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Bridgwater Times Media and News Providing news and info in and around Bridgwater. All images are copyright to Bridgwater Times unless otherwise stated.
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30/08/2024

Bridgwater Town Council Adds Two Electric Vehicles to Their Fleet

In a significant step towards sustainability, Bridgwater Town Council has recently added two electric vehicles (EVs) to their fleet. This move aligns with the council’s ongoing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally friendly practices within the community.

The new additions to the fleet, the Maxus 3, are fully electric to allow the Town Council’s Open Spaces team to maintain the town in a more energy-efficient way.

Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of the Amenities Committee said: “These new electric vehicles are a very welcome addition to our fleet of vehicles that I’m sure will serve the Council for many years to come. This investment shows our commitment to working in environmentally friendly ways.”

Cllr Kathy Pearce, Chair of the Environment Committee expressed her enthusiasm for the new additions. “The introduction of the Maxus 3 electric vehicles to our fleet marks a significant step towards a greener future. By utilising these 100% electric vehicles, our Town Council’s Open Spaces team can now maintain the town more efficiently and sustainably helping to reduce our carbon footprint”

The benefits of electric vehicles extend beyond environmental impact. They also offer cost savings in terms of fuel and maintenance, which can be redirected towards other community projects.

Additionally, the quieter operation of EVs contributes to reduced noise pollution.

The vans, complete with signwriting, will be visible throughout Bridgwater as the Open Spaces Team performs its various tasks.

30/08/2024

PCC Clare Moody asks people across Taunton and surrounding areas to help shape policing in their area

Join Clare Moody, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, officers from your local neighbourhood policing team, for a public forum where you can influence the future of policing.

Clare Moody will host six forums across Avon and Somerset to hear from the public.

The third forum is happening in Taunton at the Taunton Rugby Football Club.

One of PCC Clare’s key responsibilities is to develop a Police and Crime Plan – a strategy for policing across all areas in Avon and Somerset.

Clare has created the draft plan, based on the demand issues for Avon and Somerset Police and what people told Clare their priorities are, while she was campaigning on the doorstep and talking to local people in the run up to her election in May.

Clare is now asking the public in each of the five local authority areas for ideas on how the police, communities and partners can work together to deliver against her Police and Crime Plan draft priorities.

The forums are part of a wider public consultation, which launched on 21 August, and also includes a survey to allow those who are unable to attend to share their ideas and suggestions.

The forum provides an opportunity to:

Help shape how policing is delivered in your area
Share your ideas on what would work in your community
Find out more about the consultation on your council tax and police funding

Sign up today and be a part of shaping a safer, more effective policing strategy for Somerset. www.eventbrite.com/e/public-forum-with-pcc-clare-moody-tickets-980263884667

When: Wednesday 11 September 2024

Where: Taunton Rugby Football Club, Hyde Lane Taunton TA2 8BU

Time: 6 – 7.30pm

The schedule for the forum is:

6pm arrival
6.10 – 6.35pm presentations
Clare Moody, Police and Crime Commissioner
Police and Crime Plan priorities
An overview of local priorities from the neighbourhood policing team
6.35pm – 7.25pm Open discussion
7.30pm Close
For more information and to read PCC Clare’s draft priorities, please visit PCC Clare Moody asks people across Avon and Somerset to help shape policing in their area | OPCC for Avon and Somerset (avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk)

For more information please contact [email protected]

30/08/2024

Bridgwater MP Ashley Fox Pledges Full Support for Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival

Ashley Fox, the Member of Parliament for Bridgwater, recently visited the Bridgwater Carnival Centre to meet with Dave Croker, President of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, and Dave Creedy, Chairman.

During the visit, the discussions centred around the extensive preparations for the Bridgwater carnival, the oldest carnival in the UK that draws tens of thousands of visitors to the town each year. The group also delved into the rich 400-year-old history of squibbing, a tradition unique to Bridgwater where over 200 large fireworks, known as Squibs, are ignited simultaneously and held aloft by Carnivalites on coshes in a spectacular display. An amazing finale to the Bridgwater Carnival day!

Dave Creedy said, “It was a pleasure to meet Ashley to explain a little on the history of our carnival and what it means to so many "Carnivalites" within our town, to see his genuine interest and enthusiasm to support the event, and to also continue the long-standing tradition of our sitting MP to take part in the "Squibbing display" on carnival day.”

Ashley expressed his strong support for the event and offered to assist in any way possible to ensure the success of this year’s carnival. He emphasised the importance of the carnival to the local community, not only as a longstanding tradition but also as a significant boost to the town’s economy.

"I am incredibly proud of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival and all it represents," Ashley said. "This event is a vital part of our town’s cultural heritage, and I am committed to supporting it in any way I can. The dedication and hard work of everyone involved in the carnival are truly inspiring and I look forward to being part of the celebrations, particularly the unique and thrilling tradition of squibbing."

