Midsomer Norton Life Autumn 2021

Autumn 2021 Issue 40

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

Updates on Heritage Action Zone, plans for events in the town and much more inside.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE H

ello and welcome to the Autumn edition of Midsomer Norton Life. It is hard to believe that we're almost at the end of another year, but as we look forward to the autumn months, we hope that more of our favourite events can return and life becomes a bit more normal.

In this issue, you can find out more about upcoming events at the Town Park Amphitheatre and the return of face to face council meetings among other exciting upcoming projects.

If you want to appear in our Winter issue, which will be our 10th anniversary(!), get in touch with us - news@ignyte-uk.co.uk

How do I keep up to date with Midsomer Norton Life & Midsomer Norton Town Council on social media?

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C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

MAYOR'S WELCOME

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RETURN OF COMMUNITY TRUST EVENTS PROGRAMME

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TOWN COUNCIL OFFICE

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HERITAGE ACTION ZONE

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SENSORY GARDEN

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YOUTH CONNECT

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WELLBEING IN NATURE

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY ST JOHN'S

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WELLOWBROOK WALK

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WERN

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DUCK UPDATE

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AGE UK

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CAN YOU HELP HENRY

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CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS

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A TICKET TO RIDE AT THE STATION

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WELTON ROVERS

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A MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

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The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in November 2021. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 12th October 2021.

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. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN 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.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WELCOME FROM THE MAYOR

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ello everyone and welcome to the latest edition of Midsomer Norton Life. I hope you are managing to keep well now that the regulations regarding the Covid 19 virus are being lifted. It certainly helps that the vast majority of people have received their vaccinations and I hope that those who haven't yet managed to organise it, can do so soon.

Hopefully, when you receive this copy of Midsomer Norton Life, the weather will be a bit better than it is at the time of writing this. We're just going through the batch of wind and rain storms following on from those few days when it was scorching hot. Not too good for those of us who are trying to get some gardening done!

Keeping you up to date with the Town Park, unfortunately the Lions had to cancel the opening of the Sensory Garden due to the Covid regulations, but they have now been able to reorganise it for 11th September at 12 noon. So, if you would like to come along to this event, please do. We have had a number of organisations contacting us about holding events in the Town Park and they are all being arranged.

If you are part of a group that would like to meet up in the Town Park for an event, please contact the Town Trust to get it organised.

I expect you have noticed that several dropped kerbs have been installed around the town. This makes life so much easier for wheelchair and mobility scooter users.

My Deputy Mayor, Cllr Mike Moxham, has had a number of comments from members of the public about the state of the old brewery building at the Welton, Bibby and Baron site on Station Road. With a construction background, Mike was the best person to contact Welton,

Bibby and Baron about this and they have responded saying they intend to carry out a structural survey soon. So, that sounds like good news.

Thank you all for taking the time to look through this copy of Midsomer Norton Life where you will find lots of information about what is going on in the town. Take care and enjoy the rest of your Autumn.

Lynda Robertson, Mayor of Midsomer Norton Town Council

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A return for Community Trust’s events Programme

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he Midsomer Norton Community Trust’s events programme is set to finally return in full, 18 months after they were last held.

“As with many other community groups it’s been a struggle to keep going with the impact of COVID. However, we have survived and our volunteers turned out in force recently to run our first concert at the Town Hall. All we need to do now is to get the message out there that we’re returning and I’m confident we can begin serving the local community again!”, said Alex Davis, Trust Manager at the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

The First Thursday Afternoon Social returns to Welton Rovers on the 2nd September from 2-5pm with live musical entertainment from Spirelane.

Since its launch the monthly First Thursday has developed into a popular event in the social calendar. Local entertainers provide a blend of musical entertainment, laughter and even a bit of bingo with hot and cold refreshments available from the bar. The Social is the perfect chance to have a laugh, make new friends and dance or foot tap the afternoon away! Upcoming acts include Niteshift, Bennie Vee and Russ Matthews.

Meanwhile, the Paradis Palm Court Trio series resumed in August. These classical concerts see Jacquelyn Bevan (piano), Lisa Betteridge violin & Linda Stocks (cello) play a lunch-hour concert, 12.30-1.30pm on the first Friday of each month in the Assembly Room at Midsomer Norton Town Hall. Each concert is themed and comprises pieces of music in a wide range of styles. Delicious homemade cakes are on sale, along with tea & coffee. Entry is free, with a retiring collection towards the cost of running the series.

Meanwhile the Trust are aiming to resume

the Community Cinema screenings from October. The Trust are currently in discussions with their distributors about the film lineup for the Community Cinema with news and tickets expected to go on sale in early September. For more information on all of these events as they’re announced, head to www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Have you seen the new Greenspaces Poster?

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ou may remember in the last edition of Midsomer Norton Life an article regarding a green spaces poster being designed for Midsomer Norton.

The posters have now been installed on the back of the bus stops on The Island.

The posters include a map, making the town's green spaces easy to find alongside a few interesting facts about the Somer Valley.

Next time you are passing have a look and see the green spaces Midsomer Norton and the surrounding area has to offer.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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Town Council Office NOW opeN

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s Coronavirus started to race across the world last year, our community faced many challenges and the residents of Midsomer Norton went to extraordinary lengths to protect each other, their friends, and their families from the effects of the virus. A couple of consequences of the pandemic were the national lockdowns and the working from home mandate.

As a result of this, on Friday 20th March 2020, Council staff said goodbye to each other and the Council offices which were then closed for the foreseeable future. The office staff found themselves starting work on the morning of Monday 23rd March 2020 at home! Definitely a new experience for us all. The Town Hall offices may have been closed, but the Town Council remained firmly open for business, continuing to ensure public services were maintained and running where possible.

Our Town Warden maintained his presence out and about in the Town and was able to work outside by following the government guidelines on social distancing. We saw how hard Dave works around the Town in the last issue of Midsomer Norton Life and we would like to thank Dave for his continued commitment during these difficult circumstances. Town Council and Committee meetings were moved online and held remotely via Zoom, because of a change in legislation to reflect these unparalleled times. The Town Council was able to hold all their meetings in this way for the duration of the restrictions.

After a lifting of restrictions, the Town Council offices were reopened on Monday 19th July 2021.

Currently two members of the office staff are in the Town Hall, while further staff continue to work from home until a phased and gradual return of all staff by the end of August.

