Delivered FREE, EVERY MONTH, to all homes in Bradley Stoke
April 2015 • Issue 24
LETTERS P8 | QUIZ P24 | POLICE P36 | WHAT’S ON P37 | DIRECTORY P38-39
GENERAL ELECTION SPECIAL On the campaign trail
Pages 20 & 21
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PLUS , IN YOUR 40-PAGE BRADLEY STOKE MAGAZINE Bristol North Fringe to Hengrove MetroBus granted full approval P7
Cost-cutting measures to blame for recent post delivery problems P11
EAST
1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group expands with three new sections P15
Your chance to hear the candidates at an election forum in Bradley Stoke on Sunday 12th April Page 21
l Jack Lopresti begins re-election campaign l BSCS students’ dream prom outfits revealed l Plan for new helicopter base near Bradley Stoke l Stoke Lodge makes the split from Patchway to form new civil parish l £25m sewer relief scheme given green light l Budget boost for Bristol Aerospace Museum l Schools and businesses support Comic Relief l Update on roadworks in the Bristol North Fringe l Local primary school reaps benefits of Community Payback l Plans for third August Carnival take shape l Severn rescue boat team visits Abacus Pre-School
EXCELLENCE IN CHILDREN’S DAY CARE l Providing a safe caring environment for children aged 3 months to five years (government funding available) l Outstanding facilities, including biometric security entry l Large, secure & well equipped outside play area l CCTV operates for the protection of children, staff and parents l All major childcare vouchers accepted l Fully air conditioned l Home cooked food
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Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB
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About the Bradley Stoke Journal The Bradley Stoke Journal 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.
CORONAT
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 2015. 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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April 2015
April 2015
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News
In Brief
Jack Lopresti begins re-election campaign
Post box ‘last collection’ times brought forward
F
ollowing the dissolution of parliament on Monday 30th March, Jack Lopresti (Conservative) has officially commenced his campaign to be re-elected as the Member of Parliament for the constituency of Filton and Bradley Stoke. Born in Southmead Hospital in August 1969, Mr Lopresti has lived and worked in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire area all his life. He lives locally in Filton with his wife, Lucy. The couple have three children. On leaving school, he worked in his family’s ice cream and catering business. He then worked in the financial services and residential property sectors. Mr Lopresti served with 29 Commando RA as a mobilized reservist for a year and, in the autumn/winter of 2008-9, he was deployed to Helmand
Province in Afghanistan on Operation Herrick 9. Outlining his priorities for a possible second term as the local MP, Mr Lopresti commented: “Defence of the Realm is the most important duty of any Government and it will remain my highest priority.” “As a veteran I will continue to represent and work for veterans’ interests in the House of Commons and here locally.” “If fortunate enough to be re-elected, I will continue to work to ensure that Filton and Bradley Stoke remains at the heart of Britain’s defence industry – delivering investment, manufacturing and high tech jobs.” “I will continue to work to secure new jobs and apprenticeships. Since May 2010, unemployment has fallen by 47%. During the same period,
youth unemployment more than halved and the number of apprenticeships in Filton has increased by 60%.” “As a country, we need to build more homes, so that more of our young people can get onto the housing ladder and we need to continue to improve local infrastructure. I will continue to work with the Government and the local council to ensure that the infrastructure is robust enough to support the new homes and the new jobs coming into our area.” “I will continue to protect the NHS and will continue to work to improve health provision locally.”
Fr
What's On
With effect from 16th March 2015, Royal Mail has revised the ‘last collection’ times at many of its post boxes in Bradley Stoke. Customers in the south of the town who were previously able to post letters up to 6pm at Baileys Court, must now do so by 4.15pm. Royal Mail spokesperson Val Bodden said: “We are making some changes to the last collection times of some of our post boxes in the Bradley Stoke area. These changes are necessary to ensure all mail enters our system in time to be despatched for onward delivery across the UK and to enable us to meet our next-day delivery target for First Class items.” “Customers have been given advance notice of these changes, with information displayed on affected postboxes. Customers will still be able to post stamped and franked items of mail up to 7pm at Bristol Mail Centre, Gloucester Road North, Bristol BS34 7ST.”
ee
at Willow Brook Centre Climbing Wall Sat 13 June
Pirate Fun Day Thu 6 Aug
Wedding Showcase Mon 31 Aug
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April 2015
News
BSCS students see dream prom outfits become a reality thanks to John Lewis
E
ight sewing competition finalists glammed up ready for the reveal of the John Lewis’ Student Prom Competition on Thursday 19th March. Having designed their outfits and spent February half-term in the John Lewis Cribbs Causeway store making their dream outfits a reality, finalists Chloe Lorenzi and Simran Kaur from Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS), Ashleigh Porton from Patchway Community School, Zoe Perry and Molly Marshall from Chipping Sodbury School, Izzy Fraser and Marcella Lopresti from St Bede’s and Jessi Viljeon
from St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School returned to John Lewis for a complete make over. Donning their hand-sewn and personally designed outfits, the finalists were treated to a make over by Benefit and their hair styled by professional hairdressers Alan Bendrey & Co. Shoes, accessories and fabrics were all provided by John Lewis Cribbs Causeway. At 4pm they were driven in style in two vintage Volkswagen campervans to Old Down Manor in Tockington for a photo shoot. Molly Marshall was chosen as the overall winner for her creative flair, great attitude to
at Little Stoke and Stoke Lodge Primary Schools o NURSERY, PRESCHOOL AND WRAP AROUND CARE
o OFSTED RATED ‘GOOD’
o NURTURING CARE AND HIGH
BSCS students Chloe Lorenzi (left) and Simran Kaur model their prom outfits
learning and commitment to the task. Molly was awarded a sewing machine. Head of Branch Lucy Ramseyer said “I am very impressed with the students’ outfits, they have achieved so much more than I could ever have done at their age and I am delighted that we have been able to provide them with
this opportunity, one hopefully they will never forget and take with them to further their career opportunities.” “Congratulations to them all and huge thanks to Alan Bendrey & Co, Old Down Manor and Benefit at John Lewis, for their part in making this experience so special.”
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April 2015
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News
In Brief
Plan for new helicopter base near Almondsbury Interchange
Hope for Morgan: fundraising update
Almondsbury
Bradley Stoke
P
roperty consultants Alder King have announced the selection of a preferred site for a new helicopter base to serve the needs of the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and National Police Air Service. Currently based at Filton Airfield, the air ambulance and police helicopter service has been
looking for a new site for their joint helicopter base since last September. The proposed new site is on farmland close to the M4/ M5 junction, just across the M5 motorway from the RAC building in north Bradley Stoke. Following community consultation events held in
bristol – patchway
CHIROPRACTOR
BS34 near you tel 0117 969 7553
For a Lifetime of Health
Almondsbury last month, The Journal understands that a formal planning application is now likely to be made to South Gloucestershire Council within the next few weeks. For further information, contact the Filton Airfield community relations team on 0800 073 1047 or mail@filtonairfield.co.uk
• Russell Howard is putting on a show especially to help raise funds for Morgan at the Theatre Royal in Bath on 26th April. Tickets online have now sold, out but you can still purchase tickets on the ticket hotline 01225 448844. • The Small Move Company is putting on an event at the Bristol Marriott on 2nd May. An evening with Lee Sharpe and Razor Ruddock hosted by Glen Catley plus an after show party. An evening not to be missed! Tickets, which include a two-course meal can be purchased through Calvin Groves on 07891 206347. • The Stokers Pub in Little Stoke is putting on an all-day (11am 11pm) family fun day on Monday 3rd May. There will be live bands, bouncy castles, stalls, pony and trap rides, games and lots, lots more. It’s going to be a fantastic day for all the family. ● For more details, visit the Hope for Morgan page on Facebook.
CASE OF THE MONTH I was recommended to see Dr Leah by a family member for low back and sciatic type leg pain and headaches.
What a godsend she has been as now that I am under her private chiropractic care, my pain and headaches are now few and far between. She really knows her stuff and I always receive a warm and friendly welcome. I am always recommending Dr Leah to friends and other family members
MRS SHELLEY CLUTTERBUCK, www.coolgreenplanetonline.com
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SAINSBURYS TEAM LEADER IN TRAINING
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April 2015
Sport
In Brief
North Bristol Running Group Beginners’ Course – They did it!
Developer’s masterplan for 2,000 new homes
By Moira de Groot of North Bristol Running Group e celebrated with a small drop of bubbly after the amazing Beginners’ Group took part in the Little Stoke parkrun on Saturday 7th March. They all completed the 5km (3.1 mile) course and crossed the finish line with beaming smiles. It is such an achievement, as most of the athletes only started running 8 weeks before. Now that they have “graduated”, Alan and Sheila Wilcox are taking them through an Improvers’ Course – From 5k to 10k – which takes place on Wednesday evenings at 6.30pm from Bradley Stoke Surgery, Brook Way. If you are already able to jog/run 5km and would like to run a bit further, feel free to join the group. The next Beginners’ Course starts on Friday 10th April at 6.30pm from Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. Please follow
W
Beginners’ Group “graduates” celebrate after completing the Little Stoke parkrun
the posts on the North Bristol Running Group Facebook page for more details. If you would like to start running, or get back into running, come along and join this friendly bunch. There is no charge for running with the group – simply arrive at the advertised times and there is sure to be someone who
will run with you. The group also meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings outside Bradley Stoke Surgery at 6.30pm and the School Run group meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings outside Bradley Stoke Surgery at 9.15am. ● Not a Facebook user? Call Alan Wilcox on 07890 182387.
Crest Nicholson has published a strategic masterplan for an area of Green Belt south of Bradley Stoke where it is foreseen that 2,000 new homes will be built by 2027. The masterplan amplifies the vision and objectives for development set out in South Gloucestershire Council’s (SGC’s) Core Strategy, adopted in December 2013, which identifies the ‘East of Harry Stoke New Neighbourhood’ as a strategic housing site. SGC is inviting comments on the developer’s masterplan through a public consultation which runs until 11th April. Copies of the masterplan may be viewed online at www. southglos.gov.uk/consultations Paper copies are available to view at local libraries and the council’s One Stop Shops. ● For more information, contact SGC’s Customer Service Centre 01454 868004.
