NAILSEA
PEOPLE
BREAKING NEWS
What's new pussycats in Nailsea and nearby? This is mostly crime, court, human interest received too late for front page, weather and traffic updates - planning issues including new development(s), homes for sale all moved to Property Peeps pages. More immediate updates are on the Nailsea People Facebook page. Breaking news pages pre 2020 are in the archives...
2022
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DANGEROUS DRIVING: Responding to reports of excessive speeding along Nailsea Park the neighbourhood policing team went on patrol in the area. In one hour this month they caught four drivers travelling above the speed limit and a further 13 driving with frozen windscreens! They tweeted the result for all to see...and we shared with you
Let the children play plea
The play area at Crown Glass Shopping Centre mostly for pre-school children has reopened in time for the happy holidays.
It’s closure for several weeks prompted a fierce debate on Nailsea People Facebook page.
Former councillor James Steel who has an office above Somerset Square said: “They were closing it at 3pm due to abuse and damage from school children aged 11 years and over.
“Recently, a shopping precinct worker who does an amazing job politely asked a group of girls to leave as it’s for younger children.
“He was verbally abused and one of the kids called their dad who then arrived and threatened to kill the worker.
“It’s a problem that’s getting significantly worse and children have lit fires, broken windows and equipment around the precinct.
“Police have not been attending and the precinct workers are getting no support from the school, council or police.
“It’s awful as they do an amazing job and don’t deserve to be treated like it.”
Shopper Ian Harvey said: “James Steel it's always a few that spoil it for everyone else.
“It will be sad if it gets removed.”
Nailsea town councillor and Nailsea School chair of governors Joanna Hopkinson said: “The school have been in the precinct monitoring the situation as have I.
“As both secondary schools finish at 3pm, can you confirm if they were in school uniform.
“If so, private message me and I’ll see what more I can do.”
James Steel added: “Yes, they were in uniform when the above happened but can’t comment if they always are. It’s not just Nailsea, Clevedon students also and like I said it’s a small minority as most kids are a credit to the school and parents.
“The school have said they don’t have the staff currently to send teachers but hope this will change in the new year.
“I work in the precinct so see it first hand and most evenings you have kids sitting under bypass between Waitrose and Clevedon Road playing loud music, shouting and messing around.
“To be honest that can be annoying but it’s fine as they are kids but the constant littering, throwing rocks at Waitrose, smashing windows, making fires, stealing from and causing scenes in Waitrose needs dealing with.
“I’ve seen all of that first hand and the precinct workers need support before things escalate further.”
Joanna Hopkinson added: “Yes, I know about the area by Waitrose.
“I must be going on the wrong days as there have only been three or four girls who go under there while they wait for the bus.
“Give me a call if they are making a real nuisance.”
Joe Brake was horrified about the threats to staff.
He said: “Absolutely ridiculous times parents turning up saying they are going to kill someone for asking their kids to move on.
“Mad mad … they are worse than the kids … great example for the younger generation.”
Samantha Adams said: “Most probably because there are a minority of teenagers (not all!) that have no respect for anyone or anything anymore.
“And with police near non-existent then they feel they can abuse others who try to politely ask them to leave.
“Either police start supporting the community or start naming and shaming the idiots.”
Mick Graham said: “I think you've hit the nail on the head Samantha.
“Time to expose the guilty.
“They can't all have so called 'problems' - and even if they do that's no reason to let the issues continue, nor can they continue to be let off because they claim to be very very sorry.”
Becky Harrison said: “Mick Graham, I am quite offended by your term ‘so-called problems’.
“I also do not think naming and shaming on social media is the right thing to do.
“I have children of a younger age, and one not at any of the schools mentioned in this post.
“I am also an older mum, parenting today is very different to what it was back in our day.
“That said, parents who react in the way James pointed out is totally unacceptable.”
Samantha Adams added: “Becky Harrison instead of pointing out all the bits of what people said you don't agree on, which to be honest is pointless, we all are different people so will have different ways of how we feel to deal with anti-social behaviour.
“Why not say what could be helpful to the community?”
PHOTOS: All by Nailsea People, the one top was taken when the red and white barrier tape was removed
POLICE HORSE ROCKY RIP: Avon & Somerset mounted police have sadly announced Rocky has passed. He never truly recovered from his injuries after a road traffic incident in the summer at Failand. So sad. In less than one day this news reached more than 5,000 via our Facebook page with many heartbreaking messages left
Scouting for boys and girls
On Tuesday, November 15, Wraxall Trefoil Guild gathered to plant a tree as part of the Queen’s Canopy to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Guild which meets once a month at the Tithe Barn in Nailsea has celebrated the Queen’s Jubilee with homemade hats, games, and a party.
The final part of a challenge set by their then chair Pam Clements was to fundraise to buy and plant a tree.
Marjorie Sharp took the lead to plan and organise the fundraising, purchase, and planting of the tree.
The late Queen Elizabeth was herself a Guide, Ranger and then in 1953 after her Coronation became the Trefoil patron.
Members of the Guild remembered the Queen’s lifelong commitment to Guiding and acknowledged her extraordinary devotion to public service.
Following the blessing of the Amelanchier tree by the Rev David Sharp, Guild members renewed the Guide Promise.
Garage man Dan gets Scout thank you badge
Retired Nailsea scout chairman Rich Simmons presented this week a 'thank you' badge to Walnut garage owner Dan Bristow.
The coveted badge was given in recognition of the 20 or so years that Dan has maintained 2nd Nailsea Scout Group minibus in tip top condition.
The badge is the highest award an individual Scout Group can bestow on a non-uniformed person who has given exceptional service to the group and is an award that is not given lightly.
Dan who runs the garage near the Blue Flame is an experienced and very knowledgeable vehicle technician.
Mr Simmons said: "Dan's services to the Group over the years have been greatly valued."
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And in other news the Trefoil Guild which is made up of women who were once Girl Guides and meets monthly at the Tithe Barn is going to plant a tree. Former chairman and retired teacher Pam Clements set the guild a challenge to commemorate the platinum jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II. The final challenge was to fundraise and plant a tree as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy. This will be done on Tuesday, November 15, at 11am on Lions Green next to the Sapphire Lodge retirement complex at Christ Church Close. Afterwards the guild will retire for coffee at Wetherspoons at Crown Glass Place.
2019 sex assault - do you know this man?
Police have released an e-fit of a man they would like to identify in connection with a sexual assault in Nailsea.
Officers have only recently been made aware of the sexual assault of a girl in Nailsea in 2019.
The victim was sexually assaulted on the path between Pound Lane and Clevedon Road, at the rear of Kingshill and Ravenswood schools sometime between August and September 2019.
An e-fit was produced of someone officers would like to speak to.
The victim described him as white, in his late 40s to early 50s, approximately 5ft 11in tall, with freckles, dark eyes and dark hair. He was said to be wearing a waterproof jacket, blue jeans and black boots.
Officer in the case, PC Bill Skinner, said: "The victim, who is now a teenager, showed incredible bravery in coming forward in April this year.
"We fully understand that the traumatic nature of sexual offences means that it can take victims time to report the crime to the police.
“No matter whether it happened three minutes ago, or three years ago, we will ensure victims get the support they need, and we fully investigate.
"We're keen to hear from anyone who recognises the man depicted in this image, as well as anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident who may remember seeing anyone acting suspiciously."
If you have any information, please call 101 and quote reference 5222099371.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Crown court sex trial of Clevedon man, 36
The trial of a Clevedon man, aged 36, with connections to Nailsea is due to start this month. as reported by Bristol World.
Robert Kelly will appear at Bristol Crown Court on Tuesday, December 6, accused of sexually touching child aged between 13 - 15
Kelly, of Braikenridge Close, Clevedon, has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which was put to him at Bristol Magistrates’ Court earlier this year.
He is now due to appear at Bristol Crown Court for a trial.
The charges were made following an investigation by Avon and Somerset Police.
A police spokesman said: “Robert Kelly, of Clevedon, has been charged with one count of sexual touching of a child aged between 13 and 15.
“He appeared before magistrates in May and was released on unconditional bail.”
North Somerset Council was also involved.
A council spokesperson said: “We can confirm that North Somerset Council was involved in this matter as part of the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) process.”
Making a connection in Nailsea
WORKING 9AM-5PM (NOT): Contractors are out 8am to 8pm digging up Nailsea roads - even when the football was being televised!
Truespeed - are these the people responsible for all the roadworks in Nailsea?
This broadband provider promises free installation and monthly fees of £25-50 a month depending on speed.
According to Google the company uses either your current copper phone line or a combination of fibre and copper.
Susan Fisher said: "Truespeed has roadworks in Portishead, Clevedon and Yatton as well."
Gary Fudge said: "Truespeed have caused major issues in Portishead.
"I would be very interested in the take up percentage.
"I for one will certainly not having them digging up my garden or drilling through any walls."
Rich Scull said: "Unless Truespeed have changed - they don’t use your old copper wire at all - it’s a brand new fibre network - hence the disruption.
"I only speak from a customer point of view, we used to get 15mb through BT now we get a comfortable 100mb."
Matt Edwards said: "How do people think Virgin and BT got their kit into the ground?
"It’s not magic.
"If you want competition and progress, there has to be some disruption.
"It’s really not the end of the world."
Kieren Medcraft said: "They can dig up as much as they want, can't wait for it to be up and running and finally have some useable Internet!"
Andrew Mulvenna said: "The old copper needs to be upgraded to fibre, so digging and disruption is needed unfortunately.
"We are 10-20 years behind, so it’s a good thing.
"Sadly it wasn’t coming to my house, so we dug a long trench from the road to the house and Truespeed came to add the fibre.
"Happy to share experiences if anyone in a similar situation."
Jenny Wring said: "Having dug up Pembroke Road they are now digging us up again…what didn’t they get right the first time."
Maureen O'Brien Williams said: "Thought copper was being discontinued next year hence rush for fibre?"
Kathy Johnson said: "We’re with Truespeed and it’s absolutely brilliant - reliable and really quick download and upload speeds.
"Plus you get through to someone in North Somerset if you need to call
them for any reason."
Tim Price said: "In fairness to Truespeed, I suspect they reason they are 'causing' disruption is that many of the ducts that already run the BT and VM lunes are well over 30 years old, cables will be brittle, and disturbing them can cause issues.
"We do need better broadband services in the town so unfortunately it is a fact of life.
"I do get slightly agitated when people blanket blame a company and hit its reputation when they are trying to provide a better end goal.
"It's a good excuse for people to moan and part of the reason I struggle with the 'not in my back yard' ethos of the town in general."
Read more roadwork details here https://one.network/uk/northsomerset.
Police reports
This is the latest Sergeant's Bulletin from neighbourhood policing team chief Lee Kerslake complete with apologises for late posting.
His rank is now acting Inspector so it isn't strictly Sgt's Update!
The three pages contain all the new personal changes for our area with some goodbyes to long serving people and hellos to new recruits.
There is very little Nailsea news which we think is a good thing but one very important investigation which led to a high risk offender being charged is detailed.
To download your own copy of this newsletter click HERE - it does have some very useful contact numbers and email addresses.
The links on our images will not work - for this you have to get your own copy or type in the codes.
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Nailsea Town Council planning chairman Rod Lees asked John Hunter, of Nailsea Community SpeedWatch who is North Somerset lead for Community SpeedWatch schemes, to conduct a survey on speedng along Trendlewood Way. In five separate one hour sessions they recorded 66 drivers exceeding the 30mph limit. You can read the full report compiled by John HERE
Light my way
Nailsea resident Laurie Gibney, of Mizzymead Rise, is questioning the sense of turning off the street lights during these dark nights.
He said: “Autumn is a time that people like to go out in the evening with family, friends, work colleagues etc, but in the housing streets of Nailsea there is a curfew at 10.45pm when the street light go off!
“In the interests of pedestrian safety, street lights at or near road junctions surely should remain on until say 1am?”
We asked our Nailsea People Facebook readers what they thought?
Here are some of the responses:
Mandy Bennett said: "When they catch up with GMT they should stay on till just about midnight.
"We've all got torches on us all the time these days though eh!"
Andrea Hanham said: "I know what you mean, I can't see the keyhole to open the front door.
"Mind you theh will say everything will need to be off to save energy."
Pauline Davis said: "The lights are re calibrating themselves following the hour change.
"When they will catch up they will go off at midnight.
"Midnight is late enough for most people walking home.
"Anyone going out later should go prepared."
Steve Morten said: "They should stay until 1am so people can get home safely from the pub."
Lorna Wilmot said: "Our street has no street lighting at all in the evening.
"I am fuming.
"Many residents have contacted the council in various forms, they haven't even responded to my husband's or my emails.
"We have many elderly residents in our street.
"You can't even see the edge of the kerb, it's disgusting.
"My daughter doesn't like to go out after dark as she is worried someone could jump us.
:She is aged eight and go to brownies and other clubs.
"We can't even get to our car in safety.
"Walking the dogs after dark is now dangerous, it is literally pitch dark without a huge torch."
Susan Smith said: "Combeside, Backwell, has no street lights either, it’s disgusting considering the level of council tax paid,"
Sandra Flan Lock said: "I have to take my dog out and the street lights on my road go out at 10pm.
"10pm, it’s disgraceful why don’t they turn alternate street lights off it would make more sense we have already had a fatality on the Clevedon Road and another man seriously injured."
Nikki Baber said: "Personally think this country is going backwards.
"I don’t think lights should be turned off at all during darkness."
Kate Atwell said: "We are in Backwell off of Waverley Road and have no street lights.
"It’s never been a problem in the eight years we’ve been in this house.
"We have a light on the house/garage to guide us to the car and we love seeing the stars.
"We would take a torch if going for a planned night time walk and always have a phone with a torch for any dark corners like by the scout hut.
"Lots of people in Backwell have special lights on their dogs collars or use glow sticks and put reflectors on their children’s clothing so for us it’s not a problem thankfully."
Steve Lewis said: "Having now re-read the information provided by Nailsea People in their August 2020 edition of their community newspaper, it was illuminating – for me at least - to discover within the narrative that 'from October to March between midnight-5am the lights will switch off and because they cannot change to British Summer Time between March and October the lights switch off from 1-6am. Safety has always been the
biggest consideration in deciding whether street lights can be switched off. These areas remain lit all night'.
”Tthere then followed a lengthy list of areas which appeared to me to be based upon a suitable and sufficient risk assessment.
"North Somerset Council website does shed light on the issue raised by Laurie Gibney, and I quote: "When the clocks change, the cells can take a couple of weeks to fully calibrate back to midnight while they adjust to the new on and off times of the street lights. In October when the clocks change, they will initially go off at around 11pm and in March 1am. Street lights that dim will power down by 50 per cent from 11pm-6am. They also can’t change to BST, so between March and October the lights dim an hour later'.
"For those experiencing darkness not explainable by the above information it may be worthwhile to report on the North Somerset Council website
https://forms.n-somerset.gov.uk/report-request/form/streetlighting."
Nailsea People short piece on light pollution two years ago quoted by Steve Lewis can read here https://www.nailseapeople.com/august-2020-front-page.
And the last word goes to Jordan Heal, of North Somerset Council, who replied to Laurie this week.
He said: "The street lighting is normally set to turn off at midnight.
"Since the clock change from BST to GMT on Sunday, October 30, the cells in the new LED street lights in part night areas across North Somerset have been switching off early at various reported times from around 10.30pm which is too early.
"The cells should automatically recalibrate themselves over the next few days, the time of switch off should gradually extend through until they reach midnight."
Has the rot set in?
Decaying wood and damp conditions has caused fungus to grow at the base of the sculpture on Nailsea village green.
Photographer Wendy Derrick spotted the mushroom like growth while out shopping on Saturday afternoon.
Sadly it is an indication of rot.
The towering oak tree which was a feature of Nailsea since the late 1800s was transformed into a new piece of art for the town in the summer of 2021.
Chainsaw sculptor Andy O’Neill created the woodland creatures’ artwork.
The oak tree on the village green on the High Street since 1897 had died and had to be removed.
Commissioned by Nailsea Town Council environment and leisure committee and allotted a budget of £2,500 work began on the project initiated by the then newly elected council vice-chairman Emily Miller in May last year.
Nailsea People Facebook reader Steve Lewis said: "I understand that fungi thrive on oaks in warm, humid conditions.
"Perhaps this particular fungal affliction could be treated with a proprietary fungicide and the sculpture also stabilised through installation of some form of discrete supporting structure, what say you Nailsea Town Council?"
And Mick Graham said: "I'm sure it can be saved - if Nailsea Town Council do something about it with an uncommon haste."
But Sally Nailsea said: "It was there last year too, it’s called nature, it does what it does."
Frederic Le Francais said: "Truffles, exciting news."
Pat Parle took the photo of similar fungus growing at the base of a tree on the Tyntesfield estate, thanks.
Read the story of the sculpture here https://www.nailseapeople.com/mighty-oak.
ROADWORKS: The traffic lights on Station Road caused a bit of a queue at the weekend as the roadworks on the car park slip road continues and although due to reopen on Friday, November 4, likely weather could cause delays. More information here https://one.network/uk/northsomerset
Firework fire
Fireworks are believed to have started a blaze which damaged a wood store in Nailsea.
The fire took hold at a garden shed off Trendlewood Road late on Saturday night, October 29.
Fire crews from Nailsea and Bedminster attended the incident.
The blaze followed reports of youths letting fireworks off in nearby Nowhere Woods at Trendlewood Way.
An Avon Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said “Crews from Nailsea and Bedminster were called to reports of a shed fire.
“On arrival, firefighters found a shed used as a wood store well alight affecting a triple garage nearby.
"Crews used two high pressure hose reels to extinguish the blaze.
"Two firefighters wore breathing apparatus for safety.
"The cause of the fire is thought to be deliberate.”
Silent fireworks
A pet owner has launched a petition for North Somerset to become the first ‘low noise firework county’ in the UK after her friend’s horse died after being spooked by the bangs, reports Somerset Live.
Backwell mum Lorraine Hopkinson-Parker set up the petition after her friend’s horse tragically died, with vets saying it had suffered stress attributed to the noise of fireworks.
Lorraine, who has two dogs of her own, said she was also alarmed after a local farmer in the village told how his horse had become ‘incredibly distressed’ and was at risk of losing its foal due to being disturbed by the fireworks.
A zebra at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall also died after bolting into the boundary of its enclosure after being frightened by fireworks in November 2020.
During a visit to the drone shows to mark the arrival of the SEE MONSTER in Weston-super-Mare, Lorraine started to look at alternatives to traditional fireworks.
The seafront show featured hundreds of drones creating an impressive display which could be seen for miles - without one bang.
Lorraine said: “It was a fantastic evening event with families, young children, the elderly and plenty of dogs.
"The drones gave the most magnificent display but there was not a bang to be heard, only the ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaah’ of the crowds.
“It made me think about the usual firework displays and watching and reading the upsetting posts regarding fireworks at New Year and of course November.”
The popularity of displays at home has also increased in recent years due to the covid lockdowns - extending the period of distress to animals and humans.
Lorraine said: “Why do we continue with traditional displays when we have low noise fireworks and drones? Having two dogs myself I am only too aware of the impact that fireworks can have on our lives.
“My youngest son who is 13, despises fireworks, because he can see first hand, the terror they inflict on our dogs.”
The 2004 Fireworks Regulations currently prohibits fireworks from being any louder than 120 decibels.
The World Health Organisation recommends 120 decibels as the limit for children. Low Noise Fireworks are virtually silent at ground level and approximately 70 decibels in the air - the equivalent to a car door being slammed shut.
As well as launching the petition, Lorraine has also written to all parish and town councils across North Somerset asking them to support the campaign.
North Somerset Council licencing committee has already said it is behind the idea.
Lorraine added: “My proposal would not stop people enjoying fireworks and would not affect the industry.
"Low noise fireworks are already widely available and used.
"The cost of low noise fireworks is exactly the same as the noisy ones, it is only the lack of awareness and willingness to make the switch that still sees them as a niche product.
"I strongly believe that as a largely rural community we would benefit greatly if the above changes could be made and we could become the first low noise firework county in the UK.”
To sign petition go to https://www.change.org/p/we-call-on-north-somerset-council-to-become-the-first-low-noise-fireworks-county-in-uk.
Stay safe on bonfire night
Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) have revealed that in 2021, Bonfire Night on November 5 saw call numbers soar as they call for people to take note of safety tips ahead of the big day.
On 5 November 2021, Control Firefighters received 132 calls, more than 100 per cent more than the average of 65 calls per day, the figure demonstrates the importance of knowing the risks associated with Bonfire Night.
Crew manager Luke Lyons, based in the risk reduction team at AF&RS, said: “We want people to have a safe and enjoyable evening this Bonfire Night, and it’s really important that you follow our advice.
“Sparklers can provide a stunning display and can be safer than fireworks if used correctly.
"They can be easily extinguished with a bucket of water, and you can even use a carrot as a holder to reduce any risk of burns.
"Children under five should not use sparklers, and you should always supervise when they are being used.”
Some people will opt for the traditional bonfire, which poses its own risks.
Luke said: “If you’re hosting a bonfire, make sure you keep your bonfire well clear of any buildings, sheds, fences, trees, and hedges. Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby and when assembling your bonfire, only include dry materials and never use flammable liquids or accelerants.
"Never leave the fire unattended and keep well back when watching.”
