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August 2016 • Issue 40
POLICE P26 | LETTERS P33 | QUIZ P40 | WHAT’S ON P44 | DIRECTORY P46 Find us on Facebook: BradleyStokeJournal
MetroBus latest: Aztec West filter lane work on hold due to discovery of ANOTHER uncharted gas main
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PLUS , IN YOUR 48-PAGE BRADLEY STOKE MAGAZINE
Pages 14 & 15
Overnight closures planned for Bradley Stoke Way
Slimline black bins WILL be brought in next summer Recycling collections to become weekly Pages 6 & 7
l Willow Brook Centre sold for £88.8 million l Council agrees to extend car park at Brook Way l BSCS primary phase marks end of first year l BIG award for Stoke Lodge Primary School l Lily, 4, donates hair to Little Princess Trust l Local group on a mission to reunite lost pets l Highwood Road bus lane camera nets South Glos Council more than £180k l Dismay over Hatchet Road bus lane decision l Bradley Stoke post office to be modernised l X74 bus service to be axed from September l Yarn bombers bring cheer to church and local community
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News
Willow Brook Centre sold for £88.8 million
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esco and the BP Pension Fund have sold Bradley Stoke’s Willow Brook Centre to CBRE Global Investment Partners (GIP) for £88.8m. The centre was originally developed by Spenhill, the regeneration subsidiary of Tesco, but a 50 percent share was acquired by the BP Pension Fund in July 2008, three months before the centre opened, forming an £80 million joint venture. The 231,000 sq ft retail park has around 40 tenants, including a 90,000 sq ft Tesco Extra store. The deal was done on behalf of CBRE GIP’s European CoInvestment Fund (ECF), working with Arax Properties. The two have already collaborated on a logistics portfolio last year.
info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk Archive photo: The Willow Brook Centre under construction in July 2008, when the BP Pension Fund acquired a 50% share
Charles Baigler, fund manager ECF, CBRE GIP, said: “We have acquired an asset that is anchored by a high performing tenant and offers a long term, stable income stream supported by strong catchment fundamentals. The Willow Brook Centre also provides a number of asset management opportunities that will allow us to increase and diversify income.” The deal is the latest in a string of property sales carried out by Tesco as it seeks to strengthen its balance sheet. Willow Brook Centre manager Andy Wynn told the Journal that staff and tenants had been made aware of the acquisition, but it will be “business as usual” at the centre and customers will not be affected. ● www.willowbrookcentre.co.uk
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August 2016
News
Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB
Find us on Facebook: BradleyStokeJournal Follow us on Twitter: @TheBSJournal
About the Bradley Stoke Journal The Bradley Stoke Journal website and magazine are published by North Bristol Press, a trading name of Snowberry Media Ltd; company number 8451178 (registered in England and Wales); registered office: 7 Chelford Grove, Stoke Lodge, Bristol BS34 6DD. Our other publications include the Patchway Journal website, the Stoke Gifford Journal website and the Filton Journal website. North Bristol Press is independent of any other media company or network operating in the Bristol area. We accept no responsibility for anything stated by advertisers, who are themselves responsible for complying with all relevant legislation. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or article author. © North Bristol Press 2016. Content published in our magazines or on our websites may not be reproduced in any form without our express written permission.
Aerial view showing area within the scope of the 2014 public consultation on possible future uses. The hard court area can be seen at the bottom and the building housing the council’s community centre and Bradley Stoke Surgery at the top right. The access drive from Brook Way is in the bottom right corner.
Future of Brook Way hard court area: Timeline of events 18/09/13: Attempt by then mayor Cllr Brian Hopkinson to force through an outline proposal to construct two buildings on the hard court area, one for a charity and the other for youth provision. 20/11/13: Officers produce a report outlining some possibilities for the site and are asked by councillors to organise a public consultation. 23/01/14 to 5/3/14: Public consultation, with scope expanded to include not only the hard court, but also a sizeable area of land to the west of the community centre and the access drive into the site from Brook Way. 12/03/14: Consultation results published, showing 59 percent of respondents asking for something to be done about parking and 20 percent suggesting a “new building” of some form. Leisure, Youth & Amenities (LY&A) Committee asked to look into ideas in more detail and come back to council in 6-8 months’ time. 16/06/14: Working group reports that it “had agreed that whatever happens on the site, parking consideration must be a priority”. LY&A Committee directs that meeting(s) should be arranged to give residents who had suggested a new building on the site the opportunity to express their views in person.
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Nursery and Pre-school with a focus on learning in our fun, enjoyable environments, parents can also take part by signing up to receive emails and ‘tips’ for supporting their child’s learning at home.
For more information please call Bradley Stoke Nursery & Pre-school on 01454 614 411
14/08/14: A meeting was held to discuss suggestions for a new building. The 56 people who suggested a new building in the consultation were invited, but only two organisations sent representatives. Residents of properties adjoining the Brook Way site were also invited to attend. At the meeting, residents questioned the need to erect new buildings when the current activity centre on the site is under-utilised.
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August 2016
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5
News
Council agrees to extend car park at Brook Way
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radley Stoke Town Council has finally reached a decision on the future of the hard court area and some of the surrounding grounds at its Brook Way Activity Centre, more than two years after it conducted a public consultation on the future of the site. The matter was tabled for discussion at July’s meeting of Full Council after mayor Cllr Elaine Hardwick had identified it as a priority for her year in office in an interview with the Journal following her election to the role in May. After admitting that the working group set up to consider the results of the consultation had “died a death” [having failed to produce any formal reports and there being no public record of it actually meeting for almost two years], Cllr Hardwick introduced a short report compiled by the council’s youth
development and participation worker Graham Baker. This summarised previously discussed options for the Brook Way site such as the creation of additional car parking space and new or extended buildings and put forward some alternative ideas, including the reinstatement / development of sports facilities and the installation of a bespoke converted shipping container to act as a base for youth work. Cllr Hardwick then moved swiftly on to outline her own vision for the site, which she said she had formulated after “taking another look at the consultation results”. It quickly became apparent that she was less than enthusiastic about seeing another building erected on the site, pointing out that the council’s three existing activity centres “are not being used to their potential”. In relation to spending on youth
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provision, she added, perhaps with reference to the near £300k recently spent on the town’s new skate park: “We have done a lot for the youth, now we need to consider other age groups.” Cllr Hardwick’s vision included converting the hard court area to a green open space where people could sit and talk, play games like ‘big chess’ and enjoy new facilities such as a climbing wall and a sand pit. Mr Baker countered with the view that, based on his long experience, operating youth provision in shared spaces “doesn’t work”, but the mayor found support from several other councillors - including Arthur Lau, who said young people should be encouraged to use existing community facilities such as the leisure centre. It was also pointed out that the council already runs a successful weekly youth club for girls and
young women in shared space at another of it sites, the Jubilee Centre. Drawing the debate to a conclusion, Cllr Hardwick said there was a need to get the matter sorted as it had “been going on for far too long”. Following further discussion, councillors unanimously agreed to “use the earmarked reserve [of £50,000] to extend the current car park towards the existing grass area [to the west of the site], use the hard courts as open green space and ask the GP surgery if they are willing to contribute financially towards an increase in the GP surgery car park”.
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Little Acers Pre-School Sure Start Centre, Bowsland Green Primary School, Ellicks Close, Bradley Stoke All-day sessions available. We accept children from two years of age. Now taking registrations for September. Please phone Helen 07970 872677 or Tina 01454 633309 for further information.
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August 2016
Frequently asked questions, with answers provided by South Gloucestershire Council Will there be an increase in fly-tipping? There is no evidence to suggest that changing waste services encourages residents to fly tip. We take all fly tipping very seriously and investigate all cases and have a very successful record of prosecution. Increasingly in South Gloucestershire fly tipped waste is part of organised criminal activity and not from local residents. What will happen to the old bins? The axles will be recycled and the plastic bodies shredded and recycled into new waste bins and recycling boxes. How do these changes and the cost involved help the council save money? As part of the council wide savings programme, the waste service has delivered savings of £2m since 2013 and has an outstanding target of £1.9 million per annum to be made by 2020. Short term investment and changes to the waste service will lead to long term savings. Encouraging more people to recycle and keeping recyclables out of the general waste stream will help towards making our long term savings and meeting waste legislation targets. Why can’t we just keep the bins we have? We want to encourage people to recycle and think more carefully about what they’re putting in their black bins. Evidence has shown that many other councils have seen large increases in recycling after reducing the space available for general waste. Our waste analysis showed that last year, 52 percent of the contents of black bins could have been recycled using the existing kerbside service. This meant 23,331 tonnes of recyclable material was unnecessarily disposed of to landfill, at a cost to the council of £3m. I have a large family. How will we manage? We currently provide extra capacity for large families. We will continue to do this on a case by case basis. This will entail completing a questionnaire and arranging a home visit. This service is chargeable at a nominal cost to cover administration. Why don’t you just target the residents who aren’t recycling? Our Waste Minimisation and Enforcement Officers have and will continue to carry out specific education and enforcement projects to encourage wider recycling participation. Why isn’t the green bin charge part of the updated strategy? Charging for green bins was consulted on in 2013, followed by approval at Communities Committee in September 2013. The subscription for the green bins was reduced to £30 in March 2015. Any further changes to the service are a financial consideration for the Council.
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August 2016
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7
News: South Glos
Slimline black bins WILL be introduced in 2017 • Recycling to be collected weekly instead of fortnightly • Black bins to almost halve in size (still collected fortnightly)
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controversial plan to almost halve the size of residents’ black (residual waste) bins has been approved by South Gloucestershire Council, ignoring views expressed in a public consultation that showed 62 percent of those responding were opposed to the move. The current 240-litre black bins will be swapped for slimline 140-litre alternatives from summer 2017 as part of a package of measures being introduced to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, meet recycling targets and save money. Families with children in nappies will be eligible to receive a separate nappy sack collection through the provision of use once plastic bags that they can present alongside the household bin. Any other householders, such as large families who believe they require extra capacity, can request a review and will be assessed on their particular requirements. They will need to demonstrate that they are recycling everything they can on the kerbside service before extra capacity is provided. The council’s kerbside collection service for recyclable material will become weekly from spring 2017, a few months ahead of the introduction of the smaller black bins. The material will be collected by a new fleet of singlepass vehicles that will collect
both dry recycling and food waste, ensuring that the weekly service can be delivered within the existing staffing levels. In a change to previous proposals, residents will be allowed to continue using the current bags for plastic and cardboard, move to using council-provided boxes, or opt to use their own containers. However, they will be asked to group different materials together so as to make sorting at the kerbside as quick as possible. With its new ‘waste strategy’, the council is aiming to increase recycling by 7,000 tonnes a year, bringing the rate up to 55 percent from its current 47 percent, and produce savings of between £800,000 and £1 million per annum. Aside from the sizeable opposition to the black bin change, the council claims that between 83 and 90 percent of those taking part in the public consultation agreed or strongly agreed with its key priorities of reducing waste and promoting recycling. Councillor Heather Goddard, Chair of the Environment and Community Services Committee, said: “Over half of the contents of the average black bin in South Gloucestershire could be recycled, cutting waste and saving taxpayers’ money.” “At a time when we’re looking
Diagram showing the average volume of black bin waste in a 240-litre bin and the same waste in a 140 litre bin (excludes waste placed in black bins that could have been recycled – on average 52 percent of the bin content, according to the council’s figures for 2014).
to find £22 million in savings, cutting the amount it costs us to throw things away, money that could be better spent on other services, is clearly right. It is also supported by the overwhelming majority of residents.” “We recognise that residents will have to adjust to the new collection arrangements and have listened to what they have had to say.” “We have made concessions
for families with young children in nappies and large families, by bringing in a separate nappy collection service and also offering the possibility of a larger bin where large families struggle to manage their waste even if they recycle all that they can.” “There will be no changes to the service for households with medical needs. Working together we can cut waste, increase recycling and save money.”
