Kingswood Rugby Club is celebrating promotion from the Counties League Division 4 after a 29-19 victory over title rivals Dings Crusaders. A record crowd of 600 watched the win that crowned the side as champions. It is a huge achievement for a side that were bottom of the league two years ago and is part of a run of success for the club thanks to the efforts of players and volunteers. Report: Page 24
THE parents of a young man who was killed in a crash on the Avon Ring Road are working to help other families in their position.
Tyler Carley, who was 20 and grew up in Kingswood, died in December when the lorry he was a passenger in overturned on the A4174. His family have set up a foundation in his
memory, to help charities that offer help to bereaved relatives, after finding it hard to find support following his death.
In their first major fundraising event, a team of runners is coming together to race in Tyler's memory at this month's Great Bristol Run.
Turn to Page 3
Stacey, Lydia and Emily Olika have raised nearly £90,000 in a week for life-enhancing cancer treatment for their mum Millie, a nurse from Kingswood.
PAGE 11
MPs Damien Egan and Kerry McCarthy are calling for action on a midwifery crisis that has kept Cossham birth centre closed for 18 months.
PAGE 4
Elections take place on May 2 for the police and crime commissioner, Bristol City Council and the New Cheltenham ward on South Glos Council.
PAGES 6-8
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May 2024 - Issue 58
EDITORIAL
Linda Tanner
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From Page 1
Tyler's dad Mark said he, Tyler's mum Gemma and siblings Kylan, Skye and Ronni-Irene, had founded The Road Forward – Tyler Carley Foundation to support road accident victims' families in the light of their own experience.
He said that in the immediate aftermath of Tyler's death: "We literally had no support. The police give you a green book and send you on your way. You come home and get an email about six hours later from your police liaison
officer, and that's it. There was nothing at all for Tyler's sisters, brother, aunts and uncles."
The family eventually found two charities which offered help.
The first, SCARD (Support & Care After Road Death & Injury), provides a phone helpline, free counselling, legal and practical support for families affected by road deaths and serious injuries.
The second, 2Wish, supports the families of children and young people who have died, offering counselling, home visits and 'memory boxes'.
advertise, contact Shaun on 07540 383 870 or email
After supporting SCARD with donations from mourners at Tyler's funeral, the family started considering a more permanent way of honouring his memory.
Mark said they decided to go ahead and set up The Road Forward after people who knew Tyler contacted them offering to run the 10k at the Great Bristol Run on May 19 in his memory. Already more than 20 people have volunteered to run, with an initial target of raising £5,000.
Mark, who grew up in Kingswood, also hopes to
organise sessions to teach CPR at Kingswood Boxing Club, where he is a volunteer coach, after learning that passers-by tried to revive Tyler at the scene of the crash that claimed his life.
Tyler lived in Kingswood before moving to Mangotsfield and then Thornbury, attending St Stephen's infants and juniors He was working as a scaffolder when he died.
Mark said Tyler had a big group of friends from Kingswood, Mangotsfield and Thornbury, and also from playing football for Deerswood,
Longwell Green and Bristol Rovers' development squad.
He was a big Rovers fan, following the club home and away.
More details on The Road Forward can be found at the charity's Facebook and Twitter accounts, or by emailing info@ tylercarley.org. A website is also being set up at tylercarley. org.
Anyone who wants to donate to the foundation online can do so via its JustGiving page at tinyurl.com/4aknubcs.
SOUTH Gloucestershire Council says it is seeking new tenants for Kingswood Civic Centre following the announcement that health provider Sirona is to move out.
The centre, which was built in the 1970s and refurbished at a cost of £6 million in 2011, was at risk of closure in 2016 after more than 200 office staff were moved to the council’s new headquarters in Badminton Road, Yate.
It was saved after Sirona Care and Health took up a long-term tenancy. But now Sirona is moving its base to Badminton Road too. Since the pandemic, many staff at both organisations work flexibly, resulting in a reduced need for office space.
But a council spokesperson told the Voice this did not mean that the civic centre, which houses the council chamber, a One Stop Shop and the library, would be sold.
“Sirona moving into the Badminton Road office will help to meet the council’s target of £500,000 in income from making best use of our estate,” the spokesperson said.
“In recent years the council has successfully introduced more flexible ways of working for its staff, which means that space can be used in different ways to support the delivery of important services. This has in turn released office space and created the opportunity to generate income through leasing out parts of the building.
“We are in negotiations with another potential tenant to lease office space at Badminton Road and are also seeking tenants for the space at the Kingswood Civic Centre that will be available once Sirona relocate from there.
“Aligned to the new Council Plan, the estates strategy is being reviewed and this will include the vacated space at Kingswood Civic Centre.”
Announcing the plans, Sirona and the council said: “Both organisations, which already work closely together, look forward to further strengthening their working relationship. By moving some of its staff to Yate, Sirona will benefit from the use of
modern office space and facilities, while the council will receive rent, which will help balance the budget at a time when the cost of delivering services continues to increase.”
Sirona is a Community Interest Company that provides community NHS services in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. A spokesperson told the Voice that the growth of the organisation meant it needed a bigger organisational headquarters.
Sirona chief executive Sue Porto said: “Moving to Badminton Road is a key step in ensuring our organisation is optimised for the post-pandemic world where hybrid working still requires locations for our staff to meet and collaborate in the same space.
“This move will also help grow our already strong partnership working with South Gloucestershire Council.”
The move is likely to happen towards the end of the year, once IT and other services are in place for Sirona at Badminton Road.
KINGSWOOD'S MP has called on the government to take action to reopen the maternity centre at Cossham Hospital, which has been closed for 18 months.
Damien Egan has written to Health Secretary Victoria Atkins calling on her to provide "certainty" on when the Cossham Birth Centre will reopen its doors to expectant mothers – and to take action on the staffing crisis in NHS midwifery which is keeping it closed.
The midwife-led centre at the hospital in Lodge Road was set up to provide a "home from home environment with birthing pools, aromatherapy, massage and a focus on active birth".
North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs the centre, announced in October 2022 that it was "temporarily suspending" services, citing "workforce challenges due to sickness and vacancies".
Last summer the trust said the suspension would remain in place until the spring of this year, but it was "committed to providing maternity care from the site".
Since the start of this year, the Voice has been asking the trust whether it has been able to set a date for reopening the centre, but it has been unable to confirm one.
The suspension follows
previous closures between October 2018 and 2019, and December 2021 to January 2022.
Mr Egan and neighbouring MP Kerry McCarthy, whose Bristol East constituency includes the hospital site, have sent a joint letter to the Health Secretary.
They said: "Unfortunately we have been told the unit is not in a position to reopen, as the trust is still facing difficulties with midwife recruitment and retention."
