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Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023

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Issue No. 062

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Plans to create new stadium development at the Rec submitted P2

Council to monitor impact of new e-bikes on city's pavements P2

IS THIS MELANIE'S KILLER? POLICE REISSUE E-FIT IN HOPE OF FINDING MURDERER - P3

Residents encouraged to visit Gaia artwork at Bath Abbey P10 Get the latest news for Bath 24/7 on our website www.bathecho.co.uk

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Proposals for new stadium at the Rec submitted

In this issue... Top Stories

Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023

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P2-5

Pictures from the Past

Crossword

What's On

Community

P10

Health

P12

Education

P13

Business

P14

Politics

P15

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PLANS to redevelop Bath Rugby’s current facilities at the Rec and create a ‘Stadium for Bath’ have been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. The proposals would see the creation of a modern and “fit-forpurpose” home for Bath Rugby at the Recreation Ground, where the club has been based for more than 125 years. The plans, which residents will be able to comment on, include the regeneration of the riverside, whilst ensuring that Bath Rugby continues to provide a considerable contribution to the city’s economy for decades to come. The submitted application features an 18,000-capacity stadium with a new hybrid pitch, increasing community and amateur use. The regenerated riverside includes the new Spring Gardens Walk and the retention of mature trees, as well as further landscaping and bio-diversity measures. Bath Rugby says their proposals feature a “host of sustainability measures” to support a target of

How the new development could look | Images © Bath Rugby

net zero operation. There would also be a riverside café/restaurant, club shop and museum for nonmatchday use. Tarquin McDonald, CEO of Bath Rugby said: “We are absolutely delighted to have submitted our proposals. “This is the culmination of many

years of collaboration, listening and refining, which we now believe delivers the world-class facility that Bath Rugby and the wider city deserves. “We are excited to share our vision with all and would ask people to review the proposals via the B&NES planning portal and ultimately support them.”

Residents are invited to visit B&NES Council’s website to view the plans in detail by visiting https://www.bathnes. gov.uk/webforms/planning/, and searching the application references 23/03558/EFUL (full planning application) and 23/03559/LBA (for related listed building consent application).

Council monitoring impact of city's new e-bikes BATH & North East Somerset Council has said it will monitor the impact of new e-bikes being parked on pavements across the city. The recently launched Tier service sees the introduction of e-bikes to Bath in addition to the e-scooter service, which has been running since October 2020. The e-scooters, e-bikes and e-cargo bikes have been commissioned by the West of England Combined Authority. A fleet of 500 shared vehicles is now in place in Bath following Tier taking over the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) contract. Concerns have been raised about the impact of the new e-bikes, such as obstructing footways, and how this will affect people with access needs.

B&NES Council and WECA have agreed plans to ensure smooth implementation of the e-bike scheme, including considering measures such as on-road parking bays and bike racks on pavements where appropriate. A new mailbox for comments and suggestions has been set up by Bath & North East Somerset Council (micromobility@ bathnes.gov.uk) and Tier are deploying 10 Rangers in Bath to manage the scheme. Councillor Sarah Warren, Bath & North East Somerset’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Sustainable Travel said: “We welcome the introduction of e-bikes to Bath. “They have the potential to be an extremely useful addition to people’s sustainable travel

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choices and to our joint effort to tackle climate change. “However, we all recognise that e-bikes require different infrastructure to support them when compared to the e-scooters, especially as e-bikes are much bigger and heavier than e-scooters. “I am pleased therefore that Tier will be shortly reducing the number of e-bikes and increasing the number of e-scooters in Bath so they are roughly equal in number, which should help address this. “We understand Tier is also planning a long-term rental scheme for e-scooters which also has the potential to reduce the pressure on street parking in the city centre. “We will continue to work with the West of England Combined

Concern has been raised over the new e-bikes blocking pavements in Bath Photo © TIER

Authority and Tier to smooth the transition and help ensure the scheme is a success. “I welcome comments from local residents and businesses on how the scheme is being implemented in the city.”

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Issue 062

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Can you help find the murderer of 25-year-old Melanie Hall? Hope that new documentary will trigger memories and prick somebody's conscience A NEW documentary based on the unsolved murder of 25-yearold Melanie Hall, who went missing in Bath more than 25 years ago, has been broadcast on Channel 5. The programme, which featured interviews with Melanie’s father Steve and sister Dominique, as well as Senior Investigating Officer Supt James Riccio, was shown on Thursday 28th September. It is also available to watch on the My5 catch-up service. The last confirmed sighting of Melanie, who worked as a clerical worker at the Royal United Hospital, was at 1.10am on Sunday 9th June 1996, sitting on a stool at the edge of the dancefloor in Cadillacs nightclub (now Walcot House) in Walcot Street, following a night out with friends. Her remains were found next to the northbound slip road of the M5 at junction 14 (Thornbury) by a workman on 5th October 2009. In the documentary, Melanie’s family speak about the terrible impact her disappearance had on them, with Steve speaking of the family’s “deep sorrow, and deep grief”, while expressing his firm belief there are people out there who know who’s responsible for her murder. He said: “When Melanie was murdered, it wasn’t just one person’s life that was taken, it changed and ruined many lives after. “Mine, my wife’s, my daughter’s, my mother’s – there’s obviously someone out there, and probably some people out there, who know what happened to Melanie. “If they felt they could come forward with information which led to us finding out what happened to Melanie, then at least we could feel that we’ve done all we can do for our child. “We’re different people now. “That night when she disappeared, we changed – we are not the people we were before. We carry a deep sorrow, a deep grief. We’ve lost something very beautiful and very precious to us that we can’t replace…it’s a family with a piece missing.” Melanie’s sister, Dominique, added: “I would hope that somebody might think about my mum and dad, they are both nearly 80 now, that someone might find some little drop of compassion or empathy for my mum and dad…and think now would be the time to let them know and have the answers that they need.” Supt James Riccio, who is leading the ongoing investigation into Melanie’s murder, said he hoped the new documentary would

Melanie went missing from the Cadillacs nightclub in Bath in 1996 | Image via Avon & Somerset Police

trigger memories and prick consciences, encouraging those with information to contact the police. He said: “Just one small piece of information could solve this case and help us uncover the truth about what happened to Melanie that night. My team and I continue to be humbled by the courage, bravery and support that Melanie’s family have shown over the years and we desperately want to find answers for them. “We will always be led by the evidence but based on the information we have amassed and meticulously reviewed, based on the 6,000 plus investigative actions, 2,000 statements, the accounts, the intelligence, the deposition location, I’m of the belief that Melanie did know her killer. “An E-fit was released as part of a public appeal back in 1996 of a man seen inside Cadillacs nightclub with a woman matching Melanie’s description. “This is still very much a focus of our appeal to the public today and we want to know who this man is. “We’d also like information about an unconfirmed sighting of a woman, potentially matching Melanie’s description, who was engaged in an argument with a man in Old Orchard, around the corner from the nightclub

entrance, between 1.45am and 2am. “We don’t know whether this was Melanie, so if anyone has further details which could help on this aspect, please call us. “I want members of the public to come forward if they recognise the individual in the E-fit. If you look at it and think ‘actually I know someone who was in Cadillacs that night’, or if you know someone who was watching the Euro 96 England vs Switzerland football game in Bath that evening, or if you think it’s someone who may have known Melanie, now is the time to get in touch. “We suspect that whoever has done this has told someone, and allegiances alter over the decades. Someone knows who killed Melanie and someone knows how she ended up at the side of the M5

Do you recognise the potential suspect from this police e-fit image?

at junction 14, and these dark secrets need to be brought into the light. We have a number of enquiries we’re pursuing. It’s very much an active case, and there may be more related operational activity in the near future.”

