A friendly, well established Local Garage in Paulton providing General repairs, Servicing, Air conditioning, MOT testing, Diagnostics, Tyres, Wheel Alignment & Exhausts, Vehicle breakdown and recovery
We also specialise in Engine ECU Remapping, Performance Tuning, Custom LONGLIFE Stainless Exhausts, Classic Car Restoration and Dinitrol Under Body Protection.
Central Garage has been providing vehicle repair services in Paulton for generations. Starting with Mr Frank A Raisey, a builder, who built Central Garage in Paulton’s High Street in 1945, to offer car and motorcycle repairs. The company was taken over in 1955 by Ron Laurence, who introduced the fuel filling station and Gerald Knight joined the company in 1962.
Autumn is here and with it, the changing of the leaves, a return to school and the promise of plenty of exciting upcoming events.
In this issue, we have a community round up of the summer, as well as details of things to look forward to as the summer comes to an end.
If you want to feature in our next issue, make sure to get in touch with us before 7th October - we love hearing from you! All that's left to say is that we hope you enjoy this edition of Midsomer Norton Life and we'll see you in the winter for our final issue of the year!
Berkeley Motor Company (Berkeley Coaches) took ownership in 1972, moving the workshop to its current location on Ham Lane, Paulton, and adding a small fleet of hire vans, keeping the high street site as a car show room and fuel filling station. A few years later, Nick Cross, one of our senior technicians started and is still with us now.
Central Garage became a Fiat dealership in 1978 and Graham Hodges joined the company as a parts manager. On 3rd March, 1981, Gerald and Graham took over Central Garage, growing the van and car hire agency, renaming it Central Hire and expanding the workshop. Shortly after, they became an agent for Bosch Electronics and expanded the new car sales part of the business. In 1982, they modernised the filling station and later progressed into a full spar shop.
Alan Green joined the team in 2001 as an apprentice and on 3rd October 2016, Alan and his long term friend, Mark Gainey took over the business, turning it into Central Garage (Paulton) Ltd. Since then, they have grown the business
further, modernising the Central Hire vehicle fleet with the latest ULEZ compliant vehicles and now also offers local vehicle breakdown and recovery services.
The workshop facilities have also been modernised significantly, with state of the art equipment, expanding into an IMI approved performance tuning and remapping centre. Central Garage has also become a longlife custom exhaust franchise, known as Bath LongLife and a Dinitrol under body protection centre, offering full classic car restoration services. We now have five fully qualified vehicle technicians and we continue to keep up to date with the innovation of new vehicle technology, which is constantly developing.
The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in November 2024. If you would like your group or organisation to be included in the next issue, please contact us on 01761 410141 or email news@ignyte-uk.co.uk before the deadline of 7th October 2024.
At Central Garage (Paulton) Ltd, we pride ourselves on our longstanding track record of providing effective solutions with a personalised approach which has built us an amazing reputation. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Paulton, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding areas for the continued support.
SOMER vALLEY F OODBANK
After many years of being based at the Salvation Army Hall in Midsomer Norton, the Foodbank is now moving.
Outgoing Foodbank Project Manager, Paul Woodward, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the Salvation Army for providing us with a home for many years – a weekly spot where those in need could come and collect food parcels and seek any advice and support they need.
"With the church closing, we relocated in August to our new location."
The last Monday session at the Salvation Army Hall took place on 5th August.
As of 14th August, weekly food parcels are now available from St John's Church Hall, located behind St John's Chuurch opposite the petrol station on Church Lane. Opening times are 1pm3pm.
The Somer Valley Foodbank, originally established as a collaboration between local churches and community leaders, is nestled under the charitable status of St John’s Church, Peasedown St John.
The foodbank, which runs food distribution centres in Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Paulton and Peasedown St John, has been at the forefront of helping some of the local area’s most needy ever since its doors opened in 2013.
Since 2017, the Foodbank’s operations have been managed by Paul Woodward, who recently announced his retirement from the role after 7 year’s service.
Paul said: “It’s been a huge joy to manage and lead
the Somer Valley Foodbank over all these years.
"Now, more than ever before over the last 10 years, there has never been a greater need for the Somer Valley Foodbank’s existence. With the rise in the cost of of living, and more people finding it difficult to make ends meet, we’re seeing an unprecedented demand for the foodbank’s services.”
The Somer Valley Foodbank Project Manager is a voluntary position that oversees the operation of the Foodbank. In partnership with the management committee the manager guides the development of the Somer Valley Foodbank, including its material resources, financial assets, reputation, partnerships and volunteer body. The time commitment expected is around 15 hours per week.
Anyone interested in applying for the voluntary role of the Project Manager of the Somer Valley Foodbank can contact Revd Matthew Street by emailing matthew.street@stjsgroup.church
Since January 2013, the Foodbank has fed 23,828 people and distributed over 200 tonnes of food across the Somer Valley. It is part of the Trussell Trust, a Christian Charity that now has over 430 Foodbanks operating throughout the country.
