. For more information visit www.weltonchurch.org.uk or call the church office on 01761 410274. 25th - Midsomer Norton Palladium, Matinee Cinema, Despicable Me 2, 2.30 pm. Showcase Cinema, Great Gatsby, 7.30pm. Town Hall

FEBRUARY 1st - Midsomer Norton Farmers Market at the Hollies from 9am to 1pm. 3rd - Full council meeting at The Beauchamp Room in Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 7pm. 6th - The first Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2pm to 5pm. 6th - Age UK meet at the Midsomer Norton Town Hall at

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY Somer Artists meet every Monday from 3.15pm to 5.15pm at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton to draw and paint, and have frequent workshops for those who want to learn new skills. For more information contact Peter on 01761 434428 or Kate on 01225 421842 or visit our website at www. somersetartists.co.uk. CAMEO a time for food, fellowship and friendship from 11.30am at The Salvation Army. A two course lunch is served at approx. 12.15pm for a cost of £2.50. Please pre-book by contacting Major Sharon Robinson on 01761 420170. Norton Radstock U3A at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton. Speaker-meeting every second Monday 2-4pm, Coffee morning every last Monday 10.30-12 noon. Job Centre Plus Midsomer Norton Childrens Centre 9.30 - 3.00 Appointments or drop in. Veterans Football League at Norton Hill Sports centre at 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Storytime Stories for 0-5 year olds for Free. 11.00am - 11.30 am at Midsomer Norton Library. Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 11am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 8.00pm and 9.00pm to 10.00pm. Longvernal Play Session Orchard Vale Hall Every Monday @ 3.30pm After school fun & activities with the Play Rangers – Wansdyke Play Association 01761 420660. Playzone (parent & toddler group) Longvernal

Primary School 1.15 – 3.00 pm Term Time Only 01761 418226. Little Puma’s Tae Kwon Do group at Norton Hill Sports Centre ages 4 to 6 from 5.15pm to 6pm, juniors and adults 6pm to 7pm. Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Monday from 10am to 2.30pm for more information call Justine on 0171 413039. FISH Trampoline Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre Juniors 5pm to 6pm, Adults 7pm to 8pm. Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 5.45pm to 6.15pm. Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 11am to 2pm. Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 8pm to 8.45pm. Somerset and Dorset Railway Heritage Trust is open every Monday from 1pm to 4pm, for viewing only contact 01761 411221. Wesley Guild at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 4.00pm fortnightly, a Christian services, devotional, cultural, social and musical interests with invited speakers. Monday youth club (term time only) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm for children in years 3 to 6 and 7.45pm for children in years 7 and above. Job Centre Plus Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre 9.30 - 3.00 Appointments or drop in. The early shift café at Longvernal School. Coffee and cake in conjunction with Longvernal Tweenies group for parents or carers of preschool and school aged children 8.45am to 10.45am. Café 3:16 from 3:30pm-5:30pm at Town Hall; youth café open to teenagers to hang out for a couple of hours after school. Five-a-side football from 9pm -10:00pm at Norton Hill School with Welton Baptist Church, Five-a-side football in the Gym.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

20.20.20 classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 11am, every Monday.

Mass is celebrated at St John the Baptist from 12 noon every Tuesday.

Healthy Back stretch and tone classes at South Wansdyke Sports Centre at 12 noon.

Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.00pm to 6.30pm.

Kettle Ball classes to strengthen and tone at South Wansdyke Sports centre from 6.00pm.

Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly from September to June at the Methodist Church Centre at 3pm, for more information contact 01761 235970.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 6.30pm.

TUESDAY

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 10am to 10.45am.

Drop in Baby Clinic Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre 10.00 – 11.30.

Senior Rugby training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 7.30pm, contact 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

Somer Athletic Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre for adults 7pm to 9pm.

Stop off at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church for morning coffee and lunches from 11am to 1pm.

Dance class with the Desert Divas at St John’s Church Hall from 7pm to 8.30pm. For more information call 01761 416671.

Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 6.45pm.

Short mat bowls every Tuesday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and 7.00pm to 9.00pm contact 01761 418400. Football with a qualified coach can be played at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on the outdoor pitch. Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 10.00am, 12.00noon to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 4.00pm. Golden-Oldies singing session at Greenacres Community Room, Greenacres, Midsomer Norton BA3 2RD every Tuesday 2-3pm. Open to all, voluntary donation of £1 per session. Please call the office to check your session is on and for more information 01761 470006. Midsomer Norton Townswomen Guild meets on the third Tuesday of each month at St John’s Church Hall at 2pm. For more information call 01761 413528. 50+ swimming at South Wansdyke Leisure Centre 11am to 12 noon.

