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September 2020 • Issue 81
SCHOOLS P7, P24 | SPORT P10-11, P17, P23 | DIRECTORY P38
Class of Covid’s “fantastic” GCSE results
P24
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PLUS , IN YOUR 40-PAGE BRADLEY STOKE MAGAZINE
Gipsy Patch Lane
Bradley Stoke in Bloom
Roadworks for TWO more years P8-9
Best Front Garden winners
P20-21
IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK! We made the club safe for our members and now we are so glad to be open... Come and see us at Riverside very soon and get your health back on track.
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more than just a gym
l Roundabout works nearing completion l Summer roadworks “lock-in” for the Stokes l “Strong outcomes” in Post-16 results at BSCS l Every step matters for the Sole Sisters runners l Advance booking now available on T1 bus l Mayor launches half-term charity scarecrow trail l Young footballers back in training at new base l Ladies’ football teams ready for new season l Parkway Bridge Covid-19 scheme set for review l West’s metro mayor launches cycling and walking campaign l Council administration supports plan to ban takeaways near schools
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September 2020
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3
News
Rabbit Roundabout works nearing completion
W
ork on a £2.9m scheme of major improvements at Great Stoke (Rabbit) Roundabout is still on track to be completed by the end of September, three months ahead of schedule. A three-week period of overnight road closures that began on 5th August was drawing to an end as we went to press, with the final surfacing having been completed and road marking (white lining) well advanced. Homeowners living near the site reported “horrendous” levels of noise during the surfacing work in mid-August, which coincided with a period of very warm weather when windows needed to be left open at night. Many road users complained of confusing diversion signage, a situation made worse by there being two other road closures in the area at the same time: Gipsy Patch Lane bridge (Network
Road marking (white lining) of the new surface taking place during an overnight road closure in late August
Rail) and Trench Lane bridge (Highways England). A temporary ramp that had been used to divert the footway on the west side of Bradley Stoke Way along the top of the roadside embankment has now been dismantled. The improvements carried out at the roundabout are designed to accommodate the increase in traffic flows expected from committed housing developments
in the area, including those at East of Harry Stoke and Filton Airfield. The scheme is also intended to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. All approaches to the roundabout have been increased from two to three lanes; the carriageway around the roundabout has been widened and toucan crossings are being installed on all four arms of the roundabout. Shared-used paths have been
widened and new entry and exit points have been created for cyclists. ● Editor’s comment: Lighter traffic during the Covid-19 emergency may have allowed the scheme to be completed ahead of schedule and lessened the feared impact of overlapping with the Gipsy Patch Lane bridge closure, but many residents remain to be convinced that the work was necessary in the first place.
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September 2020
News
Summer roadworks “lock-in” for the Stokes Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB
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About the Bradley Stoke Journal The Bradley Stoke Journal magazine is published by North Bristol Press, a trading name of Snowberry Media Ltd; company number 8451178 (registered in England and Wales); registered office: Equinox South, Great Park Road, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4QL. Our other publications include the Stoke Gifford Journal magazine and website, the Patchway Journal website and the Filton Journal website. North Bristol Press is independent of any other media company or network operating in the Bristol area. We accept no responsibility for anything stated by advertisers, who are themselves responsible for complying with all relevant legislation. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or article author. © North Bristol Press 2020. Content published in our magazines or on our websites may not be reproduced in any form without our express written permission.
R
oad users in the Stokes have had to contend with multiple sets of roadworks and diversions across the area since the last week in July, leading some residents to joke that the council is imposing a summer ‘lock in’. Having grown used to the longterm closure of Gipsy Patch Lane at the railway bridge since March, motorists found another route out of the area barred to them from 27th July when Highways England began a six-week closure of Trench Lane (north Bradley Stoke) for bridge repairs. Further frustration was caused by the signed diversion for the Trench Lane closure directing traffic via Great Stoke (Rabbit) Roundabout, which was itself closed overnight for resurfacing for three weeks starting 5th
August, leading once again to questions about whether our various local councils and other agencies liaise sufficiently with each other to avoid such issues. Mid-August brought a further complication for those who thought they had sussed out their optimum routes for avoiding the Trench Lane and Great Stoke Roundabout works when Highways England closed Beacon Lane for several nights under the M4 bridge (near the Winter Stream Farm pub/restaurant). As if this wasn’t enough, letters circulated to stakeholders in early August advised that Orpheus Avenue in Little Stoke and the southern section of Brook Way in Bradley Stoke were to be subject to daytime closures over a fourweek period starting 13th August. Readers will recall from an article
Have your say: Reader letters Do you have strong views about something that’s happening in or around Bradley Stoke? Want to pass comment on something you’ve read in the Journal or another local publication? Send your letter to letters@bradleystokejournal.co.uk or post it to: Reader Letters, Bradley Stoke Journal, 83 Snowberry Close, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8GB Please include a phone number, in case we need to contact you. Our next issue: October 2020 • Advertising copy deadline: Friday 18th September • Article copy deadline: Monday 21st September • The magazine will be distributed from Saturday 3rd October
Trench Lane, closed at the motorway bridge near Woodlands Golf Course
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September 2020
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5
News
Asphalt milling in progress on Orpheus Avenue, Little Stoke on 17th August
in our July/August magazine that South Gloucestershire Council had recently allocated £560,000 for this scheme, but there had been no indication of when it might take place. Work on the scheme began in earnest on Monday 17th August when asphalt milling machines moved onto Orpheus Avenue. As we went to press for this issue, work had not yet progressed beyond Sherbourne’s Brake Roundabout onto Brook Way,
along which the work area will extend north across the Braydon Avenue roundabout and up to the Kemperleye Way junction near Christ the King church. Rather than closing the whole scheme area, SGC has advised that the contractor will close shorter sections of the road between junctions and side roads as work progresses. Traffic management operatives will be on site to assist traffic within the closed areas.
Up next: Pear Tree Roundabout and Hatchet Road As we went to press, we learned than an area around Pear Tree Roundabout in north Bradley Stoke is to be resurfaced, with work scheduled to start on 15th September and last five or six days. Cllrs Franklin OwusuAntwi and Sarah Pomfret (Con, Bradley Stoke North) commented: “Last year our campaign for Woodlands Lane to be resurfaced saw success and we are delighted this is being further extended, with the stretch between Pear Tree Road Roundabout and Great Park Road now being added. It is a very important road in our community, being an important route for hundreds of homes and businesses, so we are pleased it is being improved further.” Meanwhile, over in Stoke Gifford, roadworks will start soon on Hatchet Road to upgrade two existing bus stops either side of the Sandringham Road roundabout to become MetroBus-specification stops. Work was programmed to start in August, but has been delayed to September to avoid overlap with other roadworks in the area. Two-way temporary traffic signals will be used as required at off-peak times.
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In Brief Library open again with pre-bookable services
Following a lengthy period of closure due to the coronavirus crisis, Bradley Stoke Library was able to reopen on Monday 27th July, offering a limited range of services. The pre-bookable services available allow users to borrow books, DVDs and audiobooks, access a computer and use the library’s wi-fi. You can order up to six items to collect at a pre-booked time of your choice. Complete a ‘Click and Collect’ webform at sglibraries.eventbrite.com or call 01454 865022 Monday to Friday 10am-4pm; Saturday 9.30am12pm and speak to a member of library staff. To pre-book an hour’s free use of a computer or wi-fi (using your own device), call 01454 865022 (hours as above). Scanning and printing is also available using library computers. You can find the latest information about the services available on the South Glos Council website at www. southglos.gov.uk/librarychanges eBooks, eAudiobooks, eComics, digital magazines and newspapers continue to be available for library members to download at anytime – southglos.gov.uk/eresources has all the details.
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September 2020
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7
Schools
BSCS reports another set of “strong outcomes” in Post-16 results
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radley Stoke Community School reports that its 2020 Post-16 grades are “broadly in line with the strong outcomes of last year”, with all students managing to secure places at their chosen universities and apprenticeship opportunities. Mindful of the impact of the Covid-19 emergency on the departing cohort, a school spokesperson said: “This has been a truly remarkable achievement by our Post-16 students, in the most challenging of circumstances, and we are delighted for them as they launch into the next stage of their education and careers.” “We are incredibly proud of what they have achieved with the support of our fantastic staff, including our outstanding Post-16 guidance team. Their specialist knowledge has been a key factor in students applying for and gaining such fantastic opportunities at top Russell Group universities (including a place at Cambridge) and apprenticeships with employers including Dyson and the MoD.” Notable individual successes highlighted by the school include: • Ben Reeves who achieved 2A*s (Maths and Further Maths) and 2As (Physics and Product Design) and starts an apprenticeship at Dyson in September
• Ethan Buckler who achieved 3As (Maths, Further Maths and Computing) and a B (Physics) and is starting a Maths degree at Bath University • Daniel Giuliani who achieved 3 Dist*s (Applied Science, ICT and Media) and starts a Film, Television and Digital Production course at Bath Spa in September. • James Mann who achieved an A* (Computing), an A (Maths), a B (Further Maths) and a C (Physics) is starting a software apprenticeship at Renishaw Engineering • Nicholas Sequeiros-Engel who achieved 2A*s (Sociology and Physics) and 2As (History and Core Maths) and starts a Law degree at University College, London • Mia Vindel who achieved an A* (Geography), an A (Maths) and a B (Physics) is starting a degree in Geography at University College, London • Joshua Tutin who achieved an A* (Further Maths), 2As (Physics and Maths [Maths achieved 4 years ago remarkably!]) and a B (Computing) and starts a Maths degree at the University of the West of England in September. • Elena Morris who achieved an A* (Art), an A (Criminology) and a B (History) and is taking a Gap Year next year.