Reader comments on the Journal’s Facebook page Richard C: We already recycle everything that’s recyclable and yet still fill up our black bin in 2 weeks with 2 adults and 2 children. If you halve the size of the bins, you have to double the amount of collections. Or we somehow have to produce half the waste. Which, aside from killing half of us, seems unlikely. Mark P: I don’t know how people [manage to] fill their black bins if they are recycling! We are a family of 4 and our black bin is never more than one-third full. We are such a wasteful society and it cannot continue. Maybe this will make people think a little more about the amount of “stuff” they dispose of.
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August 2016
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Schools
BSCS primary phase marks end of first year
By Sharon Clark, primary phase headteacher t is hard to believe that a to Acorn classroom – at that year has passed since we first point, the only room in the school moved into our new building that even vaguely resembled a and began the process of turning classroom! the empty rooms into a school A year on and we find ourselves community. Almost exactly a year looking back at what has been an ago to the day, our first cohort amazing year of new and exciting of children made their first visits experiences for both the primary
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staff team and the children. Our school building now reflects our growing school community and, though we may only currently have one class of primary children, our building is home to many members of the BSCS and Olympus Academy Trust staff teams as well as frequent classes
of our secondary students. One of our proudest achievements is in the development and embedding of the forest school approach into our school curriculum. We have been privileged to have had the support of the South Gloucestershire Early Years Team
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Facing page: End of year celebrations (refreshments in the forest school area; staff, parents and children picnic on the school field). Above: Flashback to the official opening of the primary phase last September.
in creating a forest school base camp within our school grounds. Our children have benefited from weekly forest school sessions; sometimes working at base camp, other times exploring the wider woodland within Savages Wood and beyond. They show us each week how they are developing in their understanding of the natural world and the positive impact learning outdoors has had on their attitude to challenge, risk taking and ability to face new situations with confidence. It seemed only fitting that we marked the end of our first year with an afternoon of celebration that included spending time together outdoors. The afternoon
started with Acorn class leading us in an assembly where they presented to their parents their talents, including model building, story writing, gymnastics, ballet and singing, to name but a few! We then went out into the sunshine and shared a picnic, enjoying time with our families and friends in the forest school and on our school field. In a few weeks we will be starting the new school year and will be doubling in size from 30 families to 60; with our current Acorns graduating into Catkin class and our second cohort of 30 new little Acorns all really keen to come and join the fun! ● www.bradleystokecs.org.uk
The Bradley Stoke Journal is an independent newspaper, produced without subsidy from the public purse
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August 2016
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Young people and adult volunteers honoured at Scouts’ AGM
Just some of the award winners honoured at the AGM (the complete list is shown in the Roll of Honour below)
Parents, youngsters and adult volunteers gathered at Brook Way Activity Centre on Wednesday 13th July for the AGM and open evening of the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group. The event was an opportunity for the group to showcase its achievements over the past year, which have included the formation of a marching band and further development of the water activities unit. Roll of Honour Chief Scout’s Bronze Award Sofia Carr Dillon Clutterbuck Jemima Grinter Oliver Grove Beatriz Hattingh Jake Hember Jamie Johnson Daniel Leary Brandon Littleboy Daniel Mills Kieren Moulden Rehan Nasim Khushi Pachipulusa Jake Powell Daniel Raaff William Seviour Amy Shadbolt Louis Talbot Finley Tompsett
The meeting was also given further details about plans to form two new sections in the coming months. Following the formalities of the AGM, parents were offered the chance to try a range of Beaver/ Cub/Scout/Explorer activities and experience Scouting for themselves! The evening was rounded off with a family BBQ. ● bradley-stoke-scouts.org.uk
Chief Scout’s Silver Award Suleman Ahmed Catarina Carr Eliah Hernija Callum Hodgson William Holley James Humphrey Oliver Leary Ben Mallett Isabel Robinson Tom Shadbolt Eden Shepherd Gavin Southway Peter Waterman Chief Scout’s Gold Award Matt Calloway Adam Hodgson Ellie Holley Thomas Phillips Scott Warburton
Long Service Award (all for 5 years) Charles Hart Dan Shadbolt Darren Kewley Darryl Ford Michael Carr Wood Beads Section leader training Tomislav Hernija 2nd Wood Beads Group scout leader training Clive Mason David Pace Dan Shadbolt Kath Robinson
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August 2016
Schools: Stoke Lodge
BIG award for Stoke Lodge Primary School By Claire Bruford, anti-bullying co-ordinator t Stoke Lodge Primary role it is to look after our ‘buddy School we work very bench’ and any children that use hard to ensure that all it. The purpose of a buddy bench children feel safe, happy and is so that children can always find are included. At the beginning someone to play with. At the end of the year we became members of each term we have peer and of the Bullying Intervention teacher nominations for both Group (BIG) and as part of that, KS1 and KS2 children that have worked towards the BIG Award, displayed positive and friendly which is an award for excellence behaviour. We have a dedicated in bullying intervention. This area in our main corridor for award is recognised nationally by Anti-Bullying where children Childline, Anti-Bullying Alliance, can find books and advice if they Anti Bullying Words, CEOP and need help, and a display board Each Education. To achieve that is changed termly. We also this award, we had to meet have a dedicated Cyber Bullying externally agreed criteria, be able display in our KS2 hall, which to demonstrate that we work to has lots of information about agreed standards and ensure that how to stay safe online and every child is enabled to fulfil the steps to take if children are their true educational potential, experiencing cyberbullying. At or enjoy their community the end of each term we have an activities, without fear of being Anti-Bullying newsletter that is bullied. sent home and uploaded to our In KS2 we have Playtime dedicated Anti-Bullying page on Buddies at lunchtimes whose the school website.
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Stoke Lodge Primary School headteacher Richard Clark (left) and anti-bullying co-ordinator Claire Bruford with the school’s BIG award certificate
Towards the end of last term, we received confirmation that we had been successful in all criteria and were awarded the BIG award. We are one of the first primary schools in the South West of the country to obtain this, which is a massive achievement. Our certificate is displayed proudly in the main reception area as well as the anti-bullying corner of the main school corridor. Val McFarlane, director of the Bullying Intervention Group, commented: “Stoke Lodge Primary School take bullying
very seriously. Although they do not have a problem with bullying, they ensure that they have excellent systems in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all of their pupils. They involve the children and their parents/ carers in all aspects of their anti-bullying work, and also have an up-to-date, effective, antibullying policy. I am delighted that they have now achieved the BIG Award for excellence in challenging bullying.” More information about the award is available at www. bullyinginterventiongroup.co.uk
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News
Lily, 4, donates hair to Little Princess Trust
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our-year-old Lily Williams, from Bradley Stoke, is the latest local resident to have her long locks chopped off and donated to the Little Princess Trust. The charity supplies real-hair wigs to boys and girls across the UK and Ireland who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or have conditions which lead to hair loss, such as alopecia. Lily,who attends Abacus Pre-School but will be starting at Meadowbrook Primary in September, was moved to help the charity after a friend of her mum, Katie, underwent treatment for cancer and suffered hair loss. Lily asked her mum if “children get poorly and loose hair” and, on being told that they sometimes did, decided she
would like to “give them some of her own hair”. Lily has also raised over £1,000 for the Little Princess Trust, thanks to donations from Abacus Pre-School, family, friends and work colleagues of her mum and dad. The trust will use this money towards the cost of manufacturing wigs from the hair it receives. The all-important haircut was carried out free of charge on Tuesday 19th July at the Alan Bendrey & Co salon, Aztec West, watched by Lily’s parents Katie and Bradley, sister Ruby and two of her grandparents. Katie and Bradley say they are completely overwhelmed by people’s generosity and very proud of their daughter. ● Donations via www.justgiving. com/Katie-Williams54
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August 2016
Aerial view of MetroBus roadworks on Bradley Stoke Way (July 2016). Contractors Alun Griffiths say they will need to close the left filter lane on the approach to the Aztec West Roundabout for an expected period of 12 weeks. This will reduce the total number of lanes entering the roundabout from three to two. However, the commencement date for the lane closure is currently uncertain following the discovery of an uncharted gas main in the adjacent verge (see page 15).
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August 2016
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15
News
Update on MetroBus works in the Stokes • Discovery of ANOTHER uncharted gas main could delay work near Aztec West • Overnight closures of Bradley Stoke Way scheduled to start in September Overnight closures of Bradley Stoke Way
A traffic order has been published to allow the temporary closure of a section of Bradley Stoke Way to allow final resurfacing work to be carried out on areas that have been affected by the construction of the North Fringe to Hengrove MetroBus scheme. The section in question extends from the Aztec West Roundabout (junction with A38 Gloucester Road) to Patchway Brook Roundabout (junction with Pear Tree Road, Bowsland Way and Brook Way). To give maximum flexibility, the traffic order allows for the closure to last for a maximum of eighteen months starting 19th September 2016. However, it is currently anticipated that the work will be completed within a 15-WEEK period, with the road being closed (and signed diversions being in place) ONLY AT NIGHT. Furthermore, it is anticipated that it will only be necessary to close the road on selected nights. MetroBus contractors Alun Griffiths have confirmed that this should only be for “several nights” out of the 15-week period. Signage will put out giving adequate notice of the exact dates and times of these closures. During periods of closure, the signed alternative route will be: Bradley Stoke Way (part unaffected), B4057 Winterbourne Road, Hatchet Road, Brierly Furlong, Fox Den Road, Great Stoke Way, A4174 Station Road, A4174 Link Road, A38 Gloucester Road North, A38 Gloucester Road and vice versa. The traffic order may be viewed on the town council website. Alun Griffiths have asked us to point out that the message on the website is “the strict wording from a legal position”. To allay concerns, a further advisory box has been now been added explaining that it involves only night-time work.
Left filter lane closure on Bradley Stoke Way
In order to construct the new bus lane between Bradley Stoke Way and the southbound A38 (at the Aztec West Roundabout) it will be necessary to close 80 metres of the westbound filter lane on Bradley Stoke Way for an expected 12 weeks. The closure was expected to begin on Monday 25th July. This has now been suspended. Following Bristol Water vacating the site, after conclusion of their works, Griffiths were able to fully access the area and further testing has led to the discovery of an uncharted additional gas main in the verge. Griffiths and South Gloucestershire Council are in dialogue with Wales and West utilities for a schedule to resolve this, so that widening works on the nearside lane towards Aztec West can continue. Griffiths say they currently have no new date for the start of this work, but will advise further in due course.
Work elsewhere on Bradley Stoke Way
Work on the stretch between Patchway Brook Roundabout and the Willow Brook Centre is progressing well. Work on the ‘newt mitigation pond’ in Bowsland Meadow is now complete. Activity in this zone will continue until Christmas, although the work area will switch to the other side road, where drainage works are required, from October. Further down Bradley Stoke Way, work is due to start during August on the construction of four new MetroBus bus stops. These sites are located close to the Webbs Wood and Great Meadow roundabouts. They will be worked on one at a time and off-peak traffic signals will be deployed.
be completed by the end of the summer. Cones will remain in place until this work is done, to slow and funnel traffic for safety reasons.