Gentle exercise classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.45am. Box circuits classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 7.30pm. Playtots from 10:00am - 11:30am at the Town Hall for pre-school children,babies and their carers. Housegroups with Welton Baptist Church from 7.45pm, a chance to meet in smaller groups for prayer, bible study and general this and that.

WEDNESDAY FISH Trampoline club for Juniors at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 5pm to 7pm. Midsomer Theatre Company Under 12s 5.30pm till 7pm. Adults (12+) 7.30pm till 9pm at the Town Hall Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Junior badminton coaching every Wednesday at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 5pm to 6pm for 11

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

to 14 years, 6pm to 7pm for 14 years and over. Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 10am to 2pm. Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Wednesday from 10am to 12 pm, for more information call Justine on 01761 413039. Adult Dance classes every Wednesday evening at the Town Hall, contact Paula on 07860 839560 for more details. Toddlers group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 12.30pm term time only. Café 3:16 at 3:30pm-5:30pm in the Town Hall, a youth café open to teenagers to hang out for a couple of hours after school. Dynamos from 6:30pm-7:45pm, at Welton Baptist Chapel a childrens’ group for age 6 to school year 4.

Dance class with the Desert Divas at The Town Hall from 12.15pm to 1.15pm. For more information contact 01761 416671. Welton Vale over 50’s club meet in the Community Room from 2pm to 4pm, for more information call 01761 417960. Somer Valley Gardening group meet at the Town Hall on the 2nd Thursday of every month, for more information call 01761417252. Golden-Oldies singing session at Welton Vale Community Room, Welton Vale , Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2BG every Thursday 10.30-11.30am Open to all, voluntary donation of £1 per session. Please call the office to check your session is on and for more information 01761 470006. Somer Athletic Club at Norton Hill Sports Centre for adults and juniors at 7pm to 9pm.

Superchargers at 6:45pm-8:00pm in St. John’s Ambulance Hall from childrens’ group for school years 5 & 6.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 11.00am, 11.30am to 2.00pm, 3.00pm to 10.00pm.

Voltage from 7:00pm-9:00pmin the Town Hall for Teens group for school year 7 to age 14.

Chilcompton Ladies Choir every Thursday at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre from 7.30pm to 9.00pm contact 01761 416127.

Wives Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre meets alternate Wednesdays at 2pm. Various speakers and topics. For more info or confirm date ring 01761 436770.

THURSDAY Tap Dancing at the Town Hall with the Avon Dance Academy - ring 01761 479026. Citizens Advice Bureau 3rd Thurdsay of the month at The Childrens Centre Midsomer Norton 01225 396858 for appointments. Family First (for parents and carers of children with additional needs) 1.30pm to 3.00pm. Come along on the first Thursday of every month to Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre.

Music with Mummy at the Methodist Church every Thursday from 10am to 12pm, for more information contact Justine on 01761 413039. Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 8pm to 10pm. Health and Beauty Group at St John’s Church Hall at 7.30pm to 8.30pm all ages welcome from 30’s to 80’s. Contact Annette on 01761 414163. The Old Bakery artists meet on the last Thursday of every month except December at The Fromeway in Radstock, for more information call 01761 418956. Early support stay and play group at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre every Thursday from 1.30pm to 3.00pm, for more information contact 01225 396660.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre 12.45pm to 1.30pm. and 8pm to 8.45pm.

Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Contact 01761 418400.

Senior Rugby training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 7.30pm, contact 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

Inflatable session in the swimming pool at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Friday from 6pm to 7pm. Children 8 to 15 years old.

St John Ambulance adults and cadets: cadets can be aged 11 to 16 and meet at 6.30pm to 7.45pm and the adults meet at 7.45pm onwards: St John Ambulance Hall, Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.30am to 1.30pm, 2.00pm to 8.30pm.

Gentle Exercise classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 9.15am. Body conditioning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.30am. Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 7.45pm Playtots from 10:00am - 11:30am in the Town Hall, For pre-school children,babies and their carers.

Junior and adults Tae Kwon Do at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 7pm to 8pm. Tummy Gym Sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 6.00pm to 6.30pm. Adult social badminton club every Friday at Norton Hill Sports Centre from 6pm to 9pm. Meet for prayer at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 9.45 am. Pop In for coffee at Midomer Norton Methodist Church at 10am.

