Midsomer Norton Life Winter 2021

Winter 2021 Issue 41

Sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council

10th Anniversary Issue

Win £100 to spend on the High Street, Community Cinemas Returns and Much More

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE W

E ARE 10 YEARS OLD!!

The last ten years of bringing you Midsomer Norton Life has really crept up on us and what a jam packed ten years it has been! To celebrate, we have a great prize for you and you can find out more on page 32.

The Christmas season will soon be on us, and you'll find lots of upcoming events in this issue.

Please do try and shop as local as possible for Christmas and support the High Street and local businesses as we come out of yet another difficult year.

If you'd like to feature in future issues of Midsomer Norton Life, make sure to get in touch with us in time for the next edition, deadline will be on 10th January.

In the meantime, enjoy this issue and have a lovely Christmas and a wonderful New Year and we'll see you in 2022!?

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

It's Easy!

MSNLife midsomernortonlife MidsomerLife MidsomerNortonTC Norton_town

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

MAYOR'S WELCOME

4

SENSORY GARDEN

5

COMMUNITY CINEMA

6

HERITAGE ACTION ZONE

8

WHAT'S ON

12

NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

14

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

17

TOWN COUNCIL GRANTS

19

SOMER VALLEY FM

23

FIVE ARCHES MAGAZINE

25

MIDSOMER NORTON STATION

27

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

30

WIN £100 VOUCHER

32

COMMEMORATE REMEMBRANCE DAY

36

MIDSOMER NORTON RUGBY CLUB

37

YOUTH HUB

38

A MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK

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The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in January 2022. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of 10th January 2022 If you have difficulty reading the print please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view Midsomer Norton Life on the council’s website at www. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk Midsomer Norton Life is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN Tel 01761 410141.

While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Midsomer Norton Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WELCOME FROM THE MAYOR

H

ello everyone and welcome to this edition of Midsomer Norton Life. I hope you are managing to keep well now that we are virtually back to normal after the problems with Covid-19.

By the time that you receive this copy of Midsomer Norton Life, we will definitely be on our way into winter. The weather will be somewhat cooler and wetter, but then that is winter, isn't it?

Keeping you up to date with the Town Park, the opening of the Sensory Garden took place on 11th September. If you haven't seen it yet then please go down to the Town Park and have a look at the Sensory Garden on the left hand side of the entrance. It's lovely.

The Town Council is now back to 'face to face' meetings, and members of the public are very welcome to join us. All the meeting dates are shown on the Town Council Website: www. midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk We are also holding Council Surgeries, so if you would like to come along and have a chat with a Councillor in the Town Hall, then please do.

The dates are as follows: 4th Dec 9-10am 7th Feb 6-7pm 7th Mar 6-7pm These dates and times are also on the website.

Thank you all for taking the time to look through this copy of Midsomer Norton Life where you will find lots of information about what is going on in the town. Unfortunately, this will be the last Midsomer Norton Town Council sponsored copy of the magazine that you will receive. We will be keeping in touch with you all via the website, Facebook, post and other means. Take care and enjoy your Christmas and New Year.

Lynda Robertson, Mayor of Midsomer Norton Town Council

YOUR HIGH STREET

NEEDS YOU

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

5

OFFICIAL OPENING FOR THE NEW SENSORY GARDEN

O

n Saturday 11th September, the Sensory Garden at the entrance of Midsomer Norton Town Park was officially opened by Mayor Lynda Robertson, assisted by President of the Lions Club, Sarah Oughton and MP Jacob ReesMogg. The ceremony had been postponed twice because of COVID restrictions but finally took place in beautiful weather.

The Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club conceived the idea for the garden and sponsored all the plants and Andy King from New Leaf Studio designed the garden. Planting was undertaken by Stonebarn and the garden is maintained by Town Warden Dave Paisey. Dave ventured to the Town Park early on Saturday morning for one last check before the ceremony.

The Lions dressed the garden with bunting, set out seats and a stall providing drinks and snacks.

President Sarah Oughton welcomed MP Jacob Rees-Mogg and Mayor Lynda Robertson, who thanked the Lions for the project which offers

inclusivity via a ‘rich therapeutic experience.’

Thanks were offered to Margaret Burden for organising the opening ceremony and liaising with all the groups involved, as well as Andy King Landscape Architect and to former Mayor Paul Myers, for his vision and determination in creating a Town Park for the community.

The garden contains conifers, chosen for their strong vertical shape, soft touch and scented foliage; grasses with rustling striped leaves to create sound and movement; lamb’s ear plants with soft leaves and a lush, jungly bedding plant called elephant’s ear (Bergenia), bamboos, herbs and local apple trees. The Town Trust are extremely grateful for the generous donation from the Lions and their contribution to the Town Park.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COMMUNITY CINEMA RETURNS

T

he Community Cinema finally returns this month after an 18-month hiatus!

Tickets are still just £5 for adults, £3 for children and £12 for families (2 adults, 1 or 2 children).

These screenings will again take advantage of the HD big screen set up and Surround Sound System, with refreshments ranging from popcorn and ice cream to drinks from the fully licenced Sarah Ann Bar. After such a long break – and with new releases relatively scarce after the lockdowns, we are initially bringing the cinema back for one weekend a month, with a return to two weekends a month in the new year.

The next film weekend will be held on Fri 19th and Sat 20th November with screenings of The Addams Family 2 and No Time To Die. Then there will be screenings on 10th and 11th December with the films set to be announced very soon.

Wherever possible, the Community Trust ask that advanced bookings are made online – these can be done 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk/ cinema or www.ticketsource.co.uk/mnct

No Time To Die Friday 19th and Saturday 20th November, 7.30pm In No Time To Die, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend, Felix Leiter from the CIA, turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.

The Addams Family 2 Saturday 20th November, 2.30pm Everyone’s favorite spooky family is back in the animated comedy sequel, The Addams Family 2.

In this all new movie, we find Morticia and Gomez distraught that their children are growing up, skipping family dinners, and totally consumed with “scream time.” To reclaim their bond, they decide to cram Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester and the crew into their haunted camper and hit the road for one last miserable family vacation. Their adventure across America takes them out of their element and into hilarious run-ins with their iconic cousin, It, as well as many new kooky characters.

What could possibly go wrong?

