downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk www.downendvoice.co.uk July, 2022, Issue 108
20 St James Place Mangotsfield BS16 9JB 0117 910 9002
FREE EVERY MONTH IN DOWNEND, MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE HILL, BROMLEY HEATH & FRENCHAY
A Platinum Jubilee party to remember £23,000 raised for climbing frame Friends of Christchurch Junior School have raised £23,000 in a year to buy a new climbing frame for the playground. PAGE 14
Speed humps plan for North St South Gloucestershire Council is considering putting in four speed humps to ensure drivers in North Street keep to 20mph. PAGE 2
Battery blamed for fire at tip PAGE Park's Platinum Jubilee event attracted thousands of people to Staple Hill and was one of the highlights of a weekend to remember, with celebrations at schools, churches and on streets outside people's homes. Page Park trustee Janet
Biggin and chair Lorna Carter-Stevens had the difficult job of judging the children's fancy dress competition. See Pages 3, 4, 5 and 32-36 for more jubilee pictures.
Fire chiefs believe a blaze at the Mangotsfield Sort It centre was probably caused by a discarded household batters. PAGE 13
downendvoice
2
downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk
Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579 Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377
Follow us on Twitter @downendvoice ADVERTISING sales@downendvoice.co.uk Tel 0117 907 8585 Tel 07799 461169 EDITORIAL news@downendvoice.co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Downend Voice, 6 Elkstone Walk, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6JT. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter. DEADLINE Our August edition deadline is July 13. L O C A L I N F O R M AT I O N South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards
Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ downendvoice 01454 868001 Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am to 2pm
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Downend Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Downend Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pickup points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@ downendvoice.co.uk.
COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Downend Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.
A member of the
July, 2022
n NEWS
Speed humps bid for North Street THE main road linking Staple Hill and Downend will get speed humps to enforce its 20mph limit if a new scheme goes ahead. South Gloucestershire Council is asking people for their views on plans to install four sets of speed "cushions" on North Street to cut traffic speed and accidents. A consultation has opened on the council's website and people are being urged to have their say on the plans, which also include painting large 20mph reminders in roundels on the road. Explaining the reasoning behind the scheme, the council said: "South Gloucestershire Council recently received concerns about the current average speed of vehicles on North Street and the number of accidents that have occurred. "In the last five years, five injury accidents have been reported. "Due to this and the close proximity of Christ Church Infant School, traffic calming measures have been requested to be put into place in order to reduce the overall speed of vehicles travelling along North Street. "Further investigation found it would be possible to implement traffic calming measures on North Street to decrease the speed of vehicles and ensure the safety of pedestrians trying to cross North Street." Two sets of speed cushions would be installed at either end of the 20mph limit, next to the bus stop by Downend Cricket Club's ground and by the junction with Pleasant Road and Hermitage Road. The other two would be just north of the junction with West Park Road, and between the Downend Park Road and Clarence Road junctions. They would be pairs of rubber humps, one on each side of the road, which can fit between the wheels of larger vehicles such as buses and ambulances. A new set of 20mph roundels would be painted near the junction with Christchurch Lane, close to the zebra crossing used by children attending Christ
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
The 20mph section of North Street will be changed to a '20mph Zone' with speed humps if the plans go ahead
Church Infant School and people visiting the Christchurch Medical Centre. But the plans do not include changing the zebra crossing to a light-controlled pelican crossing. A council spokesperson said: "There has been a suggestion to raise the crossing by the medical centre, but we believe the proposed measures will help to resolve the speeding issues over the whole stretch of road." North Street, which is part of the main A4017 route linking Downend and Kingswood, straddles the boundary of two council wards, Staple Hill & Mangotsfield and Frenchay & Downend. Frenchay & Downend Ward councillors Liz Brennan, Ben Burton and James Griffiths welcomed the consultation. They said: "Keeping our local schools safe for children and their families is a top priority for us locally and, having worked with the council to secure funding for this scheme to improve safety for pupils walking to and from school along North Street, we are delighted that residents are being given the chance to have their say on the proposals. "We would people to ensure their voices are heard." An online consultation page has been set up at bit. ly/3N9Jh8R. The council is not organising any exhibitions or drop-in sessions for residents who are not online but says it has sent letters to nearly 300 people living nearby. People can also call 01454 864673 to request a paper copy of the consultation.
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
3
n NEWS
Christ Church Infant School Year 2 children sang in the sensory garden.
