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November 2021 November 2021

The magnificent stage was still there NEWS FROM WESTMINSTER
forming the backdrop to the deep end
and the viewing gallery gave a As I write, the weather has turned distinctly
wonderful view of the pool and stage autumnal, with pouring rain, strong winds, lower
below. The building is of course Grade temperatures and some occasional glorious
ll listed so the main structure will have sunshine. I know that many people are concerned
to remain in perpetuity. about rising energy prices, and the recent closure of
Sean explained that a new pool will be several energy companies.
built and there were plans that The rise in prices is due to global changes in supply
Smethwick would merge with Langley and demand for gas as we emerge from the
and the Harry Mitchell Centre by 2019 pandemic. Householders will be protected by the
and therefore would not be used for swimming after that date. I found this really Energy Price Cap which prevents suppliers from
sad but I guess that you have to move with the times and at least the building raising their prices too high. If you want help or
was to remain intact albeit for a different use. Sean told me that he had been a advice on help with energy bills, there is a section on my website. This has links to
serious competitive breaststroke swimmer in his youth and before he sustained a organisations who can help you, advice if your supplier goes bust, and details of
serious leg injury, actually trained with Nick Gillingham in the late 70s. government support for paying your bills if you are on a low income. You can
During the period leading up to the Second World War and right up to 1968 the find it here www.michaeltomlinson.org.uk/energy-price-advice
building was a magnet for top entertainment during the winter months. Wrestling, I know many people were concerned about reported fuel shortages. Whilst it
boxing and even some illegal fist fights were held which attracted the odd villain was true that many petrol stations were running out of fuel soon after they had
including the infamous Kray twins who were there to bet on the outcome of some deliveries, this was mostly due to people filling up their cars before they needed
of these gatherings. to do so, following media speculation and inaccurate reporting. Statistics show
Apart from the Beatles , Joe Loss and his orchestra, Tommy Cooper, the Rolling that demand for fuel went up 80% in the last week of September. Delivery
Stones, the Kinks, the Small Faces and the Who appeared on stage during those volumes were fairly constant, and in some cases were 20% higher than normal –
swinging 60s. It was positively a walk back in time for me! but with so many people rushing to get fuel the pumps were exhausted more
quickly. In some areas, particularly in London, there was a shortage of HGV
The baths also hosted a number of international swimming galas. In 1959, being drivers, and this is being addressed through visa changes, and training of
one of the largest pools in the country, an international gala took place between additional UK drivers.
Great Britain and West Germany and was televised by the BBC.
Over the last few weeks Parliament has been on recess, so as well as attending
During the 1960s the baths continued to hold dances but Smethwick was getting our conference in Manchester, I have enjoyed spending more time in Dorset. I
a reputation for being one of the roughest dance halls. This culminated in a riot in have been able to meet a variety of people and local business, and was
1967 where fighting spilled out onto pleased to be able to speak to the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset
the street and a late bus nearly about anti-social behaviour and neighbourhood policing in Canford Heath. I
turned over. have also had several meetings with local councilors, including the deputy
leader of Dorset Council Cllr. Peter Wharf. I reiterated my opposition for building
It was at this point that it was decided on the greenbelt, and emphasised that any development should prioritise
to turn the building into a swimming brownfield sites and places with adequate infrastructure.
facility all year round. In 1968 a new
smaller learner pool (20 metres by 9 I had a fantastic visit to the Cadets in Lytchett Matravers, and had the chance
metres) was opened to run side by to hear about all their opportunities and activities for young people. The cadets
side with the main pool. This has are an impressive group of young people, committed to enhancing their
proved a popular addition to education whilst having fun. The detachment has not only survived over
accommodate swimming lessons and lockdown, but flourished and increased in number. I want to thank all volunteers
other activities. in our area, particularly those who offer opportunities like this for children and

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