November 2014

Delivered FREE, EVERY MONTH, to all homes in Bradley Stoke

November 2014 • Issue 19

LETTERS P8 | POLICE P15 | SCHOOLS P23 | QUIZ P28 | WHAT’S ON P36 | DIRECTORY P37-38

PLANS SUBMITTED FOR 2,675 HOMES ON AIRFIELD SITE Pages 18 & 19

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PLUS , IN YOUR 40-PAGE BRADLEY STOKE MAGAZINE

Bus travel survey

First criticised for poor service

Halloween activities

P20-21

Pumpkin fun at MS Centre P24-25

l New bus service to restore lost link to Parkway l “Concern” over levels of drug use by teenagers in Bradley Stoke l Town’s new £260k skate park expected to be ready next summer l BSCS students visit World War One battlefields l Frustration over broadband delays l Lions Club honour for BSCS student Louis l Construction of new primary school under way l Ian Boulton chosen to fight 2015 general election for Labour l Bradley Stoke in Bloom makeover for Willow Brook town square l Dad & daughter team plans tandem skydive

SGS COLLEGE OPEN TO ALL!

Join us at our upcoming Open Event and find out about South Gloucestershire & Stroud College’s wide range of full and part time study programmes, including those starting September 2015.

Our next Open Events at SGS College: Saturday 8th November, 10:00-13:00 Wednesday 26th November, 17:30-20:00 • Speak with course specialists • Meet with current learners studying at SGS College • Try out activities relating to your subject of interest • Partake in a campus tour, plus much more

For further details visit www.sgscol.ac.uk or call 0800 0567 253

November 2014

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News

New bus service to restore lost link to Parkway

A

new bus service being introduced by First on 3rd November will restore the daytime link between the southern section of Brook Way and Parkway Station, which was lost when the 73 and 74 routes were merged in August 2013.

The new 83 service will provide journey opportunities between Thornbury and Kingswood, while also serving Almondsbury, Bradley Stoke, Parkway, UWE (Frenchay Campus), Fishponds and Hillfields. Buses will run hourly Monday to Saturday daytimes.

From the Aztec West Roundabout, buses will travel down Bradley Stoke Way to the Patchway Brook Roundabout (near Aldi), before traversing the full length of Brook Way, and on to Parkway via Orpheus Avenue and Hatchet Road.

Timetables for the new service are available on the First Bristol

and Bath website or from the First travel shop in Bristol.

In other bus service news, Bradley Stoke town councillor Tom Aditya is calling for a new direct bus service to be introduced between Bradley Stoke, Southmead Hospital, the city centre hospitals and Bristol Temple Meads Station.

In a letter published on The Journal website, Cllr Aditya says he believes there is a demand for such a service due to the many Bradley Stoke residents who work at the hospitals or need to visit them regularly for treatment.

However, South Gloucestershire Council’s Transport Operations Manager Roy Steele told the October meeting of Bradley Stoke Town Council’s Planning Committee that there is little prospect of such a service being introduced “in the current economic climate”. ● Bus travel survey: Page 20

Route plan of First’s new 83 service (also shows 81 and 82 routes)

l

Sixth Form Open Evening

Tuesday 4 November l

Whole School Open Morning Saturday 8 November

Celebrating in style for our 380th anniversary

Visit us

For more information contact: Junior School, Mrs Lynn McCabe 0117 962 9451 Senior School, Mrs Liz Bamber 0117 989 8252 Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9

@RedMaidsSchool /redmaidsschool

redmaids.co.uk

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Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB

Find us on Facebook: BradleyStokeJournal Follow us on Twitter: @TheBSJournal

About the Bradley Stoke Journal 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 19 The Park, Bristol.

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.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or article author. Š North Bristol Press 2014. Content published in our magazines or on our websites may not be reproduced in any form without our express written permission.

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November 2014

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News

“Concern” over levels of drug use by teenagers in Bradley Stoke

S

pecialist youth workers could soon be called into Bradley Stoke to educate young people about the risks and consequences of using drugs, following “growing concern” over levels of cannabis use by teenagers in the town.

The move comes after Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS) reported in a recent school newsletter that staff were “very aware that some of our students are experimenting out in the community with drugs”.

The preface to the newsletter, published on 26th September, explained: “We have been alerted to some drug related activity in the local area by the community police team. We are never complacent about such information and intend to work alongside them to ensure that our

young people are safe and not involved in risk-taking and illegal activity outside school. Many schools would not acknowledge this concern for fear that parents would think the school ‘has a drug problem’; we do not and our strong stance on drugs is to ensure that school is a totally safe environment for all our students.”

Parents were told that information to support them in understanding the issue of drugs would be made available at upcoming parent consultation evenings and a full page of drugsrelated advice was printed on the second page of the newsletter.

Students at BSCS have been reminded via assemblies about the seriousness of bringing banned items into school and warned that doing so could lead to permanent exclusion.

bristol – patchway

CHIROPRACTOR

BS34 near you tel 0117 969 7553

For a Lifetime of Health

www.coolgreenplanetonline.com

The issue was also raised at a town council meeting in October, where Graham Baker, the council’s youth participation worker, reported that he had met with South Gloucestershire Young People’s Drug and Alcohol team workers and discussed possible joint working with regard to growing concern with levels of cannabis use.

In a statement provided to The Journal by Avon and Somerset Police, Neighbourhood Beat Manager Jamie Shiels said: “Our police neighbourhood team for Bradley Stoke works closely with all our schools and youth groups to educate young people about the risks and consequences of using drugs.”

“As far as we know, the Community School does not have a drug problem and we applaud

its strong stance on drugs to protect its students. We deal robustly with any drugs crimes and issues – only this week our officers arrested more than ten people in a series of drugs warrants across the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area. We know that young people anywhere will experiment with drugs, and we are constantly on alert to deal with the issue if and when it arises in our community.”

Parents and teenagers can find advice at www.talktofrank.com

CASE OF THE MONTH Dr Leah was recommended to me by friend after a back injury left me with excruciating pain. My treatment has been really effective so my body could heal without surgery.

Not only has the chiropractic care helped my back but also my little blue inhaler has been at the bottom of my handbag for years now and never ever gets used - an unexpected but true side benefit for me!

For me chiropractic care with her has been worth every penny for my overall health.

MRS K.B. BANKING SPECIALIST

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November 2014

News Specsavers’ charity fundraising weekend The Specsavers store at the Willow Brook Centre held back-to-back fun days on 10th & 11th October as it raised money for Guide Dogs and Breast Cancer Care.

The weekend of fundraising kicked off on Friday 10th with staff wearing neon clothes serving up an array of colourful cupcakes to support Guide Dogs Week.

The funds raised will help Guide Dogs in its mission to provide mobility and freedom to blind and partially sighted people.

Specsavers has been supporting the charity for more than 25 years.

The team continued their efforts on Saturday 11th by donning pink and selling treats in aid of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Care is one of the UK’s leading charities, which provides information and support to those affected by breast cancer.

Photo: Staff members (l-r) Beth, Hollie and Marcela serve up cupcakes in support of the Guide Dogs charity.

Filton barber’s Movember charity appeal

£5 to join the filton barber Movember team, free moustache trims to all MoBro’s plus a free haircut if you raise over £100, please come into the shop for sign up details. If you can’t join in please support us.

A Filton barber is appealing for local residents to join his Movember charity fundraising team and is offering free moustache trims throughout November to anyone who signs up.

After raising an impressive £1,498 in 2013, £924 of which was raised through his Gloucester Road North shop, Mario Parrinello is hoping that this year’s Filton Barbers Moteam can break the £2,000 barrier.

Joining the team is easy – just make a £5 donation through ‘The Filton Barbers Moteam’ page on the official Movember.com website (directlink: uk.movember.com/

team/1552857). Anyone raising more than £100 for the charity will be entitled to a free haircut at The Filton Barbers, 3 Gloucester Road North, BS7 0SG. Mario said: “I think the Movember charity is perfect for the barbering industry, as moustaches and beards are something we deal with on a daily basis and we have a great opportunity to get the message across to the customer, even though cancer is not always an easy subject to talk about, but you would be surprised how easily the conversation flows when cutting hair!” ● See advert on left.

Movember State Registered Barber

The Filton Barbers 3 Gloucester Road North, Filton Park, Bristol BS7 0SG Tel 0790 774 2566 www.thefiltonbarbers.co.uk

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November 2014

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News

Town’s new £260k skate park expected to be ready next summer

B

radley Stoke Town Council says it is hopeful that a new concrete skate park within the grounds of the leisure centre will be ready for the school summer holidays next year, but probably not in time for the community festival in June, as had originally been planned.

The £260k funding for the park has been raised from various sources, including £200k from South Gloucestershire Council (SGC), and young people continue to be actively involved in the design and development of the project.

The town council is working closely with SGC and a range of specialist surveys and reports on the new site are nearing conclusion. It is anticipated that the tender process, to identify a specialist skate park design and construction company,

will go live very soon. Once a design and construction company has been appointed, there will be further consultation with young people and other key stakeholders to fine tune the final design.

Over the recent summer holidays, local young people, with the support of Graham Baker, the town council’s Youth Development & Participation Worker, have been visiting other skate parks to gather ideas.

They have so far been, along with their BMXs and Scooters, to skate parks in Midsomer Norton, Winchester, Newbury, Oxford and Cirencester. After riding the parks, the young people have had regular meetings to critically evaluate what they have learned from the experience, both positive and negative, and to identify features and ideas that could be

Current skate park

New skate park

incorporated in the new facility.

Several young people are now being supported to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award as a consequence of their volunteering and active involvement in the planning and organisation of the two days

of skate park related events at this year’s community festival, their ongoing commitment to the research and development of the new park and other ongoing contributions, including reporting on any maintenance issues at the existing skate park.

Youth Participation Worker Graham Baker with skate park design brochures

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November 2014

Letters and Opinions Friendly staff at the Willow Brook Centre Having lived in Bradley Stoke for the last three years, I just want to say how friendly I have found staff in the Willow Brook Centre.

Whether it’s a big store or an individual unit, there’s always a smile of greeting.

In particular, a big thank you to Fab, Emma and all the staff in Costa Coffee, who give a fantastic service and make it a pleasure to sit and enjoy a relaxing drink.

Norman Phillips Bradley Stoke

Town councillors: How do we vote against having them?

Having lived in Bradley Stoke for 22 years, I would like to endorse every word written by Fred Hillberg in your October edition [Letters: “‘Arrogance” of our

town councillors’].

Why do we need a town council when everything goes through South Gloucestershire anyway?

It is appalling that they don’t even live in Bradley Stoke. Where can we vote against having them?

The savings would be immense.

Pat Perkins Bradley Stoke

a lack of sports facilities in the area, and just because he does not use them, he feels they should be taken away.

Perhaps the writer should walk to the surgery and get in some fresh air and make himself a bit fitter, like the people who play tennis probably try to do.

Gary Luton Bradley Stoke

Town’s sports facilities Concern over cyclists should not be riding on footpaths sacrificed for parking I am writing with grave concern I just wanted to quickly respond to a letter in your last edition, re: the tennis courts by the Bradley Stoke doctors’ surgery [Letters: “‘Arrogance” of our town councillors’].

Firstly, I do not, and have not ever, used these tennis courts, but must say, I find the attitude of the writer, that they should be knocked down to make more space for parking, disgusting.

There is and always has been

JACK LOPRESTI MP

Member of Parliament for Filton and Bradley Stoke

Jack has surgeries on Fridays at locations across the constituency – please make an appointment: 01454 617 783 or jack.lopresti.mp@parliament.uk Jack’s drop-in constituency office is at 2B, 1st Floor East, The Willow Brook Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, BS32 8BS Open 9-6 weekdays

for pedestrians who walk dogs, people with prams and people who use walking aids on footpaths in the Bradley Stoke area, as I feel that someone is going to get hurt or injured by cyclists who ride their bikes on the footpaths.

