Where are the worst potholes in Bridgwater?

The A39 Bath Road, at Silverfish The A39 Bath Road, at Silverfish

THE combination of freezing and thawing, and the occasional rain shower, are not just a reason to want to pull the duvet over your head and stay in bed all day.

They are also the perfect recipe for pot holes.

Somerset County Council has this week been given £5million from the Department of Transport to sort out potholes on the county’s roads.

More than 20,000 were fixed in 2012 and Cllr Harvey Siggs, the council’s highways boss, said: “Last year was the second wettest year since rainfall records began, meaning road surfaces have been more badly affected by wear and tear than would usually be expected.”

Mercury photographer Jeff Searle has been scouring Bridgwater in search of the area’s worst pot holes – some of which are pictured here.

If you’ve spotted some as bad as this, or worse, let us know.

You can e-mail newsdesk@bridgwatermercury.co.uk, or contact us via our Facebook page, or on twitter, @bwmercury.

Comments(60)

Blue Owl says...
9:19pm Thu 24 Jan 13

I've already been in contact with SCC Highways, re not just Potholes, which again like last year, will become more evident over the next few weeks. A friend has just had to replace an Alloy Wheel and Tyre on his New Jaguar, less than 3 months old. £1000.00, inc
Tracking had to be realigned.
The reason that I was in contact with Cllr Harvey Siggs before Christmas, was to find out why, the roads in Bridgwater, in the main get tar and Top dressing grit, but rarely do we get actual New Tarmacadam laid. That's why the road surfaces are deteriorating, I have asked what is the proportion of the Governments highway Budget for Somerset, administered through SCC Highways?
Answer 17. 4 % Of What ? How Much?£££. He states that the %is similar to Taunton Deanes, 17 .8%, how is anyone able to draw comparisons when the Costs are not equated. So, again I asked for a breakdown, still awaiting, SCC, have apparently only one road designated to be Resurfaced in Bridgwater for 2013/14. That being Chilton Street, Bridgwater, what's the bet it will be closed for resurfacing work, 1st March.
Why would I suggest then, Well that's when our New Pool opens, so a good time for SCC Highways. Am I cynical? , you Bet !
There are so many outstanding highway improvements, around Bridgwater that were part of 106 Planning Agreements associated with Schemes passed. The only one completed Silver Fish -Crandon Bridge
Traffic Light Instalations.
Still Awaiting
Canon Roundabout -By Cross Rifles.

Retail Park , Clink. Sainsbury's, Curry's Next improvements to Access and Egress.

Taunton Rd Bridge link into Colley Lane, money from Stockmoor Village 106 Agreements

J24 Agricultural Centre, improvements to Services Roundabout, reducing size
Making designated lanes larger, to enable better traffic flow. 106 Agreement funding via Derek Mead Agri Centre.

Then, we are all awaiting, EDF Highway Works, to be Carried out by Guess Who SCC Highways, that are going to miraculously improve our present Highway Traffic problems, and minimise the EDF HGV and Shuttle Bus movements in excess of 800 per day, 24/7...plus the Independant deliveries and Trades that will come through Bridgwater for the next 10 Years.
I cannot wait to see what Magic Wand
Measures they are going to Abra cad Abra to in their words " Mitigate" the problem.
There has already been an instance last week where 3 HGV were seen going through Cannington itself to get to Hinkley C, when EDF were confronted with this info, it was blamed on Guess what Driver Error. So much for the Traffic Management Scheme, in connection with HGV'sattending this Site, as we all know Prep work has started and Thousands of Tonnes of Soil have to be removed.

Regards Blue-Owl
Aka David L Preece

BaldCarl2 says...
10:01pm Thu 24 Jan 13

Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.

RustyKnight says...
11:03am Fri 25 Jan 13

What a ridiculous comment!

I can afford to ride a push bike but when I hit one of those "potholes" in the dark and buckle my wheel I can't afford to buy a new wheel!

If pedestrians can sue the council because they trip on a pavement and break a leg why shouldn't we do the same because we have to pay for repairs caused by their inability to repair the roads properly?

Legs heal naturally, vehicles do not!

MBR Extreme says...
3:51pm Fri 25 Jan 13

You can claim off the council if you buckle a bike wheel in a pot-hole I've done it.

ohdearithappenedagain says...
6:52pm Fri 25 Jan 13

BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Ditto: tl;dr.
A39 is one of the worst at the moment, (and has been for about 5 years) the stretch between The Albion at Ashcott and loxley woods is like driving across a cobbled street and from stawell/edington junction (don't get me started on the new junction changes) through to cossington is like a sick challenge, to a) not hit the potholes, and b) not hit oncoming traffic as you swerve to avoid them!
Where does my extortionate road tax go? it certainly doesn't go on the roads in my area!!

Blue Owl says...
10:48am Sun 27 Jan 13

BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Baldcarl2, your sarcasm, was not Warrented , so my mate as you referred, can afford to pay for his damaged wheel and tyre, would you have the same comment, if it was a fatal road accident caused by the Pothole damaging the said wheel, and resulting in death, or injury!!!!
Why not add input to the debate, ask SCC why they are not addressing the poor state of our roads in and around Bridgwater, how can it equate in your mind that because my friend, likes a nice car, does'nt Smoke, works hard, runs his own business, employs 6 Staff, and your sarcasm is directed to him, via my Post.
Try writing or emailing SCC Prtfolio Holder for Highways, and vent your concern where it should be aimed !
Regards Blue-Owl.
Ps, for your info I have 4 Jags, 2 Mercedes, 1 BMW Mini.
All Paid For, Why, I hear you enquire?
Because, I can and want to. My choice.