A deep clean of the office was carried out with every workstation cleared and thoroughly cleaned.

Ventilation was an issue in the office because of many layers of paint being applied to the window frames over the years. The Town Warden was able to rectify this and the windows can now be opened to let air flow through the office.

To ensure the continued safety of staff and visitors, we would like to request that visits to the office are kept to a minimum. Please arrange an appointment where face to face contact is required. Contact details can be found on our website. The office staff are always happy to help and are available via email or telephone during office hours. We do hope that the numbers in the area continue to improve as they currently are at the time of writing, and that normal service can resume as soon as possible.

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HIGH STREET Heritage Action Zone makes further Progress

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s the High Street Heritage Action Zone (‘HSHAZ’) programme moves into Autumn, the project team are pleased to report that further progress has been made on the various project streams and a number of key things have happened over the summer months. These developments relate to improvement works on the High Street, support for local organisations and stakeholders and plans for new community events and activities.

The first key development relates to The Island and the specialist input now being received from engineers at AECOM regarding the plans for the new Market Square. Over the recent months, AECOM have been undertaking technical work to test the proposals and ensure they achieve highquality design standards, support local businesses, improve safety for pedestrians and road users and function well for markets and other community events. The engineers are currently looking at the condition of the river culvert beneath The Island and considering how to make sure it is safe; this will require site investigations and trial holes to take place at some point soon. Once the engineering works and tests are completed the designs will be updated and shared with the community.

As mentioned in the Spring issue of Midsomer Norton Life, plans for the Town Hall project continue to take shape and the newly-formed ‘Transformation Implementation Committee’ have been meeting with the project managers to work out how best to reinstate the ‘Market Hall’ on the ground floor for community use. At the moment the Committee are considering how best to cost and phase these works and also fundraise for the

The High Street Heritage Action Zone outlined on a street plan of Midsomer Norton © Crown Copyright and database right 2020.

All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100024900 later phases, including the new side extension and upper floors. The Committee are pleased that tenders from structural, mechanical and electrical engineers have been received and surveying/ technical work from these professionals will come forward in the next few months.

In other news, the project team were delighted to have many business owners, landlords and residents attend the community webinar presentation for the High Street Study in late July. Held online, this webinar gave an overview of the surveys carried out on every pre-1960 High Street building, recommendations for improvements within the town centre and the

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

associated guidance for shopfronts. The webinar also presented the findings of the High Street Questionnaire and launched the Shopfront and Heritage Asset Improvement small grants schemes.

For those who may have missed this event the recording can be found here: bit.ly/3frMVNz High Street business owners and landlords interested in carrying out improvement works to their shopfronts are also encouraged to contact the High Street Project Manager and fill out the associated Expressions of Interest form.

Other updates include another successful meeting of the HSHAZ ‘Steering Group’ on Wednesday 7th July. Items discussed at the meeting included the development of the new HSHAZ website, opportunities for outdoor arts commissions in Summer 2023 and the recruitment

of an Engagement Coordinator to run markets, community events and cultural activities on the High Street on behalf of the Community Trust.

If this role is of interest to you, or someone you know, please keep an eye out for the forthcoming job advert or get in contact with the High Street Project Manager or Trust Manager (manager@ midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk) For more information about the HSHAZ project, or to discuss anything mentioned above, please feel free to contact the High Street Project Manager, Edward Heritage, via email or post (details below).

Email: MidsomerNortonHSHAZ@bathnes.gov.uk Edward Heritage, High Street Project Manager, c/o Midsomer Norton Town Council, The Island, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HQ.

TOWN PARK Amphitheatre

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idsomer Norton Town Council have transferred the ownership of the Town Park to the Town Trust, whose mission is to provide spaces for the inhabitants of Midsomer Norton for social welfare, recreation, leisure time, voluntary groups, events and activities.

Welton Baptist Church have plans to use the amazing new 300 seat Amphitheatre space for song, worship, picnics, talks about the Gospel and testimonies about God’s impact on individual lives.

Midsomer Norton Town Council have transferred the owner ship of the Town Park to the Town Trust, whose mission is to provide spaces for the inhabitants of Midsomer Norton for social welfare, recreation, leisure time, voluntary groups, events and activities.

Please get in touch with Jo Corbett, the Secretary of Midsomer Norton Town Trust, if

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you are interested in using the Amphitheatre or another space in the Town Park for an event.

You can contact her by email: secretary@ midsomernortontowntrust.co.uk or by phone: 07873 232437. Her office hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9am to 5:30pm

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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OFFICIAL OPENING FOR THE NEW SENSORY GARDEN

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adstock and Midsomer Norton Lions club has had a number of successful environmental projects, facilitating litter picks held monthly alternating between Radstock and Midsomer Norton since 2018, and funding a grassroots group, More Trees, for B&NES to grow and plant trees in Bath and North East Somerset in 2020. However, by far the most ambitious project for the club has been its involvement in the creation of a sensory garden with Lions funding the plants and trees within the garden of the new Midsomer Norton Town Park. Earlier in the year the club won the Lions' District Environmental competition in recognition of their work over the last few years.

The project has taken a number of years and the development for the whole park will take more years and funding in the future to complete. The land is owned by the Town Council and the site was given to the Town Trust, who now manage the park project where the sensory garden is sited. The idea of a new ‘Town Park’ being developed in Midsomer Norton was put forward by the Midsomer Norton Town Trust in 2017 and approved by BathNES council.

The club is delighted that our MP Jacob ReesMogg, along with the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Lynda Robertson will officially open the sensory garden on Saturday 11th September.

The Lions hope that the sensory garden will leave a permanent environmental legacy within the park for the people of Midsomer Norton and Radstock and future generations and that it will appeal to all 5 senses and offer a rich therapeutic experience to people with a range of different needs.

The design encourages a protected, stimulating place for people to enjoy simply being, working

and socialising outdoors; a place for reflection and enjoyment.

The club would like to thank all of the people involved in this project who have made the Sensory Garden go from an idea into reality.

Sarah Oughton, President, Radstock & Midsomer Norton Lions Club

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Youth Connect South West & MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN COUNCIL

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outh Connect South West is a youth focused charity delivering services in Bath and North East Somerset. In Midsomer Norton they will be delivering community-based youth work sessions using Midsomer Norton Town Council funding.

