ECHO
Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
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Issue No. 136
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DUCK POND PROTEST Latest rally planned as council marks ‘significant milestone’ - P3
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How to get in touch with us... For news items and press releases: news@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Editor Sebastian Hawker editor@bathecho.co.uk Becky Feather, Reporter becky@bathecho.co.uk Richard Briggs, Sports Reporter richard@bathecho.co.uk Advertising & Marketing: Rob Last - 07990 253664 rob@mediabath.co.uk For sport and match reports: sport@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Want to have a letter published? letters@bathecho.co.uk Subscriptions/Distribution: production@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Published by Media Bath Limited
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Photo © Wessex Water
4,000 hosepipes being left running continuously each day. One of the main challenges during the summer has been moving enough water through the network to meet demand, while underground service reservoirs have also been placed under greater pressure. The company said customers can help by allowing lawns to turn brown, using watering cans rather than hoses or sprinklers, reusing water from washing up and paddling pools, shortening showers and avoiding unnecessary car washing. Using a watering can instead of
a hose or sprinkler could save as much as 1,000 litres an hour, according to Wessex Water. Will Willoughby, director of water supply, said: “We know that a hosepipe ban would not be welcome news for our customers, especially during the summer holidays. “A ban is a last resort for us, and we don’t want to introduce one, but we do need customers to help. “If all customers can make small changes to their daily water use habits, this will make a big impact and help keep water flowing for each other, businesses and the
From the Editor... Opinion, insight and the stories shaping Bath this week
I
F you were one of the millions of people across the country, and Europe, who took the opportunity to watch the solar eclipse on Wednesday evening, you may have been in awe, or a little bit disappointed. Admittedly, I was quite young when the total solar eclipse took place in 1999, and I have no memory of it. So I thought it best to take advantage of this one, before I’m in my later years in September 2081! It was certainly fascinating to watch it (albeit safely) over those few minutes, with the light beginning to dim around us. Thinking about the next solar eclipse got me thinking about what Bath will look like in 60
years’ time. There’s plenty of building work going on across our glorious city, along with all those contentious things including student accommodation, cycle lanes, unkempt streets and active travel schemes! But will everything that is getting people’s backs up now just have become the norm by 2081? If we think about what has been achieved globally since the 60s/70s – the internet, worldwide connectivity, eradication of diseases – the list really does go on. So, it’s hard to predict what Bath will look like. I imagine our prestigious Georgian architecture will remain the highlight for
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environment.” He said teams had also been working throughout the summer to find and repair leaks, prioritising those wasting the largest amounts of water. Wessex Water is contacting larger business customers with high levels of consumption to encourage them to reduce nonessential use. Mr Willoughby added: “If demand doesn’t reduce, we will need to introduce more formal restrictions to protect water supplies, which is why we’re asking customers to work with us now to help avoid this.”
Sebastian Hawker
tourists, the history of the city will continue to be known across the world and people will still complain about the weeds on our pavements (the weeds annoy me as well). This newspaper issue is a good one for us to refer back to in 60 years. What did happen to the duck pond in Royal Victoria Park? Did it get sorted, and have there been problems with the site since? We’ll have to wait and find out. How did the new Fashion Museum turn out? I don’t have a crystal ball to hand unfortunately, otherwise I’d already have tomorrow’s lottery numbers lined up, but if the museum is as big a draw for tourists and
residents as expected, it will become one of the city’s main attractions. Now’s the real existential question – what will local news look like in 2081? The tiresome ‘print is dead’ we hear a lot already could well be the case at that point (thank you for reading this in print right now though, it means a lot!). I doubt we’ll have flying cars as was predicted for us by the 2000s, but people will still want to keep up to date with what’s happening in their community, so local news will still be here, in some form. Maybe we’ll have an app that lives inside your glasses or some kind of implanted chip. Either way, we’ll still be working hard!
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HOUSEHOLDS in Bath and across the wider Wessex Water region are being urged to reduce non-essential water use as the company warns restrictions could be introduced if demand remains high. Water resources are currently described as stable, with surface water reservoirs at 58% capacity at the end of July. However, months of exceptionally dry weather and heatwaves, combined with forecasts for another six weeks of hot and dry conditions, have led Wessex Water to ask customers to make further savings. The company supplies Bath and most of Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire and has not needed to introduce water restrictions in the region for 50 years. It said a hosepipe ban would remain a last resort but could be required to protect supplies for households, businesses and the environment if current demand does not fall. Water use across the region has exceeded 400 million litres a day for 35 consecutive days – more than 30% above the average for this time of year. Wessex Water said the additional demand is equivalent to almost
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Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
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Issue 136
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Work to restore duck pond reaches ‘milestone’ Becky Feather Reporter
BATH & North East Somerset Council has this week announced that its restoration project for the dried-up duck pond in Royal Victoria Park has reached a “significant milestone”. It comes as plans are being made to hold another rally to protest about the state of the pond. Campaigners took along banners to an “apolitical” rally on 21st September last year to highlight concerns about the pond. They will be gathering again at noon on Sunday 20th September as they say the pond has fallen into further decline. The pond was previously fed by the Georgian Springs. However, they were deteriorating and causing localised flooding issues for several properties. The feed was disconnected, meaning the pond has been reliant on rainwater to fill up naturally. Long, dry and hot spells, and the effects of climate change, have
How the pond in the park now looks
compounded the problem. The lining has also been damaged. In an update this week, Bath & North East Somerset Council said its aim to restore a longterm water supply and increase biodiversity is continuing, with silt removal to begin in the early autumn. The council said: “The first phase of the project to estimate the amount of water needed to keep
the ponds full throughout the year has already been completed. “Early investigations have identified several water sources in and around the park that are being monitored to assess their flow rate. “Now a contractor has been appointed to remove silt and the damaged liner from the ponds. Removing the silt will be easier during the current dry weather
and means a new liner can be installed when works to restore the water flow are complete. “Temporary ways to increase water levels in the ponds have also been explored, including diverting rainwater from the roof of the Temple of Minerva and the stream at the edge of the Great Dell. “The cascade from the Botanic Garden will also be cleaned and repaired. “In the autumn the council will be consulting to seek the views of the public on ways to improve the setting, establish new planting and increase biodiversity of the ponds and their surroundings.” Councillor Oli Henman, cabinet project lead for climate change, said this week: “It’s fantastic to see this project moving forward,” with the appointment of a contractor to remove the silt and install the liner marking “a significant milestone”. The work is being done in phases to secure value for money. Additional external funding may be sought for later stages of the project, the council says.
Consultations open on ‘improvements’ to park
A new cycle route is being proposed around the park
Becky Feather Reporter
WITH works expected to start in Royal Victoria Park and Park Lane this autumn to support the Bath Walking, Wheeling and Cycling route between Weston and Queen Square, Bath & North East Somerset Council has launched four statutory consultations. The council consulted on earlier proposals last year and says the revised design reflects residents’ feedback. There will be amendments to parking and waiting restrictions around Royal Victoria Park and
part of Royal Avenue, and there will be a new zebra pedestrian crossing on Park Lane, 11 metres south of the mini-roundabout junction with Weston Road. The council says parking provision will be retained to meet demand, including at peak times, and new disabled bays will be installed close to amenities. Five raised table crossings will be installed. Vehicles will still be able to access the park from Park Lane as they do now. The new cycle route will feature green surfacing and flexible ‘tulip wand’ separators to create a clear boundary from the road. It will involve two contraflow mandatory cycle lanes. One will
42 missions
have been carried out in the Bath area so far this year.
be from the north-west entrance at the junction with Park Lane and Weston Road for cyclists to travel south-east along the access road on the south-west side of the carriageway. The other will be from the northwest access road to the Victoria Obelisk, enabling south-eastbound movement of cyclists. The cycle lane will be along the eastern and northern side of the road. The project also includes heritage-style, eco-sensitive lighting to support safety and year-round use. Councillor Lucy Hodge, cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, said: “In Royal
Victoria Park, we have listened to feedback and refined the plans, retaining vehicle access while delivering better facilities for people walking, wheeling and cycling through the park. “The improvements will create safer crossings, better accessibility and a more welcoming environment for everyone.” Funding for the scheme has been secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority. The consultations on the zebra crossing and raised table crossings end on 20th August. The consultations on the cycle lane and the parking and waiting restrictions close on 27th August.
News in Brief New Bath police station opens doors to public Bath’s new police station has opened in Monmouth Street, bringing neighbourhood, patrol and public enquiry services together in one central location. The station opened on Wednesday, 12th August, following refurbishment of the former Plymouth House office building. The public enquiry office has moved from Lewis House in Manvers Street, while the premises also replace the police base at Redbridge House on Lower Bristol Road. Chief Constable Sarah Crew said the opening represented a significant investment in policing and in the officers and staff serving Bath. She said the building had been designed to support effective working, collaboration and staff wellbeing, while providing facilities needed for modern policing. Superintendent Ronnie Lungu, B&NES LPA Commander, said bringing teams together would help officers share intelligence and deploy resources more effectively.
Moorfields Post Office to reopen this autumn The Post Office has announced that the Moorfields branch will be reopening in Bath on 5th October. The former branch was in Morrisons in Moorland Road, which closed in April 2025. The new location is the Londis in Moorland Road.
Weather Forecast Fri 14th Sat 15th Sun 16th Mon 17th Tue 18th Wed 19th Thu 20th
29°c 27°c 26°c 25°c 25°c 24°c 22°c
Long range forecast:
A crossing is proposed at the top of Park Lane
(21st to 27th August) A chance of rain for the region, with temperatures around average for the time of year. Higher pressure on the way, with drier conditions expected.
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Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
Council takes action to help its struggling housing company BATH & North East Somerset Council has stepped in to help its housing company, Aequus, which is struggling financially. The decision, taken by the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for resources Councillor Mark Elliott, will in particular support the local authority’s Bath Quays North project to redevelop Avon Street and Green Park Road car parks, and protect the company’s directors from personal liability. Aequus Group Holding Ltd delivers housing development and related services through its subsidiaries Aequus Construction Limited (ACL) and Aequus Developments Ltd (ADL). Since 2016, it has delivered 280 homes and generated more than £6 million for its sole shareholder, the council. The company has diversified activity to support neighbouring councils deliver sites in South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. In addition, it has also actively pursued third-party sites that could be acquired from other public sector bodies, including the NHS or from the open market. Aequus holds some limited reserves and a working capital facility to progress predevelopment opportunities on third party land. But according to a report published on the council’s
website, the company has experienced “significant challenges” in delivering the business plan in 2025/26 with “unfavourable market conditions” impacting on construction activity and depleting company reserves as construction and subsequent house sales have not progressed. The council is taking action to maintain the company whilst it works through the issues and resumes construction activity. The time-limited indemnity and related measures support priority housing delivery, including affordable and social rented homes at Bath Quays North, protect directors from personal liability, support the going concern assessment, and allow the council to review Aequus’ future role, governance and financial sustainability. Aequus’ sustain business plan resets cashflow and income to return to profit over the next three years. As part of the plan, the company has taken measures to reduce its staffing and operating costs by more than 20%, including staffing reductions and a move to shared accommodation at the council’s Keynsham Civic Centre. A report on the council’s website says a “limited number” of sites are more secure at the present time: “This includes two sites which are outside council reliant pipelines and the Bath Quays
Ban on centres taking fridges and freezers
The Guildhall in Bath
North site which has achieved planning permission. “These sites, which are all in B&NES, have the potential to deliver over 130 units including 60 affordable homes.” To further mitigate challenging market conditions and to deliver the council’s priority to build affordable homes, the council is applying to Homes England for funding to deliver 50% of Bath Quays North as social rented affordable housing, delivered by Aequus Construction Ltd, for retention by the council. Homes England launched the new Affordable Homes Programme on 1st April 2026, enabling the council as a Registered Provider to bid for affordable funding. A portfolio of 420 homes, including delivering
Plans for six homes in Combe Down are refused following appeal Becky Feather Reporter
There is a national issue affecting the recycling fridges and freezers
BATH & North East Somerset Council has temporarily banned residents from disposing of fridges and freezers at its recycling centres in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. The council says the waste industry is currently experiencing a national issue affecting the recycling and disposal of fridges and freezers. “This is now creating a significant operational risk for the council’s recycling centre service. “Due to industry-wide problems at UK processing facilities, our contractor has suspended collections of fridges and freezers. “As a result, we have had to temporarily stop accepting these items at our recycling centres. This decision has not been taken lightly, but we no longer have
sufficient safe storage capacity at our sites.” The council advises that residents buying a replacement fridge or freezer should use retailer takeback schemes where available, rather than taking the old appliance to a recycling centre. Anyone who already has a fridge or freezer to dispose of should keep it safely at home until the service resumes, where possible. The council says it is working closely with its waste management partners to restore this service as soon as possible. “We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.”