MBR Extreme says...
12:17pm Sun 27 Jan 13

Blue Owl wrote:
BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Baldcarl2, your sarcasm, was not Warrented , so my mate as you referred, can afford to pay for his damaged wheel and tyre, would you have the same comment, if it was a fatal road accident caused by the Pothole damaging the said wheel, and resulting in death, or injury!!!!
Why not add input to the debate, ask SCC why they are not addressing the poor state of our roads in and around Bridgwater, how can it equate in your mind that because my friend, likes a nice car, does'nt Smoke, works hard, runs his own business, employs 6 Staff, and your sarcasm is directed to him, via my Post.
Try writing or emailing SCC Prtfolio Holder for Highways, and vent your concern where it should be aimed !
Regards Blue-Owl.
Ps, for your info I have 4 Jags, 2 Mercedes, 1 BMW Mini.
All Paid For, Why, I hear you enquire?
Because, I can and want to. My choice.
Firstly that xjs doesn't look up to much, great cars though, and pot-holes cause more damage to cyclists. And yes I pay road tax as I have a car Sewell.

MBR Extreme says...
12:18pm Sun 27 Jan 13

Aswell

atdnmt says...
9:29am Mon 28 Jan 13

BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn... Thanks for that Blue Owl. If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
lol

notasnarrowmindedasmost says...
10:41pm Mon 28 Jan 13

Blue Owl wrote:
BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Baldcarl2, your sarcasm, was not Warrented , so my mate as you referred, can afford to pay for his damaged wheel and tyre, would you have the same comment, if it was a fatal road accident caused by the Pothole damaging the said wheel, and resulting in death, or injury!!!!
Why not add input to the debate, ask SCC why they are not addressing the poor state of our roads in and around Bridgwater, how can it equate in your mind that because my friend, likes a nice car, does'nt Smoke, works hard, runs his own business, employs 6 Staff, and your sarcasm is directed to him, via my Post.
Try writing or emailing SCC Prtfolio Holder for Highways, and vent your concern where it should be aimed !
Regards Blue-Owl.
Ps, for your info I have 4 Jags, 2 Mercedes, 1 BMW Mini.
All Paid For, Why, I hear you enquire?
Because, I can and want to. My choice.
Bejesus , its turned in to a **** contest .......Blue Owl thinks he is the big man .....bigger than Prescott , he only had 2 Jags .....by the way I have two beemers a 60 plate M3 Cabrio and a 12 plate 5 GT bet they are worth more than your 7 cars .....

Blue Owl says...
12:19am Tue 29 Jan 13

Carry on being a Dick head, I was only making the point..... My Cars are not together worth the value of my friends Jaguar. But you being a smart arse, don't take the merit in my point made.
Why, are you being so petiminded, do you not have a life!!!!!
Why your Mate Prescott was and is typical of Labour Politicians, take every thing they can, 2Jags, Prescott , at least mine are paid for by me, not the British Tax Payer or the Union of Seaman, along with his London Appartment, which his Son lives in rent free, it was only last month that he lost a High Court Law Suit, where He claimed that he was entitled to 32k per year for live, for London Appartment. He lives in Hull, what does he need an appartment in London paid for.You begrudge anyone's who has earned their wealth, and is entitled to spend it how they wish....,..,notsonar
rowminded as most, enlighten us with your personal info, so we can judge you, as you have myself. Do you even have a real opinion........lets hear from you!!
I'm intrigued
All you are is **** and Wind !!!!
Blue Owl

Anonymous Me says...
12:06pm Tue 29 Jan 13

ohdearithappenedagai
n
wrote:
BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Ditto: tl;dr.
A39 is one of the worst at the moment, (and has been for about 5 years) the stretch between The Albion at Ashcott and loxley woods is like driving across a cobbled street and from stawell/edington junction (don't get me started on the new junction changes) through to cossington is like a sick challenge, to a) not hit the potholes, and b) not hit oncoming traffic as you swerve to avoid them!
Where does my extortionate road tax go? it certainly doesn't go on the roads in my area!!
What a ridiculous outdated comment 'Where does my extortionate road tax go?'
Road Tax was abolished by Winston Churchill in the 1930's !!!!
Road tax doesn't exist. It's car tax, a tax on cars and other vehicles, not a tax on roads or a fee to use them. Motorists do not pay directly for the roads. Roads are paid for via general and local taxation. In 1926, Winston Churchill started the process to abolish road tax. It was finally culled in 1937.
Car tax is based on amount of CO2 emitted so, if a fee had to be paid, cyclists - who are sometimes branded as 'tax dodgers' - would pay the same as 'tax-dodgers' such as disabled drivers, police cars, the Royal family, and band A motorists, ie £0. Most cyclists are also car-owners, too, so pay VED.
The Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) that we now pay,is nothing more than another tax, you are just as likely to pay for road maintenance by paying income tax or VAT as you are by owning a car, ALL the monies accrued are put into one 'pot' before being allocated to various depts.

frags27 says...
12:57pm Tue 29 Jan 13

The whole A39 Bridgwater to Street is awful. I lost a wheel hub cover last night and think it was when I came through Ashcott there is a really bad pot hole. Couldn't avoid it as lorry coming the other way and so narrow could only slow down but not too slow as car behind me. I have never known a road so dug up and left in such a crazy condition that is without all the potholes.

Samej1 says...
3:02pm Tue 29 Jan 13

Anonymous Me wrote:
ohdearithappenedagai

n
wrote:
BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Ditto: tl;dr.
A39 is one of the worst at the moment, (and has been for about 5 years) the stretch between The Albion at Ashcott and loxley woods is like driving across a cobbled street and from stawell/edington junction (don't get me started on the new junction changes) through to cossington is like a sick challenge, to a) not hit the potholes, and b) not hit oncoming traffic as you swerve to avoid them!
Where does my extortionate road tax go? it certainly doesn't go on the roads in my area!!
What a ridiculous outdated comment 'Where does my extortionate road tax go?'
Road Tax was abolished by Winston Churchill in the 1930's !!!!
Road tax doesn't exist. It's car tax, a tax on cars and other vehicles, not a tax on roads or a fee to use them. Motorists do not pay directly for the roads. Roads are paid for via general and local taxation. In 1926, Winston Churchill started the process to abolish road tax. It was finally culled in 1937.
Car tax is based on amount of CO2 emitted so, if a fee had to be paid, cyclists - who are sometimes branded as 'tax dodgers' - would pay the same as 'tax-dodgers' such as disabled drivers, police cars, the Royal family, and band A motorists, ie £0. Most cyclists are also car-owners, too, so pay VED.
The Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) that we now pay,is nothing more than another tax, you are just as likely to pay for road maintenance by paying income tax or VAT as you are by owning a car, ALL the monies accrued are put into one 'pot' before being allocated to various depts.
While being correct....

https://www.gov.uk/t
ax-disc

...the term still exists to confuse at the highest level.