Fireworks are the other way that many local residents will celebrate, whether you attend an organised display or buy your own, it’s worth remembering that fireworks can upset animals and small children.
Luke added: “We would advise you to attend an organised fireworks display and be mindful of the effects of fireworks on those around you.
"For instance, you may avoid walking your dog that evening or taking a small child to a display.”
Last year, Fido the Firedog and Firefighter Craig got together to share some key safety messages and advice for celebrating this fireworks night. You can watch their video here.
Firefighter Craig Carter said: “When buying fireworks, ensure that they
have UKCA quality marks. Most supermarkets and trusted retailers will have fireworks that comply with this. Keep your fireworks in a closed box or tin, out of reach of children.
“When it’s time to light up, keep fireworks at least an arm’s length away and make sure everyone stands well back. There’s nothing worse than when the firework doesn’t go off; but don’t be tempted to try and re-light it; it could still go off!”
You can read more safety advice and top tips HERE.
Details of organised bonfire/firework displays are on our What's On page HERE.
Class of '22 on-call firefighters
Nailsea has a new on-call recruit who graduated at the end of October.
Firefighter Alastair O’Connor said: "I’m looking forward to putting my skills to the test and saving the community.
"I wanted to learn some practical life skills and be a role model in the community."Alastair works in quality assurance and testing at Pelican Business Services and plays rugby.
All new recruits complete a rigorous training programme.
The course provided on-call firefighters with specialist knowledge and a wide range of practical skills including tactical firefighting, pitching ladders, breathing apparatus, road traffic collision safety and water safety and rescue.
Alastair was on of five new faces who celebrated their achievement at a ceremony at Severn Park, where they were joined by family, friends and course instructors.
Area manager Luke Gazzard, head of Operational Response at A&RS, said: “Huge congratulations to our new on-call firefighters who have officially graduated their training course today.
"I wish them all the best of luck as they now head out and respond to incidents in their communities.”
Each recruit was presented with their completion certification.
Although we managed to identify Alastair from the group photo top we weren't able to pinpoint him in the training image wearing breathing apparatus!
RUBBISH DECISION: What does North Somerset Council do if recycling bins are overused - take them away. The council believe that it is better to use our house recycling collections. This is the before pics and top after pic. Nailsea resident Nikki Baber posted on the Nailsea People Facebook page: "Sadly this was always going to happen. Everyone is blaming the council. North Somerset hasn’t enough money to keep clearing the rubbish - TV’s, cat posts, gas cylinders - that is left by people not just from Nailsea, surrounding areas. It’s council tax payers money that has to keep clearing this waste away. I also come across council workers using it for the recycling waste which I agree is totally wrong. How ever I blame the people who ever they are dumping rubbish that isn’t recycling. Yes it does look tidy now, let’s see if it stays like it."
New home for Nailsea library
Nailsea library is moving out of the iconic concrete building at Somerset Square whose design has been likened to a World War 2 bunker.
The library with its spiral staircase, subterranean children's' book section and chain link drainage pipes was opened in October 1971.
The news has come as a surprise to many on Facebook but has been mooted for many years as on regular occasions the roof leaked, the basement flooded and a fence had to be put up to stop people peering into the bottom windows.
Another much repeated rumour never confirmed is it is riddled with concrete cancer.
But the building like the much maligned water sculpture in Somerset Square called Spirit of Nailsea by designed by Joe Alberdi split public opinion on its merits.
The sculpture was removed in double quick time and now it its time for the lirbary to go.
Calls for it to be saved and listed have come too late and with a huge repair bill pending more serious redevelopment options are being pursued.
This week North Somerset Council announced it has signed a 125-year lease to secure the long term future of the library a stones throw away next to the greengrocers.
The council plans to relocate the library to 6-8 Colliers Walk, formerly occupied by HSBC bank, and keep the facility in the town centre.
This is what the council statement said:
'The relocation is planned to take place before next summer.
The move forms part of the council’s strategy to have modern, accessible libraries where people can go to benefit from a variety of services.
These include:
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offering free access to computers, the internet and digital support
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hosting community support and advice sessions
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providing activities for families and people of all ages
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providing access to over 2.5 million items through the LibrariesWest consortium.
The existing 50-year-old building in Somerset Square is beyond its end of life. It is in poor condition and in need of roof repairs due to regular flooding, as well as being very energy inefficient. It also doesn’t meet modern accessibility standards.
Relocating the library will:
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meet accessibility standards
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significantly extend library opening hours on a self-service basis
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provide a meeting space to give additional community access
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enable an increased range of events and activities to take place by using space more flexibly
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save energy
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be more cost effective to run, increasingly important as council services operate under increasing financial pressures.
North Somerset Council executive member for neighbourhoods and community services Mike Solomon is the Independent ward councillor for Hutton and Locking.
He said: "We’re committed to continuing to provide a library in a prominent, highly visible location in the heart of the town centre.
"Nailsea Library is a top performing library but its current site is no longer fit-for-purpose for a whole host of reasons.
"It’s suffering from a range of problems and would be prohibitively expensive to repair and make accessible.
"Any financial investment would be better used in a different more energy-efficient building.
"It's vital that we have a library in Nailsea that is fit for the future.
"By moving it to its new home on Colliers Walk, we will secure the longterm future of this very popular local library."
The relocation of the library, which is subject to planning and landlord’s consent, is supported by Nailsea Town Council.
North Somerset Council is investigating options for the future of the current library site as part of the emerging Nailsea placemaking strategy, prepared with local stakeholders.
It is working with owners of the surrounding land and the town council.
The council’s libraries strategy for 2021-31 is available on its website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/librariesstrategy.
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Nailsea library activities for the month are on our What's On page here which is HERE. They include various clubs - computer, Lego, reading; board games; printing and photocopy facilities; plus free legal advice, history and council services sessions run from the Somerset Square hub on a weekly/monthly basis
Conversion connection
It was in May 2021 that Nailsea Town Council finally bought after years of negotiations the red telephone box in the High Street for £1.
But is has been unsuccessful so far trying to buy another red telephone box in Church Lane outside the Tithe Barn.
Nailsea People reported the sale was finally completed late in April 2021 as part of the Adopt A Kiosk scheme under which thousands of red phone boxes were offered by BT for just £1 each.
But the sale of the Tithe Barn telephone box was never completed.
You can read our original story on the May 2021 front page HERE.
Then council chairman Jan Barber said as she distinctly remembers signing two separate £1 cheques to BT before communications broke down.
The High Street kiosk which was disconnected in 2019 and its workings removed has become a vandalised eyesore and lack of progress on converting it to something meaningful has provoked much debate.
The death knell to the red telephone box coincided with the widespread use of personal mobile phones.
Back last year Nailsea Town Council community engagement committee chairman Dee Houlbrook said: “We officially own the High Street box and I’m excited to do something great with it.
”We are keen for residents ideas and to make it into something the town can be involved in, and be a point of interest."
Now 20 months later the spare parts are about to be ordered and a Nailsea town councillor and its handyman hope to restore the High Street red telephone box back to its former glory - soon.
However, the idea to make it a book depository has been shelved and lots of other ideas have been mooted.
Nailsea Town Council clerk Jo Duffy said: "With regard to the phone box refurbishment it will be carried out by handyman James Cooke and councillor James Tonkin - two James’ for the price of one!
"The job has been priced up.
"We will be ordering the parts shortly - we can only use parts supplied by a specific company.
"The phone box may not be a book swap now, as it has been pointed out that there are already a number of places in Nailsea where you can swap/take books.
"We are looking at other ideas for the box, nothing
BOXED IN: Nailsea Town Council first asked for ideas 20 months ago after years of problems trying to buy the box
has been decided yet."
Nailsea People posted this information on its Facebook page and the debate began again on what it should be used for with dismay that some have used it as a public lavatory.
Councillor Joanne Hopkinson said: "I brought this up at the last community engagement committee as nothing had been done for such a long time.
"Following this discussion, James Tonkin and I met with James Cooke to get it mended and ready, hopefully by November.
"A number of people on social media argued against a book swap as there are several in Nailsea - Tesco, The Factory Shop - plus the fact that the books are cheap in the charity shops, the library is in the precinct and The Lions do their regular book sales.
"I put forward the idea of having a mini museum showing the collection of Nailsea glass in photographs, that the council has.
"I have offered to set it up if that option is agreed. I’d love to hear from people what other ideas they have and I will put them to the town council.
Mrs Holbrook said this week: "I love the phone box, we will be discussing ideas for its end use in a few weeks so any suggestions welcome.
"Thank you all for your patience, there has been an issue with parts not being available but it’s getting there now."
GREEN FIELDS
Investment and planning project management company LVA want to develop the fields next to Greenfield Crescent playing fields. The NPFA (Nailsea Playing Fields Association) is looking to replace the junior football clubhouse. the ‘vision statement’ is online here https://www.lva.co.uk/Nailsea-id12559.aspx the area is currently in the green belt and in the parish of Wraxall.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
The old Christmas lights are due to be going up in the High Street from Monday, November 14. They will be minus the small trees which used to sprout from the buildings. These are considered past their festive sell-by date. However, plans to extend the decorations to Stockway North have stalled. Despite having £20,000 funding in the budget for many years Nailsea Town Council clerk Jo Duffy confirmed ‘we will definitely have Christmas lights this year. There won’t be anything new, but what we have, will be up and sparkling’. Following the rumpus in 2021 when the Christmas lights came close to being cancelled residents expected it would bigger, better and brighter for 2022 then the energy crisis happened.
NEW GENERAL MANAGER
A new general manager has been appointed at Cadbury House Hotel.
Brady Smith has taken over the reins of the 134-bedroom DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Congresbury, from Mehmet Kandemir who has moved to the four star Bailbrook House Hotel at Bath. Read more HERE.
Service
OPENING GAMBIT: A road sign in Station Road, Nailsea, told of an impending closure at the end of October. However, Nailsea People was confused and checked with North Somerset Council asking whether this was in the right place with the right information? A North Somerset Council spokesman said; "After investigation, the sign does not contain correct information. The company who erected the sign has been asked by the council to correct this error as soon as possible to avoid any confusion. Utilities work is planned in Brockway slip road, also known as the Station Road car park service road, which runs in parallel to Nailsea High Street behind the shops and adjacent to Station Road car park. This work will start on Monday, October 24, and is expected to last up to seven days. Brockway slip road will be closed throughout this period, however the car park will remain open. The one.network highways website has already been updated to reflect the correct information."
Public living room for Nailsea?
With the price of energy set to rise again at the weekend of October 1-2 North Somerset Council and its partners in the North Somerset Together network are working together to develop a network of public living rooms across the area to help people keep warm this winter.
Public living rooms are safe, welcoming and non-judgemental spaces for people to come together to stay warm and perhaps enjoy a hot drink and a biscuit. These venues will also have information to help people who might be keen to learn more about the support available to tackle the cost of living crisis.
The sorts of venues that might be suitable for hosting public living rooms include community buildings, sports venues, places of worship, libraries and any organisation willing to make a space available for people to use.
North Somerset Council deputy leader and chair of North Somerset’s cost of living working group Mike Bell is the Lib Dem leader and ward councillor for Weston Central.
He said: “We are a council that cares about people and addressing the cost of living crisis is the top priority for every member of the council’s executive.
"No-one should have to go cold this winter.
"We know already that some of our residents are worried they might have to choose between heating and eating, so to help we want to create a network of places across North Somerset where people can keep warm.
“Our goal is to create a directory of all the places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors and to ensure this information is clearly promoted so everyone who is feeling the cold knows where they can go to get warm, stay warm and enjoy a little company and some hot refreshments.”
To enable public living rooms to be set up or maintained, grants of up to £1,000 will be available to organisations in North Somerset.
The grants are funded by North Somerset Council, supported by Alliance Homes, grant funding.
Applications will be accepted from North Somerset agencies and community-led organisations delivering services for people in North Somerset.
More information about the scheme and grant application process is available on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col.
The North Somerset Together Network will promote the directory of public living rooms as soon as they begin to be established with the hope that more venues will become available as news of the initiative spreads across North Somerset.
Mr Bell added: “Our ambition is that all communities across North Somerset that need a public living room have at least one that their local residents can use to help stay warm and well.”
Coates House in Nailsea was one of the first to respond to this plea.
Owner James Murray posted on Facebook: "We can’t believe it’s 2022 and we are writing this, but here we go;
"This winter is going to be a tough one, for so many people.
"Spiralling energy bills, out of control inflation, increasing food bills etc.
"Some people will really struggle to heat their homes this winter and we are here for you.
"We are open 9am-10pm and will be a warm welcoming space for all.
"No purchase necessary, just ask for a glass of water.
"We will never ask you to leave, we may need you to move tables during busy times.
" If you are really struggling, please ask to speak to one of the owners, I am sure we can help a little more where needed.
"Be Kind. Stay Safe.
"The coffee machine is always on."
Nailsea churches have also expressed an interest in helping and Nailsea |People suggested public places like our libraries could be utilised.
James has taken some coffee vouchers paid for by kind donations to Nailsea Community Group shop at No26 Somerset Square for distribution.
UPDATE: From Friday, November 4, Nailsea Social Club will be offering a warm welcome. On Fridays 10am-4pm people are invited to pop in to enjoy a warm cuppa. There will also be a stall of pre-loved and nearly-new warm clothes. Sue Walters is the organiser and she says donations would be welcome.
Why Nailsea posties are going on strike?
Wondering why you didn't get any mail through your letterbox on Friday or Saturday?
The Communication Workers Union Bristol & District Amalgamated branch is staging a 48 hour strike which effects Nailsea Delivery Office on Friday and Saturday, September 30-October 1.
Nailsea man Ben Watts is the branch secretary.
Royal Mail workers are to hold a further 19 strikes in October and November in a deteriorating and long-running dispute over pay and conditions, reports The Guardian.
The CWU announced that the industrial action in the run up to Christmas will be a mixture of single days and rolling action across Royal Mail Group’s network.
The union said it will have a 'dramatic impact' and will also cover peak mail periods such as Black Friday on November 25 and Cyber Monday on November 28.
Royal Mail workers have had an unagreed two per cent pay deal imposed on them.
CWU says this is at a time when RPI inflation is currently running at 11.8 per cent and when Royal Mail has announced group profits of £758 million and when the company is paying out many millions to private shareholders.
Royal Mail members voted by a 97.6 per cent majority to take action.
QUEENS ROAD: No more pot holes! The long and winding road finally gets repaired and white lines reinstated after a summer of delays. Roadworks were completed overnight on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 27-28
Cost-of-living crisis
Nailsea residents will face worsening financial challenges this autumn as cost-of-living pressures continue to spiral and energy prices rocket.
Following the announcement by Ofgem that energy bills for a typical household will rise to £3,549 a year on Saturday, October 1, when a new price cap is introduced, North Somerset Council is encouraging people to plan ahead as living costs continue to rise, and to get help if they need support or advice.
The council is working with a wide network of organisations across the area to form a cost-of-living taskforce with all members focused on working together to help local people weather the cost-of-living crisis.
North Somerset Together, will be on hand throughout the coming months to ensure support is available for anyone struggling with cost-of-living pressures.
Already, a round-up of advice and guidance has been compiled and is available on the council’s website.
This includes information about help with bills, childcare costs, housing support and energy and heating advice. There are also useful links to local food banks, a cost-of-living survival kit and support to help people travel to work.
The council has also worked with the Independent Food Aid Network and the Trussell Trust to produce a leaflet to help people who are worried about money.
The ‘North Somerset: worrying about money?’ leaflet is a step-by-step guide to help people find out what their options are and how to get help. It’s available to download HERE and copies can also be found in North Somerset libraries.
North Somerset Council deputy leader Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for
He said: “Addressing the cost-of-living crisis is the top priority for every member of the council’s Executive.
"And it is exactly that – a crisis, affecting all that we do.
" Just as the Covid-19 pandemic shook the foundations of our lives, so will this crisis touch us all. With spiralling energy costs, food prices rising and the rate of inflation, some will be affected more than others and we expect the impact to be great.
“The pandemic showed us that we have an incredible network of support here in North Somerset, with a professional and volunteer community ready, willing, and able to offer advice, support and make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling the most.
“The professional network of organisations is already mobilised and planning actions across the autumn, winter and beyond to make sure support is there for everyone who needs it.
"There is no stigma in asking for help. We have a great community here in North Somerset and we’ll support each other to get through the tough times.
“As a council we will also lobby the government and energy suppliers to do more to help.
"The additional relief on energy bills already announced will of course help but won’t be enough to enable everyone to get through this. More needs to be done, and soon.”
ROCK ON ROCKY: A&S Police say ‘Look whose home! It’s still early days in Rocky’s recovery but we can now continue his rehab ourselves, supported by our vets. We are absolutely thrilled to have him back with us’. The police horse was seriously injured on Friday afternoon, July 8, while on patrol near Nailsea. The collision on Beggar Bush Lane, Failand, involved police horse Rocky and his rider and a blue Ford Focus.The police officer and the car driver, a man in his 70s, went to hospital but both did not sustain life-threatening or life-changing injuries. Follow link to watch video of Rocky's return https://twitter.com/i/status/1562457310470946816
Process to decide agreed
It took just 50-minutes at an extraordinary meeting of Nailsea Town Council on Wednesday evening, August 18, to decide the process of how to spend its multi-million-pound windfall bank balance.
This was the monies made from selling land at Engine Lane to Barratt Homes.
The meeting learned that a swimming pool which was high on the wish list of many residents would cost £10-15m and with only approximately £4m this wasn’t going to happen along with projects which would incur huge maintenance/running costs.
Fears that inflation could eat into its nest egg or the emerging Local Plan could scuttle a project spurred councillors to agree how to move forward helped by the Ask Nailsea consultation.
Of the nearly 1,000 responses representing 222 ideas a shortlist of 10 categories was whittled down even further - see list top.
This was because either the suggestion was not within the council remit or alternative funding could be used to pay for the items which included improved free car parking, widening bridlepaths, new cycle paths and walking routes or building an adventure playground.
Cllr Jo Hopkinson said: “It is logical if there is funding elsewhere, we take that out of the equation.”
Nothing was completely ruled out just using the monies for best purpose, it was agreed.
The immediate release of a £50,000 fund was agreed to pay for items listed in that category which first will be priorised. This was because it was feared it would not be enough to pay for community garden, improvement at the allotments, Millennium Park, Blackthorn Way plus more street art, picnic tables and benches around the town.
Cllr Clare Hunt expressed concern about spending small amounts would deplete the capital sum and therefore could affect getting ‘something special for the town, we will never get the chance like this again’.
Cllr Liz Frappell remarked about how district and town councils are notorious for being slow moving.
She said: “We have this money, the town knows we have this money, we have just got to get on with this by doing something.”
This left six categories under these headings with the names of the councillors who volunteered for the working parties at the meeting:
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Green space/nature - councillors Mike Bird, Jo Hopkinson, Rod Lees, Emily Miller
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Entertainment/culture - councillors Clare Hunt, Liz Frappell
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Green schemes - councillors Chris Watts, Jeremy Blatchford, Antony Hobbs, Jan Barber
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Community transport - councillor Jeremy Blatchford
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Sports facilities - councillors James Tonkin, Rod Lees, David Packham
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Community hub/space - councillors Dee Holbrook, Jo Hopkinson
All suggestions needed detailed information like locations, costs and logistics and a discussion ensued about employing a project manager to oversee all this.
In the end it was agreed each category would have a councillor leading the exploration into whether the idea was feasible and affordable in working parties which could co-opt expertise from the community to help.
People would be needed with specific skills and/or knowledge to volunteer.
However past chairman David Packham said he was 'very nervous' of having too many unelected people involved.
He said: "I understand the intention but as councillors we are elected to represent the town and I feel it is our responsibility to deal with this and bring in some expertise where appropriate."
An interim update would be reported back to council in six weeks and a three-month deadline was set to move the process forward.
Other monies from the council budget, S106 agreements or the Community Infrastructure Levy paid to North Somerset Council of which 15 per cent is passed directly to the town or parish council in which the development takes place could boost shortcomings.
Councillor Emily Miller chaired the meeting which was attended by 20 residents who came to listen and not contribute.
She said that ideas not proceedable at this time because of issues like land ownership would stay on-file so they could be revisited in the future if circumstances change. She reassured those present ‘these are still in consideration but not on the list at this time’.
Decision time on £4m spend
Although a swimming pool is on the list of options for Nailsea Town Council to spend its multi-million-pound windfall from housing developments the suggestion is dead in the water, we are told.
We are reliably informed although it was a first choice for many on the consultation questionnaire it has already been ruled out as much too expensive both to build and with huge continuing maintenance costs.
Nailsea Town Council has approximately £4 million to spend which it will discuss at an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday evening, August 17.
Nailsea Action Group has slammed the town council for the short notice to discuss other favoured options.
A NAG spokesman said: “On Wednesday, August 17, Nailsea Town Council plans an extraordinary meeting to discuss the £millions received for sale of land to developers.
“We want to inform residents about the meeting as notification has only just appeared on the council website.
“The town council sold its Gaulacre site at Engine Lane to Barratts and building is now proceeding.
“The council held a public consultation to ask residents for suggestions of projects on which to spend the money.
“There was a good response to the consultation with many projects proposed.
“The council met in April to create a shorter list and is now meeting to shorten the list further.“Councillors started considering the responses to their Ask Nailsea consultation nearly six months ago.”