Do you have information which could help? You can provide information directly through the Major Incident Public Portal and the dedicated Melanie Hall appeal page at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/5201020103A06-PO1 You can also contact the police with information via 101. Inform the call handler you are calling about the Major Crime Investigation Team’s Operation Denmark inquiry. Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers, which can be contacted on 0800 555 111. They never ask for your name or trace your call. You can also visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org. The team at the Bath Echo are also happy to pass on relevant information to the police. You can email news@bathecho.co.uk

Key Appeal Points Information you may consider to be irrelevant could be key to the case • Do you know the man in the E-fit? He’s described as white, in his mid to late twenties, 5ft 10ins, of medium build, with dark brown hair, dark brown eyes, bushy eyebrows and clean shaven. He was wearing black trousers, black shoes and a brown silk shirt. It’s possible he had a gold hooped earring in his right ear and wore a flashy gold watch. Do you recognise this man? • Officers have an unconfirmed sighting of a woman arguing with a man in Old Orchard (around the corner from the nightclub’s entrance) between 1.45am and 2am – they haven’t ruled out the fact this could have been Melanie – so if this was you, or you have any further information about this, they'd like to hear from you. • Were you involved in the aftermath of this crime in any way? Maybe you assisted with the deposition of Melanie’s body but were not involved in the murder. Officers want to hear from you now. • Were you in Cadillacs nightclub that night? It was the evening where England drew 1-1 with Switzerland in the opening game of the football Euro 96 Championships? If you were there and haven’t spoken to police, please call them. • Did you see any suspicious activity or a vehicle parked on the northbound J14 slip road of the M5 at Thornbury in the early hours of Sunday 9th June 1996, or the days immediately afterwards? • Are you concerned about the change in behaviour of a friend or relative, or anyone showing a particular interest in this inquiry? • Do you have information on where Melanie’s clothing or belongings may be? They’ve never been found. They include a pale blue silk dress with a round neck, black suede mule shoes with straps across the front and an open toe, size 5 or 6, a cream single-breasted, long-sleeved jacket and a black satchel-type handbag. • In Melanie’s handbag were cosmetics and a Midland cheque book and bank card. Also missing are items of jewellery including a Next watch with expanding bracelet and silver drop earrings. Where are these items?

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Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023

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Pictures from the Past Bath at Work Stothert & Pitt – World War II and after Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

WITH the coming of World War II, Stothert & Pitt once again threw themselves into the war effort. As in the previous World War, women became key workers. There was hardly a ship in the Royal Navy nor tank in the British Army which did not have parts from the company. But there was also much secret work going on. The company had a reputation for being able to set up experimental work spaces very quickly. In January 1942, they were working on a prototype of a manned torpedo, an idea which came from a captured Italian torpedo. Stothert & Pitt was the obvious company to develop a similar one quickly for use by the Royal Navy. All this war work made it a target for German bombs. Some of the apparently random bombs which fell on the city were close to the works, along with its vital supply lines, the railway and gasworks. Finally, in the so-called Baedeker raids in April 1942, the factory was hit. Despite this setback, the company soldiered on. A year after the war ended, the company brought out a book to show all the work it had done, which was presented to workers with a letter from the managing director, thanking them. Stothert & Pitt had always been regarded with loyalty and admiration by its employees, and for another forty years it went from strength to strength. But in 1986 it was sold to the Hollis group – a company owned by Robert Maxwell. Though no one

Top left: Women at work | Top middle: Bomb damage at Stothert & Pitt | Bottom left: The book for workers | Bottom middle: A letter of thanks | Right: Cranes in Bristol

knew it then, Maxwell’s business empire was in a financial mess and by 1988 the cracks were showing. A management group bought the

company from Hollis but could not restore its fortunes. It closed in 1989. Today, the Newark Works building is enjoying a new life

as what the developers call ‘a creative hub for the forward thinkers and thought leaders; a home for entrepreneurs and established businesses’.

But Stothert & Pitt’s greatest memorial must be the cranes which still survive all over the world – such as these at the M Shed in Bristol.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

Y next Performance and Accountability Board will be broadcast live from the Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Facebook on Thursday, 12th October from 4.00pm. The purpose of this monthly meeting is to hold the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police (ASP) to account in delivering policing that is efficient, effective and legitimate by scrutinising and asking questions about police performance and priorities. This month’s topics are hate crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB). Hate crime and ASB are unacceptable any time of year, but National Hate Crime Week, which will take place between 14th – 21st October, provides an opportunity to reinforce that Avon and Somerset is no place for hate. Reducing and preventing these

crimes, which is priority one of four in my Police and Crime Plan requires us to all work together, encourage reporting and ensure any victims receive support. I look forward to learning more about what ASP is doing for National Hate Crime Week and beyond. Last month, I hosted the first event of our Autumn Councillor Forums for the Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) constituency. The session was a chance for councillors to gain an overview of my Police and Crime Plan. During the session, I was joined by officers from the Bath Neighbourhood Police team and representatives from the Bath and North East Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), where both teams addressed concerns about young people. I am delighted to announce that earlier this month, the Prison-

ers Building Homes (PBH) Programme – backed by myself and other South West Police and Crime Commissioners Alison Hernandez, David Sidwick, Chris Nelson and Philip Wilkinson – won the ‘Collaboration’ category in the Government Property Awards at a ceremony in Westminster. The awards recognise excellence and innovation in public-sector property management. PBH is an innovative collaboration between public and private sector partners to unlock land and deliver affordable, high-quality, low carbon, sustainable modular homes nationally; while creating job opportunities for serving prisoners and prison leavers to enable them to turn their lives around and reduce the cycle of reoffending. The programme is important for the prevention of reoffending

but also for providing people on a low-wage high-quality accommodation that every council and housing provider should have a call to arms to become a part of this programme. Preventing crime is the single most important thing I want to achieve through my Police and Crime Plan. By preventing crime we reduce the need for a police response, reduce the need to punish people and, most importantly, reduce the amount of harm to our communities. Preventing crime is about addressing the causes, not just responding to the symptoms. The causes of crime involve much broader societal issues such as deprivation, substance misuse and Adverse Childhood Experiences to name but a few. There is a focus on these under-

lying causes when working on reducing reoffending but we must aim to bring that focus forward to early intervention. This means identifying and working with people at risk before they have even committed their first offence. Addressing these causes requires the police to be proactive and work closely with partners across the public sector and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors. With a focus on prevention, we can reduce the amount of crime and ASB but we will never eliminate it. When incidents do happen I urge reporting to the police and I want to see justice done. Reporting of crime and ASB can be done online as well as reporting through calling 101 and 999. Together we can reduce and prevent crime.

