April 2017 by Bradley Stoke Journal

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April 2017 • Issue 48

POLICE P28 | WHAT’S ON P44 | DIRECTORY P46

HATCHET ROAD BUS LANE CONTROVERSY “White elephant” MetroBus scheme will cost £2m to save just 29 seconds in one direction only

Can PEOPLE POWER force South Glos Council to make a U-turn?

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PLUS , IN YOUR 48-PAGE BRADLEY STOKE MAGAZINE

Pages 4 & 5

Wheatfield Primary back on track with across-the-board ‘good’ Ofsted Page 8

l Metro Mayor election on Thursday 4th May l Jubilee Green group faces uncertain future l MP discusses Bradley Stoke burglaries with police and residents l Sea Harrier airlifted to new museum site l Church’s new stained glass window makes a big impression l MetroBus construction: March progress report l South Glos honours its unsung heroes l Young at Heart Club bags £2,000 Tesco grant l Birdwatchers’ anger as berry trees felled l Nature reserve tunnel work about to start l Greencore Dragons fund Wheatfield PlayPod

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April 2017

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News

Metro Mayor election on 4th May

oters in Bradley Stoke and across the wider West of England region are being called to choose a ‘Metro Mayor’ in a poll to be held on Thursday 4th May. The election follows the decision by three local councils – Bath & North East Somerset; Bristol; and South Gloucestershire – to accept a devolution deal proposed by the government. Features of the West of England devolution deal include: • Control of a new additional £30 million a year funding allocation over 30 years, to be used to boost growth in the region • Devolution of multi-year transport budgets, enabling the region to deliver transport projects with greater certainty that the funds are in place • Responsibility for the adult education budget, helping the region ensure that adult skills provision meets the needs of local

Combined authority members (from left) Marvin Rees, Cllr Tim Warren and Cllr Matthew Riddle, will soon be joined by an elected ‘Metro Mayor’

businesses and learners • Enhanced powers to speed up the delivery of new housing in line with the Joint Spatial Plan A new West of England Combined Authority was established in February 2017 to oversee the new powers. The authority’s current members are Cllr Tim Warren, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council; Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol; and Cllr Matthew Riddle, leader of South Gloucestershire Council.

Following the mayoral election on Thursday 4th May, the authority will be chaired by the new West of England Mayor. Most decisions made by the authority will require the agreement of a majority of the four members – provided this includes the Mayor. As we went to press, six people had indicated their intention to stand as candidates in the mayoral election (see list, right). Nominations close on 4th April.

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Tim Bowles Conservative timbowles.org.uk

Aaron Foot UKIP @aaronfoot119

Darren Hall Green @DarrenHall2015

Lesley Mansell Labour @MansellForMayor

John Savage Independent @Savage4Mayor Stephen Williams Liberal Democrat @swilliamsmp

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April 2017

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Bradley Stoke

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

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The Bradley Stoke Journal website and magazine are published by North Bristol Press, a trading name of Snowberry Media Ltd; company number 8451178 (registered in England and Wales); registered office: 7 Chelford Grove, Stoke Lodge, Bristol BS34 6DD. Our other publications include the Patchway Journal website, the Stoke Gifford 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.

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Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or article author. © North Bristol Press 2017. Content published in our magazines or on our websites may not be reproduced in any form without our express written permission.

The planned bus lane will run on the southbound side of Hatchet Road, from point A (Gipsy Patch Lane roundabout) to point B (Ratcliffe Drive roundabout)

Council officers’ assessments of the four options considered for the Hatchet Road section of the CPME route are shown in the table below. Journey time saving (secs) Option Description

Southbound

Northbound

Cost (£m)

Southbound bus lane; two existing bus stops upgraded to MetroBus stops

2.02

Southbound bus lane stopping short of houses; two existing bus stops upgraded to MetroBus stops

1.93

No bus lane; three new lay-bys for existing bus stops; two existing bus stops upgraded to MetroBus stops

0.75

No change except two existing bus stops upgraded to MetroBus stops

0.55

Although Option 3 (favoured by Stoke Gifford councillors) provides the best improvement in journey times in all cases AND comes in at a £1.27m lower cost than Option 1, officers said it “would not necessarily deliver consistently reliable bus and MetroBus journey times”. Instead, they recommended Option 1, as they believe it will “reduce the impacts of day-to-day variations in general traffic conditions and ensure improved CPME service reliability”. ● Read the full report at http://bit.ly/ecs-1607 (item 14, appendix A)

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April 2017

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News Group formed to “Save Hatchet Road” from “white elephant” MetroBus scheme

residents’ action group formed to fight plans by South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) to install a £2 million bus lane down one side of Hatchet Road in Stoke Gifford has distributed more than 4,000 leaflets and gathered almost 1,000 petition signatures in the space of just three weeks. The new southbound-only bus lane will form part of the Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension (CPME) scheme, which will link The Mall at Cribbs Causeway with Bristol Parkway Station and serve the new developments planned for the former Filton Airfield site. Local residents and councillors are opposed to the bus lane because it will require mature hedgerows and trees to be removed from both sides of Hatchet Road. They also question the cost-effectiveness of the scheme, with SGC’s own figures showing that the new bus lane will reduce bus journey times by

just 29 seconds, and this only during the morning peak, with no improvement at other times of the day (see facing page). There are also concerns that construction of the bus lane might require the road to be made one-way for a long period of time, leading to the village being “cut off”. The Hatchet Road Action Group was formed following a public meeting on 7th March, at which Stoke Gifford’s three district councillors said they had abandoned plans to present a motion to SGC calling on it to scrap the bus lane plan in favour of a cheaper and more effective alternative using bus lay-bys, because it was certain to be defeated, leaving them “in a worse position than now”. Speaking at the meeting, Ernie Brown, district councillor and chair of Stoke Gifford Parish Council, said: “Having a bus lane in only one direction and for only

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part of the route through Stoke Gifford is a waste of time and money. It’s a white elephant.” Local resident Paul Tanner responded to the district councillors’ appeal for the public to “take up the fight” by volunteering to lead an action group (under the banner ‘No Bus Lane on Hatchet Road’) and starting a petition. A group of around 50 supporters have since distributed 4,000 leaflets in Stoke Gifford, Little Stoke and Bradley Stoke. An online petition has so far gathered almost 900 signatures and scores more were collected on Saturday 25th March outside the Tesco Express store in Ratcliffe Drive. The Journal invited SGC to respond to the claims being made by the action group and provide an update on how the CPME project is progressing, but a spokesperson said they had nothing further to add to previous statements.

Stoke Gifford resident Paul Tanner, organiser of the Hatchet Road Action Group set up to fight the bus lane plan

More information Action group’s Facebook page: ‘Hatchet Road 2016’ Online petition: you.38degrees.org.uk/p/ HatchetRoad Background to the Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension: http://bit.ly/sgj-cpme

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April 2017

News Trench Lane Boot Sale starts 7th May

A POPULAR car boot sale that takes place near Bradley Stoke is due to re-open for the 2017 season in early May. The weekly Trench Lane Boot Sale, held on Sundays on a farmland site opposite the entrance to Woodlands Golf Club (BS32 4JZ), will open for the first time this year on Sunday 7th May. As in previous years, the sale will open to buyers at 7am. Trading goes on until around 3pm, although the number of

buyers usually drops off after midday. Sellers are charged £7 for a car or £10 for a van. For buyers, there is an entrance charge of £1 for a car or 50p for a pedestrian. Free parking is provided in adjacent fields. The organisers ask sellers to arrive no earlier than 6am (when the site opens), to avoid traffic queues forming on Trench Lane. The final sale in 2017 will take place on Sunday 24th September.

From the Journal archives Official opening of the Jubilee play park (Friday 24th July 2009) SCORES of families and children turned out this afternoon to see Mayor Mark Forsyth officially open the new Jubilee Green Park at Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke. The adventure playground has been under construction since May and there was doubt that it could be completed in time for today’s grand opening. Workmen were still clearing away equipment and fencing just minutes before the opening, but everything was tidied away in time for the Mayor to cut the ribbon just after the scheduled time of 4.30pm. A stream of excited children then rushed into the play park to explore the various slides, exercise stations and sand pits that make up the new facility.