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50% affordable provision on Plots 6-7 Bath Quays North, supports the council’s objective. In order to achieve this, land and development funding will be provided by the council direct to ACL, assisting in maintaining continuity for pre-development services and construction. An initial £156,333 of funding will be provided directly to Aequus from the council’s existing 2026/27 Bath Quays North approved capital budget. The 2027/28 budget will need to be uplifted by an equivalent amount, funded by a receipt from Aequus, when these liabilities are returned to them once the land transfer and development business case are approved. In addition, the LLP (limited liability partnership) has incurred
overhead costs of £181,677 to date. It is proposed to fund these costs from the council’s commercial income risk reserve as a one-off in 2026/27 to enable the company to lie dormant in line with the sustain plan. The report says the council has received independent financial and legal advice that Aequus is solvent, and the council’s corporate director for housing and capital delivery says the indemnity does not amount to a subsidy and is being provided to the board of directors as a “reassurance” that they will not be exposed to any personal liability. Pausing of dividends will create a financial pressure on the council of around £0.65 million per annum. In 2026/27 it is proposed that this pressure will be funded from the commercial income risk reserve. The pressure will then be considered as part of the 2027/28 and future years’ budget process. Some “strategic and financial information which could prejudice the commercial interests of the parties if disclosed at this time” has been exempted from the report on the council’s website. The deadline for a ‘call-in’ – the right of councillors to scrutinise the cabinet’s decision-making process – was on Monday 3rd August. No such call-in was made.
CONTROVERSIAL plans to build six homes in Combe Down have been refused on appeal. Last November Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee went against the advice of the case officer who had recommended giving the proposals for the two and threestorey houses at Stonehouse Lane the go-ahead. The scheme involved demolishing No. 56 on the backland portion of the site and knocking down No. 54 on the infill portion. Two four-bed homes were planned, with the others being five-bed. A total of nine parking spaces were proposed. Locals said the proposed development was too big for the plot and planning committee member Councillor Paul Crossley branded it the most “poorly designed” scheme he’d seen in years. The plans were rejected by the committee by eight votes to one. The reasons given were that the development would look “uncharacteristically cramped”
and given its layout, height, scale, design and massing would not have acceptable levels of privacy, outlook and natural light for neighbouring occupiers, nor give future occupiers adequate private outside space. The developer lodged an appeal in February and now Martin Allen, the inspector appointed by the Secretary of State, has thrown it out. He said the scheme would result in harm to the character and appearance of the area, harm to the living conditions of neighbours and that the future occupiers would not experience satisfactory living conditions. In his report he sad: “To be balanced against this are the benefits that would accrue from the scheme. “There would be a contribution towards providing additional housing, albeit that in this case the contribution would be small. There would also be social and economic benefits although these would also be small in their extent. “I also note that the appellant states that the scheme can be delivered quickly. “Overall, I find that the adverse impacts of the proposed
The appeal has been thrown out
development would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.” The inspector said he was aware that a planning application for a revised scheme had been submitted and approved by the council, but this had “little bearing” on his consideration of the appeal. That revised scheme from the same developer was for two fourbed detached houses on the site of the bungalow at No. 54, with two car parking spaces and space to store cycles. It was unanimously approved by the council’s planning committee in March.
Issue 136
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Museum secures £7.2 million National Lottery Heritage grant PLANS to create a new home for the Fashion Museum Bath have received a major boost after £7.2 million of National Lottery funding was secured. Bath & North East Somerset Council announced on Tuesday 4th August that the National Lottery Heritage Fund had approved the grant to help progress the museum’s development inside the Grade II listed former Post Office in Bath city centre. The funding follows the award of planning permission and will support work to transform the prominent building into a new cultural destination, with the museum expected to reopen in 2030. Construction is currently due to begin in late 2027. The new museum will display more of its nationally significant collection than was previously possible, spanning fashion from the late 16th century to the present day. Items range from the Silver Tissue Dress, dating from the 1660s, to work by designers including Mary Quant, Alexander McQueen, Phoebe English and Bianca Saunders. A new digital catalogue will also be developed, giving researchers, students and fashion enthusiasts
around the world greater access to the collection. Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “This grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund marks a transformational moment for Bath and comes hot on the heels of the recently secured planning permission for the new museum. “This project represents far more than capital investment. It will breathe new life into a landmark building, create opportunities for local people, support young people’s skills and creativity, improve accessibility, strengthen Bath’s visitor economy and enhance one of the city’s most important public spaces. “At a time when many places are scaling back ambition, Bath is investing in its future – combining heritage, culture, economic growth and public realm improvements to create a more vibrant, inclusive and prosperous city. “The progress achieved over the past year provides strong confidence that both projects can deliver lasting benefits for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”
Inset: The Old Post Office in Bath | Above: How the new museum will look | Image © B&NES Council
The grant will also fund a pre-opening programme offering local people skills training, education and work experience linked to careers in design, making, marketing and entrepreneurship. The programme is being developed with organisations including Bath Spa University and the London School of Architecture. Designed by architects 6a, the museum is intended to become one of the first in the UK to meet the EnerPHit standard for the sustainable refurbishment of existing buildings. Stuart McLeod, director of England – London and South at the National Lottery Heritage
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Fund, said the project would create a world-class home for one of the UK’s most important fashion collections. He said: “This is a once-in-ageneration project that will transform the Grade II listed Old Post Office, ensuring its heritage is conserved and reimagined for future generations. “Thanks to National Lottery players, this investment will not only restore an historic building in the heart of Bath but create a world-class home for one of the most significant fashion collections in the UK.” West of England Mayor Helen Godwin said the funding would help make the collection
available to people around the world online while supporting the museum’s move to the Milsom Quarter. The award follows a £768,000 development grant provided by the Heritage Fund in March 2025, alongside investment from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and Bath & North East Somerset Council. Further fundraising will be led by the Fashion Museum Foundation through a new philanthropic campaign. A programme of talks, events, consultations and community outreach is planned across Bath and North East Somerset before the museum opens.
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Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
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Campaigns to save two city churches for community use Becky Feather Reporter
TWO Methodist churches in Bath are up for sale, putting the future of a wide range of community activities at risk. Both the Methodist Church at Weston and Beechen Cliff Methodist Church at Bear Flat are on the market with agents James Pyle & Co. A group of local people have come together to form Newbridge Community Hub Ltd (NCH) with the goal of securing the future of the church for community use. Built in 1891, it is on the market with a guide price of £600,000. The building at Newbridge Hill has not been used for Methodist church services for four years. NCH says around 250 people use it every week, including a preschool; youth groups; exercise, activity and wellbeing groups; other community-based groups, and private party hirers. NCH is formally establishing itself as a charitable organisation and says it is determined to keep the building as a community hub hosting social, educational and leisure activities. The group is appealing for anyone with an interest in using the building to get involved in saving the building for the benefit of all.
Weston Methodist Church
Bath & North East Somerset Council has recognised the building as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). This status gives time-limited protection, stopping its sale to a property developer and granting NCH exclusive rights to negotiate with the current owner until 26th November. The Newbridge and Weston community came together on 4th July, for a coffee and cake event which raised nearly £2,000. Future events include a music and auction of promise evening on 4th September. You can find out more at www.newbridgehub.org Meanwhile the Bear Flat Association is heading the
campaign to save Beechen Cliff Methodist Church and Hall for the community. The guide price on the open market is £750,000. The association says: “Built in the early 20th century, the church has seen the loss of its congregation and the buildings have become increasingly difficult for the Methodist Church to sustain. “The buildings, in particular the community hall, have become a central part of the Bear Flat community. It hosts a wellregarded children’s nursery, Green Shoots, and is the focus of the monthly community market, repair café and community teas as well as keep fit classes. It is quite possible that this will be lost.”
Beechen Cliff Methodist Church
The BFA says its position, in line with its constitutional charitable objectives, is to try to maintain the community assets associated with the church and hall. “The BFA is unlikely to be in a position to buy the site but it will work with all interested parties to explore ways to continue its community use.” Last year the BFA secured an ACV listing for the premises with the support of the Methodist Church, which was granted by the council. The BFA says: “This signals to would-be purchasers the community value that the neighbourhood and council place in the site and secures a period in which no sale can be agreed, giving time for the community to
raise funds to purchase the site or otherwise consider its options. This period comes to an end in October 2026.” BFA has looked into the possibility of getting the property nationally listed and concluded that there was not enough evidence of ‘special architectural or historic interest’ to make listing a realistic prospect. The church is already locally listed and is in the Bath Conservation Area and the City of Bath Heritage Site so BFA says it could mount a “powerful campaign” if demolition or substantial alteration were to be proposed. To find out more visit www.bearflat.org.uk
Boost for Bath as £35m water treatment scheme is completed A £35 MILLION project to enhance the site that treats sewage from Bath and protect the environment in and around the River Avon has been officially unveiled. Customers and invited guests toured the water recycling centre off Mead Lane in the village of Saltford as Wessex Water threw open the doors to mark the completion of the two-year expansion. The scheme, which was designed and delivered by sister company YTL Construction UK, will meet the extra demands expected from a growing future population, ensuring treatment meets the highest standards for more than 100,000 customers. It takes Wessex Water’s overall recent investment to improve its services in and around Saltford to £45 million, following the completion of a new £9 million access road and bridge across the river to the site from the A431 that was completed in 2024 which has helped to remove site traffic from Saltford’s narrow lanes. A further £1 million enhancement of storm storage off the A4 in Saltford was also completed last year, while the nearby Keynsham Water Recycling Centre has also been the subject of a recent £17 million refurbishment. Wessex Water’s chief executive Ruth Jefferson, who welcomed visitors to view the upgrades last week, said: “Saltford is one of
the key sites in the north of our region and this site expansion helps us meet the needs of our growing local communities “As a result of this two-year project, we will be able to increase our capacity to treat incoming sewage by around 40% - more than 800 litres per second - and our thanks go to the YTL Construction UK team for completing it on time. “But we’ve also been determined to recognise and reduce the impact of our operations on the community of Saltford itself, reducing the environmental impact of our operations and enhancing areas around our site. “The new £9 million access road and bridge between our centre and A431 that was completed two years ago is helping to ease traffic travelling through narrow lanes in the village and the adjacent
footway crossing on the bridge is providing a new pedestrian link between Bitton and Saltford.’’ The century-old site is also home to a new lagoon viewing area that is regularly showcased on educational visits, while an ecological wetland scrape next to the bridge provides a habitat for amphibians, invertebrates, mammals and wetland birds. YTL Construction built all the major structures and pumping station and installed pipework and infrastructure for the water recycling centre expansion one of their biggest completed projects for Wessex Water. YTL Construction’s chief executive John Thompson said: “It’s the culmination of many years of hard work by our team – that numbered up 80 at its peak and has been a huge undertaking, with more than 300,000 tonnes
During the recent tour event | Photo © Wessex Water
Saltford Water Recycling Centre | Photo © Wessex Water
of earth shifted to prepare the ground initially and around 11,000 tonnes of concrete poured across the expansion area.” Around 5,000 trees and shrubs were planted and ground reinstated around the bridge and more than 3,000 trees, 250 metres of new hedgerow and 1.5 hectares of species-rich grassland will be planted or created from this autumn and the following spring. Mr Thompson added: “We’ve also played our part towards helping reduce the previous impact on the village of Saltford, contributing £20,000 – around a fifth of the project cost – towards a B&NES scheme to resurface and repair the High Street in the village. “And of course we were proud of our work on the bridge, the first to be built over the River Avon for 40 years, and which has won
accolades from the Institution of Civil Engineers and Green Apple Environment Awards.’’ Councillor Dine Romero, vice chair of Bath & North East Somerset Council, called the expansion “very impressive”. She said: “The council has recently joined a region-wide pledge to help the River Avon thrive, so it was great to learn how the additional capacity can also play a role in reducing storm overflow discharges. I was also pleased to hear how well Wessex Water continues to work with local partners and councils.” The Saltford centre will also play an increasingly prominent role in Wessex Water’s programme to remove more nutrients from wastewater within the Bristol Avon catchment, helping prevent algae from endangering wildlife within rivers and streams.
