Midsomer Norton Life : Summer 2015 by Tina Veater

Summer 2015 Issue 15

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE A

s this issue goes to press, we have been busy preparing for this year’s Midsomer Awards which recognise the contribution of the many individuals and groups in the community who give time and energy to enrich the life of the town. Since 2009, the awards have become a regular part of our civic calendar and highlight sometimes in quite an emotional way how generous and caring community is in Midsomer Norton. As this packed issue of LIFE as ever shows, we are all set for a busy summer as months of planning for community events and activities in the town come to fruition. Midsummer’s Day, on the 24th June, will see the launch of the Midsomer Arts Festival – a week long showcase of visual and performing arts in the area, with the aim of sharing and celebrating the variety of art work and activities presented in a public arena. Based in and around Midsomer Norton one of the main objectives of this new and exciting event is to involve children and young people, as well as community groups. Midsomer Norton Fayre is all set for Saturday 11th July - based on the centuries old event resulting from our Royal Charter of 1248. Opening with a Duck Race at 12 noon and closing with the Town Show presentation at 4.30pm, the Community Trust has organised a fantastic day for people of all ages. So if you haven’t decided what to enter in the Town Show see the centre pages for a pull-out programme. At the Town Hall, the new and existing Councillors are coming together as a team to push forward key projects for the future. Have a wonderful Summer and I look foward to seeing you at one of the many town events. Cllr Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

SWIMMING CLUB

CIVIC AWARDS

TOWN HALL DEVELOPMENTS

DAVID STRAWBRIDGE

MIDSOMER ARTS FESTIVAL

WHAT'S ON

ST CHAD'S WELL

SUMMER AT THE LIBRARY

GOING FOR GOLD

FAYRE DAY PULL-OUT GUIDE

29 -36

THINGS TO DO

YOUTH CLUB LOGO LAUNCH

SCHOOL NEWS

CARNIVAL PARTNERSHIP

COMMUNITY TRUST SCREENINGS

SUMMER RECIPE

MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in September. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 14th August. If you have difficulty reading the print please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view Midsomer Norton Life on the council’s website at www.midsomernortonlife.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Ltd, First Floor, 2 High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2LE Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Midsomer Norton Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NORTON RADSTOCK

SWIMMING CLUB Radstock Swimming Club is affiliated N orton to the Amateur Swimming Club, (A.S.A), Somerset A.S.A, A.S.A South West Region and is a Swim 21 accredited club. Operating totally independently of South Wansdyke Sports Centre, it is run solely by volunteers. They aim to provide a pathway for children who have reached the appropriate standard to enter a club environment as outlined in the A.S.A’s Learn to Swim programme.

his aquatic knowledge he has participated in the Young Volunteer and Young Coaches programme, qualifying as a Level 1. Norton Hill Year 13 pupil Sam also works part time as an Assistant Teacher and Lifeguard at Paulton Community Swimming Pool. He is an excellent ambassador for NRSC and provides a useful exit link when swimmers are ready to progress into a club environment. Nicky Vause, NRSC Chair, commented, “Sam is a worthy winner and was up against stiff competition from Somerset’s incredible young workforce. The committee are proud of the volunteering culture we promote to our young members. It’s not just about what they can do for their club and community, it can be so much more with opportunities to gain valuable interpersonal skills. “

The club trains on Tuesday and Wednesday 6pm 10pm and by invitation only on a Sunday 5pm - 7pm. The length of a session depends on the individual swimmer's ability level. The further development needs of our swimmers are met through Aquae Sulis Performance Swimming Club. N.R.S.C is one of twelve local clubs who are part of one of the largest networks in the county, working together to provide the best pathway for talented swimmers and member clubs' continued development. For further information visit www.nrsc. info or to arrange a trial, email enrollmentsecretary@ nrsc.info, (these take place at 7pm on a Tuesday or Wednesday). Volunteers are the life blood of grass roots sports, we ensure they receive support and training to equip them with the necessary skills. The club is especially proud of the poolside volunteering opportunities available for our teenage swimmers. We support their Duke of Edinburgh Award placements and encourage participation in Somerset A.S.A and British Swimming national development programmes. Sam Church was named Somerset ASA Young Volunteer in recognition of his outstanding voluntary commitment at the Somerset ASA AGM on the 16th May 2015 at RNAS Yeovilton. Sam was presented with a trophy and a £30 Amazon voucher from Mike Coles the outgoing president. Senior squad member Sam has volunteered for many years. To develop

Rachel Yoxall-James Paulton Community Swimming Pool Manager said, ”Sam is a valued member of staff and an inspiration to others. He is a role model for the many young children who attend the pool, and for our staff”. 2014 ASA Aqua Force Young Volunteer Liam Willcox has not rested on his laurels, continuing to volunteer at NRSC, Aquae Sulis Network and SW Disability sessions. He was invited to Loughborough in December to mentor the 2014 intake participating in the Young Coaches / Young officials Programme, attended the 2014 Disability Nationals and 2015 IPC International Meet as an assistant coach and was appointed as a Technical Official at the 2015 British Championships. Whilst at the competition he was able to meet up with two Young Officials who visited the event. Just recently he has also been invited to act as a Mentor at the 2015 Sainsbury’s School Games and was proposed to join the Somerset ASA Committee.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON CIVIC AWARDS 2015 T

he town’s Annual Civic Service at which awards to recognise volunteers in Midsomer Norton are presented will take place at 6pm on Sunday 14th June at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Originally started in 2007 by the Midsomer Norton Society, these awards have developed into an important part of the town’s civic calendar. The Town Council took on the awards when it was formed in 2011 as a way of recognising the contribution of local residents who volunteer their time.

“Over the years many people have been honoured for everything from specific projects to a complete lifetime of achievement. What is clear is that in Midsomer Norton at least, year on year there is no shortage of dedicated individuals and groups to honour”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton. The Town Council considered a number of nominations from members of the public and from Councillors at its meeting in April and plans are well advanced for the award winners to be recognised with medals and trophies as well as having their contribution publicly acknowledged and celebrated at the service. The whole community is invited to attend the Civic Service at 6pm on 14th June at the Methodist Church. For further details, please visit the Town Council’s website at www. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk or ring the Town Clerk on 01761 418701.

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TRANSFORMING THE

MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN HALL

An artists impression of how the town hall could look after refurbishment.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

to transform Midsomer Norton P lans Town Hall took a big step forward when the Town Council submitted applications for planning permission and listed building consent at the end of March 2015. A decision is due in the coming weeks. Conservation advice from B&NES has required the new extension to be markedly different from the original 1860s Italianate building so a striking contemporary design has been submitted. But there is a lot more to the design of the new building than the appearance of the extension in the alley to the rear. It will provide a modern compliant fire escape alongside critical additional kitchen and bar space as well as office space for the Town Council. This in turn will free up

much-needed storage space for the range of equipment required to support the diverse activities in the building; from exercise classes to classical concerts and from toddlers groups to the regular film screenings. The new design will also allow for the reinstatement of the 1860's Market Hall on the ground floor. It is hoped that other rooms in the new building will be named to celebrate notable public figures from the town’s history. Valuable space in the second floor Assembly Room will be freed up by moving the current emergency fire stairs out and removing the need to store furniture in the room when it’s not in use elsewhere.

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The project follows on from earlier concepts sponsored by David Wilson Homes and subsequently developed using funds from Cllr Chris Wattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ward Councillor Initiative â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both initially managed by the Sarah Ann Trust. The latest phase has been made possible by a successful application for a grant from the Homes and Community Agency by Midsomer Norton Town Trust, supported by Midsomer Norton Community Trust. They then commissioned an architect to develop a design, built up through extensive consultation, which will enable the building to provide community groups with improved facilities for their meetings and activities and the running of events for the benefit of the town.

Market Hall. Artist impression.

If successful with its application to B&NES, the Town Trust will set about raising the funds to make the transformation happen through a range of sources. As a first step, the Trust has engaged a specialist to help them develop their fundraising strategy and better understand the challenges it will face. The Town Trust has gained widespread commitment from the community and there have been over 40 expressions of support for the proposal submitted to the Planning Authority. In parallel, negotiations continue between the Town Council and B&NES Council to reach agreement on the terms of a long lease for the building under the Community Asset Transfer programme.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Assembly Room. Artist impression.

