Latest News
’The Cooking Pot’ has arrived!
IT HAS ARRIVED!
Remembrance 2020
The ongoing situation with the Covid pandemic in the country will not allow the normal acts of Remembrance to take place on Remembrance Sunday on 8 November. The Royal British Legion committee of Castle Cary will arrange a ‘closed’ ceremony to take place at the War Memorial to ensure that as a community an act of Remembrance will take place which will include the laying of wreaths. This ceremony will be conducted on behalf of the whole community. Representatives from those organisations who historically lay a wreath will be invited to attend. We ask that the public do not turn up to this event in order to maintain a Covid safe environment.
We know this will be a disappointment to many people of Castle Cary but it is the most sensible thing to do in the current climate. If you would like to show your support for Remembrance Sunday we would encourage everybody to display a Poppy in one of your windows. A blank for children to colour in can be found at this link
There will be a reduced Poppy Appeal this year to ensure safety of both the public and our volunteers. Poppies will be available in some outlets in Castle Cary. There will be a ‘market stall’ daily at the Market House where a full range of Poppy memorabilia will be available. This will be in place from Saturday 24 October until Saturday 7 November – this will be every day except Sunday.
Solar Streets are coming to Castle Cary
“Castle Cary Town Council is pleased to support this partnership working initiative ‘Solar Streets’. Its aims fully fit with our environmental action plan for Castle Cary to be carbon neutral by 2030. We enthusiastically endorse this scheme which we hope our community will engage with and benefit from.”
– Judi Morison, Chair of Castle Cary Town Council
Bruton and Castle Cary Town Councils and One Planet Bruton are working with west country solar installer IDDEA and The Green Group to offer significantly discounted solar panels for households in Bruton, Castle Cary and the surrounding area (up to five miles from either town).
A 12 panel 4kWp system costs from £4,000. Smaller and larger systems are available with add-ons such as batteries for storage of electricity and iBoost to heat water. The standard offering features black 340Wp panels.
The scheme has been running successfully in Frome since early 2019. Frome Town Council approached several companies who were asked if they could provide a 4kWp solar PV system for £4,000 or less. IDDEA was the only company able to do this and had a good reputation locally. The scheme did not cost the Town Council any money and they used their Ethical Decision Matrix to ensure the company upheld the values that Frome Town Council support. Bruton Town Council decided to rely on Frome Town Council’s procurement rather than go through a similar exercise and Castle Cary Town Council voted unanimously to support it. IDDEA has completed more than 100 installations under the Solar Streets programme, including over 70 in Frome, and more than 800 in the south west. They are MCS accredited and an accredited member of HIES.
The discounted scheme is possible because IDDEA can install solar PV in bulk, saving time, transport and associated emissions. Households benefit from reduced energy bills and if electricity prices increase, the savings will increase over time. As well as saving money, each installation will save around 1.5 tonnes of carbon every year (per the Energy Saving Trust). The project supports Castle Cary Town Council’s ambitions to become carbon neutral by 2030. In addition, £50 will be given to a community fund for every domestic solar installation, and a minimum of £100 for a commercial installation, to be used towards green projects in our community.
To find out more, including information about upcoming Q&A sessions,
see https://solarstreets.co.uk/brutoncaryplus or email [email protected]
To book a survey, contact IDDEA directly by email [email protected]
Low interest loans and impartial information about financing options is available from Lendology CIC, a not for profit lender: https://www.lendology.org.uk/, 01823 461099 or complete their enquiry form https://www.lendology.org.uk/contact/. Note they can only
assist homeowners, shared owners, landlords, park home owners and empty property owners. In some circumstances, they can assist first time buyers.
Vandalism
There has been an increase in anti social behaviour in our communities and we are very concerned about the safety of both our young people and others. Recent events include the vandalism of the Catherine’s Close toilets, which are now closed whilst repairs are taking place, the bus shelter on Churchfield Drive, the defibrillator and the bus shelter on Station Road. In addition there are numerous incidents of vandalism that deeply affects the Football Club and the users and neighbours of the fields and play areas.
Both Councils are in regular contact with the Police who have increased their patrols of the Fairfield, the Donald PIther Memorial field and the town.
However, they can only react to crimes that they know about so we urge you to contact the Police EVERY time you witness crimes anywhere in our town. You can do this by calling 101 or if it’s an emergency 999 If you have access to the internet:
https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/anti-social-behaviour/
You can also report crimes anonymously on:
https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously
We intend to keep a log of incidents and will request the Police to initiate a Community Trigger procedure but we can only do this if incidents are reported at least five times. We therefore, repeat our request to report incidents.
In addition we will make representation to the Police & Crime Commissioner, Sue Mountstevens regarding the resourcing of the Police in rural areas as we know we are not alone in our concerns.
Chris Edwards Chair Ansford Parish Council
Judi Morison Chair Castle Cary Town Council
Vandalism at the Play Park loo
…over the weekend. Once again mindless vandalism has caused the closure of this much needed facility. The CCTV footage will be looked at; meanwhile, if anyone has information, please forward it to [email protected]
Nat West mobile bank returns!
The Nat West Mobile Bank will be returning to Castle Cary on Thursday 15th October at the usual time, 11am to 12pm. To meet Covid safety requirements, the bank staff will be travelling in two separate vehicles, so, if you see a car parked on the Cobbles, it is the second vehicle associated with the bank and has permission to park there.
One Somerset…or Stronger Somerset?
A debate has been running between Somerset County Council and the District Councils of Somerset about their future. You may have read about it in the County Council newsletter.
Now, Somerset County Council is asking for your views; their latest communication states:
‘In previous communications we have committed to carrying out a consultation this Autumn to gather public opinion around the One Somerset model and the future opportunities this will bring for Somerset. To help gather feedback we are now embarking on a detailed consultation exercise and an online survey will shortly be available on the One Somerset website where you’ll be able to provide us with your thoughts. Please take part and submit your feedback on this form when it becomes available.
In addition, Somerset County Council has commissioned an independent organisation called Blue marble Research to conduct some focus groups/depth interviews so you may be contacted directly by them and invited to take part in those sessions.
In the meantime and if you have any questions around the One Somerset business case then please take a look at the website which is updated regularly with all the latest information.’
However, the District Councils of Somerset disagree with the One Somerset proposal and South Somerset District Council has a page on its website accordingly:http://www.strongersomerset.co.uk/
This was also discussed by Castle Cary Town Council in July: https://www.castle-cary.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/CCTC-Approved-Minutes-for-Town-Council-Meeting-2020-07-20.pdf (Chair’s report c)
Fairfield project
See this link for more details: https://www.castle-cary.co.uk/fairfield-project/
MARKET CANCELLED TOMORROW- 25th August!
TUESDAY MARKET CANCELLED
The weather forecast for tomorrow (Tuesday 25 August) is not good. Heavy rain and winds of 40-50mph
The market traders and the Town Council have decided to cancel the market for safety reasons.
We do not want to see gazebos and products scattered along the high street!!!
Sorry for any inconvenience
Good news!
Our trusty Community and Tourist Information Desk volunteers have returned to help answer questions from the community and give information about tourism in our town. They are working restricted hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10.00-12 noon and are operating from the Undercroft with a oneway system. Please follow the directions and observe social distancing and Covid-19 processes at all times. They have information about walks and leaflets about tourist attractions as well as our Welcome Packs for new residents. It would also be useful if you could keep them informed about your forthcoming events and activities as these at last begin to come on stream again.
Our Town and Deputy Clerks will be returning to see residents in person on an appointments only basis on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays starting from Wednesday 3rd September 10.00-12 noon. Please access them through the volunteers on duty in the Undercroft. To make an appointment email: [email protected] or phone 07780 635013 or (01963) 359631
We are hoping very much to bring back Saturday coffee mornings as soon as possible but, having risk assessed the activity rigorously, we are sorry that at the time of writing it is still not possible. Please bear with us, as we are constantly reviewing the situation with information from daily Government updates. We have the safety of our community at heart.
Thank you for your understanding.
Not to be missed! Live performance!
Market Day in Castle Cary, Tuesday, 18th August
Bud Martin will perform his hit song ‘Little Old Lady from Castle Cary’
This will be at 9.30, 10.30, 11.30 and 12.30.
Please always remember to practice social distancing.
It was back in 1997 that Bud Martin – who lives in Yeovil – wrote ‘Little Old Lady from Castle Cary’ but only now has it become a hit, albeit on You Tube! Bud uploaded ‘Little Old Lady from Castle Cary’ to You Tube and within just a few weeks it has attracted five-figure viewing numbers.
Now, to support the town and local businesses at this difficult time, Bud is to perform live ‘Little Old Lady from Castle Cary’ near the Market on Tuesday, 18th August.
For those of you who would like a taster in advance, here is the link: ‘Little Old Lady from Castle Cary’
Castle Cary Community Library is re-opening.
The library will be open from Tuesday 18 August. There will be a 1-in-1-out policy. You will not be able to browse the shelves.
There is a new Order and Collect service. Simply fill in a form online at Somerset Libraries; phone 0757 904 9109 or collect a form in the library. You can order anything from our library including books, large print books, audiobooks and DVDs. No charges or fines will be issued for any items borrowed. And you can still use the wonderful e-services: e-books, audiobooks, newspapers and magazines.
The public network computer will be available on Friday afternoons only. This must be pre-booked by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]
Much effort has been put into making the library a safe environment for you. We will very much appreciate your understanding when using the new layout and the systems we have put in place.
Please note that face coverings are now required in libraries at all times. The new opening times are:
Tuesday 10 a.m. -12 noon, 2 – 3 p.m.
Wednesday 10 a.m. -12 noon, 2 – 3 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. -12 noon
Saturday 10 a.m. -12 noon.
Public Network Computer: Friday 2 – 3 p.m. (Pre-booking essential)
Face coverings
At the end of last week face coverings became mandatory for most of us in certain settings such as public transport, shops and supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, banks, building societies and post offices. Please note, however, that some people are exempt from having to wear one. To read the full guidance, including exemptions, please review: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own
Latest advice for businesses-leaflets and guidance
Lots of essential advice for businesses: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/coronavirus-back-to-work-government-guidelines/
Webinars from Community Energy England
Today’s webinar: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/innovation-lab-webinar-series-energy-local-tickets
A link to previous webinars: https://communityenergyengland.org/pages/previous-events/
Do you want to help shape the future of rural transport services in South Somerset?
Do you want to help shape the future of rural transport services in South Somerset?
For the past 12 months, South Somerset District Council has been investigating how a better rural transport service can be established and now we need your help.
We have been working with partners, commercial providers of new technology and the Government’s innovation arm the Connected Places Catapult, to look at creating alternatives to heavily-subsidised fixed-timetable and fixed-journey services which currently exist.
An important part of this work is to fully understand of needs of residents, and we are delighted to announce that the Connected Places Catapult has chosen South Somerset as the subject of its research looking at a largely rural area.
The first part of this activity is to put together a focus group of 15 people who can help design and launch the study.
How can I help?
We’re inviting residents to put themselves forward as be part of the research group.
Initially, you would have to be available next week to take part in an online session on the 13 July, and participate in two tasks based around how rural transport could be improved in South Somerset.
We are looking for a representative group of residents across the district’s rural areas, including students going to college, people travelling to work, and older residents needing to travel for healthcare. The study will also include shopping and meeting with family and friends.
If you would like the opportunity to shape the way that transport works in South Somerset, please apply by visiting https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/6TE4XP/
A member of the team will be in contact with you should your application be successful. We are particularly keen to hear from people who rely on public transport to move around the district and those who are eager to switch to public transport for environmental benefits.
Return of the Tuesday Market on 7th July…
CASTLE CARY’s TUESDAY MARKET
RETURNS on 7 JULY
The following traders will be there:
Taylor’s of Bruton (Bread)
Paul (Hart’s Natural Seafood),
Shaun & Karen (Fruit & Veg),
Leah (Blissful Bakes),
Simon (Hillside Farm Cheese etc.),
Pop (Thai Food),
Claire (Perennial Plants),
Erin (Ethnic Clothing).
