Midsomer Norton Life - Winter 2022

Sam

Chivers

to MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Hello and welcome to the final edition of the year! It has been a strange year, though we have gotten past the horror of the pandemic, we’ve had some highs and lows, including a hot and sunny summer, the joys of the Jubilee and then the sadness that was the funeral.

In this issue we’ll be looking forward to Christmas and the New Year – and all the fun and games that comes with that time of year. Make sure to check out our What’s On pages and get the dates into your diary ready so you don’t miss out!

If you want to contribute to future editions, make sure to send your news, photos and events to news@ignyte-uk.co.uk and we’ll see you in 2023!

In the meantime, enjoy this issue and we’ll see you soon!

TOWN HALL PROJECT

RECIPES

DAY

QUIZ

VALLEY FM

ROYALTY

RENEW WELLBEING CAFE

A GREEN CHRISTMAS

SKATE SCHOOL

MUSIC

SOCIETY

MARKET

GREEN SPACES

NORTON SCOUTS

FESTIVAL

LIONS ROUND UP

TRANSPORT

WELLOW BROOK WALK

MERRIMAN THEATRE GROUP

COMMUNITY CAFÉS

The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in February 2023. If you would like your group or organisation to be included in our next issue, please contact us on 01761 410141 or news@ignyte-uk.co.uk before the deadline of 10th January 2023.

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 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.

TOWN HALL tra NforMatI oN

proJEC t GE tS uNDErWaY

Flanked by councillors, officers and contractors, Midsomer Norton Mayor, Cllr Lynda Robertson ceremoniously handed over the keys to the Town Hall on September 12th 2022, so work can begin on phase one of the project to transform the historic hall into a community building fit for the 21st century.

The Mayor said: "What we're trying to do is to put it back to how it was when it was first built. It's a building that means so much to everybody. It's going to be an amazing place for the town."

The refurbished Town Hall and reinstatement of a Market Square at the Island are seen as key components of the Town Council’s High Street recovery plan. Cllr Gordon Mackay said: "This is our chance to not only protect a historical asset but make it useful and valuable for the community... In combination with the reinstatement of a market square at the Island, it's going to make a real difference."

Front row: Midsomer Norton Town Clerk, Donna Ford, Cllr Richard Robertson, Mayor Lynda Robert son, Cllr Pete Mocock. Back row: Cllr Gordon Mackay, Midsomer Norton Community Trust Manager, Alex Davis, Midsomer Norton Town Trust Secretary, Jo Corbett, Green wood Projects Project Manager, Nicola Dyer, ph3 Architect, Sean Redmond, ANG Artelier Group Director of Construction, Warren Summerfield, ANG Artelier Group Senior Site Manager, Damon James, Cllr Steve Plumley.

Phase One News

In the first weeks of the Town Hall Transformation Project, asbestos is being removed from the first floor, and evidence of work completed 1902-1906 has been uncovered on the ground floor. Phase one of the project will remove the warren of rooms on the ground floor and the mezzanine floor which currently divides the windows.

Conversion work for the Urban District Council was carried out during the period 1902-1906. Kelly’s Directory for 1910 reported “in 1906 the Council converted it [the Market Hall] into offices for the Surveyor and the collector, adding the Council Chamber and County Court offices, at a cost of about £2,500.”

Parquet Floor

Remains of a parquet floor have been discovered beneath layers of carpet and lino. There may be cobble stones underneath the parquet.

Meeting Rooms

The "Ground floor offices with boarded dado, including the Council Room" (Kelly's Directory, 1910), which were meeting Rooms 1-4, have now been knocked through revealing a stone wall.

Mezzanine Floor

"A mezzanine floor was inserted over the ground floor offices, excepting the Council Chamber which remained the full height of the original market hall." Kelly's Directory, 1910.

The lathe and plaster floor can be seen in the photo above. A mixture of ash, horse hair and lime was used and the ash contains pieces of coal.

Dividing Wall

"An unbroken dividing wall was installed on the ground floor blocking the north end (council offices, with new entrance door under the balcony) from the Salvation Army Hall at the south end (now the Beauchamp Room and adjoining spaces)." Kelly's Directory, 1910.

Town Council staff will be visiting the site weekly to record progress and findings, as this exciting project continues. Phase one will complete in May 2023.

Midsomer Norton Town Council

The Town Hall and Public Toilet are now closed, as work has begun on the Town Hall Transformation Project.

Town Council staff will be available in Unit 14, South Road, on Mondays and Thursdays between 1.30pm and 4pm.

Please contact the office on the usual number (01761 418 701) or email, if you need to book appointments at any other time. administrator@midsomernortontowncouncil. co.uk

See our website for more information. www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk/ townhall

Marine

New for 2022

Elmbridge

C

HRISTMAS RECIpES

Roast chestnuts

If you want a traditional Christmas treat, make a batch of roast chestnuts – it’s easy and they are great for keeping your hands warm too!

Ingredients:

• 16 sweet chestnuts (or as many as you like!)

Method:

Heat your oven to 200 degrees / 180 fan / gas mark 6.

Put each chestnut flat side down and using a sharp knife cut a cross in the top – be careful to only cut through the shell but not the nut inside.

Tip the chestnuts onto a baking sheet cut side up and roast for half an hour. Leave them in the tin to cool and then serve.

Easy mince pies

This is a great one to get the kids cooking at this time of year and who doesn’t like a mince pie at Christmas!

Ingredients:

• 225g cold butter

• 350g plain flour

• 100g golden caster sugar

• 280g mincemeat

• 1 small egg, beaten

• Icing sugar to dust

Method:

Start by making your pastry, cube the butter and then rub it into the flour using your fingertips until it starts to resemble breadcrumbs. Mix in the caster sugar and a pinch of salt and then combine it into a ball – no need to add liquid. Either chill and make your pies later or use straight away.

