ISSUE 137 – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
Improve your health this year
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil Your airport: your views a world of opportunities
Have your say Bristol Airport is planning for the future. We are developing plans that will take us to 2050 and beyond. Help shape your airport. Tree Surgery
Visit www.bristolairport.com/future to find out more and give your views, or attend one of our consultation events: • Expert tree surgery
Tuesday 9th January • Tree surveys & inspections Cleeve Village Hall, 2pm-5pm. Wednesday 10th January • Tree planting & aftercare Hangstones Pavilion, Yatton, 4pm-8pm. Thursday 11th January Guildhall, Bath, 11am-2pm. • Stump grinding Monday 15th January Backwell Village Hall, 12pm-3pm. Call our friendly managers, Zoe or Martin, on: Thursday 18th January Fear Hall, Keynsham, 11am-2pm. Friday 19th January T: 01275 464 466 The Old Schoolroom, Chew Magna, 4pm-8pm. W: bristol.glendalelocal.co.uk Saturday 20th January Hampton-by-Hilton, Bristol Airport, 11am-4pm.
Your dream day at SOMERSET “Making my health a priority.” HALL This year choose a membership that suits you!
Parish Wharf Leisure Centre 01275 848494 Strode Leisure Centre 01275 879242 Whatever place you’re into
Ask us about our special offer. Quote: NSLife today to claim your free 7 day pass.
#NewYearNewYou • www.placesforpeopleleisure.org CELEBRATIONS • THEATRE • CONFERENCES • WEDDINGS The Precinct, Portishead BS20 6AH Operated by Places for People Leisure Ltd. T: 01275 884 100 on behalf of E: [email protected] North Somerset Council North Somerset Council does not endorse or recommend any commercial Welcome products or services featured in advertising in Life magazine. Dear Contents 4 News update reader, 10 Take steps towards a healthier 2018 Welcome to 2018, which I hope it is a happy and healthy year 14 Hundreds of new fitness opportunities at for you. Hutton Moor For me, last year will be remembered for the growing 16 dissatisfaction in many sections of the public at the lack of Nature reserve thriving two years on change or progress after years of so called austerity measures. 22 Keep your cycle safe At this time of year, we are always in the middle of trying to finalise the details of the next year’s budget for all the council’s 24 Walk – A winter wander around Weston services. During six years of funding cuts, each year has been more difficult than the last as the council has to do things that 28 Purple Flag improvements were previously rejected as being unacceptable. At the same 30 time the demand for care services, for elderly people and Portishead road improvements to cut children, has seen a huge growth in demand. The costs keep congestion going up, the money the council gets is going down, therefore other services such as waste collection and road repairs have 34 Could you save an extra kg of recycling a suffered disproportionately. week? My frequent meetings in London show that all main councils are 38 Disability-friendly employers in the same position. I’m told there is a £2bn deficit for care services but it is reported as an academic fact, government 40 Raising awareness of dementia officials don’t seem to relate that to real life now. Successive governments are adamant they understand the funding gap but 47 Contact details then expect councils to cope. What on earth does that mean? We are told to do more to prevent people going into hospital, 10 16 but we are having to cut those preventative services to pay for those already in care. Prevention is surely not just about stopping people going into hospital, but helping them avoid care needs at all, and yet we are also having to cut those services to pay for those already in care. In the recent budget announced by the Chancellor... £2.8bn to the NHS but £ nil to local government. How does that enable us to prevent anything? We treat our elderly without respect but at least we can get to London a few minutes faster. We treat our elderly without dignity but at least we will soon be able to buy a driverless car. Are these really higher priorities? 30 40 None of us came into local government to make these cuts but across the country, councils, their staff and local councillors will be understandably criticised for putting up charges but cutting important services that communities want, need and feel they pay for, because central government still seems to have the problems of an ageing population on the ‘too difficult’ pile. I understand the desire to invest in growth for the future but not at the cost of the damage being done now.
Councillor Nigel Ashton Leader of North Somerset Council
This publication is available in large print, Braille or audio formats on request. Help is also available for people who require council information in languages other than English. Life editor: 01275 884 139
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 3 News Time running out to Help improve the apply for school places council’s website There are just a few days left to apply for a school place if your child is due to start school this year. Testers are still needed to give feedback on If your child was born between 1 September 2013 and North Somerset 31 August 2014, they can start at a primary or infant/first Council’s website school from this September. to help make The closing date for admissions is 11.59pm on Monday 15 it better in the January and it’s very important to apply by then otherwise future. you may not be considered in the first round of allocations. North Somerset Late applicants have less chance of being offered their residents who preferred school. are able to visit the Town Hall in Weston- This deadline also applies super-Mare or Castlewood to parents of children due office in Clevedon are needed to use the website to to transfer to a junior demonstrate how easy they find it to do things and find or middle school in information. September. The one-to-one sessions will be informal and will last for Parents can name up to 90 minutes. three preferences and may apply for schools both within Testers can’t be paid but refreshments will be available. and outside North Somerset. For more information visit Apply online at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/applyforschool www.n-somerset.gov.uk/websitetesting Crowdfunding initiative to turn ideas into reality
A crowdfunding initiative is launching which will enhance local places and in North Somerset to help community support the local economy. projects get off the ground and The council will also look to support enable ideas to become reality. projects financially which meet North Somerset Council is launching certain criteria. the dedicated crowdfunding A launch event for North Somerset’s movement on Spacehive – the UK’s Spacehive takes place on Tuesday 16 specialist crowdfunding provider for January, from 5.30-7pm, at Anyone with an innovative or places and communities. The Stable, in Wadham Street, interesting idea who would like to This concept brings together local Weston-super-Mare. find out more about crowdfunding is businesses, the community and invited to attend the event. council to raise funds for projects Register for the launch event through Eventbrite at goo.gl/uXsU8f
4 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Clevedon Jobcentre moves into CastlewoodClevedon – see pageJobcennt 45
Have your say on health and care services in Weston-super-Mare
Have your say on how services at People are now invited to give A series of events will take place Weston General Hospital and other feedback about the proposals, this month for people to find out NHS and care services around which include… more. Weston-super-Mare can be changed and improved. l building a strong and vibrant l Thursday 11 January, 7-9pm at future for Weston General Cheddar Football Club North Somerset Clinical Hospital, providing the hospital Commissioning group (CCG) wants services that it is best placed to l Tuesday 16 January, 7-9pm at to ensure local people have the best provide The Campus, Locking Castle possible health and care services suitable for their needs now and in l enabling GP practices to work l Wednesday 17 January, 7-9pm the future. more effectively together to at Weston Football Club provide better care to patients The Healthy Weston document l and a broader range of services staff and providers of health and was published in October and it care services can also attend sets out how key services – such as l creating a ‘care campus’ at a staff event on Tuesday 23 GPs, community services, mental Weston General Hospital so that January, from 7-9pm at Weston health, voluntary organisations and hospital, GP and community Football Club. social care – can work together to health services work better deliver better joined-up care in the together to care for patients. Following the engagement exercise, community and work more closely North Somerset CCG will publish its with Weston General Hospital. proposals in late spring this year.
To register for the engagement events and to complete the survey, visit www.northsomersetccg.nhs.uk/healthyweston. The survey will be available until mid-February.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 5 News
Retire and relax
In the heart of North Somerset is Sandford Station, a lively retirement village with a great community spirit. The excellent facilities and staff provide the perfect retirement lifestyle. To book a personal tour or to simply fi nd out more call 0117 919 4262. See our latest video of life at Sandford Station just type www.stmonicatrust.org.uk/where-we- do-it/sandford-station into your browser.
Registered Charity 202151 Volunteering opportunities on the Local Access Forum
An independent advisory body which The group is made up of landowners, works to promote public access and access users and others with an interest open-air recreation for the benefit of all in health and conservation, and it meets is looking for new volunteers. four times a year.
North Somerset’s Local Access Forum Members are unpaid volunteers but may operates on a statutory basis to advise be reimbursed for travel and subsistence decision-making organisations about costs, or other expenses incurred for making improvements to rights of way children or dependents. and green spaces in their local area. There are currently four vacancies to fill – Members also get together and provide one landowner, one with other interests, a balanced view about access issues, or and two for rights of way users. A cyclist they might influence national policy. or walker would also be welcomed.
Anyone interested can contact Elaine Bowman for an application form on [email protected] • 01934 427 406
6 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February For the latest updates on North Somerset’s news visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/news Helping unemployed people into the care profession
Unemployed people who want Stacy is one person who has to increase their skills and start a successfully found a job after going career in the care sector can join an through the Care Academy. effective employment programme. The single mum is now working The Care Academy is a partnership for Alliance Living Care as a care between Alliance Living Care, North worker. Somerset Council, Weston College Stacy said: “For the first time in and Job Centre Plus. my life I have money to spend on It was set up to create an effective my children and myself and I am route for unemployed people to debt-free. The next Care Academy starts on increase their skills and gain a Monday 22 January in Weston-super- “I am so proud because I did this career in the care sector. It has been Mare. Book a place by calling John for myself and my children. I have a successful and so far has helped 82 Fowler on 01934 411 120 or purpose in my life now.” people into employment. [email protected]
Could you be a friend of North Somerset’s hospital?
More people are needed to become urology, orthopaedics, cardiology friends of Clevedon’s hospital and and more. help raise much-needed funds. This means fewer journeys to Bristol North Somerset Community Hospital hospitals for people. is the new name for Clevedon The Friends of North Somerset Hospital, in Old Street, to emphasise Community Hospital hosts the fact it serves the whole of North fundraising events to help pay for Somerset. vital equipment and furnishings. The hospital is open seven days a Now it is holding a recruitment week and has 11 in-patient beds, drive to encourage more people to a Minor Injuries Unit, and covers become a friend. a wide range of clinics such as podiatry, audiology, physiotherapy, One day you might need your Membership costs from £5 a year. local hospital – but right now your hospital needs you. To find out more or for an application form, email Alison Lee on [email protected] or call Di Brown on 01275 872 880
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 7 News Advice to help you be your own boss
Dreaming of becoming your own boss could become a The next #BossIt events take place on… reality for people in Weston-super-Mare thanks to a new l Thursday 18 January – 10am to noon, The Stable, scheme. co-working hub, Wadham Street, Weston-super-Mare. #BossIt launched in November to help people living in l Friday 26 January – 10am to noon, Alliance Homes, Bournville, Coronation, Oldmixon, Potteries and town Weston Court, Oldmixon Crescent, centre areas. Weston-super-Mare. The programme includes a series of events to give people the opportunity to discuss their thoughts and ideas with experts, find out about free help and advice that already exists, gain any help they need to overcome barriers, and hear from inspirational local people who are successfully being their own boss.
About 30 people attended the first #BossIt event, organised by North Somerset Enterprise Agency (NSEA), Skills4Work and westonworks.
Local resident Nina Payne, who launched The SEO Lady five years ago, told about her experiences, from selling on eBay to creating a search engine optimisation business. (from left) Paul Lucock, principal economic development officer Other local agencies who attended included Weston at North Somerset Council; Nina Payne, the SEO Lady; Angela College, North Somerset Council’s community learning Hicks, of North Somerset Enterprise Agency; and Adrian Stone team, and the national careers service. of westonworks.
For more information call NSEA: 01934 418 118 • f /bossitwsm
Portishead sets the gold standard
Green fingered volunteers in Portishead Chairperson Sandy Tebbutt was also celebrated after scooping a major given a Community Champion award national award for their bloomin’ lovely in recognition of her long service to floral displays. Portishead in Bloom.
Portishead in Bloom won gold in the The group formed in 1996 and national Champion of Champions has worked hard over the last two category in the Royal Horticultural decades to make the town a colourful Society’s Britain in Bloom competition. and pleasant place to live and work.
