2 May
6 Apr
Republican Robert Blake Crowned ‘King of the Bridgwater Radicals’ at Shapwick.
Bridgwater, that radical town of revolution and rebellion. But who was the most radical son or daughter of that little Labour limboland? Who better to lead a discussion on the subject than Town Council Leader and Labour Historian Brian Smedley. And where better than..er..Shapwick Village Hall. But we did it. 10 contenders were rolled out and debated and the Shapwick History Group took a vote. All 30 of them. And crowned the winner that ardent republican Robert Blake. Maybe no surprise there (although the theme of the talk was meant to be about anti-Slave Trade campaigner John Chubb, who came second) But let’s see who else was in the running…
Continue reading “Republican Robert Blake Crowned ‘King of the Bridgwater Radicals’ at Shapwick.”
3 Apr
Bridgwater’s Top Ten Radicals Unveiled at Shapwick
Bridgwater Labour Councillor and local Historian Brian Smedley will be doing a talk at Shapwick Village Hall for the Shapwick History Group on Thursday 4th April at 7pm. The theme of the evening will be ‘Bridgwater Radicals’ including a special section devoted to John Chubb, artist, councillor, merchant and the man behind Bridgwater’s famous anti-slave trade petition in 1785. Everyone is welcome to attend, it’s open to non members and is totally free, plus, you can find if YOU are on the list of Bridgwater radicals or if you;ve been ‘overlooked again’. No prizes will be awarded.
2 Apr
Police Action on Town Centre ASB
Following an increase in homeless persons sleeping in the town centre and the persistence of Anti Social Behaviour by street drinkers, Town Council Leader raised the issues directly with the Police, the homeless department and the Town Wardens. Cllr Brian Smedley (Westover) called for a multi-agency approach to tackling the issue, asked for an immediate meeting with the new chief of police and asked for the matter to be brought up at the next Police Forum meeting where the Town Council agreed priorities with the Police. The response has been swift and detailed and includes arrests, increased patrols, a more visible presence and use of ASB legislation. There is also the assurance of co-operation with social services, housing and other community teams.
30 Mar