National award for controversial temporary council officer

THE work of West Somerset Council’s controversial temporary chief officer Dr Jack Neal has been recognised with a national award from the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE).
Dr Neal’s appointment hit the headlines because he was costing £3,500 a week at a time when the council was already in a financial crisis after Independent councillors took control from the Conservatives at local elections.
The council had lost its chief executive and deputy chief executive in quick succession after the coalition of Independent councillors began running the authority.
Dr Neal, aged 61, who lives near Honiton, Devon, was given a temporary contract to try to turn around the management of the council.
Now, his work has been recognised at the prestigious SOLACE interim manager of the year awards, held in Claridge’s Hotel, Mayfair, London.
He received the runner-up award in the strategic management category.
West Somerset economic development portfolio holder Councillor Michael Downes said: “It is no mean feat given that we are a small council and the winners came from larger London authorities.
“I am delighted that the work he did with us has been acknowledged.
“He has fantastic management skills and I am pleased these have been recognised on a national scale.”
Adrian Dyer, who has since become the council’s chief officer with the title executive director, said: “I am absolutely delighted for Jack.
“He is an inspirational manager and excellent problem-solver who is not phased by anything.
“I have learned a lot from him, and the council as a whole has seen marked and lasting improvements thanks to his help.”

• Our photograph shows Councillor Michael Downes (left) and Dr Jack Neal. Photo submitted.

BUSINESS NEWS: Skills workshop to boost future business prospects

UNDERSTANDING West Somerset employers’ skills and employment needs and providing good training opportunities to ensure competitive futures for local firms are some of the themes of a free workshop being held later this month.
The ‘Skills and Employment Workshop’ takes place at the Regional Rural Business Centre (pictured), off Junction 24 of the M5, on Monday, April 20, from 5 pm to 7 pm.
Businesses in West Somerset and Sedgemoor can discuss the upcoming training needs of workforces to help their businesses cope through the recession, and to capitalise on opportunities when the economic climate eventually changes.
The networking event has been jointly organised by West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council to ensure local businesses are equipped for the future.
Councillor Michael Downes, West Somerset’s economic portfolio holder, said: “Fresh information in the face of the changing economic climate is needed so that we can, by working with other organisations, provide the skills and training local businesses want.
“By working with employers and skills providers to identify and address needs, we can help to put in place meaningful, targeted support and training.
“The evening is friendly and informal and all businesses are welcome, from the smallest to the largest local firms.
“Anybody can attend, in fact, who wants their business to grow and is willing to help us plan a better future for the local economy as a whole.”
Places at the workshop can be booked before April 15 by calling West Somerset economic regeneration officer Corinne Matthews on 01984 635287 or emailing cmatthews@westsomerset.gov.uk.
Anybody who cannot attend, but would still like to make the needs of their business known should contact Corinne Matthews to request a questionnaire.

Cabinet considers funding boost for Minehead EYE

PLANS for Minehead EYE - a place young people in West Somerset can call their own - could take a step forward next week.
West Somerset Council’s cabinet is meeting to look at agreeing a partnership deal which would be worth nearly £250,000 to the project.
The new multi-million pounds facility will be aimed at youngsters aged 13 to19 years and will feature a two-storey skate and BMX park with a viewing gallery overlooking the 6,000 sq ft facility.
It will also have a recording studio and DJ booth, a multi-media suite with rehearsal space, a computer area, an exhibition area with an art-graffiti wall, a café, and a shop.
A report being put to cabinet members on Wednesday, April 8, proposes removing a requirement for capital receipts to be received prior to funding the project.
It also recommends the cabinet to hand over the balance of a grant for the project amounting to more than £239,000.
The council has already given Minehead EYE more than £6,000 funding.
The concept of Minehead EYE originated about 10 years ago but was recently fast-tracked through the Government’s myplace programme and last year secured more than £3.2 million of Big Lottery funding.
It is one of 21 projects awarded funding to provide world-class facilities across England which work to create safe places for young people to go, where they can become involved in a wide range of exciting activities and obtain information and advice from people they trust.

• Our image shows an artist's impression of how the Minehead EYE could look. Image submitted.