Heat the oven to 200c/180 fan or gas mark 6. Lightly grease a muffin or cupcake tin with butter and then press a small amount of pastry into each one, so that it covers the inside of each slot.

Spoon the mincemeat into the pastry cases and then make a lid for the pies with remaining pastry so that it covers the mincemeat. Press the edges gently together to seal.

You can freeze your pies at this point, or continue with the baking. Beat the egg and brush over the top of each pie lid and then bake for 20 minutes. Once cooked, leave to cool and then dust lightly with icing sugar.

Christmas Punch

Try this alternative to mulled wine for a boozy Christmas treat. This is best made the day before, so you don’t need to worry about playing host and making punch!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch red grapes

• 750ml prosecco

• 1ltr apple juice

• 250ml sloe gin

• 50ml liqueur (Christmassy flavour of your choice)

• 1 stem of ginger (you can use fresh or jarred ginger)

• 2 tbsp of ginger syrup

• 2 sprigs rosemary

• 1 finely sliced clementine

• Ice

Method

Start by freezing the grapes for around 8 hours and chill the prosecco and apple juice.

When you’re ready to make the punch, put the frozen grapes and a handful of ice in a large punch bowl and pour the remaining ingredients on top. Stir together and then serve.

GET READY FOR C HRISTMAS StIr up SuNDaY, 20th NoVEMBEr

If you love keeping things traditional, make sure to get Sunday 20th November into your diaries – it’s one of the most important dates when it comes to getting prepared for Christmas as this is the day that your Christmas Pudding needs to be made!

Known as Stir Up Sunday, it falls on the last Sunday before advent every year and the tradition of getting the whole family together to mark the day back generations, in fact, it’s mentioned in the Book of Common Prayer, which has been used in church ceremonies since the 1500s!

In the Book of Common Prayer, there is a section that reads: “Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy people.” Of course, back then, it likely didn’t refer to stirring a pudding for that year’s Christmas meal, as Christmas Puddings as we know them now didn’t really exist before the Georgian era. King George I brought the idea of the modern Christmas Pudding with him from his native Germany – he was known to love sweet treats and was affectionately known as the Pudding King thanks to the number of desserts he introduced into our diets, and traditional King George Christmas Puddings can be found in stores at this time of year. It was also a firm favourite of Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, who is credited for many of our Christmas traditions.

Though some form of dessert was made and eaten after Christmas dinner as far back as Medieval times, the pudding we know and love today, and the tradition of Stir Up Sunday really became popularised in the Georgian and Victorian eras.

According to tradition, the whole family gets together and takes it in turn to stir the ingredients for the Christmas Pudding – which for the very best taste, needs to be made 5 weeks before the

big day – so 20th November is the perfect date to start.

If you’re planning to make your own puddings this year, you’ll find a recipe in this issue to follow so you can get all the ingredients together for Stir Up Sunday. It’s not just that simple though, there’s a ritual to it! Each member of the family has to take a turn stirring the mixture while making a wish and they need to stir from east to west – this is to honour the Wise Men from the bible story who travelled to the west to visit the baby Jesus. There are also 13 ingredients traditionally to represent Jesus and his disciples.

Once you’ve mixed everything together, make sure to store it properly so it can grow in flavour and will be perfect warmed up with a little brandy and cream on the big day!

Christmas Pudding recipe

Ingredients:

• 55g butter

• 55g suet (traditionally suet is made of beef fat, but you can find vegetarian suet or if you’d rather not use it at all, you can substitute two more ounces of butter)

• 200g dark brown sugar

• 70g self raising flour

• 1.2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp mixed spice (alternatively, use ¼ tsp each of cinnamon, nutmeg and all spice)

• 2 eggs

• 155g fresh breadcrumbs

• 170g sultanas

• 170g raisins (soaked in brandy overnight)

• 85g currants

• 1 apple, peeled, cored and grated

• Zest of one lemon or one orange

• Juice of either a fresh lemon or orange

• 3tbsp mixed candied peel

Optional – some people like to include nuts, almonds are a popular choice, just make sure to chop them so that they are easier to combine.

You will need a pudding basin to get your Christmas Pudding to the right size. Making a Christmas Pudding will also require a steamer or, if you don’t have one, a large pot.

Method:

Start by buttering the pudding bowl and line the bottom with a disc of parchment paper, make sure to butter this too and set aside.

ViOlAs,

WiNtER

fANtAstiC sElECtiON Of shRuBs & hERBACEOus PERENNiAls

adding colour & interest as well as attracting wildlife into the garden throughout the autumn and winter months

KilN DRiED lOgs, KiNDliNg, PARAffiN, hORtiCultuRAl flEECE, ROCK sAlt, sNOW shOVEls, WilD BiRD fOOD, PEANuts, tREAts, BiRD tABlEs & fEEDERs

& POt-gROWN ChRistmAs tREEs

Trees

Beat the suet, butter and sugar together until soft and then add in the flour, eggs and spices until mixed. Add in the rest of the ingredients and stir well to combine.

Spoon the mixture into the bowl and smooth over the top, cut a disc of parchment paper the size of the top of the pudding, butter it and place it on top of the pudding mixture. Next, tear a piece of parchment paper and aluminium foil large enough to cover the top of the bowl and go half way down the sides. Place the foil on top of the parchment and create a pleat down the centre so that the pudding has space to expand.

Place the paper and foil over the pudding basin and then tie some string under the lip of the bowl, leaving extra string to tie over the top to form a handle, tying it on the opposite end.