Samej1 says...
8:20pm Tue 29 Jan 13

Samej1 wrote:
Anonymous Me wrote:
ohdearithappenedagai


n
wrote:
BaldCarl2 wrote:
Yawn...
Thanks for that Blue Owl.

If your mate can afford to buy a jag then he can afford to keep it maintained.
Ditto: tl;dr.
A39 is one of the worst at the moment, (and has been for about 5 years) the stretch between The Albion at Ashcott and loxley woods is like driving across a cobbled street and from stawell/edington junction (don't get me started on the new junction changes) through to cossington is like a sick challenge, to a) not hit the potholes, and b) not hit oncoming traffic as you swerve to avoid them!
Where does my extortionate road tax go? it certainly doesn't go on the roads in my area!!
What a ridiculous outdated comment 'Where does my extortionate road tax go?'
Road Tax was abolished by Winston Churchill in the 1930's !!!!
Road tax doesn't exist. It's car tax, a tax on cars and other vehicles, not a tax on roads or a fee to use them. Motorists do not pay directly for the roads. Roads are paid for via general and local taxation. In 1926, Winston Churchill started the process to abolish road tax. It was finally culled in 1937.
Car tax is based on amount of CO2 emitted so, if a fee had to be paid, cyclists - who are sometimes branded as 'tax dodgers' - would pay the same as 'tax-dodgers' such as disabled drivers, police cars, the Royal family, and band A motorists, ie £0. Most cyclists are also car-owners, too, so pay VED.
The Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) that we now pay,is nothing more than another tax, you are just as likely to pay for road maintenance by paying income tax or VAT as you are by owning a car, ALL the monies accrued are put into one 'pot' before being allocated to various depts.
While being correct....

https://www.gov.uk/t

ax-disc

...the term still exists to confuse at the highest level.
(to clarify, 1st hit on road tax is this site)

ianeggbert says...
7:34am Wed 30 Jan 13

which one were you driving when you were involved in that road rage incident a few years back Blue Owl?

MBR Extreme says...
10:27am Wed 30 Jan 13

ianeggbert wrote:
which one were you driving when you were involved in that road rage incident a few years back Blue Owl?
Ouch!!!! Pmsl.

Blue Owl says...
6:57pm Wed 30 Jan 13

MBR Extreme wrote:
ianeggbert wrote:
which one were you driving when you were involved in that road rage incident a few years back Blue Owl?
Ouch!!!! Pmsl.
PLEASE READ THIS IN FULL AS YOU ASKED THE QUESTION, YOU MIGHT UNDERSTAND A LITTLE BETTER.!!
I presume you are referring to the Alleged Road Rage case brought against me, by demented nut of a Woman who, lied to the Police, to cover up her Driving Error, of which I had to Swerve my then Range Rover to avoid a collision, with her vehicle. !,
I make no apology, for my description of this person, who lives along Dunwear Lane, under the Motorway bridge that crosses the Canal and River Parrett., in the sprawling house after the bends on the Left.
Her, false statement to the Police and lies, caused me to be arrested for alleged Road Rage. Subject to our local Mercury, parading my Picture, at various times over an 18 month period, whilst, I was awaiting, County Court Summons to Appear, the schedule led 3 day Jury trial, was subsequently held.
The Jury was sworn in, just after 10 am, so Ms Lees, gave her account, under oath of the events that she described happened, for 1&2 hrs, than a witness, for the prosecution, gave Her Independant Account, both these accounts, were cross examined. Then we stopped for lunch.
After, meeting with my Barrister, yes @ £1000.00 per Hr, we went back into Court for the Afternoon Session. My Barrister, made an application to the Judge, to dismiss the Charges against me. The Judge agreed, Dismissing the Jury thanking them for their time, giving the reason for throwing out the Charges, that both Ms Lees, and the other Prosecutions, statements, were in his word's Contradicting & Conflicting, in other words unbelievable. I was not able to give, my account, nor my Barrister. The Case was dismissed.
Ms Lee's, being a vindictive, Liar, also concocted another pack of lies to the Police, on the weekend that I first went in to the Police Station on the Friday some 6-8 weeks after the original alleged Offence, after being held in custody for 5-6 hrs, before giving a Police Statement, under Caution and Oath, my Solicitor and I were allowed to leave@ 8-30 The Police Station.

This, Woman, Ms Lee's then further alleged that I on the following Monday, after having been Cautioned, decided that was'nt good enough, to damage my reputation and Family life, She further Alleged that I then went to her home, went to her front door, then looked through the window to the kitchen, where she had to Hide from me, for fear of her life that I Cllr David Preece, was going to Assault her.
Complete and utter fabrication, at the time, I did'nt even know, who or where she was from or even her name.
Also, she was told, I' m convinced by someone, who took her witness Police statement, who could that poss be.!!
A Police Officer!!
This Police Statement, was made by her I believe, on that Monday, following my Caution and Charges. However, it was only some 6 weeks later, when I was doing my Civic Duties, following up on a Ward Matter, on Bower to the Police Station, @ 2pm on a Sunday afternoon, that A Officer decided that he wanted me to go back into the station, without telling me what it was for, I refused, saying that I would happily go in if they told me the reason why, they would'nt, so I agreed that they contact me during a weekday, and I would be more than happy to attend, with a Solicitor Present, you don't have to be guilty, to insist on having Legal Representation. Am I glad I did, for when we went in during the following week, this Nutcase, had alleged this, incident that was supposed to have been done by me at her home @ Dunwear..It's, really strange, after being interview again under Police Caution, some 4 hours later I was allowed to leave, with no further charges against me, She had alleged intimidation of Her A Witness.
A very serious matter, had it been true,but it was again a pack of lies...
So, myself ,my Wife and Family, had all this to endure for some 18 Months.
Then, just when I thought it was all behind me, and I could continue, my life, personally and as aWard Councillor, being able to carry out my Elected Duties, I had'nt been able to do this properly, as when under a Police Caution, the Police were instructed that they could not take any contact with me, even with Ward Matters.
You asked, So now you know!!
And to cap it all of, the Leader then of SDC, Labour Group,Cllr Rodger Lavers ( now Deacesed) decided he would then report me to the Standards Board, which is the Governing Body, that looks into Cllrs Conduct in Public Life, so for a further 12 months, I was Scrutined, over my so Called Mis-Conduct, The result, came back, no case to Answer, completely Exhonerated, no case to answer!!

