Spring 2022 Issue 6
A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE
Welcome to your community magazine
CONTENTS MAYOR’S MESSAGE 4 RADSTOCK IN BLOOM 5 YOUTH CONNECT 7
Bringing together Clandown, Haydon, Radstock and Writhlington.
Hello
and welcome to a new year and a new issue of the Wheel! We're looking forward to what 2022 will bring to the town, especially with all the exciting projects that are planned for Radstock! With the Queen's Jubilee celebrations, the opportunities presented with the Haydon Batch plans and everything else that is going on - it looks like it is shaping up to be a great yea r! There are lots of opportunities to get involved in the changes planned for Radstock and to help make it a great place to live and work, so take a look at the various opportunities available. In the meantime, have a lovely Easter and we'll catch up with you in the summer!
HAYDON BATCH RADSTOCK NEEDS YOU RADSTOCK LIBRARY TOWN COUNCIL PRECEPT CREATIVITY WORKS big local A-Z OF RECYCLING TRINITY CHURCH Be proud to care THE LIONS CHERRY TREE PROJECT CLERK’S MESSAGE
8 12 15 16 18 19 20 22 23 25 26 29 31
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The next edition of The Wheel will be in April 2022. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 437962 before the deadline of 1st April 2022. If you have difficulty reading the print, please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view The Wheel on the council’s website at www.radstock-tc.gov.uk. The Wheel is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, BA3 4LN. Tel 01761 410141. Whilst 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 Radstock 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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MAYOR’S MESSAGE Welcome to this Spring edition of the Wheel. It brings with it the seeds of hope that things can only get better, not only for the nation as a whole, but for us in Radstock as we regain our reputation as the best place to live and work. In the past we have hosted Creativity Works and their imaginative entertainments have kept both our children and ourselves transfixed for forty years. We congratulate them on their anniversary this year and look forward to many more performances. Our French twin town is keen to get back to business and has invited us over to Lançon-Provence for a weekend of entertainment and activities, culminating in the official signing at the end of April. Please email me on rupert.s.bevan@gmail.com if you and/or your children would like to take part. The twinning programme is just one activity which promotes Radstock as a town, a recognisable entity in Bath and North East Somerset. If I had a vision of what Radstock could be, it would be a town that was almost entirely self-sufficient, a pleasant place to shop and be entertained. It would also be the transport hub for the Somer Valley, linking neighbouring towns and cities by bus or train. FULLY SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS Best quality air dried logs. Various sized loads to suit. Nets and kindling also available. Free delivery within 10 miles for orders over £40.
All timber harvested and processed by us from sustainably managed local woodlands. Find out more on Facebook (Somer valley logs). For orders or details, contact us on Facebook or 07900 243572 or 01761 439419 Email: somervalley.ts@gmail.com web: somervalleytreeservices.com
There is much to do, although there are all sorts of initiatives humming along in the background, whether it be the asset transfer programme, geothermal energy or the all-important Neighbourhood Plan. They need your help and 2022 may be the year when you made a difference. Rupert Bevan Mayor of Radstock 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
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RADSTOCK IN BLOOM It was a busy end of the year for the Radstock in
Bloom team, with giving out certificates to the In Your Neighbourhood entries and being awarded Gold from RHS Britain in Bloom.
Other tasks keeping us busy at the end of 2021 included helping Radstock Town Council with the Christmas Light Switch-On event. The overwhelmingly positive response to the Christmas decorations in the town has really spurred us on to do more in 2022.
a dramtic clean and weed by In Bloom's newest member, Jean Hopegood. We hope that going forward, this will become an interactive and educational space for children walking to and from school at St Nicholas' and will provide some lovely views for the elderly residents of Manor Farm.
This year, we will be celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee with hanging baskets of Red, White and Blue. We hope to bring bunting to the streets, along with a few more surprises. More will be revealed in due course.
This year, we are committed to becoming more sustainable, not only with what we are planting, but also with costs, climates and as an organisation. We will be networking with other local groups such as the Radstock Brigade, Radstock Knitters and Roots Connections. By doing this, it will allow us to work in greater numbers and achieve much more for our town. Of course, we always welcome new volunteers, so if you are interested, please let us know.
In 2021, the Church Street flower bed was taken over by Radstock in Bloom and has since been given
We hope you enjoy the spring bulbs planted with the help of Roots Connections back in November 2021.
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YOUTH CONNECT SOUTH WEST PROVIDING local youth provision The Youth Work team have continued to deliver
their regular sessions at Radstock Youth Hub on Mondays and Wednesdays between 7 and 9 pm. Over the winter months, young people have been part of the planning process, and together, the team have delivered a wide range of activities, including the following: arts, crafts, cooking, sports, and issuebased topics that our young people have requested. The team are always happy to welcome new people to the sessions. YCSW host an annual award ceremony for young people and this year, several of those who attend the Radstock Youth Hub, came along to the event. This year, a new award was created for a senior member and was awarded to Brad Kingman. This award is for young people who step up in sessions and lead by example. Louis Carbone performed his own original rap, which he has been working on through the Street to Studio programme that is open to young people across county. Youth Connect were awarded some additional funding from Radstock Town Council to deliver a wellbeing project that offered young women an opportunity to engage in outdoor and indoor wellbeing activities to promote and encourage positive mental health. The project has been facilitated by the youth and engagement team and has been well received by those attending. During these sessions, the group created large outdoor artworks; tried out forest bathing and sound walks; experienced laughter yoga; looking at themselves with self confidence; positive affirmations and trying out meditation. Some techniques used were traditional and others less conventional – including chocolate mindfulness! The young people attending sessions said that a lot of the activities completed were ones they would be
able to do again in their own time or with friends. The Engagement Team have been offering more group sessions to young people across county, who need additional support and have opened a new Distractions Group, which is based at the Radstock Youth Hub. Young people facing poor mental health are always being told to distract themselves to improve mental health, but they don’t always have the tools or skills to do this. The team have facilitated a range of activities including journaling, making fidgets and walking, to name a few.