• Sophie Robertson who achieved a Dist* (Media), an A (Sociology) and a B (Psychology) and is now taking a Gap Year. • Gabriel Prasal who achieved a Dist* (ICT) an A (Product Design) and a B (Core Maths) and starts his Product Design course at the University of the West of England in September. • Sophie Frampton who achieved 3As (Psychology, Sociology and Core Maths) and a B (Art) and is starting a degree in Illustration at the University of Gloucestershire in September. The school also reports that Danielle Fear, who achieved 2A*s (Psychology and Sociology) and an A (History) last year and has been taking a Gap Year has secured a place at the University of Cambridge to study Education. Headteacher Steve Moir expressed his pride in the students’ achievement: “Our students and staff have worked incredibly hard and showed amazing resilience and commitment to achieve these results. We are very proud of how they have coped during lockdown and the fact that all of them have
secured their university places and apprenticeships is a real testament to that. We wish all of them every success in their exciting next steps.” Assistant headteacher and director of Post-16, Tom Hill, added: “I am thrilled that all the effort and relentless commitment that students have shown over the past two years has paid off. The past six months have been a real challenge for us all but especially for this group of students whose schooling was suddenly cut short, I wish them all the best with their future plans and hope they will come back and visit us.”
● The grades included in
this article are the algorithmbased ones issued on results day. Following the subsequent decision by the government to revert to centre-assessed A-level grades, some of the information shown may now be incorrect. We have approached the school to ask for the amended data and will update the corresponding article on the Journal website once this has been forthcoming.
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September 2020
News
R
oad users in the Stokes will have to put up with Gipsy Patch Lane being fully closed or restricted by traffic management measures for at least another two years, the Journal can reveal. The news comes after South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) was forced to replan the later stages of the Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension (CPME) project after the installation of the new Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge was postponed because of the Covid-19 crisis. The bridge move will now take place during a 13-day railway closure starting on Saturday 24th October 2020.
Following this, Gipsy Patch Lane and its junction with Station Road will remain fully closed to road users until approximately July 2021, while the road surface beneath the bridge is lowered. SGC says the extended timeframe for the bridge works “takes into consideration the extra time needed to carry out work whilst observing the current government guidelines on coronavirus and social distancing”. Once the work in the immediate vicinity of the bridge has been completed, highway works to create new bus lanes along Gipsy Patch Lane will begin. Construction work for the road widening west of bridge (Rolls-
Project status report (21st August) Work has been continuing in preparation for the upcoming bridge move. Work to extend culverts, divert cables, waterproof the bridge deck and concrete finishing has been completed during August and work on the self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) roadway is continuing. In September, the SPMT roadway will be complete and trackside work will take place over three Saturday nights. Highway drainage work is planned with a view to beginning it in September, prior to the bridge move. Anti-graffiti coating will also be applied in September. All of the above activities will be carried out to ensure the protection of the workforce in a socially distanced environment.
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News Gipsy Patch Lane roadworks to last another TWO YEARS Full road closure at bridge to remain until July 2021. Further “traffic management” until November 2022. Cribbs Patch MetroBus Extension Construction programme (excluding San Andreas Roundabout)
2020 JulSep
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2021 JanMar
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2022 OctDec
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Gipsy Patch Lane bridge & associated road works Preparatory work Bridge replacement Road works at bridge, including road lowering Hatchet Road bus stops Gipsy Patch Lane widening east of bridge (Little Stoke side) Gipsy Patch Lane widening west of bridge (Rolls-Royce side) Royce side) will start in August 2021 and will take approximately nine months to complete. Work east of bridge (Little Stoke side) will start in October 2021 and will take approximately 14 months to complete. “Traffic management measures” (e.g. traffic lights, one-way road closures) will continue to be in place on Gipsy Patch Lane during the 16 months of highway works
either side of the bridge. Asked why the highway works couldn’t have been be done sooner whilst the roads were quiet, a council spokesperson explained: “The planned road widening work [on the Little Stoke side], which will make way for a new bus lane, will involve the removal of trees and shrubs on the south side of Gipsy Patch Lane. The removal of trees cannot take place during
bird nesting season, which runs between March and September, so we have been unable to start this phase of work during this time.” “Priority is also being given to completing the bridge replacement work and the subsequent road lowering at the bridge before other major construction activity along Gipsy Patch Lane begins.”
Pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will continue to be allowed to pass under the bridge until late September 2020, after which the shuttle bus service will be reinstated. The council says the footpath under the bridge will be reopened “as soon as possible after the bridge move has taken place”. ● SGC project webpage: southglos.gov.uk/CPmetrobus
Petition launched to ‘save the trees’ on Gipsy Patch Lane
A local resident has started a petition to save 20 semi-mature trees that are due to be felled as part of the work to widen Gipsy Patch Lane east of the bridge. Plans approved in July 2018 show that these trees, on the Bush Avenue side of the road (left in picture), are to be removed to allow the existing traffic lanes to be shifted south, thereby creating space for a new eastbound bus lane on the north side of the road. Titled ‘Save the trees of Little Stoke’, the petition (hosted on the 38 Degrees website) says the threatened trees are “characteristic of the area”, providing a valuable resource for wildlife. It questions the need for a new MetroBus route, saying that there is “even less need for it” since the Covid-19 pandemic struck, since traffic is now lighter and existing bus services have fewer passengers. South Gloucestershire Council says that, as a mitigation measure, it has recently planted 53 trees of various species at nearby locations along Winterbourne Road and Orpheus Avenue. It also says that once the CPME construction work is complete, it intends to “plant as many new trees as possible [along Gipsy Patch Lane] whilst taking account of site constraints such as underground utilities and visibility splays from side junctions”.
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September 2020
Sport
Every step matters for the Sole Sisters runners By Caroline Doidge, Sole Sisters running club t’s been over five months since our club has been able to meet, based on government and England Athletics guidelines. A real first for us, as in our 20-year history as a club, we have met every Monday evening (Wednesdays on Bank Holidays), come rain or shine, light nights or dark wintry evenings. Nothing stops the Sole Sisters. In April, Sole Sisters kept running or walking, like most people, as part of the daily exercise allowance, posting our solo activities on the club Facebook page. The coaches created a video, each running and passing the virtual water bottle to each other as a message of support, encouragement and solidarity, in a time when we couldn’t be together as a club. May arrived and we started to
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Sole Sisters near Webbs Wood in the Three Brooks Nature Reserve (left) and on the main Jubilee Centre football pitch
track our collective mileage. One of the coaches counted every mile walked or ran by a Sole Sister. We wanted to know how far we could go, and every step counted. We were missing each other, our family and friends near and far, but the May Miles Mini League, took us on a journey without breaking the rules. Club members, collectively, covered a total distance of 3,851 miles,
averaging 124 miles a day. We all did so well, we were ticking off our holiday destinations (cancelled holidays). By 10th of May we had covered the distance needed to get us to the south coast of Spain. Six days later it was Crete, then Egypt. By the end of the month our club mileage could have taken us (from Baileys Court) to Nevada in the USA, Cancun in Mexico, Kenya, or
even the Chinese province of Qinghai. May saw us go a long way, but we wanted more, as well as walking and running miles, we tracked our elevation, to see what mountains we could climb (virtually of course). In just 12 days our collective elevation took us to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro (and back down again). I used to think that us
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Sport
Sole Sisters visit the Living Landmarks plaques on The Common East
Sole Sisters avoided hills, but things where definitely changing. By 26th June, we had climbed Mount Everest, Kilimanjaro and more. We did climb mountains, and in two months, we covered over 7,500 miles. Crossing oceans and continents, we walked and ran our way to Australia – a fantastic achievement. In June we should have been holding our annual Bradley Stoke 10k. The event didn’t take place, but sisters (who normally, plan, organise, marshal and make the event happen), ran the route throughout the month. Each time, donating money, and raising £180 for the Brightwell Centre (MS Therapy Centre). Well done Sisters. For July and August, we stopped counting miles and focused on having fun and adventure with the Scavenger Hunt series – a collection of weekly challenges that has seen us running together and finding/ discovering hidden gems in the local area, then posting our
findings on the club Facebook page. Did you know there are approximately 15 Living Landmarks plaques, detailing the history of the area? If not, go and find them, it’s a great way to get out running. We did, and we loved it. These challenges have seen us go from Solo Sisters back to Sole Sisters, and really enjoying our runs in small groups. We hope that it will soon be safe enough for us to meet again as a club. But no matter how long it takes for us to be able to return to Monday club nights, I am sure the first night back will be more talking than running, as we will have so much to catch up on. When we do return, we hope we can plan when we will be able to reinstate our beginners’ courses and welcome new runners to our club. Anyone interested in joining Sole Sisters should check solesistersrc.co.uk for joining information and details of beginners and club runs (when they start again). Happy running, from all the Sole Sisters.