For more information about the Somer Valley Foodbank visit www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk
MIDSoMEr N ortoN a ND ra DStoc K ROTARY CLUB
Midsomer Norton and Radstock Rotary Club held a wonderful choir concert at Downside School, with performances from the Mendip Male Voice Choir and Jenny Peplow Singers.. A sell-out audience were well entertained, and the event raised sufficient funds to boost the Club’s stock of sports boots for the forthcoming Boot Swap, which was held throughout August in Midsomer Norton.
In June, the Club resurrected the Wessex Beer, Cider and Music Festival and thanks to fantastic sponsorship, predominately by Massey Willcox of Chilcompton and many other local businesses, the Club were able to raise in excess of £15,000 towards this year’s charities, Dementia UK and Dorothy House. Special thanks must also go to the performers and volunteers who gave their
time over the two days to make the event such a phenomenal success.
The end of our Rotary year was celebrated on a canal boat cruising out of Bradford on Avon and the end of year “Handover” of officers took place onboard. Our extremely successful President Kevin Chard passed on his chain of office to Debby Huxham, who in turn passed on her President Elect office to John Dando and Richard Pierce became Vice President. And so begins another year.
If you like the idea of being a Rotarian, check out our website on www.RotaryNR.org.uk, Facebook or talk to any member who will be happy to give you more information.
John Dando President Elect
Fantastic choice oF shrubs & herbaceous Perennials available now to provide an amazing display of late summer colour and add interest to the garden, throughout autumn and Winter – Very attractive to wildlife too!!
sPrinG FloWerinG bulbs aVailable FroM Mid-auGust onWards For autuMn PlantinG
noW in stocK! – thoMPson & MorGan 2025 FloWer & VeGetable seed collection, includinG neW ranGe oF sWeet Peas & WildFloWers
sPrinG / Winter FloWerinG Pansies, Violas, WallFloWers, & sWeet WilliaM aVailable noW! coMPost, toPsoil, FarMyard & horse Manure, decoratiVe barK, GraVels, Grits & sands
Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band have had a busy and full summer with some wonderful engagements and concerts.
We have performed at local bandstands, summer fetes and put on our very own training band concert!
It was an absolute pleasure to take our brand new “step up band” with us to each engagement, with players as young as seven years old, as well as adults returning to their instrument; securing the future for brass banding.
Our band has grown in strength and numbers over the past year and we cannot wait to get cracking on our next concert programmes. We have some wonderful new music to share with you all, so keep your eyes peeled for where you can catch us this autumn and winter 2024.
As always, if you fancy getting involved in playing with us, then please contact us via our website, www.msnrsb.org.uk.
We would love to meet you!
WELTON ChURC h RUNNERS
Welton Church Runners are looking forward to celebrating their 25th free timed 5k run in the park on September 7th.
This takes place in the Midsomer Norton Town Park on the first Saturday of every month at 9 am.
There is a selfie frame for runners who have completed 10 and 20 runs to make a commemorative photograph to recognise their achievement.
The course is a challenging one and runners often comment on how interesting it is and the beauty of the park.
There have been a number of improvements to the paths and these have been completed
thanks to volunteers working with Somer Valley Rediscovered and TCV. A section that was previously very muddy is now much easier to run on.
If you would like to register for the next run go to: tinyurl.com/weltonchurch5kseries
SWALLOW C hARITY c ELEbratES frIENDShIp
SWALLOW Charity, a charity supporting local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities, celebrated friendship through the month of August. The charity values friendship and knows how important friends are to its members and staff alike. Friends support each other, celebrate through the good times and help each other through the bad times.
SWALLOW Charity brings people together for fun times and laughter with its range of social activities including Fun Club events, Men’s and Ladies’ nights and the weekly Boogie Night dance sessions at Westhill Social club. These sessions
reduce social isolation, and boost mental and physical health.
The charity also relies on its Friends of SWALLOW to help achieve this aim, by making regular donations that support activities that boost friendship and wellbeing.
If you would like to make a difference in the lives of local people by becoming a Friend of SWALLOW, please get in touch with Nicky Tew on nickyt@swallowcharity.org or go to www.swallowcharity.org/friends www.swallowcharity.org.
KINgFIShER C LASS taKE oN 'tWo parKS c ha LLENgE'
On Thursday, 4th July, 24 children from Kingfisher Class (Year 3 at Welton Primary School) walked 5 miles around the local area to complete the first ever Welton Two Parks Challenge. The Two Parks Challenge Walk was firstly to learn about setting a challenge and achieving something, but also allowed us to celebrate the group's time together this year and display Welton's rules and values within the community.
Not only did the children walk 5 miles, but they also played in two parks, bought and enjoyed a lovely Muffins' doughnut and popped into the library to change books. Debbie Stevens, the class teacher, reported: "Everyone was amazingly well behaved, and members of the public commented on how polite and friendly Welton children were. It was a great way to end the term and walking this far proved our ability to embrace a challenge. Team Kingfisher fully deserved their medals and certificates awarded by Mr Lyle at the finish."