The team have just begun to run their new group which focuses on cooking. This is going great so far, with Radstock Food Club providing a food box each week and young people looking at the ingredients to then create their own recipes to cook. The latest box has seen young people create overnight oats and eggy bread. For more information about sessions in Radstock, please contact Carrie Ford, NES Youth Work Team Leader, on 07875488718. Our engagement work is by referral and open to all young people aged between 13 and 19 years old. More information about the referral process can be found on our website www.youthconnectsouthwest.org.uk Email: contact@ycsw.org.uk
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HAYDON BATCH MASTERPLAN Following the purchase of Haydon Batch by
Radstock Town Council in 2019, a draft masterplan for the site has now been produced and the Town Council is keen to know the views of local people on the proposals. For anyone who does not already know, Haydon Batch is a 7.9 hectare (19.6 acre) piece of land just under one mile from the centre of Radstock and immediately to the west of the village of Haydon. Most of the site comprises of a disused colliery spoil heap that is now covered by rich grassland and maturing woodland. The batch was the site for deposition of spoil from Kilmersdon Colliery, otherwise known as Haydon Pit. The pit head was the other side of the road and spoil was brought to the site via a tramway across the road. The colliery was closed in 1973, then during the 1970’s and early 80’s, a coal recovery operation was undertaken to remove remnants of coal from within the spoil. Following this, the site was landscaped, with a system of drainage diches installed to help prevent surface erosion and some areas of plantation woodland. From then onwards, the site has been unofficially used as a public greenspace. When the site came up for sale in 2018, it was acquired by Radstock Town Council (with the purchase being completed in 2019) in order to preserve it from development and retain it as a public greenspace. In 2021, Radstock Town Council commissioned New Leaf Studio, a local practice of Landscape Architects to come up with a masterplan for treatment and improvement of the site. New Leaf Studio know the area well, having previously been responsible for the Radstock Memorial Gardens by the museum and more recently, working with Midsomer Norton Town Council and Westfield Parish
Council. To help inform production of the draft masterplan, a workshop meeting was held at the Haydon Village Hall / Que Club in July 2021. This was attended by invited members from various stakeholder groups, including Youth Connect South West, Radstock In Bloom, Radstock Councillors, Haydon Allotments, Avon Valley / Cam Valley Wildlife Group, Creativity Works, Westfield Parish Council, Hylton Estate, Haydon Que Club and Haydon Football Club, Haydon Community Garden, Radstock Museum, Zero Waste Eco Group, local resident representatives and Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Somer Valley Rediscovered Project Manager. This session explored possibilities and opportunities for the site and was a chance for various concerns to be voiced. The landscape architect and Town Clerk also met with the Youth Group organised by Youth Connect South West at the St Nicholas’ Church Tea Rooms in September 2021. This was a less structured session, attended by around 20-30 young people. It helped give an insight into features and uses that might be attractive to a younger audience. Following that, New Leaf Studio has been working to gain a fuller understanding of the features of the site and to produce the draft masterplan. Now the Town Council is keen to know your views, so will be staging an exhibition of the proposals in the Community
The Wheel Hub & Library between 18th and 25th March. The exhibition will be manned by the Landscape Architect and Town Council Staff on Friday 18th between 2.00 and 5.00pm and on Saturday 19th between 10.30am and 3.00pm. This gives you a chance to come along to ask questions and discuss any concerns. The exhibition will then remain available to view for the rest of the week at normal Community Hub & Library opening times. From the18th, a questionnaire will be available for you to give your views. This can either be picked up at the exhibition or accessed online via www.radstock-tc.gov.uk/about-radstock/things-to-do/ parks-green-spaces. On Sunday 20th March, the exhibition will be temporarily moved to the site itself between 10.30am and 12.00 noon and there will be a guided walk of the site beginning shortly after
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10.30am, led by Miriam Woolnough, Bath & North East Somerset's Somer Valley Rediscovered Project Manager, and Andy King from New Leaf Studio. No need to book, just turn up – all are welcome. THE MASTERPLAN A reduced size copy of the masterplan is reproduced here. Unfortunately at this scale you will not be able to read all the details, but hopefully together with the descriptions below, it gives a taster of the proposals in advance of the exhibition. Overall objective The general overriding principal has been to preserve and enhance the overall informal and natural character of the site. In turn, this will preserve and enhance its ecological value, while also making subtle changes to make the site more welcoming, more readily accessible, better understood and appreciated, as well as being able to accommodate a
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greater variety of uses and types of visitor. Entrances There are currently many entrances to the site, some official, coinciding with established rights of way and some informal or unofficial on desire line paths. It is planned to make more of a feature of all the official entrances with some form of sign board identifying the site and an information panel with a map of the site and details of key features of interest and main path routes. The informal entrances will simply be marked with a marker post including the site name and Radstock Town Council branding. The principal entrances will also be made more accessible to all users. While access by off road motorcycles was a concern raised at the stakeholder consultation event in July 2021, it is felt that any physical feature to actually prevent such access not only looks ugly and unwelcoming but also discriminates against a number of legitimate users, including mobility scooters and pushchairs. With greater use of the site and formalisation of some of the paths, it is also likely to become less attractive to motorcyclists. Thus open, unhindered entrances are currently proposed which can be reviewed if the issue of motorcycles becomes more significant at a later date. Improved Access for All As a general principal it is intended to improve access to all, to all areas of the site. However in practice, the site topography and characteristics of path routes beyond the site boundary reduce the practicability and level of reasonableness in making all routes fully accessible. However some relatively low key improvements to path widths and surfaces will significantly improve accessibility. The relatively level grassland plateau on top of the batch which has level access from Kilmersdon Road and the best connection to public transport will be improved to provide a fully accessible circuit route. Localised improvements are proposed to other main
