BRISTOL WEEKLY MAGAZINE
3 - 10 February 2022
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This week.. 4. Why do we give red roses on valentines day 6. 5 fun half term ideas 10. Moonfall and Boiling Point 12 Giveaway of more than £6,000 18. Campaign to encourage mums 20. Seven kids fashion tips 22. New railway station 24. Focus on 26. Campaign to make streets safer for women and girls 28. Air ambulance is called to more children in 2021 30. Fizz free Feb 34. Buy-to-let sector has increased 38. 5 things your driving never taught you 40. New manager appointed. 44. Beauty Snacking @directlocal
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Why Do We Give Red Roses on Valentine’s Day?
Why do we give red roses on Valentine’s Day? For centuries, flowers have symbolised fertility, love, marriage, and romance. During the Victorian era, it became popular to use flowers to send secretive messages. Known as floriography, sending flowers became a commonly used way for lovers and admirers to express secret messages that Victorian etiquette deemed unacceptable to share openly. The meaning behind each flower was often pulled from various myths, fables, or legends. When the need is, the meaning was made up to suit the occasion.
Can you send other less “classic” flowers and still get the same level of love and romance across to your sweetheart?
Tulips If you think red roses are to cliché, a red tulip means “perfect love,” although it springs from a tragic love story. A Turkish legend (tulips originally came from Persia and Turkey) tells of a prince named Farhad who was madly in love with a woman named Shirin.
When Farhad learned that Shirin had been killed, he was so overcome with grief that he killed himself by riding his horse over the edge of a cliff. Supposedly a scarlet tulip sprang up from each droplet of his blood, giving the red tulip its meaning. Pink and yellow tulips represent the feelings of caring and being hopelessly in love. Tulips also last longer in a vase with water than most other flowers, so if you want a bouquet that will make it past Now giving a bouquet of flowers is considered February 15 then tulips are your best bet. a classic Valentine’s Day gift. Luth Research shows that 91% of men who give flowers to their significant other on Valentine’s Day do so simply to show their love. What’s more, more than 75% of men have given flowers for Valentine’s Day in the past two years. Red roses, for instance, typically represent love and romance and have been a powerful symbol of passion for many cultures through the ages. The rose was sacred to a number of goddesses including Isis of Egypt, and the ancient Greeks and Romans identified the rose with their goddesses of love, Aphrodite and Venus.
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Orchids A symbol of love, wisdom, beauty, seduction, and refinement, there are many types of orchids all over the world. But even with many types of orchards, they are still rather rare and hard to find. Giving an orchard is a way to show that you appreciate your love’s rare and delicate beauty. As well as their quiet and understated strength. Orchids need a little more love and care in order to survive though, so be sure you treat them well.
Dahlias The dahlia flower signifies sentiments of dignity and elegance. It is also the symbol of a commitment and bond that lasts forever. So if you are thinking of proposing this Valentine’s Day say it with a dahlia! Cultivated by the Aztecs, dahlias bloom in white and a variety of showy hues, including pink, crimson, orange, and yellow.
Bird Of Paradise The Bird of Paradise is a 9th wedding anniversary flower, symbolizing faithfulness, and celebrating distinctive and unique beauty. This flower is also meant to express freedom and joy. It’s an incredibly exceptional flower and a great alternative if your lover thinks red roses are boring! So this is why we give red roses on Valentine’s Day.
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Stumped for ideas on what to do with your kids this Half Term? If so, look no further, we have compiled a top 5 fun things to do that will keep your children entertained...and they won't break the bank either. Bristol Zoo Bristol Zoo is the perfect adventure for young children. You will come face to face with hundreds of bizarre, cute, and endangered animals from across the globe. So why not visit the zoo and wave at the family of gorillas, be mesmerised by the colourful, tropical Butterfly Forest or watch as the seals and penguins splash and dive. Entry Fees: Over 15s £17 2 to 14s £11 Under 2s Free More info: HERE
Laser Fusion Wondering how to use all of that energy your child has this Half Term? Then why not take them along to experience Laser Fusion? Laser tag is very much like living in a high action combat computer game, and don’t worry, there is zero contact, the high tech infra-red equipment does all the work! Entry Fees: One Game £5.95 Two Games £9.95 Additional Games £2 More info: HERE
Brandon Hill Park Let the kids run wild in the Brandon Hill Park! It will be a great day out for kids of many different ages, you can enjoy the scenic picnic areas, fantastic views of the city and even enjoy the stunning sunsets. Oh and remember to bring some nuts to feed the squirrels. Entry Fees: Free More info: HERE
Pirate Pete’s Walking Tour This is a fantastic activity for the whole family. You will enjoy a walk around the quays of Bristol, discovering the history of the city, including stories about the pirates and swashbucklers of the 17th/18th Centuries. Oh and dressing up is encouraged…that means you Dad.
Flying Saucers As a Painting Pottery Café, Flying Saucers is the perfect opportunity to let your kids get creative, and albeit a little bit messy, whilst you enjoy a lovely cup of coffee/tea. They have over 100 pottery items to choose from that can be painted and transformed into your child’s very own masterpiece.
Entry Fees: Adult £10 Child £5
Entry Fees: Studio Fee from £4 per painter (£5 for adults) plus cost of ceramic items (from £7).
More info: HERE 6
More info: HERE
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Whats on this week Buffalo Brothers
Beginner’s Mindful Macramé
Date: Friday 4th February Description: MBUFFALO BROTHERS: Top Weston/Bristol indie rockers with splashes of blues and bits of punk . Great live act!, fill your ears! Click Here
Date: Saturday 5th February Description: Join Karin and Rosie from Mindful Craft Bristol for a relaxing and nourishing 2 hour workshop to make a macramé heart wall hanger. The hanger is made from beautiful quality, recycled macramé cord (made and dyed in the UK).
Venue: The Thunderbolt, 124 Bath Road BS4 3ED VMA Martial Arts Beginners Classes Date: Friday 4th February Description: Classes every Friday at Shirehampton Academy. Purpose built martial arts dojo with the latest equipment and fully matted area. Karate, Kick boxing classes for all ages and abilities. Classes on every day. Come down and see how our martial arts classes teach discipline and confidence along with fitness. Venue: 46 High St, Shirehampton, Bristol BS11 0DJ Crinkle Cuts @ The Golden Lion Date: Friday 4th February Description: Old friends, new friends come down for our first gig of the year. Fresh with a capital PH, Crinkle Cuts deliver you a blasting of tantric funk, smooth reggae and new-wave latin ska woven together with good vibes for an eccentric, exotic and eargasmic live performance.
