Winter 2015 Issue 17
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE H
istory was made on Monday 5th October when Midsomer Norton Town Councillors signed a conditional contract to purchase 20 acres of land beyond Gullock Tyning for a new Town Park. This represented the culmination of three years hard work since the 5th November 2012 when the Town Council first agreed to pursue the 40 year old dream of securing a Town Park for Midsomer Norton. Prior to this, in September Midsomer Norton won South West In Bloom – beating not just all the other towns in the South West to win this coveted award, but also the City of Bath which has huge resources. This important accolade bears testament to not only the volunteers in the In Bloom Team but also to just how far Midsomer Norton has come in recent years. There are those who might be forgiven for thinking that the Town Council is only concerned with Flowers and Parks when nothing could be further from the truth. As we prepared ground work for the regeneration of the town, making it look its best for investors was always going to be a fundamental step in the process, which has proved its worth attracting businesses like Costa Coffee. However, after five years of ceaseless lobbying by the Town Council, Midsomer Norton has only now finally managed to get its urgent need for regeneration recognised by B&NES. At the same time as working on the Neighbourhood Plan, Placemaking Plan and meeting with developers and national retailers, the Town Council is working hard through the Midsomer Norton Economic Development Partnership to not just produce a cohesive regeneration plan but to lead it into the future. The challenge in Midsomer Norton is that the majority of the key development sites are currently in private hands and so work is needed to ensure that landowners are part of the regeneration process rather than a road block to the town’s progress. As we look towards the Christmas Event on Friday 4th December and an exciting 2016 focusing on the wider regeneration of the town, on behalf of Midsomer Norton Town Council, I’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Cllr Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton
C O N T E N T S
WELCOME TO
MARKET CONSULTATION
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BLOOMING AMAZING
5
GREEN SPACES
7
SWIMMING CLUB
11
CARNIVAL ROYALTY
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PASTOR RETIRES
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TIDYING THE PAVING
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WHAT'S ON
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RIVER SOMER RAILINGS
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COMMUNITY TRUST
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MIDSOMER NORTON ARCHIVE
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CHRISTMAS FAYRE PULL OUT PROGRAMME
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MIDSOMER FOOD
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COMMUNITY MINIBUS
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NORTON YOUTH CLUB
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SOMER VALLEY CHAMBER
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MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK
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YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS
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The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in March. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 19th February 2016. 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 Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Midsomer Norton Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
HAVE YOUR SAY...
MARKET CONSULTATION it’s Mary Portas giving advice on W hether how to regenerate a town or people
1: Would you like Midsomer Norton to have a weekly market?
visiting towns like Frome, the message comes across loud and clear – markets provide an opportunity to increase the number of shoppers by offering more. Indeed, Midsomer Norton led the way locally in the 13th Century with its Charter for a Thursday Market awarded in 1242 and is often referred to as a ‘Traditional Market Town’.
If yes,
Right now we have the Somerset Farmers Market in the Hollies on the first Saturday of the month selling a range of locally sourced produce – marketed by local producers. More recently the Somer Crafters have begun to take space in the Hollies on Farmers Market Saturday offering more. Also for the last 27 years Andy Payne selling fruit and vegetables from a stall at West Clewes (Welton Rovers) on a Thursday each week – an ideal location for people to drive in and make purchases at this edge of the town centre location.
3: What would you like to be able to buy at a Midsomer Norton Weekly Market?
When the Town Council discussed the issue recently a number of key questions were raised which they would be interested in receiving residents’ feedback on as follows:
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2: What would be the most suitable day for a weekly market? Thursdays and Saturdays have been the traditional days for markets in the town but maybe some people would like to follow Frome’s example and go for a Sunday?
4: Where would you most like to see a Midsomer Norton Weekly Market located – Hollies Gardens, West Clewes/Welton Rovers or have you any other suggestions? Please can you send your comments and suggestions by email to: townclerk@ midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk or by hand/ post to Midsomer Norton Town Council, Town Hall, The Island, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HQ by Friday 18th December. Feedback received will be kept confidential with results being unattributable for comments and overall aggregated figures.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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BLOOMING AMAZING H
istory was made at the In Bloom Awards, on Thursday 24th September 2015, when Midsomer Norton not only won Gold in the Champion of Champions category but were also awarded the top prize jointly for the whole South West with Falmouth as ‘Winners of South West In Bloom’. There was uproar from the Midsomer Norton In Bloom team who were ecstatic at their amazing win - in a category which included other major entrants in the Champion of Champions category this year such as Bath. Whilst Midsomer Norton has reached giddy heights in recent years with flowers - South West In Bloom is now much more about community engagement. In terms of Midsomer Norton's twelve 'It's Your Neighbourhood Awards' the town got six outstanding awards, three thriving and three developing . Individual results included the following and it is interesting to note that South West In Bloom rated the River Somer as an outstanding project: • Midsomer Norton Primary School - Outstanding • River Somer Management Team - Outstanding • Silver Street Local Nature Reserve - Outstanding • Swallow Housing Association - Outstanding • The Hollies Gardens - Outstanding • Wansdyke Play Association Saturday Club Outstanding • Midsomer Norton Methodist Church - Thriving • Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust Midsomer Norton - Thriving • Welton Afterschool Club Initiative - Thriving • Midsomer Norton Community Allotments Developing • Welton Primary School - Developing • Welton Village Group - Developing
A celebratory Civic Reception was held at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on Monday 28th September which was attended by over 60 members of the community who had taken part in this year's In Bloom entry and who received their awards certificates from Town Mayor Paul Myers. Since then Midsomer Norton has been invited to participate in Britain In Bloom next year which will see Midsomer Norton compete at the national competition level as well as the South West level.
CONGRATULATIONS "Midsomer Norton Townswomen's Guild say "Hoe, Hoe, Hoe! Warmest congratulations to the Midsomer Norton in Bloom team and the community groups involved in scooping the top prize award jointly with Falmouth and the Gold award in the Champion of Champions category. The town has been greatly enhanced with the floral plantings, so we thank the team and wish them continued success should they decide to meet fresh green-finger challenges in 2016."
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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GREEN SPACES IN MIDSOMER NORTON GREEN SPACES In a town where green spaces are at a premium, the Town Council continues to deliver on its plans to enhance what we have and provide more opportunities for people in the town and surrounding area to enjoy the open air in some interesting and varied places.
The Park design is likely to be staged as funding and planning permission is being sought. Overall, the original concept of a green space, served with cycle and footpaths and with wild meadow areas and possible features such as an open air stage, remains the long-term vision. But the specific design will be informed by consultation with the people of the town and surrounding area. Look out for news on how the Town Council will gather your views!
THE TOWN PARK As Midsomer Norton LIFE was going to press, meetings were taking place with B&NES Council to take forward this ambitious project. Now that the Town Council has signed the contract to buy the land, running from the Somer Centre along the River Somer towards Wheelers Road along with the Batch, work is being started such as providing signage, ensuring that the area is safe and beginning the process of designing the park with as much input as possible from people who will use it. The main access point to the Town Park is planned to be provided at the end of Gullocks Tyning with other entrances at the east end of the Park and from the cycle path below Five Arches. It is likely that an access road will be temporarily constructed for heavy vehicles entering the development site at the east end of the Park which will enable the residential area of Wheelers Road to be spared any unnecessary disturbance during the building of the houses.
THE GARDEN OF FRIENDSHIP Situated in the garden of the Church of the Holy Ghost, the Garden of Friendship is evolving since the land was taken on a lease by the Town Council. The trees at the north-west end have been thinned out to open up the grotto and the long flower bed running along the north boundary. The hedging is being systematically pruned back and the south border is being established with a secure fence and a beech hedge. Work here will be complete during November 2015 with two old breeze block walls being removed and the opening up of the car park spaces to the south side through the removal of the considerable undergrowth that has built up. The stunning restored red telephone kiosk is now in place and an exhibition is being planned of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s designs for the Church conversion and the K6 kiosk, celebrating the link the town has with one of the 20th Century’s most
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
notable architects. Scott was from a dynasty of British architects and was responsible for designing Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, the Battersea Power Station exterior and a huge number of other churches and secular buildings. Scott was a president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and a RIBA Gold Medallist.
bench, information board and a carefully designed planting scheme should be complete by the spring of 2016. In the longer term, plans include restoring the original iron railings, planting a centrepiece tree and enclosing the open storm drain to reduce the detrimental impact on the area.
The space has already been used for community events and is an ideal town centre location for people to use or to simply come and sit in and have a few minutes peace and quiet. The entrance to the Garden of Friendship is now marked with a pair of bespoke iron gates under an arch. The Great Gate Company, based in Westfield was successful in securing the contract for the work and has ensured that the building’s history and the gates are seamlessly celebrated. Drop in and have a look at how things are progressing!
THE WELLOW BROOK
ST CHAD’S WELL
The Duchy of Cornwall and the Town Council have agreed in principle to the Council taking a lease on the land bordering the Wellow Brook on the north side from the road bridge at Northmead Road to the footbridge from Clevedon Avenue to Beaufort Avenue. Located between the Wellow Brook and the Norton-Radstock Greenway, the land is home to a range of wildlife and will offer an opportunity to preserve a natural green corridor of potential value to everyone in and around the town. A working title of Wellow Brook Walk hopefully sets the strategic direction for the project, bringing forward another green space to the Somer Valley for people to enjoy and to protect and enhance the varied wildlife there.
Acquired from the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership in early 2015, the Town Council has completed the first stage of an ambitious project to turn the well, the monument and the beautiful riverside garden into a valuable and attractive green space. The monument has been cleaned and repaired, the Well has been opened up and the basin and channel to the river are now open for all to see where villagers collected their water. Plans are now being drawn up to landscape the grass areas, screen some of the palisade fencing and remove some trees to open up the space. A
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facility will open in early 2016 utilising funds from developer contributions through the Local Planning Authority. The success and lessons from similar projects in north-east Somerset will be used along with a major consultation exercise to deliver a new facility that meets the needs and aspirations of those for whom the Trust exists.
