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Issue No. 138

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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: 01225 585484 advertise@bathecho.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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Local Democracy Reporter

BATH Christmas Market has been given permission to run for an extra week, but says it has no immediate plans to do so. Councillors on Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee have voted to grant planning permission for the market to run for up to 25 days from now on. It also expands the area covered by the event to include Queen Square, Kingsmead Square, and Parade Gardens. But, despite having won the permission, the council team behind the hugely popular market say they have no current plans to increase the length of the event from its current 18-day duration or to use the increased area permitted. The market brings over 440,000 people to Bath each year and generates about £64 million for the local economy. The vast majority of traders at the market are from the South West, with 65% from the Bath area itself. Running a stall is so in demand that the council says it could let them twice over.

But Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, told the planning committee: “The larger area is not about flooding everywhere with chalets. It’s about giving the team the flexibility to think of new ideas/new creativity, and we need space to do that.” The council has suggested that the new areas could be used for dining, entertainment, family activities, or new retail opportunities. Councillor Roper said that the increased timeframe would also give it more “flexibility” to move the dates where needed. Crucially, this planning permission is permanent, unlike the previous permission which had to be renewed every three years. Councillor Roper said that the permanent permission would make it easier for traders to invest in the long term future of the event. He said: “This is not a moneymaking scheme for the council. The council has been losing money on the market and they have been struggling really hard to change the operating model so that it breaks even. And that is

Stalls in Kingston Parade and York Street | Photo © B&NES Council

our goal.” The planning committee voted 7-1 to grant planning permission at their meeting on Wednesday 2nd September. Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for communications and community, said: “Bath Christmas Market is a muchloved tradition that brings people together, supports local businesses and contributes tens of millions of pounds to our local economy. “This decision secures the future of this hugely popular,

From the Editor... Opinion, insight and the stories shaping Bath this week

T may or may not come as a surprise when I say that this column is about roadworks. And that could well be enough for you to make a deep sigh and move on – and that’s fair enough. But stick with it, it could be interesting! Over on page 3 you’ll see Becky’s story about the halting of work at the top of Bathwick Hill which was closed for weeks for active travel improvements, due to underground utility services which were hidden when all the work was planned out, and discovered once contractors were on site. All that work has now been undone, and new plans are afoot to get around their presence, so the “improvements”

can be carried out. Strangely enough, this seems to happen more often than not, and where the blame lies seems to be as much as a mystery as some of these pipes and cables that go unnoticed until the very last minute. You may recall a story we ran recently regarding work along the A4 at Saltford where Virgin Media cables and ducting were discovered, which then had to be diverted. And there’s the case of the new crossing that was being implemented across the junction of Kennington Road and Chelsea Road – that was delayed due to utility cabinets having to be lowered to the new pavement

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internationally recognised event and ensures it can continue to evolve responsibly and sustainably in the years ahead — which we’ll continue to do in consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders.” Bath Christmas Market is set to open for 2026 on 26th November and run for 18 days until 13th December. The council has insisted that the major roadworks which have closed Manvers Street will be completed in time for the start of the market.

Sebastian Hawker

level, something that was obviously not thought of when the scheme was planned out. Systems are slowly being put in place across the country to make sure the location of utility services under our feet are known about, but when contractors can arrive at any moment, dig up a section of road and then do works unknown, how long before those new cables, pipes or ducts appear in these databases? The government now runs its own system, the National Underground Asset Register (NUAR), which is a digital map that contractors can use to see what’s happening and where. Hopefully that will make all the

difference, as whoever ends up footing the bill for the delays caused by the hidden utilities will eventually pass that cost on to us – their customers. Even some joinedup thinking of organising work to take place for different utilities while a road closure in place would be helpful - in all fairness, some local authorities already implement this when providing permits for work. And don’t even get me started on roads being dug up shortly after they were nicely resurfaced. Yes, there may have been an emergency, but the reinstatement should at least match the original work and not begin to subside within days of being “completed”.

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Issue 138

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Hope springs for flood-damaged Cleveland Pools Becky Feather Reporter

THE trustees of flood-damaged Cleveland Pools in Bath have regained control of the site and are holding an open day for people to have a say on the future of the UK’s oldest lido. The Grade II* listed site, which dates from 1815, is owned by Bath & North East Somerset Council and held on a long-term lease by the Cleveland Pools Trust. Following decades of dereliction, the riverside baths at Hampton Row reopened in September 2023 after more than £9.5 million was raised from a wide range of funders. But in January 2024 the site suffered flood damage from the River Avon and has been closed ever since. During the few months it was open, day-to-day operations had been sublet to Fusion Lifestyle. The company went into administration in April of this year, and at the time the Cleveland Pools Trust said it may

The pools in 2023 | Photo © Anthony Brown / Cleveland Pools Trust

mark an important step forward as it had been constrained in its ability to act while the site remained subject to an exclusive sublease. The trust has now regained control of the site, and its focus is on the route to reopening the pools. It has commissioned detailed technical, structural and engineering investigations to

understand the full extent of the damage and the repairs that may be required. Whilst the site was always designed to cope with flooding given its location, and had coped with previous flood events, investigations have established that on this occasion, water was able to enter the plant room due to damage to a waterproof door, with further damage occurring

when the pool was subsequently emptied of dirty floodwater while groundwater levels remained high, placing pressure on the structure and pipework. Peter Askew, chair of the Cleveland Pools Trust, said: “Cleveland Pools is a remarkable place, loved by generations of people in Bath and beyond. We know how many people want to see swimmers return, and we share that ambition. “Cleveland Pools Open Day is the start of the next phase for the pools as we invite people to help shape a positive, sustainable future for this unique historic asset.” The site will be open on Sunday 13th September as part of Bath’s Heritage Open Days from 10.30am to 4pm. The free event will offer the public an opportunity to see the historic site, hear more about the work needed to bring it back into use, and contribute ideas for the pools’ next chapter. You can register your interest at https://www.clevelandpools.org. uk/

Apology after work is halted on new £5.4m route Becky Feather Reporter

WORK on a section of the £5.4 million Scholars’ Way active travel route, which saw Bathwick Hill closed for more than a month, has been halted after the unexpected discovery of underground utility services. Bath & North East Somerset Council has issued an apology, saying it is committed to finding a solution for the Oakley and Copseland section of the route at the top of North Road and Bathwick Hill. In the meantime, the old layout has been reinstated, with all traffic able to use the route again from Wednesday 3rd September. The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has invested nearly £3 million into the Scholars’ Way scheme across the south of Bath, on top of almost £2.4 million from the council. It is connecting local schools, residential areas and the University of Bath, making it easier to walk, wheel or cycle between them.

After finishing the west section of the route, from Combe Road to St Martin’s Garden Primary School via Mulberry Park, construction began on the Oakley and Copseland section of Scholars’ Way East on 23rd July, which includes a new toucan crossing over Oakley, and enhanced footpaths and dropped kerbs to improve active travel. But in an update on its Scholars’ Way web page, the council says: “We are very sorry to confirm that work on the Oakley/Copseland improvement scheme has now been paused. “During construction, previously unidentified underground utility services were discovered in critical locations within the scheme. “Despite extensive investigations carried out during the design and planning stages, these services could not be fully identified until excavation works commenced. Their location presents significant challenges to delivering the proposed improvements as planned. “We understand this news will be disappointing, particularly

42 missions

have been carried out in the Bath area so far this year.

News in Brief Fire tackled at block of flats in Keynsham Firefighters were called to a block of flats in Keynsham on Monday, 7th September, after a fire broke out. Redwood House, next to The Crown pub, is a former office building which has been converted into apartments. Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “At 6.48pm on 7th September, crews from Hicks Gate and Kingswood responded to a fire on Bristol Road, Keynsham. Crews arrived to find that a small fire had already been extinguished. “They wore breathing apparatus and used ventilation fans to clear the smoke. “The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental.”

Police seize another illegal e-scooter Police officers in Keynsham have this week seized a privatelyowned electric scooter on High Street. The Bath & North East Somerset Neighbourhood Policing team say this is the fourth e-scooter to be seized in the last month. They say: “As a reminder these are illegal to ride except on private property and require insurance which will not be granted. “E-scooters will not be returned so please know the legislation before risking losing it.” Anyone caught riding one on a pavement, road or park could also be fined and get penalty points on their driving licence.

Weather Forecast The road was closed for a number of weeks

given the long-standing support for these improvements and the disruption caused by the recent road closure. “We sincerely apologise to residents, businesses, road users and the wider community for the frustration this will cause. “To minimise further disruption, we will reinstate the existing road layout and remove traffic management arrangements while we undertake further investigations. “We are working closely with utility providers and technical specialists to determine whether a viable solution can be found and how the scheme may proceed in the future.”

The council says it will provide regular updates as more information becomes available, and thanks everyone for their patience and understanding. The east section of Scholars’ Way also includes walking improvements at the Widcombe Hill/Claverton Down Road end of Copseland, including a continuous footway and dropped kerbs with tactiles. Timing of this section is yet to be confirmed. The scheme also includes the upgrade of the shared path between Quarry Farm and Claverton Down Road to a threemetre-wide hard surface to improve conditions for walkers, wheelers and cyclists.

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Long range forecast:

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(18th to 24th September) Occasional rain on the way, with strong winds possible at times. Moving on to dry and settled periods, with temperatures staying around average.

Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

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BID reveals five-year festive lights plan and Snowman trail A NEW five-year programme of Christmas lighting is set to begin in Bath this year, alongside a festive sculpture trail featuring 12 giant versions of The Snowman. Bath Business Improvement District (BID) has unveiled plans to gradually expand its Christmas lighting across the city centre, working with The Festive Lighting Company on a theme of ‘Understated Elegance’. The scheme is intended to complement Bath’s architecture while adding more reasons for people to visit the city during the festive period. Allison Herbert, chief executive of Bath BID, said: “We have launched a new five-year programme of Christmas lighting starting this year.

“Bath is famous for its fabulous world-class Christmas Market, and this year, we want to add more reasons to visit the city.” Jonathan Bradford, director of The Festive Lighting Company, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of the team behind Bath’s Christmas lighting for the next five years. “There’s nowhere quite like Bath and helping to add a touch of sparkle to the architecture is exactly the kind of work we love.” Another addition for Christmas 2026 will be the Walking with The Snowman trail, featuring 12 larger-than-life representations of Raymond Briggs’ Snowman across the city centre. The trail will run from 19th November until 31st January, with families encouraged to find

all 12 sculptures. It will coincide with The World of The Snowman exhibition at Victoria Art Gallery, which runs from 20th November 2026 until 28th February 2027. Bath Philharmonia will also perform alongside a screening of The Snowman at The Forum Bath on 19th December. Families will have opportunities to meet The Snowman in person on 19th and 21st November, while businesses across Bath are being encouraged to take part through themed window displays, events and other decorations. Organisations supporting the sculpture trail include Bath Abbey, Victoria Art Gallery, Thermae Bath Spa, Wylde Jewellers, SouthGate Bath, The Apex City of Bath, Visit West and

First public padel courts gain approval with five to be built Local Democracy Reporter

The property in Cranmore Place

Photo © Smash Padel

surroundings. “As a resident, I know Bath is a city that cares deeply about its heritage and its green spaces. That’s why our plans were shaped with sensitivity from the start, and why this approval means so much. We’re excited to begin work and to welcome players from four years old and upwards when we open.” Neighbours had raised concerns about noise and warned that it could cause traffic issues as vehicles turned from the junction by the canal bridge down the privately-owned lane leading to the site. But councillors heard the nearest home was 170 metres away and the council’s traffic officers did not have concerns. The planning committee had previously refused planning permission for padel courts at

How it will look | Image © Smash Padel

“Bath has given so much to us as a business, and trails like Walking with The Snowman are a wonderful way to give something back to the city and the families who visit it.”

Plans for eight-bed HMO as council looks to tighten rules

John Wimperis

PADEL courts are finally set to be built in Bath, after councillors relaxed their hard line against permitting the noisy sport in the city. Bath made national headlines for repeatedly refusing to allow padel courts to be built in the city on account of the “gunfire-like” noise of the game. But Bath & North East Somerset Council has now finally granted planning permission for five courts in a village on the edge of the city. Planning committee member Councillor Ian Halsall (Oldfield Park, Liberal Democrat) said: “If you can’t have a padel tennis court here, you can’t have one anywhere. “And given the level of support we have received, it clearly does demonstrate that there is demand for this sport.” 186 people had submitted comments to the council urging it to approve Smash Padel’s plan to build the courts at the former railway station in Bathampton. “Bath is in dire need of padel courts,” read one comment left by a padel player who said they and their friends were having to drive to Bristol. Padel is a sport similar to squash but played with a solid racquet. Originally from Mexico, it has boomed in popularity since the Covid-19 lockdown and is one of the fastest-growing sports. One Bath local particularly pleased to see the courts approved is Smash Padel CEO Rupert Taylor, who lives in Bath himself. He said: “Bathampton is a brilliant fit for Smash. It’s a site with history and personality, and we’ve worked hard to design a club that respects its

How the new lights may look | Image © Bath BID

the Fudge Factory. Nicholas Wylde, owner of Wylde Jewellers, said: “This is the third year running that we’ve been proud to sponsor a Bath BID trail, and it never gets old.