Expect a different layout as they will be following the recommended safety guidelines.
We ask you all please to do the same by:
SOCIAL DISTANCING
USING SANITISER
BEING PATIENT
Baskeball Hoop on the Donald Pither Memorial Field
There’s been a lot of activity at the end of the cricket nets on the Donald Pither Memorial Field; many thanks go to Nick Weeks, Bob Gilbey, Steve Biddlecombe and Justin Birch for their hard work installing it, saving the Council a lot of money. The hoop was partly funded by Churches Together.
The open-air TUESDAY MARKET is returning on 7th July
SSDC update: Community grant opportunities for your environmental projects
SSDC update: Community grant opportunities for your environmental projects
South Somerset District Council has a long tradition of supporting communities, local voluntary groups and the wider community sector. One of the ways this is enabled is through the Community Grants programme for projects such as community transport, improving recreational facilities, community halls and many more schemes that enhance the lives of the local community.
SSDC have now extended the Community Grants scheme to support local environment initiatives. Last year the Council acknowledged the climate emergency and are now committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. This includes supporting environmental progression for communities across the district to develop existing, and kick start new exciting environmental projects.
This new extension to the existing community grants scheme will place environmental progression at its core, offering funding for communities to inspire environmental projects across South Somerset’s local landscape. We’ve seen significant changes in our communities over the past three months and this is an excellent opportunity to ensure the changes are positive with novel projects championing sustainability, carbon neutrality and biodiversity.
The fund will cover up to 50% of the project costs and you will need support from your Parish Council. Applications in the range of £100 to £1,000 will be reviewed by SSDC and your Ward Member, any applications for more than £1,000 are decided by your SSDC Area Committee with a maximum grant of £12,500. Applications can be made at any time throughout the year, but revenue funding is limited so do apply in good time, especially if you have seasonal deadlines to meet.
With the range of funding available, all forms of projects can benefit, from smaller funding projects such as a community orchard, building a bat hotel, or even paying for a regular meeting space where your group can meet to discuss and implement your projects. Larger projects could be for schemes such as a local electric vehicle charging points, energy efficiency for your community hall, wild-flower meadow creation or even buying an acre of land. This new funding will give your community the opportunity to take a great eco idea and see it through to fruition.
Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing Cllr Mike Best said “the SSDC community grants programme has supported many local projects over the years and invests in schemes that are developed by, and for, all our communities. We have always considered applications for environmental focused projects, but now more than ever feel they should be encouraged. This will also serve as a reminder to all potential applicants that our community fund is here to support a huge variety of community projects to enhance where we live”
Portfolio Holder for the Environment Cllr Sarah Dyke said “Lockdown has been a challenging time for everyone and yet in some spaces the environment has been given the opportunity to flourish. Air quality has improved and areas of grass left to grow through the spring have created new habitats for wildlife and pollinators. By re-launching our community grants scheme with an enhanced environmental component we […]
Bereavement support
also available here.
There is also a Castle Cary and District bereavement support group on Facebook. This is a closed group for people in the area around Castle Cary, Somerset who are dealing with bereavement.
What a wonderful sight!
Thank you to everyone involved. Do walk over to the Fairfield and look at our new “mini-meadow” near St Andrew’s Church. Although like everywhere else it is waiting for rain, the cornflowers and poppies are managing (without the help of any watering) to produce a spectacular display, especially first thing in the morning.
Recycling centres: Back to summer opening from Monday 1st June
29 May 2020
Recycling centres: Back to summer opening next week
Somerset Waste Partnership’s recycling centres will revert to their usual summer opening hours from Monday 1 June.
As well as the current temporary hours, the odds and even number plate access system will also come to an end from Monday. All other restrictions remain in place as SWP continues the move towards business as usual following Coronavirus closures.
Eleven of the 16 sites reopened on 11 May, and the remaining five on Tuesday (26 May), though materials and access remain restricted.
Please see https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/recycling/centres/ from Monday morning for all sites’ opening hours – note that for Taunton, Yeovil and Frome it means a return to seven days a week opening.
SWP is continuing its plea for people to only come if it is really necessary and to take full advantage of the weekly kerbside recycling collections, which have continued throughout the crisis.
Long queues are expected at the sites, especially first thing in the morning, as the number of unloading bays has been reduced to allow social distancing. Queue cams are viewable for Bridgwater, Chard, Highbridge, Minehead, Somerton, Street, Taunton and Yeovil. Please check before you leave.
Odd and even number plate access continue until Sunday 31 May:
Odd numbers on Saturday (for example 01, 19 etc)
Even numbers on Sunday (for example 02, 18 etc)
A maximum of two people per household will be permitted, gloves must be worn while outside your vehicle and strict social distancing maintained. Trailers and 3.5 tonne vans are only allowed access between 4pm and 6pm on weekdays.
Only materials accepted (and what happens to them):
Rubbish – material you would usually put in your black rubbish bin, excess black bags not taken by kerbside collections, and bulky items like furniture (landfilled in Somerset, soon to be sent to an Avonmouth energy-from-waste plant)
Green waste – garden waste such as grass cuttings, leaves, hedge trimmings (composted in Somerset)
Large household electrical items – white goods, cookers TVs etc (recycled in UK)
Household hazardous waste, such as solvents, garden chemicals, paint thinners and antifreeze (treated and disposed of in UK)
Waste cooking oil and engine old, in disposable containers of up to five litres (recycled in UK)
Scrap metal (recycled in UK)
Any items you would usually pay to have disposed of will not be accepted – including tyres, gas bottles, soil and hardcore, vehicle parts, commercial waste, plasterboard and asbestos.
Access to the normal recycling banks is not possible. So, unless you really need to, please do not bring cardboard, food and drink cans, paper, food waste, plastic bottles, glass bottles and jars. These can be recycled using the continuing weekly recycle collections: https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/recycling-collections/
If you want to recycle waste wood, plastic pots tubs and trays, TetraPaks and small electricals, please hold on to them until the sites return to normal.
Mickey Green, SWP Managing Director, said: “This is another step towards business as usual. The restrictions are there to keep everyone safe, but they do reduce capacity so please do only come if you really need […]
On-street parking patrols to resume
On-street parking patrols are due to restart in Somerset on Monday (1 June) following the easing of coronavirus restrictions.
With more pupils returning to schools and some businesses starting to reopen, Somerset County Council’s civil enforcement officers will return to help keep roads clear and traffic moving.
At first, they will serve penalty notices on vehicles parked on double yellow lines, in places with loading restrictions, bus stops and dropped kerbs in public areas – all locations where no vehicles should be parked.
For the first seven days, penalties will not be served where parking is permitted, such as resident bays, pay and display locations, limited waiting bays and single yellow lines (at times). The vehicle may have been left correctly and the driver may have, for example, self-isolated. A warning letter will be left on these vehicles asking that it is immediately removed to avoid receiving penalties in future.
Councillor John Woodman, Cabinet member for highways and transport at Somerset County Council, said: “During the lockdown, most parking enforcement officers have been redeployed to other roles supporting the community, such as delivering PPE or managing queuing traffic at the reopened household waste recycling centres or testing centres.
“Their efforts are greatly appreciated, and I would like to thank them as they begin to resume their normal duties.”
Requests for residents’ paper permits have been on hold since the start of the UK lockdown but preparations are now being made to issue them. The expiry date will be extended to make sure people receive a full 12-month period. All annual virtual resident permits are being extended for two months to cover the period of suspension and ensure everyone receives a full 12 months’ value.
Please check with your district council for information on car parks in your local area.
Could you volunteer?
Downloadable document click here.
Dimmer Tip limited opening from Tuesday 26th May
Limited and restricted opening for Dimmer Tip from Tuesday 26th May.
See these detailed instructions for further details: Somerset Waste Partnership information end May
Education update from Somerset County Council
Staged return of children to early years settings and schools
| From the week beginning 1 June, and conditional on the national COVID 19 situation, the Government is proposing that mainstream provision is extended to include early years settings, all primary school pupils in reception, Year One and Year Six as part of a staged return to school. |
| The proposals also include the provision of face-to-face contact for pupils in Year 10 and 12. |
| The Council, early years providers and school leaders are currently discussing how this can be implemented safely for pupils and staff, following Government guidelines. You can read these in full here. |
| Children of key workers and vulnerable pupils will continue to be given priority. |
| Please note early years settings are being asked to open to all children but must carry out a risk assessment to ascertain how many children they can safely accommodate at any one time. Settings may therefore reduce the numbers of children they can safely care for and where this is the case priority will be given to 3 and 4 year-olds in the first instance. |
| Similarly, it may be that, because of specific circumstances, not all schools will be able to offer full time provision to the year groups set out in the government guidance. Head teachers will be contacting parents and carers to advise what provision they will be able to make. |
| Each educational setting is different, and we all need to support the professionalism and judgement of education leaders who will be making difficult decisions over the next few weeks and months, based on the context of their setting and community. |
| The government is also proposing the return of all primary school pupils, if possible, for up to a month before the beginning of the summer holidays. We are awaiting further details on this. |
Change to GWR service
We have made a further revision to our timetable effective from this coming Monday (18th), with an additional service in the morning running from Westbury to Weymouth.
This service leaves Westbury at 0652, departing Dorchester West at 0808 and terminating at Weymouth at 0820. It will then form the return working 0849 service from Weymouth to Westbury.
See the timetable here.
Report fly tipping
Fly tipping is increasing-please report it online:
https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/services/environmental-health/nuisances/report-fly-tipping/ or https://www.fixmystreet.com/
Help Needed-for those further afield….
We have been overwhelmed by the support for Cary Cares from people in the town. It is both encouraging and moving to have so many people giving generously to help their neighbours.
Both of us who have been very involved in setting up and running Cary Cares also have other concerns. Save the Children depends a great deal for its international work on the money raised in its charity shops. And they are all currently closed. Next week is Christian Aid Week and normally Christian Aid raises a substantial proportion of its income during the Week which, in this town, involves a coffee morning and door to door deliveries and collection. Neither can happen this year.
But the development projects and relief work that these organisations do are as necessary as ever. If coronavirus spreads into communities which have more basic health care than ours, or through overcrowded refugee camps, the suffering will be considerable. While we are focussed on the needs of people in our own locality please also support organisations such as Christian Aid and Save the Children who continue to work with some of the world’s poorest people.
You can find out more and give online at https://www.christianaid.org.uk/ and www.savethechildren.org.uk
If you have another aid organisation that you prefer to support, please give to them. We are not in competition! We just work in different ways with different networks. And if there is a need and an opportunity to do so, we work together. The important thing is that people get the help they need.
Ainsley Creedy, Fund Raising Volunteer, Save the Children UK.
David Osborne, Chair of Christian Aid in Castle Cary and Ansford.
Road closure 04/05/2020 – 21/05/2020 Station Road
Just to add to the problems we all have to face at the moment, there will be a road closure on Station Road just before it joins the A371 at the bottom of Ansford Hill. Any vehicle travelling from Shepton Mallet to any place in Station Road beyond the closure will need to travel up Ansford Hill, down North Street and around the town to Station Road. Anyone wanting to travel from Station Road towards Shepton will have to go through the town and up North Street, onto the A371 and down Ansford Hill.
The diversion takes vehicles all around the town; we hope that HGVs won’t be directed unnecessarily through the town, but please let Highways know if this happens.
To report a problem please click on the website: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/
If you’d prefer to phone: SCC Highways Dept –0300 123 2224
Appeal goes out for short-term foster carers
| Appeal goes out for short-term foster carers |
| Somerset County Council is appealing for potential short-term foster carers to come forward to help children and young people during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency.