If you don’t have a steamer, place a trivet in a pot and fill the water so that its halfway up the bowl and use a tight fitting lid. Steam for 6 hours, checking the water level once an hour or so and top up when needed.

Once you’ve taken the bowl out of the pot, remove the aluminium foil and parchment paper. Wipe the bowl and replace with clean paper and then store in a cool place.

When you’re ready to serve, steam for another two hours or microwave for a few minutes until its piping hot. Let it stand for a few minutes before removing from the bowl. Place on a heat proof serving dish and douse with brandy, carefully setting light to it. When the flame dies out, cut and serve.

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REMEMbRANCE DAY para DE a ND SErVICE 2022

This year’s Remembrance Day Parade and Service will take place on Sunday 13th November. All are invited to come and pay their respects and remember those in our community who have given their lives in conflicts around the world.

The Town Council will once again be working with the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion to organise the event. In light of a vehicle being parked within the vicinity of the War Memorial during last year's event, a parking suspension has been granted by Bath and North East Somerset Council, for the whole of the limited waiting bay and disabled bay in front of the War Memorial which will last all day. The usual road closure will be in place. The upper part of the high street will be closed between 10:40am until 11.40am approx. The lower part of the high street will be closed for the service between 11.30am until 11.35am approx. The high street to St John's Church will be closed for the parade between 11.30am until 1pm, which will include up to the junction with the roundabout at One Stop.

The running time of the service will be as follows. Parade leaves muster point (West Clewes Recreation Ground/ North Road/ Radstock Road) around 10.40am. Parade to make their way through the high street to the memorial for the service at 11am. From 11.30am until 1pm the parade will head to St John's Church. The Town Council will inform all businesses and residents known to be directly affected by the proposed restriction and erect the road closure notice one week prior to warn pedestrians. Road closed signs and barriers will be in place and marshalls will be available to advise traffic and coordinate emergency access. The large lamp post poppies will be up, and the Town Council have purchased their wreath

for laying at the ceremony. On Remembrance Sunday, the Parade will be formed and led by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band. The Royal British Legion, veterans and others will fall in behind the band. The parade will then halt at the War Memorial and two minutes silence will be observed at 11am. The Remembrance Service and the laying of wreaths will follow, before the parade marches to St John’s Church for the church service. After the service, the parade will reform and depart from St John’s, turning left and down the High Street to the Island and then left to War Memorial.

With the move into the living with COVID-19 phase, we would encourage all those taking part in the Parade, and attendees, to reduce the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Please could all participants and attendees not attend if feeling unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19. Please take extra precautions if living with someone who is symptomatic, or has tested positive for COVID-19. We look forward to seeing you on 13th November, and should you wish to lay a wreath, please do let us know and we will pass details on to the Royal British legion.

Somer Valley FM will be broadcasting a record number of shows and hours.

"100 has always been a target number for me," remarked Richard Burgess, Somer Valley FM Station Manager. "And that’s our plan for this Autumn. We’ll be broadcasting over 100 hours of live and fresh shows every week, over 14 hours of locally originated, community-focused radio daily."

New show highlights include The Community Show, airing 1pm on Thursdays. "We have a fantastic team working together to produce radio which will concentrate on local community issues. It’s a pleasure to have Simon Allen (Chief Executive, Age UK), Rob Wicke (Manager, Big Local Radstock & Westfield) and Janine WoodwardGrant (Deputy CEO, B&NES Carers' Centre) jointly hosting the show. With the cost-of-living crisis, along with increased demand on our community services, they’ll be helping listeners in signposting where help can be found whilst featuring a relevant weekly community topic," Richard added. Other new shows include Toby Crabb’s 12pm Monday Midday Magazine, Gav Richard’s 11pm Monday to Thursday ‘Somer Valley’s 10 Most Wanted’, and 9pm Sunday ‘The Rock Alt Show’ with Matt Ribbins.

Full show schedules are available via our website and daily social postings. If you miss a show, never fear, all are available to listen on-demand for 30 days, again via our website.

To contact your local radio station, call or WhatsApp 01761 411755, via social media, or email richardburgess@somervalleyfm.co.uk

C RIC kET CLUb prESENtatI oN S

Midsomer Norton Cricket Club held their annual Youth Presentation on Friday, 23rd September at the Withies Lane ground.

Hosted in an impressive Marquee, which also hosted the Seniors' Presentation the following evening, awards were handed out for Player’s Player, Most Improved Player and Player of the Season in the under 11s, 13s and 15s categories.

Leading youth coach, Kevin Messenger, announced the awards to be presented by the guests of honour, Thiaan and Beth Aspeling from shirt sponsors, Bath Potters Supplies and Midsomer Norton Town Council’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Gordon Mackay.

As the cricket season draws to a close, Kevin Messenger appealed for more volunteers to help with coaching the youth teams. The club facilities will remain active throughout the autumn and winter season and all are welcome. The award winner for the U11s Player’s Player went

to Harry Player. Most Improved Player of the Season, Hugo Procter and Player of the Season to Luke Stansfield.

For the U13s: Player’s Player was Mason Messenger, Most Improved Player of the Season, Billy Penny and Player of the Season, Daniel Rodgers.

In the U15s, Player’s Player, Mia Wadsworth, Most Improved Player of the Season, Gerard Knott and Player of the Season, Rueben Roucliffe-Lucas.

Serving breakfast / brunch every Fri & Sat from 10 am. Also serving tea , coffee & hot chocolate.

St, MSN. Tel: 01761

Opening Times Anthony Antoniou

CARNIvAL ROYALITY IS BaC k!

After three long years, we are pleased to welcome back Royalty to Midsomer Norton, not only do we have a Carnival Queen and Princess but a trio of Princes who will all take part in Carnival this year!