Living Landmarks plaques in Bradley Stoke Within Bradley Stoke, there are ten Living Landmark plaques sited at places of historic interest. A further series is dotted around Patchway. The ceramic information panels mounted on pink limestone boulders are the fruits of a Heritage Lottery funded project organised by Southern Brooks Community Partnership in 2007. Find out more and view a location map at http:// bit.ly/bsj-living-landmarks
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September 2020
Socially distanced, mask-wearing passengers on the top deck of a First bus
W
ith passenger capacity on buses significantly reduced due to social distancing measures, First West of England is trialling an online system that allows customers to reserve space on specific journeys, thereby eliminating the risk of being unable to board because the bus is full. The new function can now be used on peak-time journeys on the popular T1 express service that passes along Bradley Stoke Way, Great Stoke Way and the Stoke Gifford By-Pass on its way between Thornbury and Bristol city centre. This route was chosen as one of the first trials as it is a busy interurban route that offers customers a significantly reduced travel time when the M32 is busy. Journeys on which the function is available have been renumbered as T1b to denote it is a bookable bus. The innovative new facility comes as First continues to find ways to use technology to improve the travelling experience
for its customers. It follows recent changes to First’s smartphone app, which now enables customers to track the location and seat availability of their bus. Along with social distancing measures on its buses and an enhanced cleaning regime, it forms a package of measures to ensure customers can make informed and safe journeys on First’s buses at a time when the government has changed its advice to make it clear that anybody can use public transport. The ‘Book my bus ride’ initiative is being pioneered by First West of England in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) and is believed to be the first system of its kind operating on regular, scheduled bus services in the UK. Bookings can be made up to seven days in advance of the journey, with the flexibility of being able to reserve a space, subject to availability, right up to 15 minutes before departure. Customers will have the option
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13
News
Advance booking now available on T1 bus service Online booking system can be used to guarantee space on designated Monday to Friday peak-time journeys on the Thornbury – Bradley Stoke – Bristol express service Continued from facing page
of buying a ticket with their reservation or booking at no extra cost if they already have a pre-paid First Bus ticket or are a concessionary card holder travelling after 9am. Reservations will secure a space on the chosen bus rather than a specific seat. Bookings are made on a new, dedicated website, www. bookmybusride.com, with customers receiving an email booking confirmation that needs to be shown to the driver with an existing ticket/concessionary card if payment has not been made at the time of booking. Bookings are possible for all peak time Monday to Friday journeys on the T1b service with just under 50 percent of the socially distanced capacity being bookable and the remaining seats left available for customers to board and pay as normal without a booking. Chris Hanson, First West of England Head of Operations, said: “Here in the West of England we are pioneering new ways of travelling by bus to make it the smartest way to move around the region.” “The ‘Book my bus ride’ initiative is in its early stages and, if successful, we hope to integrate the advanced booking technology into the First Bus mobile app,
as well as the onboard ticketing software, to revolutionise both the customer and driver experience.” West of England mayor Tim Bowles said: “This is a terrific new service which will help people know they can rely on the bus and give them more reasons to leave their car at home. I’m determined to keep our region moving and make sure the West of England leads the country on using technology to improve our public transport – giving people greater choice and flexibility in how they travel.” South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet member for transport, Cllr Steve Reade, said: “I’m very pleased to see First pilot this new booking system in our area. It is particularly welcome currently as it will help reassure people that they will be able to safely catch the bus whilst adhering to social distancing measures. It will also add to users’ confidence that a bus will be available and help to increase patronage, so reducing the numbers of cars on the roads.” For customers who are not able to make an online booking, a dedicated phone line is also being trialled and is available on 07866 977586, Monday to Friday from 09.00-17.00 (excluding Public Holidays). Confirmation of all phone bookings will be sent in
L-r: Cllr Steve Reade, Chris Hanson (First Bus) and Andy Wynn (Willow Brook Centre) in front of a bookable T1b bus at the Willow Brook northbound stop
the post and First recommends making phone bookings seven days in advance of your journey to allow time for this delivery. City-bound T1b journeys run approximately every 20 minutes and call at the Willow Brook
southbound stop between 06:24 and 09:09. Return journeys leave the city centre between 15:10 and 18:33, also with a 20-minute frequency. Note: New timetables will be introduced on 6th September.
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September 2020
News
Residents, schools and businesses invited to enter Scarecrow-makers should enter by Friday 18th September. The trail runs from Saturday 24th October to Sunday 31st October. By Cllr Tony Griffiths, mayor of Bradley Stoke t is with great excitement that Bradley Stoke Town Council invites the schools, businesses and residents of Bradley Stoke, to participate in a new community event that the town council will be hosting during the October half-term. Each school is invited to create a scarecrow to display during the holiday. The idea is to give families an affordable day out, where there is no entrance fee for schools to pay. However, we expect businesses and residents to pay a £10 entrance fee to build their very own scarecrow. It may be something an art club would be able to participate in, or even just teachers, residents and businesses, in the hope of bringing joy and competition to the local Bradley Stoke town community. During late August and early September, we will start advertising the event and invite residents, and local organisations to enter and create a scarecrow.
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Basic instructions on how to construct one will be supplied. Once all the entries are in (21st September), we will create a map highlighting the route for people to follow. These will be sold around our various sites, to be announced later, for £1. The event is similar to the ‘Wallace & Gromit’ trail’ and scarecrow trails which have been very successful in other neighbouring towns. On the rear of the map will be space for entrants to fill in the answers to questions during the scarecrow trail and enter a prize draw. There will be several prizes including £100 for best scarecrow, and other categories to vote against by the scarecrow committee, with cash prizes. During the lockdown all community events were cancelled or deferred, so we have tried to ensure that we do something understanding the issues many people are experiencing during this pandemic. The plus with this event is that it is held outdoors so people can observe social
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distancing rules should we have another lockdown. The theme for this year’s scarecrow trail is ‘Famous Witches and Wizards’. It is the perfect time of year to create the atmosphere leading up to Halloween and, hopefully, the town’s firework display in November. This year we are only allowing 47 scarecrows and once an entry form is filled in, you will be allocated your character and a clue/question to identify the character, which will need to be positioned near the scarecrow. The closing date for entries has been set to be four weeks prior to the start of the trail, giving us time to produce the map, get it printed and get it to the sales outlets. We will be asking supportive shops and other venues such as Bradley Stoke Library to help sell the maps on our behalf. Prizes, trail competition and ‘just for fun’ quiz Scarecrow-makers can win one of nine prizes. Trail-followers vote for winners in the following categories: Adult’s Favourite, Children’s Favourite and Funniest. In each category, first prize is £100, second prize is £50, and third prize is £25. Scarecrow-makers cannot win more than one prize. We will also have a trail
Town mayor, Cllr Tony Griffiths
competition and trail-followers with the correct answer have the chance to win £50. In addition, there is a ‘just for fun quiz”. Each trail maker provides a question about their scarecrow which people can answer as they visit each scarecrow. Business sponsors We hope to recruit two or three businesses to sponsor the prizes and in return have their logo on the trail map. They would also be mentioned on the front sheet of the map along with other organisations that support the trail, i.e. the shops that sell the maps on our behalf, and establishments who have toilet facilities. As mentioned above, there will be a charge of just £1 for a map as one aim of our trail is to provide an affordable day out for people. The shops that collect the money
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mayor’s autumn half-term charity scarecrow trail on our behalf will do so in charitystyle boxes which will be picked up regularly throughout the week. Toilets As we do not have public conveniences, we will be relying on supportive pubs in the town allowing participants to use their facilities. Locations of the toilets will be printed on the maps. We will ask permission from the landlords before doing this and hope they will benefit from people buying food and drink. Event timings and prize presentation The trail starts at 9am on the first Saturday and finishes at 4pm on the second Sunday. Apart from the last Sunday, we would ask that scarecrows, their signs and the ‘just for fun quiz’ questions are out daily from 9am until dusk. The prize presentations and draw for the winner of the trail competition will take place between 6 and 6.30pm on the Sunday evening. This event will be held in one of our town centre locations. We will do an initial count of the votes to date on the Friday before the close of the event and then a count of any further votes on the Sunday. With the trail finishing at 4pm, it would be a bit of a mad rush to get the votes all counted in time, so we will be in need four or five volunteers to help. Photographs We will take photographs of each of the scarecrows, this also acts as confirmation that trail followers have found the correct location for a scarecrow. Afterwards, we will give the scarecrow-makers an A4 copy of the photo of their scarecrow as a little ‘thank you’. Befitting charities All proceeds will go towards the two mayor’s charities, Great Western Air Ambulance and Next Link, so I hope it will be supported for these two worthwhile charities.
To register as a scarecrow-maker, download an entry form from the Bradley Stoke Town Council website, (under the menu item Events | Scarecrow Trail) or scan the QR code on the left. Entries close on Friday 18th September 2020.