Cleve RFC Juniors displayed their rugby skills
Thousands head to park to celebrate jubilee THOUSANDS of people enjoyed one of the region's biggest celebrations of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in Page Park. Crowds listened to music, visited stalls, ate, drank and spread out across the park to socialise and relax at the event staged by the Friends of Page Park on June 4. There were rides and games, competitions and performances throughout a day to remember, with were queues for everything from the fairground rides and food stalls to the Royal British Legion tombola. Friends vice-chair Steph Purser and her husband John organised the event and coordinated its team of more than 30 volunteers. Steph said: "The Friends of Page Park thank everyone for joining us, taking part and making the event so memorable. "We always get good support from Staple Hill but to see everyone sitting out there picnicking, families and friends
grouped all together, was better than our wildest dreams – even our silly games stall ran out of prizes! "The aim was to bring the community together – we needed to party in the park after the last couple of years we've had. "It was perfect, and such a relief after putting in so much effort." Planning for the event had started more than a year ago. It was funded partly by the Friends but also by South Gloucestershire Council's jubilee fund, with further donations via Staple Hill & Mangotsfield ward councillors Michael Bell and Ian Boulton, paying for first aid and toilet provision. The event was the last to be organised by Steph and John, who after 12 years are handing over to a committee under Melody Beard of the Bean Tree Cafe. And more volunteers are needed to make sure future events are also a success.
Chris Stanley & the Prison Club Band performed at the bandstand
Clare and Peter Page planted a tree in memory of their parents Henry and Beryl Page
Trina Clarke dressed the part for the Page Park celebrations
Steph said: "We need new ideas and fresh faces. Many of us are now over 65 so we need the younger generation to come in and start taking things on now." Anyone who would
like to help organise future events should email friendsofpageparkbs16@gmail. com. More Jubilee celebrations in pictures: Pages 32-37
Joshua Troup, aged four, tried out the stocks on the Downend Community History and Arts Project stall
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
4
July, 2022
n NEWS
Knitted Crown Jewels top off Downend display IT has been a focal point of Downend's decorations for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The Crown Jewels post box topper in Badminton Road outside Downend Post Office is the result of hundreds of hours of work by the Downend Yarn Busters, a group of Downend, Mangotsfield and Kingswood residents who came together over their love of knitting and crochet. Including painstaking reproductions of the Imperial State Crown, the Sovereign’s Orb and Sword of Offering, as well as representatives of the Foot Guards regiments. The Downend Yarn Busters – Suzzie Belcher, Tina Jefferies, Heather Hembrough, Caroline Smith, Karen Jukes and Tanya Phillips – originally met nearly four years ago at a 'knit'n'natter' group hosted by nearby shop Fabrics Plus. Since then the group has stayed together through thick
Suzzie Belcher, Tina Jefferies, Heather Hembrough and Caroline Smith of Downend Yarn Busters with Sarah and Robin Honeywill of Fabrics Plus next to the Downend post box topper and thin, meeting at the Duck & Willow pub when Fabrics Plus was affected by flooding, as well as over Zoom during the lockdown. After working with Downend WI to produce a "yarn bomb"
Helping you remain independent in your own home
• Care at Home and Support • Live in Care • Befriending Service • Meal Provision • Personal Care • Cleaning • Waking Nights
display at Christ Church Junior School last year, the Yarn Busters decided to do something special for the jubilee. Tanya suggested post boxes and secured permission to decorate two – the other one, which has a Windsor Castle design, with guards and corgis, is in Kingswood. They have been working on the project since March, with members knitting and crocheting the different elements before they were all put together in the week running up to the unveiling in late May, with Suzzie working until 3am the night before to ensure the finished display was ready to fix onto the postbox. The project has taken up 20 balls of wool, each containing around 300 yards – nearly threeand-a-half miles of yarn in total. Some parts were produced using patterns but none existed for the centrepiece crown,
so the Yarn Busters studied images and details of the crown online to make sure all of the biggest jewels were right, from the Cullinan II diamond, Black Prince’s Ruby and Stuart Sapphire to the pearls under the arches, known as Queen Elizabeth’s Earrings. Suzzie said there was some "poetic licence", as there were so many precious stones in the real crown, but they came up with "enough detail for our woolly version". She said: "This is our way of celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee; celebrating our neighbourhood, and celebrating our skills. We’ve had a lot of fun making and even more fun putting out the toppers. "I don’t think that we shall ever forget it! "People have been coming to see it even after the jubilee – we've even heard that quite a few American tourists have visited it. "It's been so lovely seeing everybody smile when they see it – that's what it's all been for." The toppers are also raising money for Children’s Hospice South West, via an online donation page which can be reached using a QR code on the postbox, enabling people with smartphones to make an instant donation. The page can also be reached at justgiving.com/fundraising/ Mrs-Susan-Belcher1. The Yarn Busters hope to keep the toppers up until the end of July. Despite some early attempts to remove them, both remained intact as the Voice went to press.