Bridgy old Boy says...
7:19pm Wed 30 Jan 13

Hang on there Blue Owl whilst I am not a lawyer I seem to call you were 'bound over to keep the peace" my understanding of this situation is that you accept that you did wrong and effectively agree to be a good boy for 12 months. Are you now saying that when you agreed to be bound over you did so as a innocent man? If so why did you agree to do so?

Blue Owl says...
7:22pm Wed 30 Jan 13

ianeggbert wrote:
which one were you driving when you were involved in that road rage incident a few years back Blue Owl?
Please read the above Post , as you asked!!
I'm sure you already knew it was me!
Or you would'nt have enquired !!!
David L Preece.
Aka Blue - Owl

ianeggbert says...
8:45pm Wed 30 Jan 13

heavens, I only asked what car you were driving! I bet you're great company in a stuck lift

windswept and interesting says...
9:17pm Wed 30 Jan 13

ianeggbert wrote:
heavens, I only asked what car you were driving! I bet you're great company in a stuck lift
RANGE ROVER

MBR Extreme says...
9:46pm Wed 30 Jan 13

Fair shout to you blue-owl I admire your honesty.

outcider says...
10:16pm Wed 30 Jan 13

Nevertheless, posting someone's name and address online just isn't the done thing, regardless of the rights and wrongs.

notasnarrowmindedasmost says...
10:35pm Wed 30 Jan 13

Blue Owl says...
12:19am Tue 29 Jan 13

Carry on being a Dick head, I was only making the point..... My Cars are not together worth the value of my friends Jaguar. But you being a smart arse, don't take the merit in my point made.
Why, are you being so petiminded, do you not have a life!!!!!
Why your Mate Prescott was and is typical of Labour Politicians, take every thing they can, 2Jags, Prescott , at least mine are paid for by me, not the British Tax Payer or the Union of Seaman, along with his London Appartment, which his Son lives in rent free, it was only last month that he lost a High Court Law Suit, where He claimed that he was entitled to 32k per year for live, for London Appartment. He lives in Hull, what does he need an appartment in London paid for.You begrudge anyone's who has earned their wealth, and is entitled to spend it how they wish....,..,notsonar

rowminded as most, enlighten us with your personal info, so we can judge you, as you have myself. Do you even have a real opinion........lets hear from you!!
I'm intrigued
All you are is **** and Wind !!!!
Blue Owl”
Wow.......someones feathers are ruffled Blue Tit .....oops owl ...seems you are more like prezza with every post ...calling people dick heads being bound over . And as for begrudging people who earned their wealth ?????? didnt you even bother to read all my post .....as stated I have two beemers paid for by my earnings ....you really are a narrow minded idiot who just enjoys posting all about you .....you hijack every thread and turn it in to a advert for yourself .....you really must be a legend in your own mind !!!!!...shame most of the other posters see you as a sorry bitter LITTLE MAN .....grow up and grow some .

notasnarrowmindedasmost says...
11:02pm Wed 30 Jan 13

A COUNCILLOR is sticking by his controversial comments about Bridgwater's proposed new mental health hospital.

The Mercury reported last week how, at a Sedgemoor District Council development control meeting, Cllr David Preece said a proposed £17million medium-to-low secure facility in Dunball could create a “stigma” for Bridgwater.

He said: “We were known as 'smellophane'; now we are going to have the stigma of a mental hospital unit.”

That prompted several comments on this site.




One visitor wrote: “How can he get away with a comment like that and remain a councillor? The people who would be housed there probably can't help it that they have their illnesses.

“I am sure any person with a member of their family with a mental illness would be shocked and outraged by it and I think he should make a public apology.”

Leading national mental health charity Rethink said people with mental illness were misunderstood and discriminated against.

A charity spokesman said: “One in four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their life, and everyone affected has the right to good quality care and treatment, wherever they live.”

More from the great Blue Tit ....oops owl ....he really is a caring individual ....Guess my comparison to prezza looks more and more correct...

Fartypants says...
11:44pm Wed 30 Jan 13

David, thank you for explaining what must have been a difficult time for you. It would help me greatly if you could also enlarge on: http://www.bridgwate
rmercury.co.uk/archi
ve/2005/11/15/The+We
st+Country+Archive/7
214470.Councillor_wh
o__terrified__woman_
gets_bound_over/ . Sounds like there's been a terrible misunderstanding somewhere. Hope you can correct it?