I know some places have a dividing line for pedestrians and cyclists, but these are not found everywhere – and cyclists ride bikes on footpaths where there is no such line.

A lot of cyclists don’t wear cycle helmets, don’t have bells on their bikes and carry no lights.

On several occasions, I have been out walking and had a cyclist nearly run into me. It seems they expect you to move out of the way, as they own the pavement, not the pedestrians.

Also, in places where the path is divided, you sometimes have to step onto part of the cycling section because there are overhanging bushes where pedestrians are expected to walk.

Now the darker nights are here

Your Views

Do you have strong views about something that’s happening in 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. and cyclists have no lights or bells on their bikes, pedestrians do not know there is a cyclist anywhere near them until they nearly run into you with their bikes.

If you say anything to the cyclist, they become verbal to you and you’re made to feel as though you should not be on the footpaths walking, so I really think this matter needs dealing with before it’s too late and a cyclist does cause injury to a pedestrian.

Carol Nehir Bradley Stoke

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November 2014

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News

Poppy Appeal launched at Parkway Station

T

he Stoke Gifford branch of The Royal British Legion (RBL) launched its 2014 Poppy Appeal with a ceremony in the foyer of Bristol Parkway Station on Friday 24th October.

The ceremony was attended by Station Manager Linda Swainger, Jack Lopresti MP (RBL branch vice president) and members of the Bristol Squadron of the RBL Riders (motorcyclists).

Parkway Station is one of the main sites for the branch’s fundraising efforts, along with the Asda store in Filton, Sainsbury’s in Stoke Gifford and the Willow Brook Centre in Bradley Stoke.

Branch members will be collecting at each of the four venues daily from 9am to 6pm until Sunday 9th November.

The branch will again be supplying its legendary knitted poppies which have been a great hit in recent years. Last year it sold 3,500 of them, raising

thousands for the Poppy Appeal.

Hilary Bloor, RBL branch chair said: “The Poppy Appeal launch is the start of our year for collecting monies for the welfare and support of service and exservice personnel, their families and dependants. Last year, the Stoke Gifford branch raised about £35,000 and we appreciate the public’s generosity to this cause”.

Branch spokesman, David Bell added: “Money raised through the Poppy Appeal goes towards the RBL Welfare Fund. Nationally, the Legion spends £1.6 million every week in help and support, so it needs the continued generous support of the public, businesses and other organisations to help raise the funding it requires for its welfare work.”

The Legion is always looking for volunteers for its work; if you are interested, please contact John Moloney on 07802 535591. ● Remembrance services: Page 11.

Poppy Appeal launch at Parkway Station (l-r): Brian Hewitt, John Moloney, David Bell, Jack Lopresti MP and Linda Swainger

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November 2014

News

BSCS students visit WW1 battlefields

T

wo Year 9 students and a teacher from Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS) have undertaken a four day trip to First World War (WW1) battlefield and cemetery sites as part of a government-funded initiative to commemorate the centenary of the 1914-19 conflict.

Under the scheme, every state funded secondary school in England is being given the opportunity to send two students on a high-quality educational tour designed to strengthen the participants’ knowledge and understanding of WW1 as well as giving them the opportunity to develop related projects in their own communities.

Last summer, BSCS students interested in taking part in the project were asked to write letters of application explaining why they would like to go on the trip and what they would do to act as ambassadors within the school. The result of the selection process was that Billy Wilde and Jade Fisher were chosen to represent the school on the trip, which took place from 10th to 14th October.

In his letter, Billy said he had relevant experience through selling poppies for the Royal British Legion, while Jade explained that she is interested in history, with war being her favourite topic.

Humanities teacher Jennifer Griffiths, who accompanied Billy and Jade, commented that the project was unique in that it had such a high teacher to student ratio, which enabled a much deeper understanding and questioning of the key issues than on a normal school trip.

Leaving on Friday morning, the BSCS contingent, along with others from schools in Bristol, Exeter and Truro drove down to Ashford (Kent) where they took part in team building workshops and were given the chance to examine various WW1 artefacts, including shells, rifles and bombs.

Saturday saw the group heading off to Belgium where they visited the memorial museum at Passchendaele, Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery and the Langemark German Military Cemetery. In the evening, they attended the ceremony of the last post at the Menin Gate in Ypres, where two pupils from one of the other schools on the trip laid a wreath on behalf of the group.

Jade remarked that “there were graves as far as the eyes can see” at Tyne Cot, “giving a real glimpse into the scale of the war.” This was in stark contrast to Langemark, which she found to be smaller in scale and “eerily quiet” with dark gravestones under tall oak trees.

Jade Fisher and Billy Wilde in the reconstructed trenches at Passchendaele

On Sunday, the group travelled to France to visit sites associated with the Battle of the Somme, including the Ulster Memorial Tower, Sheffield Memorial Park, the Devonshire Cemetery and the Thiepval Memorial.

At some of the sites, the students were able to view recreated and original WW1 trenches and were shown how far soldiers managed to get on leaving the trenches before being mowed down by German machine guns.

The party was accompanied throughout the trip by four current soldiers from the army, who spent time with the students highlighting the differences and similarities between then and now, both in the practicalities of life on the front line and comparing the different kit available.

Monday began with a visit to the In Flanders Museum where an interactive exhibit allows anyone to type in their surname and find out how many soldiers

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News

Local Remembrance Parades and Ceremonies Bradley Stoke: Sunday 9th November – Parade from the Jubilee centre at 10.30am. Ceremony in the town square at 10.45am.

Stoke Gifford: Sunday 9th November – Ceremony at the cenotaph, North Road at 10.20pm followed by service at Rock Lane Baptist Church at 11am.

Patchway: Sunday 16th November – Parade from Waterside Drive at 10.15am followed by ceremony at RBL in Rodway Road.

Clay sculptures made in Ypres

with that name died in the war, along with their ages and where they were from.

Billy explained that he was already aware that one of his great great grandfathers had died in WW1 and is buried in India, having fought in Turkey and Mesopotamia.

The students also visited an arts project, where each of them made a clay sculpture that will form part of an installation of 600,000 such objects, representing the total number of people who lost their lives in Flanders during WW1.

Reflecting on the visit, Ms Griffiths said she believed it had been “massively worthwhile,” adding: “I learned an awful lot and gained a great deal of detailed knowledge. It will certainly influence the way I teach the topic in the future.”

Asked to name their most prominent memories of the trip, Billy said he had been “overwhelmed” by the 12,000 graves at Tyne Cot, while Jade

Armistice Day Commemorations at 11am on 11th November Short ceremonies organised by the Stoke Gifford Royal British Legion, with the Exhortation, Last Post, Two Minute Silence, Reveille and Kohima Epitaph.

Bradley Stoke: Willow Brook Centre Stoke Gifford: Parkway Station and Sainsbury’s Billy with a piece of bullet he found at Thiepval Wood

remarked that the “endless lists of names on memorials” had brought home to her the sheer size of the conflict.

On Monday 10th November, lessons for all students at BSCS will have a WW1 crosscurricular focus. The following day, Tuesday 11th November, every class in the school will visit a pop-up WW1 exhibition in the main hall, at which Billy and Jade will be on hand to share their experiences from the battlefields trip.

The exhibition will be also open to parents/carers and anyone in the local community on Monday 10th November, between 5pm and 7pm.

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Bradley Stoke Journal

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Church coffee morning moves to Wednesdays Refresh Café is now being held on Wednesday mornings at Bradley Stoke Evangelical Church, Baileys Court Road, from 9am to 11.30am (term time only). We serve tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and squash. Bacon rolls, toasted tea cakes, home made cakes and Danish pastries. Everyone is welcome to come along and chat with friends or meet new friends in a friendly and welcoming environment.

November 2014

News from Brook Court

By Grahame Holloway The darker evenings have seen the return of ‘Film Nights’ in the residents’ lounge, the series starting with a couple of John Wayne vintage ’westerns’ during which hot dogs were served in the interval.

By way of contrast, however, a number of our ladies turned their hand to baking a fine selection of cakes and buns in aid of the ‘Bake a Cake’ promotion by the charity ‘Breast Cancer Breakthrough’.

The sale of their products is due to take place at Brook Court on the afternoon of Saturday 8th November.

On a more serious note, for many of the residents, mobility is, or is likely to become, a problem as age advances.

Brook Court House Manager Jackie Holden, with McCarthy & Stone Benefits Advisor Colin Cuthbert

Bring a copy of this advert when joining and receive One Month Free LivingWell Health Club Hilton Bristol Woodlands Lane Bradley Stoke BS32 4JF 01454 893420 / anca.leru@hilton.com

To assist in unravelling the many allowances available to the disabled, residents were paid a visit by Colin Cuthbert, McCarthy & Stone’s benefits advisor. Fully conversant with the issue, he gave a very interesting presentation to a most appreciative audience.

Briefly mentioning the universal allowances already available to the elderly, he then continued to outline other allowances and grants before explaining in much greater depth the criteria to be met before payment of the attendance allowance. He concluded with an offer to assist any resident who needed help in processing an application, a gesture which was much appreciated.

December magazine Deadline for contributions: Monday 24th November To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

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News

In Brief

Ian Boulton chosen to fight 2015 general election for Labour

Vodafone to open at Willow Brook Centre

M

embers of the Filton and Bradley Stoke Labour Party have selected a former Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, Cllr Ian Boulton, to be the Labour Party parliamentary candidate at the general election in May 2015.

Cllr Boulton lives in the constituency in Staple Hill, which is the ward he represents on the council. He was also the Labour candidate for Filton and Bradley Stoke in the 2010 general election, when Labour came second.

In a statement, Cllr Boulton said: “I am so aware that our residents really want an MP who will work for them in Parliament, promote our local interests and deal with our concerns. It would be a privilege to work to ensure

all our residents have an MP who is keen to give them a voice in Westminster.”

The constituency of Filton and Bradley Stoke was created at the 2010 general election, when the Conservative candidate Jack Lopresti was elected with a 6,914 vote (14.3%) majority.

Cllr Boulton says he is encouraged by the findings of Election Calculus, an election result prediction website, which is currently showing Filton and Bradley Stoke to be a potential Labour gain. Betting odds offered by bookmaker Ladbrokes paint a different picture, however, with the Conservatives currently 1/3, Labour 9/4, Lib Dems 33/1 and UKIP 50/1 to win the seat.

Cllr Boulton added: “Over

the last couple of years I have attended hundreds of events and met thousands of people in our area and it is clear we all just want a Member of Parliament whose first and foremost priority is simply to work hard for each and every resident.”

“My family and I have lived around this constituency for generations and, while we have much to celebrate about this area, there are still plenty of issues on which a good Member of Parliament can provide help and assistance.”

Location, location... temptation

The former Phones 4u store at the Willow Brook Centre in Bradley Stoke is to re-open under the Vodafone banner before Christmas, the shopping centre has announced.

The unit has been closed since Monday 15th September, following news that the whole Phones 4u business had been put into administration.

The administrators issued a statement on 19th September confirming that 140 Phones 4u stores had been sold to Vodafone. This was followed by a further announcement, on 22nd September, that 58 stores had been sold to EE. At that stage, it was unclear whether the Bradley Stoke store was one of the ones that had been sold or would close permanently.

News that Vodafone will be taking over the store was revealed in a tweet made by the Willow Brook Centre on 15th October.

Set in beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, Eastwood Park mansion house and 200 acre estate is the perfect setting for Special occasions & events Delicious Sunday lunches Superb afternoon teas Tempting seasonal cuisine

Please visit our website

eastwoodpark.co.uk or call us on

Pies & Puds

1st Tuesday each month

Seasonal

Sunday Carvery Lunch

+44 (0) 1454 260207 Afternoon

Tea with a view

13

Christmas

PARTY TIME

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November 2014

News

Computer Corner

with Graham Simmonds of goto iT, Filton Backup: Preparing for the unthinkable It is often the last thing you might think of, but making sure you have a copy of all your data including your documents, photos and emails is essential.