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September 2020
News
Local mum’s new role supporting families of children with heart conditions
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Bradley Stoke mum is helping set up one of two new centres in the south west that will help support families of children with serious heart conditions. The Heart Heroes charity, based in Gloucester, is opening branches in Bristol and Wales, so it can help even more families, with its regular events, support groups and signposting services. “Our goal is for children and their siblings to be included in all our events, along with parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles and any other close family,” said the charity’s founder Kelly Cornish. “By opening two new centres, we can reach more families. Once we are allowed to meet up again, we will start putting on local events for them, which will include coffee mornings where parents meet and support each other.” The Bristol Heart Heroes Hub is being run by mum-of-three Nicola Morris, whose second child, Calum, was born with a heart condition. Calum was just 13 days old when he had his first heart surgery. Now 14, he has undergone open heart surgery five times and countless
Nicola Morris with her own heart hero, son Calum
other procedures, with many complications. “We weren’t allowed to take Calum home until he was six weeks old,” said Nicola. “I remember sitting in a postnatal group, hearing the other mums talking about sleepless nights, and thinking that my experience and worries were so different that I just didn’t belong.” She added: “The idea of Heart Heroes is to bring families together to share their experiences and support each other. I am involved in a Facebook group called Heart Families South West. By now having a Heart Heroes Hub in Bristol, this takes the support a stage further as we can meet up – when we are allowed – and hold events and coffee mornings.” The Heart Heroes Hub will also hold meet ups on the Cardiac Ward at Bristol Children’s Hospital, so families whose children are in hospital can benefit from the Hub’s support when they need it most. For more information about the Heart Heroes Hub in Bristol call Nicola on 07790 43174 or email nicola@heartheroes.co.uk
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Sport
Young footballers back in training at new base
By Marcus Fisher, BSYFC radley Stoke Youth FC (BSYFC) has been busy preparing for the new season starting on Sunday 6th September. With over 20 teams (boys and girls), the return to training has required the organisation and commitment from many BSYFC committee members, and the flexibility of individual teams. All teams have been training since the start of August and many have been, and will continue to, play friendly matches in preparation for the start of the season. Training has been happening in one location (St Mary’s Rugby Club, Trench Lane), utilising several slots across the day. Strict Covid-19 restrictions have been imposed to ensure the safety of the players, parents, and coaches. It’s really great to see the size and scale of
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the club, with all its teams, in one place and for the younger age groups to see the older age groups train. Many thanks to all the players, parents and coaches for making it a success and showing a real togetherness during this period. Regarding the new season, we again have a strong turnout for the new U7 teams, which will allow those younger children starting their football journey to train and play matches in a safe, fun environment. The other younger age groups continue to build on last season with two U8 teams, two U9 teams and two U11 (Sunday) teams. In fact, demand has been so strong in the U11s that we’ve been able to run a U11 Saturday team as well as two Sunday teams. With the older age groups, teams remain consistent and players are more settled into the
squads, with teams running from U12s through to U18s. Having teams at every age group gives a great opportunity for BSYFC players to develop from a very young age right up to U18, and into adult football. BSYFC is a FA Charter Standard Club (the highest award
possible), with FA Level 1 and 2 coaches, and provides football for boys and girls ranging from reception to U18. Anyone wishing to enquire about joining should contact either Martin Lee on mlee@btopenworld.com or Marcus Fisher on mrfish66@ hotmail.com
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September 2020
News
Bradley Stoke in Bloom report for August By Sara Messenger of Bradley Stoke in Bloom (BSiB)
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e’re slowly finding our new normal and have been able to complete a few tasks, even though we’ve yet to reinstate our regular workdays and the blazing hot weather has not been kind to any of us gardeners. We’ve been waiting for some rain before we put in any more plants, as unlike other larger ‘in Bloom’ groups, we aren’t in a position to pay to have our beds and baskets watered.
Welcome planters
Although the ‘Welcome to Bradley Stoke’ planters receive a couple of oilings each year, they have started to look their age. They were made seven years ago by a local resident and they have lasted well, despite often being removed from their brick
supports and dumped in wet soggy corners by an assortment of road working teams! They are all being repaired and are receiving a smart new coat of black paint. The planter at Great Stoke (Rabbit) Roundabout was badly damaged and left almost where the workers had first dumped it some distance up the road. I foolishly persuaded my other half that he and I would be able to move it back ourselves on the way to do the weekly shop. It is now back in place and on new bricks, but only thanks to Veejay, who saw us struggling and stopped to help. I’m not going to tell you the whole story, but I’m not sure which I spent longer: scraping off the cycle path, the mud or my partner, but at least
Debbie the calf returned to the Manor Farm Roundabout display in early May but was stolen by thieves using bolt cutters on the night of 6th July
the planter is back and he is now speaking to me again.
Rabbit Roundabout
We’ve been waiting for the roadworks to finish so that the ‘carrots’ on Rabbit Roundabout could be given a clean and a repaint. While we were there, we inspected the trees and reported the dead ones to the relevant local council. Now the roadworks have (almost) finished, I would love to see my ‘stage two’ idea implemented: a giant wicker rabbit made by the artist Tom Hare!
Brook Way herb garden
Come and spice up your life – for free! The herb garden (in front of Bradley Stoke Surgery) has been repositioned, repainted and is again flourishing, so please come and help yourselves to some free rosemary, mint, basil, coriander,
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parsley, curry and bay – amongst other things. The strawberries and chives are now past their best, but there is always next year.
Manor Farm Roundabout
Sadly, Debbie (the calf) and Treacle (the dog) have both been stolen from our display on Manor Farm Roundabout. The thieves who took Debbie had come prepared and had used bolt cutters to cut through her padlock and chain. Even though we have little hope of them being returned, both thefts have been reported to the police.
Padlock severed with bolt cutters
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News
Self service: Herb garden planter in front of Bradley Stoke Surgery
I’d only recently discovered Although we’ve always known the story behind Treacle and how popular they were with the owl when their previous the younger generation it was a owner stopped to chat while I pleasant surprise to hear one of was painting a planter. They had the (slightly older) councillors, belonged to his wife and were speaking at a recent town council then given to their daughter meeting, say how cheering the who thought her mum would sight of the calf was and that have been delighted to know perhaps the town council could her ornaments were on the look at getting her replaced! So roundabout cheering everyone Abbey hpyet Easton 116dgood ad.qxp_Layout 22/02/2020 Page there may be some news. up.1Which is why, 12:04 when you see1 Continued from facing page
n i s u n i o J ter Complton Eas
Spot the difference: ‘Welcome’ planter near the Gipsy Patch Lane roundabout
that some people are so willing to give to their community it’s so very galling to see that a very tiny few are so very willing to break or take the very things that make us just that, a community, with a home town, not just a bunch of
strangers living in houses. ● How to contact Bradley Stoke in Bloom… t: 07582 634107 e: bsib@hotmail.co.uk w: bradleystokeinbloom.com and on Facebook too!
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September 2020
Bradley Stoke in Bloom 20 By Sara Messenger of Bradley Stoke in Bloom (BSiB) e were a little hesitant about running our annual Best Front Garden competition this year, but we knew we’d made the right decision when we had a record 18 entries. Although we now have two categories, large and small, we still use the original judging criteria: ‘well-kept frontage’, ‘quantity/quality of plants’, ‘outstanding character’ and ‘wellkept lawn, paths and driveway’. Usually, we all trundle round together one evening to judge the gardens, then decamp to the pub to add up the scores and discuss what were our highlights, but this year, in consideration of the Covid-19 restrictions, we went separately in family groups and had to settle for a home-brewed cup of tea. The range of gardens was amazing, from well-established ones to several very new ‘lockdown’ gardens, but whether new or old, big or small, the care and attention and the pride taken was very evident in them all. I could witter on, but I know you want to just skip ahead to the results so please find them in the panel alongside! The large garden category has three joint second places, as there was just 2 percent between their scores. We also added a second ‘Facebook favourite’ as the toppolling gardens were both extremely popular. The shield goes to the garden with the most points (Richard & Gill Love), but all first and second places receive an engraved glass trophy to keep and a £25 or £10 voucher generously donated by Almondsbury Garden Centre. Everyone also receives a framed certificate and an engraved medal. A small prize-giving event was held at Almondsbury Garden Centre on 19th August, for just a few of the winners, at which town mayor Tony Griffiths ‘handed’ out the prizes. Our thanks also must go to Timpson’s for their generosity, to Bradley Stoke Town Council for their continued financial support and to Almondsbury Garden Centre’s
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Prize winners: Large Gdn. 1st: Richard & Gill Love =2nd: John Burton =2nd: Helen & Graham Egarr =2nd: Paul & Judith Johnson Runners-up: Large Gdn. (in alphabetical order) • Alisa & Richard Aquilina • Anne & Harry Hughes • David & Jenny Neale • Krishnan Rambadhran • Liz Mathew • Malarvizhi Mookkandy & Ravishankar Yetrivel • Sue Jones • Sue Callow Prize winners: Small Gdn. 1st: Maureen Hopkins & Evelyn Coates 2nd: Fred J Hillberg 3rd: Jon & Karen Lane 4th: Anna Waliczek Runners-up: Small Gdn. (in alphabetical order) • Angela Morey • Lulu Milne Facebook favourites 1st: Jon & Karen Lane 2nd: Anna Waliczek Richard Truscott for his ongoing support.