Example of an outdoor gym
MIDSOMER NORTON RECREATION GROUND – OUTDOOR GYM A new and exciting initiative is now underway to provide an outdoor gym and running strip for people in and around the town to use and enjoy. Work to establish the options and begin consultation has begun and it is planned that the
Held by the Town Council under a Trust, the ground at West Clewes has been the home of Welton Rovers Football Club for almost 130 years. The land was bought by the local Miners Welfare in the 1920s and successive local councils have run the ground since 1971. Since 2011, the Town Council has invested in the facilities, providing a new car park surface and a garage block along with maintaining the children’s play area. Alongside this, Welton Rovers have improved the football facilities by working with the Football Association to provide modern and safe stands and developing their clubhouse.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
LITTER; 7 OUT OF 10? Before Midsomer Norton got its own Town Council in 2011, litter was much worse than it is now. When the first litter picks were organised not long before the governance review which created the new council, ten-year-old litter was being taken out of the verges. Most of an internal combustion engine was found under the hedge in Silver Street. The river was a repository for litter, since neither B&NES nor the Environment Agency would take responsibility for clearing it, and Norton Radstock Town Council certainly did nothing. In the heady early days of the new Midsomer Norton Town Council, twenty or thirty volunteers would join a litter pick, collecting 60 bags of the stuff at a time. And since then
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more regular measures have been put in place: we have a Town Warden contract which includes litter collection; we have a magnificent volunteer who clears the river daily; and we have other volunteers who collect a lot every week, including from the town gateway between the Tesco and Phillis Hill roundabouts, and from bins in some road-inaccessible places. New litter bins have been installed and old ones renewed, with great co-operation from B&NES, and one should certainly acknowledge the way that B&NES has been willing to site new bins, even off road, and to support litter picks by providing equipment and making special collections. So in the picking department, there has been a lot of progress. But has there been less antisocial littering? On balance, the answer is probably yes, but there is a long way to go. At the last litter pick on Sunday October 18th, the eight volunteers reported heavy litter along most of the school routes. At St Chad’s Well, the river was strewn with beer bottles and the remains of broken plastic chairs, apparently after a party there on Saturday afternoon. In the Orchard Hall area there was a massive amount too. Bill Bryson used to be a cheerful chap before he took over chairing Keep Britain Tidy. One can see why he has become something of a grumpy old man now. But we shouldn’t despair: we have made real progress, and the culture doesn’t change overnight. The recent reduction in plastic shopping bags will help, and some of the new school generation are very conscious of our shared environment and living space. In a few years they may look back in bewilderment at the days when there was litter everywhere, just as we have changed our culture with drink driving or, to a large degree, in leaving dog mess behind us. Most people don’t litter. The few who do continue to make our town less pleasant than it could be. But it is well worth continuing the effort to educate them and to clear up after them. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NORTON RADSTOCK SWIMMING CLUB We are located at the Midsomer Norton Sports Centre. Our catchment area is Midsomer Norton, Radstock and surrounding villages, however swimmers do travel from neighbouring counties. We are an inclusive club with experience of the Para Pathway. The club is affiliated to the A.S.A, Somerset A.S.A. and A.S.A South West Region. We were awarded the Swim 21 Club Essential accreditation which is the ASA's quality mark to recognise nationally and regionally the clubs that are committed to providing safe, effective and quality services for the benefit of their members. NRSC is one of twelve clubs which make up the Aquae Sulis Network. Collaboratively we work together to deliver the athlete pathway, identify gaps in provision, enhance opportunities for all clubs to increase and sustain membership and develop the volunteer work force. Our aim is to provide an opportunity for children who, having reached the recommended stage of the A.S.A’s Learn to Swim Programme, the next step is entry into a club environment. Swimmers' continued development is under pinned by a skills based approach endorsed by the A.S.A. to refine stroke technique and competitive skills. N.R.S.C’s holistic approach will assist swimmers to develop competitively as individuals in our own club galas,
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as members of a team in inter-club galas and open meets. The long term aim is to develop a lifelong love of aquatics. The club trains on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 10pm and by invitation only on a Sunday 5pm to 7pm. Interested in Joining? Email enrollmentsecretary@nrsc.info
THE YOUNG COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD WAS AWARDED TO NRSC’S LIAM WILLCOX. Among Liam’s successes in the past year: • invited to attend the Youth Sport Trust National Young Coaches Academy as a mentor in December 2014 • appointed by Gloucester Disability as an Assistant Coach and Team Manager at the 2014 National Disability competition in Manchester and 2015 British Swimming Para International in Glasgow • qualified as a Level 2 Coach and Team Manager • appointed by Aquae Sulis as Coach and Team Manager at the British Summer National finals in Swansea There was yet more recognition for aquatics as NRSC’s Sam Church ( who was named 2015 Somerset A.S.A Young Volunteer) and Aquae Sulis Head Coach John Dougall were runners up in the Young Volunteer and Performance Coach categories respectively. Joining in the celebrations at the multi sports awards was SW Club Development Officer Emily Taylor who was delighted to see the local aquatic community honoured.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
CARNIVAL ROYALTY ACROSS
THE SOMER VALLEY
(Radstock Carnival King) aged 11 won District Carnival King. All four Grand Final winners will travel in the famous Queen Coach with all other heat winners also taking part in the procession in limousines.
A great deal of effort has been put in to reviving the tradition of Carnival Royalty in 2015 in order to bring together a group of young people dedicated to being community ambassadors for their towns and villages. It all began in Peasedown St John with the first heat on the 16th September 2015 and ran for five weeks culminating on the 16th October with the Grand Final of the Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Royalty Competition in the Assembly Room at the Town Hall. At this event all the Carnival Royals appointed over the previous five weeks and earlier that night for Peasedown St John, Radstock, Clutton, Westfield and Midsomer Norton competed for the titles of District Carnival Royalty.
“Overall, reviving the tradition of taking the Carnival Royalty competition on the road to towns and parishes around the Somer Valley has proved a huge success this year. We’ve had more entries than ever before and it has been really inspiring to see so many young people wanting to take an active part in their communities and local events in the coming year. I’d like to thank all those who not only took part but the volunteers who helped arrange the five weeks of competitions”, said Hazel Franklin, Secretary of the Midsomer Norton & District Carnival Association. We thought it would be nice to publish all the winners around the Somer Valley who will be acting as community ambassadors for the next 12 months:
The judging panel consisting of Kayley Evans 2014 retiring Carnival Queen, Sue Hill of the Susan Hill School of Dance and Paul Myers Mayor of Midsomer Norton; they had a tough job due to the high standard and number of entries. Molly Starling (Midsomer Norton Carnival Princess) aged 9 was appointed District Carnival Princess and Joshua Mobbs (Westfield Carnival Prince) aged 9 won District Carnival Prince. Megan Tokelove (Westfield Carnival Queen) aged 14 won District Carnival Queen and Aaron Carver
PEASEDOWN ST. JOHN CARNIVAL ROYALTY Bethany Lowe aged 6 became Peasedown St. John Carnival Princess and her brother Joseph Lowe aged 5 as Prince.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
RADSTOCK CARNIVAL ROYALTY Lilly Faith Rann aged 7 was appointed Radstock Carnival Princess. Then Lauren Carver aged 14 became Carnival Queen and Aaron Carver aged 11 became Carnival King. CLUTTON CARNIVAL ROYALTY Amy Rogers aged 11 was appointed Clutton Carnival Queen. Then Ava Alana Yates aged 6 became Carnival Princess and Henry Purchase aged 9 became Carnival Prince. WESTFIELD CARNIVAL ROYALTY Megan Tokelove aged 14 was appointed Westfield Carnival Queen – she has previously held the title of Miss Carnival two years ago. Then Eloise Bryant aged 9 became Carnival Princess and Joshua Mobbs aged 9 Carnival Prince.
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MIDSOMER NORTON CARNIVAL ROYALTY Molly Starling aged 9 years was appointed Midsomer Norton Carnival Princess – there were no Prince entrants. Then Cori Derrick aged 10 became Carnival Queen and Connor Smith aged 10 became Carnival King.
