Could you become a foster carer this year? - North Somerset ...
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ISSUE 141 – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019
Could you
become a
foster carer
this year?
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Visit website for full terms and conditions
placesleisure.org/north-somerset
Parish Wharf Leisure Centre
01275 848 494
Strode Leisure Centre
01275 879 242
Operated by Places for People Leisure Ltd.
on behalf of North Somerset Council.
Advertising
and sponsorship
STAND OUT!
opportunities
Find out how North Somerset Council
can help your business stand out in front
of thousands of residents, tourists and
new customers. Contact Will Jenkins
01934 426 474 • 07584 607 239
will.jenkins@n-somerset.gov.uk
Image credit: Paul Blakemore www.n-somerset.gov.uk/advertising
Leader’s column
However difficult it has been across the growing confidence. There may be
country since 2010 when cuts were difficulties ahead but there are still 65million
imposed, the next 12 months hold real people living and working in this country.
I hope you had a really good Christmas hope for local prospects.
I really hope that this coming year will
and New Year’s Eve and wish you a
We have almost made all the savings asked eventually see a more settled and happier
happy, healthy and successful 2019.
of us and now look forward to a period of time than last year, even though there
I would also like to congratulate the staff building and investing in services again. is still so much uncertainty. Politics at
at North Somerset for the wonderful job all levels, fuelled by years of financial
We really do have some excellent
they have done despite fewer resources restrictions, has created an atmosphere of
businesses in North Somerset and they
and more demands. worry and anger. Our democratic society
lead the way in the economy of our
seems to be in constant turmoil.
They cannot possibly do everything that communities and also give much welcome
we all ask of them, or indeed they would advice on opportunities and needs for In a diverse and ageing population,
wish to do, but when I look across the continued growth. different economic and environmental
region it puts it in perspective and shows circumstances, differing views, values and
I have mentioned Bristol Airport (Lulsgate)
how well they have done. ambitions of new generations, change is
before but they have just won an award
inevitable and much-needed but it should
In return, I need to thank North Somerset as the best Airport in Europe, in the
be seen as positive and not threatening,
residents for the way they have coped five million to 10 million passengers
certainly not hateful.
with the effects of reduced resources. It category. That is excellent and a good
is not easy and often irritating not to get advertisement for the area, well done to Given that we have just honoured and
what seems obvious and routine, so thank everyone who works there. remembered those in the First World War,
you on behalf of the council. let’s get our problems in perspective.
Other investment in North Somerset
continues, which is a positive sign of Councillor Nigel Ashton
Leader of North Somerset Council
Contacts Contents
Call us Direct numbers for
other popular services:
For all council services, call
01934 888 888 For waste and recycling,
(Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) road issues, planning and
building control:
At the prompt, say who you 01934 888 802
want to talk to if you know (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
their name, or say what 4 News update Creative
30 hub to
For council tax and benefits:
you want to talk about in a Could
10 fostering be double in size
01934 888 144
word or two. your New Year’s Building
33 work starts
(Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
For social services: resolution? on innovative food
01275 888 801 Night
12 Assessment centre
(Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm) Centre for homeless Climate
36 change crisis
people opens Preserving
40 our
Do it online – report it, request it or pay for it at: Get
14 fit for New Year heritage
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/connect Making
20 Weston safe Shared
43 Lives scheme
Or go straight to these popular web pages by adding these and enjoyable at night needs new carers
shortcuts: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/myaccount /planning
/schooladmissions /wastecollections /termdates Walk
24 around Contact
47 details
Portishead
North Somerset Council does not endorse or recommend any commercial products or services advertising in Life magazine.
This publication is available in large print, Braille or audio formats on request. Help is
also available for people who require council information in languages other than English.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 3
News
Portishead hall’s future
is secured
The future of a popular community hall in
Portishead has been secured.
North Somerset Council has transferred the lease for
Avon Way Hall to Vintage Church, which will continue
to operate it as a community facility.
Avon Way Hall is on the first floor of a building above
It is well used by many groups, including dance, baby retail units in Avon Way. It has off-street parking and
groups, exercise classes and martial arts. disabled access.
Chris James, the leader of the Vintage Church, said: Vintage Church was chosen to take over the building
“We are delighted to have taken over the running following a public consultation and formal expressions
of Avon Way Hall and our desire is that it remains a of interest from local organisations.
community space for Portishead.
Community groups or individuals wanting
“We are working hard on retaining all of our to book the hall can email
existing bookings and look forward to new users halls@vintagechurch.co.uk or call
being welcomed to use the hall.” Aaron Rath on 07413 456 464
ADVE RTIS E ME N T
Respite &
Long Term
Care Options
Sycamore Lodge
Nursing Home
Lodge Lane, Nailsea,
North Somerset
BS48 1LX
NOW OPEN
Home Manager:
Caroline Carter We offer a complete pathway of dementia
Call: care, and now also have a new 18 bedded
01275 858 000 general nursing service on site. All with a
Email: dedicated caring staff team, creating a homely
SycamoreLodge.Manager@Shaw.co.uk
atmosphere for everyone.
shawhealthcare
@shawhealthcare • Nursing Dementia Care • General Nursing Care
www.shaw.co.uk • Day Care • Residential Dementia Care
4 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/February
For the latest updates on North Somerset’s news visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/news
Planning for North Somerset’s future transport
A series of major consultations shape how transport schemes are It sets out where to focus
on plans for housing, prioritised in the coming years. resources and what infrastructure
improvements are needed to meet
employment, and The JLTP addresses
ambitions.
transport growth in existing and
North Somerset over expected challenges, Options to support sustainable and
including planned greener travel are also included,
the next two decades is
housing and such as cycling, walking, bus,
now looking at how you employment rail, and electric and autonomous
want to move around growth, and looks vehicles.
the region. at improving
Suggestions include:
The draft Joint Local connections
for people and � reopening a nationally
Transport Plan (JLTP)
businesses across all significant railway line between
proposes the West of
transport types. Portishead and Bristol to
England’s transport priorities and
improve transport links in the
policies to 2036. This is the fourth plan developed by region
As well as looking for feedback North Somerset, Bristol, Bath and
� continuing to build sections of
and comments the consultation, North East Somerset, and South
the North Somerset Coastal
which is open until Sunday 17 Gloucestershire councils, and the
Towns Cycle Route to link
February, wants to know the areas latest version also includes the West
Brean, Weston, Clevedon,
where you would invest to make of England Combined Authority.