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Lidl concerns over loss of industrial ‘Urgent repairs’ needed land, congestion and flooding at Roman Baths site CONCERNS have been flagged up about Lidl’s plans for a supermarket at Broadmead Lane in Keynsham. As we reported last month, the budget retailer is seeking permission to demolish industrial units at the Jewson and Glenavon Timber Services site and build a new store with parking for 135 cars. The site is directly opposite the town’s Waitrose store. Bath & North East Somerset Council’s own economic development team has objected to the proposed Lidl, due to the loss of industrial land, saying: “As we know from the last decade of experience, once industrial space is lost, it never comes back into this usage and is not replaced with space elsewhere within the authority area.” A traffic management officer for Avon and Somerset Police has warned that the increase in traffic from another major supermarket will impact on the constabulary’s ability to safely respond to emergency calls from its base in nearby Ashmead Road. The police raised similar concerns over the proposed Aldi store at nearby Bath Road. In June the council’s planning committee
voted in Aldi’s favour, despite council officers recommending refusal on traffic congestion grounds. Commenting on Lidl’s plans, the police traffic management officer says there are already constraints on the road network around Broadmead Roundabout, which include competing traffic flows accessing and exiting Broadmead Lane and roundabout for Waitrose, the Unity Road and Ashmead Road industrial estates, Ashmead Road police site, Keynsham Recycling Centre, Avon Valley Adventure Park, Domino’s and KFC. “This volume will increase further following the consented Aldi supermarket planning application and related traffic route through Broadmead Lane,” says the officer’s report. They add: “Additionally, we are aware of ongoing WECA [West of England Combined Authority] consultation/design for highway works along the A4 between Bath and Bristol which will materially affect the Broadmead Roundabout and also the A4 in terms of traffic flow and traffic competing for road space. “This is in addition to other
planning proposals in the immediate vicinity which all have potential to increase traffic flow into the area. (Hicks Gate housing developments, bus hub). “It is not possible to fully assess the impact of these traffic streams on the proposal in the absence of further details regarding possible mitigating traffic management measures to ease the potential for congestion on the highway network which this proposal would contribute to.” The officer adds that given the housing developments and recently built school [Two Rivers] in the area, there is also potential for a high level of pedestrian movement requiring management. Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has objected to Lidl’s plans, telling B&NES Council that in the absence of an adequate flood risk assessment and due to the application involving works within eight metres of a watercourse, planning permission should be refused. The planning reference is 26/02094/FUL. Council planners are due to make a decision on the new store by the end of September.
Get back on your feet sooner – and return home safely IT’S fair to say that hospital isn’t most people’s favourite place to be. Whether you are recovering from planned surgery, or an unexpected spell in hospital following illness or injury, the question at the front of your mind is likely to be ‘how soon can I go home?’. Of course, getting discharged from hospital too soon, or returning home without the right support in place, comes with its own risks. No one wants to book a return visit to the ward, if they can avoid it. Thankfully, support is available to help you get back to your home comforts sooner, and crucially, safely. If you have been assessed by the hospital as ready to return home, but don’t have the support network in place to help you continue with your ongoing recovery, reablement care could be just what you need. Delivered by Somerset Care’s home care teams across Somerset, Wiltshire, Devon and B&NES, a package of reablement care provides short‑term, goal‑focused support at home, to help you regain your independence and rebuild your confidence. Working alongside therapists, health professionals and your family, the team can assist you with personal care, mobility and wellbeing support in your own home, whilst also helping with daily household tasks. This option allows you to get back to your home comforts, receiving the support you need within familiar surroundings. Reablement support enables you to leave hospital sooner, ensuring that when you return home, you can do so safely and equipped with the tailored support you
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New lead cover flashing will also be installed. A report with the application notes: “The buildings involved in this application are of exceptional heritage value and sensitivity.” It says: “In the broader context of the museum, the proposed works will have minimal impact. “They do not affect any significant archaeological features, alter the historic structure, or noticeably change the visual experience of the heritage site.” The planning reference is 26/01388/REG13. The deadline for any comments on the proposals is 27th August.
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Crime & Court
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Man stole books from Waterstones store to try to better himself
Appeal after red paint is sprayed over law courts
A MAN stole £300 worth of books from Waterstones in Bath so he could improve his relationship with his father, who was studying the same texts for an English Literature degree. Mark Sanders appeared before Bath magistrates on Wednesday 5th August to admit the theft, which took place on 20th March. CCTV showed Sanders walking into the store in Milsom Street with an empty bag and leaving five minutes later with it full of books. His details were circulated on the Disc information sharing system network for businesses. Staff at the book shop estimated the value of the books Sanders stole to be £300. Representing 49-year-old Sanders, of Broad Street in Bath, solicitor Ruth Tily said it was a “somewhat unusual” case. Sanders had a previous issue with drugs and his relationship with his family had been “quite strained for a long time”. He had the idea that it would be good to get the same books his
POLICE are appealing for information after wording in red paint was sprayed over the law courts in Bath. Words were sprayed on the ground, on walls and windows. It included “Judges kill dads” and has since been cleaned off. Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement: “A report of criminal damage has been received after paint was sprayed at the law court in North Parade Road last week. “We were told the incident happened at about 9.30pm on
Red paint was sprayed at the courts
Friday 7th August and it was reported to police the following morning. “Anyone with information is asked to contact us online, or on 101, quoting reference 5226222674.”
Waterstones on Milsom Street
father is studying for his English Literature university course so they would have something to talk about together. Sanders had been a library member but had outstanding fines. Miss Tily said Sanders regretted what he had done and was offering compensation to Waterstones. She said he has health issues and is on benefits. Chair of the bench Mark Pilgrim noted that Sanders had not offended for three years prior to
Former Olympian and peer set to go on trial
the theft of the books in March, but had 28 previous offences to his name, 22 of them for theft. He told Sanders: “When you want something, you take it.” On Sanders stealing the books “to try to better yourself”, Mr Pilgrim observed: “If I was your dad, I would not be impressed with that course of action.” Magistrates imposed a compensation order of £300 but made no order for prosecution costs or court surcharge.
Arrest after man is stabbed on railway path A MAN was taken to hospital after being stabbed on the Bristol & Bath Railway Path near Bitton on Tuesday night, 11th August. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
The police helicopter was mobilised as police searched between Newbridge in Bath and Bitton for the attacker. Police said they had arrested a teenager in connection with their enquiries.
Serial shoplifter from Bath to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court
The M4 motorway | Photo © Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock.com
BARONESS Sharron Davies, the former Olympic swimmer who lives near Bath, is contesting a speeding ticket and is expected to go on trial at the city’s magistrates’ court next spring. The Conservative peer has blamed poor signage for not realising there was a temporary 50mph limit on the M4 due to roadworks, and has pleaded not guilty to exceeding the speed restriction at junction 19 eastbound while driving her Mini. The offence carries between three and six penalty points. The 63-year-old did not attend Bath Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 11th August, for a pretrial review, but was represented by solicitor Laura Singleton. The prosecutor for Avon and Somerset Police told the court that the Mini was caught on camera doing 65mph in the temporary 50mph limit at 11.34pm on 15th October last year.
In a statement read to the court, the peer said she had been travelling back alone from a speaking event in Wales at the time. She said she was shocked to receive the speeding ticket as she prides herself on being a good and safe driver and had been using her cruise control at the time. She said she “absolutely did not see” any signs saying the speed had dropped to 50mph, and at the time the traffic was light and there were no workmen. The prosecution maintains that there were signs in place that were being checked every two hours by National Highways. The defence is expected to produce an expert’s report on signage for the trial, which will be next April or May. Baroness Davies is due to appear at a case management hearing in front of a district judge at the court in Bath on 21st October.
The Tesco Express on Midford Road
MAGISTRATES have committed a serial Bath shoplifter to Bristol Crown Court for sentence. Adam Murray, of Fox Hill in Combe Down, had pleaded guilty to 15 thefts from Tesco Express in Midford Road on various dates in February and March and one from Morrisons Daily at Combe Down in April. Among the items Murray stole were chocolate, meat and washing pods. On some of his visits he was accompanied, and sometimes he wore a balaclava. The full value of the items he stole
is not known, but it was more than £740. Bath Magistrates’ Court heard last Wednesday, 5th August, that 46-year-old Murray had a long list of previous convictions. Two days before, a judge at Bristol Crown Court had deferred sentencing him for offences committed last September, including possession of an offensive weapon. The deferment is until 14th December to give Murray a chance to prove to the judge that he won’t commit any further
offences. Bath magistrates were told it was not clear whether the judge had been aware of the shoplifting cases. They committed Murray to the Crown Court to be sentenced by the same judge on 2nd September. Murray was granted bail on condition that he does not go to the Tesco Express at Midford Road or to Morrisons Daily at Combe Down. He must also not wear or have a balaclava or any face covering in public.
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Your City, Your News - Bath Echo
Man with ‘appalling Warning over reports of record’ awaits sentence youths starting fires for his latest crimes A MAN with 60 previous convictions, who is currently living on the streets of Bath and battling multiple sclerosis, will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court next month for his latest crimes. Michael Morgan, 47, appeared before Bath magistrates last Wednesday, 5th August, for sentencing for two burglaries in the city and for handling stolen goods. Morgan had admitted that on 1st July at Cutlers and Gross opticians in Bridge Street, Bath, he handled stolen sunglasses worth £11,420. The items were recovered. He had also admitted stealing five jackets worth £449 from Millets in High Street on 16th October last year. He had denied a joint charge of breaking into Square on New Bond Street on 29th October last year and stealing designer goods worth £4,825 but was found guilty after a trial in his absence in April. Solicitor Ruth Tily, representing Morgan, told magistrates that he has MS and is sleeping in parks and doorways; he will likely be in
Bath Magistrates’ Court
a wheelchair soon. He is on benefits, on a methadone script (a heroin substitute) and on a waiting list for a bed at Julian House shelter. Miss Tily asked magistrates to consider giving him a suspended sentence order. However, they felt it was beyond their sentencing powers. They told Morgan he has an “appalling record” for crimes of dishonestly and theft, and the latest three offences all aggravated each other. They committed him to Bristol Crown Court to be sentenced on 2nd September. He will be on unconditional bail until then.
POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after reports of young people lighting fires at a wildlife haven in North East Somerset. Two youths have been arrested and the Bath & North East Somerset Neighbourhood Policing team have issued a warning about the dangers of setting fires. They said this week: “We are aware of concerns regarding youths lighting fires within the Waterside Valley area of Radstock and Westfield. “Following an incident over the weekend, two youths have been arrested, and police enquiries remain ongoing. “We are continuing to investigate and work closely with our partner agencies to identify anyone involved in similar incidents. “Lighting fires can have serious consequences. What may appear to be a small fire can quickly spread, putting people, homes, wildlife, and open spaces at risk. It also places unnecessary demand on emergency services. “We need your help. If you witnessed any of the incidents, have CCTV, dashcam footage, or information that could assist
Police take action to ban troublemakers from Kingsmead Square
Anti-social behaviour is being tackled in Kingsmead Square
POLICE in Bath say they are tackling a rise in anti-social behaviour in Kingsmead Square. They are securing court orders to deal with trouble-makers, and urge anyone affected, including local businesses, to report incidents. They say: “The City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team are aware of an increase in anti-social behaviour around Kingsmead Square over the last month, largely related to members of the street community gathering there. “Kingsmead Square often sees this behaviour increase over the summer or with warm weather.
In previous years we have managed this behaviour using anti-social behaviour powers such as Community Protection Warnings/Notices, Dispersal Orders and Criminal Behaviour Orders. “We will be taking a similar approach this year, with one Community Protection Warning already served and another awaiting service. These orders will prohibit two regular troublemakers from attending this location.” The police add: “In order to evidence these orders, we require reports from the public to demonstrate community impact and concern. We urge anyone
affected by this behaviour to give us detailed reports of what they have seen and who the specific offenders are.” This can be done via 101 or online at www.avonandsomerset.police. uk/report/anti-social-behaviour/ The police add: “Businesses in the city centre can also use the free DISC app to identify regular offenders to name them in your reports. Being able to attribute behaviour to specific individuals greatly increases the chances of us being able to use these ASB powers effectively.” The police will be showing an increased presence around the square throughout the day as well as at pop-up events.
Library image
our enquiries, please report it to police. “If a fire is posing an immediate risk to life or property, call 999. For non-emergency information, contact police on 101 or report online. “Please speak with young people about the dangers and potential legal consequences of setting fires and help us keep our communities safe. “Thank you to everyone who has already come forward with information.”