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April 2015
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7
News
North Fringe to Hengrove Package MetroBus granted full approval
T
he North Fringe to Hengrove (NFHP) MetroBus Scheme, which will see the construction of new bus lanes on Bradley Stoke Way and the long-awaited implementation of a by-pass for Stoke Gifford has been granted full approval by the Department for Transport (DfT).
England Joint Transport Board, said: “This is terrific news, MetroBus is a significant part of a £400 million programme of sustainable transport improvements in the West of England until 2020 which will link areas of housing and economic growth, provide greener and better alternatives to
Operational from: End of 2017
Journey time - Bradley Stoke to city centre: 26 minutes
10-minute frequency 7am-7pm New branded buses Smartcard ticketing
The news, announced by Chancellor George Osborne in his recent budget speech, opens the way for construction to start as early as next month. The Bristol MetroBus (rapid transit) network will consist of three bus routes, all of which have now been granted approval by the DfT: • Ashton Vale to Temple Meads • North Fringe to Hengrove • South Bristol Link According to the TravelWest website: “MetroBus will be an express service, separate from general traffic in places, with faster and more reliable journey times.” Stoke Gifford councillor Brian Allinson, Chair of the West of
travelling by car and as a result reduce traffic congestion and air pollution levels.” The estimated total cost of the NFHP is £102 million. This includes the cost of delivering the Stoke Gifford Transport Link (the formal name for the by-pass). The funding package includes £51 million from the DfT, £30.5 million from South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) and £20.5 million from Bristol City Council (BCC). The Stoke Gifford Transport Link element of the NFHP route was progressed through the planning process as a separate entity, and approval was granted in July 2014. The
remainder of the entire NFHP route was submitted for planning determination by both BCC and SGC, approval was granted on 27th August and 9th September 2014 respectively. The NFHP scheme includes a controversial new bus-only junction on the M32. Plans to future-proof a park and ride facility near the new junction were abandoned during the planning approval process. Protesters opposed to sacrificing high quality agricultural land to build the new junction occupied the site for 40 days but were evicted last month after Bristol City Council was given the backing of the High Court to clear the land. An informal pre-consultation on the Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) required for the NFHP scheme was carried out between 17th November 2014 and 16th January 2015, attracting 392 responses. No modifications were made to the proposed measures as a result of these responses. The statutory advertisement period for the Traffic Regulation Orders for Zone 1 of the NFHP scheme (Cribbs Causeway to Bristol Parkway, including the Bradley Stoke Way section) ran from 12th February to 8th March and resulted in one formal objection being made. This came from a resident of Huckley Way in Bradley Stoke, who said he could not see the need
Artist’s impression: MetroBus vehicle
for more bus lanes on Bradley Stoke Way. A meeting of SGC’s Planning, Transport & Strategic Environment Major Schemes Sub-Committee on 25th March dismissed the objection. At the planning approval stage, Bradley Stoke town councillors said they would have liked the scheme to include more improvements for general traffic and expressed concern that the opening of the Stoke Gifford by-pass will lead to increased traffic levels on Bradley Stoke Way as motorists seek alternative routes between the Almondsbury Interchange and MoD Abbeywood. Opponents of the three Bristol MetroBus schemes claim they will be a short and long term financial burden on the two councils, do little to reduce traffic levels and put existing local bus services under threat. According to the final approval document submitted to the DfT, the main construction work on the NFHP scheme will take place between June 2015 and July 2017, with services set to start in “late summer 2017″.
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April 2015
Letters and Opinions Time to look at an underground system? We moved to Bristol in 1984. Ever since we arrived, there have been discussions and plans for rapid transport and/or park-and-ride. All these plans have still required vehicles from the surrounding towns to travel to the outskirts of Bristol, where there were/are congestion problems. To make things worse, large housing and business developments have taken place, exacerbating the problems. Now there is even more coming. Bristol is now classed as one of the UK’s major cities and is due to grow even more. I expect it to eventually include Yate, Thornbury, Keynsham and other outlying towns. Some people are even calling for ‘metro Bristol’. Since we have been in Bristol, London has had a number of new or extended underground lines and stations. Since Bristol is growing at such a rapid rate would not a Bristol
‘underground rail system’ (a Bristol Metro) be a good way of getting people out of cars and onto a mass transport system? To implement such a system, I would start by connecting the outlying towns. We live in Bradley Stoke and we already have to plan what time to leave our house to get anywhere. With the Filton Airfield development, I wonder if we will soon have to plan what day to set out to get anywhere, even to the M4/M5 junction! Ron Bolton Bradley Stoke
“Very poor” service from Royal Mail Just noticed that the Royal Mail seems to have changed the last posting times at Baileys Court from 6pm to 4.15pm – really poor service in my opinion. What do others think? Always lots of people posting down there just before 6pm. We
already have a very poor post office service, particularly in the south of Bradley Stoke. Now we can’t even post things out at the end of the working day. ‘Abmr’ via the BSJ website (See news item on page 3)
Bus drivers need to consider the elderly I feel that those who regularly use the buses at Bradley Stoke’s Willow Brook Centre will have their own views on the services provided. By and large, the nos. 73 and 74 buses are well used. They enable good contacts to be made with Bristol Parkway Station, Filton, the University of the West of England and the city. Yet there are beginning to be several occasions when one or other service incurs some default. It is frustrating, to say the least, when you have a train to catch or an appointment to attend when a service misses out. Yes, we have to make allowances for traffic hold-ups, which are frequent, but absences are a management responsibility. For an important location such as the Willow Brook Centre, I have often felt that the bus shelter ill-befits the town. It is hardly capable of seating four persons. Along with a dog it’s inadequate, whilst the majority of
travellers wait outside. Whilst we are continually urged to “use the buses”, with their “touch and go boarding facilities and wi-fi etc.,” little is done to “welcome” passengers aboard. The most harassing experience occurs when you are within hailing distance of a bus to see it glide swiftly away without hardly a glance from the driver. The elderly and the disabled fall victim to that! The stop at the Willow Brook Centre has two well marked locations for buses. The location nearest the roadway is ideal for the no. 74 bus, since it is “end of journey” with a reasonable wait. The no. 73 bus is a “through service”, continuing to the “centre”, i.e. Bristol or Cribbs Causeway, and should be confined momentarily to the former, more visual stop closer to the shopping centre. I feel drivers should be advised to look out for those hurrying to take the bus instead of speeding off without a sideways glance. The nos. 73 & 74 buses provide a vital service to the town of Bradley Stoke. However, they have wilted in several passengers’ views due to small irregularities. Some attention to these points could enhance their reputation and regain passengers’ satisfaction with the services as a whole. Cllr Douglas Daniels Bradley Stoke
Bradley Stoke Journal
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April 2015
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News
In Brief
Bradley Stoke Way speed check results in 64 warning letters
Community Festival programme announced
By Derrick Powell, Bradley Stoke Community Speed Watch Coordinator n Saturday 14th February, we conducted a Speed Watch on Bradley Stoke Way, near the Willow Brook Centre, with four regular team members, two new members and PCSO Ben Sheward. One of the new members was the newly appointed coordinator for the Pilning area, and a new member for the Bradley Stoke team. In total, the number of vehicles passing through during a two hour watch was 1,054. Out of these, 64 were clocked exceeding the speed limit of 30mph and the drivers will therefore receive a warning letter from the police. Additionally, one vehicle was observed undertaking in the bus lane. Any driver who receives three warning letters will receive a summons and have their licence endorsed.
O
Community Speed Watch members in action on Bradley Stoke Way
Elsewhere, I have made an application to South Gloucestershire Council to erect three police warning ‘tri-signs’ in Sherbourne Avenue, due to the amount of excessive speeding in this area, in anticipation that they may prevent a serious accident.
Avon and Somerset Police will be conducting a Speed Awareness Week sometime in April at Yate town centre; Community Speed Watch will also be attending to talk to any pedestrian or motorist about speeding and its consequences.
For more info, visit: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/services/watch-community-schemes/community-speedwatch/
Bradley Stoke Town Council has announced the programme for the 2015 Community Festival, which takes place from Friday 5th June to Sunday 7th June. The festival gets under way on Friday 6th with the Picnic in the Park for parents and toddlers on Jubilee Green. Saturday 6th sees a repeat of the traditional community fair at the Jubilee Centre, which this year will feature a dog agility display, skate board demonstrations and music from local bands. A football tournament for Year 1 children will take place on the upper pitch. Sole Sisters’ Bradley Stoke 10k Run kicks off the action on Sunday 7th (starting and finishing at the Jubilee Centre), followed by a Bed Race and the Mayor’s XI v BSCC XI cricket match (both at the Baileys Court Activity Centre). For more information or to book a stall, contact the town council on 01454 205020.
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Brook Court news from Grahame Holloway
T
he past month has, once again, provided a mix of leisure activities for residents. Complementing the in-house programme of coffee mornings, weekly Tai Chi sessions, and regular evenings of whist and bingo, the film night saw a showing of the fast moving thriller ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’, starring Daniel Craig. Moving from one thriller to another, a number of residents hired a mini-bus to take them to the Newman Hall at Henleaze to see a production of ‘The Lady Killers’ performed by the amateur Ship & Castle Theatre Company. Full of praise on their return, they variously described the evening as “excellent” and “hilarious”. Again, away from Brook Court, but this time only crossing the road to the library, a party of residents took up
Or want to improve your skills?
the kind offer to visit Bradley Stoke Library on the occasion of ‘World Book Day’ and the launch of the ’Time 4 Reading’ campaign. After the inaugural speech by the Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, Howard Gawler, we joined Head Librarian Gabrielle Suddell for tea and coffee and learned with great interest of the many facilities the library had to offer, including classes in computing.
STARTS APRIL
New 12 week art course starting in April is designed for complete beginners to improvers and is held at a venue in Winterbourne Down.
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!