Portishead and Bristol
changes. The results will help
� improving public transport
within Weston-super-Mare
Ever wondered what your neighbourhood town centre with public realm
looked like 200 years ago? alterations, a new transport
hub and a reduction in the
dominance of traffic, to enhance
An online map system is now with Historic England, the Great
links for other road users
available for residents to Weston Heritage Action Zone and
local community groups. � improved infrastructure for
discover the changes to their areas in North Somerset
neighbourhood over the last The council is asking for local earmarked as possible sites for
few hundred years. history enthusiasts to help build a future development, such as a
bigger online picture. If you have link to bypass Banwell
Know Your Place is a free historical pictures, or stories of different
online map system that allows users � an on-going commitment to
areas in North Somerset, visit the
to compare periods of history. highway maintenance, with
website to load up your gems and
North Somerset already in the
North Somerset Council has help develop a fuller picture of the
top ten per cent of all local
digitised and transcribed hundreds area’s past.
authorities in the country for
of maps and documents, working A roads and in the top five
authorities for unclassified
Visit www.kypwest.org.uk and click on the
roads (2017 data).
North Somerset link
Consultation on the draft Joint Local Transport Plan runs until Sunday 17 February.
For more information and to comment visit www.travelwest.info/projects/joint-local-transport-plan
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 5
News
New mobile library launches in Long Ashton
A twice-weekly mobile library is driving into Long
Ashton this month.
The mobile library will visit the car park at Long
Ashton Community Centre in Keedwell Hill every
Tuesday afternoon from 2.30-4.30pm and every
Friday morning from 9.30-11.30am, from Tuesday
8 January.
Pop up events, such as children’s story times and
rhyme times, will then start in the spring at venues However, library members can borrow and return
around the village. items to any library in the LibrariesWest area.
The mobile library is being introduced following the Reservations ordered online or on-board the mobile
closure of the current library building in Lovelinch library can be collected for free from any North
Gardens. Somerset library.
North Somerset Council has closed the library as part Housebound residents in Long Ashton who
of £260,000 savings to the library service over the cannot use the mobile library or travel
next two years. to another one can sign up for the home
library service. Call 01934 426 657
ADVE RTIS E ME N T
The Russets
Care Home
“It’s a privilege to work with the older
generation. They give me back more
than I could ever give them.”
Sally O’Doherty, Activities Coordinator
Getting to know you
At The Russets you’ll find there’s something
going on here 365 days a year. From family
events, group activities and even visits from
the local primary school. And whatever inspires
your loved one, expert staff like Sally make
sure they’re living life to the full.
Call to book a tour or simply find out more.
01934 825 764
carehomes@stmonicatrust.org.uk
The Russets, specialist dementia care home
Registered Charity 202151
in Sandford, North Somerset.
www.stmonicatrust.org.uk
6 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/February
For the latest updates on North Somerset’s news visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/news
Don’t miss the primary school deadline
If your child is due to start Parents of any child now in their last
year of infant school who are due to
reception year in September transfer to a junior school will also
then there are just a few weeks need to apply by this date.
left to apply for primary Parents can name up to three
school places. preferences, for schools both within
and outside North Somerset.
The closing date to apply is
Tuesday 15 January for children To ensure you are offered one of
born between 1 September 2014 your preferred schools, don’t miss
and 31 August 2015. the application deadline.
Apply for a school place online at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/admissions by Tuesday 15 January
South Parade Memorial day to mark
set for a facelift
South Parade and Knightstone
horrific impact of genocide
Road in Weston-super-Mare are The horrific impact of the many a safe place to call ‘home’ is part
to receive a facelift with work genocides around the world will of the trauma faced by anyone
starting this month. be remembered this month. experiencing persecution and
genocide.
A new crossing point will be Holocaust Memorial Day takes
installed near Weston College’s place on Sunday 27 January so Local events and activities are being
Knightstone campus, pavements people can come together to pledge planned for North Somerset. These
will be widened and roads to put an end to such oppression will be publicised nearer the time in
realigned. and suffering. the local press, the council’s social
media feeds, and in local libraries.
This is to make the area This year’s theme is Torn from
safer and more attractive for Home, encouraging people to Books relating to Holocaust
pedestrians and motorists and reflect on how the enforced loss of Memorial Day will also be available
encourage more footfall to the in local libraries.
town centre.
There may be lane closures,
narrow lanes, traffic lights and
diversions in place, but most of
the resurfacing will take place
during twilight and night time.
Work is expected to last until
April.
Updates and news about road Are you a member of a community group and would you like to
closures will be published organise some activities to mark Holocaust Memorial Day?
on the council’s social media If so, contact Anthony Rylands on 01934 634 989 or
feeds, or visit equality@n-somerset.gov.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roads www.hmd.org.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 7
News
Help bring the joy of gardening to care homes
Green-fingered people with helps reduce social isolation and Volunteers who can spare two hours
a passion for horticulture are loneliness. a fortnight will work alongside
trained facilitators to help care home
needed to help work with older They are organised by Bristol-based
residents access all the benefits of
people in North Somerset. charity Alive, which works to enrich
taking part in fun activities, whenever
the lives of older people in care.
Growing Support social and possible, outside in the garden.
therapeutic horticulture workshops The charity has just received
A Winter Alive – Growing Support
connect participants to their funding to run these sessions in
induction is taking place at
gardens and get them involved North Somerset and is now looking
The Create Centre in Bristol, from
in a social group, which in turn for volunteers to get involved.
10am-12.30pm on Tuesday 5
February, and 5.15-7.45pm on
Wednesday 6 February.
To book a place or for
more information visit
www.aliveactivities.org,
email
sarahm@aliveactivities.org or
call 0117 377 4756
ADVE RTIS E ME N T
Burns Night
Saturday 19th January 2019
4 Course Meal with 10 Piece Shirley Pipe Band and Dancing to Resident DJ & Disco
£35 per person
•
Add an overnight stay with breakfast for £165 per two people sharing
DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House, Congresbury, BS49 5AD
01934 834 343 (Option 1) | info@cadburyhouse.com | www.cadburyhotelbristol.co.uk
8 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/February
For the latest updates on North Somerset’s news visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/news
Demolition of police
station begins
The demolition of the former
R&B king brings slick sounds to Tropicana police station in Weston-super-
Mare has begun.