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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SOMER VALLEY FOODbank

T

he Somer Valley foodbank is designed to help individuals and families in crisis through the provision of emergency food supplies. Local care professionals in the Somer Valley area refer people by issuing them a voucher for the foodbank centre where they are given their food supplies.

Vouchers can be obtained from Welfare Support, Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Health visitors, Schools and many other support agencies.

The foodbank also gives the general public the opportunityto contribute to and support by donating food or money.

The Somer Valley Foodbank has a distribution

01761 568189

centre in Midsomer Norton and you can find this at The Salvation Army Hall in Midsomer Norton on Monday from 12 - 2pm.

For more details contact Paul Woodward on info@somervalley.foodbank.org.uk or visit the website at www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEWS FROM HIGH STREET Heritage Action Zone

I

t has been a busy few months within the High Street Heritage Action Zone (‘HSHAZ’) programme in Midsomer Norton, with lots of progress made on a number of fronts. The biggest things for the project team have been applications to draw down funding, planning and programming works for The Island and Town Hall and kick-starting the ‘Cultural Programme’ events and activities as we approach Christmas.

The first update relates to the work carried out for the West of England Combined Authority to draw down the funding allocated to The Island from their Love Our High Streets fund. This funding was first announced in December 2018, but the project team have been working hard to pull together the ‘Full Business Case’ to show exactly how the money will be spent and how it will benefit the High Street. We are pleased to say that research shows the new Market Square will help to generate £2.7m in additional expenditure for existing town centre businesses and market traders in the years after it is completed and also help to support new jobs, volunteering opportunities and apprenticeships within Midsomer Norton. The Full Business Case is due to be submitted to WECA in November with feedback and ‘sign-off’ anticipated in the new year.

The Market Square project itself is also progressing and the appointed engineers and design consultants have been advising the project team on the technical aspects of the proposals and how the Market Square should be constructed. We are pleased to say that the proposals are now at ‘Stage 4’ and will be progressed towards construction and the appointment of contractors in the coming months. One of the ‘unknowns’ at the moment is the condition of the underground river culvert, so

the project team are now appointing specialists to survey, assess and test this Victorian structure to check that it is structurally sound and able to withstand disturbance, resurfacing and vehicles above. Therefore you may see construction professionals working at The Island at some point soon, or even specialists crawling into the river tunnels under Silver Street – rather them than us!

We are delighted to say that the Town Hall has now been transferred from B&NES Council to the Town Council and now, officially, belongs to the people of Midsomer Norton. We now also have more clarity on the costs and phasing of the Market Hall reinstatement works and how Phase 2 (the side extension and upper floors) will come forward – this will involve applications for grant funding and other fundraising activities. Currently we are in the process of tendering for an architect, project manager and quantity surveyor to help us with the ‘Stage 4’ works, which will allow us to progress to construction and the appointment of contractors around Spring time next year.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

In other news, the project team and Midsomer Norton Community Trust are delighted to announce that, after a successful recruitment process, we have now appointed an Engagement Coordinator to run the Cultural Programme community events and activities, including setting up the new market programme. Dr Beth Whalley joined us in October and has lots of experience in managing cultural projects, community engagement and marketing/publicity. Beth will be working closely with community groups, the Trust Manager, Alex Davis, and the High Street Project Manager, Edward Heritage, to bring forward the various events and activities planned on the High Street. If you see her in the town centre or at the Town Hall, please do say hello.

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

For more information about the HSHAZ project, or to discuss anything mentioned above, please feel free to contact the High Street Project Manager via email or post.

Visit us at our new offices in the centre of Midsomer Norton to discuss selling your home.

This office will also offer our full range of professional estate agency, property management and surveying services to the residential agricultural and commercial property sectors in the Norton-Radstock and surrounding areas.

14 High Street Midsomer Norton Radstock, BA3 2HP 01761 411010 midsomernorton@cooperandtanner.co.uk

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They are clinically proven to be an effective solution to slow down the progression of myopia and are as easy to wear as any pair of glasses.

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MiYOSMART lenses with D.I.M.S technology have been clinically proven within a two year clinical trial, the results showed that the level of myopia progression was reduced by an average of 60%.*

MiYOSMART is child friendly and easy to adapt to as they are just like wearing any other single vision lenses.

Visit our practice and ask a member of the team for more information.

Edwards Opticians 2 Mansbrook House, 15 High St, Midsomer Norton Tel: 01761 413212 www.edwardsmidsomer.co.uk

MiYOSMART offers protection with a impact resistant material, UV protection and anti reflection coating for durability and easy cleaning.

* Myopia progression (SER) by 59% and axial elongation (AL) decreased by 60% compared with those wearing SV lenses.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

11

COUNCILLOR SURGERIES RETURN

N

ew for Midsomer Norton Town Council at the beginning of 2020, was the introduction of Council Surgeries.

Your local Councillors were on hand to listen to any issues and views you may have on Midsomer Norton and work towards building a better community for residents. In attendance were either three or four Councillors available to listen to any queries, hear reports of any problems in the town, or to hear any suggestions you would like the Council to consider. Then the Covid-19 pandemic struck, plunging us all into a lockdown, and from April 2020, all planned Surgeries were cancelled in line with government restrictions at the time.

However, with the easing of social distancing it was agreed at the Full Council meeting on the 6th September that Councillors would reinstate the Surgeries. They will take place either before a Full Council Meeting, or on the first Saturday morning of the month when a Full Council Meeting does not take place. They will go ahead on the following dates and times: • 4th December 9-10am • 7th February 6-7pm • 7th March 6-7pm

If there is anything that you would like to discuss, then please do come along.

Issues previously raised have included problems with street lighting, pot holes and litter.

Please bear in mind that as restrictions have been lifted, it is sensible to follow some socially responsible measures. Unless there is a major change in the Covid-19 rules, we ask that those wanting to come along to the Surgeries be prudent and to consider any suitable safety measures they deem necessary.

Midsomer Norton Council Surgeries 4th Dec 2021, 9-10am 7th Feb 2022, 6-7pm 7th Mar 2022, 6-7pm Midsomer Norton Town Hall The Island, Midsomer Norton

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

WHAT’S ON

DECEMBER 2nd - First Thursday Afternoon Social, Bennie Vee. Welton Rovers Football Club, 2-5pm.

2nd - Full Town Council Meeting in Beauchamp Room, Town Hall, 7pm - 9pm.