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News Jubilee Green volunteer group faces uncertain future as trustees step down

Next Event Saturday 8th April, 10.30am to 12.30pm Jubilee Centre Join us for Easter crafts and an Easter bonnet parade (weather permitting) Easter bunny hunt • Prizes for the best bonnet

Friends of Jubilee Green volunteers with former mayor Cllr Brian Hopkinson

By Michelle Dent, trustee of the Friends of Jubilee Green

oday (Sunday 19th March) we have had another successful and well attended Mother’s Day craft event. Every one who came had a thoroughly enjoyable time meeting new families and catching up with old friends. We have seen children having a fantastic afternoon being creative and playing and we have received lots of positive feedback. We have had fantastic support from the Woodcraft Folk, whose members helped prepare the craft material, and the ongoing support from our husbands in setting up and running the event. However, the time has come for Michelle, Helen and Sam to step down from their roles. We all have increasing commitments at work and home and are struggling to commit our time to Friends of Jubilee Green. Today’s event has further reinforced that the charity is still

needed and we would like it to continue. Could you volunteer to take this charity forward? Are you passionate about play and building strong communities? We would love to hear from you. We are keen to support the transition of the charity to new trustees and will be on hand to give support and help if needed. We have plans to run three more community events this year and are aiming to deliver our final project to improve the pond, but we will be unable to continue in 2018. If you are interested in finding out what’s involved or feel you can take on a role, please e-mail us at enquire. friendsofjubileegreen@hotmail. co.uk or come to our next event on Saturday 8th April and introduce yourself. The existing trustees are easy to spot – we wear red Friends of Jubilee Green t-shirts.

Above and top left: Mother’s Day craft event on Saturday 19th March

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April 2017

Schools

Ofsted report sees Wheatfield step up a grade

heatfield Primary School is celebrating the success of a recent Ofsted inspection which categorises the school as ‘good’ across all measures. Under the leadership of acting headteacher Lois Haydon, who took over the reins following the retirement of long-serving head Christine Dursley in December 2016, the hard work of the staff, pupils, parents and governors has been recognised. The inspectors commented: • Pupils are well cared for throughout the school and parents comment positively about how confident they are in leaving their children in a “safe, happy, supportive and stimulating environment” • Leaders and managers at all levels are driven in their actions. As a result, standards have improved in all aspects of the school’s work. • Teachers plan interesting and exciting lessons across a broad and balanced curriculum. Pupils talk enthusiastically about their learning, while teachers check pupils’ work carefully and ensure that any pupils who need to catch up are given the help they need In a letter to parents, Mrs Haydon said:“We are extremely pleased with the outcomes and the positive comments made by the inspection team, and that we are now recognised as being ‘good’ in all areas.” “We would like to take this opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to all of the members of our community – from teachers to governors, support staff, parents and especially the children. It was an incredible team effort over the course of the two days of the inspection and we were able to really show the school off in the best light possible – gaining the ‘good’ status that we believe we deserve. “We are especially pleased that the inspectors recognised that at Wheatfield ‘every child is known as an individual’ and that ‘learning is typified by fun and exciting learning challenges

Pupils at the school join acting headteacher Lois Hayden (centre) in celebrating their recent ‘good’ grading from Ofsted

… that engage pupils’ interests and deepen their understanding. And, of course, the recognition that the leadership of the school ‘have worked tirelessly to improve the quality of teaching and pupils’ outcomes’”. “There are, of course, areas to improve on – which we are pleased to say we were already working on before the inspectors

arrived. Progress in writing in Key Stage 2 already looks stronger than it did this time last year, and children in Key Stage 1 have been carefully monitored to ensure they make the progress that is expected of them.” Concluding her letter, Mrs Haydon drew parents’ attention to the fact that the inspectors had expressed concern over

attendance levels at the school. “The inspectors were clear that holidays and visits to families abroad are having a significant impact upon the learning and achievement of our children. We will be reviewing our policy and letting you know how we can best work together to ensure our attendance figures are above the national average.”

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News MP discusses Bradley Stoke burglaries with police inspector and residents

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Inspector Summerill with Jack Lopresti MP (third from right) and constituents

ocal MP Jack Lopresti has met residents and Avon and Somerset Police Inspector Clive Summerill to discuss the high number of burglaries that have taken place in Bradley Stoke and surrounding areas in recent months. The meeting was arranged after concern had been expressed that families who may own gold jewellery are being specifically targeted by organised gangs. According to a report on Mr Lopresti’s website, Inspector Summerill was able to hear about some of the fears that residents have that their properties may be in danger of being burgled. He was able to give them some background to the form that the burglaries are taking, that organised groups are finding properties to burgle before a different group carries out the break-in. He was also able to let them know that the police have made some arrests, with some

of those arrested currently on remand. Ideas on how to combat these crimes were discussed, and Inspector Summerill was able to give crime prevention advice to those present. Mr Lopresti commented: “I was very pleased to be able to bring the residents who have contacted me about these crimes together with the police.” “These crimes are a concern to large numbers of my constituents and I hope that we were able to provide some reassurance that the police are doing all they can to combat the problem. I have written to the minister with responsibility for policing to ask him whether the National Crime Agency can become involved and for there to be a national strategy in place.” ● Latest statistics from the Home Office (below) show that burglaries remained well above average in December 2016, but dropped sharply in January.

Burglaries in Bradley Stoke

November 2016

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April 2017

What’s On

News

Family bike ride & quiz on Easter Sunday

Sea Harrier airlifted to new museum site RAF Chinook helps move ‘jump jet’ to Aerospace Bristol

IF YOU are stuck with ideas of what to do with the kids on Easter Sunday then come and join the Stokes Cycling Club family Easter ride for a few hours of fun. The event is completely FREE. There will be a choice of a 3 or 6-mile ride to which everyone is welcome. This is aimed at families, including children of all ages, whether in trailers, tagalongs, or on their own bikes. There will be a fun quiz with three winners receiving a rather

tasty Easter egg, sponsored by Wards Solicitors, who have kindly supported us again this year. Even if you don’t win, everyone who enters will be given a little treat for taking part. Please come along on Easter Sunday, 16th April, between 10am and 12pm to register. For more information, please contact stokescyclingclub@ googlemail.com See you there! ● www.stokescyclingclub.org.uk 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 telephone number with your letter, in case we need to contact you.

n unusual scene unfolded over the former Filton Airfield site on 8th March when a Chinook helicopter was drafted in to move a Sea Harrier ‘jump jet’ to its new home at the Aerospace Bristol museum, located just off Hayes Way on the Patchway side of the airfield. To reach its new home inside a historic hangar that forms part of the new museum, the Sea Harrier had to be transported across a railway line and over Filton airfield. With no road bridge wide enough for it to cross, the RAF provided vital support with a Chinook from No 27 Sqn RAF Odiham and the RAF Joint Air Delivery Test and Evaluation Unit (JADTEU) successfully lifting the aircraft to the Aerospace Bristol site. Wing Commander Steve Bell, Chief of Staff at RAF Odiham, said, “Getting the opportunity to assist with a complex operation of this nature is a challenge, but one for which the unique qualities of the Chinook helicopter, and it’s highly trained RAF crews, are ideally suited. Working with our colleagues from JADTEU in support of Aerospace Bristol, in the knowledge that they will be exhibiting this distinctive example of British Air Power to the public, has been an honour.” Linda Coode, Collections Manager at Aerospace Bristol,

added: “We are thrilled to welcome the Sea Harrier to Aerospace Bristol and would like to thank the RAF for their tremendous support. We look forward to welcoming visitors this summer, when they will be able to see the Sea Harrier on display alongside many other exhibits; including its Bristol Siddeleydesigned engine, which gave the aircraft its vertical and short takeoff and landing capability, and is one of many important engines developed at Filton.” The Sea Harrier’s new home is a 100-year-old grade II listed hangar which started life as part of an Aircraft Acceptance Park in WW1. Airframes and engines were assembled and tested by

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News Historic Bristol car joins aircraft exhibits

Photos: ©MOD Crown Copyright

Mission accomplished: The Sea Harrier stands outside its new home

Royal Flying Corps engineers, then handed directly to flight crews who flew them to the front. Hangar 16S was later home to RAF 501 Squadron, who were then sent to France as part of the Advanced Air Striking Force in 1940 and saw distinguished service in the Battle of Britain. Taking off this summer, Aerospace Bristol will bring

together a varied collection of nationally-significant exhibits and hidden archive records to tell over one hundred years of aviation history for the very first time. The museum’s iconic centrepiece will be Concorde 216; designed, tested and built in Bristol, she was the last Concorde to be built and the last to fly. ● aerospacebristol.org

AEROSPACE BRISTOL has welcomed a 1953 Bristol 403 saloon car home to Filton – the place where the historic Bristol Car was designed, tested and manufactured over 60 years ago. The Bristol Aeroplane Company diversified into car design and manufacture at the end of the Second World War and their automobile division went on to become Bristol Cars. Thanks to the knowledge and expertise of aviation engineers, and the

manufacturing techniques of the aviation industry, Bristol Cars were able to achieve higher levels of performance and the company became world famous for quality and luxury. The museum exhibit was discovered in a barn in south west England where it had been stored for over 30 years and had fallen into disrepair. It has since been carefully restored by volunteer apprentices from restoration experts Spencer Lane Jones.