● How to contact BSiB…
t: 07582 634107 e: bsib@hotmail.co.uk w: bradleystokeinbloom.com and on Facebook too!
The Bradley Stoke Journal is an independent newspaper, produced without subsidy from the public purse
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020 Best Front Garden competition: The winners
Prize-giving event at Almondsbury Garden Centre. Above: Large garden winners Gill & Richard Love with mayor Tony Griffiths. Below (l-r): Evelyn Coates & Maureen Hopkins; Mrs & Mr John Burton; and Paul & Judith Johnson.
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R & G Love
H & G Egarr
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Summer fun at Abacus Pre-School Baileys Court By Nicky Pontin, Abacus Abacus Pre-school has been absolutely delighted by the positive attitude and resilience of our staff and children in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. At our Baileys Court setting, we have taken a nature-based response to recent changes, spending practically the whole summer term in our outdoor garden area. We are incredibly proud that our manager, Layla Gregson is Forest School trained and she is brimming with ideas to offer enriching learning activities in a natural environment. Layla and her team have organized several campfires during sessions. Everyone has had a chance to toast either marshmallows, watch popcorn transform (“It’s jumping”, the children exclaimed), bake apples or chocolate bananas. The children have developed an understanding of safety by sitting outside the
‘safety circle’ and by talking about why it is important to stay safe. Children have also created fairy pots, made clay woodland creatures, drilled wood pieces, pounded flowers with hammers, experimented with potion making, painted clouds with mirrors/foam, practised squeezing oranges to taste juice and made fantastic dens! These are just a sample of some of the activities across a broad curriculum of planned learning.
We love to embrace the culture and heritage of our children too, for example, making American flags to celebrate Independence day as some of families have American roots. We looked at photos of family celebrations sent in via the Tapestry app which we use in our observation process. We have also created lots of new natural resources such a giant trough where we have planted pumpkin, tomato and carrot seeds. The children have
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enjoyed the responsibility of planting, watering and watching the seeds sprout. We embrace the concept of ‘loose parts’ too and have seen lots of imaginative ideas from the children of what they can create from giant cogs and wooden planks with other resources. We have noticed that the children are enjoying their experiences so much that this is extending into their imaginative play. They made their own campfire with a tyre and sticks! Our team aims to offer the children a huge range of exciting outdoor opportunities, to help the children to experience the awe and wonder of the world through the seven areas of learning. We have certainly noticed that the children’s language has been enhanced, learning new words such as ‘ignite’ and ‘transparent’. If you are interested in finding out more about joining us, visit abacuspreschool.co.uk
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Sport
Ladies’ football teams ready for new season
By Martin Lee of BSLFC ith the new 2020/21 season scheduled to start on 20th September, the players of Bradley Stoke Ladies FC (BSLFC) are looking forward to getting back to some form of normality. Covid-19 meant that training was suspended in March and the season was voided, but the ladies are now back to competitive training and can’t wait to be back playing against the other teams in the league again. Training has been a mix of fitness sessions and technical work with the footballs, in order for us to prepare fully for the new season. We have also had several new players come and join us recently for the new season. These include five 16-year-old girls, which highlights again that we like giving young players the opportunity to play football at the club. A big welcome to all the new players – we look forward to seeing them out on the pitch!
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Two teams, one club
The BSLFC development team was set up in 2018 when we had too many players to accommodate within a single team. This has been a huge positive for the club, allowing more and more young girls and women to play football. For the 2020/21 season, the development team has been rebranded as ‘The Vixens’. We
feel the team has come a long way since it started and therefore the new name better represents the future of the team. The new players who joined last season have really improved and made a stance in the team, which has been fantastic to see. Both teams train at the same venue and come together at the end of each training session, usually to play a match. We are two teams but one united club.
season can be found on the FA Full Time website. If you are interested in playing for a friendly and local ladies’ football club, please get in touch via our website www. bradleystokeladiesfc.co.uk or email Martin Lee at mlee1@ btopenworld.com
The Journal Send us your news! October magazine Deadline for contributions: Monday 21st September
Pre-season friendlies
The First Team were scheduled to play pre-season friendlies against Stockwood Wanderers and Ellwood during August. These will be followed in September by games against Abbeymead Rovers (6th) and Olveston United (13th). The Vixens were scheduled to play Southmead on 23rd August, followed in September by Winchcombe (6th) and Whitchurch (13th). The aim of these friendlies is to give our new players game time, try out new formations and improve overall play before the season starts, so we will be all ready to go!
Club details
Both our First Team (Division 2) and The Vixens (Division 3) play in the Gloucestershire County Women’s Football League. Training takes place in Bradley Stoke on Tuesday evenings and matches are on Sunday with 2pm kick offs. Fixtures for the new
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September 2020
Schools
“Fantastic” GCSE results for BSCS students
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he 2020 GCSE results at Bradley Stoke Community School are reported to be “broadly in line” with last year’s outcomes, with 85 percent of students achieving a grade 4 or above in both English and maths (82 percent last year) and 60 percent achieving at least a grade 5 in both subjects (56 percent last year). With no examinations having been taken this year because of the coronavirus emergency, the grades have been based on teacher assessments following a government decision to abandon Ofqual’s proposed algorithmbased approach. A school spokesperson said: “With all of the challenges of coronavirus, the closing of schools and the issues surrounding how results are being awarded, we are delighted that our Year 11 students have managed to shine through and
achieve fantastic results and qualifications.” Headteacher Steve Moir commented: “We are all incredibly proud of our students’ achievements, particularly with all of the additional challenges they have had to cope with this year with coronavirus. We are delighted that their immense hard work has paid off and we have seen so many students succeed and gain fantastic qualifications.” Olympus Trust CEO Dave Baker commented: “BSCS has produced another strong set of results to continue the trend of high achievement from the students. I would like to congratulate the students but also thank the staff as this would not be possible without them being willing to go the extra mile for their students, especially in the context of coronavirus and lockdown. We are confident
that the centre-assessed grade process has provided a fair and robust system for accurately identifying the appropriate grades for students. Well done to all involved.” Students highlighted by the school as having made the most
progress in their time at the school are: Lara Dehaney, Shoibe Ayam, Joseph Garner, Skylar Smith, Lewis Pearce, Hannah Wilkins, Jade Robinson, Daniel Whitfield, Olivia Garner, Alex Sell, Oliver Adams, Amine Debart and Izzie Crossman.
Outstanding individual performances Dhyey Trivedi Sophie Worsfold Jessica Andrews Esme Thompson Amine Debart Ethan Anderson Reiya Lin Catie Carter Belle Hyett Hannah Williams Emma Mitchell Emma Hardwick Adrian Kubiak Ajitesh Sreenivasan Liang Zhang Lucy Price
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Advertising
Looking after your body is more important than ever… Here’s why By Pete Tang, The Physio Clinic Bristol f lockdown has taught us one thing it’s that we don’t like being shut away at home. Many people turned to exercise to get them out of the house. Walking, running and cycling have grown in popularity. What started as an excuse to escape the house has given many people the additional benefits of better fitness, weight loss and improved mental health. Right now, these benefits are more important than ever. Obesity is one of the highest risk factors for Covid-19, so dropping a few pounds is good sense. Social isolation and working from home affects our sanity and the endorphin release from exercise (our brains happy chemicals) can lift your mood. Just getting out for a walk helps us change our posture giving our joints and muscles a break from being stuck in one position. Exercise is great for all these reasons and more. But if you find you are struggling with activity due to pain or stiffness you could be missing out on all the health benefits associated with an active lifestyle. The Physio Clinic Bristol has been helping people with aches and pains all through lockdown via
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Reader offer – Book any physiotherapy assessment in September 2020 and get a free massage ball. Find us at Riverside Leisure Club, Station Road, Little Stoke BS34 6HW. ● See our advert on the page opposite.
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September 2020
News
Book now for FREE Heritage Open Day tours of Winterbourne Medieval Barn Visit the newly refurbished Grade II* listed building, just over the M4 from Bradley Stoke, on 12th/13th September
T
he Barn site re-opened in August with Adventure Wednesdays, four different outdoor family activity days. Dozens of families enjoyed a range of fun activities based around pirates, wildlife, time travel, and the circus. So now, we look forward to opening the barns to the public for the first time since Christmas 2018, as part of the Heritage Open Days on 12th and 13th September. The site was closed for twelve months until March 2020 for major refurbishment work funded mainly by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Unfortunately, it was then unable to re-open because of the coronavirus lockdown. But the Medieval Barn has survived many human disasters over almost 700 years, being built just before the Black Death swept through Europe, and it stands as a testament to the skills of the medieval craftsmen who built it and the society they lived in. The West Barn has been completely renovated and now provides warm, dry rooms, toilets, a kitchen, and a long gallery linking it to the Medieval Barn without you getting wet or muddy! The Medieval Barn itself has benefitted from whitewashing, better lighting, and a level stone floor in the western end with some underfloor heating to take the chill off in winter. The main entrance to both barns is now on the south side of the site via a permanent hard path from the car park (turn in just before you reach the Barn on Church Lane coming from Beacon Lane), but the big barn doors still give access to the north yard. Across the yard, the cow byres have been completely modernised and let out to four small local artisan businesses. So, be one of the first people to see inside these newly renovated buildings which have seen so
Left: Inside the medieval barn. Right: West Barn viewed from the garden
much history go by. Tours will take place hourly at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm each day, and numbers are strictly limited to enable safe social-distancing. Although there is no charge, tours MUST therefore be pre-booked, and we cannot allow entry onto the site for anyone just turning up at the gate. To book a free place online visit Ticketsource.co.uk via the Barn website, and choose the date and time you prefer. If you can’t join us in person,
we’ll also be putting up lots of digital content over the heritage weekend, including family activity ideas and audio stories from our volunteers. The Trust hopes to resume the programme of regular talks and craft workshops in October. Details will be posted soon, and additional digital content will also be available online. Keep checking ‘Latest News’ and ‘Events’ on the Barn website, and on Facebook.