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Why do we ‘name and shame’ in our stories? Since the introduction of our Crime & Court section, we've been contacted by concerned members of the public, defendants and guilty parties regarding the inclusion of their names, ages, and partial addresses. We are proud to be able to provide court coverage of cases at Bath Magistrates' Court, something that many local newspapers are unable to do due to restricted time for their reporters. Reporting court cases acts as a deterrent against crime. Printing a defendant’s age and address stops anyone with the same name from being defamed. We do not have access to police or CPS files regarding cases, so everything reported is based on what the prosecution and defence say during a court hearing. HM Courts & Tribunals Service encourages and facilitates media access to courts and tribunals. We have the right to attend and report on proceedings held in open court, unless a statutory restriction applies, or a court order prevents this. Our stories are governed by the regulator IMPRESS, the Independent Monitor for the Press. We follow their dedicated Standards Code, which can be found at https://bit.ly/4n0d9qN
60-year-old prosecuted for tirade of racial abuse against Bath taxi driver A 60-YEAR-OLD man suspected of working as an unregistered taxi driver delivered a tirade of racial abuse when challenged, Bath magistrates heard. Stephen Woods was in court last Wednesday, 5th August, following the incident which happened on 10th May. The court heard from the prosecutor that Woods had made racist comments to a taxi driver who was taking photos of him in the rank outside Bath Spa railway station. The driver had reportedly been told to do so by a taxi official at the council in response to complaints about Woods getting fares despite being unregistered. The dispute continued later, on the forecourt of a nearby service station, with Woods uttering racist slurs to the taxi driver in front of a number of people, part of which was recorded on a mobile phone. It included Woods saying: “This is not your country. Go back to your country. This is my country.” Police were called and Woods was arrested. He told the officers: “Why don’t you go down to the beach and stop all these immigrants from coming in?” Woods, of Monksdale Road in Bath, admitted the racially
Woods was fined £80
aggravated offence of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour within the hearing or sight of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress. Woods was represented in court by solicitor Lisa Rowley. She told magistrates that he had been at the railway station to pick up a friend’s autistic children and had become concerned about photos being taken. She said he suffers from anxiety and has various health ailments. Woods apologised directly to the magistrates, telling them he was “anxious about what is happening in this country”. He was fined £80 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £85 and a court surcharge of £32.
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Pictures from the Past Shopping in Bathwick
How the row looked around 1910
Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press
WITH the closure of Morrisons Daily on Bathwick Street on 18th July, a facility which the residents of Bathwick had enjoyed for 180 years – of being able to buy everyday essentials on their doorstep – was finlly lost. The row of buildings in which it stood was built in the 1790s as part of an upmarket housing development. The residents would all have had servants whom they could send into town to do their shopping. Failing that, the city’s tradesman would have delivered else anything they needed.
Only in the mid-1840s, as the population of Bathwick continued to grow, was it decided to convert the ground floors of this row into retail units. It has been suggested that the decision may have been forced on the owners of the properties. Unlike most other terraces in the area, this row had been built on the cheap, with a frontage only one course of stone thick and a wooden bressumer running along it at first-floor level to provide stability. The construction of a new ground-floor frontage, extending outwards, may have been necessary to act as a buttress and prevent the wall above it from collapsing. This week’s archive photograph shows
the row around 1910. The first shop, on the left, was occupied by a Mr G Avery, a dairyman and greengrocer. Next door was John Harding, a family grocer. Next to him was Mr G Angell, baker and confectioner. Then came Fred Connett, butcher, with an awning to keep the sun off the meat in his window. On the other side of the entrance to Daniel Mews was the Barley Mow, run by Mrs Emma Tutton. Next door was another dairy and greengrocer’s, run by Mrs Jane Horsell. Next door to that was yet another greengrocer’s, run by Arthur Pike. Finally, on the corner of Daniel Street, was the post office, run by Mr W Smith, who was also a newsagent and stationer.
So there was not only everything you needed on a daily basis, but a range of choices as well. Admittedly, virtually nobody would have had a refrigerator, so buying perishable items had to be done much more frequently than today. Even so, unlike today, it was only a short walk to the shops for the people in the surrounding streets. One of the businesses seen in this photograph is still trading, however – the Barley Mow, a friendly traditional local, providing a last link with the days when a community of tradesmen and women at the heart of the village of Bathwick provided its residents with their daily needs.
COLUMN | Clare Moody, Labour Police and Crime Commissioner
L
AST year, an average of two people per day were seriously injured or killed on Avon and Somerset roads. Tragically, there were 44 fatalities. This year, at the time of writing, 34 lives have already been lost. Behind each statistic is a person – someone loved, and a family whose lives will never be the same again. Road safety is one of the top issues that people raise with me, in person, in meetings and through emails. I hear directly from communities, from the outstanding volunteers in Community Watch Schemes,
and from the families and friends who have lost loved ones. Their stories stay with me, as a constant reminder that all of us who use the roads have a responsibility. Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable of our road users. Shockingly, 39% of fatal or serious injury collisions in our region last year involved two-wheeled vehicles, despite accounting for less than 2% of road users nationally. Throughout June, Avon and Somerset Police ran an operation to engage this community, including patrols of high-risk routes and rural roads, the seizure of illegal e-bikes or e-scooters,
targeted enforcement, and providing advice and education. I also shared advice about motorcycle safety, because education is a key part of prevention. Careless driving, whether by car drivers or bikers, is one of the leading causes of serious injury and death on our roads. Too often, the collisions that cause the greatest harm come down to a lack of awareness or a moment of inattention. This may be the distraction of looking at a mobile phone or the failure to check rear-view or wing mirrors. Other common causes include not wearing a
seatbelt, speeding, or aggressive and inconsiderate actions like tailgating. The awful truth is, so many of the tragedies on our roads are preventable. That includes drink or drugdriving; a contributing factor to around a quarter of fatal collisions on Avon and Somerset roads last year. It’s an entirely avoidable crime. Despite this, Avon and Somerset Police officers made almost one arrest for every four vehicles stopped during ‘Operation Limit’, when they conducted roadside tests for drink and drug-driving
throughout the World Cup tournament. Various roads policing operations run yearround, but this is not just a policing issue. It is a shared responsibility. The police are responsible for enforcement, but it is far better to focus on prevention. We all want to get home safely. We all want our loved ones to get home safely. So, please remember to show care for those around you – and for yourself. We all have a duty to do what we can to save lives, prevent tragedy and make our roads safer.
Issue 136
Crossword
P13
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Congratulations to Chris Ware for winning £20! You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 24
Complete our crossword for your chance to win £20! Across 1 Confused (2,1,5) 5 Vietnamese delta (6) 10 Flatbread of India (7) 11 No-go area loses a chopped herb (7) 12 Booming (10) 13 Enemy of hostas (4) 15 Girl’s name meaning “evergreen shrub” (6) 16 Soft (7) 18 Dance, music, painting, etc. (3,4) 21 A kind of pass (6) 24 Messy school? (4) 25 In time (10) 27 Any strong feeling (7) 28 Business that’s really taking off? (7) 29 Indefinite person (6) 30 Small compensation (8)
Down 1 How some pay (2,4) 2 Absence of government (7) 3 Path of a projectile (10) 4 First vessel to reach the ocean’s deepest spot and return (7) 6 “--- Wide Shut” (1999 film) (4) 7 Sages lose car after crash (7) 8 White-hat wearers? (4,4) 9 Industry bigwigs (6) 14 Government official (10) 17 And so forth (2,6) 19 Environment study (7) 20 Learned person (6) 21 Primary Sikh language (7) 22 “The Two Towers” author (7) 23 Home of Simon, who carried Jesus’ cross (6) 26 Twain boy (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 1408 Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 26/08/2026. They will be notified using the details they provide when entering the competition. Winners will be given the option of receiving a High Street shopping voucher or be provided the £20 via a BACS transfer.
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Food & Drink
Sponsor this section! Get in touch with Rob Last via rob@mediabath.co.uk
Melissa Blease
Food Writer
Tasty Dates For Your Diary Put a whole new spin on the concept of a Sunday roast at Roasted Lemon’s Sydney Gardens kiosk: a barbecued-to-order beef burger, chicken souvlaki or vegan option served with salad, pitta or burger bun from 12pm until sold out. www.roastedlemon.co.uk Next stop on the Wolf Wine (Walcot Street) ‘let’s not take wine so seriously’ event schedule, Palate+Palette on Wednesday 19th August: they pour and you draw whatever comes to mind as you taste. Six wines, free crisps, lotsa creative fun! (£25pp). www.wolfwine.co.uk Veg out at home and with a fresh,
Review Henrietta Road, Bath BA2 6LX 01225 466329 www.roseatehotels.com/bath @theroseatevillabath A soft breeze briefly breaks up the tyranny of yet another heatwave. A squirrel helps itself to an apricot from the tree in the corner of the garden. It’s so quiet I can hear the bubbles fizzing in the glass of prosecco that’s just been delivered to our beautifullylaid table. Are we in a rarefied pastoral paradise many miles away from the hectic thrum of peak tourist season Bath? No; we’re just a five-minute walk away from the madding crowds at the Roseate
seasonal fruit and vegetable subscription box delivered to your doorstep or available for collection from/at Larkhall Farm Shop (St Saviour’s Road). New customers get 50% off their 4th subscription box while subscribers who refer a friend (who’ll get 25% off their first box and 50% off their 4th box - phew!) get a FREE box as a thank you! www.larkhallfarmshop.co.uk The Old Crown (Crown Hill, Weston) hosts a regular Wine Club presenting 3 glasses of wine accompanied by a delectable cheese board for just £19pp on the last Thursday of every month… and the next one takes place on Thursday 27th August;
cheers! www.theoldcrownweston.co.uk Make every second count at cider/pizza epicentre the Bath Cider House Bladud Buildings, The Paragon) every Tuesday: spend £10 on any combination of food and/or drinks and hit the big red button on the counter; if you hit exactly 10 seconds, you win a free pint! www.bathciderhouse.co.uk Dine under the stars (well, under a beautiful covered canopy) in the paradisiacal surroundings of the Packhorse (South Stoke) garden on Thursday 20th August when the pub’s Al Fresco Supper Club is guaranteed to make your
feverish summer foodie dreams come true. FFI, email info@ packhorsebath.co.uk www.packhorsebath.co.uk The Great Bath in the soft glow of torchlight at sunset, a bar open until 10pm and live music on Friday-Sunday evenings: that’s the Summer Lates Sessions at the Roman Baths from now until the end of August. Meanwhile, the Pump Room restaurant is open every Friday/Saturday evening until the end of August too, offering a spectacular summer menu to be enjoyed in the elegant, historic surroundings of one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks. www.romanbaths.co.uk
Want to own (part of!) a pub? The Shoscombe Community Benefit Society are offering allcomers the opportunity to invest in the handsome, historic Apple Tree Inn (Shoscombe, around 7 miles/11km south of Bath, circa Peasedown St John). But be warned: this time-limited opportunity ends on Monday 31st August. www.shoscombe-cbs.co.uk Hip Japanese noodlery haven Tonkotsu opens on Stall Street in September! The first 500 people to sign up for their newsletter earn a voucher for a free Ramen; the next 500 get a free portion of gyoza. Kanpai! tonkotsu.co.uk/locations/bath
Sunday Lunch at The Roseate Villa Villa on Henrietta Road, parallel to Great Pulteney Street and right on the edge of Henrietta Park’s lush border – and we have, it seems, landed at one of Bath’s best-kept secret hidden gems. You don’t have to be a resident to dine at this charming boutique hotel, whether in the dignified dining room or, weather permitting, the immaculatelymanicured garden. A well-balanced all-day menu offers broad appeal, afternoon tea is an exquisite experience, the bar is a sanctuary of timeless elegance – and the Sunday roast is spiffing. Despite Sundays being one of Bath’s busiest eating out days of the week, the Roseate Villa staff
are cool, calm and collected. This is not a team under pressure; this is a team who are in charge and love being in charge of you, exuding a “relax, decompress, be mellow” mantra from sincere warm welcome to gracious farewell. There’s no pressure to heave your way through a complicated combination of too much food for thought either; the Sunday selection puts local sourcing, seasonality and provenance at the forefront of a confidently short line-up that includes a couple of lively alternatives to the traditional Sunday roast array. It was too hot to start with butternut squash velouté, and if one of us chose the burrata salad
we knew we’d end up having to share too much of that dreamily creamy dome of dairy delight with the other. And so it came to pass that we both opted for the garlic and chilli king prawns: generous tumbles of sweet seafood superstars glistening in a rich, buttery, justthe-right-level-of-fiery mini-tide of punchy personality. For the main event, his roast sirloin of beef – served justpast-pink but well-rested, beautifully tender and massively flavoursome – arrived accompanied by earthy roasted root vegetables, vibrant savoy cabbage and the Sunday roast prerequisites that are crisp/fluffy roasties, a featherlight Yorkie
and lashings of velvety gravy; a proper taste of Sunday, sorted. But because I’m an eclectic menu forager, I had to try one of the RV’s roast alternatives… and my luxuriously silky, deeply umami black truffle tagliatelle dusted with intensely nutty aged parmesan and served with yet more of those perfect prawns was a dish I vow to return to RV for. And we do indeed plan to return to the RV, partly because neither of us had room for a pud and I want to win the squabble over panna cotta or dark chocolate tart but mostly because a sanctuary that combines style, substance and squirrels right on our doorsteps is way too special to overlook on any day of the week.
Issue 136
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Your City, Your News - Bath Echo
What's On
Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
Wildlings Festival
Brilliant Bubble Show
Bat Walk
Bath Vegan Market
Radford Mill Farm 14th – 16th August A small and magical family festival, made with care. There’ll be music, singing, stories, making, dancing, nature discovery, fire-lit evenings under the trees, and a few grass-stained knees.