Short or long visits daily or weekly Trained and DBS checked staff Consistent carers consistent times
Contact us: 0117 440 6397 Email us: bristol@myhomecare.co.uk Visit us: Brotherswood Court, Almondsbury BS32 4QW Website: bristol.myhomecare.co.uk
A closer look at the crown, sword and soldiers
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
5
n NEWS
From blooms to bunting on the high street Downend & Bromley Heath In Bloom's Jackie Baker on the work which has gone into Downend's Platinum Jubilee decorations
WHAT a month In Bloom has just had – culminating in the delivery of our flowers and the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations. Our woodworking crew were up and down putting up flags, crowns and around 350 metres of bunting, which was made by members of the community. What a great job they all did – and thanks to everyone that took part. They put up 40 barrier decorations, which were made by John and Terry, as well as 24 small crowns and a huge crown on the roundabout, made by the woodworking crew. Our planting group planted
1,500 plants into containers, not only in the High Street but in Cleevewood, Quakers Road, the library and at the Welcome to Downend signs. It makes me feel tired thinking about the work we undertook, but I am sure you will agree that the High Street looked fabulous as a result – thank you to everyone for all their efforts in making such a beautiful display.
We have been enjoying walking around the High Street looking at the fruits of our labours. We have also planted up displays in Downend School. Most of these were donated as small plants by Ed at St Aldams Farm Nursery in Pucklechurch, and they have really made some beautiful displays at the front of the school. Why not have a peek in as you are passing?
We must also thank Paul Johnson at 2601 Creative Print, in Warmley, who kindly made and donated the stencil that we used for all of our Jubilee rail displays. There are always so many people for us to thank for supporting In Bloom, but obviously the biggest thanks always go to the volunteers in the group, who give their time willingly to make the area so beautiful.
Specialising in hand made cakes made to order for all occasions PLEASE CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION ALL CAKE COLLECTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
www.thebristolcakeaway.co.uk Opening hours: 10am - 5pm Tuesday to Friday Contact number: 07497 662 576 E-mail: info@thebristolcakeaway.co.uk
Confectionately yours, the bristol cakeaway
FIND US ON Based in Staple Hill
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
6
July, 2022
n NEWS
Ofsted upgrades The Tynings to Good
A "WARM and welcoming" Staple Hill school has been praised by the education watchdog. Ofsted said The Tynings Primary School in Eastleigh Close is good in all areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Ofsted visited the school at the end of April. Its previous visit was almost four years ago, in July 2018, when the regulator said the school needed to improve. In their new report, a team of three inspectors praised the school leaders' "high expectations for pupils’ academic and personal development" and promotion of "inclusion and respect for diversity". They said the school had "successfully prioritised" catching up on learning missed because of the pandemic.
Tynings head teacher Lois Haydon with members of the school council and Reception class The report said: "Parents are happy they chose this school. A typical comment that captures many is ‘the school has an incredibly warm and welcoming atmosphere’. "Good behaviour is a consistent feature of lessons.
NEED A NEW
BOILER
?
10 YEAR GUARANTEE CALL JULIAN ON
07831 718509 Over 30 years experience
"Pupils take a pride in their work. Pupils say that the vast majority of pupils follow the school’s expectations of kindness and respect." The report said the school's leadership team, under head teacher Lois Haydon, had revised the curriculum "to further strengthen pupils’ academic achievement". They said children across the school learned "particularly well" in art and physical education but also praised the teaching of maths and reading, saying: "Pupils learn to read well and develop a love of reading. There is a real buzz in reading lessons." The inspectors said teachers and pupils were "enthusiastic" about the new curriculum, although they said the planning of teaching essential knowledge and assessment needed to improve in some subjects. The report said parents
Traditional high street bakery, specialising in handmade Sourdough bread, Baguettes, Sandwiches and pastries as well as a hub to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and treats
JK Morgan plumbing & heating
Check us out on Accredited Installer
Email: j.kmorgan@hotmail.co.uk
JK MORGAN Plumbing, Heating & Gas Engineer
valued the "wide range of afterschool activities" and pupils were proud of the school's sporting successes. Inspectors also praised the school's involvement in the community, including ‘adopting’ a local park, and displaying pupils’ work in the library and nearby shops. They said: "Pupils are learning to be good citizens. "They understand the school’s values and how these relate to British values. "Through the curriculum, teachers extend pupils’ understanding of different cultures. For example, pupils carried out their own 'St Paul’s Carnival'." Describing the Tynings as "an inclusive school", the report highlighted work ensuring the well-being of pupils with special educational needs or disabilities, prioritising pupils’ mental health and supporting those with behaviour issues. They said the school leaders had "developed a strong culture of safeguarding", with up-to-date training and "vigilant" checks and recording of concerns. The inspectors said: "The staff team share a strong sense of purpose. They feel well supported by leaders professionally and personally." Mrs Haydon said: "This is a result of all of the hard work and efforts of the staff, governors, parents and of course, the children. "We are very proud to have achieved a good grading – we have been waiting to show off our fabulous school to Ofsted!"