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News

Church’s new stained glass window makes a big impression

n imposing new stained glass window recently installed at a local church has been attracting admiring comments from worshippers and members of the wider community. The 22sqm window on the front aspect of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, which faces Patchway Roundabout (just off the A38), is composed of more than 440 individual panes of stained glass and was designed and manufactured by Bristol architectural and stained glass artist Stuart Low. The window has been installed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the opening of Holy Family Church and has been funded by parishioners, who voluntarily paid £30 to sponsor an individual pane. The initial idea for the window came from parishioner Felicity Harper and her sister, Pia. The pair worked together with parish priest Father Eugene Campbell to come up with a design and gain the approval of the church community. Felicity and Pia then continued to progress the project, putting together a business plan and devising a sponsorship scheme to ensure that the total £18,000 cost of the work could be covered without drawing on parish funds. The window was officially blessed by Fr Eugene during the 11am mass on Sunday 5th March, in the presence of the artist,

Credit: James Beck

Left: The new window, viewed from the altar. Right: Designer Stuart Low with parish priest Fr Eugene Campbell.

Stuart Low, who has a studio in south Bristol (opposite Windmill Hill Farm). Speaking to the Journal after the service, Stuart gave some insight into the process of creating the window: “The work started with large sheets of coloured glass which were then precisely cut down, assembled, leaded and soldered together.” “I think this is the biggest project I’ve undertaken and

made in my studio. It has been a pleasure and privilege to make the window and it is lovely to see it now that it has been fitted.” Fr Eugene said: “The window is a symbol of the lively and diverse community of Holy Family with Christ at the centre. The design is based on the phoenix being reborn from the embers – Christ (represented by the cross) rising from the embers of death and shining out a welcome for all.

For me, the window is not only a beautiful addition to our Church, but is also a shining invitation from Christ to ‘come and see’. Please God, it will be here for at least another 50 years.” He added: “The window has become a new form of evangelisation within the local community! More people are looking towards Holy Family Church and seeing a church that is alive and well supported.”

Holy Family Church: www.holyfamilyrcchurchpatchway.co.uk • Stuart Low, architectural stained glass artist: www.stuartlow.co.uk

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April 2017

News

MetroBus construction: March progress report By Jim Aitken, community liaison officer at Alun Griffiths Ltd

Bradley Stoke Way (BSW)

Now that the works in this area are substantially complete there remain just some small works. Anti-skid surface is to be added in key areas along BSW on the approaches to lights, crossings and roundabouts. This will be done at off-peak times during April, with some traffic management. It should take around two weeks, but is weather dependant.

A38 south of Aztec West

Road box excavation is complete and we are preparing for surfacing. Work is ongoing on the MetroBus stop with kerbing and ducting work, including further service diversions and utility slewing. There will be a temporary pedestrian signal crossing that shall be configured on the A38 crossing to facilitate the remainder of the works. A

temporary public footpath is maintained around the works from Aztec West.

South of Patchway Brook

The bus lane along BSW from Patchway Brook will remain coned and closed until legally signed and commissioned, including high-friction surfacing which needs to be placed. Additional permanent speed signage will be added as speed changes from 40mph to 30mph along this route. Road signage installation is partially complete and should be completed within April. Some temporary speed signage is in place until this is completed. Landscaping subcontractors will be working on the verges. Ongoing minor works to complete the zebra crossing area and an additional 20m of footway construction is to be undertaken

near Aldi, where pedestrians will be diverted into the closed off new bus lane.

Webbs Wood Roundabout

Western Power will be doing connection work on the bus stop and Griffiths will be adding the final surface to the adjoining footpath which just has currently a temporary surface.

Great Stoke Roundabout

Excavation work has begun, but we are wary of inclement weather and heavy rain, so may postpone earth removal until more favourable weather to prevent the likelihood of mud on the road. Having revised this, we may require temporary signals from time to time, but this shall be used as a last resort to ensure safety of the workforce and road users. Instead we will use minor off-peak traffic lane management 9.30am to 3.30 pm, reducing the southbound approach to Great Stoke Roundabout to one lane (from two). Six lighting columns have been moved and reinstalled for the new road alignment and drainage work is ongoing. We have an archaeologist on site keeping watch on the groundworks.

Hunts Ground Road

Temporary traffic lights are in place here for the safety of road users and the workforce. We anticipate that the works here will take a further five weeks from the beginning of April. One MetroBus stop has been completed on the park and ride side. We are now working on a stop on the opposite side.

Stoke Gifford By-Pass

Â The work in this area is shared across three contractors, with Griffiths having responsibility for the roadworks. There are two

bridges, one has been handed to Griffiths some months ago by Network Rail and good progress has been made with the road here. The other bridge (over the Ham Brook) is still in possession of the remaining contractor and Griffiths await access to complete the roadwork. We anticipate that all drainage work will be completed during April and May, as well as laying the road base, binder and surface course from Parkway North Roundabout along to the Network Rail bridge and down to the Hambrook Lane junction. Work will commence moving fill materials in readiness for filling the ground level on the approach to Ham Brook Bridge from the north and south side to make progress in laying of the road over it. Earthwork will continue to shape the verges and work has commenced and is ongoing on the sound attenuation bund protecting the housing that borders the stretch between the Network Rail bridge and Great Stoke Way. This will later be topped with a two-metre-high acoustic fence. Final surface course and road markings will be taking place in early April, from the A4174 up to the Oxleigh Way junction and from the north of the new Ham Brook bridge up to Hambrook Lane. The Ham Brook bridge and the approaches approximately 300m long on either side of it will be surfaced, along with all associated works, once it has been handed over to Alun Griffiths. A series of short duration closures of Hambrook Lane will be required for final surfacing and anti-skid treatment. These will last for a total of no longer than five days over a few weeks in May and June.

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Stoke Gifford By-Pass Due to open September 2017 Aerial view of the under-construction Stoke Gifford Transport Link (a.k.a. Stoke Gifford By-Pass) which is due to open to general traffic in September 2017. The new road runs from Parkway North Roundabout (A) to the A4174 Ring Road (E), passing over the railway (B), Hambrook Lane (C) and the Ham Brook (D).

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April 2017

Schools

In Brief

Meadowbrook pupils have been making headlines

Plan ahead for a happy and healthy Easter

udding journalists at a Bradley Stoke school have been trying their hand at newspaper report writing. As part of a three-week English work topic, Year 6 pupils at Meadowbrook Primary School were given the task of writing a newspaper article on a scene from the book they are currently reading – ‘Holes’ by Louis Sachar (a mystery comedy novel). Some chose the scene where Kate Barlow (a school teacher turned bandit) shoots the sheriff, while others opted for the scene where Kate herself dies. They were given templates to help shape the article, but the content was created independently by each pupil. After producing an initial draft, they were given the chance to rework their piece following feedback from staff. The finished articles were judged by teacher Alexander Powell and it was the work of

Thomas Grimsted of Herons class with his top-scoring newspaper report about a scene from the novel ‘Holes’

Thomas Grimsted of Herons class which came out top. Thomas told the Journal that he is an avid reader of fiction, but also enjoys reading newspapers made available at the school, such as ‘First News’. He says he really enjoyed reading ‘Holes’ and was intrigued to find out how

the story would end. Despite his prowess at English, Thomas says his favourite subject is actually maths! Mr Powell said the exercise had been really useful in exposing the pupils to the formality of writing in the third person, which many of them find difficult to grasp.

Residents in the Stokes are being urged to plan ahead with some simple steps to stay happy and healthy over the Easter holiday weekend (14th-17th April). These include collecting repeat prescriptions well in advance of the holiday and making sure that home medicine cabinets are stocked up with the basics needed to treat very minor ailments and illnesses. People are also being reminded to check their options for urgent healthcare and to use A&E and 999 for serious and lifethreatening emergencies only. Services such as the minor injuries unit in Yate, out-of-hours GPs and emergency pharmacists will all be available over the bank holiday weekend and people who aren’t sure which service to use can get advice and guidance from NHS 111, the NHS Service Finder phone ‘app’ or www. southgloucestershireccg.nhs.uk

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News Woodcraft Folk have been busy bees Group has vacancies for 6 to 12-year-olds from April

FREE Pre-school uniform

FREE Grant Funding for 2 , 3 & 4 year olds *

By Jenny Thompson of Bradley Stoke Woodcraft Folk

ur theme for this term has been bees. As well as playing bee games and planting sunflowers, we had a go at making our own model bees. There are lots of different species of bee in the UK – can you guess which ours look like? Some are big bumble bees, other people made smaller honey bees. We were also lucky enough to win a seed kit from the Grow Wild project (www.growwilduk.com). We’ve used our seeds to make ‘seed bombs’. Mixing the compost, clay and seeds together was good fun and means that when we plant our seeds in a couple of weeks time, they are less likely to be eaten by the birds before they have a chance to grow