Lansdown Lawn Tennis Club as the nearest home would have been just three and a half metres from the courts, and concerns were raised that the “gunfire-like” racket of racquets hitting the ball would affect their mental health. Another plan for padel courts at Odd Down Sports Ground was turned down by the planning committee, also on noise grounds, despite the council itself being the applicant. Technically, the padel courts in Bathampton are not the first to be approved in the city. Two padel courts were included in the University of Bath’s plan to build almost 1,000 new student flats on their campus, which was approved in April, but it is not clear if these would be open to the public. Another padel company is currently seeking planning permission to set up four padel courts at Walcot Rugby Club at Lansdown. Bath will be Smash Padel’s seventh location in the UK. It opened a new venue in Taunton in Somerset just last month. The club says it will offer free intro sessions, a full coaching pathway and junior programmes, following the same communityfocused model used across its other UK sites.

Becky Feather Reporter

AFTER planning permission to convert a three-bed family home in Odd Down into a five-bed house in multiple occupation was approved over the summer, there are now plans to turn that property into an eight-bed HMO. Odd Down ward councillors Steve Hedges and Joel Hirst raised concerns when the initial HMO application for 76 Cranmore Place was submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. They flagged up, as they have previously, that the city is “incrementally pricing families out of areas like Odd Down”, driven by factors including unsustainable growth in student numbers at the two universities without growth in purpose-built student housing on campus to meet demand. Under new rules proposed in Bath & North East Somerset Council’s draft Local Plan – which was going before the cabinet on Thursday 10th September – the change of use of three-bed family homes would be refused in the future in three city wards – Odd Down, Twerton and Southdown. Council monitoring shows that three-bed homes have historically formed a “significant proportion” of permitted HMO conversions,

and a “significant proportion” of three-bed conversions have historically occurred in parts of Bath where market housing is relatively more affordable. The criterion change would help keep three-bed properties out of the hands of developers by retaining them for families. Ren Living Ltd is behind the scheme for the three-bed semidetached house at Cranmore Place where the principle of conversion to a HMO for five occupants was established in June, involving internal reconfiguration, new windows at the rear and storage for refuse and bikes. The latest application to upgrade the property to an eight-bed HMO involves adding a single-storey rear extension, alterations to the existing linked side element and changes to windows. The application says the new proposal builds upon the permission granted, with additional floorspace and “substantially increased communal accommodation”. The previously approved five-bed HMO provided secure storage for four bicycles and retained the property’s existing one off-street parking space. The new proposal increases storage provision to six bicycles and increases parking to three spaces. The application highlights that the eight-bed HMO has been designed to “safeguard the amenity of neighbouring occupiers”. The planning reference is 26/03164/FUL and any comments must be received by the council before 17th September.

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Unanimous approval for latest homes at former Bath Press site John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS to build “mansion houses” on the site of what was once Bath’s largest employer have been unanimously approved. Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee voted unanimously on 2nd September to grant developer City & Country planning permission to build 220 new homes on the western half of the former Bath Press site. The developer bought the site in 2024 and is already building homes on the eastern half, behind the historic facade. The decision means that 366 homes will now be built across the Bath Press site as a whole. City & Country’s Simon VernonHarcourt said: “Once delivered, this will turn a sterile brownfield site into sensitively designed homes within a rich and secluded urban landscape. “City & Country has experience and expertise working with complex urban and heritage sites. Having seriously talented consultants who can deliver truly great design is key to the creation of well-designed, sustainable new places to live.” Once the city’s largest employer, the Bath Press closed in 2007 and has been one of the most conspicuous empty brownfield sites in the city for almost two decades. This plan will see three large blocks of “contemporary mansion houses” built alongside the Lower Bristol Road, with three other large blocks behind them. A separate terrace of townhouses, designated as affordable housing, would run along the side of Brook Road. Local councillor June Player (Westmoreland, Independent Group) warned that the large

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More CCTV cameras to improve security at Roman Baths complex

The Roman Baths and Pump Room

How the site will look | Image © Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios / City & Country

blocks of flats would be a “David and Goliath situation” for the people living in the Victorian two-storey houses which back onto the site. She had told the planning committee: “I do not believe that enough consideration and concern has been given to these residents. “They will be greatly affected by the proximity, height, and density which will negatively impact on the use and enjoyment of their homes, as well as their privacy.” But, debating the plans, planning committee member Councillor Fiona Gourley (Bathavon South, Liberal Democrat) said: “Having seen this site sitting empty for so many years, to actually see something happening of good value I think is excellent.” Councillor Tim Warren (Midsomer Norton Redfield, Conservative) said: “It’s something that needs building.” 34 of the 366 homes built across the site as a whole will be affordable housing. “This is less than the 30% usually required by the council, but the planning committee was told that a larger amount of affordable housing will make the

development unviable. Keith Bradley of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, the Bathbased architecture firm behind the development, said: “We have designed a distinctive, sustainable neighbourhood that responds to the character of Victorian Bath, creates a greener gateway into the city and delivers 220 much-needed new homes. “Planning approval for Bath Press West is an important step towards bringing this long-vacant brownfield site back into use and completing the regeneration of this important part of Bath with a place that feels connected, generous and built to last.” The Bath Press was originally founded as the Pitman Press, printing dictionaries teaching Pitman’s Shorthand. Invented by Bath’s Sir Isaac Pitman, it was once the most used form of shorthand in the United Kingdom. The building went through several changes, with the Art Deco facade built in phases until 1926. Homes at the former Bath Press currently start from £350,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and £900,000 for a four-bedroom townhouse.

THERE are plans to improve security at the Roman Baths and Pump Room in Bath with more CCTV cameras. Bath & North East Somerset Council’s heritage services team has submitted an application to carry out alterations for various works to upgrade security as well as connectivity. A report says the proposed works are to the ground-floor shop, the office block, Pump Room, meeting rooms next to the Concert Room (the museum reception hall) and the mezzanine level of the museum which form part of the Roman Baths Complex. It says efforts have been made to minimise the impact the works will have on the Grade I listed site. The proposal involves installing four new CCTV cameras, along with wireless access points, removing and changing network points and installing a new door to match others. The report says: “The new CCTV cameras are required to improve security and visitor/staff safety. The cameras will cover areas which at present are not covered

by the surveillance system; these areas contain valuable objects, have high pedestrian traffic and accommodate events throughout the year. “The proposed cameras will match the existing cameras and use existing cable routes.” The report continues: “The wireless access points are required to improve connectivity, continuing business as usual for operational staff and support a key feature of the new retail contract, giving the ability to take payments away from the fixed till points. “This requires a wireless handheld till solution. The proposed wireless access points will match the existing and use existing cable routes.” The four upgraded network points are to update connectivity in the meeting rooms, again using the same cable routes. The report says the new door will “optimise the circulation route in a space which will be displaying exhibitions within the museum”. Visitors won’t have to exit through the entrance door, eliminating pinch points, bottlenecks and improving security. The planning reference is 26/03327/REG13 and the deadline for any comments on the plans is 8th October.

time and how children’s online experiences have changed over the years, the materials are designed to be relevant to every stage of a young person’s education. Year 8 pupils can learn about the latest legislation around deepfakes, while college students can access in-depth sessions on cyber security and spotting online scams. By funding the programme centrally, I have made sure that schools can access it free of charge. Since the programme launched, 101 schools across Avon and Somerset have already registered.

I am encouraged by that response, but I want to see even more schools taking advantage of these resources so that every child and young person can benefit from consistent, highquality safety education. As families move into the new school year, there is already plenty on the checklist. But alongside buying pens, finding PE kits and labelling uniform, I would encourage parents and caregivers to add one more question to the list: is your child’s school using Pol-Ed? Your school can register by visiting www.pol-ed.co.uk

Becky Feather Reporter

COLUMN | Clare Moody, Labour Police and Crime Commissioner

T has been a few years since I had to do the back-toschool rush for new shoes, school uniform and all the other essentials that have been outgrown or left in the lost property box. I still remember that shift from the holidays to the routines of a new school year. For many children, it can bring a mixture of excitement and anxiety. New teachers, new classrooms, moving up a year group, or even starting at a completely new school are all significant moments. But there are also things that parents and caregivers are navigating today that simply were

not on my mind when my son was growing up. Smartphones, social media, online gaming, group chats, Snapchat, TikTok and whatever platform comes next have become part of everyday life for young people. For parents and caregivers, it can sometimes feel like the landscape is changing faster than anyone can keep up with. That is one of the reasons I am pleased to be funding Pol-Ed for every school and college across Avon and Somerset. Pol-Ed is an online education platform that provides schools with high-quality, ready-made lesson plans and resources

covering topics such as online safety, exploitation, consent, anti-social behaviour and understanding the law. Importantly, the content is regularly updated to reflect emerging issues and new legislation. The resources are developed by a specialist team of teachers, former teachers, police officers and subject experts who understand both education and the challenges facing young people today. From a class for pupils in Year 2 about what age restrictions are and why they matter, to a secondary school assembly exploring the impact of screen

Issue 138

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Leaseholder’s anger as service charge for one-bed flat tops £6k remove £1,610 from this year’s charge, but only by redistributing it into future years. She continued: “I have now told them I will accept the reduction only if it is removed entirely, not added to next year’s service charge. “I have also asked them to provide the next five years of planned service charges and major works so I can understand what future costs I am expected to face. “I have asked whether the service charge will return to historic levels (around £1,000 per year for the sinking fund element), but I

Becky Feather Reporter

THE leaseholder of a one-bed flat in a Curo-managed block in Twerton is going to the Ombudsman after her service charge soared to more than £6,000 a year. Samantha Young was horrified after Curo increased the charge for her first-floor flat in Wedgwood Road from £2,604.03 for the year 2025/2026 to £6,377.62 for 2026/ 2027. She says the largest part of this increase is a jump in the reserve/sinking fund contribution. Samantha has gone through two stages of the complaints process, with Curo dismissing her claim that the increase is disproportionate and unreasonable. Samantha, who is a university student and works as a nanny, told the Echo: “This means I pay £531.46 a month for a council flat in Twerton with a service charge more in keeping with a central London block of flats with gym

have not received a clear answer.” Samantha was also dismayed to recently receive a letter from Curo giving her 30 days to pay an additional £900 on top of last year’s charge. She has been told by a local estate agent that her property is now worth considerably less than the £145,000 she paid for it as a result of the huge service charge increase, and that there are others in a similar situation to her. “I was told one property is paying over £800 a month in service charges to Curo,” she said.

Curo’s response

Inset: Samantha Young | Above: The flats at Wedgwood Road

and concierge. “I have repeatedly asked Curo to provide evidence, costings, surveys, contractor estimates, or any documentation to justify this increase. Despite months of correspondence, they have not provided any actual evidence of costs. “Their Stage 2 complaint response confirms that the figures are based on internal

assumptions, projections, and financial planning models rather than confirmed costs. “They claim this increase is because of replacing the windows in the building but also admit that the window replacement programme they are charging for may not even take place in 2030/31 and is currently under review.” She said Curo had offered to

The Echo put Samantha’s concerns to Curo. This week a spokesperson told us: “Bills for building repairs are part of owning a home. Paying into a sinking fund is a sort of ‘savings fund’ that allows owners to build up cash to put towards these costs when they come along. In this case, it helped to spread the cost of critical fire safety work. “More essential work is planned for this block, so we’re asking homeowners to build their fund back up again. “We regularly review how much leaseholders contribute to make sure they’re saving enough for planned work, but unforeseen emergency repairs and changes in regulations can increase costs beyond those expected. “We know it’s never nice to receive a bill and we’re sorry for any distress caused in this case. We aim to be transparent about this process and we’re always open to helping leaseholders concerned about repair costs. “We want to find solutions that match their circumstances and have offered to reduce what Miss Young pays this year.”

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Crime & Court

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Woman fined £80 for twice flouting Berkeley House closure order A WOMAN who twice contravened the closure order imposed on Berkeley House in Snow Hill has been fined £80. Sadie Pousson, 42, appeared before Bath magistrates on Monday, 7th September to admit that on both 8th July and 14th July she entered the communal area of Berkeley House, breaching the closure order which came into effect on 1st July. Pousson was identified from images taken at the premises, the court heard. The three-month order, which the police secured at Bath Magistrates’ Court, closes the common parts of the block the stairwells, lifts, corridors, communal rooms, laundry rooms and bin rooms - to all people except for those with a valid title deed or valid rental agreement, those visiting with explicit permission, anyone authorised by housing association Curo, and any emergency services. Community protection warnings and notices had previously been given to prohibit offenders from attending the area but the application for the order followed an increase in serious crime and anti-social behaviour at the 10-storey block. At the court on 1st July magistrates heard evidence of drug dealing and use, of knives being found, people assaulted, faeces, urine and blood in communal areas, stairwells blocked by rough

Photo © Avon & Somerset Police

sleepers and a fire being lit. Residents in the 44-flat block had been individually notified about the court hearing and 30 notices were put up in the communal areas. At Monday’s hearing, Pousson said she had no knowledge of the closure notice and if there were signs in the building, she didn’t read them. She also admitted a charge stealing a pair of jogging bottoms from Sports Direct at Westgate Street on 2nd July. The clothing was recovered. Pousson was represented by duty solicitor Bradley Axam who told the court of her “sad story”. He said she had been evicted and made street homeless and although her former flat had been subject to a possession order, there are people sleeping in the hallway. Mr Axam also said Pousson is struggling to get possession of personal items which remain in her former flat, including her brother’s ashes. In April a judge granted Curo an outright possession order on Pousson’s flat at Abbey Green which had been a den for illegal

28-year-old charged with raping woman

Pigeon Park in Bath

A 28-YEAR-OLD man has appeared in court this week charged with raping a woman in Pigeon Park in Bath. Jordan Rawlings, of no fixed abode, was brought before Bath magistrates in custody on Wednesday, 9th September. He is accused of raping the woman and carrying out another sexual assault against her on 27th August. Prosecutor Michael Collins told the court that police are currently investigating similar reports in

the park in recent weeks. Rawlings was arrested at Castle Park in Bristol on Tuesday, 8th September in connection with the alleged attack on 27th August and was found to be in possession of a knuckle duster. In court on Wednesday, he admitted being in possession of an offensive weapon but denied the sex charges. Magistrates remanded Rawlings in custody until 30th September when he will appear at Bristol Crown Court for a trial preparation hearing.

Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

activities for many years, as the Echo reported at the time. Magistrates fined Pousson £40 for each breach of the Berkeley House closure order and a further £40 for the theft. She was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £85 and a court surcharge of £48. ■ This week Andrew Snee, Curo’s director of housing and support, said: “The closure order was secured to help restore a sense of safety and normality for residents at Berkeley House following a significant increase in antisocial behaviour in the building’s communal areas. “We’re pleased that the order remains in place and is helping to provide reassurance to residents about the safety and security of their building.” Curo is in conversations with the police about extending the closure order, which is due to expire on 1st October. Regarding Pousson’s claim in court, Mr Snee said: “We have made numerous attempts to contact Ms Pousson to arrange a suitable time for her to collect her belongings from the property, but she has not answered or returned our calls. “If Ms Pousson is currently homeless, we would encourage her to contact Bath & North East Somerset Council, which can provide support and help her secure suitable accommodation.”

Addict with prolific shoplifting record is locked up again A DRUG addict who already had 65 theft offences to his name is back in jail after being convicted of 10 more crimes. Tony Ware, 34, appeared in custody at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2nd September. Asked by the legal adviser to confirm his address, he said he didn’t have one as he keeps getting released from prison homeless. The 10 shoplifting offences were committed in January and February, and Ware has been in and out of prison for other offences since then, the court heard. He had failed to attend a hearing at the court on 13th May, having been released on bail on 21st April at Keynsham Police Centre. In court, he admitted: • Stealing clothing worth £124.97 from TK MAXX in Bath on 5th January. • Stealing cleaning products worth approximately £35 from the Co-op at Burlington Place in Julian Road, Lansdown, on 31st January. • Stealing from the Co-op four times on 1st February. He took meat, soft drinks and cosmetics worth £60; food items worth £50; £40 of cleaning products; and biscuits and coffee worth approximately £40.

• On 14th February he stole food and drink worth £45, again from the Co-op. • On 22nd February he stole meat products worth £50 from the same store. • On 24th February he stole hot food items worth £4 from One Stop store at Rosewell Court in the city centre. • On 25th February he stole £10 of hot food from the Co-op. Representing Ware as duty solicitor, Bradley Axam said that as he’d been out on licence from prison, he would be automatically recalled for 56 days following the latest conviction. Mr Axam said Ware wants help for his drug problem and would be able to get clean during his time in custody. Ware wants to stop the “revolving door” he seems to be caught in, added Mr Axam. The court heard that all the theft offences had been committed since 2023, the year Ware was in hospital for a tumour and his relationship broke down. He turned to drugs, stealing to fund his habit. For the latest offences, Ware was jailed for 11 weeks – three weeks for failure to surrender and eight weeks for the thefts – and the magistrates ordered him to pay compensation to the stores of £458.

Driver was 10 times over ketamine limit when he crashed his Audi A DRIVER was 10 times over the ketamine limit when he crashed his Audi A3 car in Bath. Ross Buchanan, 23, appeared at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2nd September to admit drug-driving. Prosecutor Paul Kelly said police had responded to a call in the early hours of 21st February after a vehicle had collided with street furniture at Sydney Place. Buchanan failed a roadside drug swipe and was taken to hospital, where he was considered fit to give a blood sample. Even though ketamine is an illegal drug, there is a specified limit for drivers of 20 micrograms per litre of blood. Buchanan’s reading was 200 micrograms. He also had alcohol in his system but not over the legal limit. Mr Kelly said that Buchanan had no previous motoring offences although in July 2022 he had received a suspended prison sentence for an offence of

Police were called following a collision in Sydney Place

grievous bodily harm. Buchanan, of Academy Close in Melksham, was represented in court by Ruth Tily as duty solicitor. She told magistrates that at the time of the drug-driving offence, he had been at a “low ebb” due to family circumstances. She said he is “very remorseful” and is now in a better frame of mind. He will be able to keep his job as a binman as he does not have to drive the lorry. Before sentencing Buchanan, the magistrates also asked for input

from a probation officer who said he recognised drug-driving had been “stupid and irresponsible” and showed regret. She said he would be suitable to complete unpaid work in the community. Magistrates banned Buchanan from the road for 30 months and imposed a 12-month community order under which he must complete 140 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 prosecution costs and a court surcharge of £114.

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Man with grudge sends Man must wear tag more sinister threats after doorman assault A BATH man jailed last year after he sent threatening emails to two police forces and a local charity has admitted sending more messages in which he threatened to harm officers with a crossbow. In August 2025 – as we reported at the time – Bath magistrates sentenced Kether Everett to eight months after he pleaded guilty to threatening to use a crossbow against Greater Manchester Police and Dorset Police officers and to bomb Bath mental health charity Mind. Everett has confessed to having a grudge against the police. The 42-year-old of Walcot Street was back in the dock at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2nd September to face a charge under the Online Safety Act 2023. He admitted that on 22nd July and 30th July this year in Bath he sent email messages threatening serious harm, namely assaulting police officers with a crossbow and other means, intending or being reckless about whether they would fear the threat would be carried out. Prosecutor Cathy Thornton told magistrates that a total of six emails had been sent by Everett

to the Bath & North East Somerset neighbourhood policing team. They included grossly offensive language with the threat of serious harm to officers from a crossbow bolt in the head. Everett said they were “not real cops” and referred to them as “scumbags”. He also made reference to stalking them, to an “end game” and threatened an arson attack on police vehicles. At his court appearance, Everett also admitted his involvement in a burglary on 12th June at Jigsaw in Old Bond Street, where various items including handbags worth £365 were stolen. The court heard he was the lookout and had not benefited from the crime. CCTV identified him as being at the scene, and he also emailed police to confess his part. Magistrates asked the Probation Service to prepare an all-options pre-sentence report on Everett. This includes committal to Bristol Crown Court for sentence. He was remanded on unconditional bail until his next appearance before the magistrates on Monday 19th October.

A 25-YEAR-OLD man who assaulted a security guard at a Bath nightclub has been ordered by city magistrates to be monitored for alcohol abstinence for 120 days. Jake Hamilton was in the dock on 24th August to admit the assault by beating at Labyrinth at North

Parade. The incident happened on 28th May. The court heard that Hamilton, of Sassoon Close in Warminster, acknowledged he’d been “very stupid” and that when he drinks, “trouble happens”. He apologised for his behaviour. He was also ordered to pay £85 prosecution costs.

80 hours of unpaid work for drink-driver BATH magistrates have banned a man from getting behind the wheel for four years after he was convicted of his second drinkdriving offence within 10 years. Farm worker Radoslaw Synenko must also complete 80 hours of unpaid work under a 12-month community order. At the hearing on Monday 7th September the court heard that Synenko shows “remorse and regret” for getting behind the wheel of his Honda CR-V on 22nd August while over the limit. After he failed a roadside breath test, he was taken to Keynsham Police Centre where the lower

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of two readings revealed 105 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35. Representing Synenko as duty solicitor, Will Palmer said he had been offered but turned down the chance to do a drink-drive rehabilitation course following his first conviction but wants to do it this time. If he successfully completes the course, Synenko’s ban will be reduced by 48 weeks. The 31-year-old, of Hardington, near Frome, was also ordered to pay a court surcharge of £114 and prosecution costs of £85.

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

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Photo © Sam Kelly

Chitty takes flight as Bath Light Operatic Group celebrates 70 years A MUCH-LOVED Bath theatre company is marking a major milestone this autumn with its biggest production yet. Award-winning Bath Light Operatic Group is celebrating 70 years of performing at the Theatre Royal Bath by bringing the magical family musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to the stage from Tuesday 29th September to Saturday 3rd October 2026. Inspired by Ian Fleming’s children’s book and the muchloved 1968 film, the production features the unforgettable music of the Sherman Brothers, the songwriting duo behind Mary Poppins. Audiences can expect familiar favourites, plenty of adventure and, of course, one very extraordinary flying car. More than 35 local performers will take to the stage for the spectacular production, joined

by a 12-piece live orchestra. At the heart of the story is eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, who restores an old race car from a scrap heap with the help of his children, Jeremy and Jemima. It soon becomes clear that this is no ordinary car, with the ability to float and even take to the skies. Their adventure takes a dramatic turn when the villainous Baron Bomburst sets his sights on the magical vehicle. With the help of Truly Scrumptious and Caractacus’ equally eccentric Grandpa, the family must work together to keep Chitty out of the Baron’s hands. Taking on the role of Caractacus Potts is Ed Corbishley, appearing opposite Lizzie Andrews as Truly Scrumptious, while award-winning local actor Geoff White will play Grandpa. The production continues a long tradition of ambitious

shows from Bath Light Operatic Group, affectionately known as BLOG. The company returns to the Theatre Royal following its 2025 production of The Addams Family, as well as recent acclaimed stagings of My Fair Lady, Oliver!, Mack & Mabel, Shrek The Musical and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Matthew Heaton directs the production, with choreography by Alison Price and musical direction from Matthew Finch. Finch has a particularly long association with BLOG, having first worked with the company in 1997 before becoming its Musical Director in 1999. Over the years, he has helped bring an impressive collection of shows to the Theatre Royal Bath, including The Addams Family, My Fair Lady, Oliver!, Mack & Mabel, Shrek The Musical, 42nd Street, Priscilla,

Ed Corbishley as Caractacus Potts | Photo © Sam Kelly

Queen of the Desert, Annie, Sister Act and Jesus Christ Superstar. With a large local cast, live music and one of musical theatre’s best-known family stories, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang promises to be a suitably spectacular way for Bath Light Operatic Group to celebrate

seven decades on the Theatre Royal stage. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is at the Theatre Royal Bath from Tuesday 29th September to Saturday 3rd October. Tickets are available at www.theatreroyal.org.uk or from the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844.

• WHAT’S ON • FOOD & DRINK • THEATRE • PUZZLES • GARDENING • MOTORING • FASHION & BEAUTY • TRAVEL • HEALTH & FITNESS

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Bath Society of Artists exhibition set to return to the Victoria Art Gallery ONE of Bath’s longest-running art exhibitions will return to Victoria Art Gallery this autumn, bringing together work by established and emerging artists from across the country. The Bath Society of Artists Annual Open Exhibition will run from 19th September to 7th November 2026 and will feature painting, printmaking, sculpture and mixed media. Works are selected through an open submission process, meaning the exhibition changes each year and introduces visitors to a fresh range of artists and styles. This year’s invited artist is acclaimed British painter and printmaker Basil Beattie RA, who was at the forefront of Abstract Expressionism in the UK during the mid-20th century. Beattie, who continues to work today, is known for gestural pieces using earthy tones, architectural forms, symbols and hieroglyphic elements. In 2007, he was given a dedicated room at Tate Britain. Geoff Shillito, chair of the Bath Society of Artists, said: “The Bath Society of Artists’

121st Annual Open Exhibition encompasses the talents of highly respected local, regional, and national artist members, together with aspiring nonmembers waiting to surprise and delight audiences. Every year, the society aims to showcase the work of an invited artist, and this year is no exception, as we are proud and delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed painter and printmaker Basil Beattie RA. “This exciting show reflects the extraordinary quality, ambition and breadth of contemporary art being produced today.” Guest selectors Claire Todd, artist curator at Pound Arts, and Tom Waugh RWA MRSS will join the 2D and 3D selection panels respectively. Prize judges will include Heather Jane Wallace MA (Fine Arts), founder and director of Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios, and Ros Cuthbert MA (RCA) RWA. Many works in the exhibition will be available to buy, while

visitors will also be able to vote for their favourite piece in the Public Choice Prize. The exhibition offers £5,500 in cash prizes and more than £800 in vouchers for participating artists. Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “The Bath Society of Artists Open Exhibition is a much-loved part of Bath’s cultural life, bringing together artists, residents and visitors in one of the city’s most beautiful galleries. We look forward to welcoming audiences to another inspiring exhibition this autumn.” The Bath Society of Artists was founded in 1904 by 26 artists and now has around 125 members. Over more than 120 years, its annual exhibition has featured and attracted the interest of prominent British artists including Walter Sickert, John Singer Sargent, Philip Wilson Steer, Gilbert Spencer, Patrick Heron, Mary Fedden, William Scott and David Inshaw. Image © Rosalind Robinson

Festival celebrates Bath’s most famous resident

Photo © Jeremy Richards / Shutterstock.com

BATH’S annual Jane Austen Festival, the highlight of which is a Regency costumed promenade through the streets of Bath, runs from Friday 11th September to Sunday 20th September. It is the largest and longestrunning Jane Austen festival in the world, first taking place over a weekend in 2001 at The Jane Austen Centre, Bath. It has grown into a 10-day programme, drawing visitors from around the world to enjoy a wide range of Jane Austen themed events. The annual promenade, which has been filling the Georgian streets with more than 2,000 people in Regency dress since 2004, holds

the Guinness World Record for the ‘Largest gathering of people dressed in Regency costumes’. It takes place on Saturday 12th September, starting at 11am at the Royal Crescent. The stroll will take approximately one hour, ending along Great Pulteney Street. Visitors to the festival can enjoy events inspired by Austen’s timeless works including guided walks, costumed balls, theatrical performances and talks. Find out more at www.janeausten.co.uk Tickets are no longer on sale online but you can check the day-by-day programme pages for events with tickets available to purchase on the door.