27/08/2024

Bridgwater Without Parish Council came together to celebrate the lives of two Parish Councillors with family members. Mr Malcolm Young and Mr Gordon Hooper spent over 50 years supporting the people of their parish. They listened to people, took notice of the parish, and were active, keeping on top of things. They viewed and commented on planning issues and always did this with parishioners at their heart. They were both busy farmers and knew the area inside out. There wasn’t a corner, road, or field that they didn’t know. They both naturally had different styles, Malcolm being very vocal, always reading information and holding local district and county councillors to account for actions. He constantly challenged them respectfully. He was Chairman for many years before handing the mantle over. Gordon always listened before asking other questions and holding people accountable for their answers. He often knew the answer before it was given. They were both keen to see employment to support families.

They were family friends and spent many hours together socially, yet they didn’t always agree on points.

They are sadly missed at meetings and are often referred to. The current Parish Councillors respectfully felt that service of this length couldn’t pass without being marked, and time was taken to choose the correct bench and position. The bench was placed in Dunwear and is regularly used by many who pass through. It is a fitting tribute.

27/08/2024

Bridgwater Food & Drink Festival a great success

After a damp start on Saturday (24 August) with the food and drink festival in town centre, the sun came out and the entertainment started with the Sea Cadets band doing a small routine on the Cornhill, this was followed by the Spotlight production company a small group of people singing some hits from musicals.

This was followed by the YMTC blasting out some more hits from musicals.

We had a juggler wondering the town and Chloe Marie Aston on a 3 wheeled bicycle playing the piano.

With the final act of the day Jon Hopes a jazz musician.

There were dozens of stalls around the Cornhill and into the High St with lots of food & drink to choose from, all organised by the British Flag CC.

25/08/2024

Temporary Closure of West Street

West Street - from the junction with Broadway, south-westwards for a total distance of 298 metres.

This will enable Heidelberg to carry out resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Highways.

The works are expected to commence on 27th August 2024 and last until 2nd September 2024 between the hours of 07:30 - 18:00 (weekdays only) for a total of 5 days.

25/08/2024

Wembdon Village Day

The annual flower show and craft show
Sedgepaw dog show, classic car show and more
Bank Holiday Monday 26 August from 10am

Car Boot opens 10am

Flower show from 1pm with Sedgepaw dog show from 11am

Bring cash for Entrance £1 per person - under 16 Free

25/08/2024

AMBERSIL DONATES OVER 50,000 INDUSTRIAL CLEANING WIPES TO BRIDGWATER CARNIVAL CLUBS
One of the world’s leading manufacturers of technical and maintenance aerosols and other associated products has become the latest partner and sponsor of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, after donating 54,000 ‘post shelf life’ industrial hand cleaning wipes to the town’s carnival clubs.

Bridgwater based, CRC Industries UK (Ambersil), donated the wipes, after proactively contacting carnival organisers to see if there would be any interest in utilising the long standing stock items.

The tough wipes, which can be used for removing oil, grease and grime residues from hands and surfaces, had passed their shelf life date and could not be sold by the company, who are based at Wylds Road. However, because the tubs containing the wipes were securely foil sealed, it meant they were still fit for purpose and perfectly good to use.

Kieran Neale, Ambersil’s Marketing Manager, said: “We identified we had an excess stock of high absorbency cleaning wipes following the Covid Pandemic which we could no longer use, and were taking up some much needed space in our warehouse.

“As the community is very important to us, and as Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is the largest event in the town, we came up with the idea of offering them to the town’s carnival clubs free of charge. I am delighted to see the clubs accepted our offer and are able to make good use of them.”

Dave Stokes, Publicity Director for Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, added: “We really value our relationships with the local business sector, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank Ambersil for their generous and very much appreciated donation.

“Every year it gets more expensive for the clubs to build the spectacular entries we have become accustomed to, and also to stage the carnival. Donations such as this from Ambersil, saves the carnival thousands of pounds, and also facilitates a way of reusing products which were otherwise redundant”.

Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is the oldest carnival in the UK, and is regarded as the largest illuminated parade in Europe. It is held annually on the first Saturday in November, and this year’s carnival returns to the streets of Bridgwater on Saturday 2 November 2024, 6pm start.

Photo caption: Left to right – Dave Creedy, Chairman of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes
Carnival Committee, Kieron Neale, Ambersil’s Marketing Manager, and David Cleaveley, Vice Chairman of Bridgwater Carnival Gangs and Features, with the donated cleaning wipes. Photo courtesy of Brian Sweeting.

23/08/2024

Food & Drink Festival

Saturday 24 August from 9.30am - 3pm

Plus entertainment in High st

Road closures will be in place during event

22/08/2024

The Big Picnic at Blake Gardens

The last of the summer events in Blake Gardens took place on Sunday (18 August) with the big picnic organised by the Town Council with music from SedgemoorFM.

Lots of people turned out with picnics and blankets, the town council gave away goody bags to children.

We also had a story teller by the bandstand who dressed as a professor. Face painting and a large bluey thing posing for photographs.