Ember wrote a recount of the trip and would like to share this excerpt...
"Soon after leaving school, we arrived at Muffins Bakery where we took turns to go in and be served by Freddie. The doughnuts were amazingly jammy and delicious!
"When we arrived at the library, we returned our books. I borrowed my long book again with my
library card so I could finish it. At the library we met someone who used to go to our school! A nice lady read us some cool books and one of them was 'Old Macdonald had a Phone'. The trip was fun, but it was only getting started...
"Next, we went to the park by the sports centre and had a small play. I climbed up and over the top of the climbing frame. I didn't go on the spinny thing though. The park was really fun, but we still had to do the big walk!
"As we were walking to the cycle path, we saw a squirrel, a cat and we heard lots of birds. One of the trees was very tall and that was where we saw the cute grey squirrel.
"In the second park, I was first to go on the swing. I swung very high, and it was so much fun! Next, I went on the zip line. It was very cool. On the first time queuing up, I had to jump off because someone came all the way back to where I was standing.
"On our return to school, Mr Lyle was waiting for us with a medal to celebrate our achievement. We were all so proud of what we had completed, and we ended the afternoon with an amazing Rocksteady concert."
TRY OUT OUR LOCAL WORDSEARC
Can
St John's Church
Pows Orchard
Welton Rovers
St Chad's Well
Orchard Vale
River Somer
Skate Park
Town Hall
Town Park
Amphitheatre
High Street
Somervale
Train Station
Wellow Brook
Stones Cross
The Hollies
Old Priory
Rugby Club
The Island
Holly Court
rEfLEctI oN froM ThE ACTIvE WAY
Wow, what a summer it’s been for The Active Way! We've been buzzing with excitement, attending local town fairs and events, connecting with residents, and sharing our fantastic free walking and cycling activities.
After such a fantastic summer, we’ve seen an increase in engagements, we’ve received over 4500 referrals and delivered over 1100 interventions across the Somer Valley, with many of you joining in on a variety of activities. Our Active Steps walking and cycling programme with Sustrans has been a huge hit, as have our e-bike loans and Nordic Walking sessions.
Overall, it’s been a brilliant summer meeting the local community and we’re excited for more opportunities to meet you this autumn! Keep an eye out for referral pop-ups at our shipping container in Tom Huyton play park and St Chad's Surgery. Plus, look forward to more Dr. Bike events, DIY Bike Maintenance sessions, and our in-house Wellbeing Walks and Rides.
The Active Way is a three-year pilot project helping you to boost your health and well-being through active travel. The Active Way offers free cycling and walking activities to support you in getting outdoors, connecting with others and feeling great. Whether you're looking to try
something new, want access to bikes and local walking trails, or just fancy meeting new people while enjoying the great outdoors – we've got something for you!
We have a variety of exciting activities designed to engage, inspire, and promote active travel and wellbeing for all ages.
Interested in joining The Active Way or referring someone you know?
It's easy! Just head over to our website and fill out our referral form at www.theactivewaybathnes. co.uk (through the "Join an Activity" section). You'll find links and information about all our activities. Once we receive your form, a team member will get in touch with you.
Prefer a face-to-face chat? Visit us at Hope House Surgery on Waterloo Road in Radstock. We're there on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Email us at info@theactivewaybathnes.co.uk
Website: www.theactivewaybathnes.co.uk
Email: info@theactivewaybathnes.co.uk
Phone: 01225 395205
Location: Hope House Surgery, 10 Waterloo Road, Radstock, BA3 3EP
livewell.bathnes.gov.uk
Live Well B&NES
Information for all
Live Well B&NES is a web-based resource packed with information, signposting and resources.
If you’re looking for Ofsted registered childcare or parenting support, information and resources to support you as a parent carer of a child with disabilities or additional needs, or information for an adult with care or support needs: Live Well B&NES can help!
The site also includes a Cost-of-Living section (energy costs, food, debt advice, childcare costs etc.) and a range of information and resources for young people.
New services and groups are regularly added to Live Well B&NES. If you provide a service to, or support families, young people, parents with a child/children with special needs or disabilities or adults needing care or support – ensure you are listed on Live Well B&NES. It’s free, and easy to do.
News, events and activities are shared on our social media, so follow us to keep up to date with what’s happening near you!
Come along to the Green Open Homes event at The Trinity Hub, Radstock, on Saturday, 19th October to explore energy saving measures and learn about sustainable living. With rising energy prices and the increasing need to reduce carbon emissions, this event aims to help homeowners and renters to make their homes more energy efficient and affordable.
• Expert advice and information: Visit the Trinity Hub for ‘ask the experts’ talks and advice sessions on energy efficiency. Learn how to lower your energy bills and keep your home warmer this winter.
• Learning and workshops: Participate in draughtproofing workshops and enjoy a slow cooking
demonstration. Get guidance on available grants, assessment processes, and selecting contractors for projects like solar and battery systems.
