SPRING 2019 ISSUE 30
Produced for Westfield Parish Council
Westfield Parish Council
Message from Contents the Chairman 4
On behalf of Westfield Parish Council, I would like to wish everyone a belated happy New Year. Just before Christmas, Westfield Parish Council took part in a radio broadcast with Westfield Massachusetts in America to celebrate their 350th birthday. We spoke to the Mayor, Bryan Sullivan and Harry Rock, who has been instrumental in organising their anniversary celebrations. The link was made by BBC Radio Somerset who the Parish Council would like to thank for stepping in at quite short notice to broadcast this. As we are now in the snowy season, we would like to thank all the snow wardens for their hard work and if there is anyone out there who would like to volunteer to be a snow warden then please contact the Parish Council office. As many of you will have noticed the phone box on the corner of Charlton Road has finally been taken away. This had become an eyesore for many people as it was filling up with rubbish constantly. It took many years to achieve and constant bombardment to B&NES Council from the Vice Chair of Westfield, Ron Hopkins. A job well done. Westfield Parish Council has set up a Green and Open Spaces Working Group and would be delighted to involve residents to join us and put their views forward to make the community a better place to live. If you would like to be a part of this work please contact the office. On the 12th March the Parish Council is holding its Annual Parish meeting at the Trinity Methodist Church, Wells Road, Westfield, starting at 7pm. All residents of Westfield are welcome to come along and hear about the things that are happening in their parish at the moment. There is an election coming up for the Parish Council in May this year, so if anyone is interested in joining the Council then the Annual Parish meeting would be a good place to find out what being a Councillor is all about and have the opportunity to chat with current Councillors.
Could you be a Councillor?
12 Do you use the Green Spaces? 14
What’s On
16 Westfield goes from strength to strength 25
Annual Parish Meeting
27 Send your nominations for this year’s Inspirational Citizen
The next edition of The Westfield Warbler will be in May 2019. If you would like your group to be included, please contact us by 14th May. You can view The Westfield Warbler on the Council’s website at www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk The Westfield Warbler is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, G5 Second Ave, Westfield Industrial Estate, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 4BH. Tel 01761 410141. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or it’s 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 Media and Westfield Parish Council do 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.
Cllr Geoff Fuller Chair of Westfield Parish Council The Westfield Warbler - 3
Helping to improve our Parish – Could you be a Councillor? Elections to Westfield Parish Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council take place this May. Could you be a Parish Councillor or a B&NES Councillor representing Westfield? It is not necessary to be qualified in any particular area. It is important only that, as a local person, you have the desire to represent and improve our community. If you are thinking about representing Westfield on B&NES Council, this role is paid and more information can be found below: http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/your-council-anddemocracy/elections If you are thinking of becoming a Westfield Parish Councillor, The Good Councillor Guide is really helpful and can be downloaded from Westfield Parish Council’s website. Westfield Parish Councillors’ work is voluntary and information on eligibility and a link to download the nomination forms can be found here.
http://www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk/could-i-be-acouncillor/ If you are interested and would like to talk about what it entails to be a Parish Councillor, please contact either the Chair of the Council, Geoff Fuller on 07540 998603 or the Parish Clerk at the Parish Council office Monday to Thursday 9-2pm on 01761 410669. Or email Parishclerk@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk Alternatively, why not come along to a Parish Council meeting to observe – they are held at 7pm on Monday 4th March and Monday 1st April at the first floor meeting room, the Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield. You will be very welcome.
What do councillors do? Councillors have three main components to their work 1. D ecision making - through meeting and attending committees with other elected members. Councillors decide which activities to support, where money should be spent, what services should be delivered and what policies should be implemented 2. M onitoring – councillors make sure that their decisions lead to efficient and effective services by keeping an eye on how well things are working 3. G etting involved locally – as local representatives, councillors have responsibilities towards their constituent and local organisation. These responsibilities and duties often depend on what the councillor wants to achieve and how much time is available, and may include:
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• Going to meetings of local organisations • Going to meetings of bodies affecting the wider community • Taking up issues on behalf of members of the public • Meeting with individual residents Visiting your council is the best way to find out what happens there. Give the council a call and find out when its next public meeting happens. By law ordinary people are allowed to be present at most council business.
How much time does it take up? Quite often councillors say that their duties occupy them for about three hours a week. Obviously there are some councillors who spend more time than this – and some less, but in the main, being a community parish and town councillor is an enjoyable way of contributing to your community, and helping to make it a better place to live and work.
• Having during that same period had your principal or any place of work in the council area; or • During that 12 months period reside in the count areas In the case of sitting member of parish or community council you can also satisfy the criteria to be elected if you have lived in the council area or within 3 miles of it for the whole of the 12 months preceding the “relevant day”.
You cannot stand for election if you
Am I qualified?
• Are subject of a bankruptcy restriction order or interim order
Yes – most people are. However there are a few rules You have to be: • A British subject or a citizen of the Commonwealth or the European Union; and • On the “ relevant date” ( i.e. the day on which you are nominated or if there is a poll the day of the election) 18 years of age or over; And additionally • on the “relevant day” a local government elector for the council area for which you want to stand; or • have during the whole of the 12 months preceding that day occupied as owner or tenant any land or other premises in the council area; or
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• Have/ within five years before the day of the election been convicted in the United Kingdom of any offence and have a sentence of imprisonment (whether suspended or not) for a period of over three months without the option of a fine • You work for the council you want to become a councillor for (but you can work for other local authorities, including the principal authorities that represent the same area).
Am I too young? Anyone over 18 is eligible to be a Parish Councillor. It may well be useful to the parish to have younger views. If you feel you have something to offer the residents of the parish you can be a councillor.
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Want to make a change? Join Westfield TT!
Founder of Westfield TT Running Club, John Reynolds, has taken the club from strength to strength. He said: “Five years ago I had an ambition to start my own little running group covering all ages and abilities. It started with six members and has rapidly grown to an amazing 700.”
John said: “Our distinctive orange and black colours are now a prominent feature at all events with the policy that nobody gets left behind and that the team always run back and see the last member over that finish line.”
Westfield TT is completely free of charge and starts with an introduction to running session closely followed by intermediate and fast running groups covering events ranging from 5k to 100k and also off road trail groups. Members now participate in events both nationwide and all around the world.
The weekly schedules are:
Tuesday - beginners, intermediates and fast running groups.
Wednesday - 4 running groups various paces, starting at approximately 4-5miles. Thursday - beginners, intermediates and fast running groups.
All these meet outside Prattens Hall Westfield at 7pm.
On Friday it is the trail running group, all abilities, but it is recommended that you refer to Westfield TT Facebook page beforehand for the location.
On a Sunday, they meet outside St Benedict’s School, Westfield at 8.30 am for half marathon training, available for all abilities.
Westfield Boules Pictured are some members of the Westfield Petanque Club enjoying a Christmas game of skittles, while we wait patiently for the start of the new boules season. Now with Spring well underway, we can once again look forward to Tuesday evening boules.
Last year was our best ever, with lots of new members adding to the fun. Of course, we were helped by the glorious weather. We also dipped our toe into the competitive world and enjoyed great success at the Wells Boules Tournament. Let’s hope it wasn’t a case of beginners’ luck, and we can repeat that success this year. The format remains the same, everyone is welcome, no need to book, no fees, and all equipment provided, just turn up and enjoy the fun.
This year we start on Tuesday the 23rd of April 6pm at Norton Hill Recreation Ground. Diana Cooper 01761 415155 The Westfield Warbler - 7
Radstock Folk Dance Club are back Radstock Folk Dance Club will be meeting every Friday (except Good Friday) until the Summer. If you would like some gentle exercise (physical and mental) in a friendly atmosphere please come and join us on Friday evenings at St Peter’s Church Hall, Longfellow Road, Westfield, BA3 3YZ from 8 pm to 10 pm. There is a Caller to guide everyone through the dances, so no experience is necessary
We also have our Annual Dance on Saturday 23rd March at the Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2UH. The Caller is Ray Goodswen with music by the Brewery Band. For further information about either our regular club evenings or the Annual Dance, please contact Dick or Jean Shilton on 01458 841400.
Are you a carer? Come along to the Carers’ Café The Carers’ Café is a monthly gathering at Mardons Social Club where carers can come together to offer support to each other. Run by the Carers’ Centre, the monthly Café event is an opportunity for carers to take some time out to relax and make friends in an understanding environment. The Carers’ Centre is a local charity that has offices in Radstock and work hard to support those in the community who care for their family and friends and need support and advice on a day-to-day basis. If you are a carer, the Carers’ Centre is here for you, they offer information and advice, breaks from caring, emotional and practical support and can put you in touch with peers who understand how isolating and tiring caring for someone can be.
There are an estimated 20,000 carers in the Bath and North East Somerset area, some of whom are left alone to care for a loved one without help, advice or respite. The Carers’ Centre is here to help you, whether that is attending one of the many events to offer a break for carers or the provision of resources and advice to help make caring a little easier. Anyone living in the community is welcome to come and have a cup of tea at the monthly Carers’ Café at Mardons. It is a chance to have a drink and a chat with other carers as well as volunteers from the Carers’ Centre, while you relax, either with or without the person you care for. You can stay for as little or as long as you like.
If you want to find out more about the Carers’ Centre and the work that they do, please get in contact with them on 0800 0388885 or at their website, www.banescarerscentre.org.uk
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Member of SWALLOW Charity running in Bath Half Dan, who lives in Westfield and is a member of SWALLOW charity, is training hard for the Bath Half Marathon to raise money for SWALLOW. He only started running in March with one of his support workers, Shelley, and has joined the Westfield TT running group, organised by John Reynolds. Dan says “I started running in March 2018 and it gave me passion and motivation to run more. The Bath Half was talked about in our group and I decided that this was a challenge I wanted to do for SWALLOW charity. I run regularly every week with my support worker, Shelley, and we hope to raise money for SWALLOW. I am supported really well by the running group and they are all lovely. I also want to run in memory of my Dad”. The charity which supports local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities is based in Westfield. Money is needed to be able to continue SWALLOW’s work and they are hoping to recruit at least 20 people to run the Bath Half using one of the charity’s silver bond places. They would also welcome people who have their own places to pledge to run for SWALLOW. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Nicky Tew on 01761 414 034 or by email at nickyt@swallowcharity.org. You can also find more information about the charity on the website www.swallowcharity.org and on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ SWALLOWCharity/
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Trinity Girls’ Brigade Every Wednesday evening you will find a hive of activity at Radstock Methodist Hall where the young girls of Trinity Girls’ Brigade meet to play games, learn new skills, craft, sing and learn stories and lessons from the Bible. This is a welcoming and accessible group for girls from Westfield and the surrounding area. The wonderful leaders provide a fantastic range of activities throughout the year including all manner of craft, cooking, badge and keyring making, slime making, dance choreography, singing and drama performances and much more.
girls achieved an additional special edition 125th Anniversary badge.
Each term the girls, who are split into four age groups, work towards a badge and at the end of each term parents are invited to a certificate and badge presentation ceremony at which the girls usually perform something they have been working on. A nurturing, family atmosphere, I can say confidently that all the girls love attending. A number of the girls have additional needs and are fully supported, valued members of the group. The girls enjoy additional activities through the year such as carol singing at Christmas, community services at Trinity Methodist Church, a day out at a national conference in Devon and, most excitingly, the annual Girls’ Brigade summer camp where the girls spend three nights and four days together in Weston-super-Mare enjoying cooking, eating and sleeping together and fun activities each day such as a visit to a water park and a farm and, of course, time to play on the beach.
This year the group has staggered the times to accommodate younger girls, with the Explorers group aged 4 to Year 2 meeting 5.15-6.15pm and Year 3s upwards meeting 6.30-8pm. The older teens have the opportunity to train as young leaders. Recently the younger girls brought a friend along for a teddy bears’ picnic which they shared with the Trinity Girls’ Brigade bear, Fudge and their own teddy bears as well. Fudge is a much loved member of the group and has the opportunity to go home with a different girl each week. Trinity Girls’ Brigade welcomes all new girls who can be sure of a warm welcome and an instant set of friends. At just £1 per child per week the group is very affordable and accessible to all. By a Girls’ Brigade mum
In 2018 Girls’ Brigade celebrated its 125th year with a number of great activities. At Trinity Girls’ Brigade parents enjoyed a spectacular evening of performances from the girls to mark the celebration year and the
If your daughter is interested in joining, please feel free to just turn up any Wednesday or if you would prefer to speak to someone first, please call Kate on 01225 769961 or 07543806525 or email katerainbow123@btinternet.com
The Westfield Warbler - 11
Do you use the green and open spaces of Westfield? Perhaps you are a dog walker who enjoys Waterside Valley, or you may take your family to the play areas and cycle paths of Westfield. Possibly you belong to a group which goes on nature walks or runs in our green spaces. Whatever your background, if you use the green and open spaces of Westfield you may like to take part in the Westfield Green and Open Spaces Group. Your input can be as little or large as you like. You might like simply to receive the minutes of the group and email some thoughts. Or you might like to come along to meetings, put forward your suggestions and work towards seeing them come to fruition. Input at all levels is welcome. We hope to hear from you.
This group is set up to protect and enhance the green open spaces of Westfield, including their accessibility. Helping to prioritise the use of funding from developer contributions designated for green open spaces in Westfield forms part of the work.
Please contact the Westfield Parish Clerk on council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk or call 01761 410669 or look at the website to monitor the progress of the group www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk
Dragons’ Den returns! The Radstock and Westfield Big Local Dragon’s Den event is returning for a seventh time on Friday, 5th April. The Dragons’ Den pot is designed to enable individuals and organisations to receive money to carry out projects that will benefit the Radstock and Westfield communities, which include Writhlington, Clandown, Tyning and Haydon. Importantly, it’s the residents themselves who will decide which projects are their priorities. Encouraging our local community, to inspire, engage, stimulate and entertain local residents.
Applications forms are available from http:// radstockwestfield.org.uk/ forms can either be returned to info@radstockwestfield.org.uk or by post to Radstock and Westfield Big Local, 1 Riverside Cottages, Radstock BA3 3PS.
Local organisations are invited to pitch for up to £500 at the event, taking place in the main hall of Prattens Sports and social Club, Westfield at 4pm to start at 4.30pm. This year, it is only possible to accept a limited number of applications and only one per organisation/ individual, so please choose wisely. The closing date for applications is 3pm on 29th March.
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If you’d like any help with filling in your forms, you can get in touch with Sarah and Rob on 07845 756700.
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WHAT’S ON FEBRUARY
23rd Supper and Film Evening at Trinity Methodists, Westfield,
from 6pm.
MARCH
20th
Finance and Personnel Committee meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
22nd Cider Night at Mardons Social Club. Hosted by Midsomer Norton Carnival Assosiation
23rd
Freeze at Mardons Social Club. One of the most pouplar bands in the area return for another night of superb music. Live from 9pm, non-members and new faces very welcome.
1st
30th Supper and Film evening at Trinity Methodist Church,
2nd
30th Elevation at Mardons Social club. Pop and rock
Coffee Morning at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield, from 10 am. For The Record at Mardons Social Club. Six-piece party band, live from 9pm. Free entry and non memebers welcome.
4th Carers’ Cafe at Mardons Social Club, 10am. Meet other
carers, have a drink, and chat with Lorraine and volunteers from the Carers’ Centre.
4th Parish Council Meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office
Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
8th
Meet new people – Coffee and Chat at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield, 2pm – 4pm. We provide a comfortable space for people to come and chat and make friends on the second Friday of the month. Come along and meet people and if you need transport, it can be arranged.
8th Charity Race at Mardons Social Club. 7.30pm start, free
entry. Organised by Midsomer Norton’s branch of TSB who are raising funds for their local charity partner, 2019, SWALLOW.
Westfield, from 6pm.
favourites, music from 9pm, free entry and everyone welcome.
31st
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Centurion Hotel from 12pm to 5pm.
APRIL
1st
Parish Council Meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
1st
Carers’ Cafe at Mardons Social Club, 10am. Meet other carers, have a drink, and chat with Lorraine and volunteers from the Carers’ Centre.
5th
Coffee morning from 10am at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield.
5th Dragon’s Den Round 7 at Prattens Social Club, from 4pm.
9th Diesel Spring Gala at Midsomer Norton Station, Silver
6th Limited Edition at Mardons Social Club. Bristol’s top party
Street.
band return to entertain. Music from 9pm, free entry and non members welcome.
9th
8th Environment and Development Committee meeting, 7pm
You, Me & The Dancefloor at Mardons Social Club. Great new lively upbeat band, music from 9pm. Free entry, all welcome.
10th Diesel Spring Gala at Midsomer Norton Station, Silver
Street.
11th
Environment and Development Committee meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
12th
Annual Parish Meeting 7pm at the Trinity Methodist Church, Wells Road, Westfield.
16th
Hauus Band at Mardons Social Club - Six-piece, super talented, classy young band. Music from 9pm, free entry and non-members very welcome.
16th
Irish Stew lunch at Trinity Methodist Church Westfield, from 11.30am.
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at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
12th
Friday Social Club at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield, 2-4pm.
13th
Hair Of The Dog at Mardons Social Club. The local lads return for another crazy night of terrific music. 9pm start, free entry and non members and new faces welcome.
17th
Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
19th
Good Friday Walk of Witness. Service in the car park of Westfield Trinity Methodists followed by a light lunch.
20th
7080s Band at Mardons Social Club. Performing hits from the seventies and eighties, free entry, everyone welcome.
21st Easter Egg Hunt at Midsomer Norton Station, Silver Street.
22nd Easter Egg Hunt at Midsomer Norton Station, Silver Street.
23rd Boules starts again, 6pm Norton Hill Recreation Ground. 26th
Quiz Night at Mardons Social Club. Hosted by Mardons Carnival Club. Teams of up to six, 7.30pm for an 8 pm start.
27th High tea in aid of Swallow at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield, 3-5pm.
27th
Call The Shots at Mardons Social Club. Great local band, playing rock and pop anthems. Music from 9pm, free entry and non members welcome.
MAY
3rd Coffee morning from 10am at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield.
4th
Stiff Upper Lips at Mardons Social Club. Lively, fun and talented, playing the best rock and pop. Free entry, music from 9pm and non members welcome.
7th Carers’ Cafe at Mardons Social Club, 10am. Meet other carers, have a drink, and chat with Lorraine and volunteers from the Carers’ Centre.
10th Friday Social Club at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield 2-4pm.
11th The Raskals at Mardons Social Club. Rock and pop covers from the superb Bristol lads. Free entry, music from 9pm and non members welcome.
Regular events • Knit and Natter Every Tuesday, 2-4 pm, Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield.
• Westfield TT Running Group Tuesday to Friday, everyday, differing abilities – See Facebook for details Half Marathon training, Sunday 8.30am start, outside St Benedict’s School
• Radstock Folk Dance Club Friday evenings from 8.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. at St Peter’s Hall. Contact Dick Shilton on 01458 841400 for more information.
• Friday Social Club 2-4pm at Trinity Westfield Methodist Church, 2nd Friday of every month.
• Coffee Mornings 1st Friday of the month, Trinity Westfield Methodist Church, 10 – 12 noon. Unless being held for charity. Check listings.
• Westfield Voices Every Wednesday 7.15pm – 9pm at St Peter’s Church.
• Messy Church Radstock Baptist Church. First Sunday of the month, 3.30 pm-5.30pm.
• English Folk Dance Fortnightly Thursday 2-4pm at St Peter’s Church.
• Baby Bounce and Rhyme First Thursday of the month at Radstock Library. Sing along nursery rhymes for under 3s, 11-11.30 am.
13th Parish Council Meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
15th Environment and Development Committee meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
18th
Soulville Express at Mardons Social Club. Soul Stax and Ska at its best, live from 9pm, free entry, non embers welcome.
22nd Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting, 7pm at the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
Do you have an event to advertise? Please send details of your event to us at:
news@ignyte-uk.co.uk The Westfield Warbler - 15
Westfield goes from strength to strength and is looking for more Councillors Although the May elections are some months away, it’s not too early to be thinking about becoming a Councillor for Westfield. As one of the newest and most vibrant of parish councils, in Westfield the community is the focus. Chair of the Council, Geoff Fuller said, “after three years of concentrated work which saw our Neighbourhood Plan passed at referendum, 2019 is a year for projects. We are working to see the aspirations voiced by the people of Westfield in the Neighbourhood Plan come to fruition.”
Youth Services Due to budget cuts at B&NES, 2018 saw the cost of youth services in Westfield being met by the Parish Council and it is good to see the Tuesday evening youth work at the Trinity Methodist Hall Westfield go from strength to strength. Youth Connect describe their work: “We have run a number of projects so far; all of these have come from what the young people of Westfield said they would like to do, and from us assessing their needs. The music project still runs each week and has been our most successful project with lots of young people getting involved and getting accredited for the time and dedication they have put in to learning new skills. Some young people from Westfield were given the opportunity to perform at a local spring festival, Youth Connected. We hosted a youth tent and young people helped to plan and run the event as well as perform.
16 - The Westfield Warbler
Neighbourhood Plan The Neighbourhood Plan is now part of planning policy in this area, informing the standard and type of new housing and business development and the use of green space and amenities.
We run cookery sessions each week and this is always very popular. Young people decide what they would like to cook and a senior youth member has written all ingredients and planned out what we need to bring each week. We held a BBQ at the park recently that was very well attended. We also invited some street performers from the Natural Theatre Company to join us. They engaged young people in street theatre and fancy dress and took videos of young people acting in the park. This was a very good opportunity for young people to be creative and work with an amazing outside agency. We have run a number of different issue based workshops including things like alcohol safety information, sexual health help, advice and information and work around revision and exam stress. Young people like to relax and be creative in our sessions so we have a chill out space where they can colour, paint, do arts and crafts and listen to music.”
Events and Awards More Christmas lights were added to the lampposts this year so that driving through Westfield in December was bright and festive. The Lights Switch-On event attracted a record number of residents, who attended for the carols, the Christmas message from Rev. Roussell, the complimentary mulled wine and visit to Father Christmas. It was another successful year for the Summer Fun Day at Westhill Recreation Ground and the Fun Fair at Norton Hill Recreation Ground was welcomed back by local people.
The Front Garden competition saw residents of Glebelands win the best front garden category for their excellent choice of plants providing colour all year round with effective variation of height and well thought out design. Residents of Kestrel Place won the best container category.
The Inspirational Citizen Award was launched in 2018 with the first recipient, marathon man John Reynolds, being honoured for his commitment to encouraging running and promoting Westfield nationwide with the Westfield TT running group.
The Westfield Warbler - 17
A small area of unsightly land at Birch Road was made ready for planting by the Parish Council and planted up voluntarily by a local resident.
In December the Parish Council forged links with Westfield Massachusetts with a radio link up to help them celebrate the start of their 350th birthday.
Litter picking events were co-ordinated through the year by a local councillor and go a long way to keeping Westfield tidy.
Chair of the Council Geoff Fuller said, “It was fascinating to be in the recording studio and to be able to see the two men we were talking to on a video link. There is a huge difference between the two Westfields in terms of size. Otherwise it is eery how many similarities there are in our histories. Both communities began as agricultural areas and both have a history in manufacturing. There are numerous place names around Westfield MA that also exist in the vicinity of Westfield here – for example, Southwick, Southampton, Blandford and Bristol. It was a real pleasure to chat to Bryan Sullivan and Harry Rock and a huge thank you to BBC Somerset for enabling it to happen.”
The 100th anniversary of the end of World War 1 saw the first remembrance event at the memorial stone at the top of Elm Tree Avenue.
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Defibrillators 2018 saw two new defibrillators installed in the parish, bringing the total up to four. The new ones are located at the Fire Station, kindly maintained by the Fire Authority and the second is outside the Doctor’s Surgery and is maintained by Westfield Allotments and Garden Society. Many thanks to both WAGS and the Fire Authority for voluntarily undertaking this important work.
What is new for 2019/20? The Neighbourhood Plan highlighted the need for more allotments in Westfield and we are working with Westfield Allotment and Garden Society towards creating a new site at Larch Court. A Westfield Green and Open Spaces Working Group has been set up to prioritise and drive projects to enhance our open green spaces. The renovation of the old Roman Road footpath was one item raised by local people in the Neighbourhood Plan. Others include the renovation of Snails Brook and the linking of land at Shakespeare Road Play Area with the new town park in Midsomer Norton via a nature trail with picnic facilities.
So if you live or work in Westfield and have a heart for being part of these exciting new projects, please think carefully about becoming a Councillor. You are welcome to talk it over with Chair of the Council, Geoff Fuller on 07540 998603 or email the Parish Council, council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk
The replacement of the rapidly deteriorating wooden ‘fort’ at Westhill play area is being arranged with a modern and challenging alternative. Ownerless land which is suffering from lack of grass cutting by B&NES is an issue which the Parish Council is working hard to find a solution and to this end has held meetings with B&NES officers and residents. A stand-alone pavilion at Westhill Recreation Ground is being investigated and funding sources are being explored. We are working with B&NES towards the renovation of Shakespeare Road play area, funded entirely by developer contributions.
Westfield Parish Council The Westfield Warbler - 19
Links ‘Across The Pond’ While there are lots of Westfields around the globe, the one in Massachusetts contacted Westfield, Somerset and asked us to be part of their celebrations for their 350th anniversary. This is an event that they have been working on for several years and we felt honoured to be asked to be part of it. As a result, the Chair of Westfield Parish Council, Mr Geoff Fuller, and the Vice Chair, Mr Ron Hopkins, recently went to the recording studios at BBC Somerset to be part of those celebrations. Westfield, Massachusetts, are having lots of events to celebrate their anniversary and contacted us to see if we would take part in a conversation with their Mayor, Bryan Sullivan and Harry Rock, organiser of the Westfield 350 celebrations on air on New Year’s Eve. Of course, midnight in Massachusetts is around 5am here, so it was decided to record a conversation, which BBC Somerset kindly offered to facilitate. Chairman, Geoff Fuller, said ‘It was fascinating to be in the recording studio and to be able to see the two men we were talking to on a video link. There is a huge difference between the two Westfields in terms of size – Westfield MA has a population of around 45,000, while we have around 6,500! Otherwise it is eery how many similarities there are in our histories. Both communities began as agricultural areas and both have a history in manufacturing. There are numerous place names around Westfield MA that also exist in the vicinity of Westfield here – for example, Southwick, Southampton, Blandford and Bristol. It was a real pleasure to chat to Bryan Sullivan and Harry Rock and a huge thank you to BBC Somerset for enabling it to happen.”
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The conversation was recorded by Andy Bennett of BBC Somerset, who also had a quick chat with the Councillors afterwards. The people of Westfield, Massachusetts heard the recorded conversation at the start of their ‘first night’ celebrations on 31st December and it was greeted with enthusiasm. It was also broadcast here on BBC Radio Somerset on their morning programme on 28th December. Although we are nearly a 10th of the size of Westfield Massachusetts we look forward to continuing the relationship with them. We are hoping that they will reciprocate with a communication on our 10th anniversary in 2021. If any reader finds themselves in Westfield, USA we would love to hear from you and maybe publish some pictures here in the Warbler.
Snow-covered Westfield Photographs by Zoe Thorner
We’re all aware of how dangerous and isolating bad weather can be, especially for the more vulnerable members of society. We are very grateful to our Snow Wardens for all their time and efforts during the recent period of severe weather. Interested in becoming a Snow Warden? Contact: council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk or write to the Clerk at Westfield Parish Council, The Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX. The Westfield Warbler - 21
Westfield Youth Club Since October 2018 Youth Connect has been back running youth club sessions in Westfield at the Methodist church. This has been made possible by Westfield Parish Council who has provided the funding for the project. We are now seeing around 15-20 young people every week (most between 13-15 years). Young people attending have had the chance to take part in a variety of projects around mental health, relationships and self-image as well as looking at the effects of alcohol use and how to keep themselves safe. Alongside these projects they have also had the chance to get involved in arts activities and cooking which is enjoyed by many of the group each week. Some young people joined other youth groups from across B&NES in December for an ice skating trip. In January funding was received from the Radstock & Westfield Sugar Smart campaign which has provided young people with the chance to take part in a ten week cooking project looking at how to reduce or eliminate sugar in the meals they cook. Young people
are currently working on their new programme with youth workers but so far lots of cooking, sexual health and workshops on safe use of social media websites as well as a trip to the cinema are on the agenda. The youth group meets every Tuesday 7-9pm at Westfield Methodist church hall (opposite the shops) the sessions are currently free for young people and all young people 13-19 are welcome. We would also be interested to hear from responsible adults who would be interested in volunteering to support regularly or share interests or hobbies. Please contact Kelly Barresi 07875 488782 or Sam Plummer 07980 998670 for more information.
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Mardons Social Club support live music When you’re looking for something to do or planning a night out, it’s all too easy to overlook things that are right on your doorstep. But you don’t need to venture into town to experience superior quality live bands that rival the big entertainment venues and their equally big entry fees – Mardons bring them to you every week – for free!
New: You, Me & The Dancefloor
Although it may be a ‘social club’ don’t be fooled into expecting the run-of-the-mill ‘cabaret-style’ acts so often associated with them - there’s not a backing track to be found!
Entry is free at Mardons, and non members and new faces are always very welcome. So, it’s a great venue to visit with friends, for a superb night out and one that won’t break the bank!
With so many music venues closing around the country, Mardons Social Club, based on the Nightingale Estate, near Norton Hill, are continuing to host the cream of the region’s musical talent.
Find out more at: facebook.com/mardonsclub
With everything from high-end function bands, that you don’t generally find playing ‘public gigs’, through to our very best and most talented local bands, the line up continues to impress. March sees club favourites, ‘For The Record’ and ‘The Haus Band’ return (both 6-piece line-ups), along with lively young new band ‘You, Me & The Dancefloor’ and the extremeley popular ‘Freeze’. So good they’re back again: The Haus Band
Firm favourites at Mardons: Freeze
Front Garden Competition Spring is just around the corner and you must, by now, be thinking of how you are going to make your front garden full of colour for the summer months. Don’t forget that there will be a competition in Westfield to find the most appealing front garden in the parish. The judging is done at the beginning of July so have your gardens ready.
We only judge front gardens, as the idea is that it can be seen by passers-by and put a smile on their face. Watch this space in the next edition of the Warbler in May, and our website, for more information closer to the time.
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ANNUAL PARISH MEETING FOR THE PEOPLE OF WESTFIELD
Tuesday 12th March, commencing at 7pm Westfield Trinity Methodist Church Hall Wells Road
Including presentation of Westfield’s Inspirational Citizen Award This is your chance to share your views about the Parish you live or work in. Refreshments available Westfield Parish Council The Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield BA3 3BX www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk 01761 410669 The Westfield Warbler - 25
Westfield Fun Day Sunday the 2nd of June is the date to remember for the 7th Westfield Fun Day. Last year we promised you that it would be bigger and better than ever, so how do we follow that? The answer? To find even more new and exciting attractions to entertain you. Although still in the depths of winter as I write this, the committee are hard at work to ensure that this year’s Fun Day is as good as ever. Already confirmed for this year, Pitcombe Rock Falconry, as well as a static display, offering bird handling, will also be giving a flying display in the ring, featuring a falcon, hawk, owls and an eagle. Also confirmed, are the North Somerset Samba Band, with their colourful costumes, large drums and 15+ players, they create a lively and unforgettable experience. With many old favourites returning, this is just a taster of what is to come. Watch out for further details in the next issue of the Warbler and the local press. – Diana Cooper
The Westfield Warbler
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Westfield Parish Council
CALENDAR OF MEETINGS 2019 Council, Environment and Development and Finance and Personnel Meetings are generally on Mondays and commence at 7.00 pm in the Oval Office Boardroom, Cobblers Way.
Prattens Bowls Club Prattens Bowls Club is situated behind the neatly trimmed hedge on the opposite side of the car park to Prattens Westfield Sports and Social Club.
MARCH 4th Parish Council 11th Environment and Development 12th Annual Parish Meeting 20th Finance and Personnel
APRIL 1st Council 8th Environment and Development 17th Finance and Personnel
MAY 13th Council – Annual Meeting of the Parish Council 15th Environment and Development 22nd Finance and Personnel
Many of your readers may well have seen either indoor or outdoor bowls on television; Prattens Bowls Club plays outdoors only. Membership of our club is open to both males and females of any age; the season starts mid April and continues until mid September. Matches for ladies are played mainly in the afternoons; for men, mainly evenings and Saturday afternoons; mixed matches are mainly on Sunday afternoons and some evenings. We hold regular social events such as skittles, race nights or quiz nights. Prattens pre-season meeting is on Saturday 16th March at 10.30am in the Clubhouse. Members old and new will be warmly welcomed. If you would like to try bowls why not come along to our club night - Mondays from 6pm. Coaching can be arranged by our Club Coaches – bowls can be borrowed so you just need to wear a pair of flat shoes. If you cannot make a Monday evening, other coaching is available by arrangement.
We are a smaller than average school and pride ourselves on our caring approach and our ability to meet every child’s needs, helping them develop and ensure they reach their full potential, whilst growing in the love of Christ. We welcome children of all faiths. We also offer wrap-around care as well as an independent on-site Nursery.
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www.stbenedicts.info
If you are interested in joining us, please contact Barrie or Pauline Dando on 01761 412705 for more information, or come along to our pre-season meeting.
Westfield Voices Since changing our name, we have gone from strength to strength, and it must have been our busiest Christmas season ever. We sang carols at Coombe Lea for our President, Muriel Dunsford, and took part in three carol services, at St Peter’s, Westfield, Holy Trinity, Coleford, and Writhlington. We had the usual Christmas engagements we do every year; singing carols at Tesco in aid of the South West Children’s Hospice and the Westfield lights switch on. At Westfield we were extraordinarily lucky that the worst of the weather held off until the final carol! We also found time to visit Fosseway School, which we all enjoy immensely, as the enthusiasm of the children knows no bounds. Now we are well into the new year, Ruth, our conductor, has been working hard with us and our new accompanist, Katie, on a fresh programme ready for a number of engagements we have already accepted. We were particularly delighted to welcome Katie, as she is also a singing teacher, and was able to run a singing workshop for us in early February to improve all our skills.
We are still keen to welcome new members. You don’t need to be able to read music, and we don’t do auditions. If you have ever fancied singing with a choir come and try us out. Our rehearsals are on Wednesday nights at St Peter’s Church Hall from 7:15 to 9:00pm. If you want to know more, contact us via Lesley Schofield on 01761 419540 or Jane Dyson on 01761 232715 (jane_dyson@live.co.uk.)
Wansdyke Play Association Wansdyke Play Association had a Fabulous Fun Day at Westfield last summer. WPA joined many happy families and friends for the Westfield Fun Day at Westhill Recreation Ground; supported by Westfield Parish Council, it was a great community event. We had loads of fun making free summer themed crafts, as well as lots of play opportunities for all ages. A further fun series of FREE play sessions are coming up in Westfield, funded by Westfield Parish Council for delighted members of the community. Keep checking our new website www.wpa-play.com ‘What’s On’ page, to find out about these sessions and others in your area. The Westfield Warbler - 29
The
Parish Clerk I
f, like me, you feel a sense of relief as the days get longer and the weather gets brighter, then this is the time of year to really appreciate the beautiful green spaces on our doorsteps.
Westfield Parish Council has set up a Green and Open Spaces Working Group with the aim of developing some local projects to make the most of our green spaces. Some ideas which emerged from the Neighbourhood Plan include the enhancement of the old Roman Road footpath, creating a nature trail at the Shakespeare Road play area towards Midsomer Norton and creating a stand-alone pavilion at Westhill Recreation Ground. If you are interested in taking part, or to just know more, please contact me – parishclerk@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk As I write this article we have three items out for tender. The first is for some play equipment to replace the ‘fort’ at Westhill Recreation Ground.
The second is a quote for a feasibility study at Westhill Recreation Ground for a stand-alone pavilion to support the football at the site and finally the third tender is for a project manager to oversee the works for free standing hanging basket trees at the local shops to replace the baskets on the body of the shops themselves. We hope that all three projects will come to fruition. Another piece of work which has been moving ahead steadily is the creation of a new allotment site at Larch Court, which we hope will be ready for use this summer. Our thanks to the Westfield Allotment and Garden Society for all their work and commitment. The annual fun fair looks set to return to Westfield in May. As ever it will be at the Norton Hill Recreation Ground on Fosseway, operating from 15th – 19th May. The local elections are not too far away. This is an exciting time for the Parish Council. The Neighbourhood Plan gave a clear indication of the priorities of local people for future work and this informs how we move ahead. The Parish Council works together as a very positive force for the community, with the emphasis on working together as a team for the local good. The work is really not as onerous as one might think and there is a lot of satisfaction in seeing small and large changes in the community. If you would like some more information about being a Councillor please do contact us, or simply fill in the forms and stand for election.
Lesley Close Parish Clerk
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Your Councillors
Cllr Andrew Butcher 07814 530 723 abwpc10@gmail.com
Cllr Diana Cooper 01761 415155 dianacooper18@btinternet.com
Cllr Kevin Docherty 07826 170147 kevindocherty1966 @googlemail.com
Cllr Geoff Fuller Chair 01761 439198 / 07540 998603 geoffrey.fuller@outlook.com
Cllr James Honess jameshoness@hotmail.co.uk
Cllr Ron Hopkins Vice Chair 01761 435852 / 07460 819007 sueron1@sky.com
Cllr Eleanor Jackson (Also a B&NES Councillor for the Westfield Ward) 01761 438968 eleanor_jackson@bathnes.gov.uk
Cllr Lesley Mansell 07980 695117 cllrlesleyamansell@yahoo.co.uk
Cllr Bryan Wallbridge 07974 939776 westfield.wallbridge@gmail.com
Cllr Phil Wilkinson 01761 431355 / 07803 927626
Cllr Pat Williams 01761 432630 patwilliams21@talktalk.net
Cllr Robin Moss B&NES Councillor for the Westfield Ward 07543 626184 robin_moss@bathnes.gov.uk
The Oval Office, Cobblers Way St Peters Business Park, Westfield BA3 3BX Telephone: 01761 410669 Email: council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk @westfield_pc Westfield Parish Council The Parish Council is open from Monday to Wednesday, 9am - 4.30pm and Thursday, 9am - 3pm Due to the small number of part time staff it is advisable to telephone before visiting. The Parish Council is accessible to the public, with a lift to the first floor office. The Westfield Warbler - 31