Heritage Open Days to feature more than 30 venues across B&NES MORE than 30 historic and cultural venues across Bath and North East Somerset are welcoming visitors for free this month as Heritage Open Days returns. The annual festival, described as England’s largest communityled celebration of history and culture, will run for 10 days from Friday 11th to Sunday 20th September 2026. The programme includes guided tours, exhibitions, talks, behind-the-scenes access and family activities at locations ranging from abbeys, churches and burial grounds to museums, galleries and heritage landscapes. Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Heritage Open Days are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the places, stories and communities that make Bath & North East Somerset so special. “Whether you’re uncovering hidden collections, exploring historic buildings, learning about local archaeology or enjoying family activities, there is something for everyone. I encourage residents and visitors alike to make the most of this wonderful free festival and discover something new on their doorstep.”

Photo © B&NES Council

Highlights include: ■ Saltford Brass Mill: Explore one of the last surviving sites of the Avon Valley copper and brass industry through tours, interactive displays and audio guides (12th September). ■ Keynsham Abbey: Meet a Saxon, explore medieval gardens and discover life in a medieval abbey through demonstrations, activities and the family-friendly Monks’ Trail

(12th and 19th September). ■ Keynsham Civic Centre: Get hands-on with Roman artefacts discovered in Keynsham and learn more about the area’s archaeological heritage (12th September). ■ American Museum & Gardens: Enjoy free access to the gardens, woodland walk, play area and café at this unique estate overlooking Bath (13th September).

■ Cleveland Pools: Visit this iconic historic site as it opens to visitors for the first time since 2023, featuring talks, trails and family activities exploring its future (13th September). ■ Mayor’s Parlour, Guildhall: Discover 800 years of civic history, including Bath’s Royal Charters and ceremonial regalia dating back to the reigns of Richard I and Elizabeth I (14th 18th September).

■ The Roman Baths: Take part in archaeology-themed experiences, guided tours of the Clore Learning Centre and behind-the-scenes tours exploring Bath’s historic spa collections (14th - 17th September, booking required). ■ Bath Spa University’s Locksbrook Campus: Explore the award-winning campus and learn how its historic industrial heritage has been adapted for modern creative education (18th - 20th September). ■ Elton House: Step inside this historic Landmark Trust property, opening to the public for the first time since recent improvements and only the second time since 2018 (19th - 20th September, booking required). Other locations taking part include historic churches, museums, archives, burial grounds and community spaces across Bath, Keynsham, Saltford and Midsomer Norton. Among the additional activities are tower tours at St John the Baptist Church (Keynsham), guided visits to St Stephen’s Church (Bath), a rare opening of Southcot Burial Ground and the opportunity to learn about the area’s quarrying heritage at the Museum of Bath Stone. All Heritage Open Days events are free, although some require advance booking.

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What’s On

Issue 138 - P14

Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

The Jane Austen Festival

Recording the Sounds of Nature

Under Milk Wood

The largest and longest-running Jane Austen Festival in the world. The 10-day festival includes a programme of events inspired by the works of Jane Austen.

This talk for Bath RSPB group will be given by Ellie Williams who is an awardwinning sound recordist with two decades’ experience working in filmmaking.

Guy Masterson (A Christmas Carol, Animal Farm) returns with his “unbelievable” rendition of Dylan Thomas’ lyrical masterpiece, Under Milk Wood.

St Andrew’s Church | 16th September, 7.30pm

Various Locations | 11th – 20th September

2026 Combe Down Art Trail

The Theatre Royal | 21st – 22nd September

Rory Bremner + Friends

Secret History of a Space Telescope

As the nation’s favourite mimic, Rory really needs no introduction whatsoever. Rory will be joined by compére supreme Tim Clark and main support is Harriet Dyer.

Prof. Stephen Eales will describe the discoveries made with Herschel and what it was like, for someone who had only ever used telescopes on the ground.

Combe Down | 12th & 13th September

Roper Theatre | 18th September, 7pm

Absolute Country Raceday

Three Cane Whale

Alan Davies

Yeehaw Bath! Get ready for a day straight outta Texas. Swap your fascinator for Stetson, dust off those cowboy boots, and enjoy an afternoon full of thrilling races.

Bristol’s acclaimed multi-instrumental acoustic chamber-folk trio return to the iconic setting of Kelston Roundhill for what has become their almost annual gathering.

He thinks he’s Marty McFly, but he’s older than Doc Brown. He spends more time in the pharmacy than in the gym. Subject to relentless eye rolls from his kids. What is he?

Over 40 talented artists showcasing their work in 30 venues dotted throughout the village. From painting, ceramics, sculpture, and photography to jewellery and more.

Bath Racecourse | 12th September, 11.20am

Roundhill Barn, Kelston | 19th September, 6pm

BRLSI | 23rd September, 7.30pm

The Forum | 23rd September, 7.30pm

Bath Tennis Club Fundraiser

Rise and Fall

Amélie

Bath Tennis Club will be welcoming the community, bringing together tennis, fundraising and local spirit for a special day of activity, remembrance and celebration.

Explore an ecosystem of balloons: universes in miniature. Hold your breath and go sailing away. A poetic and intriguing performance for young audiences.

Based on the beloved film, Amélie is a whimsical and heartfelt journey through the streets of Paris filled with imagination, romance, and wonder.

Bath Tennis Club | 13th September, 12-7pm

The Egg | 19th – 20th September

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The Rondo Theatre | 24th – 26th September

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Food & Drink

Melissa Blease

Food Writer

Tasty Dates For Your Diary Discover a unique taste of history at the Sepoy Club (Broad Street) from now until Sunday 20th September when a very special 3-course Taste of the Regency Era menu (running concurrently with the Jane Austen Festival) celebrates the flavours that first connected Britain and India in Jane Austen’s lifetime (£35pp to include a complimentary Regency cocktail for those dressed in Regency garb). https://bit.ly/4qXWuau Grab a fully-loaded, massive slice of ‘Romanstyle’ pizza-to-go at Angelo’s (Cheap Street.) Feeling creative? Follow your instincts and add an extra topping of your choice for 50p.  @angelos_bath Beer Fest lands at the Hare

and Hounds (Lansdown Road) on Friday 18th Saturday 19th September: beer, beer, beer (including St Austell Brewery’s brand new Lansdown SIPA Session IPA), a hot-off-the-grill BBQ, live music and good times all day long (18+ only; advance booking £10pp to include 3 drinks tokens worth more than the ticket price). https://bit.ly/4xbML1K

Bear (Bear Flat) has been unveiled: One Night in Sardinia on Saturday 19th September, Umbria and the Apennines on Saturday 24th October, One Night in Roma on Saturday 21st November and Italian Christmas on Saturday 19th December. But be warned: tickets sell out VERY fast! Email info@thegoodbear. co.uk to secure yours. www.thegoodbear.co.uk

Stake out Steak Night at the Corston Wheatsheaf (Corston, of course!) every Tuesday evening from 6pm9pm: choose your preferred cut (rump, fillet… or even the mighty Chateaubriand to share?) and a sauce and two sides come as standard. https://bit.ly/4d4xqc6

Get with the Aperitivo Hour programme at The Bar at No. 15 (Great Pulteney Street) every Friday evening from 6-9pm: freeflowing complimentary small plates served with every cocktail ordered from the carefully-curated menu from 6pm-9pm. Meanwhile, all cocktails (and we’re talking a seriously classy selection here) are just £8 between 8pm-9pm every

The Autumn Supper Club schedule at The Good

Sunday - Thursday. Cheers! https://bit.ly/4iewZzv Do-si-do your heart out at the country-themed Bottomless Brunch at Komedia (Westgate Street) on Saturday 26th September featuring an interactive live show packed with all your favourite country music hits, a tasty brunch menu and 1.5 hours of bottomless drinks. https://bit.ly/3V3ON6J Browse a selection of five drinks including negroni or popstar martinis, house wine, Asahi super dry, Aspall Cyder or a spirit and mixer and grab one (or all of them!) for just £5 at the Bath Townhouse Coppa Club (Old Bond Street) every Monday - Thursday between 4pm-6pm. coppaclub.co.uk

Book a 4-course Tasting Menu at the Michelinstarred Restaurant Hywel Jones (Lucknam Park, Colerne) and enjoy an automatic complimentary upgrade to the fullon, 8-course Tasting Menu experience every Wednesday - Friday from now until 16th October (advance booking essential). https://bit.ly/4A1dZed Head along and snuggle around the hearth at Emberwood (the Francis Hotel, Queen Square) on Thursday 15th October and explore an exceptional selection of ‘new wave’ Rhône Valley wines curated by Master Sommelier Claire Thevenot accompanied by a fire-led seasonal menu courtesy of superchef David Hazell (£110pp). www.emberwoodbath.com

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Pictures from the Past

Issue 138 - P16

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

Bath Flight Works

The Bath Flight Works, with employees outside the building

WESTON Lock Retail Park – home to the M&S Foodhall and Currys/PC World – may not look as though it has much history to it, but, although there is nothing to show for it today, two of the biggest and best known buildings on the west side of the city once stood here. The first building on the site was a fairly modest affair, however. Before a footbridge was built across the river, there was a ferry – known as the Royal Old Ferry – and a house for the ferryman was built here in the early 19th century. In the late 19th century, an enormous malthouse, six

or seven storeys high, was built behind it. The ferry closed in 1906 after a footbridge was built across the river, and in 1915 the malthouse was destroyed by fire. A new building – seen in this week’s archive photograph – soon arose on the site of the malthouse. Known as the Bath Flight Works, it was, as its name suggests, built to produce aircraft, but it was also designed ‘with the view to its ultimate utilisation as a furnishing and joinery manufactory’. This may sound peculiar today, but it would have seemed perfectly reasonable back then. When Britain went

to war in 1914, the city’s cabinet makers switched production from furniture to aircraft, which were largely constructed from wood and canvas. By the end of the war there were three aircraft factories in the city – and the Bath Flight Works was the biggest of them. As can be seen from this group photograph, many of the employees were women, most of whom worked in the doping and stitching rooms. The application of dope varnish to fabriccovered wings was dangerous work, as dope fumes were highly toxic. Women

often collapsed and had to be carried outside, where they lay on the ground until they had recovered sufficiently to return to work. After its conversion to the production of furniture, the former Flight Works was badly damaged by bombing in 1942. It was restored and survived until 1994, latterly as the Arkana furniture factory, before it fell victim to redevelopment. This photograph is taken from All Roads Lead to France: Bath and the Great War by Andrew Swift, published by Akeman Press.

P17 - Issue 138

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Congratulations to Graham Smith for winning £20 in Issue 137! You can find the answers to our last crossword on page 28.

Don’t miss your chance to win £20! Across

Down

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

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

Entering our competition - via email or post For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk or via post to: Crossword Competition 1109 Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 23/09/2026. 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.

Advertising Feature

ECHO

Education Guide 2026

We bring together useful information to help families explore local education options. From school values and academic achievements to open days, facilities and enrichment opportunities, it offers a helpful overview of what each setting has to offer. Whether you are considering primary, secondary or sixth form choices, this guide is designed to make the research process easier and give you a clearer sense of each school’s character and community.

Bath College

Millfield Preparatory School

Bath College, Avon Street, Bath BA1 1UP 01225 312191 info@bathcollege.ac.uk www.bathcollege.ac.uk

Edgarley Hall, Glastonbury BA6 8LD 01458 832446 admissions@millfieldschool.com www.millfieldschool.com

Bath College provides innovative vocational training, inspiring future generations to succeed professionally and academically. Further education should help young people find purpose and thrive - and the expert tutors at the college help our learners link their strengths to clear career pathways. Through a curriculum aligned with local employers, the college directly addresses local skills gaps by preparing the next generation with work-ready skills. At Bath College, every learner should feel respected and supported. The college creates an accessible, welcoming environment where belonging is nurtured, and everyone receives the support they need to succeed. Learners can access personalised assistance in class, accessible learning materials and formats, study skills workshops, extra time in exams, transition support from school to college, and regular communication between tutors and parents or carers. A word from Bath College Principal and CEO Kevin Hamblin: “As a modern, careerfocused college, we continue to invest in high-quality teaching, industry-standard facilities, and employer partnerships that reflect the changing needs of our economy. Equally important is the sense of community you will find here. We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive college where every student feels valued and able to succeed. From wellbeing support and personal development to sports academies, clubs, societies, and enrichment activities, there are countless opportunities to grow personally and professionally. “Whatever your starting point, Bath College is here to help you take the next step with confidence. We welcome everybody to join a college that is ambitious for its students, connected to its community, and focused on helping every learner achieve their potential.”

Millfield Prep School offers a unique opportunity to balance exceptional academics alongside elite sport pathways. The school has the unique ability to operate individual sporting programmes for children to thrive and discover what they are good at and passionate about. These bespoke timetables allow pupils to participate in sport and activities before, during or after school, for them to realise their full potential. Children don’t have to specialise early, and are encouraged to try everything in a positive, non-committal environment. It is possible to play tennis full-time, swim up to eight times per week, ride or play golf, and still participate in regular team sports. All pupils are taught a balanced programme, which includes a minimum of 5 hours of sport per week, alongside academic study and the arts, ensuring pupils receive a well-rounded education that gives them the opportunity, time and space to discover their brilliance. Timetables are bespoke to individuals based on interests. For example, Year 8 Jess participates in two morning co-curricular sessions (choir and concert rehearsal), three co-curricular lunchtime sessions (Speech and Drama, concert rehearsal and Junior Maths Challenge) and five after-school sport sessions (athletics twice, games, hockey and trampolining, including a back-to-back session on Friday after school). All of this contributes to her passion for football, having recently achieved her ISFA cap. Sport is supported by industry-leading coaches and outstanding facilities including a 25-metre swimming pool, golf courses, science centre, music halls, tennis bubble and numerous sports pitches. Pupils choose Millfield Prep for the balance of sport and academics. Every pupil represents the school on a regular basis, with 349 pupils (95.8%) representing the school in 24 different sports in the spring term alone.