Hambrook Lane
Hambrook Lane in Stoke Gifford will reopen on 1st August. This coincides with an order extending the 30mph area by a further 200 metres south-east of the existing 30mph signs near the junction with Curtis Lane. This is to reflect the new and future changing nature of the road in conjunction with the Stoke Gifford Transport Link for MetroBus being built. The road has been closed since August 2015 to allow MetroBus to construct two new bridges, a new junction and a pedestrian and cycle path for the forthcoming Stoke Gifford Transport Link. The narrow road was closed for nearly a year because it isn’t wide enough to accommodate construction works and traffic. Access for residents was maintained throughout the construction period. The reopening of the road will
Bradley Stoke Way, near Aztec West
alleviate congestion for motorists in the north of the city.
A4174 Ring Road
Work continues on the A4174 bus and 2+ lane closure westbound from J1 M32 and central reservation work. Traffic Management and barriers will then be installed on the westbound Lane 1, to allow works to commence on Tuesday 26th July until the end of August. Once this is complete, operations on the A4174 will be suspended until the Traffic Signals are commissioned in the winter.
For the latest information, visit the dedicated MetroBus Build page on the Bradley Stoke Journal website: http://bit.ly/metrobusbuild
How to get in touch with the MetroBus contractors Community liaison officer Jim Aitken can be contacted on 08458 622327 (or via email at metrobus@alungriffiths.co.uk). The number is manned between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. Outside these hours, please leave a message and your call will be returned.
Great Stoke Way
Great Stoke Way is now complete, apart from some final surfacing works, which should
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August 2016
News
Local group on a mission to reunite lost pets By Nikki Hallur et owners in the area surrounding Bradley Stoke and Stoke Gifford have access to a very helpful Facebook group, called Lost and Found Pets in Bristol/South Glos. The group has over 17,000 members in the area and is very useful for pet owners. The group was set up by Michelle Pibworth in April 2012 when her own cat Whisky went missing. He was found two weeks later, miles from home. The group seeks to reunite missing pets with their owners and also to provide support when a pet is missing. The group is free to join through a “request” button which is promptly verified, and the group is available at any time of day to post enquiries. Members can request to join to the search list for the areas they wish to cover and, should a pet go missing or be found in the area, members will be tagged in relevant posts that might help them. Sarah Fowler, one of the group’s administrators, says: “We provide members with the contact details for the dog warden and vets, including out of hours numbers. We use our other resources to help owners find their pets, or help contact the owner as soon as possible, especially when a dog is found or missing, as the sooner the dog is reunited with its owner the less stress it is for the dog.” The group recommends that cats are neutered, ideally before
P
“tomming” season, as male cats can wander for miles looking for females and can easily get themselves lost. If a cat is not chipped, it can be taken to a rescue centre as a stray, and the cat can then be re-homed.
Paper collars for cats
In the case of identifying a stray cat, Sarah advises: “If you find a cat you think may be a stray, it is recommended that you make a paper collar by getting an A4 piece of paper and cutting to the size and shape of a collar, adding your number and asking the owner to contact you. This can take a few attempts as cats can get the collars off before returning home.”
Microchipping dogs
It has been law for several years now that dogs should wear a collar and tag with owners’ contact details, but as from 1st April 2016 it has been law to have your dog chipped and contact details up to date. Both of these help get dogs reunited quickly with their owners. If a dog is not chipped or contact details not up to date, the dog warden can issue the owner with a 21 day notice to get this done. If not done after 21 days, the dog owner would become liable for a £500 fine. The Facebook group has helped pet owners with several cases. One example includes a lurcher from Ormonds Close who had escaped from her house. The owner was very worried. The owner joined the group
Supporters of the Lost and Found Pets in Bristol/South Glos group on their stand at the 2016 Bradley Stoke Community Festival.
and published a post for her missing dog, who by then had been missing for five hours. The group tagged local members in the post. A member who lives in Ormonds Close had seen the dog warden collect the dog earlier that morning. The administrators said: “We gave the owner the contact details for the dog warden and they were happily reunited.” Another example was a cat from Bradley Stoke who went missing on 17th April. His owner was quite worried as he had
never disappeared before. A local member noticed a cat on Amberley Road, Stoke Lodge and published a post on 14th June asking if anyone knew the owner. Group members could see from the pictures on both posts that it was likely to be the same cat. The owner went to the area he was last seen and found her cat. The owner reported back that, “He was a bit matted but after a quick check up at the vets and some TLC, he settled back into his home quite quickly.”
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In Brief Tinnitus support group offers local meetings
TENNIS/6-A-SIDE FOOTBALL COURTS AVAILABLE FOR HIRE NOW AT THE JUBILEE CENTRE Call in to Town Council office for more information or contact us on 01454 205021 email bookings@bradleystoke.gov.uk
A new group to support local people with tinnitus has now established itself in Bristol. Tinnitus is defined as the experience of sounds with no external source, most commonly ringing or buzzing, but sometimes experienced as whooshing, clicking or even music. Many people aren’t troubled by sounds they hear, but for around 10 percent, the condition has a significant impact on their quality of life, often linked to stress, anxiety or sometimes depression. On 23rd July, the group met at Coniston Community Centre in Patchway, when Sue WyattJones, a specialist hearing therapist from UH Bristol, gave a talk on relaxation and hearing therapy. Dave Carr, British Tinnitus Association (BTA) Volunteering and Engagement Manager commented: “Tinnitus can be an isolating condition, with friends and family struggling to understand how it feels to adapt to the presence of loud or persistent noises. Some people choose to bring a partner or family member to the meetings, which can often help both parties understand more about the condition and the experiences or behaviours it can bring.” If you would like to find out more, please contact the group’s organiser Parminder Munde at pmunde25@gmail.com or the BTA on 0114 250 9933. ● www.tinnitus.org.uk
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Bradley Stoke A B
Stoke Gifford
C
Highbrook Park
D
Holiday Inn
Stoke Gifford Transport Link from the air Construction of the Stoke Gifford Transport Link (SGTL, known locally as the Stoke Gifford ByPass) began around this time last year and this latest aerial photo from construction firm Alun Griffiths gives an excellent view of how the work is progressing. When it opens in around a year’s time, the new road will provide a link between Parkway North Roundabout on Great Stoke Way (A) and the A41474 Ring Road (D), close to the Holiday Inn.
As reported in our July magazine, the bridge that will carry the new road over the main railway line (B) was installed by AMCO at the end of May. Work on a second bridge, spanning the Ham Brook (C), is continuing. Hambrook Lane, which is crossed by the new road and has been closed for the last 12 months, is due to reopen on 1st August. The SGTL forms part of the MetroBus network, but will also be open to general traffic.
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August 2016
News
Runners thank Green Gym for 10k assistance
Green Gym Leader Sara Messenger collected a cheque for £100 from Sarah Bradley and the running group Sole Sisters. The group chose to donate some of the money raised from their recent Bradley Stoke 10k Run to the Green Gym, after the conservation group rescheduled its work plan to repair the lake paths after a fallen tree and large muddy puddles had made the 10k route hazardous. Sara said: “Green Gym were just happy to help out, we didn’t expect a donation, but we’re very grateful to the Soul Sisters for thinking of us.”
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News All the fun of the fair at Baileys Court
Bradley Stoke Tennis
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Summer Holiday Tennis Course
aileys Court Primary School brought together local businesses, families, sports clubs, charities and musicians on 9th July for an amazing summer fair. Bradley Stoke Radio (103.4FM) wove together a fascinating selection of displays from Street Envy dance school, Whitlock Martial Arts, SW Winterstream Guards and Bradley Stoke Youth Rugby at St Mary’s Old Boys RFC to entertain the 400 adults and their children who passed through the gates. The ‘Baileys Food Court’ included locally produced delights and musical accompaniment was provided by The Van Burgundy’s wide repertoire along with local talent from BSCS students and teachers Sim Ashford, Gemma Davies,
Rowan Long and Charlotte Cotteral. Local businesses showcased their interesting products and visitors had the chance to ride ponies, visit the macaws at James’ Macaw Sanctuary and meet the local police force. A special thank you goes out to everyone who volunteered their time and energy planning and manning the summer fair recently – be that Friends Committee members, teachers, parents/guardians/relatives and the local clubs, charities and businesses who attended The event made a staggering £3,464 profit towards upgraded outdoor play equipment for the 450 pupils at Baileys Court – the highest profit reported in the last five years!
Held at : Bradley Stoke Community School 1st - 5th August | 9am-12 | 1pm-4pm | All day £8 per session, £15 per day or £50 per week
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August 2016
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News: South Glos
Highwood Road bus lane camera nets South Glos Council more than £180k in just 9 months
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early 6,000 fines, netting a total of more than £180,000 for South Gloucestershire Council, have been issued to drivers caught by a single enforcement camera on a bus lane in Patchway. The astonishing statistics, verified by the Journal, were revealed after a frustrated motorist used a Freedom of Information (FoI) request to find out how much money the council is making from the camera on Highwood Road, which went live less than a year ago on 1st October 2015. The response stated that 5,892 penalty charge notices had been issued, raising £187,539. Derek Hunt, 49, told the Bristol Post he believes the council has deliberately made the road layout confusing and accused it of “stealing” motorists’ hard-earned cash. He was caught using the bus lane after he failed to make the obligatory left turn into Coniston Road when driving along Highwood Road from the direction of The Mall. The bus lane is one of two to be installed in South Gloucestershire last year. The other is at Brierly Furlong/New Road in Stoke Gifford, close to the Parkway railway bridge. A third camera was recently installed on the northbound A38 Gloucester Road approach to the Aztec Roundabout.