Venue: 56-58 North Street BS31HJ Bristol HOAXES The Elmer’s Arms Date: Saturday 5th Februaryy Description: HOAXES are a 4-piece Alternative/Indie Rock band from Bristol. The band met In various pubs and bonded over a shared love of beer and wonky, off kilter guitar pop. Influenced by bands such as: The Cure, Deerhunter, Oh Sees and Pavement. Venue: The Elmers Arms, 53 Old Market BS2 0ER Bristol Bristol Bears v Newcastle Falcons Date: Saturday 5th February Description: Bristol Bears v Newcastle Falcons in the Gallagher Premiership. Saturday, February 5th at Ashton Gate (2pm KO).Adults from £27, Under-12s from £10. Venue:Ashton Gate Stadium, Ashton Gate
Venue: The Golden Lion 244 Gloucester Road FLINTLOCK - Live at The Seven Stars BS7 8NZ Bristol Date: Saturday 5th February The Worried men Description: We’re back! Join us for another night of dancing and drinking to lively sea Date: Friday 4th February songs, Irish music and all other sorts of folk rock!Last time was incredible, let’s make this Description: In the winter months of 1994, one even better!Listen to our debut album guitarist Jamie Thyer took time out from Half Seas Over on Spotify now! playing on demonstrations for Marshall Click Here amplification and Rotosound strings. He began writing and rehearsing with a rhythm Venue: Seven Stars, BS1 6 Bristol section under the ironic name of The Worried Men. Venue: The Royal Oak Lower Bristol Road Ba2 3bw Bath 8
City Women v Crystal Palace
Quids In - ABBA Takeover / £1 Tickets
Date: Sunday 6th February Description: Bristol City Women v Crystal Palace FA Women’s Championship action on Sunday February 6th (3pm kick-off). Adult tickets just £7, Under-12s just £3. Secure your tickets in advance to take advantage of lower price
Date: Monday 7th February Description: In the Smoke & Mirrors Theatre we host the ABBA TAKEOVER – Full venue decor, ABBA tunes, inflatables, giveaways + ABBA freebies. Bristol’s BIGGEST weekly student night. £1 TICKETS
Venue: Robins High Performance Centre Clevedon Rd, Failand, Bristol BS8 3TN
Venue: PRYZM , Anchor Square, Anchor Road BS15 Bristol The Ministry of Ha-has
Date: Sunday 6th February Description: The Bristol Pirates are an amateur ice hockey team based out of the new Bristol Ice Hockey rink.
Date: Tuesday 8th February Description: Come join us on Tuesdays for a weekly night of stand up at The Steam Crane, as we feature some of the top acts in Bristol and South West comedy. Our line-ups are a mixture of seasoned professionals and new faces of local comedy, and always funny!
Venue: Planet Ice, Merlin Rd, Patchway, Bristol BS10 7SR
Venue: The Steam Crane, 4-6 North Street BS3 1HT Bristol
Bristol Pirates Vs Basingstoke Cougars
FREE bike check up and minor repairs Date: Sunday 6th February Description: Free ‘Dr Bike’ session, this Sunday at the Lawrence Weston Bike Hub, by the BMX track. Get your Adult bike safety checked with minor repairs possible. First come, first served. to be eligible you need to live in the target area (map on website link below) be 16+ and on a low income: Venue: Avonmouth Community Centre, 257 Avonmouth Rd, Bristol BS11 9EN Run Club Date: Sunday 6th February Description: Run club mixed ability. New runners welcome and those looking to up their running. The session involves simple running drills to long duration running. We look at building on core and lower back and glute. The sessions are you will find challenging however you will be able to progress at your own pace.
Hot Jazz Jam Date: Wednesday 9th February Description: A jam session celebrating acoustic pre-swing era jazz and ragtime. Now moved to one of my favourite pubs in Bristol: The Hare On The Hill! The night will now run on the second Wednesday of the month Bring your instruments/ears to the Hare on The Hill and play/listen to the music of the start of the 20th century. Venue: The Hare on the Hill 41 Thomas Street North BS2 8LX Bristol The Taphouse Sessions Date: Tuesday 10th February Description: TORRIN, Winner of ITV’s The Voice Kids 2021. 15 years old from Oxfordshire, Torrin is a naturally gifted singer-songwriter with a brilliant voice. This Is A Session That Is Not To Be Missed! www.instagram.com/torrinsings
Venue: Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, Elm Venue: Beard and Sabre Cider Company Park BS34 7PS Bristo , 22 Denmark Street BS1 5DQ 9
Saver s Monday ce
pri Reduced , all tickets day!
Welcome to Bristol Films & Performance Times: Week Commencing Friday 14th January
Friday 14th
Saturday 15th
Sunday 16th
Monday 17th
Cinema Opens: 4.25pm
Cinema Opens: 10.15am
Cinema Opens: 11.45am
Cinema Opens: 4.25pm
Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00
Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00
Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00
Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00
Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45
The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45
The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45
Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.35
Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 1.45, 7.35
Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 1.45, 7.35
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50
West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.) 1.00
West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.) 1.00
Clifford the Big Red Dog (PG) (2hrs.) All Tickets £4.00 12.00
Clifford the Big Red Dog (PG) (2hrs.) All Tickets £4.00 12.00
Disney’s Encanto (PG) (2hrs.10m) All Tickets £4.00 2.15
Disney’s Encanto (PG) (2hrs.10m) All Tickets £4.00 2.15
Tuesday 18th Cinema Opens: 4.25pm Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00 Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
Ron’s Gone Wrong (PG) (2hrs.), 10.30am
Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00 Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
Cinema Opens: 12.45pm Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00
Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30
Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45
High Frame Rate
The Electrical Life of Louis West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.) Wain 1.00 (12A) (2hrs.10m) 2.10 Event Cinema Royal Opera House Spider-Man: Tosca No Way Home (12A) (3hrs.25m) (12A) (2hrs.30m) Doors open at 6.30 for 7.00 3.15 start
3D performance
covid policies change Tuesday 21st from 10th december
Cinema Opens: 12.15pm
The policies and procedures surrounding Covid-Secure guidance changes from Friday 10th December. Click here to read our updated procedures, as we continue to manage the situation in a steady, safer manner.
Autism Friendly Show
ScottCinemas
Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30
No Free Tickets
You no longer need to check-in or leave your details.
Physical distancing guidelines will still apply in the cinema.
Enhanced cleaning and hygiene is here to stay.
All venues will have QR posters should you wish to check-in, and you can continue to leave your details when you book online if you would like to.
Although all rows of seats will now be in use, there will still be a 1seat gap between you and anyone else, so no need to share an arm rest with anyone just yet.
More cleaning time is being left between shows, and our enhanced cleaning regime will be in place permanently. Please continue to use the hand sanitiser provided.
Face coverings are mandatory for people of the age of 11, unless exempt. You can take your mask off to eat & drink when seated in the auditorium but must replace if you are not actively eating or drinking.
Cinema Information
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain contains infrequent strong language. Spider-Man: No Way Home contains moderate violence, threat. West Side Story contains moderate violence, discrimination, sexual threat, implied strong language.