Bradley Stoke Woodcraft is open to children aged 6 to 12 years. We meet on Wednesday evenings during term time. Each week is a mix of games, crafts and other activities. On at least one session each term we head outdoors to explore the local area. We also get together with other groups for our regular fun days and camping trips. We have places in the group for the summer term, beginning Wednesday 26th April. If you are interested in joining or would like to find out more about the group please contact us on 0117 909 3969, info@southwestwoodcraft. org.uk, visit our blog bradleystokewoodcraft.blogspot. co.uk or find us on Facebook.

subject to eligibility criteria

Book your place now at Bradley Stoke Happy Days Nursery & Pre-school For more information please call:

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Bradley Stoke Happy Days, Almondsbury Business Centre, Woodlands, Bristol BS32 4QH

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Brian Hewitt MBE: Community Award winner Brian has been volunteering for the Royal British Legion for an astonishing 65 years and has been an outstanding member of the Stoke Gifford branch since moving to South Gloucestershire 30 years ago. He has been helpful and encouraging to every new member and where necessary taught his successors the ropes as he has moved on to new positions within the branch. Brian arranges for a bugler to sound the Last Post on 11th November each year at Bristol Parkway Station, which all the staff and customers find very moving. Brian is a full of life character and nothing is too much trouble for him. Stoke Gifford Royal British Legion branch vice chairman Terry Webber commented: “I’ve known Brian for more than 20 years and in all that time he has always been in a position to help the community – as a councillor or as a member of the Royal British Legion. He has been in the top position at county level and also at branch level, where he now holds the office of president. I cannot think of anyone who deserves the award more.”

Chris and Jenny Brooker, representing Freewheelers EVS: Group Award winner Freewheelers Emergency Voluntary Service is a registered charity that provides a free out-of-hours motorcycle courier service to hospitals in the South West. They transport blood, pathology and microbiology specimens, patient notes, x-rays, breast milk, medication and other medical supplies. This lifesaving service is funded entirely by public donation and sponsorship; everyone involved in Freewheelers is a volunteer. Feedback from doctors and nurses at the hospitals is that this service has saved many patients’ lives.

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Diya Barot and George Beavan: Young Persons Community Award winners These two young people are shining stars. Diya and George signed up to become Anti Hate Crime Ambassadors two years ago when Southern Brooks Community Partnerships (SBCP) piloted a project at Abbeywood Community School in Stoke Gifford. They’ve used their training to mentor students who have been either the victim or the perpetrator of hate incidents. Diya and George also volunteer at a local primary school’s after school club, where they have proved consistent and reliable in their support and enabled the children there to benefit from the exposure to a wider range of topics than they might otherwise experience. After the success at Abbeywood, SBCP secured further funding from the Home Office to support more schools across Kingswood, Filton and Patchway. Julie Close, director at SBCP, commented: “Our hate crime ambassadors programme teaches young people to recognise and respond appropriately to a hate crime incident. It gives them the skills they need for life, which they can share with their peers, family, friends and future work colleagues.”

Andy Ward: Community Award winner Andy is involved in many volunteer groups. His skills, knowledge and expertise have helped the Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group continue to look after this important historic woodland. He is also an active member of Bradley Stoke Radio, a not for profit, community station run by volunteers. Always ready to support a good cause, the station, with Andy at the helm, champions many charities, such as the Heartful Dodgers, for whom he also volunteers. He is extremely hardworking, passionate about everything he undertakes and his vision, enthusiasm and ability to problem solve effectively is infectious.

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News

South Gloucestershire honours unsung heroes

early thirty unsung heroes and their families attended the Chair’s Community Awards at South Gloucestershire and Stroud (SGS) College’s WISE Campus on Thursday 16th March. The annual awards recognise and celebrate the valuable contribution local unpaid volunteers make to life in South Gloucestershire. These people give up their time freely to help others and bring our communities together, and were rewarded for their efforts at the special ceremony. Chair of South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) Cllr Erica Williams attended, along with the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Dame Janet Trotter, Vice Lord Lieutenant Robert Bernays, Group Chief Executive & Executive Principal of SGS College Kevin Hamblin and Principal and Deputy Chief of SGS College Sara-Jane Watkins. Throughout the evening, award winners from across South Gloucestershire, and from a wide variety of backgrounds, were presented with their certificates by Cllr Williams and Sara-Jane Watkins. The final round was the Lord Lieutenant’s Special Award, which saw Dame Janet Trotter and Robert Bernays present £100 to Diya Barot and

George Beaven for their valued services as mentors and anti-hate crime ambassadors in South Gloucestershire. Cllr Williams said: “I have been consistently amazed and inspired by the number of people from across our area who dedicate so much of their precious time in a voluntary capacity. These awards are a small way of recognising the effort and tireless service which volunteers provide for their

local communities, and to say thank you to just some of them for continuing to make South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work. “Choosing from the nominations for this event has been a heart-warming and yet difficult task. All the nominees were clearly highly respected and admired for their commitment and hard work. It has been humbling to read all of the

citations and I consider it to be one of the highlights of my role to be able to honour our award winners.” The annual awards event is sponsored by SGS College. The evening also saw students from the Level 3 Musical Theatre Year 2 group, based at WISE campus of SGS College, perform some of their latest productions. ● Winners from the local area are featured on pages 18 and 20.

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Jade Matthews: Young Persons Award winner Jade has been volunteering at Bradley Stoke based South West Winterguard Academy since she was just 12 years old. Now 17, Jade has become an integral part of the team and an inspiration to many children who attend the dance practice sessions. Jade dedicates her spare time to leading and motivating the younger members to be the best they can be whilst working as a team. Jade is a very caring individual who encourages, motivates and helps all the children to feel at ease. She has a great relationship with the members who all look up to, and respect her greatly.

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David Bell: Community Award winner David joined the Southern Brooks Community Partnerships (SBCP) board of trustees nine years ago. He has been a great ambassador of the organisation within Filton, voicing the needs of local residents. As a Filton resident himself, David knows what life is like for people in the area and has made sure that SBCP is aware of the changing needs of people in the town. As one of three long standing trustees, David has provided stability to the organisation. His guidance and thoughtfulness have enabled SBCP to respond to changes, embrace challenges and continue to be the successful community anchor organisation it is. David commented: “It’s very humbling to achieve this award, especially when I hear about the marvellous work that the other winners have done to achieve their awards. The award is a tribute to great work done in the community by Southern Brooks Community Partnerships, by its staff and volunteers.”

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News

Local volunteers sought to help scrutinise use of police powers

ocal people from a diverse range of backgrounds who have an interest in policing are needed to help Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens monitor the use of police powers. The new Scrutiny of Police Powers panel will help look at the use of Taser, stop and search, body worn video and the use of force by the police. The Panel will act as a ‘critical friend’ to the PCC and the Constabulary by providing feedback on the use of police powers and provide organisational learning. Volunteers from across Avon and Somerset are invited to apply to be a part of the panel which will consist of at least ten independent members. The PCC is keen to ensure the

panel represents the diverse communities of the area. Ms Mountstevens said: “During my time as PCC I have heard from local people about incidences where police powers have been used. Young people who aren’t clear why the police used the force they did, mothers whose sons have been stopped and searched and individuals who have been tasered. However on many of these occasions, it was not understood why the police used the powers they did. “My vision for this new panel is to invite people in to monitor how the police are using their discretionary powers and ensure they are using them proportionately and fairly. We all have a right to be treated equally and with respect and this is no different when it comes to

interactions with the police. I also hope the panel will give local people a better understanding of police powers and when and why they are used.” Panel members are expected to attend quarterly meetings to review a sample of files and footage on the use of police powers. Each time the panel meet they produce a report of their findings which they submit to the PCC for oversight and the police for a response. Both the panel’s findings and the Constabulary’s response will then be published on the PCC’s website. Training will be provided for all panel members and travel expenses will be paid. Sue added: “I’ve always been clear that local people have a right to know how their police service works, ensuring the

Sue Mountstevens, Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner

highest levels of openness and transparency. As your Police and Crime Commissioner, it’s important that not only are your views represented in policing, but that local people trust and have confidence in their police service and I believe this new Panel will help in delivering this.” For more information about the Scrutiny of Police Powers Panel or to apply visit www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk ● The closing date is 12th April.