FRIDAY Bosom Babes (breastfeeding group) Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, Pows Orchard, Midsomer Norton at 12.00pm to 1.30pm. Stay & Play 9.30 – 11.00 @ The Children’s Centre. Norton Radstock Folk Dance club meet at St Peter’s Church Hall in Westfield from 8.00pm to 10.00pm, for more information call 01761 411292.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Whist Club at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

afternoon at the Town Hall, contact Paula on 07860 839560 for more details.

Choir practice at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 7.30pm.

Passport to Health sessions are held at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 9am to 2pm.

The Early Shift from 8:30am-10:30am in the Town Hall for parents or carers (after doing the school run) to have an early coffee and a cake and a bit of a chin wag!

The local churches Men’s Breakfast Fellowship meets monthly ( 2nd Saturday excluding July and August) at 8.30am ( breakfast from 8am) venues vary. For more information call Midsomer Norton Methodist centre on 01761 401450.

Yoga fitness at 11am at South Wansdyke Sports centre. Zumba at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 1pm. Spinning classes at 6.30pm at South Wansdyke Sports centre. Café 3.:16 at the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm. A youth café open to teenagers to hang out for a couple of hours in the evening.

SATURDAY

Saturday Night Praise at 7.30pm on 3rd Saturday each month at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Spinning classes at South Wansdyke Sports centre at 10.00am.

SUNDAY Said Mass at 8.00am at St John the Baptist Church. Family Sung Mass and Sunday School at St John the Baptist Church at 9.30am.

Saturday Club at The Somer Centre Midsomer Norton A range of activites for disabled & non disabled children 10am – 2pm Wansdayke Play Association 01761 420660.

Junior badminton coaching every Sunday at Norton Hill Sports Centre. 10am to 11am for 7 to 11 years, 11am to 12pm for 11 to 14 years and 12pm to 1pm for 14years and over.

Tricknology testing at Midsomer Norton Skate park, contact MOJO for more details on 07840 904 083.

Junior rugby games and training at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club at 10.30am, contact 07773567887 or 01761 419750.

Inflatable session in the swimming pool at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Saturday from 4pm to 5pm. Children 8 to 15 years old.

Morning worship Youth church and crèche from 10.30am at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Active 8 Saturday Kids Club at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 9.30am to 12.30pm for 8 to 12 year olds.

Evening Worship from 6.00pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Evening service from 6pm at St John the Baptist.

Open swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 11.30am to 5.00pm and 6pm to 7pm.

Morning Service at 10:30am at Somervale School ;morning worship service for all ages.

Midsomer Norton Methodist Cricket Club meet every Saturday in season, for more information contact John on 01761 412328.

eNeRGy groups at 10:30am at Somervale School for groups for all ages from 3-11 during the main morning service.

Mass is celebrated at St John the Baptist from 9am every Saturday.

Morning Worship from 10.30am at The Salvation Army. Good Morning Sunday, interactive worship for all ages takes place on the 1st Sunday of the Month from 10.30am.

Children’s Dance classes every Saturday

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A KNIGHT TO

REMEMBER W

hen the Midsomer Norton Knight returned to the town in the summer of 2011, after initial conservation at Bristol Museum, his MDF and Perspex display case hardly matched his historical importance. Now that emergency work has been completed on vital conservation of the wooden effigy, the Midsomer Norton Society has turned its attention to the final stage of this ambitious project, to commission an appropriate display case and some information boards to support the exhibition of this important artefact. This iconic wooden effigy is believed to have been made in around 1300 by craftsmen of the Bristol School and for centuries he lay on his tomb in the Church which itself probably originates from around 1150. His identity continues to be an historical enigma as definitive proof has so far eluded members of the Society. His poor condition and the confusing and often contradictory historical evidence that has been unearthed to this point has only enabled some possible family names to be suggested with FitzReginald, Beauchamp, Warknell and Gournay being among them. What is undoubtedly true is that he

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was an important member of society to have been commemorated in such a fashion. Leading specialist in restoring and preserving timber, Hugh Harrison, will be commissioned to ensure that the effigy is in a suitable condition for it to be displayed and to construct an appropriate case for the Knight.