The project will operate on two evenings a week starting from 7th September 2021. Tuesday evenings between 6-8pm will be based at the container (HUB) at the skate park for a youth café session that includes cooking and participating in a range of table top activities. YCSW will be engaging with young people to develop the HUB and increase its use. On Friday evenings between 6 – 8pm will be a detached session (on foot). The team will cover hotspot areas identified from previous youth work and by the police and Town Council, such as the High Street.

The sessions will offer young people improved access to support for physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, sexual health and relationship issues, improved access to employability and training support and access to positive activities. They will provide an opportunity to build positive relationships with trusted adults, have more access to relevant support services, and educate and discourage young people from involvement with

serious violence, criminal activity and substance misuse.

The aims of YCSW are to reduce anti-social and criminal damage incidents related to young people in the High Street, skate park and Town Park, by engaging young people more with their community and increasing their feelings of community ownership.

Youth Connect South West, Bath Rugby Foundation, Bath Area Play Project and partners also delivered a fun and powerful package of summer activities at the Astro Courts at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre, Gullock Tyning. This was open to all teenagers aged 12-16, with activities including sports, exercise and creative play, as well as nutritious food, for all attendees to enjoy. This ran on Mondays from August 2nd to August 23rd.

Youth Connect provide a range of other services for young people, such as supporting unemployed young people or providing individuals with support with issues that affect them. More information on Youth Connect services can be found at www.youthconnectsouthwest.org.uk.

Harry Parsons is the leader for the Midsomer Norton work and can be contacted via: harry.parsons@ycsw.org.uk

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A RETURN TO SOME NORMALITY at ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH

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t John's are very pleased to let you know that as the Covid restrictions are beginning to lift, they are now holding weekly Holy Eucharist services at 10am every Sunday. On Sunday 5th September they will also reintroduce the 8am service. St John's encourage the congregation to still wear masks, and they are now able to sing hymns – a great step forward.

A new member of the team at St John’s is Revd Philip Hopper, who has joined in a training post as Assistant Curate. Philip will be working on a part time basis, and the team very much look forward to his ministry with them.

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On Tuesdays at 10.30am - 11.45am St John's are resuming their coffee mornings, so people can meet for a chat and a cup of coffee or tea. This will be followed by Eucharist at 12 noon for those who wish to stay.

The social events started again, the first one being a Songs of Praise followed by a cream tea on Saturday 21 August at 2.00pm.

There will be a very warm welcome to anyone who would like to join any of these occasions.

To obtain more information, please visit the Facebook page - St John’s MSN community group.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE SURVEY

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Midsomer Norton Town Council is committed to using the most appropriate channels of communications to reach our wide variety of customers and stakeholders, including residents, employees, schools, businesses, community partners and all levels of government.

The Town Council are eager to listen, review and check that our communications are being understood by our community. We are constantly striving to improve the way that Midsomer Norton Town Council communicates with our customers and stakeholders.

Of the replies to our recent survey about this magazine, 96% of respondents said that they look forward to receiving Midsomer Norton Life

Magazine.

We asked for your ideas for future features, and your feedback will help us to ensure that we are targeting our readership. Your requests include finding out what the Town Council are doing to help the environment, news about volunteer groups, catching up with things different Councillors have been up to, positive stories about local youths in our Town and some interviews with local businesses and shop keepers.

Our thanks to everyone who took part in our survey. The Town Council has agreed to appoint a working party to look into the future of the magazine and additional communication channels.

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WELLBEING IN NATURE

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arlier in the year, Midsomer Norton Town Council staff were invited to learn more about connecting communities to green spaces.

Somer Valley Rediscovered were funding a four day training course run by Emily Malik and Michéal Connors as part of the Natural Academy. The training was focused on assetbased approaches to nature connection and engagement. In Midsomer Norton we are very lucky to have numerous green spaces around us.

The Natural Academy state that, “our mission with the NatureWell approach is to find a flexible, scalable, integrative way of helping people and the natural world recover and flourish. As we know, this is vital for all our futures together as one health”. Natural Academy is a social enterprise whose mission is to support the health and wellbeing of people and nature. They have developed the NatureWell approach from over 12 years’ experience of working with people's health in natural settings. NatureWell is part of a well-evidenced learning framework that is being delivered across the region and nationally as part of NHS Forest.

The first two days of the course were held at the end of June at Combe Hay Wine and Vineyard, a beautiful location, just outside of Bath, where we were kindly invited by the owners for the training session. The second part of the training took place in early August at Greyfield Wood in High Littleton, another wonderful natural area we are lucky enough to have on our doorstep. It was a great opportunity to learn how we can engage more in the green spaces owned by Midsomer Norton Town Council.

The aim of the training was to show us how to help people and communities connect to nature for their health and wellbeing by disseminating

good practice more generally. By realising the value of local communities and natural spaces NatureWell can be applied to help people connect to natural spaces to develop healthy communities and, at the same time, to care for our natural spaces in Midsomer Norton. It also helps those who are living with challenges to their health or wellbeing, are socially excluded, or deprived to access the many benefits that connecting with nature provides.

After the last 18 months of living through a global pandemic we are all now familiar with the health and mental health benefits that being able to get out into nature can bring, even for an allotted hour to get some exercise! During the pandemic some of us discovered a new found love of walking or discovered new local walks to areas we were not aware of. It is time to embrace and maintain this change going forward and to preserve our great outdoors and appreciate how it enhances our daily lives.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Happy Birthday St John's!

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t John’s Primary School have been celebrating their 300th year this month with a series of celebrations. The school was founded in 1721 after money was left in the will of Ann Harris to educate the poorest 40 pupils in the Parish of Midsomer Norton. Today the school is attended by over 430 pupils who are enormously proud of the school’s long history.

The 300th anniversary festivities began on St John’s Day, Thursday 24th June, when we held assemblies where the children learnt more about the history of the school. They took part in a treasure hunt around the school to find key features which hint to the development of the site from commemorative plaques, bricked up doorways, historic fireplaces and the school bell which was tolled for us all to hear. In the afternoon we held a picnic on the field in class bubbles and enjoyed cakes (donated by our lovely PTA) and party games.

Earlier this month, Alun Williams, CEO of Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership, Headteacher Danielle West-Gaul and pupils from Year 3 officially opened our outdoor classroom.