The MPs say the issue has been raised repeatedly with Ms Atkins and her predecessors.
They said: "Since the
refurbished birth centre reopened 11 years ago, it has been forced to close its doors for over two and a half years due to workforce challenges. It is not right that following a multimillion refurbishment, the centre has been forced to close its doors for more than a quarter of the time since.
"Expectant parents are being forced to travel many miles further to the nearest birth centre and would like certainty when Cossham Birth Centre might re-open."
The MPs said the high turnover and shortage of midwives was "putting staff,
mothers and babies at risk", adding: "As Secretary of State will you do everything you can to address the workforce challenges within maternity services in the NHS?
"We would also be grateful if you could provide any certainty of when the Birth Centre might expect to re-open its doors, so that it can once again serve the people of Bristol and South Gloucestershire."
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We are aiming to increase the number of nursing and midwifery training places to around 58,000 by 2031/32 through the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, which is backed by over £2.4 billion in government funding.
"We have invested £165 million a year since 2021 to improve maternity and neonatal care.
"This will rise to £186 million a year in April, improving the quality of care for mothers and babies and increasing the number of midwifery posts available."
North Bristol NHS Trust continues to run appointments, breastfeeding support and other services from Cossham, as well as a midwife-led centre at Southmead Hospital and a home birth service.
BRISTOL will see a change in the way it’s governed this month following the local elections on May 2.
The mayoral system that’s been in place for 12 years is being scrapped and the city council is returning to a committee system.
Critics of the mayoral model said too much power was invested in the hands of one politician, leading to some unpopular decisions. Supporters said having one strong leader enables more decisive action to take place, while a committee system could lead to excessive dithering.
The main difference is voters directly choose a mayor, who cannot be removed by councillors halfway through their term. Meanwhile under the committee system, councillors will decide among themselves who should become a council leader, and power is spread more evenly.
This could lead to a more collaborative politics, but also more indecision and bickering.
All 70 council seats are up for grabs and a political party will need to win at least 36 of them to take power. If there is no outright majority, a coalition administration might be formed.
Labour has been running Bristol since 2016, although since 2021 it has not had an overall majority. The outgoing administration comprised 24 Greens, 23 Labour, 14 Conservatives, five Liberal Democrats, two Knowle West Community Party, and two independents.
Much of Kingswood comes under South Gloucestershire Council, which does not have elections this year, although there is a by-election in the New Cheltenham ward (see Page 8).
Everyone in the area will be voting in the Avon and Somerset
Police & Crime Commissioner election, which is also previewed on Page 8.
Photo ID is now needed at polling stations following the government’s introduction of a controversial new law to clamp down on electoral fraud. Accepted forms of ID include a passport, driving licence, or older person’s bus pass.
For the city council election, the area within the Bristol boundary, which includes Two Mile Hill, Speedwell and Meadow Vale, is mostly in the St George Central Ward. The two Labour councillors for the ward, Steve Pearce and Nicola Beech, are standing down.
Five parties – Conservative, Green, Labour, Lib Dem and Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition are contesting the seats this time. The Voice invited the parties to provide profiles of their candidates.
Kris Barker
Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition Bristol has had enough. We've have had enough of the cost of living crisis and austerity. The Tories continue to punish working people. Both Labour and Greens have track records of continuing these draconian cuts. This needs to end, we need a working class party. TUSC will fight to reverse all cuts and provide decent the jobs and services we’ve long been desperate for. We’ll cap rents and build thousands of council houses. We’ll take busses back into public ownership and fund youth services.
Since moving to East Bristol in 1984, I have been deeply connected to communities like Speedwell, Fishponds, and St. George. Educated locally, I now aim to serve the area that shaped me. As a director of the South West's leading community engagement firm, I understand the importance of listening and responsive governance. If elected, my priorities will include speaking up for our most vulnerable residents and ensuring development is planned Bristol-wide near jobs and public transport to benefit local needs. I am committed to enhancing communication through weekly digital 'In Your Street' surgeries, addressing your concerns directly.
I’ve lived in the St George area for four years and I’m proud to have made this area my home. As a mental health researcher in the NHS, I’ve seen first-hand the impact of budgets cuts. As such, I want to make our communities and services stronger and more resilient.
Over the last year I’ve spent time listening to residents and helping with issues that matter to them. I’ve worked to improve parks, increase community activities, and get street lights fixed to help residents feel safer. If elected, I pledge to be an active and positive advocate for the community.
No information supplied
Abi Finch Green Party
Abi moved to the area over 4 years ago after completing a PhD in Physics. She now runs Kingswood's Library of Things and is passionate about building community, helping people live more affordably and protecting the environment.
Abi has loved working with cocandidate, Cara Lavan, listening to and supporting residents in the area over the past year.
Abi said`; “Cara’s care and compassion for people here alongside her incredible determination and hard work will make her an excellent councillor. We really hope to be able to continue working together to serve the people of St George Central.”
Alistair
Liberal Democrat
My family have lived in the area since at least the 1950s, and so I have a deep connection to our community. Growing up locally, I experienced deprivation; I want to serve as your councillor to help tackle those same realities. Residents’ satisfaction with the area is significantly worse than the Bristol average, and I want to help improve that by responding to everyday needs: from cleaner, safer streets and air, to significantly less traffic pollution and congestion. To the people who raised me and those who’ve made the area home, I promise to serve you well and make you proud.
Alistair is standing to build a council that cares and listens to our community. He wants to invest in our libraries, making them fit for the next generation; create a decent park for every community and a play park for every child; and take every opportunity to expand social housing to meet the housing crisis. Also, he wants to put an emphasis on supporting local NHS services to improve patient outcomes and tackle the crisis in dentistry services that is leading to people resorting to DIY dentistry.
Cara has lived in BS5 for 9 years. She is mum to an 11 year old and works as an independent filmmaker and child advocate. She prides herself on multi-tasking: running her own business, parenting and volunteering. Cara says she has loved working alongside Abi Finch, adding “Abi has incredible organisational skills and is so committed to the community. Between us, we've knocked on almost every door in the area. We’ve had brilliant conversations with so many people, have a good idea of what the area needs and how we could work together as Councillors to make it happen.”
Liberal Democrat
Brian is an Alderman and served on Bristol City Council for 15 years. He has a wealth of experience in local government and is committed to making Bristol a better place for everyone. He is passionate about improving children’s services and wants to expand their reach in the city with a particular focus on helping those with special education needs and those suffering from poor mental health. A committed environmentalist, he will also push the council to accelerate our city’s transition to 100% renewable energy and commit to planting a million trees over the next decade.
VOTERS will have four candidates to choose from in the election for the next Avon & Somerset police and crime commissioner.