A WTW-SCOTT CINEMAS GROUP VENUE
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50
Subtitled Show
This weeks BBFC advice for 12A rated lms
UKScottCinemas
Thursday 20th Cinema Opens: 4.25pm
Wednesday 19th
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50
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Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30
ScottCinemasUK
Cinema doors open daily 15 minutes before the first performance of the day and opening times can be found above. The Box Office for the days performances closes 15 minutes after the last film of the evening has commenced.
www.scottcinemas.co.uk
Our App is available for Android and iOS from App Stores now
WHATS ON AT THE CINEMA THIS WEEK
MOONFALL n Moonfall, a mysterious force knocks the Moon from its orbit around Earth and sends it hurtling on a collision course with life as we know it. With mere weeks before impact and the world on the brink of annihilation, NASA executive and former astronaut Jo Fowler (Academy Award® winner Halle Berry) is convinced she has the key to saving us all – but only one astronaut from her past, Brian Harper (Patrick Wilson, “Midway”) and a conspiracy theorist K.C. Houseman (John Bradley, “Game of Thrones”) believes her. These unlikely heroes will mount an impossible last-ditch mission into space, leaving behind everyone they love, only to find out that our Moon is not what we think it is.
BOILING POINT An emotionally scarred London chef struggles to wrangle his team on the busiest day of the year in this single-take thriller. Sign up to our newsletter https://scottcinemas.co.uk/newsletter
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Celebrate Chinese New Year with Woky Dollars giveaway
Woky Ko celebrates The Year of The Tiger with giveaway of more than £6,000 worth of ‘Woky Dollars’ in true Chinese New Year spirit The Year of the Tiger festivities roar into action on Tuesday 1st February - and award-winning Asian restaurant Woky Ko is celebrating in true Chinese New Year style, with a giveaway of a ‘Woky Dollar’ in 1,000 of its signature pink delivery bags during the first week of February. Traditional Chinese New Year celebrations are centred around the themes of generosity, community and sharing wealth with loved ones, and Woky Ko is embodying the true spirit of the celebrations - by offering ‘Woky Dollars’ worth either £50 (enough for a real feast!), £10 or £5 - for orders placed on the Woky Ko website between Tuesday 1st Monday 7th February. The 1,000 lucky customers who find a Woky Dollar with their takeaway can redeem it for click and collect orders from Woky’s Cargo at Wapping Wharf and Queens Road in the evening - and also in-store at Woky’s latest opening: the new Lunch Bar on Queens Road. Owner and chef, Larkin Cen, said:
“For us, it’s all about giving back to the community and thanking them for their continuous and giant support over the last few years. “One of my favourite memories around Chinese New Year was going to Hong Kong with my family when I was a child. The entire community comes together to celebrate and it’s such an amazing thing to see. Family and community really are at the heart of everything we do and we want to give back to Bristol and have them join in our New Year celebrations, even if it’s simply by taking the time to sit and enjoy our food together.” To get their hands on a Woky dollar, customers should place an online order duri ng the first week of February and cross their fingers. During this time, those ordering delivery and click and collect should keep their eyes out for a red Chinese New Year envelope arriving inside their iconic pink takeaway bag - inside which they will find either £50, £10 or £5 to redeem online for click and collect or in-store at Lunch Bar until Thursday 31st March. Follow Woky Ko on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with news, promotions and new dishes.
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READY TO LOSE WEIGHT, YOUR WAY? MAN v FAT is coming to South Gloucestershire with our exciting MAN v FAT Challenge programme. Working in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council, we’ve got funded places available for men in the county! MAN v FAT Challenge is a flexible, supporting male weight loss programme, where you can participate at a time and at a place that suits you! Weekly challenges are set based on the core areas of nutrition, exercise and building healthy habits. You’ll receive weight loss support, routine and accountability from your teammates and an experienced coach as well as weekly progress reports showing how you’re doing and regular newsletters to inspire you. We’re ready to welcome you on board now! Take a look at the website www.manvfat.com/south-gloucestershire for more details!
CHALLENGE
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Mocha heart cake
Ingredients
Method
50g cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting
Put the flour, cocoa powder and icing sugar in a food processor, add the butter, then pulse a few times until it resembles breadcrumbs.
350g plain flour 100g icing sugar 275g unsalted butter, chilled and diced 1 large British free range egg, plus 1 yolk, lightly beaten For the coffee cream: 125g icing sugar 2 tbsp instant espresso powder, dissolved in 1½ tbsp just-boiled water 2 tsp vanilla extract 600ml double cream To decorate: 140g pack prosecco truffles available at Co op or similar
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Add most of the egg mixture, then pulse into a dough — add more egg if needed. On a clean surface, cut in half and shape into discs, then wrap in cling film and chill for at least 1 hour. Roll each disc between 2 sheets of baking paper to about 5mm thick, then use a template (see tip) to cut out the heart shape, reserving the trimmings. Prick all over with a fork, then chill on a baking sheet for at least 1 hour. Repeat with the next disc, then gather all the trimmings together to make a third heart. Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas 6. Bake the hearts for 15 mins, until firm. Leave to cool for 10 mins before carefully transferring to wire racks until completely cold. For the coffee cream, whisk the ingredients together in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Transfer a third of the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a 1cm open-star nozzle. Pipe a single layer of coffee cream ‘roses’ onto a pastry heart. Place another heart on top. Refill the piping bag with half the remaining cream and repeat. Put the final heart on top and pipe with the rest of the cream. Arrange the truffles on top, and dust with the extra cocoa powder.
ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES
WHO NEEDS A EPC? All landlords and home owners, as all properties available to buy or rent require a valid EPC. Phone: 01934 249074 Mobile: 07753 436294 Web: www.jackrey.co.uk Email: jon@jackrey.co.uk
JackRey Services offer expert and impartial energy advice to customers in Bristol, Bath and Weston-super-Mare. Get in touch with us today!
in partnership with North Somerset Council
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Creamy rice stuffed red peppers
Ingredients
2 red peppers, halved and deseeded 2 tbsp pine nuts 1 tbsp olive oil 2 spring onions, thinly sliced 75g risotto rice 400ml vegetable stock (made with 1/2 stock cube) 30g frozen peas, defrosted 30g sweetcorn 4-6 leaves mint, chopped, or 1/2 tsp dried
Method
Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas 6 Place the pepper halves, cut side up, on a baking tray and cook for 25 mins Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for a few mins until just starting to turn golden, then remove and set aside Heat the olive oil and fry the spring onions for 1 minute before stirring in the rice Add a ladleful of stock and stir, simmering, until it’s nearly all absorbed Repeat the process until the stock is used up and the rice is al dente — about 20 mins — then season to taste Stir in the peas, sweetcorn and mint and cook for 1 minute more Spoon the rice into each pepper half and serve sprinkled with the pine nuts
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WINDOWS | DOORS | ROOFLIGHTS
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
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Aluminium, Timber, PVCu, Windows, Doors & Rooflights Plan your dream home
Visit Bristol’s Biggest Showroom at 24 Emery Road Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF
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Call us on 0800 035 6499 Visit www.blueskyfostering.com 17
New campaign encourages mums to take a small step to getting more active Launching this month (February 2022), the new Small Steps campaign has been developed by Bristol Girls Can, working alongside a group of mums and staff from South Bristol Children’s Centre.