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Would you or anyone you know like help with their wellbeing? The Wellbeing College is an exciting new project offering free courses and activities to anyone aged over 16 who lives in B&NES or is registered with a GP here. The courses and workshops are usually free and open to all. Latest courses are:

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Coming to Midsomer Norton in June: “A Breath of Fresh Air” A one‐off session for anybody that is interested in maintaining healthy lungs. This workshop is open to those that are experiencing health problems that are related to lung conditions and smokers who are concerned about the impact smoking is having on their health or the health of their family.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

FRIENDS OF SILVER STREET

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR The wood and meadow in the nature reserve are now full of life. The Hawthorn, Wild Cherry and Blackthorn and young Sycamore have come into leaf and the Cherry and Blackthorn have already blossomed. Oaks and Ash take longer to come into leaf but you can already see the flowers of the Ash. On the woodland floor you can see Lesser Celandines with their glossy yellow petals, the flowers looking as though they are smiling up at the sun. You will find the long, broad leaves of the Ramsons (Wild Garlic) beside the paths. There are also lots of feathery Cow Parsley leaves and there is a froth of their white flowers all through the wood.

he Friends of Silver Street Nature Reserve have planted Silver Birch, Hawthorn and Wild Cherry trees and Bluebell and Daffodil bulbs as well as Foxgloves to make the woods look pretty. Ox Eye Daisies have been planted in the meadow and they are waiting for some native wildflower seeds to also plant. They have installed four new benches in the meadow so that walkers can rest awhile as it is such a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the view overlooking Midsomer Norton. There are now two new notice boards, one at the main entrance, which was paid for by the Midsomer Norton Town Council, the other at the Picnic area from membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; donations and they can now advertise and inform the community what is on offer at the reserve. The Friends meet every Saturday morning at 10.30 and also Thursday afternoons in the week. It's really rewarding to be involved with nature and take part in helping out. They also had a stall at the local Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market to promote the reserve and are always looking for new members and volunteers to join and help them with conservation work.

Look out for Bumblebees flying slowly just above the ground. They will be taking nectar from the early flowers and helping to pollinate them. The large Buff Tailed Bumblebee is the commonest and you will probably also see large White Tailed ones. You may also see Dark Edge Bee Flies taking nectar from their favourite flowers, the Lesser Celandines and Primroses. Bee-Flies hover above the plants and also at about head-height, making a continuous high-pitched humming sound. If you look carefully at a Bee Fly, you may spot the long proboscis as it feeds. It is a useful insect, pollinating lots of these early flowers. Butterflies including Brimstone, Orange Tip, Peacock and small Tortoiseshell have been flying for several weeks now. They, too, have been pollinating early flowers. The birds in the reserve are in full breeding song and we have many resident and migrant species here. The Chiffchaffs were the first back from Southern Europe and North Africa. Blackcaps have also returned from Africa. Some Blackcaps from the colder parts of Europe come to us in the winter rather than going back to Africa. For further information Tel: 01761 411292 or 07595 604248

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY MINIBUS It is believed to be one of the longest established community transport groups in the United Kingdom. It has been, and still is, a lifeline to maintaining the independence of the elderly. It is vital that housebound people can maintain contact with their groups and social life, as well as enabling clubs to function. We have a pool of drivers, willing to pick up groups from door to door, to ferry them to their clubs etc. The Minibus is here for you! The Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust was formed (Registered Charity No. 276166) in April 1967 with a Management Committee including representatives from user organisations.

So, local groups, why not consider using the Community Minibus? Please contact Stephen Powell (Bookings Co-ordinator) on 01761 413975 or David Shearn (Secretary/Treasurer) on 01761 413473 for more information.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LISTENING EAR PROJECT

particular matter in a different light. It could be something which has happened to us recently or many years ago.

Over the last few months Churches Together have been thinking and praying about the various needs in Midsomer Norton and surrounding area. We already have the Foodbank responding to some physical needs; the Street Pastors have made a significant contribution to making the Town Centre safer at weekend evenings. More recently we have been thinking about a need that applies to everybody….the need to be listened to.

Therefore, later on in the year, we will be launching a ‘Listening Ear’ Project based in Midsomer Norton Methodist Church building. It will be a ‘drop in’ where refreshments are served and there are volunteers who have been trained in listening skills available to meet with people. They are not there to counsel you or tell you what to do…just listen! They are not there to ‘convert’ you…just listen! As the project is in a church that doesn’t mean you have to be religious to come…. we welcome anyone.

For many, if not all of us, there are times when we just need someone to listen to us. It’s not that we want counselling or problem solving… just listening which then helps us see a

Further details are being discussed but if you want more information, please contact the Minister of the church, Rev Stephen Robinson (01761 410574 msnminister@btinternet.com).

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

DAVID STRAWBRIDGE REMEMBERED D

avid Strawbridge, who died recently, was a modest and unassuming man who gave a great deal to our local community and will be much missed. Born along the Wells Road in Chilcompton in 1930, to Bert and Annie Strawbridge who were butchers in the village, he went to school in Stockhill until he was seven, then his family moved to butcher’s premises at the bottom of the village. Called up in 1949, David saw service in Egypt and Libya. He met Audrey in 1952 and they married in 1954 – eventually having 4 children, four grandchildren and two step grandchildren. When he was 17 his family moved to a house in Bakers Lane where, in partnership with his father and brother Ron, a new butchers premises was built near the cenotaph in 1952. When his father died in 1963, a friend, Mervyn Fowler, took his place to name the firm ‘Strawbridge and Fowler Ltd’, finally closing on retirement in 1991. Beginning with attending history evenings at the

MIDSOMER NORTON JOINS IN EXHIBITION Thanks to the hard work of the Midsomer Norton Society, the town will be taking part in the Radstock Museum Summer Exhibition ‘The Town and Village Histories of Buckland Dinham, Midsomer Norton and Wellow’ which opened recently and runs until July. It has taken months to create a series of eight panels which tell the history of the town from its early history in medieval times, the High

College in the late 1970s he decided to write a book on the history of Chilcompton – a project which took 10 years. There followed another three books in the years that followed – earning him a reputation as a much respected local historian. He was an active church member of St John’s and St Vigor’s, being a churchwarden at St Vigor’s for nine years. David was a founder member of the Chilcompton Society and was Chairman for three years. He was a member of the Midsomer Norton & Radstock Museum Society, of which he was a founder member, the Midsomer Norton Probus Club, Chilcompton Golden Hour Club, the Friday Club as well as the Royal British Legion at Stratton until it closed. It was in 2000 that David and Audrey moved to Midsomer Norton where David became involved in the Redfield Residents Association in 2006 before becoming the second President of the Midsomer Norton Society – taking over from David Fisher and playing an active role in the transformation of the town, giving talks and working to research and preserve its history. Street, the River Somer, history of the town’s governance, its lost great houses, businesses, community events such as the Fayre and the Carnival and finally ‘Tales of the Fallen’ on our War Memorial. As well as pictures and text the Society has worked with the museum and local people to gather together objects which are also be included in the exhibition. There will be a further opportunity to see the exhibition of Midsomer Norton ‘panels’ on 11th July 2015 at Midsomer Norton Fayre Day in the Town Show Marquee.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER ARTS FESTIVAL Norton one of the main objectives of this new and exciting event is to involve children and young people, as well as community groups. Thanks to an inspirational partnership between Norton Hill School and the Community Trust, over the last six months local people have been involved in projects and workshops to create works for display during the Festival. These includedecorating large coal shovels and workshops in primary and secondary schools. Here are some of the things you will be able to see during the weeklong Festival of creativity in the Somer Valley:

idsummer’s Day, on the 24th June, will see the launch of the Midsomer Arts Festival – a week long showcase of visual and performing arts in the area, with the aim of sharing and celebrating the variety of art work and activities presented in a public arena. Based in and around Midsomer IAN MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES LTD

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• Shop Window Arts Trail - of secondary students’ work in over 60 shop windows, with larger displays in the bigger shops • Coal Shovels – over 40 decorated ‘shovels’ displayed around the town • Site specific art work displayed along the River including bunting, flags and sculptures • Circular sign art work - around the perimeter of the town • Work by local artists and community groups – with exhibitions located at various venues including the Town Hall Assembly Room • Sound pieces - situated at Holly Court and other venues

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

On Saturday 27th June a Day of Creative Activities has also been planned for Midsomer Norton High Street including an Art & Craft Market, music, dance and drama performances by local individuals and groups in the Hollies Gardens. There will also be a wide range of Arts Based Activities for people of all ages to join in - including Flower Making using recycled materials, in conjunction with the Midsomer Norton In Bloom team. And the Festival wouldn’t be complete without homage to Paris with our very own Art & Painting Fair along the ‘left bank’ of the River Somer. If all this isn’t enough the Community Cinema team is launching the first Midsomer International Film Festival. The wonderful French film Jean de Florette will be screened at 7.30pm on Friday 26th June. The Midsomer Norton & District Twinning Association is partnering this screening and with the added attraction of a French cheese and wine event. Then on Saturday 27th June a double bill of modern features will be complemented with short films by local students and community groups. The Midsomer Arts Festival will round off on the evening of Tuesday 30th June with a Closing Concert at Midsomer Norton Library where students of Norton Hill and Somervale school will perform. Here are some of the organisations, businesses and community groups which have worked under the umbrella of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust to make the first Midsomer Arts Festival possible: Norton Hill School Somervale School Midsomer Norton in Bloom Tesco Sainsbury’s

Midsomer Quilting Acoustic Café Merriman Theatre Group Susan Hill Dance Various scout and guide groups Old Bakery Artists Cam Valley Arts Trail Bath Heritage Services Swallow A number of local Primary Schools Connections Day Services Radstock & Midsomer Norton Lions Information and leaflets about the festival can be found in several venues around the town including the Town Hall, Library, The Hollies, Norton Hill and Somervale schools, and various other cafes, shops and businesses. The organising team would like to thank Midsomer Norton Community Trust, without whose help and support this event would not have taken place. Thanks also to all the groups and individuals who have taken part whose contributions, however large or small have added to the richness of this event. You can find out more by visiting our facebook page and website www.midsomerartsfestival. weebly.com, by telephone on 01761 412557, or email mplant@nortonhillschool.com

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON

ideas. 1-3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend. 24th - Midsomer Arts Festival. 26th - Classic Cinema : Jean De Florette at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall at 7.30pm 27th - Shaun the Sheep Movie at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall at 2.30pm.