paths in order to provide better width (where currently narrow), better year round, relatively mud free surface and to reduce gullying and erosion on steep paths. Improvements to paths will comprise an un-bound crushed stone surface, to retain the natural informal character of the site. Football Pitch Although not part of the Haydon Batch project, not on land within the Town Council’s ownership or control and not part of the current consultation, there are locally led proposals to provide a football pitch and associated changing facilities next to the Que Club and allotments. This will potentially have an impact on proposed changes to the Batch site in its vicinity due to: changes to the current car park affecting the entrance to the batch; the football pitch would also need to take up a small corner of the Radstock Town Council land and earthworks to provide a level pitch may also need to extend a little into the Batch site. However the pitch and club house also provides opportunities for use of these facilities for events in conjunction with the Batch.
The Wheel Events & Recreation Lawn At the stakeholder consultation event, many ideas for potential events, making use of the site, were discussed. It was largely agreed that if the proposed football pitch proceeds, that this provides the best area for formalised organised events that require a large flat area of grass. In addition, this will be close to electricity and water supply in the club house / changing rooms. It is however recognised that some less formal events and other larger events may require additional level grass space available even when the football pitch is in use for football. A level (mown) grass area is therefore proposed within the Batch site. This oval space makes use of an area that is already close worn grass, and that will only need minimal levelling, so will have minimal impact on the species rich grassland. Shelter A small, simple, but elegant open shelter (yet to be designed) is proposed at one end of the events and recreation lawn. This will provide a landmark focal point on top of the batch and shelter from the weather to be enjoyed by daily visitors, as well as helping to accommodate a wider range of events. At the other end of the lawn, a toposcope has been suggested. Again its exact detail is yet to be determined, but this could be a sculptural feature, that points out key points of interest and our mining heritage.
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Seats & Picnic Benches There are currently no opportunities to sit and relax on site other than by sitting on the grass. A number of seats and picnic benches are proposed to increase the potential for visitors to linger and fully enjoy the site. The exact number of these and locations are details requiring further consideration. Conversation Circle Another proposed feature intended to form a more intimate space is the Conversation Circle. This will be a simple circle of stone boulders set into the western slopes of the site, taking advantage of the views and providing a space for relaxation or informal meetings of perhaps 6-8 people to sit on the boulders in a ring. Jubilee Tree Tree planting on site does not form part of proposals generally, as it is not necessarily appropriate to the nature of the site or the intention to maintain the biodiverse open grass habitat areas. However given the loss of the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee tree (planted in 1897) from the centre of Radstock in 2012, as part of a road improvement scheme and HM Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, planting a new tree in honour of this event, 125 years after the former tree was planted, has been suggested.
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RADSTOCK NEEDS YOU Through the valleys of the carboniferous
limestone, the Wellow Brook hurriedly winds; first, to Midsomer Norton and next, the town of Radstock. In prehistory this latter was a settlement on the red earth enclosed by a stockade to protect families and animals. In Roman and Mediaeval times, the settlement developed as agriculture advanced but the transformation to town status happened as a result of the discovery of coal in the 1760s. A giant dragonfly fossil was found in 1912, in a piece of shale on the waste-tip of Tyning Colliery, which is near Writhlington, Radstock. The specimen was sent to Dr Herbert Bolton, a leading authority on insect fossils, who was at that time the director of the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Dr Bolton (1863-1936) recognised it as being a species unknown to science, and also the largest insect fossil, flying or otherwise, to be found in the British Isles. He named it Meganeura Radstockensis. Later examination of the specimen by a German palaeontologist, Anton Handlirsch, revealed that it was different to the Meganeura in certain respects. He renamed the dragonfly Boltonites Radstockensis in honour of Dr Bolton. This unique fossil in now in the care of the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge. Less than a century later, Radstock became an important centre for the distribution of Somerset coal via two railways and all the accoutrements of a prosperous Victorian town began to appear. These included non-conformist chapels, a reading room, a school of mining, a brewery and Radstock’s own co-operative foundation. Dating from 1868 this last institution is thriving and even expanding today. The latter part of the 20th century brought significant