The 7pm meeting is at the Tithe Barn and is open to the public.
Nailsea Town Council issued a statement which it posted on the Nailsea People Facebook page.
It said: "With more than 800 suggestions put forwards, the council have worked through these and narrowed it down into items which are in their remit and can be looked into further. With inflation costs increasingly rising NTC are keen to proceed with implementing projects as soon as possible, and this meeting will be to discuss moving forwards the smaller suggestions, as well as discussing the bigger projects and how these might be progressed over the coming months, before putting the final decision back to the residents on what Nailsea would like to spend the Engine Lane Capital Receipts on. The full list of consultation responses can be found at www.nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk/public-consultation Everyone is very welcome to attend the meeting, but please note that there is not a section available for the public to make comments at this time. At our standard meetings there is a public participation section, however with this extraordinary meeting - and the others which we have had for the consultation - we have chosen to not have this as the meeting is to discuss ideas which are from the public. This meeting is very much what the town council can do next to progress matters, and then once what can and cannot be achieved is established and relevant research provided, rather than shortening the list. The items will come back to the residents and businesses of Nailsea for further Public Consultation and to get the final say on what they would like to see. vIn line with the Local Government Act 1972, Nailsea Town Council is required to provide three clear working days for agendas to be published, however we always try to advise on meetings prior to this."
Four days Royal Mail strike
More than 115,000 postal workers including Nailsea union members will be taking part in the biggest strike of summer so far to demand a ‘dignified, proper pay rise’.
Bristol and District CWU branch secretary Ben Watts said: “The strike action on Friday and Wednesday, August 26 and 31 August will affect all 43 Royal Mail staff at Nailsea.
“Post Office counters staff are striking on separate dates which are Saturday and Tuesday, August 27 and 30.
“A picket line in Nailsea will be manned between 7-11am on the Friday and Wednesday, August 26-31.”
The Communication Workers Union - which represents Royal Mail Group workers – have served notice to management that workers will take strike action on four days:
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Friday, August 26
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Wednesday, August 31
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Thursday, September 8
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Friday, September 9
The decision follows the union ballot for strike action, which saw members vote by 97.6 per cent on a 77 per cent turnout to take action.
This was the biggest mandate for strike action reached since the implementation of the 2016 Trade Union Act.
The union is demanding that Royal Mail Group make an adequate pay award that covers the current cost of living increases for our members.
However, the management of Royal Mail Group decided to impose a two per cent pay rise on its employees through executive action, those same employees who were given key worker status at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In an economic climate where inflation has soared to 11.7 per cent, the imposition would lead to a dramatic reduction in workers’ living standards.
CWU General Secretary Dave Ward said: “Nobody takes the decision to strike lightly, but postal workers are being pushed to the brink.
“There can be no doubt that postal workers are completely united in their determination to secure the dignified, proper pay rise they deserve.
“We can’t keep on living in a country where bosses rake in billions in profit while their employees are forced to use food banks.
“When Royal Mail bosses are raking in £758 million in profit and shareholders pocketing in excess of £400 million, our members won’t accept pleads of poverty from the company.“Postal workers won’t meekly accept their living standards being
hammered by greedy business leaders who are completely out of touch with modern Britain.
“They are sick of corporate failure getting rewarded again and again.
“The CWU’s message to Royal Mail’s leadership is simple – there will be
serious disruption until you get real on pay.”
CWU Deputy General Secretary Terry Pullinger said: “Our members worked miracles during the pandemic and know full well what they are worth.
“The pay offer is an insult to our members and they are willing to fight for a no strings, real-terms pay rise that they are fully entitled to.
“Those managing Royal Mail Group are treating our members with contempt by imposing such a minimal amount.
“Royal Mail Group have failed to recognise the strength of feeling and have clearly lost the dressing room on pay, so they have left us with no choice but to fight.
“Our members deserve a pay rise that rewards their fantastic achievements in keeping the country connected during the pandemic, but also helps them keep up during this current economic crisis.
“We won’t be backing down until we get just that.”
It has also been announced a change in postal delivery times in our area.
RUBBISH LEFT: Below is the mess which was all cleared up by early Monday morning with the exception of the youth shelter, top
Goodbye and good riddance to all that
Apart from the odd crisp packet or random piece of plastic the park is looking pristine on Monday morning thanks to the community-minded people like Gordon and Gill Weller and the North Somerset Council clearing crew who cleared up after our ‘visitors’.
But youth shelter is strewn with empty beer and pizza packaging and an overflowing bin.
It is thought the group got into the site by forcing the gate at the entrance on Station Road - the photo of the padlock and chain were from other gates to show what should have been done
They also got in from the main entrance gates near Tesco now daubed in yellow paint.
Although the main entrance to the park is gated, the gates are more for ornamental purposes and rarely closed.
Nailsea Town Council clerk Jo Duffy says it will be writing to North Somerset Council calling for additional security measures to be installed to prevent further encampments.
She said: “The town council will be having discussions with North Somerset Council about improving security at the entrances to Millennium
Park to stop further encampments.
“One suggestion is to install sturdy, collapsible bollards at both entrances.
"The park still needs to be accessible to the wardens which visit it each day.”
Nailsea resident Hilary Harris said: "If they didn't leave so much rubbish and filth and have such anti-social behaviours, then locals might be more inclined to be more 'friendly' towards these people.
"As for transient sites for them to use, they don't use or want them.
"Where I used to live there were transient sites for them to use and they were so rarely used they were closed down.
"There were a couple of permanent residential sites which were used and were always clean and tidy, dogs were looked after very well and not allowed to roam freely causing havoc, the children were all clean, tidy and went to local schools.
"This proves if they use the sites offered then locals accept them."
Happily as the travellers were making moves to leave the free park yoga, pictured top, went ahead be it with distractions and soon the footballers were back playing on a litter free pitch.
LOCAL LAMENT: More trouble on Saturday early evening with shops reporting thefts and Tesco Nailsea closing early as advised by police, according to staff. Gangs from the park had gone on a help-yourself spree both from store shelves and the free foodbank trolley leaving without any intention of paying for anything. The eviction notice was pinned (and subsequently torn down) on a post in park... it lists car registration numbers and says 'occupiers of vehicles' must leave by 5pm on Saturday, August 6, no signs of anyone getting ready to leave, yet. The park is strewn with black rubbish bags and a broken plastic storage container full of rubbish propped up by the trees with empty cans and containers littering the field. When the campers lit a bonfire later in the evening on wag on social media commented 'that will be for campfire singing'.
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Days earlier camper vans were parked at Backwell Lake using it as an unofficial place to stay overnight - with some people spotted using nearby rivers as a loo. People thought it was okay and advertised in an overnight directory for vehicles ... but this is not correct - see screengrab below...
HAPPY CAMPERS? Arriving on Thursday afternoon, August 4, at Millennium Park, Nailsea, residents wondered if it was the fairground, Caravan Club or travellers finding a pitch? Someone counted more than 60 vans opposite Tesco supermarket and near play area. The entrance to the park is by a padlocked gate. Police were told the group which includes young children with catapults reportedly shooting pigeons and small yappy dogs not on leases that they all intend to move on Sunday.
FRIDAY FRUSTRATIONS: Nailsea People visited Millennium Park midday on Friday and counted appropriately 15 caravans and an assortment of vehicles including some very nice cars. We spoke to a 13-year-old girl at the skate park who said there were a group of children from the caravans playing there earlier. She had been thumped by one of the boy who she thought was aged 7-8 and had called the police. She was waiting for officers to arrive. Added photos taken from inside skate park which include the green paint left by the culprits on the slide and climbing frame. Council cleaners are on hand clearing rubbish.
SATURDAY UPDATE: The football fixtures for Millennium Park are cancelled by the free yoga session booked for Sunday morning is going ahead as planned we learn from Heidi on social media - good luck with that!
BIN THERE, DONE THAT: Another Friday night in Nailsea when the bins get wasted. The first photo is from Alan Goddard, of Home Additions, taken back in May and the second was taken by Hatti Bayliss at the Link Road this weekend
Sergeant's August bulletin
Nailsea police sergeant Lee Kerslake is off on his summer holidays but before going he has more than 700 emails to deal with!
In the August newsletter he tells us that the young children who stole the pre-school blue paint tins and left graffiti and trails in the playground and on the Silver Street bus stop have said they are very sorry.
A Backwell repeat offender drink driver was successfully prosecuted and has been banned while incidents of anti-social behaviour and domestic violent have the attention of the police and North Somerset Social Care team. To download your own copy click HERE
Cash help for those in need
Financial support is available for people in Nailsea who are struggling with their household finances.
North Somerset Council has been awarded a £1.3m grant from the Government household support fund to be distributed to households in need by the end of September 2022.
The grant money is being made available to vulnerable households and is intended to help pay for food, energy and water bills and other essential items.
All working age North Somerset residents claiming council tax support will receive a £50 food voucher, all pensionable age residents claiming council tax support will receive a minimum of a £90 food voucher automatically.
These vouchers amount to £822,400.
Food vouchers of £75 will also be paid in one instalment for each child receiving free school meals.
These vouchers total about £350,550.
Grants are also being paid to North Somerset's two Foodbanks as well as the Salvation Army and the Handyman Service for them to support people in need.
There is also additional money to support individuals who are unable to meet short-term needs in a crisis, or where they need help to maintain their independence in the community.
This support is available through the Welfare Provision Scheme and the amount of help that can be given will depend on individual circumstances.
North Somerset Council executive member for corporate services Ash Cartman is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Long Ashton, Leigh Woods, Failand and Wraxall as well as a parish councillor.
He. said: "We are committed to reducing inequalities in North Somerset and this additional support will help ensure that our residents who are financially vulnerable get the support they need.
"As well as the additional payments to our residents receiving council tax support help is also available to families receiving free school meals and via the local support networks that we've grant funded.
"If you find yourself in financial difficulty, we will do our best to support you."
North Somerset executive member for children’s services Catherine Gibbons is the Labour Party ward councillor for Weston Miltonl.
She said: "No child should go hungry and the additional £75 for each child who receives free school meals will go a long way towards ensuring that does not happen.
"If other families are struggling and are unsure if they're entitled to support, they can apply for free school meals online at www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals.
"We are also continuing to provide support through our Welfare Provision Scheme which can support families with a wider range of needs including help during emergencies."
Residents needing additional short-term support through the welfare provision scheme can find more information on the council's website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/wps.
Applications can be made by phone on 01934 888035 or 0800 138 5665 Monday to Friday 10am-4pm.
CAMPING AT BACKWELL LAKE
Holidaymakers have been using Backwell Lake as an unofficial place to camp overnight - with some spotted weeing in nearby rivers. Local residents have reported seeing camper vans parked at the lake at Station Road overnight during the past few weeks. Follow link to read Somerset Live report HERE
BUTTERFLY COUNT
The Big Butterfly Count is from 10am-1pm on Wednesday, August 3, at Elm Farm, Lodge Lane, Nailsea – see Avon Wildlife Trust poster on our Flower Peeps page HERE and on Tuesdays, August 2, 9 and 16, meeting at 10.30am at Elm Farm and 2pm at Pound Lane AWT needs volunteers to monitor wildflowers, pollinators, and insect population.
NAILSEA TOWN COUNCIL
Nailsea Town Council meeting is at 7.30pm on Wednesday, August 3, at the Tithe Barn. You can download the first 58-pages of the agenda HERE. The final item is a projects progress report. Former councillor James Steel urged people to go along and listen in a letter to the local press where he lamented on the lack of progress on major issues – most the responsibility of North Somerset Council – and questions whether a councillor should represent town and district at the same time.
BLUE PAINT PESTS
Two pots of expensive bright blue paint worth more than £200 where stolen from Greenslade Pre-school, Pound Lane, at the weekend and used to deface the locality including the Silver Street bus stop. Happily, builders merchants Travis Perkins and parents came to the rescue with donations and offers of help. As well as the distinctive trail of destruction the culprits left behind a perfectly formed footprint and police have been informed.
PLACE YOUR BETS
Winning Post the new shop in Colliers Walk is due to open its doors on Monday, August 15, we are told by company owner Roy Holbrook. All the latest opening and closing hours of our stores are on the Marketplace page HERE.
BRISTOL AIRPORT
Read all about the latest arrangements for luggage drop-offs for passengers flying from Lulsgate on our dedicated page for holidaymakers and business people HERE which also has the up-to-date news for those who like to use our local airport
Energy bill discounts for all this winter
Details of how the £400 energy bills discount for households will work have been announced by the government.
The £400 discount, administered by energy suppliers, will be paid over the course of six months starting in October, to ensure consumers receive financial support throughout the winter months.
All households in England, Scotland and Wales are eligible.
It comes as people across the country struggle with soaring energy prices and spiking inflation in the worst cost of living crisis for decades.
Setting out its Energy Bills Support Scheme, the government said those with a domestic electricity meter point paying for their energy via standard credit, payment card and direct debit will receive an automatic deduction to their bills.
Meanwhile, traditional prepayment meter customers will be provided with Energy Bill discount vouchers in the first week of each month, issued via SMS text, email or post, using the customer's registered contact details.
These customers will need to take action to redeem these at their usual top-up point, such as their nearest local PayPoint or Post Office branch.
Questions over how the discount will work - for example for people whose bills are included with their rent - have swirled since the policy was announced earlier this year.
Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi said: "We know that people are struggling with rising energy prices which is why we have taken action with support over the winter months to help ease the pressure on household budgets.
"This £400 off energy bills is part of our £37 billion of help for households, including eight million of the most vulnerable households receiving £1,200 of direct support to help with the cost of living."
Households will see a discount of £66 applied to their energy bills in October and November, rising to £67 each month from December through to March 2023.
The non-repayable discount will be provided on a monthly basis regardless of whether consumers pay monthly, quarterly or have an associated payment card.
Households most in need will be eligible for further support in addition to the energy bill discount, including:
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£650 one-off Cost of Living Payment for around 8 million households on means tested benefits
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£300 one-off Pensioner Cost of Living Payment for more than eight million pensioner households to be paid alongside the Winter Fuel Payment
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£150 one-off Disability Cost of Living Payment for around six million people across the UK who receive certain disability benefits
Police horse 'seriously' hurt in road collision near Nailsea
A police horse was seriously injured on Friday afternoon, July 8, while on patrol near Nailsea.
Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after a collision on Beggar Bush Lane, Failand, which happened just before 2.30pm.
The collision involved police horse Rocky and his rider and a blue Ford Focus.
The police officer is at hospital for assessment but is not believed to have life-threatening or life-changing injuries.
The car driver, a man in his 70s, went to hospital with injuries also not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
But Rocky, a five-year-old Irish draft cross has serious injuries and is being treated at a specialist equine hospital.
He was on patrol with stable-mate Platinum. Thankfully neither Platinum nor his rider were hurt.
Beggar Bush Lane was closed while the vehicle was recovered and officers have now left the scene.
If you can help please call 101 and give the reference 5222162409.
Thousands of people sent get well wishes via the Nailsea People Facebook page and by Monday the post had reached 95,000+!.
UPDATE 1pm SUNDAY: Avon & Somerset Police Horses: ‘We are pleased to say while Rocky’s condition is still serious, it is stable and shows signs of improvement. We will continue to provide updates when we can and when we have a better idea of his prognosis. We are truly thankful for all of your kind messages.’ New photo supplied scroll to end of comments.
UPDATE 2pm SUNDAY: Avon & Somerset police press office: ‘We'd like to thank everyone who has been asking about our police horse Rocky, his rider and the driver involved in a collision on Beggar Bush Lane, Bristol at 2.30pm on Friday afternoon, 8 July. Both Rocky's rider and the driver of a blue Ford Focus involved, a man in his 70s, are recovering at home. Rocky himself suffered serious injuries and remains at a specialist equine hospital where he is said to be "making progress". The investigation into the circumstances of the collision continues and we’d still like to hear from anyone who saw the collision, has dashcam or other footage or any other information. Please call 101 and give the reference 5111162409.’
UPDATE MONDAY: Platinum, pictured in his field near Nailsea, has enjoyed some downtime and today he went out on patrol locally with his good pal Windsor. Early indications are really good and he seems happy and confident. We will continue to monitor him closely'
UPDATE TUESDAY:
Avon & Somerset Constabulary mounted section shared this on social media: “Today (Tuesday, July 12) we visited Rocky in hospital and it’s fair to say he and his rider were pleased to see each other. Our vets have advised that it will be around a month before we have an update on his prognosis however he is in good spirits and has got over the first hurdle.”
ROAD SAFETY COMMENT
It is with some sad irony that on Monday, July 12, the government launched THINK! a road safety campaign to encourage people driving, walking and cycling to give space and be considerate to other road users including horse riders. This comes after a weekend when police horse Rocky was seriously injured in a collusion in Beggar Bush Lane. Happily stable mate Platinum escaped unscathed and has been treated to sugar cubes by concerned officers. A police spokesman said: "Platinum has enjoyed some downtime and on Sunday he went out on patrol locally with his good pal Windsor. Early indications are really good and he seems happy and confident. We will continue to monitor him closely." All this happened just days before North Somerset Council launched a consultation into introducing a 20mph speed limit in Pill and Easton-in-Gordano but nothing for our farming community at West End which sees an endless steam of HGVs and racing car drivers! Julia Miners said: "West End hamlet has been trying for a 20mph speed limit since 2011. The mounted police unit on Nailsea Wall, West End don’t dare to exercise their horses on our lanes!"
UPDATE WEDNESDAY, July 27
Avon & Somerset police horses team report that Rocky who was injured in a road traffic incident near Nailsea continues to progress well at a North Somerset veterinary hospital. We are told ‘our vets advise it will be another couple of weeks before there is anything new to share, but he is comfortable, and letting us know that by being extra cheeky!’ Sounds much more hopeful fingers crossed
THINK! road safety
People driving, walking and cycling are being encouraged to give space and be considerate to other road users in the Government’s latest THINK! road safety campaign launched on Monday, July 12.
It is with a sad irony that the campaign includes a warning for drivers to be aware of horse riders.
The Travel Like You Know Them campaign will promote the recent changes to the Highway Code, which help improve road safety for people walking, cycling and horse riding.
The campaign offers a snapshot into the lives of people who use the roads, aiming to help people see beyond the mode of transport and improve understanding of how others see and use the road.
‘Travel Like You Know Them’ speaks to everyone who uses the road, with an emphasis on motorists and those who have a greater responsibility to reduce the risk they may pose to others, as per Highway Code’s new hierarchy of road users.
The campaign follows the first phase of the THINK! Campaign launched in February to highlight the changes to the Highway Code, with 87% of people surveyed being aware of the changes.
Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “People tend to see cycles, lorries and cars on the roads rather than thinking of the person using them – but it could be your family member, your friend or your colleague.
“We have some of the safest roads in the world but I am determined to make them even safer, particularly as more people choose to walk, cycle and ride for their journeys.
“This campaign encourages everyone to see the person behind the wheel or handlebars, to build more understanding of others on the road, and help keep everyone safe.”
‘Travel Like You Know Them’ aims to foster mutual respect to embed the new Highway Code rules in the day-to-day behaviour of people driving, walking and cycling alike.
The changes include clarifying cycle positioning, emphasising the priority at junctions for pedestrians and cyclists, guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking, and on opening car doors, the ‘Dutch reach’.
Brake chief executive Mary Willilams said: “On behalf of road victims and everyone who uses roads, Brake is a passionate supporter of the Government’s THINK campaign, and its focus on driver behaviour and protection of those most at risk, particularly people on bicycles and walking.
“The Highway Code’s new hierarchy of road users is a vital step forwards that everyone can help promote, particularly to drivers, to prevent tragedies on roads.”
As the country works towards a net zero future, safer roads will encourage more and more people to travel by foot, bike or public transport, helping reduce congestion and emissions.
The campaign builds on our £20 million investment in Bikeability, the Government’s national cycle training programme, to ensure everyone can access the fantastic mobility opportunities of cycling and sustainable active travel.
Improvements to road safety measures will also lead to fewer road traffic collisions, not only saving lives but also the billions of pounds spent every year on dealing with such collisions and ensuing road repairs.
In January this year the Department for Transport updated the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.
The changes include:
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clear hierarchy of road users ensuring the greatest responsibility sits with those who do can do the greatest harm
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strengthening pedestrian priority on pavements and at crossings
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establishing guidance on safe passing distances and speeds and
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ensuring cyclists have priorities at junctions when travelling straight ahead.
SGT SAYS: With the current team pressures currently, the newsletter this month is a bit sparse, in fact very short – but I thought it important to get out, not least because there are two events that I think people may be interested in, a county lines webinar for parents and professionals on Thursday, July 21, and NHW coordinators masterclass on Saturday, July 23. And because come what may, even if a bit rubbish because of things out of my control, I want to make sure the communication continues and we tell you what we can. We are hoping in the coming month team members will return to neighbourhood duties and the office. Until then we just need to prioritise as well as possible, so your input is essential on what is really hurting the area. And what is happening – we are never too busy to take the valuable intelligence that helps us target the criminals, drink drivers, policing problems in the area. Let us/me know and we will feed it into the organisation for us to take action. In the meantime, stay cool...water is your friend. As is air conditioning. And Calippos, Lee Kerslake To download your own pdf copy of the bulletin click HERE
Free sim cards at library
North Somerset residents facing digital exclusion through not being able to afford sim cards and mobile data can now access them for free thanks to a new scheme available through the library service.