Slick and smooth sounds will be Next month, electronic and dub band
grooving through Weston-super- Dreadzone are also appearing. North Somerset Council is
Mare soon when R&B king Trevor demolishing the station as part of
Dreadzone are described as one
Nelson hits the decks. its plans for Walliscote Place.
of the most energetic and powerful
Trevor Nelson is bringing classic live bands to emerge from the post- In its place will be a
soul and R&B to the Tropicana, rave scene. contemporary building, including
in Marine Parade, on Friday 25 modern homes.
See them at the Tropicana on
January. The demolition is expected to be
Friday 15 February.
The multi-award winning DJ is the finished by February.
pioneer of the UK urban scene and For more information visit
has a career spanning decades. www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roads
Buy tickets online and see what else is on at the Tropicana at or follow the council’s social
www.tropicanaweston.co.uk media feeds.
Proud to Care bonus scheme starts
The vital work care workers do is The bonus will be worth one week
being celebrated through a new of their average weekly pay, as
bonus scheme announced by calculated during the six months.
North Somerset Council. Over 300 direct care staff are set
to benefit from the scheme which
Staff who work for one of the
recognises the important role care
council’s strategic care providers
workers play in helping some of
will receive a bonus payment after
every six months of working for North Somerset’s most vulnerable
their employer. residents.
Turn to page 42 to find out more about the scheme, including
which care providers will be paying the Proud to Care bonus.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/proudtocare
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 9
Could fostering be your
New Year’s resolution?
Could you take up a new “The hardest thing is being “I’m so proud to say through hard
challenge and make fostering disappointed when a child does work, our relationship with him,
your New Year’s resolution? not share our ambition and desire and his desire and determination to
for their future. change he is now a non-smoking,
People from across North Somerset
healthy footballer, thriving in a
are needed to make a real “Not every child wants to be helped
team, with a brilliant routine.
difference in their community and or supported and at times it feels
help look after local children. like you end up having a long-term “He attends secondary school
tenant – but with you as the cleaner, where he is over-achieving and is
Fostering can be demanding but
the cook, the taxi and the carer. an absolute pleasure to have as
is hugely rewarding and means so
part of our family.
much to children who are unable “The feeling of being
to live with their own families for a uncomfortable in your own home “This child clearly needed the
variety of reasons. isn’t a nice one and at times, opportunity to develop; by
due to wanting different things, a being placed in foster
Richard, a North Somerset foster
placement doesn’t work. Social care with us he was
carer, spoke to Life about what
workers work with you well in given the chance he
fostering is really like.
these situations, though. clearly needed.”
Richard was only 25 when he and
his partner Sam decided to become “Every child is different, every
foster carers. placement is different and you
Since then they have had a number need to be clear with yourself
of placements, several challenges what you want to achieve and
and many more good memories can offer.”
and successes.
Richard added that the rewards
Richard said: “I suppose ‘why are also tremendous:
foster?’ is the most obvious question
“The children we’ve
and one which is probably the
cared for are some of
easiest to answer.
the most amazing
“We had a spare bedroom, people I’ve ever
wanted to give something back met.
and felt we had the skills to nurture
“One came
a child to fulfil their potential.”
to us at
Richard acknowledged that life as 12-years-old,
a foster carer has its challenges. a smoker, not
He said: “Being a carer is hard at mainstream
work. Having a child who isn’t school, no
your own is a new challenge as routine and was
you have to accept that there are associating with
very different rules between a child bad influences
in care and your own flesh and where the use of
blood. drugs was deemed
okay.
10 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryAnd his final advice for anyone
considering becoming a foster carer?
“Be prepared for your life to change Did you know?
and finally accept that yours and your
There are about 230
family’s life will never be the same
children needing foster
again – for the good and the bad.”
care in North Somerset.
Read Richard’s full story at
North Somerset Council doesn’t
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/fostering
have enough foster carers and
some children must be placed in
expensive, private placements
away from their home, schools
and family.
What do I need
A variety of schemes are
to foster?
available if a potential carer can’t
Potential foster carers commit to full-time fostering.
need a spare bedroom, some
These include Supported
experience of caring or working
Lodgings, a bridge to
with children and a willingness
independence for young people
to develop parenting skills.
in care aged 16 and over.
North Somerset Council
provides on-going support,
training and a generous
allowance to cover costs.
Could you foster?
Call 01275 888 999
for more information.
The team is happy to chat to
anyone who is interested. If now
is not the right time, it might be
in the future.
Find out more and have an
informal chat with social workers
and foster carers at the next open
evening, from 6.30-8.30pm on
Wednesday 16 January at the
new Costa Coffee in Oxford
Street, Weston-super-Mare.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk/
fostering
f fostering northsomerset
l fosteringNS
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 11Hundreds of households
saved from homelessness
each year
Support workers
Lisa and Jamie
More than 500 households are � mediation between landlords Night Assessment Centre
saved from homelessness every and tenants
opens
year in North Somerset thanks � working closely with other
to on-going and wide-ranging agencies and departments, such A new night centre has opened
support. as domestic abuse services, in Weston-super-Mare to provide
mental health teams, social care a warm bed for up to 10 rough
People can face homelessness for a sleepers each night.
teams and more.
variety of complex reasons so North
Somerset Council’s housing team As a result of this work, a total of Weston Night Assessment Centre
supports them in a number of ways. 551 households were successfully opened in November at Somewhere
prevented from becoming homeless To Go, in the Boulevard.
This might include:
during 2017/18. It is the result of 15 organisations
� resolving benefit problems working together, led by local
As well as this, 316 households
� negotiating with family and churches and charities, and
were provided with temporary
friends supported by Weston Town Council
accommodation and 485 households
and North Somerset Council.
� providing tenancy support for were helped into long-term housing,
clients struggling with their tenancy either as a way of preventing their The space offers a safe place for
homelessness or a move on from homeless people to stay overnight,
temporary accommodation. have a shower, wash their clothes,
store belongings and have a basic
breakfast the following day.
In the morning, further assessments
and referrals are made to other
agencies, such as the council.
It is not a drop-in shelter – those
wanting to use the centre will need
Members of the steering group who helped set up to be referred and assessed by
trained outreach support workers.
the Night Assessment Centre
12 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryWhat to do
if you spot a
rough sleeper
If you are concerned about a
rough sleeper, you can contact
Barry Edwards and Garry the national rough sleeping
Hoare, who helped set up helpline StreetLink.
the centre You will be asked for the
specific location, the time you
saw them and any information
to help identify them.
The centre has already made a Rough sleepers Details are then passed onto
positive impact to people’s lives. the local council or outreach
The council’s homeless prevention service so they can find the
One young couple who had
team works closely with a range person and offer support.
previously lost their accommodation
of partners to help rough sleepers
said: “This centre has literally Call StreetLink on
access accommodation and
saved our lives. 0300 500 0914 or visit
support.