• Family friendly activities: Enjoy food, refreshments and a play area for children. This community event aims to help everyone understand the small changes that can make a big difference.
Green Open Homes B&NES is a partnership initiative designed to inspire and educate the Bath & North East Somerset community about sustainable living. Led by Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE) and its partners, the event fosters community engagement and knowledge-sharing. www.greenopenhomesbanes.org
RH Windows ad.qxp_Layout 1 10/08/2023 09:02 Page 1
halloween Recipes
With Halloween around the corner, how about magicking up something a little different to satisfy those ghoulish lusts.
pumpkin Bake: Tomato and Egg
One pot
Ingredients
• 4 medium British Lion eggs
• 400g pumpkin, peeled and cut into 2cm chunks
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g tin of cherry tomatoes
• 400g tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 150g baby spinach
• Small handful parsley, roughly chopped
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 200C / 180C Fan / Gas Mark 6.
4. Make 4 indents in the pan mixture and crack an egg into each one.
2. Place the pumpkin into a microwavable bowl along with 2 tbsp water and the olive oil, ground cumin and coriander. Cover with clingfilm and cook in the microwave on high for 10 minutes, until soft.
3. Place a 20cm oven-proof skillet over mediumhigh heat and add the pumpkin, along with the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer, then stir through the spinach.
5. Place the skillet into the oven for around 10 minutes, or until the whites are set. Remove from the oven, season the eggs with salt and pepper and sprinkle over the parsley.
Recipe from www.egginfo.co.uk
Spooky Tortilla graveyard with guacamole Dip
Serves 8-10
Prep time: 30 minutes / Cooking time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
• 4 ripe avocadoes
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 4 tbsp coriander, finely chopped
• 2-3 large tortilla wraps
• 250ml vegetable oil
• 85g watercress
• Salt and pepper
Method
1. To make the guacamole, add the avocado and lemon juice to a blender or food processor along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth, then stir in the coriander and red onion. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Use a small, sharp knife to cut gravestone shapes from the tortilla wraps. Why not be as creative as you like and try cutting out some ghosts or trees as well!
3. Place a large frying pan on a medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. After a few minutes, check the temperature of the oil by dropping in a small piece of tortilla wrap. If the wrap sinks to the bottom, the oil is not hot enough. Once the oil is the correct temperature, the tortilla should stay on the surface and create bubbles.
4. Add a few tortilla shapes at a time to the oil, frying for less than a minute on each side or until golden. Drain the shapes on kitchen towel and allow to cool.
5. Once the shapes have cooled, take a large ceramic oven dish and fill spread the guacamole evenly over the base. Scatter over the watercress to represent grass, then place the gravestones and other shapes in any way you like.
6. If not serving immediately, keep the guacamole in the fridge and the tortilla shapes in an airtight container at room temperature.
Recipe from www.watercress.co.uk
Spooky Egg Eyeballs pesto pasta
Ingredients
• 4-6 medium British Lion Quality eggs
• red food colouring
• 2 large green pimento stuffed olives, sliced
• a little barbecue sauce
• 125g spaghetti
• 6 tbsp green pesto
Method
1. Bring eggs to the boil, then simmer uncovered for 7 minutes – the water needs to be bubbling.
2. Drain the eggs, and run them under cold water, tapping the shells all over. Do not remove shell. Add the food colouring to the pan and
G. Mitchard & Sons
Family Butcher • eSt. 1913 WeStFielD
would like to thank customers, old and new, for their continued support
We are pleased to supply our customers with locally farmed meat, poultry, milk and cheeses, home-prepared bacon and cooked meats, our prize-winning pies and sausages, plus our famous faggots!
Orders by phone or via our Facebook page are most welcome.
Follow us on instagram @ g_mitchard_and_sons
Westfield Radstock BA3 3XS
Tel: 01761 412109
leave to cool for at least 30 minutes – the longer you leave them, the stronger the food dye effect will be.
3. Bring a medium pan of water to the boil, add the pasta and cook for 8-10 mins or until tender. Peel the eggs and discard the shells.
4. Remove a circle from the white of each egg. Carefully insert a slice of stuffed olive into the hole to make a spooky eye. If you like, finish with a blob of BBQ sauce.
5. Drain, the spaghetti, return to the pan and mix in the pesto sauce. Heap into a bowl, top with the egg eyeballs and let the children dig in.
Contact NFU Mutual Bath on 01761 239 382
MIDSoMEr N ortoN FARMERS' MARKET
Midsomer Norton Farmers' Market takes place in Hollies Gardens on the 1st Saturday of the month, and brings a jam packed market full of the finest produce in the area.
On the 1st Saturday of the month from February to December we transform Hollie’s Gardens into a bustling Farmers' Market, where people can come along and meet our award winning farmers, growers, artisans and makers and indulge in the highest quality local produce. All of our stall holders are primary producers and from within 30 miles of Midsomer Norton, meaning that 100% of the money from each purchase goes direct to the farmer, grower, artisan or maker, and in turn, contributes to the local economy and food network.