Thanks must be offered to everyone who attended our first Royalty Competition since 2019 on Friday, 23rd September and in particular, our retiring Royalty Skyla Hagen (Queen), Leia Wilson (Princess) and Jack Wyatt (Prince) who have had the longest reign ever!

We are now very pleased to introduce our newly crowned Royalty for this year who will take pride of place in the Royal Coach at the head of our procession on Monday 14th November.

Photographed, left to right are: Princes - Cody Wilson (age 7) from Writhlington, Jacob Hinge (age 8) from Midsomer Norton and Kian Barson (age 8) from Westfield. Midsomer Norton Mayor, Cllr Lynda Robertson, Queen - Chloe Wall (age 10) from Radstock Princess - Aeris Stuparyk (age 6) from Radstock.

Everyone is working hard to bring the spectacle of Carnival back onto the streets of Midsomer Norton, but with the ever-increasing operating costs and lack of fundraising opportunities, not just for us as organisers, but the many clubs and organisations taking part as well, its going to be a difficult year! However, we are determined to fill the Town once again with an array of colour and music on a cold, but hopefully, dry, winter night.

For more information on Carnival, fundraising and advertising opportunities, please visit the website www.illuminatedcarnival.co.uk

Curtain and Dress fabrics Cross stitch and Felting kits Art Materials, Knitting yarn Ribbon and haberdashery Gift vouchers available

We are proud to provide our clients with top quality Home Care services they expect and deserve. Personal Care, Home Help, Companionship. Over 15 years experience in care homes, hospitals and home care. Please call Chloe on 07949317210 email: busylizziehomecare@gmail.com 123 High Street, Midsomer Nor ton 01761 414390

RENEW WELLbEING CAFÉ ho StED BY WELtoN BaptISt ChurC h

It is just over a year that the Renew Wellbeing café started, hosted by Welton Baptist Church. They are just one of over 100 Renew Wellbeing Cafés nationwide and a number that is growing all the time.. We are all too familiar with the struggles Covid has presented us with, including isolation and anxiety, to name just a few.

We recognised that ‘it’s ok not to be ok’ and offer a safe space to just come and ‘be’. Renew Wellbeing café is open and welcome to all, with no agenda. We offer some simple activities such

Road, Coleford,

as jigsaws, puzzles, colouring in and board games as a way of connecting people and of course copious amounts of tea/coffee are available. Once a month, there is a craft session where someone will join us and lead us through a craft activity… maybe try something new or just watch and join in the chat.

We are excited to have recently moved to Unit 14, South Road, MSN where we are more central and, we hope, more accessible to all. Our opening hours are every Wednesday, 2-4pm. Pop in, you would be most welcome.

contact us for more details

Open by informal appointments only, including evenings and Sundays. Please call us 07866 464547. sales@abbeypianoservices.co.uk www.abbeypianoservices.co.uk

Putting your eyecare in focus

As with many other health checks, having your eyes tested by a qualified optician should be done on a regular basis. Specsavers Midsomer Norton recommends that everyone should have an eye examination every two years, or more frequently if recommended by an optician.

Regular eye examinations not only check prescription, but they are also key to preventing any conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. As with many things, normal can look very different from one person to the next, and changes in your eyes are often a strong indicator of an underlying issue. Having your eyes checked regularly means changes can be spotted and addressed as early as possible.

The NHS will cover the full cost of an eye test for anyone who qualifies (funding does not apply to everyone). For those in work, your employer may be able to assist you with your eyecare needs. Here, ophthalmic optician at Specsavers Midsomer Norton, Matthew Watt, gives you the latest on looking after your eyes in the workplace:

The right fit

‘Locally, we have lots of industrial working environments and when working, having suitable eyewear is essential but lots of people are unaware of the ways Specsavers can help with individual needs. For example, wearing protective googles with prescription glasses can force the wearer to look through two lenses, leading to eye strain. This can be easily avoidable by wearing prescription safety eyewear, which is just as protective and offers crystal clear vision for glasses wearers. A Specsavers eVoucher could make protecting your sight on-site simple.

Keep an ‘eye’ out

‘We can also assist those who work on screens for the majority of their working day. It’s important to make sure you’re taking regular screen breaks and you get any changes in your vision checked. A Specsavers VDU

Eyecare voucher allows you to enjoy a full eye test and a £49 voucher for glasses. Speak to your organisation about the ways in which Specsavers can help keep your eyes healthy at work.’

To request an appointment and find out more about Corporate Eyecare options, call 01761 416466 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/midsomernorton

haVE a GREEN CHRISTMAS

Forget about having a white Christmas, this year, go green and have an eco friendly event!

With everyone being a little more environmentally conscience these days, here are some top tips to make sure that your Christmas has a big impact on the family and a little one on the world around you.

• One way to be eco friendly is to wrap presents using recyclable paper.

Bows and ribbons aren’t biodegradable and neither is glittery paper. Why not use brown paper or reuse paper from previous years? You can even make your own tags using recyclable or reusable materials.

• Look out for eco friendly Christmas Crackers.

Many shops are now offering reusable crackers that can come out every year. Alternatively, you can use crackers that don’t contain plastic or anything that isn’t recyclable.

• Choose your Christmas tree carefully

When it comes to trees, many of us use artificial trees that can be reused every year, which is better than replacing a tree every year, but to reduce your plastic waste, having a real tree is better. Not all real trees are created equal though, if you’re going for real over artificial this year, look out for trees that are FSC certified and reduce your carbon footprint by staying local. Once the Christmas season is over, some Christmas tree producers will take the trees back and replant them or you can take them to a recycling centre where it can be shredded and used in other products. Look out for local animal centres, including zoos and conservation centres, as they are always keen to have fresh trees as enrichment for the animals.