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WANT TO RUN THE BATH HALF IN 2016? JOIN TEAM SWALLOW Local charity SWALLOW, which provides support to adults with learning disabilities, has places available on its team for runners hoping to get fit and raise funds for charity. Andrew Mobbs IT manager and volunteer at SWALLOW ran last year, and has just signed up again to run the 2016 Bath Half Marathon in aid of SWALLOW. “If you think you can’t, you actually can! I started the NHS Couch 2 5K programme at the beginning of January 2014, I was a complete
sceptic, I couldn’t run up the stairs without getting out of breath, but lo and behold after the 9 week programme there I was running 5K without stopping, but the biggest plus is I was running for the charity, it’s so rewarding knowing you’re doing something good for other people and for such a worthwhile cause, so please come and join me on March 16th." To find out how to join the team runners can contact Jess Robinson on 01761 414034 or email jessrobinson@swallowcharity.org.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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PASTOR RETIRES M
ike Howell will be stepping down from his role as Pastor at the end of December after 16 fantastic years at Welton Baptist Church. Mike has become a familiar figure locally not only through Pastoral support but also his involvement in community events, school visits and his show on Somer Valley Radio. He is a gifted communicator with a love for exploring what the bible teaches and will continue to share at churches in the area including Welton. His work has extended as far as Uganda where he has been involved in establishing a residential centre for people with special needs and a Primary school. He also hosts a church leaders training conference there annually, which was attended by over 300 Pastors this year. Mike's wife Rachel has been a tremendous support to him whilst also being very involved in church life herself with Children's work, Dance and running the Alpha course to name but a few. Perhaps a lesser known fact about Mike is his long held interest in American history particularly around the Civil War which he will hopefully find more time to explore. The church has been hugely blessed under Mike's leadership and looks forward to many more years of friendship as he and Rachel continue life in Midsomer Norton and Mike looks for new opportunities to use his skills.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
GETTING READY FOR WINTER The salt storage facilities run by Bath & North East Somerset Council are now at capacity in preparation for another tough winter on the area’s roads. Some 1,300 tonnes is ready for spreading by the Council’s nine-strong fleet of gritting vehicles when temperatures plunge. Over 38% of the road network is salted by the Council – this totals 261 miles of highway and is 8% higher than the national average, supplemented with over 400 grit bins also available for the public to access salt. In the event of snowfall the Council redeploys staff to assist with snow clearing and can operate the gritting fleet around the clock to ensure the maximum level of support is given to residential and business communities across the district. Councillor Tim Warren (Conservative, Mendip), Leader of Council, said: “We are committed to making it easier for residents, businesses and visitors to get around our area, whatever the weather. The Council continues to work hard at improving our resilience and ability to deal with flooding, strong winds or icy conditions. Over the last few months, Bath & North East Somerset Council has been busy preparing for a harsh winter. Our gritting fleet has been serviced and tested ready for the coming winter, and our teams have been out in the community refilling the 400
plus grit bins at the side of the road. "We’re also very grateful to members of the Council’s Snow Warden Scheme, the initiative encouraging people to volunteer to help clear snow and ice the Council can’t get to." A substantial amount of information is available on the Council’s website www.bathnes.gov. uk/gritting – including a winter advice leaflet offering tips on dealing with severe winter weather on highways and pavements. This includes Government guidance on householders clearing snow and ice outside their home. Councillor Anthony Clarke (Conservative, Lansdown), Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The Council is well prepared to ensure our priority routes are gritted so that people can get around the road network as safely as possible. "Our gritting fleet is using some of the most advanced technology available to control the rates at which we spread salt. Combined with around the clock access to real time weather stations and weather forecasting enables a team of people to conduct gritting runs when they are needed and ensure we don’t waste any road salt." During any severe winter weather the Council provides regular updates about the status of its services on www.twitter.com/bathnes. The public can also play their part in helping the Council to manage the road network during severe weather. They can report a problem by calling B&NES on 01225 394041.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
The paving before the repair work started
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How the paving looks now
TIDYING THE PAVING A
project to improve the paving in Midsomer Norton High Street began in late October 2015 and focused on two key areas; outside Martin’s Newsagent and at the bottom of the alley from South Road Car Park to the High Street.
The only responses received were requesting that, whatever surface was used, the access for older residents and those using walking sticks or wheelchairs be improved with a more even surface.
Following repeated damage to the paving as a result of heavy goods vehicles delivering to businesses on the High Street, B&NES Council proposed a project to improve the surfaces and ensure that they are safe for pedestrians and vehicles.
The Town Council provided B&NES Council with confirmation that the consultation had not identified any objections and work was begun on 27th October 2015. In addition to the paving improvements, a dropped kerb crossing, which had been in the B&NES Council Highway plan, was also installed.
The Town Council organised a consultation with local businesses and residents on what was being proposed. The Chamber of Commerce was also engaged. The proposal involved removing the patchwork of York Stone slabs and tarmac and replacing them with a non-slip surface that would provide a smoother and more even pavement. In addition, traffic limiting posts would be relocated outside Martin’s Newsagent to reduce the area that vehicles could use and potentially damage.
The remainder of the High Street paving from Mallards to the Island consists mainly of brick paviour which in most areas is sound and safe for use. The Town Council continues to report trip hazards to the B&NES Highways Department. If you do see a hazard, please contact Council Connect at B&NES (01225 394041).
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 2nd - Bookstart Baby Bounce and Rhyme at Midsomer Norton Library from 10.30am to 11.00am. 3rd - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club from 2pm to 5pm £3 entry. 4th - Paradis Palm Court Trio at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, free entry. @radstockcarpets
4th - Midsomer Norton Christmas Fayre : enjoy a Christmas Sing Along with friends and family at the Hollies Gardens from 6pm to 9pm. 5th - Somerset Farmers Market and Craft Market at The Hollies Gardens and Council Chamber in the High Street, Midsomer Norton. 5th - The Friends of Radstock Museum’s Christmas Fayre from 10am to 4pm at the Museum. 7th - Full Town Council Meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm. 8th - Jayne Eyre – National Theatre Live at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm. 12th to 13th - Santa at the Station, come along and visit Santa at Midsomer Norton Station, Silver Street, Midsomer Norton. 13th - Midsomer Concert Hall, Saxophony, Christmas Favourites. 14th - Planning Committee meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm. 16th - Bookstart Baby Bounce and Rhyme at Midsomer Norton Library from 10.30am to 11.00am.
Carpets, Vinyls, Laminates, Rugs, Blinds Quality service guaranteed Free estimating & planning service 100’s of room size remnants available Fitting included in pricing Out of hours personal appointments available
20th - Morning worship at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 10.30am. 20th - Carol service at Salvation Army at 10.30am. 20th - Christmas ‘All In Service” at Somervale School (Welton Baptist Church) at 10.30am. 20th - Candlelit Carol Service at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 6pm. 20th - Carols by Candlelight at St John’s Church Midsomer Norton at 6pm. 20th - Carols by Candlelight at Somervale School (Welton Baptist Church) at 6pm. 24th - Mass at the Catholic Church at 4pm. 24th - Crib Service at St John’s Church at 4pm.
Coombend House, Radstock BA3 3AW Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm, Sat 9am-12pm
fitter@btconnect.com
01761 432 808
24th - Crib Service at the Baptist Chapel, West Road, Welton at 5.30pm.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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24th - Christingle Service for all ages at the Methodist Church at 6pm.
28th - Les Liaisons Dangereuses – National Theatre Live at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm.
24th - Holy Communion at the Methodist Church at 11.30pm.
28th - Midsomer Food, focus on Fish, Vegetables and Potatoes at the Town Hall at 7pm.
24th - Midnight Mass at St John’s Church at 11.30pm. 25th - Said Mass at St John’s Church at 8am.
FEBRUARY
25th - Family Sung Mass at St John’s Church at 9.30am.
1st - Full Town Council Meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm.
25th - Christmas Day Celebration at Salvation Army at 10am.
4th - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club from 2pm to 5pm £3 entry.
25th - Christmas Day Worship for all ages at the Methodist Church at 10am.
4th - Open evening at the Somer Valley Campus of Bath College from 4pm, come along and discuss your future with tutors and career specialists.
25th - Christmas Day Family Service at the Baptist Chapel, West Road, Welton at 10.30pm.
5th - Paradis Palm Court Trio at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, free entry.
JANUARY
6th - Somerset Farmers Market and Craft Market at The Hollies Gardens and Council Chamber in the High Street, Midsomer Norton.
4th - Full Town Council Meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm.
8th - Planning Committee meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm.
7th - First Thursday Afternoon Social at Welton Rovers Football Club from 2pm to 5pm £3 entry.
25th - As you Like It – National Theatre Live at Midsomer Norton Town Hall at 7pm.
7th - Midsomer Concert Hall, Mendip Trio (fl bsn pno).
28th - Cinema: Family Showcase (Film TBC) 2.30pm.
8th - Paradis Palm Court Trio at Midsomer Norton Town Hall from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, free entry.
25th - Midsomer Food, focus on Moussaka, Vegetables and Aubergine at the Town Hall at 7pm.
11th - Planning Committee meeting at the Town Hall, Beauchamp Room from 7pm to 9pm.
25th - Cinema: Evening Showcase (Film TBC) 7.30pm.
Abbey Piano Services Ltd ...in Tune with your needs
19th - Poetry Liaisons – an evening of poetry with Pete Woodcock at Midsomer Norton Library from 7pm to 8pm, free entry.
Unit 5 New Rock Ind Estate, Chilcompton, Bath BA3 4JE
21st - Century links between Midsomer Norton, Vivonne and beyond at 7.30pm in the Town Hall.
www.abbeypianoservices.co.uk
23rd - Cinema: Inside-Out (U, 94 mins) 2.30pm. 23rd - Cinema: Evening Showcase (Film TBC) 7.30pm.
Tel. 01761 239006 / 07866 132282 * Sales *Repairs *Restoration *Removals *Tuning *Gifts and Accessories Extensive piano showroom open Saturday 10am - 5pm All other time please call inc. evening and weekends.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE
LIBRARY THIS WINTER T
here is a lot going on in the local area and the library is the place to find out about it. The library foyer is used to display information about local groups and activities - or come in and browse our local history section, look at local papers or borrow maps and walking guides. Winter is a good time for reading and if you need inspiration come in and look at our book features. Staff can help with suggestions and books can be ordered from any Libraries West library for a £1 fee (free for children). With your library card and PIN you can also borrow up to 5 free eBooks at a time from the Libraries West website. To find out more go to www.librarieswest.org.uk/ebooks. 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; with more guest poets attending in the new year. See ‘What’s On’ for dates. If you want to look up information, study, search for jobs, complete an online form or print All you will need to know about taking care of cut flower and floristry techniques. From learning how to make a simple hand - tied bouquet, to displaying your very own table arrangement.