The UK National Databank provides free sims and mobile data (as well as talk minutes and texts) to people in need through the Good Things Foundation’s network of local community partners, including North Somerset libraries.
It’s like a food bank but for internet connectivity data.
The scheme will offer vital connections for anyone cut off from the basic daily activities most people take for granted like contacting loved ones, accessing job interviews, finding essential health or other information online, and digitised public services.
Anyone over 18 from a low-income household who qualifies in at least one of the following ways can obtain data vouchers from their local library:
Has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home, and/or
has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from home, and/or
can’t afford their existing monthly contract or top-up.
Residents who need a data voucher should contact their local library to make an appointment to collect it.
For details of North Somerset libraries visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/libraries, email libraries@n-somerset.gov.uk or telephone 01934 426 834.
Biz help against hackers
North Somerset businesses can access Police Cyber Alarm, a free tool designed to help organisations understand and monitor the threat they face from malicious cyber activity.
Funded by the government, Police Cyber Alarm acts as like ‘CCTV camera’, monitoring the traffic seen by a businesses’ connection to the internet.
It will detect and provide regular reports of suspected malicious activity, enabling a business to take steps to improve their cyber resilience.
Once a business or organisation becomes a member, they will need to install the ‘Cyber Alarm Virtual Server’, which will then collect and process traffic logs identifying suspicious activity from the firewall.
Police Cyber Alarm does not see any content of any network traffic; it monitors the logs relating to the traffic to identify suspicious activity.
It is designed to protect personal data, trade secrets and intellectual property.
Businesses will benefit from regular reports detailing suspicious and potentially malicious attack activity on their firewall/internet gateway.
The tool will show them how they are being attacked, where from and also help law enforcement identify current threats to take enforcement action against cyber criminals.
Police Cyber Alarm can benefit any business with a computer network including SMEs, organisations, public and private sector, charities, education establishments and local government.
Businesses can sign up via cyberalarm.police.uk/#join.
You will receive a unique code, which once added to the website, will provide access to full instructions regarding how to install the Police Cyber Alarm.
LOST AND LONELY: This little soft toy found by Rachel Lee risked sleeping rough on a Millennium Park bench near the silhouette statues until Nailsea People asked on its Facebook page for the owner to come and claim the mouse. Within minutes Nick Gill responded. He said: "On my way to pick up mousey, my daughter will be very happy thank you." And later he added: "Home safe now, thank you again."
WRONG TROUSERS: The Wallace & Gromit's Grand Appeal encouraged fashion faux pas by North Somerset people and friends at Bristol Hippodrome. Priority teammates went to Squarebird, at High Street, Nailsea, for the Friday afternoon photoshoot and Simpson Solicitors at Crown Glass Place did their own thing in the office
Invitation to wear wrong trousers for v.sheepish fun(d)raising stunt
Squarebird staff sheepishly admit their trousers are all wrong but it is in a very good cause.
The Nailsea digital marketing agency is opening its foyer to the public from noon-5pm on Friday, July 1, for a public photo opportunity with Shaun the Sheep.
This is to raise money for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal in aid of Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Passers-by will be able to take a photo with the iconic Cath Kidston Paradise Bunch Shaun the Sheep statue at 88 High Street and donate to this important cause.
The Squarebird team will also be celebrating the 25th anniversary of Wrong Trousers Day, by donning the most colourful and ridiculous trousers they can find.
The Shaun the Sheep statue was commissioned by fashion designer Cath Kidston and painted in Liverpool before being moved to Earlham Street in London.
The full collection was then auctioned in Bristol for £1,087,900 to raise money for the Grand Appeal.
After a four year stay in Norwich, Shaun finally arrived at the Squarebird studio in 2021 following a further donation where its fundraising journey continues to this day!
The Grand Appeal funds ground-breaking research at Bristol Children’s Hospital to improve the quality of healthcare children receive, now and in the future.
The appeal also supports the provision of lifesaving equipment, family accommodation, and vital wellbeing support.
Squarebird managing partner Nick Bird said: “We’re incredibly proud to be raising money for the Grand Appeal; the charity has such a positive impact on the lives of the children in its care.
"We want to support the Bristol Children’s Hospital and make sure it continues to be at the forefront of children’s healthcare, saving lives in our communities.”
Nailsea people can 'come as you are' for the photo opportunity or don their own 'unique' trousers for the photo op with Shaun the Sheep.
In exchange, they will be invited to donate whatever they can spare on the dedicated JustGiving page here https://wrongtrousersday.justgiving-sites.com/fundraising/wrong-trousers-day-at-squarebird.
Nick added: "With the help of the community, we aim to support the vital work of Bristol Children’s Hospital – and have fun doing it!"
SQUARE SHEEP: Top some of the Squarebird team with Cath Kidston Paradise Bunch Shaun the Sheep
FOLK DANCING AT PUB(S): Mendip Morris dancers performed outside Nailsea MicroPub on Thursday evening, June 23, and later that night at the Ring O’Bells. They were such a success at the MicroPub even the customers joined in and at the Ringers everyone agreed 'it was a fabulous night'. New dancers and musicians always welcome. Further information about the team which performs mostly in the North Somerset area a repertoire of Cotswold-style dances but also includes Border dances, North-West clog dances and North East sword dances. On Thursday, July 7, at 8pm they will be dancing at Priddy. More info on its Facebook page
One of the new pieces of art at Nailsea & Backwell railway station has been hung on platform railings the wrong way up!
It has been like this for several weeks since the grand unveiling at the beginning of May.
Nailsea town councillor Anita Smith who is part of North Somerset Artists Collective was nominated to work with Severnside Community Rail Partnership on the project to liven up the platform when the new shelters were installed.
Work by established North Somerset artists Greg Derrick and Joe Bougourd were chosen/commissioned together with images by students from Backwell School and Nailsea School to be on display.
The theme was Landscape and the artists used photography, illustration, drawing and painting to create unique A1 boards.
But it wasn’t until the unveiling the error was discovered.
Anita said: “I did point it out at the time – it is a mystery how it happened although the board is bent and may have been forced.
“At the opening I thought that picture doesn’t make sense to me and then I realised it was upside down.
“No-one can understand how it got turned around as originally it was right.”
Now the workmen who hung the picture upside down aren’t the first to make this type of mistake.
In the 1960s The Museum of Modern Art in New York hung a Matisse upside down and no one noticed for more than a month.
However, the painting by Greg Derrick isn’t an abstract work by Henri Matisse called Le Bateau (1953) although at the odd angle it is attached to the railings it doesn’t quite look like the ‘viewpoint from platform two looking up Station Road’.
The playful picture of a steam train by Joseph Bougourd is the right way up as are the colourful images by Backwell School Year 7 which took inspiration from Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and the submission by Nailsea School Year 7-9 students which is a collage of scenic photographs from local places.
Anita added: “I love all the pictures and was so pleased our schools took part as many of the students use the train daily although I wish the pictures could have been bigger for more impact but the rules didn't allow.
“I will contact the community rail coordinator Faye Keane to let them know that Greg’s picture is still the wrong way up.”
Nailsea People popped down on Tuesday night, June 21, to see another unofficial art installation - the appearance of a cheery garden gnome sitting halfway up the brickwork on the rail bridge.
And despite strike action about pay and redundancies the trains seemed to still be running on this part of the GWR network.
UPDATE: Faye said: "It does seem a shame the headline focuses on the one artwork being upside down - I hope this doesn’t take away from all the positives the project has had and the hard work by the artists. Also there is a claim that the work was originally hung upside down - that is not the case. It was the correct way up but either someone has intentionally turned it round (with great effort), or the adhesives on the attachments became loose and a well intentioned passerby has tried to reattach but sadly upside down." Thanks for clarifying.
This way is up
UP LINE: Nailsea & Backwell railway station new artwork, shelters and garden gnome in residence
Councillors back 20mph speed limit across moors before someone is killed
WEST ENDERS: Warning of increasing traffic on their lanes and fears of a fatality. Top clerk Jo Duffy talks to audience and Natalie Court tells of concerns
Residents say they risk life and limb to live in the countryside near Nailsea because of the dramatic increase in traffic on their lanes.
Nailsea Town Council on Wednesday, June 15, heard from a delegation from West End about the increasing problems they are facing which are made worse by the two construction sites at Netherton Wood Lane and Engine Lane.
Reckless drivers of speeding cars and commercial vehicles and even cyclists who race through the lanes are often abusive and aggressive when confronted, they told councillors at the Tithe Barn meeting.
Currently 36 children living in the hamlet can’t play outside their own homes and a resident of West End Lane said her 93-year-old father risks his life every time he stepped outside his front door to take a daily constitutional.
They told councillors they fear it will take a fatality before they something is done.
The speed limit on the country lanes leading to West End is 60mph except where there is street lighting, then it is 30mph, but the narrow stretches with streetlamps are few and far between.
The responsibility for highways is the remit of North Somerset Council and district and town councillor James Tonkin proposed a second meeting with local people at the Blue Flame to include senior council officers responsible for public safety to thrash out a solution.
During the discussion there were some bizarre suggestions like a councillor saying he didn’t want traffic diverted via Chelvey to the A370 as this was where his daughter went horse-riding.
Councillor James Steel wanted to put £30,000 of town council money towards fixing the road safety issues.
He said: “The issues on those lanes has been a problem for a number of years and we are adding to that problem at the moment with the development of the Engine Lane site and we benefited hugely financially off the back of selling that land.
“I don’t think we should be just putting our weight behind this, let’s put some money behind it.”
Flashing warning lights, speed cameras, more streetlamps, CCTV, extra signage, single passing spaces, quiet lanes and banning through traffic were all put forward.
No-one knew the national criteria for imposing a 20mph speed limit or how a 40mph limit was adopted at Wraxall, some wanted the lane closed completely to through traffic, speed bumps were ruled out as they were difficult for tractors to drive over and all-in-all there was no immediate answer.
Councillor Neil Middleton asked the audience: “What would your reaction be it West End was made access only.”
Not feasible came the response with working farms and businesses on the route.
But implementing any safety measures would be a problem for the police and not councillors, the meeting heard.
Antony Evans, of Engine Lane, complained about the number of lorries from Taylor Wimpey and Barratt Homes site depositing mud on the nearby
Nailsea residential roads ‘not to mention the banging, and the clanging, clouds of dust and diesel fumes’ nuisance.
Natalie Court, of Netherton Wood Lane, said: “We have a road with no pavements and a 60mph speed limit.
“In other areas of North Somerset and in Bristol they have pavements and a 20mph speed limit.
“What is it going to take for us to have a 20mph limit within the residential areas, is it going to be a fatality, is it going to be one of the children?”
Residents of West End Lane said they stopped some of the articulated lorries attempting to use their road only to be told by drivers this was the route they were advised to take by the construction site office.
Something awful is going to happen, we have been here so many times and nothing gets done, they warned.
A resident of 32 years said: “It is just horrendous and getting worse.”
Only that day a walker was hit by a cyclist going at a tremendous speed, she said.
Chairman for the evening Emily Miller said: “We want to take this forward to North Somerset on your behalf and there are lots of strategies here we can work together on.”
Clerk Jo Duffy read out a long email from North Somerset Council citing financial constraints and ruling out many of the suggestions. It has changed Sat Nav settings to avoid the rat-run but added many of the larger vehicles on the lanes were local agricultural lorries.
Councillor Clare Hunt said: “I really have a lot of sympathy for anyone who doesn’t feel safe where they live and for their children.
“Everyone can remember during lockdown how wonderful it was to have very low volume of cars on our roads
“I feel sorry that if the West End residents feel the town council hasn’t supported you enough but in many ways our hands are tied and we are dependent on North Somerset.”
Planning chairman Rod Lees said: “I don’t think North Somerset Council really understand the problems and is failing to look ahead.”
He said Nailsea is likely to add a further 1,000 homes in the next few years all increasing the traffic volumes.
In the end Nailsea town councillors voted to ask North Somerset Council to designate from St Marys Grove to Nailsea Wall Farm and Engine Lane to the Blue Flame as a classified residential area and given a 20mph speed limit with appropriate safety signage in place and that they would contribute an unspecified sum towards this action.
There are only two routes from Nailsea to Clevedon and the M5 junction.
Drivers either must go across the moors or through Tickenham.
Neither route is ideal for large volumes of traffic.
Tickenham Road Action Group is concerned new developments in Nailsea will see a 20 per cent plus increase in traffic along the B3130 which runs through the heart of its village.
TRAG says the immerging Local Plan does not address traffic growth and how it impacts villages and rural lanes.
It says together with the planned expansion of Bristol Airport additional HGVs and other commercial traffic will be seen on rural roads.
We are all going on South American trek
Two Nailsea paramedics Leanne Bessell and Donna Jordan, who is a student, are part of a team going on a fundraising charity mountain hike in South America.
The South West Ambulance Service superfit 12 intend to tackle the Machu Picchu Inca Trail in the Andes in May 2023 while raising money for ambulance stations in our area.
Joining Leanne and Donna are Tracy Jarrett, Vicky Turner, Abi West, Helen Field, Charlotte Cousin, Georgia Simpson, Diane Fant, Sharon Swanborough, Rich Clark and Gabriella Salmon.
They have set a target of £10,000.
Leanne said: "I think we can all agree that the past couple of years have been unusual to say the least.
"The pandemic has been horrendous for the whole country but at the forefront of the pandemic has been the ambulance service and everyone that works for the SWAST.
"The whole country on lockdown while our paramedics and emergency care assistants have worked tirelessly and selflessly on the Covid frontline.
"This has been incredibly difficult both physically and mentally for us all and it still continues with hospital waiting times and queuing in the ambulances for hours at a time with patients who are very poorly.
"Our jobs have changed completely over the past 18 months, but as a team, if we're all honest ...there isn't a job we'd rather do."
"Now that lockdown has eased we have decided to raise some money for the ambulance service and everyone working within it.
"All team members are fully self-funding this trip with 100 per cent of the fundraising going to our small local ambulance stations in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucester.
Go to http://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/swast-team to contribute.
The money will go to South Western Ambulance Charity.
It says 'your donations enable us to go the extra mile to improve the welfare of the exceptional staff and heroic volunteers of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. Together we are making a life saving difference to communities across the South West'.
STRETCH THOSE LEGS: Walking, running and cycling it was legs 11 on Sunday, June 19, when the first participants for the Nailsea Charity Walks, Runs and Bikes, sponsored by Rotary Nailsea and Backwell, set out from the car park at the Scotch Horn Centre. All those taking part got a medal and a big thank you from the charities they were fundraising for.
Last year two records were smashed and 478 people registered to take part. We are waiting for the 2022 stats but in the meantime here are the first photos. Others have until Sunday, July 31, to complete their chosen route in an event which has raised thousands of pounds over the years
SAY IT WITH FLOWERS: And other foliage as Nailsea Town Council plant a platinum tree on the village green and the flower tub gets moved to block the High Street from HGVs while councillors wait to the service roads are repaired so the weight restrictions can be updated and the town centre roads become more pedestrian-friendly. Photos taken on Friday, June 17
Traffic in wrong fast lane
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A delegation from West End, Nailsea, is due to attend Nailsea Town Council meeting on Wednesday, June 15, in yet another attempt to stop HGVs and other vehicles hurtling through their hamlet at excessive speeds.
The speed limit on the country lanes leading to West End is 60mph except where there is street lighting, then it is 30mph, but the stretches with streetlamps are few and far between.
Traffic from the construction sites on the west side of Nailsea using the route as a shortcut to the motorway have exacerbated the problems, say those who live in what should be rural idyllian.
The issues aren’t new as ever since Nailsea expanded people living in West End have complained about more and more vehicles using their lane as a rat run to the M5.
Back in 2016 West End resident Julia Miners reported to the town council that a survey they had been carrying out on the volumes and types of traffic using Netherton Wood Lane for the past five years.
She said at the time that ‘it is virtually impossible to walk safely along the lane without having to constantly step aside onto the verge or lean against the dry-stone wall rather that get squashed by a car, bike or van’.
And she predicted at that time any development at ‘construction corner’ would only make matters worse.
The council is again to be asked to impose traffic calming measure with further weight and speed limits.
It was put on the agenda by Oliver Ellis a firefighter who lives at Worcester Gardens. He was elected to town council to represent West End ward in 2017.
And it isn’t just the traffic that residents are complaining about.
Tracey Thomas lives at the top of Engine Lane just a few yards from the Taylor Wimpey site and she cited the housebuilders continual breaches of its own Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP).
She listed the constant disruption, inconvenience and at times endangerment of residents.
In an open letter to group operations director Jennie Daly copied to the press and North Somerset MP Liam Fox she said: "Our repeated complaints to your site manager and to your customer services call centre have had no effect over several months in resolving these issues, which have now also been reported to North Somerset Council planning enforcement team.
"It is a daily occurrence that vehicles of site operatives are parked on the residential roads of Engine Lane and St Mary’s Grove, quite often right on the junction which is illegal.
"The vehicles obstruct the view for traffic approaching the junction and force vehicles into the middle of the road.
"They also obstruct the view of pedestrians trying to cross the road and access the public right of way that runs parallel to the site creating a dangerous situation.
"Repeated e-mails to the site manager seem to be ignored, with no pro-active process or management to monitor or check that contractors are not parking on roads.”
"Furthermore radios can be heard blasting forth from the site whenever one walks past on the public bridleway which runs alongside the side from the top of Engine Lane all the way to The Perrings and is used by walkers and horse riders.
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Photos: Julia Miners
"In the earlier stages when houses closest to the road were being constructed radio noise could be heard in our back garden which we complained about on countless occasions."
North Somerset independent councillor James Tonkin who also serves on Nailsea Town Council said he has been trying to agree a solution for the past three years.
He said increased weight restriction signage and single track passing areas were all about go ahead when government edicts during the Covid lockdown and together with the mishandling of the introduction of quiet lanes any implementation was stalled.
Mr Tonkin said: “I have been trying to do something for months and months and have been in touch with all the interested parties, I am slowly getting there having spoken to senior highways officers, road design teams and Hutton and Locking independent councillor Mike Solomon who is the newly appointed executive member for neighbourhoods and community services.
“There is a weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes but it needs emphasising.
“I am in favour of having quiet lanes but not of shutting the countryside off.
“This whole scenario has been exasperated by the government allowing these homes when North Somerset Council were against it but lost on appeal.
“I will most definitely be at the meeting on Wednesday evening.”
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The introduction of a weight limit along High Street isn’t to go ahead soon as the service roads aren’t fit for purpose – that is, able to be used by delivery lorries, confirmed Nailsea Town Council clerk Jo Duffy this week. Mr Tonkin added: “The service roads need to be made fit-for-purpose first which I understand will be later this year.” The photos below were taken by Nailsea MicroPub boss Mark Ashman on Tuesday, June 14. We do not know the reason for the lorry being in High Street with its lifting gear...
STEPPING UP: The building work begun in March on the frontage of Tower House Medical Centre is nearly complete with much improved disabled access including new lobby, and eight new consultation rooms plus holistic sensory garden almost ready for use. Part of Tyntesfield Medical Group which caters for 31,600 patients from Backwell, Long Ashton and Nailsea it had plans to sell Brockway Medical Centre and move everyone to Tower House but this was thwarted by the pandemic. Plans are in the pipeline for a neighbouring site but this has still to be approved (or not) by North Somerset Council - see Property Peeps page HERE
ALLS WELL THAT ENDS WELL: Scaffolding which blighted the streetscape of Nailsea High Street and restriction access to some shops has finally gone with roof repairs which took several weeks now complete. The florist shop had been closing and taking telephone orders because of the problems when many customers were put off by the entrance being semi-hidden behind ironwork!
YELLOW PERIL: Workmen arrived early on Thursday morning, May 26, in Nailsea High Street to (re)paint double yellow lines - is this getting ready for the long-awaited weight restrictions which we were told were imminent by Nailsea Town Council chairman Mike Bird at the annual meeting? Thanks to Geraint Goddard, of Home Additions, for photo
UPDATE: Painting all done and Home Additions has a loading bay, hooray
POLICE NEWS: Here is the June edition of Sgt's Bulletin a police newsletter put together by Neighbourhood Sergeant Lee Kerslake (2781). This includes some up-to-date information on items of public interest/concern including the dog attack at Grove Sports Centre & Social Club and incidents of anti-social behaviour in the town centre. To download your own copy click HERE
Making a nuisance in Nailsea
Despite some views to the contrary Nailsea is mostly a law-abiding place to live.
Nailsea Town Council community engagement committee meeting on Wednesday, June 1, 7.30pm is at the Tithe Barn.
Its agenda is HERE.
It contains the 3-page CCTV log for March.
It records 28 incidents caught on CCTV in Nailsea town centre which required further investigation.
These ranged from missing people to drink/drug related disturbances, from traffic accidents to anti-social behaviour.
A fight at the Royal Oak, criminal damage at Waitrose supermarket, burglary at French Close and alarmingly the CCTV saw youths observed in ‘sexual offences’.
Sadly, you don’t ever seem to find out what happens next – arrests, court appearances, warned under caution?
During the past few weeks, we have heard of a hammer attack, cars being wantonly damaged and people who don’t seem to give a damn leaving thoroughfares litter strewn.
Nailsea MicroPub boss Mark Ashman said on Wednesday: “They are at it again.
“Three to four young girls are causing damage and havoc in Nailsea.