New tourism partnership could boost local economy

A NEW tourism industry partnership to promote West Somerset and Greater Exmoor is to be considered by West Somerset Council cabinet members next week.
They will be asked to work with potential partners to establish the form of any partnership before a further report comes back to cabinet later in the year.
If the cabinet agrees at its meeting on April 8, then council executive director Adrian Dyer and tourism portfolio holder Councillor Michael Downes will start the partnership ball rolling.
The partners could include the Exmoor Tourist Association (ETA), Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) and Active Exmoor.
The mix of private and public sector organisations have been working together to see if pooling resources and co-ordinating tourism services could underpin and enhance this important area of the West Somerset economy.
The idea of the new partnership evolved following the disbanding of Visit Exmoor in 2007, which came after disagreements between its numerous partners undermined its effectiveness.
Since then, the council has supported tourism through event co-ordination, providing a new Visitor Information Centre on Minehead seafront, and funding the district’s tourism guide Exmoor Coast and Country, which was produced in partnership with the ETA.
Active Exmoor, which is also part-funded by the council, has developed outdoor activities for visitors and the ENPA through its management plan and is committed to sustainable tourism projects to develop and enhance the visitor experience.
Now, through ‘a coming together of minds’, the group will explore what each partner can bring to the table by way of resource and/or money to deliver four essential tourism themes:

• Marketing the area to attract visitors
• Providing information on accommodation options
• Letting visitors know what activities are available
• Maintaining a good product by looking after and enhancing the local environment

Cabinet members will also consider approving the proposed partnership’s aim, which is to develop the area as a leading tourism destination based on providing a sustainable, quality experience for visitors which will, in turn, support and enhance the economy.
The partnership’s objectives will also be considered.
These include increasing visitor numbers and the duration of stays, ensuring the area is a leader in sustainable tourism, encouraging professional standards and consulting with the private and public sectors and local people.
Deciding resource and financial contributions, and the operation of a viable and professional partnership to achieve a vibrant industry are also seen as key objectives in delivering successful tourism services.
Councillor Downes, who will present the report next week, said: “I think this targeted, objective approach is very timely as the local economy needs all the support it can get at the moment.
“The recently approved economic strategy singled out tourism as an important sector to develop in order to underpin the local economy.
“The priorities and aims of the strategy dovetail with the propositions in the report.
“The input of private sector organisations such as the ETA, which is a very constructive and proactive partner, along with public sector commitment is important in making sure the visitor experience is enhanced so that people keep coming back to the area for holidays.
“In these uncertain economic times, I feel it is an excellent opportunity to combine the skills and knowledge of committed private and public sector agencies in a firm partnership.
“The partnership will consult with other local tourism operators to consolidate the area’s position as a quality tourism destination, and will be a key strength in leading this sector in future economic growth for the benefit of all local people.”

Council honours amateur photographers of the year

WINNERS of Westlabb’s West Somerset Amateur Digital Photographer of the Year 2008 have received their prizes at a presentation ceremony held in the district council chamber, in Williton.
They were welcomed by council chairman Councillor Eddie May, and were praised by the competition’s organisers and sponsors, Westlabb Ltd, and West Somerset councillors.
The competition was supported by West Somerset Council and Somerset County Council.
Westlabb director Jon Summers said: “I am delighted at the response to the competition.
“It was hard to choose the winners out of many excellent entries.
“The photographers took some amazing pictures and I would like to thank everybody who took part.”
The overall title of Amateur Photographer of the Year went to Philip Sanderson for his image of a kite surfer in Minehead Bay, which won the senior ‘Favourite Landscape/Seascape’ category.
Mr Sanderson said: “I was very surprised but really happy to win. I had been out kite surfing with a friend when I took the picture of him.
“I enjoy photography as a hobby so I wll definitely be entering again this year.”
The title of Junior Amateur Photographer of the Year was awarded to Daisy Maddison, aged 17.
Her picture, ‘My granddad, Clifford, on Blue Anchor Beach prawning with his dog, Scrumpy’, won the junior ‘Favourite Landscape/Seascape category.
Daisy, who has finished her A-level examinations and is heading off to Newport University to study for a degree in documentary photography, said: “The picture is like my granddad through and through - he enjoys fishing and prawning on the beach, so I am pleased to have the picture of him doing what he loves.
“I would really like to thank my mum for driving me to all my photography classes at Bridgwater College.”
Category winner for ‘Promoting Your Local Business’ was Terry Aldred for his image of Chris Cracker’s Junk Shop, in Carhampton.
Shirley Turner won the ‘Your Favourite Event/Village’ category with a picture taken in Dunster of the Tour of Britain cycle race.
Bob Druitt, also a Westlabb director, said: “We had great fun setting the competition up and we have enjoyed seeing the marvellous results.
“However, we are now handing the competition over to West Somerset Council to run in future years.
“We hope it will grow in popularity and that local people will continue to give it their full support because the images submitted are fantastic, and really show the range and depth of local talent.
“I would also like to thank local press photographer Steve Guscott for helping us to judge the competition.”
Councillor Michael Downes, the council’s tourism portfolio holder, said: “I would like to thank Westlabb for setting up the competition and we are delighted to be taking on such a successful project.
“We have started some new categories and we are looking forward to the competition.”
To view the winning photographs or to find out about this year’s competition, go to www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/photographycompetition.
Anybody who is interested in entering the competition but feels they need to learn more about digital photography, can attend a Bridgwater College IT course held in its skills centre in Minehead, as well as on its main campus.
Courses include ICT for beginners to advanced, including digital cameras and enhancing photo courses. For more information call 01643 707008.
Digital photography courses are also available at the Exmoor Community Computer Centre, in Winsford.
More information can be obtained by calling the ECCC on 01643 851594, or from Somerset Skills and Learning by calling 01643 702986.