The PCC oversees Avon & Somerset police and is tasked with ensuring the force is "efficient and effective", with the power to hire and fire the chief constable, and set both the force's budget and the precept charge paid by council tax payers.
The job, which comes with a salary of £88,600 a year, also involves setting the service's priorities through a police and crime plan, funding crime prevention and working with other organisations on a 'joinedup' local response to crime.
Elections will be held on May 2, when local elections are taking place in some parts of the country.
The only part of the Avon & Somerset force area where all-out council elections are being held is Bristol.
The current PCC is Conservative Mark Shelford, who is standing for re-election this year.
The PCC usually serves a four-year term but because the previous election was delayed by a year because of the pandemic, Mr Shelford has only been in office for three years.
Labour came second in 2021. The party's candidate this year is Clare Moody, a former MEP who is currently the chief executive of a charity.
The Greens, third in 2021, have selected Katy Grant, a Bristol city councillor and magistrate who previously worked for the UN.
Standing for the Liberal Democrats, who were fourth last time around, is Benet Allen, a former Somerset West and Taunton Council deputy leader who has worked in TV news and for a coach company.
Mr Shelford is the second person to hold the role of PCC since it was created in 2012.
His predecessor Sue Mountstevens, an independent, stood down in 2021 and her deputy, John Smith, came fifth in the last election. There is no independent candidate this year.
Another difference is that this year's election uses the firstpast-the-post system also used in Parliamentary elections.
Previous PCC elections were held using a 'supplementary vote' system, where voters were able to vote for a first and second choice candidate. The two leading candidates after first choice votes were counted then received second choice votes from people whose first choice had been eliminated.
Polls are open from 7am until 10pm.
Anyone voting in person will need to bring photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence.
For more information on the election, visit the website www. aspccelections.co.uk.
SOUTH Gloucestershire councillor Sandie Davis has stepped down from her role.
Cllr Davis, pictured, had represented New Cheltenham ward, which includes the Siston Hill estate near Mangotsfield, since 2019.
The council's Labour group announced her decision at the end of March, saying: "We're sorry to announce Sandie Davis has resigned as one of our Labour councillors for New Cheltenham due to ongoing health issues. Sandie's been a key member of the Labour Group on South Glos Council and we send our love and thanks for her service to Kingswood."
A foster carer, Cllr Davis is a governor at Soundwell Academy and Warmley Park School, and a trustee of charity Incredible Kids, which runs a play centre for children with additional needs and disabilities.At the council elections in May last year she was re-elected to represent the two-seat council ward, increasing her margin of victory from 45 to 243 votes over the third-placed Conservative candidate.
The candidates contesting the seat are: AJ Coakham, Green Party; Kelly Louise Cole, Conservative: James Pringle Corrigan, Liberal Democrat; Angela Morey, Labour.
Wednesday 22 May | 11am - 4pm
Come and celebrate 5 years of Avon Valley Care Home in Kingswood at our Hollywood Oscars-themed party. Step into a world of glitz and glam and enjoy live entertainment, a delicious BBQ, complimentary fizz, and a guided tour of our beautiful facilities.
Relatives, friends, professionals and community supporters all welcome.
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MORE than 560 runners took part in the 42nd Frenchay 10k.
The race on April 14, from UWE's Glenside campus in Fishponds, raised money for charities Freewheelers (blood bikes) and Suicide Prevention UK, who provided marshals along with members of Emersons Green running club.
Race director Dave Guyatt said: "Both charities will receive a donation from the race committee, to the tune of several thousand pounds each. We were blessed with some lovely spring sunshine, which was welcomed after such a wet period."
The winning time was just over 36 minutes, with most runners finishing in 50 to 70 minutes.
Dave added: "As ever, we were grateful to our long running sponsors Star Legal (Fishponds) for valuable financial support. Many residents and families of the runners lined the route and we were delighted that everyone returned safely without injury."
KINGSWOOD Health Centre is at the forefront of a campaign to raise awareness of the funding crisis facing GP practices.
The surgery has written to its 13,000 patients explaining that the money it receives from the government has not kept pace with large rises in costs – such as for staffing, electricity and supplies – and increased demand from patients.
The letter warns: “We are all struggling to stay afloat. If this continues, your local practice may disappear.”
Managing partner Robyn Clark told the Voice the health centre was not in imminent danger of closure but it was facing severe financial pressures.
Under the latest agreement, the government has increased funding for GP practices by just 2 per cent this year while bills have risen by much more.
This is at a time when demand is continuing to increase. The surgery says it is seeing 20 per cent more patients than before the pandemic – more than 7,000 a month.
To balance the books, Kingswood Health Centre has had to freeze recruitment, so patients are warned they might have to wait longer for appointments, medical reports and responses to requests.
In the letter, patients are told they can help by visiting the pharmacy first for some illnesses and by attending health checks when invited.
Kingswood Health Centre has 13,000 patients
“At Kingswood Health Centre we are feeling the pressure and are working as hard as we can to provide the right care for our patients.
“We are worried and distressed about the current situation too and wish we could do more,” the practice says.
Patients who share the GPs’ concerns are urged to write to their MP.
The Government says that across the country it is providing 50 million more GP appointments per yet and that funding for GP practices rose by 19 per cent between 2017 and 2022.
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A KINGSWOOD nurse has begun vital cancer treatment in Germany after her family’s fundraising appeal brought in nearly £90,000 in a week.
Mildred – Millie – Olika was diagnosed in March with stage 4 brain cancer that had spread from her lungs. Doctors said chemotherapy would do little to help.
Her three daughters, Stacey, Lydia and Emily, discovered that advanced cell therapy offered in Germany could potentially improve her prognosis by years so they launched an online appeal.
“Our mum has dedicated her life to caring for others as a nurse. Now she finds herself in need of care and treatment. It's our turn to rally around her in her time of need,” they said.
To their amazement, money poured in and they surpassed their original £70,000 target in four days, reaching £89,320 by the time they paused the appeal
on April 21. The additional funds will pay for an additional treatment to destroy cancer cells in Millie’s brain.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for your ongoing support and generosity. Your kind words, moral support,
prayers and donations have truly been a source of hope and comfort for us during this challenging time,” the family wrote on the GoFundMe page. They said they would never have anticipated the overwhelming outpouring of love
and support their familu would receive
“Our mum wanted us to convey her immense gratitude to each and every one of you. She is deeply touched by the outpouring of kindness and sends her blessings to all of you.”
I'M now two months into being your new MP for Kingswood. I have had a steady stream of emails coming into my inbox and am enjoying getting out and about, meeting community groups and doing visits around the constituency.
In Westminster there was a lot of speculation that we might have a General Election in May. In the end we didn’t hear anything from the Prime Minister, so now October or November looks like the most likely time. Some say June – either way, everyone is on stand-by.