“Last night they pushed over and damaged an expensive motorcycle.
“They walked on casually as they have no care at all.
“The police have been informed and do know who they are."
“If you care about this town and your property, you’ll report them if you see them causing damage.
“It is only a matter of time until they seriously injure somebody.”
The problems aren't new or confined to Nailsea.
Rubbish High Street story
Alan Goddard arrived at work at Home Additions early on Saturday morning, May 14, and spotted this on the opposite side of the road.
He said the repositioning of the bin on top of the road sign appears to have been done under the CCTV High Street camera.
Can’t see any canine owner being able to reached it now!!
Our 7.30am post on Nailsea People Facebook page reached 7,000+ readers and attracted more than 50 comments.
Here are a selection:
Roland Green said: "Someone had a good night."
Kien Searle said: "Oh my goodness call the police."
Justine N Jones said: "Someone's bin naughty."
But Laurabeth Watt worried it could fall and hurt someone.
She said: "That could really hurt someone potentially kill a small child if it landed on their head."
Emma Pontin said: "Oh the joys of Friday night!
"Credit where it's due getting it to stay up there!
"Joking aside, this is dangerous as if it fell it could either hurt someone or fall into an oncoming car and cause a crash.
"Who'd have thought Nailsea would have people who would do things like that?"
Thomas Morley said: "These bins are lockable into place to prevent this sort of thing happening.
"Evidently whoever empties them isn’t locking them."
Neil Ridley said: "This could be a new Olympic event.. see how far back you have to stand, to fling the dog poo bag into the opening, get it in three times in a row, bang, gold medal, two times, silver. one time bronze."
Alan crossed the road from his shop and removed the bin before setting out on another house clearance job.
Sorry, I'll read that again
In my time I have come across some brilliant mistakes/typos in newspapers, but I love this cutting shared by our library, source unknown, for its Local History Month.
it forecasts the future population of Nailsea at nearing a quarter of a million people.
Perhaps they were talking about the whole of North Somerset but at last guessimate for 2020 it was put at 215,000.
To celebrate the Platinum Jubilee the library is sharing nuggets of Nailsea history from the past 70 years.
On display are copies of newspaper articles relating to the development of Nailsea and some photos of the controversial library building under construction.
More nuggets of Nailsea history will be posted throughout the month.
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Former Glasshouse barmaid has release her latest single on Spotify. To hear the wonderful voice of Lenny Savage and her new recording Fleeting Signs click HERE.
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Former Nailsea School student, television presenter, author and all round lovely person Zena Moolla has a second book out this month. By Summersdale Publishers and stocked by Waterstones it is called How to Find Your Mental Strength: Tips and Techniques to Help You Build a Tougher Mindset. More information here shorturl.at/K3569.
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Former Nailsea resident Louise Douglas who once lived in Porlock Gardens has a book racing up the Top 10 bestselling novels on Amazon. The Room in the Attic is available here shorturl.at/deksH. Louise won the RNA Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller award 2021 for The House by the Sea and also got a Richard and Judith Book Club recommendation for an earlier publication.
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Former Scotch Horn Way housewife turned newspaper reporter and now gardener MJ Greenwood debut novel The Blue Hour which is reviewed by Nailsea People HERE has calls for it to be made into a television series or film. Melanie, a mother-of-four, is a former Bristol Post features writer who was born in Liverpool, with Irish roots. The Blue Hour has been a four-year project begun during an MA at Bath Spa University. Read more here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Hour-M-J-Greenwood/dp/1916084583.
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And we are hearing rave reviews for The Dinner Party which has been playing at Nailsea Little Theatre this week. The fast-moving comedy by American playwright Neil Simon, who earned a string of awards for Broadway hits like Come Blow Your Horn, Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and Plaza Suite has enchanted audiences. Nailsea town councillor Jan Barber said: "Wonderful performances."
Thieves target building site
A new build development site off Engine Lane, Nailsea has been broken into on two occasions.
The most recent of which occurred overnight on the 11th where a metal store was accessed with several high value power tools were stolen, these include
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rotating lasers;
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pipe lasers;
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whacker plates;
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suppression bottles;
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radios;
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gas detector; and
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steel saw.
Entry was made by forcing and damaging the gates.
The site closes between 6pm-7am.
Brandwells Construction Co Ltd managing director Chris Dowden said: "If anyone has any information please come forward, this kit was stolen from my company costing many thousands of pounds to replace, as well as two days lost production waiting for the replacement kit to be sourced.
"Unfortunately the theft took place between systems being set up, Barratts have taken over on site and haven't got its CCTV up and running yet.
"While we were running the site we had CCTV and no problems.
"Very annoying."
Nailsea Neighbourhood Watch has asked that any unusual activity is reported to police immediately.
And anyone with information should contact the police on 101 quoting reference number 5222086283 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
MOTORHOME STOLEN: This motorhome worth £25,000 was taken from Tickenham Garage on Friday, April 22. The man captured on CCTV is suspected of being involved. More information on its Facebook page HERE. And Makita tools were taken from a van parked off Silver Street belonging to Nigel Weston. The tools worth more than £2,000 were taken sometime at the beginning of the week
Ring-ding ding for CHSW
Nailsea People has a slideshow dedicated to the magnificent bikers event at Ring O’Bells last September.
To view more click HERE or go to Nailsea Bikers own website HERE which includes a full list of sponsors/supporters.
With the monies all added up the crew lined up outside the Nailsea pub for a photocall.
Nailsea Bikers chairman John Colley said: “We have finally managed to tie in availability with the pub, the Nailsea Bikers team and our chosen charity the CHSW (Children's Hospice South West)) to present them with an amazing £10,413 cheque raised during last year’s incredibly successful Nailsea International Bike Show.
“This is the largest amount raised at our event in its entire 11 show history and could not have been achieved without the incredible support we have received from local and national sponsors. the Grove Sports Centre & Social Club, all the great bands and musicians, our sound team, the Ring O’Bells staff and of course my own Nailsea Bikers team.
“We now look forward to the 2022 event with the date set as Saturday and Sunday, September 10-11, which we are already planning and hoping to echo the success of 2021.
“We already have a full line-up of amazing music planned and some interesting and unusual bikes booked in for the display.
“Please put the date in your diary and come along for a great family friendly event in aid of a very good cause.”
PHOTOS: Mike West and Nailsea People and the article which featured in The Backstreet Heroes bike magazine this month
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Covid cases still increasing
Nailsea Flower Show at the weekend was much depleted as many of the committee went down with Covid.
With local infection rates the highest in all of England, North Somerset Council health bosses are warning the community that there is still every need to remain covid-aware and take sensible precautions to stay safe.
The latest data shows that 3,090 people became infected in North Somerset in the week ending Wednesday, March 27, and infection rates have been increasing for the past four weeks.
Most free lateral flow testing for people without symptoms has now ended and North Somerset's three covid testing centres at Bristol Airport, Clevedon and Weston-super-Mare have closed this week.
North Somerset Council director of public health Matt Lenny, said: "Now that restrictions have been lifted and people are getting back to doing more of the things they've missed, we are seeing a significant increase in case numbers.
“With so many local people having been vaccinated, for most people the symptoms are relatively mild and manageable, but for our more vulnerable residents and those with pre-existing health conditions it can still be a serious illness.
"My advice to everyone is keep taking sensible precautions.
"Wear a mask if you can when you're indoors in crowded settings, keep up the regular hand washing, social distance and keep up to date with vaccinations.
"All of these things will reduce the spread of infection, not only of covid but of other infections too."
Most free lateral flow testing for people without symptoms has now ended but it will continue in some high-risk settings where infection could spread quickly while case rates are high. You’ll be able to buy tests from some shops if you want to.
Now that testing has been scaled back to specific groups and settings, the way incidence and the impact of covid is reported will change.
North Somerset Council deputy leader and executive member for health Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Weston Central Ward.
He said: "It's disappointing that the government has chosen now to withdraw free testing for the majority of people when we are seeing such high case rates, not just locally, but across most of the country.
“While restrictions have been removed and most testing has been reduced, the pandemic isn’t over. Please keep following public health advice to protect yourself and others around you, particularly those people who might become seriously ill from covid.
"However, care home residents, hospital patients and other vulnerable groups will still be given free tests if they have symptoms. The government will be able to launch a rapid testing response should it be needed, for example if a new variant of concern emerges.
"The reality is though that it will be harder now for most people to know whether they do have the virus or not in the future, with a much greater emphasis on personal responsibility to protect those around us."
As well as the daily measures we can all take to stay safe, vaccinations remain free and spring booster jabs are now being offered to people over the age of 75 and in clinically vulnerable groups.
Matt added: "It's never too late to get vaccinated, so whether you're due a booster, or need to have your first or second doses, vaccinations are widely available. Go to www.grabajab.net to find out more."
You can find the latest information on living safely with respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and an updated list of coronavirus symptoms in adults on the GOV UK website.
PHOTO: Flowers which look like Covid-19
WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY: Nailsea college student Freddie Tall sporting a new haircut visits No10 Downing Street for World Down Syndrome Day accompanied by North Somerset MP Liam Fox. Dr Fox’s private members bill to meet the needs of those with this syndrome is currently at committee stage and likely to become law shortly. More on our Political Peeps page HERE
WANTED: Police put out an appeal for help finding 26-year-old Nailsea man Jack Davey. Officers want to talk to Davey in connection with an assault. Davey is described as male, white, of average build and approximately 6ft tall. He has short black hair and beard, plus brown eyes. If you see Davey, please don’t approach him, call 999 quoting reference 5222000035, or ring 101 with any other information.
North Somerset litterbugs fined
Nineteen litterbugs have been fined in North Somerset but none in Nailsea.
The offenders have been ordered to pay more than £7,000 in fines as a result of prosecutions by North Somerset Council for littering, namely dropping cigarette butts.
The cases of breached Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) were heard at North Somerset Magistrates Court.
According to research by national independent charity Keep Britain Tidy, dropped cigarette butts are the most common form of littering. 39 per cent of smokers admitted to throwing a cigarette down the drain within the past month and only 53 per cent of people realised that cigarette butts get washed out to sea when dropped, blown or washed down the drain. Cigarette butts contain micro plastics and harmful chemicals such as arsenic and lead which can be toxic to marine life.
Each person mostly from Weston-super-Mare had already been given a fixed penalty notice for £75 but failed to pay.
DANGER LIVE LINE: A heating oil tanker hit a power line on a narrow part of Lodge Lane between Nailsea and Backwell on Monday morningMarch 21, causing the road to be closed and the emergency services alerted. The accident happened by the farm, just before the turning to Backwell Bow and no traffic or people could take the shortcut across Backwell Common. The general advice is do not touch, move, or go near any downed or hanging line. Do not move tree branches or other objects entangled in any line. Treat all lines as live, until advised otherwise. Resident Russ Turner said: "A heating oil truck hit and snapped the pole holding the power lines, which are now across the road. The truck is under the live cables. Don’t expect the road will be open soon. Fire crews are on the scene." Andrew Rowland who took the photo looking across the field said police are also in attendance. And Lisa Martin got up close enough to take the photo just after the incident happened. A Western Power Distribution spokesman said they hoped power to the area would be restored by 6pm. A later report said the tanker driver was forced to serve to avoid an oncoming speeding motorist.
SWEETZ SHOP
In its first weekend of trading the new sweetshop at Colliers Walk sold out of many popular lines. Happily, Matthew Rafferty and his wife Charlotte have re-stocked now. Matt said: The best seller was the traditional Army & Navy boiled sweets and liquorice .. we also had a massive hit on the children’s tuckshop sweets. See more on the Marketplace page HERE
RED NOSE DAY
The children at The Whiteoak Academies which include Hannah More Infant and Grove Junior schools raised more than£350 for Comic Relief. Big well done to the pupils, staff, and supportive families.
LIBRARY
Did you know Nailsea Library has a blue box outside for returning books when it is closed? Last Tuesday borrowers returned 78 books by putting them in the out-of-hours bin. If you are not ready to return your books renew them online at www.libarieswest.org.uk. End of World Book Day library promotion with free books for preschool children when they borrow books on their library card, as part of a Bookstart Treasure Pack ends on Thursday, March 31.
BANK CLOSURES
Lloyds announced 60 more branches are to close this week but luckily (phew) Nailsea isn’t among them. A further 124 jobs are to go as more customers switch to online banking. Lloyds at Crown Glass Place is Nailsea’s last bank standing if you don’t count the post office next door. Barclays in the High Street was the last to close in the summer of 2021 after HSBC at Colliers Walk and long-gone NatWest at Somerset Square.
CCTV wiped clean of graffiti culprits unlike our streets
Vital footage of yobs caught daubing Nailsea town centre with graffiti was deleted accidentally in a software glitch.
Police are understood to have visited the CCTV control room centre at North Somerset Council town hall to view the footage capturing the vandals at work in the High Street in February.
But when they arrived they were told the footage had disappeared.
The deletion of the footage was down to a glitch during a £400,000 upgrade of all cameras across North Somerset
Normally footage is kept for 28 days, but as part of the changeover of the system, the Nailsea films were deleted after 21.
A Nailsea Town Council spokeman said: “There was a deletion of the images captured in Nailsea High Street.
"This was down to the upgrade while the cameras were switched to a new system.
"The new software meant the footage was deleted after 21 days rather than 28.”
The glitch has apparently now been sorted and is ‘unlikely’ to happen again.
Yobs have been daubing the town with offensive graffiti and tags in recent weeks.
Last month bus stops were daubed along with buildings and fencing in the town centre and surrounding streets.
Nailsea town councillor James Steel said: “It is disappointing to hear about the technical glitch which deleted the footage in Nailsea High Street on the night the vandalism happened.
"All new systems have teething issues to begin with.
"Although disappointing, all the issues I understand have now been ironed out and we are hopeful of a new, more seamless system from now on.”
The vandal attacks however have continued.
In the latest attack, along Lodge Lane and Backwell Bow over the weekend, the culprits sprayed phallic images on buildings.
The village hall at Flax Bourton was also covered in offensive graffiti.
Nailsea police sergeant Lee Kerslake said: “We have been working on graffiti issues in Nailsea and continue to do so.
"This has been a frustrating investigation, however, we hope to have updates soon.
“I am aware that there is a growing amount of public concern over this and I can only, at this stage, say we are working hard to identify the person or people responsible.
"We are hopeful of a positive update soon.
“We are however, very keen to receive any further information that leads to the apprehension of those tagging Nailsea.
"While we have some leads to follow, our success is always only as good as the information we get from the community.
"Crime is a community issue, we as the police act within the community to deal with them."
STREET DEFACED: Top is Flax Bourton village hall defaced in the weekend and below one that was done last year at Nailsea skatepark
North Somerset Council has 71 CCTV cameras across the district – mainly in town centres - with 11 cameras in Nailsea.
There are also 45 cameras in Weston-super-Mare and its surrounding areas, nine in Clevedon and six in Portishead.
Nailsea cameras are sited at:
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Christchurch Close
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Somerset Square
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High Street
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Link Road
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Scotch Horn
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Station Road short stay car park
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Stockway North long stay car park
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Stockway North opposite Tesco supermarket
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Waitrose supermarket car park
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Millennium Park skatepark
More information can be found on Nailsea Neighbourhood Watch website here https://www.nailseanhw.org.uk/index/cctvdirect.html.
Scroll down to view a slideshow of graffiti examples in Nailsea town centre done in February.
This is when the tag BRIK appeared on fences, walls and road signs.
GRAFFITI GITS: Such a lovely day it is a shame to spoil the ambience but after the failure of the Nailsea town centre CCTV cameras to catch the yobs defacing our town we show the latest inappropriate street 'art' additions. This vandalism happened on Saturday, March 19, along Lodge Lane, Backwell Bow and Brook Farm. We are told the culprits went into the gardens of the farm cottages on Backwell Common and sprayed cars parked in the drive. Insults were left on the road. Two immature youths aged approximately 12 to 14 years, with short dark hair, wearing white T-shirts, black trousers and black baseball caps were seen going towards flats behind Friendship Grove around 2.15pm. They have damaged three properties and spray painted along Lodge Lane with homophobic graffiti. Further images were shared on Nailsea People Facebook page of the trail of destruction. Ashley Crossey posted the top image saying: "The vandals went past our CCTV in Flax at 3.38am on their way to adding this masterpiece to the hall." We apologise for sharing the images. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the police and quote report number GRA8B2YZ.
Can't see woods for missing trees
North Somerset MP Liam Fox made a site meeting at the weekend to hear the complaints of Nailsea Park residents about the rewilding of the corner of Hawthorn Way.
North Somerset Council planted nearly 1,000 small trees on the open space in the hope of creating a wooden oasis.
But the area has become a litter strewn mess with many of the saplings failing to take root.
Dr Fox said: “Rewilding done well is a good thing, this is not it.”
Local resident Roger Smallshaw, of Redwood Close, said: “The planting went ahead, without any involvement by or consultation with residents, undertaken entirely and badly by council contractors Glendale and not the community as claimed.”
In the year or so since planting Mr Smallshaw said there has been no maintenance of the saplings, some 850 unidentified species, all planted too close together and hidden in the long grass.
Kicked into long glass
He added: “The result being a complete mess of dead, dying twigs, collapsed and collapsing support sticks and a litter of discarded, broken plastic tubes and untended footpaths which have turned into impassable quagmires at the merest drop of rain.”
He estimates that 50 per cent plus of the original trees planted in both Hawthorn Way and other areas have failed.
And he slammed the original ‘consultation’ about the planting as ‘a total debacle; only catching less than 500 responses many of whom were opposed to the plan or had reservations and only 25 had a Nailsea postcode’.
He added: “This is about par for the course with the consultations undertaken by the district council who even with the expertise in ‘engagement’ fail dismally at every attempt.”
The re-wilding of North Somerset began in February 2020 with hundreds of tree saplings being planted across the district.
The aim is to plant 50,000 trees, resulting in 25 hectares of new woodland, and create around 40 hectares of tall grass areas where the grass is allowed to grow.
Together, these initiatives will provide more habitats for wildlife to flourish and increase biodiversity, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change and address the nature emergency.
North Somerset Council executive member for the climate emergency Bridget Petty is the Green Party ward councillor for Backwell supported the rewilding scheme.
She said this week: “We have ambitious plans to tackle the climate emergency and make North Somerset a greener place to live have moved forward.
“We are serious about tackling the climate emergency.”
The investment to tackle the climate emergency includes plans to buy land to develop nature parks for wildlife and biodiversity to thrive.
PHOTO: North Somerset MP Liam Fox at a site meeting with Nailsea residents Roger Smallshaw and Richard James on Saturday morning, March 12, and below how the Nailsea Park area looked just after planting
Police sergeant
March bulletin
Nailsea's new neighbourhood police sergeant has sent out his second Sgts Update.
It follows up on investigations to find the grafitti street artist and talks about fake reports.
And it gives people the information on where to go for help or how to report crime.
To download your own copy to print out click HERE.
PHOTO: Sgt Lee Kerslake with PSCO Chea Scandrett at
Pop-In event last month at Holy Trinity church centre
Pay by direct debit to get community tax rebate fast
Nailsea council tax bills which go out this month are among the highest in North Somerset Council.
But residents in Band A-D qualify for a government one-off £150 council tax rebate.
To ensure you are among the first to get this rebate North Somerset Council is encouraging people to pay their community tax by direct debit.
Eligible households, who pay council tax by direct debit, will see £150 go directly into their bank accounts from April.
Those who don't pay by direct debit will be contacted by the council and invited to make a claim.
Properties in council tax bands A-D are eligible for the rebate. In North Somerset the funding applies to 76,656 homes, giving a total of £11.5m available.
North Somerset Council executive member for corporate services Ash Cartman is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Long Ashton, Leigh Woods, Failand and Wraxall.
He said: "Households in council tax bands A-D - about three-quarters of homes locally - will automatically get the £150 rebate paid into their account if they're paying council tax by direct debit.
“These payments will be made in April. This is the easiest and quickest way for people to receive the payment.
"Anyone in bands A-D not paying by direct debit will then be contacted by the council and arrangements put in place so payment can be made."
Direct debit payments can be set up through the council's website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/counciltax.
The website also has a link to check households' council tax bands for anyone unsure which band their property is in.
There will also be an opportunity to set-up direct debits when the council tax bills are sent to households in March.
With a range from Band A of £1313.16 to Band H of £3,939.48 these figures are only surpassed by Bleadon, Hutton, Weston-super-Mare and Wrington be it by less than £20 a year.
Nailsea council tax bands for 2022-23
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Band A £1313.16
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Band B £1,532.03
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Band C £1,750.88
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Band D £1,969.74
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Band E £2,407,45
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Band F £2,845.18
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Band G £3,282.90
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Band H £3,939.48
The banding is based on the value of your home at 1 April 1991
North Somerset Council multi-million pound budget for 2022-23 includes:
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A whooping £8.7million to address pressures in social care – its spends the bulk of its budget looking after the elderly and children in care
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£1.7million towards a new waste depot
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£2.6million for strategic place-making projects at the Magistrates Courts and Tropicana in Weston
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£910,000 for improvements around Weston seafront
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£400,000 for sea defences in Clevedon and Weston
Which seems not a lot specifically in Nailsea which has no district councillor on its executive but does include Backwell ward councillor Bridget Pretty.
FOOD HYGIENE IN NAILSEA
In January 2022 The Food Standards Agency inspected five Nailsea premises.