JUNE 14th - Civic Awards 2015 at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, High St 6:00pm. 17th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s. 10.30-11 am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free. 17th - Joined-Up Writers Group - Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring

27th - Birdman at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall at 7.30pm. 30th - After Hours music event performed by Norton Hill students as part of Midsomer Arts Festival. Details from Midsomer Norton library.

JULY 2nd - First Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2 to 5pm. 3rd - Paradis Palm Court Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the Town Hall. Theme 'Summer Holiday'. 4th - Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm. 6th - Full Town Council Meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room. From 7:00 pm to 9:00pm. 9th - St John's Farmers Market 2.30pm - 4.30pm. St Johns School. A range of stalls and activities. 9th - MSN Society AGM and "History of the High Street through receipts. Town Hall at 7.30pm. 11th - Town Fayre 12 - 4pm. See page 29 for full details. 11th - Launch of Summer Reading Challenge for children ages 4-11.Includes at 2-2.45pm Cassandra: Storyteller with Stories in Motion: Shooting Down the Sun: Record Breaking Tales of Adventure. Midsomer Norton Library. 13th - Planning committee at the Beauchamp Room in the Town Hall from 7pm to 9pm. 14th - Poetry Liaisons. Share favourite poems or your own work. 7-8pm at Midsomer Norton

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Library. Open to all and free to attend. 15th - Joined-Up Writers Group - Support for budding authors in getting started or exploring ideas. 1 - 3pm at Midsomer Norton Library. Open to all and free to attend. 16th - National Theatre Live with Everyman at 7pm in the Town Hall. 19th - Flute Allsorts. A Flute Quartet. Concert Hall, Town Hall, 5 - 6pm. 23rd - Give Blood 1.30pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm 7.15pm Available to walk in. Appointments can be made. Somer Centre. Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

16th - Davey String Trio with Barbara Murray. Concert Hall, Town Hall, 5 - 6pm. 25th - Give Blood 1.30pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm 7.15pm. Available to walk in. Appointments can be made. Somer Centre. Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

SEPTEMBER 3rd - First Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2 to 5pm.

25th - Big Hero 6 at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall at 2.30pm.

4th - Paradis Palm Court Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the Town Hall. Theme 'A Night at the Musicals'.

25th - The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel at Midsomer Norton Palladium in the Town Hall at 7.30pm.

5th - Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm.

AUGUST 1st - Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies Gardens from 9am to 1pm. 2nd - Bat Walk with Jenny Ross. Contact Friends of Silver St on 01761 411292 for more information.

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6th - First Thursday Social at Welton Rovers from 2 to 5pm.

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6th - Give Blood 1.30pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm 7.15pm. Available to walk in. Appointments can be made. Somer Centre. Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

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7th - Paradis Palm Court Trio from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the Town Hall. Theme 'Sea Fever'. 12th - Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under- 3s. 10.30-11 am at Midsomer Norton Library. Free. 12th - Zoolab Mini Beasts event 2 - 3pm. Tickets £2.50 available from the Midsomer Norton library.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ST CHAD'S WELL the acquisition of St Chad’s Well was W hen completed in March 2015, the Town Council became a landowner for the first time since it was formed back in 2011. Thanks to the cooperation and support from Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership, an agreement was reached for the Town Council to take ownership of the land and to undertake to maintain it for the future use of the community – enabling the Schools Partnership to focus its resources on the educational facilities that it manages. The Schools Partnership was obliged to obtain Central Government permission for the transfer and as a result of the agreement the land can only be used as a green space for the

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THE HISTORY OF THE WELL AND MEMORIAL CENOTAPH

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

When he was in the Crimea, Brevet Major Savage may well have contracted the disease that eventually took his life in 1866. What is certain is that he wrote to his mother, Elizabeth-Anne, from the Crimea telling her of the incredibly unhygienic conditions endured by soldiers during the campaign. She had married Frederick’s father, Thomas, in 1822 and she decided to erect the cenotaph as a memorial to her only child at the site of the spring which had long been used by the people of the town. Thomas had died in 1859 before Frederick’s death and Mrs Savage is reported to have continued to visit the memorial to mourn the loss of her son for many years. After Mrs Savage died, the cenotaph seems to have become neglected and the Council at the time made approaches to Mrs Savage's Trustees to carry out repairs and maintenance. There seems to have been various issues concerning the ownership of the well and gardens through the 1920s and 1930s. PLANS FOR THE FUTURE Now that the Town Council has taken ownership of the well, cenotaph and garden it plans to begin a programme of restoration, beginning with work to arrest the decline of the memorial and the surrounding stone basin by specialist stonemasons. The project will eventually include removing the scaffold railings and restoring the garden itself over a period of time. The storm culvert that currently dissects the site will be surveyed with a view to building a culvert and a contractor is to be employed to improve the garden by removing the tree stump and cultivating the grass and managing the trees more effectively.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

HANDS-ON LOCAL HISTORY Anyone with an interest in our local heritage can get directly involved with it in many different ways at the Society's museum headquarters in the old Radstock Market Hall.

the publishing and distribution of our local history journal, 'Five Arches', and organising talks on local topics through our 'Bygone Days' and 'Science For All' programmes.

Our volunteers are responsible for running all aspects of the museum and its activities which include the cataloguing and conservation of the collection, providing the research service, providing educational experiences for school children, running the shop and tea-room, welcoming visitors at the front desk and assisting in the development and operation of our computer systems, website and social media presence. You can also be involved in

You don't have to be just a member of the audience, you can get your hands on your own local history and play a part in its preservation and promotion for the benefit and enjoyment of all. You can join us by contacting our Curator/ Manager, Nick Turner, on 01761 437722 or by email at info@radstockmuseum.co.uk for more information.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SUMMER TIME AT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY On’ and ‘Things to do’. Younger readers can also join the Bookstart Bear club, which encourages them to discover the fun of reading and be rewarded with special Bookstart Bear certificates. Pick up a starter pack at the library. For adults there’s a lively range of events and musical performances. June performances include Thornbridge on 2nd and a Midsomer Arts Festival event on 30th. More details of these are in Whats On, and as we are adding to our programme all the time please check our website or call in to get the latest. Events are generally FREE and open to all.

here is a lot going on in the library this Summer for both adults and children.

In July, our Summer Reading Challenge returns. This is a national scheme for 4-11 year olds with a different theme each year. Over 800,000 children took part last year and this year the Summer Reading Challenge has teamed up with Guinness World Records to establish a “Record Breakers” themed Challenge. Record Breakers brings together fact and fiction, challenging young readers to explore astonishing real-life achievements and world records. Children are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with themed rewards, plus a certificate and medal for every child who completes the Challenge. The scheme launches on Saturday 11th July when we have a free family storytelling event - see Whats On for details . There’s plenty to do for children under 5 too and our regular children’s events are listed in ‘What’s

Our annual Recycle a Library Book Competion has now opened, with the theme Wonderland! Pick up a book from any library and turn it into a work of art. Closing date 29th August,for adults and children. For inspiration our Facebook page includes a link to past entries. After Hours is our programme of evening music and events, most of which are free. See ‘What’s On’ section for details but as new events are being added all the time, so drop by to check out additions to our programme, or use the contact details below. If writing is your interest, the library’s ‘Joined-up Writers’ workshops offer support for budding authors in getting started or exploring their ideas, and there are ‘Poetry Liaisons’ nights when poets and poetry-lovers can share their own work or just listen, often with a guest poet attending. See ‘What’s On’ for dates. You do not need to be a library member to come to our events, but joining is free and only takes a few minutes and gives you access to online resources as well as books, talking books and DVDs.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GOING FOR

GOLD IN 2015

aving won Gold in the South West In Bloom Competition for the last two years, we’ve now moved into the ‘Champion of Champions’ category where we will be competing against major players including Bath, Newquay, Falmouth, Dartmouth, Beer and Tresco. Our target is to retain our Gold and we’re looking in good shape. We got off to a great start with some stunning spring planting of another 4,000 bulbs – the fifth year we’ve done this. Preparations are now in hand for summer planting. A new watering system has been installed along the River Somer in the town centre and also in the Hollies Gardens – fed by the stand pipe taps we installed last year. This will ensure that if we have a dry spell again volunteers won’t need to do the backbreaking work of carrying water by hand. We also have 14 ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries – the highest we’ve ever had. This fantastic community effort includes:

• Welton Primary School • Waci afterschool Club at Welton • Midsomer Norton Allotments Association • Welton Village Group • Swallow • Midsomer Norton Station • Friends of Silver Street Nature Reserve • Midsomer Norton Primary School • Longvernal Primary School • St John’s Primary School • Midsomer Norton Methodist Church • Wansdyke Play Association • Hollies Gardens • River Somer Management Group The investment we made last year in new flower beds in the Hollies and at the top of Church Lane means that we can move ahead this year with planting for the summer and pruning the box hedging in good time. We’ve refreshed the Hollies main display, removing the town name sign and shortly we will be unveiling some amazing 3D features on the theme of bees and butterflies. The In Bloom Team has also joined forces with the Midsomer Norton Community Trust and will be making flowers out of recycled materials on Saturday 27th June in the Hollies Gardens to create ‘Art in the Landscape’ as part of the Midsomer Arts Festival. To find out more about our plans or to come along and join us, visit our Facebook page – Midsomer Norton In Bloom.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ANNUAL ST JOHN'S FARMERS MARKET 9TH JULY For the 7th year in a row, St John's Primary School will be holding its Farmers Market on Thursday the 9th of July between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. The event is open to the entire community as well as parents and pupils. This year’s market will build on the success of previous years and will have a great range of stalls and activities showcasing our commitment to local produce, cooking and growing. As the first ‘Food for Life Partnership’ Gold award school, and as part of their curriculum, St John's School is committed to involving all of their children in cooking and growing activities. This helps to foster an understanding of where

food comes from and an enthusiasm for eating seasonal produce which in turn helps them to make healthy eating choices. If you have a local food or drink business and would like to join us, the cost of a stall or table will be £5 and all profits from the Farmer’s Market will go towards the cooking and growing and towards maintaining & updating our outdoor learning through play areas. For more information on the Farmers Market please contact Mrs Roz Beakhurst (School Cooking & Growing Teacher) on 01761 412019 or by email to roz.beakhurst@stjohnsmsn.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SWAN TRANSPORT SWAN Transport’s volunteer drivers have been benefiting Midsomer Norton and the surrounding area since 2001. We are part of SWAN Advice Network and our drivers provide a friendly door to door service for people on low income who are unable to access conventional public transport. Elderly isolated and disabled people can get to all sorts of activities with SWAN such as lunch clubs, visiting friends, going to the library or shopping, to leisure activities or to local doctors, optician or dental appointments. Paulton Hospital and all of the main Bath Hospitals, RUH, Mineral Water, St Martins for any health appointment.

SWAN’s team of drivers provide 4,500 journeys each year. SWAN asks for donations to reimburse the driver’s mileage and donation suggestions for a local return journey start at £6.25. If you are in need of transport and are on benefits or have a low income or would like to make an enquiry then please contact us on 01761 439548 or email swan.transport@ btconnect.com SWAN works with the local Dial a Rides and other local community transport groups and are part funded by Bath & North East Somerset council.

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Midsomer Norton Fayre Programme

Saturday 11th July 2015 12pm to 5pm A day of celebration For the whole community Maypole Festival, Skate Jam, Town Show, Art Exhibition, Duck Race, Brass Band, Community Stalls, Theatre, Dance Displays and much, much more!

All at the Skate & Adventure Play Park

www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk ORGANISED by

SPONSORED by

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HISTORY OF MIDSOMER NORTON FAYRE DAY A Royal Charter for a Fayre was granted to Hugh De Vivonia who held the manor at Midsomer Norton in 1248 for a Fayre to be held from June 22-24 - the vigil of St John the Baptist the patron saint of the Parish Church.

venues included the car park at West Clewes and West Hill Gardens Recreation Ground, but with its centuries-old link with the centre of Midsomer Norton severed, the fair died an ignominious death.

By 1357 a further reference is made to Reginald Fitz Herbert holding “a quarter of a fair on the Nativity of St John the Baptist - this being mid-summers’ day”. By 1611 the Fayre was being held on Good Friday and this appeared to be the regular date until a survey of the Duchy made in 1789 stated that the Fayre was then being held on St Mark's Day, April 25th.

Today, Midsomer Norton Fayre is a free, open access community based event which aims to attract local residents, depending on the weather and other community activities being held in the surrounding area.

From medieval times to at least 1910, the event operated more as a cattle fair, where dairy cows were sold and sheep penned from The Island as far as Stone’s Cross. Horses were sold outside The Hollies. However, by the end of the 19th century the entertainment element began to take over in the form of a steam-driven ‘Fun Fair’. The rights to hold the Fayre were transferred from the Duchy to the then Midsomer Norton Urban District Council in 1898. In 1911 new arrangements were made and although the cattle fair seems to have disappeared sometime after the Great War (1918), the fun fair continued to flourish, and in 1921 was extended from one to two days. However, in February 1961the then Norton Radstock Town Council killed the 700 year old event by refusing to grant it permission to take place in the High Street. A new site was offered in the field adjoining the Hillside Avenue housing site, but it was eventually held elsewhere. Later

COMMUNITY TRUST The Midsomer Norton Community Trust was founded in June 2013 to promote community activity in the town, run community buildings and spaces and put on events and activities and working to support local voluntary organisations in the town. In its first two years the Trust has been very active running events and activities at various venues in the town which have attracted thousands of people into the town centre. From the regular screenings at the cinema, to concerts and the National Theatre Live to the new NYC Youth Club – the Community Trust has literally offered so much more in our local community. To find out more about the work of the Trust, to join or volunteer visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or ring 01761 419133.

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INTRODUCTION "It’s wonderful so many community groups have worked together to help organise Midsomer Norton Fayre Day – based on the centuries old event resulting from our Royal Charter of 1248. Now in its second year, we are well on our way to establishing this event as part of the town annual calendar. Opening with a Duck Race at 12 noon and culminating in the Town Show presentation at 4.00pm, the Community Trust has organised a fantastic day. The main centre of the event will be the Skate and Adventure Play Park – here’s a taste of what’s in store: There will be a Maypole Festival, Skate Jam, Town Show, Art & Photography Exhibition, Victoriana Tea Room, Dance displays, Community Stalls, Street Organ, Punch & Judy, Craft Workshops, Face Painting, Brass Band and much, much more. On behalf of Midsomer Norton Town Council, which is sponsoring this year’s event, I’d like to thank the Fayre Committee as part of the Community Trust and local groups for all their hard work organising this event. I hope you have a wonderful day." Cllr Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton

PULL-OUT GUIDE

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Live Theatre Princess Parties Punch & Judy show Balloon Modelling Craft Workshops Face Painting Future of the town exhibition

Susan Hill School of Dance Avon Dance Academy Shine Dance Bath Spa Band Maypole Festival

COMMUNITY STALLS Midsomer Norton Community Trust Somer Valley Gardening Group Silver Street Nature Reserve MSN Methodist Church Mendip Bee Keepers Association Radstock Museum Ignyte Radstock WI Welton Village Group Swallow Lions Allotment Association Frack Free Somer Valley Rainbows & Brownies Friends of St Chads & Chilcompton P.E.O.P.L.E. Welton Primary WACI (welton) Tesco 'farm to fork' charity RUH Fundraising Sue Ryder Rotary

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PROGRAMME OF EVENTS STARTS AT 12PM

• Duck Race on the River Somer in the High Street • Skate Jam registration opens and general use • Community Stalls open • Theatre

12.15PM

• Bath Spa Band Performance in Display Arena

12.30PM

• Children’s Maypole Festival Commences Assembly in the Display Arena • Town Show opens in the marquee (having been closed for judging from 10.30am)

1.00PM

• Skate Jam begins in the Skate Park • Balloon modelling and entertainment opens • Princess Parties in the Marquee

1.20PM

• Shine Dance (street dancing)

1.50PM

• Bath Spa Band in the Display Arena • Town Show results posted in the marquee

2.30PM

• Theatre; Susan Hill School of Dance in the Display Arena • Punch & Judy Show

3.00PM

• Bath Spa Band performance in the Display Arena

3.30PM

• Avon Dance Academy (tap dance) in the Display Arena

4.00PM

• Grand Presentation in the Marquee • Town Show prize giving • Skate Jam prize giving

5.00PM

• Close

Times shown in the programme are approximate only and subject to change. Please see local press and listen to announcements on the day.