Unfortunately, computers sometimes go wrong, are stolen, or get damaged and it is not always possible to recover the information. If the data can be recovered the costs can be very high. It is much cheaper to have a good backup in place.

Just imagine how you would feel if you lost all those old irreplaceable photos of the family holidays or the

t: 01454 300 400

documents essential to your business.

Please don’t put it off. At the very least copy the files onto a memory stick or an external hard drive. You can even get software to do it for you or buy into an online service to backup automatically.

If you would like some help deciding which type of backup is best for you, please get in touch. www.goto-it.co.uk Visit our shop on the corner of Filton Avenue and the A4174. ● See our advert on page 7.

Bradley Stoke in Bloom makeover for Willow Brook town square

By Sara Messenger of Bradley Stoke in Bloom (BSiB) Following on from our last workday at The Common East, our insect hotel has been a real success! It has delighted both young and not so young and, each time we go back, we meet many local children who are all eager to learn about the different habitats we’ve created and keen to show us which is their favourite. The pond is looking so much better and as you peer over the edge you will see the sticklebacks darting for cover. We have been contacted by a local bee keeper, who is interested in placing two hives in the orchard. If this were possible it would be great that Bradley Stoke could boast of its own honey, as well as the bottled apple juice that we’re planning.

In the spring we will return to plant more wild flowers.

planting Daffodil bulbs in the verges and looking after the flower bed. It’s surprising just how many weeds can grow in only a few weeks, but it is again looking amazing and has received many compliments.

BSiB were also often thanked for cutting back the overhanging bramble and bushes that crowded the path. In November we return to our usual public workday, when we will again tackle the garden behind the Doctors’ surgery on Brook Way. Please come and join us, even if you can only manage a couple of hours.

We are very pleased that the town council has now been able to offer us a new storage facility and hope to soon fill it with shiny new tools! And we would like to thank Willow Brook Manager Andy Wynn and Tesco Manager Kevin Vickery for supporting our Halloween Pumpkin Carving Competition; Andy for hosting it and Kevin for donating pumpkins and goody bags.

October Workday

New Partnership

The Common East

Inspired by our insect hotel, Holy Trinity School parents wanted to create their own and invited BSiB to help them with their big build. There was a big turnout of very enthusiastic builders and everything was going well until a delay in extra pallets arriving sadly forced the group to stop for a very welcome tea and doughnut break! The children, who were all members of the allotment club, really enjoyed themselves and soon became very proficient in using saws and hammers.

To complete the new hotel, strawberry plants and a fabulous painted sign were added.

While Gill and Sara were eating doughnuts, Sarah was busy pruning the Brook Way herb garden and Ceri & Andy were at the Manor Farm roundabout,

We are very pleased to announce our new working partnership with the Willow Brook Centre

and Almondsbury Garden Centre (AGC). Inspired by our ‘welcome’ planters, the town centre now

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

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Bradley Stoke in Bloom volunteers are welcomed by Willow Brook staff

boasts five large wooden planters, which are low enough to also be used as seating. AGC Manager Richard Truscott has generously donated all the compost and plants for this project and today the first three planters were completed. One has become a herb garden with some innovative additions, the second is bursting with winter cyclamen in a riot of colour and the third has many different types of heuchera which have such delightful names as ‘Alabama Sunrise,’ ‘Stormy Sea’ and ‘Plum Pudding!’ Under planted are tulips, snowdrops, crocuses and alliums, so as these plants begin to fade, the bulbs will emerge to

add a delightful swathe of colour in the spring. The day didn’t go without a hitch of course, putting in the compost we thought we’d tipped in a bee too, so gently pushing back the compost to release it we were very shocked to discover it wasn’t a bee but the largest hornet we had ever seen!

Thank you to everyone who stopped to say how lovely the planters looked, to Cameron who helped out while waiting for his dad and to Helen who was keen to make a donation in exchange for some empty flower pots.

Email: bsib@hotmail.co.uk; Tel: 07582 634107; Facebook: Bradley Stoke in Bloom; website: bradleystokeinbloom.com

Appeal for information after woman assaulted on Savages Wood path

P

olice are appealing for help or information after a woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted in Bradley Stoke.

It happened at around 10.40pm on Sunday 19th October. The 44-year-old woman was walking home along a path that runs beside Savages Wood on Bradley Stoke Way. A man came up from behind and grabbed her, but she managed to elbow him and break free and run away. She was shocked but not physically hurt.

The man is described as white, in his 30s, of medium build and taller than 5ft 6ins. He had mousey brown scruffy hair and

was wearing dark trousers and a black hooded top that he pulled up over his head.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious or who has any information is asked to call 101 and quote reference number 108957/14.

Police beat surgeries at the Willow Brook Centre: Thursday 6th November Wednesday 3rd December – 5pm to 6.30pm – midday to 1.30pm Wednesday 19th November Wednesday 17th December – 5pm to 6.30pm – 5pm to 6.30pm

2 for 1 designer glasses from £99 Bradley Stoke The Willow Brook Centre. Tel 01454 275 020 specsavers.co.uk

2 for 1 designer: Cannot be used with other offers. Applies to £99-£149 ranges. Second pair to the same price range or below and to the same prescription. £99-£125 and Boss Orange ranges: PENTAX and other 1.5 single vision lenses included in both pairs. For PENTAX 1.5 Standard varifocal or bifocal lenses you pay for the lenses in your first pair. £149 Fineform and Rimless ranges: PENTAX and other 1.6 single vision lenses included in both pairs. For PENTAX 1.6 Standard varifocal or bifocal lenses you pay for the lenses in your first pair. All lenses are scratch-resistant. Extra Options available at an additional charge on both pairs. Excludes safety eyewear. SKU 25384284, 25382464. ©2014 Specsavers. All rights reserved.

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15

16

www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk

t: 01454 300 400

November 2014

News Feature: Broadband Steve G of Sages Mead (on an Almondsbury EO line): I find it absurd that SGC or BT cannot give a proper update on the status of the rollout with dates. It seems that we are all given generic responses and being palmed off to our ISPs, who are equally in the dark.

Why can’t they have a webpage with a proper up to date status, rather than each of us sending emails and unnecessarily taking up someone’s time at SGC? I wonder how much SGC know and if it is BT who is being a bit cagey with the facts… once again.

Even after the attention seeking ‘Race to Infinity’ campaign run by BT, very little information was coming from them and even though Almondsbury were high up the league, what was the outcome…? Hmm. Neil G of Shiels Drive (on a Filton EO line): Will you get superfast broadband? That is a question that SGC seems reluctant to answer, even though according to the ‘tender document’ I have seen, the winning supplier (in this case BT) is required to supply a list showing the order of the upgrade in priority order, no. 1 priority being current speed below 1.5Mbps.

I was recently told that a new fibre-enabled EO cabinet is to be installed right outside the Filton exchange. This will be of no benefit to anyone on a Filton EO line in Bradley Stoke.

So why has SGC allowed BT to upgrade lines already running at up to 17mbps before those running at 1 to 1.5mbps like mine?

Is fibre broadband available to you? Are you on an EO line?

To find out, visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/superfast Katherine P of Kingfisher Close (outside the SGC intervention area, but with no access to Virgin Media cable): We are a family of five, soon to be six. Our broadband service from BT is atrocious. The service is intermittent at best and nowhere near powerful enough to support the daily average of four connected devices.

We have enquired of all other providers, but are told the same; they would all have to use to BT line and could not provide a better speed than we get now. We have had several BT engineer visits, resulting in no improvement whatsoever. It’s a lottery daily as to whether we even have Internet access at all.

Having moved from Juniper Way to Kingfisher Close in 2012 to accommodate our growing family, we are extremely disappointed that our street will be missed completely and will not have even stable broadband anytime soon never mind superfast.

I would just like to add that the terrible standard of service directly affects both my husband’s and my work not to mention the increase in online homework our children receive from school. I have recently increased my mobile tariff to 20GB of data just to attempt to lighten the load on the broadband. It has not made the slightest difference.

It is really so disappointing for such a lovely neighbourhood to have such a huge negative hanging over it.

South Gloucestershire Council statement 24th October 2014

As you know, the deployment of fibre broadband across South Gloucestershire is a huge engineering project. As such, the build can be affected by a variety of factors making the dates for the rollout sometimes subject to change. However, I can confirm that the current target dates for the following cabinets to go live is as detailed below: • Cabinet 30 should be live and ready for service by December 2014 • Cabinet 36 should be live and ready for service by December 2014 • Cabinet 38 should be live and ready for service by March 2015 Approximately 3,500 homes in Bradley Stoke will benefit from the council’s Superfast Broadband Project, with approximately 1,700 of these being the more complex EO lines. Once the delivery has been completed in March 2015, we will have a firm position on the coverage achieved, and we will also have a clearer position on our ability to potentially push the coverage even further across South Gloucestershire under the existing contract, and with the current funding.

With regards to Filton cabinet 44 and Almondsbury cabinet 31, BT has confirmed that both these fibre broadband cabinets are ‘live’ and able to accept orders. Customers should contact their broadband service provider for further information.”

Paul P of Juniper Way (on cabinet 44): I have now ordered fibre on three occasions via Sky and BT and each time it has been cancelled without my knowledge. Never any correspondence from BT and a million different and conflicting reasons.

This is severely impacting on my job as I cannot access my company website without losing connection and am unable to download anything including films for my kids via Sky. Truly shocking planning to say that the cabinet is live and running, but they have run out of space. March to October has been a roller coaster of available then not available and so on.

My wife has been offered a job working from home but is wary of accepting as the current broadband is simply not fit for purpose.

BT Openreach should be held accountable and we should be given compensation for the time, inconvenience and frustration caused to local residents.

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November 2014

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17

info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk

News Feature: Broadband

Frustration over broadband delays

R

esidents of Bradley Stoke who are hoping to benefit from the rollout of superfast broadband through a state-aided investment programme say they are frustrated and confused by the sparse and conflicting information being made available to them by South Gloucestershire Council (SGC), which is managing the project.

As previously reported in The Journal, the occupiers of around 1,700 homes in Bradley Stoke are still waiting to hear if and when they will benefit from the project before it ends in March next year. These are the customers on exchange only (EO) lines, who are hoping to be served by one of four new cabinets that are being installed by BT at strategic locations within the town.

The first of these, no. 31 (located on the corner of Brook Way and Savages Wood Road), was declared “live and ready for service” by SGC on 19th September, meaning that customers whose lines pass through that cabinet should be able to order fibre broadband from the internet service provider of their choice.

However, weeks later, frustration has set in as many customers who were hoping to receive confirmation that their lines have been wired into cabinet no. 31 are still waiting for news. A list of postcodes served by the cabinet was published retrospectively by SGC on 8th

October, but this has just added to the confusion as many homes within these postcodes are still not showing as being connected to the cabinet in BT’s own Broadband Availability Checker, nor showing any mention of the ‘fibre to the cabinet’ (FTTC) service being available.

The only glimmer of hope is that, since 19th October, a handful of Journal readers have reported being able to finally order fibre broadband on lines connected to cabinet no. 31.

The news for customers hoping to be wired into the other three new EO cabinets is even less encouraging. Whereas SGC had previously reported that cabinets nos. 30 (at the top end of Bradley Stoke Way, near the Hilton Hotel) and 36 (corner of Bradley Stoke Way and Brook Way, near Oaktree Crescent) were expected to be “live and ready for service during October”, that projected date has now slipped to December.

Worse still, customers hoping to be wired into the fourth new EO cabinet, no. 38 (Brook Way, opposite junction with Dewfalls Drive), have now been told they may have to wait until March 2015 before that facility goes live.

SGC has yet to publish lists of postcodes that will be served by cabinet nos. 30, 36 & 38, which is doing nothing to calm the nerves of customers who fear they may miss out altogether by the time the project is completed in March next year.