Newton Farm 18th August, 10am-11am Entertain the kids this summer holiday with a spectacular, interactive bubble show that’s guaranteed to amaze both children and adults alike. Expect giant bubbles, bubble tricks and plenty of fun.
Bath Spa University 21st August, 8pm As dusk settles over Newton Park, join for a guided evening bat walk, where you’ll explore a Capability Brown landscape while listening for the flutter and echo of these nocturnal creatures.
Green Park Station 23rd August, 10am-3pm Expect the best independent vegan businesses and brands, plus plenty of grassy areas to sit and enjoy your food. There will be street food, sweet treats and bakes and ethical fashion brands.
Blue Light Symphony Orchestra
Summer of Play: Nature Explorers
Bath Pride
The Daan Temmink Trio
The Forum 15th August, 5.30pm Created by and for the emergency services community, the orchestra brings together serving and former emergency services personnel, NHS staff and members of the military.
Dyrham Park (National Trust) 18th & 25th August A chance for families to explore the site with the expert outdoor learning assistants. Explore and get to know nature and have a go at fun activities such as hunting for bugs.
Holburne Museum 22nd August The day will bring together a mix of stallholders, creatives, community groups and performers. Expect a laidback atmosphere with space to sit, picnic, and spend time with others.
The Grapes 23rd August, 4pm The Daan Temmink Trio weaves together cinematic classical influences and rich jazz textures, crafting sophisticated, emotive melodies and harmonies.
Vinalia - Free Family Crafts
Undercover Hippy Solo Tour
Outdoor Cinema
Cazelle Café
The Roman Baths 17th – 21st August, 2-4pm Celebrate Vinalia, the Roman festival of the harvest, with a hands-on family craft inspired by the fruits and colours of late summer. Drop in and create your own harvest themed mobile.
Chapel Arts Centre 19th August, 8pm Best known for his high energy full band shows, it is something of a rare treat to catch Billy Rowan, aka The Undercover Hippy, giving an intimate solo performance.
King Edward’s School 22nd August, 2pm & 6.30pm Join for the first-ever KES Outdoor Cinema event, featuring two muchloved films (Lilo & Stitch and Mamma Mia), food, and a cosy setting ideal for families, friends, and film fans alike.
The Bell Inn 24th August, 9pm Polyglot French group blending Chanson with Cumbia, Swing & international folk styles. They’re over for Shambala; yes, The Bell brings International Festivals to Walcot Street.
Stories in the Sky Show
Mini Makers: 3D Landscapes
How Can I Keep From Singing?
Present Laughter
Herschel Museum of Astronomy 18th August, 10.30am–2.30pm Look up at the night sky in their planetarium dome at Bath Central Library and see if you can spot your favourite constellations. Join for a celestial storytime session.
Victoria Art Gallery 19th – 21st August Step into a world of creativity and imagination in this fun, hands-on art session where young artists can design and make their very own miniature world framed scene.
Christ Church 22nd August, 7pm Celebrate the joy of singing with the 90 young people taking part in this year’s Royal School of Church Music’s annual summer course. Ranging in ages from 8 to 21 from across the UK.
Theatre Royal Bath 27th August – 5th September Tracy-Ann Oberman stars as Geri Essendine in this new production of Noël Coward’s celebrated and hilarious portrayal of the temptations and pitfalls of theatrical celebrity.
P16
www.bathecho.co.uk
Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
Community
Legal Expert
McDonald’s reopens after restaurant revamp BATH’S only McDonald’s drivethru has reopened following a redesign aimed at improving the experience for customers and staff. The restaurant at Weston Lock Retail Park, which is owned and operated by local franchisee Paul Pearson, now features a new layout and updated technology. The changes are intended to make ordering faster and more efficient while giving customers greater choice over how they place and collect their orders. The redesigned kitchen and dining areas better integrate digital ordering channels, including the McDonald’s App, while making more effective use of the space inside the restaurant. Dedicated areas have been created for different ordering methods and the front counter has been removed, providing customers with more room to sit and eat. The drive-thru has also been refurbished, while the dining area has been given a more contemporary appearance. Improvements have been made for employees too, including a
Councillors June Player and Colin Blackburn at the reopening event | Photo provided
redesigned crew room intended to provide a more comfortable and relaxing space during breaks. Councillors June Player and Colin Blackburn, from Bath & North East Somerset Council, joined Mr Pearson and the restaurant team for a formal reopening on Friday 24th July. A grand opening event took place
on Saturday 25th July, with face painting, glitter tattoos, arts and crafts, Instaframe photographs and the opportunity to win prizes. Mr Pearson, who operates three McDonald’s restaurants across the Bath and Bristol area, said: “I’m proud to reinvest in our Bath restaurant and I’m excited for our customers to see our new look!
“The dining area is more contemporary, and our drivethru has been refurbished leading to a better experience for everyone using it. “I’m confident the changes will not only benefit our customers but also our restaurant team as these will help make their jobs a little easier.”
Museum planning to Restoration of relics on become fully accessible landmark city building THE Museum of Bath at Work at Camden Works at Lansdown has plans to install a stairlift to make the building fully accessible. Visitors who use a wheelchair or who have impaired mobility can currently see most of the museum displays which are on the ground and mezzanine floors as there is a wheelchair lift. But because they cannot descend the main staircase, they are unable to access anything on the lower ground level. Bath Industrial Heritage Trust Ltd is now seeking listed building consent from Bath & North East Somerset Council to install a Stannah stairlift to the main internal staircase which connects the lower ground floor to the ground floor. The trust says that when visitors enter the building at the front (lower ground-floor level), they have to go up 15 steps to reach the ground-floor level. “Wheelchair users and those with impaired mobility may access the building at the rear, using the emergency exit door, entering on ground-floor level. Visitors can then traverse the ground floor to reach the visitor reception area. “From the ground floor to the mezzanine floor, there is a further flight of stairs, but here we have a Stannah wheelchair lift. Visitors who use a wheelchair or who
have impaired mobility can therefore access the majority of the museum displays, which are on the ground and mezzanine floors. But, because they cannot descend the main staircase, they cannot access anything on the lower ground level – Hudson Gallery and stone mines exhibit, and library and archive room. We therefore cannot say that we are a fully disabled-accessible museum.” The report says the restrictions affect employees and volunteers just as much as visitors. “Like all small independent museums, we rely on our volunteer team to open each day, but the current lack of full access means that a potential volunteer may not be able to undertake some activities.” It says the staircase can be “challenging” even for those with good mobility, for example if an individual has COPD or a similar condition. Lack of access also impacts anyone with temporary restricted physical such as a broken leg or a recent hip or knee replacement. A grant from The Medlock Charitable Trust will cover all costs of purchase and installation. The planning reference is 26/02795/LBA and any comments should be sent to the council before the deadline of 27th August.
The relics on the building
Becky Feather Reporter
CONSERVATION work is being planned to the royal coat of arms and cherub on a landmark building in the centre of Bath. St John’s Foundation is planning restoration and redecoration work to the Grade II listed relics positioned at 5 Old Bond Street, above Sweet Little Things café. The coat of arms on top of the parapet is believed to have been erected around the time of Queen Victoria’s Coronation in 1837 and is made from Coade (artificial) stone. It is said to be a
rare survival of heraldic external decoration in this part of Bath. The marble putto (cherub) was originally part of the Melfort Cross in the Cross Bath, which was dismantled in 1783 and subsequently acquired by the perfumer who then owned 5 Old Bond Street. It sits in a niche lower down the wall and its provenance is described as “exceptional”. An application seeking listed building consent for the work has been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. The reference is 26/02824/LBA and the deadline for comments on the proposed works is 29th August.
Choosing a Solicitor following a Road Traffic Collison
Choosing the right lawyer to act on your behalf following a road traffic collision that was not your fault will not be a high priority and can feel overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with the loss of a vehicle and injuries. That said, if you have suffered injury or loss in this way, it is important to seek independent legal advice sooner rather than later from a lawyer that is ultimately the best choice for you. We are aware that clients can find the process of identifying their best choice of lawyer difficult and that this all too often ends with them being persuaded to agree to a choice that someone else has made for them. Whilst this might be the easier option at the time, it might not be the best option for you, and the outcome of your claim can be adversely affected as a result. How to find the right lawyer for you To ensure that you are in a position to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim, we would recommend that you follow these 4 easy steps when looking for expert legal help: 1. Speak to your motor insurer Discuss your accident with your motor insurer. They may recommend a panel solicitor to represent you, but this is not your only option, even if they suggest that it is. Do not therefore be persuaded to agree to the appointment of a panel solicitor of your insurers’ choice without considering other possible options first. 2. Check whether you have any other Legal Expenses Insurance This is often attached to other insurance policies, such as policies of Home or Home Contents Insurance, and might provide cover for your legal fees for making a Personal Injury Claim. Again, if you do have this cover, a lawyer from the insurance company’s panel (i.e. of the insurers’ choice) is likely to be recommended to represent you. 3. Identify local experienced lawyers These would be lawyers who specialise in Personal Injury Claims, who you might find out about by way of a recommendation, by carrying out your own internet search or speaking with The Law Society (via their ‘Find a Solicitor’ online facility) or the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers, who can provide recommendations. 4. Speak with more than one choice of firm Have discussions with more than one firm, until you find the right lawyer for you. Why the right relationship matters Your relationship with your lawyer is a personal one. It is important that you establish, before you make a final decision, that you are going to be working with someone that you think you will get on with and who understands your aims and objectives before you embark on a claim. Despite what you may be told, as the injured party you have freedom of choice when choosing the right lawyer to represent you. It is important that that choice is the right one. How Battens Solicitors can help Here at Battens Solicitors, we have a personable team of experienced local and experienced professionals who are skilled at delivering results for injured individuals and their families in Somerset, Dorset and the surrounding regions. If you have been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault during the last 3 years, please get in contact with us, call 01225 562581 or visit battens.co.uk
Issue 136
P17
Your City, Your News - Bath Echo
New identity unveiled as Bath orchestra begins its next chapter
Two men are charged over car key burglaries
A BATH-BASED orchestra has changed its name as it looks to build on growing audiences and an expanding programme of community work. Bath Philharmonia will now be known as Bath Philharmonic Orchestra, with the new title being introduced alongside a redesigned visual identity and the launch of its 2026/27 season. The organisation said the change reflects how its work has developed beyond concert performances, with creative projects now running throughout the year for schools, young people and communities across the South West. More than 12,000 people are reached annually through its activities, including thousands who have attended an orchestral concert for the first time. Its work has also included a nationally recognised programme supporting young carers, a growing number of school projects and performances in Bath featuring internationally acclaimed soloists. Executive director Simone Homes said: “Over the past few years we’ve grown not only in scale, but in purpose. We’ve
TWO men have been charged with a series of offences as part of an investigation into car key burglaries across the region. Jack Hicks, 20, of Honeysuckle Road in Emersons Green, appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 5th August after being arrested the previous day. He has been charged with two counts of burglary and attempted burglary, as well as handling stolen goods, two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a Class B drug and other motoring offences. The charges relate to incidents reported in Wiltshire, Bath and
Keys are taken during burglaries and the cars are stolen Photo © Bath Philharmonic Orchestra
become clearer about who we are, what we stand for and the role we want to play in the lives of our audiences and communities. “Our new name and identity better reflect that ambition while remaining true to everything people value about Bath Phil.” The new logo is intended to represent the musicians and instruments which come together to form an orchestra, while drawing on musical notation and features of Bath’s architecture. The organisation said its central purpose remains unchanged, with a continued focus on making
live orchestral music accessible, relevant and welcoming. Its first season under the Bath Philharmonic Orchestra name will feature performers including Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, Sophie Bevan and Esther Yoo. The programme will combine established orchestral works with contemporary music, with an emphasis on the shared experience of live performance.
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North East Somerset and Bristol between April and August this year. A second man, Lee Lauder, 21, of Paxton Drive in Ashton, was arrested on Monday 3rd August. He has been charged with dwelling burglary in connection with an incident in Midsomer Norton on 4th June. Lauder has also been charged with driving while disqualified and driving without insurance following an incident on 5th June. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on Monday 7th September.