• Our photograph taken at the awards ceremony shows (left to right) back - Carole Murphy, Aisha Knight, Phil Brown, Bob Druitt, Jon Summers, Nick Hosegood, Stephen Paul, and Angela Lamplough. Front - Councillor Michael Downes, Philip Sanderson, Terry Aldridge, and Daisy Maddison. Photo submitted.

Gas Safety Register ID now required for gas repairs

A CHANGE in the law affecting homes and businesses with plans to have gas appliances serviced, upgraded, or installed, is being highlighted by West Somerset Council
From tomorrow, the Government is introducing the Gas Safe Register to replace the familiar CORGI gas registration system.
The Gas Safe Register is the official industry stamp for gas safety under the new scheme which is overseen by the Health and Safety Executive, the organisation responsible for regulating gas safety in Great Britain.
The council’s housing portfolio holder, Councillor Kate Kravis, said: “The Government has changed the legislation, and from April 1 anybody carrying out gas work within the scope of the regulations must be on the Gas Safe Register.
“The new law states that if somebody other than a Gas Safe registered engineer undertakes regulated gas work in your home, you could be risking the safety of your family and your property.
“Many contractors now registered with Gas Safe may not have had the chance to update their vans and literature, which may still display the CORGI symbol.
“However, public safety is paramount and we urge people to make certain by asking engineers to show their new Gas Safe identity badges.”
The new register will provide enhanced levels of service and clearly written rules of registration.
There will also be new services and benefits designed to improve the registration scheme and promote gas safety.
Gas Safe registered engineers are listed at http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ or details can be found by calling 0800 408 550.
West Somerset building control manager Jayne Hall said: “Building control is all about ensuring public safety in homes, offices, and other buildings.
“It is important that people know about this change in legislation and contact Gas Safe if necessary.
“If you are considering any building or renovation work on a property, West Somerset’s building control team would be happy to advise you on any aspects that may need building control regulations.
“Initial advice is free and can save homeowners problems later on, especially when coming to sell.”

Youth Parliament debates school measures to help save the environment

PUPILS from schools across West Somerset have formed their own Youth Parliament to encourage the district council to be more involved in the activities of local youngsters.
The ‘Parliament’ met in the council chamber at the authority’s new offices in Williton and issues surrounding the environment proved to the main topics up for discussion.
The youngsters were welcomed by council chairman Councillor Eddie May before other councillors gave them a tour of the new offices to show them the building’s carbon-reducing and environmentally-friendly features.
The students made presentations to their fellow pupils and to councillors to explain what they were doing in their schools to help the environment, as well as their future plans.
Projects already running included the West Somerset Community College, Minehead, funding schoolchildren in Uganda to fence off an area of their school to grow tea.
The tea is then sent to DJ Miles and Co, in Minehead, which packages it for the college students to sell as Free Trade tea at the college.
Funds raised are returned to Uganda to enable the African students to build new facilities at their school.
Minehead Middle School had been clearing soft wood trees to improve a local habitat for wildlife, while Knights Templar School, in Watchet, had its own vegetable patch.
Danesfield School, Williton, had paper recycling bins, composting facilities, low energy light bulb,s and a school woodland, while Dunster First School recycled its paper and had made a number of bird feeders, helping it to receive an EcoSchool Bronze Award in 2008.
For the future, community college students were to investigate how they could recycle plastic bottles, while St Peter’s First School, Williton, was going to carry out a lunch box survey to find out how healthy the contents were, and then produce a leaflet to provide recycling and food ideas for lunch boxes.
Minehead Middle School was looking at improving its composting site, planting trees in the school grounds, and keeping chickens to help students to learn how to look after animals.
Knights Templar wanted to use rainwater to flush toilets, put up signs to ask students to turn off taps, and to increase the amount it recycled.
Dulverton Middle School was going to refurbish its pond and make it deeper to take fish, while Danesfield School wanted to achieve its EcoSchool Bronze Award, and Old Cleeve School was interested in holding a Fair Trade tasting event and encouraging pupils to use Fair Trade products.
Minehead First School was also organising a healthy eating day on April 1, with smoothies, dips, and soups, and promoting waste-free lunch boxes, while Dunster First School was delivering a campaign to encourage students to walk to school and their parents to car share on the school run.
Ecoschool status was high on the schools’ agenda.
Porlock First School already had its silver award, and other schools were working toward their silver and bronze awards.
They unanimously agreed that every school in West Somerset should aim to achieve a minimum of bronze award before the next ‘Parliament’ session.
Councillor May said: “The pupils were a real inspiration.
“The environmental future of the planet is in their hands and they are taking the matter seriously.
“They are very well-informed, and I think it is fair to say that we learned a lot from them on the day.
“Their knowledge and enthusiasm is very impressive, and they are a real credit to their schools.”