With the rest of South

Gloucestershire slowly waking up to the fact that the current project will only bring superfast broadband to around two-thirds of those in the ‘intervention area’, SGC has come under increasing pressure to be more transparent over its plans.

Thornbury and Yate MP Steve Webb, was recently quoted in the Gazette newspaper as saying: “It is shocking that a project which involves millions of pounds of public money is shrouded in such secrecy. The public has a right to know now in detail which communities will benefit from superfast broadband and, crucially, who will be excluded.”

“Getting reliable information from the council has been like trying to get state secrets out of the Kremlin during the Cold War.” [Ed: Prioritisation criteria agreed by the council before the contract was awarded to BT give a high weighting to areas of high

population where broadband speeds are poor, which ought to see Bradley Stoke being given preference over more sparsely populated rural areas.]

Elsewhere in Bradley Stoke, and outside the scope of the SGC project, as it was fibre-enabled as part of BT’s commercial rollout, cabinet no. 44 (corner of Baileys Court Road and Ellan Hay Road), continues to be a source of frustration for customers in Juniper Way and ‘the herbs’ roads. Despite assurances from BT to the contrary, Journal readers in that area are still reporting they are unable to order superfast broadband due to a “lack of capacity” at the cabinet.

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www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk

November 2014

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Artist’s impression of the proposed redevelopment scheme for the Filton Airfield site (viewed from the east). The A38 runs across the bottom of the image, with the (now demolished) Rolls-Royce East Works bottom right. 8,100 new homes are planned for the wider Cribbs/Patchway New Neighbourhood plus Charlton Hayes.

Opening

January 2015

Discover the fun…

At Happy Days Bradley Stoke A new Happy Days Nursery is opening in Almondsbury Business Centre on Woodlands Lane, delivering high quality childcare from one of the South West’s leading providers.

Follow us

Happy.Days.Bristol

For more information or to book a place at one of our December Open Days, call Nicola, on 0800 7833431 www.happydaysnurseries.com

@HappyDaysChild

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November 2014

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19

News

Filton Airfield development plans submitted Developer press release ollowing nearly a year of consultation with local people, BAE Systems and Alder King have submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of Filton Airfield.

Developing the site would create around 9,000 jobs and vital new community facilities serving the wider community.

It would bring two new primary schools, a new secondary school, a community and health centre and a wide range of new homes. This application comes shortly after the Bristol Aero Collection Trust submitted its plans for two new museums on the site, to celebrate Filton’s aero engineering heritage.

Lloyd Burnell from the Bristol Aero Collection Trust said: “We are very happy that the new Bristol Aerospace Centre is part of this site. With the newly planned schools and

F

communities, the museum will help local people become inspired by Filton’s past and present engineering excellence and achievements in aerospace, including its pride and joy – Concorde.”

“BAE Systems is providing the land for free as well as making a significant contribution to overall project . There has also been a huge amount of support for the museum so we look forward to being able to start building next year.”

John Benson from Alder King said: “During our consultation, people told us what was most important to them – heritage, jobs, transport and community facilities. 95% agreed with the plans to celebrate heritage, not only through the new museums but also through naming the site, roads and buildings after famous people and planes from the past. We will continue to

The planning application includes: • 2,675 new homes • £100 million package of new transport, community and green infrastructure • Two new primary schools • The area’s new Secondary School • New high quality sports provision The development would create around 9,000 jobs: • 7,725 high value jobs in new employment area • Nearly 700 jobs through construction • 800 jobs created indirectly, for instance through suppliers

work with local groups to do this and will call the employment area ‘Concorde Park’ in line with the public vote.

“People also asked us if we could help local people to get the new jobs created. To do this, we have committed to regular skills and training meetings with South Gloucestershire Council and the local colleges to identify what training is needed to make sure local people are in front of the queue.”

Sara-Jane Watkins, Vice-Principal of South Gloucestershire and Stroud College said: “Our students took part in the consultation on the airfield and made it clear that jobs were their top priority. By taking part in a skills and training body, we can see what jobs will be required and make sure local students are ready to fill them.”

Transport was also picked out as a concern, with many talking

about the impact of new homes and employment on traffic. The Filton Airfield development – along with other developments in the area – will be making a £60 million contribution to improving roads and transport plans currently underway by South Gloucestershire Council, as well as providing a dedicated route for the MetroBus through the site.

It will also be providing space for a new railway station, which would be part of the Henbury line proposed for the area.

Alder King and BAE Systems are also working with the Great Western Air Ambulance and National Police Air Service to identify a permanent site for them. All parties are committed to finding an appropriate site that allows them to continue operating their essential helicopter services for the Bristol and wider area. ● www.filtonairfield.co.uk

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The site is part of the wider Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood, which will deliver around 5,700 new homes.

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Aspirations Financial Advice Ltd is an appointed representative of 2plan wealth management Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

News Feature: Bus Travel Survey

Survey paints a bleak picture of bus travel

A

bus travel survey conducted during October on The Journal’s website and Facebook page has revealed high levels of dissatisfaction with the reliability and punctuality of the 73, X73 and X74 services that link Bradley Stoke with Cribbs Causeway and Bristol city centre.

The survey, which is ongoing and has so far attracted more than 200 comments, was initiated in response to frequent complaints about the 73 and X73 services on social media during September. The results so far paint a bleak picture of buses failing to run to the published timetable, taking much longer than scheduled to reach their destinations and sometimes failing to turn up at all or terminating short of their final destination.

A number of readers have claimed that the services in

general have deteriorated (from already poor levels) since a new timetable was introduced at the beginning of September, when the new X74 route was introduced.

The majority of complaints relate to morning and evening peak hour services, but problems have been reported at all times of the day and night, with “no shows” being reported as late as 10pm, long after the commuter traffic has died down.

A large number of complaints relate to the peak hours only X73 service, with readers reporting that the 07.15 journey from Cribbs Causeway to Bristol regularly arrives nearly 30 minutes late in the city centre, while the return journey at 16:25 is frequently late and sometimes doesn’t turn up at all.

The survey also reveals problems with the 22.05 73 journey from the city centre,

An X73 bus at the Linden Drive stop on Brook Way. Passengers catching the 07.36 service can expect to arrive in Bristol up to 30 mins later than timetabled

which often turns up 30 minutes late with the driver saying the bus will terminate at Parkway Station instead of Cribbs Causeway.

The Journal made First West of England aware that we had started the survey and, after it had been running for just over a week, we provided the operator with a summary of the findings.

The company provided us with an overarching statement (below), as well as detailed responses to the points raised in the summary findings. A selection of these responses is shown on the facing page; the full set of responses is available on The Journal’s website. ● To be continued next month.

A First West of England company spokesperson said: “We are extremely sorry that people trying to use our services in and around Bradley Stoke have experienced problems in recent weeks and months. There have been multiple issues affecting our services, some of our making and some not.”

“In the latter category is the effect of traffic congestion and in particular the impact of road works in and around the city, which have hindered our ability to operate to time. We would like to assure our customers though that we take these issues incredibly seriously and we are already doing everything within our power to resolve them as quickly as possible.”

“While we would love to promise a quick solution to these issues, in some cases this will not be possible. We will, however, work with our partners in the local authorities to do everything we can to restore peoples’ faith in the service as quickly as we can.”

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21

Selected comments from Journal readers

Selected responses from First West of England

Matt W: It’s gotten terrible (more so than usual) recently. Buses don’t turn up & when they do (always late) there are generally two of them.

Not good enough.

Steve H: I get the train as of today, after 5 years of unreliable buses, x73, 73 etc... Had enough!

Nick B: Left work at 20.00 at The Mall last week 21.00 still no bus and was told it didn’t show up till 21.30.

Claire D: 16.25 X73 [from Bristol] is ALWAYS late now it has changed times. Assuming that it bothers to turn up that is.

Kris B: I regularly get the 20.35 73 from Cribbs to Bradley Stoke in the evening and in the last two weeks there have been four ‘no shows’.

Getting fed up now. Why bother advertising the service on a timetable if it is not going to show up?

Chrissie M: My 15 year old daughter was left waiting for over an hour for the 73 from Parkway to Bradley Stoke in the cold and wet. This is totally unacceptable - First should be ashamed.

Gordon C: The 73 service from Bradley Stoke to Gloucester Road, must be the most unreliable bus service I have had the misfortune to use!

Jim: I understand that there is little First can do about heavy traffic, but as a bare minimum I think we ought to demand that the “realtime” information is accurate so that everybody knows the situation.

The current displays seem to operate in a time warp.

Robert D: Wife missed her train today as 73 bus was 45 mins late.

Claire C: The 22.05 73 from the Centre failed to turn up tonight.

Since the bus service was “improved” in September the reliability has been shocking.

Rich: Absolutely livid. Waiting from 21.50 for the 22.05 73 home. It arrives at 22.30 but only goes to Parkway. I query this and am told by the driver that I’m the problem, I’m making him late by enquiring like this.

Simon: In the past 3 weeks, I don’t think one 73/x73 has arrived on time. All too often two 73s and an X73 arrive within a few minutes of each other (07.04, Winsbury Way) and, not over the 20 minute gap that should exist.

Clare: The 16.50 X73 from Rupert Street didn’t turn up again tonight.

It was showing on the First Bus app as being on time but then just disappeared once 1 minute to it arriving had passed.

Margaret W: Waited 55 mins this morning at the bus stop at Parkway. No 73 again. It’s getting stupid.

Kerry McC: Nice for 73 bus to finally show up! Only had to wait 41 minutes…not very happy.

Marie-Anne: can’t believe that still after all traffic has gone, 3 scheduled no. 73 never showed up. Had to call a taxi, cheers first bus!

Punctuality in general Our data shows that the punctuality of Service 73 and X73 has dipped slightly in recent weeks. This is due in part to higher than normal levels of traffic congestion. For instance we have seen higher than normal traffic flows to and from the MOD site in Filton at peak hours, which is increasing congestion on the ring road and Great Stoke Way. The M32 traffic flow has also been increased which has impacted on Services X73 and X74.

There are currently an abundance of road works in and around the city which are having an impact on services.

To put some context on the punctuality figures, the data we have for October shows the following: • 77% of Service 73 buses started on time • 78% of Service X73s started on time • 86% of Service X74s started on time The biggest single factor affecting the start time punctuality of the bus is whether or not the previous journey – completed by the same bus – was on time on not. If it was affected by severe congestion then it can have a knock on effect on subsequent journeys.

Real-time passenger information (RTPI) boards There are a number of issues affecting the electronic display boards at present. Firstly, there’s an issue which means that not all of the buses track properly. Specifically at the moment we – and our colleagues in the Council – are seeking ways to address this but on average two buses in every 10 do not display on the system. The problem is a national one, and the solution can only be found by various organisations, namely Omni, Vix and Almex, working together.

Secondly, there is a problem with the RTPI screen and the associated tracking of the buses near the Willow Brook Centre in Bradley Stoke. This relates to the sensor for the bus stop being effectively located in the wrong place. This means it doesn’t accurately know where the buses are in relation to it. The problem has been identified and will be fixed within the next three weeks.

Thirdly, in relation to cancelling buses from the RTPI screens, or adding other messages. We do possess the ability to cancel buses from the screens if for instance something goes wrong during a journey (the bus breaks down or has to be taken out of service). I am not aware of an issue with buses then showing as a timetabled journey.

Morning X73 services to city centre Our data shows that 89% of morning journeys on Service X73 begin their journey on time but then get delayed on the journey. We will look at this and adjust the timetable to make it more reliable for the future. Note such changes cannot be made immediately – they must be planned effectively, with a minimum of 56 days notice given to the traffic commissioner. We are also only permitted to make changes to bus services in / around Bristol on set dates throughout the year. The next planned service change (aside from 2nd November) will be next spring (March 2015, with the changes registered in January 2015).