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MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN SHOW GUIDE The Town Show will be Housed in a 720 square metre marquee at Gullock Tyning, the Town Show will aim to showcase and celebrate the creativity of residents of Midsomer Norton & District and its community groups. There will be competition areas for everyone with seven main sections with 61 classes, including vegetables, flowers, cookery, men’s only, handicrafts, art & photography and children’s. Overall the aim is to encourage as many people as possible to take part to celebrate the varied creative skills of local people. With over 2000 entry forms having been printed it will be easy to enter one or more of the Show sections. There will be a range of trophies, one for each of the seven main Sections, Town Show Trophy for the person winning the most points overall. In addition, there will be a Schools Trophy presented to the Midsomer Norton School with the highest number of points

TOWN SHOW ENTRY CATEGORIES 2015 SECTION A: VEGETABLES 1: Three Courgettes 2: Three Beetroot 3: Five Tomatoes 4: Two Cucumber 5: Three Carrots 6: Three Onions 7: Six Pods of Peas 8: Five Potatoes 9: Six Runner Beans 10:Two Marrows 11: Three of the same vegetables not above 12: A dish of any type of the same fruit

SECTION B: FLOWERS 1: One Perfect Bloom 2: Three Roses 3: Nine Sweet Peas 4: Vase of mixed garden flowers 5: Hand tied posie of flowers 6: Flowering Pot Plant 7: Floral arrangement in cup and saucer 8:A Fern Pot Plant 9: An Orchid Plant

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SECTION C: COOKERY 1: Victoria Sponge (from recipe) 2: Fruit Cake (from recipe) 3: Five Scones (from recipe) 4: Five Pieces of Shortbread (from recipe) 5: Five Chocolate Brownies 6: Lemon Drizzle Cake 7: Decorated Coffee Sponge 8: Jar of Marmalade 9: Jar of Jam 10: Jar of Jelly 11: Jar of Chutney 12: Jar of Pickle 13: Loaf of homemade bread (bread makers allowed)

SECTION D: MEN ONLY 1: Victoria Sponge (from recipe) 2: Fruit Cake (from recipe) 3: Jar of Marmalade 4: Jar of Chutney

SECTION E: HANDICRAFTS 1: Tapestry 2: Embroidery 3: Cushion in any medium 4: Hand Knitted Toy 5: Handmade Card 6: Handmade Tea Cosy (in any medium) 7: Hand Knitted Garment (4ply or double knitting) 8: Handicraft not in other classes e.g. pottery, wood, basketry (no kits please)

SECTION F: ART & PHOTOGRAPHY 1: Photograph – subject “Reflections”- colour print not larger than 7” x 5” un-mounted 2: Photograph - subject “Furry friends”– colour print not larger than 7” x 5” un-mounted 3: Photograph - subject “Past its sell by date”– colour print not larger than 7” x 5” un-mounted 4: Painting in any medium - subject “Nature” - not larger than 16” x 12” 5: Water colour painting – any subject - not larger than 16” x 12” 6: Portrait black and white any medium not larger than 16” x 12”

SECTION G: CHILDREN’S 1: Miniature garden on a dinner plate 2: Tractor made from fruit and vegetables 3: Painted pebble or stone 4: Five decorated cup cakes 5: Decorated Welly (Wellington Boot) 6: Hand Writing: “The Snail” (see below) 7: Painting of an animal on A3 paper 8: Colour print of “my pet” not larger than 7” x 5” 9: Handmade knitted or sewn item

To take part, please complete an entry form available from: www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or visit the Town Hall or Library for an entry form

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FUN OF THE FAYRE VICTORIANA TEA ROOM AND ART & PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION MAYPOLE FESTIVAL Midsomer Nortonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schools and community groups will be taking part in a Midsomer Maypole Festival. Five Maypoles were purchased with the support of local B&NES Councillors and loaned out to groups in the town wishing to learn to dance and for months local children have been preparing for the Fayre Day competition. SKATE JAM With one of the best Skate Parks in the country, the Manic Skaterz will be organising a Skate Jam on Fayre Day beginning with registration and music at 12 noon. Competitions will begin from 1pm until approx. 3.30pm with presentations and prize giving at 4pm. MUSIK SHED A DJ set featuring Tea Partiez, Musik-Jam Instrument sessions and kicking it Old Skool NURSERY STYLEE. Children will be dancing on down like the worm in the bottom of the garden, this is an outdoor venue with a difference. The Musikshed is aimed (mainly) at people under 5, but we do hope to see some dancing dads and musical mamas throwing some shapes too.

The Old Bakery Artists will be presenting an exhibition of their work at the Somer Centre on Midsomer Norton Fayre day. The Norton Radstock Photographic Society will also be exhibiting work. Also in the Somer Centre will be the Victoriana Tea Rooms, run by the Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, and providing a chance to sit down and take a rest from the bustle of Fayre day and relax in an oasis of elegance. DUCK RACE The Lions Club will be organising their an-nual Duck Race on Midsomer Norton Fayre day to raise money for local charities. Ducks can be purchased before the race to give entrants the chance to win prizes. The River Management Team has been busy clearing the river bed to allow the amazing spectacle of hundreds of ducks floating by. THE GRASS LADIES Three delightful ladies, Mo, Daisy and Lawn-a, clad in gorgeous dresses made from artificial turf, invite families to participate in a lovely private garden party ...and no party is complete without music! Listen out for some beautifully sung a-cappella mini-concerts by the lovely Grass Ladies of Gobbledegook Theatre. They are suitable for everyone, but have been made with the very young in mind.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

FOSSEWAY BOWLS CLUB Members of Fosseway Bowls Club have just returned from their annual pre season tour to Bournemouth where they gained success in two of their three matches. Now the serious side begins with friendly and league matches starting. Advertising the club has resulted in many new members joining this year, most of whom have never played bowls before. As well as participating in the game the club also has a very busy social side with various events happening throughout the year.

On Saturday 23rd May, there was a plant sale at the club, which the proceeds will be put aside for inclusion in the profit made for Macmillan Cancer Care coffee morning later in the year. Last year the total for Macmillan was in excess of £1,200.00 which we would like to exceed at this years event. For more information on the club please contact any member or club secretary Ray Soby, telephone 01761 414269

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THINGS TO DO MONDAY Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Monday from 1pm to 4pm for viewing only. Storytime at Midsomer Norton Library 11-11.30 am. Stories followed by craft activity. For 0-5 year olds. Free. Children and youth club (in term time) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm to 7.45pm.

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HIGH STREET MIDSOMER NORTON

Child-minding group for registered child-minders at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, fortnightly from 9.30am to 11.30am. Aqua Aerobics at South Wansdyke Sports Centre, 8pm to 8.45pm. Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Monday at 6.30am to 11am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 8.00pm and 9.00pm to 10.00pm. Norton Radstock U3A hold a monthly Speaker meeting every 2nd Monday, 2-4pm at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, and a monthly Coffee Morning every last Monday 10.30am – noon at Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton. Shine Dance at the Town Hall. 9-12 years old, 5 - 6pm. 13 - 16 years old, 6 - 7pm. Adults, 7 - 8pm.

TUESDAY Wellbeing Group improve health and mental wellbeing. 10.30am - 12.30pm, Town Hall, Midsomer Norton. Contact Sue on 01225 396042 or Mandy on 01225 835817. Midsomer Norton Townswomen’s Guild meets on the third Tuesday of each month at St John’s Church Hall at 2pm. For more information call 01761 413528. Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship meet fortnightly from September to June at the Methodist Church Centre at 3pm, for more information call 01761 235970. Golden - Oldies singing sessions at Greenacres Community Room, Midsomer Norton every Tuesday 2pm to 3pm. Open to all. Call 01761 470006 for more information. Midsomer Norton Short Mat Bowls Club meets every Tuesday and Friday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Call 01761 346838 for more info.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Tuesday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.

Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10.30 11am. Every fourth Wednesday.

Baby reflex, yoga and massage with Sally Teall at the Methodist Church Hall, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information.

Toddler Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, term time only. Aqua Zumba at South Wansdyke Sports Centre from 12.30pm to 1.15pm.

Pre School Speech and Language Therapy (appointments only) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre. Call 01225 831800 for more info.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Wednesday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Tuesday at 6.30am to 10am, 12.00pm to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 4.00pm.

Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior men from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

WEDNESDAY

Wednesday Women’s Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church Centre meets alternative Wednesdays at 2pm. Various speakers and topics. For more information call 01761 436770.

Jenny Peplow Singers meet every Wednesday at 7.15pm at St John’s Church Hall, Midsomer Norton. For more information call Jenny on 01373 812093.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Welton Vale over 50’s club meet in the Community Room from 2pm to 4pm, for more information call 417960.

Short mat bowls every Friday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Contact 01761 418400.

The Old Bakery Artists meet on the last Thursday of every month except December at The Fromeway in Radstock, for more information call 01761 418956. Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Thursday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members. NYC - Midsomer Norton Youth Club, term time only, 6.30 - 8.30pm. Town Hall. Toddler Yoga with Sally Teall at the The Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information. Chi Gong, gentle movement and relaxation at Dorothy House from 12.15pm to 12.55pm, Peasedown St John. Contact 01225 722988 for more info. Age UK Midsomer Norton Walks 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 10am. Meet outside the Town Hall. Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Thursday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 3.00pm to 8.00pm. Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior ladies from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Back to basics exercise to music for able bodied adults who prefer to work in smaller groups at Midsomer Norton Town Hall in the Assembly Room from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

Meet for prayer at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 9.45am. Whist Club at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 2pm to 4pm from September to June. Stay and Play (parent led) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre from 9.30am to 11.00am. Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Friday at 6.30am to 12pm, 2.30pm to 6.00pm and 7.00pm to 8.30pm.