• Our photograph shows Councillor Eddie May with some of the youngsters who attended the Youth Parliament. Photo submitted.

Help keep out New Year chill with council heating efficiency grant

RESIDENTS of West Somerset feeling the chill in the New Year are being urged to take advantage of a newly-launched scheme to help them with keeping their homes warm.
The Warm Streets programme is just one of a number of grant and discount schemes available to help residents to heat their homes more efficiently while saving money.
West Somerset Council housing portfolio holder Councillor Kate Kravis said: “We help fund Warm Streets because it directly benefits people who need to make savings and heat their homes effectively.
“Homeowners and privately-renting tenants can get free cavity wall and, in many cases, loft insulation if they are over the age of 70 or in receipt of a qualifying benefit.
“Qualifying benefits include disability living allowance and attendance allowance.
“Householders over 60 and families with children under 16 with low savings and income of less than £20,000 before tax may also be entitled to free measures through a council grant.
“Discounts often apply for households who do not qualify for free installation.
“It is an excellent scheme, and we hope people will ’phone to see if the team can help.”
Warm Streets manager Helen Richardson said: “Insulating your walls and roof can make a dramatic difference to both your fuel bills and the comfort of your home. An uninsulated house will lose approximately 35 per cent of its heat through its walls and 25 per cent of its heat straight through the roof.”
Other grants and discounts, such as Warm Front, Warm Front 300, and the Magic Boiler Scheme, are also available to help fund the installation of heating or repairs to existing systems.
Anybody who wants more information on any of the above schemes, or other energy-related matters, should contact the South West Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012.
Its team of advisers can help people access a range of local and national energy efficiency grants and discounts as well as offering free, impartial advice on how to reduce fuel bills through low-cost and no-cost measures.

Refuse collectors beat the snow in West Somerset

REFUSE and recycling services in West Somerset were running almost as normal this week, despite the heavy snowfalls.
Somerset Waste Partnership said it was fortunate that collections in the more rural areas, such as on the Quantock Hills and on Exmoor, were not scheduled until later in the week.
Dustbin lorries had instead been able to concentrate on the urban areas, where it was easier to cope with the weather conditions.
However, the household waste recycling centres in Minehead and Dulverton were both closed yesterday as staff had difficulty in travelling to work.
The partnership’s strategy and communications leader David Mansell said yesterday: “There has been a little bit of disruption, mostly in the rural areas.
“We are going to try and catch up as quickly as we can, which could include working over the weekend, but that obviously depends on how the weather turns out.”
Elesewhere in Somerset, there was widespread disruption as refuse and recycling lorries were taken off the roads, particularly in rural areas, because of the danger of accidents.
In West Somersetr, the waste partnership’s collection fleet was fully back on the road again this morning and was focussed on today’s scheduled rounds before looking to tackle the backlog later.
Extra vehicles, such as green waste lorries, had already started on the task of clearing the backlog.
The partnership was advising residents to leave out their refuse containers and it would try to clear them as soon as possible.
The Minehead and Dulverton household waste recycling centres had also reopened today.
However, the partnership warned some garden waste might not be collected this week as the vehicles had been deployed to help catch up on missed refuse collections.
Garden waste would be collected as normal in the next cycle.
Anybody who experiences serious problems because of the deferred garden waste collections should contact West Somerset Council by calling 01643 703704.

Help available for recession victims and council tax strugglers

PEOPLE in need of benefits or who are who are having problems meeting council tax payments are being urged to contact West Somerset Council for help.
The council’s finance portfolio holder, Councillor Doug Ross, said: “The economic crisis is having an effect on the local economy and some jobs have already been lost.
“Some businesses are also cutting employees’ hours to try to reduce operating costs.
“We appreciate that people may be struggling to meet payments, and that includes council tax bills.
“If this is the case, benefits may be available and we actively encourage local people to get in contact to see if we can help.
“We would rather work with people who are struggling to pay, so we can advise people on what benefits may be available.
“We can also help people who are living alone to claim the single person’s council tax discount, which reduces their bills by 25 per cent.”
Councils are obliged to take all necessary steps to recover unpaid council tax to support essential services, and this includes applying to the magistrates’ court for liability orders to enforce recovery.
“We would rather avoid court proceedings, and would always try first to work with people who are struggling to pay, as well as during any proceedings.
“We know more people than usual are experiencing changes in circumstances and we want to help if we can.
“We can also supply details of organisations that specialise in providing free, confidential advice for people in debt or facing financial difficulties.”
These organisations include:

• Adviceguide, an on-line CAB service providing practical, up-to-date information on a wide range of topics, including benefits housing, debt and tax issues - www.adviceguide.org.uk
  