Since my last column, I have delivered my maiden speech to Parliament.
From the day you arrive at Parliament people ask about your maiden speech and there’s a lot of pressure.
It’s the first time your new colleagues hear you speak in the
chamber, and I wanted to make a good impression and represent Kingswood well.
I came in early to practice, because I was worried my voice wouldn’t be loud enough, but in the end, it was all fine and the microphones pick-up everything anyway.
As is traditional in a maiden speech, I spoke positively about the previous MP, gave a little history about Kingswood, including some quirky facts – did you know that the old Douglas motorbike factory in Kingswood was, at one time, the largest motorbike factory in the world?
For the substance of the speech, I spoke about the issues raised on the doorstep that politicians need to address.
I argued that the social media bubble that’s become so dominant doesn’t represent mainstream Britain. People told
me they want politicians to sort out access to dentists, the NHS, crime, cost of living, bus cuts, school funding, apprenticeship places, the decline of the high street, immigration and defence spending.
I’ve been enjoying my community visits: I love meeting people, and welcome any invitations to damien.egan.mp@ parliament.uk.
Last week I went out with our local police to understand their challenges – it was a real eye opener and it's a tough job.
Today, we have fewer police but more bureaucracy, which means more time behind desks and less police on the street. Levels of violence are higher, particularly with children, and highly organised criminal gangs are taking full advantage of the situation, ruining lives long the way. It’s frightening how quickly
things have turned.
On the plus side, a lot of the answers for how to improve come from our rank-and-file officers.
I left the visit with renewed respect and admiration for our local officers, but whoever forms the next government needs to listen and support the police, so they can do their job.
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Message from Councillor Stephen Forsythe, Chair of the Council
It’s our birthday … we are turning one, having held the first ever council meeting on May 18, 2023.
What a year it has been! We started the year with a temporary clerk and a very small budget and now we are starting our second year with a full-time clerk and a transformative budget.
We made the difficult decision to raise the precept to a level that matched our ambitious plans for Kingswood: we are investigating options to acquire our own building, delivering a summer floral display in the High Street and Regent Street, providing funding for additional youth club sessions, and supporting Kingswood Library financially to maintain the current opening hours. In order to do this, we need people to work with us and so are currently recruiting into two posts.
We also have a very exciting community grant scheme that we are launching at the end of the month. To hear more about it attend our Annual Assembly on May 28 at 7pm.
I am very proud to be selected as Chair of Kingswood Town Council, an area that my wife and I are starting a family in, and I am passionate about improving Kingswood to make it the best place to grow up and grow old. In case you wonder who I am, I was born in South Bristol, I went to university in Bristol (UWE), where I met my now wife. I work as a biomedical scientist at Southmead Hospital.
If you want to find out more about the council, please attend a meeting in the Park Centre: we are a friendly bunch. Alternatively come to Kingswood Library on the first Saturday of the month, at 11am, where you will find a councillor willing to chat, at our Pop Up Surgery.
StephenWe welcomed Councillor Caroline Morrell to the council for Kings Chase South ward, having been co-opted at our April meeting. There are also councillor vacancies in Kings Chase North, Lower Soundwell and New Cheltenham Wards.
Being a councillor requires an allocation of time (and it is an unpaid role), but can be rewarding, as you get involved with the community and take on some interesting responsibilities. Why not give it a go?
Details of the criteria for becoming a councillor, as well as the application form can be found on our website, using the QR code. Closing date for applications: May 27, 2024 for the vacancies to be filled at the council meeting on June 11.
We are increasing our staffing team to deliver the exciting projects: A full time Community Engagement and Events officer, and a part time finance and administration officer. Further details can be found on our website. Closing dates for both roles: Friday May 10, 2024.
We are delighted to share that we have been awarded a “Greening the High Street” award from South Gloucestershire Council, to enable us to provide planters and baskets to bring a splash of colour to and help with the vitality of High Street and Regent Street. We hope that the plants will have arrived by the beginning of June, and we are investigating the opportunity to develop a winter scheme to brighten up the area in the darker months.
The town council is hosting an Annual Assembly on Tuesday May 28, 2024 at 7pm in The Park Centre and is launching its new Community Grant Scheme: a scheme that local groups can apply to from a total pot of £50,000, to support their work with services, activities, and events in the Kingswood community. Further details will also be on the website and in Kingswood Library. Closing date for applications: July 8, 2024.
Tuesday May 14 at 7pm, the Park Centre: Annual Town Council meeting
Tuesday May 28 at 7pm, the Park Centre: Annual Assembly.
Saturday June 1 at 11am, Kingswood Library, Councillor Surgery
Details of other meetings, including our active Planning Committee, can be found on the website. And follow us on Facebook!
WORK is due to start this month on the £3.4 million restoration of Kingswood Park.
The project to improve facilities at the 90-year-old park has been made possible thanks to a successful application for a £2.6 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Now the community group Friends of Kingswood Park and South Gloucestershire Council are ready to move forward with the scheme, which will
Councillors and members of Friends of Kingswood Park with the StreetCare team celebrating news of the park's lottery grant
include an improved play area, a performance space and new centrally located accessible toilets with a Changing Places facility for people with severe physical
disabilities. Accessibility will be improved through the installation of new ramps and a new ‘missing link’ footpath to create a full circuit of the park. Signs will be improved, and walls, gates and railings and other heritage features restored. Paths will be resurfaced and fruit trees and "wildlife-friendly" native trees and hedges planted.
A three-year programme of community events and activities will be funded to allow people to learn about the park’s heritage and improve their well-being.
The Friends of Kingswood Park held a special general meeting on April 16, where details of the proposals were outlined. The voluntary group is keen to recruit more community members to get involved with the restoration.
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A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “The project team has now been recruited ready to start bringing the Kingswood Park enhancement project to life, with work due to start in May.
“There will be lots of opportunities for members of the public to get involved in activities planned to engage the community, and to help influence designs for the play area and landscaping. This is an exciting opportunity to get involved in this significant moment in the history of Kingswood Park.”
Anyone interested in helping should contact communityspaces@southglos. gov.uk
For more information on the restoration project visit tinyurl. com/yc7dky5v
A cast and crew of more than 70 students presented the musical comedy Hairspray
John Cabot Academy. The show, performed over three nights to packed houses, with an additional matinee performance for pupils at local primary schools, boasted great numbers and electrifying dance routines. The music was played by an exceptional 10-piece live band featuring students from Years 9-11.
Charlotte Grierson, the school’s curriculum leader for performing arts, said: “It has been a pleasure working with the students and staff. Their commitment and dedication beyond their normal school day is fantastic. "
Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today! eat the food you love and still lose weight!
Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!