The town was invited to take part in this prestigious category because www.portisheadinbloom.org.uk of the amount of gold awards it has previously won.
8 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February For the latest updates on North Somerset’s news visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/news
Parents needed to help Enter families in difficulty Weston’s new Parents and grandparents who could support and training is given. half marathon help local families in difficulty are urged to step forward. Runners wanting a new challenge Home-Start North Somerset is can now sign up to Weston’s recruiting volunteers now to start its newest event – The Weston Super next preparation course in March. Half. The charity provides practical and Double Olympic gold medallist, emotional support to families who James Cracknell OBE is hosting have children under the age of five the new community half marathon who may be facing difficulties. along with the Grand Pier.
Families may be struggling because It takes place on Sunday 18 of low mood, anxiety, isolation, March, from 9.30am on Marine multiple births, feeling they’re not good Parade. parents, or generally not coping with family life. The 13.1m single lap, closed road, fast and relatively flat Volunteers will visit the families in their race will then take in the sites own homes for two to three hours a around Weston-super-Mare week and help them to get back on For more information please call and surrounding villages and track. 01934 419 396, countryside before returning to the One volunteer Jane has been supporting email admin@home- seafront. families for more than two years. startnorthsomerset.org.uk or visit www.home-startnorthsomerset.org.uk A community mile-long fun run She said: “Having been a teacher for will also take place on the day, many years and recently retired and designed to encourage first-time becoming a grandparent, I wanted to Consultation on runners, families and friends. volunteer where my skills could be put to good use. schools admissions “I was aware that for new mums, now on especially those on their own or with more than one youngster, parenting Anyone interested in children’s can be daunting. education can now have their say on admission arrangements for the “It has been a joy to watch mums’ 2019/20 academic year. confidence grow and seeing the children go from strength to strength North Somerset Council is now each week.” consulting on the proposed co- ordinated admission scheme. To become a volunteer you must be a parent and able to commit for up to a In addition to this, some schools year. are also consulting on their own admission arrangements. A comprehensive training programme Entry for the Weston Super takes place one morning a week for All consultations are available to Half costs £35. Visit 10 weeks. view at www.westonsuperhalf.co.uk Once matched to a family, continuous www.n-somerset.gov.uk/consult and close on Wednesday 31 January.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 9 Take steps towards a healthier 2018
Early January is often a time for reflection and motivation for the year ahead – and many people choose health and wellbeing as a top priority.
Research shows that exercise can reduce the risk of obesity, heart How much exercise should I be doing? disease, diabetes and dementia, as well as increasing your self-esteem and confidence.
Whether you’re thinking of joining a class, going for regular walks in the fresh air, or just want to try something new, Life takes a look at what’s available in North Somerset to help you start a fitness journey…
Adults need to do both aerobic and A rule of thumb is that one minute of strength exercises to stay healthy. vigorous activity provides the same health benefits as two minutes of Current government recommendations moderate activity. are that adults do 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, such as It is also recommended to do strength cycling, swimming, ballroom dancing exercises on two or more days, such or brisk walking. as yoga or heavy gardening, to work all the major muscle groups, as well This could be split into half-hour slots, or as break up sitting time. even 10 minutes of brisk walking three times a day, over five days a week. Older people who are at risk of falls should also do exercises to improve The recommended time is also reduced balance and co-ordination, such as tai to 75 minutes a week if it’s more chi or dancing. vigorous activity, such as running, sport or hiking uphill, when you are breathing fast and have difficulty talking.
10 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Find your perfect fitness class
If you can’t decide whether to try dance or disc golf, tai chi or trampolining, a new edition of a flagship publication is now available to provide inspiration.
North Somerset Active Directory lists information about a wide range of physical activity sessions across the area, including opportunities for children and young people as well as adults and older people.
Free copies are available from libraries, leisure centres and GP surgeries, or visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/activedirectory
Walk your way to health Could you be a Walking is one of the best ways to get They are led by trained volunteers a more active lifestyle – it’s free, you and last between 30 and 90 minutes. walk leader? can start at any fitness level and it gets Wear suitable clothing and footwear your blood pumping. for all weather conditions. Dogs are not allowed. Throughout North Somerset, organised health walks take place regularly and they are the ideal first step for anyone who is currently inactive and/or has a More than 6,000 people have chronic health condition. enjoyed North Somerset’s health walks Local resident Clive felt that he needed programme since it was launched over to ‘get out there’ again after his wife 10 years ago. died, and was motivated to exercise, The scheme relies heavily on volunteers meet new people and socialise. and more are needed to support the He decided to join the health walks growth of this ever-expanding project. and now even leads the groups. Anyone who enjoys the outdoors, likes Clive said: “The health walks have working with people and wants to expanded my horizons, introduced me be more active in their spare time is to people of a similar mind, and given welcome to get in touch. me a purpose again. The next free training day is in “The social aspect has contributed Weston-super-Mare on significantly to my wellbeing. Wednesday 24 January.
“Age should not prevent anyone from You do not need extensive knowledge taking part, as the walks cater for all of the local area or high fitness levels, abilities.” just be able to guide and support small groups and individuals and encourage Health walks take place across North them to walk more. Somerset’s four main towns and some villages. For more information contact the sport and active lifestyles team: To see the latest programme visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/healthwalks 01275 882 731 or www.n-somerset.gov.uk/walking [email protected]
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 11 Health matters
THIS NEW YEAR?
Poor lifestyle choices made during our adult years can dramatically increase our chances of becoming ill later in life.
Public Health England launched its The sessions are part of the charity’s One You campaign last year to show MOVE MORE Ageing Well service to help people how small improvements made during stay in shape, improve their mobility middle-age can double your chances Older people in North Somerset who and posture, maintain energy levels of staying healthy when you reach 70 could benefit from gentle exercise and improve vitality. and over. have a wide variety of classes to choose from. Portishead resident Ernie lives with his Whether it’s moving more, quitting daughter because of ill health and, smoking, or cutting down on alcohol, Age UK Somerset runs classes across although her support is good, he felt taking action now will help your long- the area for anyone aged 50 and isolated, lonely and depressed. term quality of life. over, including Movement to Music, seated yoga, Stretch and Flex, Tai Chi, His nurse suggested a local Flexercise Life takes a look at some opportunities Boccia, and chair-based Flexercise session because he had knee available in North Somerset to help sessions. problems and couldn’t walk well. improve your health and wellbeing…
12 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Health matters
Ernie said: “The afternoon was very Classes cater for all abilities. enjoyable, everyone was so friendly. The To view the whole programme visit movements were good and I felt I used www.ageuksomerset.org.uk/somerset or every muscle, gently.” contact Nikki Smith on 07530 777 895 Ernie has now been attending for or [email protected] six months and said: “I would highly l @AgeUKSomerset recommend it. We all enjoy ourselves f /AgeUKSomerset and feel much better and more positive.”
EAT WELL BE SMOKE-FREE
Adults in Weston-super-Mare who need Stopping smoking has been a major goal a helping hand to make healthy lifestyle for one North Somerset resident who has changes can use a free and confidential finally kicked the habit after three years support service. of trying.
Health Trainers offer one-to-one support over Stephen Callaghan started smoking when 12 weekly sessions to help people reach their he was just 11 years old but a number of goals, whether this be eating more healthily, health scares made exercising more, losing weight, stopping him realise he smoking or reducing their alcohol intake. needed to stop and over the Nigel Jenkins, aged 53, used the service course of three for diet and weight loss advice and as a years he got result he lost 2.6 stone over three months. In nearer and total he has now lost six stone and reduced nearer his goal. his body mass index from 35.6 BEFORE to 24. He finally stopped at the age of 56 thanks Nigel said: “I have more energy, more to support from Smokefree North Somerset motivation and am a lot happier.” and the Health Trainer service. He met health trainer Julie on a weekly Stephen said: “It was hard and an on-going basis and discussed eating, portion size challenge as I had always enjoyed it. and exercise. “Debbie the health trainer never gave up Nigel said: “Julie really motivated me, on me, no matter how many times I failed. made me stay focused, and always made me feel I could succeed. “Behaviour change takes time and sometimes many attempts are needed “The quality of advice, encouragement and AFTER before you succeed.” levels of professionalism were first-class. It has been a real life changer.” Stephen also attends the stop smoking relapse prevention group, held every Drop-in sessions run weekly in Weston-super-Mare: Wednesday, from 12.30-2pm at Bristol Tuesday to Thursday, 10am-noon, Town Hall, Walliscote Grove Road. Road Baptist Church, in Weston-super-Mare. Wednesdays, 10am-noon – Big Worle Hub, Clovelly Road, Worle. Wednesdays, 1.30-2.30pm – For All Healthy Living Centre, Lonsdale Avenue. For support on moving more, eating 01934 427 661 • [email protected] well, being smoke free or drinking less, f /NSHealthTrainer visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/oneyou
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 13 Hundreds of new fitness opportunities at Hutton Moor
Keeping fit has been made a whole lot easier in Weston-super-Mare thanks to a plethora of new classes and facilities at a revamped leisure centre.
Hutton Moor leisure centre re-launched to meet fitness trends, offering a wide in September following North Somerset range of top-class specialist equipment Council’s £2.15m refurbishment of the to keep everyone motivated and site to improve the range of activities active.” on offer. In October, new state-of-the-art outdoor The investment saw a two-storey sports facilities also opened, featuring extension added on, which enabled three floodlit all-weather pitches and the gym to expand from 96 to 155 two floodlit tennis courts. stations, with the latest top-of-the-range The pitches are the first of their kind equipment. in this part of the country, made with Two new multi-use studios have also a 45mm 3G surface and the latest been added, along with a cycle sustainable and environmentally- Manager Dave Somers workout studio featuring 26 bikes, a friendly cork infill, creating greater new dance studio, and almost 200 player comfort as well as looking after In the gym, Precor 865 cardio group fitness classes a week. the environment. equipment has been installed with on- The centre is run by Legacy Leisure on The pitches were installed by Portishead- demand TV screens. behalf of the council and more than based Sportfields and managing The equipment can be used alongside 800 new members have signed up director Geoff Collins said: “We are a Preva smartphone app, which since September. proud to provide this state-of-the-art 3G enables fitness instructors to set sports facility at Hutton Moor. General manager Dave Somers people personal goals and provide said: “Our new fitness development “The new cork infill surface was chosen information and training guides. has been extremely well received by over its rivals not only for its fantastic Weights equipment includes a range of existing customers and new members. performance and playing qualities but selector pin machines, Precor plate- also for its recognised eco-friendly and loaded equipment, benches, power “This expansion will allow us to grow health benefits.” with the local community and continue racks, dumbbell and barbell sets.