Councillor Ellie King, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Public Health, Communities and Bristol One City, said:
“This campaign gives a voice to a diverse group of Bristol mums from less affluent Small Steps is reaching out to mums of young areas of the city who are overcoming barriers children in all areas of the city, inspiring, ento exercise in whatever way works for them. couraging and supporting them to take small The Small Steps campaign uses real stories steps towards being more active. and empowering photos to challenge our view of what women being active look like. By The message of the campaign is to start sharing these stories, Bristol Girls Can hopes small and do what works for you - whether it to inspire women from across the city to take is a walk around the block, 10 minutes of hula their own small steps and feel the benefits of hooping, or a kitchen disco while cooking the becoming more active.” tea – it all counts and it can be fun. The Small Steps campaign focusses on You don’t need a gym membership or mums in response to Sport England research expensive gear to give it a go. If you have which found that motherhood unfortunately young children at home, exercising with them has a mostly negative impact on women’s still counts and can help establish healthy activity levels. habits for life. Local data* shows women report lower levels Bristol Girls Can is part of the national This of physical activity than men, and women Girl Can campaign, developed and funded by living in the most deprived areas of the city Sport England and delivered locally by Bristol are even less likely to be active. City Council’s Public Health Team.
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Research carried out for the project by the University of Bristol found the COVID-19 pandemic has made keeping active even tougher for mums who were already facing barriers to exercise, such as time, cost and childcare. As a result, fitting in time for self-care and regular exercise is sometimes at the bottom of their priority list. Esther, who stays active by skipping in her back garden in Avonmouth, will be appearing on billboards around the city as part of the campaign. She has also made a short film for the project telling her story. Esther said: “I skip because it is a quick workout, I can do it in my back garden and don’t need to have someone babysit my son. I find exercise really beneficial, not just physically but also for my mental health. I try to get out a lot with my son to the park and take walks in the woods, so even if it doesn’t get me sweaty, I am happy to be out and about and not sitting on the couch.” Laura, a mum of two, turned her life around when she started jogging alongside her daughters on the school run in Bishopsworth. Laura said:
Hengrove Community Centre Fortfield Road BS14 9NX Tuesday 9.30am Sarah: 07879 443888 Tuesday:5.30pm Vicky: 07710 626746
“I was terrified of exercising – it was for other people. When I got diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, I realised things had hit critical. At nearly 23 stone, I took the first step. I began to walk quickly, then jog, building it up slowly. “Our school run is perfect – two miles up to four times a day. I’m not fit-bodied or Lycra-clad, but I am running. And I’ve discovered that the fear of what others would think of me was far more to do with me than them. For me now, it’s all about the feeling I get from exercise. My focus isn’t about being slim, it’s being healthy as well as having fun.” Photos celebrating all the mums involved in the campaign and their stories are featured on the Bristol Girls Can website alongside a new activity guide with advice for taking that first small step. The project is also funding Small Steps activities for mums to take part in together with their children, at Children’s Centres across South Bristol. These include Buggy Walk and Talk, Toddler Yoga and Boogie Disco sessions. To find out more and get involved visit www. BristolGirlsCan.co.uk or join the Facebook community at Bristol Girls Can.
Bridgefarm Primary School East Dundry Road BS14 0LL Wednesday 5.30pm and 7pm Sarah: 07879 443888
Christ Church Hall Petherton Road Hengrove BS14 9BP Saturday 9:30am Keesa: 07399 597267
No need to book, just pop along
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Seven kids fashion tips Kids fashion keeps evolving, and what is fashionable ten years ago might seems very alien today. Today’s kids are exposed to fashion trends early via devices such as smartphones, TV, and apps like YouTube. As a result, dressing up kids can be quite challenging and even more so with kids that are fashion enthusiasts. If you are a parent wondering how to dress your kids in the latest fashion trends, here are some tips that will make it look like a walk in the park. Seven fail-safe fashion tips for kids Mix affordable fashion with trendy fashion One way not to go broke when dressing your kids that are fashion enthusiasts is to combine affordable fashion with trendy fashion. These days there as much trendy style for kids as there are for adults, and keeping up with all the fashion trends can be quite expensive. A perfect solution is to look for a balance between affordable and luxury items. After buying a few luxury pieces, you should also buy a lot of affordable yet stylish items that you can combine well. You’d be surprised how a great outfit combination can transform your kid’s fashion style. Moreover, it doesn’t make any sense, wasting a fortune to buy an- all expensive wardrobe that your kid will soon outgrow. 20
Another way to take advantage of trendy fashion items is to make a replica for your kid, twinning with your kid can be so adorable, while also making a huge fashion statement. Shop reputable kid’s collections and stores One way for your kids to make fashion statements is by shopping from highly regarded stores such as Ana Giovanna dedicated to kiddies’ collections. A lot of these stores are dedicated to featuring kids wears that are fashionable, chic, and comfortable; hence spending some money on them is not a bad idea since you will get your money’s worth. Choose comfort over style This tip may look counter-intuitive after all; your goal is to make your kid look very fashionable. However, it is better to have your child looking comfortable than looking awkward and very ill at ease. Some high-end fashion can be quite uncomfortable, especially for young kids. Besides, you will discover that children are more at ease and being themselves when they are comfortable. To make sure you pick the right clothes for your kids, check to see how breathable the fabric is. Also, make sure the fit is free enough to allow your kid to be a kid i.e., play, run, jump, climb, sit, etc. It would help if you also avoided too tight or too big, itchy, and heavy outfits and always remember that dressing up for kids should be fun and not stressful.
Allow contributions from your kids
The conclusion
Kids that are fashion enthusiastic, always have a lot to say on how they want to dress. As little as they are, your kids are their persons with different preferences and tastes. As they grow older, your responsibility as a parent is to guide them and not to force your taste and preferences on them.
Kid’s fashion can be overwhelming sometimes, but with the right tips, you can ace the task. The tips above are easy and simple enough to follow, and they should guide in helping your kid explore their fashion sense.
You can teach the ability to choose as early as possible, once they can recognise colours and styles. For instance, you can hold two appropriate options and allow them to pick the one they’d rather wear. You could also apply the same process when shopping for your kids; this way, they get to explore their fashion taste and awareness. Plus, you will also be building their self-esteem and onfidence early on in their life.
However, don’t be surprised when your kid refuses your choices. Instead, ask for their opinion and keep them involved in the whole process; this will make dressing up a fun and rewarding process for both the kid and the parent.