Monday
Thursday
The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 4AR
9.30am & 5.30pm
Tel: Hayley B - 07813 561505
Tuesday
North Common Village Hall, 16 Millers Dr, North Common BS30 8YH - 6.00pm & 7.30pm
The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 4AR
5.15pm & 7.00pm
Tel: Leanne 07727 192760
Friday
The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 4AR
9.15am & 11.00am
Tel: Deb 07597 425210
Tel: Emma 07773 689229
Wednesday
The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 4AR 6.00pm
Tel: Caroline 07988 692202
Saturday
The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 4AR
8.30am & 10.00am
Tel: Caroline 07988 692202
Lend a hand at your local Girlguiding unit and see the impact you can make in the community. No matter how much time you have to give, there’s an opportunity for you Find out more girlguidingbsg.org.uk
ELIGIBLE people are being invited to have a top-up Covid-19 vaccination this spring. The NHS is offering Covid-19 vaccines to people who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus – including those aged 75 and over (by 30 June 2024), residents of care homes for older adults, and those aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system.
Eligible people can make an appointment at a GP vaccination clinic when invited. People can also book an appointment at a GP clinic, a local pharmacy or at a community vaccination clinic in the following simple ways:
• Download the NHS App and make an appointment
• Visit www.nhs.uk/get-vaccine to use the online National Booking Service
• Call 119 for free if you can’t get online (translators are available)
The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) NHS area is also offering walk-in vaccinations in community clinics. For details
and more information about the spring campaign, visit www. grabajab.net.
Vaccinations for people living
in the community began on 22 April 2024 and local GPs have also started visiting adult care homes. Spring vaccinations will be available until 30 June 2024.
Bristol GP Dr Hyunkee Kim said: “Protection against Covid-19, either from catching the virus or from a previous vaccination, can fade over time and the virus can change, so if you are at higher risk of severe illness it is important that you top up your protection.
“For some, particularly older people and those with a weakened immune system, Covid-19 can still be very dangerous and even lifethreatening. If you or your child are entitled to a spring top up vaccination, I strongly encourage you to take up the offer. It’s quick and easy to recharge your immunity and will give you the
protection you need for the months ahead.
“Covid-19 vaccines provide protection against the virus and help reduce the risk of serious illness. The vaccine has saved countless lives, prevented thousands from needing to go to hospital and helped us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions. For local vaccination information, visit www.grabajab. net.”
Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.
Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.
A GROUP for former pupils of Kingswood Grammar School and its successors is facing closure after 32 years.
Kingswood Old Scholars Association, which brings together people who met at the school, holds regular reunion lunches and produces a magazine in which news and memories are shared.
But after failing to recruit people to take on key roles on its committee, including magazine editor and treasurer, it has decided to wind up. Unless anyone comes forward, the autumn lunch and autumn magazine will be the last.
Mike Bendrey, who has edited the 28page KOSA News, said in his editorial in the spring edition: “Over the past 32 years that we have produced KOSA News, we are proud to have brought together many, perhaps hundreds, of school friends to meet again and to roll back to those years when
we originally met at school. For me it’s been a labour of love.
“I would also like to thank all those committee members and others who have kept KOSA going for so long.”
The biannual magazine is distributed to members throughout the UK and in France, Spain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA and South Africa.
Anyone willing to take on the editorship is asked to contact kosanews@tiscali.co.uk
The autumn lunch and AGM will take place at Lincombe Barn, Downend, on Saturday October 12. Once the association is wound up, any funds in its account will be donated to King’s Oak Academy, the successor school.
Kingswood Grammar School opened in 1927, having been founded as Kingswood Secondary School six years earlier. It became Kingsfield School in 1968.
The original, wooden school building famously burned down in a suspected arson attack in 1976.
Kingsfield was rebuilt as a modern twostorey building in 1977 and in 2011 became King’s Oak Academy. A primary on the site opened in 2015, enabling the provision of education for children from the ages of four to 16 on the site at Brook Road, Warmley.
Alumni of the school include Sir Bernard Lovell, founder of the Jodrell Bank observatory; Professor Colin Pillinger, best known for the Beagle 2 Mars lander; and Richard Scudamore, former chief executive of the Premier League.
Professor Pillinger, who died in 2014, once wrote that the wooden school was nicknamed “the cow sheds” when he attended, and that seeing Sir Bernard’s name on the school honours board inspired him.
With two bank holidays and the school holidays, May is a good time to get out and about and explore the local area. We compiled a list of local attractions around Kingswood, which are either free or incur a small fee to visit. Take a look and enjoy exploring!
1. Grimsbury Farm: On Grimsbury Roar in Kingswood, this community farm is owned by South Gloucestershire Council. Access is free and there is free parking on site. Open between 9am to 5pm, the farm has a selection of animals including horses, sheep, pigs, rabbits as well as chickens and ducks. Facilities include a play area, an orchard and a cafe. Animal feed can also be purchased at £1 per serving, for feeding sheep and goats or chicken. To find out more visit https://www.grimsburyfarm. org/.
2. Kingswood Heritage Museum: The largest independent museum in South Gloucestershire, Kingswood Museum is on the site
of William Champion’s 18th Century brass works in Warmley. Open for the summer season, the museum is a champion of local history and holds a wide collection of local artefacts, photos and interactive resources. New exhibitions this year include a spotlight of Kingswood’s High Street shops, a fully operating train track, a history of local pubs and of local farms over the years.
To advertise, contact
Kingswood Park, left, is a gem at the heart of our community, while Avon Valley Railway, right, has been a favourite destination for 50 years.
Visiting Bitton Station is free.
Entrance is free for children under 12 and £4.50 for over 12 year olds. The museum also has a gift shop, a range of local history books, and a Tea room. More details can be found by visiting https://www. kingswoodmuseum.org.uk/
3. Kingsmeadow at MadeForever: This community hub on Fisher Road in Kingswood runs a range of clubs and activities for all ages.
From tots group and youth group, to support with technology and activities such bingo, knitting, crochet, walking, friendship and exercise. A new group called Sounds and Wellbeing in Nature started on Monday April 29. The Community Cafe on site also offers free hot meals and food parcels. For more details visit https:// kingsmeadowmade4ever.org.uk/
4. Kingswood Park: Kingswood Park celebrates 90 years in 2024. Access within the park as well as the park play area and other faciles are in the process of being updated. You can read more about the renovation plans in our article on Page 14.