This new facility will provide another area of learning for pupils attending forest school, as well as the opportunity to move lessons out of the classroom. Other year groups worked hard preparing for its opening by helping to cover the floor area with chipped bark. We would like to thank George’s Garden for donating a cherry tree which was planted to mark the occasion.

Later this year the school will be installing a stained-glass window in the school hall which is being designed by Edgar Phillips. Former pupils and local residents can make a donation to go towards the installation by visiting gofund.me/09844bd6

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Wellow Brook Walk UPDATE

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he Great British Summer weather brings the usual mix of sunshine and heavy showers - the perfect combination for the grass and greenery at Wellow Brook to grow and grow at a rate of knots! Since the farmer who previously, and very kindly, cut the area, retired a couple of years ago, the Town Council have been looking for somebody else to do the job.

The four acres of, sometimes rough under foot, terrain is difficult to cut without the correct machinery, and we were very lucky to find a local farmer, Paul, who had the equipment for the job.

Paul was able to cut further into the hedgerow than had been done previously, and this has opened the field up considerably. There is now a larger area for dogs to run in and for residents to enjoy.

Please do get out and experience this part of our Town. Our plans to improve the area are still being considered, so keep an eye on our website and social media for any updates.

up to three metres in height, and each plant can produce 800 seeds which can spread over seven metres away, or even further if transported by water.

Wellow Brook also has a problem with Himalayan Balsam, which thrives along riverbanks. It is fast growing, non-native to the UK, and spreads rapidly annually by seed. Himalayan Balsam can grow

The Town Warden has spent a lot of time carefully pulling the plant by hand. The issue is being tackled at the appropriate time of the year with the correct equipment.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MUGA at West Clewes

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idsomer Norton Town Council have received quotes and approved the construction of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) at West Clewes Recreation Ground. The MUGA will have a court suitable for multiple sports including football and basketball. On the outer side of the fences will be a cricket wicket, hotshot target, and penalty shootout board.

The Town Council successfully secured Youth funding from B&NES towards this project and the Youth Hub at the Town Park. A lottery grant was applied for by the Recreational Trust which was successful and they have also contributed further funds towards the full cost of the project. Any outstanding funding will be supplied by the Town Council from the reserves.

The Town Council are excited about providing this free, fun facility and the physical and mental health benefits it will bring to the town.

Sight Support West of England

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ight Support West of England improve the quality of life for visually impaired people. They provide practical and emotional support for people adjusting to living with sight loss. They support people to continue to live independently by equipping them with the tools they need and create peer and social networks to help reduce isolation.

The charity believe that sight loss shouldn’t stop people reaching their full potential.

The Sight Advisors are available to offer information and advice on assistive technology, lighting, magnifiers and much more to help you manage your sight loss. They are committed to ensuring the services are accessible to everyone, so appointments are available in accessible locations across the region.

All face-to-face services are provided observing COVID-safe procedures. Booking is essential.

Please call Sight Support on 0117 3224885 to make an appointment. Sessions run on the 4th Thursday of each month, between 10am and 1pm at Midsomer Norton Town Hall.

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West of England Rural Network WERN New Village Agent appointed

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s we come out from the COVID lockdown and life begins very slowly to return to a new normality, many people are very nervous about what they will find as they leave home after nearly 18 months of self-isolation. Local support services, clubs and social activities have been closed and events cancelled as the Government asked us to stay at home.

With a glimmer of light now showing at the end of the tunnel, local charity WERN (West of England Rural Network) is looking to support people in the community who have struggled with their physical and mental wellbeing. They have appointed Michael Auton as their new Village Agent working across Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Westfield and Paulton.

Two teams of Village Agents (North Somerset and B&NES) are embedded in the rural communities in which they work, providing confidential 1-to-1 support with information and advice. Alongside this they work with local people to create new opportunities for activities and social groups, and encourage people to move more and sit less through gentle exercise and walks.

The focus is on people living in rural, often remote locations. Older residents often feel forgotten and ignored. They are certainly out of sight as the social groups they attended have been closed over the last year. During the pandemic Village Agents became a vital point of contact for food and other essential supplies.

Michael has lived in the Somer Valley for many years and will use his wealth of experience and local knowledge to signpost residents to local services, befriending groups or offering 1-to-1

support. He is now looking to connect with service groups, lunch clubs, befriending groups, churches and charities, and is keen to come and talk to readers about how the service can support them at home.

Michael said: "The last 15 months have been hard on all of us and we have struggled to manage the impact of COVID on our lives. Social contact has been significantly restricted and activities we took for normal may no longer exist. As the new Village Agent for Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Westfield and Paulton, I am here to help any residents to provide information and support to access services which will improve their health and wellbeing."

Anyone over 18 years of age can be supported and you can self-refer if you are struggling and need additional support. Michael can be contacted by emailing michael@wern.org.uk or telephone 07392 700765. More information about the Village Agent service can also be found on the WERN website https://www.wern.org.uk/village-agents

20

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

BATH MIND – HERE TO HELP

T

he past two years have been hard on everyone, both physically and mentally, so if you feel like you need support, join the team from Bath Mind at one of their local mental health and well-being groups.

allowing them to engage in social activities linked to the five ways to well-being. This group meets face to face every Monday and Wednesday from 11am until 1pm.

The Midsomer Norton Wellbeing Group meet every Tuesday from 11am until 1pm at the Swallows Café. It is an inclusive and supportive group that encourages positive mental health through peer support and creativity, offering a number of different activities, as well as one to one talks, which are facilitated by the group’s organisers.

Young people struggling with challenges, anxiety or depression or who just want a group of likeminded individuals that they can speak openly with are encouraged to visit Safe Space, the online well-being group provided by Bath Mind volunteers. Safe Space is held via Zoom on a Thursday from 5pm – 5.30pm with monthly meet ups in person.

Bath Mind also run Open Opportunities sessions at their base on Manvers Street in Bath. This group supports those with ongoing mental health issues,

To find out more about Bath Mind’s work,please contact the wellbeing team on wellbeing@ bathmind.org.uk or call Becky on 07538 113890.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

21

Duck update

B

ack last Summer we received a call from a resident advising us that several ducklings were stuck in the grate on the River Somer.