Dress appropriately for the occasion You should have realistic expectations of the weather and occasion your kids are dressing up for, and then dress them up appropriately. While it might be okay to skip a winter coat as an adult, it is dangerous for a child. It will also be very absurd to wear very thick clothes for your kids during the summer. Always remember, it is okay for your kids to look fashionable, but not to the detriment of their health. You should also be aware of the type of occasion and dress your kids to fit the theme. Dress inappropriately, or out of theme, could make your kids stand out awkwardly, and worse, affect your child’s confidence and self-esteem. Make sure you cccessorise Accessorising your kid’s outfits could be the extra you need to make a fashion statement. You could play with accessories such as fashion bags, Cinderella shoes, chic hairband and clips, tiaras for girls and ties, hat, glasses and wristwatch for boys. However, when you accessorise, make sure you don’t too it too much as this could easily defeat the whole point Go colourful Most every kid likes bright colours, and they look great on them too. You can invest a little on buying bright coloured clothes for your little ones, and surprisingly you don’t need to break banks to do this. Combining well-suited colours for your kids is the easiest way to turn them into the fashionista!
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New railway station being built in Shirehampton Network Rail and Bristol City Council are working together to build the first new railway station in the city of Bristol in 95 years. The £4.2m project at the Portway Park & Ride site near Avonmouth forms part of the West of England Combined Authority’s wider plans to enhance the local rail network through the ambitious MetroWest programme. The updated station is being jointly funded by Bristol City Council, the West of England Combined Authority, and the UK Government’s Department for Transport. Portway Park & Ride will be the first new railway station to be delivered as part of the MetroWest programme, and the first new station to be launched in Bristol since Parson Street station was opened in 1927. Network Rail completed preparatory work in December, ready for the first stage of construction to get underway. This includes replacing the safety fencing along the railway line, installing a ramp down to the tracks, and excavating the area of the platform in preparation for laying the foundations. Much of the work will be carried out overnight to reduce disruption to rail passengers. However, the Severn Beach line will need to close temporarily from 19 to 27 February, to allow Network Rail’s team of engineers to make the changes to the signalling needed to accommodate the new station and build the concrete foundations in preparation for the new platform. 22
Improvements to drainage along the railway line will also be made. During this time, trains will not call at stations between Bristol Temple Meads and Filton Abbey Wood, or between Severn Beach and Stapleton Road. A rail replacement bus service will be in operation and the Portway Park & Ride facility will remain open throughout the work with Park & Ride buses operating as usual. When launched later this summer, the station will be served by the recently improved half-hourly services between Bristol Temple Meads and Severn Beach. It will complement the existing Park & Ride bus service and be a useful extra transport option for the local community, as well as providing Park & Ride users from further afield a rail option to destinations along the Severn Beach line or for onward travel on the wider rail network from Bristol Temple Meads. Bristol City Council is also planning improvements to its Park & Ride facility, including more parking spaces, following the opening of the new station. Councillor Don Alexander, Bristol City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “It’s really exciting to see work starting on the first new rail station within the city in almost a century, and this is a major milestone for the project.
“Portway Park & Ride station will improve connectivity to the rail network for the local community and more widely for users of our Park & Ride site, allowing many more people to choose to travel by rail to work, study and for leisure.
Dan Norris, West of England Metro Mayor, said: “I'm pleased building work is beginning on the Portway Park & Ride station. The West of England Combined Authority is investing over £1 million here which is good news for future passengers.
“It will help us to ease congestion on the roads in a sustainable way and reduce air pollution, as we work towards our ambitious goal to be carbon neutral and climate resilient by 2030.”
“Improving our public transport network is crucial so local people can get more easily to work, study and to enjoy our great region and is vital to meet our ambitious net zero targets.”
Mike Gallop, Network Rail Western Route and Strategic Operations Director, said: “We are delighted to be working with Bristol City Council, the West of England Combined Authority and GWR on opening this new station for Bristol.
Tom Pierpoint, Business Development Director for GWR, said: “We are delighted to see work starting at Portway Park & Ride station. Recent improvements to the Severn Beach line increased services to half-hourly, starting earlier in the morning and finishing later in the evening.
“The start of construction for the Portway Park & Ride station heralds the latest development in our efforts to transform rail travel for our passengers in and around Bristol and the wider West of England area and will help further connect communities served by the Severn Beach line with this new, additional station.”
“This new Portway Park & Ride station will help more people to switch to rail for their journeys into central Bristol, which is great for the environment and supports Bristol’s clean air campaign.”
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FOCUS ON: Tree Planting in Brislington
Tree Planting in Brislington: Local residents may be aware of all the tree planting taking place across the ward recently. As well as new trees in Arnos Court Park and Nightingale Valley, we also have new ones on Hillsborough Road and Hampstead Road. We are also hoping to get a lot more trees on Callington Road near the nature reserve before this year’s planting season comes to an end. Thank you to Bristol tree officers, children from local schools and volunteers who have helped with all the planting. Community funding available: It’s now time for local residents and community groups to think about applying for funding for community projects using Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money, which developers pay to local authorities to mitigate the negative impact of their developments. Previously successful bids include the wooden planters on Sandy Park Road and the new path to the wooden steps in Arnos Court Park, which is due to be completed this summer. 24
We would like to encourage as many local residents and groups as possible to apply for funding to support their projects this year. You can access all the information you need here. Local groups and organisations should put forward their ideas for potential projects between 1st February and 4th April 2022, but the earlier, the better. We’re asking everyone to write them up on the Stage 1 Outline Proposal Form (available on the webpage attached) and send it to us. (see our contact details below). The council is holding a series of online community information sessions to inform people who are considering putting in outline proposals at the following dates and times: Tuesday 1 February 7pm – 8pm Thursday 3 February 2pm – 3pm Thursday 10 February 7pm – 8pm
(More details are on the website.) Please register for one of these sessions here. We will be liaising with Greater Brislington Together to set up a meeting in May, when the successful applications will be decided. Sparke Evans footbridge repairs: A year ago, we asked the Mayor about the poor state of Sparke Evans Footbridge and when repairs would be taking place. He was unable to provide much detail at the time but last week we got the news that £15m of funding would be made available to ensure six bridges over the New Cut get the repairs and maintenance they require over the next five years starting with Gaol Ferry Bridge in April. All six bridges are busy strategic routes into the city centre, used by thousands of people each day. As well as Sparke Evans and Gaol Ferry, Vauxhall Bridge, Langton Street Bridge, Sparke Evans Park Bridge, Bedminster Bridge and Bath Bridge will also be repaired. Funding of the multi-million-pound project has been earmarked by the West of England Combined Authority from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, provided by the Department for Transport.