5. Avon Valley Railway (Bitton Station): This is an opportunity to take a step back in time to experience an original Victorian Midland Railway station with modern facilities. Visitors can go for a walk alongside the track on the Bristol & Bath Railway Path (the 13 mile off-road route between
Bristol and Bath city centres) or take a ride in a heritage carriage behind one of the steam or diesel locomotives. You can take a picnic to the dedicated picnic area at Avon Riverside Station or enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea in the station buffet. More details available here https://www. avonvalleyrailway.org/
6. Magpie Bottom Nature
Reserve: This is a nature reserve tucked away in Hanham, just off Bryants Hill (A431), with ponds, stream, park and woodland. If you enjoy getting closer to nature, Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve is the right place. From the main entrance on Byrants Hill, the path takes you to a duck pond and a natural spring. Next, you will reach the narrow nature reserve, where
you can explore small areas of woodland and parkland. It can take around two hours to explore around the whole Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve and there is also the option to extend your walk further to Dundridge Park, Conham River Park or Troopers Hill.
7. Dundridge Park and Conham Vale: Located near Hanham and on the border of St George is Dundridge Park with picturesque views. Dundridge Park has large, flat, grass areas and scenic walkways, football pitches and an enclosed children’s play area. Woodlands border the park, which lead up to Conham Vale, a steep sloping woodland which was previously a quarry and is now abundant with wildlife and spring flowers. Conham Vale has gravel walkways that meander through the woods, leading to the old quarry and further down to the stream and pond.
8. Willsbridge Mill: Set in the heart of Willsbridge, Willsbridge Mill Nature Reserve is an oasis of tranquillity, where people can connect with nature. Visitors can explore scenic trails, walk along
the river and enjoy a warm drink at the cafe. Willsbridge Mill also runs community events, educational programmes, and conservation projects which aim to engage members of the local community.
For more details visit https:// willsbridgemill.com/
9. Warmley Forest Park: An area of woodland, hedgerows and paths, Warmley Forest Park is near the Bristol to Bath Railway Path. The main entrance to the park is off Warmley High Street and there is free parking on Station Close. The park has large open grasslands, woodlands, Siston Brook and a large pond.
10. Wick Golden Valley: Located in the village of Wick, Wick Golden Valley is a local nature reserve with mature trees including English oak, beech, ash, whitebeam lime and wild service tree. These are remnants of the ancient Kingswood royal hunting forest. In spring, you can see bluebell cover and waymarked paths. The red path leads to an ochre quarry and a large weir. Parking is in the Village Hall car park, located next to the Rose & Crown pub.
THE season for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club has got off to a slow start, with four of the first five games cancelled due to poor weather.
The weather meant players have been unable to start using outdoor nets, but the club will run two adult sessions per week, one with former Gloucestershire professional Damian Forder.
The club is also running the national All Stars programme for children aged 5-8: search for the club on the All Stars website if you have a child who is interested in having a go at cricket.
We also have spaces in our Under-9 age group.
The club is also looking to develop their links with local businesses through match-day sponsorship.
For more information about the club email iancoles7@sky.com.
BITTON Road Runners have moved to new facilities at Longwell Green Community Centre in Shellards Rd.
The club had been based at Old Abbotonians in Oldland Common for the last 20 years, but changes with league fixtures meant the facilities were not always available.
Vice chairman Nigel Cox said: “We are excited by the ; the facilities that Longwell Green Community Centre have suit our every need.”
The club was formed in 1986 when runners met at Bitton Railway Station - they initially called themselves Bitton Puffers. There are currently about 150 members who run competitively or for fun.
New chairman Steve Herring described Bitton Road Runners as “a small club that punches above its weight”.
The club organises seven
races throughout the year, from The Hanham Horror at Easter to a 5k series at Bitton on the cycle track during the summer, not to mention the Iconic ‘Sodbury Slog’ in November, which has been voted one of the best races in the UK. The first 5k at Bitton on May 8 will be raced under a new format. It will be chip timed and runners will be able to compare their performance
against a Power of 10 national ranking. Monies from the races help sustain the club and donations are made to charities during the year.
The runners run on a Tuesday and Thursday at 6.45 from the Centre in Shellards Road. New members are welcome.
Enquiries for membership can be made to the club secretary
company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements
As the saying goes, ‘if I’d been given a pound for every question I’ve been asked about…’ good or bad posture over my years in clinic I’d be well on my way to an early retirement by now! For many years there has been a commonly held belief that some postures are good like the classic stand straight/sit tall and some are bad, such as don’t slouch its bad for you.
The problem with these wellintentioned theories, are exactly that, they don’t (pardon the pun) stand up well to scientific scrutiny. The good news is that the overwhelming conclusion of the past 2 decades of research has found no relationship between slouching and back pain.
I need to offer my apologies to my past patients as I have also followed the posture dogma, I was part of that generation – it’s what
we were taught at university 25 years ago and believed to be best practice at the time. However, one of the good things about being in clinical practice is it’s a continual learning process and this can and should change if we reflect on new good quality evidence. It’s also a benefit of working in healthcare education, I’ve been a clinical tutor at University of South Wales training new chiropractors for 10 years now, which is a great way to keep current and up to date with research such as this.
The best advise now is to take regular breaks, change your posture regularly to increase your body comfort, productivity, and positive sense of well-being. Interestingly there is one area where slouching may have a negative effect, slouching has been linked with poorer information and memory recall,
as well as worse mood compared to sitting upright. So maybe changing posture does have more benefits than we think, although maybe just not for back pain. In conclusion there’s not one ideal good posture, as we all are different – a comfortable posture is the most important thing and move regularly to prevent fatigue and subsequent discomfort.
In the meantime, take care of yourselves, stay fit and well and keep on the move. If you need any further advice or treatment, then the team at Action Potential will be happy to help. You can call us on 0117 961 2060, find us on Facebook or email enquiries@ actionpotential.org.uk to book. We provide chiropractic, foot health treatment, sports massage therapy and Pilates at our new Downend Road offices and Hengrove Park Leisure Centre.
Jacob Hayes
1RS 0117 9612060 www.actionpotential.org.uk
KINGSWOOD Rugby Club’s first team have secured promotion with a 29-19 win against title rivals Dings Crusaders.
Promotion as champions – watched by a record 600 supporters - marks a huge turnaround for the side after they finished bottom of the league just two years earlier.
It also comes as the club prepares to celebrate its platinum jubilee and a solid foundation for success at all levels.
The commitment of players and volunteers was rewarded on April 21 when the “blues and poos” were one of four teams from across the country selected to take part in a tournament on the hallowed turf of Twickenham. This was part of the Rugby Football Union’s 'Play Together Stay Together' initiative for teams prioritising the transition and retention of players into adult rugby.
Celebrations after Kingswood Rugby Club's first XV beat Dings Crusaders to win the Counties League Division 4
Kingswood Rugby Club chairman Ian Starr told the Voice that supporting and keeping young players was important to the club.
“We have some players who have been with us for ten to 15 years,” he said. “Eight or nine of our first team squad came through our junior teams. Other
players have joined in the last few years. There is a strong community atmosphere.”