Post delivery issues: Your comments on Facebook
Katherine P: Ours turns up around 2-3pm most days! Always getting letters for other people too, sometimes in different streets altogether! Gave a whole pile back to the postie the other day, he asked why I hadn’t put them back in the post box or dropped them through the right doors! I told him I’m not going round Bradley Stoke doing their job for them - I don’t even know where some of the streets are - they were delivered to my house incorrectly so it’s up to them to fix it. RoseMarie I: I’m in Stoke Gifford and have missed parcels even when I’ve been in the house (upstairs) and they have never rang the doorbell or knocked, just a note through the door which I’m sure takes longer to fill in than it does to ring a doorbell! Vanessa W: Our post rarely arrives before 4pm these days and some days we don’t actually get post. When I asked the postie, he said he didn’t have time to deliver our post on that day due to new rounds and regulations etc. I think they have redistributed the rounds out and some posties now have huge rounds with no hope of getting it all done in one day. Jenny B: Had a situation the other week where post for a completely different road was being posted to us. I managed to stop the postman whilst he was still delivering in the road (as did a neighbour), and he didn’t even apologise or seem remotely bothered Linzi M: They have had what they call a ‘revision’ in Patchway Delivery Office. This means that parts of one delivery have been amalgamated into others and the post people are starting work later, hence your delivery will be later. This is a cost cutting exercise as they don’t have to pay staff for unsocial hours (early mornings). Helen P: I have complained to the post office about this several times but nothing is done, we get signed for post posted through the door without being signed for but packages taken back to the sorting office continually even though someone or a neighbour is in.
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.
April 2015
GuiGui Z: We’re getting post for other houses and parcels [also for other houses] shoved through the door without anyone ringing the bell or knocking for attention. Some of these are parcels that are meant to be signed for! I have a giant house number on the door! How can the postman mistake it for any other house?
New Art Class for Beginners
Looking for an introduction to art?
t: 01454 300 400
For more informa�on including dates, �mes and venue, please call Emma on 01454 227116.
Jenna B: I have had to wait almost a week for a parcel that was showing on the tracking service as at the Patchway delivery office! They eventually delivered early doors on a Sunday and scared me half to death!
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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April 2015
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11
News
Cost-cutting measures to blame for recent post delivery problems Later deliveries and numerous reports of mail going to wrong addresses
I
ncreasing levels of dissatisfaction with the standard of Royal Mail’s postal delivery service in and around Bradley Stoke in recent weeks are the result of “modernisation and transformation” changes that have recently been introduced at the Patchway Delivery Office, The Journal can reveal. A message posted on our Facebook page on 13th March by a reader who said she was frequently receiving letters and parcels meant for other houses (including items that were meant to be ‘signed for’ but had just been pushed through the letterbox), attracted scores of comments from readers reporting similar experiences, along with reports of post being delivered much later in the day than previously.
Postman doesn’t ring
Other readers have complained of ‘not at home’ notes being posted through doors and parcels
NEW CREW toat e compet FC annual als ion at rn te In
being taken back to the delivery office without the postman even bothering to ring their doorbell. The panel opposite shows a small selection of the comments made by readers on our Facebook page. Check out the magazine links page on our website to see the full dialogue and take part in the discussion.
Transformation programme When we brought the complaints to the attention of Royal Mail’s press office, we were given the following statement by spokesperson Val Bodden: “Royal Mail has recently made changes to our local delivery operations in the Bradley Stoke area for the delivery of BS32 postcode mail, as part of our ongoing modernisation and transformation programme. These changes are essential to respond to changes in the postal market, as we are now delivering fewer letters but more parcels. Our changes help to safeguard the future of the service and place
the company on a viable and sustainable footing.” “The time customers receive mail will depend on where they live on the delivery route. This may be later or possibly earlier than previous delivery times. Mail is being delivered daily and the majority of people will get their mail by lunchtime. It may also mean that some customers will also have a different postman or woman.” “These changes will require a period of adjustment for our staff. There have been a few teething problems as we bed in the changes and postmen and women adapt to new routes. We apologise if customers have seen an impact from our changes.” “However, Royal Mail is doing everything possible to maintain
a high level of service that our customers expect and deserve. If any customer has any concerns about their mail service, they should contact Royal Mail Customer Services on 03457 740740 or visit our website at www.royalmail.com” ● Royal Mail has changed the ‘last collection’ times at many local post boxes. See story on page 3.
SCHOOL OF DANCE
Street & Hip - Hop Dance Modern, Jazz & Contemporary MONDAY @ St Andrews Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS 5.45pm Street Dance Under 12 yrs 6.30pm & Body Tone Adult All levels TUESDAY @ Coniston Community Centre, The Parade, Patchway BS34 5LP Ballet Basics & Modern Jazz 4.00pm 3-8 yrs 4.45pm Street Dance Under 12 yrs 5.30pm OPEN Street Crew All ages 6.30pm Adult All levels
TRY A CLASS FOR ONLY £5 Tel 07871436600 www.danceworks.uk.com liesel@danceworks.uk.com
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April 2015
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13
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News
Stoke Lodge is split from Patchway to form new civil parish
Bradley Stoke
A
new civil parish has been created in north Bristol after the Stoke Lodge area was separated from Patchway following a campaign by local councillors. The parish of Stoke Lodge and The Common, with an electorate of around 1,700, was officially created on 1st April 2015. Until the elections in May, when councillors will be elected for the first time, the new parish council will operate in a skeleton form, with South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) acting in a caretaking role. The development comes four years after Andy Alsop, who at the time represented the Stoke Lodge ward on Patchway Town Council, presented a 500-signature petition to a meeting of SGC’s Full Council, calling for a new parish to be formed. Cllr Alsop’s petition stated: “We believe that continuing as part of Patchway Town Council is not appropriate for us. We are distinct from the area on the west side of the A38 and wish to run our own affairs.” It also claimed that Stoke Lodge contributed 30% of Patchway Town Council’s “rates”, but had only 20% of the seats on its council. Receipt of the petition triggered a Community Governance Review, which
L-r: Andy Alsop with Stoke Lodge councillors Pomfret and Hopkinson
in turn led to the residents of Stoke Lodge being consulted about whether they wished to form a new parish, join with a neighbouring town/parish (Bradley Stoke or Stoke Gifford) or maintain the status quo. A total of 894 consultation leaflets were issued to Stoke Lodge households and 720 were returned and verified – an 80% response rate. And of the verified responses, more than 80% indicated a wish to have a new parish council created. Final sign-off for the creation of a new parish was given by SGC’s Full Council in May 2013. ● SGC has appointed Natalie Carr as the interim parish clerk. She can be contacted on 01454 868198. Information about forthcoming council meetings will be posted on noticeboards.
Patchway
The new parish (A) is bordered in the west by the A38 and the railway line
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April 2015
News
1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group expands with‌
Beavers and adult volunteers of the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group, pictured following an investiture ceremony on Friday 20th March. See story on facing page.
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News
Three new sections!
O
n Friday 20th March a rather unique ceremony took place at the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout headquarters at Brook Way Activity Centre. Due to the incredible demand on the group’s waiting lists (and after months of planning with considerable help from the Scout Association’s Regional Development Team), the group were able to finally realise their ambition to open a further two new Beaver sections, plus another Cub pack. This means that the Group now has four Beaver colonies, three Cub packs, two Scout troops and a partnered Explorer Scout unit, making it one of the largest Scout groups in the country! The new Beavers and their new volunteer leaders attended the special evening ceremony to say their Promise and become members of the worldwide Scouting movement. Nearly 30 young people and five adults were officially welcomed to the group in front of a packed audience of family, friends and other 1st Bradley Stoke members. Group Scout Leader Clive Mason led the proceedings by inviting the new adult volunteers
to become leaders for the two new colonies. Then the newly appointed leaders were able to call their own new Beavers up in their smaller ‘lodges’ to make the Scout sign and say their Promise. All the young people coped incredibly well with their new-found fame and waited very patiently at the end, as many proud audience members took photographs. Nick Nelson, Chair of the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group, said: “It is very rare for so many new leaders and young members of the Scout group to join all at the same time and it is a reflection of how popular Scouting is. The group has wanted to offer more spaces for local boys and girls to join for a long time, but this can only happen if there are the adults willing to volunteer to help make it possible.” “The group still needs more adults (now, more than ever!), so if you have been inspired by seeing all these little smiling faces being given the opportunity for fun and adventure, please take a look at our website www. bradley-stoke-scouts.org.uk, where you can see even more of what we do.”
We deliver 9,450 copies of this magazine As well as being delivered to ALL of the 8,650 homes in Bradley Stoke, a further 800 copies of this magazine are delivered in the neighbouring areas of Little Stoke and Stoke Lodge. We also leave around 550 copies at public locations in Bradley Stoke, Patchway and Stoke Gifford.
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April 2015
News
£25m sewer relief scheme given green light New pipeline between Frampton Cotterell and Bradley Stoke will support the building of thousands of new homes at Emersons Green, Harry Stoke and North Yate
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Existing major sewers New sewer Watercourses Major development areas Roads Motorways
BRADLEY STOKE TOWN COUNCIL Hereby gives notice that the Annual Town Meeting will be held at the Bradley Stoke Jubilee Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke 7.30pm Wednesday 13 May 2015 Council Members welcome all those attending to stay for light refreshments after the meeting Sharon Petela, Town Clerk Council Office, The Jubilee Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, South Glos BS32 8HL (01454) 205020 www.bradleystoke.gov.uk
W
essex Water has announced that it will be constructing a multi-million pound scheme in South Gloucestershire to provide significant additional sewer capacity for new developments at North Yate, Harry Stoke and Emersons Green. The scheme, costing around £25m, will see the completion of the Frome Valley relief sewer to provide extra capacity in the sewerage network and help protect homes and the local environment from flooding risk. The first sections of the Frome Valley relief sewer were laid around north Bristol and near Yate in the 1980s and 90s. Wessex Water now wants to complete the project by constructing a 5km long pipeline that will run east to west between Frampton Cotterell and Bradley Stoke. Project manager Paul Godfrey said: “For many years we have wanted to complete the Frome Valley relief sewer, so we’re pleased the project has now been given approval and support by Ofwat, and construction will take place within the next five years. “It will ensure the sewerage network can cope with significant ongoing and future development and provide much needed extra capacity.” Wessex Water said it was in the early stages of the scheme and added that construction is likely to start in 2017/18. During the coming months, the firm will be carrying out environmental and engineering surveys to determine the best options for developing the pipeline route. Mr Godfrey added: “We will initially be talking to landowners and stakeholders, but as soon as we know more about exactly where the underground pipeline will go we will liaise with local communities.” The Frome Valley relief sewer is one of many projects included in Wessex Water’s £2 billion investment programme to maintain and improve services between 2015 and 2020.