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Advertising Feature

Tranquil living just a stone’s throw from the city Retirees looking to benefit from the best of both worlds are being invited to explore McCarthy & Stone’s Cheswick Court development in the newly built Cheswick Village

ocated opposite the village square, with a supermarket, fresh fruit and veg store and a coffee shop on the doorstep, the Retirement Living development provides 32 contemporary one and two bedroom apartments exclusive for over 60s who are looking to balance city living with soughtafter open space. And with Bristol city centre located a short bus, train or car journey away, homeowners really can benefit from the best of both worlds. What’s more, the UK’s leading retirement housebuilder is offering part exchange for potential homeowners on all new reservations. McCarthy & Stone’s part exchange scheme allows potential homeowners to have a hassle free and flexible option when moving,

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and it eliminates any of the uncertainty that usually comes from selling your home – from dealing with estate agents to worrying about chains. Part exchange will usually mean purchasers sell their homes much more quickly. However, for peace of mind and greater flexibility, McCarthy & Stone offers buyers the opportunity to stay in their existing properties for a two-week period following completion on their new apartment. As well as giving downsizers time to move, it also takes away the stress of moving in to a new home in one day. Simon Mantell, regional managing director, said: “McCarthy & Stone’s Retirement Living developments have been carefully designed to offer homeowners the very best in

independent living within a safe and secure environment, with the opportunity to benefit from companionship when desired, as well as privacy when needed. “And there has never been a better time for people in Bristol to find out more about how McCarthy & Stone can help them to get the most of their retirement, particularly with the highly competitive Part Exchange offer available at Cheswick Court.” Prices at Cheswick Court currently start from £226,750 for a one bedroom apartment, with two-bedroom designs currently available from £299,950. Selected homes have the added advantage of featuring large balconies. Homeowners at Cheswick Court are able to relax in the homeowners’ lounge, a

comfortable communal area ideal for socialising with friends, as well as discovering the benefits of the development’s beautiful landscaped gardens. Should homeowners wish for guests to stay over, a convenient guest suite is on site to ensure all visitors enjoy a comfortable stay. The development also benefits from its very own House Manager, who takes care of the smooth running of the development, while a security entrance system and 24-hour emergency call points provide added peace-of-mind for homeowners and their families. ● See advert below.

experience the lifestyle Welcome to Cheswick Court, our latest development of spacious and comfortable, low-maintenance retirement apartments in Cheswick Village; a new urban development near Filton and Stoke Giﬀord.

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• You can retain access to your sold property for two weeks after completion, so you don’t have the stress of moving out and moving in on the same day

Please contact us on 0800 153 3808 for more information or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk/cheswickcourt Long Down Avenue, Cheswick Village, Stoke Gifford, Bristol, BS16 1UJ SW-AD-CC-WC200317

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April 2017

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News Fantastic first year for Barnardo’s in Stoke Gifford

undraisers are celebrating the success of a Stoke Gifford charity shop which has received thousands of bags of donations. Barnardo’s opened a new store in Ratcliffe Drive (next to Tesco Express) last March. Since then the charity has received more than 5,000 bags of clothing, accessories, homeware, books, toys and games. Barnardo’s has also been supported by a group of hard-working volunteers who contributed hundreds of hours to help with sorting the stock and serving customers. The Stoke Gifford team celebrated their success by holding a party on Saturday, 11th March which featured facepainting, cupcakes, a tombola, a lucky dip and the cutting of a specially-decorated cake The store is managed by Hannah Jones together with store associate Julie Britt. Hannah said: “We wanted to arrange a special ‘thank you’ for everyone who has worked so hard during our first year.” “We have an amazing team of ten volunteers aged from 14 to 76

years old who offer so much of their own time each week. Their commitment has played a vital role in our success.” Hannah added: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and support of the local community throughout the past twelve months.” “The number of donations has been fantastic, but we’ve also received some very unusual items - including a miniature set of Shakespeare books from the 1920s which were just three inches wide!” “We look forward to receiving many more items which can be re-sold to support the charity’s work with the UK’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children.” The Stoke Gifford store is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm. There are still vacancies for potential volunteers to join. Please call 0117 931 4115 to find out more. Barnardo’s also manages stores in Henleaze, Filton, Fishponds and Chipping Sodbury. ● www.barnardos.org.uk

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News

Birdwatchers’ anger as berry trees felled

radley Stoke’s Willow Brook Centre has come under fire from birdwatching enthusiasts for chopping down around 20 rowan trees whose berries had attracted a flock of rare migrant waxwings over the winter months. Just days after crowds of waxwing-seeking photographers in the shopping centre’s car park had made headlines in the Journal and been featured on BBC Radio Bristol, contractors at the site began felling the trees, resulting in a torrent of criticism on social media. Birding enthusiasts noted that the centre management had previously welcomed their presence and praised their photos of the “beautiful birds”. The Willow Brook Centre responded by saying that the

rowan trees were being removed because they were in “poor condition”, with half their number having been removed two years ago and replaced with a species “more suited to poor drainage / little root space”. In a more comprehensive statement published two days later on the Willow Brook Centre website, it was explained that tree surgeons called in to assess around a dozen rowan trees on the site had found them “dehydrated, undernourished and in a poor way”. Centre manager Andy Wynn said: “We fully appreciate it is a disappointment to cut down the trees, and therefore the habitat of these birds, however, given the condition of the rowans, we were left with no option but to remove them.”

Photographers line up in the car park to catch a shot of the waxwings

Birdwatchers’ reactions to the tree felling on social media For the birds: No waxwings at Bradley Stoke this morning and the rowans all being cut down. Matt Collis: @Tesco please can you explain why this is happening at your Bradley Stoke store?! Rowan’s brilliant for the birds & enjoyed by many people Amy Schwartz: “@WillowBrookCtr Many do not seem to be dying at all and have produced an incredible berry crop. If some are dying and have to be replaced, then would other rowans be able to be replanted along the edge of the car parks where there is more room? Rod Holbrook: @WillowBrookCtr @Tesco Why have the rowan trees been cut down? It’s a disgrace Lee: @Tesco your blatant disregard towards the natural world, and the Bradley Stoke waxwings & rowan trees have lost you a customer. Forever Dave: @WillowBrookCtr keep the rowan trees. They’ve proven the soil is good enough by providing berries for many wintering waxwings

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April 2017

In Brief Bradley Stoke Lions proud to help Noah

Rotary club to host charity quiz night on 21st April

Marshals needed for the Bradley Stoke 10k Run

Ailsa Young writes: Noah, the little boy we spoke of previously, has got his Inno Walker at last! The teddy bear we took along for Noah wanted to try it out for himself as you can see. The walker lifts Noah from a sitting position up to his feet, supports him and then moves his legs in a walking motion to engage and strengthen the muscles. It is hoped that this walker will reduce the need for Noah to have surgery in the future, so although this walker is an expensive piece of equipment, it may prove to be the cheaper and better option in the long run. Leanne, Noah’s mother, is so grateful to everyone who donated to help buy the walker. Eight of us from Bristol Brunel and Bradley Stoke Branch Lions attended our district convention on 4th March at the Gables Hotel, Falfield, at which we had guest Lions from France and Italy. The dinner and ball which followed convention was very enjoyable and a time to show off our dance skills. Pancakes followed a very swift meeting at Lion president Robin’s house recently, at which Bradley Stoke Lions were delighted to badge up and welcome a new

Bradley Stoke Rotary Club is hosting a charity quiz night on Friday 21st April starting at 7.30pm. The event, which is in aid of Rotary charities, takes place at All Saints’ Church Hall, Church Road, Winterbourne Down, BS36 1BX. There will be prizes, a raffle and a cash bar. Entry costs £8 per person (including a light supper). For more details, contact Karen Holley on 07540 458119 or Allan Ashby on 07766 312319.

Karen Gaman of Sole Sisters writes: Volunteer marshals are required to help us deliver a memorable, enjoyable and safe running experience for the runners taking part in our annual Bradley Stoke 10k Run on Sunday 11th June. You will be required to meet at the Jubilee Centre at 8am on race day. A Sole Sister will escort all marshals to their road crossings, where we need you to cheer, clap and encourage the runners, whilst ensuring a safe crossing over the roads. We anticipate marshals being able to stand down after the last runner, which is usually 90 minutes after the race starts. The race starts at 9.30am, but marshals need to be available from 8am in order for them to walk to their positions. Volunteers who can help are asked to contact us via our website www.solesistersrc.co.uk so that we can allocate you a position.

Lion into their fold. Brunel president Bill also presented a special badge to Robin for sponsoring Frederic in this our centennial year. Frederic’s wife and daughter were there to witness the ceremony, whilst two other members received their 10 and 15 year badges to recognise their years of service. A good night shared by both Brunel and Bradley Stoke Lions. Remember, if you are interested in finding out more about the Lions, come to a meeting at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Woodlands Lane, on the second Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm start. Alternatively, contact president Robin on 07712 046644.