The Flower Cabin
The Flower Cabin can take individual bookings for bridal parties. Visit us on Facebook for up to date courses The-Flower-Cabin
01761 451298
(Monday - Saturday 9am-5pm)
the-flower-cabin.co.uk Farrington’s Farm Shop Farrington Gurney at Farrington’s Farm Shop
Tel: 01761 451298
documents our public access computers are now FREE for everyone. You can book our computers for up to 2 hours at a time at no cost and library members can also use our 30 minute quick access computers. The library also has free WiFi and from time to time we host computer courses for beginners run by Bath College Community Learning. After Hours is our programme of evening music and events, held on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Most of these are free and new events are being added all the time, so drop by to check out additions to our programme, or use the contact details below. Our regular children’s events are listed in What’s On and Things to do. The library is free to join so come in and see what we can offer. Email Telephone Web Facebook Twitter
Councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 394041 www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries Bathnes Libraries @bathnes #bathneslibraries
IAN MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES LTD
The local choice for ALL your insurance needs TEL: 01761 416937 113 High Street FAX: 01761 416266 Midsomer Norton EMAIL: ianmacdonaldins@aol.com BA3 2DA OR VISIT: www.ianmacinsurance.co.uk
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
RIVER SOMER
RAILINGS
of the most distinctive features of the O neMidsomer Norton streetscape is the River Somer in the High Street and its railings which have an interesting history. As the town boomed in the 1860’s with the construction of numerous signature buildings such as the Methodist Church, Market Hall (later Town Hall), Bank House, NatWest/Greyhound, White Hart, there was a surge of civic pride and a sense something needed to be done to formalise the river. The resulting railings were the town’s first street amenity to be referred to in the local government records with the following reference of the Clutton District Highway Board for 1866 when it was resolved: “…the Brook running through the street of the Parish should be fenced in from the highway by rails, an iron rail to be placed from the upper bridge to Mr Horner’s premises, including a double rail across the bridges and single rails on each side of the Brook, the rail to be one and a half inches in diameter, with 120 posts, seven dipping places for water, all masonry work and two coats of paint included, the supposed length being 1,500 feet”. William Evans’ iron foundry at Paulton Canal Basin, famous for his cast iron posts and other fittings, made the posts. If you look closely you can see his name on every post in the High Street today. Mr George Fry, the blacksmith at Midsomer Norton installed the rails at a cost of £175. Over the years the railings were painted regularly as in 1879 when Mr Frederick Lovell ‘house painter’ won a £3 tender for the job – a lot cheaper than when volunteers did it in 2009/10. Such was the success of Midsomer Norton’s pioneering railings that others we installed beside ‘The Street’ in Farmborough (1879), High Street
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Chew Magna and ‘The Street’ in Chilcompton and finally along the river in Redfield Road. However, the railings were almost destroyed for ever when on the 12th November 1973, Norton Radstock Town Council resolved ‘to dispense with the amenity water channel’ – which would have seen the River Somer in the High Street completely covered over. It is largely thanks to Ted Hallam who inspired a public appeal that we have the river today. A few months after Norton Radstock Town Council’s appalling decision, Wansdyke District Council took over and no more was heard about covering over one of Midsomer Norton’s most distinctive features.
PRINTING
DIGITAL PRINTING
FINE ART CARDS REPRODUCTIONS
WEDDING STATIONERY PHOTOCOPYING
INVITES, POSTERS
& MORE!
Fosseway Press email: fossewaypress@btconnect.com
7 Frome Road Radstock BA3 3PT
Tel: 01761 431919 www.fossewaypress.com
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
MIDSOMER NORTON
COMMUNITY TRUST COMMUNITY CINEMA Saturday 28th November, 2.30pm – Minions The Midsomer Norton Community Trust Saturday Showcases bring you the latest releases on the fourth Saturday of every month! In the next Family Showcase on Saturday 28th November at 2.30pm Stuart, Kevin and Bob return in the smash-hit Minions. In this follow-up to the popular Despicable Me films, the lovable minions are recruited by Scarlett Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world. Saturday 28th November, 7.30pm – Mr Holmes The Evening Showcase at 7.30pm features Mr. Holmes starring Sir Ian McKellen. An aged, retired Sherlock Holmes deals with early dementia, as he tries to remember his final case and a woman, the memory of whom still haunts him. He also befriends a fan, the young son of his housekeeper, who wants him to work again.
Jane Eyre - Tuesday 8th December, 7pm Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms.
Saturday 23 January 2.30pm Inside-Out ( U, 94 mins) Saturday 23 January 7.30pm Evening showcase TBC Saturday 27 February 2.30pm Film to be confirmed Saturday 27 February 7.30pm Film to be confirmed
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE The Midsomer Norton Community Trust continues to bring you a fantastic line up of plays live from the National Theatre in London for the winter season.
Les Liaisons Dangereuses Thursday 28th January 2016, 7pm Donmar Warehouse's highly anticipated new production of Les Liaisons Dangereuses to audiences in the UK. Former lovers, the Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont noew compete in games of seduction and revenge. While these merciless aristocrats toy with others' hearts and reputations, their own may prove more fragile than they supposed.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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MIDSOMER CONCERT HALL - Held mid-month on Sunday between 5pm – 6pm this regular concert slot provides an interlude between walks and gardening and your evening programme. Time to sit and hear a wide variety of performances in the Assembly Room of the Town Hall. Entry is free – donation requested.
As You Like It - Thursday 25th February 2016, 7pm Shakespeare’s glorious comedy of love and change comes to the National Theatre for the first time in over 30 years, with Rosalie Craig (London Road, Macbeth at MIF) as Rosalind. With her father the Duke banished and in exile, Rosalind and her cousin Celia leave their lives in the court behind them and journey into the Forest of Arden. There, released from convention, Rosalind experiences the liberating rush of transformation. Disguising herself as a boy, she embraces a different way of living and falls spectacularly in love FIRST THURSDAY - Terry Andrews provides a blend of live musical entertainment, laughter and even a bit of bingo with hot and cold refreshments available from the bar. The Social is the perfect chance to have a laugh, make some new friends and dance or foot tap the afternoon away. First Thursday of every month at Welton Rovers Football Club, 2pm – 5pm – Entry £3 on the door. PARADIS PALM COURT TRIO - Held on the first Friday of the month this lunchtime concert provides an oasis of elegance rivalling anything that a world heritage site could offer! Each month we have theme for the pieces played by the trio on a Bechstein Grand Piano, violin and cello in the perfect setting of Midsomer Norton’s own Assembly Room in the Italianate Gothic Town Hall. Wonderful homemade cake and drinks are available from the Café. Entrance is free – donation requested.
77 High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DE Tel/Fax: 01761 418972
Uniforms for Local Schools All sporting equipment Scout & Guide Uniforms Swimwear & equipment Walking shoes & clothing Camping equipment Tents, sleeping bags and camp beds
If we haven’t got it, we do our best to get it quickly! nortonsportsandcamping.co.uk
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
RADSTOCK AND MIDSOMER NORTON LIONS CAROL FLOAT COLLECTIONS DURING DECEMBER Wednesday 2nd: Peasedown St John.
Monday 14th: Hallatrow & Farrington Gurney.
Thursday 3rd: Peasedown St John.
Tuesday 15th: Timsbury.
Friday 4th: Paulton.
Wednesday 16th: Timsbury.
Saturday 5th: Midsomer Norton Farmers Market.
Thursday 17th: Peasedown St John.
Monday 7th: Peasedown St John. Tuesday 8th: Paulton. Wednesday 9th: Staddlestones & Oliver Brooks (Midsomer Norton).
Friday 18th: Farrington Farm Shop. Saturday 19th: Midsomer Norton High Street. Monday 21st: Withies Park & Riverside Estates, (Midsomer Norton).
Thursday 10th: Welton, Midsomer Norton.
Tuesday 22nd: Dymborough Ave, Pinewood, & Underhill (Midsomer Norton).
Friday 11th: Welton, Midsomer Norton.
Wednesday 23rd: Tesco, Midsomer Norton.
Saturday 12th: Midsomer Norton High Street.
Thursday 24th: Tesco, Midsomer Norton.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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MIDSOMER NORTON
ARCHIVE E
verything is now in place for work to begin in earnest thanks to a working partnership between the Midsomer Norton Society, and Midsomer Norton Town and Community Trusts to create a Midsomer Norton Archive. The inspiration for the Town Archive came from the first President of the Midsomer Norton Society, the late David Fisher, and has been a long standing aspiration of the Midsomer Norton Society. Founded in June 2007 over the past eight years the Society has organised a wide range of speaker evenings on virtually every aspect of the town’s history and has accumulated a wealth of local information. However, although the Society is a constituted group with volunteers interested in history and keen to do filing etc. when it comes to creating an archive it will need a home and legal protection in order to ensure that the information it holds can be preserved for future generations to enjoy. This is where the Midsomer Norton Town Trust comes in. The Corporate Trustee of the Town Trust is the Town Council which as a body representing the people is in an excellent position to protect the town’s heritage held in photographs, documents and increasingly electronic files. They will also hold tenure of the Town Hall, assuming the Asset Transfer goes through, and thereby can ensure that there is a home for the necessary filing cabinets. Local solicitors Thatcher & Hallam were the first to encourage the formal setting up of the Archive when they very generously donated the Midsomer Norton Tithe Map of 1822. Their interest in the project was inspired by the work they did to create the Town Trust and advised on its registration with the Charity Commission.
Paul Myers – Town Mayor, George Persson - Thatcher & Hallam and Brenda Fisher holding the 1822 Tithe Map.
The Tithe Map is probably one of the most important documents to survive from the period as it details all the land and buildings in the town in 1822 and would have been used as a basis to calculate amounts paid by landowners to the Church. Tithes were effectively like today’s systems of local rates. The map which measures almost two metres by one metre is a unique hand drawn document and is in remarkably good condition considering its age. However, thanks to Thatcher & Hallam, the map has been scanned at local design agency ‘The Whole Story’ at Peasedown St John and can now be reproduced. The plan is to have a full size copy framed in the Town Hall and for smaller copies to be printed and sold to raise money for the new Midsomer Norton Archive. Volunteers will begin creating the necessary filing systems in the coming months with a view to preparing for the Archive to go live. Radstock Museum have given advice to to members of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust and the Midsomer Norton Society - sharing the Museum’s skills in archiving. The new archive will only be focusing on documents and photographs and has already formed a strong collaborative relationship with Radstock Museum.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NORTON RADSTOCK PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The exhibition is our shop window to the local area which often encourages interested people to join us. We do a multitude of things learn and progress and take pride in helping new members. We have regular competitions within the club and also with other clubs in the Western Counties Photographic Federation. We welcome speakers and enjoy seeing presentations from esteemed photographers. One such recent inspiring man was Ed Collacott who is a well known photographer of Bath.
We recently held our annual exhibition at the Methodist Hall which was the most successful ever. Apart from a short lull at lunchtime, the stream of visitors was constant. There were over 200 photographs on show and the public seemed to enjoy the deliberation of which was their favourite. The clear winner was John Cooper with Loch Etive.