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17
News
Budget boost for Bristol Aerospace Museum Proposed heritage museum on Patchway side of Filton Airfield site awarded £2m by Chancellor
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he Bristol Aero Collection Trust has been awarded a £2 million grant from the LIBOR fund (of fines imposed on banks) to support the creation of the Bristol Aerospace Centre, an aerospace industrial museum and learning centre on Filton’s historic airfield site, one of the birthplaces of British aviation. Lloyd Burnell, Project Director of the Trust said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Chancellor announced, in his recent budget, the award of £2 million of LIBOR funding for the Bristol Aerospace Centre and are extremely grateful to Jack Lopresti, MP for Bradley Stoke and Filton for his tireless campaigning on our behalf.” “This exciting new £16 million project, which will also provide a fitting home for Concorde, is already supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, industry partners BAE Systems, RollsRoyce and Airbus, and South Gloucestershire Council”. The Chancellor, George Osborne said: “In every Budget we have used LIBOR fines paid by those who have demonstrated the worst in values, to support those who represent the very best of British values. Jack Lopresti brought to my attention the proposal for a new museum to commemorate the UK flying heritage at Filton in Bristol. At the Budget I was pleased to announce £2 million for the
type of hangar” and “the most complete of any of these types of sites in existence”. They were later home to 501 Squadron which won seven honours in World War Two, and was one of the most heavily engaged units in RAF Fighter Command. To inspire current and future generations, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) learning and skills will be at the heart of the Bristol Aerospace Centre, with activities and programmes attracting tens of thousands of school children so vital to address the UK’s forecast shortfall in STEM graduates and apprentices. Construction work on the Bristol Aerospace Centre is due to start later this year with public opening scheduled in the first half of 2017. ● Visit: www.bristolaero.org
Artist’s impression of the Concorde hangar at the Bristol Aerospace Centre
Bristol Aerospace Centre to help fund this important project to preserve our aviation history.” Jack Lopresti MP says: “The £2m from George Osborne for the Bristol Aero Collection Trust is fantastic news and means that the Concorde and aviation museum should actually go ahead. The Bristol Aerospace Centre project is a fitting tribute to Concorde and the rest of our aerospace heritage in Filton; honouring the people who have made such a contribution to Britain’s aerospace industry, and the defence of the realm, for over a century.” As a part of the exhibitions, Bristol’s long-standing contribution to the UK’s military efforts will be recognised and celebrated at the new Centre: from the Bristol Fighter of World War One through to today’s Airbus A400M Atlas, the first of
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which was recently named ‘City of Bristol’ by the RAF. The project’s 9.5 acres Airfield site includes two Grade II listed hangars built by the Royal Flying Corp during World War One and have been described by English Heritage as, “a rare surviving example of the earliest standard
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In Brief
Bradley Stoke Rainbows very proud of new flag
Showcase your group at 2015 Discover Festival!
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ainbows from 1st Bradley Stoke joined 2nd Stoke Lodge Brownies to show everyone their new unit flags in a dedication service at Holy Trinity Church. Ever since the war memorial dedication last August, the Rainbows wanted a flag so that they could be the same as all of the other local uniformed groups. The Rainbows each collected five pence pieces towards the flag and were also given a generous donation to enable them to purchase the flag. The flag arrived at the end of last year and the Rainbows practised carrying it in preparation for the dedication service. During the dedication, the Rainbows and Brownies explained the history of their groups and met their units’ previous leaders. Both the Rainbows and the Brownies also read poems which were specially written for the occasion. The Rainbows would like to thank everyone who was involved in helping them raise enough money for the flag and those who attended the dedication. The Rainbows are looking forward to carrying their flag at the next Remembrance Parade in November. Both girls and adult volunteers can register their interest at www.girlguiding.org.uk
Would you like to showcase your group or organisation, attract new members or promote a special activity? Then why not join us for the 2015 Discover Festival! Now in its fourth year, the Discover Festival is an exciting and diverse programme of events, organised by South Gloucestershire Council, local residents, community groups and businesses. Could your group organise an open day, a taster session or a workshop? Are you holding a talk, a walk, a performance or an exhibition? Whatever your event, there’s a place for you. Online registration for all events is now open and closes on 11th May. If you have an event idea but no venue and would like to work in partnership with your local library, please pop in to speak to the librarian or call the library service on 01454 868006. ● http://bit.ly/discoverfest2015
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Advertising Feature
FREE open day on 18th April at the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Bradley Stoke
Mama Bear’s Day Nursery & Pre-school Now open in Bradley Stoke! Find us just off Great Park Road s Court. and behind Tesco Express in Bailey
T
he Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) is a weekend performing arts school for 4-18 year-olds that strives to deliver the best performing arts education. Due to its success, PQA Bradley Stoke is expanding to open an afternoon academy which launches on Saturday 18th April with a free open day running from 1.45pm to 5pm. Pauline Quirke said: “When we opened our first academy in 2007 our mission was simply to provide the very best performing arts education. We’ve grown a lot since then, but that mission hasn’t changed. By working with people we believe are outstanding in their field, we aim to bring the widest, most exciting experience to our students in an environment that is both friendly and rewarding.” PQA Bradley Stoke currently runs from 9.45am to 1pm at Bradley Stoke Community School on Saturdays. Once split into appropriate age groups, the children rotate between vibrant lessons in Comedy and Drama,
Musical Theatre and Film and Television. These core modules teach a comprehensive range of skills which are useful in everyday life, not just a career in performing arts, whilst masterclasses allow students to explore more specialist lessons ranging from special effects to magic, beat boxing and circus. As well as many in-house productions and showcases, there are two stand-out highlights for all PQA students. The first is the chance to see their short film projects on the big screen of their local cinema, where they get to walk down the red-carpet just like the Hollywood stars. The second is the chance to take part in one of the annual PQA shows in the West End. Every year different academies join together to create a spectacular show at Her Majesty’s Theatre – home of The Phantom of the Opera. For more details regarding the PQA Bradley Stoke open day, please visit www.pqacademy. com or call 084567 32022 ● See advert on back cover.
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April 2015
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General Election Special
Ian Boulton (Labour)
M
y family has lived in this area for generations. As a child, I lived in Winterbourne and Patchway and, 46 years on, I live in Staple Hill with my partner who is a Matron at Southmead Hospital. I am a South Gloucestershire Councillor for Staple Hill where I am currently Deputy Leader of the Labour Group. As Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, it was an honour to represent our communities. I have attended hundreds of events and met thousands of people as I have worked hard to champion our region. I run a business and chair a local Regeneration Partnership where I work in our most deprived neighbourhoods. Filton and Bradley Stoke is the West of England’s economic powerhouse. Our MP needs to work to ensure we have the skills, infrastructure and resources to maintain our
Ian Boulton (third from left) on the campaign trail with supporters/candidates in Stoke Gifford
reputation as a centre of excellence in hi-tech manufacturing. I see the effect this Government’s austerity cuts have had on our most vulnerable residents. I will work with my colleagues from all parties at South Gloucestershire Council
to constantly remind whoever forms the next Government of the importance of local services. I would work to promote our area and encourage inward investment. As our economy makes a bumpy and uncertain recovery the cost of living is still causing too many hard working families to suffer. I would work to increase the minimum wage to a more viable level. Our current MP promised to maintain Frenchay Hospital as an Acute Hospital. It is now closed completely. The knock on effects on our new hospital at Southmead without the planned community beds in our region have been well publicised. I will campaign for more Community Hospitals to be provided, including at the former Frenchay Hospital site, and call for a better integrated Health and Care Service. • ianboulton.org.uk • twitter.com/IanBoulton
Dr Diana Warner (Green Party)
T
he local Green Party serving Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency are a small team dedicated to making change, and sharing the need to act to make all our lives better. We are determined to let people know that if all of us pull together we can live in flourishing communities where everyone is cared for. When we talk to people on the doorstep and on the street, we find common concerns; not enough houses, high rents and worries about the health service, falling living standards and uncertainty about jobs. Local transport either on foot, cycling, in cars or by public transport can cause daily difficulty or frustration. People can feel cut off and isolated. Some look further and voice concerns about environment or the desperate plight of people in other parts of the world. We leave people who talk to us with a
Diana Warner (second from left) on the campaign trail with Green Party supporters
new feeling of hope, because they see that the Green Party is honest and democratic and that we share their values. Unlike other
parties, we refuse donations from business and only accept individual donations up to seven thousand pounds, so we aren’t influenced by financial considerations. One member has one vote, the same as our MP Caroline Lucas, our leader Natalie Bennett and our South West MEP Molly Scott Cato. At conference every viewpoint is heard and considered. We are able to show people that the Green Party has coherent policies based on working cooperatively and that we can provide a blueprint for deep rooted change to our economy, environment and community. This is why I am standing as a Green MP candidate. To make a real difference to my patients’ health and the health of the community I serve. • dianawarnerfbs.wordpress.com • twitter.com/DWarnerGreens
Other known candidates are Pete Bruce (Liberal Democrat) and Jack Lopresti (Conservative), who will be offered space in our May magazine. For the latest Filton and Bradley Stoke general election news, visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/elections/2015-general-election/
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21
General Election Special
Church gives local people a chance to grill their major party candidates
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rom healthcare to the economy, crime and employment – residents from Bradley Stoke and the surrounding areas will get the chance to quiz some of their local parliamentary candidates on the issues that matter to them at an election forum on Sunday 12th April. Local candidates from the five main political parties will be taking part in a hustings event at Bradley Stoke Community School from 7.30pm to 9pm, hosted by Bridge Community Church. To make the event more accessible, people are being offered the opportunity to submit their questions online beforehand. Questions will also be taken from the audience on the evening itself. Hosted by local businessman and Bridge Community Church member Dotun Olowoporoku, the forum will give people in the community a chance to meet Conservative candidate Jack Lopresti, Labour candidate Ian Boulton, Liberal Democrat candidate Peter Bruce, Green Party candidate Dr Diana Warner and UKIP candidate Ben Walker and hear their views on major issues that are important to people living in the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency.