Four got the top 'five' rating for hygiene, see links.
The FSA is an independent government department working to protect public health and consumers' wider interests in relation to food in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Only Coates House got a 0 rating. We hope this is an oversight cause by a stressful two years and they will be reinspected soon.
In the meantime well done to The Great Wall, Moorend Spout, Royal Oak and The Old Farmhouse.
CLASS CHOICE
The new intake at Nailsea School in September 2022 is the biggest for years. In a letter home headteacher Dee Elliot said: “I am thrilled to report that not only is our Year 7 intake for September 2022 completed full but we have been asked by the local authority to provide additional spaces beyond our planned admission number. As such Nailsea School will be welcoming 220 students in September. This is the first time in eight years the school has had an intake of this size.”
SAFE LANDING
An easyJet flight from Bristol Airport was forced to return and make an emergency landing due to a technical issue on board on Friday evening, March 4. After less than an hour airborne the Airbus aircraft bound to Newcastle pilots diverted back to Bristol. Flight EZTY572 to Newcastle made a u-turn due to a 'technical issue'. easyJet put passengers into overnight accommodation and the flight took off again on Saturday morning without further hitch.
GREEN HOUSE
Ashley Olsen’s the Silver Street greengrocers has applied to North Somerset Council for its ground floor shop to revert to its original use as living space making the property back into a single dwelling house with new windows and original masonry restored.
Council's senior budget moment
More than 40 per cent of North Somerset Council's budget is dedicated to supporting 2,500 people and responding to 16,500 requests every year.
The increasing pressures on adult social care are pushing up costs by millions of pounds – which is not being covered by government funding.
North Somerset Council will use some of the money from a rise in council tax in April to help bridge the gap to protect these vital services.
Around £1.2m of the £3.6m raised from the three per cent increase will be used to meet higher costs in services of £8.7m and an extra £2.5m is being provided through increases in government grants.
The £5m deficit will come from the wider council budget setting process.
Adult social care is seeing these rising costs as people need more complex support, for longer and the costs of providing care are rising, mainly due to the increase in the National Living Wage.
This is in addition to the number of older people growing every year.
The deep-rooted issue is being seen across the country and has become even more difficult as the Covid pandemic has left many with long-term health problems, either as a result of catching the virus or worsening conditions due to the effects of the last two years. There are also more and more younger adults needing complex care and support, and the amount of money spent on adults under the age of 65 now accounts for more than half of the total spend on supporting adults.
North Somerset Council executive member for adult social care Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Weston Central Ward,
He said: “The growing gap between what adult social care needs to do, to meet its legal duty to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, and the money we have to do it is a huge issue not only for us, but for our country.
“It’s not something that’s only a problem in North Somerset, nor is it one that has been solved by recent government announcements.
"We’ve been told that funding reforms are happening, but none of the money raised is going to help us meet the needs we have right now. In fact, most of the money is going to the NHS instead of local authorities.
“Which leaves us having to find millions again this year just to keep the service standing still, doing what it is already.
"This is huge ask to a council that has taken so much out of all its services over the last decade.
“This chronic underfunding of adult social care has to be addressed nationally.
"What’s been announced this year doesn’t solve the problem, and we’re still left with soaring costs and nowhere near enough money from government to even cover inflation.
"That money has to be found and it’s left up to our council to make some very tough decisions about where the money we do get needs to be spent.”
North Somerset Council’s adult social care, which accounts for the biggest portion of the council’s budget, provides services for those most in need to live as independently as possible, safely.
"Most of this care is given in their own homes, but some is in more specialist facilities, such as care homes.
Any adult may need to use these services at any age, either for a short time, for example after an accident if they have no family or friends to help them recover, or indefinitely if their health is unlikely to improve.
The council’s 2022-23 budget aims to protect council services while also investing in local projects to improve services for children, green initiatives and local facilities, driving forwarded the council’s commitment to be open, fairer and greener.
Medical centre gets remedial attention
Work is underway re-vamping the front of Tower House Medical Centre which faces the car park.
North Somerset Council gave planning permission in November 2021 for the new frontage which looks towards the Stockway South car park belonging to the shopping centre.
Part of Tyntesfield Medical Group which caters for 31,600 patients from Backwell, Long Ashton and Nailsea it had plans to sell Brockway Medical Centre and move everyone to Tower House but this was thwarted by the pandemic.
The current project is for the ‘removal of the existing single storey projecting oriel window at ground floor, erection of a single-storey glazed extension to form new entrance lobby, new steps and DDA-compliant ramp up to new entrance lobby and associated hard and soft landscaping. Internal reconfiguration of existing accommodation to create eight new consultation rooms and creation of climate-controlled archive store in basement / car parking area’.
It said in its design and access statement prepared by architects Wotton Donoghue ‘the key principles of the proposal are to enhance the patient and staff experience of the existing centre, improve the efficiency of the internal layout, as well as safeguarding against spread of disease'.
Adding:
• The proposed external changes are minimal relative to the scale of the site. The new glazed entrance extension will be more welcoming than the current entrance, which is visually tucked away.
• New pedestrian access up to the proposed entrance will be required as both steps and a ramp to ensure inclusive ease of access.
• The ‘sensory garden’ is a holistic intervention to help offset the clinical nature of a medical centre. Plants and flowers with different colours, shapes, smells and textures will be chosen to create a calming setting for visitors.
• Decanting the medical archives from the second floor to a new, climate-controlled enclosure in the basement will free up much needed administration space and provide better preservation of the documents.
• EV Charging points will encourage and facilitate staff members to drive electrical vehicles.
• Reconfiguration of the Somerset Room will allow for a more efficient use of space following the changes in approach to healthcare since the COVID-19 pandemic.
A representative of Praxis, the town centre property management company, made a presentation to Nailsea Town Council earlier last year about the old petrol filling station.
In an extract from the minutes about proposed changes promises were made for a formal application in the summer – Nailsea People does not think this has happened - see yellow paper above.
Artist working on a chainsaw
Nailsea Town Council commissioned chainsaw sculptor Gary Orange to turn what was left of the diseased tree on Lions Green into a piece of street art.
The funds for this work have come from The Welcome Back Fund which is providing councils across England a share of £56 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Its aim is to support the safe return to high streets and help build back better from the pandemic.
Chainsaw carving is an art form which has grown massively since it crossed the Atlantic from the USA.
As well as outdoor works of art is can provide seating areas or historical memorials.
The oak tree on the village green on the High Street had stood on the village green since 1897 was the first to get this treatment.
It was cut down in 2019 and left as a ‘monolith’ after safety checks revealed it too was rotten.
An idea to turn the trunk into a sculpture representing Nailsea was put forward and the talents of woodcarver Andy O’Neill secured.
Andy, 50, from Yate, spent many days turning the tree remains into a British wildlife sculpture.
Nailsea People has a page devoted to this work here https://www.nailseapeople.com/mighty-oak.
Now it is Gary's turn and it was his choice to use the Lion King theme to match the name of a park which also houses a large bench commissioned by the local Lions Club.
He is due to finish mid-March.
The Lions and the town council installed the big bench and a new pathway back in 2018 and the project was helped with a generous donation from councillor Phil Barclay who sadly has since died.
Car blaze at Backwell
A blackened carcass of a vehicle is all that is left of a car which caught fire at Backwell midday on Friday, February 25.
Helen Quintrell, who took the dramatic photos top, said: "I think it was a blue Audi Q5 and according to another eye witness, Alan Ralfs, it was being driven on trade plates."
Firefighters from Nailsea and Clevedon were called at 11.51am to reports of a car fire on West Town Road, Backwell.
Crews used one high pressure hose reel to extinguish the blaze and one firefighter wore breathing apparatus for safety.
Firefighters made the scene safe and left by 12.54pm.
Avon and Somerset Police were also on the scene.
There are no reported injuries.
There was a massive tailback on the A370 made worse by roadworks for more than one hour.
The remains of car have been moved to the forecourt of Beauty Retreat.
Drivers warned avoid Backwell for 5 weeks
A £110,000 scheme to improve the A370 in Backwell begins on Monday, February 28.
The scheme will involve drainage repairs in preparation for resurfacing in the new financial year.
This will rectify any drainage issues in advance of the resurfacing programme.
The work will be completed on the A370 West Town Road, Backwell from Rodney Road to Cadogan Grove and will last until Wednesday, April 6.
Four-way temporary traffic signals will be in place 24 hours a day at the junction with Station Road, Dark Lane, West Town Road and Farleigh Road.
North Somerset Council executive member with responsibility for roads Mike Solomon is the Independent ward councillor for Hutton and Locking.
He urged people to avoid the area if possible adding: "This is an essential scheme that will ensure the road is in the best condition for resurfacing later in the year.
"We appreciate it will cause disruption and we would encourage people to stay away from the area if possible.
"If you don't need to travel through Backwell then please don't."
Anyone who has to travel through Backwell is asked to allow extra time.
For more information visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roadworks.
Living with Covid caution
North Somerset health leaders are urging residents to remain cautious as the country plans to live with covid, following the Government’s announcement and recent falls in local infection levels.
This week the Government announced their ‘living with covid plan’ which will see changes to Covid guidance. In North Somerset, residents are being urged to keep following public health advice.
From Thursday, February 24, the legal requirement for people who test positive for Covid-19 to self-isolate, or are a close contact of a case, will be removed.
However, people who test positive will continue to be advised to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for at least five days.
The Government’s test and trace support payment scheme will end, as well as routine contact tracing.
From Friday, April 1, free testing will end for most people although there will be some free testing for vulnerable groups.
North Somerset Council deputy leader and executive member for public health Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Weston-super-Mare Central.
He said: “Locally, we’ve seen local Covid rates fall by more than a half since the peak of Omicron in January so it’s good to see the coming relaxation of restrictions on our daily lives.
“However, the Government’s scientific advisors are clear that the pandemic isn’t over and we still need to manage the risk from Covid-19.
"It’s really important that we all remain careful and keep doing the things we know help keep us safe.
“You can get the best possible protection from covid by getting vaccinated.
"Elderly and extremely vulnerable people will be offered another Covid-19 booster vaccine this spring to help those at the highest risk of serious illness maintain a high level of protection, so it is important to come forward again when you’re eligible.
"If you’ve already been invited and haven’t had the chance to get your first, second dose or booster Covid jabs, it’s not too late.
"The teams will be happy to see you and get you protected.
"It’s been an incredibly difficult couple of years for everyone.
"We’ll continue to support infection prevention and control measures across our communities.
"The Government is encouraging people to take personal responsibility, but they too must step up and support local government to ensure that everyone has the chance to look after themselves and their loved ones."
North Somerset Council director of public health Matt Lenny said: “We’ll continue to monitor Covid-19 infection rates closely as we adapt to living normally with the virus.
“The current advice hasn’t changed and through February and March those with covid symptoms should still order a free PCR test and avoid contact with others.
"Although legal restrictions and national contact tracing are ending, our
ocal Covid-19 outbreak team will continue to call residents with confirmed infection during this period to remind to them of Government advice to stay home and avoid contact with other people while they are infectious.
"You can keep wearing a face covering if you’re in crowded places and open up doors and windows to let fresh air into indoor spaces and help reduce the risk of Covid spreading.
"As ever, we also encourage everyone to wash their hands regularly to reduce the risk of catching Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.
“Some of our Covid services will be changing in light of the national announcement.
"Both local contact tracing and the North Somerset rapid testing vans will end at the end of March.
"However, our Public Health Covid Outbreak Team will continue to give advice to residents about covid, and support local care homes, schools and other settings to follow the latest guidance and manage outbreaks.
"They will also take on new roles to encourage vaccine uptake, support Covid recovery and plan ahead if we need to re-instate further control measures quickly in response to new Covid variants.”
Get more information about Covid vaccinations and how to get yours at www.grabajab.net or call 119.
Until April anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 can still book a free PCR test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
Until they are withdrawn at the end of March, rapid tests, for people who do not have symptoms of Covid-19, can be ordered online for home delivery at www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests or collected from North Somerset Council’s testing vans.
Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/rapidtesting for details and the timetable.
Despite all the relaxation of rules patients, staff and visitors must continue to wear face masks when on Tyntesfield Medical Group premises as has been the case throughout the pandemic.
NHS England has reinforced that requirement with the message there will be ‘no immediate changes’ to its infection prevention and control (IPC) guidance, as the country moves into the ‘Living with Covid’ strategy from today.
Executive manager Lawrie Lewis said: "Please support us by helping to keep our most vulnerable patients safe by ensuring you don your mask before entering any of our buildings.
"Please don't wait to be asked to do so by a member of our receptionist teams."
Police Pop-In for lunch Q&A
Nailsea’s new police sergeant popped into the Pop-In lunch club at Holy Trinity church centre this week.
The BYO lunch midday meeting has a programme of speakers, demonstrations, singsongs and quizzes booked for the coming months including a talk from the fire service.
In February it was the turn of the new neighbourhood beat sergeant Lee Kerslake, who took over from now retired Sgt Mark Raby last year.
Sgt Kerslake who has been a police officer for 20 years was accompanied by PCSO Chea Scandrett.
The event turned into a Q&A session with community concerns voiced about a ‘visible presence’ of police officers.
Reassures were given that our streets are patrolled 24/7 although not always at times when the public may see the officers.
Sgt Kerslake then explained how best to make contact when help and/advice as needed.
Pop-In is primarily for the older generation and meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from noon-2pm.
Organiser Lynda Dicks said: “It is a bring your own lunch and we will supply refreshments and plenty of chatter.
“Transport is provided for the housebound, generally by the younger retired.
“We also enjoy occasional trips and special seasonal services.”
For more details contact the office team on 01275 853227 or go online at welcome@htnailsea.org.uk.
All are welcome.
Avon & Somerset Constabulary February newsletter written by Sgt Kerslake is attached and gives contact details and community police news.
To download a copy click HERE.
MONDAY MONDAY: February 21 and Storm Franklin arrives. This is all that is left of 2 town centre trees. More on Sport Peeps page
Brickwork destroyed. Photo Ben Hague
Tree down at across power lines at bottom or Wraxall Hill
Tree down at Trendlewood. Photo Izzy Matyjasik
Station Road near Trendlewood Road junction a tree comes down on power lines and closes road to Backwell. Vehicles queus patiently but PC advises drivers road will reopen soon. PHOTO: Holly Timms and Smadz Adam
Jamie-Lee Mason took this photo of the fallen tree which narrowly missed hitting the Stockway South bus stop, you can see across the Crown Glass Shoppiing Centre car parkTower House Medical Centre in background
At Crown Glass Shopping centre car park a tree comes down. Photo by Marg Bird taken from on high while Cherry Grimsted captured the scene from Stockway South. This is the second tree to come down near Lion Park and Nailsea Town Council is about to get a tree sculptor to fashion the fallen timber into street art - looks like we will have more wooden models now...
At Grove Sports Centre & Social Club the roof has blown off, closing until further notice the venue and the grounds. Nailsea firefighters are on their fourth shout of the day. All matches cancelled until further notice. Photo by Hatti Bayliss and drone roof image to access damage from Steve Wright.
In the eye of the storm
After Storm Dudley on Friday Storm Eunice arrived.
Blue skies early morning had Wrington residents asking what all the fuss was about and Clevedon residents paddling on the beach despite being urged to make only essential journeys.
Nailsea People ventured to the High Street and although windy saw nothing more than seeing one fence down and a diversion sign blown so there was nothing much to report apart from a debris shrewn Stockway South but only small twigs however our trees are bending.
Literally minutes later the old tree in the car park close to where another went down months ago fell over.
We were told a plane had been trying to land at Bristol Airport and had to abort seven times but an avaition expert who confessed he could hardly stand up said it was twice and the aircraft had now diverted.
Jane Heinemans said: "That was the Kaunas diverted to Birmingham.
"The Ezy 6236 from Paris circled for nearly an hour before it eventually landed."
Meanwhile with high tides at Weston and reporters on the beach getting wet, Wrington ended up in the eye-of-the-storm and without electrictiy.
More and more fences went over, a garden gate went missing and from our window we can see a tilted old pergoda roof.
North Somerset Council have closed services, schools were closed, the library was closed and later in the afternoon First Bus will decided whether to resume normal service having been off the road all day.
But then Holly Timms warned us the road to Backwell at Bucklands Batch was closed as a tree had come down on power lines and a similar situation was happening at Wraxall.
Chapel Hill closed at Backwell and a fallen tree has blocked round between Clifton Suspension Bridge and Ashton Court.
Nailsea resident Meme Lewis reported: "I was just on the motorway Portishead to Clevedon and a massive metal roof flew down in front of me from the fields.
Fences down at Yew Tree Gardens. Photo Becky Charrison
"Luckily me and others were driving slow.
"Even at 40mph the car was being pulled about."
Laura Connell said: "There are plenty of fences down in Eastway Square."
Newspaper boy Andy Miles said he won't be going out and the dentist and many shops closed although Beauty Incorporated battled on with a few cancelled appointments.
Hair in haunted Nailsea cottage
On Saturday, February 26, Michael's Hair Design at 94 High Street, Nailsea, closes its doors for the final time.
The date marks the official retirement of director Michael Pearce after half a century working as a hairstylist in Nailsea.
The two-storey terraced Victorian pink cottage will then be converted back into a private house and sold.
But for the stylists who work at Michael’s Hair Design it isn’t time to hang up their scissors and take it easy.
Carey Berchall has worked at the salon for 23 years is moving to Hair @ Houlahans, 26 West Town Road, Backwell and she is hoping her clients will move with her.
She will start work at the beginning of March alongside another former Michael’s Hair Design stylish Wendy Dyer, a 45-year veteran of the coiffure trade.
Carey said: “We only have a fortnight left till we close the doors for good and unfortunately there are still customers that don’t know we are closing.”
Stylist Nicki Horton who had been at Michael’s for 20 years is moving yards along the road to Cutting Edge at 124 High Street.Carey added: “Unfortunately we only had five weeks’ notice of the closure and just
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haven’t had the time to contact a lot of the customers.”Carey, Nicki and Wendy all trained at Mike & Attilio as it was once known.
After six years colleague Lizzie Ryalls is considering becoming a mobile hairdresser and receptionist Sharon Masters has decided to retire after 15 years.
Judging by the photos they have had a blast while working at Michael’s with many memories of fancy dress charity stunts and celebratory dinners over the years.
And customer Yvonne Webb said: "What a shame it is closing, but how amazing to have kept going all these years.
"I used to go to Michael’s too in the late 80s/90s.
"We swapped ghost stories, if I remember, I was told it was a little lad who used to ‘visit ‘ the building, apparently even some customers saw this apparition, perhaps he was from the days when it was a hostelry."
Full story on our BMD page HERE.
£340 millions to spend
North Somerset Council members will meet this month to set the budget for the year ahead and are expected to approve a financial strategy which protects vital council-services while also investing an extra £40m in long-term local projects to improve services for children, green initiatives and local facilities.
With an overall theme of protection and investment, the budget priorities are:
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backing our children and young people
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delivering better basic services
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investing in our communities
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tackling the climate emergency.
The £40m additional investment is in addition to the £300m already committed for long-term investment in local projects.
Residents will continue to get good services from the council with key services like social care, recycling and waste and roads and pavement maintenance protected. The budget also protects local people from the impact of cuts, and increases in fees and charges are being kept to a minimum.
North Somerset Council executive member for finance Ash Cartman is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Long Ashton, Leigh Woods, Failand and Wraxall.
He said: "Our administration is continuing to work hard together to deliver for the common good of the people of North Somerset.
"Through our collaborative approach we are committed to making North Somerset open, fairer and greener, and this budget does just that.
"The past two years have been incredibly hard for everyone.
"As we emerge from the pandemic we want North Somerset to thrive.
"We are committed to supporting our children and young people to have the best start in life and also to protecting our care services for adults.
"We're passionate about tackling the climate emergency and this budget sets out a series of initiatives that will accelerate our commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030."
Subject to approval by councillors, council tax will increase by 2.99 per cent.
This increase is driven by social care pressures and won’t even cover the gap in costs to provide these services.
This increase includes a one per cent increase specifically to support adult social care services. Almost every council in the country will be increasing council tax at this rate.Following the central government announcement last week that properties in council tax bands A to D will receive a £150 payment to support increasing energy bills, the council is expecting further advice about handling these payments.
When council tax bills are sent out in March they will not reflect the reduced amount for affected properties. This will follow a separate process and more information will be available when guidance from government is received.
Adult social care remains under-funded by central government, and the pressures in this area will not be solved by the precept increase. Therefore it will receive £8.7m of new money to help address the pressures in this area.
Mr Cartman added: "Increasing council tax is not something we do lightly given the other cost-of-living pressures our residents are facing, but the council is not immune to cost pressures either and we have worked to mitigate impacts on services and household budgets.
"There are still risks with pressures of inflation, demand and income which we'll need to manage and there continues to be a budget challenge in the years ahead with significant gaps forecast which will need to be addressed.
"We're actively contributing to the government funding reviews and making sure our voice is heard to campaign for fairer funding We face significant challenges in the next three years beyond this and with only annual settlements from government longer-term planning is virtually impossible."
The budget will be debated at the council meeting on Tuesday, February 15, starting at 6pm.
The meeting is at the Town Hall in Weston-super-Mare butcan be live-streamed at https://youtu.be/fuPR-ViS05I.