Members also regularly show their work and this is always appreciated. On November 5th, Geoff Noad answered questions on Photoshop and November 26th Tom Dowell is instructing on Lightroom. For information on future club events contact Mike Witcombe for a programme on 01761 414261.
Waterhouse Independent Financial Advisers
FREE
MORTGAGE ADVICE EVERY THURSDAY*
We oer a FREE 30 minute appointment with one of our mortgage advisers every Thursday, until 8pm. You can discuss whatever you need, from home improvements, debt consolidation to lower monthly payments. *Limited availability, advance booking essential. A fee of £199 will be charged for further mortgage advice along with commission from the lender.
23 High Street, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, BA3 2DR Telephone: 01761 415010 Facsimile: 01761 415770
www.waterhouse-ifa.co.uk Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Midsomer Norton Christmas Fayre Not such a Silent Night! Friday 4th December
6pm – 9pm
T
his year’s Community Christmas event is all the events in the Hollies Gardens. Thanks also set for Friday 4th December and promises to the Midsomer Norton Community Trust who are organising a Community Chistmas to be ‘Not such a Silent Night’! Market in the High Street with local groups The event will be centred on the Hollies and makers. The Midsomer Norton & District Gardens with a Christmas Sing Along theme Carnival Association will be taking the lead featuring a number of local school choirs. A operationally on event management and contemporary band will be taking the lead and marshalling – donating their services as a thank playing much loved Christmas songs everyone you for all the support received from the can join in with in the lead up to the Christmas community for Carnival this year. Lights Switch-on. Back by popular demand At around 7.15pm, the now traditional there will be the opportunity to borrow Christmas Lights Switch-on will take place with costumes and have your photo taken with the Mayor of Midsomer Norton and the Chair friends and family for free in our traditional of Bath & North East Somerset. nativity scene. Thanks go to the newly named Somer Valley Chamber who as ever will be managing this year’s event along with Midsomer Norton Churches together who are taking the lead on
I look forward to seeing you all on Friday 4th December in the Hollies Gardens and to a fantastic night of Christmas musical favourites. Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton
Christmas Lights Switch-on
Christmas Sing Along
Community & Crafters Market Stalls
Free Mince Pies and Fruit Punch
Sponsored by
Programme of events 4.00pm
Road closure
6.00pm
Event opens Midsomer Christmas Market in the High Street
6.15pm
Christmas Sing Along commences in the Hollies Gardens, with music provided by a live band and a number of local school choirs
7.15pm
Mayor of Midsomer Norton & Chair of Bath & North East Somerset switch on the lights supported by the District and Town Carnival Royalty
7.15pm
Christmas Music and chance to buy Christmas presents in the High Street
8.00pm
The event comes to a close
9.00pm
High Street re-opens
Hark The Herald Angels Sing Hark, the herald-angels sing glory to the new-born King; peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled: joyful, all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies, with the angelic host proclaim, 'Christ is born in Bethlehem.' Hark, the herald-angels sing glory to the new-born King.
Christ, by highest heav'n adored, Christ, the everlasting Lord, late in time behold him come, offspring of a virgin's womb! Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, hail the incarnate Deity! Pleased as man with us to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel. Hark, the herald-angels sing glory to the new-born King.
Hail, the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail, the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all he brings, ris'n with healing in his wings; mild he lays his glory by, born that we no more may die, born to raise us from the earth, born to give us second birth. Hark, the herald-angels sing glory to the new-born King.
Away in a Manger Away in a manger, No crib for His bed The little Lord Jesus Laid down His sweet head The stars in the bright sky Looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus Asleep on the hay The cattle are lowing The Baby wakes But little Lord Jesus No crying He makes I love Thee, Lord Jesus Look down from the sky And stay by my side, 'Til morning is nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever And love me I pray Bless all the dear children In Thy tender care And lead us to heaven To live with Thee there
We Three Kings We three kings of Orient are Bearing gifts we traverse afar Field and fountain, moor and mountain Following yonder star O Star of wonder, star of night Star with royal beauty bright Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to thy Perfect Light Born a King on Bethlehem's plain Gold I bring to crown Him again King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign O Star of wonder, star of night Star with royal beauty bright Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to Thy perfect light
Joy to the World Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing Joy to the world, the Saviour reigns! Let men their songs employ; While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy. No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as, the curse is found. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders, of His love.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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THE ALL NEW MIDSOMER FOOD
T
he new Midsomer Food group met in September and learned how to make an authentic vegetable curry with Bini Ludlow at the Town Hall. As well as step by step guidance there lots of culinary tips and information on Indian cooking with something for everyone from the novice to the experienced cook to learn. The highlight of the evening was when the group had the chance to taste the fruits of their labour and all agreed it tasted fabulous. There was a brief talk on Cauliflower – covering its nutritional value, how it is grown and the wide range of recipes for its preparation from an accompanying vegetable to Caulifower Cheese and exotic uses. The aim of the group going forward is to look at ways to promote food on the basis that more people would cook if only they were encouraged. In addition there was general agreement that members wanted to support local suppliers and cut food miles. An exciting programme has been drafted for the coming months. The theme for Thursday 26th November’s meeting will be Cheese with vegetable of the month being Leeks – which are in season. There won’t be a meeting in December due to everyone being so busy but on January 28th the focus will be on Fish with with potatoes as
vegetable of the month. February the 25th will be a cookery demonstration making Mousaka with vegetable of the month being aubergine. For further details visit www.MidsomerNortonCommunityTrust.co.uk St Johns Primary School will soon be launching a series of cookery sessions for parents in the local community. The sessions will be open to all levels and will focus on healthy family cooking utilising fresh seasonal ingredients. The aim is to help give parents a fun and social environment in which to learn some new skills and recipes and to be inspired to cook more from scratch at home. The school team will be looking at ways to revamp the family favorites and to introduce some new everyday quick dishes. Also as part of the sessions we will also be exploring healthy dishes that we can cook together with our children. The sessions will be offered completely free and including all ingredients thanks to a grant received from Midsomer Norton Town Council. For further details and to register your interest, please email office@stjohnsmsn.co.uk
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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COMMUNITY MINI BUS mile is charged and groups may use their own driver if they wish (subject to prior clearance by our Vehicle Manager.) If your group would like to hire the minibus, (subject to availability and driver) please contact the Co-ordinator on 01761 413975 or David Shearn (Secretary/Treasurer) on 01761 413473.
C
alling local Groups who cater especially for the elderly, handicapped and disabled! Did you know that there’s a 12 seater community minibus that you can hire to transport your members to their groups events, luncheon clubs, film evenings, church services, etc., and return them home again? This voluntary service is operated by Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust which was first founded by public appeal in 1967 and is a Registered Charity No 276166. Last year, almost 20 groups used this for their regular activities and others made use of it for trips to open gardens and garden centres, lakes, meals out and other places of interest. A rate per
Carol Price, a member of the Committee and newly appointed Trustee said, “It’s fabulous what can be done for all members of our Community! Being able to get out of the house and meet friends, can be a life saver for many people. It’s also great to have volunteer drivers who are willing and able to drive regularly for groups! Thank you to users and drivers alike!”
Fed up with your job? Looking for a new challenge? Come in and register with us! Providing temporary and permanent staff to all sectors. Find us in the High Street. First Floor, 113 High Street, Midsomer Norton Radstock BA3 2DA
01761 410433 07932 998467
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NORTON YOUTH CLUB S
ince it was launched in September 2014 NYC has been going from strength to strength and is steadily increasing members attending with up to 25 young people registered and enjoying the events that we have been holding. Members of the club have taken part in a range of activities during the last term, including X-box one competitions, table tennis, barista coffee making, sculpting, international poster designing with the Lions Club and a mocktail night. Following a grant of funds for new equipment, the club has an amazing range of games and consoles together with a dedicated large screen TV on which to play them with a wireless speaker to add to the gaming experience.