Recruits will help care for children looked after, aged 0-18, and will be provided with all the support given to mainstream foster carers including a supervising social worker and weekly fee and allowance. The Council is keen to hear from those who have had an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check in the last 12 months in any other role. “It does not matter if you are single or in a relationship, if you are a homeowner or renting, or whether you have children of your own – anyone can be a foster carer. We need carers as diverse as the children in our care,” said Councillor Frances Nicholson, Cabinet member for Children and Families. “Children need a safe and secure home and in these very difficult times that is more important than ever.” The County Council will assess candidates as COVID-19 Short Term Foster Carers completing a condensed assessment and intensive training. A home visit will be required as part of the assessment and social distancing will be maintained. Once assessed, a panel – meeting virtually – will consider the carer and a decision can be made. If the candidate is approved as a short-term carer, they can care for a child for up to three months. There will be a review every four weeks to make sure the carer has the right support and can still care for the child. Allowances currently start at £143.57 per week for each child, plus a minimum of £75 per week foster carer fee. Payments are higher for an older child or for those caring for more than one child. At the end of the three months, carers can consider moving towards a full fostering role or end their involvement with the child moving to alternative longer-term carers To apply or find out more information contact Fostering In Somerset on 0800 587 9900, visit www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk. |
Thank you from Cary Cares
Thank you to everyone who has contributed towards Cary Cares since we first made an appeal a week ago.
As of 17th April, £8,760 has been given.
This is a great help and the result of many generous donations. The money will go towards paying for food boxes for people who find themselves at the moment unable to buy the food and other essentials they need; crediting people who, because of the lockdown can’t access money they have; and our very small running expenses.
Over a hundred volunteers from across Castle Cary and Ansford are involved in Cary Cares: helping with collecting medicines and shopping; contacting people who are feeling cut off; helping with emergency electricity or gas top-ups; and supplying and delivering the food boxes which are our alternative to a food bank. Thank you to all of them as well.
Across the town and the surrounding area many more people are helping neighbours with shopping and other tasks during the epidemic. Congratulations to all who are putting themselves out to help others. Cary Cares is pleased to be a part of a big network of caring neighbours.
If you need us, we’re here: 01963 351362 from 9.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. or [email protected]
David Osborne,
Secretary of Churches Together in Castle Cary and Ansford.
Mobile Nat West bank service suspended…
We received a message from Nat West in Yeovil today: “at the moment all our mobile fleet have been grounded and our home branch of Yeovil is on restricted hours (Mon-Fri 10:00 to 13:00), as soon as this changes I will let you know. Stay safe in these challenging times.”
Food box scheme by Cary Cares
If you cannot afford to buy food at the moment Cary Cares is operating a food box scheme as a local alternative to a food bank. Please phone 01963 351362, 9.30am – 4pm for help.
Cary Cares can:
- Provide someone to collect medicines or shopping for you if you need to isolate, whatever your age.
- Provide a food box if your circumstances have changed and you cannot buy food at the moment: this is in place of a food bank.
- Arrange for a phone call if you’re feeling cut off
- Help with an electricity or gas card top up in an emergency
Phone 01963 351362
9.30am – 4pm
Cary Cares is organised by Churches Together in Castle Cary and Ansford and endorsed by the Town Council.
A message from our Community Library
New from Libraries West
If you have always thought about doing some family history research but never got around to it, now is the perfect time. Ancestry.com, which has previously only been available in libraries, is now available for you to use at home. You just have to log in to Libraries West in the normal way and then you click on to the blue words “Access to Ancestry Library Edition” to open the software. There are hours of fun to be had here!
Underneath this you will see that Libraries West is also offering access to medici.tv until 15 May. If you enjoy classical music, opera or ballet this channel has some amazing content.
Of course if you have never used the Libraries West e-services this won’t mean much to you. There couldn’t be a better time to start!
Audio books, e-books and magazine…. there is endless free material to read and listen to at home, and it is continually being updated.
If you aren’t a library member at present it doesn’t matter. You can join online at the Libraries West website and will be given a 3 month temporary membership whilst libraries remain closed. Simple!
Enjoy!
Les Kimberley
Castle Cary Community Library Manager
Cary Crier update
This has just arrived from Cary Crier. If you’d like to be kept up to date by email, please subscribe at: https://www.castle-cary.co.uk/sign-up-for-cary-crier-our-t…/
We have now got Coronavirus in Somerset and it is essential that people over 70 and those with health conditions stay at home and, unless they have other support, make use of the shopping and medicine collection service run by CaryCares (see below).This is not only to keep everyone safe but also to protect the NHS.
About CaryCares
(NB. All Cary Cares volunteers will have identification)
Cary Cares has extended the services it offers to include enabling people who use a card or key power meter to get it topped up in an emergency. This applies to those who cannot get out, cannot go to the Post Office on a Thursday morning, or have run out of money. It also now has extended the hours the phone is staffed.
CaryCares can:
· – Provide someone to collect medicines or shopping for you
· – Provide a food box if your circumstances have changed and you cannot currently buy food.
· – Help you get your electricity or gas card/key topped up in an emergency
· – Arrange for someone to give you a call if you’re feeling cut off.
For CaryCares: phone 01963 351362 9.30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cary Cares is organised by Churches Together in Castle Cary and Ansford and endorsed by the Town Council.
The Food Boxes are being funded by the Cary Town Charity (see previous email for details) and we are grateful for the large number of generous donations that have been made. The George hotel is using its supply chain to order long life food for the boxes and Morrisons has kindly donated some foodstuffs as well.
The details of this service are on the Town Website (https://www.castle-cary.co.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-…/) and on Facebook CaryCares (https://www.facebook.com/carycarescorona/)
Over the Bank Holiday Weekend
The following shops are open with safe shopping schemes – however over 70s should stay at home and rely on friends or CaryCares (see below).
Some of the shops below will also deliver
The Co-op – 01963 350482
The Deli – 01963 351000
Denela’s Bakery – 01963 359013
George the Greengrocer – 01963 351551
The Market Garden – 07738 524254
Somerset Wine Company – 01963 351919
Thoroughly Wild Meat Company – 07770 392041
Unwrapped Essentials – 01963 359159
Wine Wizard – 01963 351919
For takeaway cooked food
The Bay Tree – 01963 350989
The George Hotel – 01963 350761
Home Café – 07432 731092
Levant – 07779 093020
There are several other local shops offering gift services, pet foods and more. Check the town website www.castle-cary.co.uk for more details.
All parking charges in Castle Cary have been suspended whilst the wardens are redeployed to help with services for vulnerable people.
Please let our shops know how much we all appreciate their hard work delivering goods, maintaining levels of stock, turning their hands to new areas of work and keeping very cheerful in difficult times.
We have been posting regular […]
Bank Holiday waste collections
Changes to waste collection this Bank Holiday weekend…
Full details on: https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/collection-day-look-up/
Coronavirus (COVID 19): How to get support from the SSDC Wellbeing Hub
South Somerset District Council is continuing to ensure that our communities receive all the help they need during the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes offering extra support in areas where our residents need it most.
A big addition to this extra support is the brand new pop up SSDC Wellbeing Hub which has been set up to supply food parcels and other supplies to South Somerset residents in most urgent need. The Hub is already up and running and more than 30 deliveries have already been made to residents who are shielding or who fit the criteria where they are recognised as vulnerable.
Many SSDC staff were redeployed to work around the clock to get the Wellbeing Hub in place. The project has been led by managers from our Commercial Services team who have worked alongside our Strategic Planning Specialists, partners; including Yeovil Town Council, supermarkets (including Tesco and Co-op) and many other suppliers who have offered help and donations of which we are so grateful. Staff from our closed venues at Westlands and the Ninesprings Café have used our catering kitchens to split down catering packs of pasta and rice to make more manageable packet sizes to go in the food boxes.
To cope with the ongoing future need, many members of staff have now moved from their usual roles to help our Connect team handle the extra calls that will be coming in to request food parcels, and our Entertainment Box Office team will be processing the orders before our Environment Service colleagues go out to deliver them. It’s all hands to the pump and everyone is doing their bit.
So how will this help you if you need to use this service? Here some questions we think might be asked.
How do I get a food parcel?
Residents who are shielding who have NOT received a food parcel from the Government and residents who are assessed as vulnerable can now call 0300 790 6275 to find out if they are eligible.
How much do they cost?
Shielded people (as identified by the NHS) will get their first food parcel free. Vulnerable people will pay a set fee depending on the size of parcel required. £26 for a single person, £30 for couples and £52 for families of 4-5 people. This service is non-profit and delivery is free.
What is in the food parcel?
All goods are non-perishable and should give a broad choice of food needed to prepare balanced meals. The parcels also include toilet rolls, cleaning and hygiene products.
How long does it take to get a food parcel?
Most food parcels will be delivered the next day between 10am and 4pm.
If this self-isolating goes on for some time, what happens if I need a repeat order?
You can email or phone an order through to the team. Your details will have been saved making ordering and paying quicker.
How often can I order?
Box contents are built around a weeks’ worth of food, re-ordering shouldn’t be required under this time period.
Can I book a time slot?
No, deliveries will usually be […]
SSDC business support
South Somerset District Council has issued this document with details of the support they can give to businesses at this difficult time.
SSDC-Council Tax during Covid-19, Council Tax Support, Hardship Fund, Help with paying your Rent,
Debt recovery guidance for Covid-19: Guidance for customers
We are aware that many of our customers and taxpayers will be experiencing very real difficulties during this uncertain period. While we try to continue to provide services to support our taxpayers, especially our most vulnerable people, we also have to collect our income from those that can afford it. Below is some guidance about our collection of debts for those on payment plans and those who pay by direct debit.
It is really important that you contact us on 01935 462462 if you have difficulty in continuing your payments. We are here to support you where we can.
Direct Debits
We will still be collecting direct debit payments for those that have signed up to this, and have an agreed instalment schedule in place for monthly collections. Should customers feel they are unable to continue at this time with their instalment plan they should contact us and we will discuss a pause or reschedule to their plan. Each customer will have to be assessed on an individual basis.
Cancelled Direct Debits
It is important to contact us and not to cancel direct debits without discussion. We will be contacting all those customers who have cancelled their Direct Debit to inform them that their instalment plan has now been cancelled and payment is due on the full amount, unless they contact us to arrange another instalment plan.
Please make payments via our website or by telephone 01935 462462 or contact us if you wish to set up a direct debit. Please do NOT send us cheques, as we are not currently receiving post.
Council Tax Support
If you have made a claim for Universal Credit and you told the DWP that you have a Council Tax liability they will send us your information direct so you do not need to complete one of our forms. We will process your application once we receive confirmation of your Universal Credit award – we will also get this direct from DWP.
If you have not claimed Universal Credit you can claim Council Tax Support if you need help paying your Council Tax using our online form https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/services/benefits/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-support/can-i-apply/
If you are still struggling to pay your Council Tax after we have awarded you Council Tax Support you can make an application for further help using our online form https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/services/benefits/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-support/apply-for-housing-benefit-and-council-tax-support/
Hardship Fund
The Hardship Support fund provides for all customers of working age, who qualify for Council Tax Support during the 2020/21 financial year to receive an additional reduction of up to £150 for the year. If you have less than £150 to pay on you Council Tax bill after any other discounts and Council Tax Support has been applied then a hardship fund award will reduce your bill to zero. If the balance to pay is more than £150 a hardship fund award of £150 will be credited to your Council Tax account.
Our aim is to apply these reductions to Council Tax accounts as soon as possible. You do NOT need […]
Cyber Crime warning during the Coronavirus pandemic
A message from Avon & Somerset Police:
Please find attached an information pack of three documents, containing advice about ransomware, phishing, working from home and online fraud. These are the most prevalent attacks that the UK police forces are seeing right now due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
The documents include a quick reference guide, a presentation and a written information document, which are meant to be read together side by side, but the written document can be read separately.
Please pass on these documents and distribute it throughout your contacts in order to remain safe and secure during this Crisis. Threat actors are increasingly targeting individuals, businesses and organisations and using the pandemic as a manipulation tool to install malware and steal personal information. The attached documents will advise the reader of the current threats and how to create a stronghold for themselves while working from home or using the internet for personal reasons.