‘The Big K’ runs teams for boys and girls of all ages as well as a first XV, second XV and veterans team. It also has walking rugby, sessions for neurodivergent players and runs a mental health group.
The club, based at Grimsbury Road playing fields, has about 550 members. Some have been with the club for more than 30 years. Volunteers of all ages support the club’s activities.
Work is under way to improve the changing rooms thanks to fundraising efforts that brought in £100,000, which was matched by funding from the RFU.
The start of the 202425 season is the club’s 70th anniversary, which will be marked by a 70-mile sponsored walk on the Monarch’s Way.
NOWADAYS we all have so much life admin to sort out – it is easy for things to get out of date.
A FREE review meeting with our local, friendly team at Simpson Solicitors is like a Free Legal Stock Take meeting. Being a fully regulated law firm there is no pushy follow up as there is no obligation to instruct them. Just the peace of mind that you have received proper legal advice.
The Free Legal Stock Take meeting focuses on making sure your legal affairs are in order and if needed they can help you with a new Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney. It is all about making life as easy as possible for those that you care about - if you were to become seriously ill or die unexpectedly.
√ Checking any existing documents are legally valid: Checking your Will or Powers of Attorney are signed in accordance with the complex rules that apply, with advice to make sure they still reflect your current family arrangements.
√ Property ownership: Advice to make sure it’s owned in the best way to prevent problems. There is a £3 charge from HM Land Registry.
√ Reviewing what you own: Making sure those you trust can find and are legally able to access your bank accounts, investments, and life insurance if you were seriously ill or had died.
make sure it is your wishes that are followed.
meetings. Plain English advice. Clear fixed
their inheritance.
√ Inheritance Tax and Care Home Fees: Applying the current rules to your situation with advice so your family don’t receive an avoidable bill for tax or care home fees.
√ Free secure storage service: Offered for your legal documents and the information you might want your family to be able to access.
To arrange your Free Review meeting you can pop in to their Kingswood Office or email message@simpsonslawuk.com or call 0117 960 8594
Remember, they offer a FREE home meeting service if you find it difficult getting to their offices.
your own: You choose who you want to inherit from you Living together: Decide if and how your partner is protected Parent Wills: Provide for children & name Guardians to raise them
Life Wills: Protect inheritance from Tax and Care
Fees Lasting Powers of Attorney: Appoint those you trust to make decisions, in case of serious illness or injury
touch:
ground floor offices (opposite
“You have lifted a great weight off our shoulders”
May 11
n COFFEE MORNING: 10.30am at Hanham United Reformed Church in Tabernacle Road BS15 8DU - Proceeds to Christian AidEveryone welcome.
May 15
n TABERNACLE LADIES CIRCLE: 2.00pm at Hanham United Reformed Church - Handicraft demonstration with pressed flowers with Wendy Stone. Come and join with us - subs £2 including tea/coffee and biscuits.
Wednesday
n 10am – 12pm. Adults Arts & Crafts £4. Join our friendly group, have a natter and get creative! Please bring your own materials, but help is at hand should you need it. Price includes tea/coffee and biscuits. The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR.
n 2024 is here! What next? Are you 40+? Then start the year with Simply Social and see what you could be doing. Call or text 07971427766 or www.simplysocial. org.uk
n 1.45pm – 2.30pm. Low Impact
Zumba Gold £4. Low Impact
Zumba Gold is specifically designed to take the exciting Latin and International dance rhythms created in the original Zumba programme and bring them to the active older adult, the ‘beginner’ participant and others who may need modifications. Ideal for those looking for a lower intensity class. Zumba Gold is designed to motivate everyone, regardless of age, to get active and enjoy a fitness programme. The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR.
n 4.30-6.00pm Slimming World. Lose weight and feel great! Come along to our friendly group for advice, encouragement and support on your weight loss journey. The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR.
n 7pm-10pm Bristol Scrabble Club at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo.co.uk
n HANHAM AND KINGSWOOD
We give a warm welcome to photographers of all abilities to share in our enthusiasm for photography. Meetings are held Wednesday evenings at Hanham Methodist Church, 26 Chapel Rd, Hanham, BS15 8SD, 7.15pm for a 7.30 start. Visit our website https:// www.handkphoto.club for details of meetings or email Geoff Mallin, geoffmemsechps@gmail.com for enquiries about membership.
n 7.45pm-10.15pm (fortnightly) The Frenchay Folk Dance Club. All standards of dancer are welcome to enjoy live Bands and experienced Callers. Visit frenchayfdc.co.uk or call 0117 3021543 for more information.
n 8 – 9pm. LighterLife Xpress Slimming Club - Free. Looking to lose weight, but tired of the same old diets and slimming clubs? It’s time to try something new. FREE weekly meetings. NO joining fee. A new approach to a healthy mind and body. The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR.
Thursday n start and finish at
IF you peer over your garden fence this May, you might think your neighbour’s lawn is looking a little scruffy.
A few more dandelions than normal, or (horror!) patches of grass growing at different lengths. But don’t tut – that may be on purpose. And it’s a good thing!
Yes, it’s that time of year again – No Mow May, where people keep their lawnmowers and strimmers in the shed for 31 days, and give space back to nature.
It’s a simple idea. Giving the mower a breather means spring plants getting a chance to set seed before the first cutting.
This means your lawn becomes a haven for insects, birds, hedgehogs, and more.
And it allows wild plants to get a foothold in May, to feed bees, and other pollinators, through summer.
I’ve backed this campaign since it started in 2018 and every year, I’m always fascinated speaking with residents about the different plants they spot in their backyards.
I’m not just talking daisies or buttercups either, but plants we’d not often see in our gardens – one resident told me she’d even started growing wild strawberries!
Worryingly, future generations won’t see
these either if we continue down our current path. Tragically we’ve lost 97% of our wildflower meadows since the 30s.
That’s why I’m again urging readers to take part by doing, well, nothing! Leave the mower alone, and watch the flowers fill your lawn.
Check out plantlife.org.uk/campaigns/nomowmay for more information.
If you can’t imagine allowing your entire patch to run wild, then how about leaving a circle of grass in the centre of the lawn to bloom? Or why not stagger it – so that you have one area that’s mown once a month, one area mown at the end of summer, and so on.
For those without a garden, fear not! I’m urging everyone to check in with their local church, school or anywhere with grass or fields, and ask if some space can be left for nature this year.
Ultimately, the momentum behind No Mow May shouldn’t stop with May, and thanks to the West of England Combined Authority I lead, it won’t.
An incredible 620,000 square metres of land is being transformed for the region’s pollinators thanks to bee-rilliant bee projects we’re funding.