Dead elm felling in the park: Following a recent site visit by tree officers, a group of dead elm trees, located in the small copse adjacent to the footpath that crosses Arnos Court Park require felling as failure onto the footpath is possible. The group to be removed are all clearly dead and there are 7 in total. In this particular case there will not be a requirement to replant as there will be sufficient natural regeneration in this particular location and as there are a multitude of other species within this group there will not be a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the area. Three more dead elm trees will also be removed from land on Stockwood Road in the coming weeks. We have asked if these can be replaced. Hundreds of Brislington West residents have signed up to receive our monthly newsletter via email. You can register using this link here. By Jos Clark, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr.jos.clark@ bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 370429 & Andrew Varney, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr. andrew.varney@bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 183381 25
Campaign Wto make streets safer for women and girls
North Somerset and Somerset County Councils are joined forces in a pledge to make public places and streets safer for women and girls. As part of the Safer Streets project the neighbouring councils launched a new campaign this week, ‘It can stop if we change together’, in a bid to raise awareness, tackle sexual harassment and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and to make public places and streets safer. The campaign is aimed at changing perpetrator behaviour and to start a conversation in society that challenges misogynistic attitudes and discourages inappropriate behaviour towards women and girls. Adverts will appear on bus backs, radio and on all digital platforms with social media featuring some typical 'banter' or 'locker room' style chat and shows how this type of talk can make our streets less safe whilst emphasising the effect it has on women and girls. As per statistics revealed by ONS (Office for National Statistics) nationally, sexual assault was most common among younger women, with about one in 10 women aged 16 to 24 having been a victim in the past year. In the year ending March 2020, the ONS estimated that 4.9 million women had been victims of sexual assault in their lives. In Somerset, the number of victims reporting offences of this nature to Avon & Somerset Police has increased in the last 12 months. The age of victims follows the national trend of women aged 16-24 most likely of being a victim, however the proportion of younger victims (under 16) has also increased. 26
Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for public health Cllr Clare Paul said: “The campaign will undoubtedly spark a conversation across the region on acceptable and unacceptable behaviour that could put the safety of our women and girls at risk and make our streets unsafe. We want perpetrators to think about their words and actions and the effect this has on others around them. "Inappropriate words or actions against women and girls are not acceptable in any way. We are committed through this campaign to help reduce Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and increase women and girls’ safety in public places.” “The Safer Streets project across North Somerset and Somerset is hugely important,” said Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and community services. “It presents an opportunity to work together and achieve positive outcomes in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls crimes across the area. “This campaign is a crucial element of that project focussing not on the victims and telling them what they should do or reminding them of the ordeal they have faced, but on the perpetrators and society as a whole to get the conversation started around what’s acceptable behaviours and what’s not. “With Somerset we are fully committed to changing behaviour and increasing the feelings of safety for women and girls.” This campaign is a result of a successful joint bid made by the two councils to the Home Office Safer Streets Fund for £324,449 to tackle sexual harassment and violence against women and girls. The innovative and collaborative bid presents an opportunity for the two councils to work together and achieve positive outcomes in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) crimes across the area. If you want to know more about sexual harassment and violence against women and girls and how to change behaviour visit https://www.saferstreetsawareness.co.uk.
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Bristol’s local air ambulance is called to more children and teenagers in 2021 than ever before Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) has announced that 2021 was its second-busiest year on record. The Critical Care Team received a total of 1,964 call-outs to incidents across the region which includes Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and parts of Wiltshire. The most significant increase in tasked incidents across GWAAC’s whole region was to children and teenagers in urgent need. In 2021, 14% of GWAAC’s total call-outs were to children and teenagers; dispatches to this age group doubled from preceding years. In Bristol 15% of missions were to a child or teenager in need. Alfie from Bristol, needed GWAAC when he was three years old. His Mum, Becky, said: “If it wasn’t for this fabulous team, Alfie would not be with us today.”
Fifty-three percent of call-outs to Bristol were trauma-related, and 47% percent of call-outs were medical-related. GWAAC attends more cardiac arrests than any other life-threatening emergency. In 2021, the crew responded to 161 people suffering a cardiac arrest in Bristol. Road traffic collisions were the second highest reason our crew was called to the county with 69 instances in 2021. Not all incidents are responded to by helicopter. In fact, GWAAC’s three well-equipped branded critical care cars responded to 87% of incidents in Bristol in 2021 — that’s more than three-quarters of the total call-outs to Bristol. The increasing demand for GWAAC’s service means the charity needs to raise over £4 million a year to remain operational, yet it receives no day-to-day funding from the Government or National Lottery, relying on the generosity and support from local communities.
The air ambulance and critical care service, which is charity funded, provides emergency medical care to the most seriously “Having experienced our second-busiest year on record and with higher than average ill or injured in the region. call-outs to children, I feel very proud of the crew. They have once again shown resilience GWAAC’s crew of Critical Care Doctors, and courage, and continue to put themselves Advanced Practitioners and Specialist on the frontline whilst making patients the Paramedics bring the expertise of a hospital heart of everything they do.” emergency department to the scene of an incident. These skills can make the difference Anna Perry, CEO, Great Western Air between life and death. From roadside blood transfusions to performing emergency surgery Ambulance Charity. to anaesthesia, the crew is specially trained to deliver pre-hospital emergency care to both To find out more about Great Western Air Ambulance Charity’s work, its mission children and adults. numbers in 2021, and how you can support the charity, visit www.gwaac.com. The GWAAC crew was called to 556 people in Bristol in 2021 which is a call to someone in urgent need more than once a day on average. 28
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LET THE FIZZ GO FOR YOUR POCKET AND YOUR Fizz Free February has launched in Somerset this month encouraging everyone to make the pledge to #gofizzfree for better health. Somerset County Council is backing the campaign, encouraging people to ditch sugary drinks for twenty-eight days. The aim is to raise awareness of the health implications of drinking fizzy drinks which often contain high amounts of sugar. Fizz Free February is a great way to reduce sugar intake by cutting out fizzy drinks. By going fizz free for all of February, it can help to reduce drinking sugary drinks for the rest of the year too. Latest data from Public Health England on the nation’s diet shows that sugar now makes up 13.5% of 4- to 10-year-olds and 14.1% of teenagers’ daily calorie intake respectively, while the official recommendation is to limit sugar to no more than 5%. To join in, just pledge to give up fizzy drinks for 28-days and look forward to the benefits it will bring
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You could save £438 a year if you stopped drinking one bottle of soft drink, per day for a year.
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Drinking just one 330ml can of fizzy drink a day could add up to over a stone weight gain per year.
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Tooth decay is the leading cause for hospitalisation among 5–9-year-olds in the UK, with 26,000 children being hospitalised each year due to tooth decay – in other words, 500 each week.
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For more reasons to quit fizzy drinks visit the Fizz Free February website.
Cllr Clare Paul, Somerset County Council cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “I am so pleased Somerset is supporting Fizz Free February. It is a fantastic way to cut down on sugar and make positive changes. “My son and I will be doing our best to take a moment to think about our drinks choices through Fizz Free February. Good luck to everyone else who going fizz free.”