Dimmer Tip closed and other updates
…from Somerset Waste Partnership: https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/coronavirus/
Cary Cares
During the Coronavirus Emergency……….
The Cary Cares volunteer Medicines and Shopping Help Scheme is up and running to enable our older residents and those with health conditions to stay at home and not go shopping. To use it please either
Phone 01963 351362,
preferably between 9.30am and 12 noon
or e-mail: [email protected]
We currently have just one incoming line set up and it has been very busy. If you are able to email your request through, please do as it would help us reach more people in need. In your e-mail, please give your name, address including postcode, and phone number, and someone will get back in touch with you in due course and let you know which volunteer will be responding.
The volunteer doing your shopping will always contact you beforehand and will carry ID when making any deliveries.
We are currently managing to respond to all help requests within 24 hours.
This is an ever-changing situation and we will be posting regular updates to our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/carycarescorona/
Finally, we have received lots of offers of help and we are working to set people up as quickly as possible to assist us, whilst still making reasonable checks to safeguard our clients. If you have not received a response to an offer, rest assured we are not ignoring you – we will be in touch shortly!
If you are currently in a position to offer your services as a Shopping volunteer and have not yet contacted us, then do please email the above address with your details.
Stay Home! Stay Safe! Protect Our NHS!
SSDC update: Connect hub at Petters closed to public but we’re still here to support you
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): Connect hub at Petters closed to public but we’re still here to support you
Our Connect customer hub at Petters Way has been closed with immediate effect following Government advice but we are continuing to deliver essential services to the public.
Hundreds of our staff are still working hard to ensure we can deliver for our communities as well as push forward with key projects.
Council Leader Val Keitch said: “We recognise that providing our services in South Somerset is vital at this time and in the months of recovery that will follow.
“It will undoubtedly be challenging to maintain all services over the coming weeks and so we will be prioritising support for residents, communities and businesses.
“We are already starting to see an increase in demand from people facing hardship due to the virus and its impact on businesses. We promise to support you and support all of our communities.”
If you need to contact us, you can visit our website – where many of our services are offered online – at www.southsomerset.gov.uk or by phone at 01935 462462.
Further updates will be provided as to alternative arrangements for people if they are not online or have access to a phone.
Provisions are also being made for those who need to use our homelessness service.
KEY INFORMATION:
Please visit the Government’s website for the latest information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) here – https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
If you need guidance from the NHS, visit https://www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
If you are a business in need of support, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses
We will be updating our information on Coronavirus here – https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/your-council/
- Stay at home
- Only go outside for food, health reasons or essential work
- Stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people
- Wash your hands as soon as you get home
- Anyone can spread the virus.
Government advice during Covid-19
This is a link to the Government page during the Covid-19 pandemic; it’s worth checking back or subscribing to the email updates so you don’t miss any advice: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Millbrook, Castle Cary and Queen Camel Medical Centre websites
Information for patients: Millbrook Health Centre and Queen Camel Medical Centre
Delivery services in Castle Cary/Ansford
Castle Cary Chamber of Commerce has produced a list of local businesses that will take orders and deliver during this difficult time. Please click here for the list.
Plant Sale
The Plant Sale scheduled to take place at the Market House on 16th May has been cancelled. There may be a scaled-down version at a local farm with a self-service stall. If this is going to take place, we will let you know nearer the time.
GWR changes
You may have seen in this morning’s media that following discussions with government and the wider rail industry, we are reducing services to reflect national advice against non-essential travel, while maintaining services critical to keeping key workers moving during the current situation.
The new timetable will operate from Monday (23 March). There will however also be some changes to advertised services over this weekend. The new timetable will operate until further notice.
The changes prioritise key routes, essential for those people continuing to deliver vital services as the UK responds to the current situation. We will be operating hourly London services to Bristol Temple Meads, South Wales, Worcester Shrub Hill and Plymouth where customers will be able to connect for Cornwall. Customers for the South Cotswolds will be able to connect with a two hourly service from Swindon. There will also be significant changes to regional and branch line services.
These are difficult times and we acknowledge that some of these changes may be difficult for some customers, but I know you will recognise the need for us to keep services running for those with critical roles and I would be grateful for any help you can give in getting the message out about these changes and why we are making them.
There will be some reduction in services this weekend and a new GWR train timetable will be operating from Monday 23 March. The internet timetables will take 7-10 days to update. After that you can go to www.gwr.com/travel-updates/check-your-journey. Until then GWR will be adding details on a dedicated page on their website: www.gwr.com
Medicines & Shopping Help Scheme
Medicines and Shopping Help Scheme organised by Churches Together with Millbrook Surgery and supported by Castle Cary Town Council. This leaflet will be delivered to all houses in the town tomorrow and over the weekend. We are very grateful to all the volunteers who are involved in this scheme. Please click here to view the leaflet.
Cancellations
Just so that you know….
1) Caryford Hall will be closed to all routine bookings from the end of Friday 20 March, except for the NHS Blood Doning session booked for 16 April. The Hall will also be available for official or community use should that prove necessary.
2) The Vintage Markets on Saturday 4 April, and Saturday 2 May will not take place. Hopefully there may be one in June… watch this space.
3) The Eat Cary Festival scheduled for Saturday 2 May is also cancelled.
Small business advice during Coronavirus
Here’s a link to Government information for small businesses during the present pandemic. We’re all supporting local businesses in every way we can and are sure that Cary Community spirit will see us through!
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesseshttps://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
South Somerset District Council advice
SSDC is updating their advice daily; it’s worth checking their website page regularly: https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/your-council/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-guidance/ or ‘Liking’ and following their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthSomersetDistrictCouncil/
Closures
Due to the current Covid-19 virus pandemic, and following government guidelines, the places/events below will be closed/cancelled until further notice.
The Market House (Town Clerk & Information Office)
The Museum
Cary Library
Cinema in Caryford (Moviola). (tel: 01963 350132)
All Community Coffee Mornings
However….
The Tuesday Market will take place as usual
The Market House Dance Studio is not closed: (email [email protected], tel: 07805571590)
Cinema in Caryford
Due to the current situation regarding Coronavirus, we have very sadly decided to cancel future screening for Cinema in Caryford starting with Official Secrets on Tuesday March 31st. As with many of our gatherings in the area, our audience is not young and we would hate to put anyone at risk. We hope to restart as soon as possible.
Any questions, queries, please call 01963 350 132. We do not think many of you have bought tickets, but please ring regarding refunds.
March 2020 Corona Virus Closure
The Town Council Information Point & Office are currently closed.
All bookings at the Market House have been cancelled. We will try to contact all hirers directly.
For the time being, the Town Clerk (Zöe) will be working from the Market House but will not be seeing members of the public in person. Please call 01963 359631 or email [email protected]
The Deputy Town Clerk (Claire) and Bookings and Promotions Manager (Holly) will be working from home. We have ordered mobile phones for them and will publicise the numbers when they are known. In the meantime, please contact the Town Clerk with any enquiries.
There is up to date information on our website www.castle-cary.co.uk
You can also phone Councillors:
Judi Morison on 07989 986190
or Nick Weeks on 07885 347822
We apologise for any inconvenience and will re-open as soon as possible.
Look after your neighbour and your community as COVID-19 cases increase
Look after your neighbour and your community as COVID-19 cases increase
There has been an outpouring of public support and care for each other across Somerset communities as COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to increase across the UK.
Somerset County Council is delighted to see so many rally around and offer their support to those in communities self-isolating, the elderly or those in identified ‘at risk’ groups such as the over 70s, pregnant women, a weakened immune system or people with underlying health conditions.
Cllr Christine Lawrence, Cabinet Member for Customers and Communities at Somerset County Council said: “It’s truly humbling to see so many of our residents come together in our communities to find ways to plan and support each other as the number of cases of Coronavirus increase. We thank you. We urge you to continue to look out for your friends, family, neighbours and community, but most of all yourself. It’s important you stay safe, so you can continue to help others.
“I know many people have signed up to support local groups via social media, which is great to see. We’d like to encourage these groups to link with their local town or parish council as this ensures everyone is kept safe, and help is received by those in the community who need it most.
“Helpful advice has also emerged to protect residents who may need community support. This includes not putting a sign on your door openly stating you are vulnerable, don’t share more personal information than absolutely necessary, don’t share bank or card details or give people your cards to make purchases and contact the organisers of the group if someone asks you to pay more for something than you normally would.”
Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK has started to compile a list of local groups set up on social media sites such as Facebook or WhatsApp in an effort to share learning, resources and support. To find out what groups may be in your area, or to register a group, go to: https://covidmutualaid.org/local-groups/
Also check with your local parish and town council or via social media to see if there is already a group operating in your area before starting a new group.
The Community Council for Somerset (community / village agents) are already working in communities with different groups and individuals to make sure the vulnerable are identified and supported. Local village agent details can be found at https://somersetagents.org/somerset-village-agents/
‘Spark Somerset’ are also looking at what support they can provide to voluntary sector organisations and community groups locally, including looking to identify charities who may be needing help from volunteers. To find out more visit: https://www.sparksomerset.org.uk/
Cllr Lawrence added: “Don’t forget that latest government advice is to self-isolate for 14 days if you or a member of your household starts to show Coronavirus symptoms of a new, continuous cough and/or a fever. Also, we can all play our part to reduce its spread through basic hygiene measures such as washing your hands […]
Important message from Millbrook Surgery
Dear Patients
As of today Friday 13 March 2020
Members of the public who develop symptoms of new and persistent cough and / or a high temperature (37.8 degrees or higher) are advised to self-isolate for 7 days regardless or travel and contact history.
If you develop these symptoms please DO NOT come to the surgery or local hospital. If you cannot manage your symptoms at home and require medical treatment / advice please use NHS111 online 111.nhs.uk (please only telephone 111 if you do not have access to the internet).
Patients who are self-isolating for 7 days do not need a fit note, unless they need to isolate for more than 7 days as their symptoms have not improved, at which time they should use NHS111 online to obtain a fit note, Millbrook Surgery will not be issuing fit notes.
**Appointments**
We will only be allowing patients in to the surgery that
-Have a pre-booked appointment AND have satisfied us that they do not have symptoms (if you have a booked appointment you will be contacted prior by a member of our team either via text message or telephone, we please ask that you respond promptly)
Upon arrival to your appointment please report straight to receptionist who will check we have all of the information we need prior to telling the clinician you have arrived
OR
– Have telephoned us first and we are aware you will be attending the surgery for a specific reason, you will be asked the same screening questions regarding**Prescriptions**
We are advising that all patients order their repeat prescriptions online which is our preferred method (if you do not have online access please telephone us and we will set this up for you) If you do not have access to the internet you can telephone our prescriptions line 01963 359354 which opens at 11am Monday – Friday.
If you absolutely cannot use the above methods please put your repeat prescription slip in the post box on the wall outside of the surgery. Please do not come in to the surgery.
**Collecting hearing aid batteries, prescriptions, fit notes and other items**
If you need to collect an item from the surgery, please ensure you have telephoned us first so we are aware of your arrival at the surgery. You will be asked the same screening questions regarding symptoms.
** Groups at the surgery **
All groups that run at the surgery are now suspended until further notice. We are very sorry for this and understand this may be upsetting news to patients who enjoy coming to our groups.
**Health Visitor Clinic**
Health Visitor clinics are now by appointment only, please telephone us to book an appointment.
We have been advised by Public Health and NHS England to manage as much as we can remotely unless absolutely necessary for patients to be seen in the surgery, this means your care may be managed over the telephone or by online video consultation, please be reassured we will only use these methods if clinically appropriate and safe.
If you are worried or unsure […]
Mental Health Consultation
Have your say about proposals for changing acute inpatient mental health services for adults of working age
Health and care services in Somerset are running a public consultation to gather feedback from local people about the future locations of acute mental health beds for people of working age. The consultation runs until 12 April 2020.