Weekly keep fit exercise sessions for the over-50s Don’t fancy the gym but wish to have some exercise? If you are over 50 (men and women), come and join us for suitable keep fit exercises and stretches with Natalia, our instructor. Increase your flexibility and mobility and have a fun time. We meet on Tuesdays, from 2pm to 3pm at the Church of Christ the King. A £3 pay-as-you-go fee applies. Come along and try it out, we have people of all ages from 50 to 85 years. For further information, phone Sue Jonathan on 0117 931 2304 or visit www. ctkchurch.org.uk

Netball, Tennis & 6-a-Side Courts available at The Jubilee Centre

We currently have availability for block bookers and one-oﬀ hires Why not visit our website: www.bradleystoke.gov.uk for details of our hire charges? For more information, please contact Bradley Stoke Town Council on 01454 205021

Arts society lecture: ‘The Forbidden City’ South Gloucestershire Decorative & Fine Arts Society’s next event takes place on Thursday 20th April when Anne Haworth will give an illustrated talk on the secrets of China’s Imperial Palace, entitled ‘The Forbidden City’. Meeting at Bradley Stoke Community School BS32 7BS (near Bradley Stoke Library and Leisure Centre), we are a friendly group and always pleased to welcome guests and new members. Refreshments from 7pm; welcome and slide illustrated lecture at 7.30 pm. Good parking and easy access. Guests are charged £7 per event; membership for the year is £45 for nine lectures. To enquire about joining the society, please call Sally Kitching on 01454 774401, email sallykitching@googlemail.com or visit sgdfas.org.uk No artistic ability required – just an enquiring mind and an interest in the arts.

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April 2017

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News

Nature reserve tunnelling work due to start this month

WORK to construct a tunnel to carry a new sewer pipe under the M4 motorway is due to begin in Bradley Stoke’s Three Brooks Local Nature Reserve at the end of April. The work, which is expected to last for approximately six months, will involve setting up a fenced site compound on the triangular area of grass near the bridge over Hortham Brook where it flows into the ‘duck pond’. A six-metre deep shaft will be constructed in this location, from where a tunnel will be bored to accommodate the new 1.8m-diameter sewer pipe. The tunnel will form part of a new 5km-long link between Frampton Cotterell and Bradley Stoke, completing the final link in the Frome Valley Relief Sewer which was begun in the 1990s. A temporary footpath will be in place and access will be maintained at all times. Heavy construction plant and machinery will also have access to carry out the work. This will be achieved via a temporary access point on Bradley Stoke Way, close to the bridge over Stoke Brook. A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “While we carry out the work we will take care to protect the natural habitats and environment of the local wildlife. Once our work is complete we will return the local nature reserve to the condition we found it.” “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience this work may cause.” Further information about the work can be found on the Wessex Water website at www. wessexwater.co.uk/FromeValley

Top: Illustrative cross-section showing the tunnel passing under Hortham Brook, ‘the Tump’ and the M4 motorway. Above: Plan showing footpath diversion and boundary of the site compound close to the Three Brooks lake.

BRADLEY STOKE TOWN COUNCIL Hereby gives notice that the Annual Town Meeting will be held at: The Jubilee Centre Savages Wood Road Bradley Stoke, BS32 8HL 7.00pm Wednesday 10 May 2017 Council Members welcome all those attending to join them in cutting a celebration cake to mark the 25th anniversary of Bradley Stoke Town Council

Sharon Petela, Town Clerk Council Ofﬁce, The Jubilee Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, South Glos BS32 8HL (01454) 205020 www.bradleystoke.gov.uk

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Join us for our open day at

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ar’s e B a m a M are Now available at Great Park Road! C i x Fle Instead of having to stick to rigid sessions you are able to change your booking pattern every week and there is no minimum sessions per week. This is especially helpful for parents who work shifts or are freelance. We are the only nursery in the area currently to offer this option.

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April 2017

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Schools

Wheatfield parent wins PlayPod funding from Greencore Dragons

Bradley Stoke primary school has been successful in winning project funding from a major business in the town, following a gruelling Dragons’ Den style assessment process. Greencore Prepared Meals, which produces own-brand ready meals for a number of supermarket chains at a factory in Hawkley Drive, has awarded Wheatfield Primary School £920 to fund its incredibly popular Scrapstore PlayPod for one year. The PlayPod is a purpose-built walk-in structure that contains a vast collection of materials and objects that businesses routinely throw away, from giant flexible tubes, crates, drums and netting to unwanted phones, keyboards, packaging and workwear. Pupils at the school are given the opportunity to play creatively with the scrap material at break times, which they wholeheartedly embrace. Scrapstore PlayPods have been shown to transform children’s daily experiences at school by encouraging them to play together across age and friendship groups and to take and assess risk for themselves. PlayPods have also reduced the level of playground disputes, which means teachers spend less time in the classroom dealing

with issues after the lunchtime break. Moreover, children return to the classroom energised and ready to learn. The Wheatfield PlayPod was originally installed at the school in 2012 at a cost of £15,000. It is maintained by Bristol based charity Children’s Scrapstore, who restock it six times a year. The money awarded by Greencore is the result of a community support initiative which encourages members of staff to make a ‘pitch’ to their leadership team to ask for support for a local cause that is close to their heart. The winning pitch for the PlayPod funding was made by Greencore team leader Jaroslaw Klos, who has a child in Year 3 at Wheatfield. To celebrate the award, Wheatfield Primary School invited representatives from Greencore Prepared Meals and Children’s Scrapstore to visit the school during lunch break on Tuesday 7th March, so that they could witness pupils enjoying the PlayPod materials. All the scrap used in a Scrapstore PlayPod is clean and safe waste which is collected from around 350 Bristol-area based small, medium and multinational businesses and manufacturers. The Children’s Scrapstore collects

Greencore staff Ben Long (HR manager, left), Vicki Legomski (HR Advisor, 2nd from right) and Jaroslaw Klos (team leader, right) join acting headteacher Lois Haydon to celebrate Greencore’s funding of the school’s PlayPod

on average around 100 tonnes of business waste materials every year from the Bristol area.

To find out more about Children’s Scrapstore PlayPods, visit www.playpods.co.uk

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Ask the Doctor with Dr Sophie Kilmartin of Bradley Stoke Surgery Health and safety

his weekend I have been reading through the Bradley Stoke Surgery’s Health and Safety Policy. In common will other places of work, everyone at the surgery has to refresh their knowledge by going through a yellow and black striped folder and doing online training annually. To be honest it always feels like a bit of a chore on top of an otherwise busy workload. It can be easy to resent these sort of extra tasks. This year I thought that I would try and change my perception of why we are doing it. To that end I spoke to my mother who had researched our family tree. I remembered her saying that several relatives had died of work related illness in the past. She had found out that my great-grandfather, who worked at the swimming baths in the 1920s, died of bronchitis. This was thought to have been due

to him standing in cold water for prolonged periods mending things in the pool. He died in his 40s leaving 9 children. My great-great-grandfather died in 1890 at the age of 41 leaving 4 daughters. This was due to lead poisoning sustained during his occupation of lithographic printer. It must have been awful for these people to have to go to work to support their families knowing the effects on their own health. I am sure many people have similar stories in their own family tree. Luckily, nowadays, we have personal protective equipment such as gloves, aprons and goggles to protect us from chemicals and spills at work. We have heating to protect us from cold weather and keep our water at temperature levels which prevent legionella. The main office work related health and safety issues nowadays are

more likely to be neck, back, wrist and eye problems from screen use. Take a moment to have a fresh look at your desk space. Remember to take regular breaks from screens and get the chair and computer monitor heights adjusted correctly. Avoid using laptops for prolonged periods. Know what to do if there is a fire alarm to keep yourself and colleagues safe. Take hand hygiene seriously and be aware of manual handling issues. Above all, be glad for health and safety policies – Nothing is so important that we can’t take the time to do it safely!

April 2017

In Brief NFHP MetroBus launch date slips by a month MetroBus services on the North Fringe to Hengrove Package (NFHP) route, which passes through Bradley Stoke, will now not begin operating until November 2017 following a delay to the start of work on a section of the route in south Bristol. A recent report says the scheme “continues to face cost pressures, resulting from earlier protestor action and costs related to design amendments and delays”. It adds: “Extensive cost reviews are being undertaken and the Quantitative Risk Assessment adjusted monthly going forward.” Discussions with two potential commercial operators are said to be “close to conclusion”, however there are indications that the bids put forward do not provide full coverage of planned MetroBus service levels, meaning that some routes or journeys might require council subsidy.