3rd - Sleigh Ride, Paradis Palm Court Trio, 12.30pm, Midsomer Norton Town Hall

NOVEMBER 6th - Trash Casino, The Dolphin from 7.30pm.

6th - El Toro, Mardons Club from 8pm.

13th - D’ ska Assassins, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

13th - Writhlington School Reunion - years 1974 to 1980, The Dolphin from 7.30pm.

13th - Blaxar, Mardons Club from 8pm.

20th - James Oliver Band, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

4th - St John’s Primary Christmas Fair. Join the school for festive fun with stalls, games, cookie decorating, Father Christmas and a surprise guest.

St John's Primary School, Redfield Rd. 11am –3pm.

4th/5th - Hollie Court Christmas Market. Running every weekend. 15 stalls per day. 9am – 3pm, Hollie Court, High Street.

4th/5th, 11th/12th & 18th/19th Dec - Santa Rides at the Somerset & Dorset Heritage Railway, details are available at sdjr.co.uk. Book early to avoid disappointment. Great fun for the whole Family.

20th - D-State, Mardons Club from 8pm.

4th - Midsomer Norton Farmers' Market, The Hollies Garden 9am – 1pm.

27th - Angel Heart, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

4th - Call The Shots, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

27th - Kick The Cat, Mardons Club from 8pm.

4th - For The Record, Mardons Club from 8pm.

27th/28th - Holly Court Christmas Market.

Running every weekend. 15 stalls per day. 9am – 3pm, Holly Court, High Street.

11th/12th - Holly Court Christmas Market. Running every weekend. 15 stalls per day. 9am – 3pm, Holly Court, High Street.

11th - Snake Eyes, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

11th - Bombshell, Mardons Club from 8pm.

mardons

Come & visit!

www.mardonsclub.co.uk

Bringing you all the best bands – FREE

SOCIAL CLUB

Non-members welcome

18th/19th - Holly Court Christmas Market.

Running every weekend. 15 stalls per day. 9am – 3pm, Holly Court, High Street.

18th - The Rascals, The Riverside from 7.30pm.

Watch Sky & BT Sport

18th - Xmas Party with Call The Shots – Free entry, Mardons Club from 8pm.

FREE hall hire for Friday night party bookings (no 18th/21st)

18th - Xmas disco with James Bridges, The Dolphin from 7.30pm.

learn more: facebook.com/mardonsclub

31st - New Year's Eve Party with Limited Edition - Entry by ticket only, Mardons Club from 7pm

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Welton CHURCH

F

ollowing on from over 200 children joining in with N’Fest over the summer, Welton Baptist Church are excited to announce plans for N’Fest crafts, christingles, and carols by candlelight.

We will be holding this free event on the evening of Sunday 19th December at the Somer Centre and Amphitheatre (weather permitting!) in Midsomer Norton Town Park. As well as crafts, children will get to make their own christingles before joining in with carols at the Amphitheatre. Visit our website to book your place before spaces run out. You can also see all the other Christmas celebrations we have lined up. www.weltonchurch.org.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Neighbourhood Plan Survey

I

n the Spring edition of Midsomer Norton Life, the Neighbourhood Plan survey was advertised. A link was provided to the online survey which closed on 31st July 2021. 115 responses were received.

The survey found that the majority of the respondents lived in Welton and are aged between 45 and 64.

53% of the respondents are employed, working outside of Midsomer Norton and 80% like living in the town because of the surrounding countryside.

The changes to the Town most respondents would like to see are: • More independent shops with more diversity.

• Town Centre is shabby with empty shops and worn facades.

• Accessibility for disabled residents.

• The amount of litter around the Town Centre and open spaces. Would like to see more bins.

• Congestion around the high street. Better public transport links to Bath and Bristol.

• Speeding on roads.

• More festivals and events in the Town.

• More public toilets especially in the High Street.

• A weekly market.

• Encourage more businesses to open up in the High Street and surrounding area by reducing rates or assisting with funding. More pedestrian areas where cafés could introduce tables and chairs outside to attract more customers from outside the area.

• Youth activities seriously lacking.

• Night time entertainment • Would like to see policing of streets. Lots of anti-social behaviour.

Most residents would like to see the brownfield sites, like Welton Bibby Baron and the old gas works be developed rather than greenfield sites on the outskirts of the town. 89.9% of respondents believe greenfield sites should be protected from development with most people being concerned on losing the countryside to development.

The size of development most popular is less than 15 houses with family homes being the most common.

Respondents were asked what was important to them in development design with the most popular answers being adequate parking, big gardens enough for tree planting and the use of traditional stone. Residents would also like to see infrastructure improvements and additional doctor surgeries.

Change and growth is inevitable. Midsomer Norton has changed considerably over the years and will continue to do so. The Midsomer Norton Neighbourhood Plan is not about stopping development, but ensuring the type, location, style and size of development meets the needs and aspirations of our community. Having a Neighbourhood Plan provides opportunities for us to ensure future housing and any other development is sustainable for the Town and meets the needs of our area.

Importantly, a Neighbourhood Plan, once approved, has legal force in setting out what development is acceptable to us in our Town. In conjunction with the proposed B&NES Local Plan, the Midsomer Norton Neighbourhood Plan will be used in determining planning applications in the Town. More importantly, the Midsomer Norton Neighbourhood Plan will be developed by the community for the community.

CHRISTMAS QUIZ CHALLENGE 1. What colour snow fell over an area of 1,500 sq. km. in Siberia on Feb 2 2007?

2. Who had a hit song in the late 60s with Hazy Shade Of Winter?

3. In which country were the first Winter Olympic Games held in 1924?

4. W hich Sir played Richard Lionheart in the prize winning 1968 film The Lion In Winter?

5. In which city is Rastrelli’s Winter Palace?

6. Which British animal is brown in Summer and White in Winter?

7. Which song begins with these lines: "Sleigh bells ring: are you listening? Down the lane, snow is glistening."?

16. Who, from his cave, can hear the noisy Christmas festivities that take place in Whoville?

17. What is the recorded coldest temperature in the UK? 18. 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas', was sung by Judy Garland in which 1944 MGM musical?