An acute mental health ward is where patients are admitted to provide them with the level of treatment and support they need. This might be because they need further assessment, they need to be kept safe or they need more intensive support than can be provided at home.
Health and care services are considering changing the location of the acute mental health ward at Wells for people aged between 18 and 65 years and moving it to Yeovil. The number of beds will remain the same.
The reason for the proposed change is due to concerns about patients and staff safety. Two of the four wards for people aged between 18 and 65 years are located in Taunton, with one ward in both Yeovil and Wells. These two are ‘standalone’ wards which means they are not close to other wards, and one of them is also a long way from the nearest Emergency Department.
All other existing services at Priory Health Park in Wells will remain, whatever the outcome of the consultation, and community mental health services available to people in the Wells/Mendip area will be expanded and enhanced: this includes a Crisis Café.
Health and care services would like to know what you think about their ideas. You can fill in the questionnaire here: http://bit.ly/FFMF-Mental-Health-Consultation
You can read the full consultation document on their website at www.fitformyfuture.org.uk or contact them by email [email protected] or telephone 01935 384119
Statement in response to correspondence regarding the Boxing Day Hunt meet
Please click here for a statement from Castle Cary Town Council.
Traffic lights
Sorry folks…it looks as though the traffic lights may return for a while next week! https://one.network/?115692990
“Festival of Heavenly Stars”
“Festival of Heavenly Stars”
Saturday & Sunday 14/15 December
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
All Saints’ Church, Castle Cary
A variety of Stars & Star-themed exhibits made by shops, businesses, organisations & individuals will decorate the whole church for 2 days, culminating in the Combined Carol Service
at 4 p.m. on Sunday 15th.
Refreshments available all day & there will be a stall selling
Christmas decorations & Christmas fare.
Admission free.
Donations invited in aid of All Saints’ Development Fund.
School Admission Arrangements-2021/22 Consultation
Somerset County Council County Hall, Taunton
Somerset, TA1 4DY
Have Your Say
School admissions arrangements for children who are due to start or transfer school for the 2021-22 school year, and those moving schools during the 2021-22 school year will be consulted on for a minimum period of 6 weeks ending 31 January 2020.
This consultation applies to a number of schools and academies throughout Somerset.
This consultation period allows parents, other schools, religious authorities and the local community to raise any comments or concerns about proposed admission arrangements.
To view the consultation (live from 9 December) please visit https://www.somerset.gov.uk/education-and-families/school-admissions-policy/.
Sorted e-newsletter
Information from Somerset Waste Partnership.
Click here: SORTED! e-newsletter
Meet the builder
Meet the Builder at The Market House – Shambles. On Thursday 21st November 4 – 6 p.m.
A construction firm called Engie is inviting residents to talk to them on Thursday this week. Engie is employed by the developers Stonewater to build the 125 houses on Wayside Farm on Station Road (this is the last site on the left when travelling towards the Station). This site is now apparently called “Mulberry Meadows”! Representatives from Engie will be able to answer questions such as “When will the site be finished?”
Stonewater, the developers, are currently seeking to renegotiate the number of affordable homes on the site and the amount of S106 money paid to our community. (This is a levy, agreed at the outset, to help the community improve infrastructure). (Planning applications 19/02353/DPO & 19/01411/DPO) There may be a representative from Stonewater present. It is to Stonewater that questions about therequested reduction in funding for local projects should be addressed.
We (the Town and Parish Councils) opposed this development and it was passed at appeal by a Government Inspector. We are where we are, and it is going to happen. Please remember that it is rare for developers/builders to engage with the community and in this instance, if attending, extreme politeness is likely to result in the best outcome!!!
Surviving Winter-donating your Winter Fuel payment
Donate your Winter Fuel Payment so Somerset’s elderly
don’t have to choose between eating and heating
As we head into winter, many of us face an expensive – but essential – bill for heating our homes, while many of our neighbours face a stark decision between eating and heating: a shocking one in eight households in Somerset live in fuel poverty. Thanks to the bright idea of one generous pensioner, hundreds of older people in Somerset are being supported to stay warm, safe and well every winter through Somerset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter campaign.
The campaign encourages people who don’t need their Winter Fuel Payment to donate some or all of it to help local older people who are unable to afford to heat their homes.
Last year, over 500 elderly people living in Somerset were helped through the cold winter months, thanks to generous local donors who donated over £100,000 to Surviving Winter.
Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) are also taking part in The Big Give, and online donations to the campaign that are made during the week-long Big Give Christmas Challenge – midday Tuesday 3 December to midday Tuesday 10 December – will be doubled! So, not only will your donation be worth twice as much, but even more older and isolated people across the county will feel warmer and better connected this winter.
If you would like to donate to Surviving Winter, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter or call 01749 344949.
Greener Cary meeting….
…7th November 19:30 in The Shambles….Agenda here: Open Meeting agenda
Undeliverable parcels….
Important notice from the Post Office…from 7th November, undeliverable parcels and letters will be taken to Wincanton not Castle Cary Post Office. There will be an option to arrange redelivery so you shouldn’t always have to go to Wincanton.
See this letter for details: Letter re parcel collection from Wincanton
Brexit readiness for food and farming businesses
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ready-for-brexit-food-farming-tickets-75825705727
Brexit Readiness: Defra Food & Farming Briefing
Date: Wednesday 23 October
Time: 12pm – 2pm
Venue: Wessex Pavilions, Royal Bath & West Showground, Prestleigh, Nr Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 6QN
Defra is working with the NFU, the Heart of the South West LEP and Mendip District Council to host a free ‘Ready for Brexit’ event aimed at businesses within the farming, food and drink sectors.
This event is open to all businesses in the Somerset and South West area and will provide information and signposting to the technical support and advice available to help businesses with preparing for Brexit.
Refreshments on arrival.
Registration for the event is through the following link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ready-for-brexit-food-farming-tickets-75825705727
Somerset Waste Partnership information..
…
Please click for the latest Somerset Waste Partnership Briefing, with news about:
- When Recycle More starts rolling out
- Recycling site winter hours and unchanged permit scheme
- Plans to cut the cost of garden waste collections
- Site entry fees end and changes to other charges
- Tackling delayed collections
- And the move away from landfill
Somerset Rivers Authority Annual Report 2018-19
Please see attached the Somerset Rivers Authority Annual Report 2018-19, introduced for you here by the SRA Chair Councillor David Hall:
I am writing as Chair of Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) to let you know that the SRA has just published its Annual Report 2018-19, showcasing some of the achievements of the SRA during that time.
People and places across Somerset have benefitted from extra SRA-funded flood protection and resilience. In 2018-19, the SRA spent just over £3.8million on actions designed to protect both people and property.
Because there is no one simple solution to Somerset’s flooding challenges, and everyone in the county is affected in one way or another, the SRA invests in a wide range of actions to reduce flood risks and increase resilience when floods do occur. All works are additional to those carried out by other Flood Risk Management Authorities in Somerset.
I have attached two copies of the Annual Report. A longer version gives lots of detail about SRA activities, and is helpful for exploring what’s been done at a more local level. The shorter version is still very informative, but more visual and selective.
I hope very much that you will enjoy reading the SRA Annual Report 2018-19, whichever version you choose.
If you have any comments or questions, or would like to know more, please contact the SRA on [email protected] or call 01823-355111
Thank you – Cllr David Hall, Chair, Somerset Rivers Authority
Somerset Rivers Authority 2018-19 Annual Report summary 1MB
Somerset Rivers Authority 2018-19 Annual Report full length version 3MB
‘Help about Cary’ will support people affected by cancer
‘Help about Cary’ will support people affected by cancer
If you are or have been affected by cancer you can share your views on the type of practical support that would be helpful and in doing so shape ‘Help about Cary’ a new volunteering scheme which will launch later in the year. Please take part in the survey either online or by collecting a paper questionnaire from your GP surgery. ‘Help about Cary’ is being set up by local residents with the assistance of Macmillan Cancer Support. It will aim to offer practical help to cancer patients and their families in Castle Cary and the surrounding areas.
Link to survey: HelpAboutCary survey
Revised 667 timetable from 2nd September 2019
This is the present timetable: 667 timetable 2018
…and here is the revised timetable: Service 667 Sept 2019 SCC
A message from NCS….
“Hello,
We are NCS (National Citizen Service) and we are trying to end period poverty in Somerset.
Unfortunately, 137,000 females in the UK have missed school as they were unable to afford sanitary products. Despite being a necessity to 50% of the population at some point, sanitary products are classed as luxury items.
To help us, you can bring donations of sanitary products all this week and next Tuesday (27th August) to the Market House in Castle Cary.
You can also spread the word on:
Facebook – Fund the Flow
Instagram – fund.the.flow
Twitter – fundtheflow
Email – [email protected]
Thank you for your support.”
Somerset Art Weeks Festival-21 September – 6 October 2019
Somerset Art Weeks Festival
21 September – 6 October 2019
This year’s Festival will host a diverse programme of inspiring art exhibitions, workshops, talks, films and installations in over 130 locations across Somerset, alongside exciting new
commissions, group shows and education projects involving over 300 artists.
2019 marks the Silver Anniversary of Somerset Art Weeks with the first event
in 1994 featuring 160 venues and artists, art groups, organisations and one-off
exhibitions all taking part. It is now the largest visual arts event in the county. Art
Weeks has evolved since 1994 with the essence of art at the heart of Somerset,
investing in the arts community and enriching lives.
The result of the Neighbourhood plan referendum
Official result here: https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/media/2512/declaration-of-result.pdf
726 votes cast: 682 Yes: 43 No: 1 spoiled ballot paper
This is good news for our town as it means more influence on what developers can and cannot do, and also more money.
Many thanks to all who voted.
For those concerned about the current application for 200 more houses on the greenfield site that overlooks that station, please write as soon as possible to the South Somerset District Council. Letters/emails really do make a difference… the more the better…
For details of the application visit the Planning section of the SSDC website. The reference number is: 19/01840/OUT
The OUT means Outline – so you don’t need to pay attention either to the layout or to the design of the houses… only to the principle of building 200 houses on that field
Why do we need a Neighbourhood Plan?
Postal Voters should have received their ballot papers; the Referendum is on Tuesday 30th July, so why do we need a Neighbourhood Plan?
A Neighbourhood Plan gives a community some say over developments within its area… such as where building should take place and what the buildings should look like. It can also influence many other planning matters. It is a legal document which has to be referred to by the local planning authority as well as developers.
Without an NP a community has virtually no control over these things.
After numerous consultations with our community, the NP for Castle Cary and Ansford is completed, it has passed all the necessary examinations and other hurdles and now it is your chance to vote on whether it should be adopted. Remember without it we have no powers, with it we get some control over what happens to our Town.
Once a Neighbourhood Plan is adopted, we as a community can claim more money from developers than we otherwise could.
For more details and to download the full document, please go to: https://www.castlecaryansfordnp.uk/the-neighbourhood-plan1
A message from Somerset Highways…
VEGETATION OVERHANGING the FOOTWAY AND / OR CARRIAGEWAY
Somerset County Council (SCC) undertakes highway management throughout the County and one of the duties is to maintain highways as a safe environment for all road users.
Grass verge management is carried out by SCC between May – August annually and details are published on the SCC TravelSomerset website.
The SCC South Somerset Area office received in excess of 350 concerns raised by the public relating to overhanging vegetation in 2018 and approximately 16% of those related to land owners and notice had to be served.
You can appreciate that this has an impact on clerk and officer resource where simple maintenance by land owners could be carried out to reduce or remove this issue.
SCC appreciate that growth occurs in bird nesting season, but hedge cutting works can be carried out providing an inspection of the hedge is carried out prior to any cutting works being undertaken. Generally the bird nesting season should be considered to be between late February and August but is dependent on weather conditions.
I hope that you will be able to co-operate to help reduce occurrences and help to protect the safety of the public.