The Society has applied for a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to pay for this intricate and important work. It is hoped that, if successful, with the funding from the grant the Knight can be unveiled in 2014, at the time of the Midsomer Norton Fayre, in the present St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church where he can then be viewed and enjoyed by many residents and visitors alike. And one day we may even have a name for him?

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NATIONAL AWARD FOR

TOWN COUNCILLOR D

edicated Town Councillor Linda Dunford has received a National Excellence Award for her significant contribution in driving an innovative local community partnership aimed at reducing underage drinking. Cllr Dunford has chaired the local Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) since its launch in July 2012. The award was made by the national Community Alcohol

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Partnerships organisation that oversees 50 CAPs throughout the country. CAPs bring together local retailers & licensees, trading standards, police, community safety, health services, education providers and other local stakeholders to tackle the problem of underage drinking and associated anti-social behaviour. Miles Beale Chief Executive of Community Alcohol Partnerships said: “Linda has made a tremendous contribution to the success of the Midsomer Norton CAP. The time she has given up to support the multi-agency action plan, teaming up with frontline officers on night audits, visits to licensed premises, retailer training sessions and youth diversionary activities has really driven the success of the partnership“ “I am delighted she has won this Award, which gives both Linda and the group well-deserved national recognition for all the hard work that has been put in to help make Midsomer Norton a safer and more attractive place to live, work

and socialise” Receiving the award from Chief Superintendent Geoff Spicer, Cllr Dunford said ‘All the CAP members work extremely hard and are focused and determined to achieve real positive change in our community. This award is the result of teamwork and I am very fortunate to be a part of it’. The Midsomer Norton CAP continues to work on a wide range of initiatives including working towards achieving Purple Flag status for safety and diversity of the town’s night-time economy. If successful, the town’s reputation and attractiveness to visitors and businesses will increase, building the local economy and encouraging investment in the future.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MARKETS FOR A M

MARKET TOWN

idsomer Norton Town Council is continuing to seek to stimulate the town centre by providing financial support to help with the promotion of existing and new markets. By voting to allocate some start-up funding as well as helping current markets to grow, the Town Council is aiming to increase the attractiveness of the town for visiting shoppers from the Somer Valley and surrounding areas. This approach seeks to complement the range of independent retailers for which the town has a strong reputation and provide an interesting and worthwhile venue for a shopping trip. Midsomer Norton Christmas Farmers Market From 9am to 1pm on Saturday December 7th our Farmers Market aims to showcase the best in seasonal produce with added treats and gift buying opportunities from poultry & mince pies, to Somerset Lavender and Christmas entertainment. To add to the Christmas spirit there will be decorated stalls, hot mulled apple juice and tasty soups on the day as well as a free Christmas Prize Draw! In addition to organic vegetables from Radford Mill Farm and Kilmersdon based Moonacre Farm, who also produce handmade wreaths, there will be an opportunity to pre-order high quality turkeys and hams as well as special cuts of beef or game. There will be two cheese stalls including the award winning Somerset Cheese Company and newcomers Wookey Farm who have developed sift Brie cheeses using their own goatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; milk.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

All of this will be alongside mince pies, Christmas puddings, cakes and pies together with homemade confectionary. The popular monthly Farmers Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month in the Hollies Garden and will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in April 2014. It is attracting customers from far and wide so if you haven’t been before, come along for Christmas! There will be no market in January 2014 and it will restart on February 1st 2014.

all-weather capability for the market and with ample parking on the site it has great potential for attracting other traders to create a specialist food and produce market. Anyone interested should contact the Town Council in the first instance on 01761 418701.

Midsomer Vintage Market A new Vintage market made its first appearance in the Hollies Garden in November 2013. Vintage goods have seen a growing interest over the last few years, with fashion and furniture markets springing up regularly and the new Midsomer Vintage Market should be an interesting and attractive addition to the town’s retail offerings. If you have a passion for Vintage then the Midsomer Vintage Market will be the place to go. The market will offer fashion, crockery, furniture and ephemera from 8am to 2pm on every third Saturday of the month and posters and banners will be in place soon to promote the launch. Thursday Food and Produce Market Every Thursday sees a local Fruit and Vegetable stall at West Clewes Recreation Ground run by local man Andy Payne and the Town Council is seeking to re-launch this tradition by funding promotional activity to help draw more stalls to the market. The newly surfaced car park provides an ideal