Blue Owl says...
12:51am Thu 31 Jan 13

Fartypants wrote:
David, thank you for explaining what must have been a difficult time for you. It would help me greatly if you could also enlarge on: http://www.bridgwate

rmercury.co.uk/archi

ve/2005/11/15/The+We

st+Country+Archive/7

214470.Councillor_wh

o__terrified__woman_

gets_bound_over/ . Sounds like there's been a terrible misunderstanding somewhere. Hope you can correct it?
Quite Happy to do so, the Bridgwater, Mercury, reported the Judges Comment's, who had read the PRE-Trial, Papers, form an opinion.
Then, heard the first 3 Hours of Prosecution Witness evidence, as I explained, 2 people, One this Ms Lee's the woman who caused the near collision in North St, then he called and heard a witness, to the alleged offence, then we stopped for Lunch.After lunch, we went back into the Court, where my Barrister, to look again at the evidence that had been presented to the court that morning.
This he did, then he order the Trial to be stopped, after only 3 hours of a 3 day Trial. Thanked and Dismissed the Jury as I said.
He then, after all this, after dismissing the Charges, of Road Rage, Never was Charge with the further charge that She lied about, re Witness Intimidation, or interference, she wanted me to be rear rested, whilst on Bail awaiting trial for 18 months as I said. Had it been true , I would have been arrested, and put b4 the Magistrate! The next day. It was not true.......So I was'nt. Bear in mind, the Mercury, is and never was a friend to any Conservative Councillor, we are and were useful, occasionally, when it suited them, but their friends are the Labour Cllrs and BTC Councillors, read the articles if you think I am wrong, the Truth will always out.......

Bridgy old Boy says...
9:09am Thu 31 Jan 13

Interesting account Blue Owl although I must say being "rear rested" does sound particularly uncomfortable. However you still fail to explain why you were "bound over" to keep the peace for 12 months. Does this not amount to some form of admission of guilt?

Blue Owl says...
9:39am Thu 31 Jan 13

Fartypants wrote:
David, thank you for explaining what must have been a difficult time for you. It would help me greatly if you could also enlarge on: http://www.bridgwate

rmercury.co.uk/archi

ve/2005/11/15/The+We

st+Country+Archive/7

214470.Councillor_wh

o__terrified__woman_

gets_bound_over/ . Sounds like there's been a terrible misunderstanding somewhere. Hope you can correct it?
Sorry, not to have completely answered your question posed to me re Article in the Press, it was late last night when I returned from midweek skittles, in case you also want to no, we came Second, as is normal! You would think after 30+ years we'd get the hang of the Game, still I digress!!
The reason, that @ the time of the Trial in Taunton Crown Court, I accepted the Binding Over, not a Caution, there is a difference, I know know, in hindsight, is that when His Lordship Judge Hume, dismissed the Charge of Alleged road Rage against me, after the Lunch break, as I referred in my previous post on this matter, and dismissed the Jury after only 3 -4 Hours of a supposed 3 Day Case. He the Judge said, " I'm minded to Bind you over!". Not understanding what this meant, My Barrister asked for a recess to consult with me, and my Wife and Son, who were there to support me, during this very distressing period, so on meeting with the Barrister, whom was appointed by the Solicitor, instructed by the Solicitor, not myself, of whom I had only met previous to the Trial for 45 Mins. His words were and I quote, ' It's all over now, the Charges have been dismissed', I enquired as to what a Binding Over meant, he said, ' just a slap on the wrist, so long as you do nothing wrong, during the Binding over period, that would bring you back b4 this Court, it is all over'. So, with relieve, I agreed to Accept this.
We went back into Court, Judge Hume Said !Again I will quote as it is as fresh in my mind today as it was then his word's ' Mr Preece, Stand up, I do not know How a man in your position, ( meaning A Councillor ) could have done what you did!!! And I am binding you over for 2 years!!! I sank back in the seat with disbelief , how on the one Hand can the Trial have been Halted, stopped Case dismissed, as the prosecution evidence was as he said ' Conflicting & Contraditory' 20 Mins previous, and now he is PRE- judging with out allowing me or my legal Counsel to have the right to give Evidence.
He,the Judge, bound me over for 2 yrs not in General, but only Specifically to Ms Lees.......So despite her lies, he PRE- Judged the Case, taking her Lies into account, with out allowing any Defence on my part... And I now some 7 years on still feel shafted and let down by the Legal System and my Barrister. Ms Lees on the Day in Court turned up in A rain Coat, walking stick,one ,if you did'nt know her would have mistaken her for a Pensioner in her Mid to late 60' s, if fact at the time of the incident, 18 months before the Court date, she would have 52 ish- two years younger than myself.
With her accomplished ability to embellish a story, (Jackanory) and the ability to add 15 years to her appearance, I'm sure the Amateur Dram Society could employ her services on a stage production.
Do I feel let down by the System , To True, but, what do you do, throw good money, further and endure another 12 months Plus.
I'm afraid to say the Legal Proffesional, are the same as the Medical Proffession, they close ranks, to protect their own.
Now, I've been open and Candid in replying to questions of me, on this Post Site.
Let's get back to the " Pothole Debate"
And make sure pressure is put onto SCC, to make our roads fit for Purpose, I am still awaiting a reply as to When , Where & What Highway EDF improvements are going to be.
Regards David Preece Aka Blue-Owl.

Baldbloke says...
11:50am Thu 31 Jan 13

Tell you what folks - I'm going to ask the Guinness Book of Records if this thread would make a world record for containing the highest number of misplaced capital letters!

windswept and interesting says...
12:01pm Thu 31 Jan 13

iF iT iSN'T iT iS NOW !

v1234 says...
12:17pm Thu 31 Jan 13

I think Blue Owl has answered you all with complete honesty..maybe leave the chap alone now? I do think throwing in the supposed "road rage" was below the belt !