14 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February A Queenax functional training station This means there are now about 195 has also been brought in, which allows group classes a week, running from people to complete suspended body 6.30am to 9.30pm. weight training and will host specialist classes such as circuits, 4D Pro and The fully air conditioned Sway Dance UFO. studio will host new dance classes, such as street dance, cheerleading and In the new fitness studios, Les Mills musical theatre. virtual group classes which are projected onto a big screen have been North Somerset Council is continuing added to the timetable. to work on phase two of the Hutton Moor development, which includes plans for a leisure pool. Visit the gym, go for a swim, or take part in a class at one of North Somerset’s leisure centres: l @Worle – New Bristol Road, Weston-super-Mare. l Parish Wharf Leisure Centre – Harbour 01934 529 540 www.worle.org.uk Road, Portishead. 01275 848 494 www. placesforpeopleleisure.org/centres/parish-wharf-leisure- l Backwell Leisure Centre – Farleigh Road. 01275 463 centre 726 www.leisurecentre.com/backwell-leisure-centre l Portishead Open Air Pool – Esplanade Road. l The Campus – Locking Castle, Weston-super-Mare. 01275 843 454 www.portisheadopenairpool.org.uk 01934 427 427 www.the-campus.org.uk l Scotch Horn Leisure Centre – Brockway, Nailsea. l Churchill Sports Centre – 01275 856 965 Churchill Green. 01934 852 303 www.leisurecentre.com/scotch-horn-leisure-centre www.better.org.uk/churchill-sports-centre l Strode Leisure Centre – Strode Road, Clevedon. l Clevedon School Sports Centre – 01275 879 242 www.placesforpeopleleisure.org/ Valley Road. 01275 877 182 centres/strode-leisure-centre l Gordano School Sports Centre – St Marys Road, Portishead. 01275 843 942 www.gordanosportscentre.org.uk l Hans Price School Sports Centre, Marchfields Way, Weston-super-Mare. 01934 642 426 www.hansprice.org.uk l Hutton Moor Leisure Centre – Hutton Moor Road, Weston-super-Mare. 01934 425 900 www.leisurecentre.com/hutton-moor-leisure-centre
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/leisurecentres • Read the latest Active Directory at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/go4life
To book an outdoor pitch at Hutton Moor email [email protected] For further information or to book a tour contact 01934 425 900 www.leisurecentre.com/hutton-moor-leisure-centre
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 15 Nature reserve thriving two years on
Volunteers are working hard to improve a popular wetland habitat on the edge of Portishead.
North Somerset Council took over the Natural environment officer Samantha The Avon Wildlife Trust Management running of Portbury Wharf Nature Phillips, from North Somerset Council, Plan has been incorporated within Reserve two years ago and set up said: “Having witnessed the change day-to-day tasks so that the highest the volunteer group, Portbury Wharf of seasons twice, we now have conservation standards are kept up. Volunteer Community. management projects well under way and have already seen the benefits This includes ensuring pathways are Along with council officers and the of these improvements across the kept accessible to all and undertaking reserve warden, the group has been reserve.” rotational reed clearance. integral to the management of the site Larger-scale works have also included and has volunteered nearly 830 hours Separately, the wider volunteering using specialist reed clearance to carry out conservation management. network has also put in many hours helping survey the bird species which machinery to open up rhynes for plant This has ranged from snipping the odd use the site. and wildlife species, and clearing briar to large-scale reed clearance, vegetation on the nesting island of the surveying newts and taking part in North Pools ready for winter visitors dawn chorus walks. and spring nesting birds.
16 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Nature reserve thriving two years on
Samantha said: “Looking after wildlife Council officers and the reserve on site is a major consideration. warden are also working with police, fire service and community response “We want to improve team to tackle any reports of anti- social behaviour, and deal with any the habitats for vandalism quickly.
wildlife, most notably Samantha said: “North Somerset the protected Great Council plans to continue to work with the community and improve the site Crested Newts. with conservation management values at its heart. “Other sightings on the reserve over the last two years have included Spoonbills, Purple Heron, Caspian “We look forward to welcoming anyone along to Terns and, excitingly, otters.” volunteering sessions, wildlife walks and much more.” The council also manages the adjoining ecology park and Contact Samantha Phillips on [email protected] a management plan has been for a monthly newsletter about Portbury Wharf, more information about developed there to complement the volunteering or the nature reserve. one at Portbury Wharf. f /PWNRvolunteers
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 17 Weston Vision Train station gets Grade II listed
Weston-super-Mare’s train station has been awarded Grade II listed status by Historic England.
The station, which was designed by “Listing highlights what’s special Francis Fox and completed in 1884, about a building or place and helps was granted the coveted status as to make sure that any future changes part of Historic England’s Heritage to it take into consideration those Action Zone programme. special qualities. Heritage Action Zone project officer Cara MacMahon This scheme focuses on supporting the “Listing doesn’t prevent change – in on-going regeneration of the town’s fact, listed buildings can be adapted centre and its areas of historic interest. and altered just like any other building so that they can continue to be used The station joins other listed town and enjoyed for future generations.” centre buildings, including the Odeon cinema, former magistrates’ court, the Weston’s Heritage Action Zone is a Town Hall, Walliscote Primary School, £600,000 project being delivered the Grand Pier, Royal Hotel, Weston in partnership with organisations, Museum and the HSBC building. including North Somerset Council.
Deborah Williams, from Historic Cara MacMahon, North Somerset England, said: “We are delighted that Council’s Heritage Action Zone project Mike Gallop, director of route asset the station has been listed. officer, said: “Stations are so important management at Network Rail, added: because they are often the first “We are delighted Weston-super- “This iconic building is a good architectural experience visitors have Mare has been granted listed status. example of a later phase of railway when approaching towns and cities. construction and is interesting “The new title reflects the iconic because of its role in the development “The station offers the first welcome building’s impressive architecture and of Weston as a seaside destination. to Weston and gives a taste of the the historical interest in the station.” architectural delights that await.”
18 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Weston Vision Late-night craft fair a huge success Independent and creative The Stable manager Kerry O’Neill craftspeople showcased their said: “It was a fantastic event, homemade goods at a new market and great to host so many local in Weston-super-Mare last month. producers.
There were more than 30 stalls to “We were delighted to welcome browse through at the first Stalls @ local customers who came along to The Stable late-night shopping event, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and which took place at the co-working take home locally-inspired gifts.” hub in Wadham Street. The Stable offers hot-desking and Items on offer included jewellery, co-working space, business facilities, driftwood sculptures, tweed and meeting and event space. leather bags, children’s books, Time-based memberships are festive treats and cakes, and felt and available for those in the creative, merino wool creations. digital and technology industries, Jo Green, from Creations by Fina, and event and meeting room hire is said: “The event was full of festive available to everyone including non- Cake Babe Laurie Malyon cheer and was an incredible members. evening shared by all.
“The venue was perfect for For more information visit www.thestableweston.com or call showcasing some of North 01934 315 305 f @thestableweston i@thestableweston Somerset’s best creatives.” Get a ‘pizza’ the action Pizza fans now have somewhere pizza to Weston-super-Mare, and to new to a get a slice of the action be at the helm of such a great team.” after Dolphin Square’s second restaurant opened its doors. Artwork around the restaurant includes vintage seaside posters, PizzaExpress opened at the end of postcards and photos. There are also November and has brought 30 jobs timber beach hut frames and booth to the town. seating which provide private dining spaces. The 127-seater restaurant has been designed with a modern twist and A high-level rope feature zig draws heavy inspiration from the zags across the ceiling, pier and beach. while birch ply and grey stained timber Restaurant manager Kirsty Sims have been used in said: “I am incredibly excited to the panelling and be bringing the nation’s best-loved flooring.
For more information about Weston-super-Mare’s regeneration visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/weston
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 19 Growth Tourist attraction scoops award for sustainability
Nestled in the North Somerset countryside is a family attraction which is winning awards for its sustainable ethos.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, in Wraxall, Two South African white rhinos arrived The zoo is set in 100 acres of scooped two gold awards at the 2017 in 2005, Rumba and Rumbull, the first countryside and works hard to Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism big zoo animals. preserve its natural environment. Awards in November, for sustainable There is a conservation tourism and outstanding customer area within the grounds, service. with native wildlife habitats Successful businesses in these awards including bug hotels, bat will now be fast-tracked to the South boxes and a variety of West Tourism Excellence Awards in plant species. February, and then possibly the national Visit England awards later in the year.
The zoo also currently holds gold in the Green Tourism Business Scheme, and the Innovation Award (for Over the next few years, giraffes, innovations in sustainability) from the gibbons, tigers and lions arrived, and National Farm Attractions Network. then the largest elephant enclosure in Curator Chris Wilkinson said: the UK opened there in 2014. “We are all thrilled to have won these The zoo has continued to grow and two most recent awards.” in 2016 Spectacled Bears arrived, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm was built on followed by Aldabra Giant Tortoises at the site of Moat House Farm, a listed the start of 2017. 17th century farm house with a moat. It now has more than 200,000 visitors It started as a small petting zoo and a year. had its first full season in 1999 with just over 20,000 visitors.
20 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Growth Tourist attraction scoops award for sustainability
“We want to encourage a love of nature in everyone, no matter what their age.”
This area is used by the education Education co-ordinator Paula Takle trade and rainwater is collected from team for activities such as pond said: “We are hugely devoted to the roofs of animal enclosures and dipping and bird surveys. teaching the next generation how to pumped into the pools and streams of care for the natural world and what the enclosures. The largest hedge maze in the UK they can do to live sustainably. can also be found here, created from Any surplus rainwater is then passed 3.2km of beech trees and providing a “We want to encourage a love of through a recycling system to be used habitat for badgers, birds and insects. nature in everyone, no matter what again around the rest of the zoo. their age.” Dirty water is used to feed the roots The zoo was awarded a Learning of a willow plantation and circulated Outside The Classroom award in through a reed bed, which acts as 2016 for its innovative teaching a filter so the water can be recycled methods. again.
It hosts popular conservation events Chris said: “The animal keepers and there is now a permanent often use waste products from local education trail for families and schools businesses too, such as Christmas trees to complete. from local garden centres, waste fruit and vegetables, waste meat, coffee The zoo is also dedicated to sacks and empty carpet tubes.” generating as much of its own energy as possible and a third of its energy Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is currently comes from renewable resources such working on updating its facilities and as a wind turbine, biomass boilers improving accessibility, and is in and solar panels. the process of building a new tapir, capybara and mara house. The 200kw biomass boilers use leftover woodchips from the timber www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 21 www.travelwest.info
Help keep your new bike safe
New bikes are popular More tips to keep Christmas presents so if you’ve got a shiny new your bike safe cycle then you’ll want to Always keep your bike locked, even look after it. if only for a few seconds. Use good quality locks and ideally It only takes a few seconds to spot an more than one kind, as thieves need Get your bike unlocked bike and steal it so North more tools to steal it. Somerset Council is giving residents marked for free the chance to get their bicycle marked Lock your bike through both the and its details registered on the national wheel and frame to an immovable Visit these train stations, from 3-6pm: cycle database used by police. object, such as a bike rack, lampost � Tuesday 16 January or tree, in a place Nailsea and Backwell A series of events will take place that is well-lit, in view this month and bike safety kits, of others and CCTV � Wednesday 17 January which usually retail for £19.99, will cameras. Worle be available for free thanks to the Department for Transport’s Access Remove accessories � Thursday 18 January Fund for Sustainable Travel. such as water bottle, saddle, lights, Weston-super-Mare pump and saddlebag that could The Bike Register works in partnership potentially attract thieves. Travelwest advisors will also be on with all UK police forces and works to hand to talk about local cycle routes. deter cycle thieves and reunite stolen Vary your routine by locking the Find out more about free adult cycle bikes with their owners. bike in different ways and places. training and the council’s Borrow a Bike scheme. Bikes are given a permanent ID etch If your bike is kept in a shed, make and a tamper-proof sticker, to warn sure it is secure with good quality potential thieves that the bike is locks, the windows covered and an registered. alarm set.