Midsomer Norton Christmas Farmers Market

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

IN BLOOM

After the success of 2013 when Midsomer Norton won a Gold Pennant in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom South West competition, plans are now in hand to enter the town for the 2014 “In Bloom” event. The RHS took responsibility for the campaign in 2001 as a nationwide community competition

along with the non-competitive “It’s Your Neighbourhood” scheme that offers advice and makes awards to local community groups.“The floral displays, green spaces and community input have been a real feature in the town over the past few years and it seems a natural progression to focus on the Britain in Bloom awards for 2014” said Nicola Ware from Flowers by Nicola, the horticultural contractor for the Town Council for the last two years. “If you run a community group in the town and feel you can help or be part of this exciting plan for next year then let us know. By working together we can present the whole town in the very best way and show everyone what a beautiful place it is.” Community Groups who feel that they can help with the campaign should contact the Town Council in the first instance on 01761 418701.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

ROCKTOBER

uring the week of 21st-25th October, the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form Student Council organised a range of rock themed events under the banner of ‘Rocktober’ to raise funds for various charities, as part of their annual charities week. The Midsomer Norton Sixth Form Council is a peer elected group of students who presently study in the Sixth Form. Each elected student has a specific role, examples being Charity, Sports, Media, Social etc as well as the Head Boy and Girl who front every event and act as the voice of the collective council. As a strong, unified group, these students plan countless events; however, their most important role is to enhance the experience of the Sixth Form for their fellow students, to ensure that the Sixth

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Form continues to be an enjoyable, vibrant place to study. Rocktober events included a ‘Just Dance Competition’, cake sales and a rock themed dress up day. The entire week culminated with the grand finale event of a ‘Rocktober Gig’ which was held in the school hall. The ‘Rocktober Gig’ included a specially formed teachers’ band who were excellent, student bands and solo singers but also a surprise ‘flash mob’ by the teachers and Sixth Form council who spontaneously danced to Busted’s aptly named song ‘What I go to school for’ which had everyone entertained, on their feet and in a state of dazed amusement! The Sixth Form Student Council commented; “We thought it would be a great way to raise lots of money for worthy causes, through a variety of events. We knew that staff and students would like the theme and would therefore enjoy being involved. The ‘flash mob’ was a complete surprise to the audience of fellow students, which was fantastic!” As well as raising money for charity, the Sixth Form Council have delivered assemblies to the whole school throughout this term, raising awareness of disability hate crime which was in support of Mencap and ‘Hate Crime Awareness Week’. The Sixth Form Council concluded by saying; “We are so proud to have raised money for both Bath Junior Gateway and the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form Senior Citizens Christmas Party. We’d like to extend a huge thank you to all of those who were involved and most importantly donated… ROCK ON!”

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

POETRY IN MOTION S

ince the launch of National Poetry Day in 1994 people from all over the UK have played their part in engaging with poetry events, with the sole aim of making poetry a part of everyday life. This annual event is part of the Forward Arts Foundation. Each year, a new theme is given to the NPD to highlight a particular style of poetry. In past years, themes have been “Stars”, “Home” and even “Heroes and Heroines”. This year however, the theme for National Poetry Day was “Water, Water Everywhere”, which is very appropriate considering our recent Autumnal weather. Somervale School, as part of their literacy development, celebrated the day by hosting their very own poetry competition. The English Department decided this would be an excellent opportunity for its Key Stage 3 students to use poetry as an expression through word. The poetry produced this year was of an extremely high standard, with students using their own imagination and expression. The staff were said to have been so impressed by the quality of the submissions, that choosing a winner was an extremely difficult process.

After much deliberation, a student from each year group from Year 7-9 was awarded first prize, followed by 6 runners up. Each of the lucky winners and the runners-up received a certificate, chocolates and an Amazon gift voucher. Shannon Baber, winner of Year 9 commented; “I worked really hard on my poem, so I was extremely pleased to win.” Head of English Sian Davis stated; “I am so pleased with the number of entries for this competition. The poetry created by the pupils was imaginative, creative and skilful. They were an absolute joy to read!”