Samej1 says...
2:54pm Thu 31 Jan 13

Comments thread of the year so far :)

Bridgy old Boy says...
3:41pm Thu 31 Jan 13

It seems to me that Blue owl is a victim of his own self pity. As regards his honesty from his own summary of the court proceedings, and I do have some sympathy for anyone who was clearly overwhelmed by the whole judicial process, it does sound like the Judge had rather less confidence in his honesty than v1234.

windswept and interesting says...
4:32pm Thu 31 Jan 13

v1234 wrote:
I think Blue Owl has answered you all with complete honesty..maybe leave the chap alone now? I do think throwing in the supposed "road rage" was below the belt !
I have no personal gripe with Blue Owl, I don't like the way he presents himself at times but each to their own. If I don't agree with what he is saying then i'll tell him, and likewise he will do the same.

i do feel however that his openness and the amount of personal information he puts on this forum has come back to bite him on the bum so to speak.

v1234 says...
6:12pm Thu 31 Jan 13

windswept and interesting wrote:
v1234 wrote:
I think Blue Owl has answered you all with complete honesty..maybe leave the chap alone now? I do think throwing in the supposed "road rage" was below the belt !
I have no personal gripe with Blue Owl, I don't like the way he presents himself at times but each to their own. If I don't agree with what he is saying then i'll tell him, and likewise he will do the same.

i do feel however that his openness and the amount of personal information he puts on this forum has come back to bite him on the bum so to speak.
hmm but how was that telling him ?

ianeggbert says...
6:23pm Thu 31 Jan 13

narcissistic, sanctimonious & condescending - three words you very rarely see in a discussion about potholes

ohdearithappenedagain says...
6:47pm Thu 31 Jan 13

Baldbloke wrote:
Tell you what folks - I'm going to ask the Guinness Book of Records if this thread would make a world record for containing the highest number of misplaced capital letters!
Misplaced by who? A COUNCILLOR!
As long as this thread has gone OT I may as well point that out.
No WonDer Tis langwitch 'as gOne to da dogs.

Blue Owl says...
10:09pm Thu 31 Jan 13

Baldbloke wrote:
Tell you what folks - I'm going to ask the Guinness Book of Records if this thread would make a world record for containing the highest number of misplaced capital letters!
Bald bloke, have you not anything better to say? Do you not know that when posting, I want certain WORDS to Stand out so They Are Highlighted.within a sentence . I'm so pleased you are able to count. Instead of the Critism, what have you offered to the Pothole Debate, nothing, Nader, nix.
Well Done, Excellent,
Blue-Owl

Blue Owl says...
10:25pm Thu 31 Jan 13

Bridgy old Boy wrote:
It seems to me that Blue owl is a victim of his own self pity. As regards his honesty from his own summary of the court proceedings, and I do have some sympathy for anyone who was clearly overwhelmed by the whole judicial process, it does sound like the Judge had rather less confidence in his honesty than v1234.
Of course you would have hung drawn and quartered me, as it would'nt matter to you whether, I was guilty or innocent, just the fact it was me, a Tory Councillor.
Bridge old boy, I wonder how you would cope with the circumstances, that I had to endure for 18 Month's, I did'nt ask for anyone's sympathy , I merely answered, what had been Posted, of me.!! how would you have felt to find yourself, not only in the Local Mercury, but the Western Daily Press, Daily Mail, Express, and The Times, all on false Lies, accusations of this Ms Lee's, Dunwear Lane.
Your Comments, re the Judge, are disingenuous, to me, The Judge did'nt give me the Opportunity to defend myself.
Remember, you in British Law, are innocent, until found Guilty, by the evidence presented by the prosecution ,when this is flawed, in conflict, with other evidence, and contradicts other evidence. The Judge dismissed the Jury, and threw out the Charge against me. According to you, I should have been found guilty, but on what evidence !!!
Blue-Owl

Blue Owl says...
10:38pm Thu 31 Jan 13

windswept and interesting wrote:
v1234 wrote:
I think Blue Owl has answered you all with complete honesty..maybe leave the chap alone now? I do think throwing in the supposed "road rage" was below the belt !
I have no personal gripe with Blue Owl, I don't like the way he presents himself at times but each to their own. If I don't agree with what he is saying then i'll tell him, and likewise he will do the same.

i do feel however that his openness and the amount of personal information he puts on this forum has come back to bite him on the bum so to speak.
I explained the reason, that I give detail, is because it gives substance to what Post, I am making.
How should we take on board Posts from anonymous posters,what weight can be put on these comments.
Regards Blue-Owl

Cllr Brian Smedley says...
8:51am Fri 1 Feb 13

Now then. About these pot holes......

windswept and interesting says...
10:03am Fri 1 Feb 13

Cllr Brian Smedley wrote:
Now then. About these pot holes......
Oh Dear, someones just poured petrol on the smouldering fire...

Blue Owl says...
10:53am Fri 1 Feb 13

windswept and interesting wrote:
Cllr Brian Smedley wrote:
Now then. About these pot holes......
Oh Dear, someones just poured petrol on the smouldering fire...
Typical, Cllr Labour Smedley, following on from Cllr Lavers (Deceased) who had the original pop @ me, after the Trial. They are nearly all the same, Brian Gillard (Lab) was the only Gentleman amongst them!!!
Brian, as you've entered the debate, I will, elaborate, as to how I realised, whilst awaiting to go to trial for 18 months, who this Ms Lee's was, as when I was further arrested for the alleged by her, so called Witness Intimidation Charges, some 6 weeks later, the Police obviously took this most serious Charge, as utmost importance, which is why they did'nt arrest me immediately, funny that !!
I found out later ,that if As I was already on Bail awaiting Crown Court Trial Date, if I (had) committed the said further offence, I would have been arrested immediately, took into Police Custody, kept in overnight or the entire Weekend, and put in front of the Magistrate in the Mornings Court Session, the Charge of Witness Intinidation, is a more serious Offence than the Original Alleged Road Rage.
I did, not know Ms Lee's @ the time of the original Alleged Incident, but having been Cautioned, on the Intimidation Charge, it became clear to me who and where she lived.
This, is where it all, comes to light!!!
When I first stood as a Candidate for the Bower Ward, and was Canvassing, as we all do the Ward, and Leafletting with our ind@ Political standpoint, I remember, this Lady, in her Garden on Dunwear Lane, I introduced myself, handed her my Conservative flyer, she took it, and immediately, said" and when are you going to do something about the Motorist Speeding up this Dunwear Lane. Somewhat taken aback, I agreed that there was a problem, as I had encountered similar problems from where I live on the Somerville Way Junction, with motorist, trying to overtake you as I was turning right in to SomervilleWay.
I did'nt put the 2+2 2gether until the second arrest, that she was a lying, schemeing person...
I am now closing this Subject, it brought great distress to my wife and children, and if I had'nt had the support of local Police Officers and Good Friends & the fact that my now 5 yr old Grandson was due.
Things could have ended differently.