Not only will you be able to fill your shopping baskets with award-winning local produce, but we will also have regular live music, coffee and community stalls where you can get information about local events or community organisations, meet your councillors or support a local charity.
Reel People Films launches an eight film programme in October that stretches through to the Spring.
A community based group set in Kilmersdon, we boast a membership from Radstock to Frome and most places in between.
Our aim is to show up to date productions in both English and foreign languages, that might have had limited release in the cinema or on streaming services. Over the past year, we attracted audiences of near the one hundred mark.
The first offering is Scrapper, on Friday 11th October
A joyful comedy bubbling with hope, Scrapper is the debut feature from the young British director, Charlotte Regan. Living alone since her beloved Mum died, 12 year old Charlie fills the flat they shared with her own special magic. But when her absent father, Jason, turns up out of the blue, she is forced to face up to reality.
Next comes Anatomy of a Fall, on Friday 8th November 2024
Anatomy of a Fall is a riveting French courtroom drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat. At the centre of the film is Sandra Huller’s compelling performance as an author accused of her husband’s murder. The ambitious plot, reminiscent of classic mysteries, unfolds through a web of lies and unreliable witnesses.
The third of our films, a seasonal offering, is The Holdovers, on Friday 13th December 2024
The Holdovers expertly blends humour and emotion, showcasing Paul Gaimetti’s terrific central performance. Set in the ‘70s, it tells the story of a cantankerous teacher at a New England prep school who is forced to remain on campus during the Christmas break to babysit the handful of students with nowhere to go.
pOLICE UpDATE
In the last issue, I appealed for your assistance in taking dangerous drivers off the road. Thanks to your support and the valuable intelligence you provided, we have successfully confiscated several unsafe vehicles. These were being driven without MOT, insurance, proper licenses, or a combination of these violations. There are still others to seize, so please keep sending us the information.
This time, I am asking for your help to protect local children from significant dangers:
• The sale of illegal drugs
• The carrying of knives
As we approach the second anniversary of Charley Bates’ murder, I urge parents and grandparents to share any information they have about drug dealers or individuals carrying knives illegally in our area. These issues pose the greatest threats to
The remainder of the programme is:
Friday 10th January 25 – Perfect Days Friday 24th January 25 – The Great Escapers Friday 14th February 25 – The Fallen Leaves Friday 14th March 25 – The Taste of Things 11th April 2025 – to be confirmed.
All films are screened at Kilmersdon Village Hall. The doors open at 7.15 pm, for the bar and a chance for a chat, films start at 8.00 pm. Parking is available in the area.
Membership is £30 for the year, reducing to £25.00 for those who join before or at the first film of the season. Guests are very welcome to all films at £6 per film.
For further information, our website address is –www.reelpeople.org.uk
We like to think we are a friendly bunch and look forward to seeing you.
our young people, preventing them from fulfilling their potential and living happy lives. We need your help to stop these crimes from affecting our community's youth.
You can share information with us confidentially in several ways:
• Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
• Report online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
• Text your local PCSO at 07889 659 028 with the details you wish to report
• Email your information to Jonathan.Hardy@ avonandsomerset.police.uk
• Drop in at one of our many beat surgeries
Your information could save a young person’s life or prevent their future from being ruined.
Still need to print or post
You can do a lot on the net, but some things still need to be physically printed or posted.
Point of Sale, Posters, Signs and Banners all need to be printed. Documents are printed for legal reasons, for convenience or because there’s no digital solution.
Or have you just written the next Best Seller that you’d love to self-publish, and hold your own book in hand!
With so many online messages and emails to contend with, savvy advertisers are now switching back to direct mail received through your letter box as a more personal means of reaching customers.
If this sounds familiar, then talk to TPM - your local print and mailing experts. We are a family run business based in Farrington Gurney, providing the most cost-effective, highest quality products and services for more than 30 years. Using the latest equipment, there is nothing we can’t print or mail for you. From books to banners, forms to window displays - if it’s printed, we produce it!
Or maybe you are looking to do a mailing to regularly connect with your customers? If so, talk to TPM. We are trusted experts in cost-effective postal solutions.
At TPM, we aim to offer a first class quality product and service at a very low cost, but not at the expense of the environment. To this extent, TPM invested in a 135KW Solar PV Power System at our production site, consisting of 520 solar panels. It generates more electricity than we use! TPM also recycle all production materials whilst utilising the most environmentally friendly production machines. The result - an extremely low Carbon Footprint.
Please call or email us for a quotation. We can also help with your artwork and data requirements.