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P18
www.bathecho.co.uk
Friday 14th August - Thursday 27th August 2026
Health £33k machine to speed up incontinence diagnosis for women WOMEN across Bath, Wiltshire and Somerset are set to receive faster diagnosis and treatment for urinary incontinence following the arrival of a new £33,000 machine at the Royal United Hospital. The Urodynamics system has been funded by hospital charity RUHX and its supporters, including the Bath Women’s Fund. It is expected to reduce waiting times, cut the number of appointments patients need and allow women to receive an accurate diagnosis sooner, meaning personalised treatment can begin more quickly. Urinary incontinence affects one in four women in the UK and can develop following childbirth or as women get older. Around 415 women with pelvic floor disorders are referred to the urogynaecology service in Bath by primary care each year. Patient Jen said the condition can become something women learn to live with rather than seek treatment for. She said: “It becomes normalised, you learn to cope, it’s not life threatening, but it’s life-limiting. It doesn’t directly limit your lifespan, but it limits the quality of your life – and by limiting quality of your life it can have an
effect on other possible health issues like your general fitness, or your emotional stability and mental health.” She added: “I would definitely encourage others experiencing urinary problems to seek medical help sooner rather than later. Help is out there – and I have always found the medical and physio staff to be very respectful and helpful.” Urinary incontinence is treatable in 80% of cases, but many women delay seeking medical help because of embarrassment or because they believe their symptoms are an unavoidable consequence of ageing or childbirth. Available treatments include pelvic floor therapy, medication, surgery and outpatient procedures carried out under local anaesthetic. Stress urinary incontinence and stress-predominant mixed urinary incontinence account for more than 65% of cases and can both be diagnosed using urodynamic investigation. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has highlighted delays in gynaecological care as a significant issue, with more than 760,000 women across the UK waiting for treatment, including
Aysha, Mel, Zoey & Rhyannon with the new machine | Photo © RUH
for urinary incontinence. Mel De Jaeger, uro-gynaecology advanced clinical practitioner in gynaecology, said following the machine’s arrival: “A very heartfelt ‘thank you’ to you all for such an incredible achievement. Our ladies of Bath, Wiltshire and Somerset will benefit enormously, and it will shave so much time off their patient pathways.” Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Mrs Aysha Qureshi said: “Urodynamic testing is
our key investigation when we are diagnosing types of urinary leakage. “Having the Urodynamics system within the heart of our urogynaecology team will make a step-change improvement in the way we can offer this service to the women in our care and will significantly reduce waiting lists. “It will allow us to provide the whole patient pathway within our female-centric department and offer prompt continuity of care, so important in the assessment
and diagnosis of this deeply personal condition.” Rhyannon Boyd, associate director of RUHX, said the charity was pleased to support the purchase because of the impact it would have on women across the region. She added: “On behalf of everyone at RUHX, I would like to thank our incredible supporters, whose generosity has made this possible and will improve the lives of hundreds of women for years to come.”
Cancer care praised as patient experience rating rises again
Governors sought to shape future of services
PEOPLE receiving cancer treatment at the Royal United Hospital in Bath have rated their experience of care highly in the latest national patient survey. Results from the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2025 show the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust achieved an overall experience of care score of 9.2. The result was above both the national average and the survey’s highest expected range, and represents the fifth consecutive year that the RUH’s score has improved. The trust also performed above the expected average range for 14 individual questions, with none of its results falling below the expected range. Among those who responded, 99% said advice received from their main contact at the RUH had been very or quite helpful. Patients also reported receiving relevant information about support available to them, while respondents felt that they and their family members or carers had been involved in decisions about treatment. Diagnostic test results were said
PEOPLE across the local area are being encouraged to put themselves forward for election as public governors at the Royal United Hospital. The Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust is looking for people with an interest in healthcare who want to represent patients, families, visitors and their wider communities. Public governors work alongside fellow governors and senior hospital leaders, helping to ensure decisions and priorities take account of the views and experiences of the people the RUH serves. The role also provides an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the NHS and develop new skills. Paul von der Heyde, chair of BSW Hospitals Group, of which the RUH is a member, said: “Our public governors play an essential role in helping us to understand the views, experiences and priorities of the communities we serve. They bring valuable insight, challenge and support, helping us make better decisions for local people. “I would encourage anyone with an interest in local healthcare
Members of staff who work in the RUH’s Dyson Cancer Centre | Photo © RUH
to have been explained in a way patients could understand. The RUH achieved strong results for teamwork between staff and the administration of care. Ros Helps, lead cancer nurse, said: “We’re delighted with these survey results, which reflect the RUH’s commitment to supporting the people we care for every step of the way. “Our staff work incredibly hard to ensure the experience of our patients is at the heart of everything we do and to drive sustained improvements. “Our Dyson Cancer Centre helps us to provide our patients with enhanced care, acting as a cancer services hub for over 500,000 people in the South West, and we regularly receive positive feedback from patients about the
building and its facilities. “These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and our determination to consistently deliver the highest quality care and outcomes for our patients. “While we are pleased to receive such positive feedback, we are not complacent and are always looking to identify ways to further improve the experience we offer our patients.” The National Cancer Patient Experience Survey is commissioned and managed by NHS England and is used to monitor cancer care and support improvements to services. The 2025 survey involved 130 NHS trusts and received responses from more than 64,000 people.
Photo © RUH
and shaping the future of our hospital to stand for election.” The RUH said it is keen to attract candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, ages and experiences so its Council of Governors better reflects the communities served by the hospital. No previous experience or specific qualifications are required to stand. Candidates must, however, be members of the RUH. People who are not already members can sign up before submitting a nomination. Anyone interested in standing can find further information and submit their nomination online. The deadline for nominations is 5pm on Tuesday 8th September 2026.
Issue 136
P19
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Former pupils return to Bath school before it is demolished Becky Feather Reporter
MORE than 200 former pupils, teachers and members of staff are returning to Culverhay School in Bath this summer to take a last look around before it is demolished. Westhill Boys’ School opened on the site at Rush Hill in 1956. It later became Culverhay School as part of Bath’s move to comprehensive education, growing into one of the largest comprehensive schools in the South West, with more than 1,200 students at its peak. The site went on to become Bath Community Academy before closing in 2018, although part of the building was used by St Matthias Academy, a specialist provider for students unable to remain in their mainstream provider. St Matthias relocated to the former Abbot Alphege Academy at Lansdown a year and a half ago. The community sports centre that was on the Rush Hill site closed in May last year. The site will remain in educational use as the future home of Green Ways Academy, a 120-place Special Free School for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The project forms part of ongoing work to increase specialist school places across Bath and North East Somerset and help more families access support within their local community. Demolition will begin at the end of this year or the start of 2027. It is hoped that Green Ways Academy will be ready for occupation in the next three to four years. Over two days, a team of Bath & North East Council staff, who will be responsible for the future development of the site, are leading guided tours, giving
people the chance to walk the corridors and classrooms, relive memories and share experiences. The first of the tours took place last Thursday, 6th August, and a second day is already fully booked for 27th August. The Echo joined visitors on the first tour last Thursday. Among them was John Baker, who went on to become a member of pop band The Korgis, and who is still good friends with his former 1970s schoolmate Roland Orzabal, of Tears for Fears. John, who now lives near Frome, brought along a photo taken on the stage in the school hall of a production of Pirates of Penzance. John is pictured on the left, in the role of Frederic, with Roland as the pirate king. Former art teacher Peter Calvert, who was also on the first tour last Thursday, recalled Roland singing in that production: “He had an astoundingly good voice, even then.” Peter, who was at Culverhay from around 1974 to 1989, was reunited on the tour with two of his former pupils, John Branston and Stuart Aveyard, who were there in the 1980s. Peter recalls a happy time: “There were more laughs than I got in financial services, which I went on to do later.” The former teacher, who has also worked in property development, has kept up his interest in art and had previously been reunited with John Branston as he sold him a clock at the arts market at Green Park Station. Also on the tour was Martin Burrows, from Twerton, who attended the school from 1969 to 1974. Martin, who was in Class 1B, said: “It was a lovely school actually. I enjoyed my time here. I was sad to leave in a way. “There are teachers that I have fond memories of.” He still sees some of his schoolfriends, one of them Tim
Ball, who is a B&NES councillor. Martin said: “He is the same age as me, he was in the same class as me, but he left after about a year to go to another school. “I was talking to him not long ago and he said he hoped to come along to one of the tours.” Des Hayward was also on the first of last Thursday’s tours. He joined the school in 1958 and left in 1963. He said: “Even though I failed my 11+, I’ve still done very, very well.” He said he had some lovely teachers but recalled that discipline was “very strong”. He added: “It gave me the chills going round. It’s a doubleedged thing because of my dad’s connection to the school; he was a stonemason and worked on building it, but I have two grandchildren with special educational needs and one goes to Midsomer Norton at the moment so it will be nice when the new school is built to have a proper facility nearby, less travel.” Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for children’s services, who joined the first tour, told the Echo: “This is a really important day because we gave a commitment to local people that they could come around the old Culverhay School, which was closed down a few years ago. “And we gave a commitment as Liberal Democrats to the community that we would keep education on this site. It’s going to help young people with special educational needs and disabilities. “Under the circumstances, with tight budgets, it’s really great that the government are giving us that support because we have fought really hard to achieve it.” He said it had been wonderful to see former pupils, teachers and staff reconnect, share memories and reflect on the impact the school had on their lives. “There is a real sense of affection for this place,” he said.
John Branston, Peter Calvert and Stuart Aveyard during the first visit
Des Hayward with John Baker in the background
John Baker on the left with Roland Orzabal in their school production
Councillor Paul May during the visit
Work planned as trees cause subsidence at secondary school Becky Feather Reporter
AN APPLICATION has been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council to chop down trees which are causing subsidence damage at a school. Monitoring of cracks has been taking place at Orchard Lodge at St Mark’s CofE School in Fairfield Park. The two-storey detached building at Bay Tree Road is used as a resource base for the school. Structural engineers visited last year and said the movement could
be due to prolonged dry weather over the summer affecting the moisture content of the soil strata. They recommended further monitoring. Then last month a subsidence damage investigation was carried out by arboriculture consultants acting on instructions from insurers to assess the potential role of vegetation in the damage. The report says: “Damage was noted throughout the property.” It adds: “Based on the information currently available, engineering opinion and our own site assessment, we conclude there is damage consistent with
St Marks’ School from above | Photo © Colin Peachey / Shutterstock.com
shrinkage of the clay subsoil exacerbated by the soil drying effects of vegetation.”
It is their opinion that four trees – three poplars and a cherry – are the principal cause of, or
are contributing to, the current building movement and damage. None of the trees are covered by Tree Preservation Orders, but the poplars are in a conservation area, so the council needs to be notified about the proposed works. The cherry is not included in the application for tree works as it falls outside of the conservation area. The application says the tree stumps will be treated to stop regrowth. The council is due to decide on whether to permit the felling by 17th August.
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Business Pipp & Co continues expansion with Scheme submitted to convert former offices new cafés in Bath and Bristol Becky Feather Reporter
AWARD-WINNING artisan bakery Pipp & Co is continuing its expansion with the opening of new cafés in Bath and Bristol. Best known for its range of artisan doughnuts but offering a wide variety of sweet and savoury bakes, Swindon-based Pipp & Co initially established its reputation through local farmers’ markets and pop-ups before moving into high-street retail. Bath’s Pipp & Co is in the city centre on New Street, formerly Silcox Coffee, while the new Bristol Pipp & Co is in the more office-centric area of Redcliff Street. It complements the bakery’s existing café in Bristol’s College Green. The Bath outlet is due to open this month, with the Bristol Redcliff Street café opening planned for September. Alongside its expanding café network, the business sells its products wholesale to independent retailers, farm shops and corporate clients, as well as direct to customers via online ordering on its website
Mario and Betina Evangelista of Pipp & Co
and for collection from its Swindon production facility. The new cafés, as well as the existing Bristol café, will feature an expanded product range designed for lunchtime visitors. The range of drinks is also expanding to meet changing customer tastes, including ube and matcha drinks. Customers will soon be able to pre-order online for collection, with local delivery also planned as part of the business’s continued growth. “Opening these two new cafés in Bath and Bristol is an exciting next step for us,” said Betina Evangelista, who owns and runs Pipp & Co alongside her
husband, Mario. “We are looking forward to welcoming customers to these new sites and becoming part of the local community. “Our production capacity in Swindon means we can smoothly manage this expansion while ensuring the exact same smallbatch quality and traditional craftsmanship that our customers expect, while also introducing our new in-house sandwich and salad options.” Pipp & Co was the 2025 Best Doughnut Award winner in PETA’s annual vegan food awards. Future plans for Pipp & Co include opening more cafés in other locations.
The property that will be converted
A PLANNING application has been lodged with Bath & North East Somerset Council to turn office units in Lower Weston into apartments. The proposal for 3 Kelso Place at Upper Bristol Road has been submitted by FPC Kelso I Developments Ltd. It is the central unit within a terrace of five red brick-built office units at the former Bath Gas Works site. The unit was marketed but it was considered that there was limited demand for it for commercial use,
so conversion to an alternative use may be a more appropriate long-term option. The proposal seeks planning permission to convert it into three one-bedroom apartments. In light of the council’s lack of five-year housing land supply, the proposals should be given “positive weight” as they deliver new housing in a sustainable location, says the application. The planning reference is 26/02784/FUL. Any comments should be sent to the council by 27th August.