Issue 062

P7 7

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Crossword

Congratulations to Steve Pauling for winning £20! You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 16.

Complete our crossword for your chance to win £20! Across

Down

8 Precision (8) 9 Freezing compartment (6) 10 Baste (3) 11 Drown Aunt Enid in a fluster (8) 12 Former U N leader --- Annan (4) 16 Tuscany province (5) 19 Out of shot (3,6) 21 Throughout the world (15) 22 Perceptive (5-4) 24 Pigment made from cuttlefish ink (5) 27 Gets the point (4) 31 Drive out (8) 33 US Confederate general (3) 34 Fine plaster (6) 35 Postponing (8)

1 Scrutinize (4) 2 Hit the sack (4,2) 3 200 milligrams to a jeweller (5) 4 What I normally see in a mirror (6) 5 Fruit-bearing Chinese vine (4) 6 Hit this to get going (4) 7 Dance (4) 11 Inborn patterns of behaviour (9) 13 Venn diagram common area (7) 14 No matter what (2,3,4) 15 Twits (6) 17 Far-out (7) 18 First light (6) 19 One end of a fallopian tube (5) 20 Cooked in oil (5) 23 Beneficiary of primogeniture (6) 25 Unfold (6) 26 Posed (5) 28 Corrodes (4) 29 Fortified white Spanish wine of old (4) 30 Drama framework (4) 32 Characteristic carrier (4)

Entering our competition - via email or post For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk or via post to: Crossword Competition 1010, Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 19/10/2023. The winner will be notified using the details they provide when entering the competition.

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Issue 062

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

What's On

Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023 Folk at the Farm

Mary Beard

BACAS: Medieval Bath

The Score

Bath Pavilion 10th October, 7.30pm Mary Beard, will join us in our Roman city for her epic new book Emperor of Rome, a sweeping account of the social and political world of the Roman emperors.

BRLSI 12th October, 7.30pm Following on from his talk on the Saxon period, Steve Pratt takes the story of Bath forwards. By the time of the Norman invasion, Bath had attained Royal city status with a monastery and baths.

Theatre Royal 12th – 28th October Brian Cox comes to the Theatre Royal Bath for the very first time, playing Johann Sebastian Bach in the world premiere of Oliver Cotton's new play The Score.

Bath City Farm 13th October, 6pm Enjoy a fresh meal made with ingredients grown on the farm with drinks from the bar, then a showcase of folk music written and performed by local artist Jennifer Crook.

An Evening of Burlesque

Vivaldi - Gloria with Lucis Choir

Needle-Felted Pumpkin Workshop

Bath Half Marathon 2023

Bath Pavillion 14th October, 7.30pm Enjoy a good old-fashioned night out with the ultimate variety show, blending stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque to light up all your senses.

St Mary's Church 14th October, 7.30pm Lucis collaborate with the Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra for the first time in this not-to-be-missed concert featuring two masterpieces of the Baroque. Tickets cost £24.

Newton Farm Shop 14th October, 10am – 12.30pm Join local artist and experienced craft tutor Karen Woodfield and invest in some creative “me-time,” unwind, learn something new, and enjoy the cheerful creative company.

Queen Square 15th October One of the longest established and most popular 'big city' road races in the UK. The largest sporting and community event in the city, and the biggest charity fundraising event in the South West.

October half-term spider trail

Miniature Travelling Circus

Song School Soirée

FilmBath Festival 2023

Dyrham Park 19th – 31st October, 10am – 4pm Crawl your way around Dyrham Park with a spider trail around the 270-acre site. There will be clues and facts about our favourite eight-legged friends to tie in with half-term and Halloween.

The Egg 19th – 22nd October Roll up! Roll up! Take your seats for the smallest circus in town. Join Little Angel’s Miniature Travelling Circus and be delighted by beautiful puppets, nostalgic magic tricks and tiny acts.

Bath Abbey 20th October, 7pm Following Bath Abbey's popular soirée in January 2023, this event is another chance to enjoy an intimate evening of music in the Bath Abbey Song School – not normally open to the public.

Various Locations 20th – 29th October FilmBath Festival screens the best new and upcoming films from around the world with a stimulating and eclectic programme of films, workshops, and film events in venues across Bath.

After Dark - Nights to Die

Classical Greats

Make your own Flying Comet

Wildflower volunteering day

Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein 20th – 31st October, 6 – 10.30pm Visitors will be immersed in an intense, psychological multi-sensory horror house exclusively from the Bath attraction dedicated to Mary Shelley and her legendary Gothic tale, Frankenstein.

St Swithin’s Church 21st October, 7.30pm The Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra will be joined by pianist Bobby Chen to perform one of Mozart’s most enchanting Piano Concertos. It will feature Haydn’s sixth symphony.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy 21st – 29th October, 10am – 5pm Did you know Caroline Herschel discovered eight comets in her lifetime? Come and make your own air-powered comet and see how far it will fly! Drop-in activity.

Prior Park (National Trust) 22nd October, 11am – 2pm Come and help us out for a day as we sow wildflower seeds in the Pasture. Free seeds for you to take home. No experience needed and the activity is suitable for all ages.