This is double the target I set when launch-
To advertise, contact Shaun on 07540 383 870 or email
Kingsmeadow@Madeforever Community Centre, Fisher Road, BS15 4RQ, 1pm to 2pm. Free and open to anyone who feels they will benefit from joining a group who walk at a gentle pace around Siston Commons. Contact James on 07588 622372
n 3.30-5.00pm , 5.30-7pm, 5.30-7pm, 7.30-9pm Slimming World. The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR.
nHanham Art Club -We are friendly group that meets on a Thursday evening at Hanham Community Centre 7pm-9pm. New members welcome from beginners to the more experienced. For more information contact Hilary on 07880548481 or email tweenuk2003@yahoo.com
Friday
n 10-11am. Exercise & Social for Seniors £5. Come and join us for a dose of weekly exercise. We aim to improve your strength, balance, posture and flexibility in a fun and friendly environment! The Park Centre, High St, Kingswood, BS15 4AR. To register interest contact Adam Dyer on 07875 503586.
ing a £1 million Pollinator Fund for projects that support bees, and other pollinator superheroes.
Projects like the creation of mini nature reserves in ten primary and secondary schools across the West, including in Coalpit Heath, Temple Cloud, and Bristol.
Alongside my annual Bee Bold Awards, we’re making the West the bee and pollinator capital of the country.
But I know we can go further.
So, this year, please give No Mow May a go. Who knows, you might like it so much you give the lawnmower a permanent shunning. The bees will certainly thank you for that.
PHOTO CLUB:Which is the best anti-glare option – polarised or transition?
Choosing the right type of sunglasses for the summer months can be a real headache for those sensitive to bright light. Think scrambling around for your shades when driving only to have to dig out your regular glasses minutes later when the sun’s gone in.
But all is not lost. Fortunately, at Turners Opticians, we offer some great options for keeping the sun’s glare at bay.
Peter Turner of Turners Opticians
0117 962 2474
0117 965 4434 www.turnersopticians.co.uk
Transition lenses have come a long way since they first emerged on the market with a reputation for taking hours to respond to change in light.
The latest state-of-the-art lenses use super-smart photochromic technology to instantly adapt to changing light, providing optimal eye protection from glare and harmful rays while reducing eye fatigue for maximum comfort.
They’re also a must for prescription glasses wearers - one pair is all you need for any occasion.
Similarly, transition lenses are great for those who don’t necessarily suffer from glare problems but are mildly irritated by bright light. They do all the hard work for you, adjusting to just the right level of light input.
We can even add our contrast enhancing lens – ideal if you want that extra bit of performance from your sun darkening lenses and struggle with glare when driving at night, too.
Polarised lenses were created almost a century ago by Edwin Land, the inventor of instant photography and the founder of the Polaroid Corporation.
They work by blocking certain types of light from reaching the eye. Normally, light blasts at our eyes in vibrating waves that move in every direction. Polarised lenses block out light reflected from horizontal surfaces – for example the glare from the surface of a lake on a sunny day – and only allow vertically polarised light to pass through.
They’re great for drivers, people with cataracts or age-related macular degeneration and for those who have recently had procedures that could cause light sensitivity - such as cataract surgery or laser correction.
So, what’s the verdict?
Both transition and polarised lenses have drawbacks and benefits when compared to the other option. Some people just don’t get on with transition lenses while for others, polarised lenses don’t give them the ease and flexibility they’re looking for.
For those reasons, it’s always worth calling in to see us for your eye care and lens consultation before committing yourself to ensure you get the optimum lens for your individual needs.
Our expert team is ready and waiting to give you the time needed to look after your eye health and vision. Call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Peter Turner is an Independent Prescribing Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol and he also works as a Senior Medical Optometrist at Bristol Eye Hospital. He has a specialist interest in visual development and visual performance.
Warmley Swimming Baths were once a popular facility for local residents, especially children, as illustrated in the photograph from the 1960s.Many children who attended Kingswood Grammar School in the early years had the pleasure of learning to swim in these baths.
In the later years of its use the water was green and extremely cold, having being fed by the old drainage Levers of the Cock Road group of mines. The Warmley baths were finally closed in the early 1960s following the opening of Soundwell Swimming Baths.
The line drawing by Samuel Loxton illustrates the baths by as they existed in the 1920s.
A model of the Warmley baths has recently been repaired by Warmley “Men in Sheds”, a charity based in Kingswood Heritage Museum. The model will be on display in the Museum until December, courtesy of a loan from Warmley Community Centre.
Kingswood Heritage Museum would like to hear from any of our readers who remember Warmley Swimming Baths. If you have any memories that you would like to share please contact us on 0117 960 5664 or by email at: kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com
Kingswood Heritage Museum will be open from 11am to 5pm every day over the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May: Saturday May 25th, Sunday May 26th and Monday May 27th. William Champion’s Garden and Grotto will also be open on Sunday May 26th and Monday May 27th.
The annual Douglas Cavalcade is a regular feature of the Spring Bank Holiday. This year’s Cavalcade takes place on Sunday 26th May, when dozens of vintage motorcycles will move off at 12 noon to ride the old factory test route. The photo shows the start of a previous Cavalcade.
who was an English Methodist and Moravian evangelist and hymn writer.
The second monthly talk this season takes place at Kingswood Heritage Museum on Wednesday 8th May, when Gary Best will tell the story of John Cennick, the “forgotten Kingswood evangelist”,
Admission costs £4, and light refreshments are available; doors open at 7pm and the talk commences at 7.30 pm; seats can be reserved by calling 0117 960 5664
Volunteer opportunities
Kingswood Heritage Museum always
welcomes new volunteers. The Museum would particularly like to hear from from anyone with experience of, or an interest in marketing and publicity. If you are interested in helping the Museum in any capacity, please either: email us at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com or call us on 0117 960 5664
To advertise, contact Shaun on 07540 383 870 or email sales@kingswoodvoice
Museum talk: John Cennick, the 'Forgotten Kingswood Evangelist'
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We install Wren, Magnet, Howdens and Wickes Kitchens
To discuss your needs or to arrange a free, no-obligation quotation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
As one of the most used areas in the home, fitted kitchens need to be a flexible space while being able to stand up to daily wear and tear. A new fitted kitchen can be customised to suit any layout and lifestyle. Give your bathroom or wetroom the look it deserves with a beautiful range of traditional and modern styles. We take great pride in our work and we respect clients homes and belongings. All works are fully insured. www.blueflameservice.co.uk
As one of the most used areas in the home, fitted kitchens need to be a flexible space while being up to daily wear and tear. A new fitted kitchen can be customised to suit any layout and lifestyle.
Give your bathroom or wetroom the look it deserves with a beautiful range of traditional and modern styles. We take great pride in our work and we respect clients homes and belongings. All works are fully insured.
To discuss your needs or to arrange a free, no obligation quotation, please do not hesitate to contact us
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