“We didn’t know where to turn next www.streetlink.org.uk
and were getting ill on the street. Homeless charity St Mungo’s is
This has made us look to the future commissioned by the council to Funding
with hope.” provide outreach support to rough
Officers from North Somerset’s
sleepers, alongside the local
Another young man who lost housing team have asked central
YMCA.
his accommodation through an government for funding to help
unfortunate series of events is also This outreach team finds and rough sleepers, through the Rapid
now receiving help. talks to rough sleepers to help Rehousing Pathway and the Rough
move them off the streets and Sleeper Initiative schemes.
He said: “I didn’t know I could get into suitable accommodation by
help. I thought I’d messed up and This includes ideas for initiatives
referring to other services such as
that was that.” which will help rough sleepers
the homeless prevention team.
during cold weather.
Project lead Barry Edwards said:
Trust is gradually built up to
“The Night Assessment Centre is It is hoped the council will find out
enable people to find routes out of
more than just a bed for the night. if it’s successful this
homelessness and towards recovery.
It is a place where people can month.
access support and other services.”
The centre is run by trained staff and Other ways to help
volunteers who can also signpost
Landlords who would consider letting their property to
rough sleepers to other support
one of the many households the council helps each year, can contact
available, such as housing, addiction
01934 426 483 or lettingsteam@n-somerset.gov.uk to discuss
or mental health services.
incentives and support.
It is also working jointly with North
Somerset Council to provide the To make a donation to Somewhere to Go or find out more about their
emergency cold weather provision work visit www.somewheretogo.org.uk
during times of particularly extreme The Night Assessment Centre relies on volunteers. If you’re interested in
weather. helping, email westonnightassessmentcentre@gmail.com
f WestonNightAssessmentCentre
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 13Have a healthy
New year is the perfect How much physical activity do we need?
time for you to make a Adults need two types of physical activity each week to stay healthy –
new start and prioritise aerobic and strength exercises.
your health and wellbeing. How much you need depends on your age. For adults aged 19-64:
� At least 150 minutes of � As well as this, try to do strength
There are plenty of opportunities
moderate activity a week, such exercises that work all major
in North Somerset to get active, as cycling, brisk walking or muscle groups on two or more
lose weight, learn a new skill or water aerobics. days a week.
join a new club.
� If your activity is vigorous, when Dr Andrew Burnett, North Somerset
Exercise can be beneficial for both you are breathing fast and have Council’s Interim Director of Public
difficulty talking, this can be Health, said:
the body and mind but you don’t
reduced to 75 minutes.
need to don the Lycra in a gym – “Being more physically active in
� Mix it up – try for 30 minutes a everyday life reduces the risk of
just a swift 10 minute walk around
day over five days to reach the disability and many long-term
the block at lunchtime can clear
recommended 150 minutes. Bouts conditions no matter how old you
your head for the rest of the day. of 10 minutes at a time provide are or your state of health. Walking
benefits, and means you avoid more, using the stairs and simple
sitting for long periods of time. balance exercises will all help. Start
small and build up gradually.”
For more hints and tips, and advice for other age groups, visit
www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise
This girl can
Women are getting inspired to take part in exercise by
Sport England’s new This Girl Can video.
#ThisGirlCan celebrates women doing their thing no
matter how they do it, how they look or even how sweaty they get.
Feel motivated to #fitgotreal whether cycling, running, playing football,
rugby, netball or more.
Search the hashtags on social media or visit www.thisgirlcan.co.uk
Discover the wide variety of activities available locally in the
North Somerset Active Directory.
The directory is for everyone, including beginners, older
people, those returning to exercise or anyone who wants to try
something different.
Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/activedirectory
14 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/February2019
Health Trainers changes lives
Anyone who needs a little one-to-one “She supported me all the
encouragement to lead a healthier way through my journey,
lifestyle can find a host of support with regular appointments
through the Health Trainer service.
and talking through different
Health Trainers give free and resources I could use, such as
confidential advice to adults in
the eat well guide and traffic
Weston-super-Mare who want to
light labelling.”
make healthy lifestyle changes,
whether increasing physical activity, Five months on, Tina still attends
losing weight, giving up smoking or Weight Watchers and has gone
reducing their alcohol intake. from size 24 to size 16 to18.
Tina Roberts met health trainer Tina added: “This has made an
Debbie Stone for support and impact on my diabetes and I am
encouragement with losing weight now on a lower insulin, which is
and has lost three stone as a result. good for me. I also have more
confidence. Tina Roberts
Tina said: “Debbie referred me
to Weight Watchers and saw me “I still want to meet my target
every other week, teaching me weight so I’m still going to Weight
about eating all the right food. Watchers every week.”
Support from the Health Trainers is completely free.
To book an appointment or discuss what’s available call
01934 427 661 or email health.trainers@n-somerset.gov.uk
Free activities available
Free and half-price activities are available to some residents in North
Somerset so they can make use of their local leisure centre to get active.
The Get Active Pass is available to people who meet certain criteria and
are referred by their doctor, practice nurse or health trainer.
The pass provides limited free and half price entry to specified activities at these
leisure centres: Scotch Horn in Nailsea, Hutton Moor in Weston-super-Mare,
Strode in Clevedon, Backwell, Churchill, and Parish Wharf in Portishead.
Contact your local GP or health trainer to find out what the eligibility
criteria is and if you can apply.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 15Improving your
health in older age
Gentle exercise in older age can Portishead resident Val Guest,
help you stay healthy, energetic aged 79, had suffering back Put your best foot
and independent. problems for 15 years, with a slight
curvature of the spine and some disc
forward
Improving your fitness and mobility is a degeneration.
positive thing no matter what your age Getting a more active lifestyle
and it doesn’t matter how mobile She was struggling to attend her could be as simple as putting
you are – whether you are regular Pilates class as the one foot in front of the other.
already fairly active or floor work increased
Walking is free, easy and can
mostly chair-bound. her pain and instead
be done at any fitness level.
found a gentle
The social and Ageing Well class. If you need a little extra support
emotional benefits
Val said: to get started, walking groups
of attending a
could be the answer.
class can also be
“I am amazed
as important as the North Somerset Council’s
increased energy at the difference
health walks programme offers
levels. it made. free, short, friendly, guided
Here in North Somerset, “I was seeing my walks in the area’s four main
an Ageing Well programme osteopath monthly but haven’t towns and some villages.
of classes is managed by Age UK been in the past six months.