The mother duck was obviously very distressed at not being able to reach her ducklings, which in turn was upsetting for the resident who contacted us. At this time, our Town Warden was fortunately able to install some wooden planks to enable the ducklings to climb out and be happily reunited with their mum! However, these wooden planks were not a long-term solution to the issue.

The issue arose again earlier in the summer, with several very upset residents reporting stuck ducklings to us. We immediately reported this matter to the RSPCA (as redirected by the RSPB) who can be contacted on 0300 1234 999. After rescuing the ducklings from the area, the RSPCA advised us that they could not move the duck and ducklings up stream, as this was their nesting ground, and they would eventually make their way back to it.

We, therefore, contacted the Environment Agency and explained the situation to them. After a visit to the area, they came up with a plan to install a ramp with small pieces of wood all the way up.

This would enable the ducklings to make their way out without sliding back down to the place where they were getting trapped. We would like to thank the residents for alerting this to us, the RSPCA for carrying out their rescue and the Environment Agency for installing the ramp and, hopefully, preventing any further incidents.

DROP-IN COVID Vaccinations

A

s part of the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme, Bath & North East Somerset Council offered mobile drop-in vaccination appointments at various locations in B&NES throughout May, June, July and August 2021.

The vaccination bus parked in the Town Park spaces near the Somer Centre. They targeted areas where there was a relatively lower uptake of vaccinations, and to rural areas where accessing

a large vaccination clinic may have been harder.

The vaccine bus operated as a drop-in service so people didn’t have to book; they could just turn up and have their vaccine, and there was no requirement to be registered with a doctor. The bus also operated as a space where people could come to find out more about the vaccine without having to actually have it. It was very difficult to predict what the uptake would be: they had the capacity to provide up to 200 vaccines per day.

22

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

AGE UK offer SUPPORT FOR THose who have lost THEIR COnfidence

A

ge UK Bath & North East Somerset is urging the public to be compassionate, as we head into autumn, with a recent survey showing that a huge 48% of older people say they have lost their confidence, and many more are worried about the future.

CEO, Simon Allen, said: “We are really concerned that nearly half of people who answered our survey say they have lost confidence. Older people have been some of the most affected during the pandemic and for many, the isolation, lack of contact, worry and loss of loved ones has, understandably, taken its toll. Therefore, we are urging the public to really be mindful of older people in our community who may want to take things slower – not all of us are ready for no masks and group hugs."

The survey, which went to thousands of residents in Bath & North East Somerset, has shone a light on how older people have coped during the pandemic, what support is needed and feelings about the future.

Nearly half of all people who answered said they had lost confidence, which has sparked the charity to launch an emergency ‘Confidence; to live the life you choose’ appeal raising money for more one to one support including tailored mobility exercise, access to community groups, chat and check in and practical guidance to getting online.

Comments from the survey included:

Paula, 69, “I've never spent so much time alone without human contact before. I have become very isolated and have felt very lonely.”

Peter, 81 said: “I need confidence to understand technology and get online. I find it difficult being disabled and relying on other people all the time.”

Rose, 63 said: "It is hard making friends when you don't have confidence”.

Brian, 76 said: “I do hope I can build up the confidence to go out of the house again.”

Confidence isn’t changed overnight and so the charity is asking people for regular donations to support their ongoing work which will see older people having the confidence to live the life they choose.

Age UK Bath & North East Somerset want to remind people that they are here for anyone over 55 who might need advice, support out of hospital, help at home or just a friendly chat.

Can you help to support people in building back their confidence? Please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/bathandnortheastsomerset

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

23

CAN YOU HELP HENRY?

H

enry is an 8 year old from Midsomer Norton who loves to be independent and make people smile. At 12 months old he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy spastic diplegia which most noticeably affects Henry’s lower limbs making him unable to stand or walk unaided. This has never stopped Henry aiming for better mobility and independence with his determined nature helping him along the way.

Henry has received weekly therapy since diagnosis which has become a big part of his life, teaching him the skills to sit, crawl, walk with a walker and now learning to walk with just sticks thus increasing his stamina to go even further. These are skills we all take for granted but Henry worked extra hard to achieve.

Thanks to everyone`s support and help with fundraising he was able to have SDR in July 2020 at the Portland Hospital London.

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery is a procedure that treats muscle spasticity caused by abnormal communication from the brain to the muscles. It achieves this by cutting the nerve rootlets in the spinal cord, thus reducing spasticity while improving the range of motion and functional mobility.

helpinghenry or why not join in the the firewalk that’s happening on the 8th October at MSN Cricket Club.

Following SDR there is an intense rehabilitation period of 3 years and without this Henry will not gain the full benefits from the operation. He has been working so hard before and after and deserves the chance to improve his mobility and independence.

Just4Children are still trying to raise funds to continue to allow Henry to access the therapy he needs and any equipment and orthotics to aid his independence.

You can help by either donating to www. justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/just4children/

If you would like to volunteer to walk on fire and raise some well needed funds, contact helpinghenry6@gmail.com

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

25

The Conservation Volunteers AT THE TOWN PARK

T

he Conservation Volunteers (TCV Bristol) have completed a 200m path over the last few months at Midsomer Norton Town Park. It has taken the incredible efforts of a small group of volunteers to lay 400m of revetment and move 58 tonnes of hardcore/hoggin all by hand.

Work is now underway on a set of steps leading from the Amphitheatre up to the Greenway behind. Twenty-six steps were built initially; several more days work will be necessary to complete the job.

Midsomer Norton Town Trust appealed for funding for the paths and were delighted to receive £1558.62 in donations. A huge thankyou to everyone who generously contributed. There will be an opening ceremony for the paths and steps once the work is completed.

The Town Council, Town Trust and Community Trust are delighted with the continued developments at the Town Park, and very grateful for the amazing work undertaken by TCV. Please get in touch if you can spare some time to work on this, or other TCV projects.

A CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS Would you like to help maintain Midsomer Norton Town Park?

If you interested in physical activity outdoors that will be a positive benefit for the community then get in touch.

All tools and training will be provided by TCV. Visit www.tcv.org.uk/getinvolved/volunteering or contact the TCV officers on 07739447995

26

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

3SG - Community Wellbeing Hub

B

ath and North East Somerset Third Sector Group (3SG) has been providing support to charities, social enterprises and community groups in Bath and North East Somerset since 2016. 3SG is an independent charity that has a membership of over 140 organisations, made up of charities, social enterprises, faith and voluntary groups.