• West Somerset Advice Bureau, Market House Lane, Minehead - 01643 704624
  Consumer Credit Counselling Service, which gives a wide range of free debt advice – freephone 0800 138 1111 or visit www.cccs.co.uk
  
• National Debtline, for free, confidential and independent advice on debt issues – 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
  
• Payplan, the UK's largest provider of free debt solutions, including free debt management plans and IVAs - freephone: 0800 917 7823 or visit www.payplan.com
  
• UK Insolvency Helpline, for free, confidential, independent debt information – 0808 074 6918 or visit www.insolvencyhelpline.co.uk

The district council can be contacted by calling 01643 703704 for people to find out if they are eligible for benefits or to seek guidance if they are having problems paying council tax bills.

Chance to have your say on future housing strategy

RESIDENTS of West Somerset are being invited to have their say on future housing needs across the district.
West Somerset Council will hold a public consultation in Minehead Methodist Church on Wednesday, February 4, between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm.
The council’s portfolio holder for housing, Councillor Kate Kravis said: “We are developing a new housing strategy and we want to make sure that it draws on the views of a wide range of people living in West Somerset.
“Residents have valuable knowledge on the reality of the local housing market and of their own housing needs.
“We are urging as many people as possible to speak to us, so we can ensure the views of people of all ages and backgrounds are taken into account during the development of the plan.”
The council hopes to explore what types of housing are needed, how it can extend the choice of housing available, and how it can help young people buy and rent homes.
It will also review how it can help local people keep their homes in good repair, help homeowners keep their homes through the recession, and look at the needs of the district’s older population.
Councillor Kravis said: “The council supports sustainable development across the district and we would like to encourage more eco-friendly initiatives so that future housing stock is not completely dependent on fossil fuels where this is possible and practical.
“We have already examined a lot of existing information and held discussions with a number of organisations involved with housing and related services.
“However, we value local residents’ knowledge and we would like to draw on their housing experience to make sure the housing strategy meets the needs of all people, and helps us to develop healthy sustainable communities.”

Students' views help to shape future of district economy

HUNDREDS of young people have been having their say on the future shape of West Somerset by taking part in a major consultation on the district’s economy.
About 240 sixth form students gave their views to the experts working on West Somerset Council’s long-term economic ‘masterplan’ at a series of workshops held yesterday.
The event at West Somerset Community College, Minehead, was organised by the council and consultancy EKOS, which is developing the plan for the authority.
It is the first time young people have been consulted on the plan in this way.
Last year, the council asked EKOS to develop a 15-year strategy to help regenerate the local economy, retaining and creating jobs in West Somerset and supporting enterprise, training, tourism, and business growth.
EKOS director Adrian Dawson said: “We have been speaking to businesses, community groups, and many other people with an interest in the long-term future of West Somerset.
“It was important to get the views of the young people too, as they will be in work or training in the future and will be directly affected by economic developments in West Somerset over the next 15 years.
“It is vital for them that we get this right, and that is why we have sought their views now.”
The consultation event saw young people take part in two workshops led by EKOS, Somerset Rural Youth Project, and local councillors.
Their views will be used by EKOS to develop an action plan which will form part of the council’s strategy.
The plan’s action will be funded by the Government’s Working Neighbourhoods Fund, the South West Regional Development Agency, European Union funds, and other sources.
The college’s head of sixth form, Jerry Hardingham, said: “This event was well attended and the students found it extremely worthwhile.
“They contributed a number of excellent and imaginative ideas with real enthusiasm.
“They were a real credit to the college.
“Young people are the future of West Somerset, and the best way to ensure that the council’s plans meet their needs is to seek their views now.
“I am pleased that young people have been given the chance to be included in this important consultation.”
Council leader Councillor Keith Ross said: “We aim to create an economy that serves all of our residents and provides high quality, sustainable employment and business opportunities.
“Young people are key to maintaining sustainable communities, so we need to know what economic opportunities we should be providing to help keep our communities healthy, as well as boost the district’s future business prospects.
“This event has played an important part in developing our strategy, and I would like to thank the students and teachers for their enthusiasm and ideas, and for giving us a valuable insight into their aspirations for West Somerset’s economic future.”
The council’s economic development strategy is due to be finalised in March.
Our photograph shows Councillor Keith Ross (right) with college sixth form head Jerry Hardingham. Photo submitted.