For more information visit www.bikeregister.com or www.betterbybike.info
22 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Take time out
Weston’s first Literary Festival next month Best-selling local authors will be giving an insight into their work during Weston-super-Mare’s first Literary Festival next month. Spoken word sessions The free festival, organised by Weston Town Council, takes place at venues around come to North Somerset the town from Thursday 22 February to Thursday Well-crafted words connect to the Heidi said: “People who aren’t 1 March. brain and heart and have the power in full-time employment often miss As well as the line-up of to heal, delight, entertain and interpersonal connections. local authors, there will be talks, persuade. “They might be working from home, workshops, panel discussions and Just sitting and listening can improve self-employed, retired or parents an anthology reading. your wellbeing so a new event has working part-time. Visiting authors include gritty launched in North Somerset to inspire “Life can be choppy or even boring contemporary fiction writer Amanda people with words. and it’s hard to connect with what is Prowse, best-selling fiction writer The Spoken Word Café, at Yatton really important to you.” Jeffrey Archer, local fiction writer library, is the brainchild of Heidi Damien Boyd, and children’s author Heidi provides some materials, Hollis, a former principal of Huw Powell. including poems, books, speeches Stagecoach Performing Arts schools. and other published material, but Panel discussions will be It takes place monthly and is open to people can also bring their own. about the romance genre anyone not in full-time employment. and do-it-yourself publishing. The next event takes place from 11am People are invited to read aloud, or to 12.30pm, on Tuesday 16 January. Workshops will be about have read on their behalf, something creative writing, the process No-one will be asked to read aloud if that strikes a chord with them. of writing and story they don’t want to. construction. A children’s trail will also run around For more information contact Heidi: 07778 683 594 the town centre from Monday or [email protected] 12 February to Thursday 1 March. f search for ‘Spoken Word Cafe – North Somerset’ www.wsm-tc.gov.uk f /westonlitfest
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 23 Take time out – Walk A winter wander around Weston-super-Mare
Stunning Victorian architecture can be spotted all around Weston-super-Mare’s town centre.
Take this short walk – developed in partnership with Weston Civic Society and the Health Walks initiative – to spot some of the highlights.
This is the first in a series of walks to explore Weston’s history, as part of the Heritage Action Zone project.
Begin the walk at the Grade II-listed 1897 by Hans Price as Weston’s first Weston-super-Mare train station – ‘board school’. opened in 1884 on a new loop Turn right past the Italianate Town which replaced the 1841 branch Hall, opened in 1859, extended by line. Brunel’s Grade II-listed signal Walk information Price in 1897, further extended in box is in the adjacent car park as a ‘Post Office Georgian’ in 1927, and Distance: reminder of this previous trackway. about 1.4 miles the brick wing added in 1980. From the station, go over the zebra Walking towards Regent Street you Difficulty: crossing onto Station Road, past a pass The Centre, a row of recently easy – a level walk on pavements. row of 1930s Art Deco houses on repainted Art Deco shops and Wheelchair, pushchair and dog your left, and past local architect apartments, finishing with Cecil friendly Hans Fowler Price’s French-style Howitt’s modernist 1935 Odeon depository, now Nightingale’s Duration: cinema. about 90 minutes at a leisurely storage facility. Opposite the Odeon, is Alexandra pace Behind the 20-metre Pennant and Parade, an elongated open space Ham stone tower of Victoria Methodist previously known as The Plantation. Church is the 190-year-old Whitecross How to get there Lodge, former home of Richard This is where Weston’s first train station opened in 1841. The scale By car: Weston train station car Parsley who built Weston’s first hotel. replica locomotive North Star, park You then pass the 1934 former installed in 2006, commemorates magistrates’ court, most recently used By bus: 3, 20,103, 7,105 (Town the 200th anniversary of Isambard as a television drama location. Hall) 16 (Station Road) Kingdom Brunel’s birth. At the roundabout look left towards By train: Weston-super-Mare train The original train station is now the Walliscote Primary School, built in station Tavern Inn the Town pub.
24 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Take time out – Walk
What is an Historic Action Zone? The history and heritage of Weston-super-Mare is being preserved and enhanced thanks to the town being awarded Heritage Action Zone status by Historic England.
North Somerset Council START/FINISH successfully bid for £600,000 of funding which will be used over the next three years to develop initiatives which will help encourage people to understand more about the historic gems in
the town. © Crown copyright and database rights 2018 Ordnance Survey 100023397. You are not permitted to copy, sub- license, distribute or sell this data to third parties in any form. From here head towards Big Lamp Corner and Silica, a piece of public Turn right into Waterloo Street and art designed by Wolfgang Buttress in the Boulevard. The Mercury office 2006. and adjacent buildings, together From here you can see several with the Constitutional Club (former impressive buildings, particularly Masonic Lodge of St Kew), and row Costa Coffee (can you spot the of shops, are all by Hans Price in the elephants?) and HSBC bank. 1880s. As you walk along High Street, look Turn next right into Orchard Street, a up above shop level at the variety of busy road of independent businesses windows, carvings and other details. including a chocolatier, florist, Asian and East European food stores and At the far end, the newly refurbished restaurants, crafts shops and dress Italian Gardens provides a spot to shops. In adjacent Burlington Street sit and relax among the classical is Weston Museum, refurbished and balustrading, fountains and lawns. reopened last year. The independent Spot the 1807 Royal and the retailers extend into Meadow Street Imperial (formerly Bath) – Weston’s as well. first two hotels. Also SASS bar, an At the end of Orchard Street you 1860s former bank in Florentine will find yourself back in Alexandra palazzo style; the new University Parade, where you can retrace your Centre at the Winter Gardens; steps back to the train station. and the 1992 Sovereign Shopping Centre.
A more detailed version of this walk is available as a PDF. Visit www.discovernorthsomerset.co.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 25 Take time out
LOCAL EVENTS HEALTH AND FITNESS January Mondays Thursday 18 Stroke Communication Group North Somerset Rural (E) 10am, Summer Lane Business Forum 7.30pm, Care Home, Diamond Batch. Mendip Spring Golf Club, 01275 870 328 Congresbury. Speaker Jacqui Mills from Bristol Airport. Positive Step Coffee Morning Annual membership £25, (2) 10am-noon, Locking Non-members £10 per Castle Church Hall, Jasmine meeting, including a light Way. www.positivestep.org.uk supper. Arthritis Care Weston Branch [email protected] (2) 2pm, St Saviours Hall, Yatton Horticultural Society Locking Rd. 01934 622 808 8pm, Yatton Bowling Club. Fibromyalgia Group (2) Talk is by Mark Bullen, 2pm, Purple Sheep Centre, Fungi in Fact and Fiction. Hughenden Rd, Weston. 01934 834 889 01934 413 868 Croquet Club (E, and Weds Friday 19 Weston Macular Support Nailsea and Backwell Upfront Friends (4) 7.30pm, and Fri, April-Oct) 2-4pm, Group (2) 2pm Diabetes Support Group (2) Royal Hotel, South Parade, Blazing Flame Quintet 8pm, Clarence Park East Lauriston Hotel, Weston 7-9pm, Methodist Church Weston. For breast cancer Theatre Shop, Clevedon. A Weston. Just turn up or call 01934 516 627 Hall, Silver Street, Nailsea. sufferers, survivors and highly-acclaimed jazz quintet. 01934 413 515 Cancer Rehabilitation class (E) [email protected] friends www.ticketsource.co.uk/ clarenceparkcroquet@ 2-3pm, Hutton Moor leisure Bogs of Somerset Hash House 01934 815 446 (call first in theatreshop Gmail.com centre, Weston. Harriers (E) 7.15pm, various case venue is changed) Friday 19 – Saturday 20 Qigong (E) 7.30-9pm, 07899 754 937 locations. See South Avon Canoe Club Mother Goose, performed Locking Village Hall. Cancer Rehabilitation class (E) www.bristolhash.org.uk/bogs (E, Oct-March) 8.15-10pm, by the Playhouse Theatre 07913 922 063 3-4pm, Hands Stadium 079 6649 5086 or Churchill Swimming Pool. Company 7.30pm (and Sat [email protected] Davis Lane, Clevedon. £1.50 01275 874 671 Kit provided All are welcome. matinee), Backwell Playhouse. Tuesdays per class. 07800 743 305 Thursdays [email protected] £12. 01275 462 621. www.sacc.co.uk Western Active Stroke Group Nailsea and District Footpath YouTree Cancer Support www.backwellplayhouse.co.uk (E) 10am, Worlebury Golf Group (E) and Thu (E), Sun Group (E) 10am, Lauriston Fridays Tuesday 23 and Club. 01934 519 266 (2,3), Sat (4). Range of Hotel, Knightstone Rd, Partially Sighted and Blind Wednesday 31 Somerset Cancer Care walking difficulties Weston. 07932 143 452 Club (E) 10.15am-2pm, www.nfpg.org.uk or Open auditions for the Shell Support Group (E) 10am, FUCHSIA Cancer Support Pembroke Court, Elton Rd, 01275 810 067 Seekers, by the Portishead Summer Lane Care Home, Group (E) 10am, Night Jar Clevedon. 01275 219 730 Players. 7.30pm Diamond Batch. Bipolar UK (2) 7.30pm, pub, Worle. 07896 699 627 Long Ashton Bowling Club FRIEND, Oxford Street, the Folk Hall, Portishead. 0800 731 4608 Friendship Group (E) (E, April-Sept) 6pm Weston. 0845 434 9915 www.portishead-players.org.uk Dance fitness (E) 10am, 10am-noon, Worlebury Community Centre, Clevedon Triangle Club. £4. Tuesday Badminton club Golf Club. For people with Keedwell Hill, Long Ashton. February 01275 544 472 (E, term time) 8-10pm, long-term illness, carers also No previous experience Broadoak School, Weston necessary. 01275 853 885 Thursday 1 Walking Football (E) welcome. 01934 823 415 10-11am, Weston Football [email protected] Portishead Stroke Drop-In Tanyalee Davis at Weston Walking Football (E) Club. £2 per session. Centre (1) 10.30am Comedy Club 8pm Wednesdays 10.30-11.30am 07970 681 178 Hand Stadium, Clevedon. Clarence House, High Street Blakehay Theatre. £10/£12 Ashcombe Park Bowling 01275 818 492 01934 645 493 Golden Oldies sing and Club (E)(and Sat) 10am-noon 01275 878 052 www.blakehaytheatre.co.uk stretch classes. Venues Ashcombe Park, Weston Parkinson’s UK Weston Saturdays in Clevedon, Portishead, 01934 522 779 Branch (1) 2.30pm Saturday 3 Parkinson’s UK North West Weston, Pill and Nailsea. Stroke Communication Group St Saviour’s Hall, Locking Rd Somerset branch meeting (2) Quiz Night 7.30pm, Long 01761 470 006 (A) 10am, Methodist Church 01934 813 547/625 633 10.30am-12.15pm Ashton Community Centre. www.golden-oldies.org.uk Hall, Silver Street, Nailsea Portishead Macular Help St Francis Church Hall, Organised by Long Ashton Stroke Group (E) noon, 01275 870 328 Group (4) 2.30pm, Folk Hall Nailsea. 01275 855 524 Community Association. £7. Parish Wharf Leisure Centre, 01275 845 238 01275 393 570 or Women’s Action Group Stay steady classes Portishead. 07899 754 937 [email protected] (WAGS) 12.30-2pm Weston Osteoporosis Support Age UK Somerset runs classes Fibro Friends WSM – 35 Boulevard. Weston Group Meets 5 times a year across the area for anyone Thursday 15 Fibromyalgia and Chronic Women-only group for those (March, May, July, September aged 50 and over, including North Somerset Rural Fatigue Support Group (2) who need help with addiction. and November), in the Lecture Movement to Music, seated Business Forum 7.30pm, 11am, 1 in 4 People 01934 427 940 Theatre, The Academy, yoga, Stretch and Flex, Tai Mendip Spring Golf Club, Chi, Boccia, and chair-based Oxford Street, Weston NHS Stop Smoking Café (E) Weston General Hospital. Congresbury. Speaker Mark Flexercise sessions. www.fibrofriendswsm.co.uk 6pm, Tesco café, Weston Information about local Suthern from Barclays Bank. Classes cater for all abilities. To EXTEND Movement to Music 01275 546 744 services and practical matters Annual membership £25, for people with osteoporosis. view the whole programme visit for over-60s (E) noon-1pm, Weston Area National Non-members £10 per Clevedon Baptist Church Hall. 01934 415 096 www.ageuksomerset.org.uk/ Rheumatoid Arthritis Society somerset or contact Nikki Smith meeting, including a light (also every Weds, 10.30am [email protected] supper. (2) 6.30-8.30pm on 07530 777 895 or at Pill Community Centre). £4 Diabetes UK (Weston) (1) [email protected] The Campus, Locking Castle, nikki.smith@ per session. 07530 777 895 7.30pm, Waverley Suite, Weston. www.nras.org.uk ageuksomerset.org.uk Stroke rehabilitation class (E) 01934 620 583 Weston Hospital Academy 12.30-1.30pm, Hutton Moor [also – quiz night (2) Social leisure centre, Weston. Club, Devonshire Road] 07919 532 960 01934 628 985 KEY: (E) Every • (A) Alternate • (1) First • (2) Second • (3) Third • (4) Fourth • (L) Last