P10

Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023

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Community

Share your news with us Email: news@bathecho.co.uk

Residents being encouraged to visit Council adds eight Gaia artwork at Bath Abbey electric vehicles to fleet PEOPLE are being encouraged to see what planet Earth looks like “from the moon” thanks to a special piece of art on display at Bath Abbey. The illuminated planet Earth artwork, called Gaia, named after the Greek Goddess of Earth, is by local artist Luke Jerram, and will be visiting the city for six weeks as part of a programme of events at Bath Abbey, with visitors encouraged to reflect on how humans treat the planet. The seven-metre diameter (23ft) globe features detailed Nasa imagery of the Earth’s surface, and is being suspended beneath the tower in the centre of the Abbey. By standing 181m away, residents can see the Earth as it appears from the moon. The detailed sculpture, which also revolves and has a speciallymade sound composition by a BAFTA award-winning composer played alongside it, has toured

Mayor Norris and Bath Abbey’s CEO Frank Mowat | Photo courtesy of WECA

the world, including Hong Kong, London and Taiwan. A series of events at the Abbey focused on appreciating and caring for the world will run alongside the installation, including a concert with Bristol

Ensemble playing music from Blue Planet, and stargazing events. The West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who is running the Explore Local campaign, visited the artwork and said: “This is a super-important and inspiring artwork – Gaia encourages us all to gaze at the planet we call home, but also to reflect on what we all need to do to care for it as well during this climate crisis. “It just goes to show how many amazing things to do we have right here on our doorstep. So whether it’s eyes to the skies at Herschel Museum, celebrating Bath’s most famous resident at Jane Austen Museum, or taking the opportunity to see our planet floating in space at Bath Abbey, let’s get out there and rediscover all Bath, and our amazing region, has to offer.” The work will be at Bath Abbey until Sunday 29th October.

EIGHT new electric vans have been added to Bath & North East Somerset Council’s fleet of vehicles for highway maintenance, helping to reduce emissions and saving on fuel costs. The majority of vehicles now used by the council’s highways staff are now fully electric Nissan Townstar vans. They will be used by a variety of council staff, including highway, street works, public right of way and highway structure inspectors. The local authority’s Highway Maintenance depot in Clutton, where the electric vehicles will operate from, recently underwent a redevelopment that included the installation of electric vehicle charging points. Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We’re excited to introduce our first electric vehicles into our highways fleet.

The new vehicles added to the fleet Photo © B&NES Council

“These new vans will lower our fuel usage and carbon emissions significantly and support our action plan to tackle the climate emergency as we strive to become a Net Zero Council. “These new vehicles will help our inspectors service Bath & North East Somerset sustainably for the foreseeable future.” The council has said it hopes the vehicles will remain in service for ten years, similar to the previous fleet of vehicles which were acquired in 2014.

500 take on Circuit of Bath Walk fundraising event NEARLY 500 walkers took on the Circuit of Bath Walk on Sunday 24th September, helping to raise vital funds for local charity Julian House. The sponsored event, now in its 22nd year, has become a popular fixture on the calendar and saw friends, families and colleagues walk 22 miles of Bath’s challenging countryside. More experienced walkers, many of whom take on the challenge each year, were joined by newcomers of all ages aiming to help homeless, at-risk and vulnerable people across the South West. Among the local teams taking part was a group from Achieve Breakthrough, one of whom, Bella Blazewicz, said: “Finding yourself in a difficult place can often feel far removed, but is actually lurking round the corner. “Connecting with nature alongside other people on the walk can give you time to reflect on that.” Another participant, Wendy Keaveney, said: “I really enjoyed it and so admire the organisation of the walk! “So many walkers said they had discovered many areas of Bath they never even knew existed.” Event organiser Gavin Osborn was delighted with how many took part. He said: “This walk is such a great way to bring the community together to celebrate this wonderful city in a whole new way. “We’ve had fantastic support from families, friends and groups of local businesses such as Theatre Royal, Spring Wharf, personal trainers from Stanza Fitness and the Heart of Bath medical team who provide support for our clients in the hostel.

“People of all ages took part, whether they completed it all or just did sections. For many, it was their first experience of a walk like this and it’s an incredible achievement. “It’s the taking part that matters and the money raised will make a huge difference to our clients and staff during a very difficult year. Gavin continued: “We raised well over £30k, every penny of which will keep our life-saving services running. The money will go towards supporting vulnerable people and children, many of whom are experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic abuse. “We put an emphasis on training, skills workshops, and growth development to help people within our care to gain confidence and rebuild their lives. “Julian House would like to thank everyone who made the event possible including; the 70 tireless volunteers, South West UK Virtual Lions Club, St Gregory’s School, Kingswood School, Bathscape, Cotswold National Landscape (whose volunteers help signpost the route), Wessex 4×4 Responders, Curiously You for their bath salts, George Inn in Bathampton, staff at the Canal Centre and the wonderful volunteers at Wooley and Oldfield School who hosted their own refreshment stalls.” Louise Rohan, a walker who completed the full distance, added: “My muscles are suffering now but I’m glad I could do a little something to help Julian House. There is no cause more worthy these days.” To find out more about the Circuit of Bath Walk and to join the waiting list for next year, visit: www.circuitofbathwalk.co.uk.

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Health Call for ban on disposable vapes rejected by health board John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

CALLS for a local ban on disposable vapes in Bath and North East Somerset have been rejected by a key public health board. The Local Government Association raised concerns about the health and environmental impact of disposable vapes in the summer and called for a ban. Disposable vapes contain a lithium battery which can catch fire if not disposed of properly. Locally, Bath and North East Somerset councillor Ruth Malloy led the calls for a local ban on disposable vapes, warning a full council meeting on 20th July: “Although e-cigarettes were originally developed as an aid to help smokers break the habit, the trend now seems to be that young people and even children are starting to vape without ever having smoked cigarettes.” But the call for a complete ban was overwhelmingly rejected by the district’s health and wellbeing board, which draws together local health leaders in organisations across Bath and

The devices contain a battery which can catch fire if disposed of incorrectly

North East Somerset, on 26th September. Health protection officer Ruth Sampson warned against mixed messaging, adding: “We know that vaping is supporting a lot of adult smokers to stop.” She said: “If we ban disposable vapes, will we see an increase in youth smoking behaviour?” “We can clearly see that they are marketed in a way that’s attractive to children. Vapes should only be used by adult smokers wanting to quit.” Figures from Action on Smoking and Health show that the vast

majority of vape users are smokers or ex-smokers. But the number of young people using them is increasing. In 2023, 20% of 11-17-year-olds had used a vape at least once — up from 16% in 2022. But it is still mainly young people who smoke that are using them frequently. 88% of 11-17-yearolds who do not smoke have also never used a vape, while nine per cent have tried them once or twice, and less than one per cent use them more than once a week. Meanwhile, most 11-17-yearolds who smoke or used to smoke

have used vapes. 36% of smokers in that age range use them more than once a week, along with 26% of ex-smokers. Ms Sampson added that Bath and North East Somerset Council commissions a stop-smoking service which uses vapes to get people off tobacco. Although it is mainly focused on reusable vapes, disposable vapes are offered to some vulnerable groups of smokers, such as pregnant women. The council also intends to sign up for the government’s “swap to stop” programme which offers free vape kits to smokers wanting to stop. Alison Born, the council’s cabinet member for adult services, said: “I have got lots of concerns about disposable vapes and the fact that so many young people are using them.” Commenting on stop-smoking services, she said: “They were set up to stop people smoking. It feels as if they are encouraging people to get their nicotine another way.” Ms Sampson insisted that vapes only contained “clean” nicotine without the additional harmful substances in tobacco products, and that they were only offered

for a set amount of time to help people transition from smoking. At an informal “show of hands” to test the board’s mood, only two of the almost 20 board members present supported a complete ban. Chair Paul May said: “I think that what we will do as a board is we will keep this under review, but it is something that is a major social issue.” Speaking after the board meeting, Ms Malloy said: “I’m grateful that the conversation will continue.” Although she added that she was a “bit disappointed” with the vote. She added that she thought the approach to vapes taken in New Zealand was a good “middle way.” In New Zealand, vapes are required to have removable or recycle batteries, sale is restricted near schools and community meeting places and there are restrictions on flavour labelling. Ms Malloy: “Liberals never want to ban anything in principle. At the same time, I think it’s actually protecting, first of all, young people’s health — I worry about the ones that have never smoked. And then the environment.”