19. How many Christmas number ones has Cliff Richard had?

20. Which country was the first to use the tradition of the Christmas tree?

21. What animal is Snowball in George Orwell's Animal Farm?

8. Which Caribbean country entered a bobsleigh team in the 1988 Winter Olympics?

22. W hich Christmas plant takes its name from the first US Minister to Mexico?

9. From which play does the line "Now is the winter of our discontent" come?

23. Bethlehem is a tiny village in which UK country?

10. Which fruit has a variety called 'Winter Banana'?

24. Which monarch was crowned on Christmas Day in Westminster Abbey?

11. Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents!' is the opening line of what classic novel?

25. In which country do many households traditionally have a KFC as their Christmas feast?

12. The Winter of Discontent was a winter in the UK of strikes by public sector trade unions demanding larger pay rises; who was Prime Minister at the time?

26. 'Ilex aquifolium' is a species of what?

13. Burning the Clocks is a winter solstice festival that takes place each year in which seaside resort?

14. In television's Game of Thrones what is the name of the ancestral home of House Stark?

27. In which Christmas film does Buddy accidentally learn that he is human?

28. Who is the author of the 1978 children’s picture book ‘The Snowman’?

29. Which cartoon character had a canine companion called Snowy?

30. What sweet was first advertised 30 years ago featuring a polar bear?

15. How many sides do all snowflakes have?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 24

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Live Well B&NES: information for all

Bath & North East Somerset residents have a brand-new, web-based resource providing information, signposting, resources and support.

Whether you are looking for local childcare, a toddler group, some parenting support; information and resources to support your role as a parent carer with a child with a disability or additional need; or signposting to resources for an adult needing care or support; Live Well B&NES all provides this.

Information, services and groups are regularly added to Live Well B&NES; so if you work with, support, provide services to, or run, groups for children and young people or for adults needing care or support (such as older people, adults with physical disabilities and/or sensory impairments, people living with mental ill health), make sure you’re included! It’s free and takes less than five minutes to register.

www.livewell.bathnes.gov.uk

www.livewell.bathnes.gov.uk www.facebook.com/livewellbathnes www.instagram.com/Youth_Info_Bathnes

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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Looking forWarD to CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2021

W

e are all hoping that this Christmas brings back a return to more “normal” festivities! And with that thought in mind we are hoping to bring back the Children’s Christmas Party and Cinema Night that were first held in 2019. In addition to the long running Seniors' Christmas Social, which has been a fixture in the Christmas calendar since 2011! Food and drink will be provided.

These social events are free to all and are for residents of Midsomer Norton only. All those attending will require a ticket which will be allocated strictly to people in the order in which they apply, and numbers will be more limited than previously. You will need to bring the ticket to gain entry.

All these events will be going ahead providing the current Government guidelines with regards to social distancing remain as they are, as of 1st October 2021, and unless there is a late change in the advice from the government.

Children’s Christmas Party: This year’s Children’s Christmas Party will take place in the large hall in the Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton on Saturday 4th December 2021 from 12 midday until 2pm. The event is for children aged between 4 and 11 years old who currently attend Primary School. Entertainment will be provided by the much loved Rocky’s Magic Parties, and fingers crossed for an appearance from Father Christmas and one of his Elves!

Children’s Christmas Cinema: The Christmas Cinema this year will take place on Friday 3rd December. Doors will open at 6pm ready for the film to start at 6.30pm. The cinema evening is for children aged between 12 and 16 who live in Midsomer Norton. A drink and a snack will be provided. The film has not yet been decided but we are sure you will enjoy the one we choose!

Seniors' Christmas Social: The 2021 Midsomer Norton Free Senior Citizens Christmas Party will be held on Friday 10th December 2021. Now in its 10th year, Midsomer Norton residents enjoy an afternoon of music and food.

This year the event will take place at Welton Rovers Football Club from 2.00 – 6.00pm.

Tickets for the event will be available from Monday 20th November 2021 on a first come first served basis with a maximum of 2 tickets to be reserved by any individual.

So, if you are over 60, live in Midsomer Norton and would like to dance and sing-a-long to the sounds of Spirelaine, a popular band playing 50s, 60s and 70s music, please contact the office.

Please do keep an eye on our website and social media, and posters about the town with details, and we will look forward to seeing you!

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

COME AND TRY SHORT MAT BOWLS

A

re you looking for a new interest, making friends, a sport that gives you gentle exercise? Give Short Mat Bowls a try!

The club days are on a Tuesday and Friday each week arriving by 2pm and finishing approximately 4.30pm with a tea, coffee and biscuit break half way through.

All you need is a pair of flat-soled shoes or slippers to be worn to protect the mats playing surface. The club have various sets of bowls for you to use.

We welcome members of all ages, so come along and give it a go.

You can find us at The Somer Centre, Gullicks Tyning, Midsomer Norton.

For more information, contact either Peter Barter on 01761 418400 or Roy Kearley on 07596890827

Are you looking for a community cause to get involved with?

We are in need of volunteers to help out with all our events - especially the cinema.

Roles would include box office, serving behind the bar and selling ice creams.

None of these roles are arduous and training will be provided.

You don't need to commit to every screening.

We send out a rota each month and volunteers put their name forward if they wish to help.

After helping out, you of course get to watch the film!

If you are interested, simply email manager@midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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MIDSOMER NORTON TOWN COUNCIL Grants

T

he level of funding available for community grants may vary each year depending on the Council's budget.

Any assistance given will be subject to ongoing monitoring and subsequent evaluation of the outcome of the grant.

Midsomer Norton Town Council is committed to following best practice in giving out grants in order to provide sustainable funding and support to voluntary and community groups. The Town Council defines a voluntary group as a non-profit making organisation, set up and run by a voluntary, unpaid management committee.

Grants may be provided for revenue or capital projects, core or project costs.

In order for the Council to be able to assess applications rationally and objectively, it is both necessary and helpful to assess all applications received against a range of criteria.

In general, the following principles apply: Assistance will be given on the basis of need, merit and contribution to the local community.

Applicants must clearly show how any assistance given will benefit the people living in Midsomer Norton or will benefit the environment of Midsomer Norton.

This year, the following grants have been awarded: Bath Play Area Project, Silver Street Nature Reserve, Sight Support West and the SWAN Advice Network.

If you would like to apply for a grant, please see the Council's website for the full policy and application form or contact the Council office for more information.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

LIONS ENJOY A BUSY SEPTEMBER

L

ions of Radstock and Midsomer Norton enjoyed a super September with the official opening of the Sensory Garden and the return of the annual Duck Race.