Neighbourhood Plan – Good News
Our Neighbourhood plan has been passed by both the Examiner and the District Executive.
This means we now go to a referendum.
The Question being asked is this:
‘Do you want South Somerset District Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Castle Cary and Ansford to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?’
The Referendum, which is organised by South Somerset District Council is to be on Tuesday 30 July.
Voting will take place between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Castle Cary residents should vote in the Market House Shambles; Ansford residents should vote in Caryford Hall.
You will be issued with voting cards by South Somerset District Council and the process is very similar to a General Election, and the same postal and proxy voting rules apply.
If you’ll be away on 30th July, you can apply for a postal vote. You can download the form from this link, but have to send it by post to SSDC ( South Somerset District Council, Electoral Registration Officer, Council Offices, Brympton Way, Yeovil BA20 2HT)
You can borrow a hard copy of the final version of Neighbourhood Plan from the Market House Information Point.
The final version of the Neighbourhood Plan will appear online within the next few days at: www.castlecaryansfordnp.uk
The Latest Somerset Waste Partnership Briefing
Lots of information from Somerset Waste Partnership: SWP Briefing June 2019
Welcome to our new Town Councillors!
At the Full Council meeting on Monday 13th May, four new Councillors were co-opted:
Steve and Philippa Biddlecombe, Nick Crowley and Rob Worth.
We welcome them and look forward to working with them in the future.
Drop-in event for proposal for 200 houses in Ansford
Castle Cary and Ansford Public Information Event by developers before submission of planning application.
3.00pm – 7.00pm
Wednesday 15 May 2019 in Caryford Community Hall
Please see the poster here for full details
District Council Elections 2nd May 2019
On Thursday 2nd May the Election of Councillors for South Somerset District Council will take place. Castle Cary and Ansford are in the Cary Ward that has two District Councillors, so each elector can vote for two nominated persons.
The Notice of Nominated Persons as published on the SSDC website for Cary Ward is:
A clearer notice is available here.
Food Festival in Cary this Saturday, 4th May
Eat Festival: Castle Cary: 4th May 2019
10.00 – 17.00: Town Centre location
Event Overview
• Over 70 primary food and drink producers in the town centre
• Court Productions background music/festival soundtrack – outside Market House
• BBQ masterclasses with chef BBQ Forte – all day outside Barclays Bank
• Punch & Judy in near the White Hart – on the hour from 11 a.m.
• Cook School in the Market House – 10.30 – 12.30 and 13.30 – 15.30
• Face painter by Home – all day
• Gardeners Question Time in the Market House – 4 p.m.
• Cary Rangers Netball – by the White Hart
• Griffin Cycles – by the Horsepond
Plenty to see and do. See these posters for more information. Map of the day What’s On
See you all on Saturday
Please don’t forget: a few parts of the Town Centre will be closed to traffic – details are here.
Town Council update on Eat Festival: Castle Cary
Eat:Castle Cary Festival
4th May 2019
A leaflet is being circulated by a resident raising concerns about the Eat:Castle Cary Festival on 4th May. Much of what is being said is untrue. Please read the Town Council website to see arrangements for parking, buses etc. https://www.castle-cary.co.uk/eat-castle-cary-update/
Local services, police, ambulance, fire brigade have all been notified and legal documentation has been completed by the organising company Eat:Festivals.
Anyone who is worried should contact: www.eatfestivals.org or email:[email protected]
We forward to seeing you at the free Eat:Festival
Eat: Castle Cary-update
Update on road closures, deliveries and buses etc.
We have listened to your feedback and responded with options and opportunities. We hope you all have a glorious day with us on 4 May
Road closure:
The roads around the town centre will be closed from 0700 to approx 1900 (we will open them as soon as as it is safe to do so). We have tweaked the road closure to give residents restricted access (i.e under supervision) to and from Castle Rise (we will do a letter drop to these addresses exlaining how this will work).
Access to businesses:
As this is a public event with pedestrians milling in the streets and stalls set up from Ansford Road to Horsepond and in Market Place and Bailey Hill it is important we keep everyone safe as we can. We have responded to business requests and set aside 5 drop off/pick up bays in Woodcock Street and 2 delivery laoding bays in Woodcock Street. These will be accessed via the stewards at the road closure point.
Residents parking:
For those living within and near the road closure area we have worked with the Caryford Hall to allow unrestricted access and parking overnight on Friday and all day on Saturday – meaning your vehicle can be moved to Caryford Hall before the closure is put in on Saturday morning.
Buses:
The bus companies have been informed of the road closures and it is our understanding that buses to Yeovil, Street and Wincanton that usually stop at the Horsepond are due to have a temporary stop at Horsepond Inn, as Lower Woodcock Street will be temporarily open to two way traffic. Buses will stop outside the Horsepond Inn as usual.
If you will be affected by the closure and haven’t made contact with us please email us at [email protected] asap so we can react. Thank you Bev & Sarah
Eat Festivals: Castle Cary
It’s only just over a month until the Eat Festival in Castle Cary. For full details of the Festival & contact details of the organisers, go to the website: https://www.eatfestivals.org/castlecary
There will be road closures as shown in this document from Highways:
Notice of road closures 4th May
The Order will come into operation on the 4th May 2019 between the hours of 0700 hours and 2300 hours.
Exemptions are provided in the Order for emergency vehicles, residents requiring access and egress and any vehicles associated with the event.
For a clearer view of the map, click here: Plan_Eat_Castle_Cary_-_Temporary_Prohibition_of_Vehicles_and_Temporary_Suspension_of_One_Way
How can we make Cary greener?
A Public Meeting
Thursday 14th March, 7.30pm,
The Shambles, Market House, Castle Cary, BA7 7AH
A Greener Cary?
We face a crisis. Plastic pollution, climate change, poor air quality and a shortage of landfill sites are just part of the problem. Some people just don’t think about it. Others think they can’t do anything. But lots of people are concerned and want to do something. Many of them in this town.
On 14th March in the Shambles at the Market House in Castle Cary there will be a meeting for organisations, businesses and individuals in the town who want to do something to make Castle Cary greener. We can’t solve the global problem, but we can do things which will improve the bit of the world we live in, and we can do things locally which have an impact for good elsewhere.
Just a few possibilities: we can reduce the amount of carbon we emit by improving our transport system so we rely less on vans, cars and trucks; shops can stock goods which have been transported shorter distances; we can eat food which has less impact on the environment; we can develop our local entertainment so there is less need to travel away. You no doubt have lots of other ideas.
As do other people in Castle Cary, Ansford and the villages round about, many of whom are already trying to do something. At the meeting on 14th March we will identify what we are already doing to make the Castle Cary area greener, gather ideas for another Green Fair on 14th September, and think of what we can do long term. Finally we’ll decide how we can take this forward.
If you’re concerned to make Cary greener, do come to the meeting. And encourage other people through your organisation or business to come too. There is a lot we can do, and we can do more together than as individuals.
Greener Cary
For more information contact: David Osborne at [email protected] or 01963 351275
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/greenercary/
How can we make Cary greener?
A Public Meeting
Thursday 14th March, 7.30pm,
The Shambles, Market House, Castle Cary, BA7 7AH
Parish Council Elections 2nd May-update
Please see the Parish Councils Notice of Election here.
Update 13th April: 9 people have been nominated for 13 places on the Town Council. Therefore they have been elected without a contest. See https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/media/2150/parish-council-notices-of-uncontested-elections.pdf
District Council Elections 2nd May
Please see the District Council Notice of Election here.
Town Clerk vacancy
Castle Cary Town Council
Job Vacancy
Town Clerk/Responsible Finance Officer
Salary within the grade LC2
(from 1st April 2019 SCP 24-32 £27905-£34788)
Subject to experience and qualifications.
Full-time 37hrs per week
Castle Cary Town Council is an innovative and energetic Council at the centre of a growing and active local community. The Council has Foundation status in the Local Council Award scheme and aspires to achieve Quality level following the May elections.
We are now seeking highly organised and committed applicants to undertake this key role which is responsible for all day-to-day organisation and management of the Council’s finances, staff, facilities and services. This is a demanding job and you will need vision, a high level of motivation, excellent leadership, accounting, management, administrative, inter-personal and IT skills in order to work successfully with staff, Councillors, our community, external organisations and stakeholders.
Ideally you should possess the CiLCA qualification and have a sound understanding of local authority organisation and management.
The post is full-time (37 hours per week) and some evening meeting attendance is required. We offer excellent nationally based terms and conditions of employment for this full-time post which involves evening and weekend attendance.
Please visit our website www.castle-cary.co.uk to download a recruitment pack and an application form.
For an informal discussion feel free to contact our current Town Clerk, Sue Hake on 01963 359631
Closing date for applications: 12 noon Monday 18th March 2019.
Interviews will be held on 27th and 28th March 2019. Candidates should ensure they are available to attend on these days should they be selected for interview at each stage.
Castle Cary Town Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Letter to Applicants; Job Description Castle Cary Town Clerk; Town Clerk person specification; Application form for Town Clerk
Neighbourhood Plan update…
…
Lloyd’s Mobile Bank in Wincanton
Lloyd’s Mobile Bank parks in Wincanton at the following times:
Monday 9.30 – 11.00
Tuesday 9.30 – 12.45
Wednesday 13.00 – 15.00
Go into the Memorial Hall car park; drive as far as you can into the walled car park.
Table tennis funding available
Do you belong to a Community Group that is prepared to start up a Table Tennis activity? If so, click on this link for details about funding: https://tabletennisengland.co.uk/news/featured-news/applications-open-for-fully-funded-ping-in-the-community-packages/
1st Castle Cary Scout Group
The 1st Castle Cary Scout Group is pleased to announce that the improvement works carried out at their Scout Halls are now complete and would like to thank Viridor Credits Environmental Company for funding this work via The Landfill Communities Fund.
We would also like to thank those organisations and individuals within our community who supported us with our grant application.
2019 marks 100 years of Scouting within Castle Cary and our new facilities will ensure that young people involved with Scouting will meet in a safe and modern environment as we progress through the coming years.
To celebrate the modernisation of our Halls, a Service will be held at All Saints Church on Sunday 24th February 2019 at 14:30 hours. This will be followed by the official opening and refreshments in our newly refurbished Halls.
All members of the community are invited to join us; if you would like to attend please contact Roy on 01963 351025 or e-mail [email protected]
Police contact details
Please click here for details of our local police beat team.
CC&A Neighbourhood Plan Consultation 29th November 2018 to 19th January 2019
The Castle Cary and Ansford Neighbourhood Plan has been submitted to South Somerset District Council, which has a duty to now carry out consultation prior to the Plan’s examination by an independent Examiner, to be appointed by the District Council. You have the opportunity to comment before the Examination takes place.
The consultation period runs from 29th November 2018 to 19th January 2019. Please see the Castle Cary and Ansford Submission Notice, which provides guidance as to how you may inspect the associated documentation and how comments should be made should you wish to do so. To make a response please use this form.
Please be aware that a summary of all representations received will be publicly available and will appear on the South Somerset District Council website.
Following this consultation, the comments received will be passed to the Examiner, who will consider the representations and recommend whether the Neighbourhood Plan should be put to a community referendum.
Please ensure that any comments on the Neighbourhood Plan are received by South Somerset District Council no later than 19th January 2019.
Form more details of the Neighbourhood Plan, see the website: https://www.castlecaryansfordnp.uk
When the guns fell silent….
Attack by Siegfried Sassoon
At dawn the ridge emerges massed and dun
In the wild purple of the glow’ring sun,
Smouldering through spouts of drifting smoke that shroud
The menacing scarred slope; and, one by one,
Tanks creep and topple forward to the wire.
The barrage roars and lifts. Then, clumsily bowed
With bombs and guns and shovels and battle-gear,
Men jostle and climb to, meet the bristling fire.
Lines of grey, muttering faces, masked with fear,
They leave their trenches, going over the top,
While time ticks blank and busy on their wrists,
And hope, with furtive eyes and grappling fists,
Flounders in mud. O Jesus, make it stop!
