An eagerly anticipated launch event for North Somerset’s newest political group, the Clevedon Independents, was unexpectedly interrupted on Tuesday when the fire brigade arrived, prompting a swift evacuation.
The Clevedon Independents aim to bring fresh perspectives and change to Clevedon Town Council, focusing on truly representing the needs of local residents. Since 2019, the nearby Portishead Independents have successfully led Portishead Town Council, inspiring similar ambitions for Clevedon. The launch meeting at the Riff Corner attracted such a large turnout that the room was filled to capacity.
However, the event was cut short just after the speeches concluded when a fire alarm triggered an evacuation. Clevedon town councillor Chris Childs, co-founder of the Clevedon Independents along with fellow councillor Carl Farrell, explained, “I had just answered a question when the staff informed me that the fire brigade had arrived.”
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Fire crews from Clevedon and Chew Magna swiftly responded to reports of a fire at the venue. An Avon Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson confirmed, “Upon arrival, crews inspected the property and found no fire present.”
Despite the disruption, Mr. Childs viewed the incident as positive public exposure. Because there was no opportunity for questions, the Clevedon Independents are now organizing a follow-up meeting on December 2 and plan to secure a larger space to accommodate their growing support.
Mr. Childs told the Local Democracy Reporting Service, “What we are saying is straightforward — Clevedon needs change. We need to break the Conservative Party’s long-standing hold on the town council.”
He continued, “The people of Clevedon have not been well served by the current council. As an independent party, our goal from the start, even before formation, has been to listen carefully to what the residents want.”
The Clevedon Independents posted on their Facebook page after the event, “A huge thank you to everyone who came along, and to the fire crew for their quick response. We’ll be back soon to continue the conversation about making Clevedon an even better place to live.”