The majority of walks are on
Somerset. “The stiffness and tightness has pavements so just come with
Choose from gentle classes such as completely gone, and I’ve even comfortable and practical
seated yoga or Flexercise, to more noticed an improvement in my footwear.
active ones like Mature Movers or strength and balance.”
Zumba.
To view the latest health
For more information about Ageing Well classes contact Nikki walks programme visit
Smith: 07530 777 895 or nikki.smith@ageuksomerset.org.uk www.walkingforhealth.org.uk
For a full list of classes visit www.ageuksomerset.org.uk
16 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryPupils from Yeo Moor Primary School
Walking to school
improves wellbeing
Walking to school could be the Schools run different schemes to
perfect way for families to squeeze encourage their pupils to be more
some exercise into their busy lives. active.
Top tips for walking to school:
Current NHS guidelines say that Yeo Moor Primary School, in
Clevedon, took part in Modeshift � wear bright/reflective colours,
young people who are active for
STARS National School Travel especially in winter
at least an hour a day have better
general health, stronger bones and Awards. � plan a safe route away from
higher levels of self-esteem. main roads
Assistant head teacher Tor Zakaria
Walking to and from school could said: � if you live too far to walk all
be an easy way to fit this into your the way, try getting off the bus
“We would definitely one stop early or parking five
daily routine.
recommend it. minutes away
It also means parents avoid parking
“It had an impact on the � talk about what you see on your
stress and save money on bus fares
journey
or fuel costs. number of children walking
to school and they really � why not arrange to walk with
Children can also familiarise
enjoyed collecting badges friends one day a week, to help
themselves with the local area and
you all stick to it?
practise life skills, such as finding and celebrating their
safe places to cross the road. achievements in assembly.”
Schemes for schools
Schemes and resources are available to encourage pupils to walk to school:
Living Streets’ WOW Modeshift STARS
North Somerset Council has Support is available to help
partnered with national walking schools complete the National
charity Living Streets to run this School Travel Awards scheme.
year-long walk to school challenge joe.mansfield@n-somerset.gov.uk
in 15 schools. Pupils who travel
actively at least once a week for a Child pedestrian training
month are rewarded with a badge. Volunteers teach young children
rachel.stark@n-somerset.gov.uk knowledge and skills to cross
roads safely.
roadsafety@n-somerset.gov.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 17Weston Vision
Independent shop Game-changing
among Britain’s best conservation area
for Weston
A new, extended conservation
area for Weston-super-Mare
has been described as a game
changer.
The new Great Weston
Conservation area stretches from
Birnbeck Pier to Royal Sands
Paul Batts (centre) with his and includes the town centre of
wife Julie Batts and shop Weston.
manager Peter Hughes. It was adopted by North
Somerset Council in December.
An independent shop in
Cara MacMahon, Heritage
Weston-super-Mare is Action Zone officer, said:
celebrating after being “This is a game changer for
named one of the best Weston-super-Mare.
small shops in the country. “By including the town centre in
the conservation area, we gain
Outdoors and Active, in Meadow “It is also important for Weston’s access to the partnership grants
Street, reached the final 25 regeneration to develop its lively scheme from Historic England.
of the UK’s Best Small Shop independent areas, not only for the
2018 competition, run by the “This scheme will generate at
locals but also for visitors, as high
Independent Retailers Consortium. least £500,000 of grant from
streets are going through such big
Historic England over the next
The competition celebrates the changes.”
four years to enhance shop
commitment and creativity of Paul, who has run the shop for 12 fronts. It will also help us engage
independent retailers and the years, also does a lot to highlight with shop owners and residents
central role they play in their local the independent areas of the town. as partners and stakeholders
community. in shaping Weston as a quality
He is chairman of Weston Business
Outdoors and Active is a footwear, Improvement District, which place to live, work and enjoy.”
clothing and rucksack fitting represents more than 400 businesses For more information, visit
specialist store. in the town centre, and helped get a www.n-somerset.gov.uk/regeneration
Owner Paul Batts said: “It’s so nice to large metal arch fitted to promote the
get recognition at a national level for Orchard Meadows area.
all the small things we do locally. Paul was also involved in helping
“People are now realising how Weston gain its plastic-free Cleaner
important it is for the local economy Coastline status, as the shop has
to use your local shops and services. never used a plastic bag.
“Not only do you get better service, He also runs a plug-in hybrid car
but it means more social engagement and tries to use ethical suppliers.
which creates a stronger community.
18 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryWeston Vision
New book delves
into Weston’s past
Discover more about The book launch
takes place at 6pm on
Weston-super-Mare’s Wednesday 13 March,
history and heritage in at the Blakehay Theatre, in
a new book about the Wadham Street.
beautiful town. In addition, and to coincide with Tickets for the book
the publication, images from the launch are free but
Weston-super-Mare – book will be on display in Tiffany’s booking is essential.
The Town and its Seaside Heritage restaurant on the Grand Pier.
has been commissioned by Historic
Contact the Blakehay Theatre
The exhibition runs from January box office on 01934 645 493
England as part of the Great Weston until late June, every day from
Heritage Action Zone work.
or visit
10am-4pm. www.blakehaytheatre.co.uk
Climbing centre proves a hit
People of all ages are facing their
fears and climbing great heights at an
exhilarating new attraction in
Weston-super-Mare.
Clip n Climb is the town’s first climbing centre and it
opened in Dolphin Square in November.
It offers the ‘ultimate climbing experience’ to customers
aged four and up, on a variety of colourful equipment.
You could try the face-to-face climbing wall, an 18-foot leap
of faith platform, or the Astroball and Twister challenges.
Children’s parties, pre-school sessions and fitness classes
are also offered.
The centre has opened inside the Dolphin Square
leisure hub, which is also home to Nandos, Anytime
Fitness, Pizza Express, Luda Bingo, 7Bone Burger,
Prezzo, Loco Mexicano, Costa Coffee and an eight-
screen Cineworld cinema.