In all cases, enforcement commenced after a two week grace period during which warning notices (letters) were issued in place of penalty notices. A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “Prior to undertaking enforcement of bus lanes, the council made a decision that the use of camera technology was the most appropriate way of undertaking this enforcement.” “The locations where cameras were to be installed, including the Highwood Road bus lane, were reviewed to ensure that the bus lane signage and markings were appropriate and clearly visible so that drivers would be aware of the bus lane and would not be caught out. To further support this, additional signage warning of the bus lane and the enforcement of it were installed at the locations.” “The legal processes governing appeals against bus lane penalty charges include the right to appeal to the independent adjudicator, the Traffic Penalty Tribunal, for an assessment. Part of this assessment includes an analysis of the signage and road markings in place and whether the driver is adequately warned of the bus lane and its enforcement by camera technology.” “Since commencement of enforcement at Highwood Road, 19 appeals have gone to the tribunal and on none of these
Signage at the start of the bus lane on Highwood Road, Patchway
occasions have the road markings or signage been criticised.” The Bristol Post has since reported that the enforcement camera at Brierly Furlong, Stoke Gifford, has caught out 1,903 motorists in the same time
period – so far netting £47,541, while the Aztec West camera has resulted in the issue of 256 penalty notices in less than a month of operation. ● Links to quoted sources: http://bit.ly/bsj-mag-links
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August 2016
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News: Stoke Gifford
Dismay over Hatchet Road bus lane decision
S
outh Gloucestershire Council’s (SGC’s) decision to approve a scheme that involves ripping up mature hedgerows and scores of trees to install a new bus lane along one side of Hatchet Road has been greeted with dismay by local residents and councillors. With SGC’s own figures showing that the new southbound bus lane will reduce bus journey times by just 29 seconds, and only during the morning peak, with no improvement at other times of the day, the £1.47 million cost of installing it has been described by Cllr Ernie Brown, chair of Stoke Gifford Parish Council and one of three SGC councillors representing Stoke Gifford, as “economic suicide”. The bus lane forms a small part of Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension (CPME), a proposed extension of the wider MetroBus network that is currently under construction. It will link Bristol Parkway Station and The Mall bus station, via Hatchet Road, Gipsy Patch Lane, through the former Rolls-Royce East Works site, along North Way, under the A38 via the existing underpass at the Combination Ground junction, and through the former Filton Airfield site (earmarked for redevelopment as part of the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood). The scheme also includes replacing the railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane with a much wider concrete structure capable of accommodating one general traffic lane and a bus lane in each direction. Strong opposition to the Hatchet Road widening, which would require a strip of land to be taken from Meade Park (resulting in the loss of some trees) and the removal of hedgerows on both sides of the road south of Meade Park, was evident in the results of a public consultation on the proposed CPME scheme that ran from November 2015 to January 2016. A decision on the scheme was originally expected to be
made at a committee meeting on 4th May, but was deferred to allow further consideration of the implications of a number of alternative options for the section of route between Parkway Station and Gipsy Patch Lane, including some that would see buses accessing Parkway Station via
was also claimed that these routes would bring he road closer to approximately 140 private properties, compared to approximately 35 on the preferred Hatchet Road option. No further assessment appeared to have been carried out on the three cheaper
but adds lay-bys at three existing bus stops, which Cllr Hockey said she would reluctantly support. However, Cllr Boulton’s motion was not supported by the seven Conservative councillors, who then, without further discussion, voted as a block to approve the officer-recommended Hatchet
The MetroBus network in north Bristol
Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension
Hunts Ground Road, Great Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road. When the matter came back for consideration at a committee meeting in Kingswood on 6th July, a handful of local residents, along with Cllr Brown and fellow Stoke Gifford SGC councillor Keith Cranney, were again present to register objections to the proposed Hatchet Road bus lane. New plans made available ahead of the meeting revealed that SGC intends to use the Meade Park car park as site compound during construction of the new bus lane, which was strongly opposed by the two local councillors. An updated report claimed that all the options for alternative routes along Winterbourne Road would set the programme back by “up to 18 months”. It
alternative options along the Hatchet Road route. Cllr Brian Allinson, the third Stoke Gifford SGC was unable to attend due to a medical appointment but submitted a letter of objection in advance of the meeting, which is reproduced in full (see facing page) as it incorporates many of the points raised by the other objectors. With public contributions concluded, the 13-strong committee then began its deliberations, with Cllr Pat Hockey once again expressing her preference for the Winterbourne Road option that includes filly segregated bus lanes, but her proposal was supported only by her two Liberal Democrat colleagues. Cllr Ian Boulton (Labour) then voiced support for the alternative Hatchet Road option that includes no bus lane
Road bus lane option. Speaking at a Stoke Gifford Parish Council on 12th July, Cllr Brown described the committee’s decision as a “done deal”, adding “I’ve lost all faith in SGC, I really have”. There was talk of the parish council considering a judicial review of the SGC decision and it was suggested that the Meade Park lease could be examined by a legal expert to see if it contained clauses that might prevent SGC from altering the boundaries of the park. An SGC spokesperson confirmed that a planning application is not required for any of the works on Hatchet Road as the work here, as on most of the rest of the CPME route, will be conducted under highway permitted development rights. Planning permission is only required for the replacement
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info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk Gipsy Patch Lane rail bridge, the North Way bus link and the San Andreas bus link. The spokesperson added: “Through the next detailed design phase we will be investigating ways to reduce impacts on local residents living along the route. This will include working with residents who back onto Hatchet Road where the works will be happening to agree the best form of any new boundaries between their gardens and the highway.” Construction of the CPME scheme is currently expected to commence in 2018, with the replacement Gipsy Patch Road railway bridge being installed over Easter 2019. MetroBus services should start operating on the route later in 2019. Cllr Brian Allinson’s formal letter of objection submitted to the committee meeting on 6th July 2016 Having given the matter great consideration, I now reluctantly accept the argument for bringing MetroBus into the front aspect of Parkway Station. It follows therefore that if the route is as planned to approach along Gipsy Patch Lane, then the most direct route is as proposed – to continue in a southerly direction along Hatchet Road to the entrance to Parkway Station. However, my acceptance of that fact in no way reduces my strong objection to the proposal to introduce bus lanes along Hatchet Road at the expense of beautiful mature hedgerows and trees. The southern approach to the centuries old village of Stoke
Gifford is along the beautiful green-lined Hatchet Road; no amount of planned mitigation planting will ever replace the mature hedges that exist there now. Such devastation of the existing route might have been understood if it were not for the fact that whatever is done to speed the transit of buses between the roundabout junction with Gipsy Patch and the Tesco’s Roundabout at Ratcliffe Drive, nothing of that magnitude can be done to the final section from the Tesco’s Roundabout to the entrance to the station itself. That dreadful bottleneck will still exist, and as a result the huge amount of public money spent on destroying Stoke Gifford’s hedgerows will have been completely wasted. I submit that these proposals
are premature. There is no accurate estimate at this stage of what the effect on traffic flow will be, after the opening of the Stoke Gifford Transport Link (SGTL, a.k.a. ‘by-pass’). Neither do we have accurate predictions of load factors in respect of MetroBus itself. It is totally unnecessary to spend huge amounts of public money at this stage, ripping out those hedgerows, until the picture is much clearer. Any Stoke Gifford resident will tell you that the biggest causal factor in the gridlock often experienced along Hatchet Road is buses stopping at the bus stops which have not been set into lay-bys. There are six stops along that relatively short section of road and only one is set into a lay-by. That one runs smoothly and never holds up traffic. The
other five all require the bus to stop in the road and as a result traffic is held up for the period that the bus is stationary. Often quite some time. If those stops were either abolished, or put into lay-bys, traffic would flow much more effectively. I therefore propose that the route along Hatchet Road into the front of the Parkway Station complex be authorised, but that no action is taken at present to introduce bus lanes until the effect of the SGTL is known and also the effect of creating lay-bys, where possible, at the existing bus stops along Hatchet Road. These proposals will save the waste of a great deal of public money. Cllr Brian Allinson Stoke Gifford Ward
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In Brief
Bradley Stoke Beat Team PC Jamie Shiels reports
N
ow that summer is here again, we all want to relax and enjoy the warmer weather, however we still need to think about home security to prevent ourselves from becoming victims of crime. So what do you need to consider? You need to ensure that your home is always secure when you go out and that you don’t leave potential entry points open and accessible, for example a downstairs window or a door. This also applies at night, especially when it’s a warm muggy evening and you are thinking about leaving a downstairs window open for ventilation whilst you are asleep. You may be out working in the garden and out of sight of the windows or doors that you have left open. You could even be cutting the grass or hedge perhaps with a loud lawn mower/hedge
cutter or be using power tools and it could be so easy in these circumstances for a sneak thief to take advantage of the situation, go inside your home and steal things, for example keys, handbags, wallets, laptops etc. that are often on display or easily accessible. The same applies with garages – we often leave the doors wide open and go off into the garden leaving everything in them on display. How easy is it then for someone to take advantage of this situation and steal bikes, power tools or garden equipment? Lastly, there are your vehicles to consider. On a warm day, there might be a temptation to leave your car parked on the drive with its windows open to allow fresh air to circulate, along with items, e.g. a sat nav, coat or shopping bags on clear view that you just haven’t managed to bring indoors yet.
August 2016
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These items can all be stolen very quickly, but the worst case scenario is that your car could be stolen too. The kinds of thefts described are committed by opportunists who could be wandering around your neighbourhood looking to take advantage of people who leave their property insecure, so think security at all times and don’t become a victim of crime!
Beat surgeries at the Willow Brook Centre Saturday 6th August – 5pm to 7pm Saturday 27th August – 5pm to 7pm ASPolice Bradley Stoke @ASPTheStokes
Libraries’ summer reading challenge Come and join ‘The Big Friendly Read’ this summer – it wouldn’t be the same without you! ‘The Big Friendly Read’ Summer Reading Challenge 2016 began in all South Gloucestershire libraries on 16th July and runs until 10th September. It’s fun, it’s friendly and best of all, it’s totally FREE. All children have to do is read six library books over the summer, collecting special Big Friendly Read collector cards from some of Roald Dahl’s bestloved stories along the way, to get their medal and certificate. Libraries are also holding free activities throughout the holiday to help children complete the challenge. Visit your local library or log on to www.southglos.gov. uk/libraries to find out more.
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It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Graham Bayley feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing
is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do
the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Stoke Lodge, Patchway and Stoke Gifford areas and Graham is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is
that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Graham a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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27
News: South Glos
Have your say on the West’s devolution deal Deal would unlock £1 billion of Government investment, but is dependent on region having a “metro mayor”
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ublic consultation on the creation of a new West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) - including how this combined authority would work and what it means – is now open. This follows the decision of Bristol City Council, along with Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) and South Gloucestershire councils, to move forward with a £1 billion devolution deal from Government. The MCA would manage new powers, funding and responsibilities that would be handed from central Government to the region as part of the deal. As a result, more decisions could be made locally, rather than nationally, about spending on regional transport, housing, adult education and skills, for example. The consultation runs until Monday 15th August 2016 and is being run jointly by Bristol, B&NES and South Gloucestershire councils – meaning residents from all three geographic areas are invited to take part. The results will be considered by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local
Government who will take account of the views of the public when deciding whether the West of England devolution deal should go ahead. The deal will then be subject to final endorsement at a local level. If it is agreed that the MCA should go ahead, it would be established in the first part of 2017, with elections for the position of West of England Mayor to take place across all three local government areas – Bristol, B&NES and South Gloucestershire – in May 2017. Residents across the three areas are being asked to provide feedback on four key areas of the proposed devolution deal: Decision making, Place (transport and housing), People (adult education and skills), and Business. How to have your say: • Via a dedicated website: www. westofenglanddevolution.co.uk • Paper copies of the survey are available from local libraries, customer service points and one stop shops • Paper copies or other formats are also available by calling 0117 922 2848
Cllr Matthew Riddle, leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “I am delighted to announce that the devolution deal proposed by the Government has been agreed by South Gloucestershire Council. The deal will unlock £1 billion of investment for the West of England, and provide a welcome boost to the local economy for people living in South Gloucestershire.” “I would like to encourage everyone to participate in this process. The deal on offer is complex and I hope the process of consultation is an opportunity for people to get a better understanding of what is on offer and to let us know your views on how it would work.” “I am also encouraged by the positive commitments from the Government in respect of the proposed new M4 motorway junction, 18A, as well as a funding commitment to investigate a link road from the M4 to the A4174 Ring Road. Through the negotiation phase of this deal we have already opened up new opportunities for the Science Park in Emersons Green, and I welcome the support for
maximising the potential of this world-class facility where science and technology businesses can accelerate their growth and success.” “This deal recognises that our issues, as well as the potential solutions to them, cross local authority boundaries. With increased investment from Government and even closer working ties between us, we can continue to manage the growth we need for our futures.” Cllr Riddle’s enthusiasm for the devolution deal was not shared by the Liberal Democrat group on his council, whose leader, Cllr Ruth Davis, said: “This is a tiny amount of our budget, and an even smaller amount of our economic power. It’s enough to build about three miles of motorway [per year], and that’s going to decrease over the next three decades. That is going to do absolutely nothing to solve our infrastructure crisis.” “In order to give us even this tiny amount, we’re being forced to accept a metro mayor that everyone agrees they don’t want, and a new, centralising combined authority. It’s crackers.”