economic change. The coal and the railways disappeared, as did most of the Victorian institutions. Yet housebuilding continued apace so that the town was in danger of becoming a mere dormitory for its neighbours, Bath and Bristol. Radstock has always maintained its independence and in 2011 was officially recognised as a town with its own town council. The years between have witnessed rapid population growth, from 5,500 to 7,000, and miscellaneous industries have emerged to fill the void left by the mines. A splendid museum commemorates many aspects of Old Radstock whilst the future of the town is being underpinned by various projects aimed at bolstering business opportunities and social cohesion. Radstock sits at the intersection of two important roads: the Roman Fosse Way, re-routed through the town as the A367 New Bath Road, and the A362 running east to west, connecting Radstock with the
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motorway system. Both roads are very busy - often at saturation point - and the reinstatement of the Great Western Railway, Radstock is being discussed as a way of alleviating local congestion. The purchase of some 20 acres of Kilmersdon Batch at nearby Haydon represents part of the Council’s plan to provide more open spaces for the use of local residents, and the redevelopment of the old railways as pedestrian and cycle paths has put Radstock on the map of many who like to explore the area. To these can be added the Miner’s Memorial Garden in the centre and the sports facilities at Southfields. With the increased population, the Council has met many of the challenges that accompany expansion. There is a flourishing library in the Council Hub and a food club to help those in need. Our Victorian benefactors gave us reading rooms and meeting places. Over the years, these have disappeared into private ownership and since the closure of Trinity Methodist Church, even what we had, is no longer available. We urgently need meeting rooms, practice rooms and somewhere that can accommodate the Town Council so that it can continue its valuable work ensuring that Radstock has the best for local people. One possibility would be to purchase Trinity and this would provide the town with a permanent home for its council and assured venues for the many activities offered within the town. It would also provide opportunities for new businesses (hot-desking), a café and a permanent venue for an expanded library.
TRINITY NAILS
We are a friendly and relaxing salon. Offering all things Nails,Beauty,Semi permanent make up and Aesthetics
To make an appointment call: 07753 243727 xTrinityNailsandBeautyx 1 Waterloo Rd, Radstock.
Today, Radstock is still a town at a crossroads. With some investment and the completion of the Neighbourhood Plan now under way, it could support a happy and thriving community. Would you like to help us to achieve that? If you think you can help, contact Radstock Town Council, either by email on council@radstock-tc.gov. uk or by phone, 01761 437962.
LWK decorating
NEIGHBOURHOOD DEVELOPMENT PLAN We have started work to create the Radstock Neighbourhood Development Plan. Community engagement and involvement will be vital to it's success PLEASE GET IN TOUCH IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INVOLVED Call: 01761 437962 or email: council@radstock-tc.gov.uk www.radstock-tc.gov.uk/neighbourhood-plan
Support your wellbeing today! If you look after someone else, it can be difficult to take time for yourself.
Join free craft workshops, wellness sessions and get-togethers at The Carers' Centre today.
0800 0388 885 (Lines are open Monday - Friday, 9am - 1pm)
banescarerscentre.org.uk
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RADSTOCK LIBRARY NEW HOURS AND NEW ACTIVITIES The Library and Community Hub in Radstock has even more to offer you this year.
Opening hours have been extended to 5pm on Wednesdays and if this proves popular, we can look at opening longer on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays as well – at the moment, the Library closes at 4pm opening at 9am. Let us know what you think. We also open on the second Saturday of the month between 10am-12noon when a Town Councillor is on hand to talk to and answer any questions you may have. Our computers are available to use - at no charge. We also have printing and photocopying services at a small cost – so whether you are researching a project, printing a delivery label or booking a holiday (hopefully!) we are here to help. ‘Toddler Tales’ take place on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 11am with stories, tales and general activity for half an hour or so.
include songs, silliness and stories, providing gentle entertainment and friendship possibilities for those from birth to school age. Feel free to bring along your own musical instruments/shakers/etc., to add to the fun. On the first Tuesday of the month, from 11am Radstock Library hosts a ‘Silent Book Club’. Bring your own book, or borrow one from the Library and read it in companionable silence for an hour or so. There’s no need to talk or discuss your book – but of course, the staff will be on hand to chat if you want to. If you want to help the Radstock in Bloom team keep our streets clean, the Community Hub has litter pickers and rubbish bags for you to borrow – it gives going for a walk another purpose.
On the 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesday mornings of every month, at 10:30am for a 10:45 start join our ‘Read and Rhyme’ group. The sessions
The Library is free to join and membership gives you access to e-books to download, audio books, magazines and newspapers, as well as over 2.5millioin books across the 145 Libraries West partners. We look forward to seeing you soon.
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Radstock Town Council Precept 2022-2023 The Precept is a levy raised by the Town
Income
This precept supports local grants, community ventures such as Christmas and lighting, youth services and maintenance of our play and outside facilities: Tom Huyton Park, Haydon Batch, Haydon Allotments, Memorial Gardens, Southfield Recreation Grounds and the running of the Community Hub and Library.
Precept Miscellaneous income (Rent, photocopying) Allotments Total Income
It is always difficult to consider asking our residents for further funds to support the Town's operations. Radstock Town Council remains committed to providing value for money and we are aware that many of our residents have continued to be impacted financially since Covid-19. The Town Council had managed to maintain no increase for residents since 2019 through the management of reserves and the reallocation of unspent funds.This year, we continue to strive to keep increase to a minimum with a 1.5% increase. To aid this, the Town Council will be actively seeking grants to support additional activities including works planned for Haydon Batch and further outside spaces improvements.
Expenditure
Council to fund its planned expenditure for the year.
A 1.5% increase equates to an annual charge to residents of £156.62 for a Band D equivalent property, or an annual increase of £4.63 (39p per month). Many of the houses in Radstock are a lower banding meaning your overall payment may be smaller. This 2022-2023 plans are underway to invest in Haydon Batch, improved IT at the community hub, investment into open spaces and parks. Strategic plans also include the work for the creation of a Neighbourhood Development Plan for Radstock.
Central Services
270,461 850 1,100 272,411
108,950
Democratic Processes/Civic 3,200 Capital / Projects (Loan/Projects) Grants Youth Connect Magazine Christmas/Events In Bloom
20,503 15,000 21,000 8,400 8,800 7,000
Community Support & Events Subtotal Community Hub Outside Services Southfield Tom Huyton Park & Toilets Memorial Park Allotments
60,200 11,748 43,600 3,000 17,800 2,200 1,210
Parks & Outside Spaces Subtotal
67,810
Total
272,411
The Wheel Last year saw the installation of the greenspace map (working with Somer Valley Rediscovered), a new K6 telephone box (rehoming the Radco defibrillator) and two heritage boards in Radstock (created working closely in partnership with Radstock Museum). 2021 also saw Radstock in Bloom presented with a Gold Award in the Ayre Cup and negotiations with B&NES saw new Christmas Street lighting coordinating with the new Town Council Christmas lighting and star. The Radstock Food Club and community Hub continues to support the community and we hope to bring further partners and activities using the building in the future. The Town Council is proud to support many of these activities in partnership with local groups and charities and hope to continue to build great working relationships. The first draft of the Haydon Master Plan has now been produced and we look forward to consultation and works beginning for 2022-2023.
Grants Awarded 2019 - 2020
Local Services for Local People The Town Council administers the following services and facilities: T om Huyton Memorial play park at Somervale Road R adstock Memorial Gardens & War Memorial at Waterloo Road Recreation grounds and park at Southfield Greenspace at Church Street Community Library Services Community Hub Support for Youth Provision Grounds maintenance services Miners' Wheel memorial at Waterloo Road Public conveniences at Somervale Road Bus shelters and public seats
Creativity Works
£1000.00
Litter and dog waste bins
Evolve Music
£1000.00
Jubilee Crescent
Midsomer Norton & Radstock Dial a Ride
£1000.00
Radstock Museum
£1000.00
Sight Support West of England
£984.00
Small Stuff Baby Bank
£997.49
SWAN Advice Network
£1000.00
St Nicholas Church
£2300.00
Youth Connect South West
£1000.00
Allotments at Haydon Haydon Batch Radstock Food Club Support of Radstock in Bloom
A full list of your Town Councillors for 2022-2023 can be found on page 30.
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Creative Writing Workshop Are you a budding writer or would like to have a
go at creative writing? Join us for a fun and informal 2hr workshop inspired by past projects from Creativity Works, who have been in Radstock for over 40 years. The workshop, which will be facilitated by writer Christina Sanders, will use the Memory Palette project, first run in Radstock 20 years ago, which explored memories of the area and what life was like in times gone by. How has Radstock and Midsomer Norton changed in the last 20 years? And how might it change in the future? Come along and see how putting your thoughts and memories to paper can be fun and rewarding! All materials will be provided. Date: Wednesday 16th March
01761 568683
Time: Please arrive at 2.15pm to get a coffee and settle in, the workshop will run from 2.30 – 4.30pm Location: Radstock Community Hub & Library, The Street, Radstock BA3 3PR Booking: Please book in advance, contact Diane to book a place, diane.abbott@radstock-tc.gov.uk or 01761 437962. Or Creativity Works – info@creativityworks.org.uk Tel: 01761 438852. This is a FREE event
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RADSTOCK & WESTFIELD BIG LOCAL Every year since our inception, we have
About us: The Radstock & Westfield Big Local is a group of residents who volunteer our time and enthusiasm to ensure that over £1million of community money is invested well in Radstock and Westfield.
This year we plan to bring it back and hold our eighth Dragons’ Den in July*!
We are always looking for new members willing to commit a couple of hours a month; if you want to help out then please get in touch!
celebrated the amazing ideas that the good people of our area have; by holding our own special Dragons’ Den event where local people can win money to benefit their community. The pandemic put a stop to that, and whilst we have continued to award grants to local people for their wonderful local projects, it hasn’t been as satisfying or as community-led as our Dragons’ Den is.
If you live in Radstock or Westfield then we have brilliant news – you can take part! If you have a great idea for your community, you can WIN UP TO £500 to make it happen! So, get your thinking caps on, have a chat with your family, neighbours and friends, and work out what will make a positive difference to your area. Previous wins include local history tours, growing spaces, improvements to community buildings, and so much more. Check out our website or send us an email for more details: www.radstockwestfield.org.uk / info@radstockwestfield.org.uk
*Date to be confirmed.
Working Mens Club 6 The Street, Radstock, BA3 3PL
AED EMERGENCY DEFIBRILLAOR LOCATION IN RADSTOCK Memorial Gardens Waterloo Rd, Radstock, BA3 3EP
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OF RECYCLING C A-Z IN THE RADSTOCK AREA You
might be surprised at what can be recycled as well as the usual items, it’s just knowing where. We’ve put items in alphabetical order so that you can find out quickly.
A
Animal Bedding - Biodegradable bedding from small animals can go in your green garden waste wheelie bin if you have one, or paper garden sacks if ordered from B&NES for composting.
B
Baby & Toddler Equipment - donate clothes, toys, books, and equipment to be passed on locally via Small Stuff Baby Bank based at Leigh House, 1 Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3RN. www.smallstuffbabybank.co.uk Batteries - Household batteries such as AA: secure in a small, used paper or plastic bag in your green kerbside box. Car batteries leave out beside your green recycling kerbside box. Books - Radstock Museum sells second-hand books in the foyer to raise funds for the museum, ask at the front desk. Books that are not fit for reuse need to have hardcovers removed and can be recycled with paper in your green kerbside box. Building Materials - Rubble, including ceramics, loose soil, bricks, concrete, (six sacks max per week) plasterboard and gypsum (6 sacks max per week) and timber can go to Welton Recycling Centre, off Radstock Road BA3 2AA, remember to book a time slot at www.bathnes.gov.uk
C
Clothing / Textiles in good reusable condition Either: take to charity shops or put out them in a waterproof plastic bag, with your green kerbside box or take to a clothing bank.
Crisp Packets - These can be taken to The Hub in Radstock where they raise funds for “The Woodland Group”, or alternatively they can be taken to Tesco for recycling in the container for all types of plastic wrappers, currently situated by the self-checkouts.
E
Electrical appliances - Small items such as kettles, toasters, drills, hairdryers etc. that fit into a carrier bag, can go out with your green box kerbside collection. Large electrical items can be collected by booking a large item collection, go to www.bathnes. gov.uk for details.
F
Foil - If you scrunch the foil in your hand and it stays scrunched, it is foil and can go in your green kerbside box.
H
Hand tools, non-electrical carpentry or car tools are occasionally collected by PSJ Terracycle for reuse. * Find Peasedown Environment Group on Facebook for details.
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Inkjet cartridges - Can be put out in a bag inside or on top of your green kerbside box. Alternatively take them to PSJ Terracycle to raise money for charity. *
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Low energy light bulbs and strip lights - Take to Welton Recycling Centre, off Radstock Road. BA3 2AA remember to book a time slot www.bathnes. gov.uk Old style incandescent bulbs need to go in the black wheelie bin.
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Medicine unused, unopened, or out of date medicines of all kinds should be returned to pharmacies. Never flush medicines down the toilet.
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Oral health products - Such as: toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, dental floss packaging, (sorry no interdental brushes) PSJ Terracycle collection. *
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Pens and felt-tips - PSJ Terracycle collection. * Plastic wrappers including stretchy and crackly bags and film (clear, printed or shiny) from: cakes, biscuits, chocolate, snacks, cereal, rice fruit trays, frozen food bags, fruit, veg and salad bags, flower wrapping, bubble wrap, wrap from toilet roll and kitchen roll and much more. Take to Tesco Paulton. (Container, currently inside by self-checkouts not to be confused with the carrier bag container outside) please be careful not to put compostable bags in with plastic bags and wrappers.
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Shoes - These are for reuse only, so need to be in good condition; take them tied in pairs to a charity shop or keep dry in a plastic carrier bag and put out with your green kerbside collection box. Wet, worn out or odd shoes, slippers, sandals, and flip-flops etc need to go in your black wheelie bin. Stamps - These can be cut with a border from the envelope and taken to the Hub in Radstock to raise funds for the RNIB or recycled. * PSJ Terracycle collections at the Methodist Church, Peasedown St John on the fourth Saturday every month and the Thursday prior to the fourth Saturday at 10 – 11.30 a.m. No collection in December. Money raised goes to charity: Climate Stewards for action on climate change.
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Trinity Methodist Church For 120 years, Trinity Methodist Church has
played an important role in the life of our town. Built at the beginning of the Edwardian era in 1902, it has been ever present in the lives of generations of Radstock residents. Located in the heart of Radstock, the church has provided a warm welcome for residents and visitors to worship, marry, share family occasions both happy and sad, be taught in the school rooms or meet with friends over a drink at their regular coffee mornings. The building was home to many community groups and activities and the hospitality offered to users has been appreciated by the town and local community. However, the pandemic has seen a fall in usage and, since the lockdown, it is apparent how much we miss this much-loved space for people to meet and socialise in the heart of Radstock. And now, following the decision by the church trustees to close it as a place of worship, its future is uncertain. The possibility that the building may be sold or left vacant to deteriorate led many people, groups, and charities to approach the Town Council.
Their main concern was the loss of a key town centre building to development and how this could be prevented. These groups value the space but simply do not have the funds to support purchasing the building. Radstock Town Council would also need to access further funding to modernise and make effective use of the building. Building an effective partnership to take Trinity onto its next phase will take a lot of work. We have been meeting with groups to ascertain their level of interest in the building and looking for support to develop a business plan along with ideas for future uses and funding. Meetings have also been held with B&NES officers to gain their support. We have also been meeting regularly with representatives from the Methodist church to explore options for the lease or sale of the building – either to the Town Council, or to a community partnership. Our aim is for existing users, including the Town Council, to continue to use the building while discussions continue, with other interested groups being able to join over time.
If you are interested in helping us secure the future of this important asset to our community, or to find out more about our plans, please contact: council@radstock-tc.gov.uk or telephone: 01761 437962.
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Be Proud to Care Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Proud
to Care Campaign has been celebrating those currently working in the care sector and helping local employers to recruit new staff. Care workers perform a vital role in the health and care system providing essential care and support to vulnerable and elderly residents and making a real difference to people’s lives.
people with learning disabilities in a variety of different settings including a day centre, supported living and respite facilities. Jobs in the wider health and social care sector including roles in hospitality, maintenance, housekeeping, catering, as well as administrative and leadership roles.
Councillor Alison Born, cabinet member for Adults and Council House Building said: “Health and social care workers really do make a difference to people’s lives and it can be a really fulfilling, varied and emotionally rewarding career.”
The Proud to Care campaign is aimed at anyone considering changing careers or looking for a first job or a new role. There are roles available for people with or without experience, many offering flexible hours and working patterns to fit around other commitments.
There are many different types of care roles, for example in care homes, respite, nursing, dementia care and supporting people to live independently in their own homes. There are also roles supporting
To support the Proud to Care campaign the council is organising a series of recruitment events where job hunters can meet local employers face-to-face. The next jobs fair is planned for Keynsham in the Spring. To search for care jobs across Bath and North East Somerset visit: proudtocare.bathnes.gov.uk Full details of the Keynsham jobs fair will be added to the website shortly. You can hear the first-hand, real-life experiences of care workers across Bath & North East Somerset on our YouTube Channel.
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Electric Bike for Policing Team Radstock Town Council are pleased to have supported the funding of a new electronic bike for its local neighbourhood policing team.
The super bike, an “Allant + 5” will allow the team greater and greener efficiency giving them an ability to cover more distance and offering visibility within the community. The bikes will also help police target some areas more effectively than a patrol car, like footpaths, parks, garage blocks and secluded spaces, as well as areas known for antisocial behaviour.
Radstock, Westfield, Midsomer Norton How to contact us www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/your-area/somer-valley/
Lee HUMPHRIES Mark GRAHAM Steph JONES PCSO 8743
Olga HAPOVA PCSO 7205
PC 3964 Neighbourhood Constable
Lana WASHBOURNE
PCSO 8755 PCSO 6972
PS 432 Neighbourhood Sergeant
Paul THATCHER PCSO 7380
George SIMPSON PC 3356 Neighbourhood Constable
Glyn SAMWAYS
Jonathan HARDY
Kate CHARLTON
PCSO 6196
Report crime online www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/
PCSO 7485
PCSO 7649
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Thank you from The Lions The Lions Club
of Radstock and Midsomer Norton were delighted to be able to get the Carol Float out on the streets again and would like to thank the people in the area for their generous donations and support. We were heartened with the help we received to make the month-long event possible. It started with Lion Rex Gregory doing up the float during the summer months, giving the float a much needed coat or two of paint. Lion Derek Livsey, our club secretary, put out a request for help in our local newspaper rwhich resulted in a great response of volunteers. Whilst we were able to construct our float, we would not have been able to take it around without the help of Angie, Ann, Bob, Dave, Jacquie, John, Jon, Laurence, Margaret, Mike, Stuart & Susan, who generously gave up their time to help with the collections and to Paul for helping us with storage. Lions and friends had great pleasure in bringing Father Christmas to many children in our area, especially as last year, we were unable to bring him to the public. We collected over £3800 of generous donations which will be used for our charity work locally, nationally and internationally.The float started in Radstock as the Christmas lights were switched on and finished at Tesco just before Christmas Day. When we started planning this event we were not sure whether the float needed to be static but with the help we were given it became possible to keep Father Christmas moving and reach many more people and communities spreading a bit of Lions joy. Thanks to everyone for such a great effort. Lion President, Sarah Oughton
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CHERRY TREE PROJECT Comes to Radstock
The Town Council have planted two of each of the
three cultivators chosen as part of the Sakura Cherry Tree Project. The Cherry Tree Project was launched in 2020 as a way to mark 150 years of Japanese and British
The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Thurs 2nd - Sun 5th June 2022
How would you like to celebrate? We want your thoughts! Send your suggestions to the Town Council council@radstock-tc.gov.uk 01761 437962 Beacon Lighting? - Street Party? Picnic? - Tree Planting?
friendship and to commemorate the continued cooperation between the two nations. As part of the project, over 6000 cherry trees will be planted throughout the UK because cherry blossoms are the national flower of Japan. The following three cultivars have been selected and on 26th November last year, the town council planted two of each at sites around Radstock. Beni Yutaka, known for its pink colour and double form. These usually flower around the 15th April and is a new multi-layered Sakura that was bred in Hokkaido. It was exported to England as a sign of goodwill by the breeder. Tai Haku, known for its white colour and single form. These flower around the 18th April. This tree was at one point extinct in Japan but was reintroduced to the country by Collingwood Ingram in the 1930s. Somei Yoshino, known for its pale colour and single form. This one usually flowers around 10th April and is the most popular Sakura in Japan. The project is being represented in Japan by the Japan-British Society, whose main role is to raise funds for the project and in the UK by a special committee convened by the Japan Matsuri Company, whose role it is to manage the entire operation in the UK. Make sure to look out for the blossoms in the spring!
RADSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL COMMUNITY GRANTS Are you a charitable or voluntary group? Do you operate in the Radstock area? Do you have a project that would benefit the community of Radstock?