Call: 01761 453373
Email: sales@tpmltd.uk.com www.tpmltd.uk.com
Carbon Footprint
LatESt NEWS froM
1ST MIDSOMER N ORTON SCOUTS
Widsomer Norton Scouts ended their term with summer camp in the beautiful area of Swanage
Throughout the week, Scouts enjoyed various activities, including kayaking, hiking, a visit to the beach, and much more. The Cubs and Beavers groups also joined camp for the 1st night, and everyone enjoyed grass sledging, kite flying, lighting fires, getting wet on the slip and slide. The weekend finished with a walk around the camp site to soak in the beautiful views of the nearby Corfe Castle.
Over the past few months our fundraising committee have been working hard in the community to raise funds for the maintenance of the Scout Hall. You may have seen us at the Midsomer Norton Fayre where we had a very successful tombola stall. We really enjoyed the day and it was great to see so many people having fun at the Fayre. Thank you to everyone who donated and our volunteers who prepared and ran the tombola stall.
The next phase of the scout hall maintenance and fundraising is moving forward quickly, ready for the new term in September. If you are looking for a space to rent for a group activity or party, please contact: bookings@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk
Our Scout Group neeads a Treasurer. Could you spare 2 hours a month to look after our accounts? Email us at: gsl@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk
1st Midsomer Norton is a busy inclusive scout group and home to Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorers all aged 6-18 years. You can find further information about our groups online: midsomernortonscouts.org.uk or contact: joiners@midsomernortonscouts.org.uk
SWAN TRANSpORT a SMa LL charI t Y WI th a bIg hEart
Do you have;
• A desire to help people in your community
• A car and full driving licence
• A few hours to spare (times to suit)
We would love to hear from you!
Come and join our friendly team; we offer flexible hours to suit and mileage reimbursement.
Our charity provides bespoke door to door community transport for local people. This is a crucial service and ensures access to medical and health appointments, visits to family and friends, clubs and social activities.
“It's my lifeline” – passenger
This is a rewarding role, and you would be making a real and immediate difference to people’s lives.
“I drive for SWAN because it feels good to help people get around, it makes me feel useful.”
– SWAN volunteer
If you would like to find out more, contact our office on 01761 439548.
As the sun shone, thousands of revellers enjoyed a fantastic day of activities in Midsomer Norton’s Town Park in July.
With more community groups involved than ever before, locals turned up to enjoy a day of free and affordable activities across the family extravaganza. Starting with the Maypole festival, involving 8 local Primary Schools.
Offering
As well as 50 market stalls from local traders and community groups, there were numerous things to check out. In the park, arts and drumming workshops and a range of inflatables –from tennis to the ‘Lightning Run’ were available for children and even the chance to visit tractors or goats. Traditional ‘Fayre’ activities were also popular with Punch and Judy continuing to remain popular with children, as well as balloon modelling and face painting.
Performances throughout the afternoon came from a range of local brass bands, as well as local school rock bands and acoustic artists, ukulele orchestras and musicians, whilst in the Somer Centre there were art displays and workshops alongside the Victoriana Tea Rooms.
The Skate Park was filled with competition whilst almost 100 Town Show entries showcased the creativity of local residents – with Maggie
Depledge crowned the winner of this year’s Fayre.
A huge thanks goes to the Community Trust’s team of volunteers for the hundreds of hours put into organising the event, as well as all the community groups who helped with set up and running activities on the day. Next year’s event will take place on Saturday 12th July, with the popular Music Festival set to return on 7th June.
Midsomermusic
Live
at
RIVERSIDE BAR
SEPTEMBER
7th : Retrochic
14th : Stupid Stupid Band
21st : Trash Casino
28th : The Clones
OCTOBER
5th : James Oliver Band
12th : Not Fragile
19th : Bohemian Bar Thieves
26th : Limelight
NOVEMBER
2nd : Foo Lizzy
9th : Authentics
16th : MaxOutput
23rd : Last Broadcast
30th : Rock Solid
Live
at
MARDONS CLUB
SEPTEMBER
7th : Super D
14th : Honky Tonks
21st : Soul'd Out
28th : The 7,8,9s
OCTOBER
5th : Brakelight
12th : Limited Edition
19th : The Coyote Kings
26th : Halloween Fancy Dress Party with Jimmy & The Judges
NOVEMBER
2nd : Freefall
9th : Bombshell
16th : The Other Band
23rd : Walker Close Band
30th : The Skinny Dippers
Love live music?
Then make sure you get these dates in the diary. #lovelocallive
LIONS CELEBRATE
thEIr c LUb a ND prESIDENt
Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions club celebrated their annual handover with a meal at the Centurion Hotel. Outgoing President Rob Jamieson has held the post for the last year, he handed over the chain to new President, Lyn Haile. Lyn immediately started her new role by recognising Rob's achievements over the year for growing the membership of the club during his tenure as President. Lyn presented Rob with a Lion pin in recognition of this achievement.
Rob has also been the club's Treasurer for the last four years and will continue in this role. The handover ceremony was attended by fellow Lions and their loved ones and friends from other local Lions clubs.
The club has a number of events coming up. The annual fundraising Duck Race will be held on Saturday 7th September in Midsomer Norton. Numbered ducks can be purchased for a pound each, leading up to the race and on the day. Look out for us on the High Street, this is a great family event to watch and is enjoyed by all ages.