• Decorate with the environment in mind.

Much like Christmas trees, many decorations contain non recyclable materials which end up in landfill when they are thrown away. Try using natural decorations like holly branches and pine cones from your garden or local park. You can also use LED fairy lights to lower your energy use and get solar powered outdoor lights for your gardens and windows.

• Eco friendly Christmas cards.

Rather than buying cards that are plastic wrapped or covered in material that can’t be recycled, why not make your own cards? You can reuse cards from the year before to make your own unique designs or get some card or paper and get creative! We all love receiving post but to really lower your environmental impact, rather than buying cards, make a donation to a local charity instead.

• Sustainable Christmas dinner

We always go overboard and end up with too much food at Christmas. Try to reduce waste by making meal plans for using up any left overs and be as sustainable as possible when choosing your ingredients – such as getting your meat from local suppliers or checking its credentials when buying.

pARC SkATE SCHOOL offEr a N INtroDuC tI oN to SkatEB oarDING

Parc skate school is a community led school to help introduce people to the skateboarding community in Midsomer Norton and surrounding villages.

They hold free Sunday meet ups from 10am, weather permitting, at the local skatepark (Midsomer Norton). Equipment and skateboards are available to borrow and Skateboard GB Coaches and local volunteer skaters are on hand to offer helpful hints and tips.

Lucy, founder of Parc Skate School, has received great support from the local skaters & BMX-ers, who really made this year's skate jam a great success. They plan on holding more regular events in 2023 and have bigger plans for the future skate scene in the area, to achieve these, they will need the help and support of the local council and Midsomer Norton Community Trust, who have already been very supportive.

If you would like your child to have the exciting opportunity to learn to Skateboard with experienced Skate GB coaches, who are all skaters and have over a decade of experience! They will be running lessons at Midsomer Norton Skate park also we are happy to travel to other skate parks in the area.

Please follow us on Facebook & Instagram to keep up today with our plans at parcskateboarding.

Parc Skate School want this skate park to be a place where everyone in the local community is welcome to socialise.

Lucy, founder of Parc Skate School, added: “Skateparks build and sustain healthy communities. As a gathering place for dedicated, athletic youth, the skatepark provides the forum for visitors young and old, beginning and skilled, to meet and share experiences. For many skateboarding youth, the skatepark becomes a home-away-from-home.

“More than anyone, young people need to feel like they are recognised and appreciated by their communities. In too many places, skateboarders get the wrong message from local authorities who limit or outlaw skateboarding and ignore its inherent benefits. Skateparks are the solution. Every skatepark supports hundreds of kids that might otherwise have nowhere to go.”

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

SOCIETY

NRPS has evolved over the last fifty years into an active and very sociable camera club. Founded in 1974, the organisation was hugely influenced first by Albie Seymour, and later by his daughter, Margot and her husband, Mike Witcombe, all photography enthusiasts long before the digital age.

They ensured that the organisation remained true to its original aim; to promote photography in all its forms, and to encourage as many people as possible to take part. It is an organisation that always has been deeply rooted in the local area, with members keen to be involved in, and support

Community events. Mike’s recent death prompted Margot to stand down as Chair, and this, together with all the problems brought about by the global pandemic and the long periods of isolation it forced on all of us, contributed to the need for major changes to take place if the organisation was to survive. We are happy to report that it has, and is thriving!

Unable to meet up face to face, we instead met via Zoom. Realising what a major asset the social contact that the club provided was to our mental well being in such trying times, we planned walks in small groups whenever we were allowed,

and engaged in regular photographic challenges designed to develop our skills and engage us all creatively. Enduring good humour, together with huge amounts of energy and commitment from existing members, has ensured that our club has grown and thrived at a time when others have floundered.

Our regular programme of meetings has continued over Zoom, and our exploration of the local area through weekly walks has been unparalleled. In the summer months, we have met regularly, exploring the delights of venues close to home such as the Silver Street Nature Reserve, as well as the Chapel Allerton Windmill at Ashton, and following the fortunes of the Cavaliers and the Roundheads as they battled in Norton St Philip and, like us, and sought refuge in the local pub! More recently, the East Somerset Railway provided us with some period drama to record when they staged “The Way We Were”, and we travelled on the Imber buses from Warminster to explore the abandoned village on Salisbury Plain. We have been to West of England Falconry at Newton St. Loe, snapped away at the Bristol Harbour Festival, and supported the local Midsomer Norton Fayre Day with an exhibition of our work and the services of three or four photographers to record the day for the organisers. Local Cricket, Rugby and Football matches are attended by enthusiasts of sports photography, and our skills have grown as a result of such regular practise. We are more than happy to work with local people to supply pop up exhibitions with which they might want to decorate their walls!

So, we are looking forward with optimism as we go into the Autumn, when we begin to meet twice monthly face to face again, as well as to support the eco-friendly initiatives to save fuel and energy in the Winter months when we

intend to continue with Zoom meetings on other Thursdays. In the meantime, we will be photographing local events, sorting out images for the upcoming competitions we run monthly, and enjoying focused talks by visiting experts as well as evenings led by individual members passionate about their own interests in the art of photography. It really is a great time to be a member!

Jenny Short

MIDSoMEr N ortoN FARMER S' MARkET

For two decades, the Farmers' Market has organised a monthly market event in town at Hollies Gardens and it is still going strong.

On the 1st Saturday of the month from 9am-1pm we welcome a whole range of farmers including meat producers, veg & strawberry growers, beekeepers, cheesemakers, cider makers, bakers, and the most amazing fishmonger!

They are selected from the local area and either produce or use local ingredients in their products.