It forms an important site within the Weston town centre
regeneration programme, to encourage inward investment
in the town. The team at Clip n Climb
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 19Growth
Co-working space to double in
A hot-desking and co-working space in Weston-super-Mare How did the company
is more than doubling in size this year to provide more begin?
opportunities for local freelancers and small businesses. My dad brought me back a ZX
Spectrum in 1982, which he’d
The Stable, in Wadham Street, is In the business world, they are used
borrowed from a friend at work, and
increasing its shared and private office by banks, telephone companies,
I wrote some code and created a
space from 3,000 to 7,000 square insurance companies, charities,
conversation.
feet to create extra room for meetings, transport, education and many others.
events, freelancers and small digital, Many years later I studied
Life spoke to Phil to find out more…
tech and creative businesses. anthropology and decided to run an
ethnography (a study of a cultural
The centre offers free hot-desking What is the business? environment) in a virtual world. I
trials, rooms available to hire by
found a computer system I could talk
non-members, and rolling time-based Elzware is a conversational user
to in a virtual world and was hooked.
memberships for those in the creative, interface company – human to
digital and technology industries. computer conversations. After some time working on the
automation of a customer service
The latest digital innovator choosing For nearly 20 years we have
system, I decided to go
Weston-super-Mare and The Stable as created interactive systems for many
all-in on conversational
his business base is Phil Hall. businesses, including healthcare,
systems and
education, local government, and
Phil founded Elzware nearly 20 launched Elzware
corporations of all shapes and sizes.
years ago, a company which in 2002.
utilises Chatbot technology – Elzware is the base company and we
talking to computers. have launched two other companies
from this – Artelli42 and Echoborg.
Consumer-based virtual assistants,
such as Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Artelli42 creates photo-realistic
Alexa, can tell you where the nearest web-based avatars, and Echoborg
restaurant is, what the weather will be is a funny and thought-provoking
like later or play your favourite tune. performance show where the
audience has a conversation with an Phil Hall
artificial intelligence. of Elzware
20 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryGrowth
n size
The Stable manager Kerry O’Neill and
hub co-ordinator Sam Brannigan
Why did you move to What made you
Weston-super-Mare? move into the Stable? into leading companies and show
how realistic and reactive artificial
Elzware and the companies it works At The Stable, the quality of space
intelligence can be within information
with are all remote so it really doesn’t feels as good as the shared spaces
and education systems.
matter where people are physically. in central Bristol but the mix of
people is truly refreshing. I’ve taken
We were based in Bristol but my wife
a permanent desk and have some What are your plans for the
and I decided to move to Weston
for the good network speed, good
remote computers to access when I future?
need to.
transport links and lots of fresh air. We hope to bring the Echoborg
The Stable was probably the key to The Stable early this year. In
The cleanliness and beauty of the
point that brought us here. I can see 2019 we will also be rolling out
hillside area just drew us in - to
it becoming a very busy hub for conversational systems that are nearly
have a beautiful ancient wood, the
creativity of all sorts in the Weston indistinguishable from human beings.
wonderous sea, a mainline train
area, working also with the forward- We will be doing this ethically and
station and an exciting, emerging
thinking Weston College. honestly, though, not using people’s
and developing town centre is
just brilliant. personal data to advertise to them or
How has your business for any other purposes.
been boosted since moving
into The Stable? Find out more at
www.thestableweston.
Elzware was kept very busy last year com or contact hello@
as conversational user interfaces thestableweston.com or
became more widely available. 01934 315 305. Visit the
A highlight was the Echoborg project website to find out more about
becoming a finalist in the Future the deals available, such as hot
of Story Telling, an international desking time vouchers.
competition in New York. www.elzware.com
www.artelli42.com
With Artelli42, we’ve taken a
www.echoborg.com
photo-realistic avatar-fronted system
www.n-somerset.gov.uk
www.n-somerset.gov.ukl @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 21
l@NorthSomersetCKeeping you safe
this New Year
Homes are often stacked with new gadgets and Register items to increase your
gizmos following the festive period so now could chances of getting them back
be the perfect time to ensure your property is safe Items can be registered online to
and secure. increase your chances of having
them returned if you are unfortunate enough
Avon and Somerset Police tackle many different types to have them taken. Register serial numbers through
of crime, from major fraud and modern slavery to Immobilise at
burglary and domestic abuse. www.immobilise.com
But did you know the simple steps you could take to
Register your bike to deter thieves
protect you and your community against crime?
Join the Bike Register for free and
Here are the top five New Year’s resolutions from the have your bike marked. Marking
police… can act as a deterrent to thieves.
Look out for your neighbours and community Visit www.bikeregister.com
Also buy a secure lock for
Get to know the people living on your street and
your bike.
check-in on those who could be most vulnerable
to criminals such as rogue traders or burglars. Volunteer and give back to your community
Fraudsters often prey on older people.
Many volunteer opportunities are available with
Rural residents can join Farm Watch Avon and Somerset Police if your new year’s
resolution is to give back to your community.
Farm Watch is a free service where residents share
Visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/
information and provide police with intelligence.
jobs-and-volunteering
Local policing teams also visit members, offering
advice on how to make equipment or vehicles If you can’t commit to something regular, joining your
secure and ways to deter criminals from gaining local Neighbourhood Watch could be another option.
access to valuables.
www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
22 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryTake
Take time outtime out
– Walk
Photo by Virginie Naudillon
Claire Barker Dr Helen Parkhurst Amanda Prowse
Literary festival returns
Would-be writers can get top tips Highlights include a talk by Dr Helen talk about her stories which feature
from best-selling authors during a Pankhurst, great-granddaughter of ordinary women overtaken by
literary festival in Weston-super- Emmeline Pankhurst, which reveals extraordinary circumstances.
Mare next month. how far women have come since the
There will also be writing and poetry
suffragettes, how far we still have to
Weston Literary Festival, organised workshops, information about self-
go and how we might get there.
by Weston Town Council, takes publishing and getting publicity for
place between Friday 22 February Also appearing is Knitbone Pepper your book.
and Friday 1 March at Weston author, Claire Barker, whose children’s
A short story
Museum and the Blakehay Theatre. stories were shortlisted for the
competition is also
Sainsbury’s Children’s Fiction award.
This week-long festival features running. Entries,
talks, workshops, panel discussions, Amanda Prowse, who writes no longer than
book signings and free children’s powerful and compelling gritty 800 words, must
storytelling and hopes to build on the contemporary fiction, including the be received by
success of last year’s inaugural event. bestselling ‘My Husband’s Wife’, will Friday 1 February.
Tickets are needed for most events. Visit www.wsm-tc.gov.uk for details or the Facebook page
f Westonlitfest
Vegan food to tickle your taste buds
Vegan food and drink will be on the Thatchers Cider Tasting Room and
menu this month during a fantastic a pop-up wine and gin festival in
free food and drink festival. association with The Wine Shop at
Winscombe.
eat:Vegan takes place from
10am to 4pm on Saturday 26 You could also screen print your own
January at the Winter Gardens in bag with Zara Emily Print Works and
Weston-super-Mare. learn new skills at the cookery school
and demo stage demos.