Forum host: Dotun Olowoporoku
Host Dotun said: “Being able to have a meaningful debate like this is so exciting because, here in the UK, our democracy, with all its flaws, is far more mature and sophisticated than the democracy in Nigeria, where I was born.” “The candidates will answer questions on areas which are important to us locally. Issues such as jobs, education and immigration don’t just affect our individual lives but our life as a community and nation.” “We want to use our vote wisely and want to hear what each party has got to say before we make our decision.” The hustings is being hosted by Bridge Community Church and supported by local churches
Christ the King in Bradley Stoke and St Chad’s in Patchway. Dotun continued: “This election forum will give local people a chance to meet their local candidates and make an informed opinion about who can best represent their views locally. It’s also an opportunity for the candidates themselves
to hear the beliefs and views of their constituents so that they can hopefully go some way to representing them nationally.” To pre-submit your question, visit http://bit.ly/fabsef ● To find out more, call the office at Bridge Community Church on 0117 230 3330 or email info@ bridgechurchbristol.org
Whether it be charging you for your green bin, slashing services or supporting the building of thousands of houses on Filton Airfield, adding to the current traffic nightmare we all face; their consistency never wanes. They act in their own interests, in unison and follow the current below average MP like lemmings. This isn’t representation and we all deserve better. In May, you have a choice; a choice to change this by electing local people who are willing to stand up for you and this area. We offer that change and have a strong record of action. I grew up, live and work in this
area just like all our candidates. I care deeply for it and its betterment. Having served in the Royal Navy and as a local councillor since 2007, my sense of public service is at my core and I wish for nothing more than to represent this area and serve you as your Member of Parliament. Remember, it’s your area and your choice. Every vote counts and I hope you can support me, along with our candidates to work for you and end the five years of parliamentary silence and bad decision making we have all suffered. • www.benwalker.org.uk • twitter.com/CllrBenWalker
Ben Walker out canvassing in BS32
EAST
Ben Walker (UKIP)
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ince the European Elections, we haven’t stopped canvassing and campaigning throughout Filton and Bradley Stoke. The electorate’s unhappiness with the current coalition government and the mess Labour left this country in runs deep through all localities and our candidates and campaign team continue to work tirelessly for the area to ensure residents get the best from their elected representation and candidates. For too long, councillors from parish, town and South Gloucestershire Council have consistently let residents down.
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In Brief
Ask the Chiropractor
Ladies’ running course for beginners starts soon
with Rebecca from the Willow Brook Clinic New Year, new you? Or new injury? Part 2: Gym injuries Last month Rebecca Rees, a Chiropractor at Willow Brook Clinic, talked us through some common running injuries and how we can prevent them. This month she explains how overdoing it at the gym can result in back injuries and how to avoid them.
discs, potentially increasing your chance of injuries like a disc herniation. This is when the outer fibres of the disc weaken, causing the gel-like material inside, to bulge out. The disc bulge can then press on the nerves in the spine, causing pain and numbness in the leg.
How do back injuries in the gym occur?
How can we avoid back injuries in the gym?
A back injury is a relatively common problem. Poor technique or trying to lift too much weight can put abnormal stresses on the muscles and joints, leading to pain and damage. One of the most common errors in the gym is squatting incorrectly, which puts too much pressure on the lower back and knees. Rounding of the back during the squat puts greater pressure on your spinal
In the gym, less is sometimes more! Lifting less weight but keeping a good technique throughout the exercise will help minimize injuries. Follow these tips below to make sure your squat technique is up to scratch! • Maintain a neutral position of the spine throughout the exercise - don’t allow the back to round or hyper-extend. • Don’t allow your knees to come forward over your toes as this will increase your chance
April 2015
of hurting your knees - to avoid this, as you lower yourself into the squat, imagine you are trying to sit down on a chair behind you. • To protect your back, tighten your abdominal and bottom muscles as you squat. • Have a few sessions with a personal trainer - they can make sure your technique is correct and show you the best exercises for your physical state. • If you do hurt your back, seek help from a health care professional, such as a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist, sooner rather than later to minimize the damage. Next month Rebecca will discuss tennis elbow. www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk
● See our advert on page 11.
The Sole Sisters Beginners’ Course is ideal for any ladies who want to start running, but don’t know how to begin. Three times each year we offer a training course for women who wish to start running, have never run before or are returning after a long period of rest/illness/ injury. Our next course starts on 11th May 2015. We set a realistic training programme, it’s a gradual buildup of mileage which, at the end of six weeks you will be able to join one of our main groups and hopefully enjoy it with a certain amount of self-satisfaction. Each course costs £15. Full details and application form available from www. solesistersrc.co.uk/beginners ● Sole Sisters are looking for volunteer marshals at the Bradley Stoke 10k Run on 7th June. If you are able to help or would like more information please email info@solesistersrc.co.uk
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23
News Charity parachute jump well supported Round Table plans £10,000 charity By Karen Dean giveaway in Dragons’ Den style contest n Saturday 11th April,
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Bradley Stoke resident Trevor Hawkins and his daughter Samantha will be making a charity tandem parachute jump from Dunkeswell Airfield, Honiton, in memory of his late father, Roy Hawkins, who died from prostate cancer in 2006. Trevor, 54, of Lavender Way, was also diagnosed with the disease in March 2014. Following successful surgery at Southmead Hospital, he is now in remission. His brother Chris was diagnosed later in the year, and he has now had his surgery, with continuing follow-up treatment. Sam’s nominated charity is Mind, which offers support and advice for people with mental health problems. Sam turned to Mind whilst going through some difficult circumstances, and with their help, felt her life had gained new meaning. In the run-up to the jump, Trevor and Sam have managed to exceed their combined target of £3,000 for the two charities, via a series of social events which have included: • A quiz night at Baileys Court Inn, which was very well attended and enjoyed by all – raised about £150 • Trevor’s Head Shave at Streaks Ahead – raised nearly £500 • Sam’s Head Shave at Boots – for Mind – collected over £150 • A Coffee & Cakes event at Costa Coffee, Willow Brook Centre – which raised some £400
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• Pre-loved sale and raffle at the Willow Brook Centre – which raised around £750 The pair are currently gearing up for their tandem jump, which includes a half-hour training session immediately beforehand. Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so via JustGiving: • Trevor: www.justgiving.com/ trevor-hawkins • Sam: www.justgiving.com/ Samantha-Hawkins3 Both Trevor and Sam would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to local people and companies, including Boots, Costa Coffee, The Hilton Bristol, The Harvester, Marstons and many more who have already assisted them in raising funds. They would particularly like to thank Kevin and Sarah at Tesco for their unstinting support and generosity, which has included donating prizes for the raffle and collecting donations.
ownend Round Table, which covers the Bradley Stoke area, has announced that it will be giving away £10,000 to local worthy causes at a Dragons’ Den style evening next month. As well as registered charities, the organisation says it is prepared to consider “pitches” from all types of groups and even individuals who have a specific need such as wheelchairs or home adaptations. Expressions of interest should be made online at www. surveymonkey.com/r/D7F9D5D The closing date for applications is 8pm on 24th April. Applicants will be notified if they been successful by 1st May, in order to give them chance to prepare for the Den. Those who make it through selection will get the chance to present to the Downend Dragons
at 7pm on 8th May at Resound on Blackhorse Road. This will be based on a 5-minute presentation (format of your choosing, but laptop or performance area available) followed by 5 minutes of questions from the Dragons. Contestants will be encouraged to bring their supporters along to make an entertaining evening for all participants. ● Visit downendrt.co.uk
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Quiz
Computer Corner
Quiz for all, No. 19 (easy/hard, old/new)
with Graham Simmonds of goto iT, Filton So what exactly is ‘the cloud’? You may have heard people talk about ‘the cloud,’ but what is it? The easiest way to think about ‘the cloud’ is to think about storage of information on the internet rather than on your own computer. If you have an email service that is on the web, or you backup your computer to the internet then this is in ‘the cloud’. In the past, internet speeds were not fast enough for us to have these kinds of services available, but now they are. You will start to see more and more services available online over the next few years. You can even store and edit documents online using Microsoft or Google products.
April 2015
As more people have better mobile devices such as phones and tablets, they want immediate access to information wherever they are. Most people see this is the way things are going. Whether you are at home, in a field or in the middle of a desert, you will have access to your emails, documents and photos. To find out more about ‘the cloud’, please get in touch with us at goto iT in Filton. Website: www.goto-it.co.uk Tel: 0117 969 8767 Visit our shop on the corner of Filton Avenue and the A4174.
● See our advert on page 8. Bradley Stoke Journal
School stops over Easter, learning doesn’t have to
Another ‘just for fun’ general knowledge quiz, compiled by local Mastermind contestant Paul Philpot. Answers on page 26. 1. Which city is the capital of the US state of Texas? 2. Which is the only marsupial native to North America? 3. Which car manufacturer produces models including the ‘Galaxy’, ‘Fusion’ and ‘Tourneo’? 4. In which English city are the Inspector Morse novels primarily set? 5. Matilda of Flanders was the queen consort of which king of England? 6. Built in 1914,what is the name of the canal which links the Baltic Sea and the North Sea 7. Which British actor played the roles of Nicholas Brody in ‘Homeland’ and Henry VIII in the TV adaptation of ‘Wolf Hall’ 8. In the Charles Dickens novel ‘Oliver’, what type of animal is ‘Bullseye’? 9. A lack of which vitamin is a major cause of rickets? 10. Preceding Julia Donaldson, who was the last male British Children’s Laureate? 11. Who was the British Prime Minister throughout King Edward VIII’s short reign in 1936? 12. Which South American country is the birthplace of the singer Shakira? 13. Built in the 18th Century and home to the Dukes of Wellington since 1817, which English Heritage property is known as ‘No.1 London’?
Journal quiz setter: Paul Philpot
14. Which Treaty ratified the formation of the EEC in 1957? 15. A famous worldwide television network. For what do the initials HBO stand? 16. Which poet wrote ‘The Rime Of The Ancient Mariner’? 17. Which letter of the alphabet represents the number 500 in Roman numerals? 18. Winnipeg is the capital of which Canadian province? 19. In which American city do the Red Sox play baseball, the Bruins play Ice Hockey and the Celtics play basketball? 20. Which actor played the role of Lex Luther in the 1978 film version of Superman, starring Christopher Reeves? Read Paul’s blog at: www.justquiz.org
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Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the year to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability.