To view many more reader comments and the full set of responses we have received from First, visit our magazine links page: http://bit.ly/bsj-mag-links

phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

22

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Brand New Primary Phase Opening 2015

November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

Evening Talks:

Monday 24th November Thursday 11th December Tuesday 6th January

6:00 p.m. No need to book

Morning Tours:

Tuesday 25th November Monday 15th December Wednesday 7th January

9:30 a.m. by appointment only Please contact admin@bradleystokecs.org.uk or phone 01454 868840

Bradley Stoke Community School Fiddlers Wood Lane Bradley Stoke South Gloucestershire BS32 9BS admin@bradleystokecs.org.uk www.bradleystokecs.org.uk Tel: 01454 868840

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November 2014

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News Around the schools

by Judith Summers of Bradley Stoke Radio

T

he morning of Saturday 18th October saw a group of enthusiastic parents and children return to Holy Trinity Primary School for a special building project. The weeks before had seen plastic bottles being collected, bricks deposited and wood gathered.

The children from the allotment club had snapped twigs and stuffed pipes, plant pots were being recycled and there was a buzz of excitement in the playground!

Then came the big build!

Pallets were stacked, wood sawed, nails hammered, leaves collected, pipes pushed in and seeds and strawberry’s planted.

The new recycled material insect hotel was built!

Seeing the children having a go with real saws, loppers, hammers and nails was all part of the experience and everyone was very “hands on”.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed exploring the materials and all had worked so hard that the doughnuts disappeared in double quick time at tea break!

The finished insect hotel included habitats and access points for hedgehogs, frogs, butterflies, bees and all manner of other creepy crawlies. It proved so popular that even before the sign had been nailed up spiders, woodlice, shield bugs, snails and worms had all made an appearance and a reservation!

Many thanks to Sara Messenger from Bradley Stoke in Bloom for the inspiration and the building advice and support, Gill Smith from Three Brooks conservation who kept us all going, Paul Ayers for designing and painting the hotel sign and to all the parents and children from Holy Trinity Primary School who came to help out on the day.

[Report by Catherine Ayers.]

You may remember earlier in the year, Wheatfield Primary School played host to students from Europe as part of the Comenius Project,

Holy Trinity’s insect hotel

a project linking schools in Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovenia, England, Spain, Turkey, Germany, Italy and Poland to look at Changing lifestyles for a wonderful environment.

Well, last month, it was Wheatfield’s turn to travel and Abbie Clarke, Maddi Wilde and Lottie Snedker, along with Mrs Brown, Mrs Roberts and Mrs Haydon visited Hungary.

They met with other children from the project at a primary school in Marcali and took part in various activities including dance, singing and creating a fantastic poster about air pollution.

They tried out traditional Hungarian food including goulash, bulgar wheat and strudel with a cottage cheese style desert and were entertained by some traditional dances. Altogether an amazing experience.

The Bradley Stoke Community School Engineering Breakfast Club was named STEM club of the year at a prestigious ceremony in Bristol sponsored by Graphic Science.

Year 10 students met engineers from Atkins and Cavendish Nuclear to complete a series of challenges whilst eating bacon sandwiches before school.

info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk

23

Advertising feature

Winterising your caravan or motor home

A

s blue skies fade to grey, and trees put on their autumnal coats, we reflect on great weather, and adventures this year in caravan or motor home.

But all good things must come to an end, and it’s time to think about storing your leisure vehicle.

Why winterise?

• Fight your enemies: damp, frost, sun bleaching and vermin, • Preparing your vehicle for non-use, • Identify broken parts, and repairs, so you can order new parts out of “dealers” busy season, • De-clutter time – do you really need all the items and weight stored in your vehicle?

Top five tips from BristolCaravans.com 1. Air circulation (key to reducing condensation): clear all vents, store seat foam and bedding at home, leave all cupboard doors open.

A retro chic T@B caravan in storage at BristolCaravans.com, Almondsbury

2. Damp traps: to absorb condensation, buy crystals, or tubs of salt. Place on trays in case bowl fills with water.

3. Battery: remove, check, clean-lubricate terminals (check level), store in garage, charge to keep condition.

4. Water system drain down: prevent ice damage to taps / appliances, open all taps.

5. Water inlets & waste outlets: cover to avoid smells, insects and vermin getting in.

For another 62 tips, visit our website at BristolCaravans.com Phone us on 01454 612451.

The Bradley Stoke Radio Schools Show covers all schools in the local area and beyond. We play children’s music and have children reading their poems, topic work and stories - in fact anything they feel they want to share. It is aired on Monday evenings during term time, between 6pm and 7pm.

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

24

www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk

t: 01454 300 400

November 2014

Winterbourne and Yate Academies nurture students’ talents Advertising feature

R

ecent result days and alumni successes continue to demonstrate how the Academies of The Ridings’ Federation adhere to their vision statement ‘Achieving success through motivation, knowledge and skills’.

The Ridings’ Federation of Academies was established in 2009 in order to enhance and sustain educational standards in South Gloucestershire.

As a result, £35 million was invested in new facilities at Yate International Academy and Winterbourne International Academy with the new builds opening in September 2012 and September 2014 respectively.

Nurturing students’ potential is at the core of learning and student life at both Winterbourne and Yate academies, and it boasts an impressive range of alumni who have regularly hit the headlines. This year alone Jenny Jones won a Winter Olympic Bronze medal, Nathan Filer won Costa Book of the Year and Levanna McClean won fans on YouTube with her Northern Soul dance routines, resulting in a stage appearance at the Brit awards with Pharrell Williams.

Winterbourne year 10 student, Charlie Lenehan got mobbed by fellow students and adoring fans in Term 6 as his Bars&Melody act on Britain’s’ Got Talent finished in third place and their subsequent debut single hit the Top 5 in August.

Marcus Beauchamp and Olly Mehew were signed by Norwich City and Blackburn Rovers FC and Dave Attwood delivered strong performances for the England Rugby team; while Yate’s Gold Winning Acro-Gymnast, Shanie-Redd Thorne was recruited by Cirque Du Soleil.

Academically, Federation sixth form students continued to achieve and deliver. 51% of all A-Level grades at Winterbourne were at A* – B with over three quarters of the grades at C or above. Over 70% of students achieved A*-B in subjects including Applied Business, Economics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Philosophy and

Pop star: Winterbourne International Academy student Charlie Lenehan

Technology. At Yate, 100% of its students passed their exams with 22% achieving A*-A grades and 55% gaining A*-B grades – this represented a 40% improvement on last years results.

It was the individual students who really stood out during the Results Days. Ellie Wood became the first student in the history of Yate International Academy to secure a place at the University of Cambridge to study French and Spanish. Her beaming father looked on as Ellie open her results to show she had achieved the A* and two As required in Geography, French and Mathematics. Not to be outdone, her younger brother and sister Joe and Megan Wood, gained strong GCSE grades the following week.

Hayley Orchard, 18, who also works part-time as a lifeguard at Winterbourne Swim Academy, achieved an A* and two A’s which secured her place at University of Surrey to study Law. Deputy Head Girl Laura Hickey managed to organize events and support students throughout the school and still secured A’s in Biology and Psychology and a B in Mathematics to gain a place at her first choice Cardiff University to study Psychology.

There were also many early achievers this year including Year 8 student Nicky Shine who achieved a grade A in French GCSE and Year 11 Xinyu Shen, who not only gained 11 A* at GCSE but also scored an A* in A-Level Mathematics two years ahead of schedule.

For further information, visit www.trfa.org.uk or call 01454 252000. ● See our adverts on page 39.

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November 2014

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25

Pumpkin fun at MS Therapy Centre Children from Wheatfield Primary School enjoyed an afternoon of Halloween-themed fun at the West of England MS Therapy Centre in Wheatfield Drive on 23rd October when the pumpkins they had been growing in the grounds of the facility since June were judged by visiting VIPs.

Competition results

Class with the biggest pumpkin: • 3FW and 5B Best named pumpkins: • Class 5M’s ‘Plumpkin’ • Class 2J’s ‘Juicy Puffball’ Best costumes: • Harry, Amy, Adrian and Keira Photos (clockwise from top left): Carl Tottle, deputy manager at Sainsbury’s East Filton, measures the pumpkins, watched by Bradley Stoke Mayor John Ashe and Julian Okoye of competition sponsor Geneco; Parade of costumes; Spooky dancing.

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November 2014

Advertising Feature Michael Morpurgo OBE guest of honour at opening of Red Maids’ new library

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xciting things have astronomer and astrophysicist been happening at the Jocelyn Bell Burnell, the Red Maids’ School in observatory was funded through Westbury-on-Trym. the Barry Theo Jones Fund and The all-girls school (the oldest in Bristol Charities, the Friends of the country) celebrated its 380th Red Maids’, and other donations. anniversary this year with a special Headmistress Isabel Tobias photograph involving all 600 said: “It was an honour to senior and junior school students. receive such an eminent scientist Modern drone technology was to Red Maids’. used to capture the aerial image of “Occasions like these are the girls as they lined up on the 12 inspirational for our students and acre-site forming the number 380. the learning they will gain from Red Maids’ students are also using this very special equipment looking skywards thanks to a new will put them in the best position telescope and observatory that has to consider careers in physics and been installed within its grounds. other sciences.”

The computerised optical Red Maids’ has also just telescope and weather station completed a substantial building – thought to be the first schoolproject involving the creation of based facility of its kind in Bristol a brand new, two-storey student – will enable students to extend library. weaBLOCKman(2)faceless[BSJ] 09:31 Page their research into the origin of 19/9/14 Award-winning poet, 1 cosmic rays which is linked to the playwright and author Michael Bristol University HiSparc project. Morpurgo OBE was the guest of Officially opened by honour at the opening of the new

Library opening: Headmistress Mrs Tobias with Michael Morpurgo OBE

Pearson Library.

So-called after Michael Pearson who taught English at Red Maids’ between 1983-2000, Mr Morpurgo said: “The heart and soul of any school is its library – a place of knowledge and understanding. I am delighted it has been named after a teacher – that’s exactly how it should be.”

Mrs Tobias said: “In our library, we have used our

imagination and vision to create a learning environment that meets the needs of our students now and in the future.

“The space is modern, light, warm and comfortable and equipped with Kindles, iPads, an extensive electronic library, and of course thousands of books to support our students’ research and independent study.” ● See our advert on page 3.

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27

News

Lions Club honour for BSCS student Louis Gold award for 100 hours of community service

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student at Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS) has been recognised by the local Lions Club for volunteering to help people less fortunate than himself in the local community.

A Young Leader in Service Gold Award was presented to Louis Cox by Bradley Stoke Lions President Robin Young and Lion Dr Harmandar Gupta during a Year 11 assembly at the school on Friday 17th October.

Louis Cox was awarded a Gold Certificate by Lions Club International for giving freely to work volunteering to help others. All over the world young people are not being recognized for the time and effort they put in assisting, caring and supporting individuals and others in their family and their community.

Lions International initiated a project worldwide “Young Leaders in Service” to commend those who achieve fifty hours, Silver, or one hundred hours, Gold, in 12 months.

Louis has a disabled younger

brother who suffers from nonterminating epileptic convulsions which if not observed and reacted to immediately could well prove final. All through Louis’ life, he has been involved in watching out for, assisting and caring for Toby but in the last three years since he was 12 he has been trained in first aid, resuscitation, delivering rescue medication and obtaining ambulance support enabling him to be responsible for Toby for short periods, giving his parents an opportunity for respite.

Despite all the time he devotes to Toby, Louis has also given freely of his time to the Bradley Stoke Lions Club to help them raise funds; to his school, on a bike ride in memory of one of its students; and raising funds for Diabetes Research.

The local Lions club says it is keen to work with BSCS to acknowledge other students’ voluntary work.