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ELDERLY CITIZENS CHRISTMAS PARTY

DAY OF PEACE

n continuation from the success of previous years, the Midsomer Norton Sixth Form Student Council is delighted to announce that it will once again be hosting a free Christmas Party for the elderly citizens of our community. This year, the party will be held at Somervale School on the 5th of December from 2.00pm until 3.15pm. Last year, guests came from a variety of local residential homes including; Church Court, Stanley Court, Beechcroft House, Clutton Way, Bloomfield, Coombe Leigh and Whitehaven. Many guests also came from the community and were delighted by the friendliness of the sixth formers serving refreshments, enjoyed winning some fabulous prizes in the raffle and listening to the younger students from Somervale School singing carols. This year, the Sixth Form will once again prepare a selection of delicious refreshments, showcase the musical talents of some of our students and host a whole range of other activities. Sixth Form students will be running all the activities dressed up in festive costumes to match the hall decorations. If you would like to attend this event, please contact Louise Friend for an invitation. Please either email lfriend@msnsixth.com or phone 01761 414276. If you call the school out of hours please leave a message with a contact number and a member of the Sixth Form staff will call you back.

XMAS ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN

In 2002 the United Nations General Assembly officially declared September 21st as the permanent annual date for the International Day of Peace. In creating ‘World Peace Day’, the UN invited nations to work to achieve a common goal: Peace for one day. This event is marked with all students making ‘Peace Windmills’ and displaying these at the front of the school. Students thought about those less fortunate than themselves, those in war-torn countries and those suffering from the effects and devastation that conflict causes. These windmills contain messages of students’ wishes for a more peaceful world. All students also participated in special Peace Assemblies, written and presented by Year 11 Language Leaders. The school is very proud to celebrate the event annually and would like to thank all of the students involved for their thoughtful insights.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

SEARCH FOR ALPINE GOLD

hirty-five Midsomer Norton Sixth Form students travelled to the French Alps in the summer holidays to tackle a four day expedition as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. Greeted for the most by glorious sunshine and temperatures into the 30’s, the experience was in stark contrast to the much cooler conditions of the practice expedition in Snowdonia earlier in the summer. Completing the Gold level of this prestigious award is challenging and candidates must make a considerable commitment in order to be successful. As well as the two expeditions, they must show that they have developed a skill, helped others and undertaken physical activity on a regular basis over the course of at least a year. They must also attend a 5 day ‘Residential Activity’ to develop their ability to

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work with others. It is highly regarded by universities, employers and colleges alike and is usually presented at St James Palace in London by one of the Duke’s representatives. The expedition in France was based in the Vanoise National Park close to the ski resort of Val D’Isere. Here the students worked in selfsufficient teams, navigating their way on foot along the high mountain trails that wind their way around and over the Alpine peaks. Sleeping overnight near remote mountain huts or ‘Refuges’, students had to carry tents and prepare their own meals. They also had to spend time studying an element of the experience, some choosing aspects of the local cuisine or culture, others looking at things like the high mountain flora and fauna. Aside from the expedition, students also had time to engage in leisure activities – a chance to try new things and relax a little. Those with a head for heights went climbing or undertook the local ‘Via Ferrata’ courses through and over the rocky terrain. There was also an opportunity to try Whitewater Rafting locally on the internationally renowned Isere river. Mr Chandler Outdoor Education Co-ordinator for the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership said “We are proud to offer all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and this really was a trip to remember. Students had to plan all aspects of their expedition and then deal safely with any problems and challenges that arose. As well as being great fun and very exciting, there is no doubt that an experience like this really develops leadership and team-working skills and I congratulate all of the students for the way in which they worked together to complete their expeditions safely”.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SOMERVALE STUDENTS CONTINUE SUCCESS WITH PUBLISHED TRAVEL STORIES

omervale students from Years 8-10 have continued to participate in the “Young Writers” creative writing competition, and to build on their own success in previous competitions. “Young Writers” is an organisation which encourages young adults to engage in creative writing. The latest “Around The World In 80 Words-UK Tales” competition has proved popular, with thousands of short stories being submitted. Stories were selected for publication based on student imagination, expression and perception, as well

as the students own skill in the use of creative language. Students were notified that their stories would be accepted for publication in the book “Around The World In 80 Words- UK Tales”. Somervale School is extremely proud of this continuing success and hope that it will provide an inspiration to all students at the school, and that this achievement will encourage everyone to continue with their creative writing and literacy skills. As recognition of their achievement students were presented with Certificates by Head teacher Mr Alun Williams. Alun Williams commented; “I am delighted with the efforts of all the students who submitted stories. I am thrilled with their efforts and would like to personally commend the successful 18 students who will have their work published. This is a fantastic achievement. The students should be extremely proud of their efforts in what was a very competitive field of entries”.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