More than 70 food and drink
producers will be showcasing www.eatfestivals.org
their vegan products, as well as a
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 23Take time
Take time out
out––Walk
Walk
Blow away the cobwebs
at Battery Point
Walk information
Distance: about 2.3 miles
Battery Point is the blustery Start the walk at Portishead’s Lake
Difficulty: medium – some Grounds, a popular park and lake
headland in Portishead at the
rocky, uneven, uphill paths in situated right next to the Esplanade.
Eastwood. A couple of sets northern end of the Esplanade.
The beach and surrounding
of steps, going both up and
Last year, the historic site shoreline is an important area
down. Wear suitable footwear
was one of 100 areas across of geographical and biological
Duration: about 1.5 hours at interest, with its inter-tidal mudflats
the country to be named a and saltmarsh habitats.
a leisurely pace
Centenary Field, giving it
Map: OS 154 Explorer The limestone rocks of Battery
protection in perpetuity as a Point and Woodhill Bay near the
site of remembrance. pool are part of the Portishead
Pier to Black Nore Site of Special
How to get there The Centenary Fields Scientific Interest.
programme, run by the Fields Head north on the Esplanade
Start at map ref: ST 463770 in Trust charity, protects towards Battery Point and the open
By car: Free parking is valuable green space as a air pool, and go up the steps next
available at the Lake Grounds living remembrance to those to the café.
Refreshments: The Lake who fought and lost their lives Once you’ve reached the top of
Grounds café is open daily in World War 1. the headland, there are plenty of
10am-4pm, except in very benches to sit on and enjoy the
spectacular panoramic views.
bad weather. Toilets available
next door (20p charge) The area has a long history as a
‘look out’ and area of defence.
Café Lido at Portishead Open
Air Pool is run by volunteers. There are remains of an Iron Age
Opening times for 2019 were hillfort in Eastwood and beacons
still to be confirmed at the were erected during Elizabethan
times to warn of invasion from the
time of Life going to print
Spanish Armada.
24 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/FebruaryTake
Taketime
timeout
out –– Walk
Walk
The first fortifications were built in
the 17th century, during the Civil
War. Army barracks were then
built during the Edwardian period,
which were manned by Devon and
Cornwall Fire Command during the
First World War.
The original lighthouse was built
in 1931 and after it came to the
end of its life, this near-replica was
installed in 1999. The bell from
the original lighthouse can now be
seen on Wyndham Way.
This map is for guidance only and walkers should carry and use the OS 1:25000 map when out. ©
Searchlights and guns were put Crown copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 100023397. You are not permitted
in place during the Second World to copy, sub-license, distribute or sell this data to third parties in any form.
War and these were manned by
Take the steps downhill in front of the town and controlled shipping
the Home Guard.
you, signposted to the RNLI shop. movements around the world.
The site was acquired by the local These steps lead to the northern tip
Exit the park in the far left corner,
council in 1949 and people have of Port Marine, with views across
going up the steps. Turn left at the
been able to enjoy unrestricted the Severn estuary.
top, exiting onto Burlington Road.
access since then.
Walk south along the marina’s Go to the end and cross straight
edge, once the site of power over onto South Road.
stations but now terraces of
At the roundabout, cross straight
attractive, individual homes and
over then take the first right, Beach
luxury apartments.
Road East. Continue straight on at the
Continue down the lock side until crossroads to join Beach Road West.
you reach the sculpture of the
Turn left into Rodmoor Road, and
woman, part of the public art trail.
this will lead you back to the Lake
Turn right here and head towards Grounds. Take time to pop into the
Jubilee Park and the Arc of Britain in Bloom award-winning
Walk back across the headland Angels. These five female figures Rodmoor Gardens first, though,
and join the path that runs behind commemorate the masts of maintained by Portishead in Bloom.
the pool to the woods. Portishead Radio which stood above
Enter the woods, a local nature
reserve, and take the steps up on
the right-hand side.
Cross the road and continue up
the steps opposite. This is a gentle
uphill climb but watch out for rocks.
Keep going forwards, keeping to
the main path. You’ll have views out
across the marina through the trees.
At the end of the path, follow the
steps downhill onto Pier Road. Turn
left, then continue downhill past the
Royal Inn.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk l @NorthSomersetC f NorthSomersetCouncil 25Take time out
LOCAL EVENTS February Mixed Company Lyrical Ladies Choir(E) Rock Choir Clevedon Somerset Singers(E)
Community Choir (E) 7.20-8.20pm, Nailsea (E - term time only) 7.45pm, 7.30pm, Meeting House,
Friday 15 7.30-9.30pm, Golden School. £4 per session. Christchurch Clevedon, Sidcot School, Sidcot.
Valley Primary School, 07722 298 550, Chapel Hill, Clevedon. 01934 743 965
January DreadzoneThe Tropicana,
Nailsea. £6 per session gillatkinson15@blueyonder. www.rockchoir.com
Maine Parade, Weston- Yatton Ladies Choir(E)
Now until Sunday 13 super-Mare. Electronic and with free taster co.uk xander-jaymes.lepetit@ 7.30-8.30pm, Yatton
dub with reggae roots. Clevedon Choral Society Waves of Harmony(E) rockchoir.com Infants School. £4 per
Alfred Leete: the man
behind the iconWeston www.tropicanaweston.co.uk (E) 7.15 pm, Methodist 7.30pm, Weston Rugby Portishead Town Band(E) session. 07722 298 550,
Museum, Burlington Street, Church Hall, Kenn Football Club, Sunnyside 7.45pm, Methodist Church gillatkinson15@blueyonder.
Saturday 16 Road, Clevedon. www. Road, Weston-super-Mare. Hall, High Street. co.uk
Weston. Telling the story
of the Weston man who St Paul’s Church Bridal clevedonchoralsociety. Women’s 4-part acapella New players welcome. Harmony Plus Choir(E)
created the famous Your Fair 201910am-5pm, St org.uk group. New members 07816 544 474, 7.45-9pm, Emmanuel
Country Needs You poster. Paul’s Church, Walliscote Rock Choir Weston- very welcome. 01275 818 575 Church, Weston.
www.westonmuseum.org Road, Weston-super-Mare. super-Mare(E, term time 01934 642 806 or Pill Community Choir 01934 629 112
Displays of wedding only) 7.45pm, Vintage www.wavesofharmony.co.uk (E) 7.45-9.15pm, Pill
Sunday 13 dresses, cakes, jewellery, Footlights Community Choir
Church, Hughenden Cheddar Male Choir(E) Community Centre. £5 per 7.45-9.15pm, Community
Keith Price’s 15th charity hair and beauty, floristry, Road. www.rockchoir.com 7.30pm, Draycott Village session or £4 if paying for
photography and much Entrance, Nailsea School,
model train show xander-jaymes.lepetit@ Hall. New members a term. Free taster session. Mizzymead Road. No
10am-4.30pm, The more. Visitors can enjoy rockchoir.com welcome. www.wendysergeant.
refreshments, an afternoon experience necessary.