Open Evening: Wednesday 7th October, 4pm to 7pm (City Centre Campus)

Open Day: Saturday 3rd October, 10am to 2pm

Monkton Combe School

Kingswood School

Church Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HG 01225 721100 reception@monkton.org.uk www.monktoncombeschool.com

Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5RG 01225 734200 reception@kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

At Monkton, we equip our pupils to live full lives, both while at school and, even more importantly, beyond. This means a rigorous academic programme, and our results and ‘value add’ speak for themselves across the curriculum. But it doesn’t stop at the classroom. We inspire pupils to step forward to serve and impact a fastchanging world by stretching them now, developing their character, broadening their horizons and preparing them to choose the future they want. Our pupils are encouraged to make the most of the opportunities around them, from sport, music and the arts to outdoor education, leadership and service. These experiences help them discover new interests, develop confidence and learn to work with others. How do we do it? Pastoral care is a phrase that means many things, but at Monkton, the heart of it is our belief that every child is unique and every child matters. Our role is to help them discover who they are, who they want to be and how to grow into that. The deep care shown by all the staff for each pupil is truly staggering, and it shows in every area of school life, from the classroom to the array of co-curricular activities and the support and care in the Houses. This level of care is open to all pupils. Monkton’s award-winning boarding provision is not just for boarders; day pupils have access to as much of the evening programme as they want, and parents love the way they are able to stretch their wings and feel independent, spending time with their friends in a structured and supportive environment. This deep connection permeates the huge range of academic and co-curricular opportunities that Monkton offers, enabling us to stretch and inspire each pupil to push themselves both academically and as people, and to grow into adults who have integrity, humility and courage and who go on to live full lives.

Kingswood School is a thriving co-educational school set within 120 acres overlooking Bath. Rooted in a rich heritage yet forward looking in its approach, Kingswood’s strong sense of community sees pupils benefit from an environment rooted in kindness, respect and support, helping them to ignite their potential. The Prep School welcomes pupils from 9 months to 11 years old, balancing academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care, with an ethos built on kindness and inclusivity and creating a nurturing environment where every child thrives. Pupils at Kingswood Prep School do not need to complete entrance assessments to the Senior School. The Senior School welcome pupils into Westwood House, allowing them to make the transition from their previous school to Kingswood in a dedicated environment, providing a genuine space where our Year 7 and 8s can be themselves in their free time. Our academic strength is matched by an exceptional co-curricular programme that encourages pupils to discover new interests and talents through an extensive range of clubs and activities. At Kingswood, we believe that learning and enrichment outside the classroom is equally as important as the lessons taking place within classrooms. We therefore provide an extensive range of excellent co-curricular activities, with around 100 activities on offer across the year groups each term. As pupils move into the senior years, they are guided to embrace new opportunities, deepen their interests and prepare for the demands of Sixth Form and life beyond school. Sixth Form is a warm, vibrant and happy place and our students leave us not only with good qualifications, but also as well-rounded individuals with the skills, independence and resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Open Day: Saturday 3rd October, 10am to 12pm

Senior School Open Morning: Saturday 10th October, from 9am

Royal High School Bath

St Gregory’s Catholic College

Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5SZ 01225 313877 royalhigh@rhsb.gdst.net www.royalhighbath.gdst.net

Combe Hay Lane, Odd Down, BA2 8PA 01225 832873 stgregorys_sec@bathnes.gov.uk www.st-gregorys.org.uk

The Royal High School Bath is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 9-18. The stimulating curriculum promotes intellectual rigour, creative enquiry, and critical thinking to ensure that girls will lead and shape the world confidently and positively, now and in the future. With excellent academic results, RHB girls become well-educated, well-rounded, and well-balanced, able to navigate a global, multicultural, and technology-driven world successfully. Our vibrant co-curricular programme is a cornerstone of school life; designed to inspire, challenge, and empower every girl to explore her passions, develop new talents, and grow into a confident, capable young woman. Rooted in our values of curiosity, confidence and connections, our extensive range of clubs, societies, and enrichment opportunities offers something for everyone. Pastoral care and academic development go hand in hand. Girls perform best when they are happy and secure, so the caring and supportive community gives girls a real sense of belonging. Student wellbeing is a key priority for Royal High School Bath and the school understands the pressures, uncertainties and challenges moving from childhood to adulthood. The pastoral care aims to nurture and support each student throughout their academic career, making sure every girl has a positive experience. The school is a mix of day and boarding girls, a happy, thriving community, free from stereotypes. The girls build confidence and high self-esteem, whilst fostering the RHB learner qualities; creative, brave, sparky, inquisitive, collaborative, reflective, underpinned by the core value of kindness. Bath is part of The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) which has 24 UK schools and two academies nationwide. RHB is an innovative, high-achieving school, providing a wonderful environment for girls to excel academically, thrive emotionally and develop socially.

At St Gregory’s Catholic College, education is about developing the whole person. Our vision is simple: to provide an education in which every student can flourish – academically, personally and spiritually. We offer a broad, ambitious and inspiring curriculum designed to develop knowledge, curiosity and a love of learning. Students are encouraged to think critically, explore their interests and challenge themselves, with high expectations and strong support throughout their journey - from Year 7 to Sixth Form. Alongside the classroom, an extensive programme of enrichment, sport, the arts, leadership and service give students opportunities to discover talents, develop confidence and pursue their passions. Knowing and valuing each student is fundamental to their success. Our pastoral care is built around strong relationships, belonging and the belief that every young person is unique and has the capacity to grow. Students develop resilience, confidence and character, while being encouraged to take responsibility and contribute positively to their community. Our Catholic identity shapes the life of the school. Rooted in the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching, we encourage students to reflect on what it means to live with purpose, compassion and a commitment to others. Our motto, In Christ we flourish, reflects our belief that education is about developing not only what students can achieve, but who they can become. Together, these three dimensions create an education that looks beyond examination results alone. We want our students to leave St Gregory’s with the knowledge, confidence, character and sense of purpose to navigate an ever-changing world and make a positive contribution to the lives of others. We warmly welcome families of all faiths or none into our inclusive community. At St Gregory’s, we give young people the opportunity to discover who they are, what they can achieve and how they can make a difference.

Years 5-11 Open Morning: Saturday 26th September, 10am to 12pm

Open Mornings: Tuesday 29th & Wednesday 30th September, 9am to 11am

P20

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Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

Community

Later Living Expert

Rare floodplain habitat returning to 90-acre site Becky Feather Reporter

A MAJOR nature restoration project will see the return of close to 90 acres of rare floodplain habitat to a site near Bath. Under a 30-year scheme from a biodiversity net gain (BNG) provider, the site at Holm Mead at Bitton will be restored from farmland to its historic wildliferich meadow and wetland character, benefiting rare species including lesser horseshoe bats, otters, kingfishers and grass snakes. Beavers are already known to be present on the site, which is bounded by the River Avon and River Boyd and sits within the Bristol, Avon Valleys and Ridges National Character Area. Naturum, formerly Nature Capital Partners, specialises in the acquisition, ownership and long-term management of habitat banks. Under the Environment Act 2021, developers must achieve a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity post-development which can include off-site mitigation. Work is set to begin within weeks following the special biodiversity

The site at Holm Mead at Bitton | Photo © Naturum

registration of the Holm Mead site with Natural England in July. The site sits alongside seven designated wildlife sites, including two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). It has been farmed for fodder grasses in recent decades but was historically a habitat-rich water meadow. Naturum’s project will return the original floodplain character to the local landscape, including the area’s distinctive lowland meadow and floodplain wetland mosaic. Interactive information boards will be installed along the site’s footpaths to encourage residents to engage with the wildlife, and

record species sightings via a QR code. Local schools will be offered guided educational visits led by the company’s ecologist team. The site falls within South Gloucestershire but is close to the Bath & North East Somerset border. The nature recovery plan comes at a key moment for local wildlife restoration as B&NES Council signs the Avon Bioregion Charter for Rights. Anthony Binnie, co-founder of Naturum, said: “Floodplain meadows like this were once a defining feature of the Avon Valley, and most have disappeared over the last century. “Restoring it will bring back local

wildlife, and give native British species like lesser horseshoe bats, otters and grass snakes a home that has been missing from this stretch of the river for a long time. “We want this to be something local people can be proud of, and something they can watch develop for themselves over the coming years.” Councillor Sarah Warren, cabinet member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, said: “Projects like this show how partnership working can help nature recover at scale. “We are pleased to be working closely with Naturum, local farmers and the community to restore this important floodplain habitat and improve the health of the River Avon. “This is a long-term commitment that will support wildlife, strengthen the resilience of our natural environment and create more opportunities for residents to experience and connect with nature. We look forward to seeing the site and its wildlife thrive in the years ahead.” Naturum says B&NES Council has been the primary point of local authority contact on this project to date, but it is looking to engage with South Gloucestershire Council as the project progresses.

Best Start Family Hub opens its doors in Twerton A NEW family support hub bringing a range of services together in one place has opened on Dominion Road in Twerton. The Best Start Family Hub will provide families with access to health services, education providers, community organisations and other support in a single welcoming space. It has been developed with input from families, schools, voluntary groups and other local partners and is designed to support people from pregnancy through to adulthood. The Twerton site, which opened on Thursday 10th September, is the first Best Start Family Hub to open in Bath and North East Somerset, with further hubs planned across the area. The initiative forms part of the national Best Start in Life programme, which aims to make it easier for children and families to receive help as early as possible. Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Experiences during pregnancy and the early years play an important role in shaping a child’s future. “However, families can sometimes face challenges

Children from Twerton Infant School wearing Best Start in Life T-shirts | Photo © B&NES Council

such as financial pressures, relationship difficulties, mental health concerns or housing issues, which can make it harder to access support when it is needed. “Our first Best Start Family Hub in Twerton is a friendly and welcoming place where any family can get information, advice and support. “Plans are under way to expand our current children’s centres in Bath and North East Somerset to

become Best Start Family hubs over the coming months, helping families access local services in their communities.” Kate Morton, chief executive of Citizens Advice B&NES, said: “As a local charity and partner organisation working across Bath and North East Somerset, we are delighted to be involved in this important service. Having advice and support available within local communities will make a real difference to families, and

we look forward to welcoming people to the hub.” Across Bath and North East Somerset, the Best Start in Life programme will also focus on improving access to high-quality early education and childcare, particularly for children facing disadvantage or with additional needs. It will also seek to strengthen early years services, with additional support available as early as possible for families who need it.

Rooted in Bath, Ready for the Future

Supporting residents 30 years ago

For generations, (since 1947) Bath Centre for Voluntary Service Homes has been part of the Bath community, providing a welcoming home for older people while remaining true to its charitable values. Over the years, much has changed in social care, but what makes Greystones special has remained remarkably consistent: a warm, homely environment and a dedicated team who genuinely care. Many of our staff live locally, and some have been with us for decades. In fact, a number of team members first joined through the Youth Training Scheme (YTS) and built their careers with us. This loyalty and continuity are something we are incredibly proud of and help create the sense of community that residents and families value so highly. We are excited to be entering a new chapter with the launch of our new GreystonesCare branding and logo. While our look is evolving, our values remain exactly the same. The new identity reflects our ambition to build on our heritage, strengthen our links with the local community and ensure Greystones continues to thrive for future generations. As part of this, we are increasing our community engagement and are delighted to be attending the 3SG Volunteer Fair at Bath Abbey in October. The event will provide an opportunity to meet local people, share the story of Greystones and highlight the many ways volunteers can support residents and enrich life within the home. We are also always interested in hearing from people who may wish to join our team. Whether someone is starting their career in care or bringing years of experience, we believe that caring, compassionate people are at the heart of everything we do. As we look to the future, our aim is simple: to preserve the warmth, kindness and community spirit that have defined Greystones for so many years, while continuing to adapt and grow to meet the needs of older people in Bath.