Young people cooking up good food has become a regular request with enchiladas, curry, cakes, soups and healthy dips and chips featuring on the menu. There are lots of exciting upcoming events, including a cinema fright night, a music jam session, as well as regular cafe times in the main hall. If you would like any more information please go to the Community Trust website www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk, or if you are aged 11 - 18 come along any Thursday evening from 6.30pm - 8.30pm, term-time at the Town Hall.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
37
CHURCHES TOGETHER
CHRISTMAS WORSHIP A
s Churches Together in Midsomer Norton we invite you to our acts of worship over the Christmas period. This page gives brief details of those services. More information, if required can be obtained via the contacts details below. There is a warm welcome to ANYONE. Whether you usually come to church or not; whether you consider yourself a Christian or not. God’s love is for all. We send our greetings and God’s blessing to you especially during this season as we focus on the birth of Jesus the Son of God. ‘O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord’
SUNDAY DECEMBER 20TH 10.30am Morning Worship, Methodist Church 10.30am Carol Service, Salvation Army 10.30am Christmas ‘All In’ Service, Somervale School Hall (Welton Baptist Church) 6pm
Candlelit Carol Service, Methodist Church
6pm
Carols by Candlelight, St John’s
6pm
Carols by Candlelight, Somervale School Hall (Welton Baptist Church)
CHRISTMAS EVE 4pm
Mass, Catholic Church
4pm
Crib Service, St John’s
5.30pm Crib Service, Baptist Chapel, West Road, Welton
6pm
Christingle Service for all Ages, Methodist Church
11.30pm Holy Communion, Methodist Church 11.30pm Midnight Mass, St John’s
CHRISTMAS DAY 8am
Said Mass, St John’s
9.30am
Family Sung Mass, St John’s
10am
Christmas Day Celebration, Salvation Army
10am
Christmas Day Worship for all Ages, Methodist Church
10.30am Christmas Day Family Service, Baptist Chapel, West Road, Welton
CONTACTS Church of the Holy Ghost Catholic Church Off High Street 01761 235111 Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, High Street www.msnmcc.org 01761 410574 St John’s Church of England, Church Lane www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk 01761 412118 Salvation Army, Radstock Road www.salvationarmy.org.uk/midsomer-norton 01761 420170 Welton Baptist Church www.weltonchurch.org.uk 01761 410274 Somervale School (Sundays) West Road, Welton (other times)
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
ENERGY AT HOME H
elp and support to improve your home’s energy performance is available through the Bath & North East Somerset Energy at Home Scheme: • Get free home energy advice • Find out about energy saving home improvements • Get access to grant and finance – grants of up to £6,000 currently available! Contact the Energy at Home Advice Service now on 0800 0385680 or visit energyathome.org.uk
Get free, home energy advice Discuss your options Access grants and finance Find an approved installer
The grant is available through the Bath and North East Somerset Energy at Home Scheme. The scheme provides a free advice service which gives expert guidance on all aspects of home energy including: how to get the best deal on your energy bills; which energy-saving improvements and renewable energy technologies might be most appropriate for your home; and which grants and finance are available to help you. This grant is only available for a limited time and is offered on a first come first served basis so if you are interested, you should contact the advice service now on 0800 0385680 for web based information see our website: www.energyathome.org.uk
Contact us today
t 0800 038 5680 e advice@energyathome.org.uk w energyathome.org.uk @myEnergyatHome
The Bath and North East Somerset Energy at Home Advice Service is brought to you by Bath & North East Somerset Council in association with the Centre for Sustainable Energy, Eco Residential and Agility Eco.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
WELTON VILLAGE GROUP Welton Village Group was established in 2012 to develop the identity of Welton and promote a village atmosphere. It was felt at the time that the full potential of Welton was not being recognised and much could be done to improve the local environment. In order to maintain and improve the appearance of Welton, the Group has had an active role in providing additional seating and additional waste bins on the Greenway. These bins are emptied by volunteers from the Group on a weekly basis. In 2015 Welton Village Group reached agreement with CURO to take over the maintenance of the village Green and with the help of both CURO and Midsomer Norton Town Council the Group was awarded funds to purchase and store equipment for this purpose. It is planned in the near future to resume regular litter picks which have been temporarily suspended whilst personal and public liability insurance issues were resolved. The history of Welton and the surrounding local areas are an important aspect of our identity and Welton Village Group has held a number of talks on this subject. We also held a very successful quiz night jointly with the Midsomer Norton Society with whom we are affiliated. The safety of those who use our roads and footpaths is of course a major concern and the Group has campaigned for specific aspects on behalf of our members. It has been successful in controlling some parking and the provision of a hand rail on a local footpath; small changes but none the less much appreciated by our members. Of course the future of Welton and its environment is very much dependent on the development of Welton Bibby and Baron’s site and the Welton Village Group hosted a workshop in January 2014 to seek the views of local residents. The workshop was very well attended and a number of key issues were identified. These
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were passed to WBB (the present development company) and in September the Director kindly invited Welton Village Group committee members to a site meeting and walkover. Whilst it is very early days yet, the present outline plans and the willingness of the developers to listen are very encouraging. At the Annual General Meeting of the Somer Valley Forum, Welton Village Group was accepted as a full voting member and is therefore well placed to represent the views of its members in a broader forum. The future of Welton Village Group depends on support from its members, who do not necessarily have to be Welton residents but just need to have concern for the Village and its environment. Please see our website www.weltonvillagegroup.com or phone 01761 417216 for further details.
The Learning Community Nursery Midsomer Norton Open 9.00am – 3.00pm Wednesday and Thursday 12 hours a week for 47.5 weeks of the year
• Specialist nursery offering provision for two year olds. You may be entitled to free two year old funding • Provision for children aged 2 years until 3rd birthday, in which their 3 year funding will commence • Highest quality childcare in a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment • The Nursery adopts an inclusive ethos which values all and celebrates learning and achievement • Child centred approach to form an understanding of themselves and reflect on their own learning • Light Environment with open spaces, with open-ended resources to inspire • Exploring within the garden spaces at Midsomer Norton Primary School
Call 01225 396858
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
OASIS THE LISTENING PROJECT
SWAN ADVICE NETWORK IS 30 YEARS OLD
Every Tuesday and 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 10am - 12noon, at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.
Swan Advice Network is based in the centre of Radstock and has now been serving the Midsomer Norton and local area for 30 years.
Do you have concerns you would like to talk over with a friendly listener? If so, you would be warmly welcomed and trained listeners will be on hand to help you think through your problems.. This is a free service, staffed by members of Midsomer Norton Churches. Listeners can also point you towards other helpful organisations if needed. PLEASE DO NOT WORRY ALONE! - “A PROBLEM SHARED IS A PROBLEM HALVED.” More details from the Methodist Church Reception – 01761 410450 – between 9am and 12.30pm
Swan provides community transport using a team of friendly volunteer car drivers who take the elderly or disabled who have low incomes to medical appointments, to social functions or to go shopping. Any requests within the county are considered and Swan always welcomes new volunteers to share the more than 4000 journeys that they now carry out each year. Swan also provides a welfare benefits advice service which can clarify and support with benefits issues. For help or advice please ring Swan Transport 01761 439548 or Swan Advice 01761 432445.
I NSU R A NC ET H A T ’ SO N Y O U RD O O R ST E P H av ing a l o c alo f f ic e me ans w e ’re ac c e ssibl e ,w h e t h e r yo u ne e dt omak e c h ange st oyo ur po l ic y,mak e ac l aim o r ne e df inanc ialadv ic e . We c an h e l p yo uw it h : •H o me &C ar I nsuranc e •Busine ss & C o mme rc ialV e h ic l e I nsuranc e •R e t ire me ntP l anning •P ro t e c t io n NF UM ut ualF inanc ialA dv ise rs adv ise o n NF UM ut ualpro duc t s and se l e c t e d pro duc t sf ro m spe c ial istpro v ide rs.We ’l le xpl ain t h e se rv ic e sw e o f f e r and o ur c h arge s. F o r a re alc o nve rsatio n abo ut yo ur ne e ds c al l0 1 7 61239382 o r po p intoo ur branc h NF UM ut ual,T h e O l d St abl e s,M ano rF arm,,St rat t o no nt h e F o sse , BA 34 Q F A ge nto fT h e Nat io nalF arme rs U nio nM ut ualI nsuranc e So c ie t yL imit e d.F o r se c urit y and t raining purpo se s, t e l e ph o ne c al l s may be re c o rde d and mo nit o re d.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY All Instruments in Midsomer Norton are inviting you and your family to join them for their free Christmas Open Day on Saturday 5th December! They will be offering fantastic FREE taster music lessons on any instrument to pupils of all ages which will also give you a great opportunity to meet some of their 22 multi instrumental teachers. You can also expect package deals on loads of instruments which can be tailored to suit you. The Music School at All Instruments currently caters to over 400 pupils across Wiltshire and Somerset, and has recently taken on extra tutors meaning they can offer even more lessons. The principle of the company is to offer a high quality music service at an affordable price .
THE FRIENDS OF SILVER STREET The friends of Silver Street had a busy summer as they held a Butterfly & Bug Walk, 2 Bat Walks, A Day in the Woods and A Storytelling event. They will be collecting at the Carnival and hope to have a stall at the Christmas Fayre. They hope to make themselves known by publicising the delights of the Nature Reserve, a bright meadow full of colour and buzzing with insects and the woodland with homes for Owls and other birds, a tranquil place to rest on the many seats that are provided. The volunteers have been kept busy by general maintenance and keeping the whole Reserve in top condition. They have more woodland and meadow plants to put in and bulbs too, native ones of course. The Friends of Silver Street would like to have another bin for litter in the woods to keep the area clean and tidy, no one likes to visit a place with cans and plastic wrappings left on the ground. They live in hope that those who do not care about their environment may come to change their ways.
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Come and see how All Instruments can help you at their free Christmas Open Day on Saturday 5th December, 10am-5pm at All Instruments, 125 High St, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HN. Give them a call on 01761 415300 or visit their website www. allinstruments.com for further information.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
SOMER VALLEY CHAMBER
LAUNCHES
a need to create more jobs locally the W ith local Chamber is stepping up to the mark and in September re-launched to become the Somer Valley Chamber. Based at the new Bath College, Somer Valley Campus, the aim is to provide a new and stronger voice for business. Tina Veater, Chair of the Chamber explained: “When it comes to tackling an issue like Superfast Broadband or lobbying for improved transport links, the traditional model of a High Street focused Chamber with members drawn from business in the town centre doesn’t really work anymore. So what we’re doing is to launch a Somer Valley Chamber for all businesses across the valley – from Westfield to Timsbury and from large employers to sole traders and those working from home. We’re also joining forces with the Somerset Chambers of Commerce which will mean that we will have so much more to offer our members”. Also present at the launch was the Leader of B&NES, Cllr Tim Warren, who expressed strong support for the new organisation. “The Somer Valley Chamber will create one voice for business, which will undoubtedly make communication with the council much easier for all parties.
The importance of the Somer Valley was well illustrated during the recent recession. Over the West of England employment fell by 3.9%, but in the Somer Valley we bucked the trend, and jobs actually increased by 2.7%. The Council have invested in the regeneration of Radstock town centre and we now need to turn our attention to Midsomer Norton which serves as the principal market town for the area. The regeneration of the former Welton Bibby Baron site, and potential development of a new food retailing site will play a major role in this”. The local presence of the Chamber will continue with a series of Hubs being considered for businesses wanting to have additional focused meetings in Paulton, Peasedown St John, Midsomer Norton, Westfield and Radstock. So whilst issues like transport, skills requirements and Superfast Broadband can be discussed with members from across the valley at the main meetings, things like hanging baskets can be tackled in local Hub meetings. The new Chamber is in the process of carrying out a survey across the Somer Valley in order to understand the needs of local businesses. When
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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SOMER VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE preparing the survey desk research produced some interesting facts about our local economy. There are approximately 4,000 – 5,000 businesses in the Somer Valley (which includes about 3,000 selfemployed enterprises). Overall these businesses employ over 17,000 people which in scale account for about 17% of the broader economy of Bath & North East Somerset. Individual responses to the survey will be anonymous with the final results being aggregated to provide an overall picture of the local economy. These results will not only guide the Chamber Board and Hubs in designing a programme of events and activities but also help develop an agenda of issues to tackle going forward on behalf of members. The main commercial strengths of the Somer Valley are Manufacturing, Transportation & Storage, Construction and Agriculture. Two further sectors ‘mark out’ the Somer Valley from the rest of B&NES – namely Wholesale & Retail and Electricity, Gas, Steam and Air Conditioning Supply.