Campus, Highlands Lane, Clevedon Light Opera www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk vpweb.co.uk, 07818 065 015
Locking Castle, Weston. fashion show and live 01275 814 220
music throughout. Club(E) 7.30pm (Juniors Winscombe Community footlightsperformance@
Working layouts and Thu 7pm) Princes Hall, Singers(E) 7.30pm, Congresbury Singers(E) gmail.com
trade stalls. Adults £7, Free entry.
office@stpauls-weston.uk.org Clevedon Community Winscombe Community 7.50pm, Old School Portishead Community Choir
OAPs £6.50, children £2, Centre. 01275 791 556 Centre, Sandford Road. Rooms, Congresbury.
family ticket £16. www. (E) 8-9.30pm, Avon Way
Vocalise Choir(E) www.facebook.com/ 01934 876 104 Hall, Portishead. £5 per
westonsupermaretrainshow. winscombecommunity
com MUSIC 7.30-9.30pm, United Samba Drumming(E) session or £4 if paying for
Reform Church, Waterloo singers 8-10pm, All Saint’s Church a term. Free taster session.
The Snow Baby by Soap Street, Weston. £5 inc Campus Choir(E) Hall, All Saint’s Lane,
Mondays www.wendysergeant.
Soup Theatre11am and refreshments. 7.30-9pm, The Campus, Clevedon. Beginners vpweb.co.uk,
2pm, Weston Museum, Portishead in Harmony
(E)(women only) 01934 627 709. Locking Castle, Weston- welcome, £6 with free taster 01275 814 220
Burlington Street, Weston. www.vocaliseann.co.uk super-Mare. session. 01275 545 714
A theatre show with 10.30am-12pm, The Folk Thursdays
Hall, Portishead High Clevedon Players(and 01934 832 283. Weston Brass Band(E)(and
puppetry and storytelling www.singoutlouduk.com Music Is Fun(E)(babies,
for children aged 3 and up Street. £5 per session. Wed, Fri)(leading up to Thu) 8pm, Church Road
www.wendysergeant. a play) 7.30-10pm, the Weston Choral Society(E) Methodist Church, Upper toddlers and pre-schoolers)
and their families. Tickets Methodist Church, Nailsea.
£8.50 each, free vpweb.co.uk, Stables, behind Princes Hall, (term time only) 7.30pm, Church Road, Weston-super-
01275 814 220 Princes Road, Clevedon. Milton Methodist Church Mare. 01934 824 461 30 min session £3, 40 min
for under-2s. session £3.40. 07722
Call 01934 621 028 or Clevedon A Cappella(E) 01275 853 975 Hall, Milton Hill, Weston- Nailsea Folk Club(2) 8pm,
super-Mare. 298 550, gillatkinson15@
call into the museum. (women only) 2-3.30pm, Costanzi Consort(E) Grove Sports Centre,
01934 813 255 blueyonder.co.uk
Kenn Road Methodist 7.45pm, All Saints Church, Nailsea. All performers and
Friday 25 Church. £5 per session. Weston-super-Mare. Clevedon Music Club(3) audience welcome. £1. Singing Mums Choir(E)
Trevor NelsonThe www.wendysergeant. Auditioned chamber choir 7.30pm, Community www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk 7.10-8.10pm, Nailsea
Tropicana, Maine Parade, vpweb.co.uk directed by Peter Leech. Centre, Princes School. £4 per session.
Weston-super-Mare. Slick 01275 814 220 www.costanziconsort. Road. Classical concerts Wednesdays 07722 298 550,
and smooth stylings from org.uk by professional musicians. Clevedon Ladies Choir gillatkinson15@blueyonder.
Afternoon singing group co.uk
the R&B king. (fortnightly) 2-4pm, RAFA Concert Band(E) £8 per concert on the door. (E)(September-June)
www.tropicanaweston.co.uk St Jude’s Hall, St Peter’s 8pm, Victoria Methodist 01275 879 099 2.15-3.30pm, St Peter’s The Baytree Singers(E)
Church, Baytree Road, Church Hall, Station Road, Nailsea Choral Society(E) Church Hall, Alexandra 7.30-9.30pm, St Jude’s
Worle. 01934 413 571 Weston-super-Mare. www. 7.30pm, Vestry Hall, Road. £25 per year. Hall, St Peter’s Church,
rafaconcertband.org.uk Christ Church, Nailsea. 01275 874 109 Baytree Road, Worle.
01934 820 205 01275 875 533 clevedonladieschoir@ No experience necessary.
www.nailseachoral.org.uk gmail.com Portishead Choral Society
Footlights Community Choir
8-9:30pm, Community Trinity Singers(E) 7.30pm, Highly Strung Community (E) 7.45pm, The Folk Hall,
Hall, Trinity School, Churchill Primary School, Band(E) 6.30-9.30pm. High Street, Portishead.
Portishead. No experience Pudding Pie Lane, Langford. Folk/country music. www. 01275 855 059
necessary. www.trinitysingers.co.uk highlystrungcommunity Cantiamo Ladies Choir
01934 415 301 band.co.uk (A)(grade 8+ musicians
Tuesdays 01275 847 909 only) 8.15-9.30pm,
Tra La Community Choir
Cadbury Wind Band (A) 7.30pm, Club Room, Weston Music Appreciation Nailsea School. £5 per
(E)(term time only) Community Centre, Long Society(A) 7.30pm, session. 07722 298 550,
7.15-9.15pm, Yatton Ashton. 07932 623 672 St Jude’s Hall, Baytree gillatkinson15@blueyonder.
Rugby Football Club. Road. 01934 814 752 co.uk
01275 792 300
26 North Somerset Life • Issue 141 – January/February KEY: (E) Every • (A) Alternate • (1) First • (2) Second • (3) Third • (4) Fourth • (L) LastYou can also read