It is however, much more than a market but a buzzing social event for the community! With

support from the Town Council and Thatcher + Hallam Solicitors we can also provide live music each month, including choirs, brass bands and a selection of local singers and musicians.

With locally roasted coffee hot on the day and plenty of seating it’s a great morning out while supporting local food producers.

You can sign up for a newsletter via our website www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk to find out who will be trading at each market.

IMpROvED GREENSpACES tha NkS to Gra Nt fuNDING

Ambitious plans to improve wildlife habitats and create accessible greenspace for local communities to enjoy will go ahead thanks to a £923,246 grant.

Somer Valley Rediscovered, a strategic green infrastructure project led by Bath and North East Somerset Council, Wessex Water, B&NES Public Health and Natural England, has secured funding from the West of England Combined Authority Green Recovery Fund.

The funding will be used for nature recovery projects such as grassland restoration and the management of woodlands and watercourses which will benefit a whole host of wildlife including insect pollinators, bats and wild orchids at five key sites: Haydon Batch in Radstock, Waterside Valley in Westfield, Midsomer Norton Town Park, Wellow Brook Walk and Staddlestones Open Space in Midsomer Norton.

The scheme proposes to set up a new volunteer group to carry out practical conservation tasks across all the sites and will also work with Natural England and the local primary care network to provide Green Social Prescribing activities. There will be opportunities for all to learn more about local wildlife with events running throughout the seasons.

Somer Valley Rediscovered includes Radstock, Midsomer Norton, and Westfield, the large villages of Paulton and Peasedown St John and the surrounding smaller villages and countryside. It’s an area that has been profoundly influenced by the former coal mining industry.

You can find out more about the Somer Valley Rediscovered project on the council website.

WELTON NURSERY opENS

It has been a great start to term in the newly opened Welton Primary School nursery.

The children have been enjoying lots of outdoor play in our extensive school grounds including our large sand pit and woodland.

We are now fully open for 2-4 year olds from 8am-6pm. Please telephone the school for more details on 01761 413131.

aWarDS a ND aC tIVI tIES ahEa D for MIDSOMER N ORTON SCOUTS

Midsomer Norton Scouts held their Annual General Meeting in September with leaders, helpers and parents reviewing the activities and accounts for the previous year and looking forward to the next. It was also an opportunity to recognise the successes and longservice of some of our leaders as well.

In 1919, Baden-Powell introduced a standardised system for leader training and those who completed the course were awarded a ‘Wood Badge’. This wasn’t a cloth badge, but a pair of wooden beads.

Five leaders received their wood beads this year – Helen Lear, Group Scout Leader (GSL); Alex Harrington, Scout Troop Leader; Gavin Lear, Cub Pack Leader and Assistant GSL; Martyn Rayner, and Kim Stopford, Beaver Colony Leaders.

Helen Lear, along with Helen Woodbury, also received medals of merit - a fitting reward for their many years of service.

Helen Lear, Group Scout Leader, said: “It was great to see the hard work of some of our leaders rewarded together with saying a massive thanks to all leaders, helpers and parents for their work and support. Being able to hold our AGM in our newly decorated hall and not on Zoom this year, it felt like a real celebration!”

We are offering our hall for rent during the day so if you are looking for somewhere to hold your knitting group, exercise class or meeting place then please do get in touch at bookings@ midsomernortonscouts.org.uk

We have a busy programme of activities for our Beavers, Cubs and Scouts through until Christmas with evening hikes, pumpkin carving, bonfire night activities, crafts, Santa fun and games.

Plans are also afoot to relaunch the Scout Christmas Post – offering a delivery service for your Christmas cards at a reduced rate, raising funds to ensure we can cover our rising costs and teaching our members about teamwork in the community. Look out for updates and our red boxes!

outSta NDING OUTFIELD FESTIvAL

Somer Valley FM, the local radio station for North East Somerset, based in Midsomer Norton, spent time at the Outfield Festival.

“Having attended recent local Jubilee and Fayre festivals, and now the sold-out Outfield, I can see and hear that our community is revelling at inperson outdoor events again after the pandemic,” commented Richard Burgess, Somer Valley FM Station Manager.

“We love meeting our listeners, and encouraging others to give us a try. The Outfield Festival provided ample opportunity to do so, whilst we were also lucky enough to see and hear some great live music. The day was brilliantly organised.

Our thanks and respect to all the organisers, volunteers and so many West Country acts, along with our local legend DJ James Bridges, who performed on the day,” added Richard.

Jo Davis, weekday host of Somer Valley’s Breakfast Show, was one of the radio station’s volunteers who enjoyed meeting and interviewing a number of the musicians. “It was a privilege to meet and chat to some of the bands.” said Jo. “There was such an array of talent and wide taste in music. Something for everyone. Meeting Scouting for Girls and Graham Swift of the Entitled Sons were the highlights of the day for me as I’m a massive fan of both.”

Jo continued: “And, to top it all, seeing so many local people have such a good time after some tough few years was heart-warming. As for the organisers, what a show they put on - it was so well organised and the whole feel of the festival was welcoming and relaxing.”

It wasn’t just Somer Valley FM having a great time at Outfield Festival over the summer. One of our reporters was there too soaking up the music and the sunshine. It was a great afternoon full of good food, good music and of course, good times! Bring on next year!

LIONS rouND up

On September 23rd, Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions attended the AGM of the First Radstock Scout Group. The scouts have had a trying time over the last few years suffering from several break-ins and vandalism..

The Lions have contributed to the installation of an alarm system and it is hoped that this will guard against such events occurring in the future. Lions and other guests were entertained by the Scout group once the official business of the AGM was over. The evening was a great opportunity to see first hand what is being achieved with this youth group in Radstock.