01225 330534 Hayesfield Park, Bath BA2 4QE www.greystonescare.org.uk  @@greystones_residential_home

Issue 138

P21

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Application submitted to extend cemetery on the edge of Bath

Bath Beekeepers set for permanent home

Becky Feather

A PLANNING application has been lodged with Bath & North East Somerset Council to extend a cemetery on the edge of the city which is running of space. The existing cemetery at Combe Hay lies within the parish boundary to the north-east of the village, on a lane running past the local pub. The parish council has submitted an application to change the use of land to the east of Rectory Lodge and to the north and east of the adjacent existing cemetery. The parish council says that in 2019 a review identified the need to extend the burial ground and a parishioner generously gifted an adjoining parcel of land to the village for that specific purpose. Ownership has since been transferred to the parish council. In its application the parish council says: “The provision and safeguarding of a burial ground for the community it serves is among the most sensitive responsibilities a parish holds, and this application is brought in

BATH Beekeepers have submitted a planning application for a permanent home at Larkhall. A branch of Avon Beekeepers Association, Bath Beekeepers have been going since 1930, with a focus on educating and supporting both beekeepers and the public. Meetings were held at members’ apiaries until 2010, when the group began renting a site in Newton St Loe. Bath Beekeepers have been fundraising to find a permanent home for a teaching apiary and last year bought land from Larkhall Athletic Football Club. The site is at Woolley Lane, just north of the junction with Charlcombe Lane and next to the football club. It is within the Green Belt and Cotswolds National Landscape. It currently has structures on site that were historically associated with Larkhall Athletic FC – a singlestorey pre-fabricated concrete panelled garage and a separate storage structure made from

Reporter

The land was gifted to the parish council

that spirit.” It says the parish has “a clear and pressing need” for additional burial capacity. “The existing cemetery has limited remaining space; once it is full, the parish would have no alternative but to seek provision beyond its own boundary, requiring bereaved families to bury and to visit their dead outside the community to which they belonged. “The existing plot has space for only two further burials and is very nearly at capacity; the extension is expected to provide up to 46 additional plots.” Combe Hay is in a designated conservation area, although the proposed extension plot does not fall within it. The parish is also within the Cotswolds National Landscape

and Green Belt. The application says that the proposal will cause “only negligible heritage harm” which is clearly and substantially outweighed by the public benefit of continued local burials. It adds that an independent preliminary ecological assessment found the proposal will cause a low ecological impact and the parish council will install measures recommended in that report, including bird boxes, a bat box and a hedgehog box, together with native planting, and will comply with a wildlife protection and enhancement plan secured by planning condition. The planning reference is 26/02989/FUL. Any comments on the proposal should be sent to B&NES Council by 24th September.

timber sleepers with a corrugated metal roof, surrounded by gravel hardstanding. The association says the site is a more accessible location than its rented premises at Newton St Loe and having a permanent home will give it security to continue for perpetuity. The proposal seeks: • A purpose-built clubhouse and educational facility. • A managed apiary area for beekeeping activities. • Vehicle and cycle parking. • Landscape enhancements and biodiversity improvements. • Retention and integration of existing site features wherever practicable. The clubhouse will be of “traditional agricultural architecture”. The site is said to be in an accessible location, enabling access by public transport, walking and cycling. The scheme includes 20 native trees of varying species to be planted across the site. The planning reference is 26/03136/FUL. Any comments on the proposals should be sent to Bath & North East Somerset Council by 17th September.

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P22

Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

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Health New glucose monitoring device available on NHS in Bath area Becky Feather Reporter

THE Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board has become one of the first in the country to offer a new AIdriven continuous glucose monitor for people living with diabetes. Roche Diagnostics’ Accu-Chek® SmartGuide system, which helps people to predict dangerous drops in blood sugar, is available on the NHS in the health region where around 5,305 people are registered with type 1 diabetes and 55,945 people are registered with type 2 and other types of diabetes. Using AI, Roche Diagnostics’ continuous glucose monitoring

(CGM) system analyses patterns to forecast levels over the next 30 minutes, two hours and throughout the night, and prompts users to take action if their glucose is expected to drop below a safe range. Hypo Awareness Week runs from Monday 14th to Sunday 20th September, aimed at highlighting the impacts of hypoglycaemia, the term used for a drop in blood sugar levels. To mark the awareness week, Roche Diagnostics has published data showing the impact that managing glucose levels has on the daily lives of people with diabetes. The survey found that in the past 12 months more than half (53%) of South West respondents surveyed have turned down a social event either ‘always’,

‘sometimes’ or ‘often’, with 60% saying they have left an event early because they were worried about their glucose levels. Peter Hampson, head of medical affairs at Roche Diagnostics UK and Ireland, which conducted the research, said: “Managing a chronic condition like diabetes is a full-time job that doesn’t pause for social calendars or music festivals. “The high level of anxiety reported around these events underscores the hidden emotional and mental burden that people with diabetes carry every day. “Our Accu-Chek SmartGuide continuous glucose monitoring system is designed to help alleviate that anxiety by predicting glucose levels and potential drops up to two hours before they happen and overnight.

New RUH test offers faster answers over post-menopausal bleeding WOMEN referred to the Royal United Hospital in Bath with bleeding after the menopause are set to receive quicker answers following the introduction of a new test. The RUH is one of the first hospitals in England to introduce WID-easy for women experiencing post-menopausal bleeding or unscheduled bleeding while taking hormone replacement therapy. The new swab test which will help speed up answers for patients | Photo © RUH The test is designed to help clinical teams establish whether Consultant gynaecologist Dr sample then sent to a laboratory a patient is at high or low risk of Laura Atherton said: “This is a for rapid analysis. womb cancer, allowing the next vital step forward for our patients. Patients identified as low risk can stage of their care to be decided We know that being referred choose to be monitored rather more quickly. for cancer investigations is an than undergo immediate hospital Although bleeding after the incredibly worrying time. This investigations. menopause is not usually caused test changes that by helping us Those given a high-risk result can by cancer, it should always be quickly identify low-risk patients. be prioritised for further tests, investigated. “For most women, it means with treatment arranged quickly Womb cancer, also known as avoiding procedures they simply if cancer is diagnosed. endometrial cancer, is the most do not need. For those flagged Dr Atherton added: “This is common gynaecological cancer. as higher risk, it means we can an exciting development for The RUH currently receives arrange further tests quickly women’s health. around 250 to 300 suspected and start treatment as early as “Faster testing means many cancer referrals each month possible if cancer is found.” women could receive reassurance linked to post-menopausal WID-easy uses a swab taken from sooner, while ensuring those who JB Dental October 18/10/2024 1 bleeding and1/4.qxp_Layout unexpected 1 the vagina and 14:50 cervix inPage a similar need further investigations can bleeding while on HRT. way to a smear test, with the be prioritised without delay.”

Testing usually relies on finger pricks

“This gives people far greater confidence to get on with their lives and not miss out on everyday activities that they otherwise might avoid.” Beth Kelly, local clinical lead diabetes specialist nurse, said CGM devices can make a real difference to everyday life. She said: “The impact of hypoglycaemia is not only physical but psychological.

Many people develop a fear of hypos, particularly if they have experienced severe episodes in the past. This anxiety can affect daily decision-making, independence, sleep, and overall wellbeing. For parents, partners, carers, and other family members, the worry about a loved one experiencing a hypo can also be significant. “CGM technology helps people understand patterns and trends in their glucose levels, enabling them to take preventative action and make more informed decisions about their diabetes management. By reducing uncertainty and providing greater reassurance, these tools can lessen the emotional burden associated with hypoglycaemia while improving safety, confidence, and quality of life.”

Hospital patients praise compassionate care PATIENTS staying at the Royal United Hospital have praised staff for the kindness, compassion and respect they received during their care. The findings come from the newly published 2025 Adult Inpatient Survey, carried out nationally by the Care Quality Commission. The survey gathered the experiences of patients who spent at least one night in hospital during November 2025. Results for the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust showed that patients felt they were treated with kindness, compassion, dignity and respect, while staff also took their individual needs into account. Patients reported feeling involved in discussions and decisions about their treatment and said they were given information about their condition and care. In each of these areas, the RUH performed better than most NHS trusts across the country. Jason Lugg, chief nursing officer, said: “These are really positive results and closely reflect our values of ensuring the people

Photo © RUH

we care for are treated with compassion, respect and dignity at all times. “These results demonstrate the commitment and dedication of our staff to providing our patients with the very best experience while they’re with us. “We know there is still work to do though, and we are continuously looking at ways to further improve the experience of our patients and where we can do better.” The survey also highlighted areas where patients felt improvements could be made. These included providing more information about virtual wards and making hospital food available outside scheduled mealtimes. Patients, families and carers are encouraged to continue providing feedback about their experiences at the RUH.

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Education

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Partnership welcomes inspectors’ findings on SEND services Becky Feather Reporter

A REPORT published following an inspection of services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Bath & North East Somerset says improvements are needed but recognises the good work that’s already taking place. Bath and North East Somerset Local Area SEND Partnership brings together B&NES Council and the NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) cluster for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset. The report was published last week, following a joint inspection in June by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). It praises the progress being made across education, health and care services in B&NES and says leaders understand the challenges facing children and young people with SEND, have identified the right priorities, and are working together to drive

improvement. Inspectors praise effective multi-agency working, stronger engagement with parents and carers through the Parent Carer Forum, a broad and wellestablished early help offer, and improving transitions for young people moving into adult services. They also recognise successful work to increase specialist provision in schools, effective alternative provision arrangements, strong therapy services and prompt support for many children and young people through physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language services. But the report also says that experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND are inconsistent and the partnership must continue to work jointly to drive improvement. The inspectors recognise many developments are under way but say these aren’t yet delivering consistently positive experiences for all children, young people

and families. Children and young people with SEND are said to generally achieve well, with many sustaining placements in education, employment and training after leaving school. The report also notes effective practices in social care, including the work of the Connecting Families and disabled children’s teams, and recognises improvements in supporting children with complex medical needs through initiatives such as the Therapy Boost Programme. The areas where faster progress is required include reducing waiting times for some specialist health services, improving the consistency and quality of Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans, strengthening support available through mainstream schools, improving attendance and reducing suspensions among children with SEND, increasing the availability of short breaks for families, and improving data-sharing and analysis across services. Ofsted and the CQC have asked

Top marks for Bath nursery following Ofsted inspection AN OFSTED inspector has delivered a glowing report on a Bath nursery. Atelier Nursery at Dover Place was visited over the summer, and the inspector’s findings were published at the end of August. The nursery was last inspected by Ofsted four years ago when it was rated as outstanding. Ofsted’s new report card system has a grading scale with exceptional at the top, followed by strong standard, expected standard, needs attention, and urgent improvement. Atelier is rated as exceptional for leadership and governance; children’s welfare and wellbeing; and behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines. It is said to be of a strong standard for achievement; curriculum and teaching; and inclusion. The inspector, who describes leaders at the nursery as “inspirational” in her report, notes: “Over many years, leaders demonstrate extremely high-quality care and education has been maintained at the nursery for all children that attend. “This includes children with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who face barriers to their learning. “Leaders have an astute awareness of the strengths of the nursery and are experts in a range of pedagogy that influences their work.” Staff members have opportunities annually to participate in study abroad programmes to learn about different early

years pedagogy. The inspector says: “These opportunities give staff a passion for their work. They develop a deep awareness of how to teach children and how children learn best. “This has enhanced staff expertise enormously and ensures that practice across the nursery remains of an excellent quality for every child who attends.” Children’s needs are said to be at the centre of every decision made at the nursery, and parents remark on the excellent progress their children make. In all learning environments, older children, babies and toddlers mix together safely and effectively: “Children have an exceptional understanding of the expectations. “Staff rarely need to remind children of these as they are so well embedded across the nursery and children naturally behave excellently.” Teaching across the staff team is described as “consistently strong”, and there are many staff with exemplary teaching practice who act as excellent role models to their less-experienced peers. The report says there is a significant focus on children’s health and wellbeing and excellent continuity of care for children from home to the nursery. “Children develop the skills they need for their future learning and are extremely well prepared for starting school.” The safeguarding standards are met at the nursery, where there are 71 places.

The Guildhall in Bath

the partnership to update and publish its strategic plan based on the recommendations set out in the report. Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for children’s services at B&NES Council, said: “We welcome the report’s findings and want to thank everyone who contributed to the inspection. Children, young people and families remain at the heart of everything we do. “The inspection recognised the growing influence of the Parent Carer Forum and the partnership’s commitment to listening to lived experience. “We will continue working closely

with families as we deliver the improvements identified in the report. “Work is continuing at pace on a number of these priorities. The partnership is updating its strategic improvement plan in response to the report’s recommendations and remains committed to working closely with children, young people, families, schools, health providers and partner organisations to deliver lasting improvements.” Rachel Hale, strategic director and CEO of B&NES Parent Carer Forum, said: “We hope this report reassures parents and carers that their voices are being heard. “Every voice matters, and the experiences and feedback shared through the Parent Carer Forum help ensure they are heard in the right places and used to shape better services.” Read the report in full at https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/ provider/44/80427

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P24

Friday 11th September - Thursday 24th September 2026

www.bathecho.co.uk

Business

Legal Expert

Bath Building Society appoints finance chief BATH Building Society has appointed Annelie Grey as its new chief finance officer as the organisation continues to develop its growth strategy. Ms Grey brings 25 years of experience to the role, having worked across finance, customer operations, accounting, auditing and regulatory reporting. She joins the Bath-based building society from Principality Building Society, where she was head of planning and performance. Her career has also included leadership experience at Nationwide Building Society, giving her a background in both financial management and the wider building society sector.

Bath Building Society said her appointment would support its focus on strengthening financial resilience as it moves into the next stage of its growth plans. Richard Ingle, chief executive officer at Bath Building Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Annelie to Bath Building Society. “She brings exceptional commercial judgement and a proven track record of leading finance teams at both Principality and Nationwide Building

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Enhanced security planned for top venue

Societies. “Her leadership will be instrumental to further strengthening our financial resilience for the next phase of our growth strategy.” Ms Grey said she was looking forward to joining a memberowned organisation and contributing to its future development. She said: “I’m excited to join the team at Bath Building Society and am looking forward to working for a member-owned organisation with a commitment to a sustainable future and improving the long-term financial resilience of its members.” Her appointment adds further

Family mediation – enabling you to see the same divorce specialist together

Annelie Grey

senior finance experience to the society, combining knowledge of the building society sector with wider commercial and operational expertise.