STUDENT TWIRLS TO EUROPEAN SILVER

ear 7 student Stacy Curtis has recently returned from the European Baton Twirling competition which took place in the Winter Olympic Stadium at Lillehammer in Norway. Stacy was selected to represent England in the competition after having qualified in 3rd place at the National Championships. This was Stacy’s first opportunity to compete abroad in the solo division. Stacy was placed in the ‘Accessories Solo Juvenile’ category and competed against female competitors from all over Europe. After some very strong competition, Stacy won the European Silver Medal for England. Stacy has been training in Majorettes and Baton Twirling for 5 years. She has been trained by her

cousin and former Norton Hill student Amy Swatton. Amy choreographs the routines and is the troop leader for the newly formed ‘Fahrenheit Baton Twirlers’ based in Hengrove Sports Centre. Stacy was asked about her experiences during the competition; “On the morning of the competition, I had to perform in front of a large audience who were seated in the Winter Olympic Stadium. My Mum and Dad wished me good luck although my Mum was shaking with nerves. As soon as I got out onto the floor it all came naturally to me and I was so pleased with my performance. When I heard the judges announce that I had come second I couldn’t believe it, I was stunned!” Russell Martin, Norton Hill Teacher and Tutor to Stacy stated; “The students were so excited when they heard the news. We are all tremendously proud of Stacy’s accomplishment. We wish her every success for her future in competitive Baton Twirling.”

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CHRISTMAS PUDDING Get motivated to make your own Christmas pudding for Christmas. You will need a 1.2 litre / 2 pint pudding basin, baking paper, foil and kitchen string.

Ingredients • 350g/12oz mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants,sultanas) • 100g/3½oz pitted ready-to-eat prunes, chopped or left whole • 100g/3½oz dark muscovado sugar • 4 tbsp dark rum • 100ml/3½fl oz stout • 100g/3½oz chopped walnuts • 100g/3½oz blanched almonds • 100g/3½oz ground almonds • 100g/3½oz fresh white breadcrumbs • 50g/1¾oz plain flour • 100g/3½oz frozen butter, grated, plus a little extra for greasing • ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 2 tsp mixed spice • 100g/3½oz chopped glacé cherries (or left whole if you prefer) • 3 large free-range eggs, beaten

Preparation method 1. Combine the mixed fruit, prunes, muscovado sugar, rum and stout in a mixing bowl. Stir well to mix, cover and leave for 24 hours to soak. 2. After 24 hours, mix the walnuts, almonds, ground almonds, breadcrumbs, flour, butter, spices, cherries and eggs along with the soaked fruit mixture in a large mixing bowl, making sure you include all the soaking liquor from the soaked fruit. Mix well until completely combined (let all the members of the family have a stir and make a wish). 3. Cover with cling film and leave to stand in a cool place for 24 hours. 4. After 24 hours, grease a 1.2 litre/2 pint pudding basin with butter. Cut a circle of baking paper and place into the bottom of the pudding basin and then grease it with a little more butter. Pack the pudding mixture into the pudding basin, pressing as you add it. Fold a pleat into the middle of a large piece of baking paper and place over the pudding. Cover with a large piece of pleated foil, ensuring the pleats are on top of one another. Secure tightly with kitchen string tied under the lip of the pudding basin. 5. Place an upturned saucer into a large saucepan onequarter full of water. Fold a long piece of foil into quarters lengthways to create a long strip and place the pudding basin in the middle of the strip. Bring the sides of the strip up the sides of the pudding basin and lower into the saucepan. Ensure the water in the saucepan comes one-third of the way up the side of the pudding basin, but nowhere near the top of the basin. Leave the ends of the foil strip hanging over the side to make it easy to remove the pudding later.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

DIABETES UK CARE

CONNECT CAMPAIGN D

iabetes is the fastest growing health threat in the UK and that’s why the Diabetes UK charity makes sure that no one goes through their diabetes journey alone. Right now there are 3.8 million people in the UK living with diabetes including 850,000 people who have type 2 diabetes but don’t know it. That means that one in 20 of us has diabetes. Without urgent

action the number of people with diabetes in the UK will rise to 5 million by 2025. Diabetes UK and Tesco are working together to raise £10m to create healthier communities. Tesco have enlisted the help of Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club members and the Mendip Support group to collect and raise money in the stores. Should you wish to know more about diabetes or give help, please contact Tami on 01823 448261 who will be pleased to hear from you.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

DEFIBRILLATOR DONTATED BY

ROTARY CLUB A

new defibrillator and 24 hour access cabinet has been unveiled at West Clewes Recreation Ground thanks to the generosity and foresight of the Rotary Club of Somer Valley and Midsomer Norton Town Council.

unit and ensures that the pads and equipment remain operational even on the coldest of days. The cabinet is opened using a code provided to the user over the telephone by the Ambulance Service.