Scheme to turn Bear Spa facilities being proposed as part Flat premises into gym of continuing Bath hotel refurb BATH & North East Somerset Council is being asked to grant a Certificate of Lawfulness for a proposed fitness centre at Bear Flat. The application has been lodged by No Regrets Fitness for 6 Wellsway. The premises were formerly Chase Buchanan estate agents. Before that, there was a McColl’s convenience store there. The application asks for confirmation that the use as a
fitness centre, operating 6am to 10pm on weekdays and 7am to 7pm at weekends, is lawful. It says the new fitness centre will be a low-impact indoor activity centre with two studios – an indoor cycling studio and a matbased studio for yoga and Pilates. Class sizes will be limited to approximately 18 people per session, and noise and vibration mitigation measures are proposed.
Family business ceases trading after 35 years A BESPOKE picture framing business that was established in Bath in 1991 has closed down. Framecraft Bath Ltd was based at Green Park Station and was a family firm. A notice on the door advises that the business has ceased trading and thanks customers for their support and custom. There is a business closure notice on the company’s website in which it says: “After almost 35
years of trading, it is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Framecraft Bath Ltd. It adds: “We would like to sincerely thank all of our customers, suppliers and supporters for their loyalty over the years. “It has been a privilege to serve the local community for so long.”
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Becky Feather Reporter
PLANS have been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council to add spa facilities to a Grade I listed city hotel which has been undergoing a major refurbishment. Parade Park Hotel at North Parade, part of Providence Hotels’ portfolio, is being rebranded as Parade Hotel and is due to open in September. There will be 49 bedrooms across three Georgian townhouses. Planning permission and listed building consent are currently being sought for additional wellness amenities in the terrace garden at the rear of the hotel. The idea was floated to the council last year, and the feedback received has been taken into consideration in the changes made to the previously consented rear garden and basement layouts. A report says: “To enhance the quality of on-site amenities and strengthen the hotel’s offering, it is proposed to introduce wellness facilities in the terrace garden. “The facilities would provide
Parade Park Hotel is being rebranded as Parade Hotel
a dedicated environment promoting guest wellbeing and contribute to the overall appeal of the hotel. “The proposal includes a sauna cabin, designed as a prefabricated lightweight structure that can be demounted if required, along with a freestanding hot tub, a cold plunge bath, and adjacent showers. “This area is proposed to be screened with an oak and black metal-framed pergola above.” In the basement rooms at the
rear of the hotel, it is proposed to provide a treatment room, mud rasul room and changing area including WC and shower. The plans also include amendments to the existing landscaping scheme. The council is due to make a decision by 17th August. It is also currently considering a listed building application for fire safety works in the hotel. The council had been expected to make a decision on that by the end of July.
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Politics
Public Notices
Council group leader quit after being ousted John Wimperis
Local Democracy Reporter
THE leader of one of the two rival groups of independent councillors on Bath & North East Somerset Council quit the group after being forced out as leader. Peasedown councillor Karen Walker originally said she had left Independents for B&NES because she had decided she could better represent her residents by being a “purely independent” unaligned councillor outside of any group. But her departure from the group actually followed a vote to remove her as leader. She then approached another group, but they declined to let her join. Councillor Gavin Heathcote, who also represents Peasedown and replaced Councillor Walker as leader of Independents of B&NES, said: “She left before she was pushed. “It has nothing to do with deciding what is best for our residents.” Councillor Heathcote had challenged her leadership of the group, asking her to step aside so that he could lead it into the 2027 local elections, and won a vote of the group’s three councillors to replace her as leader. Councillor Walker said: “He has not had enough experience as a councillor, and not the best placed person to lead the group.” The two councillors had split from the original Independent Group in April 2025 in order to form Independents for B&NES with then newly elected independent Chris Warren (Saltford). The Independent Group had declined to let Mr Warren join the group due to a “lack of clarity” about whether he ran an offensive account on X (formerly Twitter).
The account on X, which had tweeted selfies of Mr Warren and was deleted the day after he was elected, had targeted the local council, politicians, and minorities with offensive posts. Mr Warren has said he was not behind the account and the tweets did not reflect his views, although he found some of them funny. Councillor Warren and Councillor Heathcote remain members of Independents for B&NES, with Councillor Heathcote leader of the group of two. Ms Walker now sits as an unaligned councillor, but she did approach the Independent Group about re-joining. Independent Group spokesperson Shaun Hughes (Midsomer Norton North) said: “Following a group discussion, it was decided that it would not be appropriate for her to re-join at this time.” Ms Walker said she had accepted this “with good grace”. Independent councillors often join together to form a group on a council in order to secure funding and spots on committees, which are decided based on political proportionality. In addition to the two rival groups of independents, there are now also three unaligned councillors on the council who are not part of any group: Ms Walker herself, Grant Johnson (Paulton), and Bharat Pankhania (Combe Down). Councillor Johnson quit Labour in January over the national direction of the party. Dr Pankhania left the Liberal Democrats in July after reposting a tweet on X which called an arson attack on ambulances run by a Jewish charity an “Israeli false flag”. He has apologised, called it a mistake, and said he will resign as a councillor.
Kebab van loses bid to extend opening hours
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR THE GRANT OF A PREMISES LICENSE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003 The Beagle On Ltd applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 11th August 2026 for a licence to use the premises at 35 Gay Street Bath BA1 2NT for the sale by retail of alcohol Wednesdays to Sundays 10am-10pm. Notification of the application made to the Licensing Authority is available on a register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ publicregisters
The Abbey Hotel, as seen from the pitch | Photo © John Wimperis
John Wimperis
Local Democracy Reporter
A KEBAB van in Bath’s “nighttime hub” has lost a bid to extend its opening hours because a nearby upmarket hotel said it would disturb its guests. Jimmy’s Kebab on Bog Island had wanted to extend its opening hours from 3am to 3.40am in order to catch more trade from people leaving the pubs and nightclubs in the area. But its application has been refused after the Abbey Hotel, just 25 metres away, said that noise from its patrons was disturbing their guests. It is the third time that kebab van owner Mehmet Yilmaz has tried to extend their hours but been refused permission by Bath & North East Somerset Council. Representing him at a hearing before the council’s licensing sub-committee on 30th July, licensing consultant Bill Donne had insisted: “This is not going to lead to an increase in public nuisance. “It’s a very busy area whether the van is there or not.” He said that Bog Island was a “night-time hub” for the city, with a number of late-opening pubs, bars, and nightclubs, such as Labyrinth, located around it, with people often staying around the area late at night waiting for taxis.
He said that the kebab van could help to reduce nuisance, as people tended to be quieter while eating and the area was covered by the van’s CCTV. Mr Donne added that there had been no objections to the application from the police or from environmental health. On the one occasion licensing officers had attended the premises, they had found it was operating properly. But Abbey Hotel general manager Kamal Rajendra said: “In our experience, the pitch acts as a magnet for people leaving neighbouring nightclubs.” He said that the hotel had been forced to move 30-40 people from rooms at the front of the hotel to other rooms due to the noise, which they put down to Jimmy’s Kebab’s customers. He said that the hotel had recently expanded and now more guests were affected by the noise. He said: “The longer that Jimmy’s Kebab is able to trade, the greater the impact is likely to be on our guests.” The licensing sub-committee resolved to refuse Jimmy’s Kebab’s application to extend its hours due to the potential impact on neighbours. Mr Donne said he was “disappointed” with the result. He said: “The councillors gave too much weight to speculation rather than hard evidence.”
Representations should be made in writing to: Bath & North East Somerset Council Licensing Services Lewis House Manvers Street Bath BA1 1JG or by email to licensing@bathnes.gov.uk by 09/09/2026 Representations made will be disclosed in an open meeting should a hearing be necessary. It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and is subject to a fine of any amount on summary conviction for the offence. Dated: 14/08/2026
News in Brief Council plans tougher action on landlords The council is asking for views on plans to strengthen action against poor housing conditions and rogue landlords. An updated policy could allow tougher enforcement, including fines and prosecutions, where tenants face hazards, illegal eviction, repeated breaches or licensing failures. The consultation is open to residents, tenants, landlords and agents until 23rd September.
COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
T
HE closer elected representatives are to the people we serve, the better placed we are to understand local issues and find appropriate solutions. This is one of the most motivating aspects of my role leading Bath & North East Somerset Council. At local government level, our agenda is largely set by central government who dictate the statutory services all local authorities must provide. Our Lib Dem administration has our own ambitions we want to deliver for residents, for example
by taking adult social care back in house, improving air quality and making school journeys safer. No matter what your political beliefs, changes in national leadership are significant. While Prime Minister Andy Burnham is only a few weeks into his new role, he has announced measures that could shift considerable power and money from Westminster to regions and cities. I support this approach. While it’s very early days, I am keen to see how central government works with councils like ours
to tackle the challenges facing our communities and to create opportunities for residents. So far, the Prime Minister’s plans have focused on the North of England. The South West has its own strengths and areas for development, and we want to be sure we receive our fair share of regional funding. Our council relies on the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) for major funding for many of our projects. While we appreciate WECA’s support, we would welcome funding that is not tied to specific projects,
giving us more latitude in how we allocate it. We will continue making the strongest possible case for the priority projects we want to deliver for residents. One example of having a greater say locally is the tourism levy campaign I led successfully last year. Leaders of English cities which are also popular tourist destinations and central government were supportive. We want to be able to charge a very small levy to overnight visitors to our area and use the proceeds to
improve our public facilities and spaces for the benefit of residents and tourists. Post Offices are precious local resources. Our Bath MP Wera Hobhouse, my colleagues and I are campaigning to ensure our city has a centrally located post office. The Bath Post Office hosted at TG Jones is closing on 1st September. We will do everything possible to help find a new location. Our petition is winning strong resident support: https://digitallibdems. typeform.com/to/sWx9Yi9u
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Bath on road for home games to help speed up Rec rebuild Richard Briggs Reporter
BATH Rugby are aiming to play two Gallagher PREM home games away from The Rec next season – to aid the redevelopment of the citycentre stadium. The Blue, Black & White’s iconic home can currently accommodate 14,509 spectators. However, it will be transformed into an 18,000-capacity venue, with construction due to start at the end of the 2026-27 campaign. But the club want to bring forward building work, meaning home matches against Harlequins in May and Saracens in June – plus a possible play-off tie – would be staged elsewhere to help the new facility be ready for the start of the 2028-29 season. Under this plan, the project is expected to take just 18 months. In a letter to Bath supporters on Monday 10th August, Tarquin McDonald – the club’s chief executive – said: “Our stadium designs, which were approved at planning committee last year, set out a phased construction over three seasons whilst we continue to play rugby at The Rec, with the goal of maintaining home advantage for the team, matchday rituals for our supporters and retaining all the wider economic benefits for the city. “We are also acutely aware of the impact of construction on nearby residents, and that shortening the duration of construction work would help to mitigate this impact. This has been a focus for our project team over recent months.
“I am therefore delighted to confirm that we have submitted a planning amendment which seeks approval for an accelerated construction phasing plan for the new stadium. “This amendment will shorten the overall construction period to approximately 18 months, with the aim to complete your new stadium and home for the start of the 2028-29 season, which is great news. “The improved timeline is achieved by commencing the construction of the new East Stand first, where this was previously programmed to follow construction of the West Stand. The overall design remains exactly as per the planning approval received last year. “To facilitate this improved timeline, we will need to create a slightly longer off-season in summer 2027 by taking the last two regular games of the 2026-27 season on the road to an alternate ground. This means that our home fixtures against Harlequins and Saracens in Rounds 16 and 18 [respectively] of the Gallagher PREM will be played away from The Rec to facilitate the commencement of construction work on the stadium, including the relocation of the pitch almost 25 metres into The Rec in time for the 2027-28 season. “We are in discussion with alternative host venues and we will update you once the location for these fixtures is confirmed. “Our goal is to minimise disruption as far as possible, and we hope that you will all join us and help make these fixtures a proper home away from home. “If any of our season-ticket
Bath Rugby’s 2026-27 Gallagher PREM home games with Harlequins and Saracens are set to be played away from The Rec | Photo © Richard Briggs
holders are unable to attend at the alternate ground we will, of course, credit your account accordingly. “This means that our Gallagher PREM fixture against Newcastle Red Bulls on the weekend of 17th April will be our last ever fixture in the current configuration of The Rec, and we will ensure we mark this milestone appropriately.” McDonald addressed supporters’ concerns about the number of Friday-night fixtures that Bath have been given in the first half of 2026-27. He said: “Fixtures have been released across all three senior competitions, and I am sure you look forward to the start of the season as much as we do. “Some of you have commented on Friday-night fixtures. “Scheduling is ultimately determined by the competition
broadcasters. “Our strong preference – aligned with supporter feedback – is Saturday-afternoon kick-offs, and we are clear on this with PREM Rugby and EPCR [European Professional Club Rugby], with whom we will work closely to ensure fixture scheduling evens out over the season.” Bath’s U18 team made a winning start to their Defender Next Gen League campaign, beating Newcastle 38-35 in Round 1 on Wednesday 5th August. The match was played at Malvern College in Worcestershire, where it was one of five Next Gen fixtures to take place on the day. The Blue, Black & White, who led 19-14 at half-time, outscored Newcastle by six tries and four conversions to five tries and five conversions. Bath had 57% of the possession
and 70% of the territory but needed a last-gasp converted touchdown to secure victory. Going over for the victors were Zach Nicholson, Malachai Randolph (2), Charlie Day, Sam Tiller-Wood and Henry Middlehurst. Nicholson landed the four conversions. Tom Meredith was yellow-carded for the Somerset side. Bath starting XV: Will JordanWillis, Malachai Randolph, Josh King, Charlie Greenhough, Lex Vrettos, Will Dawson, Ewan Ross, Noah Harding, Oscar Harrison, Zach Nicholson, Tom Meredith, Aston Barrington-Hibbert, Hamish Kennedy, Charlie Day, Rupert Jones. Bath replacements: Doug Lemon, Archie Winterburn, Miles Wilson, Max Carter, Sam Tiller-Wood, Milo Powell, Will Kemp, Henry Middlehurst.