Council partnership ofers discounted solar panel water heating

A PARTNERSHIP has been formed between West Somerset Council, Climate Energy, and Eco-Exmoor to ensure that providing homes with hot water will not cost the earth.
The partnership is offering grants of up to £900 toward the costs of installing domestic solar hot water systems.
The scheme aims to benefit the environment by harnessing the sun’s rays for domestic hot water, and to bring down fuel bills for homeowners in West Somerset.
A council spokesman said, “As a council, one of our corporate priorities is to protect the environment for future generations.
“This grant funding is available to all local homeowners, regardless of income.
“Applicants are not means tested and we are encouraging people to apply now, so that they can reap the rewards this summer.
“We are currently living through times of erratic fuel supplies and solar panels reduce our dependency on foreign fuel providers.
“It also keeps money in the local economy.
“We would like to run this scheme again in future, so we need this year’s grants to be used to demonstrate a need for more funding.”
The partnership can provide £500 toward the installation costs and can potentially attract a further £400 from the Department of Trade and Industry’s low carbon building programme which, when combined, can reduce the overall price by 35 per cent.
One resident, Roger Thomas, of Alcombe, who has had solar panels fitted by Eco-Exmoor under the scheme, said: “I only had the system installed in December and it is already working and heating water in the boiler.
“Previously, I saw my gas bill going up and up and I thought it was just getting silly.
“I reckon that with the panels, I will be making real savings from the end of March until the end of October.”
Andy Barrett, from Eco Exmoor, said: “Our systems use the highest quality components and they are guaranteed for 10 years by an independent underwriter.
“All of our installers are accredited, vetted, and monitored, so our customers can have full peace of mind.
“Domestic solar hot water is an excellent way in which householders can help protect the environment while saving money.
“Households can slash their carbon emissions by three-quarters of a ton every year, as well as reduce our dependency on fossil fuels.
“It is an excellent alternative for householders who live in areas that are not on mains gas.”
More information on the scheme is available by calling free on 0800 0966356 or visiting http://www.eco-exmoor.com/.

• Our photograph shows Andy Barrett (left) and Roger Thomas outside a property fitted with solar panels. Photo submitted.

Council secretly asks energy firms for £750,000 to help it decide nuclear planning applications

A SECRET district council plea for funding from companies planning to build new nuclear power stations at Hinkley Point has been branded ‘unethical’ by anti-nuclear campaigners.
Sedgemoor District Council wrote to British Energy and EDF asking for £750,000 to help the authority process planning applications which the two companies were expected to submit.
The letter was written last July by the council’s director of regeneration, Doug Bamsey, but has only just been made public following a Freedom of Information request.
Mr Bamsey said the council was willing to provide a ‘lead role and work with adjacent councils’ to provide strategic and co-ordinated responses to local issues.
He wrote: “It is, however, unable to bear the financial burden of this.
“I therefore request you consider making funds available to help us create an energy policy/planning officer who would be the key co-ordinating point, with admin capacity and a working fund for meeting rooms and so on.
“I estimate this to be in the order of approx £100,000 per annum over the next five years.”
He also asked for a further £200,000 to £250,000 over a two-year period to cover a technical and consultancy budget for issues such as legal, economic, and transport assessments.
Stop Hinkley co-ordinator Jim Duffy criticised Sedgemoor’s request as ‘secretive, misjudged, creating a conflict of interest, while also flouting Royal Institute planning standards’.
Mr Duffy said: “It is easy to imagine nuclear companies expecting a smoother passage for Hinkley C had they paid this premium.
"”Sedgemoor made a bad mistake here, not least in doing this behind the backs of its own and West Somerset councillors.”
David Taylor, of Stop Hinkley, said: “The very idea that you would ask an applicant to fund a planning officer who will be dealing with your case presents just about the clearest example of conflict of interests.”
Hinkley Point falls within West Somerset, where the financially-crippled district council would be responsible for processing planning applications.
However, West Somerset has for several years only been able to manage its planning department by using the services of a Sedgemoor officer under a partnership agreement.
A spokesman for West Somerset Council said it had been unaware of Sedgemoor’s request for financial contributions from the two energy firms.
Mr Bamsey said: “These are multi-billion pound proposals with multi-million pound studies. Our resources are very limited. We do not see it as necessarily right that local tax payers should pay for this huge project.”
He said since writing the letter, the Government had agreed to meet the costs as it would ultimately decide any future planning applications for nuclear power stations rather than local councils.
A statement from EDF, which has recently bought British Energy, said: “EDF Energy and British Energy have not entered into any agreements in relation to these proposals.
“EDF Energy and British Energy believe the planning process to assess new build projects must be robust, fair and open and serve the interests of the local community.”