Brian As you like to be known Cllr Smedley, yes what are you as a Councillor doing or not Doing, as an Elected Councillor about these Potholes ?...?? Pray enlighten us, probably the same as your Friends in the Bridgwater Backward Forward Movement ! NOTHING .
So Cllr we are waiting with baited Breathe.............
.........still awaiting.

Cllr Brian Smedley says...
1:59pm Fri 1 Feb 13

David, I think my point was that we should be talking about potholes not your court case. But feel free to continue, I haven't mentioned it at all. oh no..i just have....

ianeggbert says...
3:15pm Fri 1 Feb 13

narcissistic, sanctimonious & condescending

Blue Owl says...
7:32pm Fri 1 Feb 13

Cllr Brian Smedley wrote:
David, I think my point was that we should be talking about potholes not your court case. But feel free to continue, I haven't mentioned it at all. oh no..i just have....
Brian, It was me who said in my Post, now lets get back to the Pothole Debate, that's when you decided to enter the Post Forum.
Although Cllr Smedley, you have managed to have another Pop @ me.
But neglected to answer what was asked of YOU.!!! As what r you doing with regard these Potholes, as an elected Paid SDC....
As, I wrote Nothing!!
Still waiting Brian............Yaw
n!

Blue Owl says...
7:32pm Fri 1 Feb 13

Cllr Brian Smedley wrote:
David, I think my point was that we should be talking about potholes not your court case. But feel free to continue, I haven't mentioned it at all. oh no..i just have....
Brian, It was me who said in my Post, now lets get back to the Pothole Debate, that's when you decided to enter the Post Forum.
Although Cllr Smedley, you have managed to have another Pop @ me.
But neglected to answer what was asked of YOU.!!! As what r you doing with regard these Potholes, as an elected Paid SDC....
As, I wrote Nothing!!
Still waiting Brian............Yaw
n!

Blue Owl says...
7:40pm Fri 1 Feb 13

Blue Owl wrote:
Fartypants wrote:
David, thank you for explaining what must have been a difficult time for you. It would help me greatly if you could also enlarge on: http://www.bridgwate


rmercury.co.uk/archi


ve/2005/11/15/The+We


st+Country+Archive/7


214470.Councillor_wh


o__terrified__woman_


gets_bound_over/ . Sounds like there's been a terrible misunderstanding somewhere. Hope you can correct it?
Sorry, not to have completely answered your question posed to me re Article in the Press, it was late last night when I returned from midweek skittles, in case you also want to no, we came Second, as is normal! You would think after 30+ years we'd get the hang of the Game, still I digress!!
The reason, that @ the time of the Trial in Taunton Crown Court, I accepted the Binding Over, not a Caution, there is a difference, I know know, in hindsight, is that when His Lordship Judge Hume, dismissed the Charge of Alleged road Rage against me, after the Lunch break, as I referred in my previous post on this matter, and dismissed the Jury after only 3 -4 Hours of a supposed 3 Day Case. He the Judge said, " I'm minded to Bind you over!". Not understanding what this meant, My Barrister asked for a recess to consult with me, and my Wife and Son, who were there to support me, during this very distressing period, so on meeting with the Barrister, whom was appointed by the Solicitor, instructed by the Solicitor, not myself, of whom I had only met previous to the Trial for 45 Mins. His words were and I quote, ' It's all over now, the Charges have been dismissed', I enquired as to what a Binding Over meant, he said, ' just a slap on the wrist, so long as you do nothing wrong, during the Binding over period, that would bring you back b4 this Court, it is all over'. So, with relieve, I agreed to Accept this.
We went back into Court, Judge Hume Said !Again I will quote as it is as fresh in my mind today as it was then his word's ' Mr Preece, Stand up, I do not know How a man in your position, ( meaning A Councillor ) could have done what you did!!! And I am binding you over for 2 years!!! I sank back in the seat with disbelief , how on the one Hand can the Trial have been Halted, stopped Case dismissed, as the prosecution evidence was as he said ' Conflicting & Contraditory' 20 Mins previous, and now he is PRE- judging with out allowing me or my legal Counsel to have the right to give Evidence.
He,the Judge, bound me over for 2 yrs not in General, but only Specifically to Ms Lees.......So despite her lies, he PRE- Judged the Case, taking her Lies into account, with out allowing any Defence on my part... And I now some 7 years on still feel shafted and let down by the Legal System and my Barrister. Ms Lees on the Day in Court turned up in A rain Coat, walking stick,one ,if you did'nt know her would have mistaken her for a Pensioner in her Mid to late 60' s, if fact at the time of the incident, 18 months before the Court date, she would have 52 ish- two years younger than myself.
With her accomplished ability to embellish a story, (Jackanory) and the ability to add 15 years to her appearance, I'm sure the Amateur Dram Society could employ her services on a stage production.
Do I feel let down by the System , To True, but, what do you do, throw good money, further and endure another 12 months Plus.
I'm afraid to say the Legal Proffesional, are the same as the Medical Proffession, they close ranks, to protect their own.
Now, I've been open and Candid in replying to questions of me, on this Post Site.
Let's get back to the " Pothole Debate"
And make sure pressure is put onto SCC, to make our roads fit for Purpose, I am still awaiting a reply as to When , Where & What Highway EDF improvements are going to be.
Regards David Preece Aka Blue-Owl.
Cllr Smedley, look at this post, I specifically say that I believe I have answered fully the questions asked of me.
So now lets get back to the Pothole Debate....!! I even " Pothole Debate"
So one could see it.
Cllr Smedley, lets have your actual imput into potholes, in your elected capacity as a Councillor, you are ar'nt you !!
As all we hear of you recently is your
Bridgwater (Backward ) Forward activities,.........
.............and your Canvassing of Provident Place & Halesleigh Rd .!
Regards Blue-Owl

windswept and interesting says...
8:11pm Fri 1 Feb 13

AAAARRGGGGGHHHHHH !!!

ianeggbert says...
9:17pm Fri 1 Feb 13

1) nar·cis·sism
noun

inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. Synonyms: self-centeredness, smugness, egocentrism.