For more information contact Tina on 01761 410141 or email tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk or visit our website at www.somervalleychamber.com
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Phone us on: 01749 345042 Shop
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
THINGS TO DO MONDAY 'Fitstep' exercise classes basic 'Strictly' moves, Cha cha, Salsa etc. Have fun, burn away calories! St. John's Church Hall, Midsomer Norton 10.30am 11.15am and 7.15pm - 8pm. Call 07961056700. Adult Tap Dancing classes (some experience needed). Fun exercises and routines using basic tap steps. St. John's Church Hall, Midsomer Norton, 6.15pm - 7pm. Call 07961056700. 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.
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.
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.
Children and youth club (in term time) at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 6.15pm to 7.45pm.
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.
Child-minding group for registered child-minders at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre, fortnightly from 9.30am to 11.30am.
Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Tuesday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.
Aqua Aerobics at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre, 8pm to 8.45pm.
Baby reflex, yoga and massage with Sally Teall at the Methodist Church Hall, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information.
Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton 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.
Pre School Speech and Language Therapy (appointments only) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre. Call 01225 831800 for more info. Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre every Tuesday at 6.30am to 10am, 12.00pm to 1.30pm, 2.30pm to 4.00pm.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
WEDNESDAY 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. Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10.30 11am. Every fourth Wednesday. Toddler Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, term time only. Aqua Zumba at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre from 12.30pm to 1.15pm. Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre every Wednesday at 6.30am to 10.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for senior men from 7.30-9.30pm.
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. Age UK Midsomer Norton Walks 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 10am. Meet outside the Town Hall.
THURSDAY Welton Vale over 50’s club meet in the Community Room from 2pm to 4pm, for more information call 417960. 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.
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Clare Hall Nursing Home admin@clarehallnursinghome.com 01761 241 626 Ston Easton, Radstock BA3 4DE
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www.clarehallnursinghome.com
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
Somer Athletic Club meet at Norton Hill School every Thursday at 7pm. The club welcomes senior and junior members.
FRIDAY
NYC - Midsomer Norton Youth Club, term time only, 6.30 - 8.30pm. Town Hall.
Short mat bowls every Friday at The Somer Centre from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Contact 01761 418400.
Toddler Yoga with Sally Teall at the The Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, contact 07974 820944 for more information.
Meet for prayer at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church at 9.45am.
Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton 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.
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 Midsomer Norton 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 Baptist Church 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 Midsomer Norton 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
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Casual swimming at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre every Sunday at 10am to 2pm, 3pm to 8pm.
Morning Worship Youth Church and crèche from 10.30am at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.
Mendip Hockey Club training on the astroturf at Norton Hill School for juniors from 9.30am to 11am.
Somerset and Dorset Railway is open every Sunday from 10am to 4pm for viewing, museum, wartime pillbox, buffet coach and gift shop.
Midsomer Norton Choral Society 6.45pm, Town Hall.
Welton Baptist Church Morning Service at 10.30am at Somervale School, morning worship service for all ages.
PROMOTE YOUR LOCAL EVENT
Sunday service at St John the Baptist Church at 8am and 9.30am. Evening Worship from 6pm at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.
Call Zoe on 01761 410141 or email:
Welton Baptist Church Evening Service 6pm at Somervale School, evening service – café style.
zoe@midsomernortonlife.co.uk
Fun, adult leisure courses starting in January and one-day courses on Saturday 5th December
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D a c e ign n es
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For more details, a full list of courses and to enrol online visit:
www.bathcollege.ac.uk
/BathCollege
@bathcollege
Bath College, Avon St, Bath, BA1 1UP 01225 328720 enquiries@bathcollege.ac.uk
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
MIDSOMER NORTON MATTERS 2015 is the year which will live long in Midsomer Norton’s sporting consciousness. The year started well with Midsomer Norton Target Shooting Club winning the Somerset Rifle Association's Division 1 title for the second year in succession. Midsomer Norton Rugby Club secured an unprecedented Cup double winning the Somerset and Bath Combination Vase, whilst Welton Rovers Football Club secured promotion back to the top flight of the Western League. The summer brought mixed success for the town’s cricket team. A largely frustrating season culminated in a 6th placed finish in the Bristol and Somerset League, although there were notable victories against local rivals Frome in May and league winners Bedminster in August.
As the winter approaches, the Towns football and rugby sides are well into their new season of matches. Midsomer Norton Rugby Club sit on top of the Southern Counties South table, with a perfect record of 6 wins from 6 matches, building on their epic finale to last season. Unfortunately, Welton Rovers have not been able to capitalise on their good form from last season. Following a promising start to their league campaign, the Towns leading football team have endured a nightmare run of results that see’s them at the wrong end of the league table, at the time of writing. The Green Army can take some comfort from the sides promising Cup form, which has seen them achieve notable victories in the FA Vase against Budleigh Salterton FC and Exmouth Town. At the start of November, Welton progressed into the 1st Round proper of the competition when the defeated Hampshire based Whitchurch United FC. Could 2016 be the year the Green Army march on Wembley? Welton Rovers striker Anthony Conradi has also earned an honourable mention in our end of year review, scoring his 50th goal for the Club, in only 79 starts, back in October. If this report has wetted your sporting appetite, tune in to Somer Valley FM every Tuesday at 6pm on 97.5FM for all the latest news from our local teams. Somer Valley have recently launched a new Saturday afternoon programme, broadcast from 4pm. The hour long shown hosted by Richard Burgess, provides live match updates for both Welton Rovers and Midsomer Norton Rugby Club, along with a host of our other local and professional teams.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
TIME FOR NEW CURTAINS With the Town Hall Assembly Room buzzing with so many arts activities and events from the Community Cinema to National Theatre live the venue desperately needs some new curtains. Noone can remember how long the existing curtains have been there but it’s fair to say they’ve had ‘a good innings’ at around 30 years. So the Community Trust is teaming up with the Sarah Ann Trust, which currently runs the Town Hall, to raise funds to buy a complete set of new curtains, rails and pelmets. To keep the cost down, a team of volunteers have agreed to make the curtains – so it’s just a question of buying enough material for 11 pairs of curtains – totalling around 200 metres – 100m of main fabric and 100m of lining. In short quite an undertaking! The team have already selected the material – a wonderful chenille cloth which will help provide insulation whilst pelmets will improve the blackout for the cinema. New single run curtain rails will enable all the curtains to be pulled right back to the corners of the hall to maximise light at times of exhibitions and displays. Finally the new pelmets will accentuate the wonderdul heads of the Italianate Gothic windows, a key feature of the Assembly Room. The fundraising effort commenced at this year’s Midsomer Norton Carnival. Out next step is to have a series of fundraising events as well as putting out a general appeal to the community. For full details of the Midsomer Norton Town Hall Curtain Appeal visit www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk or ring 01761 419133.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
SCHOOL NEWS:
SOMER VALLEY FOODBANK HARVEST DONATION T
he children of Welton Primary School collected tins and toiletries as part of their harvest donations for the Somer Valley Foodbank. They also celebrated harvest in style with a fabulous celebration assembly in which all the children took part. The ‘harvest haka’ was a particular treat from the Year 4 pupils!
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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NETBALL SUCCESS AT MSN GAMES ASSOCIATION
M
idsomer Norton Primary School's netball team were successful at the MSN Games Association annual netball competition this week. Out of 12 teams in total, the team battled through a tough group winning 5/5 matches. In the semi-finals, they beat a St Julian's team in extra time, before beating Paulton Juniors in the final, 3-0. The team showed excellent teamwork to victory and are excited about representing the area at the B&NES round of the event in March.
'PEACE ONE DAY'
the notion of global citizenship. The day was marked through sport, education and art. A selection of students across KS3 and KS4 gathered outdoors to participate in forming a large peace symbol to represent unity.
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n 1998 Jeremy Gilley desired there be one single day when all countries vowed not to wage war, a worldwide ceasefire, a day of nonviolence. He established ‘Peace One Day’ which takes place annually on 21 September. In addition to the worldwide ceasefire, the day is meant to be one of inspiration for young people, a day in which they learn that as a group they can indeed be a driving force towards realising a united and sustainable world. Somervale School embraced all which this day represents and actively celebrated it through various activities by using active-learning in areas of reconciliation, intercultural cooperation, and
During one of their History lessons, the students discussed and selected 2 Icons of Peace and Equality which will be included in the global project with which the school is already involved. A selection of students from mixed year groups have taken these selections and collaboratively produced the two chosen Peace portraits of President Obama and Mother Teresa. During the workshop students took part in a live Skype Q&A session with Jeremy Gilley founder of ‘Peace One Day’. Other activities included English students composing poems inspired by peace, a lunchtime game of football, celebrating cooperation and mutual respect through the uniting power of sport. Finally the day concluded with an assembly, looking at what had been achieved as a school and how it reflects the positive action that is happening around the world. We hope Peace One Day will raise awareness, inspire our students, and of course be good fun.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NEW HEAD TEACHER WELCOMED
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lun Randell comes to Midsomer Norton from Combe Down Primary School in Bath where he was Deputy Head for the last four years. "I am proud and delighted to take on the role of Headteacher of Midsomer Norton Primary School," he said. "This is a fantastic school with great children, dedicated staff and supportive parents. I look forward to working with such a talented team as we build on previous achievements and develop the role of the school in the community even further.” He has set himself the mammoth task of learning the names of all 332 children on roll by heart by the October half-term holiday! Alun was born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne. Prior to moving to the South West, Alun taught and held senior leadership positions in schools in Newcastle and Taipei, Taiwan. He has two sons, one in Year 5 and the other just entering Sixth Form. Midsomer Norton Primary School is a successful school, rated ‘Good’ by OFSTED, on Midsomer Norton High Street. It includes a nursery unit and provides a wide range of exciting opportunities before, during and after school.