SATURDAY Workdays take place every Saturday at Silver Street Nature Reserve from 10.30am. Please meet by the notice boards in the woods. For more information contact Lucy or James on 01761 411292. Mass is celebrated at St John the Baptists from 9am every Saturday. The Local Churches Men’s Breakfast Fellowship meet monthly (2nd Saturday) at 8.30am (breakfast from 8am) venues vary. For more information call Midsomer Methodist Centre on 01761 410450. Saturday Night Praise at 7.30pm on the 2nd Saturday of each month at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Saturday at 11.30am to 4.00pm and 6.00pm to 7.00pm. Whist Club at the Town Hall. 7.30pm. Ring Alex on 01761 419133.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SUNDAY Morning Worship Youth Church and crèche from 10.30am at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Sunday from 10am to 4pm for viewing, museum, wartime pillbox, buffet coach and gift shop. Welton Baptist Church Morning Service at 10.30am at Somervale School , morning worship service for all ages. Sunday service at St John the Baptist Church at 8am and 9.30am. Evening Worship from 6pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church. Welton Baptist Church Evening Service 6pm at Somervale School, evening service – café style.

Casual swimming at South Wansdyke Sports Centre every Sunday at 10am to 2pm, 3pm to 8pm. Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for juniors from 9.30am to 11am. Midsomer Norton Choral Society 6.45pm, Town Hall.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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MIDSOMER NORTON RUGBY CLUB

Founded in 1997, the club has grown steadily over the years until there are now over 30 members enjoying our game. We meet at The Somer Centre on Tuesday and Friday afternoons at 2.30pm and play for 2 hours with a short break for tea.

Midsomer Norton Rugby Club had a fine season in 2014-205, winning the Bath Combination Vase in May by beating Old Sulians 39-7 at the Recreation Ground in Bath after having already overcome Bristol Harlequins 25-22 in the final of the Somerset Vase the previous month.

We are a mixed ability club and play friendly matches against other like minded clubs in the area, whilst the more competitive players play in the Mendip Short Mat Bowls League where this year we won the division 2 title. We are always happy to welcome new players and anyone wishing to try our game should just turn up at one of our sessions where they will be made most welcome.

This was a particularly successful year after having secured promotion to the Southern Counties South league only two years ago and their form saw them go unbeaten from January 2015. Having been near the bottom of the table around Christmas, the long run saw them rise to a creditable seventh by the time of their last league match against third placed Sherborne who were soundly beaten 17-10.

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RADSTOCK & MIDSOMER NORTON LIONS CLUB Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions, is proud to be part of Lions Clubs International. Early in the 20th Century, a successful and visionary business man, Melvin Jones, wanted to give something back to his community. As a result, Lions was founded in Chicago in 1917. From small beginnings, the movement expanded rapidly and went international in 1920 with the founding of a club in Canada. Lions can now be found in 210 countries from the Aland Islands to Zimbabwe with 46,000 clubs and 1,400,000 members. Because they are so widely established, the Lions are “on the ground” everywhere. Consequently, they are well placed to provide immediate assistance whenever this is needed. Just recently, as a result of the devastating earthquake, Lions in Nepal have been busy helping with disaster relief and have also organised emergency blood donation sessions. The same has been true for other disasters, such as the Asian Tsunami (2004), Haiti, Cyclones in the Philippines and Vanuatu. Again, because they are “on the ground”, they continue to provide support towards the rebuilding of communities after such disasters.

The local club was founded in 1977 and apart from providing aid internationally, they keep a close eye on our local community and try to help those in need. They have assisted Alexander Jones, Henry Ford, Ethan Smith, Abi Pike to name but a few. They helped provide the roundabout and swing for the disabled in the Tom Huyton play park in Radstock. Apart from public service, they also enjoy themselves, so, if you would like to give something back to your community and have fun and enjoy comradeship whilst doing so, please get in contact. You can find out more Lions international, on their website www.rmnlions.org.uk.

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NORTON YOUTH CLUB

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YC might conjure up images of New York – but it’s actually what young people have come up with as the name of the new ‘Norton Youth Club’. And with the help of Bath Studio School Students and local company SIGNefex the group recently unveiled their new logo to the world. The NYC meets at the Town Hall every Thursday in term time between 6.30pm and 8.30pm and offers something for young people at two levels. On the one hand there is space to just ‘chill’ drink espresso coffee sitting on the large comfy settees and catching up with friends. Or if you’re minded there

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is an XBOX, Playstation and regular activities run by youth workers most weeks ranging from making ‘mocktails’ with all the trimmings to ‘mugcakes’ in the microwave. Group members are even invited to stencil a logo on the NYC space and sign it – which as the membership has grown is creating a piece of art work as a frieze around the rooms. Organised by the Community Trust and the WPA with funding from Midsomer Norton Town Council, there is scope for the group to organise live music or film nights and in the summer months for outside evenings in the Skate and Adventure Play Park. So there are exciting times ahead at the NYC where there is something for everyone. For further details visit www.midsomerNYC.com or ring 01761 419133

THE APPLE IS GETTING BIGGER! Midsomer Norton’s new youth club NYC, based at the Town Hall and run by the Wansdyke Play Association, continues to grow in popularity. It also received a boost from Midsomer Norton Town Council recently when they resolved to provide some new gaming equipment from the funds it had set aside to help get the club off the ground. The Town Council provided a large flat screen TV, gaming consoles, games and speakers to help the youth club attract new members and offer an even wider range of activities at its weekly club evenings.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SCHOOL NEWS:

INTERMEDIATE MATHS CHALLENGE SUCCESS Y

ear 10 & year 11 Pupils at Somervale School achieved 6 Silvers and 7 Bronzes in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge. Over 200,000 pupils from across the UK sat the Intermediate Maths Challenge with roughly the top 6% receiving a gold certificate, the next 13% silver and the next 21% bronze. Highest achievers included Kate M, Year 11 and Kirsty C, Year 10.

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The intermediate Maths Challenge is run by the UK Mathematics Trust and aimed at those in Years 9, 10 & 11 and is sat in schools. Mr Cox, Head of Mathematics said, "The continued success in these challenges demonstrates that Somervale pupils are able to adapt and apply mathematics to abstract problems rather than just repeat learnt skills."

FANTASTIC SPORTING SUCCESS

n Term 4, the teams at Midsomer Norton Primary School qualified for the hockey, netball and tag rugby county finals through the respective B&NES rounds. This was a great achievement as they were the only team in the West of England to achieve this. The squads travelled to Bristol Grammar School to test themselves against the best schools in the county.

RUGBY The rugby squad got off to a positive start with an extremely well fought 4-4 draw in their opening fixture. They improved every game but unfortunately lost their plate knock-out game on a 'Golden Try'.

NETBALL The netballers recovered from a tough opening loss to bounce back with 3 straight wins to put them in a strong position in Pool A. They eventually finished an impressive 3rd in the group, and 6th out of the whole competition.

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HOCKEY The hockey players got off to a flying start, qualifying from their first-round pool in 1st position. This meant they had reached the final 8 but just missed out on the semi-finals by a single goal. How unlucky! They eventually finished 6th overall which is a truly wonderful achievement.

FOYLE YOUNG POETS APPLAUDED SCHOOL AWARD

uring the first two terms at Somervale School students took part in the annual Foyle Young Poets Award. “Founded by the Poetry Society in 1998, and known as the Simon Elvin Young Poets Award until 2001, the Award is now firmly established as the key competition for young poets. With such fierce competition, to be selected by the judges as one of the top 100 (15 top winners and 85 commended poets) is a truly world-class achievement. Over the past 18 years the Award has kick-started the career of many of today’s most exciting new voices, including Next Generation Poet Helen Mort and Poetry London editor Ahren Warner.

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The phrase ‘Former Foyle Young Poet’ is now found in countless professional biographies as alumni make their mark on the wider literary world, their names appearing on bookshelves and at festivals the world over – from the BBC Proms to the Glastonbury Festival. The Award also incorporates a year-round programme of activity to support creativity and literacy in schools. We offer a number of ‘Applauded’ schools free poet-led workshops to reward their continuing enthusiasm for the Award, and nurture best practice in creative writing teaching by identifying committed ‘Teacher Trailblazers’ to act as mentors and share best practice and lesson ideas online”. Extract: poetrysociety.org.uk/competitions/foyleyoung-poets-of-the-year-award/about-foyle Somervale students responded with an impressive standard of entries and in recognition of this The Poetry Society emailed with some exciting news… “The Education team at the Poetry Society were delighted to see that you entered some of your pupils’ poems to the Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award 2014…. as part of the Award, we also run a series of poet residencies for two Applauded Schools from across the UK who have shown a particular interest and enthusiasm for the award and for poetry writing…I’m delighted to inform you that Somervale School has been selected as one of this year’s Applauded Schools and we would like to offer you the opportunity to work with a fantastic professional poet who can help to develop your pupils' writing!”