At 11:00 on 11th November 1918 the guns did, finally, fall silent. To mark this, and to show our respect for those that fought, and died, for the freedoms we have today, Cary 2000 will be setting off 100 bird scarers on Lodge Hill at 10:55 on Sunday 11th November. This will give us all a representation of just what it was like for our men in the trenches when ‘The War to end all Wars’ ended.
There will be several warnings over the next 10 days, published, online and via Cary Crier, so please let everyone know and ensure that animals are kept inside for these few minutes and that anyone who may be traumatised by the sounds has someone with them or is away from Cary.
Castle Cary & Ansford Remember…..
Castle Cary & Ansford Centenary Remembrance of World War 1
This year the Armistice Remembrance will be marked with some different activities in our town. We will be positioning 150 large poppies throughout the town. This will be followed by flags placed at the back of the Horsepond, on the Market House and down the High Street, in shop windows and on flag poles. Many of our shops will decorate their windows and the War Memorial at the Horsepond will be draped with a cascade of poppies.
The poppy collections led by Bridget Laver will start in the town in the week beginning 29th October.
On Saturday 3rd November the Shambles will host an exhibition prepared by the Museum and Living History Group. This exhibition will be open whenever the Shambles is not booked for an event to view. The days are; Saturday 3rd November, Tuesday morning, Wednesday all day, Thursday morning, Friday all day and Saturday morning when it will transfer to the Museum for viewing on Sunday 11th November.
The Museum has extended its opening days until Sunday 11th November. It’s will be open from 10.30-12.30 and 2.00-4.00pm. It is full of memorabilia and a fabulous poppy quilt ‘In Flanders Fields’ made with love by Catherine Millar and lent to them for the occasion.
The Vintage Market will take place on 11th November and they will be having some appropriate music playing after the Act of Remembrance.
Both Churches will have displays and they be open for reflection in the week leading up to Sunday. The Creative Writing Group at the Shambles has written stories and poems about World War1 and one will be read in All Saints’ Church after 11.00 each day.
In addition there will be a few surprises to watch out for before the solemnity of the British Legion service at All Saints’ Church at 10.00am. The congregation will process round the town led by the Clergy and the British Legion to the War Memorial for the act of Remembrance. The men of Castle Cary and Ansford will be remembered by name after the silence. After the service there will be an opportunity to walk up to Ansford Church and the Ansford War Memorial to honour the dead.
We would like to make you aware that 100 bird scarers will be set off in very quick succession from the top of Lodge Hill to mark the moment the guns fell silent. They will go off before 11.00 am and will be followed by two minutes silence. Please keep your animals in and warn friends or relatives who might be alarmed. The Police have been informed.
These events have been planned by a small group of people from our community and supported by Cary 2000 and the Town Council
SCC Recommendations for the Libraries Service Redesign
Details of the proposals by the County Council for Somerset libraries can be found here: http://somersetlibraries.co.uk/redesign/
Castle Cary library is recommended for a Community Library Partnership
In memory of Barry (Moorhouse)
In memory Barry Moorhouse who was an active member, and latterly Chair, of the Town Council his sons (Guy & Ben) will be cycle a 100 miles on the 23rd September to raise much needed funds for St Margaret’s Hospice.
They say:
On February 20th of this year, our wonderful Dad passed away after a battle with inoperable pancreatic cancer. An awful time, during which we needed whatever help we could get for Dad to give him and my step mum the best quality of life possible in his final weeks.
For us, this help came in the form of St. Margaret’s Hospice. Amazing people doing amazing work – giving everything to help people like Dad get every last bit of value out of what remains of their shortened lives.
My brother and I are supporting St Margaret’s, cycling 100 miles next month in my dad’s memory at the Vélo South sportive.
We would be so grateful if you could contribute whatever you can to our fundraiser – St. Margaret’s Hospice have limited financial support and need charitable donations to continue doing the vital work that they do.
Your help would mean everything to them and us.
Welcome to Margaret Bebbington…
…who was co-opted to Castle Cary Town Council at our Full Meeting last night (17th September 2018) We all look forward to working with her.
Digital Marketing Training
Click here to see full details.
Redesign of Council Offices at Petters Way in Yeovil
Redesign of Council Offices at Petters Way in Yeovil will give customers better experience.
The front of house area at the District Council’s offices in Petters Way will see a redesign which will offer customers a better experience with a fresh, modern and contemporary environment.
Plans to redesign the area, which include submitting a planning application for a new entrance, will see a self-serve zone implemented and other facilities that will be technology enabled to promote self-service to customers.
Those customers who need face to face help will still be able to receive that level service to enable a fast resolution to customer enquiries.
The area will be focussed on the Council’s new way of working, with Customer focussed officers greeting customers to promote self-service by supporting them to develop skills and do more themselves. It will also provide a convenient location to get advice and access a whole range of services.
The new front of house will create a space for greeting customers/triage, self-serve, reception desk, informal meeting areas and private interview rooms.
Councillor Henry Hobhouse, Portfolio Holder for Property, Climate Change and Income Generation said: “It is critical we get the space right and we want to ensure the space increases customer and staff satisfaction. Officers have visited many other public sector organisations to try to find the best outcome for the front of house area”.
Customers can access services online at any time of the day by using the Council’s range of online services including paying Council Tax or other bills, reporting missed waste or recycling collections, registering to vote, applying for Housing Benefit, joining the housing list or making a planning application plus much more. Visit www.southsomerset.gov.uk/online-services to see the range of services currently available.
In early 2019, a brand new website with personal online customer accounts will be introduced, making going online and dealing with council-related queries easier and more conveinient.
The application, which has been submitted to Planning Officers, to create a new glass-fronted entrance way at Petters House can be found on the SSDC Planning Portal at https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/planningdetails/
BMI site: extension for comments on the application.
CASTLE CARY TOWN COUNCIL
NOTICE FROM PLANNING COMMITTEE
Planning Application Numbers 18/01602/FUL & 18/01603/LBC
Demolition of existing buildings, conversion of and alterations to listed buildings to form 11 No. dwellings, the erection of 70 No. dwellings (total 81 No. dwellings) and associated works, including access and off-site highway works, parking, landscaping, open space, footpath links and drainage infrastructure.
Former BMI Site, Cumnock Road, Castle Cary, BA7 7HR
Deferment request granted
Please be aware that the date for public comments on the above application has been extended from 13th & 16th July
to 22nd July 2018.
Signed ………………………………..Claire Craner-Buckley Deputy Town Clerk
Dated: 11.7.18
Contacting the Planning Service at South Somerset District Council
New arrangements for contacting the Planning service at South Somerset District Council have been put in place to allow the team to deal with a current backlog of planning applications.
The arrangements, which will commence from Monday 25 June until further notice, will give Planning Officers more time without interruption to allow for catch up and avoid demand failure whilst maintaining a good level of customer service.
Incoming direct calls to the Planning service will only be answered between 9.00am – 10.00am and 4.00pm – 5.00pm daily. During all other hours, calls will go to voicemail and be actioned when the Planning Officer becomes available.
The Duty Planner service will only operate from 9.00am until 1.00pm daily. Duty Planner calls are received by calling 01935 462462. After 1.00pm messages will be taken and passed to Planning Officers to action.
Should you need to contact a known Planning Officer who is dealing with a case that is currently live, we advise you email the Officer direct.
Until further notice, there will be no Planning Officer cover for walk-ins at the Brympton Way, Petters Way Wincanton and Chard offices. If you are coming to any of the offices looking to speak to a Planning Officer, a message will be taken and emailed to a specific Case Officer or to the Duty Planner.
Councillor Angie Singleton, Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning said, “We want to ensure we offer a good level of service to customers and residents whilst dealing with the current backlog of applications and to do that, we need to ensure Officers have sufficient time to deal with applications.
“We understand it can be frustrating when you can’t immediately get through to who you need to speak with, but this new arrangement will allow Officers to register and assess applications quicker. If you need to discuss an issue about an application that is already live, it’s advised to email the Planning Officer direct who will then deal with your email when time allows. We thank you for your understanding of the current situation and your patience with this matter”.
There is a comprehensive guide to the Planning service at South Somerset District Council online. If you are looking for advice or guidance, please visit www.southsomerset.gov.uk/planning. Current or previous planning applications can be viewed at www.southsomerset.gov.uk by entering the planning reference or a keyword into the Planning search box on the homepage.
A message from Care4Cary about the B3153
Dear Friends of Care4Cary
We have good news!
Community action has made a difference once more
The Planning Inspector has dismissed Andrew Hopkins’ appeal to locate a parking and valeting site for 991 cars at Dimmer. Richard Jones is the third Inspector who has agreed with local residents’ concerns about the poor safety and amenity of the B3153 for local residents and road users. The language of the dismissal was very clear. Click on this link to read it http://cip.southsomerset.gov.uk/Planning/lg/GFPlanningViewDocumentInDialog.page?DocNo=8498554. Huge thanks to the many people who wrote letters, sent photos and made lengthy submissions. It is clear from the Inspector’s report that your arguments were pivotal.
Together with other interested parties, Care4Cary is planning to present to Somerset Highways a dossier on this stretch of the B3153, which will include a report from an independent traffic consultant and incontrovertible traffic data. We will not give up until Highways recognises that there is a serious issue with the road between Lydford Cross and Ansford Bridge, and that something needs to be done about it.
Princess Royal visits Cary tomorrow
Tomorrow morning (Friday 13 April) HRH the Princess Royal will be landing by helicopter on the Donald Pither memorial field and she will be taken by car to the Save the Children shop on Fore Street where she will be shown round by Ainslie and introduced to staff.
Neighbourhood Plan Consultation
Please don’t forget
There is a public consultation about our draft Neighbourhood Plan on Saturday 17 March in the Market house (9.30 – 2.30)
This is your chance to let us know your views on, and suggest improvements to, the Castle Cary and Ansford draft Neighbourhood plan.
You can view the plan online at www.castlecaryansfordnp.uk or borrow a paper copy from the Market House Information Point.
So do join us on Saturday or email [email protected] or drop your comments off at the Market House.
All responses must be in by 1 May 2018.
A Celebration of Barry’s life
Sue Moorhouse and family
Invite you to join them
at
Caryford Hall, Maggs Lane, Ansford,
Castle Cary BA7 7JJ
on
Friday 6th April at 2.00pm
For tea and cakes
To reflect on and celebrate Barry’s life
After the snow…a message from the Town Council..
Many thanks to all the many heroes who helped clear roads and paths, shopped for others and shared meals, kept the shops open, helped to get people to work in their 4x4s and generally kept us safe in the last few days. The sight of young people and their parents building snowmen, snowboarding and tobogganing on our very own ‘ski slopes’ warmed everyone’s hearts.
Keep shopping locally #lovecastlecary
A message from the Town Council…
……………..in this extreme weather please take the time to ensure that people who are elderly or confined to their homes, are managing to keep fed and warm.
If you are able to clear the path outside your house, please do – let’s try to make it a safe journey for all.
If you know of someone who needs some support, please let us know and we will try to address their need.
In the meantime, a Lent lunch of warming soup and bread will be served in All Saints’ Church on Friday 2nd March from 12.30 pm. Everyone is welcome
On Saturday 3rd March there will be a coffee morning in the Shambles, (not the Undercroft! ) where you can come to talk to us about anyone you are concerned about and we will try to help.
At the coffee morning you can also view the progress on the Fairfield development.
Thank you to everyone who is being a good neighbour in our compassionate community.
Draft Neighbourhood Plan…
The draft NP is now available in printed form from the Market House information point.
Barry Moorhouse
All Town Councilllors, staff and volunteers are devastated to hear that our recent Chair of Council Barry Moorhouse died early this morning.
He’d been active on Facebook recently extolling the care he was receiving from St. Margaret’s Somerset Hospice in Yeovil, and several of us had visited him in the past couple of weeks. His wife Sue has asked us to share the news on Facebook and here.