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April 2017

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News Local sewing expert’s charity work for Needles, Hooks, Angels and Preemies By Nikki Hallur his month we spoke to Julie Tottle, a Bradley Stoke resident who has turned her skill of crocheting into charity work. Julie uses her spare time to make items for Needles, Hooks, Angels and Preemies (NHAP), an organisation that donates clothing to hospitals and families so that they can be used for ‘angel and preemie’ babies. The term ‘preemie’ refers to premature babies and ‘angel’ refers to baby loss due to miscarriage, stillbirth or another event soon after birth. The charity also supports children’s hospitals, cancer care, and patients of dementia, autism and brain injuries. Julie, who has three grownup children and a two-year-old grand-daughter, told us she got involved with the charity about

Items created by local resident Julie Tottle from a wedding gown

a year ago, when her daughter’s friend had an ‘angel baby’ born at 21 weeks. Although Julie works full time for the NHS

Blood and Transplant Service, her shift work allows her to use her four rest days for sewing. She transforms wedding gowns

that are sent to her into outfits for babies born from 16 weeks to full term. Some outfits are sold, which raises money for the postage and packaging of the donated items. Julie told us that items are auctioned online for postage costs, and that the group is always looking for more volunteers, to knit and sew and also to fundraise for the postage costs which are around £1000 a month. Volunteers who sew items for NHAP are often given requests of the kind of clothes that are needed. The group’s Facebook page showcases the wedding gowns that are donated to be transformed for the charity’s needs. Julie encourages anyone interested in this work to get in touch through the Needles, Hooks, Angels and Preemies website: http://bit.ly/nhap-web

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News

In Brief

Specsavers staff pedal and bake for Comic Relief

We hand-deliver 9,500 copies of this magazine

SPORTY staff from a Bradley Stoke opticians worked hard to raise over £150 for Comic Relief, by taking part in an exercise-athon on Tuesday 21st March. The team from Specsavers in the Willow Brook Centre supported the charity by taking it in turns to row and ride part of a long-distance challenge, in exchange for donations towards the cause. The team also ran a ‘guess the number of sweets in the jar’ competition, giving customers a chance to win a giant bunny and Easter egg, as well as hosting a bake sale on Saturday 25th March. Specsavers is supporting Comic Relief to help poor and vulnerable people living tough lives both here in the UK and across Africa and has pledged to raise at least £250,000 for the charity. The company has been a Comic Relief partner since 2015.

As well as being delivered to ALL of the 8,700 homes in Bradley Stoke, a further 800 copies of this magazine are delivered in the neighbouring areas of Little Stoke and Stoke Lodge. We leave a further 700 copies at public locations in Almondsbury, Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Patchway, Stoke Lodge, Stoke Gifford and Winterbourne.

The Journal is proud to be Bradley Stoke’s ONLY locally edited newspaper!

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Graham Bayley feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing

is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do

the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Stoke Lodge, Patchway and Stoke Gifford areas and Graham is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is

that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Graham a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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April 2017

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News

Three Brooks nature group report for March By Sara Messenger of the Three Brooks Nature Conservation Group

Monthly workday and the Big Spring Clean

Our planned March workday, working on the marsh, hit a major snag. Although the work we do on the reserve has been agreed with South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) from a conservation perspective, there have been several legislative changes over the past few years and now all water based work must also be approved by their Drainage and Flood Risk Management Team. So, until the SGC team are able to assess our plans, our team will have to stay on dry land. So, instead we had some March Morning Madness and went on a Big Spring Clean. We collected over 29 bags of rubbish, but without a single traffic cone or shopping trolley in sight! We arranged the collection with Streetcare who rather sheepishly told me on the Monday that they couldn’t find the bags. A quick visit confirmed that it wasn’t their map reading skills that had vanished but the bags. Jason Holcombe, who works for Bradley Stoke Town Council had seen the collection and had just sorted it before any of us were even on our second coffee. Jason surpassed himself on our next spring clean by collecting the bags even before I’d sent out the email! As well as ordinary black bags, we have been given a box of dog poo bags, so if you see us out on the reserve please feel free to ask for some. We have so far collected over 50 bags from locations in and around the reserve, although we expect to collect a few more before the campaign finishes. In the afternoon, using some willow that we had recently coppiced, we also put in a couple of benches along the path by Campion Way. Although they weren’t finished in time for the weary Avon Valley 10k runners that passed by us, we did later manage to persuade a brave

Left: Rubbish collected during the Big Spring Clean. Right: Bench installed beside the path near Campion Way.

family to test them for us! As well as benches, I discovered this week another use for willow – there was an old tradition to bury your loved ones with a willow wand as it wards off ‘evil spirits’, although I can offer no proof that it works!

Swans

Bradley and Brooke have started to nest again and have sent last years cygnets packing, although like many teenagers they are not quite ready to be wholly independent and have only decamped as far as the brook between the lake and Sherbourne Brake / Braydon Gate. When we

last saw them they were looking at us expectantly in the hope of a free lunch. Sadly, we had to disappoint them, but hopefully they have more luck with you.

Tree measuring event

As part of Science Week, we hosted a Tree Measuring drop-in session which was attended by over 20 people. Tree measuring isn’t quite as simple as it sounds, but Sarah Ayling, who works for the Dry Project, taught us how to identify and measure trees, what happens when there is a drought and the environmental benefits that trees provide

The trees measured have been added to their online map, as will their carbon and water storage calculations; I did say it wasn’t that simple! Sarah said: “Thank you so much for allowing us to join your group yesterday to do some tree measuring. It was really nice for me to meet so many interested and enthusiastic people.” Sarah is also putting together a tree measuring kit that can either be used by student ambassadors in schools or borrowed by local groups. ● Contact the Three Brooks Nature Conservation Group by phone on 07497 006676.

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April 2017

What’s On

News

School invites all to Easter Egg Hunt

Amateur radio club seeks new members

THE FRIENDS of Baileys Court Primary School would like to invite all children and their families to an Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday 9th April. The event will take place in the school grounds from 10m to 12pm. It is open to all primaryage school children and their families. Tickets cost £2.50 per child in advance (from the school office) or £3.50 on the day. Each child will receive an Easter Egg (or similar if allergies do not allow chocolate) for completing the hunt. An assortment of hot food and beverages will be available to buy on the day including bacon & egg rolls, hot drinks and snacks. Come and enjoy some refreshments while your children

hunt for eggs designed by Baileys Court Primary’s own Art Club! For more details, search for the Friends of Baileys Court Primary School page on Facebook.

Bradley Stoke Journal

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local amateur radio club is seeking to raise its profile and attract new members from Bradley Stoke and the surrounding area. The Thornbury and South Gloucestershire Amateur Radio Club, commonly abbreviated to the TSGARC, is a growing, friendly and vibrant club, whose members come from many backgrounds in amateur radio. In addition to a common interest in radios, members have many other hobbies and interests that have become part of club life, these include narrow band television, computers and IT, aero modelling, vintage radios and equipment, digital photography, space technology, geocaching and historical engineering. A number the club’s members are active in the local RAYNET group. The TSGARC programme reflects this mix of interests, and in addition to regular ‘on the air’ nights, the club hosts

talks with a variety of guest and club speakers, along with video evenings, practical equipment nights and the occasional external visit. The club has its own station (call sign G4ABC), complete with VHF/UHF antenna plus a full-sized dipole for the 40m HF band. Club nights take place most Wednesday evenings between 7.30pm and 9.30pm in the Buckingham Room at The Chantry, 52 Castle Street, Thornbury. The club’s PR officer Mark Beasley said: “Anyone who might be interested is welcome to attend our club nights to see who we are and what we do. We are especially interested in those into electronics, ICT and/or SDR, and can give some concessions to those who are school leavers or at college.” For further information contact Mark on 0777 6292813 or visit www.tsgarc.uk

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April 2017

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What’s On (2nd April – 7th May) Sunday 2nd April 8.30am: Severnside Ramblers’ Walk: Tintern. Meet in the Blue Zone car park at Aztec West – a car-sharing scheme is operated. More info: http://bit.ly/ssramb [Further organised walks on 9th, 14th, 16th, 23rd, 28th & 30th April and 7th May] 9.30am: Stokes Cycling Club Novice and Long Distance Bike Rides. Meet outside Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/stokescc or phone Bryan on 01454 617560. [Further organised rides on 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th April]

Monday 3rd April

t: 01454 300 400 For more details and further events, visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/whats-on/

phone 08444 111444 [Weekly on Wednesdays]

For keen readers aged 9-11. Please ask a member of staff for details.

2pm-3.30pm: Bradley Stoke Senior Friends meet at Baileys Court Activity Centre. Drop-in social club for the over-55s. [Weekly on Wednesdays]

Sunday 9th April

Thursday 6th April 11am: Pre-School Storytime at Bradley Stoke Library. [Weekly on Thursdays; term time only] 12pm-2pm: Volunteering Drop-in Session at Bradley Stoke Library. Pop in for a chat with a volunteer advisor. More info: http://bit.ly/vc-pfs or call 01454 868986

10am-12pm: Easter Egg Hunt at Baileys Court Primary School. See article on page 42.