Robin Young commented: “Louis is only one of the young people in our area… Bradley Stoke Lions are active in our local

L-r: Lions President Robin Young, Louis Cox and Dr Harmandar Gupta

community to try to make life a little easier or better for those less fortunate and we have fun doing it.”

“Do you know of a young person giving their time to help

others or would you like to know a little more about how you can help Lions, make new friends and enjoy some of our social activities? Speak to us on 0845 8336745 (local call)”

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

28

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Ask the Physiotherapist: Neck pain with Danny from the Willow Brook Clinic How can I get rid of my neck pain?

Whether it is because of sitting too long at a computer, a sports injury or, particularly at this time of year, due to an unexpected draught, neck pain can be managed with a little understanding and the correct exercise.

Cold or heat?

If it’s a recent sports injury (or a sudden jerk) then apply an ice pack and ensure you keep the neck moving within a comfortable range. If the pain is less intense, and more a feeling of stiffness, it is likely to be muscular in origin. Try a heat pack and gentle stretching.

Be careful carrying heavy items Carrying heavy bags from the shops can pull on the muscles in the shoulder which in turn pull on the neck. Tendons and ligaments can also get strained.

Unless you are prepared to do a full warm up routine prior to lifting, like a professional athlete would, it is better to limit your loads.

Teenagers commonly suffer from neck pain due to carrying heavy school bags and spending lengthy periods of time on hand held electronic devices. Use a rucksack for carrying and use both shoulders straps. Using headsets for talking into phones is also a good idea as it minimises the ‘ear-on-shoulder’ effect.

t: 01454 300 400

November 2014

Quiz Quiz for all, No. 14 (easy/hard, old/new) Another ‘just for fun’ general knowledge quiz, compiled by local Mastermind contestant Paul Philpot. Answers on page 31.

Support your neck The neck uses a lot of the same muscles as the shoulder so exercising your upper body is a great way to protect your neck.

Concentrate on lifting weights above your head with more repetitions rather than heaver weights.

Consider other symptoms Headaches, dizziness or facial pain may be caused by upper cervical (top of the neck) dysfunction. Pins and needles, tingling or numbness in the arm and hand might suggest problems lower down in the neck or even the shoulder. You should visit a Physiotherapist or Chiropractor for a full assessment and treatment and to discuss the best way to manage your pain.

Physiotherapy is something you do, not have Make sure you discuss any problems. Early intervention is best. www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk ● See our advert on page 11.

1. Created in 1919, by what name is the masked character, ‘Don Diego de la Vega’, better known?

2. Which two-word title was a UK number 9 hit for Midge Ure in 1982 and a number 4 hit for Robbie Williams in 1998?

3. Which Italian artist is famed for painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome between 1508 and 1512?

4. Bridgetown is the capital of which Caribbean country?

5. Located 19.5 miles away, which football league team is the closest, by road, to Bristol City Football club?

6. Which chemical element makes up around 20% of the Earth’s atmosphere?

7. Mandated by the 18th Amendment, which US President was responsible for ‘Prohibition’ in the United States?

8. Located in London, which is the currently the tallest building in the European Union?

9. Which American author created ‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy of novels?

10. Despite being a significantly smaller company, which British frozen food retailer bought out its major rival, Bejam, in 1989?

11. What is the name of the comedian most famous for creating the TV character ‘Keith Lemon’?

12. Which French fashion house was founded in 1952 by Gaby Aghion?

13. What is the surname of the

Journal quiz setter: Paul Philpot

Barbadian superstar singer, Rihanna?

14. Which name is shared by both the highest mountain in Greece and the highest mountain in Cyprus?

15. Which knight of Arthurian legend fought against the mysterious Green Knight?

16. The word ‘Buccal’ refers to which part of the human body?

17. The opera ‘Fidelio’, is regarded as the only opera written by which German composer?

18. Known in the 1970s for his role in the TV show ‘Kung Fu’, which American actor later played the role of ‘Bill’ in the ‘Kill Bill’ films created by Quentin Tarantino?

19. Who was the captain of the triumphant European team that beat the United States in the 2014 Ryder Cup? 20. Paget’s disease is a chronic disease of which part(s) of the body?

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

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29

News

Construction of new primary school under way

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ork has begun on the construction of a new primary phase building on the site of Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS) in Fiddlers Wood Lane.

The new building is being constructed on an area that was previously used as a secondary car park for the main school.

Planning permission for the £3m project, which South Gloucestershire Council has reported is already £750k over budget due to unanticipated costs and the discovery of ground contamination on the site, was granted on 1st August.

The secondary parking area and cycle storage that were previously on the site were moved to the opposite side of the main school building during the summer holidays.

The addition of the primary phase building will transform BSCS into an ‘all through’ school for the 4-19 age range.

A spokesperson for the school said: “Contractors are now on site preparing the ground for

Excavators at work on the site of the new primary phase building at BSCS

the foundations and all is going to plan at the current time. It is expected that the building will be completed by July 2015 and ready to open to the first cohort of Reception aged children in September 2015.”

“In the meantime, we would like to invite prospective parents to come and look round the main school on the morning of 25th November, plus two further dates

in December and January.”

“We are also holding a series of evening talks (the next being on 24th November) where there will be an opportunity to meet staff as well as representatives from the local authority.”

“Further information on the

progress of the build will be made available via the school website and newsletter.”

Open Evenings Talks are on the following days: • 24th November • 11th December • 6th January These start at 6pm – no need to book.

Morning tours are at 9.30am on the following days: • 25th November • 15th December • 7th January These are bookable by contact admin@bradleystokecs.org.uk or by phoning 01454 868840.

Applications for places within the September 2015 Reception intake at BSCS must be made through South Gloucestershire Council’s schools admissions process by the deadline of 15th January 2015. ● For more information, see the BSCS advert on page 22.

Extract from South Gloucestershire Council’s ‘Guide for Admission to Primary Schools’: “BSCS will have 30 places in reception (September 2015) and will expand by one year group each year (with the same number in each year group) until reaching capacity in September 2021.

In September 2022 the number of places available for external allocation in Year 7 at BSCS will drop to 150. Students already on roll at BSCS at the end of Year 6 will be guaranteed continuation into secondary phase and a place in Year 7, should they wish to remain at BSCS.”

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

30

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November 2014

Have you thought about trying Reflexology? News Advertising feature

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eflexology is an ancient and relaxing therapy that can help improve circulation and help normalize bodily functions. It is a holistic therapy which addresses the whole body rather than isolated symptoms. Reflexology is a system of healing by structured foot massage which is suitable for most disorders and diseases.

Reflexology aims to restore a balanced flow of energy to all parts of the body by gentle massage of the reflex or energy points on the feet, thus restoring health and vitality. Some acute conditions may be relieved very quickly and simply, but others may need several treatments before healing will be noticed. Some people seek treatment for a particular condition and others with no specific ailment, just enjoy the toning and relaxing experience of a treatment.

Reflexology aims to complement other treatments, and in no way claims to replace orthodox medical care which, in some cases will be more appropriate.

Kate McEwan has been practising Reflexology for 11 years and has a wealth of experience treating a wide variety of disorders. In 2010, she set up a Mental Health Self-Management Project in Swansea which gave women with mental health problems Reflexology to help with anxiety. Kate is currently based in Bradley Stoke and runs her Reflexology practise alongside her Foot Healthcare practise. She is fully qualified and insured through the Association of Reflexologists.

If you are interested in finding out more, call Kate on 01454 616393 or 07811 619860. Gift vouchers are available and special packages can be arranged.

LOTUS Reflexology Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which aims to encourage the body to relax and work naturally to restore its own balance.

It is based on the belief that all of the parts of the body are reflected on the feet and through use of structured massage Reflexologists aim to restore balance and encourage good health.

Reflexology can help with a variety of problems including:

Anxiety and stress Back problems Arthritis Migraines Hormonal problems Digestive problems Fertility issues

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Gift Vouchers Available MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION OF REFLEXOLOGISTS

Dad & daughter team plans tandem skydive

By Karen Dean revor Hawkins, 54, of Lavender Way, Bradley Stoke, and daughter Samantha, are doing a tandem parachute jump in April 2015, in memory of his father Roy Hawkins, who died in 2006 from prostate cancer. Roy had been given only 12 months to live, but courageously battled the disease for another 7 years. Then in March 2014, Trevor was given the devastating news that he had the same condition. In June he underwent surgery to remove his prostate, and in August was finally given the all-clear. He says: “I would like to personally thank all at Southmead Hospital and especially my consultant/ surgeon Mr Anthony Koupparis, for taking great care of me whilst in their care.”

Trevor persuaded his four brothers to get themselves checked out – sadly his brother Chris Hawkins was also diagnosed, with surgery planned for October.

However, Trevor’s consultant commented that his timely call to action: “…has probably saved someone else’s life”.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK; usually slow-growing, and not always life-threatening.

Following his own successful surgery, Trevor is keen to spread the message that: “Early diagnosis is key towards obtaining a successful outcome – as borne out by my experience.

So if you’re concerned, I’d strongly urge you to visit your GP as soon as you can”.

The tandem parachute jump is expected to take place on 11 April 2015. Trevor commented: “My father knew I was terrified of heights, and I believe he’d be extremely proud of me for taking on this daunting challenge!”

Daughter Samantha is nominating Mind, a charity which offers support and advice for people with mental health problems. Sam says: “I was going

T

through a really tough time, and at first I didn’t even realise I was depressed. I turned to Mind, and with their help I now feel my life has meaning, and I would like to help others who are going through similar battles.

So please, please, please donate something to make our jump worthwhile.”

The pair have set a combined target of £3k to raise for the two charities: “We have created individual JustGiving pages, where you can read our stories and – hopefully! – make a donation. We’ve also organised some great social events, where you can donate whilst having fun!” The events include: • Quiz Night, Baileys Court Inn (2nd Nov, 9 pm start) – Halloween theme! Preferably fancy dress – teams to be organised.

• Fund-raising day, Tesco Express, Baileys Court (15th Nov) – Theme: ‘Prostate Pirates’!

Come and support us at Tesco’s.

• Head shaving day at Streaks Ahead, Chelford Grove, Stoke Lodge (8th Dec) – come and observe me getting a shaved head!

Collection buckets and JustGiving donation forms will be available for all events.

“We’ve got lots of other events lined up in the run-up to the jump – and we’d love to hear from you with more fund-raising ideas! We look forward to receiving everyone’s support for a worthy cause.”

You can contact Trevor and Sam, via JustGiving: Trevor: www.justgiving.com/ trevor-hawkins Sam: www.justgiving.com/ Samantha-Hawkins3 Both have expressed their heartfelt thanks “…to local people and companies, including Costa, The Hilton Bristol, The Harvester, Marstons and many more, who have already assisted us to raise funds. We’re waiting to hear back from other organisations… so watch this space!”

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

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31

Love Art Classes? Enrol on our course and you will too! Just ask our students!

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e have been running successful courses in Winterbourne Down for the last two years.

Our aim is to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from each class, learning skills and techniques that will create a pathway into the wonderful and relaxing world of art.

Our Beginners’ Course will take you on a journey of discovery, creating paintings you never thought possible. With the help and advice from our qualified tutor, Jan, you will acquire all the tools and confidence to achieve your artistic ambitions and unleash the artist within!

Our first course is designed for absolute beginners and teaches basic methods of sketching and painting with oil pastels, watercolour and acrylic paint.

By the end of the course you will have the ability to look at objects in a new light and re-create

A proud student on exhibition evening

them. This new found knowledge will enable you to create many original pieces including a landscape painting.

Most of our students go on to do our Improvers’ Course and take their skills to the next level.

The return rate of our students is well over 60% which speaks for itself. If your New Year’s resolution is to make the most of the spare time you have or simply to fulfil a life long ambition then don’t delay. Join us in January and you won’t be disappointed.