COLUMN | Ben Hicks, Clerk of the Course - Bath Racecourse Photo © Johnny Hathaway
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UR most recent fixture, on Friday 31st July, was a hugely successful evening here at Bath, with excellent weather, a great atmosphere and some extremely close finishes. It was great to see The Wurzels again attract such an enthusiastic crowd, who sang and danced until the very end of the evening. One of the biggest highlights came during the last race, with the narrow victory of Bath favourite Blue Hero, who made history by winning here for the 11th time. To see him return to the winner’s enclosure once again was fantastic, but what followed was something I had never seen during my time at Bath. Blue Hero was paraded in front of the stands, allowing the crowd to properly celebrate a horse who has become such a favourite
here. The reception he received was brilliant, with plenty of cheers from the crowd for both Blue Hero and his regular pilot Finley Marsh. Given Blue Hero’s remarkable record at Bath, it was a thoroughly deserved moment. I recommend heading over to our social-media channels to see the video. Following that fixture, we have unfortunately had to make a difficult decision regarding our next scheduled meeting, on Saturday 15th August. With the weather forecast showing little sign of relenting and temperatures continuing to remain high, we could not be confident that the track would recover sufficiently to provide the standard of racing surface that we expect to deliver.
This has not been a decision taken lightly. Many areas of the track which are continuing to receive regular watering are holding up reasonably well, but there are some sections containing older, more indigenous grasses which are naturally less tolerant of prolonged heat and sunshine. Despite the team’s best efforts, these areas have now reached a point where we need to give them time and ultimately wait for mother nature to turn in our favour. The team have worked exceptionally hard throughout this prolonged spell of hot and dry weather, doing everything possible to maintain the track and allow us to continue racing through to the end of July. I cannot thank them enough for the effort they have put in.
However, our priority must always be to provide the well recovered and consistent racing surface people come to expect, and we have reached the point where the sensible decision is to allow the track the opportunity to recover properly. We are grateful to Lingfield Park, who have kindly taken the fixture, ensuring that the meeting can still go ahead elsewhere. Members of our team will also be attending Lingfield to assist with the fixture, so there will be a little bit of Bath there on the day. While it is disappointing not to be racing here, making these decisions in good time is important. It allows trainers, owners, jockeys and stable staff to adjust their plans and make alternative
arrangements for their horses rather than leaving the decision until the last minute. For now, we will continue to monitor the forecasts closely and maintain our watering programme where appropriate, while giving the areas that need it most the opportunity to recover. Hopefully, the weather pattern will eventually change and we will see some meaningful rainfall and we can recommence the remaining race days here. It is amazing how resilient grass is, and we have every confidence it will bounce back well in suitable conditions. The track has taken plenty of racing up to now, so fingers crossed this is only a brief pause in what has been an excellent summer so far.
Issue 136
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Odd Down go into second place thanks to third straight victory Richard Briggs Reporter
ODD Down moved into second place in Jewson Western League Division One on Saturday 8th August, extending their 100% record under new manager Tom Smith to three matches. The Down’s latest success came against Bristol Telephones at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground and followed victories over Nailsea United and Radstock Town. And after a pair of tight wins, the margin this time was again one goal – the hosts prevailed 2-1 in front of a crowd of 60. All the goals came in the first half, skipper Ryan Gay – who took his season’s tally to three – and Josh Fowler finding the net for Odd Down. Gay has struck in all of the Bath club’s league games this term. The captain put the home side in front after only three minutes but the Phones equalised through Preston Webb.
Howlett notched the winner in the 25th minute – following an assist by Gay. Defender Lewis Bahadur was the Down’s man of the match. The Down now have a break until Tuesday 18th August, when they resume Western League action by making the short trip to the Dynamic Signs Stadium to take on Bitton (7.30pm). Reflecting on the Down’s great start to the campaign, Smith said: “To win our opening three league games is a fantastic achievement. “To hear that it’s the first time Odd Down have done that in 17 years makes it even more special. “The players deserve a huge amount of credit. Their attitude, commitment and togetherness have been excellent, both in training and on matchdays. “We know there’s still a long way to go and plenty of hard work ahead – but we couldn’t have asked for a better start. “A massive thank you also has to go to everyone who has come along and supported us. The
Odd Down on the attack during their home win | Photo © Odd Down FC
backing we’ve had has been brilliant and really does make a difference to the players. “We’ll keep working hard, keep improving and take each game as it comes.” The draw for the first round of the Francis Hill Premier Cup – formerly the Somerset Premier Cup – has handed Odd Down a home tie with Western League Premier Division side Clevedon Town. The match will be played in September, the date yet to be confirmed.
Strugglers make life tough for Lansdown LANSDOWN 1st XI will go into their clash of the titans at Taunton Deane 1st XI on Saturday 15th August holding an 11-point lead at the top of the West of England Premier League Premier 2 Bristol / Somerset table. While second-placed Deane were walloping Weston-super-Mare 1st XI by 162 runs on Saturday 8th August, the Bath outfit recorded a 16-run home success against lowly Congresbury 1st XI in a high-scoring encounter. There are just three rounds of matches remaining this season – and defeat for Lansdown or Deane at the Convent Field will be exceedingly damaging to their hopes of the championship. Inserted at Combe Park, Lansdown hammered their way to 341-5 from 50 overs. Although opener Will Sutcliffe made 63, the stars of the innings were Praneel Choughule and captain Jordan Smith. Choughule hit a six and 14 fours in making 95 not out from 82
deliveries. And Smith slammed fives and a quartet of fours in his 57-ball 72. The pair piled on 178 for the fourth wicket in 19.3 overs. Congresbury conceded 47 extras. Joe Thompson and Matthew Kirwan each bagged two wickets. The visitors lost Peter Woodland in the sixth over to leave them 231. But Nathan Roux and Shabel Ahmed plundered 202 for the second wicket in 33.5 overs. Ahmed was the man to go, caught off Smith for a 108-ball 80 that contained a six and nine fours. Roux was the next batter to fall, caught off Sam Pearce after cracking five sixes and 11 fours en route to 116 from 113 deliveries. Roux’s exit was followed by the departure of Thompson (45 from 33 balls) to leave the North Somerset team 278-4 with 3.3 overs remaining. A fifth-wicket partnership between Noah Lewis-Jones (21) and Ben Chaffey yielded 40 in three overs – but time ran out and Congresbury closed on 325-5.
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Reid notched Bath City’s equaliser against Plymouth | Photo © Simon Howe
Richard Briggs Reporter
BATH City dropped points for the first time in Pitching In Southern League Premier South when they hosted Plymouth Parkway on Tuesday 11th August. The Romans – who are looking to bounce back to Step 2 at the first attempt this season following relegation in the spring – played out a 1-1 stalemate with the Devonians at the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park in their opening home game of the campaign. While Bath were winning 2-1 at Sholing on Saturday 8th August in their first league fixture, Parkway romped to a 7-0 home victory over Bracknell Town. And after Jordan Tillson had a header saved by Plymouth keeper Aaron Dearing in Twerton, the guests broke the deadlock in the 28th minute. The scorer was long-serving Mikey Williams, who finished superbly past City gloveman Harvey Wiles-Richards. However, Bath levelled in the 48th minute, former West Bromwich Albion striker Reuben
Reid outmuscling Taylor Scarff after a long ball forward by Kieran Parselle and hammering home from just inside the box on his first start for the club. Although Scarff hit the bar with a header from a 75th-minute freekick, City had plenty of pressure in the second half but were unable to turn it into goals. Their best opportunity after the break came in the 88th minute, Ollie Tomlinson’s header from an Enzio Boldewijn corner being cleared off the line by a Plymouth defender. The attendance was 1,216 – more than the Romans’ average gate in the higher-grade Enterprise National League South during 2025-26. Bath: Harvey Wiles-Richards, Joe Raynes, Ollie Tomlinson, Kieran Parselle, Enzio Boldewijn, Owen Windsor (Seweryn Streczen, 46), Ollie Chamberlain (Matt Bowman, 86), Harrison Minturn, Jordan Tillson, Rueben Reid, Harry Parsons (Scott Wilson, 74). Unused subs: Dominic Cook, Jack Batten. City will be back at the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park for another league game on Saturday 15th August. Their opponents will be London outfit Hanworth Villa.
BATH Wanderers 1st XI returned to West of England Premier League Women’s Premier Division action with a bang, ripping out Bridgwater for 21 to secure an incredible 276-run victory. Skipper Emma Godman made 88 from 92 balls as the Wanderers plundered 297-6 from their 40 overs after being inserted at North Parade on Sunday 9th August. Charlotte Phillips weighed in with an undefeated 78 from 62 deliveries and added 115 with Godman for the third wicket. There were 54 extras, including 45 wides. Maisie Barr and Poppy Hawker snaffled two wickets apiece for Bridgwater, who reached 10 without loss in reply but were a batter light as wicket-keeper Hannah Capes was unable to take guard. With the visitors into double figures, Bath bowlers Chloe Bensted and Lily Day really got to work, taking all nine wickets between them to leave the Sedgemoor side dismissed in 8.2 overs. That 10-0 became a remarkable 11-5 as Bensted took the first four scalps and then Day claimed one. Three more wickets went down with the score on 16 – and the end came when Annabelle Sully was bowled by Day for the last of five ducks on the card. Extras top-scored with 8. Opener Joey-Leigh Roberts (7) was Bridgwater’s best batter. Bensted pocketed a brilliant 5-7
Bath Cricket Club (1ST XI)
Saturday 15th August – 12pm Bath 1st XI v Bedminster (Home) WEPL Premier 1
Bath Wanderers 1st XI knocked over Bridgwater Women for just 21 here at North Parade | Photo © Richard Briggs
off four overs. And Day finished with 4-13 from 4.2 overs. The Wanderers lie in fifth place in the table – 22 points behind top two Golden Hill and Cheltenham – with three matches remaining. The first of those games will take Bath to Cheltenham on Sunday 23rd August. Bath Wanderers 2nd XI were also successful on 9th August, winning by 46 runs at Cam in a Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation 35-overs-per-side fixture. Top three Anya Ahl (52), Anna Cooper (60) and Matilda Carey (40) scored most of Bath’s runs in their 237-8. No other batter reached double figures but there were 43 extras. Emma Vincent snaffled 3-32 in seven overs for Cam, who elected to field. Claire Moran (53) and Kiara Cullum (49) fared best with the willow in the hosts’ response, which ended at 191 all out in 31.3 overs. Most successful bowler for the Wanderers, who conceded 40 extras, was Bryony Sopp (3-23 off four overs).
Crossword answers - Issue 135 (31/07/2026) Across: 1 Sparsely, 5 Shrimp, 10 Supporter, 11 Pablo, 12 Listening, 13 Expo, 16 Grinder, 18 Nielsen, 20 Hoe, 21 Runaway, 22 Welfare, 23 Sale, 25 Childhood, 29 Idyll, 30 Inclement, 31 Naples, 32 Fast ball. Down: 1 Sash, 2 Amphibian, 3 Spotted owl, 4 Latin, 6 Hips, 7 In-box, 8 Pronounces, 9 Brand-new, 14 Aggression, 15 Healthiest, 17 Rhythmic, 19 Soap opera, 24 Lay up, 26 Lycra, 27 Aloe, 28 H T M L.
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Saturday 22nd August – 12pm Bath 1st XI v Dumbleton (Home) WEPL Premier 1
Lansdown Cricket Club (1ST XI) Saturday 15th August – 12pm Lansdown CC 1st XI v Taunton Deane CC – 1st XI (Away) WEPL Premier 2 Saturday 22nd August – 12pm Lansdown CC 1st XI v Old Bristolians Westbury CC 1st XI (Home) WEPL Premier 2
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