The local MP, Jacob Rees Mogg writes in his latest column:

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the official opening the new sensory garden in Midsomer Norton with the Mayor, Lynda Robertson.

The garden has been designed so that it will appeal to all five senses, offering inclusivity via a 'rich therapeutic experience' ensuring that people who have a wide range of needs are able to benefit. This a safe yet reviving space for people to enjoy and reflect whether they are simply sitting, working or socialising outdoors.

Whilst the Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club has been an exemplary leader in local environmental drives, such as planting trees all over Bath and North East Somerset and overseeing litter picks in Radstock and Midsomer Norton, the creation of a sensory garden is one of its biggest recent projects.

The garden, which has been established within Midsomer Norton Town Park, has been most generously funded by the Lions Club. The proposal of a new 'Town Park' was put forward by the Midsomer Norton Town Trust in 2017 and subsequently approved by Bath and North East Somerset Council. This scheme has been years in the making, requiring both vision and determination, especially from Paul Myers the former Mayor and there is still more to do in order to finish the whole park's development.

There is a collective hope that the sensory garden will 'leave a permanent environmental legacy within the park for the people of Midsomer Norton and Radstock and future generations'. Having such a retreat is so important for many local residents and I am delighted that I could be part of its celebration.

Please do not hesitate to contact me: www.jacobreesmogg.com / [email protected]