Rooms in the newly refurbished West Barn are available for hire by the hour throughout the year for meetings, talks and small social get-togethers. And bookings are now being taken for future bigger private events like wedding receptions in the Medieval Barn itself. To enquire, please contact hazel.hatton@ winterbournebarn.org.uk who will be very happy to help.
● winterbournebarn.org.uk
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September 2020
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Advertising
27
A warm welcome awaits you at
Local tennis club bags top coach
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lmondsbury and Bradley Stoke Tennis Club are delighted that awardwinning Toby Huddlestone has joined them as new head coach. Toby was ‘Avon Coach of the Year’ in 2017, when he built up a thriving programme at Redland Green Tennis Club. Following a stint at Team Bath Tennis, working with promising juniors, he’s now relishing the variety and challenge of working with all ages at a lively, friendly tennis club. As a dad of two young boys, Toby understands better than anyone how to make a tennis session fun! His sessions are high-energy but full of fun and games, and along with his motivation and enthusiasm, it’s obvious why he won the award. Toby’s new coaching programme has something for everyone whether they are a beginner, have their eye on making the county teams, or want to do the tennisbased Cardio fitness sessions. Toby’s top-three tennis tips: 1. Get a restring rather than change rackets 2. Stay relaxed when playing 3. Come along to an open day!
A socially distanced sport for the times!
Tennis was one of the very first sports to come out of lockdown and the tennis club has been incredibly busy ever since. They were delighted to welcome many new members, some of whom hadn’t played for quite some years. Now that club nights have restarted, the opportunities for playing with other people has
GREAT FACILITIES
Toby Huddlestone, head coach
increased even more. There are other great reasons to pick up tennis. As well as being a safe way to exercise during Covid-19, it’s also a low-impact sport that you can continue to play all your life. You can start to learn at any age! And it’s a good way to get to know people, with a mix of ages and genders playing together.
Try for yourself
It’s actually really easy to give tennis a go; the next open day is Sunday 6th September with free coaching on offer for all ages, including cardio tennis for adults, but pre-booking is essential. Also, every Saturday the club runs ‘Pay and Play’ sessions where you can turn up, with no pre-booking, and join a group lesson. All ages and abilities welcome; in fact, many parents have their lesson while the children are having theirs – and tennis is a lovely sport to play together as a family. ● Find out more on the website, or contact information@ almondsburytennis.org.uk
Four oodlit courts LTA accredited coaches League & Social Play Easy parking Social club next door
On A38 immediately past M4/M5 Interchange.
NEW TENNIS COACHING PROGRAMME Term �me junior tennis coaching ages 5‐18 years From 4pm Mon‐Fri and Sat and Sun mornings Adult lessons for all abili�es ‐ and cardio tennis too Open to all—non members welcome!
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September 2020
News
Parkway Bridge Covid-19 scheme set for review
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controversial temporary one-way traffic scheme at Parkway railway bridge that is intended to facilitate easier social distancing for pedestrians and cyclists is to be reviewed in mid-September. The news comes after one local councillor said the scheme “doesn’t appear to be serving its [intended] purpose” and a local resident started a petition calling for it to be scrapped because of the traffic congestion it is causing at some times of the day. The scheme, which was introduced in mid-June for an initial two-week trial period, has seen barriers used to reduce the road space under the bridge to a single lane, controlled by temporary traffic signals. The extra space created either side of the traffic lane is available for people walking or cycling under the bridge, allowing them to keep a safe distance from each other.
Reactions to the scheme on social media have generally been negative, with many people claiming it is unnecessary or provides little benefit because of the low volume of pedestrians passing under the bridge at present. Some opponents have suggested introducing a one-way system on the footways on each side of the bridge, while others say pedestrians should “just use common sense” to avoid getting too close to each other. Even those in favour of the scheme have complained that it is difficult for bike, buggy and wheelchair users to utilise the extra space because of the need to negotiate the high kerb between the regular footway and the reclaimed road space. Stoke Gifford resident Adrian Kerton, who has started the petition to scrap the scheme, says he is concerned that the traffic jams it is causing could impede
Barriers in place under the bridge to create extra space for pedestrians
emergency service vehicles attending incidents in Stoke Gifford, Little Stoke and parts of Bradley Stoke, particularly as one of the alternative routes, along Gipsy Patch Lane, is closed at present. South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) says the scheme is being well used with 300 pedestrians and 180 cyclists using the space during 2.5 hours of monitoring on a Tuesday in June. But Mr Kerton says data he has obtained through a Freedom of Information request shows that the monitoring was actually done over a 5-hour period and recorded everybody passing under the bridge, irrespective of whether they made use of the extra space or not. In fact, on the day in question, his interpretation of the data is that none of the 480 people used the extra space, while on other days it is typically just eight pedestrians an hour.
A council spokesperson said: “When we monitor, we record everyone using the space. The extra space created by the measures is to support social distancing so members of the public feel safe to walk under the bridge without getting too close to each other.” Responding to concerns about traffic congestion caused by the scheme, the spokesperson said: “Our monitoring of the surrounding road network has indicated that the impact on traffic has been minimal.” Asked about the process for determining whether the measures should remain in place, the spokesperson added: “The scheme is regularly reviewed with the next review having been agreed as mid-September once all children have returned to school and more people return to work.” ● Mr Kerton’s petition is hosted on the SGC ePetitions website at https://bit.ly/pwb-petition
BOOK ONLINE WWW.WBSBARBERSHOP.CO.UK BY PHONE 07725 795459 WALK-INS WELCOME FOLLOW US ON @WBSBARBERSHOP 39 North Road, Stoke Gifford To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400
o t k c a B Back to school.qxp_Layout 1 25/07/2020 17:31 Page 1
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Kids’ feet grown two sizes? Trousers too short? Time to pop to Willow Brook where you can kit them out from top to toe. Not forgetting all the lunchboxes, bags, stationery and more... We can help with learning support too. You’ll find services as well as shopping and dining here in the heart of Bradley Stoke. Come and see us soon.
BRADLEY STOKE SHOPPING
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September 2020
News
Metro mayor launches cycling and walking campaign
R
esidents in the West of England are being invited to ‘find joy in the journey’ by swapping short car journeys for walking or cycling to help reduce congestion and improve air quality in the region. The new campaign from the West of England Combined Authority promotes the benefits of cycling and walking to boost health and wellbeing as well as helping to build a cleaner, greener future for the West of England. It comes as the number of people cycling and walking reached record levels during lockdown and new cycling and walking measures have been put in place to build confidence and enable residents to cycle and walk more easily. West of England mayor, Tim Bowles, said: “During lockdown many people have taken advantage of quieter roads to walk or cycle more regularly.”