Little Acorns Pre-School Jubilee Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke Tel: 07837 707331
Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.
Free stay and play sessions Tuesday 12th May (9.30 – 11.30) and Friday 12th June (9.30 – 11.30) for children 2 years of age and above. We will also be taking registrations for September 2015 on these dates.
Bradley Stoke Study Centre Sarah Nutchey 01454 610389
If you would like to visit the pre-school with a view to registering and are unable to make these dates, please give us a call.
kumon.co.uk
Ofsted rated ‘Good’ Visit our website: www.lachildcare.co.uk
Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.
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Through the camera lens by Becky Ward Solar eclipse ● Bradley Stoke Radio fundraising evening
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hings have been a little quiet of late photography-wise in Bradley Stoke. However, as we approach the start of better weather, events are starting to come thick and fast. This month I thought I would treat you to not one, but two events; one a naturally occurring phenomenon which I’m sure you will all be aware of, and the other an occasion which took me back to my roots as an event photographer. Firstly this month, I was fortunate enough to be able to photograph something I have been waiting all my life to see, and something that we won’t see again for another 11 years in the UK. Most of you will be aware that just after 9am on 20th March we witnessed the fullest solar eclipse the UK has seen since 1999. Even though I have long had an interest in photography, being only 3 at that time it wasn’t until much later that I actually held my first camera! Many of you no doubt will have been using special glasses and assorted viewing aids, but I was lucky enough to be able to capture some images of the eclipse at its fullest point that I’m proud to share with you. I do, however, freely admit that this image is one
of nearly 100 that I took in order to achieve the desired shot. I’m really pleased with this photo which is just as well, having waited most of my life to get it. As well as a naturally occurring phenomenon, I have also been fortunate to photograph at a recent fundraising evening for Bradley Stoke Radio, which is much more in line with my usual style of photography. I love to document people enjoying themselves and capturing moments that would otherwise go unnoticed. I found the evening quite challenging as the radio station had gone to town on the stage lighting and had also used a smoke machine so it was a bit like taking pictures at the seaside on a foggy day! I managed to get some great shots of all the different acts as well as the people who attended. I find performers tend to make great subject matter as I’m sure you will agree; they tend to be very unique characters who seem to be comfortable performing for their audience as well as striking a pose for the photographer! Apologies for the couple of months that I’ve not been able to share my photos with you, but watch this space as it’s shaping up
Solar eclipse on 20th March
BSR fundraising evening on 21st March
to be a busy summer and I can’t wait! ● More photos of both events can be found on the Becky Ward Photography page on Facebook or via http://bit.ly/bsj-mag-links
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EMAIL caroline@irsha.co.uk www.movingtobristol.co.uk
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April 2015
Ask the Doctor with Dr Sophie Kilmartin of Bradley Stoke Surgery
S Call us now on 01454 893420 Or visit us at: LivingWell Health Club Hilton Bristol Woodlands Lane BS32 4JF
Autism – what’s it all about?
ometimes I feel that I’m not quite in step when interacting with another person, whether it be not getting their joke, misreading body language or saying something insensitive. Sometimes I am too sensitive to bright lights, loud noise or touch. Sometimes I feel cross when a routine is changed. We all have these feelings occasionally, but imagine how stressful it would be if life
challenges in day to day life. For children this may look like naughtiness with tantrums or other inappropriate behaviour when it all gets too much. The main thing is getting help and support for individuals and families/carers. The current length of the pathway for getting a diagnosis of autism for a child in South Gloucestershire is 2.5 years. This can be very stressful so we all need to be aware of how to be supportive
“Common features are difficulty with social communication, social interaction and social imagination” was like that for you all the time. Well this is how autism can affect people. It is more common than you might think – one in every hundred of us has it – so chances are you know someone affected. It is a spectrum which means that although people who have autism share some common issues, some are more severely affected than others. The common features are difficulty with social communication, social interaction and social imagination. The National Autism Society (NAS) say that autism is a “lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people. If also affects how they make sense of the world around them”. People with autism may not appear to be different to anybody else externally, but may be experiencing significant
as a community. The NAS is a great organisation and can be found on www.autism.org.uk. Being patient and kind is really important. Also being aware of stresses people with autism might have such as queuing, appointments running late or noisy environments. There are some great positives about autism. Autism can give some great traits such as loyalty, being great at sticking to routines and a real passion for a chosen subject of study. Some autism heroes are Albert Einstein, Dian Fossey, Wassily Kandinsky and Alan Turing. I have enjoyed reading The Rosie Project by Don Tillman and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. These have characters with Asperger’s Syndrome which is a form of autism. Dr Sophie Kilmartin
Quiz answers (page 24) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Austin Opossum Ford Oxford William The Conqueror Kiel Canal Damien Lewis Dog Vitamin D Anthony Browne
11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Stanley Baldwin Colombia Apsley House Rome Home Box Office Samuel Taylor Coleridge D Manitoba Boston Gene Hackman
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27
In Brief Schools and businesses support Comic Relief
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1. Specsavers Bradley Stoke raised over £500 by selling the official Red Nose Day glasses and staging a number of fundraising events, culminating in a charity spinathon on 6th March. 2. Students at Bradley Stoke Community School raised money through a ‘pie a teacher’ event. 3. Children (and staff) at Bowsland Green Primary School were excited to wear ‘funny for money’ outfits on Red Nose Day, in return for a £1 donation. 4. Teachers and support staff at Stoke Lodge Primary School undertook a 24-hour sponsored cycle (on a static cycle loaned by the leisure centre). Pedalling all through the night, they covered 800km and raised more than £1,500 for Comic Relief.
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Fine arts society lecture on David Hockney On Thursday 16th April, the South Gloucestershire Decorative and Fine Arts Society will welcome Frank Woodgate to give a fascinating insight into the life and work of enigmatic 20th Century artist, David Hockney. The event takes place at Bradley Stoke Community School, where there is plenty of easy parking and good access to the hall. Refreshments available from 7pm, with the slide-illustrated lecture starting at 7.30 pm. No artistic ability required, just an enquiring mind and an interest in the arts! For more information and to join us as a guest, please call Sally Kitching on 01454 774401 or visit www.sgdfas.org.uk
Council bans sky lanterns Bradley Stoke Town Council has agreed to prohibit the use of sky lanterns on all its sites. The ban is in support of a campaign being promoted locally by the Avon Fire Authority. The lanterns contain a naked flame, which represents a significant fire risk when the lanterns come down to earth.
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April 2015
Community Showcase with Clive Hickman of Bradley Stoke Radio
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nce again, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and talking to a wide range of guests during my Show, who have and continue to do some great work in the local community. Three members of the South West Winterguard Academy (SWWGA), supported by Tara Price (the Committee and Welfare Officer) spoke enthusiastically about the Academy. The Academy helps young people to develop their life and social skills, friendships and self-esteem by taking part in an instructed activity called ‘colourguard’ - a dance based activity using flags and other equipment. You can see the SWWGA perform at the South Gloucestershire Community Showcase on Saturday 25th April at the Thornbury Leisure Centre, along with other local dance, sports and arts groups.
Doors open from 1pm. The Stoke Gifford Parish Clerk, Steve Shield, came in to talk about The Stokes (Youth and Community Centre) at Little Stoke, which provides a wealth of activities and opportunities for young people in the local area. The Stokes was officially reopened back in October 2013, after major refurbishment work. I was amazed to discover that our friends from St Peter’s Hospice need to raise a massive £18,000 per day, to enable Bristol’s only adult hospice to provide care for adults with lifelimiting illnesses and support for their families. Johnny Flanagan (Head of Supporter Relations) and Louisa James (Events Fundraiser) explained how this money is raised, mostly from gifts in wills, donations, fundraising and their local charity shops. One big fundraising event for your
L-r: Tara, Jess, Ellie & Emily of SWWGA with show presenter Clive Hickman
diary is The Midnight Walk on 11th July, 2015. A fun, moonlit walk for Bristol ladies. More information can be found at: www.stpetershospice.org.uk Why not join me every Monday, from 10am to 1pm on BSR 103.4 FM and online at www.bradleystokeradio. com. As well as the Community Group Showcase, I also bring our listeners information and features about recent events,
take a look at ‘what’s on’ in the local area and play a wide range of music to suit all tastes. If you know a person with an interesting story to tell, or you would like to showcase a local community group or charity, then please get in touch with us.
● Telephone: 01454 616055
admin@bradleystokeradio.com Twitter: @bradleystokefm Facebook: Bradley Stoke Radio
First Impressions Always Count Discover Reflections, Bradley Stoke; Friendly Staff & Award-Winning Hairdressing Relaxing shampoo room (Indian head massage included with all services) Complimentary refreshments and magazines Friendly, knowledgeable staff experienced in cutting & colouring Nails, Eyelash & Wedding Hair Specialists on site SPRING OFFER (valid until 31st May 2015) Monday to Wednesday With Selected Stylists Only Ladies Cut & Blow Dry from £29.00 Gents Cut & Finish from £15.00 Colour Service from £39.99 Reflections, 9 Willow Brook Centre, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8BS. Tel: 01454 610 318 www.reflectionshair.co.uk
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News Local clubs support Rotary Swimathon Update on North Fringe roadworks
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1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group members show off their medals and certificates
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he tenth annual Rotary Swimathon, organised by Bradley Stoke Rotary Club, took place at the leisure centre pool on Saturday 14th March. The event sees teams with up to five members swim as many lengths as they can in one hour, to raise money – 60 per cent of sponsorship for their charity or organisation and 40 per cent for Rotary charities. A total of 19 teams took to the water, representing the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group, Bradley Stoke Youth Rugby, 1st Wick Girl Guides and BSG Marlins Swimming Club. Other teams took part on behalf of Hope for Morgan (raising funds to send Bradley Stoke resident Morgan Walker to the USA for spinal surgery), Equipo (raising funds for an expedition to Nicaragua in 2016), Paul’s Place (a charity based
in Coalpit Heath for physically disabled adults) and Novi Survat (a charity providing care for HIV affected children in Goa, India). David’s Dolphins swam to raise funds for Easter Compton Methodist Church and Rotarians themselves took part in support of their own charitable causes. Peter Randall, Secretary of Bradley Stoke Rotary commented: “It has to be said that the team raising funds for Hope for Morgan deserve special mention. Rhys Bridges and Ben Platt were the only two swimmers in their team and swam consistently throughout the session to achieve the highest number of lengths throughout the entire event at 142. Congratulations boys!” Equipo managed 123 lengths, followed by David’s Dolphins with 113 lengths. ● Visit the Bradley Stoke Rotary Club page on Facebook.