The full meeting agenda and papers are available on the council's website at https://n-somerset.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?MId=784&x=1.
APPROVED council tax rise
North Somerset Council met this week and set the budget for the year ahead.
Councillors approved a financial strategy which they believe protects vital council-services while also investing an extra £40m in long-term local projects to improve services for children, green initiatives and local facilities.
With an overall theme of protection and investment, the budget priorities as above.
The £40m additional investment is in addition to the £300m already committed for long-term investment in local projects.
Residents will continue to get good services from the council with key services like social care, recycling and waste and roads and pavement maintenance protected, said a spokesman.
The budget also protects local people from the impact of cuts, and increases in fees and charges are being kept to a minimum.
Council tax will increase by 2.99 per cent.
This increase is driven by social care pressures and won’t even cover the gap in costs to provide these services.This increase includes a one per cent increase specifically to support adult social care services. Almost every council in the country will be increasing council tax at this rate.
Following the recent central government announcement that properties in council tax bands A to D will receive a £150 payment to support increasing energy bills, the council is expecting further advice about handling these payments.
When council tax bills are sent out in March they will not reflect the reduced amount for affected properties. This will follow a separate process and more information will be available when guidance from government is received.
Adult social care remains under-funded by central government, and the pressures in this area will not be solved by the precept increase. Therefore it will receive £8.7m of new money to help address the pressures in this area.
Police alert for missing man
Have you seen this man, Nailsea police think he may be working locally possibly on a farm?
Derbyshire Police are attempting to track down a man about allegations he was in possession of indecent images of children.
They released the photo of Graham Ashby, aged 51, who was previously reported as missing from his home in Staveley in June last year.
Police believe that he has travelled to the North Somerset and are appealing for witnesses.
In a statement, Derbyshire Police said: "We are issuing an image of Graham Ashby who officers would like to speak to about allegations of possession of indecent images of children.
"The 51-year-old, who was previously reported as missing from his home in Staveley in June last year, is believed to have travelled to the Bristol area.
"Anyone who may have seen him, or knows where he may be, is asked to contact Derbyshire police via any of the following methods.
"Please quote reference number 21*177310 in any correspondence, you can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. "
In an emergency you should always call 999.
Graham was driving a blue Audi A2 with a registration beginning YN52 – which is shown in one of the stills – and may have travelled to the Bristol area.
Dog attack in sports bar
Emergency services were called to Grove Sports Centre and Social Club, in Nailsea on Saturday night, February 5, after a dog attacked people in the bar.
A police spokesman said: “At 8.30pm on Saturday we were alerted to an incident at Grove Sports Centre and Social Club in Nailsea in which a dog had bitten a man and a child.
“Both the man and the child sustained leg injuries and were taken to hospital by ambulance for treatment.
“The dog has since been seized and its owner will attend a voluntary interview at a future date.
“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”
A Grove Sports Centre & Social Club spokesman said: "There has been local media coverage regarding a dog attack at The Grove on Saturday evening.
"The dog concerned did not belong to a customer and was being exercised off its lead on the playing fields which are subject to a public space protection order.
"Its owner has voluntarily surrendered it to the police and there is an ongoing police investigation.
"Our thoughts remain with the injured family and we would like to extend our thanks to our patrons and staff who assisted with this serious incident at the time.’
The injured child is said to be seven-years-old.
The bred of dog has not been disclosed.
UPDATE: Following on from this attack Nailsea & Backwell RFC has decided to ban all dogs running freely on its land - see club statement.
ART BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT: Graffiti examples in Nailsea town centre - not all by any means. The tag BRIK on fences, walls and road signs is the most prevalent, unless you know better? Police officers are liaising with CCTV operators to see if they have a clear image of offender(s) and Nailsea Town Council is aware of this 'outbreak' which has mostly been done in February, 2022
Impassable lane say recycling lorry crew
North Somerset Council recycling service is bypassing Church Lane, Nailsea, because drivers say their vehicles are too big and the road too narrow.
Church Lane runs from Holy Trinity to just past Church Lane hall.
It is a mixture of modern houses and old cottages including one where Hannah More lived during her time teaching in the village.
Holy Trinity fabric team chairman Tim Jolly said: “The recycling truck has decided this week it cannot go down Church Lane to collect from the houses down there.
“This is the third week in a row.
“As chair of the HT Church fabric team I have a vested interest in helping our neighbours.
“So I spent Wednesday morning watching what happened.
“The parking outside the Tithe Barn was a normal mix of local business vans, neighbours — and one car that I think may be abandoned?
“There was only one car that was anything to do with the church, and that was an 85-year-old driver who needed to park nearby.
“All vehicles were parked adequately, but the truck stopped outside the Tithe Barn, and refused even to try to go down the road, even though a neighbour and I begged them to have a go.
“The driver made the interesting comment that they have had a lot of problems simply because their truck is bigger than it used to be.
“I am told that North Somerset have from time to time sent a smaller van to collect, but this has not been seen nearly a month now.
“We tried adding cones in the hope that the route would look clearer and easier, it didn’t help.“
Retired transport specialist Graham Clements said that the driver was being over-cautious but we believe the issue is partly to do with the size of the vehicle, added Tim.
A North Somerset spokeman said: “The crews have advised us that the road is obstructed by cars and unfortunately the van is unable to get down, the crews will try again today, i apologise for the delay.”
Resident Karen Ridge said: "I moved to this area in 1992 and the road size has not altered in that period of time and many buildings have been in existence for over 100 years.
"Although the road has suffered the all too common non collection of green waste, black bin and recycling every so often over the last 2-3 years, this is the first time a truck has refused to go down the road, stating it can't fit!
"Vehicles have always parked on the left of the road and there are usually vehicles parked there most of the day.
"Vehicles have never parked on the right.
"If you look at the photo you will see that there is insufficient space for cars to park on both sides of the road, so I don't understand the sudden appearance or need of cones next to the wall on the right on Wednesday morning!!
"There was a small period of time when a smaller truck was used but I haven't see that for a while.
"Dustcarts can fit and I look forward to seeing one very soon as boxes are still outside gates."
A North Somerset Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the ongoing issue of waste and recycling lorries being unable to pass parked vehicles at Church Lane in Nailsea.
"Residents have been visited and written to in order to discuss parking but unfortunately the lorries are still unable to pass.
"We continue to investigate and look at ways to resolve the issue.
“In the meantime, waste is due to be cleared on Friday, February 4, using a van.
"Due to the number of properties in this lane it may require two trips.”
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UPDATE 1: Residents of Church Lane have received a letter from North Somerset Council says those who block the access to the road on Wednesdays for the recycling lorry will be issued with a fixed penalty fine. See extracts of the letter below.
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UPDATE 2: Sandra Hearne is the North Somerset Council is the Independent ward councillor for Nailsea Youngwood. She said: “There was a meeting this werk between councillors, staff associated with waste collection and a Nailsea town councillor. Staff associated with arranging collections had only been in place a few months as had the driver of the vehicle planned to do the collection. It was discovered that a larger vehicle had recently been assigned to the collection which was inappropriate for the road, hence the issues. The small vehicle will be reinstated for the next couple of months, while alternatives can be looked at, as the smaller vehicle may be coming to the end of its working life.”
Waste not, want not strategy
As part of North Somerset Council’s work towards the area becoming carbon neutral by 2030, new plans for recycling and waste have been agreed.
During the past 15 years, waste from households across North Somerset has halved from around 60,000 tonnes in 2005-6 to around 30,000 tonnes in 2019-20.
However there is more to do, as set out in North Somerset’s Recycling and Waste Strategy 2021-30, which was formally approved by the council’s executive this week.
The new strategy was developed in consultation with residents and businesses.
It aims to reduce further the amount of waste produced locally by encouraging people to change the way they think about waste and to prioritise reducing, reusing and then recycling.
Since declaring a climate emergency in 2019, the council has been developing a range of measures to tackle the challenge.
The strategy sets out a wide range of actions over the next decade to achieve:
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A reduction in residual waste (waste that is not recycled or reused) of 15 per cent below the level of 2019-20 by 2030.
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A recycling rate of 70 per cent by 2030.
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Diversion of all non-recyclable, kerbside collected household waste away from landfill by end of 2022.
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Improved recycling facilities at all flat blocks and more food waste collections in phases in line with the Environment Act (2021) by 2023.
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Expansion of the commercial waste service to serve more businesses, schools and events in North Somerset each year.
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Fewer incidents of litter and fly-tipping in North Somerset through improved reporting, increasing education and enforcement activities.
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Improved appearance of our streets and open spaces.
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Progress towards a circular economy where waste is treated as a valuable resource rather than disposed of.
Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council executive member for neighbourhoods and community services Mike Solomon is the Independent ward councillor for Hutton and Locking.
He said: “Transforming the way that we manage waste is a vital part of the fight against climate change and helps to deliver our vision for a greener North Somerset.
“Recycling rates have improved during the past ten years, and we are now the best performing council in the south west and seventh in England.
"However, there’s still more to do.
"We know that 45 per cent of an average household bin in North Somerset contains material that could have been recycled, 27 per cent of which is food waste.
"Just on this point alone, food waste is a valuable material that we can turn into biogas to power homes.
"Our new recycling and waste strategy will help us to focus on reducing and reusing resources first and foremost.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the 1,500 people and the 13 organisations who shaped this strategy by sharing their views and ideas during last year’s consultation.
"The plans are ambitious but by working together we really can make a difference.”
Read the full strategy on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/wastestrategy
TAKE OFF: On Wednesday afternoon, February 2, the Planning Inspectorate announced the go-ahead for the expansion of Bristol Airport. Bristol Airport CEO Dave Lees said: “Bristol Airport welcomes the decision of the Planning Inspectorate. The decision is excellent news for our region’s economy, allowing us to create thousands of new jobs in the years ahead and provide more choice for our customers, supporting inbound tourism, and reducing the millions of road journeys made to London airports each year. Read our full story with link to the 118-page decision letter on our Bristol Airport page
Backwell House closing in March
Backwell House is closing permanently on Thursday, March 31.
The lovingly restored Georgian once home to the Hobbs family first opened as an upmarket restaurant and hotel in July 2016.
It is also a popular wedding venue.
Many of the family are on the board of directors including Jeremy and Richard Hobbs along with Judith Toogood and Martin Robbins.
On Monday afternoon, January 31, its directors issued the following statement directly after it had spoken to staff.
It said: ‘The Covid-19 pandemic has made the past two years extremely difficult for many businesses, but the hospitality industry and Backwell House have been particularly hard hit. The management and staff have worked extremely hard to try and make a success of the hotel and restaurant despite these difficulties. Therefore, it is with great regret that the decision to close Backwell House has been reached. Consultation with staff representatives regarding the details of severance arrangements will commence as soon as practical. As long as staff can be retained to provide the quality service our customers expect and deserve the hotel and restaurant will continue to operate until 31st March 2022. It will not be possible to honour bookings past 31st March 2022, but Backwell House would like to reassure its customers that all deposits for bookings and events from April 2022 will be refunded in full and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused. Customers holding valid gift vouchers will be welcome to use them up to the date of closing or can contact the hotel direct for a full refund. Backwell House would also like to reassure its suppliers that with the support of its parent company all trade debts will be settled in the normal way. Backwell House would like to thank all of their loyal customers who we have enjoyed looking after over the last six years.'
Wedding coordinator Lotty Furlong spent hours calling couples who lost their bookings, many sadly learned first about the closure on social media.
It is believed 20 couples are affected.
Backwell House had only just reopened after it cancelled Christmas when staff tested positive for Covid two days before Christmas Eve.
With four- and five-star reviews and described by a critic for The Telegraph as 'a small Georgian hotel with a formal rose garden, nine stylish bedrooms and quirky, vintage-inspired décor with views of faraway hills and grazing cattle' had bumper holiday bookings.
Hotel manager Sam Warrilow described at the time this closure decision as 'crushing'.He said: "I utterly regret to write that we have made the heart-breaking decision to close Backwell House until Wednesday, January 5.
"Unfortunately, in the past couple of days we have had a sequence of positive cases of coronavirus within our small team.
"We were able to catch these positive cases through our policy of regular Lateral Flow Testing of all our staff, several instances of which have now been confirmed by PCR.
"Ultimately, we have had no other option but to temporarily close the venue.
"Although this is a crushing turn of events, we strongly feel our duty of care to our team and to our guests to ensure that we do not allow the virus to spread any further.
"We have now spoken directly to each of our guests who had booked restaurant tables and guest rooms with us over the next fortnight to advise and apologise for the bad news.
"Such a dreadful shame to finish the year on this note and we are all devastated by the affect this will have on the Christmas plans for so many of our guests.
"But it has been a fantastic year for Backwell House despite the challenges and we are so grateful for the terrific support and custom that we continue to receive from our guests, regulars and first timers alike.
"So. thank you everyone, please have a wonderful Christmas and a fabulous New Years.
"We are all very much looking forward to seeing you in a fortnight."
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UPDATE: The venue's website is still live and advertising a Valentine's Day menu. More than 13,000 people were reached on Nailsea People Facebook with the news in the few hours after the news was made public with 199 readers leaving comments. mostly about their bitter disappointment at the closure.
PUPIL HURT: A Nailsea School sixth form student was runover outside the school midday on Monday, January 24. Dad Jay Jones appealed on Facebook for witnesses to the accident which saw his daughter Rebecca, aged 17, taken to hospital by ambulance. She was discharged later that day after treatment. Jay said: "She was very shook up and bruised but luckily X-rays revealed no broken bones.” Nailsea police is investigating the incident and a number of eyewitnesses have come forward.
Big lorry High Street ban
Nailsea High Street will have a 20mph speed limit this spring and big lorries will be completely banned.
North Somerset Council highways department has written to town centre businesses to tell them about the changes which could happen as early as March this year.
But Eirik Bird, of Samuel Bird TV, is concerned about deliveries to small independent shops because of inadequate service roads.
Although he conceded he was not against some improvements to traffic flow.
He said: “From my point of view, reducing the speed of traffic and redirecting large lorries using the High Street as some sort of shortcut, are good ideas.”
Nailsea Town Council renewed its calls to North Somerset Council for a 7.5-tonne weight limit for the busy thoroughfare which runs through the town centre in January 2020.
This was after failed attempts to ban traffic altogether along the narrow High Street from the Link Road to Station Road past Coates House on the corner.
The move comes after increasing concern about the number of HGVs using the High Street.
The single lane one-way High Street has limited parking bays for the community bus, taxis and short stay spaces for shoppers, but its traffic calming measures make it a tricky route for larger vehicles to negotiate.
Lorry drivers will be asked to use Stockway North and South, Queens Road and Station Road rather than the High Street.
It is thought that some of the drivers mistakenly use the High Street after being directed to it as a route by their sat navs.
The High Street will still be closed to all traffic on market days.
How it affected the carnival route is unclear.
If the plan goes ahead access to the High Street for emergency vehicles and the community bus would be retained but not 7.5 HGVs.
Eirik add: "We rely on deliveries outisde our shop so this will won't be good for us and I think other High Street businesses.
"Although I personally agree on diverting through traffic of large lorries around the High Street and the 20mph speed limit.
"But we get pallet deliveries from over 7.5T lorries on a regular basis which for insurance reasons drivers cannot breakdown before delivering.
"The service road behind the north side of the High Street is owned by Waitrose and if used will block the main access to the supermarket car park.
"There are plans for the offices above the Arcade to be converted into flats and while this is being done the south service road will be blocked with the building work.
"Until the south service road is improved and widened, I suggest that the signs are changed for 20mph with access exemption for all lorries.
Nailsea Heritage Trail is now Go-Geocaching
Nailsea Heritage Trail now has a Pokémon-style feature thanks to local Geocacher Bob Selby.l
Nailsea Town Council lauched the trail In December 2021.
It has 10 sites dotted around the town, each marked with a stone plinth, information board and QR code which allows access to more content.
Unlike traditional geocaching, there is no physical cache to find at the plinths; you follow the trail through an app on your phone; answering questions from each board to move on.
The geo circuit starts at:
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Clevedon Road car park: then moves to
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The Glassworks;
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Coates Brewery,
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Nowhere Woods;
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Morgan's Hill; and
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The Tithe Barn.
For traditional geocachers' there is also a surprise to find on route!
Further information on The Nailsea Heritage trail can be found on the Nailsea Town Council website site HERE.
And explorers can access the geocaching element of the trail by using the Adventure Lab App HERE.
A Nailsea Town Council spokeman said: "We love hearing feedback from our residents.
"We are thrilled to see the Heritage Trail has had a positive uptake in the town and are looking forward to seeing more and more people use it."
STILL GOING UP: Our coronavirus case numbers in North Somerset are still increasing this week. 2,835 new cases have been identified in the latest seven-day period reported for North Somerset compared with 2,761 in the previous week. Our case rate per 100,000 head of population is 1315.1. This compares to a South West figure of 1270.2 and an England rate of 1695.4, which is a decrease on the national rate from last week of 1709.1. There is a lag in case data meaning the latest information is for the week ending Saturday,January 8. You can see more detail on our local case data at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/lomp. Next date for the Lateral Flow Test mobile van to be in Nailsea is Friday, January 21, 9am-noon parked in the Station Road car park.
Green Party protest proposed police bill
A peaceful protest took place in Nailsea town centre on Thursday, January 13, against the proposed Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
The bill reaches the House of Lords this week and votes will be cast on amendments which will culminate on January 17.
North Somerset Green Party invited residents of all political persuasions to march to the Nailsea High Street office of the Conservative MP, Dr Liam Fox.
North Somerset Council Green Party group leader and ward councillor for Backwell is Bridget Petty.
She believes this bill poses a threat to the public's human rights.
She said: "The Policing Bill threatens to remove one of our most basic human rights; the right to peacefully protest.
"And the amendments to the Bill that have been slipped into it by the government at a late stage make it even worse."
Currently, if the police wish to place restrictions on a protest then there must be evidence that it could result in ‘serious public disorder, serious damage to property or serious disruption to the life of the community’.
Police also have the power to impose specific measures on the routes of marches.
However, under the proposed bill, police bosses could be allowed to put more conditions on static protests such as start times, finish times, noise limits. These could all be applied to protests of just one person.
Mrs Petty added: "People charged under these laws [proposed by the Bill] could be jailed for up to 51 weeks.
“These are the kind of powers used by dictators, and they create conditions for this government, or any future government, to introduce a police state.
"The Bill could be used to criminalise people taking part in climate-related
protests, nurses and doctors protesting for better PPE, or any other group that the government might find annoying.
"We are calling on all MPs and members of the House of Lords to stand up for our basic human rights and reject this dangerous and anti-democratic Bill."
The protestors delivered a letter calling for Dr Fox to denounce the Bill.
Firefighters 999 call
Nailsea firefighters come to the rescue after fire broke out in a garage in neighbouring Clevedon.
With the seaside town covered in a thick blanket of fog, Avon Fire & Rescue Service who HQ is in Pound Lane, Nailsea, tackled a garage fire affecting a caravan and adjacent homes.
Crews from Avonmouth, Clevedon and Yatton were also called out at 10.49am on Wednesday, January 12.
On arrival, crews discovered a large fire engulfing the garage and parked caravan.
With 10 firefighters in attendance some wearing breathing apparatus, the crews used two hose reel jets and a 45mm jet to extinguish the fire.
Also in use were thermal imaging cameras to check for hotspots and monitor residual heat.
The cause of the incident was determined as ccidental ignition.
PHOTOS: Rebecca Chester and Chloe Witcombe-Farr
For the love of Toby Riley an outdoor gym in Nailsea
The family of Toby Riley is raising funds to build an outdoor gym in Nailsea as a fitting memorial to the much-loved teenager who died in the summer of 2021.
The sports mad youngster enjoyed bike rides with dad Al was a keen skate park competitor, football player and coach who in his short life been a member of:
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Nailsea Air Cadets;
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Nailsea Scout Group;
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Nailsea Skate Park;
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Nailsea Junior Football Club;
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Nailsea United FC;
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Priority Football; and
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Senshinryu Karate Association..
A charity fun day is being put together for Sunday, May 8, from 10am-5pm at the Ring O’Bells and Grove Sports & Social Club.
Toby died, aged 18, on July 4, 2021.
Toby’s mum Suzy said: “It is time to remember Toby in a positive way.
“We need help with sponsorship, donations for raffle and auction prizes and more.”
Within days of the word getting out offers have already started coming in.
The original idea for installing an outdoor gym in a Nailsea park came from Nailsea International Bike Show stalwart Sharon Colley who will fellow auction organiser Samantha Mildon raised more than £8,000 for Children’s Hospice South West in September 2021.
Sharon’s idea was supported by town councillor Jo Hopkinson who took up the cudgels and now has the full council backing.
To site the outdoor gym at Millennium Park wiould need permission from North Somerset Council who own and maintain it but other areas are under consideration.
Sharon said: “I came up with the idea after noticing on my walks that surrounding towns in North Somerset have more outdoor exercise equipment than Nailsea.
“We have some beautiful green spaces in our parks which would really benefit from some equipment that all ages could use from young children, teenagers and adult residents.
"The bike show team have offered their support for the fun family day.”
To kick-start the fundraising an appeal they need:
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Sponsors - £50-100
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Bands to play live
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Children entertainers from magicians to those dressed as a favourite cartoon character
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Stall holders – arts, crafts and fundraising ideas welcome
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People to do face-painting, stick-on tattoos and hair-braiding
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Auction lots
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Raffle prizes
Among the planned activities is a multi-coloured fun run with entry tickets £5 on sale from March.