Summer play scheme at BSCS until 19th August The annual FREE summer play scheme for children aged 5 to 11 is now under way at Bradley Stoke Community School (BSCS) in Fiddlers Wood Lane. The scheme operates Monday through Friday every week until Friday 19th August. Sessions run from 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Lunchtime cover is NOT provided. There is no need to book, just turn up and complete a registration form. The scheme runs on a first come first served basis, so please arrive promptly to avoid disappointment. More information can be found on the Four Towns Play Association page on Facebook or by phoning Ternaya on 0789 1494551.
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To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400
August 2016
August 2016
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The award-winning Dacia Sandero (Don’t act like you’re not impressed)
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CITY MOTORS ST PHILIPS CAUSEWAY, BRISTOL BS4 3AX TEL 0117 3322566 WWW.CARCOGROUP.CO.UK/DACIA
The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the car shown are: urban 38 (7.4); extra-urban 57.7 (4.9); combined 48.7 (5.8). The official CO2 emissions are 130g/km. EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008 test environment figures. Fuel consumption and CO2 may vary with driving styles, road conditions and other factors. *Price shown includes delivery to dealer, number plates, 20% VAT, 12-month government road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Price shown is manufacturer’s recommended retail price, which applies to new Dacia vehicles when ordered and registered by 30 September 2016. Car shown with optional metallic paint at an extra £495.
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The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the car shown are: urban 39.2 (7.2); extra-urban 60.1 (4.7); combined 51.4 (5.5). The official CO2 emissions are 127g/km. EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008 test environment figures. Fuel consumption and CO2 may vary with driving styles, road conditions and other factors. *Clio monthly payment based on £2,306 deposit, 24 monthly payments of £159, optional final payment of £5,553. Finance provided by Renault Finance, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ. Subject to status. Indemnities may be required. UK residents only (excluding the Channel Islands). Over 18s. Terms and conditions apply. Offer based on 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile inc VAT. Finance available on selected new vehicles when ordered and registered by 30 September 2016. Excludes Renaultsport models. Clio shown has optional i.d. metallic paint, at an extra £595.
S J COOK & SONS CITY MOTORS Book a test-drive Station Road, Kingswood BS15 4XX St Philips Causeway, Bristol BS4 3AX Tel 0117 3322567 Tel 0117 3322566 www.carcogroup.co.uk/renault To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400
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August 2016
News: Stoke Gifford
Ratcliffe Drive post office reopened after refit
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toke Gifford’s newlyrefurbished ‘main style’ post office in the former Jhoots Pharmacy store in Ratcliffe Drive is proving a hit with local residents and businesses. Following its reopening at the end of June, the post office now offers three serving positions: one screened, one open plan and a third at a retail counter at the front of the store. Services available at the branch include: Drop & Go, Parcelforce Express, vehicle tax, foreign currency, travel insurance, National Express ticket sales and Post Office banking, in addition to all the usual branch post office functions. The new layout incorporates a consultation area where post office staff can give advice on financial products, but Jhoots say they are looking at the possibility of using this space for a selfservice scanner/photocopier or
photo printing kiosk. The post office operation has now been taken under the direct control of the Jhoots pharmacy group, which operates 50 pharmacies across the UK, including seven in the Bristol area and two in Bath. It had previously been operated by an independent postmaster and then, following the transfer of the pharmacy to the nearby Stoke Gifford Medical Centre in January 2015, by an organisation acting as a temporary postmaster. Richard Sugden, operations director at Jhoots, described the Stoke Gifford site as a new venture for the company, being its first standalone business that is not a pharmacy. Jhoots have taken on the two staff who worked at the previous post office and are in the process of recruiting two more. Aside from the post office
Jhoots directors and staff at the newly-refurbished post office in Ratcliffe Drive, Stoke Gifford. L-r: Richard Sugden (operations manager), Hazel Phelps (post office assistant) and Roger Herbert (director of primary care).
function, the shop also stocks stationery, household products and a small selection of gifts. The range of products offered will be regularly reviewed and the business will respond to the needs of the community. Mr Sugden added: “Our initial aim is to understand what the local community wants from the shop. We will be talking to customers and getting feedback from staff. Currently, we are focussing on things that have sold well in the past.” “We’re looking forward to seeing the business develop and expecting it to go from strength to strength.” The refurbishment has also
been welcomed by Stoke Gifford resident Roger Herbert, who owned a pharmacy business that operated in the same shop unit from 1989 to 2006, during which time the post office relocated there from North Road. Mr Herbert, who is now director of primary care at Jhoots, said: “Like many other local residents, I am excited to be able to access main post office services right on my doorstep here in Stoke Gifford.” Current opening hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm Mon - Fri and 8.30am to 12.30pm on Saturday, although these may in due course be varied to reflect the needs of the community.
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August 2016
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News Clive Mason honoured with award for outstanding service to Scouting
L-r: Graham Brant (Avon Scouts County Commissioner) presents the Scouting Award for Merit to Clive Mason (Group Scout Leader, 1st Bradley Stoke Scouts)
By Nick Nelson, Group Chair, 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group e are extremely lucky environment. However, I am at 1st Bradley Stoke absolutely gobsmacked, but Scouts to have a Group nonetheless proud, to have Scout Leader who has over forty received this award at the years’ experience of Scouting and District AGM.” is still as enthusiastic as ever. “I only ever wanted to give Clive Mason has been a driving back the time that a volunteer force behind our Scout Group gave to me when I started my and has served as our Chair and Scouting career well over 40 as our Group Scout Leader over years ago.” a period that has seen the group “The fact that I’m still ‘doing triple in size to become one of my bit’ for 250 people in the the largest in the country. His community is merely a reflection skill and expertise is now being of all those fantastic young utilized to help other groups people, adult volunteers and through his recently appointed lifelong Scouting friends (around role as Assistant District the world)with whom I’ve had Commissioner (Group Support). the pleasure to enjoy life’s Clive has been awarded the experiences and make a positive Scouting ‘Award for Merit’ which difference.” is given for “outstanding service “Also timely to express my of not less than 12 years (10 love and gratitude to [my family] years exceptionally)”. It implies Vicky, Tash and Ben, who still “keen, conscientious, imaginative let me disappear for countless and dedicated service over a Scouting evenings, days and sustained period” and is, in our weekends. I couldn’t do it without opinion, long over due.” their understanding and support.” After he received the award, Thank you Clive – Here’s Clive posted: “It’s not often I’m hoping you will stay with us for lost for words in a Scouting the next 40 years!
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www.mojoactive.co.uk or call 01454 660075 Holiday Clubs | Parties | High Ropes Schools | Stag & Hen Parties | Fitness Corporate Teambuilding
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August 2016
Ask the Doctor with Dr Sophie Kilmartin of Bradley Stoke Surgery Difficulty sleeping?
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leep is still a mystery to the scientific world. It is thought that sleep is a chance for the brain to conserve energy (usually our brains take up 20% of our energy when we are sitting at rest), clear waste, restore the balance of our immune and musculoskeletal systems, and process our memories. Sleep also keeps us out of harms way at night, clears our negative emotions and develops healthy brain function in infants. In experiments where rats were deprived of sleep for several weeks, the ultimate outcome is death from infection. Humans have been studied for up to 11 days without sleep. They show weight gain, decreased attention span, high anxiety levels, impaired memory and grouchy moods. Sleep is so vital to health, that animals such as Dolphins sleep with half their
brain at a time as they need to keep moving. Human sleep consists of 90 minutes cycles of non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and REM sleep. Non-REM sleep is when the brain’s energy, in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules, is restored. Caffeine disrupts the formation of ATP thus stopping sleep.
you need 2 hours less sleep. Newborns sleep for 14-17 hours daily, school age children 9-11, teens 8-10, adults 7-9, with 7 being the optimum. Sleep is linked to our natural body rhythms and amounts of light. Artificial light, alarm clocks and electronic devices can all cause disruption. If sleep is disrupted for
light, alarm clocks and electronic “ Artificial devices can all cause disruption ”
Hormones such as growth hormone are also secreted in non-REM sleep. REM sleep is when we dream and a lack of it impairs the ability to learn. Newborns have 9 hours of REM a day compared to only 2 hours at 5 years old. Early birds and night owls are different chronotypes. Your chronotype is affected by genetics: a DEC2 gene can mean
periods of less than 4 weeks, then using sleep hygiene is traditionally felt to be helpful. This consists of avoiding caffeine, large meals and the use of electronic devices close to bedtime. Relaxing with a bath, milky drink or a quiet activity such as reading. A scientist called Beaudoin proposes “cognitive shuffle”. For this you picture a random sequence of
objects by taking a word like bedtime and picture as many items beginning with “b” “e” “d” and so on. GPs do get asked about sleeping tablets, but they are addictive and we are advised by national guidelines not to prescribe them for longer than 2 weeks. If the insomnia is over 4 weeks in duration then cognitive behavioural therapy would be advised. For this go to the South Gloucestershire Talking Therapies website iapt-sglos. awp.nhs.uk and complete the online registration form. Sweet dreams…
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News
Letters
Council using spray paint signs to tackle dog mess problem
Embarrassed dog walker’s plea
Y
ellow spray-painted signs that have appeared on pavements in The Herbs area of south Bradley Stoke are part of a strategy being used by South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) to combat the problem of dog mess on footways and in open spaces. The stencilled signs, which depict a dog with the words “No dog fouling” beneath it, were also reported to have used in the Baileys Court and Winterbourne Road areas earlier this year. A council spokesperson explained: “We are currently trialling the use of anti-dog fouling stencils in areas where we have received complaints about dog waste, instead of using temporary signs. The stencilled signs have been well received by local people. The stencils are painted using temporary road marking paint and will last around two months depending on weather and footfall.” One Journal reader has also reported piles of dog mess being sprayed with yellow paint, but SGC says this does not form part of its policy. National guidance now permits dog waste to be placed in any litter bin, or in domestic black bins, but some parish councils have opted to retain a number
of their dog bins following consultation with residents. Bradley Stoke Town Council pays SGC to empty the 33 dog waste bins in the town, that number having been reduced from 57 in 2013 in order to reduce costs. The majority of the bins are emptied once a week, but ten of them are now emptied twice a week following complaints that they were regularly overflowing. Advice about dog fouling on the SGC website states: “If you walk a dog, even one belonging to someone else, you are responsible for clearing up after it.” “Under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act of 1996, anybody who lets their dog foul land open to public access and does not clear up afterwards can be given a fixed penalty notice. If you get such a notice, you have to pay a £50 fine within 14 days. Otherwise, you could be prosecuted and might be fined up to £1,000.” “You should never leave dog waste bags on the ground or hanging on a fence or trees – as well as being unpleasant for other people, this is littering and you could incur a fine.” In relation to ‘cleansing standards’ the SGC website states: “Generally we clear town centres and other heavily used
areas such as local shops or along routes to school between once and three times per week. All other streets in South Gloucestershire are cleaned as required, usually in response to enquiries as we do not have the resource to do these cyclically.” ● Cases of dog fouling may be reported via a form on the SGC website at www.southglos.gov. uk/do-report or by phoning StreetCare on 01454 868000.