26 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Take time out
MUSIC Portishead Community Choir Lions Brass 4 Youth (E) (E) 8-9.30pm, Avon Way 5.30pm/6.15-7.45pm, 1st Mondays Hall, Portishead. £5 per Clevedon Scout Hall. County session or £4 if paying for brass band. 07815 733 886 Portishead in Harmony a term. Free taster session. (E)(women only) Weston Youth Orchestra (E) www.wendysergeant.vpweb. 10.30am-12pm, The Folk 6-7pm (8-12 yrs), 7-9pm co.uk, 01275 814 220 Hall, Portishead High Street. (12-20 yrs). Boulevard United £5 per session Thursdays Reformed Church, Weston. 01934 622 519 or www.wendysergeant.vpweb.co.uk Music Is Fun (E)(babies, Portishead Rock Choir Congresbury Singers (E) 07787 520 230 01275 814 220 toddlers and pre-schoolers) (E, term time only) 7.30pm, 7.50pm, Old School Rooms, Clevedon A Cappella (E) Methodist Church, Nailsea. Male Choir (E) 7.30-9pm, Gordano School canteen Congresbury (women only) 1.15-2.45pm, 30 min session £3, 40 min Victoria Methodist Hall, St Mary’s Road 01934 876 104 Kenn Road Methodist Church, session £3.40. Weston. 01934 529 728 www.rockchoir.com Clevedon. £5 per session Samba Drumming (E) 07722 298 550, North Somerset Community www.wendysergeant.vpweb.co.uk Waves of Harmony (E) 8-10pm, All Saint’s Church [email protected] Brass Band (E) 7.30-9.30pm, 7.30pm, Victoria Methodist Hall, All Saint’s Lane, Clevedon 01275 814 220 Singing Mums Choir (E) Puxton and Hewish Village Church Hall, Station Road, Beginners welcome, £6 with Afternoon singing group 7.10-8.10pm, Nailsea Hall. 01275 397 582 Weston. Women’s 4-part free taster session. (fortnightly) 2-4pm, St Jude’s School. £4 per session. acapella group. 01275 545 714 Congresbury Brass Band Hall, St Peter’s Church 07722 298 550, 01934 643 823 (E) 7.30-9.30pm, Methodist Baytree Road, Worle Weston Brass Band [email protected] Church Hall, Congresbury. www.wavesofharmony.co.uk (E)(and Thu) 8pm, Church 01934 413 571 The Baytree Singers (E) 01275 849 611 / Cheddar Male Choir (E) Road Methodist Church, Mixed Company Community 7.30-9.30pm, St Jude’s Hall 07986 007 829 7.30pm, Draycott Village Hall Upper Church Road, Weston Choir (E) 7.30-9.30pm, St Peter’s Church New members welcome. 01934 842 461 Clevedon Gilbert and Sullivan Golden Valley Primary Baytree Road, Worle www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk Society (E) 7.30-10pm, School, Nailsea. £6 per Nailsea Folk Club (2) Grove No experience necessary. St Peter’s Church Hall, Winscombe Community Choir Sports Centre, Nailsea. (4) session with free taster Portishead Choral Society (E) Alexandra Road, Clevedon. (E) 7.30pm, Winscombe Prince of Orange Inn, Yatton. Clevedon Choral Society (E) 7.45pm, The Folk Hall New members welcome. Primary School, Moorham All musicians and singers 7.15 pm, Methodist Church High Street, Portishead 01934 838 713 Road. www. welcome. 01275 857 784 Hall, Kenn Road, Clevedon. 01275 849 278 winscombecommunitychoir. Nailsea Concert Orchestra www.clevedonchoralsociety.org.uk Wednesdays org.uk Cantiamo Ladies Choir (E)(term time only) 7.30pm, Weston Rock Choir Clevedon Ladies Choir (A)(grade 8+ musicians Nailsea Methodist Church. Campus Choir (E) 7.30-9pm, (E, term time only) 7.30pm, (E)(September-June) only) 8.15-9.30pm, www.nailseaconcertorchestra.org The Campus, Locking Castle, Vintage Church, Hughenden 2.15-3.30pm, St Peter’s Nailsea School. £5 per Weston 01934 832 283 West Mendip Orchestra (E) Road. www.rockchoir.com Church Hall, Alexandra session. 07722 298 550, www.singoutlouduk.com (term time only) 7.45-10pm, Clevedon Light Opera Club Road. £25 per year [email protected] Lynch Chapel, Winscombe. Weston Choral Society (E) (E) 7.30pm (Juniors Thu 7pm) 01275 874 109 Weston Organ and Keyboard 01275 463 480 (term time only) 7.30pm, Princes Hall [email protected] Club (1) 7.30pm Milton Methodist Church Hall, Harmony Plus Brass (E) Clevedon Community Centre. Highly Strung Community Somerset Suite, Weston Milton Hill, Weston 7.45pm, Emmanuel Church, 01275 791 556 Band (E) 6.30-9.30pm. Football Club. £5 members, 01934 813 255 Weston. 01934 629 112 Vocalise Choir (E) Folk/country music. www. £6 non-members. Clevedon Music Club (3) Nailsea Theatre Club (E) 8pm, 7.30-9.30pm, United Reform highlystrungcommunityband. 01934 812 759 7.30pm, Community Centre, Nailsea Little Theatre, Union Church, Waterloo Street, co.uk 01275 847 909 Worle Community Choir Princes Road. Classical Street. 01275 852 275 Weston. £5 inc refreshments. Nailsea Rock Choir (E) 7.30pm, Becket Primary concerts by professional (Box office: 07772 981 037) 01934 627 709 (E, term time only) 7.30pm, School, Tavistock Road, musicians. £8 per concert on Southfield Church, Southfield Worle. New members Saturdays Clevedon Players (and Wed, the door. 01275 879 099 Fri)(leading up to a play) Road. www.rockchoir.com welcome. 07972 909 939 Pret A Chanter Ladies Choir Nailsea Choral Society (E) 7.30-10pm, the Stables, Weston Music Appreciation Muskrats Jazz Band (1) (A) 9.30-11.30am, Southfield 7.30pm, Vestry Hall behind Princes Hall, Princes Society (A) 7.30pm 8.30pm, Clarence House, Church, Nailsea. £8 per Christ Church, Nailsea. Road, Clevedon St Jude’s Hall, Baytree Road High Street, Portishead. session. 07722 298 550 01275 875 533 01275 853 975 01934 814 752 £3. Bar and dancing, all [email protected] www.nailseachoral.org.uk RAFA Concert Band (E) 8pm, Somerset Singers (E) 7.30pm, welcome. 01275 814 434 Cadbury Saxophone Band Trinity Singers (E) 7.30pm, Victoria Methodist Church Meeting House, Sidcot School Traditional jazz night (2) (A) 10.15am-12.30pm in Churchill Primary School, Hall, Station Road Sidcot 01934 743 965 8.30pm, Salthouse pub, Cleeve/Yatton Pudding Pie Lane, Langford. Weston Clevedon. Resident band, the 01934 830 072 or www.trinitysingers.co.uk Yatton Ladies Choir (E) www.rafaconcertband.org.uk Dixieland Rascals. Free entry www.cadburysaxband.co.uk 01934 415 301 7.30-8.30pm 01934 820 205 Yatton Infants School. £4 per Fridays Sundays Tra La Community Choir Footlights Community Choir session. 07722 298 550, Barley Rye choir (E) (A) 7.30pm, Club Room, Singtastics Junior Choir (E) 8-9:30pm, Community Hall, [email protected] 6.30-8.30pm (winter) 7-9pm Community Centre, Long (Y3-Y7) 3.40-4.30pm, Trinity School, Portishead. No (summer), Ring o’ Bells, Ashton. 07932 623 672 Harmony Plus Choir (E) Hannah More School, experience necessary. 7.45-9pm Nailsea. £3 per session. Nailsea. New members Portishead Town Band (E) Tuesdays Emmanuel Church, Weston 07722 298 550, welcome. 01454 411 052 7.45pm, Methodist Church 01934 629 112 [email protected] Cadbury Wind Band (E)(term Hall, High Street time only) 7.15-9.15pm, New players welcome. Footlights Community Choir Yatton Rugby Football Club. 07816 544 474 7.45-9.15pm 01275 792 300 01275 818 575 Community Entrance, Nailsea School, Mizzymead Road. Lyrical Ladies Choir (E) Pill Community Choir (E) No experience necessary. 7.20-8.20pm 7.45-9.15pm, Pill Community 07818 065 015 Nailsea School. £4 per Centre. £5 per session or £4 [email protected] session. 07722 298 550 if paying for a term [email protected] Free taster session www.wendysergeant.vpweb.co.uk 01275 814 220
KEY: (E) Every • (A) Alternate • (1) First • (2) Second • (3) Third • (4) Fourth • (L) Last
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 27 Establishing a safe space for everyone
Evening and night-time Highlights of the past year include... visitors to Weston-super- l there are currently no licensed At the northern end of the High Mare’s town centre can premises rated red or amber Street, pedestrian links between the be confident they are in (poorly managed/raising Italian Gardens, seafront and High concerns) under the licensed Street have been enhanced to create safe hands once the sun premises ‘traffic light’ scheme. a Continental-style square which is goes down. This is opposed to 15 identified being used day and night throughout when the scheme began in 2015 the year. The town centre has received the l figures from January to State-of-the-art lighting at ground prestigious Purple Flag award for September last year showed a level, and an illuminated water the last two years and work is 12 per cent reduction in crime feature, have been incorporated into continually being done to improve and disorder compared to the the design to create a stimulating, even further. previous year, the third year in a safe and accessible environment. The Purple Flag standard, launched row it’s fallen A stage is also built into the design in 2012, is an accreditation process l an average of between four and has been used for a range of similar to the Green Flag award for and eight people are treated musical and perfomance events. parks and the Blue Flag for beaches. on MAVISbus each night it is Weston town centre and BID It allows members of the public to out, reducing the strain on other manager Steve Townsend said: identify town and city centres that emergency services. “We have been able to work offer an entertaining, diverse, safe Howard Pothecary North Somerset in partnership to ensure that and enjoyable night out. Council’s community safety manager, the regeneration improves the A joint submission said: “We want to provide a experience of any visitor during the by North safe, enjoyable and friendly evening or night-time.” Somerset evening and night-time Last summer the distinctive purple Council, Avon economy for everyone, MAVISbus (multi-agency vehicle in and Somerset while promoting good service) was out every Saturday Police and trade and tourism and night from April to September, thanks the Weston reducing demand on to a group of volunteers from St John Business police and clinical Ambulance. Improvement services.” District (BID) The town centre has Throughout the winter it continues to has now been undergone dramatic be out for all Saturdays after pay-day made to retain the regeneration in the past year, and other Saturday nights when high flag for a third year. with the Italian Gardens refurbished demand is anticipated. and Dolphin Square opening.