Timpson pod proposed for Odd Down store

Becky Feather Reporter

THERE are plans to ramp up security at The Forum in Bath – one of the South West’s largest music venues – to comply with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. Also known as Martyn’s Law, it has been developed to enforce stricter security protocols at public venues following the deaths of Martyn Hett and 21 others in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The proposals seek listed building consent for the installation of 51 CCTV cameras inside and outside The Forum in St James’s Parade. Originally an Art Deco cinema,

the Grade II* listed building is now used as a church and major entertainment venue hosting concerts, performances, and public events. Bath Christian Trust has submitted the application for the cameras, which will be positioned to give maximum coverage of public spaces, with cabling located within existing voids and service runs. The application says the scheme has been devised through careful planning to ensure maximum coverage while reducing the impact on the building. The planning reference is 26/03100/LBA and any comments on the proposals must be submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council by 24th September.

Becky Feather Reporter

A PROPOSAL to install a Timpson pod in the car park of the Sainsbury’s store at Frome Road at Odd Down have been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. Sainsbury’s says the addition of a Timpson’s concession pod at the supermarket will enable customers to access dry cleaning, key cutting, engraving, and watch repair services whilst shopping at the store. The application says four parking spaces will need to be removed to make way for the new concession

pod. There will be bollards erected to surround and protect the pod and customers, and handrails installed to the entrance. Timpson is also asking for advertising consent to put three internally-illuminated fascia signs and 10 non-illuminated wall signs on the front and sides of the new pod. The planning reference is 26/03261/FUL. The deadline for comments is 22nd September. Earlier this year B&NES Council approved plans for a Timpson pod in the Sainsbury’s car park near Green Park Station in the city centre.

Are you and your spouse separating? Would you like to sort out your separation together with the same family law professional? Perhaps you fear that engaging separate solicitors to act as intermediaries will result in increased hostility, or that it will be too expensive. If so, family mediation may be the solution. What is family mediation? Family mediation is where a specially trained mediator helps a separating couple to sort out future arrangements for their children, finances or any other issues that arise following their separation. It enables you both to meet with one family law professional to work out solutions together, reducing the risk of tension and hostility, and the costs are usually considerably less than using solicitors to negotiate on your behalf. Choosing a solicitor mediator If your family mediator is also a specialist family solicitor, they will be able to give you detailed information in a neutral way about the legal aspects of relationship breakdown. They can also assist you to reach financial solutions that work for you both and that can be converted into a binding court order if required. Benefits for children Mediation helps separated parents build cooperative parenting relationships for the well-being of their children; your children will watch how you manage the situation and, if they see that you are making decisions about them together, they will cope better. Mediation will help you focus on the needs of your children and learn about each other’s parenting experiences, which will allow a greater empathy and understanding to develop between you. Will I still need my own solicitor? Family mediation is an alternative to a traditional solicitor-led approach to resolving issues arising on separation. Once you have settled on proposals in mediation, your mediator will recommend that you consult a solicitor for advice if you want to apply for a consent order to make your proposals legally binding. If you are in need of Family Mediation, please get in touch with Sarah Jackson, Head of Family in Bath by calling 01225 562581 or visit www.battens.co.uk

01225 562581 www.battens.co.uk hello@battens.co.uk 7 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2PH

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Issue 138

P25

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Politics

Planning Round-up En-suite rooms planned above city centre pub

Councillors refuse scheme for ‘overbearing’ flats John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

COUNCILLORS in Bath who want to block the building of “overbearing” blocks of flats could be overruled by the government due to controversial new rules. Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee narrowly voted to turn down developers’ plans to build 272 “co-living” flats next to the River Avon. The committee heard that the three to four-storey blocks were far too tall and would be “overbearing”. But their decision will only stand if Angela Rayner agrees. New government rules that councils cannot refuse planning permission for developments of over 150 homes without the agreement of the Secretary of State. Chair of the planning committee Councillor Paul Crossley (Liberal

Democrat, Southdown) called the rule “outrageous”. The plan would have seen a complex of four buildings built on the Upper Bristol Road on the riverside by Windsor Bridge, an area which has sat mostly empty for 20 years. “Co-living” means that the flats themselves were not intended to be a self-contained home, but the building would have contained extensive shared facilities. The rooms would have only had kitchenettes, but the building would have included shared kitchens, dining rooms, and lounge spaces, as well as a gym, co-working spaces, and even a cinema/events space. The planning application called it “a hybrid space where you can enjoy a healthier, happier lifestyle”. Addressing the planning committee on 2nd September on behalf of local objectors, nearby neighbour Paula Riseborough said: “The city is in dire need of more affordable permanent

homes for local families, which this plan does not serve. “The site would be better used for low-level high-density housing, incorporating green spaces, which would mature into proper communities.” She warned that the planned buildings would be “overbearing” but, speaking for the applicant, Chris Beaver insisted the scheme was “the culmination of four years of design work”. Planning committee member Councillor Toby Simon (Bathwick, Liberal Democrat) said the brownfield site would not work for family homes with green space because of its

contaminated history. He said: “My view is that this makes good use of a difficult site and I’d like to see it go forward.” But Councillor Fiona Gourley (Bathavon South, Liberal Democrat) said she was opposed. She said: “It is too big; the rooms are too small. Councillor Eleanor Jackson (Westfield, Labour) added: “I just feel that for a World Heritage Site, for the approach into Bath along the river, this just doesn’t cut it in design terms.” The planning committee voted 5-4 to reject the scheme. The Secretary of State will now have 21 days to decide whether to callin the decision to be reviewed. Councillors were reminded at the start of the meeting that the new government rules had come into effect. A separate scheme to build 200 houses in the Green Belt at Charlton Road on the edge of Keynsham was approved by councillors, as they warned it would be difficult to refuse under the new rules.

Residents being urged to check voter details HOUSEHOLDS across Bath and North East Somerset are being asked to check their voter information as part of the council’s annual update of the electoral register. B&NES Council is contacting residents directly by either email or post, asking them to make sure the details held for their household are correct. The annual canvass is carried out each year to ensure the electoral register remains accurate and up to date, helping make sure everyone who is eligible to vote is able to take part in future elections. The latest checks come ahead of elections in Bath and North East

Elections are planned for next May

Somerset in May 2027, meaning residents are being encouraged to respond when contacted and make any necessary changes to their information.

Emails will be sent by the Electoral Registration Officer. Anyone who is unsure whether a message they receive is genuine can check through the council’s annual canvass webpage or contact its electoral services team directly. Sophie Broadfield, Electoral Registration Officer for Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Please look out for an email or letter from the council and follow the instructions carefully. “The annual canvass is an important way of making sure the electoral register is accurate and that everyone who is eligible to vote is able to do so. “It only takes a few minutes to

check your household details, but it makes a real difference. “Making sure your information is up to date means you won’t lose your chance to have your say in future elections including our next council elections in May next year.” The council said checking household information should only take a few minutes, but is an important part of keeping the electoral register correct before future polls. Residents who have questions about the annual canvass or their voter details can contact the electoral services team on 01225 477333 or by emailing elections@ bathnes.gov.uk.

There are plans to turn the vacant floors above The Welly pub in the city centre into 11 en-suite guest bedrooms. The application for planning permission and listed building consent has been lodged with B&NES Council by Somer Valley Farms which opened The Welly after taking over the lease from Belushi’s sports bar. The upper floors of the Grade II listed building on the corner of Green Street and Broad Street were most recently used as a St Christopher’s Inn hostel. Layout alterations will provide bedrooms on the first, second and third floor levels. Secondary glazing is proposed upstairs along with the replacement of modern ground-floor windows. The proposed guest accommodation will be operated and managed day to day by The Welly and the works are described as a “significant investment”. The planning reference is 26/03266/FUL. The deadline for comments is 8th October.

No objection to tree felling at Bath school Bath & North East Somerset Council has raised no objection to a proposal to chop down trees which are said to be causing subsidence damage at a city secondary school. Monitoring of cracks has been taking place at Orchard Lodge at St Mark’s CofE School in Fairfield Park. The detached building is used as a resource base. Four trees - three poplars and a cherry - are considered to be causing or contributing to movement and damage. None of the trees are covered by Tree Preservation Orders, but the poplars are in a conservation area, so the council needed to be notified about the proposed works.

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COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council

N September, the council will launch a further consultation on the Draft Local Plan for B&NES (2025-2043). This crucial document will help designate land across our district for housing, employment, infrastructure and other key uses. Inevitably, much of the conversation will focus on the sky-high housing numbers the government has imposed on our local area. Last year, the target was arbitrarily doubled to more than 1,500 houses per year or over 27,000 in the term of the Local Plan. This represents an incredible

challenge and means many less sustainable sites in towns and rural areas will have to be considered. The government has also changed the national planning rules to favour development, including shredding Green Belt protections and undermining the traditional buffers around villages. In Bath and North East Somerset we know how desperately housing is needed – especially quality, sustainable and truly affordable homes and social housing. However, in Bath, where the housing crisis is most severe,

there is very little developable land available, and we are not allowed to propose any outward growth due to the World Heritage Site designation. Nevertheless, around 5,800 new homes are planned in Bath over this period; this includes the housing the council is directly delivering on sites it controls. To further address the housing crisis, we are proposing a new Development Management policy on HMOs in Bath. If adopted, this would see a ban on the conversion of affordable family homes into HMOs on the basis that such houses cannot be

replaced. We feel strongly that we should stop the loss of this housing stock from the city. As I said, the consultation opens this month, and I would urge all residents who have an interest to please respond. Details are to be published on the council website and social media. On a completely different topic, I’d like to mention how pleased I was to attend the incredible Bath Pride celebration on 23rd August. This was a wonderful celebration of the inclusive, welcoming and

vibrant community we are proud to be part of here in Bath and North East Somerset. It was fantastic to see so many residents, visitors, community groups and organisations come together in a spirit of positivity, respect and celebration. Pride matters because equality, dignity and respect matter. It is a visible demonstration of our commitment to ensuring everyone feels they belong and can be themselves in our communities.

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Battling youngsters bag bonus point off experienced Sharks Richard Briggs Reporter

BATH Rugby made a battling display against the big names of Sale Sharks but suffered the expected defeat in their PREM Rugby Cup Round 1 clash at the CorpAcq Stadium on Sunday 6th September. Despite the Sharks naming, a week before the game, what was effectively a first-choice side for the Pool A encounter, the Blue, Black & White stuck to their guns and selected a matchday 23 that was very much a development squad. Although the visitors conceded an early try, they responded with two touchdowns to find themselves 14-5 up a quarter of the way through. However, the Greater Manchester-based Sharks went over for two tries – one converted – for a 17-14 advantage at the turnaround. Sale’s experience told in the second period and they surged 50-14 in front.

But two Bath tries in the final few minutes – the second of those scores coming at the death – ensured the Somerset outfit took a bonus point from a 50-28 reverse. Sale opened the scoring in the third minute, Tom Roebuck touching down in the right corner after a kick through by Joe Carpenter. Alex Lozowski’s conversion attempt was off target. But the Blue, Black & White hit back in the 12th minute, Kepueli Tuipulotu scoring from a lineout drive on the right. Ciaran Donoghue added the extras to send Bath 7-5 ahead. And Mark Lilley’s charges stunned Sale and their fans by scoring again in the 23rd minute. After good work by Enoch OpokuGyamfi and Jack Bennett, Charlie Griffin rolled over the line just to the right of the posts, Donoghue majoring. The Sharks reduced the arrears in the 27th minute, Roebuck offloading for Carpenter to run in from six metres for a try in the left corner. Again Lozowski failed from the tee.

Bath suffered a big blow when Opoku-Gyamfi went off injured in the 32nd minute. But they were poised to score another try five minutes later. Scott Kirk intercepted 30 metres from the Blue, Black & White’s goal-line and charged upfield. He offloaded to Ewan Richards 22 metres out, but the captain was dragged down seven metres short and possession was lost. Sale responded with a try almost immediately. A quick tap penalty led to Arron Reed feeding Carpenter 39 metres out – and the England full-back evaded Jack Woods to go over just to the right of the posts. Lozowski kicked the two points. The Sharks grabbed five tries after the break. In the 43rd minute, Xavier Roe released Carpenter to hare in from 22 metres for his hat-trick score under the posts, Lozowski converting. And Tye Raymont went over beneath the sticks from short range in the 50th minute, Lozowski successful from the tee to extend Sale’s buffer to 31-14.

Bath Rugby returned to the city with a well-earned bonus point from their PREM Rugby Cup tie away to a powerful Sale Sharks side | Photo © Richard Briggs

The scoreboard soon read 38-14. Carpenter made a superb run on the right in the 54th minute and passed to Roe 10 metres out, the New Zealander touching down to the right of the posts. Lozowski converted. Another Sale try arrived in the 57th minute, hooker Nathan Jibulu grounding the ball in the right corner following a pass from Sam Dugdale 10 metres out. Lozowski booted the extra points. And the Sharks reached their half-century in the 66th minute, replacement hooker Alfie Longstaff touching down from a rolling maul on the left. Ollie

Davies was unable to land the conversion. However, Bath responded brilliantly. In the 70th minute, Jasper Spandler scored from a rolling maul on the left. Donoghue nailed the conversion. Longstaff was yellow-carded in the 79th minute for bringing down a maul. And right at the end, the guests ensured they took something from the game as Tom Carr-Smith crossed under the posts from close range, Donoghue adding the extras with the final act of the match.