Earlier in the month, Lions and Somerset Prostate Support Association held a prostate screening

event at the Midsomer Norton Methodist Hall.

This was an opportunity for 200 men to have free confidential screening with a trained nurse. 260 places were available on the day with 200 of those being free funded by Lions and SPSA.

Thanks to our friends of Lions and SPSA we had enough volunteers on the day to help us make this major event run smoothly.

If you would like to help us with events coming up this Winter, such as our fundraising Carol Float in December, please contact us by email at contact@rmnlions.org.uk

SWALLOW MEMbERS Look forWarD to ChrIStMaS

At SWALLOW, the charity supporting local people with learning disabilities, everyone is working hard preparing for Christmas this year.

In the two SWALLOW Cafés, they have been making chutney and Christmas cake, ready to sell in special Christmas Hampers, as well as planning their Christmas menus.

The Work Skills Craft Group have been making Christmas decorations and cards and the gardening group are looking forward to making

Christmas wreaths. It’s a very busy time of year but one that everyone enjoys.

And just before Christmas, the SWALLOW Choir will be performing Christmas songs alongside the Mendip Male Voice Choir at St Nicholas Church Radstock on 19th November 2022. If you would like to know more about any of these activities please contact Nicky on 01761 414 034 or nickyt@ swallowcharity.org, or go to the SWALLOW website www.swallowcharity.org.

To advertise your business in the next issue of Misomer Norton Life Contact Carmen on 01761 458192

SWAN arE rEC ruI tING

SWAN have been providing transport to people who cannot access public transport for over 20 years. Journeys include medical / dental appointments, family visits, shopping and trips to the theatre.

All of this is made possible by our awesome volunteers who are at the centre of our charity. Many of our passengers would not be able to get out if it wasn’t for transport; it’s a lifeline in tackling loneliness and isolation in our community.

We are excited to now be running a scheme to recruit younger volunteers (age 18-25 years old). We want to hear from any young people who would like to join our small and friendly team. Roles include driving, travel buddying, and helping to organise and host our ‘cuppa and chat’ social events. We will provide lots of support to new volunteers, mileage allowance for drivers and you will be welcomed by our passengers who are all keen to have some younger people to connect with.

Volunteering is a great way to get out and meet people, gain new skills and is seen as a valuable

asset to potential employers.

“It's peace of mind. Its meeting people, chatting and engaging with people of all ages.” (Passenger feedback survey June 2022)

If you are aged 18 -25 and would like to find out more about volunteering with Swan Transport please contact Helen Allen, 07447816479, youngproject@swan-transport.co.uk

We would also welcome any drivers who are aged 25+ and they can find out more by contacting The Swan Office on 01761 439548, office@swan-transport.co.uk

Learn more about our work here: Swan.chessck.co.uk

ra DStoC k WELLbEING GROUp

Our Radstock Wellbeing group is an inclusive and supportive community group encouraging positive mental health through conversation and creative activities, whilst enjoying the delights of the Swallow’s Cafe! The sessions are supported by Bath Mind staff and volunteers.

The group meets at The Swallows Café in Midsomer Norton on a Tuesday from 11am to 1pm.

For general queries or to self-refer, please get in contact with our wellbeing team, telephone: 07538 113890 or email: wellbeing@bathmind.org.uk

WELLOW bROOk WALk rEopENS

The Wellow Brook Walk has reopened again following significant improvement and accessibility works undertaken by Midsomer Norton Town Council.

Further to the Town Council’s 2015 Green Spaces Strategy, to ensure that additional green spaces were developed for the benefit of everyone in the town and for those visiting, a ten year lease for the land adjoining the Wellow Brook was acquired following negotiations with the Duchy of Cornwall.

A new pathway has been created with selective vegetation cleared, under ecological guidance, to provide a view of the brook. At the time of writing, footings have been placed for benches and picnic tables to allow residents to enjoy this wildlife corridor. Information signs and a totem pole are in development and will be installed shortly.

Further to residential feedback, which has been overwhelmingly positive, The Town Council have modified the position of one bench to address concerns of privacy which were raised at a Council meeting.

The programme of works was mostly funded from housing developer contributions, with additional

financing from Western Power, the B&NES Somer Valley Rediscovered project and the National Lottery Awards for All.

Cllr Gordon Mackay, stated "This is yet another public open space in Midsomer Norton that I'm proud to show to visitors. Along side our other achievements, including the Town Park and the Garden of Friendship, we’re working hard to enable our community to spend more time outdoors and enjoy nature."

The Somer Valley Rediscovered Project administered by the West of England Combined Authority has recently released an additional £43k of funding for the Wellow Brook Walk which will allow the natural grassland areas to be restored and managed to prevent scrub development. This will lead to increased biodiversity and pollination while increasing the water quality of the Wellow Brook.

The Town Council will continue to keep residents updated about this and other projects on our new website www.midsomernortontowncouncil.co.uk

2022 – Celebrating 40 YEARS of Dance in Radstock www.suehilldance.co.uk

Over 50 classes a week in all styles of dance from 18 months to adult

From £16.50 per month

MERRIMAN THEATRE GROUp

Graeme Savage started Merriman Theatre Group in 1998. On returning from university, he noticed there were no theatre opportunities for young people in the Midsomer Norton area, and after being Music Director at the Derngate Youth Theatre in Northampton decided to start his own for ages 7-14 years.

MTG has been very successful, and with membership reaching almost 500, is now entering its 25th year, and has changed now to have three groups. The senior group Merriman, is for ages 1018 years, the junior group Minimen, for ages 6 – 10, and an adult group formed from leaders and older members. As a non profit making group, this means fees are kept to a minimum to enable all children with the area to be kept as low as possible.