The Lions hope that the sensory garden will leave a permanent environmental legacy within the park for the people of Midsomer Norton, Radstock and future generations.

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

Then on 18th of September, one of the Lions' main fundraising events, the annual Duck Race, went ahead with a great turn out from the public.

Three prizes of £50, £30 and £20 were won with 1st, 2nd and 3rd duck over the finish line. £710.00 was raised for the club to distribute to good causes. Our next fundraiser will be the Carol Float. It’s great that we have been able to get our fundraising underway again and help more local charities and causes.

The project has taken a number of years to complete within the new Town Park with Lion Margaret Burden liaising with the Town Trust, the Landscape Architect, Andrew King, and the Town Warden, who has been looking after the garden.

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Adorable and edible SPICY Gingerbread men Ingredients

Method

Serves: 30

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Ready in: 30 min

• 100g butter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Stir in treacle and egg yolk.

Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, bicarb, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg; blend into the treacle mixture until smooth. Cover, and chill for at least one hour.

• 100g caster sugar • 125ml treacle • 1 egg yolk • 250g sifted plain flour • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground cloves • 1 teaspoon ginger • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2. Preheat the oven to 180 C / Gas mark 4. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to ½cm thickness. Cut into desired shapes with biscuit cutters. Place biscuits 5cm apart on ungreased baking trays.

3. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, until firm. Remove from baking trays to cool on wire racks. Ice or decorate when cool.

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23

SOMER VALLEY FM AND TEAM 3

S

omer Valley FM, the local radio station for North East Somerset, based in Midsomer Norton, continue to support Bath College’s Princes Trust with their newly formed Team 3.

Ben continued: "As always, we start with a residential activity event, which will be at Skerne Lodge, Bideford. It’s a wonderful opportunity to develop life skills and bond as a team."

The team, based on the Somer Valley campus and Twerton Park, home of Bath City, will be planning and planting around the station’s grounds.

Richard Burgess, Station Manager, commented: "I love our relationship with Bath College. Apart from how well led the Princes Trust Teams are, it’s a joy to see the team members develop and bloom over the programme’s duration."

Ben Perry, Princes Trust Team Leader, is delighted with his new team; "All have started really positively and are meeting each challenge head on, showing great determination and a willingness to learn new skills. The dynamic of the team is great, with each young person contributing to all activities."

The Princes Trust Team 3 is Connor, Max, Nat, Arthur, Emma, Ashleigh, Annmarie and Ben.

The Princes Trust programme starts 27th September, finishing 17th December – but it’s not too late to join!

For full details, check out bathcollege.co.uk To contact your local radio station: 01761 411755, studio@somervalleyfm.co.uk, or find us on social media.

CHRISTMAS QUIZ ANSWERS From page 15 1. Orange

11. Little Women

21. Pig

2. Simon and Garfunkel

12. James Callaghan (1978-79)

22. Poinsettia

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13. Brighton

23. Wales

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14. Winterfell

24. William I

5. St Petersburg

15. Six

25. Japan

6. Stoat

16. The Grinch

26. Holly

7. Winter Wonderland

17. It was -27.2°C in Braemar in Scotland

27. Elf

8. Jamaica 9. Richard the Third

18. Meet me in St Louis

29. TinTin

10. Apple

19. 4

30. Fox's Glacier Mints

28. Raymond Briggs

20. Germany

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25

FIVE ARCHES MAGAZINE REACHES 100th Edition Milestone

F

ive Arches is the name that was given to the local history journal of the Radstock, Midsomer Norton & District Museum Society back in 1986, when its first issue was published.

The Five Arches’ milestone 100th edition is, as usual, packed with articles on local history accompanied by beautiful old photos. In fact, every one of the 100 issues is full of carefully researched, interesting, informative contributions covering a multitude of topics from across the former Somerset Coalfield: coal mining, local railways, stories from the world wars, school days of past times, local sports teams of bygone days, farming, and local businesses of the past and much more besides.

The name Five Arches, relates to the viaduct of the five black, brick railway archways, Five Arches 100th Edition Cover

David Fisher’s drawing of Five arches showing a locomotive coming from Radstock heading towards Farrington Gurney on the GWR line with the Somerset and Dorset locomotive coming from Radstock heading over the arches towards Midsomer Norton South Station.

26

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

some of which remain standing today, that carried the Somerset and Dorset (S&D) Railway over the Great Western Railway (GWR). Coming from Radstock and heading west, the S&D railway ran parallel with the GWR climbing in height before heading south over the GWR at Five Arches towards Midsomer Norton South Station; meanwhile, the GWR line headed away from Radstock towards Bristol via Farrington Gurney. Today the GWR line is the Greenway cycle path.

The former S&D line is now the cycle path that runs behind Wheelers Road, Five Arches Close, the Midsomer Norton park, and the batch, coming out on Silver Street opposite Midsomer Norton South Station.

Five Arches shares the reminiscences of many local people, some of whom are sadly no longer with us; their memories of our towns

and villages, and of growing up and working in our local communities, have been captured as a time capsule within the pages of the journal.

Back issues of Five Arches on Sale in Radstock Museum

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27

MIDSOMER NORTON STATION NEWS

V

olunteers have been more than ready to welcome visitors this year and have offered some first class buffet and retail experiences. Both the shop and the refreshment coach have been recently renovated and painted and there is a lovely outdoor patio area with picnic tables where you can drink your tea and coffee and enjoy the flowering gardens.

Volunteers have been hard at work boosting the selection of gifts and books which now include model railway items, toys, cards and things to eat, as well as a superb selection of new and second hand books about the railways. The photo shows Dave Thatcher at the doorway to the station shop.

In the gardens, volunteers have been concentrating on building up a collection of plants and flowers similar to those in the fifties era whilst also having in mind the attraction of pollinating insects. This year, volunteers have excelled in the South West In Bloom ‘Its Your Neighbourhood’ awards and achieved level 5 ‘Outstanding’. Plants are now part of the retail opportunities and Gail Coleshill can be seen in the true to life greenhouse with some of the plants the gardeners are busy growing for sale.

People have been very welcome over the summer weekends and volunteers at the station have been pleased at all the support from our visitors who have made all their hard work worthwhile. You can get your tickets and all information on the website or why not call in and meet the volunteers who are there most days, except Wednesdays and Saturdays?