BUSINESS NEWS: Free outreach clinics to help local businesses survive the recession

A MAJOR programme to provide local support for small firms and help for those experiencing difficult trading conditions is now in full swing across West Somerset.
Attendance at Business Link’s special advice sessions called ‘outreach clinics’ - now being held at venues Somerset-wide - is already at a high level as business owners and managers obtain up-to-the-minute guidance on how to protect their commercial interests, take advantage of the extensive support services available, and prepare for the future.
Business Link has been working in partnership with West Somerset and the county’s other district councils, Somerset Skills and Learning, and local enterprise support organisations.
It is holding regular clinics in 14 different areas of Somerset, including Minehead, Dulverton, and Wiveliscombe.
Each clinic is free to attend and provides owners or managers of new or established small firms a 90-minute face-to-face meeting with an experienced business adviser who has had personal experience of running a successful business - all without having to leave their local area.
The adviser will review key areas, discuss the main issues being faced by a business, and identify appropriate activities and support to maintain and develop commercial performance.
And, according to Business Link’s Roger Bacon (pictured), the popularity of the first wave of outreach clinics is likely to see further expansion of the programme over the coming months.
Mr Bacon said: “Many small businesses need all the help they can get, while others recognise that specific areas of support can help to recession-proof their interests so they are well-placed to capitalise on a future economic upturn.
“But it is not always easy for managers to know where to turn when confronted with trading difficulties, or presented with new business opportunities, at a time when working capital has not been easy to come by.
“As the Government’s primary business support service, we are in a position to provide help, encouragement, and information on all areas of a business - from finance and marketing, to skills development, staffing, and business development.
“Moreover, our team of advisers are able to advise on the latest range of business support packages announced by the Government and other regional initiatives that have been introduced to help our local businesses.”
Appointments at any of Business Link’s local clinics can be booked by calling 0845 600 9966 or visiting www.businesslinksw.co.uk for more information.
Mr Bacon said: “If the next clinic in your local area is fully booked, do not be put off, as Business Link is already increasing the frequency of such clinics where there is a clear demand.”
The next Minehead outreach clinic, held in partnership with Somerset Skills and Learning, will take place at the Somerset Skills and Learning Building, in Middle Street, on February 11.
The next Dulverton outreach clinics, held in partnership with Dulverton Enterprise Centre, will take place at the Enterprise Centre, Station Road, Brushford, on February 3 and March 3.
For businesses in the Wiveliscombe area, an outreach clinic will be held bi-monthly in Wiveliscombe House in partnership with Taunton Deane Borough Council.

Council offers cash to put empty homes back into use

GRANTS of up to £10,000 are being offered by West Somerset Council so empty homes in the district can be restored to use.
The council may also be able to help owners of idle commercial buildings, flats, or empty storage areas above shops where there is potential for conversion to a dwelling.
Residents are being encouraged to report homes which have been empty for six months or more to allow the council to contact owners and look at putting the properties to good use.
The council’s housing portfolio holder, Councillor Kate Kravis, said: “Despite the effect of the current economic climate on the housing market, there is still a chronic shortage of affordable homes to rent and buy in West Somerset.
“We can help owners of properties who are struggling to bring homes up to the decent homes standard, or who have inherited the property but do not live in the area and are worried about managing the property.”
As well as funding grants of up to £10,000 for empty homes to be restored to use, the council can also help owners lease their homes to people looking for affordable housing to rent.
Advice and support is available on selling properties to local housing associations so that they can be let to local people.
Grants worth up to £5,000 may also be available to owner-occupiers who cannot currently live in homes because they do not meet the decent homes standards.
Councillor Kravis said: “Members of the public can play their part by advising us of properties that are vacant.
“We can then contact the owners and try to bring the homes back into use for local people.”
Grants are not available for second homes which are vacant for long periods during the year.
Anybody wishing to report empty homes in West Somerset should call 01643 703704, or email customerservices@westsomerset.gov.uk.

Academy aims to help district's farm businesess and would-be farmers

AN alliance with the Fresh Start Academy has been forged by West Somerset Council to bring a ground-breaking farming initiative to the district.
The project will encourage young people looking for careers in farming and will also help established farmers diversify and expand their businesses.
Anybody involved in farming, or who wants to start a career in agriculture, is invited to the launch of the Somerset Fresh Start Academy at Bridgwater College’s Cannington Centre at 7 pm on January 22.
Keynote speakers at the launch will be John Alvis, from Alvis Brothers cheesemakers, and Ian Trumain, a successful agribusiness entrepreneur.
Fresh Start is an initiative led by the farming industry and supported by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
It aims to help farmers understand more about the business side of running a farm, following a programme suggested by academy members.
Council economic development portfolio holder Councillor Michael Downes said: “Now, more than ever, local businesses involved in rural enterprises could do with business support and information.
“We are aware that farmers need dedicated support and training which is tailored to their individual needs, and we are proud to be involved with this excellent initiative.”
Somerset Fresh Start Academy co-ordinator Jonathan Lacey said: “Fresh Start Academies have been operating successfully at various colleges around the country for the last two years.
“They have helped new entrants and established farmers gain the knowledge and confidence required to commence new and grow existing businesses.
“The annual programmes are structured around the requirements of the members from suggestions made at the outset.
“In addition, the academies enable good contacts within the industry to be developed locally, hence providing opportunities for new entrants to obtain valuable advice from mentors where appropriate.
“We will be starting Somerset’s first Fresh Start Academy in January, and look forward to meeting as many people as possible at the launch on January 22.”
More information about Fresh Start Academies is available by visiting www.defra.gov.uk/farm/working/new-entrants/freshstart or by contacting either Jonathan Lacey on 01458 223224 and email yeovil@laurencegould.com, or Jeremy Kerswell, Bridgewater College head of land based studies, on 01278 655001 or email
kerswellj@bridgwater.ac.uk.