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Larks fall at Willand, Devs pegged back Richard Briggs Reporter

LARKHALL Athletic were unable to make it two successive victories in Pitching In Southern League Division One South when they visited Mid Devon outfit Willand Rovers on Saturday 5th September. After losing their first two league games of the season, the Larks saw off Westbury United at the Camella Stadium on Monday 31st August to open their points account. However, they came down to earth with a bump when they travelled to the Stan Robinson Stadium, Silver Street, to take on Willand, the home side cruising to a 4-1 success. Charlie Bateson gave Rovers – who are based near Cullompton – the lead when he lobbed Larkhall keeper Liam Armstrong in the 10th minute. And Willand netted again in the 26th minute, Zack Williams firing into the bottomright corner of the net. However, Athletic reduced the deficit when substitute Josh Morgan rifled home in the 62nd minute. A penalty from Bailey Kempster in the 80th minute restored Rovers’ two-goal advantage. And the lead was extended deep in injury-time when substitute Ben Maciver-Redwood struck. The attendance was 219. Athletic will make a swift return

to Mid Devon as they play at Tiverton Town on Saturday 12th September in the FA Trophy second qualifying round (3pm). Hungerford Town will come to the Camella Stadium on Wednesday 16th September for a league match (7.45pm). The Larks’ Development side were held to a 3-3 draw by Bishops Cannings at Green Lane Playing Fields in a dramatic Corsham Print Wiltshire Senior League Premier Division game on 5th September. The travellers’ goal hero in Devizes was Ben Wickens, who bagged a hat-trick. A depleted Larkhall side led 3-2 at the break and kept that advantage going into injury-time, when Liam Moffat scored Bishops Cannings’ last-gasp equaliser. Moffat and Tom Sharples were on target for the hosts in the first half. The unbeaten Devs will resume league action on Saturday 19th September, when they receive Shrewton United. The new Larkhall A team opened their campaign in The Waterhouse Financial Advisers Mid Somerset League Division Two by beating Farrington Gurney 1-0 at the Camella Stadium on 5th September. The first-half decider came from Harry Banks. Larkhall A’s next game will be a league clash with visiting Frome Town United Development on 12th September.

Odd Down thrashed in county cup but win in league against Wincanton Richard Briggs Reporter

ODD Down were shown the gap that exists between the better sides in Jewson Western League Division One and its Premier Division when they faced Clevedon Town at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground in the first round of the Francis Hillier Premier Cup. The Down have made a great start to their Step 6 campaign and hold second spot in Western League Division One. But Clevedon are among the clubs targeting the Premier Division title and a move up to Step 4 – and it showed as they romped to a 7-1 win over Odd Down on Tuesday 8th September in the competition known previously as the Somerset Premier Cup. Nick Fowler netted the home team’s consolation, this coming in the 80th minute following an assist by Alfie Andrews. Both sides fielded a Charlie Saunders – and Town’s came off the bench to feature among his side’s scorers. The Seasiders, who led 2-0 at half-time, also found the target through substitutes Barney Lloyd-Jones (2) and Tom Chaplin, captain Glen Hayer, Ben Griffith and former Weston-super-Mare and Yate Town star Olly Mehew, the son of ex-Bristol Rovers player and manager David Mehew. Odd Down: Oscar Morris, James Book, Jaiden Savery, Joe Paradise (Josh Howlett, 50), David Hare,

Jack Kelsey, Toby Cole (Will Gould, 60), Joe Ellis (Tobey Snelling, 75), Nick Fowler, Charlie Saunders (Jake Slocombe, 46), Alfie Andrews. Unused sub: Ryan Gay. The Down won for the sixth time in seven Western League Division One games when they hosted Wincanton Town on Saturday 5th September. A 25th-minute close-range goal from Saunders, after good work by Andrews, ensured a 1-0 home victory in front of a crowd of 50 at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground. A spokesman for the winners said: “A strong 90-minute performance from the lads saw them secure another three points at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground with a narrow 1–0 victory over Wincanton Town. “The only goal of the game came courtesy of a brilliant backheel from midfielder Charlie Saunders. “At the other end, goalkeeper Alfie Kelsey made several important saves to secure another clean sheet.” Lenny Gale was the Down’s man of the match, having started the afternoon on the bench. Wincanton have returned to the Western League this season after two campaigns in the Step 5 Velocity Wessex League Premier Division. The South Somerset outfit have won only two of their six matches at the lower level. Of the game in Bath, a spokesman for the Wasps wrote on X: “We weren’t clinical enough but the

hosts didn’t offer anything in the second half and just sat on their lead.” Odd Down’s Josh Howlett responded: “Harsh judgement of the second half. “Our winger took a free-kick that went inches wide of the post and our man of the match took a shot that didn’t clear the netting behind the goal.” Odd Down: Alfie Kelsey, Jaiden Savery, Lewis Bahadur, Joe Paradise, Josh Howlett, Jack Kelsey, Dylan Evans (Lenny Gale, 12), Joe Ellis, Freddie Williams (Tobey Snelling, 80), Charlie Saunders, Alfie Andrews. Unused subs: Will Gould, David Hare, James Book. The Down will meet Clevedon again on Friday 11th September when the sides lock horns at the North Somerset Community Stadium in the FA Vase second qualifying round (7.30pm). And Tom Smith’s side will return to the Lew Hill Memorial Ground on Tuesday 15th September when they take on Shirehampton in the league (7.45pm).

T was great to have racing back at Bath on Wednesday 2nd September, and the meeting was a real success despite the weather being a little damp at times. It seems quite strange to say that we would have preferred the rain to stay away on the day, given how desperate we have been for it throughout the summer! But after the recent rainfall and with the track recovering well, we were certainly happy to see the meeting go ahead in good conditions. Everyone was pleased to be back racing at Lansdown, and it was great to see so many runners to support our return to racing and see the hard work of the grounds team rewarded. We started the day on good, good to firm in places, and following 1.6mm of rainfall during racing, we changed the going to good all

over after the sixth race. We now head into one of the biggest weekends in our calendar, with our two-day fixture taking place this weekend, Saturday 12th September and Sunday 13th September. Saturday has an Absolute Country theme, with a Luke Combs tribute act performing after racing, so there should be a fantastic atmosphere around the racecourse. Sunday will have more of a family focus, with racegoers welcome to bring along a picnic and enjoy a relaxed day out here at Lansdown. The two big races on Sunday will, of course, be our Sprint Series Final and Stayers Series Final, both of which are worth £40,000. Looking at the entries, the contests are shaping up to be fiercely competitive, and it will be great to see some of the horses

that have performed well in the qualifying races throughout the season come together for these valuable finals. Away from racing, last week myself and members of the grounds team were fortunate enough to make a special visit to Adrian Wintle’s yard at Rodley in Gloucestershire to see some of the horses who regularly run here at Bath. Of course, one horse we were particularly keen to meet was Blue Hero, who has become a familiar name through these columns after his remarkable 11th win at Bath, which he secured earlier this season. It was a fantastic opportunity for the team to meet him up close, rather than simply seeing him from the trackside on a raceday. We were also able to get a great team photograph with him, which was a really nice moment

for everyone. A massive thank you to Adrian and his family for their kind hospitality and for taking the time to show us around the yard. It was a very enjoyable visit and something the team really appreciated. This weekend is a big occasion for everyone at Bath, and there has been a huge amount of work going on behind the scenes to get everything ready. From the racing and grounds teams to all of the other departments involved, it takes a real team effort to deliver a twoday fixture of this scale. We will start Saturday will plenty of rail out to keep a fresh strip of ground on the inside line for Sunday, so there will be plenty of rail movement taking place following racing. All this hard work out on track

will take place as soon as racing finishes, so maybe some Luke Combs songs being played from our main stage can help spur the team on! Hopefully the weather forecast is correct and the elements will be kind to us, the racing will provide plenty of excitement and everyone who joins us will have a fantastic weekend. There is certainly plenty to look forward to, both on and off the track. We have the 2027 fixture list now published, so please do have a look to start planning your visits next season. For now, though, all our attention is on this weekend. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lansdown for what promises to be one of the highlights of our racing year.

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Upcoming Fixtures Bath Rugby

Boos as City suffer earliest FA Cup exit since 1979 Richard Briggs Reporter

BOOS echoed around the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park after Bath City bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup with a whimper on Saturday 5th September. A mass exodus by Romans fans in the crowd of 1,176 followed visitors Weymouth’s second goal as the Dorset side made their way to a 2-0 win. And home supporters who remained until the end made clear at the final whistle exactly what they thought of their team’s efforts against lower-league opposition in the first qualifying round. City have now lost three games in a row – two in Pitching In Southern League Premier South and now the cup tie. Since scoring in the first half of their league match against Uxbridge on Saturday 29th August, Scott Bartlett’s team have conceded five unanswered goals. Manager Bartlett wrote in his programme notes for the clash with the Terras that his side will do well this season. Unfortunately for Bartlett, Bath did little to impress against Weymouth, who were deserved victors. The home team had several good chances in the opening period but could not convert them into goals. However, Bath were dire in the second half and had only one serious attempt on goal, despite playing down the slope. Across the game, Weymouth – who have made a superb start to their Southern League Division One South campaign following three relegations in four years

Joe Raynes makes a pass on his 300th appearance for Bath City. Unfortunately for Raynes, his special occasion ended in a win for Weymouth | Photo © Simon Howe

– showed a lot more desire than their hosts and, crucially, were fitter and faster. The Romans’ defeat means they have lost to lower-grade opponents two years running in the FA Cup, having been beaten 2-1 by Southern League Premier South outfit Wimborne Town in the second qualifying round last year when they were members of National League South. More significantly, the loss to Weymouth condemned Bath to their earliest exit from the FA Cup since they went down 2-1 at Welsh side Barry Town in the 1979-80 first qualifying round. The 5th September result turned City captain Joe Raynes’ 300th appearance for the club into a highly forgettable experience. But the scoreline was one to savour for Weymouth number 10 Mitch Beardmore, the former Bath man who joined the Terras in the summer. Beardmore played the first 56 minutes and came very close to netting an early goal. Straight into the Bath starting XI was new signing Callum Wood. The 23-year-old defender and former City loanee has joined from Weston-super-Mare, where

he played under Bartlett. But Wood almost had a nightmare start. In the fifth minute, he was dispossessed by Tor Swann. Set to score, Swann shot – but his effort was blocked by City’s Ollie Tomlinson. Bath went close three minutes later. Raynes pushed the ball across the face of the Weymouth goal but Jordan Tillson was unable to connect. Tomlinson came to the Romans’ rescue again in the 12th minute, heading off the line an effort from Beardmore following a melee in the box. Soon the guests’ Harry Hutchinson set up Swann, whose eight-yard header went over. But Weymouth keeper Gerard Benfield produced two saves in quick succession to prevent Bath scoring in the 15th minute. Benfield parried a long-ranger from Wood but City kept possession and the gloveman made a flying save at the expense of a corner to thwart an Enzio Boldewijn drive. An 18th-minute scramble in the Terras’ box came to nothing for Bath. But Benfield impressed again 10 minutes later, making another flying save. This time he parried a 25-yard shot from

Raynes. Scott Wilson drilled wide from 15 yards in the 39th minute and Raynes fired at Benfield from just outside the box as City gave their supporters hope for the second period. However, that hope dissipated rapidly after the break. Bath’s strikers were anonymous and the inevitable happened when Weymouth took a 59th-minute lead from a counter attack. Swann outpaced Boldewijn on the right and crossed for substitute Brooklyn Genesini to head past Bath custodian Harvey WilesRichards, who had a loan spell with the Terras in 2024 when he was on the books of Bristol City. Wiles-Richards held a 16-yarder from Swann in the 78th minute. But Bath almost equalised two minutes later. A Wood cross was half-cleared to Pedro Elawar, whose drive was pushed behind by Benfield. From the resulting corner, an Alex Fisher shot was blocked on the line. The Terras nearly struck again in the 87th minute. Swann surged past Harrison Minturn and crossed but Wiles-Richards saved at the feet of Toby Holmes. But Weymouth did bag a second goal – in the seventh minute of injury-time. With the entire Bath team, including Wiles-Richards, pushed up for a home corner, the guests broke. Former Tiverton Town and Exmouth Town frontman Swann dashed upfield unopposed and had the simple task of slotting the ball into the empty net, confirming the Romans’ humiliation. The Romans will return to Southern League Premier South action on Saturday 12th September, when they take on neighbours Chippenham Town.

Friday 11th September – 7.30pm

Bath Rugby v Bedford Blues (Away) Pre-Season Series

Friday 18th September – 7.30pm

Bath Rugby v Glasgow Warriors (Away) Pre-Season Series

Bath City FC Saturday 12th September – 3pm Bath City v Chippenham Town (Home) League Tuesday 15th September – 7.45pm Bath City v Wincanton Town (Home) SPC1 Tuesday 22nd September – 7.45pm Bath City v Taunton Town (Away) League

Get Involved Whether you'd like us to include your upcoming fixtures within our pages, or submit a match report for publishing, our team would love to hear from you. Please send fixtures lists for your team to sport@bathecho. co.uk and we'll add your next event to our calendar. If you have photographs that we can use (with relevant permissions), we'd also like to include them within these pages, on our website and social media. We're happy to host match reports from across Bath and the local area. Please send them to sport@bathecho.co.uk with the subject Match Report. To ensure we can include them in our next issue, please limit the length to around 400 words.

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Crossword answers - Issue 137 (28/08/2026) Across: 1 All-up, 4 Breakfast, 9 Honeycomb, 10 Bosun, 11 Ice hockey, 12 Bound, 13 Matt Damon, 15 Sten, 17 Inst, 19 Successes, 23 Rambo, 24 Observant, 26 Earth, 27 Inaudible, 28 Imitating, 29 Sexes. Down: 1 Atheism, 2 Lenient, 3 Payloads, 4 Brook, 5 Embryonic, 6 Kebabs, 7 Assault, 8 Tuned in, 14 Mussolini, 16 Degrades, 17 Israeli, 18 Samurai, 20 Soapbox, 21 Sitters, 22 Joshua, 25 Slang.

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