Then in October, Lions will be busy arranging Prostate screenings for local men to have a free
test. This will be held at the Methodist Hall in Midsomer Norton on Saturday 26th October. Look out for information on our website: rmnlions.org.uk and in your local newspaper as places are limited to 200 free tests. This is the second round of tests sponsored by the club due to the first event being such a success.
TRAUMA BREAKThROUgh
1in 3 of us experience trauma at some point in our lives, whether we are survivors of childhood abuse or domestic abuse, have gone through a complex bereavement, or have experienced a serious assault, accident or a critical incident.
Almost half of trauma survivors go on to develop serious mental and physical health problems as a result. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, family breakdown and social isolation are all common responses to trauma. Without support, the impact can last for years or even decades, and can also have a ripple effect on family, friends, colleagues and workplaces.
Trauma Breakthrough are local charity offering FREE support to survivors across the South West through specialist counselling and therapy, group support and activities at our support centre in Bath, but we also want to improve access to mental health support and help people living outside the major towns and cities in the area –places like Radstock, Midsomer Norton, Paulton, Shepton Mallet and other parts of Somerset and Wiltshire.
Thanks to the generous donations from Mendip & District Round Table, Midsomer Norton Town Council, and Radstock Town Council we have
just finished running a pilot mental health skills programme based at Hope House Surgery in Radstock – giving people the knowledge and skills to look after their wellbeing when life feels overwhelming.
We hope that from the success of this first phase, and with your support, we will be able to develop the project into a full satellite service offering counselling, groups, support planning, and wellbeing services for local survivors in mental health crisis.
We believe that people living with the impact of trauma recover best in the community, so we are particularly keen to partner with businesses and community organisations in the area to extend our reach and help people where they already live or work. Whether you are an individual, or involved with a business or an organisation, if you would like to help us – either by supporting us financially, through volunteering, or in other practical ways, please get in touch by emailing services@traumabreakthrough.org or give us a call during office hours on 01225 984637. We look forward to hearing from you.
Want to find out more about Trauma Breakthrough? Visit their website at www.traumabreakthrough.org
MIDSOMER N ORTON LIBRARY
There's always something going on at Midsomer Norton Library and it's all free! So, drop in and see for yourself!
For families with children, we host a weekly Baby Bounce and Rhyme and Storytime sessions during term time and throughout autumn, Book Buddies, a social group for home educated children aged 7-14.
For adults, we have book groups, Friendship Fridays social groups and groups dedicated to knitting and other arts.
Don't forget, everyone can have fun and get competitive with our Board Game Saturdays!
Please pop in to see all our events and partner services, or visit our website www.beta.bathnes. gov.uk/library-and-information-services
Follow us online: Facebook: bneslibraries Instagram: bnes_libraries
X:bnes_libraries
Virtual Library: baneslibraries.co.uk
A LLOTMENT pLOTS coMINg SooN
The Midsomer Norton Allotment Association is run on behalf of the Town Council and is a well-established allotment with friendly members and a wide range of ages. Owning an allotment and being in the fresh air is a great place to relax and to improve your mental health.
There are approximately 70 allotments of varying sizes, and we are really lucky to have a water supply for all users. The site is managed by the allotment holders committee which has opened a number of opportunities for the Association to apply for funding from other bodies, some examples:
• Currently members of the National Allotment Society, are due to make arrangements with CropDrop to make use of surplus food donated by allotment users.
• We have access to bulk-buy seed and plants.
We have a short waiting list with plots soon to be available. If you're a keen gardener with time and
energy to maintain an allotment plot and you live in the Midsomer Norton Town Council area, then why not apply for an allotment. When applying for a plot, please contact us or check us out on Facebook.
£6,000 worth of Grant Funding at its recent Council meeting to 7 local community groups. Grants included £1,000 to support the Somerset Farmers' Market that is held weekly in the Town, along with £800 to Midsomer Norton Rugby Football Club to provide kit for the newly formed ladies' touch rugby team, and £3,500 to several different health and wellbeing groups, including Dial-A-Ride and Heartalks CIC.
The Council had received requests totalling just over £16,000.
Town Mayor, Councillor Martyn Plant, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to support so many groups with meaningful contributions to their services and projects. The grants are intended to contribute to the good work being done by many in what are tough times financially.”
The Full list of grant funding awarded is:
• Dial A Ride - £1,000.00 Replacement wheelchair clamps on 3 vehicles
• MHA Communities - £782.40 Supporting the launch of 2 new community activity sessions for older people in Midsomer Norton
• Midsomer Norton Netball Club - £500.00 Revenue Costs including match balls, training balls, first aid kits and court hire
• Swan Advice Network - £983.00 Revenue Costs for the transportation of older and low-income Midsomer Norton residents; to health care related appointments, and community activity facilities
• Midsomer Norton Rugby Football Club£800.00 A contribution to the cost of a full kit for the women’s touch rugby team
• HeartTalks CIC - £1,000 Setting up a permanent facility, a dedicated space that can serve as the headquarters for our Non-Profit Peer Support Service.