Monies raised will also be going to Young Minds a registered charity that supports young people and their families.
Its website says: ‘It’s hard to watch young people struggling. And it’s even harder when it feels like there’s no one at all who can help. Since the pandemic, millions more young people are struggling to cope with their feelings. That is why we are on hand to help. More young people need our help more than ever, which means we need you more than ever. Give the gift of life-changing support and a brighter tomorrow to the young people and families who need it most.’
Please email Tobysfunday@hotmail.com with offers of help.
The fund will be boosted by the Go Fund Me page donations which raised a massive £18,994 and paid for Toby’s funeral.
Suzy said: “The money donated to the Go Fund Me page was more than enough to pay for Toby’s funeral and so I wanted to put the money left back into the community somehow.
“The town council have agreed to building a outdoor gym park and I have identified some equipment suitable for all ages.
“It may take a while to get started though and is still in discussion with the council regarding location of the park.
“In the meantime, I wanted to do something fun for the community in Toby’s memory so together with Rob Prior, of Priority Football, and Rebecca Williams, from Ring O’Bells we put our heads together and came up with the idea of the family fun day to raise even more money for the park as well as Young Minds.
“Becky, Rob and I have been overwhelmed by the number of people who have contacted us already to offer sponsorship or help on the day.”
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If you have been affected by issues discussed here Nailsea has a new Community Peer Support Group for people who have experienced loss. The STAR (Share Talk and Remember) Community Peer Support Group meets at 65 High Street. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month 4-6pm, and the second and fourth Saturdays 10am-noon.
Testing, testing in Nailsea
North Somerset Council’s Covid-19 rapid testing vans are back on the road as testing rules change in England.
Unprecedented demand for lateral flow home testing kits, which are for anyone without symptoms of coronavirus, and delayed and smaller than expected orders from government, meant the council’s community vans ran out of stock
The vans were unable to get out last week, but the teams are now back on the road. The two vans, which include one running on a fixed schedule and the other moving around to reach as many people as possible, are open daily from 9am-noon to try to make sure everyone, including those without internet access, can get access to tests.
Anyone who has difficulty doing the steps needed to get their results from lateral flow tests can also visit the vans for assisted testing, where staff process the results.
From Tuesday, January 11, anyone who gets a positive test on lateral flow will no longer need to confirm the result with a PCR, which is a more sensitive test that needs to be sent to a laboratory to process the results.
Recent changes also mean anyone with Covid who gets two negative results, 24 hours apart, on home lateral flow tests, from day six after a positive test or symptoms starting, can end their isolation. This means they could finish isolating from day seven onwards, depending on the results of their tests, rather than the previous 10 days.
North Somerset Council executive member for health is Mike Bell the Liberal Democrat ward councilor for Weston-super-Mare Central.
He said: “Our community testing vans are only one way people can get access to lateral flow tests in North Somerset.
“The main route is through the government’s online ordering system. We strongly encourage anyone who needs tests, who has internet access, to use this portal.
"Capacity has been increased, and kits are added throughout the day, so keep checking if you find an out-of-stock message.
“Some pharmacists also have lateral flow tests available for home testing.”
North Somerset Council director of public health Matt Lenny said: “These types of rapid tests, where you process the results yourself, should only be used if you don’t have symptoms of Covid-19 – a temperature, new continuous cough, or a change to your sense of taste or smell. If you have any of these, however mild, you must still isolate and get a PCR test straightaway.”
Lateral flow tests can be ordered online at www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests
Details of where North Somerset Council’s mobile testing vans visit is available at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/rapidtesting
Anyone who needs a PCR test can book online at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or call 119.
FOLLOW THE LFT VAN PARKED UP 9AM-NOON AT ALL LOCATIONS
Monday 10 January
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Hutton Moor Leisure Centre car park, Weston
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Lake Grounds Esplanade, Portishead
Tuesday 11 January
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For All Healthy Living Centre, Lonsdale Avenue, Weston
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Queen’s Square, Clevedon
Wednesday 12 January
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Lake Grounds Esplanade, Portishead
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Car park, Village Hall, Hutton
Thursday 13 January
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Queen’s Square, Clevedon
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Winscombe Community Centre
Friday 14 January
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Station Road car park, Nailsea
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Haywood Road, Pill
Saturday 15 January
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Italian Gardens, Weston
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Lake Grounds Esplanade, Portishead
Sunday 16 January
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Italian Gardens, Weston
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Queen’s Square, Clevedon
Police ask public do you know this man?
Police have issued a CCTV appeal of a man they need the public’s help to identify.
A spokesman said: “We’d like to talk to him in connection with an assault in Nailsea during the early hours of New Year’s Day.
“A man in his 30s was the victim of a sustained attack by another man outside Kebab Kitchen in Nailsea on Crown Glass Place at 12.30am.
“The victim required hospital treatment for facial injuries.
“The offender is described as white, of medium build, aged in his late 20s and approximately 6ft tall.
“He had short dark hair, light stubble and a moustache and wore a navy blue Hugo Boss long sleeve top and dark blue jeans.”
Anyone who knows who the man in the CCTV image is asked to phone 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5222000035.
Alternatively, can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.
No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.
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With seconds of publishing this appeal Nailsea People was sent an identification. The post reached more than 4,000 people with 48 shares is less than three hours. A day later is stood at 15,972 people reached with 136 shares. All information has been shared with investigating officers. Nailsea town councillor James Steel said: "Nailsea Town Council recently spent £30,000 upgrading the cctv system in Nailsea. Great to see them being utilised effectively. I hope the victim recovers quickly." Anti-social behaviour in the town was an agenda item at the last town council meeting.
Ask Nailsea people
Nailsea Town Council intends to ask the people how it should spend its planning gain windfall from new housebuilding in the town.
Nailsea Town Council has gained a significant sum of money from the sale of the land at Engine Lane and is looking at how this money can be reinvested into the community to benefit residents.
The council discussed a proposal to ‘Ask Nailsea’.
It was agreed the question will be put directly to the people of Nailsea and will ask them how they would like the council to invest in the community for the future.
It will be contacting all residents to get views and will promote the questionnaire in local and social media.
It is hoped that a broad scope of ideas will come forward.
The information gathered by Nailsea Town Council will be read, collated, and the most suitable ideas will be selected, developed, and put out for public consultation, it was decided.
Councillors met new Nailsea police beat team constable Lee Kerslake at its extraordinary meeting on Wednesday, Janauary 5, which had been postponed from December.
PC Kerslake talked about future policing plans and anti-social behaviour and damage to the old Weston College site.
He is keen to build a positive rapport with Nailsea’s youth and wants to increase communication between police and the community.
The beat team intend to have a visible presence on the streets of Nailsea, which is an important aspect in gaining the public’s trust, he said.
Nailsea Town Council has upgraded the CCTV network during the past 12
months and has a mobile camera which can be deployed to locations not covered by existing cameras.
All relay images to North Somerset Council CCTV unit and the police, the meeting heard.
Nailsea Town Council budget for 2022-2023 is £567,568 has been set considering increases in running costs and additional staffing.
This is an additional £6.38 a year for a householder in the B and D council tax band or just over 12p per week and is slightly more than the predicted inflation rate of 6.5 per cent by April this year.
For context a Band D household is currently billed £1,906.71 per annum.
Nailsea will be expanding as a town over the next few years and the town council recognises it needs to increase its communication with residents and expand the use of its buildings which has been factored into the 2022-23 budget, the meeting agreed.
New year, new Covid data
Along with the rest of England, North Somerset is seeing its highest ever Covid case rates.
This means the virus is circulating in our community and you are at risk of catching it when you are out and about.
As always, you can help reduce your risk by continuing to wash your hands frequently, wear a face covering when you’re in crowded spaces, and socially distance from anyone you don’t live with if you can.
If you’re meeting with people inside, take rapid lateral flow tests before you go, and open up doors and windows to keep air circulating.
You can get the best possible protection from Covid by getting vaccinated. If you’ve not had a chance yet, book yours now. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first jab, or booster, getting it done as quickly as you can will reduce your risk of getting seriously ill if you do come into contact with the virus.
If you do have symptoms, a temperature, new continuous cough, or change to your sense of taste or smell, stay home and get a PCR test. Rapid tests, where you process the results yourself, must only be used if don’t have symptoms.
North Somerset Council is expecting case rates to continue to rise, so it will be seeing extremely high numbers here in the coming weeks.
This means it’s more important than ever to do everything you can to reduce your chance of catching the disease and get vaccinated to reduce the chance of getting really poorly if you do.
This helps you and will also help limit pressure on the NHS and social care.
Latest Covid data
Our coronavirus case numbers in North Somerset have reached an all-time high and continue to increase.
2,761 new cases have been identified in the latest seven-day period reported for North Somerset compared with 1,840 in the previous week and 1,061 in our last update to you in December.
Our case rate per 100,000 head of population is 1280.8, compared to 492.2 in our last update, which reported figures from Saturday, December 11.
The South West is 1243.7 and an England 1709.1.
There is a lag in case data meaning the latest information is for the week ending Saturday, January 1.
You can see more detail on our local case data at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/lomp.
At 87.7 per cent of North Somerset residents aged 12 or over have now had one dose of the vaccine and 82.4 per cent have had two doses.
A total of 68 per cent have also had a booster or third dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
You can view interactive maps on GOV.UK which show you case rates and vaccination data for your area.
Latest Covid rules
Government guidelines continue to be updated as the coronavirus situation develops and more is understood about the latest variant.
Recent changes include:
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From Tuesday, January 11, if you get a positive rapid lateral flow test result, most people will not need to take a PCR test to confirm the result. You must self-isolate immediately if you get a positive rapid lateral flow test and report the result.
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From 4am on Sunday, January 9, if you qualify as fully vaccinated, you can take either a rapid lateral flow or PCR test within 2 days of arriving in England. If you have a positive result on the rapid lateral flow test, you must take a PCR test.
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From Friday, January 7, if you qualify as fully vaccinated or are under 18, you do not need to take a PCR test before you travel to England or self-isolate when you arrive.
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Face coverings are recommended in schools with pupils in Year 7 and above. They should be worn in most classrooms, and by pupils, students, staff and adult visitors when moving around buildings.
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Rules around when you need to self-isolate and for how longs have been updated. See our ‘Self-isolation’ article for more details.
Self-isolation rules
There have been some changes to the rules around self-isolating, including introducing shorter isolation period for people who get negative test results, and bringing in daily testing for close contacts of positive cases.
It continues to be a legal requirement to self-isolate if you are told to by NHS Test and Trace. You could be fined if you do not self-isolate.
To make sure you’ve got the latest information, here are the current rules around self-isolating, which is taken from the NHS website.
When to self-isolate
Self-isolate straight away and get a PCR test (a test that is sent to the lab) on GOV.UK as soon as possible if you have any of these three symptoms of Covid-19, even if they are mild::
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a high temperature
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a new, continuous cough
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a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
You should also self-isolate straight away if:
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you've tested positive for Covid-19 (with a rapid lateral flow or PCR test) – this means you have the virus
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someone you live with has symptoms or tested positive (unless you are not required to self-isolate – check below if this applies to you)
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you've been told to self-isolate following contact with someone who tested positive – find out what to do if you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS COVID-19 app
If you live with or have been in contact with someone with Covid-19, you will not need to self-isolate if any of the following apply:
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you're fully vaccinated – this means 14 days have passed since your final dose of an approved Covid-19 vaccine
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you're under 18 years and 6 months old
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you're taking part or have taken part in an approved Covid-19 vaccine trial
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you're not able to get vaccinated for medical reasons
How long to self-isolate?
You usually have to self-isolate for 10 full days if you've tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19).
If you've been in close contact with someone who has Covid-19, you may have to self-isolate for 10 full days.
You might need to self-isolate for longer if you get symptoms while self-isolating or your symptoms do not go away.
If you’ve tested positive
If you test positive, your self-isolation period includes the day your symptoms started (or the day you had the test, if you do not have symptoms) and the next 10 full days.
If you get symptoms while you're self-isolating, the 10 days restarts from the day after your symptoms started.
You can stop self-isolating after seven days if you do a rapid lateral flow test on days six and seven of your self-isolation period and:
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both tests are negative
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you did both tests at least 24 hours apart
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you do not have a high temperature
If you do a rapid lateral flow test on day six and test positive, wait 24 hours before you do the next test.
If you stop self-isolating on or after day 7, it's important that you take steps to reduce the chance of passing Covid-19 to others. This means you should:
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work from home if you can
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wear a face covering in shops, on public transport and when it's hard to stay away from other people – particularly indoors, in crowded places or where there is not much fresh air
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limit contact with people at higher risk of serious illness from Covid-19
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follow advice on how to avoid catching and spreading Covid-19
You can stop self-isolating after the 10 days if either:
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you do not have any symptoms
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you just have a cough or changes to your sense of smell or taste – these can last for weeks after the infection has gone
If you have a high temperature after the 10 days, or are feeling unwell, keep self-isolating and seek medical advice.
If you need to self-isolate as household contact of Covid
If someone you live with tests positive, your self-isolation period includes the day their symptoms started (or the day they had the test, if they do not have symptoms) and the next 10 full days.
You can stop self-isolating after the 10 days if you do not get any symptoms.
Get PCR a test to check if you have Covid-19 on GOV.UK if you get symptoms while you're self-isolating.
If your test is negative, keep self-isolating for the rest of the 10 days.
If your test is positive, the 10 days restarts from the day after your symptoms started. This will mean you're self-isolating for more than 10 days overall.
If you’ve been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace
Self-isolate immediately if either:
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you get a text, email or call from NHS Test and Trace telling you to self-isolate
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you get an alert from the NHS COVID-19 app telling you to self-isolate
Your self-isolation period includes the day you were last in contact with the person who tested positive for Covid-19 and the next 10 full days.
It's a legal requirement to self-isolate if you are told to by NHS Test and Trace. You could be fined if you do not self-isolate.
Find out what to do if you've been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace
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Residents across North Somerset are asked to keep looking after each other as Covid rates climb.
Cases of Covid-19 in North Somerset have reached the highest levels to date and are expected to continue rising, which may leave some members of the community in need of more support.
High infection rates are also putting huge pressure on the local health and social care system. The latest reported figures show 2,761 infections recorded in the previous seven days, up 50 per cent on the previous week, which gives a rate of 1,280.8 per 100,000 head of population. The number of Covid patients in local hospitals has also more than doubled in just two weeks.
This pressure, and the higher rates, may leave some members of the community in need of extra support so North Somerset residents are encouraged to keep looking out for each other during the coming weeks.
North Somerset Council executive member for health Mike Bell is the Liberal Democrat ward councillor for Weston-super-Mare Central.
He said: “During the pandemic, North Somerset communities have done an incredible job of helping and looking out for each other.
“And, while we’re working hard with our colleagues in the NHS, social care and emergency services to do everything we can to look after the most vulnerable people, the huge pressures on the system caused by Covid and increased need for services over the winter, mean we’re asking for everyone to help where they can.
“What you might think is small gesture of help for a friend, family member or elderly neighbour really can make a difference.
“Nothing’s too small. Any practical help you can give to help a loved one return home from hospital, or help stop them going into hospital, will help.”
Help for family, friends or neighbours could include:
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Checking in on them to see how they are
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Getting some shopping
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Checking they are eating well and drinking enough each day
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Making sure they are warm and able to keep warm
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Picking up their prescription or other medication
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Taking their dog for a walk
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Offering to feed their pet
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Helping with household chores like putting the recycling or bins out, doing some laundry or helping keep their home clean
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Making time to ring them for a chat
Covid may also bring extra challenges as people may need short-term help because they or those who usually support them are ill or self-isolating.
If friends, family, or neighbours cannot help, North Somerset Together is still available to connect people to local support networks.
Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/together
The online portal also gives information about financial support available for individuals who may lose income if they need to self-isolate, and for businesses that continue to be affected by Covid.
North Somerset Council director of public health Matt Lenny, said: “This is a difficult time in our fight against Covid as we try to manage the impact of infection rates on other aspects of our health and wellbeing.
“The winter weather will also be having an effect, especially on our most vulnerable residents.
“But, we can reduce the impact by continuing to look after each other, and remembering that helping out with everyday tasks may seem small, but can make a massive difference to someone else's life.”
We are here to help!
Covid cases in our area are the highest they have ever been which means that large numbers of people are isolating.
If you, or or someone you know, are isolating and are without a local support network to help you out with shopping etc please contact us at Nailsea Community Group and we will do what we can
Contact by email on info@nailseacommunitygroup.co.uk, call 01275 562601 or by filling in the form on this link https://forms.gle/rXMKgEidMqifjuTT7
Nailsea Community Group hub at 26 Somerset Square is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-2pm and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 10am-12.30pm
Get boosted now
People continue to be urged to book Covid-19 booster appointments after a huge drop in the local take up of the vaccination since Christmas.
The drop is thought to be the result of a false perception that the Omicron variant is milder.
Please visit www.grabajab.net to book an appointment or call 119.
Second dose Covid-19 vaccinations are now available for 12 to 15 year olds in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
You can book an appointment at a dedicated GP clinic or Vaccination Centre clinic using the online National Booking Service or by calling 119.
Your child is eligible for their second dose three months (90 days) after their first dose. If they catch Covid-19 after their first vaccination, they must wait three months after their positive test before having their second dose of the vaccine.
For more information, please visit www.grabajab.net.
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Vaccination alert for Saturday, January 8: Young people aged 12 to 17-years can get a jab at Brockway Medical Centre. Call 01275 866761 to book. To check the eligibility criteria, go to www.tyntesfield.nhs.uk/news-2
Supporting health and social care teams
Our local health and social care system continues to respond to the ongoing pressures caused by the Omicron variant of Covid-19 and winter pressures.
This release covers all health and social care organisations across the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire area, which includes our own social care teams here at the council.
Health and social care providers have also updated their patient visiting policies. Settings across our health and social care system are configured differently, and visiting arrangements are only changed based on clinical risk:
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University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
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Sirona Care and Health
If you are planning to visit any other care facilities, including care homes, please check for updates to their polices before you travel.
Rapid testing
Demand for lateral flow tests continues to be high. Our mobile testing units, which offer lateral flow testing for those who don’t have symptoms of Covid-19, visit towns and villages across North Somerset for home testing kit collection and assisted testing.
However, extremely high demand for kits and delayed and incomplete deliveries from government, have left our vans out of stock.
We hope to back on the road next week, but, while demand continues to be high, we are asking people who can get kits online to use the government’s ordering service, so we can prioritise our community collection tests for those without internet access.
The government’s online system has increased capacity and adds new stock throughout the day, so keep checking to order your kits at Gov.UK
You can also continue to collect from some pharmacies.
We will update our website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/rapidtesting with details of where our vans will be visiting and when once our next delivery date is confirmed. Please continue to check this page for the latest updates before you make a special trip.
Recycling for new year 2022
North Somerset is the best performing council in the south west for recycling according to the latest figures.
So why oh why does some fly-tipper dump rubbish on Backwell Common – see photo.
Recycling rates published in December by Defra, name North Somerset Council as the second best performing English unitary council.
This places North Somerset higher in the top 10 than before as the seventh best council in the country for recycling rates, up from ninth position in 2019-20.
In 2020-21, 60.4 per cent of household waste generated in North Somerset was recycled, compared to the UK average of 44 per cent.
North Somerset Council executive member for neighbourhoods and community services Mike Solomon is the Independent ward councillor for Hutton and Locking.
He said: “One of our main priorities is to make North Somerset a greener place to be, so I am delighted to see our recycling rates have jumped even higher up the top ten of all councils in the country.
"We have worked incredibly hard to encourage our residents to recycle as much as they can and I am hugely impressed with how people have responded.
“Thank you to everyone who plays their part. The time and care that our residents take to sort their recycling correctly is keeping us at the top of the south west.
“The hard work pays off and is worth it.
"Thanks must also go to our hardworking crews for their efforts in what has been an extremely challenging year for them due to the national aftershocks felt from Covid-19 and the shortage of HGV drivers.
“I look forward to publication of the council’s new waste strategy in the new year.
“This key document, which has been put together using residents’ feedback from the recent recycling and waste consultation, will set out our plan for the future.”
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This year, waste and recycling collections will not change over Christmas. As Christmas falls on a weekend, your collection day will remain the same. You can always check your collection dates HERE. Please be aware staff shortages and delays are likely to continue over Christmas. Remember to check North Somerset missed collection report if your collection has been missed here www.n-somerset.gov.uk/christmas-waste.
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Christmas trees can be put out for collection with your first garden waste collection after Christmas. This will be between Monday and Friday, January 17 and February 11.
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Old Christmas cards can be recycled, unless they are covered in glitter. Even better reuse them. They make great gift tags, bookmarks, postcards and even napkin rings! Watch here for ideas https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=yULwnlkjb0s.
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Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is again leading the way with recycling after the Christmas holidays. It is where discarded festive trees can all be put to good use. Supported by North Somerset Council groundwork team the trees will be turned in bedding mulch and silage. It is all part of Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm’s Green Zoo initiative to help with a sustainable future. People wishing to donate their Christmas tree can do so between Sundays, January 2-23, when the zoo is open from 10.30am-4pm and while there visit the zoo and Farm Shop.