MERCY IN ACTION SHOEBOX APPEAL
S
omervale Students continued to show their charitable nature by supporting the organisation “Mercy in Action”. All students were invited to fill a shoebox with an assortment of goodies which would then be shipped to the Philippines ready for Christmas. The types of gifts that were included in the boxes would be considered slightly unusual in the UK. However, in certain parts of the Philippines these are considered luxuries. A list provided by Mercy in Action of essential items to include was; two tins of meat or fish, soap bars, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, paper and pens - all items which we take for granted. Beth Hockley, a former Geography Teacher at Somervale, introduced the Shoebox Appeal to students during assemblies and the E-Team in Year 11 were responsible for collecting the shoeboxes from each tutor group. In total, 86 boxes were filled. Miss Hockley will now be visiting the Philippines at the beginning of December to ensure the safe delivery of our students’ donations. Well done to all of you and especially the E-Team for promoting such a worthy cause.
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
MIDSOMER NORTON SIXTH FORMERS EXPERIENCE UNIVERSITY
T
wenty Seven Year 12 students from Midsomer Norton Sixth Form have been successful in applying for Bristol University’s sought after Access to Bristol Scheme.
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be invaluable in helping me decide what area of Engineering I might be interested in. Engineering at Access to Bristol will let me experience; Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering as well as Computer Science and Engineering Maths.” This is an excellent opportunity for our students, and we hope that so many will enjoy this invaluable opportunity.
The scheme allows students to spend 8 afternoons at Bristol University to experience what studying a subject will be like at Degree level; this includes attending lectures given by expert professors and doing practical work, whilst getting a feel for university life from current students. The Sixth Form organises a free coach for the selected students to take them to these sessions. Other advantages of the scheme include the Bristol Bursary which pays all the university tuition fees for 3 years and a residency grant, for students from low income families. Additionally all students completing the Access to Bristol scheme, will receive a guaranteed offer or interview from the University. This truly is an amazing opportunity for these students. Student Nat Bannister told us "Access to Bristol has given me the chance to experience life as an Engineering student at university. This well
We will be open on Saturday 5th December as part of the Radstock Christmas Celebrations, please call in for a bag of freebies….
We are a local firm of lawyers, on hand to help you with life’s difficult situations and decisions. Our services include:Conveyancing Sale and Purchase of Residential Property / Transfer of Equity. Family Fixed Fee Divorce, Financial Settlement and Access to Children. Elderly Services Wills, Power of Attorney and Probate. Crime Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Court, including Motoring Offences With issues such as these resolved, you will be able to move on to the new phase of your life.
Crossmans Solicitors, 2A Fortescue Road, Radstock, BA3 3PH. Tel: 01761-431688 e-mail: office@crossmans-solicitors.co.uk For further information, please visit our website www.crossmans-solicitors.com
Would you or anyone you know like help with their wellbeing? The Wellbeing College offers free courses and activities to anyone over 16 who lives in B&NES or is registered with a GP here. Our latest courses are:
Mood Food
What Colour is your Parachute? (How to find the work you love)
5 Ways to Wellbeing
Wellness Recovery Action Planning
Please give us a call if you would like to speak with an advisor for more information and to book your place.
01225 831820
www.wellbeingcollegebanes.co.uk enquiries@ wellbeingcollegebanes.co.uk
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NATIONAL POETRY DAY s part of this year’s celebration of National Poetry Day on October 8th, a group of Key Stage 3 students took part in a day-long Poetry workshop hosted by local eco-poet Helen Moore. Helen was invited to the school by English and Media Teacher, Mr Alistair Hannan.
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students writing poems themed on Freedom” During the week National Poetry Day celebrations also included assemblies involving students in an impromptu creation of their own “Light” poem, with audience participation helping to decide the final structure of their poem, and finally a tutor time quiz where members of staff shared their favourite poetry inviting students to guess which poem was theirs.
Helen held sessions with students based around the theme of “Freedom”, working with them on their own interpretation, what it means to them and also giving thought on how others may interpret “Freedom”. Sharing her love of poetry with the students, Helen recited poems to the group and encouraged them to use their creative writing skills and imagination when thinking about their work. The day finished with students producing their own “Freedom” poems. A selection of the poetry will go on to form the basis of subsequent work by Mr Hannan’s Year 13 media students at Midsomer Norton Sixth Form, when they will produce a poetry film, including a dance routine choreographed by dance students from Bath Dance College. After her visit Helen commented as follows: “Thanks to Somervale for their willingness to explore poetry film – a great start today with 24
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If you look after someone, who looks after you? The Carers’ Centre has an information and advice line to help you answer any questions about caring for someone. Call weekdays between 10am - 1pm on 0800 0388 885 for advice. We care together.
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
NEW BUS ROUTES FOR 2016 SCHOOL YEAR
Buses will call in the following places from September 2016: • Writhlington Village NEW • Kilmersdon NEW • Frome Road NEW • Radstock Centre NEW • Peasedown • Timsbury • Camerton • Chilcompton • Gurney Slade NEW • Shepton Mallet NEW • Stratton on the Fosse NEW • Holcombe • Coleford • Stoke St Michael • Oakhill • Cranmore
P
arents have been delighted by the new bus routes to Norton Hill and Somervale School this year. Two new bus routes were launched last year and these will be expanded following significant interest from parents in Timsbury, Peasedown and further afield. Headteacher Alun Williams said: “the new routes have given parents an opportunity to send their children to secondary schools with outstanding results in academic subjects, excellent behaviour and where care and support is the priority”. The existing bus routes will be expanded following high levels of interest from parents. There will also be some additional routes in place by September 2016 collecting children who wish to attend Norton Hill or Somervale but live outside of the natural catchment. This year Norton Hill School has expanded its pupil admission number to 275 to meet demand and guarantee all youngsters who wish to attend the school a place.
Norton Hill and Somervale School Annouce New Bus Routes for September 2016
Farmborough Clutton Temple Cloud
High Littleton
Timsbury Camerton Peasedown St John
Hallatrow
In addition to the routes opposite, parents living in Paulton have successfully negotiated an extended bus service to Norton Hill and Somervale which will be available to all youngsters in the area in January and costs just £1 per journey.
Paulton Farrington Gurney Radstock Writhlington Kilmersdon Chilcompton Stratton on the Fosse Gurney Slade
Holcombe
Coleford
Frome
Oakhill
If you would like to register your interest in any of the services provided by the Midsomer Norton Schools’ Partnership, please contact Emily Sibley, Head’s PA, at Norton Hill School headspa@ nortonhillschool.com or 01761 412557 .
Stoke St Michael
Cranmore
Current routes
New Routes for September 2016
MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
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CONNECTING
COMMUNITIES F
ollowing the success of existing partnership groups for the Somer Valley, Chew Valley and Keynsham, Bath & North East Somerset Council and its partners have lent their support to establishing similar groups for the whole district. Branded the ‘Connecting Communities’ programme, there are now five area Forums in place: Bath City; Bathavon; Chew Valley; Keynsham Area and Somer Valley. The Forums bring together Ward, Parish and Town Councillors with community groups; public service representatives and members of the public to discuss a range of topics at a local level. The aims are to help public services gain greater understanding of the needs and priorities of local communities; improve communication and reduce duplication; encourage public engagement in local issues; highlight common issues across communities and identify how organisations might work together. The Somer Valley Forum meets at least four times a year at different locations in the area. The communities represented are Farrington Gurney, High Littleton, Midsomer Norton, Paulton, Peasedown St John, Radstock, Timsbury and Westfield. Neighbouring Mendip Parishes are also invited. The Somer Valley Forum’s AGM was held on 6th October at the Beacon Hall in Peasedown St John. Lynda Robertson who represents the Midsomer Norton Society on the Forum was elected its new Chair. Cllr Karen Walker, Ward Councillor for Peasedown St John was elected Vice Chair. The meeting also heard about a forthcoming consultation on a new Transport Strategy for the Somer Valley and took part in a workshop session run by the Clinical Commissioning Group on shaping local community health services – ‘your
health, your voice’. The next meeting of the Somer Valley Forum will take place on Monday 30th November, 6pm at the Conygre Hall, Timsbury. This will be a special meeting about Bath and North East Somerset’s Budget Proposals 2016-2020. This will be followed by an update on the West of England Joint Spatial Plan and the Green Spaces Strategy. All Forum meetings are open to the public. There will be further updates in Midsomer Life but all Forum meeting details are publicised on the Bath & North East Somerset Council calendar of meetings on its website www.bathnes.gov.uk
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
A MESSAGE FROM
THE CLERK
At the end of October a large envelope arrived on my desk and in it was a certificate showing that I had passed the professional qualification for Town and Parish Clerks – the Certificate in Local Council Administration. I’m now a Member of the Institute of Local Council Management and can use the letters MILCM after my name. The Council spreads its wings quite widely when it comes to spending local council tax-payers money which demands a wide knowledge of the law in specialist areas such as planning, land ownership and financial matters as well as Local Government legislation. Being confident that I have the skills
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and knowledge to advise the Council is important to me – the Councillors as a team spend hours of unpaid time taking forward a range of projects and trying to tackle issue across the three pillars of its strategy - to develop a strong sense of community, to encourage civic pride in our town and to be a well-run council that delivers results. In all that they do to serve the community that elected them, the least that they should expect is a Clerk who is qualified to do the job. Clive Stilwell (MILCM) Town Clerk
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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE
YOUR TOWN
COUNCILLORS
Alastair Slade 07714 898902 alastair@alastairslade.com
Richard Robertson 01761 415629 therobertsons@fsmail.net
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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