2) sanc·ti·mo·ni·ou
s (sngkt-mn-s)
adj.
Feigning piety or righteousness


3) con·de·scend·ing (knd-sndng)
adj.
Displaying a patronizingly superior attitude




any ideas...............
.......?

Blue Owl says...
11:11pm Fri 1 Feb 13

ianeggbert wrote:
1) nar·cis·sism
noun

inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. Synonyms: self-centeredness, smugness, egocentrism.


2) sanc·ti·mo·ni·ou

s (sngkt-mn-s)
adj.
Feigning piety or righteousness


3) con·de·scend·ing (knd-sndng)
adj.
Displaying a patronizingly superior attitude




any ideas...............

.......?
So you have a Dictionary, wow, ar'nt you a clever bunny, so what are your views on Potholes, do you even have any thing positive to add to the debate.
Thought not !!!!
Blue-Owl
I have broad shoulder's, plenty of years in business, 8 years as a Councillor. So, more than able to Respond to pathetic responses, such as yours. If all you can do is that, then
I must treat your comments with the contempt it deserves. !
Regards Blue-Owl.

Blue Owl says...
11:18pm Fri 1 Feb 13

windswept and interesting wrote:
AAAARRGGGGGHHHHHH !!!
Yes it got a little tedious, but I've never been afraid to answer a direct question when asked. I have tried to get back to the debated 'Pothole Question', but Posters keep referring to my personal past history, so I will answer them, I was'nt allowed to respond for the 18 months that I was awaiting trial, on this matter....Now it's been over and finished for 5 years they want to drag it all up, are they afraid, I'm going to stand as a Councillor against them, so they are trying to muck rake against me!!!!
Regards Blue-Owl
David L Preece

Blue Owl says...
11:25pm Fri 1 Feb 13

Cllr Smedley, Bridgwater residents await your input, on this Pothole Matter,
Where are you, ? .What are you Doing about this? You and your Labour Cllrs don't appear to be fighting for us the Residents !
What is your stance on this matter, you asked in a recent previous post, to get back to the Pothole debate, so who r u Where r u , absent by your lack of imput. Typical........Blue-
Owl

ianeggbert says...
11:28am Sat 2 Feb 13

Blue Owl wrote:
ianeggbert wrote:
1) nar·cis·sism
noun

inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. Synonyms: self-centeredness, smugness, egocentrism.


2) sanc·ti·mo·ni·ou


s (sngkt-mn-s)
adj.
Feigning piety or righteousness


3) con·de·scend·ing (knd-sndng)
adj.
Displaying a patronizingly superior attitude




any ideas...............


.......?
So you have a Dictionary, wow, ar'nt you a clever bunny, so what are your views on Potholes, do you even have any thing positive to add to the debate.
Thought not !!!!
Blue-Owl
I have broad shoulder's, plenty of years in business, 8 years as a Councillor. So, more than able to Respond to pathetic responses, such as yours. If all you can do is that, then
I must treat your comments with the contempt it deserves. !
Regards Blue-Owl.
for an ex-councillor and businessman your grammar is shocking Blue Owl!

I must pull you up on a few points.

Ar'nt - come on, there's an e in there and the apostrophe is between the n and the t

Capital letters everywhere but in the correct places - after full stops generally and not in the middle of a sentence unless they are proper nouns

Any thing - no spaces, it's one word

If you can treat my comments with the contempt THEY (not "it") DESERVE (not "deserves"), it would be a more effective rebuke

Thank goodness you're debating potholes and not education!

Blue Owl says...
10:11am Sun 3 Feb 13

ianeggbert wrote:
Blue Owl wrote:
ianeggbert wrote:
1) nar·cis·sism
noun

inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. Synonyms: self-centeredness, smugness, egocentrism.


2) sanc·ti·mo·ni·ou



s (sngkt-mn-s)
adj.
Feigning piety or righteousness


3) con·de·scend·ing (knd-sndng)
adj.
Displaying a patronizingly superior attitude




any ideas...............



.......?
So you have a Dictionary, wow, ar'nt you a clever bunny, so what are your views on Potholes, do you even have any thing positive to add to the debate.
Thought not !!!!
Blue-Owl
I have broad shoulder's, plenty of years in business, 8 years as a Councillor. So, more than able to Respond to pathetic responses, such as yours. If all you can do is that, then
I must treat your comments with the contempt it deserves. !
Regards Blue-Owl.
for an ex-councillor and businessman your grammar is shocking Blue Owl!

I must pull you up on a few points.

Ar'nt - come on, there's an e in there and the apostrophe is between the n and the t

Capital letters everywhere but in the correct places - after full stops generally and not in the middle of a sentence unless they are proper nouns

Any thing - no spaces, it's one word

If you can treat my comments with the contempt THEY (not "it") DESERVE (not "deserves"), it would be a more effective rebuke

Thank goodness you're debating potholes and not education!
And your input to 'Potholes' is?

Regards Blue-Owl

Blue Owl says...
10:22am Sun 3 Feb 13

Pot holes, where are the worst, have they been reported, SCC Highways depot at Dunball.
Easy, is it not.
Blue - Owl
Count the grammer errors, win a prize.

ianeggbert says...
11:29am Sun 3 Feb 13

sorry, forgot:

pothole (ˈpɒtˌhəʊl )

noun

(geography)
a deep hole in limestone areas resulting from action by running water See also sinkhole (sense 1)
a circular hole in the bed of a river produced by abrasion
a deep hole, esp one produced in a road surface by wear or weathering

knightsaver says...
9:43pm Sat 9 Feb 13

M5 southbound between junction 23&24, has soon as you join the motorway there are about 3-4 potholes in the middle of lane 1 which makes you take evasive action which will soon lead to a some sort off accident as you don't relise they are there until the last minute.

click2find

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