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There seems to be so much dog fouling taking place on the grass and pavements around Bradley Stoke at the moment, including on the paths to the lake in the nature reserve and around St Mary’s school in Juniper Way, and the paths and play area behind Fennel Drive. People live in homes behind these paths and there are plenty of dog bins around and it is not pleasant. I am a dog owner and I am embarrassed when walking along the paths and grass verges where dog mess isn’t being cleared up. I also feel sorry for the school children and parents taking their children to school. I have contacted the council about this and some new yellow “no dog fouling” signs have been placed on the pavements which is fantastic and it seems to have had some effect, but sadly there is still quite a bit of mess being left behind. Please can everyone take time to clear up behind their dogs and to have some pride in the environment and our open spaces we benefit from so that children, adults and our dogs can run and play in a clean area. Jacqueline, Bradley Stoke
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As well as being delivered to ALL of the 8,700 homes in Bradley Stoke, a further 800 copies of this magazine are delivered in the neighbouring areas of Little Stoke and Stoke Lodge. We leave a further 700 copies at public locations in Bradley Stoke, Patchway, Stoke Gifford and beyond.
The Journal is Bradley Stoke’s only locally-edited newspaper!
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News
North Bradley Stoke post office branch to be modernised
P
ost Office Limited has announced that the post office branch within the Tesco Express store at Bradley Pavilions, Pear Tree Road is to be modernised into what it calls a ‘main style’ branch. To allow work to be carried out, the branch will close on Wednesday 24th August at 5.30pm and reopen on Monday 5th September at 1pm. Any unforeseen schedule changes requiring these dates to change will be displayed on posters at the branch. The upgraded branch will have two serving positions, one screened and one open plan – with the latter being low-level and incorporating a hearing loop.
The current range of products and services will remain available, with the addition of car tax and a wider selection of ondemand travel money. Opening hours will be extended to 8am to 8pm seven days a week (currently 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm on Saturday and closed on Sunday). During the period of closure, customers are advised that Post Office facilities are provided at the following nearby branches: • Little Stoke Post Office, 8 Kingsway, Little Stoke BS34 6JL • Patchway Post Office, Spar Store, 126 Rodway Road, Patchway BS34 5PF The modernisation of Bradley Stoke’s only post office comes two
Entrance to the Tesco Express store at Bradley Pavilions, Pear Tree Road
months after a similar upgrade was made to the Ratcliffe Drive post office in Stoke Gifford (see article on page 30). Journal editor Stephen Horton comments: The provision of extra services and the longer opening hours are sure to be welcomed by residents, but the flip-side is that the investment probably makes it even less likely that a post office branch will be opened at the
Willow Brook Centre. Having a post office in our town centre was the top choice in an online reader poll conducted by the Journal in 2013 and is an aspiration of the town council, but Post Office Limited has consistently refused to consider it because of the effect it would have on the viability of existing post office branches in neighbouring areas. ● www.postoffice.co.uk
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News Star of the Stokes: Nichola Palmer Award: Parent/Guardian in a Million Nominated by: Michelle Woodle and Pia Morgan
L-r: Nick Einhorn (event host), Paul Tanner (representing category sponsor Olympus Academy Trust), Nichola Palmer (winner of the Parent / Guardian in a Million Award) and Jon Barr (Meadowbrook Primary School) No. 3 in our series profiling the winners of the 2016 Stars of the Stokes
NICHOLA PALMER was awarded the prize for Parent/Guardian in a Million, due to her dedication to her family, including her niece and nephew. Nichola took on the care of her sister’s children when her sister became unwell and needed support for a long term condition. Nichola also has three of her own children but cares for her niece and nephew as her own. Nominators said she is “a consistent role model”, being
a “proactive aunty” and making sure the children continue to have an extremely important relationship with their mother. Also mentioned was Nichola’s “equally amazing husband, James”. One of the nominators, Pia Morgan, said of Nichola’s role in the children’s lives: “She doesn’t ask for thanks, she loves them equally.” Nichola received this award for her love and care as a parent and guardian.
Bradley Stoke Journal
August 2016
Love Art Classes? Enrol on our course and you will too! Just ask our students!
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e have been running successful courses in Winterbourne Down for the last four years. Our aim is to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from each class, learning skills and techniques that will create a pathway into the wonderful and relaxing world of art. Our Beginners’ Course will take you on a journey of discovery, creating paintings you never thought possible. With the help and advice from our qualified tutor, Emma, you will acquire all the tools and confidence to achieve your artistic ambitions and unleash the artist within! Our first course is designed for absolute beginners and teaches basic methods of sketching and painting with oil pastels, watercolour and acrylic paint. By the end of the course you will have the ability to look at objects in a new light and re-create them. This new found knowledge
A proud student on exhibition evening
will enable you to create many original pieces including a landscape painting. Most of our students go on to do our Improvers’ Course and take their skills to the next level. The return rate of our students is well over 60% which speaks for itself. Come and see us in the arts and crafts marquee at the South Glos Show, see some of our students’ fabulous work on display, buy a beautiful piece of art for your home or enter our free draw to win a Love Art course!
Advertising Feature
New Art Class for Beginners Looking for an introduction to art? Or want to improve your skills?
See us at the South Glos Show
New 12 week art course starting in September is designed for complete beginners to improvers and is held at a venue in Winterbourne Down
6th/7th August
The courses run once a week, morning or afternoon for 3 hours and all your materials are provided. If you have always wanted to learn how to draw or paint but have no idea where to start then this course will show you how. The curriculum is comprehensive, interesting and fun, in a relaxed and friendly environment. Our qualified tutor provides step by step guidance each week, covering sketching, pastels, watercolour and acrylic painting. By the end of the course you will have 8 pieces of your own original art including a pastel pet portrait and an acrylic country landscape! You can then show off your new found skills to family and friends at the end of course exhibition!
For more information including dates, times and venue, please call Emma on 01454 227116 www.facebook.com/loveartclass www.loveartclasses.co.uk
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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August 2016
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News: Stoke Gifford Real-life Forrest Gump visits pre-school
C
hildren at Stoke Gifford Pre-School, based at the Trust Hall in North Road, enjoyed a visit from Somerset runner Jim PlunkettCole, who talked to them about the importance of exercising regularly. After being inspired by the London 2012 Olympics, Jim has run 10km every day since 1st January 2013 and now swims and cycles every day too. His next challenge, which he plans to start in October, is to turn film fiction into reality by replicating Forrest Gump’s 2,000 mile run visiting every state in the USA, giving inspirational talks to children at hundreds of schools along the way. Having to adapt his usual presentation to suit his youngestever audience, Jim told them stories about running with his dog Alf. Because of their young age he compared a stag he’d seen to Sven from the film Frozen and other characters they knew and loved.
Sam Milkins, a keen runner and parent committee member at the pre-school, who had arranged the visit, said Jim deliberately made it sound more like a story so they would stay interested. (Jim told her he thought they’d find the facts boring.) They were fascinated and were all very keen to see what he had to show them on his laptop. With the talk over, the children donned their raincoats and went outside to join Jim for a run around the field, which they enthusiastically completed. Sam said: “The children really enjoyed the visit from Jim. It had been timed with St Michael’s sports days in mind, so that they could enjoy a sporting experience too. The parents fed back that they’d heard all about the fun their children had had running with Jim, a very good sign of a successful visit!” ● For more information, visit the ‘JimGump’ page on Facebook.
DENTAL CARE
DID YOU KNOW? REGULAR DENTAL CHECKS CAN HELP PREVENT POTENTIAL NASTY DISEASES
FLEA & WORMING DID YOU KNOW?
VETS CAN PRESCRIBE MORE EFFECTIVE & LONGER LASTING TREATMENTS THAN ‘OFF THE SHELF’ PRODUCTS
FITNESS & WELLBEING DID YOU KNOW?
OUR VETS CAN OFFER ADVICE ON EXERCISE, NUTRITION AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
There are lots more great reasons to visit your local vet. To find out more visit: vets4pets.com/greatreasons or companioncare.co.uk/greatreasons Vets4Pets Filton Shield Retail Centre, Gloucester Road, Filton, BS34 7BQ Call: 0117 969 8400 or visit: www.vets4pets.com/filton
Companion Care Bristol Filton Inside Pets at Home, Abbey Wood Retail Park, Station Road, Filton, BS34 7JL Call: 0117 979 9200 or visit: www.companioncare.co.uk/bristolfilton
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Get well · Stay well
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August 2016
by Rebecca Rees, Chiropractor at Willow Brook Clinic
Let’s talk about tennis elbow
ith the better weather rolling in and Wimbledon over, some of us may be thinking about dusting off our tennis rackets or opening the shed and getting out the trowel and hedge clippers, or getting on with the DIY tasks that have been lingering since the winter months. But what about that persistent elbow pain that stopped you serving last season, stopped you managing your garden the way you wanted to or caused you to delay the DIY in the first place? A condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow is known as tennis elbow. It can get so bad that even lifting up the kettle or turning a tap can be impossible. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players. It is most commonly an over-use injury, caused by repetitive movements such as using a paintbrush or screwdriver, hammering, typing or using the mouse, using some garden tools or playing tennis! The forearm is made up of many muscles that move your elbow, wrist and fingers. The forearm muscles that bend your wrist back, attach onto the elbow through one single tendon. If these muscles tighten, it puts increased strain on the tendon, causing tiny tears and inflammation to develop near the bony part of the elbow. This is the start of tennis elbow.
Tennis elbow will usually improve itself within six months to two years. However, during this time, it can be debilitating and there are a number of things you can do to help speed up recovery: • Ice: In acute tennis elbow injuries, applying an ice pack can help to reduce the inflammation. • Stretches: Stretching out the forearm muscles can help to reduce the strain on the tendon. • Tennis elbow strap: These attach around the forearm, absorbing some of the forces exerted onto the damaged tendon of the elbow. • Soft tissue work and mobilization can release the tension in the forearm muscles. Acupuncture and manipulation can also help to reduce the symptoms of tennis elbow. • Seek the help of a chiropractor or physiotherapist – don’t stay in pain. www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk ● See our advert on page 17.
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August 2016
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News
Bus service alterations from 4th September • X74 service withdrawn by operator • 73 service extended to Bristol Temple Meads • Peak time frequency on 73 reduced to ‘every 15 mins’
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us operator First West of England has announced that it is to withdraw the X74 service that links Bradley Stoke with Bristol city centre, via the University of the West of England (UWE) and the M32, with effect from 4th September. There will also be changes to Bradley Stoke’s other main bus service, the 73 (Cribbs Causeway to Bristol) from the same date. These include extending the route to Bristol Temple Meads Station and reducing the Monday to Friday peak time frequency to ‘every 15 minutes’. The X74 was introduced with a fanfare of publicity in August 2014. It effectively replaced the former Wessex 13 service and, like the 13, received financial support from South Gloucestershire Council. Its withdrawal will once again leave Braydon Avenue without a bus service, with passengers having to make their way to either Brook Way or Little Stoke Lane to access alternative services. The reduction in the peak frequency of the 73 means that the service will now operate with a frequency of ‘every 15 minutes’ throughout the day Monday to Friday, compared to ‘every 10 minutes’ three years ago.