28 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February The Safer Stronger Communities bus provides a platform for agencies to offer immediate, highly-visible assistance and a safe place to vulnerable people.
It is used by the police, ambulance, street wardens, street pastors, council licensing officers and other local agencies after dark to offer general help to visitors to the town.
Howard said: “Feedback from all staff and users is incredibly positive.
“It has become somewhere for orders (PSPOs), to deter individuals can help someone get out of a difficult vulnerable people to stay safe or or groups across North Somerset situation if needed. receive treatment, somewhere for committing anti-social behaviour in all agencies to work from and share Age-appropriate training and public places. information in the heart of town and education is also being held at local also a highly visible deterrent to those Howard said: “The PSPOs will allow schools and Weston College, as well looking to cause trouble.” us to deal with anti-social behaviour as bystander awareness training. both day and night more effectively Work has also been done to improve As well as this, a campaign to and will benefit residents, businesses the perception of Weston town centre. ensure zero-tolerance for hate crime and their customers by making North in the town after dark is also being High-visibility policing continues every Somerset a desirable place to live, launched, with awareness raising weekend and the police are using a visit and work.” around what constitutes a hate crime new zoning system, allowing a pair An initiative to improve sexual and what to do if you are a victim or of officers to have responsibility for behaviour has also been implemented, see an incident take place. certain areas. with the police working in partnership This is a joint project being led by Multi-agency nights of action continue with Pub Watch, Weston Area North Somerset Council, Avon and each payday weekend using MAVIS Health NHS Trust, Weston College, Somerset Police and local hate crime bus as a hub and have included in local schools and taxi companies to charity Stand Against Racism and the past year use of a drugs itemiser, implement a range of initiatives. Inequality (SARI). drugs dog, checks on door security These include raising awareness and trading standards dip-testing. It will include targeted communications about what constitutes sexual assault and awareness for people working in Anti-social, behaviour is being tackled and an ‘Ask for Angela’ code-word and using the night-time economy. by the new public space protection campaign, so bars, clubs and taxis
f /SaferStrongerNS l @SaferStrongerNS
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 29 Investment in roads Plans to cut congestion into Portishead
Congestion is set to be eased and travel times reduced around Portishead thanks to millions of pounds of funding for new road schemes.
£2.8m has been allocated for heading into the town, which impacts improvements to Junction 19 of the on the already jammed motorway. Increasing M5 and to increase capacity along Wyndham Way, one of the main “As well as the obvious frustrations capacity roads heading into the town. and delays this causes to motorists, it also poses a road safety issue as To improve traffic flow heading This government funding was traffic stacks up on the M5. towards Portishead, plans will announced last March by transport see the A369 Wyndham Way secretary Chris Grayling. “Our investigations with being widened and a second lane installed, between its junctions Highways England have North Somerset Council is now with the Sheepway and ‘sail’ delivering the Wyndham Way scheme shown that congestion on roundabouts. on behalf of Highways England. the motorway is partly due Some minor changes would also Officers from North Somerset Council to the limited capacity of be needed at each roundabout to have been working with Highways accommodate an extra lane. The England – who are responsible the A369 Wyndham Way. outbound road would remain a for maintaining motorways and single carriageway. “Working together, we’ve identified trunk roads – to look at how the a package of improvements which congestion could be relieved. will reduce congestion and improve road safety on the motorway.” Colin Medus, North Somerset Council’s head of highways and transport, said: “There are well known congestion problems on the M5 southbound, heading toward junction 19 for Portishead, during the afternoon and evening rush hour.
“There’s also a congestion problem on our road network for traffic
30 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Investment in roads
The council will also continue to work with Highways England to study options for improving capacity for traffic exiting junction 19 onto the Portbury Hundred.
The ecology of the area will be taken into consideration during the design process and any trees or hedges that have to be removed for the road to be widened will be replaced. Adding an extra lane will increase the “This scheme is about creating amount of traffic the road can take additional capacity for traffic that’s Engineers working on the scheme will heading into town, so therefore lessen already on the roads heading into also liaise with the council’s integrated the amount of traffic queuing back onto Portishead – helping to alleviate transport unit about the two bus stops the M5 southbound at junction 19. congestion on the Portbury Hundred on the road and whether these need and ultimately the motorway – to be upgraded. Traffic modelling carried out by the rather than moving the problem to Two pedestrian crossings will likely be council has shown that for traffic elsewhere on our road network.” heading onto the ‘sail’ roundabout upgraded to toucan crossings, for use from Wyndham Way, the levels of The cost of the Wyndham Way by pedestrians and cyclists. traffic exiting onto Wyndham Way scheme is an estimated £1m – Some activity is already taking place towards the High Street, and that with the money coming from the on site with council officers surveying exiting onto Quays Avenue, is about funding already announced by the the trees, hedges, drainage network the same. Department for Transport. and other features that are on, around Colin said: “This indicates that North Somerset Council’s executive or under the road. Wyndham Way is where the members voted to approve the congestion starts to build. scheme in principle at their meeting in December, meaning engineers can now work on finalising the design.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 31 South Bristol Link is celebrating its the team who worked hard to ensure first birthday and the project’s award- this critical piece of infrastructure was winning success is down to the delivered with local communities in mind. partnership working ethos established As a regional business, Griffiths has from the start by all key partners. directly benefited from South Bristol Link.
The major highways project had some It has acted as the catalyst for significant very complex challenges with both growth in the wider South West region, planning and construction but – with a from its regional office based just off the team focused on one goal – they were all new road. overcome. Relationships have also been developed To have this recognised by so many with local suppliers, and also Weston industry bodies on a regional and national College who the company now use to level was the icing on the cake for educate its stars of the future. contractors. Griffiths would particularly like to thank The project was recognised two years in the North Somerset Council Project Team a row by the Considerate Constructors led by Alex Fear for their positive and Scheme – a fantastic achievement for collaborative approach to delivering SBL
www.alungriffiths.co.uk Manage your council tax and benefits online
Join the thousands of people across North Somerset who are managing their council tax and benefits online.
More than 20,000 people receive their council tax bills online and more than 6,000 residents manage their benefit this way.
Doing it online means you can log on and sort your finances at a time that suits you.
It gives you instant access to To receive old bills and also cuts down your council tax bill or on the amount of post you benefit notification letter receive. electronically, register through My Account on the This means the council council’s website. saves postage costs and contributes positively to the Once registered, you can environment. also access many other council services, from waste Because it is more cost and recycling to reporting effective for the council, it issues about local streets, means money can be spent roads or parks. on other services which need it the most.
Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk to register.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 33 Recycling Can you help increase the recycling rate? Increasing recycling rates, reducing waste costs and saving council tax money for other vital services are the key components of a new campaign.
Residents in North Somerset already do a great job at recycling and earlier this financial year the rate reached Did you know? 59.35 per cent for two successive quarters – the best for North Somerset three years. Compared with... Council was This is a fantastic achievement but elsewhere in the country, named the second- the top performing council has a rate of 66 per cent. nd highest performing st 2 local authority 1 So North Somerset Council wants to raise its recycling rate in England and to 60 per cent for the entire year. Wales for its total carbon savings. Keep an eye out for the new recycling campaign and let Cheshire West the council know what you think. and Chester Without the efforts you already put in, the council who save would have to spend more of your council tax money sending recycling to landfill. You make the difference and 108 109 when you recycle – it matters. Opportunities to ... reduce, reuse and recycle every day
Today’s consumer society means that Box 1 Box 2 many more things go in the black waste bin but do you put things in Paper – try to keep paper separate Glass bottles and jars there that could be recycled? from tins and plastic. It can be in a Flattened card Collecting from the kerbside is the separate bag. – (cereal boxes), most economical way to recycle. Metal and plastic food packaging corrugated cardboad, Wash and squash – A quick rinse of (tins, bottles, and clear meat and flattened drink your recycling will keep green boxes containers) – can be co-mingled. If cartons (Tetrapak) free from flies and other pests. you take off the lids, they can be more easily squashed in the trucks. Squashing plastics, tins and cans, Batteries, small electrical items, Need a new or another and flattening cardboard will give recycling box? you more room in your boxes. clothes and shoes, spectacles and mobile phones can be separated in Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/connect Sorted recycling boxes take crews individual bags. to order a new box, food waste caddy, just 20 seconds to process, compared or sign up for the garden waste with more than two minutes if they collection service. have to sort all the different items Please allow four weeks for delivery. themselves.
34 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Recycling Can you help increase the recycling rate?
New Year’s resolution The amount of carbon each person saves is the result Trim your of NorthSomerset’s Carbon Savings divided by the district ‘waste’ line population Can you recycle an extra kilogram of waste each week?
Even a small increase in recycling can entering the atmosphere. That money = make a big difference to the amount could be used to help almost 150 of money the council can save. people with a disability maintain their dignity and ability to live Landfill charges currently cost about independently. £107 per tonne (1,000kg) and in the first quarter of this financial There are about 98,000 households year alone it cost North Somerset in North Somerset so if each households £1.15m. household recycled an extra kilogram each week it would save More ways However, the council estimates that the council nearly £10,500 a week. more than 40 per cent of this landfill waste was actually recyclable. Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/ to recycle recycling to find out more about how Some items cannot be recycled at If this was collected at the kerbside to keep your New Year recycling the kerbside so must be taken to instead, it would save the council resolutions, including an article about one of North Somerset’s household more than £1m a year – and how to save thousands of pounds by waste and recycling centres instead. thousands of kilograms of CO from 2 switching from bottled to tap water. This includes metal hangers, pots and pans, mirrors, plate glass, crockery, picture frames, and hard plastic items such as boxes and children’s toys. Site staff can answer questions about what’s acceptable or help you with your waste disposal if required. www.n-somerset.gov.uk/ recyclingcentres
Share your recycling tips on social media and let the council know what you think of the new campaign. o @ns_recycling • f search for North Somerset Recycling and Waste
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 35 Don’t be embarrassed. Tell everyone. Silence is a scammer’s best friend.
We are #scamaware
aware
Bristol Call 03454 04 05 06 Support for unpaid carers
Carers are people who provide unpaid support to a family member, friend or neighbour who could not manage without their help.
There are more than 22,000 carers A carers’ assessment is carried out to in North Somerset according to the look at how caring impacts on your 2011 census and many find that life and what support may help. providing this care impacts on their Kathryn said: “This is not an own lives in one way or another. assessment of how well you are Carers Support Alliance (CSA) is providing care, but how providing funded by North Somerset Council care impacts on you. and the Clinical Commissioning Group “It looks at what support you may and exists to support carers with the CSA offers information and advice need to take good care of yourself.” challenges they can come across. and can provide practical support to One carer who received support Kathryn Benjamin, from North identify any problems and solutions said: “It’s such a relief to discuss my Somerset Council, said: “Many relating to your caring role. problems in caring for my mother with carers don’t even think about Advisers can help you navigate the someone who understands my difficult being a ‘carer’ but it can be very system and ensure you and the person situation.” common to experience stress and you’re caring for are receiving all the isolation, financial disadvantage and help and support you are entitled to. Carers Support Alliance: deterioration of your own health as a 03000 120 120 (option 3) consequence of your caring role.” www.alliancehomesgroup.org.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 37 Businesses leading employment opportunities for
Alun Davies with disabled people Kirk his guide dog
Businesses in North Somerset are working hard to champion the needs of disabled people and help those furthest from the job market.