Hospital researchers recognised with prestigious award

Mural to help reassure young patients at RUH

A RESEARCH study into Parkinson’s disease led by a doctor at the Royal United Hospital in Bath has been recognised with a top award. Dr Emily Henderson, and the team behind the CHIEF-PD study, which is delivered by the Ageing and Movement Research Group at the University of Bristol, won Lead Network Study of the Year at the Clinical Research Network West of England Awards. The CHIEF-PD study is one of the UK’s largest-ever drug trials involving Parkinson’s disease and specifically targets the prevention of falls. The research trial is examining whether drugs normally used to treat people with memory problems can be used to reduce the number of falls that people with Parkinson’s experience. The study has enrolled 600 participants across 39 centres in the UK. Despite the major challenges to clinical research posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, CHIEFPD reached its recruitment target and managed to enrol a significant number of people with Parkinson’s, many of whom are frail and have multiple longterm conditions. This is important to ensure that the findings from the trial are relevant to people living with Parkinson’s now.

A SPECIAL mural has been created at the Royal United Hospital to help distract children recovering from surgery. It’s hoped the mural will help make their time in hospital less daunting. The colourful and vibrant jungle scene aims to distract patients and improve the experience for them and their families and has been installed thanks to funding from the charity Time is Precious. Heather White, Junior Sister, said: “The mural has made such a positive difference in the department. “Thanks to the support of Time is Precious we have been able to make what is often a worrying experience for our young patients much more positive. “The mural changes the overall feeling of the department, identifying it as an area specifically for children. But it has also proved really popular with staff, who love working amongst the animals!” Nicky Halford from Time is Precious, which has supported key improvement projects across the RUH, said: “Time Is Precious is honoured to of made a positive difference for children and their families at the RUH. “It is a pleasure to support the RUH and the children’s recovery area in any way we can.”

They achieved this by trialling novel approaches to research delivery, such as drugs being delivered to participants rather than them having to collect medication. The findings from the trial will enable medical specialists to make decisions in conjunction with people with Parkinson’s, to ensure they are provided with the best treatments to improve their experience and quality of life. Dr Henderson said: “To receive such a prestigious award really

is a fantastic achievement and is recognition of the hard work and dedication of all the team. “It is important to recognise the contribution of my RUH colleagues Ruth Hamlin and Veronica Lyell, whose support in recruiting over 80 people with Parkinson’s to the trial has been key to the success of the study nationally. “We anticipate that the findings of this trial will have an important impact on the lives of people with Parkinson’s.”

Time is Precious charity was set up in 2011 by Neil and Nicky Halford in memory of their son Ben, who passed away from cancer aged just five. Ben was treated at the RUH, as well as Bristol Children’s Hospital and the former Frenchay Hospital. The aim of the charity is to help create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for children and their families in hospital and at home, by purchasing equipment and refurbishing areas for children. To date, it has donated more than £450,000 to the RUH in the form of equipment and refurbishment projects.

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Youngsters encouraged to get on their bikes and cycle to school

Socks inspire students to provide consultancy

LOCAL youngsters are being encouraged to “reap the benefits” of cycling by the West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Surveys show over 50% of both primary and secondary pupils in the West, and across the country, live within 1 mile of their school. However, despite most children wanting to hop on two wheels, only around 2% do so nationally. According to one study, if children in England cycled to school as much as Dutch students do, more than two in five would be making their journey by bike, a 22-fold increase from current levels. Cycle charity Sustrans revealed that cycling rates drop off during teenage years, especially for young women. Mr Norris has said he is concerned the majority of children aged 11 to 16 in Bath and North East Somerset aren’t getting the levels of exercise they need to stay healthy, and that encouraging more people to take short trips, such as those to and from school, on a bike is vital to help slash emissions and improve air quality. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has secured and committed over £13 million to boost cycling and walking, including improving the region’s cycle routes such as the Scholars Way route in Bath. Mr Norris, who met students from Hayesfield Girls School to talk about the benefits of power

A GROUP of MBA students at the University of Bath have supported local charity Julian House with consultancy services, inspired by a gift of socks. Students joining the MBA (Master of Business Administration) degree receive a welcome pack from the university, which includes MBA-branded socks supplied by ethical socks company Stand4socks, which donates one pair of socks to a chosen charity for every pair bought by customers. Paula Hawkins, MBA Marketing and Communications Manager at the University’s School of Management, said: “Of all the items in the welcome pack, the socks really fire up the students’ enthusiasm! This year we nominated Julian House to receive 300 pairs of socks. “Then, we thought, let’s take this further and asked Julian House to be part of our ‘Big Team Challenge’, where our MBA students – who already have extensive business and professional backgrounds, careers and experience – use their skills to help the charity solve their business challenges.” On Friday 30th September, around 50 new MBA students took part in the ‘Big Team Challenge’, an exercise that introduces them to the importance of working effectively as a group and gets them working on a client-based project, both of which will feature regularly over the course of the

pedal, said: “If we are going to cut those traffic jams and slash pollution in Bath and NE Somerset, one tool in our arsenal has to be more cycling. “That’s why the more we can help the region’s young people to see walking and cycling as the natural choice for shorter everyday journeys, the better it will be not just for their own health and wellbeing, but the health of our planet as well. “It’s why my Mayoral Combined Authority has invested millions in things like new and improved cycle lanes, so people feel safe on their bike, and more. “The good thing is school kids in Bath and NE Somerset are clearly really eager to hop on two wheels. “I urge them, and everyone in the West of England, to build good habits that last a lifetime, and help save the planet at the same

time.” Ben Bowskill, Sustrans’ Partnerships and Public Affairs Manager for the West of England said: “We’re delighted to partner with The Bikeability Trust for Cycle to School Week 2023, encouraging families and friends to walk, wheel and cycle together. “Cycling to school is a healthy, sustainable and fun way to travel, but we know from our Walking and Cycling Index 2021 that only 29% of residents UK-wide think the level of safety for children cycling is good. “There is appetite to travel actively to school, but everyone must be made to feel safe while doing it. “That’s why we must prioritise making walking and cycling easier and safer in order to continue building these positive travel habits that last a lifetime.”

year’s MBA. Julian House staff opened the session, presenting the students with a short ‘sprint challenge’ – a real business issue that the charity is facing and which provides the students with the opportunity to act as consultants and provide real-world recommendations that will be of value to the organisation. Rachel Avent, Senior Community and Events Fundraiser at Julian House, said: “After partnering with the School of Management earlier in the year, with the Stand4Socks donation scheme, we were excited to be invited to take part in the MBA Big Team Challenge as their first ever charity to set a challenge for the students to tackle. “To see them work effectively as a group as fundraising consultants was fantastic and the quality of work they produced and then presented was impressive. “They sparked some original ideas, which we at Julian House will look to explore further.”