A First spokesperson said: “From 4th September, the vast majority of service 73 journeys will be extended to and from Bristol Temple Meads. This comes on the back of customer requests for buses to operate beyond the current terminus at Lewins Mead and also creates a number of new journey opportunities. There will also be some changes to the timetable of service 73. More details about the change to this service will be published soon. In the meantime anyone wanting more information about the changes to service 73, should log onto the First Bristol website (www. firstgroup.com/bristol) from 8th August to review the new timetables.” The new service 73 timetables are already available on the Traveline SW website www. travelinesw.com Journal editor Stephen Horton comments: Are Bradley Stoke’s bus services starting to be gradually run down ahead of the introduction of MetroBus? I can’t say I’m surprised at these changes as, once MetroBus is up and running, it seems unlikely that existing services will remain profitable when operating at their current frequencies.
Publicity for the newly-introduced X74 service in 2014. Two years later, it is being withdrawn by operator First West of England.
Alternative services for X74 passengers • A new service ‘UWE’ will be introduced and will provide a replacement for service X74 between the City Centre and UWE along with the existing X14 operated by Wessex Bus. • Little Stoke will continue to be served by services 18/18A, 19, 82 and 625 with services 18/18A and 19 providing up to four buses per hour to and from UWE. • Filton continues to be served by services 75, 78 and 79, providing a service to and from the City Centre. • Passengers on Brook Way (section served by service X74) may be able to use Services 73/X73 and 77.
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Quiz by local Mastermind contestant Paul Philpot No. 33 (easy/hard, old/new) • Answers on p45 1. Havana is the capital of which Caribbean island? 2. In which Welsh location was the sitcom Gavin & Stacey set? 3. In the Disney film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which dwarf is the youngest, has no beard and never speaks? 4. What great landmark was built for the Paris Exhibition of 1889? 5. Which town in the Lake District is famous for its mint cake? 6. Homes Under the Hammer is to lose its original female presenter after 13 years. What is her name? 7. In Greek mythology, who suspended a sword over the head of Damocles, with just a single horse’s hair? 8. Which sign of the zodiac follows Aquarius and precedes Aries? 9. What word describes the ability of animals such as bats and dolphins to find objects by reflected sound? 10. Aubrey Graham is the real name of which megastar Canadian rapper, known for his collaborations with Rihanna? 11. What colour is common to the flags of France, Canada and China? 12. Who, this year, became only the second Englishman to win the US Masters golf tournament?
13. Which measurement is reputed to have originated as the length of three barleycorns laid end to end? 14. Which Hungarian composer was Richard Wagner’s father-in-law? 15. Which element on the periodic table, has the chemical symbol Sn, derived from its Latin name, Stannum? 16. The slogan ‘I’m lovin’ it’, is used by, and closely associated with, which fast-food chain? 17. What objects are collected by a deltiologist? 18. Bauxite is the principal ore of which metal? 19. What nationality is shoe designer Jimmy Choo? 20. Which British horror writer’s works include The Rats, Lair and The Secret of Crickley Hall?
Read Paul’s blog at www.justquiz.org
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August 2016
Advertising Feature
Summer holiday fun at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
S
ummer is upon us at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, the perfect season to watch nature at its best, with a host of impressive animals enjoying the warmer weather outside, including our African elephants, white rhinos and Big Cats and a few special additions this year... *New for 2016* If you go down to Noah’s Ark, you’re in for a big surprise... We’re bear-ly able to contain our excitement now we have Spectacled Bears living here at the zoo! Come and visit our beautifully landscaped Andean Adventure, the largest habitat for these bears in the UK. Here at Noah’s Ark we offer a fun visit all day, in all weather – if it’s rainy, enjoy our large play barns, the perfect place for kids to let off steam. Bring the family along today to Bristol’s
award-winning attraction – given the ‘Certificate of Excellence’ from TripAdvisor for a third year running. Enjoy 12 exciting adventure play areas, an indoor Animal Village and covered Animal Show Pens. Noah’s Ark offers incredible up-close experiences with amazing animals, including seeing the lions and tigers being fed during the ‘Big Cat Talk’, meeting our giraffes at the daily encounter and watching our Birds of Prey fly in the daily display. Enjoy a jumbo experience with Noah’s Ark’s impressive ‘Elephant Eden’ – Europe’s largest elephant habitat. For a fantastic family day out, walk beside nature’s giants at Noah’s Ark this season! ● See our advert on page 10.
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August 2016
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41
News Local Townswomen’s Guild members greet head office end-to-end charity cyclist
Members of the Bristol North West Federation of Townswomen’s Guilds (TGs) turned out in force on Friday 8th July to greet a member of staff from TG head office who stopped off for refreshments at North Patchway Hall, Gloucester Road on day seven of a nine-day charity ride from John O’Groats to Lands End. Apart from raising funds for TGs and another charity – When You Wish Upon A Star, dedicated to granting the wishes of children living with life-threatening illness – Kelly Jones was using her ride as a linking thread for Guilds from the top to the bottom of the country. The local Willow Brook Townswomen’s Guild meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm at the Jubilee Centre, Bradley Stoke. For more info, phone 01454 617645.
Meadowbrook Primary School
On-site pre-school offering places to children from age 2
Out of School Club with on-site wrap-around care between 7.30 am to 6.00 pm (inc school holidays)
Winners of the 2015 school British Wildlife Photograph Awards
Member of the Olympus Trust
Apple Regional Training Centre
Awarded the Science Gold Quality Mark in 2015
* Brand new Reception outdoor play-area for September 2016 * Follow us @mbkprimary or visit us at www.meadowbrookprimary.co.uk To advertise in this magazine or on our websites, phone The Journal’s sales team on 01454 300 400
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August 2016
In Brief Squash club members remember team mate Bradley Stoke Squash Club members recently made a trip to Leicestershire in memory of team mate George Morgan who died earlier this year. George, 20, played for the club whilst studying at UWE until he collapsed and died suddenly during a club match which, it was later found, was the result of an undiagnosed heart defect. The team from Bradley Stoke played in the inaugural Morgan Cup against George’s home team Hermitage Squash Club, which included his father Andrew, near Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Club chairman Andrew Blake said: “We had met with the Morgan family and their friends at the funeral and talked about how an annual match between the two clubs would be a fitting memorial to George.” “Despite Hermitage winning the cup, the games were played in good spirits and the team
and George’s family were really friendly and welcoming to us all. We look forward to welcoming them to Bristol next year.” Bradley Stoke Squash Club now play at the Patchway Sports Centre courts and host a club night every Sunday from 6.20pm, to which new members are welcome. If you would like more information, please contact Neil Beetlestone at neil.beetlestone@ gmail.com or 07863184022 or visit the Bradley Stoke Squash Club page on Facebook.
Grand Appeal dinner dance at Aztec Hotel CAMB Machine Knives, based in Yate, have been fundraising for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal for around six years now, hosting a variety of events in this time. In 2013 we were one of the founding sponsors for Gromit Unleashed, sponsoring Sir Gromit of Bristol. Then in 2015 we were Leaders of the Flock
sponsoring Shaunus Romanus, both sculptures designed and produced by Ian Marlow. We have raised around £16,000 for The Grand Appeal which we are extremely pleased with, but would love to get this amount to £20,000. On Friday 21st October, we are hosting our first hotel event, A Grand Autumn Dinner Dance, in the Cotswold Suite at the Aztec Hotel & Spa, Aztec West. It is £45pp and includes a threecourse meal, disco, caricatures, photo booth, sweet cart and a raffle/auction. Tables seat 8/10 people. To book or further information, please contact Sarah Hitchings s.hitchings@hotmail. co.uk or call 07989 599979.
the rail network and meet the demand of increasing numbers of passengers. More info: GWR.com/ Filton2016
No decision yet on Bradley Stoke parkrun Further to recent articles on the possibility of a weekly parkrun being established in Bradley Stoke’s Three Brooks Local Nature Reserve, South Gloucestershire Council (SGC), which owns the reserve, says it is currently still in talks with the applicants (local representatives of parkrun UK) and no decision has yet been made.
Railways closed over August Bank Holiday From Saturday 27th to Monday 29th August, the railway between Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Parkway, Gloucester and Severn Tunnel Junction will be closed, with many services being amended or replaced by buses. The closure is necessary to permit Network Rail to carry out essential work to install and test part of a new signalling system for the Bristol area. The work will also prepare the Great Western Main Line for the arrival of electrification and the new fleet of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains. This is in addition to paving the way for the doubling of the tracks, from two to four along Filton Bank, helping to improve capacity on this part of
A request from Bradley Stoke Town Council that the decision should be made by SGC councillors, rather than officers, appears to have been rejected, with SGC saying it is continuing to follow its normal protocol for hire of open spaces, under which officers make decisions and consult with the local community.
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August 2016
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43
News: Stoke Gifford
Yarn bombers bring cheer to church and local community By Nikki Hallur nitting and crocheting enthusiasts from in and around Stoke Gifford have created an exciting local group called the Yarn Bombers. It all started in the Old School Rooms near St Michael’s Church, when local resident, Kia Harris, mentioned the idea of ‘yarn bombing’ the building. A group of friends got together to make creative designs based on a particular theme and decorated the space with their artwork. One of the group members, Debbie Bambridge, spoke to us about the group. “We describe ourselves as a group of likeminded crochet and knitting lovers who want to spread a little woollen love around St Michael’s Church and the Stoke Gifford community,” said Debbie. “We currently have nine people who are actively knitting or crocheting and more who are interested in getting involved.” Debbie added: “It’s amazing what a variety of people we have in our group. All ages from 20s to retired, all abilities form beginner to those who write their own patterns, and each contributing what they can to each project. Being part of this group has been a brilliant way to build community as well as a great way to learn new skills and share creative ideas.”
K
The group goes under the name St Mike’s Yarn Bombers (SMYB) and the SMYB label is used on everything they make. So far the group has done four ‘yarn bombs’, each one different, and each one bigger than the last. February’s theme was love, and three of the members made hearts in different shades of pink and red to decorate the pillars, gate and railings around the Coffee Shop at the Old School Rooms. In May half term, the group put up flowers, butterflies, bees and ladybirds all around the outside of the Coffee Shop and new St Michael’s Centre, and even on the gate by Parkway Station for the commuters. Each time, the Yarn Bombers have put labels up with the crafted items, with Bible verses on a theme. They want to bless the community in any way they can, and “inspire people with the love of God, as much as with the beauty of the things they’ve created.” Debbie mentioned they “have lots more in the pipeline!” Although she added that, “As much as possible, we like to keep it a secret what we’re working on and put things up under cover of darkness, as a surprise for local residents and visitors.” One thing they have revealed is that they’re working towards making
Flowers on the gate leading to Parkway Station
Flowers growing out of railings at the Old School Rooms Coffee Shop
a community Christmas tree. This will be something for any interested knitters or crocheters to get involved with. Debbie adds: “We will be looking for people to make 6-inch green squares (in any shade of green and in any stitch) that we will put together to make a Christmas tree. We will also be looking for local craft groups to get involved
and there will be an activity at the November Messy Church so children can contribute too.” Anyone who wants to keep up with what the Yarn Bombers are doing can like their Facebook page (to find it, search for SMYB). Knitters or crochet enthusiasts who want to get involved can email them at S.M.Y.B@outlook.com
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What’s On (31st July – 4th September) Sunday 31st July 7am-5pm: Car Boot Sale at Trench Lane, BS32 4JZ. One of the biggest in the West! More info: http://bit.ly/trenchlane [Weekly until 25th September] 9.30am: SCC Medium Distance Bike Ride to Wickwar. Meet outside Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/stokescc or phone Bryan on 01454 617560. [Further rides on 7th, 14th, 21st, 25th & 28th August and 4th September] 9am: Severnside Ramblers’ Walk: Hinton and Doynton. 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 5th, 7th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 24th & 28th August and 2nd & 4th September]
Monday 1st August 4pm-5pm: Explore Learning Big Friendly Giant Workshop at Bradley Stoke Library. Most suitable for ages 7-9. Spaces limited (booking advised).