In March 2015 Somervale School welcomed local poet, Lucy English, to take up her post as ‘Poet in Residence’. During the workshops, Lucy worked with three groups of students over three days, focusing on their poetry and creative writing skills, building on their confidence during each session; challenging, encouraging and helping students improve their writing and also their understanding of the spoken word. The last day included a presentation where students read aloud their completed work. Lucy commented as follows: “I just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed working with your school! Your students are a sparky bunch, full of fun and ideas. Even though I gave them a tough brief they all managed to achieve it. There are some good writers in your school!” Anna Brooman, Head of English at Somervale School added: “As a school which places a high premium on developing creativity, we are very grateful to both Foyle and Lucy English for this opportunity. It was a pleasure to see budding young writers from a range of age and ability groups working collaboratively to develop and discuss ideas and write some very original and mature pieces. We now look forward to deepening our partnership with Lucy English as she works with the English Department to develop the teaching of creative writing within the curriculum: exciting times!”

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

BATTLE OF HASTINGS COMES TO SOMERVALE

n Friday 13th March, Year 7 students participated in a Battle of Hastings reenactment afternoon, organised by the History department, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The trained experts who ran the session were equipped with the authentic clothing, armour and weapons of the period which Year 7 students could try on and pass around. The event started with a story telling session, where they were told about the build-up to the Battle of Hastings and then the battle itself, including the crucial mistake from Harold Godwinson’s army which left England under Norman control. Students were treated to an exciting fight between a Norman soldier and a Saxon soldier, where the experts fought

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with swords, spears and shields to the cheers of the Year 7 pupils who were supporting each side. After the Saxon soldier’s defeat, students asked the visitors questions about the battle, the fighting that took place and the armour and weapons that they had looked at. Year 7 had a great time and without a doubt will remember the time when they experienced a medieval battle whilst still in school! Two year 7 students who participated in the experience gave their appraisal of the event. “It was really good. I liked how they were using real swords – they were really hurting each other!” - Holly “I found it really epic because I got to hold the weapons” – Harry. Clearly a memorable moment in their school careers.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SOMERVALE SCHOOL READATHON RAISES MONEY FOR CHARITY

o encourage its pupils to read for pleasure, Somervale School has just completed a very successful Readathon sponsored read. Pupils rose to the challenge, reading many books and raising a fantastic £452.30 for seriously ill children. Their achievement also earned the school free books, provided by Readathon in partnership with Scholastic Book Clubs to boost school library stocks. Somervale students decided that they wanted to donate these books to Charity along with the money raised. Readathon, a nationwide charity, uses the sponsorship money to support carefully chosen

charities who help seriously ill children and their families: ReadWell, CLIC Sargent, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and Together for Short Lives. Quote from Miss Brooman – Head of English -: “I recommend Readathon to any teacher or librarian who wants to get their pupils reading for pleasure. Readathon creates a real buzz about books in the school. I found children talking about books, sharing and swapping favourites and genuinely motivated to read. Parents became involved in what their children were reading and shared precious time together talking about books. Our pupils raised over £450 for seriously ill children. To get all that from one easy-to-run activity, and then be awarded free books on top, makes Readathon a truly unique campaign. Everybody wins.”

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WORLD BOOK WEEK AT SOMERVALE SCHOOL

omervale School had a very busy and exciting World Book Week this year. To launch the celebrations, local author, David Gatward, visited Somervale on Friday 27th February. He entertained Years 7 and 8 during the day, recalling the tales of how he became an author and his mishaps and adventures along the way. David also hosted a creative writing session with a group of year 9 students during the morning. Discussing with them how to improve and expand on their own creative writing skills. During lunch, David then took part in a radio interview, where Year 9 student and radio presenter, Jamie Skinner, posed questions to David about his writing inspiration for his novels; what

made him decide to become an author and how long it takes to finish one of his books. On Monday 2nd March World Book Week commenced with a special assembly during the afternoon to launch the week’s activities and inform students why it is important to celebrate during the week and to raise awareness of the importance of reading in all aspects of their life. Students also took part in many lunchtime activities including; a Staff –v- Student Scrabble Competition and Chess Challenge; a national Design a Book Token competition run by National Book Tokens; a “Guess the Book Quote” competition and an Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland themed quiz during library lessons, when each KS3 student also received their £1 National Book Token to spend on a book of their choice. During Thursday 5th March - World Book Day itself, we hosted “Book Character Dress-Up Day”. The school was transformed with many colourful outfits and costumes, with prizes for the best and original costumes. Staff dressed as Alice in Wonderland characters were invited to attend a “Mad Hatters Tea Party” in the library, this was in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Students also enjoyed a summary of Alice in Wonderland being read aloud during the start of each lesson, continuing throughout the day.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

CLAY WORKSHOP FOR ST JOHN'S PUPILS

rt teacher Ms Guppy has been working with primary students from St. John’s in the Somervale School clay workshop. The students from Year 4 learned how to design and make a castle tower. This is one of the initiatives that the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership is keen to promote, the sharing of their resources with the local primary schools so that younger students have access to specialised teachers as well as gaining experience of being in a larger School. The pupils’ first lesson consisted of a discussion about what they knew about castles, followed by the drawing and designing of their own towers with the help of support material and images. After the designing was complete, they had fun playing with clay and learning about the medium and various building techniques. The second lesson followed a step by step process to form a slab base and then to roll and shape a tower. All the pupils made fascinating structures including many architectural features, and learned how to cut away and add material to produce features such as windows, staircases and turrets. Mrs Guppy, Teacher of Art at Somervale said: “There has been a great deal of research about the benefits and importance of art in child development. From my own experience as an artist and ceramic teacher, I believe that few art mediums kindle growth and skills in children in the way that clay does. Working with clay is an invaluable experience, it develops sensory development, motor skills, self-esteem, selfexpression, problem solving skills, discipline, and pride. Clay has a uniquely therapeutic quality that I have seen settle and calm children, which can also retain their attention for hours”.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TOP SECRET - N'FEST 24TH - 30TH AUGUST Starting life as “Big Top” back in the year 2001, this immensely popular community event hosted by Welton Baptist Church received a makeover in 2009 to become N’fest. As always, all of the events are free of charge and this year run from August 24th - 30th at Somervale School. The theme of the children's morning club for 4-11 year olds is “Top Secret” and plans for team games, songs, gunge tank, puppets, crafts, memory verse, dramas, messy games and stories are almost finalised. Most children will bring booking forms home from school, but if you don’t receive one by July 17th please leave details on the church answerphone: 01761 410274 or visit our website.

Book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited. The Playtots Toddler group for pre-schoolers and their parents or carers will be open at the school running alongside the Children’s club from 10am - noon daily. For anyone wanting to just relax and chat for a couple of hours “Early Shift Café 3:16” will also be open at the school. In the evenings we have Stand-up comic Paul Kerensa (writer for “Miranda” and “Not Going Out”) paying us a visit as well as a ladies only movie night, football tournament plus much more. Visit www.weltonchurch.org.uk for the latest details.

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TOWNWOMEN'S GUILD T

ownswomen’s Guilds was founded in 1929 based on pacifist Suffragist principles to educate women in citizenship and using the hard fought for vote! Bath Federation was founded in 1963 and Midsomer Norton became its 18th Guild when founded in November 1988 in the local Town Hall, moving subsequently to St John’s Church Hall. The Guild attracted incomers to the town looking for interest and friendship and still has three founder members, the principal of whom, Elsie Kite, has this year become the first Honorary President in acknowledgement of her exemplary service. Our years have been filled with the traditional TG mix of speakers, conferences, demonstrations, carol services, outings and eating out but, on the serious side, we have debated national mandates on a range of wider interest issues to society and campaigned locally, eg FOR retention of the cheque system for those disadvantaged by modern technology, AGAINST LHVs (longer heavier vehicles) currently using totally unsuited roads in UK towns and villages to reach their final destinations from motorways and trunk roads, during a 10-year trial period and supported Frack Free Somer Valley in its efforts to protect the area from exploration and drilling for shale oil or coal bed methane. The Guild is particularly proud to have successfully cross-party lobbied the Government from October 2002 for the annual income threshold of £1K for small organisations to be increased to £5k, an undeniable benefit gained finally under the Charities Act 2006 which enabled such organisations with income not exceeding £5k to be free of the bureaucracy of becoming a registered charity. Times have changed; the majority of women now work outside the home and have wider leisure-time choices but there is still a place for the interest and friendship offered within TG.

For meeting details, please contact Secretary Glen Hepworth on 01761 413528.