Bath Spa University welcomes new chaplain with ceremony BATH Spa University has formally welcomed its first fulltime University Chaplain and Chaplaincy Team Leader, The Rev. Dr Katy Garner. In order for Katy to take up her post, the Diocese of Bath and Wells must confer a Bishop’s License. Bishop Ruth, the Bishop of Taunton, led a ceremony on Monday 25th September on behalf of the Diocese. Guests from the university community and multi-faith groups from across the city were welcomed to the ceremony by Bath Spa University ViceChancellor, Professor Sue Rigby and Students’ Union President Jasmine Raymond-Barker. The event, which took place in The Street at Bath Spa’s Locksbrook Campus, was the first of its kind for the university. Professor Sue Rigby said: “We are delighted to welcome the University’s new Chaplain Rev Dr Katy Garner. Caring for all students is at the core of what we do. We are pleased to be able to strengthen our support for the

melting pot of faiths, backgrounds and beliefs that make up our Bath Spa community.” Jasmine Raymond-Barker, President of the Bath Spa University Students’ Union added: “Our chaplaincy team provides such a sense of warmth and kinship across our campuses, seeing them around for my last two years as a student was always a pleasure. “Last year, a group of friends and I collaborated with the chaplaincy team to create some beautiful artwork in support of Iranian women for Amnesty International Bath Spa University. “That will always mean a lot to me. And I know it means a lot to our community to see Rev Dr Katy join the chaplaincy team so that they can continue to make as much of an impact in the future.” Born in Bideford, Devon, Katy began her career as a nurse training at Guys Hospital London, followed by jobs in a busy A&E, intensive care, midwifery training and a two-year short service commission in the British Army as a Nursing Sister where she met

her husband, Peter. Katy said: “When my daughter started primary school, we moved to Bath and I decided to do a chemistry degree. “As I came to the end of the degree, I was offered a Faraday scholarship to do a PhD in odour and disease investigating identification of markers in disease diagnosis. “While in Bath, Peter and I and the family attended Bath Abbey. The girls became choristers and I became increasingly involved with the children’s work there, taking on a role as families and children coordinator for several years. It was during a trip to the Holy Land that I found myself standing at the top of Mount Tabor telling the Vicar that I thought I was being called to be a priest. “I then soon began training at Rippon College Cuddesdon as a residential student in September 2014. “In 2016 Peter and I moved to Hampshire where I took up the post of Curate, which is a vicar in training post. I have spent the last

Bishop Ruth, The Rev. Dr Katy Garner and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sue Rigby

four years as the Vicar in Backwell and Chelvey near Bristol. “I am so looking forward to working with the staff and students at Bath Spa University and cannot wait to meet everyone.” Katy’s role as University Chaplain and chaplaincy team leader, will include further developing the multi-faith provision at Bath Spa and enhancing the existing chaplaincy team who have been working across the University

with students and staff for many years. Katy will work within the University’s Student Wellbeing Service. Sara Gallagher, Head of Student Wellbeing Services at Bath Spa University, said: “We are excited to welcome Katy to the wellbeing team. “The diversity of our university community is growing and it is important that we are able to have provision that is inclusive of all faiths and people.”

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Proposal to create dog grooming parlour at Alice Park turned down

John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS to open a dog grooming parlour in a Bath park have been turned down. A local resident had hoped to build a hut in Alice Park in Lambridge to run a dog grooming business, but the plans were scrubbed when they went before the committee which runs the site. Often seen as a public park, Alice Park is technically private land held in trust by Bath and North

East Somerset Council. Local councillor Joanna Wright chairs the Alice Park Trust subcommittee which runs the park. She told a meeting of the subcommittee on 28th September: “My view of the park is we were given it in trust for young children to play in. “We weren’t given it as a public park in place for dogs to go and be groomed in. So at the moment, I don’t think we are in a place to support this request.” Councillor Ollie Henman questioned whether it would

align with the park’s charitable objectives, and councillor Deborah Collins questioned how park users would feel about it. The subcommittee, which was meeting in the park itself, under the community garden’s oak barn, voted against permitting the dog grooming hut to be built. Alice Park opened in 1938 as a place for children to play and take part in sports. It was given to Bath by Herbert Montgomery MacVicar of Batheaston in memory of his wife, Frances Alice Harriet, who had died two years prior.

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SouthGate Bath welcomes two new watch boutiques TWO new watch boutiques have been welcomed at the SouthGate Bath shopping centre, thanks to luxury watch specialist Watches of Switzerland. The new stores, from prestigious brands TAG Heuer and Breitling, have opened on St Lawrence Street in the city centre. TAG Heuer is world-renowned for its watch-making expertise and designs. The new boutique will showcase its core collections plus exclusive timepieces. Founded in 1884, Breitling is a leading Swiss watchmaker which invented the modern chronograph and pioneered the navigational tool watch. Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, said: “It’s always exciting to be able to announce the arrival of new brands, and especially ones of this magnitude. “I’m sure that they will be a big hit with our shoppers, especially in the lead up to the festive season.” Rob Diver, Managing Director of TAG Heuer UK and Ireland, said: “We are excited to continue our retail expansion plan with the opening of the first-ever TAG Heuer Boutique in the

historic city of Bath with longstanding partner The Watches of Switzerland Group. “The new boutique is located in the city’s prominent shopping area SouthGate Bath and will offer the full TAG Heuer experience with the brand’s infamous collections along with special editions. “The team will welcome new customers into the boutique sharing their expertise in the search of the perfect timepiece.” Gavin Murphy, Breitling UK Managing Director said: “Bath is an important and affluent region of the Southwest that attracts a wide-ranging blend of visitors, both domestic and international. “With this new triple-aspect monobrand boutique, set in the heart of this historic city, we can truly showcase our full collection of timepieces in our signature informal setting, creating an immersive shopping experience for residents and visitors to the city. “ SouthGate Bath will be welcoming Zara later this year as it continues to focus on expanding its range of luxury brands in the city centre. Photo: Inside the TAG Heuer store © KALORY Photo and Video www.kalory.co.uk