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DUE DILIGENCE – QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD For the first part of our series on Due Diligence, we look at what questions you should ask your Letting Agent. However, you choose yours, albeit a household name, fancy logo or personal recommendation, remember that ignoring red flags because you want to see the good in people or want to short circuit the process will cost you later. Ask those all-important questions now! How safe is my money? Letting or property management agents, in England, who hold clients' money, must join a "client money protection scheme". This is important because it means that your money and your tenants' money is always protected! Agents must: Hold clients money in an account with a bank or building society authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Get a certificate confirming membership of the scheme and provide it to anyone who asks, free of charge. Display the certificate in any office where they deal with the public and on their website – there are large fines for non-compliance!
Ratio of properties/rooms available to people looking Top 5 local employers Different areas and the tenant types they attract Rentals in different parts of the city and how these have changed in recent times and what has affected them Any student/social housing areas and the effect this has on rents/crime/tenant turnaround Any Article 4 or Selective Licensing areas How do they select good quality tenants? One of the most important aspects of renting your property and somewhere that a good quality Agent can really add value, is tenant selection. Tenant selection is an art form and a good quality Letting Agent will have this process nailed! Once you have the science covered (in terms of right to rent, affordability, referencing etc.) then the art and experience comes into play and, a good Agent here, will be worth their weight in gold. Ask your Agent where they advertise to find good quality tenants, how they appraise them, who they speak with, to ascertain their character - this information is priceless and a good and experienced Letting Agent will happily share this information readily with you.
Show me the stats! Good, local, agents are experts in their field and should have area, tenant type, local employer, rental, and demographic specific information to hand, always and, the readiness of this information, will indicate whether they have their finger on the pulse or not. In addition to questions about their business (how many properties they manage, how many members of staff manage them, their void rate, their level of bad debt and how many full or partial deposits they have had to keep to offset damage caused by tenants or non-payment of rent), be sure to ask them for local information like: 32
BE ASKING YOUR LETTING AGENT Procedures and policies
What do their inspections cover? Periodic Inspections are important, yet so many landlords and letting agents are slap-dash and leave things to chance. Inspections should include checks on:
Be assured of sound procedures and policies, that all staff members are conversant with. Nothing highlighted this better than the recent Covid pandemic - the fallout of which is still affecting lots of Landlords and Tenants. What policies and procedures do your Letting Agents have and can they name them readily? The procedures are only as good as the people using them, so they should be at their fingertips – make sure you check before it’s too late! The complexities of compliance? The growing demands of the private rental sector means that Agents and Landlords are having to comply with more rules and regulations than ever before. This puts pressure on their time, resources, and finances. As a landlord, the "buck" stops with you; you cannot contract out your responsibility. According to the Residential Landlords Association (RLA), the number of laws governing the private rental sector has increased by 32% since 2010, now with 178 regulations affecting those operating in the rental market. Penalties for non-compliance are often large, with some attracting prosecution and even a custodial sentence. A good quality Letting Agent should work alongside their landlord, having an excellent grasp on compliance. Helping Landlords stay abreast of up-to-date compliance and ensuring that they safely work within the guidelines, is one of the most important tasks for the modern Letting Agent - make sure that yours understand what this means for you.
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The condition of the property.
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The safety of the tenants.
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Adherence to the contract.
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That everything works and is in good order?
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Any people/animals/infestations/issues at the property of which you were unaware.
Also, check the central heating system and the radiators to make sure that they work; check the seals around the bath and the shower (a stitch in time saves nine - water leaks are expensive); check each room and compare it against the inventory, taking fair wear and tear and usage into account; check the white goods to ensure that they all work and are all being looked after correctly; check up in the roof (are there any leaks, infestations, things you wouldn't want to see). We also encourage tenants to be present, wherever practicable, as this is always a great opportunity to touch base with them. A quality agent will welcome these questions and recognise that they form part of your due diligence process, as a responsible landlord. It will also set the scene perfectly for your future professional partnership! 33
Buy-to-let sector has increased New research conducted by a property lending expert, claims that over the last five years the buy-to-let sector has increased by around £239 billion. By analysing the level of privately rented stock across all UK regions the lending experts were able to obtain the worth of the buy-to-let sector. This was then compared to values during 2017 to uncover changes over the past five years. Current buy to let market value The findings show that based on current market values within the UK rental sector, the current value of the UK’s buy-to-let stock is £1.7 trillion. The capital of England makes up 19% of the UK buy-to-let properties as this has the highest total worth of the UK buy-to-let sector. It is estimated that around 1 million private rented homes are in London and these are worth more than £500 billion. The second most valuable buy-to-let market is in the South East of England as the buy-tolet market has a value of £247 billion. This is then followed by the East of England which has a value of £168 billion, the South West is valued at £156 billion, and the North West is valued around £110 billion. The experts estimate that the UK’s buy-to-let market has increased by 16.8%. This means it has climbed by £239 billion since 2017.
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Buy to let market uplift The figures show that London had the largest uplift in buy-to-let market value as it jumped by £57 billion. The South West increased by £34 billion and the East of England jumped £27 billion. While the level of privately rented homes has remained low across the UK over the last five years, the total value of the buy-to-let sector has risen sharply because of house price growth. The government has tried its hardest to dampen investment into the private rental sector in recent years, with a string of legislative changes around tax relief, stamp duty and tenant fees reducing the profitability of buy-to-let investments. The pandemic has also proved problematic for some landlords who have suffered lengthy void periods due to factors such as the tenant eviction ban and a reduction in rental demand across our major cities, in particular. Despite all of this, the sector has stood tall and continues to provide the vital rental market backbone that so many are reliant on. At the same time, the nation’s landlords have benefited from a considerable level of capital appreciation on their buy-to-let investment and the value of the sector as a whole has increased substantially. So let’s just hope that whisperings of a higher rate of capital gains tax remain just that, as any further increase could spur a reduction in available stock, causing the total value of the market to decline in the process.
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5 things your driving instructor never taught you
It’s easy to think that as soon as you pass your test learning to drive ends, but in reality, drivers learn every day. There are some things your instructor just doesn’t teach you – whether it’s how to be a courteous driver or how to avoid inadvertently breaking the law. To help you out, here’s our five things every motorist might not know, but should, especially if you’re learning to drive or are a new driver.
1. How to deal with “queue-jumpers” as lanes merge Some motorists — such as users of this roundabout in Wales — have been left annoyed and confused by the sight of drivers passing them on the right-hand lane only to then zip-merge at the last minute. But according to the law, those so-called “queue-jumpers” are in the right, with zip-merging used more commonly than you might think to help ease congestion at traffic pinch points. In the event of two lanes merging, motorists are supposed to use both lanes up until the point of lane closure, at which point they are supposed to take it in turns to merge into one lane, just like a zipper. Drivers merging ahead of time are actually causing further tailbacks by choosing to merge as soon as possible. 2. Paying with your phone at a drive-thru It might not be the healthiest option but hitting the local drive-thru is a great way of grabbing a quick bite to eat behind the wheel — just make sure you don’t take away a hefty fine while doing so. If you pay with your smartphone at the till you’ll technically be in breach of the laws surrounding using your hand-held devices while driving, which means you could be served up an automatic £200 fine and six penalty points.
