I join communities across our area in offering my heartfelt condolences following the death on 31st July of 16-year-old Charley Bates from Radstock.

Charley’s death has shocked our community. I am sure I speak for all of us when I say I cannot imagine the pain Charley’s family must be going through. His is a tragic loss of a young life.

The Police, Youth Connect South West and Bath & North East Somerset Council have worked closely together to provide support. Youth Connect South West set up a drop-in for any young person affected by Charley’s death and also organised an event to support parents, carers and the community. My thanks go to those who have provided help and support to the family and to the local community at this very difficult time.

The Police investigation continues. If you have any information, please call 101 and give the reference 5222182800.

The cost-of-living crisis continues to place great pressure on our local communities We are expecting even greater pressure on household finances when the energy price cap is announced later this month. Many more people will be impacted by rises in food and fuel costs. Help is available.

If you are worried about the cost of living our Community Wellbeing Hub can let you know what support is out there and you can call the hub on 0300 247 0050. You can also find a wealth of financial and welfare advice on our website www.bathnes.gov.uk, where we have set up a dedicated page to signpost to help on the cost-of-living crisis. If you are struggling with energy costs you may also be able to access help from Welfare Support through an Energy Rebate Discretionary Scheme.

We have recently also supported 4,000 households over the school summer holidays who have received a £90 Free School Meal supermarket vouchers. All households on income-related benefits and Universal Credit have also received a £326 cost of living payment in July.

Finally, I want to end with some positive news. The 173 bus service between Wells and Bath, and which serves Midsomer Norton, Radstock and Peasedown St John has been saved following a petition which attracted more than six hundred signatures. This is very good news, but buses remain under significant pressure due to increased costs and driver shortages. I’ll be keeping up the pressure so we support the bus services that are so vital to communities.