We send our deepenst condolences to Sue and all Barry’s family who are together this week to mark what would have been his birthday on Thursday.
A303 Sparkford to Ilchester Dualling Scheme Statutory Consultation
Highways England are currently consulting on the proposal to upgrade the A303 between
Sparkford and Ilchester to a dual carriageway. Here is the consultation brochure and below is the link to the on-line consultation.
https://highwaysengland.citizenspace.com/he/a303-sparkford-to-ilchester-statutory-consultation/
This statutory consultation is your Town or Parishes opportunity to express your views on the design of the proposed scheme in advance of the application for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise construction of the project.
Businesses, local authorities, public bodies, road users and the communities and neighbouring areas can play an important part in the development of the scheme design. Your feedback is therefore essential to this consultation as it will enable Highways England to improve the scheme before they start the planning process.
The consultation closes on 9th March 2018.
South Somerset Local Boundary changes consultation
Local Ward boundaries are set to change.
Further details here: https://www.lgbce.org.uk/news/electoral-review/have-your-say-on-new-political-map-of-south-somerset
The proposal for Cary Ward is as follows: “There is a development taking place in Castle Cary that will prompt Cary to have electoral inequality by 2023 (16%) if its present ward boundaries are retained.
We received one submission regarding Cary, as part of the Officers’ proposal for the district.
This proposal suggested moving the parish of Babcary into Camelot ward and the parish of Yarlington into Camelot ward. We are recommending a draft Cary ward comprising the parishes of
Alford, Ansford, Castle Cary, Lovington, North Barrow, North Cadbury and South Barrow.
Cary ward will have good electoral equality by 2023.”
However, there is a lot more detail in the link above and below.
https://www.lgbce.org.uk/current-reviews/south-west/somerset/south-somerset
Library consultation drop in event Castle Cary
There will be a drop in event to discuss the proposed Library changes, on 14th March from 2.30 to 5.30pm in The Market House.
The future of the EatCary Community Garden is uncertain!
EatCary Community Garden and its future: EatCary runs the community vegetable garden between Ansford Academy, Maggs Lane and the A371 – there is a footpath up to it on the corner.
The future of the EatCary Community Garden is uncertain!
It needs additional leadership and fresh input. There are too few of us with too little time, to run it. There is lots of space – lots of growing space outside, a large polytunnel, equipment, etc It isn’t allotments; it is a shared growing space, and we share the produce. We want to encourage everyone to grow vegetables and enjoy eating them.
If you or your organisation is interested in finding out more, please come to
a Public Meeting in the Shambles at the Market House
on
Tuesday March 6th at 7.30pm
If you cannot come to the meeting do contact Laura Tilling for more information.
Ring 01963 351461 or email [email protected]
Somerset Library Services Consultation 2018
Somerset County Council need your opinion on their proposed changes to the library services in Somerset. There will be a drop in session at The Market House on Wednesday 14th March from 2.30 to 5.30pm when staff will be on hand to answer questions.
See the links to the consultation for the Castle Cary area here
Our advertising policy…
…in order to be fair to all businesses in Castle Cary, Ansford and the immediate area, Castle Cary Town Council has an advertising policy: Policy for advertising on the Castle Cary Town Website and Facebook page
Nat West mobile bank
Nat West is changing its hours from 14th September to 10.50 – 11.50am
Barclays Bank, Castle Cary to close at the end of October…
The Town Council has just been informed that Barclays Bank in Castle Cary will be closing at the end of October. This is the letter informing customers: Barclays Bank closure
A message from Care4Cary about the Hopkins application at Dimmer..
Care4Cary is pleased to report that on Wednesday 12 July South Somerset District Council’s Area East planning committee refused Andrew Hopkins’ application for change of use from B2 (general industrial) to B8 (storage and distribution) at his Dimmer site. He had applied in order to store and valet up to 991 former fleet vehicles on this rural site.
Ward Councillor Henry Hobhouse moved that the application should be refused, with Ward Councillor and Committee Chair Nick Weeks seconding. The motion was carried by six votes (including that of our County Councillor Mike Lewis) to two against, with two abstentions.
Many thanks to town and parish councillors who made submissions in advance and spoke at the meeting. Strong objections were also made by residents of Ansford, Dimmer, Castle Cary and Lydford, alongside Care4Cary. It was clear that the SSDC planning officer and Councillors had taken note of the two letters from Care4Cary’s expert planning lawyer who had pointed out the inadequacy of information provided by the applicant, the adverse road safety and amenity impact along the B3153 particularly in Clanville, and that the Planning Officer was incorrect on a piece of planning law ignoring the comments of two planning inspectors.
While this Committee has refused the application on the grounds that the applicant had failed to demonstrate the impact on local traffic/road safety and amenity, we may well have to face an appeal.
Councillors seemed as frustrated as we are at the saga at Dimmer and made some constructive suggestions as to how to bring groundhog day finally to a close. More of that anon.
Best wishes and many thanks for all the support!
Care4Cary
16 July 2017
Chair’s report to the Annual Town Meeting 2017
Here is the report given to the Annual Town Meeting on 16th May 2017
Draft Minutes from the Annual Town Meeting
Annual Town Meeting 2017 Draft Minutes will be approved at the 2018 Annual Town Meeting.
Castle Cary Annual Town Meeting
The ANNUAL TOWN MEETING will take place on Tuesday 16th May in Caryford Hall
You can download an official Agenda here.
Fairtrade tea & coffee will be available
At 6.30 pm there will be a chance to view and comment on the Neighbourhood plan, catch up on the latest news on The Fairfield Project, see displays from local organisations about their activities and to meet Town and District Councillors to discuss local issues
The FORMAL MEETING STARTS AT 7.30 pm:
AGENDA
1 Welcome and introduction of Councillors
2 Apologies for absence
3 Approval of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting minutes
4 Chairman’s report
5 Presentations by Town Councillors & others:
Planning
Neighbourhood Plan
Marketing & Communications
Youth
Properties & Infrastructure
Finance
6 Presentations from Ward Councillors
7 Questions, answers and other matters for discussion
8 Thank you and good night.
Macmillan Plaque Unveiling in Castle Cary
On Monday 12th August a Blue Plaque was unveiled at Cumnock Terrace in Castle Cary, the birthplace of Douglas Macmillan. To find out more, watch the video composed by Macmillan…
A new rural crime initiative-text 81819
A new rural crime initiative has been launched by Avon & Somerset Police this week.
There’s a new text number – 81819 to help the Police to prevent and detect rural crime.
Rural communities and businesses are asked to help the Police by providing information and intelligence about suspected crime in their area. Texts will go directly to the Rural Crime Team, who will be able to assess and action the intelligence quickly and efficiently.
The number won’t be monitored 24/7 but the team will be looking at it when they are on duty, it therefore shouldn’t be used for reporting crimes, or anything which requires an immediate police attendance.
In those circumstances please dial 999.
Inspector Joanna Mines, from the Rural Crime Team in Somerset, said: “We are trialing the number for three months.
“Many people who belong to our FarmWatch scheme had said they wanted a facility to be able to pass on information and respond to messages quickly, and this new number will allow that.
“We want to hear from anyone who has information about any suspicious or potentially criminal activity in their area, for example – details of people/vehicles seen behaving suspiciously, potentially stolen goods or livestock being offered for sale either to the public or at markets, sightings of stolen vehicles we might put out an alert for.
“No matter how small or insignificant people may think information is, it may be a vital piece of a jigsaw that helps us fill in the gaps and either prevent a crime or bring offenders to justice.
“We have had real success using a text number to facilitate reporting of drink drivers in the past and we hope this will prove as effective.”
Messages are currently sent out via text message and email to members of the Neighbourhood, Farm and Horse Watch schemes to alert them to crimes and incidents in their area. This new number will allow people to text back information quickly and easily.
Anyone can use it if they have information about rural or agricultural crime in their area, and isn’t just for Watch members.
The launch of the number happens to coincide with a recent livestock theft in Somerset (16/01) and we are hoping that the public will help provide vital information to help the investigation. 40 calves, 10-15 months old, of Friesian/Limousin/Angus breeds were stolen from Henton, near Wells. The calves had been wormed using Bimectin the day before and it’s therefore vital they don’t get into the food chain.
Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “Rural crime affects the livelihoods of farmers, smallholders and rural businesses and presents some real challenges for the wider rural areas. I know the Rural Crime Team, working closely with our local communities are committed to tackling and preventing crime.
“I know from speaking to residents and farmers that there is a real desire to engage with the police […]
Outcome of Planning Enquiry
Many of you will be aware that there has been a public enquiry relating to an application to build 125 + 75 new homes on either side of Station Road. (This is in addition to the 165 + 45 + 75 for which planning permission has already been given in this area.) Your Town Council, Ansford Parish Council and South Somerset District Council objected to the application on the grounds that the additional 200 homes would be excessive for our roads and infrastructure, and lack of jobs would lead to out-commuting and so on. However, in line with current planning policy, the Government Inspector has taken the developers’ side. In other words – we have lost. Sorry – we tried really, really hard.
If you are interested the inspector’s decision and the reasons for it, please click on the following links:
If you are at all concerned about the current planning process and lack of respect for the views of local people, there are two Government petitions you can consider signing…. If they get 10,000 signatures the Government will look at the issue, 100,000 and it will be debated in Parliament.
“Give communities back the right to decide where houses are built.”- petition.parliament.uk/petitions/177333
“Protect us from speculative housing development. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) needs modification……” petition.parliament.uk/petitions/176809
Tuesday Market
The Market runs from 8.30 to 2.00 pm every Tuesday at the Market House.
Our dedicated traders look forward to offering you:
· Fish, Meat, Veg (including ORGANIC),
· Bread, Gluten-free products, Pickles, Jams,
· PLUS occasional casual stallholders.
Do come and have a chat and a look around, enjoy a coffee and visit our High Street too!
Millbrook Toilets change
In an effort to reduce costs to the Town Council, and therefore the Council Tax payer,
and after discussion at a previous Properties and Infrastructure meeting, it was decided at the full
Town Council meeting on 17th October that the men’s and women’s toilets in Millbrook car park would
be closed for a trial period of two months from 1st November.
The disabled toilet will be adapted for use as a unisex facility and have baby changing facilities.
Current draft of the Neighbourhood Plan
This is the current draft of our Neighbourhood Plan. There will be a formal public consultation period within a month or so at which point your views on the plan will be sought.
Click here for the draft: Castle Cary and Ansford Neighbourhood Plan – updated draft
Notice of Public Right to Inspect Accounts
This has been posted on the Notice Board outside the Market House: Notice of Public Right to inspect accounts
Castle Cary Town Crier
The CARY CRIER is proving extremely popular
This is an email information service set up by the Town Council to inform residents of important issues as soon as they arise.
The purpose of this service is to ensure that residents can personally receive information from the Town Council such as:
- Reminders of upcoming events in the town.
- Issues relating to the town for which consultation is needed
- To ask for volunteer help either on a regular basis or for one-off events.
It will not be used for any other purpose and members will only be contacted if there is news, or views/help is needed.
The list of recipients will not be made available to any other individual or organisation. BCC (blind carbon copies) will be used at all times for group mailings.
Residents of Castle Cary, Ansford and the surrounding area are invited to contact [email protected] and ask to be put on the list.
Castle Cary Town Crier
…….. is an email information service set up by the Town Council to inform residents of important issues as soon as they arise.
The purpose of this service is to ensure that residents can personally receive information from the Town Council such as:
- Reminders of upcoming events in the town.
- Issues relating to the town for which consultation is needed
- To ask for volunteer help either on a regular basis or for one-off events.
It will not be used for any other purpose and members will only be contacted if there is news, or views/help is needed.
The list of recipients will not be made available to any other individual or organisation. BCC (blind carbon copies) will be used at all times for group mailings.
Residents of Castle Cary, Ansford and the surrounding area are invited to contact [email protected] and ask to be put on the list.
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