Our resident Sentinel ‘Joyce’ and visiting Kitson 0-6-0ST ‘Austin 1 will be pulling the Santa Specials on December weekends in the run up to Christmas and places for that are filling up fast.

Booking for all events and rides is through the website. https://sdjr.co.uk/

28

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEws From MIDSOMER NORTON METHODIST CHURCH

S

adly in August, our Church Centre was flooded which is why none of our activities are being held in that part of the building until further notice. If you are passing during the week you may have wondered why the car park and building is so quiet and empty!

However our Sunday worship continues at 9.30am and we welcome any who want to explore the Christian faith and to worship God to come along.

We are planning for our Christmas services, which last year couldn’t be open to the public due to the Covid-19 lockdown. We will still have some Covid-19 safety precautions in place, especially if we anticipate large numbers (we may need to have, for example, two services instead of one in that case) The services and concert we have planned are: • Sunday 19th December: 9.30am Nativity Service for all ages 6pm Carol Service • Tuesday 21st December 7.30pm Community Carol Concert with the Town Band in aid of a charity • Friday 24th December 6pm Christingle Service 11.30pm Holy Communion

Opening Times

High St, MSN. Tel: 01761 416573

riverside.drinkers

• Saturday 25th December 10.30am Christmas Day Worship • Sunday 26th December 9.30am Morning worship with Carols • Sunday 9th January 9.30am Covenant Service where we make our New Year commitment to God NB These services are subject to change due to any changes in Covid-19 regulations. Please check nearer the time on our website: www.msnmcc.org or email : msnminster@btinternet.com or phone 07957414970

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

29

HEATING YOUR HOME THIS WINTER

W

ith energy bills likely to soar this winter, AgeUK B&NES is urging people to see if they are eligible for the Warm Home Discount Scheme which saves households £140 off their electricity bill.

The charity is concerned that for some, the rising prices could mean choosing between heating or eating. They are encouraging older people to take advantage of their free service, which checks eligibility of benefits. AgeUK’s Information and Advice Team can do a simple check to see what you are entitled to and can save you vital money each year.

Information & Advice Manager, Gill Adams, said: “We know that affording to heat your home through Autumn and Winter is often a worry for people. With price rises, it is likely that everyone is going to feel the pinch, meaning that people on low incomes could really struggle.

“We help hundreds of people a year save money on their energy bills and would really encourage people over 65 to give us a call and see if they could be saving - many people do not even realise they are eligible!”

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is different to the Winter Fuel Allowance which all people

of pension age receive. It is a one-off payment of £140 paid through your supplier, taking money off your electricity bill. Pre-payment meters and pay as you go meters are included. If you receive pension credit or are on a low income, you could be eligible.

I & A Manager, Gill Adams, continues: “Everyone deserves to live in a warm home that can be affordably heated and whilst there are a great many ways to save energy, ultimately, if you are struggling to pay a bill or keep up payments it is your energy company’s duty to help.”

AgeUK Bath & North East Somerset’s Information and Advice Team can be contacted on 01225 466135 or advice@ageukbanes.co.uk

NORTON DISCOUNTS Lots of bargains for all your Christmas needs

Christmas fabric and ribbons Cross stitch and felting kits Art materials, knitting yarn, work boxes Gift vouchers available 123 High Street, Midsomer Norton 01761 414390

Gift ideas and Stocking Fillers Gift bags and wrapping Xmas lights and decorations Chocolates and sweets Plus too much more to list!

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas 111 High Street, MSN.

Norton-Discounts

Celebrating 10 Years

T

he old adage of “time flies when you’re having fun” has never been truer, we can hardly believe that Midsomer Norton Life is ten years old!

The last ten years of bringing you Midsomer Norton Life has really crept up on us and what a jam packed ten years it has been!

Our first ever issue was in Winter 2011 and as you can see from the front cover, pictured here with all our other covers, the high street has gone through a few changes since then.

The first edition contained articles on the role of the new Town Council, the signing of the new lease with Welton Rovers on West Clewes Recreation Ground and the formation of a new Youth Team, the story behind South West in Bloom and information about the Council’s work with allotment holders.

The first few issues were actually hand delivered by the under 11 team at Midsomer Norton Football Club, who were raising money for a new kit, these days, the magazine is delivered via Royal Mail and reaches every home in Midsomer Norton – with all the new development that has gone on over the past decade, hand delivering would be a mammoth task! But it means that we have more readers than ever and some of you might be picking up

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

the magazine for the first time – if so, welcome and we hope to see you in another ten years!

Midsomer Norton Life was created by Ignyte Media, who still publish the magazine to this day, in collaboration with the Town Council. It all began with the then clerk, Clive Stillwell, and former mayor, Cllr Paul Myers, who approached Ignyte Media about creating a quarterly newsletter to keep residents informed of what was going on in the town. Since then, it has grown into the magazine you see today.

Since the first issue, Midsomer Norton has celebrated a number of milestones including the creation of the Community Trust, who continue to bring social events and activities to the town and have been working hard planning future fun times despite the disruption of Covid-19.

Other achievements include returning the Carnival to its former route passing through Midsomer Norton High Street; the creation of M-Fest and the Town Fayre; starting up the community cinema; the creation of the Town Park; the setting up of a community radio station in the town; the return of the community asset; St John’s School celebrating its 300th anniversary and now so much more!

With Midsomer Norton High Street being one of several historic high streets to be given funding for regeneration as part of the Heritage Action Zone project from Historic England, who knows what other achievements we will be reporting on over the next ten years!

31

WIN WIN WIN To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we are giving away

£100

... to spend in a Midsomer Norton business of your choice.

This will be in the form of a voucher from your chosen business/businesses.

Just text 07494704944 with your name, address and where you would like to spend your voucher.

Enter by the 17th December to be in with a chance to win.

Entry will cost your Standard Network Rate SMS cost.

Please get permission from the person who pays the bill.

1. Ignyte Media Ltd’s decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into 2. The prize cannot be exchanged for cash in part or whole. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged.

3. The winner will be notified by phone on the number they used to enter the competition within 10 days of the advertised closing date.

4. Any texts received after the competition has closed may still be charged your Standard Network Rate by your provider, but your entry will not count. SMS entries are received on arrival, not from the time they are sent.