Winterbourne Down is just three miles from Bradley Stoke

New Art Class for Beginners

Trevor and Samantha Hawkins: Planning a charity skydive in April 2015

Quiz answers (page 28) 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Zorro No Regrets Michelangelo Barbados Newport County Oxygen Woodrow Wilson The Shard Suzanne Collins Iceland

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

Leigh Francis Chloe Fenty Mount Olympus Gawain Cheek Ludwig van Beethoven David Carradine Paul McGinley Bones

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The courses run once a week, morning or afternoon for 3 hours and all your materials are provided.

If you have always wanted to learn how to draw or paint but have no idea where to start then this course will show you how. The curriculum is comprehensive, interesting and fun, in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Our qualified tutor provides step by step guidance each week, covering sketching, pastels, watercolour and acrylic painting. By the end of the course you will have 8 pieces of your own original art including a pastel pet portrait and an acrylic country landscape! You can then show off your new found skills to family and friends at the end of course exhibition!

For more informa�on including dates, �mes and venue, please call Emma on 01454 227116.

Art can help reduce stress, create a feeling of well-being and provide relaxation but most of all — it’s fun!

Student numbers are kept low to ensure that everyone gets maximum benefit so to reserve a place on our next course or for more information call today on 01454 227116.

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32

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Willow Brook Briefing from shopping centre manager Andy Wynn

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s we move towards Christmas, it’s been an interesting few months at Willow Brook. In particular, I’ve been working with my team on a number of projects behind the scenes recently that are now starting to come to fruition.

We had a successful Wedding Showcase at the beginning of October in partnership with the Aztec Hotel. The feedback from the stallholders was really positive and we now plan to repeat the event in 2015.

By the time this is published, you should be able to see our new raised flower beds in the town Square. We have replaced the plants that have been in pots for a few years with some lovely beds that will provide vibrant colour throughout the year and give us the opportunity to bring seasonal colour and variation. We’ve formed a partnership with Almondsbury Garden Centre and Bradley Stoke in Bloom for this project and have some other exciting projects together for 2015.

Going forward, we have a really busy November and December that begin with the first Remembrance Sunday parade and ceremony, led by the Scouts, on 9th November.

As we approach Christmas, our new decorations will be installed mid-November ready

to be officially switched on by Ben Faulks, Mr Bloom from CBeebies and Dick Whittington in this winter’s panto at the Bristol Hippodrome, along with some of the crew from Heart FM Breakfast and the Heart Angels, on Saturday 22nd November It’s not just new lights we have for 2014, Willow Brook will also play host to Santa’s grotto for the first time. Santa will open his grotto on the morning of Saturday 22nd November and will be open every weekend from then until Christmas, and also on weekdays once the school holidays begin.

Following the events on the 22nd, Saturday 29th November see Willow Brook host a Christmas Craft and Vintage Fayre with Magpies & I. We’re hoping to attract more than 50 stalls to help start your Christmas shopping.

Going into December, we are working with Explore Learning to host a month long Children’s Festival, where lots of local groups will come in during the month and showcase their talents. We’ve got a number of groups already booked in (ranging from Baby Ballet and Music with Mummy to the 37th Kingswood Drum Corps) and are really looking forward to the event. www.willowbrookcentre.co.uk

t: 01454 300 400

November 2014

News Shorter days bring changes to reserve

By Sara Messenger of the Three Brooks Nature Conservation Group s the days get colder and the nights draw in, the reserve is quickly changing, replacing her verdant skirts for more subdued autumnal attire, but the colder days doesn’t mean there is any less fun to be found on the reserve – blackberry picking is replaced with kicking up leaves and bird watching is replaced with squirrel watching, as they spend their days hoarding as much as they can for their winter larders.

This year, instead of having a summer walk, we arranged an autumn stroll with professional ecologist Rupert Higgins, on what turned out to be a very summery day. Rupert is hugely knowledgeable and was able to answer everyone’s questions; apparently it’s true that the plant known as Mares Tail really was on earth 270 million years ago!

The group then headed over to the wetland area of the reserve to ask for his suggestions on how the area could be improved.

The last of this seasons’ bat walks went well with several of our bats species making a last welcome appearance before they head off to their winter roosts.

And although by the 8th October a few were still hanging around, they were greatly outnumbered by the Girl Guides! As Bradley Stoke Rainbows, Bradley Stoke Brownies and Winterbourne Brownies all chose that evening to go looking for bats! The bats will leave our reserve in the autumn, as for hibernation they need roosts that are dry with a cool but constant temperature, with underground sites such as caves being preferred. Although no one quite knows where Pipistrelles go as very few of their hibernation sites are found.

Our Green Gym, lead by David Baker, have this month

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cleared several trees that had been brought down by the recent weather and had fallen over the paths, and, at the request of two young lads, have removed the sharp spike over the rope swing.

The group have also had a couple of ‘away days’ when they visited 40 Acres in Stoke Gifford to install the tree guards that we donated to them and a session was spent at Stoke Gifford cleaning up the footpath that runs alongside the Stoke Brook.

For our October workday the group headed over to the wetland area of the reserve, which is by the Braydon gate entrance. The area had much reed mace and many willow trees, although both are now being eclipsed by the dreaded Himalayan balsam.

Balsam was pulled up and new channels were dug, while others were dammed in an attempt to flood the area, instead of the water flowing quickly through the site.

We will be watching with interest the CABI who have in other areas released a rust fungus as part of a field trial to control Himalayan balsam using natural means. It is estimated that it now covers 13% of our river banks and that using existing measures it would cost £300 million to eradicate the weed in the UK. We would encourage everyone who walks on the reserve to help us by pulling up any balsam they see, stamping on the stems is fun and I’m told it’s just like ‘walking on dead men’s bones’!

Bradley Stoke Journal To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

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Ask the Doctor with Dr Norman Douglas of Bradley Stoke Surgery Short and sweet

D

iabetes affects over 3 million people in England but there is almost another million who have diabetes and don’t actually know they have it.

There are two common types of Diabetes. Type One accounts for only 10% and this is where the body does not produce enough hormone (Insulin) to deal with the sugar in your diet.

This condition usually present in much younger people and children. Type Two is where the body is unable to utilise the insulin it produces effectively.

This is much more common and usually affects those over 40, those who are overweight and is more common in people from South Asia and those who had gestational diabetes in pregnancy.

Diabetes is a significant risk factor for the development of vascular disease causing heart

attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney disease, impotence, nerve damage and numerous other nasties. If diabetes is controlled the risk of these complications is massively reduced.

So are you one of the 850,000 undetected cases? If your BMI (Body Mass Index) is high, if you have a very big belly in

“If you do have diabetes, it can be managed and controlled…” comparison to your height and if your urine is full of sugar this is more likely. Thus explaining the “short and sweet” reference in the title of my column.

The symptoms of diabetes can be minimal. Being thirsty all the time, having to urinate frequently, fatigue, weight loss, changes in your vision such as blurring. If you think you may be at risk you can easily have

a blood test at your pharmacy or do an NHS vascular check at your GP surgery.

If you do have diabetes then it can be managed and controlled and your risk of complications will be minimal. If you don’t have diabetes, great, but make sure you decrease the risk of developing it by keeping your body in good shape with sensible eating, drinking and exercise.

This doesn’t mean you have to be big and bitter, but you will be happier and a lot healthier.

I hope you all have a great November and don’t forget your Flu vaccination. If you have children born between 2nd September 2009 and 1st September 2012, we are vaccinating these kids with a nasal spray available at your local surgery now.

Dr Norman Douglas

33

In Brief South Glos DFAS hosts Highclere Castle lecture In November, South Glos Design & Fine Arts Society (SGDFAS) welcomes Matthew Williams, Curator of Cardiff Castle, to talk about the wide ranging history of this magnificent family home and its occupants.

From an Iron Age Fort to the home of the Carnarvon family, used as a hospital in the First World War, the involvement of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon in the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb and its present day appearance as the star of Downton Abbey.

Join us for a fascinating evening on Thursday 20th November at Bradley Stoke Community School.

Refreshments from 7pm; the slide illustrated talk begins at 7.30pm.

No artistic ability required – simply an enquiring mind and an interest in design and the arts.

For more information, call Sally Kitching on 01454 774401.

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

34

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t: 01454 300 400

November 2014

Business

Couple celebrate five years of working together

L

ocal residents Gary and Rachel Wilson are this month celebrating five years working together in their van-based, coffee-making business, Cafe2U. The couple, who have been married since 1999 and lived in Bradley Stoke for the last 15 years, serve high-quality, barista-style, espresso-based coffee, to office workers in ‘nontraditional work locations’ i.e. business and industrial parks, across the region including Aztec West Business Park, Woodlands Business Park, Parkway North, Hambrook and Patchway.

Cafe2U is the world’s largest mobile coffee franchise system.

It currently has over 200 franchisees across the world including over 60 in the UK. Before buying their Cafe2U business, Gary was made redundant from the printing industry and Rachel worked for the Royal National Institute for the Blind. The couple say they had never thought of working together or even of being self-employed until Rachel saw Cafe2U on television and identified an opportunity to regain some control in their lives and to reap the rewards of their own hard work, with a selfemployed business.

The couple, who say that they really enjoy working together, are out on the van every day and put their success down to working well as a team, each able to fulfil all roles within the company,

from making the coffee to paying the invoices and organising marketing and advertising campaigns.

They say it also helps that they passionately ‘love’ coffee themselves and know how important it is that each cup is the very best they can make.

Says Rachel, “Making the perfect cup of coffee is the most important thing to me and when I hand that cup over with a beautiful heart or leaf on the top, the customer knows I’ve really cared about making their drink and I’d like to think that makes a real difference.”

At weekends many Cafe2U van owners are found maximising on sales by making and selling coffee at sporting events and festivals, however in an altruistic move, Gary and Rachel try mainly to use the van for events that will ‘benefit a charity or our local Bradley Stoke community’ at the weekends. In this vein they have attended the Bradley Stoke festival for the last five years and will be attending a number of Cancer Research Race For Life events, hoping to top last year’s donation to the charity of £712.

“Our local community is very important to us, after all we’re out and about in it every day; by doing local charitable events at the weekend we know we are putting a little bit back, which is really important to us both.”

Send us your business news!

Rachel and Gary Wilson, owners of Cafe2U Bristol North

Wards Solicitors celebrate 25 years at Fountain Court in Bradley Stoke

L

ocal law firm, Wards Solicitors is pleased to celebrate 25 years of providing legal advice to the residents and businesses of Bradley Stoke. Located at 6-8 Fountain Court the office was originally launched with just one service provided there, New Homes. This was appropriate at the time as this new building had only fields and cows around it.

The Bradley Stoke office is still the main location for this team, which works with buyers of newly built homes.

The office has since grown to provide a full legal service, bringing the numbers working for clients in Bradley Stoke, in 2014, to over 20. The firm has also, since 1989, gone from one to three units in Fountain Court to provide specialist Employee and Employer Relocation expertise as well as the usual family law, disputes, wills & probate and commercial law services.

Managing Partner, David Sheridan said: “At Wards Solicitors our local offices and the roles they play within their local communities are important.

Our Bradley Stoke office is something we’re justifiably proud

From the archives: Flyer from the launch of the Wards office in 1989

of. It has weathered at least two recessions, all the while growing from strength to strength. We’re very much looking forward to the next 25 years in the Bradley Stoke area and have just signed new leases for our present offices at Fountain Court”.

People can easily access specialist legal advice, to help them resolve family disputes, at all Wards Solicitors offices, across South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and the Bristol area. ● Visit wards.uk.com

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

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35

Business Local dad’s public speaking success

B

radley Stoke based speaker Julian Okoye made the National Final of the Professional Speaking Association’s prestigious annual Speaker Factor competition held in London in mid-October.

Julian, a father of three, had won the PSA Wales regional title in Cardiff earlier on in the year, earning him a place in the national semi-finals. Competing in the semi-finals against ten other regional winners from as far away as Scotland and Ireland, Julian was one of only five to win a coveted place to speak in the Finals on the main stage of the PSA Mega Fusion conference.