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If your engine is running, your phone should be nowhere near your hands. This is still the case if the engine stops automatically to save fuel (called ‘start-stop’ technology). 3. Splashing pedestrians If you’ve ever been splashed by a passing car speeding through puddles you’ll appreciate just how annoying it is to be left on the roadside soaked to the skin. Well now you can take comfort in the knowledge that offending motorists can actually be prosecuted for drenching people on the pavement. Splashing pedestrians is deemed to be driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons” under the Road Traffic Act 1998 and offenders will likely be hit by a £100 fixed penalty notice and three points if they’re caught by police. 4. Playing loud music Listening to your favourite ABBA hits at blaring volumes might sound like a good idea at the time, but not only is it poor form, it could also be dangerous if it stops any road users from hearing approaching cars or emergency vehicles. If a police officer deems you to be distracted by your music, you could also be charged with driving without due care and attention. Wearing headphones isn’t an advisable solution, either. Whilst it isn’t specifically illegal to wear headphones behind the wheel, they could stop you from hearing emergency vehicle sirens, level crossing warnings, other road users and pedestrians approaching your vehicle. 5. Hogging the middle lane It might seem like just an annoying driving habit, but drivers hogging the middle lane on the motorway are actually in breach of the Highway Code and, since new laws were introduced in 2013, face a fine and penalty points if caught. Middle lane hogging is classified as a careless driving offence as it makes overtaking on the motorway harder and can see cars dangerously funnelled into the outside lane (lane 3) to pass.
WHERE SPEED CAMERAS WILL BE THIS WEEK With reports of mobile speed cameras increasing, never get caught speeding again with a full list of sites to expect a mobile speed camera at anytime.
SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Click any of the areas on the map to go staight to the police speed camera website page.
NORTH SOMERSET
BRISTOL
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET
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MANAGER APPOINTED AT NEW CHARLTON HAYES NURSERY A manager has been appointed at a new day nursery due to open in Charlton Hayes in Spring. Cherelle Craig will take the helm of the new Mama Bear’s Day Nursery & Pre-School which will serve families in Charlton Hayes, Patchway and surrounding areas with affordable, flexible childcare. With 10 years’ experience in the childcare sector, both in private settings and Council-managed settings, Cherelle started out as an apprentice before gaining Levels 3-5 in childcare qualifications. Cherelle has most recently acted as a manager for another Mama Bear’s setting in East Bristol. The Charlton Hayes nursery will open its doors to the first families in April, having been purpose-built and fully resourced with new toys, equipment and outdoor play spaces. The nursery will offer Mama Bear’s Flexi-Care option which is aimed at shift workers and freelancers, enabling busy parents to use a flexible booking system to meet the needs of modern life. Cherelle says she is most looking forward to helping children settle in and training new staff. “I’m really looking forward to having the opportunity to work with a setting from the very beginning and supporting the owner Tony Driffield in launching this new and much-needed nursery. “It means I can have input on sourcing the right resources and helping to embed ourselves in the local community
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“The very best bit of working in childcare is watching the children develop and hit their milestones and I’ll be able to do this from the very beginning here, while helping the children settle in. I have a particular passion for SEND provision and I love seeing the positive impact practitioners can have on the children and their families’ lives.” Cherelle is now looking to build her team and appoint several positions including nursery practitioners and apprentices. New staff can expect all the benefits of working for a nursery group including career progression and professional development, excellent rates of pay, free uniform and free lunch. In this case, staff will also benefit from being in a brand-new environment. Cherelle said: “I’m really looking to appoint people with a range of backgrounds so we can come together and work collaboratively as a team to initiate new ideas. Settings work best when the whole team bounces off each other and, in the same way I enjoy watching children develop, I also take pride in nurturing staff as they grow and progress as well.” The 96-place setting will care for children aged three-months to five years from 7.30am to 6pm, all year round and is the 25th nursery in the Mama Bear’s Day Nursery group.
selling homes in your area HENLEAZE
Sales - 0117 2130777 | henleaze@goodmanlilley.co.uk
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PORTISHEAD
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Lettings: 01275 2990 lilley.co.uk @goodman 10 • lettin gs@
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Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles Here are this weeks puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea. Click the NEW download symbol below to download our puzzles to your phone or computer and complete at your own leisure. The answers will be published on our website every Thursday afternoon.
EASY
HARD
Head to www.directlocalbristol. co.uk/competitions to download this weks puzzle page Good luck!
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Beauty snacking: A moment to break up the homeworking lifestyle
The ‘beauty snacking’ phenomenon emerged during the first lockdowns and seems to become a key trend for the year to come. But what does this term mean and how does it fit into consumers’ daily lives? "Beauty snacking", this short beauty moment that combines relaxation and pleasure, to break the routine of homeworking, is one of the major trends of the moment.
The trend is not about applying a quick face mask in the middle of the open space, it is about using certain — more discreet — products at any time of the day to give one’s morale, as well as one’s skin, a boost. It’s described as “micro beauty moments” to “break up the homeworking lifestyle or create moments of pleasure.”
What kind of products is it about? There are a multitude of products that are A wellness break perfectly suited to this new practice, and This phenomenon was born from the boredom more are expected to arrive in 2022: lip balm of the first lockdowns during which consumers and scrub, rapid face masks, eye masks and learned to intersperse their tiring and endless patches, etc. days of online work, with cocooning moments in their bathroom: a moment in the bathtub, a Among the cosmetics best suited to this charcoal mask applied to the face, a scrub or trending routine are none other than a home hair treatment… moisturising mists and sprays that do not affect one’s makeup. Dry shampoos can be Between two contracts, reports, or used between two meetings, while a multitude videoconferences, these micro sessions of of tools for the face such as the famous jade self-care aimed to take an invigorating, or rose quartz stone rollers, and tools used energizing break, that helped to avoid the for gua sha massage can be used for a quick, monotony of this period of social distancing. relaxing swipe. Contrary to what one might have imagined, heading back to the office didn’t really alter these new habits adopted by women and men during lockdowns. 44
Beauty snacking will also take on a more literal definition with edible skincare in the shape of sweets and health bars that will continue to grow at fast pace in 2022.
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happy
A place to live We pride ourselves on having happy homes, where residents and their families can enjoy spending quality time with each other and develop new friendships along the way. Our homes in Bristol are located close to local shops and amenities, and benefit from strong connections with community groups. We offer a busy and varied activities programme that includes something for everyone and ensures residents get the most out of every day. We care for individuals with a variety of care needs including Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care.
Our homes in Bristol: Osborne Court Care Home, 0117 321 9289 Bishopsmead Lodge Care Home, 0117 321 9269 Call our friendly team today, or www.fshc.co.uk
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