Monday 10th April 1.30pm-3.30pm: Sew and So’s patchwork and quilting group meets at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/sewandsos 7pm: BSTC Leisure, Youth & Amenities Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http://bit.ly/bstclya

Tuesday 11th April

9am-11.30am: Refresh Café at Bradley Stoke Evangelical Church. Everyone welcome. [Weekly on Mondays; term time only]

4.15pm: Spanish Rhyme Time at Bradley Stoke Library. For children up to Year 2. [Weekly on Thursdays; term-time only]

9am-3pm: FREE Spring Fun Day at the Willow Brook Centre. See advert on page 3. More info: http://bit.ly/bs32wbc

10.30am: Baby Rhymetime at Bradley Stoke Library. [Weekly on Mondays; term-time only]

8pm: The Stokes Crafters meet at the Poplar Rooms, North Road, Stoke Gifford. More info: The Stokes Crafters group on Facebook [Weekly on Thursdays]

7.30pm: Willow Brook Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Jubilee Centre. This month: Keeping safe (local police). More info: Janine 01454 617645

Friday 7th April

Wednesday 12th April

9am-11am: Coffee Morning at Church of Christ the King. Everyone welcome. No charge for refreshments – donations accepted. [Weekly on Fridays]

2pm: Bradley Stoke Women’s Institute (WI) meets at the Jubilee Centre. This month: Talk on container gardening. More info: Beverley 01454 625855

Saturday 8th April

7.30pm: Bradley Stoke Lions Club meets at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. More info: Robin Young on 07712 046644

11am: Stepping Forward. Organised walk (3.5 miles) starting from Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/sgcwalk or phone 01454 868006 [Further walks on 6th & 20th April and 4th May]

Tuesday 4th April 7pm: Girls and Young Women’s Night at the Jubilee Centre. Girls-only youth club night. [Weekly on Tuesdays]

Wednesday 5th April 10am-12noon: Citizens Advice Bureau Outreach Session at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/citadbu or

10.30am-12.30pm: FREE Easter Crafts and Easter Bonnet Parade at the Jubilee Centre. Organised by the Friends of Jubilee Green. More info: http://bit.ly/bs32fojg 2.30pm: Chatterbooks Group meets at Bradley Stoke Library.

April 2017

Sunday 16th April 10am-2pm: Easter Bunny Bike Ride (Family Treasure Hunt) at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. See article on page 10.

Wednesday 19th April 7pm: BSTC Finance Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcfin

Thursday 20th April 7pm: South Gloucestershire Decorative & Fine Arts Society Lecture at Bradley Stoke Community School. This month: ‘The Forbidden City’ by Anne Hayworth. See page 34.

Friday 28th April 4.30pm: BIGGERbooks Reading Group meets at Bradley Stoke Library. For young people in Years 7 to 9. Please ask a member of staff for details.

Wednesday 26th April 7pm: BSTC Planning Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcpec

Friday 5th May 1.40pm-8pm: Blood Donation Sessions at the Jubilee Centre. More info: www.blood.co.uk

Saturday 6th May 10am-4pm: Three Brooks Nature Conservation Group Workday. Meet at the tool store, behind Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/ bsj-tbncg or call 07497 006676

Sunday 7th May 7am-5pm: Car Boot Sale at Trench Lane, BS32 4JZ. One of the biggest in the West! More info: http://bit.ly/trenchlane [Weekly until 24th September]

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www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

Accountants & Bookkeepers C&M Services, Page 13 TJS Business Solutions, Page 17 Alternative Therapies Just You Holistics, Page 43 Bathrooms Concept Property Maintenance, Page 44 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 37 Beauty Services Beautific Beauty, Page 43 Builders Criterion Construction, Page 4 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 37 Carpentry & Joinery J. Earle Carpentry & Joinery, Page 43 Carpet Cleaners B Clean, Page 32 Bonne Fresh Clean Ltd, Page 9 Child Care Happy Days Nursery, Page 17 Mama Bear’s Day Nursery, Page 36 Children’s Activities Carrie Vinson Equestrian, Page 29 Willow Brook Centre, Page 3 Chiropractic Cool Green Planet, Page 5 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Churches Bridge Community Church, Page 41 Cleaning & Domestic Services Visit directory on BSJ website Computer Services goto iT, Page 20 Conservatories Leekes, Page 48 Curtains & Blinds Visit directory on BSJ website Cycle Repairs Ride On Cycles, Page 23 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 32 Double Glazing Cloudy2Clear Windows, Page 40 JDC Windows, Page 42 Leekes, Page 48 Education & Learning BTE Academy, Page 12 DCET Training, Page 7 Kumon Study Programme, Page 29 Olympus Academy Trust, Pages 16 & 28 SGS College, Page 47 Electricians Concept Property Maintenance, Page 44 NRB Electrical, Page 7 Estate Agents Lifestyle Estate Agents, Page 1 Ocean Estate Agents, Page 33 Woods Estate Agents, Page 31 Events Bradley Stoke Town Council, Page 35 Willow Brook Centre, Page 3 Foot Care Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Funeral Services F. Woodruff Funeral Directors, Page 13 Furniture Complete Furniture Services, Page 39 Garage Services Filton Central Garage, Page 23 So Smart Alloy Wheels, Page 9 Gardening Services Garretts Landscapes, Page 19 Painting Petals, Page 43

Plan-It Garden Design, Page 20 Professional Gardening Services, Page 46 Gyms & Health Clubs Riverside Leisure Club, Page 27 Hairdressers Reflections, Page 6 Home Improvements & Furnishings Door Express, Page 44 Home Security CCTV Home Security, Page 43 Launderettes Wash Shop Plus, Page 43 Mortgages & Financial Advice Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 14 Opticians Specsavers, Page 38 Painting & Decorating A. Worsfold, Page 43 Painting Petals, Page 43 Pet Services & Supplies Husse Bristol, Page 43 New Passage Cattery, Page 45 Rosie Posie Pet Services, Page 45 Physiotherapy Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Plant Hire T. Edwards Plant, Page 46 Plumbing & Heating Assist Plumbing and Heating, Page 45 Capricorn Plumbing Ltd, Page 15 Boiler Service and Repair, Page 45 Concept Property Maintenance, Page 44 Gregor Heating, Page 9 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 37 Low Cost Plumbing, Page 45 M.S.M Plumbing & Heating, Page 45 Panache Plumbing, Page 45 Proudfoot Plumbing, Page 45 S. Berryman Plumbing & Heating, Page 45 Property McCarthy & Stone, Page 22 Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Page 2 Property Maintenance Concept Property Maintenance, Page 44 JJ Plumbing & Building, Page 37 P.J.R Plastics, Page 45 Recruitment Bristol Care Homes, Page 37 Carepride, Page 32 Restaurants DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Page 8 Rubbish Clearance Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance, Page 46 Self Storage Dainton Self Storage, Pages 1 & 30 Solicitors Bevan Evemy Solicitors, Page 30 Star Legal, Page 21 Slimming Clubs & Consultants Slimming World, Page 11 Sport & Leisure Bradley Stoke Town Council, Page 34 Carrie Vinson Equestrian, Page 29 West Country Military Assault Course, Page 10 Taxis South Glos Taxis Ltd, Page 45 Kinetic Cabs, Page 45 TV & Aerials Image Aerial Systems, Page 43 Veterinary Surgeons Visit directory on BSJ website Window Cleaning Ultra Clear, Page 43

Visit our online directory: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/directory

April 2017

t: 01454 300 400 PLANT HIRE

T. EDWARDS PLANT Digger and Driver Hire • • • • • • •

Site/garden clearance Footings Drainage/soakaways Driveway preparation Stump removal Fencing & turfing Narrow access equipment

Price or day work

t: 07900 372349

t.edwardsplant@gmail.com CPCS/CITB qualified & insured

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

FREE

ADULT COMPUTER COURSES @ Local Libraries in South Gloucestershire

Would you or someone you know benefit from learning or improving their computer skills? In a relaxed and friendly environment, with approachable and patient tutors, you will be able to learn the following skills: •

Use the Internet to search for information, shop safely online, book holidays, flights, hotels and other activities.

•

Use email to send and read messages and add attachments.

•

Create documents such as letters and posters.

•

Learn about ICT, safety and security when working online.

At the following venues:

Monday am - Winterbourne Library Tuesday am – Downend Library Wednesday am – Emersons Green Library Wednesday am – Bradley Stoke Library

To Book a place:

If you would like to book or have any questions please pop into your preferred venue and speak to a librarian.

Courses start twice a year!

Bradley Stoke Full Page Free IT March 2017.indd 1

08/03/2017 15:00:20

UP TO

4 YEARS INTEREST FREE CREDIT

on ALL Windows

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YEAR

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120 YEARS

1897 - 2017

0% APR representative. Finance is subject to status, conditions apply. Credit is provided by Hitachi Consumer Finance, who along with Leekes are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. †Conditions apply, ask in store for details.