ARE YOU PART OF A GROUP OR CLUB? TELL US YOUR NEWS Contact 01761 410141 zoe@midsomernortonlife.co.uk

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CARNIVAL PARTNERSHIP

LAUNCHED

2014, community leaders have been looking at how best to take forward this iconic event in 2015 – announcing the launch this week of the Midsomer Norton Carnival Partnership.

fter the glittering return of the Carnival to Midsomer Norton High Street in November

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The new Partnership, operating as part of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust will be focusing on bringing together resources and know-how to ensure that the Carnival is run in compliance with the highest standards of health and safety regulations – something that will need to be supported by a corresponding fundraising effort to pay for it. As well as individuals from the Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Association, the Community Trust and the Chamber the aim is to invite a local B&NES Cllr and a Town Councillor to sit on the Partnership. “Whilst still owning the event, with the backing of the Carnival Partnership we will be able to secure the services of specialist event management company Running High Events Ltd to oversee the core operational management of the Carnival in 2015. This will provide a massive boost to up our game. At the same time we will be able to focus our volunteer resources on liaising with the Carnival Clubs and the Community”, said Steve Collins, Chairman of the Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Association. Whilst plans for a new shorter route in 2015 are well advanced no one involved is underestimating the challenge faced by the new Carnival Partnership. The Carnival’s return to Midsomer Norton High Street produced an unprecedented crowd of 11,000 people – probably the largest community event outside Bath in recent years. “Having proved that Carnival can pull in a capacity crowd of all ages in 2014, the next step is unlock its enormous promotional potential to raise the profiles of businesses who support it through sponsorship as never before in 2015”, said Cllr Chris Watt.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SUMMER SCREENINGS FOR

COMMUNITY TRUST A

s BBQ season fast approaches the Midsomer Norton Community Cinema brings you the finest cuts of cinema magic at the Town Hall screenings, on the fourth Saturday of every month.

as of yet unannounced films on Saturday 22nd August. For the latest film schedules head to www. midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or phone 01761 419133

As part of Midsomer Arts Festival, on Saturday 27th June there is a very special double bill. First is the Family Showcase brings you animated delight from Aardman with the brilliant Shaun The Sheep Movie at 2.30pm.

After an impressive year of growth Midsomer Norton Community cinema is now giving its loyal audiences the opportunity to book tickets in advance through a new Box Office, available online and on the phone. The new opportunity starts with immediate effect and marks the start of what promises to be another fantastic season of summer film at the Town Hall.

New Box Office for thriving community Cinema

“Attendances have rocketed in recent months with full houses for blockbusters such as Paddington, Mr. Turner and The Imitation Game,” said Alex Davis the Community Development Manager. “We’re always trying to improve our offering and this is a feature that so many have been asking for!” Then in the Evening Showcase at 7.30pm we present the 2015 Academy Award Winner for Best Picture in the sensational Birdman. In this black comedy/ drama Michael Keaton stars as a washed-up film actor, who once played an iconic superhero. The cinema then returns on Saturday 25th July. Things kick off at 2.30pm with Big hero 6 - a critically acclaimed family hit with all the heart and humour audiences expect from a Walt Disney animated production. Then at 7.30pm we have the delightful British comedy The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. A star studded cast returns including Dame Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Dev Patel and Bill Nighy. There will be many more films announced throughout the coming weeks, including two

Tickets for all upcoming screenings can be bought online at mnct.ticketsource.co.uk or by phoning the Town Hall on 01761 419133 during office hours. All remaining tickets will be available on the door as usual.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEW TOWN COUNCILLORS FOR

MIDSOMER NORTON F

ollowing the four yearly elections for Town and Parish Councils that took place in parallel with the Parliamentary and Local Authority elections on 7th May 2015, a new Midsomer Norton Town Council held its first meeting on 18th May. Despite widespread efforts to publicise the opportunity for people to stand as Town Councillors, the closing date passed with only eleven nominations – exactly the number of Councillor “seats” on the Town Council. When there are the same (or fewer) nominations than there are seats, the election becomes “uncontested” and all of those nominated are deemed to have been elected. This was also the case for many Parish Councils in the B&NES area. The new Town Councillors formally accepted their positons as Members of the Council before attending the meeting at which appointments were made for roles on the Council’s committees and working parties as well as the election of Cllr Paul Myers as the Town’s Mayor for 2015-16. His Deputy for the year will be Cllr Steve Plumley. Three new faces appear on the Council with Cllrs Luke Barnes, Glyn Davis and Alastair Slade taking up roles along with Cllr Amy Purchase who, having been co-opted early in 2015, will continue in office along with seven of the original Councillors from the Council that was elected in 2011. All of the Town Councillors describe themselves as Independent and not operating under any party political banner. The Town Council also appointed Members to roles on the Planning Committee and on working parties covering Finance, Operations and Personnel as well as agreeing who will represent the Council on a range of outside bodies.

The new Council will be tackling a range of projects such as the Town Park, the possible transfer of Community Assets such as the Town Hall from B&NES Council and an ambitious plan to transform the Town Hall. Routine work will continue such as fulfilling its role as a consultee for planning applications and managing the town’s horticultural assets which were so highly regarded at last year’s In Bloom awards. On top of that, the Council has ambitions to play an important role in stimulating the regeneration of the Town Centre and continuing its work on making it a safe and enjoyable place for residents and visitors through the day and the night. Finally, this year should see the culmination of the work being carried out to create the town’s Neighbourhood Development Plan which will enable residents to shape future development in and around the town and have a real voice with the legal weight of legislation to ensure that planning matters are considered by the Local Planning Authority with the town’s own vision very much at the heart of the decision making.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WELTON ROVERS FOOTBALL CLUB Welton Rovers chairman Stuart Minall was relieved to see the club finally earn promotion after a tense end to the season. Rovers returned to the Toolstation League Premier Division after five years in the second tier with a 3-1 win at Cheddar on the final day of a long season. "I'm extremely relieved and proud of the club," Minall said. "It was nail-biting during the last few games, but it is thoroughly deserved. We've played good football all season, and the manager and the players have worked extremely hard.”

of the new grandstand in September 2014 – with further plans scheduled for the summer. Midsomer Norton Town Mayor Paul Myers and Councillor Steve Plumley christened the new stand at the ground on 16th May when the club hosted a Bristol City academy team as part of a big charity day.

The club will now look to establish themselves in the Premier Division. "We'll be doing some work around the grandstand and adding a new kitchen," Stuart revealed. "The changing rooms will also be updated. It's a big project and we're on course with a lot of hard work. We're all enjoying it, and that is the key for the club. We'll The Club has been slowly upgrading the facilities build as we did in the First Division. It's a longterm project." at West Clewes – culminating in the opening

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ASPARAGUS FRITTATA INGREDIENTS • 12-14 asparagus, woody ends trimmed and sliced in half lengthways • 8 eggs • 3 spring onions, chopped • 30 g dill, roughly chopped • 30 g coriander, roughly chopped • a pinch of pink Himalayan salt, or sea salt • 4 tsp sunflower oil, or sunflower seed butter • 1 tbsp sesame seeds METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 170C/150C fan/gas 3. Bring a pan of water with 1 tablespoon of table salt to a rolling boil and put your asparagus in for 1 minute. Drain the asparagus and run under ice cold water until cold. 2. Crack your eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk and add the spring onions, dill and coriander to the egg mixture. Season with a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. 3. Heat the oil in a non-stick heavy-bottomed, ovenproof frying pan over a medium heat. Toss the sesame seeds into the pan and then as soon the seeds start changing colour, to a golden brown, pour in the egg mixture.

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4. Evenly arrange the asparagus on top of the egg mixture in the pan and then put the pan into the oven for 15 minutes or until the egg is firm. Slice in the pan, remove each slice and serve with a large side salad.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CLERK

As the new Town Council, with three new Councillors, begins its first year, the Officers have been busy preparing them and providing them with the information and support they need. All of the Councillors have had to register their interests, whether they are returning to office or newly elected, as well as making their declarations of acceptance. The first meetings of new working parties and committees are being arranged and matters that were awaiting a decision during the build-up to the election will be the first business for them to decide on. All the web site data also needs to be updated and the Local Authority and other organisations have to be advised of the new Council membership,

Mayor and Deputy Mayor and any appointments to external bodies. A key duty of the Town Council is to approve the accounts from 2014-15 before they are submitted to our external auditors for an official examination. The Council will consider the accounts at its June meeting where Officers will provide them with information on income and expenditure, variations from previous years and a review of the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial controls in order that they can formally resolve that they represent a true picture of the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position. None of this would be possible without the hard work and attention to detail of Carole Sims who manages the financial processes on behalf of the Council and I would like to take this opportunity of expressing my appreciation of the quality of her work which our auditors have commented on as being outstanding. We are looking forward to the challenges of the next four years and to working with our Councillors, new and old! Clive Stilwell Town Clerk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

YOUR TOWN

COUNCILLORS

Alastair Slade 07714 898902 alastair@alastairslade.com

Richard Robertson 01761 415629 therobertsons@fsmail.net

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

Amy Purchase 01761 411860

Lynda Robertson 01761 415629

amymarch@sky.com

therobertsons@fsmail.net

Jane Lewis 01761 410216

Brian Lawrence 07701 007277

Michael Evans 01761 235996

Glyn Davis 07713 353430

janelewis@clara.co.uk

bcml@hotmail.co.uk

michevans@gmail.com

rickyrocky774@hotmail.com

Steve Plumley (Deputy Mayor) 07913 952901

Luke Barnes 07531 080008

Paul Myers Mayor 07530 042627

s.plumley@sky.com

lukebarnes@somervalleyfm.co.uk

paul.myers@bathasu.com

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