Their next production will be Roald Dahl's Matilda Jnr, which will be performed by both groups at Somervale School on December 10th and 11th. Tickets are available now at www.ticketsource. co.uk/merrimantheatre

Graeme brought his group through a tough two years with enthusiasm and dedication, which was recognised by the Town Civic Awards, where he recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Rehearsals continue every Saturday morning in term time. If you are interested in your child joining the group, or helping with sponsorship, please contact merrimantheatre@hotmail.co.uk or 01761 414957.

G. Mitchard & SonsHigh Class Family Butchers

Westfield Radstock BA3 3XS Tel: 01761 412109 www.gmitchardandsons.co.uk

Top quality meat and products at affordable prices

We are now taking orders for xmas needs from November 1st

All Xmas orders taken in the shop with a deposit

Opening Hours: Closed Mondays

Open 7am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday Open 7am to 1pm Saturday

Wishing all a Happy and Healthy Xmas and New Year

MIDSoMEr

N ortoN LIfE WHAT’S ON NOvEMbEr

11th - Lampshade Making Workshop at A Little Sew and Sow Studio, 7pm - 9pm.

14th - Midsomer Norton Carnival.

19th - Murder Mystery Night at The Centurion. 26th - A Victorian Christmas at Radstock Museum.

26th - Santa Specials at Midsomer Norton Railway Station, running until 18th December.

DECEMbEr

3rd - Embroidery Hoop Christmas Wreaths at A Little Sew and Sow Studio, 2pm – 3.30pm.

24th - Kid's Christmas Party at Mardons Social Club, 2-4pm.

26th - Winter Train Services at Midsomer Norton Railway Station, running until 31st December.

Do you have an event over the Winter months you would like to tell everyone about? Email us at zoe@ignyte.co.uk

INSURANCE, PENSIONS, INVESTMENTS

Call our office in Bath on 01761 239382 or email bath@nfumutual.co.uk

METHODIST C HURCH SERvICE to rEMEMBEr Your LoVED oNES

from one of your newest residents. I’m Rev. Christine Coram and moved here from Southampton in August to be the new Minister at the Methodist Church.

want to warmly welcome you to our Thanksgiving service, an opportunity for you to light a candle and quietly remember your loved ones who have died recently or long ago. You are invited to simply come and quietly express your own sorrows and take comfort from your memories.

The service is at 6pm on November 13th at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church on the High Street. I look forward to meeting you.

FREE COMMUNITY CAFÉ S rELauNC hED at ra DStoC k MuSEuM

Would you like to help run a community café for 2 hours a month or more often if you choose? Radstock Museum is looking for volunteers to help make teas and coffees and chat to café attendees in the lovely Museum Tearoom.

Somerset Coalfield Life at Radstock Museum is pleased to announce the appointment of AnneKatell Peton as the Museum’s new Community Engagement Manager. Anne-Katell will be relaunching the Community Cafés from November 2022.

Anne-Katell has a great deal of experience with other community groups in the area working with all the relevant agencies across our locality. She said, “I am delighted to announce that we are relaunching the Museum’s community cafés and we need your invaluable support and time to run them successfully. We are planning to restart some of them in November and build up to more in 2023 to include all the following:

• a community café for former coal miners and friends.

• a café focusing on local history, peoples’ stories, and home treasures.

• a memory café with activities based on reminiscence and brain power.

• a well-being café with mindfulness activities and a positive twist.

As a volunteer for one of these groups, you will be a key part of the team. Your tasks with include welcoming members, chatting to people, making teas and coffees, and of course eating biscuits!”

The cafés will be running on Monday mornings, Monday afternoons, and Tuesday mornings for a couple of hours. Some will be monthly, others every other week and some are likely to be weekly. If you would like to volunteer for one of these groups, even if it’s just once a month, or would like more information please contact AnneKatell at events@radstockmuseum.co.uk

YOUR HIGH STREET NEEDS YOU

MIDSoMEr

N ortoN LIfE THINGS TO DO

THUrSDAY

• First Thursday Afternoon Social, first Thursday of the month, 2-5pm, Welton Rovers Football Club.

• Westfield TT Running Club, 6.30pm. CATs running group and advanced beginners’ and intermediate groups. Find out more on Facebook.

FrIDAY

MONDAY

• Toddler’s Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, term time only, 9am – 10.30am.

• Carer’s Café from the Carer’s Centre, Mardons Social Club, 10 am, first Monday of the month.

• Knit and Natter at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 1.30pm – 3.30pm.

TUESDAY

• Greet and Eat Lunches at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, hot drinks from 10.30 am and lunch from midday – 1pm, the 2nd and 4th week of the month.

• Westfield TT Running Club, Fast Running Group, 6.30pm, find out more on Facebook.

WEDNESDAY

• Afternoon Group at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 2-4pm, 2nd and 4th weeks of the month.

• Westfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook.

• Arts and Crafts at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 10am – 4pm, third week of the month.

• First Friday Worship, Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 11.30 – 12 noon, first Friday of the month.

• Coffee and Chat at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 1pm – 12noon.

SATUrDAY

• Westfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook.

• Arts and Crafts at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 10am – 4pm, third week of the month.

SUNDAY

• Sunday Worship at Midsomer Methodist Church, 9.30am weekly and 6pm monthly.

• Westfield TT Running Club, Morning Flour Trail Run. Find out more on Facebook.

• 5 aside football, 4.30-6pm at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre. Mixed age, mixed ability, friendly but competitive football on the Astro turf.

• Bingo at Westfield Sports and Social Club, 7.30pm

• Bingo at Midsomer Norton Social Club, 8pm.

Does