ork continues to progress on a major package of transport schemes aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion and improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists in the North Fringe areas of Patchway, Filton, Aztec West and Hambrook. Together these schemes make up an investment of more than £8m in South Gloucestershire’s road network in order to help make key junctions safer for cyclists and pedestrians, deliver major maintenance programmes and increase road capacity at key locations ahead of the construction of the planned Cribbs/Patchway New Neighbourhood. More detail on the current progress of each of the schemes can be found on the dedicated North Fringe roadworks page of the South Gloucestershire Council website at www.
southglos.gov.uk/nfringeworks South Gloucestershire Council’s investment in the North Fringe transport network does not stop there however. The funding for the North Fringe to Hengrove Package has been secured, which will see the construction of a MetroBus network connecting Cribbs Causeway, Aztec West, and Bradley Stoke to Parkway Station, Emersons Green, Bristol city centre and South Bristol. Work on the construction of this network, and specifically the Stoke Gifford Transport Link and the MetroBus route along Bradley Stoke Way, is due to start in Summer 2015, subject to contract award. ● A factsheet on another proposed scheme, the Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension, has recently been published on the TravelWest website at www.travelwest.info/metrobus/ extension
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April 2015
News
Local primary school reaps benefits of Community Payback Painting, decorating and grounds work carried out
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ince the start of 2015, Community Payback teams have been carrying out work at Bowsland Green Primary School in Bradley Stoke. Community Payback work is organised through the Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset & Wiltshire Community Rehabilitation Company (formerly Avon & Somerset Probation Trust). The project sees individuals who have been sentenced to anything from 40 to 300 hours court orders completing work in the local community. Teams of around eight service users working under the supervision of Mike Scott
(placement manager) have been carrying out on-going painting, decorating and grounds improvement work, both internally and externally within the school grounds. A member of the teaching staff, Wendy Collins said: “We are delighted to have the Community Payback team helping us to improve the environment. The impact that they have already had has been fantastic. The team has repainted the entrance hall, which has since been re-carpeted. This sets a great first impression to all the visitors to the school – many have commented that it feels like entering a new school! Repainting the classrooms has
Service users at work in the grounds of Bowsland Green Primary School
had a really positive effect on the children as we are always stressing the importance of taking pride in all that we do.” “As part of the improvements to the school grounds, the team has removed broken and unwanted sheds, fencing and flower beds, making the outside space look tidier and far more inviting for our children to use as well as visitors to the school.” “Moving into the spring season, we plan to further develop the school grounds with the Community Payback team, as the staff, parents and most importantly the children are really benefiting from the hard work the team are putting in and
we are very grateful.” Supervisor Mike Scott commented: “The team has really embraced the work at Bowsland Green Primary school. Such tasks create worthwhile challenges for individuals as well as the team as a whole. Work has been carried out at a higher standard as all of the team understand who benefit from their efforts. We look forward to working with the school for some time, being part of on-going improvements.” ● If you would like to nominate a project for the Community Payback team to carry out, please get in touch by emailing christian.matthews@bgsw. probation.gsi.gov.uk
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31
News
Plans for third August Carnival take shape By Andy Ward, Bradley Stoke Carnival Committee he third Bradley Stoke Carnival will take place this year on Saturday 29th August. The Carnival Committee, which is made up entirely of local community-spirited people, has got back together once again to bring the family atmosphere of Carnival back to our town. If you enjoy getting involved with events such as the Carnival and fancy helping out please do get in touch with us. The Carnival is in the early stages of planning at the moment, and we are looking for community groups, charities or local small traders who may be interested in having a pitch on the Jubilee Field. We would also like to hear from anyone who would like to take part in the parade. The theme this year is ‘party’, so you could perhaps dress up in your glad rags or
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Chinese dancers lead the 2014 carnival parade as it processes along Brook Way
come in fancy dress, it’s really up to you as to how you interpret the theme, just so long as it’s fun and colourful. Community groups with uniforms may like to join the parade to show off their uniform with pride. We are working on a new parade route this year, which will give you all a chance to show off your outfits to even more people as you walk along the route. Prizes will be awarded again this year to those
judged to have the best costumes. We are once again hoping to bring an afternoon of quality live music for you to enjoy with your family and friends, so don’t forget to bring a picnic, maybe a blanket and some chairs, settle down and enjoy the day. A licensed bar will also be available. If you are interested in playing at the Carnival, please do get in touch via the carnival email address below, we are looking for
bands that can entertain people of all age groups and of various different genres. Bradley Stoke Radio is again a big part of the Carnival this year and they will be hosting the live music stage and broadcasting the day’s live music performances so you will still be able to catch up with the day even if you can’t make it to the field itself. The ever popular funfair will be returning with its selection of side shows and rides across the bank holiday weekend and Bradley Stoke Radio plans to be alongside the funfair with their trailer hosting a mini concert on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon, with yet more live music. ● For further details on the Carnival, please keep an eye on the Bradley Stoke Carnival Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @bstokecarnival, or get in touch via our email address bradleystokecarnival@gmail.com
A Family of Schools Our Mission: To support and enable all students Abbeywood Community School Students - 806 Age Range - age 11 to 18 Associate Headteacher - Mr David Howe Joined the Trust - January 2013 Ofsted rating - Good
to be ambitious and believe in themselves, achieve their full potential and develop the skills to succeed and enjoy life. Bradley Stoke Community School
Students - 1107 Age Range - age 11 to 18 Headteacher - Ms Jenny Sutton Kirby Joined the Trust - Founder member, January 2012 Ofsted rating - Good, with outstanding leadership and management & behaviour and safety
Charborough Road Primary School Students - 275 Age Range - age 4 to 11 Headteacher - Mrs Nicola Bailey Joined the Trust - January 2015 Ofsted rating - Good
Meadowbrook Primary School
Students - 464 Age Range - age 4 to 11 Headteacher - Mr Jon Bar Joined the Trust - January 2015 Ofsted rating - Requires improvement, with good leadership and management
Executive Headteacher, Mr Dave Baker
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April 2015
Sport Great season for Bradley Stoke United FC
Under-15 Blacks with representatives of their sponsor Volker Fitzpatrick
By Simon Hares of BSUFC ince its formation in 1998, Bradley Stoke United FC (BSUFC) has provided football for both boys and girls in the Five Stokes Area. Bradley Stoke United prides itself with having players of all abilities. Our 17th season has been good, with our Under-15s, Under-13s and Under-11s all looking for promotion. Our Under-12s currently stand second in Division 1. Our younger age groups also continue to impress, with the Under-10s and Under8s both playing great football. The club is fortunate to have excellent support from the local business community. This season, Volker Fitzpatrick and AJ Homes are providing much appreciated sponsorship for both our Under-15 teams and our Under-13s. The 2014/2015 season has also seen the club have its first ever Under-18s team, forming a new partnership with Hambrook FC,
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Life. It can be a beach! Pensions Drawdown Annuities
which gives our youth players a route into adult football. This has been so successful that next season will see us running two Under-18 teams. BSUFC will once again be holding its Football Fundays from June onwards. The sessions, held at Patchway Sports Centre on a Saturday morning, have proved hugely successful. These fun and structured sessions, held by our own FA Level 1 coaches, are aimed at providing boys and girls with a fun footballing experience, giving an opportunity to learn skills and meet new friends. The age groups these sessions are open to are under-10s, under-9s, under-8s, under-7s and under-6s. There will also be a Tigers session for under-5s. If you have a child who wants to play football or you yourself would like to get involved in coaching, there are many opportunities within our friendly club. Just visit our website www.bsufc.co.uk and hit the ‘contact us’ button.
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News
St Patrick’s Day makeover for welcome signs By Sara Messenger of Bradley Stoke in Bloom (BSiB) e thought that we would try to bring a little Irish luck to Bradley stoke and gave our Welcome Planters a St Patrick’s day makeover, so even if you didn’t win the lotto we hope you still enjoyed our bit of fun.
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Palmers Corner
For our February workday we started on the Corner of Webbs Wood Road and Palmers Leaze. Although we have yet to receive our formal permission from SGC to take on this area, we felt that we couldn’t make it look any worse than it did! Although some bramble had already been cut by machinery, there was still much to do, much more bramble was dug out, trees were straightened, litter was removed,
hedgehogs were re-homed and a border was dug in and planted. Although previously the bramble had been shredded, we felt it was better to remove it all from the site as we plan to grass the front area and we didn’t want there to be thorns left in the ground to injure any dogs’ paws or children’s feet. Thank you to BSTC for arranging a speedy collection of all the bramble and the bags of litter we collected. Before the day was finished, we put in a selection of plants that we had to hand, including some mature daffodils that we bought to add some instant colour. We were hugely disappointed on the 9th March to discover that someone had, with scissors, cut all the daffodils and had taken all the flowers. We felt that this was a very petty theft and have reported it. Not everyone is as mean spirited, thank you to Vanessa Wheeler for again letting us raid her garden and to Diane who sent us this heart-warming email “Thank you so much for the transformation you have made to the entrance to Palmers Leaze, You have done more than you know as the overgrown area caused a blind spot for drivers and pedestrians were stepping off the pavement to avoid the overgrown brambles. Thank you again for all your hard work in transforming the overgown area! Well done!!”
Wheatfield School
Several of the group went along to Wheatfield School to continue work on their ‘Wild Walk.’ More tea was drunk, bacon butties were eaten, hedges were made and bluebells and two willow archways were planted. Archways were a first for us but we were very pleased with the results and hope the children like it as much as we do.