5. SMS entries must be sent to the correct number in the correct format as set out by the promoter. Any entries that fail to do so will be void.

6. The promoter has arranged this competition in good faith and cannot accept liability in any matter relating to the prizes whatsoever.

7. The entrant’s personal information will only be used by our staff internally, for the purposes of the competition and will not be passed on to any third parties.

8. By entering the competition, you accept these terms and conditions, and agree to participate in any publicity associated with this promotion.

9. Ignyte Media Ltd will not use or sell your information for any other purpose other than as specified.

Your data will be stored in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation and will be destroyed within 3 months. Your details will not be used for any marketing purposes, and you will not be contacted by Ignyte Media in the future.

ANDREW JAMES

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Volunteer at SWAN TRANSPORT

S

wan Transport is looking for volunteer drivers who just wish to help out a few hours a month.

Swan has a number of roles where people need only commit to giving a few hours a month. The first is to help us get passengers to Covid-19 booster vaccinations and this would be arranged on an ad-hoc basis.

The second role is to take passengers to a coffee morning group run by Swan for local passengers living around Radstock and Midsomer Norton to go to the Swallow Café, these are held monthly on a Wednesday 10.30 -12.30, to enable people to have a social get together and meet others over a coffee or tea.

Our scheme is following the latest guidelines from the NHS, Government and the Community Transport Association to keep everyone safe.

Support, PPE, mileage expenses and drinks are paid

by Swan.

Swan Transport provides friendly and reliable provision to people unable to use public transport. Swan’s drivers help people using their own vehicles to get people to the services they need in the community for their health and wellbeing and prevent further isolation.

If you would like to find out more about volunteer driving with Swan for a few hours, please ring us on 01761 439548 or email us at swan.transport@ btconnect.com

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35

You don’t have to be Bear Grylls to volunteer

1

st Midsomer Norton Scout Group need volunteers to help run our groups in the week – do you fancy some teeth-gritting, keepon-going, summit-reaching, belly-laughing nights?

Join us every week in term time at the Scout Hall in Midsomer Norton.

Helen Lear, Group Scout Leader, said: “Scouts made me take a deep breath and speak up. Made me think on my feet, made me see the big picture, made me ignore the butterflies and go for it.

Scouts made me get back up and try again. Made me think about what’s next, and plan for it. Made me jump in, get muddy, give back and get set.

"Are you a do-er and a give it a go-er? Do you question, listen, and have a wide-open mind? Then we hope you may be interested in joining us.”

There are a few vacancies for assistant and section leaders which we would love to fill to keep up with the numbers of children wanting to join our Scouting family.

Our sessions run Monday: C ubs 6.00pm – 7.15pm, Scouts 7.30pm – 9.30pm Wednesday: Beavers 6.00pm – 7.00pm Thursday: Cubs 6.30pm – 7.45pm Friday: Beavers 5.45pm – 7.00pm And we are looking to include a Scout session on a Wednesday evening as well.

Or if you can help us behind the scenes to make those unforgettable days out or activities happen - fundraising, hall maintenance or hiring, or just give a few hours to tidy up, shop or set up some spreadsheets then we would love to hear from you as well.

If you are interested in training to be an assistant or section leader, or can offer your skills and services in any way, speak to Helen at gsl@ midsomernortonscouts.org.uk And volunteering’s a two-way street. Research shows that it improves your wellbeing and helps you build career-boosting skills. Let us know you’re interested, and we’ll give you any support and training you need to let your skills shine.

36

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Commemorate Remembrance Day

T

his year will see the return of the Remembrance Day Parade and Service. It will take place on Sunday 14th November, when the town will commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military, along with civilian men and women, in the Two World Wars and later conflicts.

Last year, the Parade and Service were not able to go ahead. This was due to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic, government guidelines on mass gatherings, and social distancing in place at the time. Unless there is a late change in the advice from the government, this year will hopefully see the return of the event that we are all used to seeing on the High Street.

The Town Council will be working with the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion to organise the event. The large poppies purchased from the British Legion for the lamp posts in the High Street will make a return, and we will, of course, be laying a wreath.

Please note, the High Street and Church Square will be closed temporarily to vehicles between the times of 10:00 hrs and 12:40hrs.

The parade will leave North Road/Radstock Road at approximately 10.40am and march towards the

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War Memorial, where two minutes silence will be observed at 11am. This will be followed by the laying of wreaths. The parade will then make its way to St John’s Church for the service. Upon conclusion of the church service, the parade will then make its way back to the War Memorial.

Although the restrictions have been lifted, it is sensible to follow some socially responsible measures. Unless there is a major change in the Covid-19 rules, we would like to ask that all attendees and organisations taking part be prudent and to take any suitable measures they deem necessary.

All ages are invited to the Remembrance Day Parade and Service to remember those in our community who have given their lives in conflicts around the world.

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

37

MIDSOMER NORTON RUGBY CLUB

N

orton Down is full of life once more after what seemed a lifetime away from competitive rugby.

The First XV have made an encouraging start to the 2021/22 Tribute Western Counties North campaign. Martin Blackmore’s side have won five of their first six fixtures with rampaging number 8 Joe Button scoring a remarkable 8 tries in the first two games.

for tougher upcoming challenges as the league progresses. Energy, pace and passion of the youngsters aligned with strong set-piece play from the likes of captain Tom Fear and the ever-reliable kicking of Ben Taylor make Norton a must-see for local rugby fans. It’s free to watch and is the best show in town, so we will see you after for a beer or two in the newly refurbished clubhouse.

A mixture of youth and experience, a never-say-die attitude and unbreakable team spirit has entertained the crowd so far this season. This was perfectly encapsulated by one of the great tries at Norton Down vs Gordano on Saturday 9th October, where a swift counter attack involving the whole of the backline utilising slick hands and support play saw 19-year-old Noah Watts break and 40-year-old Rob Viol finish the move he started under the posts.

We look forward to continue to put on a show for our supporters and improve our all-round game

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

MIDSOMER NORTON YOUTH HUB

M

idsomer Norton Town Council and the MSN Community Trust have funded a new and exciting range of Youth Opportunities in the town. Youth Worker Harry Parsons has designed four sessions across the week to meet the needs of different young people from Midsomer Norton.