Disabled people make up about 18 The council currently employs about cane user for 40 years, has recently per cent of the population so work is 120 disabled people and is now taken on a guide dog, Kirk. being done to encourage and support working with other local businesses Kirk is the first guide dog to be used employers to cater for different needs. to encourage them to be Disability within the council’s offices and is Confident. North Somerset Council recently settling in well. became only the second council in the Alun Davies, who is blind, has worked Alun was allowed time off for the pair country to be awarded ‘Leader’ status for North Somerset Council since 2003. to train together and since then Kirk under the Disability Confident scheme. He helped set up the organisation’s has been welcomed into the office Louise Roberts, equality and diversity disabled staff forum, was its chairman environment. manager at the council, said: “As a for many years, and wrote managers’ Alun “I was a very good white cane local authority, we have a significant guidelines and training with Louise. user but bumping into things does role in championing the employment He said: “Personally, the support I take a toll on your body. While a of disabled people across North have received has been very good. dog wouldn’t necessarily improve my Somerset. Any necessary reasonable adjustments mobility, it means I will hit less things.” “We have worked hard to ensure I have needed to do my job have been Elsewhere in North Somerset, other that our managers are confident to provided.” organisations are running successful employ and support disabled people Alun uses screen reading software on employment programmes. and those with long-term health his computer and, after being a white conditions.”
38 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February westonworks The Richmond Information and advice about job Fellowship hunting is available at a drop-in service in Weston-super-Mare. Mental health charity The Richmond Fellowship, based in westonworks, based in St Clevedon, supports people into Andrew’s Parade, Weston-super- employment. Mare, supports people of all abilities into work, volunteering One person who received help and learning. from the charity is Matt, who has anxiety and depression. It offers one-to-one appointments through its own and partner It took several meetings for Matt to advisers based there. trust his adviser at the charity but after a few weeks started to look forward to the meetings. He joined Tools for Self Reliance, a The Castelan charity which repairs and restores tools for people in Africa and Group passed a multi-trade course at Weston College. Insurance and claims handling business the Castelan Group, Following that he completed a based in Weston-super-Mare, is A work club runs on Thursday self-employment course, began an equal opportunities employer mornings to advertise local volunteering with St Peter’s Hospice and the company is committed vacancies and give people support shops, and got a paid job for 15 to finding the right person for the while they use the computers for hours a week in Portishead. right role within their team. job applications. Matt is now enjoying the job If someone needs additional The organisation also works and hopes to take on some self- support, tailored solutions or with partners to develop pre- employment work in the future to specialist equipment then it will do employment training in confidence increase his income. all it can to provide it. building, customer service and interview skills. The Richmond Fellowship: The organisation employs a 01275 879 468 or number of disabled people who westonworks: www.richmondfellowship.org.uk/ are supported with specialist 01934 426 260 or north-somerset workplace equipment. www.westonworks.org.uk
Job opportunities at North Somerset Council are advertised at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/jobs
Applicants can expect a fully-accessible recruitment process, support to put any required reasonable adjustments in place, an accessible working environment, and on-going support from line managers and HR.
Any businesses interested in signing up to the Disability Confident scheme can find out more at www.gov.uk/government/collections/disability-confident-campaign
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 39 Speak out to remove the stigma of dementia
More than 3,000 people are living with a diagnosis of dementia in North Somerset and a range of support is available for them and their carers. What do I do if I am worried about Dementia is a disease of the brain “I would also become muddled and and not a natural part of ageing so take messages down wrong.” my memory? seeking help early on means you can receive an early diagnosis, benefit Peter now has a stair lift fitted in his Book an appointment with your from medical treatment, live the best home and is taking medication to GP. Many medical conditions quality of life while you can, and slow the rate of deterioration. can affect memory and these develop a support system. need to be diagnosed and Getting diagnosed was a big step treated first. Peter Tullett, from Weston-super- forward and Peter emphasises the Mare, visited the local memory clinic importance of speaking out. Once the doctor has checked about seven years ago as these, they can request an he had mild cognitive He said: “The problem is that assessment from the North problems. individuals might recognise they Somerset Memory Service if have a problem but not want they think dementia could be The 71-year-old to talk about it because of the cause. was diagnosed the shame. with dementia about three “But we do need to talk years ago and about it. You are doing your said: “There are loved ones no favours if you so many different hide it. aspects to dementia. “Once you acknowledge it, you can “It’s not just about memory - my get help.” biggest problem was spatial Peter now gives public talks on the awareness. I would trip and stumble subject and joins a regular online and noticed my driving skills were dementia café where people can chat getting worse. virtually.
40 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February How is dementia What is the difference Some groups provide opportunities for the person living with dementia diagnosed? between dementia and and their carer to attend together. Contact the Alzheimer’s Society on An assessment is carried out by a Alzheimer’s? 0300 1234 589 to find out more. specialist practitioner and you will be referred for a brain scan. You will Dementia describes more than 150 Is daycare available? then have an appointment to discuss conditions which can affect the brain, and Alzheimer’s is one type of the results and what they mean. A safe, relaxed environment is dementia. Others include vascular, offered at Severn Day Centre, in fronto-temporal lobe and Lewy-Body’s Weston-super-Mare. What happens after dementia. diagnosis? Here people can maintain their What support does interests and hobbies and talk openly The Memory Service may offer about how they feel. medication to help and you can the Alzheimer’s Society attend post-diagnostic groups. By It is available for people who have helping you understand the cause, offer? been assessed by North Somerset and likely future changes, it can The Alzheimer’s Society works Council as meeting the adult social support you to deal with things more with people who have all kinds of care eligibility criteria. Contact Care confidently. dementia, giving information and Connect to find out more. support to help people understand This can help with understanding and dementia, cope with day-to-day finding ways to manage the impact It’s getting difficult to challenges and prepare for the on your daily life. You will also be future. prepare food. offered a referral to the Alzheimer’s Society. It also runs a number of services The community meals on wheels including activity groups, coffee service can provide a daily hot Information and advice is provided morning, befriending and Singing for dinner and/or teatime meal, along to carers and family if needed. the Brain. with a welfare check. Contact Signposting and referrals may be 01275 882 867. made to other organisations which might be helpful to you and your family. For information and advice about the condition contact the Alzheimer’s Society: 0300 1234 589 www.alzheimers.org.uk If you are a carer who would like support, contact Carers Support Alliance: 03000 120 120 (option 3) www.alliancehomesgroup.org.uk www.n-somerset.gov.uk/adults Care Connect: 01275 888 801
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 41 Maintaining churchyards for future generations Churches are one of the focal points of town and village life and provide a glimpse into life gone by.
Some churchyards are ‘closed’, which Church wardens and Memorials are also installed means the responsibility for future council officers are working in many churches to maintenance, including boundary together to improve the remember the fallen of the walls, is transferred from the church to appearance and state of two world wars. the local authority. these churchyards and ensure they survive for North Somerset Council is North Somerset Council is responsible centuries to come. now working closely with for 21 closed churchyards around the town and parish councils to area as part of its contract with Dignity, Andrew Ballentine, leisure mark the centenary of the end which runs Weston-super-Mare’s and culture officer at North of the First World War. crematorium. Somerset Council, said: “Many of these churches are listed buildings It wants to compile a complete record These range from St Michael’s church with significant historical links and of all servicemen who died during the in Dundry, which was used as a their churchyards are a great place First World War and plans are being beacon for ships entering Bristol, to the for family historians to visit while made about how this history can be Old Church of St Nicholas in Uphill, undertaking genealogy studies.” showcased in the coming year. which dates from about 1080.
If anyone has any information about service personnel who died in the First World War, or has family history connected to it, email [email protected]
For more information about closed churchyards email [email protected]
42 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Roman pottery discovered in North Somerset
Remnants of a thriving Roman pottery industry and even some hobnail boots have been uncovered during archaeological excavations in North Somerset.
The discoveries were made as part of infrastructure work for the Southern Strategic Support Main, a new 31km water pipeline running from Barrow Gurney to Cheddar.
This major infrastructure project, constructed by Kier Group on behalf of Bristol Water, was subject to A Roman burial with An archaeologist An almost complete archaeological investigation by Wessex hobnails excavating the kiln Congresbury Grey Ware Archaeology and a variety of features tankard from the Bronze Age to Romano-British North Somerset Council’s Cat said: “One of the most interesting period were discovered. archaeologist Cat Lodge said: finds was a burial, found face-down Many of these finds were ditches with the hobnails from his boots still relating to field systems but three “This is the first of its type intact in the grave. areas – one in Churchill and two to be excavated in more “The fact he was face down may have in Congresbury – called for targeted been deliberate, or because the soil excavation. than 50 years. has moved the bones over time.” At Congresbury, a kiln and large “It’s not just the kiln itself that’s amount of pottery was uncovered. remarkable, but the substantial To find where archaeological sites quantities of Congresbury Grey Ware. are located in North Somerset, visit It was previously known there was the online historic environment record a Romano-British pottery industry in “There was more than 400kg in map at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/ Congresbury and excavations had weight indicating that this site, along heritagemap been carried out in the 1960s on two with other kilns in the area, was part If you find something in your garden kilns in the area. of a significant pottery industry in the Roman period.” or while out walking that might be of The Yatton, Congresbury, Claverham interest, you can email the heritage and Cleeve Archaeological Research A Romano-British settlement site service at dm.archaeology@ Team (YCCCART) have also spent time was also discovered near Churchill, n-somerset.gov.uk – or report any surveying the land locally so the group complete with pits, enclosure ditches findings to the Portable Antiquities was invited to a special viewing of the and pottery. Scheme Finds liaison officer Kurt kiln while it was being excavated. Adams at [email protected]
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 43 Tackling global climate change on a local level
Climate change is a global issue which is likely to have a significant impact on the quality of life in North Somerset.
To challenge this, members of the Peter Templeton, from the coalition, North Somerset Council is also North Somerset Climate Coalition said: “Two main messages came working to help residents, businesses community group are working to from the UN meeting – that there has and stakeholders to take action and help people and organisations within been great progress and innovation has refreshed its agreement to the the area achieve global climate across the globe involving almost Local Government Association’s change goals on a local level. every country but the need for climate local commitment. action is more urgent than ever The coalition was set with global warming and Peter added: “The shift to renewable up to encourage recent devastating storms in energy is moving significantly faster people to pledge Asia, the Americas and than people thought and last April to take practical Caribbean. the UK had its first 24-hour period action, whether without any coal-powered generation walking, “Although the challenge since the 1880s. cycling, using of climate change is public transport dramatic, there is much “There has also been a significant or car sharing to be encouraged by.” reduction in the cost of offshore wind to reduce car and solar generation and dramatic journeys, or limiting The community group is changes to consumer attitudes to the amount of meat committed to helping North internal combustion cars. eaten, growing food or cutting Somerset meet its responsibilities in waste. achieving a low carbon future and “Although the commitment of the possibility this offers in terms of national governments across the Members met in Backwell in economic prosperity, employment world is vital, it’s clear that every November to share pledges, and quality of life. local area, organisation and celebrate progress that has been individual needs to take action.” made across the world, and come up with more ideas. To get involved with the coalition visit www.northsomersetclimate.org [email protected] f /northsomersetclimate The meeting coincided with the United Nations meeting in Germany For more details about what North Somerset Council is doing to tackle climate to assess progress on the Paris change, visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/climatechange Climate Change Agreement.
44 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February Get vocal, be heard
You said: Get vocal, I live in Clevedon and need advice about benefits and job hunting. be heard We did: Employment and benefits advice is now available under one roof in Clevedon.
In December Clevedon Jobcentre moved into North Somerset Council’s Castlewood offices to join the benefits service in a shared accessible space.