Wednesday 3rd August 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: Social Club for Over-55s at the Jubilee Centre. Organised by Knightstone Housing. [Weekly on Wednesdays]
Thursday 4th August 10.30am-12pm: Crocodile
and Other Friendly Animals Activity at Bradley Stoke Library. Most suitable for primary school aged children. 11am: Walking for Health. Organised walk (1.4 miles) starting from the town square. More info: http://bit.ly/sgc-wfh or phone 01454 868006. [Further walk on 18th August] 2.30pm-4.30pm: Volunteering Drop-in Session at Bradley Stoke Library. Pop in for a chat with a volunteer advisor. More info: http://bit.ly/vc-pfs or call 01454 868986. 8pm: The Stokes Crafters meet at the Poplar Rooms, North Road, Stoke Gifford. More info: The Stokes Crafters group on Facebook [Weekly on Thursdays]
Friday 5th August 1.15pm-7.15pm: Blood Donation Sessions at the Jubilee Centre. More info: www.blood.co.uk
Saturday 6th August 10am-4pm: Three Brooks Nature Conservation Group Workday. Meet at the tool store, behind Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/ bsj-tbncg or call 07497 006676 [Also on 3rd September] 5pm-7pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the beat post in the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary.
Monday 8th August 6.30pm: Bristol Small Business Forum Meeting at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/bsbforum
August 2016
For more details and further events, visit: www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/whats-on/
Tuesday 9th August
Sunday 21st August
7.30pm: Willow Brook Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Jubilee Centre. This month: Hats with Tales (talk). More info: Janine 01454 617645
10am: Three Brooks Nature Walk. Meet outside Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. FREE, but book via http://bit.ly/walk1608
Wednesday 10th August 7.30pm: Bradley Stoke Lions Club meets at the Hilton Bristol Hotel. More info: Ailsa Young on 07737 106836
Saturday 13th August
Wednesday 24th August 7pm: BSTC Planning Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcpec
Friday 26th August
10am-12pm: Fun and Craft Group at Bradley Stoke Library.
7.50pm: Bat Walk in the Three Brooks Nature Reserve. Booking essential: http://bit.ly/bat1608
Monday 15th August
Saturday 27th August
1.30pm-3.30pm: Sew and So’s patchwork and quilting group meets at the Jubilee Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/sewandsos
11am-3pm: Bradley Stoke’s Got Music talent contest at the Willow Brook Centre. More info: http://bit.ly/bs32wbc
7pm: BSTC Leisure, Youth & Amenities Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http://bit.ly/bstclya
12.30pm-3.30pm: Car Boot Sale in Little Stoke Park. Cars £5; vans £8. Buyer entry by donation. More info: Stoke Gifford Parish Council 01454 865202.
Wednesday 17th August 7pm: BSTC Finance Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Centre. Agenda: http:// bit.ly/bstcfin
Thursday 18th August 10.30am-12pm: Dahl’s Delicious Delights at Bradley Stoke Library. Most suitable for primary school aged children.
Saturday 20th August 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.
5pm-7pm: Police Beat ‘Drop In’ Surgery at the beat post in the Willow Brook Centre. No appointment necessary.
Friday 2nd September 7.45pm: Bat Walk in the Three Brooks Nature Reserve. Booking essential: http://bit.ly/bat1609 Find details of more Bradley Stoke events on the What’s On page of the BSJ website: http://bit.ly/bsj-whatson Follow @TheBSJournal on Twitter to receive daily reminders of events.
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August 2016
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info@bradleystokejournal.co.uk WINDOW CLEANING
Through the camera lens by Becky Ward The Great Sea Choir performing on the Cascade Steps music stage at the recent Bristol Harbour Festival
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
S
ummer is the time of year when everything just gets busier – the kids are off school, it’s time for a holiday and of course it’s festival season across the country. This is no different in Bradley Stoke or indeed for the Bradley Stoke Radio (BSR) volunteers, who, having fully recovered from helping out at our town’s annual Community Festival, headed off to the big city for one of the largest events in the radio station’s calendar - the Harbour Festival. In recent years, BSR has been invited to be part of the backstage crew, as well as broadcasting live from the Cascade Steps music stage. This plays host to some amazingly talented performers not only local to Bristol, but also hailing from the South West and beyond For me, one of the best parts of volunteering at the Cascade Steps stage is the surprisingly large number of Bradley Stoke residents who pop their heads over the barriers and say hi! It’s great to chat and catch up with locals, old friends and make some new ones, whilst enjoying listening to some amazing live music. It’s quite amusing though, as most people are quite surprised to see Bradley Stoke’s volunteer-run community radio station being involved at such a large prestigious festival season event. One of my favourite bands, Bristol based Circe’s Diner, played over the weekend. They’re a band that you may recognise as
they’ve worked closely with BSR over the last few years. Being backstage, it felt like my entire weekend was spent catching up with old friends that I have been privileged to have previously photographed when they have performed live in BSR’s studio two. Many were in their early days and most, I’m pleased to say, have gone on to become not only successful but well known and loved on the live music circuit that is so vibrant in this area. Other Bristol bands included The Barry Walsh Band, whose songs all relate to different parts of our area, possibly best know for his unique songs about Concorde, the Suspension Bridge and, most recently, Porlock Hill! Saturday’s headline act Meet Your Feet got the entire crowd dancing, and the mesmerising Great Sea Choir sang traditional songs as well as mashing up pop songs into their own thoroughly enchanting a capella arrangements. The next big event for both myself and BSR is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, so please do come and say “hi” as the volunteers are closing the Brook Way studios for the whole four days of the fiesta and moving wholesale to Ashton Court, broadcasting live and playing host to the acoustic music stage. Guess I’d better give my cameras some post Harbour Festival TLC, as I suspect they are going to be working hard that weekend! ● More photos: @beckywardmedia
PAINTING & DECORATING
PET FOOD SUPPLIERS
Quiz answers (page 40) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Cuba Barry Island Dopey The Eiffel Tower Kendal Lucy Alexander Dionysus
8. Pisces 9. Echolocation 10. Drake 11. Red 12. Danny Willett 13. The Inch
14. Franz Liszt 15. Tin 16. McDonald’s 17. Postcards 18. Aluminium 19. Malaysian 20. James Herbert
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Accountants & Bookkeepers BS Accountancy Services, page 16 Bathrooms Bradley Stoke Bathrooms, Page 33 Builders Criterion Construction, Page 42 Deluxe Carpentry & Building, Page 38 More in directory on BSJ website Business Services QUENSH Compliance Management, Page 19 Car Dealerships Carco group, Pages 28 & 29 Carpentry & Joinery Deluxe Carpentry & Building, Page 38 J. Earle Carpentry & Joinery, Page 45 Carpet Cleaners B Clean, Page 42 Bonne Fresh Clean Ltd, Page 9 Carpets & Flooring Visit directory on BSJ website Child Care Abacus Pre-School, Page 30 Banana Moon, Page 1 Ambourne House Day Nursery, Page 19 Happy Days Nursery, Page 4 Little Acers Pre-School, Page 6 Children’s Activities Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Page 10 Chiropractic Cool Green Planet, Pages 5 & 12 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Cleaning & Domestic Services Welcomehome Cleaning, Page 7 Computer Services goto iT, Page 21 Conservatories Crystal Clear Windows, Page 48 Curtains & Blinds Harmony Blinds of Bristol, Page 22 Cycle Repairs Ride On Cycles, Page 9 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 23 Double Glazing Cloudy2Clear Windows, Page 26 Crystal Clear Windows, Page 48 JDC Windows, Page 43 Education & Learning Love Art, Page 36 Olympus Academy Trust, Page 41 Electricians NRB Electrical, Page 39 More in directory on BSJ website Estate Agents & Property Lifestyle Property Services, Page 1 McCarthy & Stone, Page 8 Ocean, Page 32 Events Willow Brook Centre, Page 3 Foot Care Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Funeral Services F. Woodruff Funeral Directors, Page 36 Garage Services Filton Central Garage, Page 44 So Smart Alloy Wheels, Page 6 Social Access, Page 23 Gardening Services Garretts Landscapes, Page 27 Plan-It Garden Design, Page 15
Smart Patios, Page 34 Professional Gardening Services, Page 46 Gyms & Health Clubs Visit directory on BSJ website Hairdressers Reflections, Page 14 Healthcare Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Page 6 Home Improvements & Furnishings Door Express, Page 34 Launderettes Wash Shop Plus, Page 47 Mortgages & Financial Advice Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 9 Nails & Beauty Sammy’s Beauty, Page 21 Opticians Specsavers, Page 38 Painting & Decorating A. Worsfold, Page 45 Pet Services & Supplies Husse Bristol, Page 45 New Passage Cattery, Page 47 Physiotherapy Willow Brook Clinic, Page 17 Picture Framers Royal Framing, Page 39 Plant Hire T. Edwards Plant, Page 46 Plumbing & Heating Assist Plumbing and Heating, Page 47 Capricorn Plumbing Ltd, Page 20 Clifton Gas, Page 47 Concept Property Maintenance, Page 6 Gregor Heating, Page 11 JJ Plumbing, Page 9 Low Cost Plumbing, Page 47 M.S.M Plumbing & Heating, Page 47 Panache Plumbing, Page 47 Proudfoot Plumbing, Page 47 S. Berryman Plumbing & Heating, Page 47 Property Maintenance Concept Property Maintenance, Page 6 JJ Plumbing, Page 9 P.J.R Plastics, Page 47 Bradley Stoke Bathrooms, Page 33 Recruitment Bristol Care Homes, Page 25 LV= Careers, Page 2 Rubbish Clearance Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance, Page 46 Solicitors Bevan Evemy Solicitors, Page 18 Slimming Clubs & Consultants Slimming World, Page 11 Sport & Leisure Bradley Stoke Tennis, Page 21 Bradley Stoke Town Council, Page 18 Carrie Vinson Equestrian, Page 33 Filton Sports & Leisure Centre, Page 35 Mojo Active, Page 31 Taxis South Glos Taxis Ltd, Page 47 TV & Aerials Image Aerial Systems, Page 47 Veterinary Surgeons Vets4Pets / CompanionCare, Page 37 Rowe Veterinary Group, Page 30 Window Cleaning Ultra Clear, Page 45
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August 2016
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We load and clear Same day service Household, garden, garage & sheds cleared Single item jobs Cheaper than a skip No VAT Contact Stuart or Sue on 0800 0234 995 (Freephone) or 07770 944727 stuart.thistlewood@yahoo.co.uk
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PLUMBING & HEATING
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TAXIS
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PET SERVICES
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Bristol’s Largest Indoor Window and Door Showroom is Open at Crystal Clear
WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFLIGHTS
View the extensive range of stunning designer and traditional doors, windows and rooflights at Crystal Clear’s showroom or online at www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk ✓ Extensive Showroom ✓ Striking Designs, offering Low Upkeep, Energy Efficiency, Ease of Use and High Security ✓ PVCu, Aluminium, Sliding Sash and Casement Windows ✓ Composite, Bi-fold, Sliding, French, Stable and Patio Doors ✓ Exclusive Supplier of the MODO Collection from Apeer ✓ Established Local Company with an Excellent Reputation
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