“As more people begin to return to school, college and work we have a real opportunity to capture the positive changes we have seen to improve the physical and mental health of residents, improve air quality and ease congestion across the West of England.” “That’s why I’m encouraging more people to find joy in the journey by swapping a short car journey for walking or cycling whether commuting to work, taking the kids to school or popping to the shops.” “Not only will walking or cycling boost your mood but it will also help us on the road to a greener future for the region.” Jon Usher, head of partnerships at Sustrans, said: “Our research shows that even before the Covid pandemic, a majority of residents in the West of England supported measures to improve walking and cycling on high streets and
the restriction of traffic outside schools and on residential streets. “As schools and workplaces reopen in September we need to take this opportunity to make active travel the obvious choice for all ages and abilities.” “It’s great to see the measures that the West of England Combined Authority and councils in the region have already taken and we fully support the vision for the future.” The West of England Combined Authority (Weca) has agreed £13m of investment in measures to enable cycling and walking in the region. Of this, £3m will underwrite the cost of short-term measures such as widened pavements and temporary cycle lanes to help people to maintain social distancing while walking and cycling. A further £10m has been agreed for longer-term solutions
to encourage active travel in the region. Weca has recently submitted its second bid to government for active travel and has recently adopted the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure plan. The bid includes further proposals to extend and strengthen the temporary measures already in place across the region to enable cycling and walking. ● Find resources at online at travelwest.info/active-travel
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September 2020
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News
South Glos Tories push forward with plan to ban takeaways near schools Councillor who strongly opposed the now-approved plans for a McDonald’s drivethrough in Bradley Stoke wants to see new restrictions written into council policy
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proposal to introduce a new planning policy that would distance fast food outlets from all schools in South Gloucestershire is to be fasttracked following intervention by the local authority’s Conservative administration. The possibility of creating ‘fast food exclusion zones’ was initially put forward by Bradley Stoke South councillor Roger Avenin in a written motion tabled for discussion at a meeting of Full Council on 15th July. Cllr Avenin strongly opposed the recent granting of planning permission for two new drivethrough takeaway restaurants, to be operated by McDonald’s and Starbucks, at Bradley Stoke’s Willow Brook shopping centre and subsequently penned a letter to the Journal asking ‘What have they done to our town centre?’ His submitted motion called on the council to “protect the health of our young people” by “restricting the development and licensing of any further fast food outlets from operating within a minimum of 400 metres of all schools across South Gloucestershire”. This would be achieved through the council’s emerging new Local Plan and Council Plan, two top-level planning policy documents which
will set out the long-term vision for South Gloucestershire over the coming years. Unfortunately for Cllr Avenin, the meeting on 15th July ran out of time and was brought to end before his motion could be debated, resulting in it being deferred to the next scheduled meeting in October. However, the council’s leadership has now stepped in and declared its intention to fasttrack Cllr Avenin’s exclusion zone proposal with a view to including it in the first draft of the new Local Plan, which is currently due to be published for consultation in September. The process for adopting the Local Plan is a lengthy one, involving several rounds of consultation and an ‘examination in public’ by an independent government-appointed inspector, so it is likely to be some years before any new policies take effect – the current timetable foresees an adoption date of December 2023. Welcoming the leadership’s decision, Cllr Avenin said: “I am delighted the Cabinet has agreed to take these plans forward. While I wish the council would have had the opportunity to discuss the motion and demonstrate what I would hope
was a cross-party appreciation, October’s meeting is too long to wait and I appreciate the need to press on.” “With so many leading national public health bodies pointing to a causal link between the growth of fast food outlets and childhood obesity, there is a clear need to act and where we, as a council, can help by thinking outside the box and using powers within our gift, we should.” Cllr Toby Savage, leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “As local councillors, we all want to help make a positive difference to our communities, and I believe Roger’s motion does just that. By introducing these restrictions, we can help schools,
Cllr Roger Avenin, South Glos ward member for Bradley Stoke South
parents and carers to ensure young people are more likely to benefit from a balanced diet.” “As a local authority currently consulting on a new Council Plan and working towards public consultation on a new Local Plan, South Gloucestershire Council is in a unique position to make meaningful change and take a holistic approach towards putting public health and the next generation first, and I am pleased Roger has taken the initiative to present something fresh.”
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September 2020
by Danny Brown, physiotherapist at Willow Brook Clinic
Jogging injury-free
any of us have taken to running/jogging to stay fit over the last few months. This can be hard at first and is difficult to stick to, but if you do it right, it is the best activity you can do; it is free, good for your heart, improves your bone strength and will literally help you to live longer. We can help you get into running, stick with it when the going gets tough or even fix you when you are broken. Between 60 and 70 percent of all running injuries are due to training errors; we run too fast, too far or too often. The rest can be attributed to technique and biomechanical dysfunction. How do you run? Do you have an imbalance of strength? Are your knees unstable? Running exercises your entire body - except maybe the fingers! Your shoulders and spine are crucial for good technique and generating power. The main muscles of stability are in the lower leg (calf) and the rest are in the buttocks and thighs. All these have to work together to make sure that every time your foot hits the ground the impact forces are absorbed safely and that the dynamic integrity of your muscles, tendons and ligaments are maintained.
Otherwise - twang, ouch! It is a myth that running wears out your joints. There is no “right way” to run. You do not need specialised trainers or a special programme. You just need advice that suits you and your goals. We can assess your biomechanics and even perform a video running assessment to help you get the most from your body. If you are injured, we can diagnose your injury and develop a rehabilitation plan to get you back to full fitness. Young or old, newbie or expert – we can help. The Willow Brook Clinic East Offices The Willow Brook Centre www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk
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Bradley Stoke Journal
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September 2020
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33
News
Lions group continues support of local charities By Ailsa Young, BS Lions radley Stoke Lions continue to shop and collect prescriptions and newspapers for some of our vulnerable neighbours who are still isolating due to the coronavirus pandemic. We also support our local food bank (see photo), which is being used more than ever in these hard times. Lions all over the country are doing the same, as well as phoning elderly people on their own to ensure they are well and to give them some company. Although Lions focus mainly on our local communities, our Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) in the USA, granted £160,000 to the South West of England to support our air ambulances in response to Covid-19. As you are aware, our air ambulances are not funded by the NHS but are charities supported by the public and, of
B
Lions Club volunteers deliver tea and coffee to North Bristol Foodbank
course, like most charities, have suffered greatly from the loss of funding during this pandemic. Despite this, they have had to deal with patients with coronavirus on top of their normal workload and
so the funding from LCIF made a huge difference. Although we cannot meet on a monthly basis as we usually do, we are staying in touch via emails, and holding meetings,
Funeral Directors and Cemetery Tel: 01454 414999 • Email: admin@memorialwoodlands.com
training sessions and even social events such as quizzes using Zoom videoconferencing. Technology has never been as important to us all as it is today. We know there are many people in our community who have volunteered to help their neighbours and friends at this time. You are the kind of people that we need to become Lions, or perhaps you would like to become a ‘Friend of Lions’ who could help us from time to time? ● If you would like to volunteer to help Bradley Stoke Lions in their service to others, please contact president Michael Lane (07803 139460) or secretary Ailsa Young (07737 106836).
Send us your news! October magazine Deadline for contributions: Monday 21st September
Unhurried, individually crafted services for Cremations and Burials
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September 2020
Ask the Doctor with Dr Tim Garrod of Bradley Stoke Surgery When does the new normal become the normal normal?
I
t is now nearly five months since the country had its first day of shutdown of all but key services. The virus spreading from China and continental Europe had finally reached our shores, and resulted in a massive impact on our daily lives. Politicians were at pains to appear shoulder to shoulder with the finest brains in public health, to emphasise the need for a universal and united front against Covid-19. After the initial wave of panic buying of toilet paper and hand gel, lockdown, shielding, furlough, distancing, and social bubbles have now become part of the national consciousness. Although those first few weeks were met with the naive enthusiasm of an unexpected national holiday, the long-term reality of social isolation, and financial insecurity is now becoming apparent. The policies and guidelines coming from the government are numerous and often complicated, but this is an
unprecedented situation, and mistakes will be made. We are all on a very steep learning curve, as A-level students are well aware. Healthcare in the community has had to adapt its working patterns very quickly to this new threat as well. The main driver has been keeping our services accessible, while trying to minimise the risk of infection and transmission between
personal interaction between a patient and a health care professional, but feedback has been appreciative and positive. There is no doubt that many of the changes in our working lives forced on us by this pandemic will carry on into the future for sound economic reasons. But if we are to control Covid-19, it is absolutely necessary for all of us in the local community to maintain
“Until we have a clinically proven and effective vaccine, face masks and social distancing will be the normal normal� patients, and the welfare of health care professionals undertaking direct clinical patient care. The introduction of telephone and video consultations has meant that we are running at near normal capacity in terms of patient contacts, and only bringing in those with a definite clinical need for a surgery based appointment. It has been a challenging transition for a business based on the unique
the changes in our personal behaviour as well. Until we have a clinically proven and effective vaccine, face masks and social distancing will be the normal normal. My normal normal will be standing shoulder to shoulder watching the Bristol Bears winning the Rugby Premiership, but not if it is at the expense of the health of the whole community. The next challenge for us will be the autumn and winter
months, and the added burden of seasonal flu. It is vital for our physical, and emotional health that schools are able to reopen, social and hospitality events are planned with more confidence, and businesses can start to rebuild. But this has to be based on a sensible, and socially minded approach from everyone. It is tempting to think that one day trip to a crowded beach, or one more pint of beer will not make any difference, but new outbreaks around the world show that it does matter. The NHS has managed to get through so far, but as anyone waiting for routine hospital appointments or treatment will be aware, the waiting times are now much, much longer. Keep safe, and look out for each other. www.bradleystokesurgery.nhs.uk
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September 2020
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News Bradley Stoke bowlers back on the green
M
embers of Bradley Stoke Bowls Club were able to get back on the green during August, when they enjoyed some periods of glorious sunny weather, writes press officer Arthur Allan. They were grateful for all the work that the town council and club committee had done in introducing Covid-19 safe sanitisation procedures and modified bowling rules so that
the green at Baileys Court could be opened. Currently, members are not able to play matches against other local clubs, but they can book a rink for rollups and there are plans to run some competitions from early September. If you haven’t tried bowling and would like to find out more, please visit the club’s website bsbc.webs.com or our Facebook page ‘Bradley Stoke Bowls Club’.