Hundreds register interest in group-buying solar scheme HUNDREDS of local residents and businesses have already registered their interest in a scheme to power their properties with clean energy using solar panels and battery storage. Bath and North East Somerset Council is participating in Phase 2 of the Solar Together West of England Scheme, a group-buying scheme that is being delivered in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and their partner iChoosr Ltd. In the first two weeks of registration being opened, more than 620 people registered their interest, including 10 businesses. During the first round of the scheme in 2021, a total of 1,620 property owners across the district registered for the scheme, with 278 installing solar panels and 176 installing battery storage systems. The installations delivered through the 2021 scheme across the whole of the West of England equates to an estimated 18,000 tonnes of carbon reduction over 25 years. Councillor Sarah Warren deputy leader, and cabinet member

for Climate Emergency and Sustainable Travel said: “The first phase of the Solar Together scheme proved very popular with B&NES residents. “iChoosr have built on that successful first phase and introduced a number of measures to improve customer service and communication during the process, so we hope that many more homeowners and businesses will sign up for this second phase. “Because of the way the scheme works, the more people that take part, the better the price that Solar Together can secure for everyone and the more renewable energy will be generated. “Those who take part will be able to make the switch to renewable energy, while supporting our region’s shared ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030.” Homeowners can register with the Solar Together West of England group-buying scheme for free, providing details about their roof size and orientation. An auction will be held at which pre-vetted solar installers will submit bids for the work. Homeowners will then be sent

Homeowners can benefit from lower bills with solar panels and battery storage

costs and specifications for their system, but there is no obligation to proceed to installation. Businesses with a small or medium sized roof that could take up to 25 panels can also register for the scheme. You can find more information about the how the scheme works on the council’s Energy at Home website. Residents can also register to have battery storage added to their existing solar panels to maximise the benefits of their system. Installations will generally not

need planning permission, however in some cases, such as in Conservation Areas or on a Listed Building, planning permission may be required. There is more information on the council website at https://www. energyathome.org.uk/planning For information including likely costs and the amount of energy people can expect to generate, visit the Solar Together website, email west-of-england@ solartogether.co.uk or call 0800 0148 428. Owner-occupiers and landlords

of local homes can apply for a low-cost loan with Lendology to help spread the cost of the solar or battery installation. The Retrofit West initiative also aims to help homeowners in the West of England to introduce improvements that enhance energy efficiency of their properties. Anyone interested in retrofitting their home can visit the Homeowner Advice Service, (https://www.retrofitwestadvice. co.uk/) which provides guidance and support.

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Politics More traffic restriction measures set to be trialled this year John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

FIVE new traffic restriction schemes could go live in Bath and North East Somerset this year on an experimental basis. Joel Hirst, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet lead on highways, said that the council were looking at bringing “approximately five” new traffic restriction measures on an experimental basis, as part of the council’s planned liveable neighbourhood programme. He said that the council were aiming to bring them in by December, but it could continue into spring 2024. More information, including where the new measures would be brought in, is expected to be announced in November, as details are still being worked out. Speaking at a meeting of the council’s climate emergency and sustainability policy development and scrutiny panel on 14th September, Mr Hirst said: “The aim of the programme is about improving residential streets, encouraging safe,

active, and sustainable forms of transport: walking, wheeling, cycling. “So making our residential areas less of somewhere that somebody wants to drive through cutting a corner, and more about for the residents as a nice place to live.” He told the meeting: “In the run up to the local election the liveable neighbourhood piece did create quite a large amount of debate and I think the cabinet’s view is that the election outcome was seen as a strong mandate for moving forward with this programme and developing this as best we can.” Three traffic reduction measures in the programme are currently live in Bath and North East Somerset on a trial basis: on Southlands in Weston, on Church Street in Widcombe, and on Queen Charlton Lane near Whitchurch. Mr Hirst said that the council would be carrying out engagement on these three schemes to determine whether they were a “good experiment,” and if they should be withdrawn or amended. He said: “This should be landing

soon on people’s mats.” The council’s liveable neighbourhood programme currently includes 15 schemes for areas in Bath and North East Somerset where traffic reduction measures could be brought in, but Mr Hirst said that another 70 had been proposed by councillors under the previous administration for the next phase of liveable neighbourhoods. He added that the initial 15 liveable neighbourhood schemes had gone through a “Rolls Royce of co-design” with local communities, but he warned this took a lot of time and raised expectations. Commenting on how the next phase of liveable neighbourhoods should be developed, Oldfield Park councillor Ian Halsall warned that the debate over the schemes had become “politicised.” He said: “Really I think we should speed things up as quickly and as fairly as we can because if we get liveable neighbourhoods implemented, the residents are going to see the benefit of them rather than being anti them.” Lambridge councillor Saskia

Heijltjes added: “I think it’s very important that we let people experience the interventions, so with an [experimental traffic regulation order], and then do a proper consultation. “It’s very hard for people to understand what the effect will be on their streets and I think once you experience it, that is when we need to get the feedback. “Things like interventions like planters in Southlands, they are actually really cheap to take out again so that is not an issue.”

But Moorlands councillor Jess David warned against “throwing the baby out with the bathwater.” She said: “With these schemes, they are controversial. There is a lot of noise out there; we have to do engagement. Part of our job is to bring people with us and have those conversations about what people want. “So I think that’s a really good thing about how B&NES has gone about liveable neighbourhood so far and I wouldn’t want to lose that.”

Call for action over number of gulls at Bath Riverside John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

PEOPLE living in a modern Bath development are forced to live with “torturous sleep deprivation” as gulls surround the building. Gulls are a significant problem in Bath, where the Georgian architecture that covers much of the city provides perfect places for the birds to nest. But even people living in the modern Riverside development are being plagued by the birds. Gavin is a part of the resident association’s gull action group. Addressing Bath and North East Somerset Council as a public speaker at their full council meeting on 21st September, he said: “I moved to the Riverside development early last year but was simply not prepared for the serious impact that these creatures have upon me and on many other residents.” “On the roof of the building adjacent to me, at the level of my windows and within a distance of no more than 50 feet, there are often 10 or 12 adult gulls. “There are often four of five on my balcony, two on the parapet above me, and three of four on a second neighbouring building.” The noise from the birds often wakes Gavin up at 3am and stops him from getting back to sleep. He continued: “My health and wellbeing have suffered from lack of sleep, anxiety, and being unable to concentrate with windows open, even in the stifling heat of summer.” “It has been impossible to escape the situation and I have had to seek refuge with

Gulls have been a persistent issue in Bath

friends and family.” The Bath Riverside development’s management company had worked with the council’s gull officer Gordon Dugan to develop proofing measures, but Gavin said that the issue extended beyond the development’s own buildings. Gulls are also showing “increasingly aggressive behaviour,” he warned. He said: “I had a sandwich snatched from my hand, drawing blood; I have been hit on the head by a gull while walking; and I have witnessed a gull take ducklings from the canal.” The birds and their nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, but Natural England can grant licences to control gulls such as through removing nests or eggs. Gavin called on the council to engage with Natural England to allow them to do more to tackle gulls. June Player, councillor for the Westmoreland ward which includes the Riverside development, commented: “Natural England is protecting all birds; but who is protecting the residents?”