LOCAL SWIM C LUB
thrIvINg at NEW hoME
Norton Radstock Swimming Club is enjoying life at its new home at Downside School, Stratton-on-the-Fosse. Since moving in June, the club has seen its membership grow in numbers, including welcoming back some returning members. The club has twice increased the amount of pool time it uses since the move, to enable all of its members to access the sessions they want to.
The committee have managed to reduce the swim fees now that the financial pressures on the club have been significantly reduced. They will continue to review the fees to ensure they are offering the best value for money to their members. The current membership fees per month are:
members also qualifying for regional and national championships.
The Head Coach at NRSC is a Swim England Level 3 Coach, who is supported by a team of Level 2 coaches.
So, if you live in Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet or the surrounding area and want to train in a swim club environment, NRSC would love to welcome you for a free trial. The club recommends swimmers to have achieved Level 7 of the Swim England Learn To Swim programme, but will offer trials to those on Level 6.
To find out more, visit www.nrsc.org.uk
A majority of NRSC swimmers like to train in a club environment for personal fitness, mental health or social benefits and do not compete for the club at swim meets. However, NRSC does provide the opportunity to attend meets for those that want to and they are seeing a record number of members signing up; many of whom are winning medals for their efforts.
Last year, they had several swimmers qualify for the Somerset County Championships, with
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BYgONE DAYS LIvINg hISTORY TALKS: aUt UMN prograMME
Tuesday October 1st:
'The Trafalgar Way' by Kathy Brown
The Trafalgar Way tells the story of how the news of the British victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the death of the British commander, Vice Admiral Nelson, reached London in an age before modern communication. Following the Battle of Trafalgar on 21st October 1805, Vice Admiral Collingwood, who took over command on the death of Nelson, sent a dispatch (report) to the Admiralty in London confirming that the British Navy had won the battle. This dispatch was entrusted to Royal Naval Officer Lieutenant John Richards Lapenotiere, commander of HMS Pickle. His sea voyage was beset with bad weather after which, he came ashore at Falmouth and hired a Post Chaise (a four wheeled horse drawn carriage) to take him to London, a journey of 37 hours. Kathy Brown of The 1805 Club will recount this fascinating story.
Tuesday November 5th
'Death and Service' By Richard Cooper-Knight.
This talk takes place in November, the month we remember our fallen war heroes. Richard CooperKnight is an author, photographer and genealogist. Richard’s research into the service personnel behind the seemingly anonymous names carved into the granite of the Commonwealth War Graves of Somerset, has led to a wealth of stories of family and tragedy; each name is brought to life with their own individual history. This research includes the stories behind those heroes whose names can be found on War Graves in the Midsomer Norton and Radstock area.
All these illustrated presentations will take place at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton at 7:30pm until 8:30pm followed by questions and a raffle until 8:45pm. Entry is £5, cash or card, on the door, no booking required. Raising funds for Somerset Coalfield Life at Radstock Museum.
Details can be on the 'what’s on' page at www.radstockmuseum.co.uk
MIDSOMER N ORTON METhODIST
We are a congregation consisting of individuals coming from a wide range of backgrounds and worshipping communities. Midsomer Norton Methodist Church was built in 1859, with the adjoining hall opening in 1957. We host a number of church and community-based events.
Sunday – Morning Worship, 10 am. Some services follow a traditional style; some are informal
Monday during term time – Baby and Toddler Group, 9 to 10.30 am
Monday – Knit and Natter group, 1.30 to 3.30 pm
Tuesday – 2nd and 4th each month - Greet and Eat Lunches, 11.30 am coffee, then lunch 12 at noon (prior booking is essential - either ring the church reception 01761 410450, or email info@msnmcc.org)
Wednesday Afternoon Group – 2nd and 4th each month. Social with outside speakers.
Friday – Coffee and Chat, 10 am to 12 noon
We welcome all to our services and activities. Reception is open on Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings.
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www.paultondental.co.uk
Tel: 01761 416057
reception@paultondental.co.uk
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New patients welcome • Check up from £59 • Hygienist from £59 Monthly dental plans • Finance available
RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
Give your dental health and smile a boost with our wide range of treatments to maintain healthy teeth and help you smile again.
ENDODONTICS
No matter how complicated the case may be, we have professional and highly skilled clinicians at our practice to help our patients.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
We have an array of treatments available to help you smile again and you’ll be surprised at how many options we have for you.
CHILDREN
We provide dental care for all the family. With specialists on hand you can rest assured that your child’s dental health is in good hands.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants offer a life changing fixed and long term solution to replacing single or multiple missing teeth.
DENTAL HYGIENE
We aim to achieve a healthier mouth for all our patients. Get in touch to see how our dental hygiene services can help you with dental hygiene.