Local girl reaches national pageant final
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Bradley Stoke girl has been named Little Miss Teen Bristol for 2020 and is hoping to be chosen as the winner of the corresponding national title for girls aged 10-12. Sienna Wilton, 12, will be competing in the grand final of the Little Miss Teen Great Britain pageant in Blackpool, which is currently scheduled to take place on 24th & 25th October. The competition aims to empower young girls from across the country and promote positive body image and charity work. Over the past few months, Sienna has been cycling for charity, getting involved with the 2.6 Challenge, collecting clothes to raise cash for charity and staging cake bake sales. All the funds raised are going to her chosen charity, the Bristolbased Together for Short Lives, which supports the families of children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions.
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September 2020
News
Coronavirus research in Bristol gets £44k boost from public donations
V
ital coronavirus research in Bristol has been awarded £44,499 by Southmead Hospital Charity, thanks to donations from the public. The funding will enable researchers to continue the next phase of their research to find new breakthroughs in treatments and broaden understanding of the virus. The additional funding comes on top of an initial £22,000 given by Southmead Hospital Charity at the start of the research, which consists of three separate groundbreaking projects. But the charity still needs more support to reach its target of £815,000 to fund this research, which is also looking at the longterm effects of coronavirus on patients who have recovered from the disease.
Dr David Arnold, from Southmead Hospital (North Bristol NHS Trust) and NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Bristol’s Medical School, who is leading one of the research projects called DISCOVER, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this latest round of funding to enable us to continue our coronavirus research work.” “Thank you to everyone who has supported this appeal – you have enabled us to make some real progress in our understanding of coronavirus.” “I am confident that we can continue to make progress in understanding how we can support our clinical colleagues in the NHS to better treat patients and identify who is most at risk from this virus.”
Director of Southmead Hospital Charity, Sarah Harrison, said: “We are proud to be able to continue our funding of these important projects.” “Our team of highly skilled and experienced researchers are experts in pioneering clinical and academic studies, putting us at the forefront of the fight against coronavirus – right here in Bristol.” “But there is still a long way to go and it is crucial that we continue this momentum, so I’d appeal to the people and businesses of Bristol to get behind our researchers and support their work by donating to our appeal.” Donations will help fund three distinct strands of research aimed at: • Developing tests to diagnose and identify immunity to Covid-19
Dr David Arnold, from Southmead Hospital (North Bristol NHS Trust)
• Exploring secondary lung and infection complications from the virus • Testing new drug treatments for Covid-19
● To find out more about the
work or to donate, visit www. southmeadhospitalcharity.org. uk/covid-19-research/
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September 2020
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PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
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Directory of Advertisers Accountants & Bookkeepers C & M Accountants, Page 24 Dunkley’s Accountants, Page 13 Meadow Accounting, Page 20 Architectural Services Visit directory on BSJ website Bathrooms JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 18 Builders Criterion Construction, Page 23 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 18 Carpentry & Joinery J. Earle Carpentry & Joinery, Page 39 Northavon Carpentry, Page 8 Steve Corris Carpentry, Page 39 Carpet Cleaners B Clean, Page 4 Bonne Fresh Clean, Page 32 Carpets & Flooring Trinity Floors and Blinds, Page 22 Child Care Ambourne House Day Nursery, Page 8 Banana Moon Day Nursery, Page 31 Bright Sparks Pre-School, Page 18 Children’s Activities Bristol Riding School, Page 14 Danceworks, Page 14 Chiropractic Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Cleaning & Domestic Services Niko’s Mobile Cleaning Ltd, Page 35 Curtains & Blinds Trinity Floors and Blinds, Page 22 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 4 Education & Learning Olympus Academy Trust, Page 40 Electricians Ernest Till, Page 20 More in directory on BSJ website Estate Agents Ocean Estate Agents, Page 25 Events Bradley Stoke Town Council, Page 15 Financial Services Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 35 Foot Care Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Funeral Services F. Woodruff Funeral Directors, Page 28 Memorial Woodlands, Page 33 MW Funeral Directors, Page 10 Garage Services Bristol Caravans, Page 5 Filton Central Garage, Page 32 GH Motor Services, Page 39 LCM Automotive, Pages 1 & 9 Gardening & Landscaping Services ColourFence, Page 6 Garretts Landscapes, Page 26 Painting Petals, Page 37 Plan-It Garden Design, Page 17 Professional Gardening Services, Page 38 Smart Patios, Page 32 Gyms & Health Clubs Anytime Fitness, Page 16 Riverside Leisure Club, Page 1
Hairdressing
The Filton Barbers, Page 30 WBS Barber Shop, Page 28
Healthcare Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Page 6 Home Improvements & Furnishings Door Express, Page 12 Launderettes Wash Shop Patchway, Page 37 Mortgages & Financial Advice Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 35 Painting & Decorating A. Worsfold, Page 37 Digby Decor, Page 37 Painting Petals, Page 37 Rick Murphy, Page 37 Pest Control Services Aman Pest Control, Page 37 PestBGone, Page 37 Pet Services & Supplies Rosie Posie Pet Services, Page 39 Pharmacies Bradley Stoke Pharmacy, Page 12 Physiotherapy The Physio Clinic, Page 24 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Plasterers B & D Plastering, Page 13 Plumbing & Heating Bristol Plumbing & Heating, Page 36 Fastfix Heating, Page 7 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 18 Low Cost Plumbing, Page 39 M.S.M Plumbing & Heating, Page 39 Panache Plumbing, Page 39 S. Berryman Plumbing & Heating, Page 39 Property Maintenance David Coombs Services, Page 37 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 18 Mark’s Gutter Cleaning, Page 39 P.J.R Plastics, Page 39 So Clear Gutter Clearing, Page 39 Public Transport First West of England, Page 2 Retirement Homes Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham, Page 19 Rubbish Clearance Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance, Page 38 Self Storage Admiral’s Yard Self Storage, Page 37 Shopping Willow Brook Centre, Page 29 Slimming Clubs & Consultants Slimming World, Page 3 Solicitors Bevan Evemy Solicitors, Page 11 Star Legal, Page 34 Sport & Leisure Bradley Stoke Tennis Club, Page 27 Bristol Riding School, Page 14 Danceworks, Page 14 Taxis & Private Hire Z Cars, Page 31 Tutoring Services High C’s Music Services, Page 17 Window Cleaning Ultra Clear, Page 39
Visit our online directory: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/directory
September 2020
MAGAZINE ADVERTISING
Advertise in this * space for just £20
Get your business noticed
EVERY MONTH We’re the only publication delivered FREE, EVERY MONTH, to all homes in Bradley Stoke
Circulation: 8,700 delivered plus 500 left at pick-up points *Price of a twelfth-page Business Directory advert, when committing to three monthly issues
GARDENING SERVICES
Professional Gardening Services • Fencing, Decking, Sheds, Greenhouses (supplied & erected) • Driveways, Patios, Pathways, Turfing • Garden Maintenance, Tree Lopping Free quotes & friendly, trustworthy service (work references supplied) Please call: 07804 608053 Email: profgarden60@yahoo.co.uk Website: profgarden.vpweb.co.uk
RUBBISH CLEARANCE
Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance Licensed waste carrier We load and clear Same day service Household, garden, garage & sheds cleared Single item jobs Cheaper than a skip No VAT Contact Stuart or Sue on 0800 0234 995 (Freephone) or 07770 944727 stuart.thistlewood@yahoo.co.uk
To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400
September 2020
t: 01454 300 400
39
info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk
PLUMBING & HEATING
WINDOW CLEANING
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
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GUTTERING, DOWNPIPES & FASCIA
Advertise in this section for just £20 per month
So Clear
Professional Gutter Clearing Services • • • • •
Experienced cleaners Gutters cleared up to 5 storeys high Fully Insured Telescopic camera check Competitive prices – free quotation
www.soclear.co.uk Advertise in this section for just £20 per month
Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc…. OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT
0117
957 5092
Find Panache Plumbing on Facebook & FreeIndex
www.panacheplumbing.co.uk
No too job sma ll
corriscarpentry@gmail.com
GARAGE SERVICES
P.J.R. Plastics
Replacement and Maintenance: ● Guttering, Downpipes ● UPVC Fascia Boards ● Soffits and Cladding ● Unblock & Gutter Cleaning All work guaranteed
Call Paul for free quote 01454 850201 or 07980 001109
Mark’s Gutter Cleaning
Call Darren on 07901 910361
07523 961 869
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PANACHE
“Always on tap”
e iabl Rel ice v r se
FB:Stevecorriscarpentryandhomeimprovements
Advertise in this section for just £20 per month
• Complete bathroom refurbishment • Ceramic tiling • Heating & general plumbing services • Clean & tidy workmanship • Competitive rates
Local, friendly and reliable professional
info@soclear.co.uk ● 07851 847 079
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BATHROOM, SHOWER & PLUMBING SPECIALIST
Steve Corris Carpentry & Home Improvements
• Gutter clearing • Gutter cleaning • Fascia cleaning • Patio cleaning
Call or book online
PET SERVICES
Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning Call or Book online
www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 8528 Mob: 056558 Tel:0117 0117 370 3708528 Mob: 07543 07543056558 Serving North Bristol &Bristol South Glos Based in Downend,
To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400