Their aim is to raise the profile of their members, provide 1-to-1 support and offer opportunities to influence local strategic decision making. 3SG also provide hundreds of volunteer marshals to the Large Vaccination Centre at Bath Racecourse and are currently recruiting so use the contact details below if you'd be interested.

Since the start of the pandemic, 3SG has also been behind the local volunteer response and was a founding partner of the Community Wellbeing Hub. The Community Wellbeing Hub is still open and continues to offer a wide range of advice and support to residents of Bath and North East Somerset.

You can contact the hub on 0300 247 0050 from Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm.

If you would like to find out more about 3SG, then please get in touch: Email: Miles at contact@3sg.org.uk Call: 01225 683087 Website: www.3sg.org.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

27

‘A Ticket to Ride’ AT THE STATION

T

he weekend gala to celebrate the visiting steam locomotive Austin at Midsomer Norton station saw four locos in action in some of the best weather of the summer! The biggest ever gala saw resident Class 08 and 03 Diesel Shunters working alongside unique Sentinel steam locomotive ‘Joyce’ and the visiting Kitson 0-6-0ST ‘Austin 1’.

There was an intensive timetable that saw both freight and passenger services, with all combination of locos in action. Two vintage buses were on site assisting with transport to and from the gala. The Wickham Trolley was also put to work providing a ride within the confines of the station yard.

Austin has been hauling passenger services every summer weekend and will be a major part of the autumn Gala on the 22nd to the 24th October. An extra treat this year are Driver Experience courses on Austin on September the 4th and 18th. Looking forwards, bookings will soon be available on the website for Santa Specials on all the December weekends.

People have been very welcome over the summer weekends and volunteers at the station would like to thank all the visitors who have made all their hard work worth while.

You can get your ‘Ticket to Ride’ on the website or why not join the team as a working volunteer?

Booking for all events and rides is through the website, sdjr.co.uk

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28

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Wheelchair & Pushchair Access in Midsomer Norton

M

idsomer Norton Town Council has always been keen for all its residents to be able to enjoy as much of the town as possible.

Many steps have been taken to ensure better access to as many of the town's public areas as possible. However, it had been reported to us that there was an issue with access to the Town Park, because of the lack of dropped kerbs in the area.

Councillor Steve Plumley contacted B&NES Council and arranged to meet with one of their officers, along with Councillor Mike Moxham for some practical advice, to discuss suitable locations. B&NES Council granted permission for the works to go ahead, and the dropped kerbs have now been installed, making it easier for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs to access the Town Park and the Somer Centre.

Another area that was notified to us as proving difficult to access, was the entrance to Hayes Road, as there was not enough room to negotiate the bars. The bars in Hayes Road have reportedly been an issue for years but it was recently brought to our attention again by a resident. The bars were so close together as to not allow some of the newer children’s buggies and mobility scooters to

get through.

Councillors Steve Plumley and Mike Moxham again met up with the B&NES Council's Highway Inspector, and they have now installed new bars with an increased space between them to make access into and out of Hayes Road much easier.

We would like to thank B&NES Council and their officers for their assistance in making the areas more accessible.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

29

HELP Stop Anti-Social Behaviour

T

he Town Council are disappointed to continue to deal with anti social behavior at West Clewes and the Town Park. In recent weeks the trampoline has been broken, bottles smashed, litter left and individuals have been drunk and disorderly. Broken glass is a serious health and safety risk, especially so close to a park where children are playing and where dogs are frequently walked. The Town Warden quickly responds to reports of broken glass to ensure no one is injured.

CCTV in both areas have recently been upgraded and blind spots have been removed. Due to this upgrade the office staff are now able to download good quality footage to send to the police. The police have been taking the footage to the local schools in a bid to identify those youths who appear on the footage. In three recent instances the youths have been identified and the parents have been informed of their children’s behaviour.

Two Community Resolution Orders have been raised and two youths now have a six month ban from entering West Clewes.

Each time an instance of anti-social behaviour is reported the office staff must take time out of their busy schedules to trawl through the CCTV and download the appropriate footage. The Town

HIGH STREET DIY

Warden spends a large part of his time repairing the damage caused or the clearing up. At times the damage is severe and the Town Council must pay a contractor to make the repairs.

All this is costing the Town Council money. The funds received by the Council come from the Town’s residents' council tax. Spending money on repairs takes away funds for other projects that make the town a better place to live in.

The Town Council have been working closely with the police in combating this unacceptable behaviour, including patrols taking place. The police are eager to speak with those mistreating these areas and educate them on the impact of anti-social behaviour.

With the summer holidays upon us, the Council would like the open areas to be enjoyed by the community as a whole and for residents not to be put off by anyone being a nuisance or causing a disturbance.

If you witness any anti-social behaviour, please contact the Police on 101.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

31

SOMER VALLEY FM is BLOOMING!

S

omer Valley FM, the local radio station for North East Somerset, based in Midsomer Norton, have had their gardens further developed and spruced up by the Prince's Trust 2 Team from Bath College.

The team, based on the Somer Valley campus, initially cleaned and cleared the area, renovated existing borders, planted afresh and even designed and built a lit path.

Ben Perry, Prince's Trust Team Leader was delighted with the results. "The team were brilliant in planning and completing the garden redevelopment very quickly. Working well together, I’m sure the skills they are gaining as part of the Prince's Trust training will help them in their future careers."

The Prince's Trust Team is Sophie, AnnMarie, Ashleigh, Liam, Callie and Nathanial.

Richard Burgess, Station Manager, commented: "We have a great relationship with Bath College, across all the campuses. It’s important to me and our team that we encourage our young, local people wherever we can, from gardening through to media presenting. The students were a pleasure to be around – I hope they can find the right opportunities for themselves when their education is complete."

The Prince's Trust next programme starts 27 September, finishing 17 December.

To contact your local radio station: 01761 411755, studio@somervalleyfm.co.uk, or find us on social media.

32

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Join the WELTON RUNNERS

W

ould you like to make new friends and have company when you’re exercising?

'Welton Church Runners' could be the group for you!