The high-tech defibrillator was donated by the Rotary Club and it is suitable for use by the general public. In an emergency, the 999 operator is able to locate the nearest public access defibrillator (PAD) and talk callers through the use of the machine which itself provides comprehensive voice prompts. This type of unit was used on Bolton Wanderers footballer Fabrice Muamba when he collapsed at the FA tie in March 2012 at Spurs’ ground in North London. Muamba survived despite being unconscious for 78 minutes.

The Rotary Club was represented by Bob Taylor at the unveiling and he was accompanied by Town Mayor, Cllr Paul Myers, Town Councillor Steve Plumley and Welton Rovers FC Chairman, Stuart Minall.

The Town Council worked with local company AED Locators, based in Chew Magna, to link the defibrillator with the Ambulance Service who hold details of all PADs on their emergency system and can direct callers to their nearest unit if necessary. The high-tech cabinet purchased by the Town Council provides heated storage for the

“This critical life-saving equipment will ensure that residents or visitors to the town can be treated as soon as possible” said the Mayor. “Given that less than 5% of people who have a heart attack survive with CPR alone but 50% survive with CPR and the prompt use of a defibrillator, the Council is delighted to have worked with the Rotary Club to provide this facility. And we have been given a second unit by the Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton and Radstock which we plan to install near the Town Hall.”

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

OFF THE RECORD IN THE TOWN HALL If you are aged 18-25, Off the Record can help you. If you are experiencing difficulties or challenges in any aspect of your life and are looking for someone to support you in moving forward, making informed choices or generally having someone to listen without judgement or advice then Off the Record could be what you are looking for. Whatever is on your mind, Off the Record is there to listen and support. Off the Record has operated in the area for some time and has recently made arrangements to use space in the Town Hall as a base to work from.

The service is by appointment only and you can make contact by sending a text, including your name and age, to 0775 3891745. The team will get back to you and arrange an appointment – these are offered between 5pm and 7pm on Thursdays. Off the Record is also looking for volunteers to become trained Listening Support Workers. You must be over 18 and be prepared to undertake some training and give your time to this critical service for young people. Call the Off the Record team on 01225 312481 for more details.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK I

have been working with Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) recently on two projects which you might have seen around the town. One was the removal of a number of illegal signs at the entrance to the Midsomer Enterprise Park and the installation of new signs. I hope that you will have noticed the huge improvement at one of the key entry points to the town. The other involves some changes to the Town Hall including a new door sign and fitting a twinning sign – there will also be a new noticeboard and new flag poles over the North façade as well as an improved access door that will enable people with disabilities far easier access to the Town Council offices.

Both projects required permission from the Planning Authority at B&NES. By working with them, we were able to secure advertisement permission and in some cases listed building consent for work at the Town Hall. But I was less prepared for seeking permission for the Enterprise Park signs which also required advertisement permission. We have now applied retrospectively and we are expecting permission to be given soon. The key point here is that it is always worth contacting B&NES if you are in any doubt about whether something you are planning to do might need permission. The team at B&NES are there to help and I found them easy to work with on both projects. Applying for permission retrospectively can be a little nerve-wracking if all of your hard work is put on hold until the outcome is known. Speak to the Planning team early and you can avoid the stress! Contact them on 01225 394041 and ask for Planning Control. Clive Stillwell - Town Clerk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

Brian Lawrence Finance Area: Redfield

Jane Lewis Planning Area: Welton North

John Slade IT and planning Area: Welton Centre

Linda Dunford Community groups & activities Area: Charlton Park

Lynda Robertson Comminuty groups & activities Area: Welton Centre

Clive Stilwell Town Clerk

Michael Evans Law & order Area: Town Centre South

Paul Myers Mayor; Civic Area: Redfield

Pete Mocock Planning Area: Hayes Park

Richard Robertson Allotments & Transport Area: Welton Centre

Steve Plumley Sport & Culture Area: Radstock Road

Sara Box Children & Young People Area: Withies Park