Crowcombe youths asked for views on playing with £34,000

YOUNGSTERS in Crowcombe are being asked how they would like to see a £34,000 cash bonanza spent on improving play space in the village.
West Somerset Council, in partnership with children’s charity Barnardo’s South West and Crowcombe Parish Council, has won £34,000 Playbuilder funding from the Department for Children, Schools and Families.
Children and young people of all ages are invited to a mini play day and consultation event on Saturday, January 17, at Crowcombe Village Hall.
There is a morning session from 10 am to 12 noon and an afternoon session from 1 pm to 3 pm for children to sample free activities, and have their say on how the play space should be developed.
District council community portfolio holder Councillor Neil Parbrook said: “This is an excellent chance for young people to try out a range of free activities including building dens, ball games, hoops, team fun, and a whole lot of messy but fun outdoor activities.
“We want them to enjoy their environment and their play space, and to let us know how we can spend the money in ways which will inspire them to even more adventurous play.
“A big difference can be made with £34,000 as to how children spend their time, and anything that encourages outdoor games and traditional play is welcome.
“It encourages children to socialise and overcome challenges and provides a healthier and happier start in life.
“We hope lots of people will come along and enjoy the activities on offer, as well as come up with some suggestions on how to make the most of this great opportunity to develop local play space.”
Barnardo’s South West children’s services manager Michael Hammond said: “This funding gives children and communities an opportunity to redesign their local play space to make it a space that children find exciting and challenging, and that communities feel ownership off.
“Children playing happily outdoors can be a sign of a very healthy community.”
All activities are free, but people are reminded to wear old clothes.
Children aged under eight years must be accompanied by an adult.
More information is available by calling Louise Kennedy on 01984 618344 or emailing info@woodlandplaycentre.com.

Partnership wants to help elderly stay well and warm in their homes

A SCHEME to help elderly West Somerset residents stay warm and well and financially independent is being given a New Year push by the district council.
The council is supporting the Warmer Improved Somerset Homes (WISH) initiative, which aids people aged 60 years or older.
WISH can provide insulation, heating upgrades, and adaptations to homes to make people’s lives easier, as well as advice on what benefits are available to them.
Much of the help is free, and even those not entitled to free help could still be eligible for grants or a substantial discount.
The council’s portfolio holder for housing, Councillor Kate Kravis said: “This scheme enables people to access free, confidential advice so they can find out exactly what they are entitled to, and what help they can expect to receive.
“The WISH team supports people though the application process, and trusted, reliable workmen carry out the work.
“The council inspects samples of the work undertaken to ensure they are completed to a good standard.
“Homeowners aged over 70 are also eligible for free cavity wall or loft insulation.
“Our advice is free and we are encouraging people to call, especially with the recent fluctuations in fuel prices.”
More information about how the WISH team might be able to help is available by calling free on 0800 512 012.

Fitness and gym sessions are linked to creche facilities for first time

PARENTS who want to become fit before the summer are being invited to a free open morning at the West Somerset Sports and Leisure Centre (pictured), in Minehead.
Taster sessions in the sports centre’s gym are being offered on Tuesday, January 13, from 9.30 am to11 am.
The centre provides an opportunity for parents to exercise while their children are safely looked after and can enjoy learning in a local crèche.
It is the result of work by West Somerset Council’s community team to link the leisure facilities with the neighbouring West Somerset College and the Alcombe and Dulverton Children’s Centres.
Council community portfolio holder Councillor Neil Parbrook said: “This is a great opportunity, especially after the indulgences of Christmas, for parents to try free mini gym taster sessions and to see what else the centre has to offer.
“While parents work out, their children will be cared for by students and qualified staff at nearby crèche facilities at the new skills and enterprise centre.
“This is the first time crèche facilities have been linked with fitness facilities in Minehead and, if the taster sessions prove popular, they could become regular events.
“We may even be able to extend the scheme so that parents can use other elements of the skills centre, such as visiting the hairdressers.
“The mini gym taster sessions are overseen by qualified instructors who will advise people on the best exercise for their level of fitness.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for couch potatoes to put their New Year resolutions into practice, or to just train up in time for a trimmer summer.”
The gym is open to all members of the community daily from 8.30 am to 11.30 am.
More information is available by calling Rob Odams on 01643 700030 or Jayne Lethaby on 01643 708815.