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Tuesday 10th October - Monday 23rd October 2023

In Other News... Santa and Elf Run in aid of Dorothy House set to return THE Santa and Elf Run in aid of local charity Dorothy House is set to return this December, offering residents the chance to raise funds for vital end-of-life care. Taking place on Sunday 3rd December, the event will see Santa’s and Elves complete the 2.5 or 5km route around the Hospice in Winsley as a walk or run. This festive family fun run is open to all ages and takes place along a course through the grounds of Dorothy House Hospice, starting and ending at Winsley Cricket Club. Participants can choose to do the 2.5km route once or twice to make it a 5km run. The fun run starts at 11am, with registration open from 9.30am and a warm-up session at 10.50am. Retaining the same costs as last year’s event, entry costs £15 for 12+ years and £7.50 for 2–11-yearolds. All 12+ year-old participants will receive a Santa suit and 2–11-year-olds will receive an Elf hat as part of their registration. The festive clothing is included in the entry fee plus refreshments after the run. All runners aged 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. All adult entrants are asked to

raise a minimum sponsorship of £30 or make a donation in lieu of sponsorship to help support patient care at Dorothy House. Last year’s event raised £17,000 for the Hospice, helping staff continue to deliver care to patients and families across Bath and Wiltshire. Over £6,000 of this was raised by Kevin, his family and his ABInBev colleagues who took part in support of Kevin who at the time was under the care of Dorothy House. Carolyn, Kevin’s wife, said: “When my husband Kevin was told he only had weeks left he wanted to do something to raise money for Dorothy House. “We saw the Santa and Elf Run on their website and thought that was perfect, and maybe we’d raise a couple of hundred pounds! “I didn’t really know what to expect from the day and wondered if we’d done the right thing. “But I had no need to worry, what a lovely day it was, family, friends and work colleagues all came out to offer support. “It was full of smiles from the starting warm up, to the public waving from the bus at a whole load of Santa’s, to the warming soup and roll at the end, and the snow machine was a big

hit and provided lots of photo opportunities. We left with smiles and so many memories. “The couple of hundred pounds we hoped we’d raise turned into thousands, but even if you think you can’t raise much money, just taking part all counts, it’s a very special way to spend a morning in December! “Kevin went on to be an inpatient in January and February. The care he received was amazing, not only on the medical side, but

people having the time for him, I will be forever grateful to Dorothy House that he was able to spend that time there. We watched the beautiful firefly lights swaying in the breeze in the evening, and the snow drops appearing outside his room during the day. “We’ve all heard about Dorothy House, but until you’re involved with them you don’t know what a special place it is.” Dan Varley, Community and Events Fundraiser at Dorothy

House said: “Christmas is such a special time here at Dorothy House, and we’re so pleased to be once again hosting the fantastic Santa and Elf Run in partnership with our wonderful friends at Winsley Cricket Club. “Funds raised at this event allow us to continue to deliver outstanding care to patients and their loved ones just like Kevin and his family and it is a brilliant community event for the whole family to get involved in.”

“Optical illusion” cycle lane to stay after motion withdrawn John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

KEYNSHAM’S “optical illusion” cycle lane will remain on the town’s high street despite a large number of trips and falls. A cross-party plan to commit Bath and North East Somerset Council to investigate the costs of fixing the cycle lane had been due to go to vote at a council meeting on 21st September. But the Keynsham councillors behind the plan withdrew and postponed it, amid fears it would be “torpedoed” by the council administration. As of August, 76 people had reported falls in the cycle lane since it was opened in March 2022, although the unreported figure is believed to be even higher. Local councillors say that the injuries people have suffered include fractures, lost teeth, and significant bruising. Alan Hale, Conservative

Councillor Alan Hale by the troubled cycle lane | Photo courtesy of Alan Hale

councillor for Keynsham South, said: “It very soon became clear that there was a real issue with the varying non-standard kerb heights. It was also obvious that there was an optical illusion that disguised the changes in levels.”

The cycle lane was painted red in August in a bid to fix the issue but falls have continued. After “fruitless” attempts to get the Liberal Democratic administration to act, Keynsham’s councillors set aside

party lines to band together and force something to be done. Liberal Democrat councillor for Keynsham East Hal MacFie drew up a motion, supported by the other councillors in the town, to commit the council to investigating the costs of fixing the confusing kerbs. But the motion was later withdrawn before the meeting. A statement from the Keynsham councillors said that an amendment to their motion had been tabled by the administration which they believed would “crush” their motion. Under the council’s constitutional “six-month rule”, this could prevent it being discussed again until at least March 2024. However, a source close to the Liberal Democrat administration said that it was standard practice for the council administration to file an amendment to all motions. Mr MacFie said he would work on the motion and bring it back to a future meeting. A spokesperson for the Liberal

Crossword answers - Issue 061 (26/09/23) Across: 1 U S S R, 3 Conviction, 10 Wealthier, 11 Ruler, 12 Spray-paint, 13 Lode, 15 Ethan, 16 Adapters, 20 Entirety, 23 Llama, 25 Utah, 27 Bipartisan, 29 Uncle, 30 One-fourth, 31 Bright side, 32 R S V P. Down: 1 Unwashed, 2 Sea urchin, 4 Okinawa, 5 Veranda, 6 Cork, 7 Igloo, 8 Nerves, 9 Staying in, 14 Stilettos, 17 Dot, 18 Reassures, 19 Pawnshop, 21 Editors, 22 Year-end, 24 Suburb, 26 A S C I I, 28 Tech.

Democrat group said: “We understand the Keynsham Councillors decided to withdraw their motion whilst we await the Stage 4 safety audit. “We’re taking reports of all falls seriously. “The majority of incidents happened within the first six months of the scheme going in and the number of incidents is decreasing as people get used to the changes and in light of the amendments we have already made. “We are listening and the Stage 4 road safety audit we commissioned will guide us. An example of an improvement we’ve already made is to introduce the red cycle lane finish last August.” This newspaper is produced using paper from sustainably-managed forests.

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