The Mayor and Mayoress joined in the fun with the Vicar of St Mary’s Church, Rev Suse Osmond.

A good day had by all.

22/08/2024

Body Mechanics
Open Day on Sunday 1st September

20/08/2024

Bridgwater Library has recently gained two new books donated by local author and artist, Violet Harrington, aged 97. “Memories of an East End Child” contains 9 autobiographical stories of Violet’s life beginning with her childhood on the Isle of Dogs, in London’s East End through to her move to New Zealand and then Australia in the 1980s to start a new career in business. “Observations of Life in Verse” comprises 90 poems written by Violet over the years, reflecting everyday themes of love and loss, the highs and lows we can all relate to, as we look back over our lives.

18/08/2024

The Fallen Moon coming to the Docks

Bridgwater Town Deal is to present the Artwork the Fallen Moon by Luke Jerram.

It will be installed in the docks from Monday 14 October until Sunday 3 November.

The sculpture is a giant 10 meter diameter replica of the Moon to be illuminated on the water.

The Fallen Moon will be lit for the duration of the exhibition and is expected to draw people from across the area, there is also a low decibel sound presentation played through speakers nightly from 6pm – 8pm.

There will also be overnight security for the safety of visitors and locals residents.

There will also be some community events taking place during the time the Fallen Moon is in the docks.

17/08/2024

SomerRock 24

More people enjoying the music and singing over the weekend.

17/08/2024

Bon Jovi Tribute at SomerRock

They were the best of the night with cheers for more.

16/08/2024

Somerrock 24

Over the weekend of somerrock thousands turn out to see their favourite tribute artist and sing along to them.

Some even chucked items of clothing at the man Tom Jones.

A great weekend had by all with plenty of music and singing.

16/08/2024

Tom Jones Tribute at SomerRock

16/08/2024

Stereophonics Tribute at SomerRock

16/08/2024

Blondie Tribute at SomerRock

16/08/2024

Prodigy Tribute at SomerRock

16/08/2024

Burtle Silver Band at Blake Gardens

The Burtle Silver band played several tunes at the bandstand recently.

15/08/2024

Big Community Picnic - Blake Gardens

Sunday 18 August from 11am - 3pm

Bring your own picnic and blanket

Refreshments from Blake Museum if needed

15/08/2024

Plans in place for possible protest - Taunton

Plans are in place for a policing operation in Taunton on Saturday 17 August, ahead of any demonstration.

Somerset Commander Superintendent Lisa Simpson said: "We're aware of proposals for at least two protests in Taunton on Saturday. We've spoken to people who have identified themselves as the organisers of one demonstration and attempted to contact the organisers of the other.

"We don't know how many will attend either event but we have resources on hand to facilitate lawful protest, and to take decisive action should there be any disorder. We will not tolerate hate, violence or criminality.

"If you live, work or visit Taunton, you'll see more officers around. Local officers will be supported by our police horses and dogs and colleagues from neighbouring police forces, all working to keep the peace."

Neighbourhood officers are working with partner agencies and are in touch with community and faith leaders and local businesses. As well as keeping them informed, officers are asking them to pass on anything which makes them feel less safe.

Three people involved in disorder in Bristol earlier this month have each already started prison sentences of more than two years, with another 12 people charged and going through the court process.

Supt Simpson said: "The courts have shown very clearly that anyone involved in violent unrest faces a lengthy jail term. We in policing are committed to acting swiftly to bring before the court anyone who behaves in such a shameful way. I hope this reassures our communities in Taunton - and makes anyone thinking of coming to our town to cause trouble to think again."

13/08/2024

Stowey Sunflowers in Stunning Somerset.

12/08/2024

Man named following fatal collision in Bridgwater

The family of a man who sadly died last week in a collision have expressed their gratitude to the public.

Lee Mainwaring, aged 54, tragically died following a collision on the A38 Taunton Road, in Bridgwater, on Sunday 4 August.

The ambulance service called us at around 9.30am following a serious collision involving a car and a motorcycle on the A-road.

Sadly, Lee died at the scene and our sincerest condolences and thoughts remain with his family and friends at this time, who are being supported by a family liaison officer.

Lee’s family shared a selection of photos in tribute to Lee.

They said: “We would like thank everybody for their kind words, cards and flowers. Lee will be hugely missed.”

Officers investigating the incident continue to appeal for any witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224203431

12/08/2024

Temporary Closure of Friarn Street

Somerset Council have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along;

Friarn Street - from the junction with Priory Court to the junction Silver Street. A total distance of 80 metres.

This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out new connection works.

The works are expected to commence on 27th August 2024 and last until 30th August 2024 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 4 days

11/08/2024

Commerical Inn under new management

Kayleigh invites you to Grand Opening Kids party on Saturday 24 August from 2pm - 4pm with tickets at the bar £2.00 per child -

contact 07879372355

Address

Bridgwater
TA6

Website

http://bridgwater-history.co.uk/

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