In what was described as one of the most competitive finals in years, Julian delivered a captivating speech and narrowly missed out on top spot. Julian said: “It was an amazing experience and an honour to speak to an audience of professional speakers. Even

Julian Okoye in action

more amazing was the number of people that came up to me after the event and said they were personally touched by my story”.

In his award winning speech Julian tells a dramatic story about a fight in Cardiff which made him take a step back and ask himself serious questions about his life and whether he had settled for a ‘pretty good’ life rather than being the best he could be.

Julian says he seeks to inspire, entertain and empower audiences with lessons from life, sport and business. ● Visit www.julianokoye.com

The expanded Aspirations team (l-r): Paul Whitton, Tracy Anstey, Stephen Gilpin, Debbie Whitton and Simon Anstey

As they approach the end of another successful year of providing quality financial advice to the local community and businesses, Aspirations with their Team of Independent Financial Consultants, welcomed two new Office Managers to their growing organization Debbie Whitton and Tracy Anstey will help ensure there is always a friendly face to greet you at their offices on the 1st Floor at the Willow Brook Centre.

Also look out downstairs by Tesco in December for the Aspirations Children’s Goody Bags and free raffle to win a giant Christmas hamper!

At Capricorn Plumbing, our qualified plumbers apply the same high standards of quality, integrity, tidiness and politeness in everything they do. And you can be sure of a fair price too. But don’t take our word for it – call us for a free, no obligation quote today!

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Woodlands Grange, Woodlands Lane, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4JY

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

36

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What’s On (2nd November – 7th December) Sunday 2nd November 8.30am: Severnside Ramblers’ Walk: Villages Galore. Meet in the Blue Zone car park at Aztec West – a carsharing scheme is operated.

More info: http://bit.ly/ssramb [Further walks on 7th, 9th, 16th, 21st, 23rd & 30th November and 7th December] 9.30am: SCC Medium Distance Bike Ride to Warmley. Meet outside Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/bsj-scc or phone Bryan on 01454 617560 [Further SCC rides on 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th November] 6pm: Fireworks Display at the Jubilee Centre. Gates open 4.30pm. Hot food from 4.45pm.

Monday 3rd November 3.30pm-5.30pm: Spanish Conversational Course at Bradley Stoke Library. [Every Monday in November]

Wednesday 5th November 10am-12noon: Citizens Advice Bureau Outreach Session at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/citadbu or phone 08444 111444 [Weekly on Wednesdays]

Thursday 6th November 5pm-6.30pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary.

Friday 7th November 10am-12pm: NCT Bumps and Babies Group meets in the cafe

at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre.

More info: http://bit.ly/nctsglos [Weekly on Fridays]

Sunday 9th November 10.45am Remembrance Day Ceremony in the town square at the Willow Brook Centre.

Everyone welcome. A parade leaves the Jubilee Centre at 10.30am.

Monday 10th November 6.30pm: Bradley Stoke Small Business Forum Meeting at the Aztec Hotel. More info: www.bssbf.co.uk

Tuesday 11th November 7.30pm: Willow Brook Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Jubilee Centre. More info: Janine 01454 617645

Wednesday 12th November 2pm: Bradley Stoke Women’s Institute (WI) meets at the Jubilee Centre. More info: Maureen 0117 904 6099

Friday 14th November 1.15pm-7.15pm: Blood Donation Sessions at the Jubilee Centre.

More info: www.blood.co.uk [Further sessions on 5th Dec]

Saturday 15th November 10am-4pm: Bradley Stoke in Bloom Workday. More info: bsib@hotmail.co.uk or phone 07582 634107. Please get in touch to find out where we will be meeting and working.

2.30pm: Chatterbooks Reading Group at Bradley Stoke Library. For keen readers

BS Man and Van £20

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20% discount from BS32 postcode area when mentioning this advert on booking

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November 2014

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

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

Monday 17th November

September 2015). See page 22.

Wednesday 26th November

1.30pm-3.30pm: Sew and So’s patchwork and quilting group meets at the Jubilee Centre.

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

Wednesday 19th November

Thursday 27th November

5pm-6.30pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary.

6pm-8pm: Christmas Gift Fair at Eastwood Park, Falfield. More info: www.eastwoodpark.co.uk or phone 01454 262818

7pm: BSTC Full Council Meeting at the Jubilee Centre.

Agenda: http://bit.ly/bstcfull

Friday 28th November

Thursday 20th November 7pm: SGDFAS Lecture at Bradley Stoke Community School. This month: ‘Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)’ by Matthew Williams. More info: Sally Kitching on 01454 774401

Saturday 22nd November 2pm-6pm: Christmas Lights Switch-On at the Willow Brook Centre. Hosted by Heart Breakfast presenters Troy & Paulina. Bjorn the Polar Bear shows at 2pm, 3pm & 4pm.

Lights switch-on at 5.30pm with CBeebies’ ‘Mr Bloom’ actor Ben Faulks. See advert on back cover.

Monday 24th November 6pm: Evening Talk about the Bradley Stoke Community School Primary Phase (opening September 2015). See page 22.

Tuesday 25th November 6pm: Morning Tour for the Bradley Stoke Community School Primary Phase (opening

5pm-7.30pm: Christmas Fayre at Wheatfield Primary School.

Monday 1st December 9.45am & 11am: Walking for Health: Bradley Stoke Circuit. Organised walks (1.8 miles & 3 miles) starting from Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre.

More info: http://bit.ly/sgcwalk or phone 01454 868006.

Wednesday 3rd December 12.30pm-3pm: Christmas Feast at Old Down Manor. Organised in association with Age UK South Gloucestershire. Tickets £24. To book, call 01454 414081.

Friday 5th December 5.30pm-8pm: Christmas Fair at Baileys Court Primary School.

Saturday 6th December 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 Hannah on 07971 426266

WANTED

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We seek good condition house, modern or modernised, 4-5 beds or larger, guaranteed 3 year contract, company let, excellent references.

Tel 0117 974 1459

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING

37

TAXIS

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CAKE MAKERS & DECORATORS

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Sweet Tracey Cakes Stoke Gifford - Bristol

Wedding Cakes, Cake Pops, Cupcakes and all types of Celebration cakes, all beautifully handmade to order. www.sweettraceycakes.co.uk Contact Tracey on: 07821 436907 Email : sweettraceycakes@yahoo.co.uk TUITION

Alpha Maths Tuition Experienced, qualified, DBS registered, expert tutor (BSc, PGCE) Key Stages 1–3, GCSE, A-Level etc.

PET SERVICES

New Passage Cattery Friendly, local cattery 10 mins from The Mall

LEAFLET DELIVERY

Leaflet Delivery in Bradley Stoke

• Quiet rural location • Viewing welcomed

Telephone: 07815 860618 Email: terry@cattaway.com

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8,650 leaflets delivered for £200 Tel: 01454 300 400

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

SELF STORAGE

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Freephone Stuart or Sue on 0800 0234 995 Licensed waste carrier

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Fitted bathrooms Walk in shower/wet rooms Fitted kitchens Floor & wall tiling Plumbing Electrics General home improvements

Call Jason now on 07788 845134 to book in your free estimate Email: jb.propertyservices@hotmail.co.uk Website: jb-propertyservices.co.uk

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

38

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November 2014

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS Accountants TJS Business Solutions, Page 4 Builders Richard Joseph, Page 27 Business Opportunities Haley Prosser, Page 38 Cake Makers & Decorators Sweet Tracey Cakes, Page 37 Carpet Cleaners B Clean, Page 29 Bonne Fresh Clean Ltd, Page 17 Clean Pros, Page 24 Carpets & Flooring Lanes Carpets, Page 21 Trade Floor, Page 10 Child Care Ambourne House Day Nursery, Page 20 Happy Days Nursery, Page 18 The Covey Nursery, Page 22 Chiropractic Cool Green Planet, Page 5 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Computer Services goto iT, Page 7 More in directory on BSJ website Cycle Repairs Ride On Cycles, Page 17 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 29 Double Glazing Imperial Windows, Page 16 Education & Learning Bradley Stoke Community School, Page 22 Love Art, Page 31 Red Maids’ School, Page 3 The Ridings Federation , Page 39 SGS College, Page 2 Electricians RJ Electrical, Page 4 More in directory on BSJ website Electronic Cigarettes VaperVapour, Page 11 Estate Agents Connells Residential Lettings, Page 14 Freeman Residential Page 36 Lifestyle Property Services, Page 1 Ocean, Page 25 Foot Care Visit directory on BSJ website Garage Services Bristol Caravans, Page 23 Filton Central Garage, Page 28 Westlec, Page 27 Gardening Services Plan-It Garden Design, Page 8 Professional Gardening Services, Page 38 Gyms & Health Clubs LivingWell Health Club, Page 12 Hair & Beauty The Filton Barbers, Page 6 More in directory on BSJ website

Hire Services

Stop and Hire, Page 34 Launderettes & Dry Cleaners Visit directory on BSJ website Mortgages & Financial Advice Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 19 Opticians Specsavers, Page 15 Pet Services & Supplies Friends for Pets, Page 31 MadDogz, Page 32 New Passage Cattery, Page 37 Physiotherapy Bradley Stoke Physio, Page 33 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Picture Framers Royall Framing, Page 29 Photographers Amy’s Photography Bristol, Page 8 Plumbing & Heating Capricorn Plumbing Ltd, Page 35 Concept Property Maintenance, Page 17 Richard Joseph, Page 27 S. Berryman Plumbing & Heating, Page 37 Property Maintenance Concept Property Maintenance, Page 17 JB Property Services, Page 37 Richard Joseph, Page 27 Property Management Connells Residential Lettings, Page 14 Lifestyle Property Services, Page 1 Ocean, Page 25 Woods, Page 26 Restaurants Eastwood Park, Page 13 Rubbish Clearance Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance, Page 37 Self Storage Simply Self Store Ltd, Page 37 Shopping The Willow Brook Centre, Page 40 Slimming Clubs Slimming World, Page 9 Soft Furnishings Janet Smith, Page 19 Sport and Leisure Carrie Vinson Equestrian, Page 4 Takeaways & Food Delivery Visit directory on BSJ website Taxis Bristol Parkway Taxis, Page 37 South Glos Taxis Ltd, Page 38 More in directory on BSJ website Transport BS Man and Van, Page 36 Tuition Alpha Maths Tuition, Page 37 South Glos Music Tuition, Page 37 More in directory on BSJ website TV & Aerials Image Aerial Systems, Page 37

Business Directory Advertise here for just £20 per month (when you sign up for three issues) Phone us now on 01454 300 400 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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Income ranges from £300 to £2,500 per month Please call for more info or find me on Facebook: Haley Prosser Call 07838 144157 or 01454 270806 GARDENING SERVICES

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Fencing/Fence Painting/Pressure Washing Hedge Cutting/Grass Cutting Weeding/Garden Clearance Strimming/Small Trees Lopped Excellent rates and a free quote Friendly and trustworthy service (special rates for pensioners) Please call on me on 07768 241198 or e-mail at profgarden60@yahoo.co.uk TUITION

Looking for a service or tradesperson in Bradley Stoke?

Visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/directory To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

November 2014

t: 01454 300 400

info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk

To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400

39

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

EE FR

Come to our

switch on!

Sat 22 Nov

Entertainment from 2pm

Hosted by Heart Breakfast presenters Troy & Paulina plus the Heart Angels Bjorn the Polar Bear shows at 2pm, 3pm & 4pm Live Music • Craft Workshop

Lights Sw it at 5.30p ch On Dick Wh m by ittin ‘Ben Fau gton lks’ CBeebie s Mr Bloom

Santa’s Grotto opens at 11am.

Entry £4.50 with gift

willowbrookcentre.co.uk WillowBrookCentre

willowbrookctr