We meet every Saturday morning, 9am outside of the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton. Everyone is welcome, whatever your age (children must be accompanied by adults). The group follows various circuits around Midsomer Norton Town Park, depending on ability. Some of the runners have also recently been part of a fantastic volunteer team adding a new path, linking the existing routes, to create different options. For those wanting to do a little extra, some of the group are also doing Couch to 5k and would love to offer encouragement and support. Others

also sometimes meet in the week for time trials.

Whether or not you’re ready for going the “extra mile”, coffee and cake with new friends at a nearby café is a popular option after running together on Saturdays - it would be great to see you. If you would like more information or would like to join, please contact eugene.kertzman@weltonchurch. org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

33

MIDSOMER NORTON RUGBY CLUB

A

s summer turns to autumn, excitement builds as Midsomer Norton Rugby Club prepare to play their first matches for almost eighteen months.

The First XV begin their season in Cheltenham on Saturday 4th September, before the first chance to catch them at home the following Saturday against Chipping Sodbury. The Second and Third XVs have slightly longer to wait, starting their league campaigns on Saturday 25th September.

The Junior Section continues to thrive with the pitches at Norton Down full of youth players of all ages enjoying training on Sundays. With coronavirus restrictions easing the clubhouse has now fully reopened and families are enjoying its

new look after a volunteer-led refurbishment.

Behind the scenes there have been changes with Neil Denning stepping down as Chairman after an incredible nineteen-year stint in the role. Alex Davis was elected as the club’s first new Chairman for almost two decades.

The club have recognised the contributions to the club of Neil Denning, Bob Ladd and Simon Mollison with the award of Life Memberships.

The contribution of the three individuals will be celebrated at an event this Autumn.

The rugby club welcomes new members and players of all ages and abilities. For more information head to www.midsomernortonrfc.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

35

RECOGNISING ACHIEVEMENT – THE CHIEF SCOUTS BRONZE AWARDS

F

or so many people, this has been a challenging year. Trying to run a Beavers group (the youngest section in Scouting for ages 6-8 years) has pushed the leader’s ingenuity to the limit!

With imagination aplenty, the Beaver leaders of 1st Midsomer Norton Scouts have managed programmes that allowed the young people to have fun and continue to gain their badges.

Thanks to the wonders of Zoom, there have been visits by the police and fire services, plus a magician and even a pantomime.

With lockdown easing, all the groups at 1st Midsomer Norton Scouts have been able to meet back face to face. Last week saw the end of the Beavers' year, with a family party in the park.

Over 100 badges were given out to the group, including some very special badges. Five Beavers achieved the top award which can be presented at Beavers, the Chief Scouts' Bronze Award. Huge congratulations go to Ollie, Charlie, Ed, and Zach.

Amelie, aged 8, not only achieved this award, but she managed to attain every badge that Beavers has to offer. A total of 22 activity and 6 challenge badges, from first aid and road safety to hikes, fires, and cooking.

Martyn Rayner, the Beavers Leader for Ottawa group, said: “We are so proud of Amelie’s achievement. She has hardly missed a session in the past two years and joined in every activity with a big smile on her face. We will miss those leaving us this term, but hope they enjoy Cubs and stay within the Scouting movement for years to come.”

If you are interested in your children joining 1st Midsomer Norton Scouts, please send their details to joiners@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk or for further details on joining or volunteering please visit our website: midsomernortonscouts.org.uk

36

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Gardening in the sunshine SWALLOW Charity

S

WALLOW is a local charity supporting teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. SWALLOW members and staff have been busy getting out and about and enjoying the good weather. The SWALLOW horticulture group have been planting up hanging baskets and also making a ladybird bug house.

If you would like to know more about SWALLOW’s work please go to www.swallowcharity.org.

Registered charity number 1045893.

The charity relies on donations to be able to continue its work in Midsomer Norton. If you would like to support the charity by making a gift or fundraising please contact Nicky Tew on nickyt@ swallowcharity.org.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

37

SOMER VALLEY FOODbank

D

ue to the sale of our existing warehouse, the Somer Valley Foodbank needs to find a new storage facility that can hold up to 7 tonnes of non-perishable food. We need a space that is about 1,500 square feet in size.

We are appealing to the local business community for help in this matter and if anyone knows of or has a premises that we could use, please could they contact the Somer Valley Foodbank Chairman, Paul Woodward, on 07729523986 or email info@somervalley.foodbank.org.uk.

“We need this matter resolved as soon as possible, as we have to leave the present warehouse by the end of the year. The foodbank management team would like to thank our landlord who has been most generous and helpful with the arrangement we have and it is just unfortunate that we have to leave. It has been a very useful warehouse for us to have for the last year. We fully understand the need to sell the facility but we just do not have the funds to purchase it,” said Paul Woodward.

The Foodbank provides three days of emergency food to people who need it the most.

Professionals such as health visitors, social workers and the CAB identify people in crisis and issue them with a Foodbank voucher. This all done via phone calls and electronic vouchers.

The voucher can be taken to a Foodbank distribution centre, in Midsomer Norton, Peasedown, Paulton or Radstock, where a friendly team of volunteers will help people with their food needs.

With more than 70 volunteers collecting and transporting food, helping in distribution centres and providing support to those who visit, the Somer Valley Foodbank is one of the biggest volunteer-led projects in Bath and North East Somerset.

Of the 2,000 people who receive help each year, they are referred to the Foodbank for a variety of reasons, such as being on a low income, benefit delays, benefit changes, debt, ill health and unemployment, etc.

“We would also like to thank the local press for their continued support and to the community who continue to donate food for us to hand out to those who are referred to us by local agencies.

We are now calling on the community for help in finding a new warehouse,” added Paul Woodward.

For more information about the Somer Valley Foodbank, visit www.somervalley.foodbank.org. uk, email info@somervalley.foodbank.org.uk or call 07729523986

38

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GOOD NEWS FROM Welton Rovers

W

elton Rovers’ season has got off to a fantastic start with the Midsomer Norton team winning the Fry Club Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

The prestigious pre-season tournament has been won by the likes of Bristol City and Bristol Rovers in the past, and celebrated it’s 50th instalment this year. Rovers will go down in the competition’s history as the milestone winners after a 2-1 victory over Mendip Broadwalk in the showpiece final.

Welton Rovers Confirm New Club Sponsor Welton Rovers are delighted to announce Sam Chivers Estate Agents as the club’s new Primary Sponsor.