Residents who are on the receiving end of council services Available services include: often have good ideas about how to make them better. help with the online claim process for Universal Credit North Somerset Council strives to provide the best standards of customer personal budgeting support care, listen to residents’ views, and take them into account, where possible, nine public computers for when making future decisions. making claims with staff on-hand to help work coaches to help people You said: back to work I tried searching for a planning specialist advice and support for application on your website but it was young people aged 16 and 17 hard to navigate and kept crashing. to gain employment or go back to learning We did: employment and skills development The planning pages of North Somerset housing and benefits advice and Council’s website have now been financial planning updated. Within each application there are separate tabs for comments and business start-up, self- A new system is now used which is additional documents. employment support and work much more stable than the previous experience placements. one and will improve people’s Additional functionality includes experience. the ability to track applications, as The centre is open 9am to 5pm well as registering online to receive every weekday, except Wednesday The new planning information pages notifications of applications in your when it opens at 10am. are clear and user-friendly, so residents chosen area. and consultees can see at a glance Designated visitor parking is what the application is about. Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/planning available and there is also a bus stop outside the entrance to Castlewood.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 45 Your views – Letters, photos, tweets, posts
Dear Editor, Dear Editor, Can you please advise what is being Can you help tackle social isolation in Your views done to educate people who bag their your community? dog excrement and then misguidedly Growing Support is a local organisation ? Send your items to leave the bag in a public place? which runs gardening clubs for people Editor, North Somerset Life The fact that the bag(s) are often left on living in care to help them connect with North Somerset Council prominent display appears to indicate the outdoors. The clubs use engaging Floor 1, Town Hall that the culprits actually believe they are activities specially designed to increase Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1UJ doing the right thing. opportunities for light exercise, sensory or email [email protected] John Brooks, by email stimulation and social interaction. Growing Support is looking for @NorthSomersetC Dee Mawn, environmental health l service manager at North Somerset volunteers in North Somerset to support f NorthSomersetCouncil Council: their trained horticultural therapists in running these clubs in care homes. NorthSomersetLife We welcome responsible dog walkers who pick up after their dogs and bin the poo. If All volunteers receive an induction, Items submitted without a valid name and address there are no bins available, owners should mentor support and access to further will not be considered for publication. Please tell us if take it home and put it in their general training. There are regular volunteer you do not want your details published. Due to space waste. Owners should take 100 per cent meetings and Growing Support covers restrictions letters may be edited. responsibility for their dog and its mess. your travel expenses. Officers are going out giving this message, For information contact volunteers@ asking people to show their poo bags. growingsupport.co.uk or visit www. New signs are also going up. growingsupport.co.uk/get-involved Not picking up is an offence, leaving Sarah Mountford, bagged dog waste is also an offence. volunteer co-ordinator, Growing Support Fines apply if you don’t comply #ourspace
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bumps had failed so needed North Somerset Council: How can you justify l to be replaced. Gully cleaning We aim to do our best to three days of road closures, was done at same time. monitor all areas and thank the fl poorly signed, to mess about 27800 1117 public for notifying us of areas with speed bumps in Clapton Apologies, signage could have they feel have been missed. Many topics are covered AGAIN. Signage didn’t show been better. We aim to improve Reporting online is the most on Twitter and Facebook closure times which has been next time. helpful way of letting us know confusing. and last month these issues l What are the chances of – www.n-somerset.gov.uk/ were raised… North Somerset Council: paths and pavements being connect. The road was closed outside kept in good order? Pot holes, core commuting hours to tree stumps, stones, cracked minimise disruption. Speed pavements and weeds.
46 North Somerset Life • Issue 137 – January/February The Winter Focus issue will be delivered from: Monday 5 March North Somerset Life
North Somerset Life is the award winning magazine for the people of North www.n-somerset.gov.uk Somerset. Your copy should be delivered with your post unless you use Royal Report it. Request it. Pay for it. Mail’s opt out service to block unaddressed mail. www.n-somerset.gov.uk/connect You can download this issue and back issues from www.n-somerset.gov.uk/nsl or pick copies up from council buildings. 9am – 5pm Mon – Fri Coming next issue: Council Connect: for all streets Sign up to Life’s online edition and open spaces enquiries: l Budget update and receive news straight into 01934 888 802 l Latest on libraries and children’s your inbox. Visit centres Care Connect: for all social www.northsomersetlife.co.uk services enquiries: l Tackling domestic abuse 01275 888 801 [email protected] Tide timetables for Weston-super-Mare Main switchboard: Tide facts Weather conditions which differ from the average will have an 01934 888 888 effect on the differences between predicted and actual tide times. Approximate high water Emergency (out of hours): times at: Strong winds can hold the tide in or push the tide out. Air pressure can also cause fluctuations in predicted levels. 01934 622 669 Clevedon: 10 min Tidal predictions for Weston-super-Mare have been computed by Portishead: 18 min the Proudman Oceanographic Laboratory. later than North Somerset Council Weston-super-Mare. Copyright reserved. Town Hall Weston-super-Mare BS23 1UJ www.n-somerset.gov.uk/tidetimes
JANUARY 2018 FEBRUARY 2018 Date High water Low water High water Low water Date High water Low water High water Low water
Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) Time Height (M) AM PM AM PM 1 Mon 05:41 11.97 11:48 1.11 18:11 12.21 – – 1 Thu 07:11 12.68 00:49 0.45 19:39 12.72 13:14 0.33 2 Tue 06:34 12.45 00:13 0.83 19:01 12.56 12:38 0.74 2 Fri 07:57 12.91 01:34 0.23 20:22 12.79 13:59 0.22 3 Wed 07:22 12.75 01:01 0.56 19:50 12.70 13:25 0.53 3 Sat 08:41 12.88 02:19 0.24 21:06 12.58 14:44 0.34 4 Thu 08:09 12.83 01:46 0.48 20:38 12.62 14:12 0.52 4 Sun 09:23 12.55 03:01 0.46 21:47 12.07 15:25 0.67 5 Fri 08:56 12.66 02:33 0.58 21:24 12.28 14:58 0.69 5 Mon 10:05 11.93 03:40 0.85 22:28 11.32 16:02 1.13 6 Sat 09:43 12.23 03:18 0.84 22:11 11.70 15:45 1.01 6 Tue 10:45 11.11 04:18 1.34 23:07 10.47 16:39 1.63 7 Sun 10:30 11.60 04:03 1.21 22:57 10.99 16:31 1.41 7 Wed 11:26 10.26 04:55 1.85 23:50 9.66 17:15 2.12 8 Mon 11:17 10.88 04:51 1.64 23:46 10.27 17:18 1.84 8 Thu – – 05:36 2.35 12:12 9.48 18:00 2.61 9 Tue – – 05:41 2.07 12:09 10.20 18:12 2.26 9 Fri 00:43 9.00 06:29 2.85 13:12 8.89 19:03 3.07 10 Wed 00:40 9.67 06:39 2.48 13:07 9.67 19:16 2.62 10 Sat 01:54 8.66 08:00 3.19 14:29 8.71 20:48 3.15 11 Thu 01:43 9.31 07:52 2.75 14:13 9.41 20:29 2.74 11 Sun 03:15 8.88 09:25 2.85 15:52 9.08 21:50 2.64 12 Fri 02:54 9.32 09:02 2.67 15:25 9.50 21:30 2.54 12 Mon 04:27 9.57 10:15 2.26 16:54 9.79 22:38 2.07 13 Sat 04:03 9.70 09:56 2.34 16:30 9.90 22:19 2.18 13 Tue 05:18 10.33 10:59 1.74 17:40 10.45 23:20 1.61 14 Sun 04:57 10.25 10:42 1.96 17:20 10.37 23:03 1.82 14 Wed 06:00 10.91 11:40 1.39 18:20 10.92 – – 15 Mon 05:42 10.75 11:22 1.63 18:02 10.76 23:42 1.54 15 Thu 06:37 11.30 00:00 1.33 18:55 11.24 12:19 1.18 @JAMESEJPHOTOGRAPHY 16 Tue 06:22 11.11 – – 18:40 11.02 12:00 1.41 16 Fri 07:10 11.56 00:37 1.16 19:28 11.52 12:57 1.05 17 Wed 06:57 11.33 00:18 1.37 19:15 11.19 12:37 1.28 17 Sat 07:44 11.79 01:14 1.05 20:01 11.76 13:35 0.94 18 Thu 07:31 11.46 00:53 1.29 19:47 11.32 13:12 1.23 18 Sun 08:18 11.95 01:52 0.98 20:35 11.88 14:12 0.90 19 Fri 08:03 11.54 01:28 1.27 20:19 11.40 13:48 1.21 19 Mon 08:53 11.93 02:30 1.00 21:09 11.76 14:51 0.99 20 Sat 08:37 11.55 02:04 1.29 20:53 11.38 14:26 1.25 20 Tue 09:29 11.66 03:05 1.17 21:45 11.38 15:25 1.23 21 Sun 09:12 11.40 02:40 1.38 21:28 11.18 15:03 1.39 21 Wed 10:06 11.17 03:36 1.44 22:21 10.83 15:57 1.54 22 Mon 09:48 11.09 03:16 1.57 22:05 10.80 15:40 1.61 22 Thu 10:45 10.57 04:07 1.73 23:02 10.24 16:35 1.84 23 Tue 10:27 10.65 03:50 1.81 22:44 10.35 16:18 1.86 23 Fri 11:32 9.97 04:53 2.04 23:56 9.67 17:27 2.19 24 Wed 11:08 10.20 04:31 2.05 23:29 9.91 17:04 2.10 24 Sat – – 05:56 2.42 12:41 9.46 18:40 2.59 25 Thu – – 05:23 2.30 12:01 9.81 18:04 2.35 25 Sun 01:19 9.32 07:28 2.76 14:11 9.40 20:27 2.69 26 Fri 00:29 9.56 06:32 2.57 13:14 9.58 19:21 2.58 26 Mon 02:49 9.59 09:10 2.49 15:36 9.94 21:44 2.19 27 Sat 01:53 9.51 08:05 2.69 14:38 9.80 20:53 2.45 27 Tue 04:10 10.37 10:22 1.88 16:50 10.83 22:55 1.52 28 Sun 03:12 9.98 09:27 2.32 15:53 10.41 22:00 1.97 28 Wed 05:16 11.32 11:26 1.15 17:49 11.70 23:50 0.82 29 Mon 04:25 10.75 10:33 1.78 17:00 11.16 23:06 1.43 30 Tue 05:28 11.55 11:36 1.19 18:00 11.87 – – 31 Wed 06:23 12.22 00:01 0.87 18:52 12.40 12:27 0.67
recycle me when you’ve read me www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 47 TO CELEBRATE THE OPENING, CINEWORLD ARE OFFERING FREE POPCORN ON YOUR 1ST VISIT USING THIS VOUCHER.
Cinema opens 26th January 2018 Find out more at cineworld.com
Terms & Conditions 1. This free popcorn (regular size) offer is only valid at Cineworld Weston-super-Mare Cinema. 2. The offer is only available with the purchase of a film ticket at Cineworld Weston-super-Mare Cinema. 3. To redeem the free regular popcorn offer present this voucher when purchasing a film ticket at the Cinema. 4. This offer applies to 1 regular popcorn only and is subject to availability; no size upgrades are permitted. 5. The free popcorn offer cannot be substituted for any other items. 6. Only one leaflet per person allowed to be used per film ticket purchase. 7. No cash alternatives.8. This leaflet is non-transferable and cannot be re-sold. 9. Normal Cineworld Terms and Conditions apply. 10. Voucher valid period: 26/01/18 – 31/03/18. 11. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.