Library Meadow
Our shiny new rotavator and free Grow Wild seeds have arrived just in time for our spring replanting of the meadow and we have some paving slabs which we are going to use to create a meadow pathway and are delighted that Wheatfield pupils
Willow archway at Wheatfield School
may be decorating them for us. ● How to contact us… Email: bsib@hotmail.co.uk; Tel: 07582 634107; Facebook: Bradley Stoke in Bloom
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April 2015
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Business News Local hair stylist gets to work behind the scenes at Paris Fashion Week
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young hairstylist from Stoke Lodge has recently returned from an audacious trip to France to gain experience at the prestigious Paris Fashion Week. Jodie Austen, who has worked previously at Excellence Spa in Bradley Stoke and Alan Bendrey & Co. at the Aztec Centre, now works independently under her own Peachy Stylist brand, specialising in session work and personal styling. Having recently styled hair at London Fashion Week, Jodie was keen to broaden her experience within the international fashion scene, so set her sights on attending the Paris Fashion Week held from 3rd to 11th March. In a bold move, she boarded a plane for Paris with promises of work on just a couple of shows, but, once there, was able to use her extensive network of contacts to get involved on all but one of the ten days that make up the biannual fashion extravaganza. Speaking to The Journal on return from her trip to Paris, Jodie said: “The greatest journeys are the ones you never expect to take. Prior to Paris Fashion Week, I was prepping for shoots and planning my year. Paris loomed on the horizon and I decided that it wasn’t something I could allow to pass me by.” “In previous years, I have had to resign myself to watching the events from here - in the UK. My newsfeed would be flooded
with fashionistas flaunting both the ordinary and ornate with a carefree juxtaposition. It’s something I had to be part of and I couldn’t bear to put it off for another year so, in short, I gambled!” “I put the word around to any and everyone involved in the planning stages that I, Peachy Stylist, would be present and available to work in Paris for an entire week. There were no guarantees that I would be particularly busy, as I had just two shows confirmed before boarding the plane.” As it happened, I actually ended up staying for ten days, working for nine of them on ten fabulous shows - Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, Paul & Joe - the list is long but each one was a masterpiece and being even just a small part of these shows fills me with pride.” We asked Jodie to describe what it was like working behind the scenes as a hair stylist at one of the world’s top fashion shows. “Backstage, things always start quiet. The creatives are usually the first there, followed by the models filtering in behind, usually with their hair in a completely unwieldy state (the aftermath of their previous show).” “The models take a seat and, after the key stylist has given us a demonstration, the chaos begins. We work either in pairs or in teams to recreate the desired look on as many models as we can
Jodie Austen assisting Ramona at Gauchère Paris Fashion Week
at a single time. Speed is key everything needs to be done five minutes ago!” Summing up, Jodie said: “The experience was hugely positive. Working with some of the most talented, enthusiastic and diligent creatives Europe has to offer, has left me waiting for
September, when I hope to be part of it all over again.” ● Peachy Stylist prides herself on creating ready to wear styles for her clientele that take them on a path to healthy, beautiful hair. For more details, visit www. jodieausten.co.uk or search for Peachy Stylist on Facebook.
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Schools Severn rescue boat team visits Abacus Pre-School Members of the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) paid a visit to Abacus Pre-School at Meadowbrook on 10th March along with one of their boats for the children to see and enjoy. The children all had the opportunity to sit on the boat and learn all about its different parts and their functions. Some of the older children then enjoyed learning about the different types of boat that SARA uses and how the volunteers risk their own lives to save people. Katy Rowe, manager at Abacus Pre-School said: “We saw lots of videos and photos of rescue operations and we talked about how to keep safe around the water. The children offered their own comments and many of them understood that water can be dangerous. We even practiced shouting “help” in case we ever need help ourselves!” ● www.sara-rescue.org.uk
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Bradley Stoke Beat Team PC Jamie Shiels reports There are alternatives to driving right up to the school gate!
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t is now seven months since we moved into the new police centre in Patchway and I think that most of us are now getting used to working in such a new building, although we still retain our police post at the Willow Brook Centre. Our old station in Filton is being transformed into flats; hopefully the new occupants enjoy our old home. Over the last seven months, we have seen a massive change in the beat teams, covering the various beats around Filton, Stoke Gifford, Patchway and Bradley Stoke. For a variety of reasons, I believe that as many as twelve members of staff have moved on, many to join other police forces. This includes PCSO Ben Sherwood of the Bradley Stoke Neighbourhood Beat Team (NHBT) who has left the beat; we wish him well in his future career.
One of the issues Ben would often deal with is parking complaints at the local primary schools. We have six, soon to be seven, primary schools in Bradley Stoke and parking safely can be a challenge at the best of times during the school run. As the NHBT, we would like to encourage people to try alternatives to driving right up to the school gate to promote road safety through reducing the amount of traffic congestion outside your school at peak times of the day. This in turn creates a safer area for children walking to and from school. Benefits for those taking part include: • Increased exercise levels in children • Promotes active travel, healthy living and obesity issues; • Research suggests increased activity improves concentration
levels in children • Children walking at least part of the way have additional opportunity to learn essential road safety and personal safety skills • Parents can save time by avoiding congestion at the school gates and ease the pressure of finding a parking space • Increased opportunity for parents and children to socialise with others on the school journey • Reduces congestion directly outside the school and therefore creates a safer environment for people to travel • Contributes towards reducing pollution levels • Encourages children to walk when previously not an option • Children are able to walk with their family, friends or even form a walking bus from the park and stride site
Finally, may I wish you all a happy Easter and hope the two week school holiday is not too stressful! Beat surgeries at the Willow Brook Centre: Wednesday 15th April – 5pm to 6.30pm Thursday 23rd April – 12pm to 1.30pm ASPolice Bradley Stoke @ASPTheStokes
Avon and Somerset Police website: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
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What’s On (5th April – 3rd May) Sunday 5th April 9am: Severnside Ramblers’ Walk: Wotton, Tresham & Ozleworth. Meet in the Blue Zone car park at Aztec West – a car-sharing scheme is operated. More info: http://bit.ly/ssramb [Further walks on 12th, 17th, 19th & 26th April and 1st & 3rd May] 10am-2pm: Easter Bunny Bike Ride (Family Treasure Hunt) at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/bsj-scc
Wednesday 8th April 10am-12noon: Citizens Advice Bureau Outreach Session at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/citadbu or phone 08444 111444 [Weekly on Wednesdays] 2pm: Bradley Stoke Women’s Institute (WI) meets at the Jubilee Centre. This month: Talk on cheese making - with samples to taste! More info: Barbara Williams on 0117 947 0340
Sunday 12th April 9.30am: SCC Novice and Long Distance Bike Ride to Snuff Mills/Berkeley. Meet outside Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/bsj-scc or phone Bryan on 01454 617560 [Further rides on 19th, 26th & 30th April and 3rd May] 7.30pm: Election Forum at Bradley Stoke Community School. An opportunity for voters to ask questions and hear the views of candidates. See page 21.
Monday 13th April 6.30pm: Bradley Stoke Small
Business Forum Meeting at the Aztec Hotel. More info: www.bssbf.co.uk 7pm: BSTC Leisure, Youth & Amenities Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http://bit.ly/bstclya
Tuesday 14th April 7.30pm: Willow Brook Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Jubilee Centre. This month: Spinning and weaving. More info: Janine 01454 617645
Wednesday 15th April 5pm-6.30pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary. 7pm: BSTC Finance Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcfin
Thursday 16th April 7pm: SGDFAS Lecture at Bradley Stoke Community School. This month: ‘David Hockney’ by Frank Woodgate. See news item on page 27. More info: Sally Kitching on 01454 774401.
Friday 17th April 1.15pm-7.15pm: Blood Donation Sessions at the Jubilee Centre. More info: www.blood.co.uk [Further sessions on 24th April]
Saturday 18th April 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.
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For more details and further events, visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/whats-on/
Monday 20th April
of staff for details.
1.30pm-3.30pm: Sew and So’s patchwork and quilting group meets at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/sewandsos
Saturday 2nd May
Wednesday 22nd April 7pm: BSTC Planning Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcpec
Thursday 23rd April 12pm-1.30pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary.
Saturday 25th April 1.15pm-5.15pm: South Gloucestershire Community Showcase at Thornbury Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit. ly/swwgacad or phone Ken Burrows on 0775 2472314 2.30pm: Chatterbooks Reading Group at Bradley Stoke Library. For keen readers aged 9-11. Please ask a member
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
Sunday 3rd May 7am-5pm: Car Boot Sale at Trench Lane, BS32 4JZ. More info: http://bit.ly/trenchlane [Weekly until 27th September] If you have an event you would like us to publicise, please email details (including start/ end time, location and contact for further info) to events@ bradleystokejournal.co.uk Follow @TheBSJournal on Twitter or become a fan of the ‘Bradley Stoke Journal’ Facebook page to receive daily reminders of events.
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Accountants & Bookkeepers AD Bookkeeping, Page 23 TJS Business Solutions, Page 7 Builders Criterion Construction, Page 32 Richard Joseph, Page 37 Cake Makers & Decorators Sweet Tracey Cakes, Page 39 Carpet Cleaners B Clean, Page 10 Bonne Fresh Clean Ltd, Page 34 Clean Pros, Page 27 Carpentry & Joinery J. Earle Carpentry & Joinery, Page 39 Carpets & Flooring Visit directory on BSJ website Child Care Ambourne House Day Nursery, Page 26 Banana Moon, Page 1 Bright Sparks Pre-School, Page 4 Little Acorns Pre-School, Page 24 Mama Bear’s Nursery, Page 19 Play Pitch, Page 29 Children’s Activities Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Page 12 Pauline Quirke Academy, Page 40 Chiropractic Cool Green Planet, Page 5 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 11 Computer Services goto iT, Page 8 Cycle Repairs Ride On Cycles, Page 17 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 8 Double Glazing JDC Windows, Page 30 Imperial Windows, Page 2 Education & Learning Gracefield Preparatory School, Page 2 Kumon Study Programme, Page 24 Love Art, Page 10 Olympus Academy Trust, Page 31 QEH School, Page 23 Electricians Visit directory on BSJ website Electronic Cigarettes VaperVapour, Page 30 Estate Agents Lifestyle Property Services, Page 1 Ocean, Page 14 Foot Care Lotus Foot Health Clinic, Page 17 Garage Services Filton Central Garage, Page 13 So Smart Alloy Wheels, Page 29 Westlec Auto Electrical, Page 2 Gardening Services Garretts Landscapes, Page 27 Plan-It Garden Design, Page 33 Professional Gardening Services, Page 38 Gyms & Health Clubs Riverside Leisure Club, Page 36
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