Sam Chivers Estate Agents are local experts in residential property sales, lettings, commercial

lettings and land of all types in the postcode areas of BA3, BA2 and BS39.

As part of the new sponsorship deal, the Sam Chivers logo will adorn Welton Rovers’ brand new Nike manufactured home kit, which the club wore in their opening leaguefixture at Odd Down.

Rovers' chairperson, Malcom Price, said of the new relationship: “There is no better company for us to have started this relationship with than Sam Chivers Estate Agents. Their work is everywhere to see within our community, and for our football club to receive their support is a massive boost to us going forward, as well as a further commitment to their work within our local area”.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

39

MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN TRUST

T

he Town Council has transferred three of its assets to the Town Trust, the charity established in 2014 to provide facilities for recreation for the inhabitants of Midsomer Norton. The Trust has now added to its assets the Town Park and Somer Centre in Gullock Tyning, and the Silver Street Nature Reserve. The Trustees will seek to maintain these spaces for the use of groups and residents of Midsomer Norton, in line with the Trust's charitable objects.

The Town Trust is currently working closely with the Town Council on the Town Hall Transformation Project, which is seeking to improve the operational challenges at this building in the heart of the Town. The Town Hall offers

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a range of spaces for community use but the addition and partition of rooms over its 150 year history make the building difficult to use and it is in a poor state of repair. The proposal being implemented is a transformation of the building to reinstate the original ground floor Market Hall and construction of a rear extension for offices, community meeting rooms, storage and service rooms.

These current projects, along with the ongoing management of St Chad’s Well and the Orchard Hall are keeping the Trustees and the Town Trust Secretary busy and hold the promise of exciting opportunities to come for the communities of Midsomer Norton.

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40

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Silver Street Nature Reserve

F

or the last couple of years we have been feeling the benefit of our wild open spaces. In Midsomer Norton we have the wonderful Town Park and the Silver Street Nature Reserve as well as other areas in walking distance.

We have found that being in contact with our natural side feeds the mind, body and soul and listening to bird song is just a joy. Walking is also good for us too.

So many people come to the Nature Reserve in Silver Street and are pleasantly surprised with what they find there. A lovely cool woodland with the glint of the pond appearing through the trees and the spring ever flowing even in the dry

weather. The meadow is full of wildflowers and, facing south, is a wonderful place to sit a while and look over Midsomer Norton.

We have had our assessment from It’s your Neighbourhood (In Bloom) and hope for a favourable result; the judge was very impressed with the work our volunteers have achieved this year. So come along and see for yourself what you are missing!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LOCAL LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK I hope this edition of Midsomer Norton Life finds you well and you enjoyed the summer months.

As you will have read earlier in this issue, the staff of Midsomer Norton Town Council have started to return to the office after a long 18 months of working remotely. With COVID cases rising locally, we must all continue to act to control the spread of the virus, to keep ourselves and others as safe as we can. If you do need to see us, please make an appointment, or continue to contact us via email or by phone; we are always happy to help where we can.

You will have read that Anti-Social Behaviour is continuing to have an impact in the Town. While we are aware that it is a small minority causing issues, the consequences affect us all at the end of the day. Should you see anything of concern then please report it to the Police on 101. This is not an emergency number for incidents requiring an immediate response but can be used to report a crime or incident. As another example, we have had reports of cars parking in locations likely to cause an obstruction – this too can be reported on 101.

Similar to 101 in a sense that you can report an issue requiring attention, is the Bath and North East Somerset Council Fix My Street website https://fix .bathnes.gov.uk. Here you can report problems with roads, pavements, parks, litter and fly tipping, and overhanging vegetation to name but a few, for all locations in Bath and North East Somerset.

Recent installations in the Town have included a new bus timetable at Redlands Terrace. This was requested by a resident early last year and was delayed because of the pandemic. New bars have been fitted between Hayes Road and Northmead Road, allowing mobility scooters and buggies better access. The Somer Valley greenspace

41

posters are now up in Midsomer Norton, Radstock and Westfield. The poster in Midsomer Norton can be seen on the back of the bus stop on The Island detailing the green spaces in our area.

Finally, a new server has been installed at the Town Hall, for increased service reliability for its users.

In other news, all revenue grant payments have been made and letters sent to the recipients.

Please see the Midsomer Norton Town Council Grant Policy on the website to see if your local voluntary or community group might be eligible for financial help. We are also continuing to investigate funding for the planned improvement works at Wellow Brook, including potential funding from S106 monies, the Duchy of Cornwall and Somer Valley Rediscovered.

With Wellow Brook Walk also in mind, we have been advised by Somer Valley Rediscovered that as part of the new Environment Bill, developers will need to demonstrate part 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) on qualifying developments.

Ideally this net gain of biodiversity is delivered on-site but, in some instances, where this is impossible, they may be allowed to achieve this 10% increase off-site. In return for the off-site improvements the developer must provide funding for a minimum of 30 years management to achieve stated habitat creation and improvements.

We have nominated the Town Park and Wellow Brook Walk as potential areas to take advantage of this funding and are waiting to hear from the B&NES ecologist.

Please continue to keep up to date with what the Town Council are doing by having a look at our website and social media pages, which are updated regularly. I would also like to take the opportunity to let you know that (at the time of writing) the Full Council, Planning Committee, and Finance and Operations Committee meetings due to take place in September, will see a return of meetings in person, and all details will be found on the website in due course.

42

LOCAL LIFE

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

Cllr Lynda Robertson (Mayor) 07912 516223 lyndaroberston@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Sue Graham 07896 411 840 suegraham@midsomernorton towncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Michael Moxham (Deputy Mayor)

01761 419960 07593 185850

mikemoxham@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Christian Griffiths 07568 482261 christiangriffiths@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Midsomer Norton Town Council Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton Bath BA3 2HQ - 01761 418701 townclerk@midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Lynne Clement 07855 037805 01761 414003 lynneclement@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Brian Lawrence

(Chair of Finance and Operations Committee)

07701 007 277

brianlawrence@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Pete Mocock 07891 380197

Cllr Steve Plumley 07913 952901

petemocock@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

steveplumley@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Richard Robertson 07511 413721 richardrobertson@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Michael Evans 01761 235996 michaelevans@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Gordon Mackay (Chair of Planning Committee)

07806 604 302

gordonmackay@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk