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Welcome to The Westfield Warbler First of all, many thanks to all who have helped and added to what the Parish has being doing this year - the volunteers on a cold and breezy Saturday morning planting bulbs (the Westfield Allotment Group in particular), the Neighbourhood Planning group who are still working; maybe not the most glamorous piece of work, but when housing and developments seem to continue apace absolutely necessary when trying to improve services alongside building houses. The Fun Day and the Christmas lights switchon, as well as the craft day, were popular successes, due in no small part to the many helping hands. A particular thanks here to Phil Wilkinson and Diana Cooper, who as well as organising managed to arrange good weather as well! Westfield is fortunate to have so many residents willing to volunteer their time and I know that a paragraph in a report can’t mention everyone, nor do justice to the amount of work. But as well as much to be proud of, Westfield also has its share of challenges.
In particular the problem of traffic and parking is a perennial issue, with ongoing conversations with schools and businesses about the need to be mindful of the need to be good neighbours to local residents. These concerns increase when we (along with many other communities nationally) see plans from developers to build more and more houses without thinking about the services and infrastructure that need to go in place alongside. Parish Councillors will continue to work with and talk to B&NES as well as Mendip Council about plans that are being considered and will also make sure that developers contribute towards improving local services, especially where they have made commitments but then seem reluctant to fulfil their end of the deal. Any annual report would not be complete without many thanks to the Parish ‘office team’ of Lesley, Emily and Tracey. They do a wonderfully efficient job without any fuss or bother, and the fact that Westfield Parish Council has been awarded ‘Quality’ status and their advice and support is often sought from other local councils is a tribute to their work. Finally, many thanks to my fellow councillors for their support and advice this year. It is a privilege to be Parish Chair and I have enjoyed this year in the hot seat!
Cllr Robin Moss
Outgoing Chair of Westfield Parish Council
A new Chairman for Westfield Cllr Geoff Fuller has been elected as the new Chair of Westfield Parish Council. Taking the Chair, Cllr Fuller paid tribute to the work of the outgoing Chair, Cllr Robin Moss and thanked him for all his work last year. Cllr Fuller said that it was a privilege to serve as Chair and he welcomed Cllr Ron Hopkins into the office of Vice Chairman.
Contents
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4 Annual Parish Review 7 Neighbourhood Plan 8 Garden Competition 10 Responsible Dog Owners 11 A New Sign in Westfield 12 Music South West 14 New Toucan Pedestrian Crossing 15 What’s On 18 Things to do 20 Somer Valley Forum 21 S&D Line Anniversary 25 Summertime at the library
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27 Norwest Bowls Club 30 Message from the Clerk 31 Your Parish Council The next edition of The Westfield Warbler will be in August. If you would like your group to be included, please contact us on 01761 410141 before the deadline of the 25th July 2016. 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 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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Annual Review
Westfield Parish Council The May elections, followed by a co option in June, saw five new Councillors take office at Westfield Parish Council. A warm welcome to Cllrs Kevin Docherty, Ron Hopkins, Eleanor Jackson, Angie Seaman-Moss and Pat Williams. Events Boules started at Norton Hill Recreation Ground in April. A spate of vandalism continued at this site despite the installation of CCTV and the Parish Council has now extended the security lighting to the boules pitch and basket ball area. The Fun Fair returned for a successful second year in May at Norton Hill Recreation Ground The Parish Council was pleased that the recreation ground returned to its former high standard in a very short time. The Fun Day in June at Westhill Recreation Ground continued to grow from strength to strength. In November there was a live commentary on Somer Valley FM at the Christmas Lights Switch on event around the living Christmas Tree. This year attractions included not only Father Christmas, but also free mince pies and glow sticks from the Big Local. The Parish
Council extended its lights display to include decorations on 12 new lampposts along the Wells Road. The second Christmas Craft Fair took place, organised by local residents at Westfield Sports and Community Centre. This emerging event shows signs of becoming an annual feature in the Westfield calendar. Recreation A series of consultations resulted in grant funding by Awards for All for new play equipment at Westhill Recreation Ground. Local children identified the pieces of play equipment they would like and also, in response to local requests, the final section of the BMX track was tarmacked. Around Westfield The Front Garden competition ran for the second year and Mr and Mrs Holcombe at Waterside Road took first place with Libby Lund taking the award for the best container. Fosse Way School and the Westfield Allotment and Garden Society (WAGS) were awarded well deserved commendations from Britain in Bloom’s, Its Your Neighbourhood. Their work to bring colour to the raised beds and planters this year was highly appreciated.
5 We continue to work with Big Local Radstock & Westfield to provide banking and financial support in our role as Locally Trusted Organisation and the fee for this work has helped to fund community events such as the Fun Day and the Christmas Craft Fair.
In the Autumn a hardy group of volunteers met to plant 4000 daffodil bulbs along the green areas at Wesley Avenue and Jubilee Green. The daffodils brought some much appreciated colour to the Wells Road in the Spring. Two new voluntary Snow Wardens were appointed, extending the footpath gritting in Westfield even further. The Westfield Neighbourhood Plan gained momentum and a Household Survey of all residents together with a series of three Consultation events has meant that the evidence base for the Plan is well underway. The Parish Council’s quarterly newsletter The Westfield Warbler was given a new lease of life in 2015 when it was taken on by Ignyte Publishing. There are now 30 pages . Finance After three years without an increase in the precept, this year, Westfield Parish Council introduced a very small increase which amounts to £1.93 per annum on the 2015/6 rate for a Band D equivalent home. The precept tax for a Band D equivalent home for the year 2016/17 is £98.72. We were delighted to have achieved Quality status in the new Local Councils Award Scheme this year. The award is a mark of the Parish Council’s high standards of working and commitment to the community. This award led to the Council being awarded Council of the Week by the National Association of Local Councils in November.
Grant Funding to local groups The Parish Council supported local groups through grant funding and although the demand was much higher than previous years, it managed to meet almost all the requests albeit some of them in part. For example grants went towards a lean-to extension on the Scouts’ headquarters building to provide additional storage; to support core running costs for the PEOPLE charity and to develop the Healthy Eating Westfield project; flooring in the new nursery building for the benefit of the nursery children for St Peters Playgroup; redecorating a meeting room at SWALLOW and buying 10 extra chairs; purchasing new chairs for the function suite at Westfield Sports and Community Centre. What’s next for 2016/17? Westfield is now moving forward with work on its Neighbourhood Plan which will see Councillors and residents come together to create a vision for the future of the Parish. New unique Welcome to Westfield signs are going in shortly. They will have space underneath for local community groups to advertise forthcoming events. Please contact the Parish Council for more information (there will be no charge). In response to a request from a local resident, the Parish Council is considering creating a Remembrance plaque on the time capsule stone at the top of Elm Tree Avenue. Youth Provision in the parish is expanding and the Parish Council is working with BANES‘ Youth Worker.
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Phone box on Charlton Road Westfield Parish Council is currently responsible for the historic red phone kiosk at the end of Charlton Road and has been made aware of the fact that it’s becoming damaged and run down. Before we look into the possibility of selling it we would welcome anyone interested in the kiosk to contact us to make arrangements to remove it and bring it to life. There have been proved to be many uses for these old kiosks from being simply a collectors’ item to housing a café! There is one that has been used as a temporary shop, working on an honesty basis for people purchasing items that were left inside. Probably the most common one
is to turn it into a local book ‘swap shop’. Cllr Robin Moss said: “It would be great if someone could give it some tlc and a new home and use it for the community”. The Council is not looking to charge for the box, but arrangements to remove it and make good would be at the recipient’s own cost. Anyone interested should call Westfield Parish Council on 01761 410669 or email council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk
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Westfield is writing a Neighbourhood Plan Central Government has for some time been aware that local communities have been frustrated by the apparent lack of influence that the views of their residents have made in local planning decision making. We’ve all heard conversations in shops, pubs and other areas from local folk who are genuinely concerned about, for example, the pace of housing expansion, the standard of local education, the quality of local parks, the congestion on the roads, parking etc. etc. So the government has set up a process that will, at long last, give everyone the opportunity to spell out exactly what they would like to see in the community around them and help shape the development of their local communities. That process is the Neighbourhood Plan process Across the country there are 1000 plans in various stages of development and in Bath & North East Somerset there are 12 neighbourhood planning areas. As in other areas, in Westfield the process is driven entirely by local residents who meet regularly to plan the process and progress the research towards its conclusion in about three years (yes it’s complex and time consuming). The conclusion will be reached with a local referendum to enable everyone to vote on the final Neighbourhood Plan before it is submitted to BANES for approval and incorporation, as our finished Neighbourhood Plan needs to conform to strategic planning policies and guidance at
the local, national and European level. They also need to demonstrate support from the local community. The group has worked hard together to ensure we have a robust set of principles and a clear vision to guide us in the process in particular: • We want to see sustainable growth by supporting infill housing within the Development Boundary. • To ensure that Westfield continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse community. • To continue to respect and reflect the views of our community. • To evolve and expand whilst retaining the parish’s unique and distinctive character. • To provide an outstanding quality of life for current and future generations of residents. • To make Westfield an attractive place to live and work. All meetings are open to everyone who is a resident of Westfield and we would love to see you there and hear your views. For information on the next meeting date please ring Westfield Parish Council on 01761 410669. Cllr Ron Hopkins Chairman Westfield Neighbourhood Planning Group
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WESTFIELD FRONT GARDEN COMPETITION Entry is open to all residents, businesses and community groups in Westfield.
Download an entry form from our website or contact us for a copy.
Closing date: 7th July 2016
We all love looking at interesting or cheerful front gardens. They brighten up the street scene, they can make us smile and they can inspire us to perhaps plant up our own container, or grow a climber up the front of our own houses. Whether you have a large or small front garden, a hanging basket or a patio pot, why not enter the Westfield Front Garden Competition. Or if you see one you like looking at you can nominate it for a prize.
for more information and full guidelines contact: Westfield Parish Council The Oval Office, Cobblers Way, Westfield, BA3 3BX www.westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk/front-gardencompetition/ 01761 410669 council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk
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Swan Drivers can help people who struggle to use the bus SWAN Transport Scheme is based in Radstock and provides transport to elderly, disabled and vulnerable people in the Bath and North East Somerset area. SWAN’s 25 volunteer drivers use their own vehicles to provide friendly and reliable transport enabling people to access essential services and use community facilities. SWAN provides transport to all of the hospitals, including Paulton Hospital, and the Bath Hospitals, as well as to doctor surgeries’, dentists and opticians. SWAN drivers work compassionately with people and will wait for their passenger during their appointment and take them home again afterwards. Other journeys that SWAN provides include; accessing support groups, day centres and social activities, as well as taking people shopping and visiting friends and family. Swan drivers have provided 4,358 journeys over the last year, helping
All Beef Pork and Lamb from local farms, prize winning sausages, pies and faggots. Gold awards for our home cured Bacon from Pigs reared sts on the Mendips Hog roa le availab Home produced OR cooked meats. ked o o c s ig P Local deliveries for you to Freezer orders serve taken yourself. Westfield Radstock BA3 3XS
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people to remain independent and renewing social contact, something that most of us take for granted. The criteria to use SWAN Transport Scheme is to have savings of less than £16,000. There is a suggested donation per journey, starting at £6.25 for a local return journey with a local driver, with higher donation bands covering journeys that are further afield. These help to cover the cost of the driver’s mileage. We are currently looking for volunteer drivers in the following areas: Bath, Keynsham, Timsbury, Peasedown St. John, High Littleton, Farmborough and Clutton. To contact SWAN Transport Scheme to enquire about a journey we can provide for you, or for more information about volunteer driving with us, please call: 01761 439548 or email: swan.transport@btconnect.com.
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Westfield asks dog owners to be responsible Once again the issue of dog mess has reared its ugly head in Westfield. Pavements are not the only place that should be kept clean. Any owner that has their dog off their lead in green spaces should please still make sure that they clean up after them as these spaces are where children are less likely to see the mess before they tread in it or even play in or around it without realising it is there.
Dog mess is a real danger to children and adults alike; The main reason for dog fouling laws is because dog faeces is unhygienic and a health hazard. Dog fouling is unsightly, unpleasant and can lead to toxocariasis in humans. Toxocariasis causes serious illness and even blindness. It is caused by a parasite known as Toxocara Canis (also known as Roundworm). These parasites live in dogs’ digestive systems. Eggs are released in the faeces of infected animals and contaminated soil. If someone ingests infected material, the eggs may hatch into larvae and can lead to toxocariasis.
Thankfully, most dog owners are aware of the health risks and the most unpleasant result of coming across the mess, and will clean up. The Council is often getting calls or emails from people who have seen dogs being allowed to mess and no one clearing up after them. We just have to say the same thing each time – if you see it, report it. Any witnesses to dog fouling should report it as soon as possible to BANES Council Connect service by calling 01225 39 40 41 or by emailing councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk
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A big thank you to Flowers in Westfield Westfield Primary School As the beautiful spring bulbs and plants
come to an end, we now look forward to the summer display. All the plants are well under way, and will be planted out during mid to end May. We are still appealing for volunteers to help maintain the coal trucks in the middle of Westfield. Throughout the summer months they will require watering, weeding and dead heading. Just an hour a week is all that is needed, would you be willing to give that, to help make Westfield an attractive place to live? If so, then please contact Cllr Diana Cooper on 01761 415155.
Vice Chair of Westfield Parish Council and Chair of the Westfield Neighbourhood Plan Working Group, Cllr Ron Hopkins, was delighted to present certificates and prizes to eleven children of Westfield Primary School, who took part in a competition to design a logo for the Neighbourhood Plan. Presenting the prizes at the Year 5 and 6 School Assembly, Cllr Hopkins described the Neighbourhood Plan and commended the children on their involvement in the community and the quality of their artwork. “They were all so good we could not pick a winner, so we are using them all�, he said. The logos will be displayed on all correspondence and documents which go out for the Neighbourhood Plan, which will span the next two to three years. NEED A NEW BOILER?
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Music South West Musicians South West CIC are a collective of professional musicians based in Westfield who bring live music and multimedia events to new audiences. Formed in 2007, they run several free concert series, including the Paradis Palm Court Trio concerts. The newest venue is Westfield Trinity Methodist Church, which will host a musical coffee mornings this summer: Saturday, 6th August (jazz with Neil Moore - clarinet/sax & Jacquelyn Bevan - piano). The musical entertainment is free, with donations welcome, and begin at 10.45am. Coffee and cakes from 10.00am. All welcome, especially new residents.
CROSSMANS SOLICITORS We are a local firm of lawyers, on hand to help you with life’s difficult situations and decisions. Our Services include:Conveyancing Sale and Purchase of Residential Property/Transfer of Equity. Family Fixed Fee Divorce, Financial Settlement and Access to Children. Elderly Services Wills, Power of Attorney and Probate. Crime Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Court, including Motoring Offences. With issues such as these resolved, you will be able to move onto the new phase of your life with peace of mind that everything is in order and secure. We offer free home visits if you are unable to attend the office and a free initial assessment for all matrimonial and family matters on Friday mornings, please ring to make an appointment.
Crossmans Solicitors 2A Fortescue Road Radstock BA3 3PH 01761 431688 office@crossmans-solicitors.co.uk
www.crossmans-solicitors.com
In addition to playing a variety of other concerts, including at music festivals, MSW bring musical reminiscence sessions to local day centres, residential and care homes. MSW’s latest project is to bring opera to Radstock’s Victoria Hall - surely a first?! On Sunday, 26th June at 7.30pm, Acis & Galatea, will be performed at Victoria Hall as a ‘pay-what-you-think-it’s-worth’ opera, to keep it affordable for all. To get involved, either as a singer in the chorus (rehearsals are on Sunday evenings in Radstock), or behind the scenes, eg with publicity or props, tel. 07595 671116.
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New Toucan pedestrian crossing in Westfield Users of the Wells Road in Westfield will have noticed that there is a brand new toucan crossing at the junction with Elm Tree Avenue. The crossing was installed in response to complaints about the safety of the zebra crossing that used to be there. Councillor Robin Moss said, “we are very grateful to BANES for listening to the needs of local people and acting on them. The new crossing is clearly visible, so the possibility of accidents at the site is much reduced. We would like to thank people for their patience while the work was being carried out.” Stefan Chiffers of BANES said, “we had an opportunity to use contributions from local developments to upgrade the zebra to a toucan (a signalised crossing for pedestrians and cyclists) and improve pedestrian safety”. Alison Sherwin of BANES went on to point
out that it will contribute to improving the cycle network between Westfield, Midsomer Norton and the Five Arches greenway.
One - day Saturday courses, four- day workshops and evening classes running this Easter and summer
For more details, a full list of courses and to enrol online visit:
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/BathCollege
Bath College, Avon Street, Bath, BA1 1UP 01225 328 720 enquiries@bathcollege.ac.uk
• Animal Care • Art & Design • Baking • Beauty • Carpentry • Ceramics • Cookery • Creative Writing • Fashion • Floristry • Gardening • Glass • Holistic Treatments
• Interior Design • Jewellery • Journalism
• Knitting • Lampshade Making
• Languages • Literature Studies • Massage • Papermaking • Photography • Portraiture • Printmaking • Programming • Sculpture • Stonemasonry • Sugarcraft • Tree Climbing for Adults
What’s On June
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July 1st Coffee morning Trinity Westfield Methodist Church from 10am. 4th PARISH COUNCIL MEETING in the boardroom, The Oval Office, 7pm. 7th Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under-3s 10.30am - 11am at RADSTOCK Library.
3rd Coffee morning with Musical Accompaniment Trinity Westfield Methodist Church from 10am.
11th ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING in the Boardroom, The Oval Office 7pm.
4th Up Your Brass (11-piece party band) at Mardons Social Club.
16th An evening with the Trinity Singers followed by tea. Trinity Westfield Methodist Church.
5th Westfield Family Fun Day Come and enjoy a fun day out at Westhill Gardens Recreational Grounds. Everything from Donkey Rides and Face Painting to Dance displays and Classic Cars. 12pm – 4pm. 11th Room Cinema at Victoria Hall A kidnapped mother and son escape from a room in which they have endured imprisonment for the entirety of her son’s life. Upon breaking free from its confines, they experience a dramatic homecoming; provoking insight into the depths of imagination and the extent of a mother’s love. Radstock.
16th Summer Reading Challenge launches at Midsomer Norton and Radstock libraries - for more information. See your local library. 16th Irish Night with The Ceili at Mardons Social Club. 20th FINANCE AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE MEETING in the Boardroom, The Oval Office, 7pm 23rd Big Mama & The Misfitz (music and banter) at Mardons Social Club.
6th PARISH COUNCIL MEETING in the boardroom, The Oval Office, 7pm.
30th Summer Party Night with The Van Burgundy (lively covers band) at Mardons Social Club.
13th ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING in the boardroom, The Oval Office, 7pm.
August
17th to July 17th Radstock Museum Hosting the travelling exhibition compiled by the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust. The exhibition is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and celebrates the 50th anniversary of the closure of the S&D Railway in March 1966. 18th Tundra (superb party band) Mardons Social Club. 22nd FINANCE AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE MEETING in the boardroom, The Oval Office, 7pm. 26th Acis & Galatea, will be performed at Victoria Hall as a ‘pay-what-you-think-it’s-worth’ opera, to keep it affordable for all at 7.30pm. To get involved, either as a singer in the chorus (rehearsals are on Sunday evenings in Radstock), or behind the scenes, eg with publicity or props, tel. 07595 671116.
6th Elevation (superb covers band) at Mardons Social Club. 13th Thundertones (local rock n roll band) at Mardons Social Club. 17th Flit, Flap & Fly A squawking theatrical adventure bursting with live music and audience participation that follows a young chick’s frantic and funny journey towards independence. 35min performances at 11am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm Age: All, but especially 4-7 years of age. Victoria Hall, Radstock. 20th About A Girl (female fronted covers band) at Mardons Social Club. 27th Dale Fender Band (50/60 pop/rock n roll) at Mardons Social Club. 31st Star Wars: The Force Awakens Cinema at Victoria Hall, Radstock.
DG N ‘ A N AN I GR EN2PM HON SM T OP ATM1ARAYNOLD
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B
‘ E AL N R C H LO JO Y
WESTFIELD
FAMILY
FUN DAY Sunday 5th June 2016
12pm - 4pm, Westhill Gardens, Recreational Field
COME AND ENJOY... • Cakes from the Sugar Store
• Toys, Plants, Skittles, Raffle
• Somerset Pizzerier
• Bottle Tombola and other side stalls
• Emergency Service Vehicles • Disney’s Ice Cream • Hair Feathers and Jewellery
• Shaun Roger’s Funfair • Jumping Jo’s Inflatables • Donkey Rides
• Vintage Sweet Cart
• Family Photographs
• Whacky the Wizard
• Face Painting by Dragonfly Beauty
• BBQ
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DISPLAYS IN THE RING FROM: • Frome Dog Training Club • Punch and Judy • Dweamah Dance Crew • Boogie Bounce • Jamie Woodlands’ Black Belt Academy • Susan Hill School of Dancing • Bathampton Morris Men
PLUS
• Bath Records’ office will be on hand to show you how to start your family tree • Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust will be there to answer any questions you might have • Radstock Classic Car Club • Join Wansdyke Play Association in the park for some fun and games!
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Things to do Monday
Storytime at Radstock and Midsomer Norton Libraries 11:00am-11:00am. Stories followed by craft activity. For 0-5 year olds. Free. Weight Watchers – St Peters Church Hall, Longfellow Road, Westfield. 10 am, 12:00pm and 6:30pm. Prattens Bowls If you would like to try bowls why not come along to our Club night - 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. Prattens Bowls Club.
Tuesday Community Bus at Westhill Club car park 9:30am – 11:30am. Sessions for anyone with babies and young children. Contact 01761 419557 or communitybus@ hotmail.co.uk. Boules at Norton Hill Recreation Ground. 6pm. Free. No pre-booking required, just turn up and play.
Wednesday Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Midsomer Norton Library. Sing along nursery rhymes 10:00am-11:00am. Every fourth Wednesday see ‘Whats On’ for dates or contact the library.
Thursday Baby Bounce and Rhyme for under 3s at Radstock Library. Sing along nursery
rhymes 10:00am-11:00am. FIRST Thursday of every month ‘Whats On’ for dates or contact the library.
Friday
Coffee Morning at Trinity Methodist Church, Westfield. 9:00am – 11:00am. Come along for a chat and a cuppa. Catch up with friends and meet new ones. Bring along your knitting, sewing etc and join us for coffee and a chat while you enjoy your craft, or learn new ones. It is held the first Friday of the month from 10am onwards – all welcome. Golden Oldies sing and smile session, third Friday of each month. From 2:30am– 3:00pm, St Peters Church Hall, Longfellow Rd. Radstock Folk Dance Club English and American styled country dances at St Peters Church Hall. Beginners are more than welcome and you do not need a partner. £2 per evening inc tea and biscuits. 8:00am-10:00pm. Call 01458 841400 for more details.
Saturday
Messy Church Art Group at Radstock Baptist Church 10:30am – 12:00pm Not just for kids! Children should be accompanied by an adult. Call to confirm attendance in case of holiday Frederik: 07811652372.
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A New Sign in Westfield Westfield Parish Council is delighted to see its new gateway sign for Westfield installed at the Centurion roundabout entrance to the parish on Fosseway. If anyone would like to take on some voluntary planting of flowers around the base of the sign, please contact the Parish Council. Cllr Robin Moss said, “We are committed to raising the profile of Westfield, its own unique identity and the vibrancy of the Parish”.It is for this reason that there is a section on the gateway sign for temporary ‘slot in’ signs highlighting events or items of interest in the Parish. Are you part of a voluntary or community group in Westfield? If you would like to advertise an event for free on the new gateway sign in Westfield, please contact the Parish Council on council@westfieldparishcouncil. co.uk or 01761 410669.
The Big Blue Playbus
The Big Blue Playbus visits Westfield every Tuesday morning 9.30-11.30 during term time. Local families with babies and preschool children meet up for play and chat with coffee/ tea at around 10.30am when the children have snacktime and sing. There is lots to do on the Playbus with messy activities like sand, dough, sticking and painting on the lower deck, and dressing up, construction, books and toys on the upper deck. Over the summer the aging double decker will be replaced by a shiny new one thanks to funding from the Big Lottery. Find us parked in the car park of Westhill Club near the rec on Westhill Road.”
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Somer Valley Forum The Somer Valley Forum, is part of the ‘Connecting Communities’ Programme. There are five area Forums in place across the Bath and North East Somerset District: Bath City; Bathavon; Chew Valley; Keynsham Area and Somer Valley. The Forums bring together Ward, Parish and Town Councillors with community groups; public service representatives and members of the public to discuss a range of topics at a local level. All the meetings are held in their local area and start with an ‘Informal Session’. A new feature of these is the opportunity for community groups and hosting Parish or Town Councils to give brief presentations on their work to share information and best practice. If any community groups are interested in taking part in this in future, do let me know. The Police and Communities Together meetings (PACT) have now become part of the informal sessions of the Forums, with most meetings featuring an update from local Police staff and an opportunity to ask them questions. The Police have seen a rise in thefts from vehicles and while this isn’t specific to the local area it’s a good opportunity to remind you not to leave your vehicles unlocked or with any valuables (even loose change) on display. Also, there has been a worrying increase in dogs attacking sheep in rural parts of the district, so please do ensure that dogs are kept on leads where animals are grazing.
In the second part of the Forum meetings, items of importance to the local area are discussed. The Somer Valley Forum has recently received updates from Bath and North East Somerset Council on its 2016-17 budget and on the Somer Valley Enterprise Zone. The Somer Valley is one of 44 such zones in England which are part of the Government’s strategy for encouraging economic growth. We are looking forward to further information on progress with this soon. The Forum meetings give neighbouring communities the opportunity to discuss and consider issues like these together and help public services understand the views and aspirations of local people. The communities represented at the Somer Valley Forum are Farrington Gurney; High Littleton; Midsomer Norton; Paulton; Peasedown St John; Radstock; Timsbury and Westfield. Neighbouring Mendip Parishes are also invited. All Forum meetings are open to the public and it is possible to attend the meetings of other Forums in the Bath and North East Somerset area if there are items of interest on their agendas. Details of the meetings can be found on the Bath & North East Somerset Council calendar of meetings on its website www.bathnes.gov.uk Lynda Robertson Chair of the Somer Valley Forum
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15th anniversary for the S&D line
There will be diesel hauled passenger trains using restored coaches on June 5th, 18th and 19th and August 8th. There may be additional running days during the Midsummer at Midsomer event over the weekend of June 18th and 19th and the Heritage weekend on September 10th and 11th.
2016 is the fiftieth anniversary for the end of the Somerset and Dorset line. Many years of dedicated volunteer work have resulted in a station and grounds at Midsomer Norton south that look exactly, or even better than they were 50 years ago. Visitors to the station can see the restored station ticket office, signal box, greenhouse and gardens and the additional museums in the old stables and Pill box. The Station is open every week on a Sunday and a Monday and visitors are very welcome to view the gardens and buy plants, purchase books and souvenirs from the shop and stroll round the platforms.
Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway people are looking forward to another big event at the station when Antiques Road Show star, Paul Atterbury, will be launching and naming the resident Sentinel steam locomotive on July 9th. Sentinel engines were used locally in the Radstock shunting yard and its restoration has taken many years. We will be very pleased to see lots of visitors on this historic occasion and there will be an opportunity to see what being a volunteer at the station entails.
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Students find fulfilling jobs at the end of the search Over the past seven years patients at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, as well as staff and visitors, have benefitted from a variety of valuable services provided by sixth form students with special educational needs. The students have participated in an innovative initiative spearheaded by Fosse Way, the ‘outstanding’ special school in Westfield, in collaboration with the hospital as well as Sirona Care and Health. While undertaking their duties at the RUH the students have also been able to develop vital work-place skills, essential to success in today’s competitive job market. As Karen Parsons, the project’s coordinator at the Royal United, observes: “Project SEARCH equips the students with the specific and transferable skills required by employers, preparing them for work and to carry out their roles to the highest standard.” A now familiar sight in their distinctive purple T-shirts, the students make an important contribution to a number of key areas including the pharmacy, restaurant, outpatients and the Emergency department. As well as to up to three internships at the hospital, the course enables students to pursue academic qualifications that will also help them to secure paid employment. Furthermore, the students receive expert coaching from both Fosse Way and Sirona Care and Health staff in writing eyecatching CVs, completing application forms and performing well in interviews. So impressed have staff at the hospital been with the students that a growing number have succeeded in gaining a permanent salaried position. One example
is Andrew, who comments: “At Project SEARCH I learned the important skills I needed to be able to get my job as a Patient Support Assistant at the Royal United Hospital. On the course I learned how to communicate with and care for patients, which is a very important and a really enjoyable part of my job.” Meanwhile, Nigel Songhurst, Operating Theatres Orthopaedic Equipment Lead at the RUH, had this to say about the venture: “The Project SEARCH students we have hosted have really made a difference within theatres and are a valued addition to the department. It is rewarding for us as a department having someone so dedicated to their role, as well as it being rewarding for the Project SEARCH student in learning new skills.” Eager to build on the success of Project Search at the Royal United, Karen Parsons is now looking ahead to the academic year beginning this September. Karen would welcome applications from any young people who will be entering years 13 or 14 who have an EHC plan or a statement of special educational needs and are interested in a full-time internship. Parents also invited to get in touch with Karen to find out more about what the project has to offer. Karen may be contacted at kparsons@fossewayschool. com or on 01225 824559.
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Trinity Westfield Methodist Church
Radstock Folk Dance Club
We held a fun filled evening in February trying our hand at Kurling. Hot dogs and burgers were served for supper. Supper and Film Evenings have also been enjoyed and they will again resume in the Autumn. Easter was a busy time for us with the Good Friday Walk of Witness starting at Radstock and finishing with a service in the Church car park. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Radstock Silver Band. The March coffee morning saw us parading our Easter Bonnets. April coffee morning we were joined by “Trio Paradis” who entertained us with Springtime music and songs from the shows. Forthcoming events: Friday 6th May, monthly coffee morning from 10 am and our Church will also be open when you will have the opportunity to Pop in to Pray. Saturday 21st May, 11.30am-2pm. Soup and fruit pie lunch. Friday 3rd June from 10 am. Coffee morning with Musical Accompaniment. Friday 1st July from 10am. Coffee morning. During the childrens school holidays we will hold our Coffee mornings every Saturday from 10 am. Saturday 16th July, an evening with the Trinity Singers followed by tea.
Radstock Folk Dance Club meet at St Peter’s Church Hall, Longfellow Road from 8.00pm to 10.00pm. We will be meeting up until the summer when we take a break in late August and September. We do a variety of English and American Country Dances led by a caller each evening. Many of our callers are Club members, although we do have guest callers from time to time. Beginners are welcome and you do not need a partner. We have a charge of £2 per evening which includes a cup of tea and a biscuit at half-time. If you are interested in joining us please come along to St Peter’s. If you want to find out more, please contact Dick Shilton (Chairman) or Jean Shilton (Secretary) on 01458 841400.
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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Boules
PR OO F
As I write this, Boules have got off to a really good start this year, with, so far, enjoying good weather. We have been playing in beautiful sunshine, and feel truly blessed, long may it last! However, should the weather gods turn against us, we are very grateful to Norwest Bowling Club, who have very kindly offered us the use of their facilities. We much appreciate this kind offer, and feel sure that we will be calling on their hospitality in due course. This year we are hoping to invite other local teams for a friendly game, and, of course, we are eagerly awaiting our visit from the French team as part of the Twinning celebrations. Boules are played very Tuesday evening 6pm at Norton Hill Recreation Ground. All the equipment is supplied, no pre-booking is required, just turn up and play! However, should you like more information please give me a call on 01761 415155 Diana Cooper.
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Westfield WAGS
This year the WAGS keys activities are entering Britain in Bloom again where they hope to achieve the same level of success as last year, where they were awarded outstanding. The team are working on the border by the fence which separates the allotments from the main road and have already have a selection of plants and shrubs here. Also underway, is the project to clear space for raised beds which will be specifically for children and they already have interest in these. WAGS will have a stall at Westfield fun day where they will have plants for sale. All plots are occupied and they don’t currently have a waiting list. If you are interested in a plot, contact westfieldallotments@hotmail.co.uk.
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Summertime at your local libraries Westfield residents are lucky enough to be in reach of two local libraries Radstock and Midsomer Norton - and this summer children can take part in special activities. Children‘s Summer Drawing Competition - Design a Chocolate Bar Wrapper - collect a form from 28th May and return by 25th June and you may win a prize On July 16th we launch our annual Summer Reading Challenge. This is a free national scheme for 4-11 year olds and over 2,000 children in Bath & North East Somerset took part last year. • Children sign up at the library and read 6 books of their choice over the summer • Children collect a poster and stickers along the way and are presented with a certificate and a medal when they complete the challenge This year the theme is the Big Friendly Read, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birth. We have themed activities at all libraries over the summer including games and prizes to be won. Our regular events for younger children also continue over the Summer - for children under 5 we hold regular Storytime sessions every Monday at 11am in both libraries and monthly Baby Bounce and Rhyme for the under
3s. See What’s on for Baby Bounce dates. For adults our monthly Joined-up Writers workshops and Poetry Liaisons nights held at Midsomer Norton Library continue through June and July, although they take a break in August. See What’s On for dates and times. Details of all our AFTER HOURS evening events can be found on our website, or come in and see us. You do not need to be a library member to come to our events, but joining is free and only takes a few minutes and gives you access to online resources as well as books, talking books and DVDs. For more information and opening times go to: Facebook: Bathnes Libraries Twitter: @bathnes #bathneslibraries Email: Councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk Telephone: 01225 394041 Web: www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries
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Call Zoe on 01761 410141 or email zoe@ignyte.co.uk
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1908 Pit Explosion Mining was one of the biggest local industries in Westfield and the colliery at Norton Hill had one of the best safety records. But in 1908 a pit explosion left the community in mourning. At around 10pm on April 9, 1908 an explosion was heard at the colliery in Norton Hill. It killed 10 miners in the Slyving Vein and shook the roofs off buildings near the pit. Among the dead was newly-wed, 25-year-old Gilbert Jones who had been married only five weeks as well as Ernest Jones and his 16 year-old brother Stanley. The youngest victim was 14-year-old Harry Sage, a powder boy who had just left school to work down the pits. Rescuers, including the colliery owner Frank Beauchamp and a relay of doctors, toiled overnight to evacuate the trapped workers, risking their own lives. Many of them collapsed in the process, overpowered by toxic fumes.
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Of the 29 workers in the mine 19 were saved. Incredibly more people were not killed in the accident, thanks mainly to the heroic efforts of the rescuers and the modern cable system that allowed men to be transported swiftly to the surface in cages. In 1911, partly as a result of the Norton Hill explosion, Winston Churchill was instrumental in the passing of the Coal Mines Act 1911. An important aspect was that mine owners were required to ensure there were rescue stations near each mine with equipped and trained staff. Although amended several times, it was the main legislation governing coal mining for many years After nationalisation after World War II the National Coal Board spent £500,000 on modernising the mine’s infrastructure to give it the capability for annual production of 315,000 tons, however manpower shortages and geological problems caused the pit to close in 1966.
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Norwest Bowls Club
To kick off the 2016 season our lads joined forces and played an A versus B team game which proved to be a great success. The rivalry was intense but accompanied by much banter and hilarity. It was a great afternoon but the weather turned somewhat chilly which made the hotdogs served after the game all the more welcome. The victory went to the A team which was sweet revenge after their defeat at the hands of the B team at the end of last season. President’s Day saw the green a hive of activity as usual for this ever popular event and it was great to see some of the older bowlers, who no longer play, come along to support the players. The day started with a spider competition which was won by Anne Wilkinson. After this it was a case of names out the hat for rink and playing positions, this saw some of the new players skipping while some of the old hands found that putting the jack up was not quite as easy as they thought. The weather was kind to us and overall it was a very enjoyable afternoon with a great deal of good natured micky taking and laughter. We were treated to a brilliant buffet after the
game courtesy of our catering ladies, Sue, Doris, Mary and Lin while Ken kept the wheels oiled as our barman. The trophies went to Kath Hillman, for the ladies and Jim Goudie for the men while, along with Keith Coombes, I scooped one of the wooden spoons. Certificates of excellence in the ‘Art of the Wrong Bias’ went to Maggie Roberts and Gerald Gregory. I think our 2016 President did us proud, so let’s hope the rest of the season is as successful and enjoyable. If you’ve never tried bowling but would like to have a go we are open nearly every Monday evening for informal roll ups, so just pop along and see us, we’d love to see you.
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Community Directory LIBRARIES
Radstock Library The Street, Radstock Tel: 01225 394041
Midsomer Norton Library
119 High Street, Midsomer Norton Tel: 01225 394041
DOCTORS
Westfield Surgery
Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths
The Hollies, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP Opening Hours: Wednesday 9am – 4pm, Thursday 9am – 12:30pm, Friday 9am – 4pm. Appointments Tel: 01225 477234
SWAN Advice Network Housing
Tel: 01761 432445
Welfare Benefits Tel: 01761 437176
Volunteer Transport
Waterford Park, Westfield. Tel: 436333
Tel: 01761 439548
EDUCATION
Westfield Primary School
Contact Bath and North East Somerset Council Administrator Tel: 01225 842480
Fosse Way School
HALLS/ROOMS FOR HIRE
St Benedicts School
Radstock Tel: 01761 431417
Longfellow Rd, Westfield BA3 3XX Tel: 01761 413662 Longfellow Rd, Westfield BA3 3AL Tel: 01761 412198 Charlton La, Radstock BA3 4BD Tel: 01761 418594
Bath College, Somer Valley Campus South Hill Park, Wells Road, Westfield, BA3 3RW. Tel: 01761 433161
POLICE
Radstock Police Station
Wells Road, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 3SG
POST OFFICES Radstock Post Office
within Radco, 3 Wells Hill, Radstock Tel: 01761 432142 Sorting Office – 0845 6113014
Midsomer Norton Post Office 122b High Street, Midsomer Norton Tel: 01761 413211
Neighbourhood Watch
Trinity Methodist Church Trinity Methodist Church
Westfield Tel: 01761 432478
Radstock Baptist Church Tel: 01761 433761
Radstock Scout Hall
Wells Road, BA3 3RP
(available for daytime or school holiday hiring only)
Contact Mark Hird mark.hird@lloydsbanking.com
Westfield Sports and Community Centre Westhill Road, Westfield, BA3 3TE Tel: 01761 432 437
Prattens Sports and Social Club. Charlton La, Radstock, BA3 4BD Tel: 01761 418596
Mardons Social Club
Nightingale Way, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 4NL Tel: 01761 412137
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Prattens Bowls Club A sunny but breezy afternoon welcomed Members back to the Green on Saturday 16th April. The Green was, not unexpectedly, heavy after quite a wet winter but everyone remarked on its good condition; this was due to a great deal of hard work by our Greenkeeper, Rob Watts, ably assisted by our Chairman, Barrie Dando and many Club Members. One of our Members, Malcolm Moon is a keen gardener and is busy bringing on the plants for the hanging baskets which are much admired each year by Members and Visitors alike.
Sunday 17th April was President’s Day and thankfully the afternoon was somewhat warmer. Members were put into 5 teams to play the annual President versus Captain match. The results from each team were added together and, in what turned out to be a very close match, the Captain’s Team won 64 shots to 62. After a very enjoyable afternoon, played in a friendly atmosphere, Members enjoyed tea in the Clubhouse which was hosted by our President Robert Pemberton and his wife Barbara, with help from their friend Margaret Shearn.
Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations On 21st April Her Majesty the Queen marked her 90th birthday, and Westfield Parish Council was pleased to join forces with Midsomer Norton Town Council to take part in the national celebrations. The Council would like to thank Midsomer Norton Rugby Club, where there was a large bonfire which was lit to be part of a chain of beacons around the country. The Rugby Club also very kindly had an outside bar and barbeque to provide refreshments for the good number of people that came along. Westfield Parish Council would like to thank Cllr Geoff Fuller for erecting the bonfire (and falling off it in the process!) and lighting it on the night.
The bonfire was so successful in its bid to be noticed that it brought the local fire brigade out to investigate after a local resident noticed the flames and reported them. Happily there was no danger and the event continued.
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Parish Clerk The
April and May are turning out to be defined by a series of consultations in Westfield. You will have received a Household Survey through the post, followed up by articles in the press and on the local noticeboards urging you to attend one or more of the consultation events at various locations in the parish. Whilst we all suffer from consultation fatigue from time to time, we do hope that you will take part in these events. Your views form the basis of the next stage of the Neighbourhood Plan, which ultimately will give a framework within which the Planners will make decisions on developments in this area. If you could not take part, it is never too late! Contact the Parish Council office and we are happy to talk about how you might be involved in the next stages as the Neighbourhood Plan continues to evolve.
Is there a front garden in Westfield which, for some reason just catches your eye as you go past? If so, please nominate it for an award in the annual Westfield Front Garden Competition. The beauty of this competition is that the front garden does not have to be large or showy. Perhaps it has a quirky container or an abundant window box. Entering is a one page form, simply asking for your contact details and the address of the front garden you would like to nominate. Please call the Parish Council office or look on our website for more information. We really welcome all nominations. As I write this article in mid April the play equipment at Westhill Recreation Ground is being installed. Located at various points around the field, we do hope that it will be enjoyed by many people this summer.
Lesley Welch Parish Clerk
Your Parish Council
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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 Ron Hopkins Vice Chair 01761 435852 sueron1@sky.com
Cllr Geoff Fuller Chair 01761 439198/07540 998603 geoffrey.fuller@outlook.com
Cllr Eleanor Jackson 01761 438968 eleanor_jackson@bathnes.gov.uk
Cllr Robin Moss 01761 432224/07543 626184 Robin_moss_@hotmail.com
Cllr Angie Seaman-Moss 01761 432224 cllrangie@hotmail.com
Cllr Bryan Wallbridge 07974 939776 westfield.wallbridge@gmail.com
The Oval Office Cobblers Way St Peters Business Park Westfield BA3 3BX Telephone: 01761 410669 Email: council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk @westfield_pc Cllr Phil Wilkinson 01761 431355/07803 927626 philipdwilkinson@btinternet.com
Cllr Pat Williams 01761 432630 patwilliams21@talktalk.net
The Parish Council is open from Monday to Thursday. Due to the small number of part time staff it is advisable to telephone before visiting. The Parish Council is accessible for the public, with a lift to the first floor office.
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