Monday evenings between 6:30 – 8:30pm is a detached session (on foot), covering hotspot areas identified from previous youth work, by the police and the Town Council. Key areas for this work will be the High Street, West Clewes Recreation ground and the area near Sliver Street Nature Reserve. Harry will be offering support to young people that he meets and encouraging

Norton Youth Space Tuesday 6:30 - 8:30 @ the old container / MSN skate park

For more information you can email harry.parsons@ycsw.org.uk or call 07971 011225

them to be more involved with and respectful to their community. This includes offering guidance around employability and training, as well as informal education and discussions on issues such as sexual health and substance misuse. Young people have been enjoying Harry and his team seeing them out and about and stopping to talk.

One young person said, “It’s really nice to know that there’s support in town if I need it.”

Tuesday evenings between 6:30-8:30pm is based at the container at the skate park for a youth café session that includes cooking and participating in a range of tabletop activities. YCSW will be engaging with young people aged 13 – 19 to develop the container and increase its use.

The session will offer young people improved access to support for physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, sexual health and relationship issues, improved access to employability and training support and access to positive activities. They will provide an opportunity to build positive relationships with trusted adults, have more access to relevant support services, and educate and discourage young people from involvement with serious violence, criminal activity, and substance misuse. Young people have said that they are very excited about making the container into a Youth Space, with many sharing the feeling that: “It will be nice to have a space to make our own – somewhere to feel safe and relax”.

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

Further to this, Thursday evenings between 4:30 – 6:00pm at the Town hall is the ‘MSN Adventurer's Guild’. This club has been set up as a safe space for 11 – 19-year-olds with a passion for board

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

games and gaming activities such as Dungeons and Dragons, Wargaming and other games activities.

The club provides the ideal space for those to come and feel free to be themselves and meet with other people who share their passions.

We will also be running our creative space in the town hall from 6:30 – 8:30 for 11 – 14-year-olds.

This inclusive group will be a chance for young people to meet with us and each other and to take part in a range of creative activities, as well as developing their confidence and social skills.

This aim of the group is to provide everyone with equal access to opportunities and resources and will be perfect for young people hoping to avoid larger, noisier group settings.

39

Youth Connect will also return for Christmas holiday activities from the 20th to the 23rd of December.

Youth Connect provide a range of other services for young people, such as supporting unemployed young people or provide individuals with support with issues that affect them. More information on Youth Connect services can be found at www. youthconnectsouthwest.org.uk. Harry Parsons is the lead for the Midsomer Norton work and can be contacted via: harry.parsons@ycsw.org.uk or 07971 011225.

After the success of the summer activities delivered at the Astro Courts at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre in partnership with Bath Rugby Foundation, Bath Area Play Project and partners,

itchard & Sons G.HM igh Class Family Butchers Westfield Radstock BA3 3XS

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support@banescarerscentre.org.uk

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MIDSOMER LOCAL LIFENORTON LIFE

A MESSAGE FROM THE CLERK Another year is drawing to a close. A year that started in a lockdown but is ending with a slow return to more normal life. More events are being held in and about the Town, and we look forward to being able to celebrate Christmas this year with our friends and loved ones, without any restrictions. With this in mind, we will also look forward to seeing you at our Christmas social events which you will have read about earlier in this issue.

We are especially pleased to see how well the Youth Sessions, provided by Youth Connect South West are going. They have been delivering detached sessions on a Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, using the time to introduce themselves to young people and drum up interest. They have seen a range of young people out and about and have had positive responses – with many young people being really interested in the container at the Town Park, and keen to get inside.

Unfortunately, anti-social behaviour continues to be a problem. On the evening of Saturday 4th September, the Town's War Memorial was subjected to a highly disrespectful display of vandalism, with plants being pulled up, and flowers and earth being thrown across the street.

Planters were also knocked over and damaged and CCTV footage is being looked at. Whilst we know this incident was carried out by a very small minority, it is disappointing to continually witness this behaviour.

Councillor Surgeries will resume on the 1st November. New for Midsomer Norton Town Council at the beginning of 2020 – your local Councillors were on hand to listen to any issues and views you may have had on Midsomer Norton, to work towards building a better community for residents. The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns brought these to a temporary halt, but as of 1st November there will again be three or

four Councillors available to listen to any queries, to hear reports of any problems in the town, or to hear any suggestions you would like the Council to consider. Please have a look at our website for further details on dates, times, and locations.

What has been going on behind the scenes?

Planning permission for the multi-use games area at West Clewes has been applied for, The Conservation Volunteers (TCV Bristol) have completed a 200m path at the Town Park, the bars in Hayes Road have been replaced by new bars with an increased space between them to make access for pushchairs and wheelchairs much easier, drop kerbs have been installed at the Town Park also making it easier for mobility scooters and pushchairs to access the Town Park and the Somer Centre areas. The Town Council has transferred the ownership of the Town Park to the Town Trust, whose mission is to provide spaces for the inhabitants of Midsomer Norton for social welfare, recreation, leisure time, voluntary groups, events, and activities. The new sensory garden in the Town Park was officially opened, and attended by the Mayor, Lynda Robertson, and local MP Jacob Rees Mogg. Thanks again go to the generosity of the local Lions Club. Councillors and office staff will be taking part in an Emergency First Aid for Children course.

This will be the last Life Magazine sponsored by Midsomer Norton Town Council. You can still

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read some of the previous sponsored issues of Life online by visiting our website. Midsomer Norton Town Council is committed to using the most appropriate channels of communications to reach our wide variety of customers and stakeholders including residents, employees, schools, businesses, community partners and all levels of government. The Town Council are eager to listen, review and check that our communications are being understood by our community and we are always happy to listen to any of your suggestions.

Please continue to keep up to date with what the Town Council are doing, by having a look at our website and social media pages: Web: www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk/ Twitter: twitter.com/@norton_town Facebook: www.facebook.com/MidsomerNorton Instagram: midsomernortontowncouncil

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YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

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

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

Cllr Michael Moxham (Deputy Mayor)

01761 419960 07593 185850

mikemoxham@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

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

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

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

Cllr Brian Lawrence

(Chair of Finance and Operations Committee)

07701 007 277

brianlawrence@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

Cllr Pete Mocock 07891 380197

Cllr Steve Plumley 07913 952901

petemocock@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

steveplumley@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk

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

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

Cllr Gordon Mackay (Chair of Planning Committee)

07806 604 302

gordonmackay@midsomer nortontowncouncil.co.uk