Grants of between £500 - £1,000 are available Closing date - Mon 7th Mar 2022 at 4pm For guidelines, criteria and application form, contact: council@radstock-tc.gov.uk 01761 437962 www.radstock-tc.gov.uk
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RADSTOCK FOOD CLUB Good Quality food at low cost Radstock Food On Our Doorstep (FOOD) Club
was launched in 2020 to provide local families with goodquality food at a low cost, while also reducing food waste. The club is run by a small but dedicated team of wonderful volunteers supported by Radstock Town Council.. It costs just £1 a year for a family to become a member of the club. Once they have joined, families pay £3.50 per week to receive a bag of food worth approximately £10-£15. The food varies each week and can include seasonal items, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy, as well as staple store cupboard items such as pasta, breakfast cereals and tinned goods. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, with items being substituted with appropriate alternatives. To become a member, families must live or work within approximately 15 minutes of the club, have a child under 18 years old and be on a low income or in receipt of benefits.
The Covid-19 pandemic, along with spiralling energy and living costs, has led to an increase in families who are facing financial challenges. As part of their work supporting local families, Children’s Centre Family Support Workers promote the benefits of joining the Food Club and will support families to complete the membership application and attend.
HAYDON BATCH MASTERPLAN EXHIBITION Friday 18th - 2pm till 5pm Saturday 19th - 10.30am till 3pm
Radstock Food Club is open on Friday’s 1.15-3 pm, at Radstock Community Hub & Library. To find out more, contact; 01225 396660 banesfoodclubs@family-action.org.uk brightstartcc@bathnes.gov.uk
Sunday 20th - 10.30am till Noon
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CLERK’S MESSAGE Hello and Happy New Year! Radstock Needs you: Although this will reach you in February, it’s our first publication of the year, so I felt, although a bit late with the ‘Happy New Year’ I still wish you all a happy and healthy 2022! I hope you all had a great Christmas and enjoyed the new lights and Star. It seems like this year is going to be a mixed news year and I hope that the community continues to support each other and continues to work on amazing projects and activities as you have done over the past. I have now had the privilege of working for Radstock Town Council for 2 years – wow that time has flown. The thing I love most about my role is meeting you all and working with the amazing groups, charities and organisations. Ultimately, the work that the community groups have achieved and the new groups that have followed has been nothing short of impressive. The best projects have been the ones in partnership and derived from public response and working closely with these groups. Radstock really does need you!!! The Neighbourhood Development Plan (Page 14) We have started to work to create the Radstock Neighbourhood Development Plan. We will need your help to complete the public consultation questionnaires, supporting data collection and information. Please see our dedicated website page for further details and get in touch if you would like to get more involved. www.radstock-tc.gov.uk/neighbourhood-plan
Haydon Batch: (Page 8) Andy at New Leaf Studio has now completed the first draft for the master plan and we are holding consultations on 18th – 20th March and we’d love to hear your thoughts. If you can’t attend the consultation days, there will be further opportunities. Radstock Foodies Club: Do you also know about the Radstock Foodies Group? It’s aimed at supporting families with low cost healthy food. It also combats food waste, by distributing surplus food. Annual Membership is £1 and a weekly box is £3.50, but contains food valued at £10+. The club’s success relies on regular members and support from many of the local organisations that help. The club has an amazing group of members who are very adaptive and create amazing meals from crazy fruit and veg, cheeses and the surprise items contained in that weeks’ box! As always, please get in touch with anything you would like to see. See you soon. George Clutten - Town Clerk
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YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS
Cllr Gary Dando Radstock Haydon Ward T: 01761 432739 M: 07813 904923 E: garydando41@gmail.com
Cllr Chris Dando Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 432918 M: 0771 3103380 E: chrisdando3@gmail.com
Cllr Mrs Elizabeth Derl-Davis Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 439119 E: edegarry48@gmail.com
Cllr Rupert Bevan - Mayor Radstock Centre Ward M: 07980 607127 E: rupert.s.bevan@gmail.com
Cllr Mike Boulton Radstock Haydon Ward T: 01761 436681 E: mikeboulton@headweb.co.uk
Cllr Nick Toogood Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07715 939804 E: n-toogood@sky.com
Cllr Bruce Shearn Radstock Clandown Ward T: 01761 751117 E: bruceshearn@yahoo.co.uk
Cllr Colin Currie Radstock Centre Ward T: 01761 420296 E: colinandrewcurrie11@gmail.com
RADSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL Radstock Community Hub The Street Radstock Somerset, BA3 3PR Cllr Robert Langley Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07970 708216 E: roblangley04@gmail.com
Cllr M atthew Shearn M: 07710 263998 E: m.shearn3198@googlemail.com
Cllr Adrian Dodgson M: 07812 046091 E: awdodgson@gmail.com
T: 01761 437962 E: council@radstock-tc. gov.uk www.radstock-tc.gov.uk
Acorns Nursery @ Trinity Church School
Learning Growing Believing Together ted Qualified, dedica d staff and experience available, Extended care city subject to capa
Term t for 2, 3 ime nursery and 4 y ear old s Space s avail able
Funding fo r 2, 3 and 4 year olds and C hildcare vouchers a ccepted
reas outdoor a Fantastic g stimulatin providing s xperience learning e
Fresh, healthy food cooked on site For more information, contact the school office on: 01761 438650 or email: office@trinitychurchschool.com Trinity Church School, Woodborough Lane, Radstock, BA3 3DE
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