Please Follow us
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Tel: 01179 854927 Wild Yeast Bakery 79 High Street, Staple Hill, Bristol, BS16 5HE
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
7
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Posture: more than meets the eye! Did you know your posture is directly linked to the health of your body and brain?! We at Sutton Chiropractic in Downend specialise in, postural correction, pain relief and performance. A recent study found that as our posture slumps forward, markers of good health deteriorate, and we become less mobile (ref1). Along with this, a landmark study in 2022 of 411 patients over 50 years old, found even minor hunching forward of posture was directly linked to a decline in cognitive (brain) function! This research is now being used to help delay dementia onset or prevent it all together (ref2). In a nutshell, our posture is paramount for a healthy body, brain and life. With this in mind, we have put together 2 case studies to highlight how we can help you with your postural health, regardless of what stage of life you find yourself in.
Case 1
Case 2
(Left image) Here we can clearly see this gentleman in his late 80’s has developed a significant forward hunch and his head held 11” forwards of where it should sit. This is putting a strain of 35kgs through his neck instead of the normal 7kg’s! He was told nothing could be done for the neck and head aches this caused, due to his posture and age he would have to live with it. We did not agree. (Right image) Midway through his course of chiropractic care his head position has shifted back 3.5” easing the strain on his neck to 15kgs, the headaches have disappeared and minor neck stiffness is all that remains. This started with a small postural change that went un-noticed and progressed to the larger issue we see here, thankfully we have managed to help improve his situation vastly even at this stage in life.
Other Specialties at Sutton Chiropractic Contact us for: Headaches Posture Women's Health
Matt Sutton
Athletic performance & recovery Paediatric care
This gentleman in his midlife years, has more subtle postural imbalances (Left image) which would have been missed if he had not undergone a professional postural assessment. These imbalances resulted in large amounts of lower back pain, but as he went through his course of care this subsided, his posture returned to normal (for the first time in many years) and he started competing in long distance swimming again (Right image). Small changes that go unnoticed cause problems now or later, so do come in and have an assessment to avoid problems or simply improve your health and performance.
To enquire about our summer 2022 posture clinic for children, teenagers and adults please contact us on the details below. ref 1 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16166889/ ref 2 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35589972/
Christchurch Family Medical Centre, North Street, Bristol BS16 5SG T: 0117 214 1636 W: www.suttonchiro.co.uk FB: @suttonchiro E: reception@suttonchiro.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
8
downendvoice
July, 2022
n TURNERS VISION
Coping with short-sightedness SHORT-sightedness – or myopia – is a very common problem where people cannot clearly see objects that are far away. It affects millions of adults but usually starts in childhood. Signs your child might be struggling to see properly include: • difficulty making out words on the school whiteboard • sitting too close to the TV or holding their phone right up to their face • complaining of frequent headaches • rubbing their eyes There are things you can do to reduce your child’s chances of becoming myopic. Encouraging them to spend time outside and dragging them away from their electronic gadgets could help reduce the risk. But, once you have a diagnosis of myopia, how do you know which management option is right for your child? Your first priority, of course, is enabling them to see clearly. But you also want them to be comfortable. At Turners, we offer three options for myopia management and recommend the one best suited to the individual patient. First up is Ortho-k. I’m a big fan of Ortho-k, in fact I was the first Ortho-k practitioner in Bristol. It works by popping specially made, ultra-thin contact lenses onto your eyes before sleeping. These lenses gently and gradually reshape your cornea overnight enabling the patient to see clearly throughout the following day, without need for glasses or contact lenses. Ingenious isn’t it? Over time Ortho-k (short for Orthokeratology) has been shown to slow progress of myopia and provides freedom from the daily glasses or contact lenses children can struggle with. Next are soft contact lenses, which are very popular and renowned for comfort as they drape over the eye and are not really felt when blinking. The old worries about eye health are largely a thing of the past as lenses have evolved to allow more oxygen to reach the cornea. Ours also have a special ultra glide coating to keep your eyes moist. Soft contact lenses are good for children as they tend to stay put once in. Daily contacts are convenient with back-up lenses always to hand. In short, contact lenses are a great myopia management option for all children whatever they’re up to – from sitting in front of a computer studying to throwing themselves around the rugby pitch. Last but by no means least, are glasses – still very popular, especially for younger children where contact lenses may prove tricky. Some only need glasses for certain activities and others may need them all the time. Our special myopia glasses let the wearer see clearly both in the distance and up close, these popular glasses have been proven to slow down progression of myopia by as much as 60%. Do take care of your eyes, and come to see us for your glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses. Our expert team is ready and waiting to give you the time you deserve to look after your eye health and vision. Please call to book a time to come in. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Peter
Peter Turner is a Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, and also works part-time as a Senior Optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
9
n NEWS
Artists move in on station art project THE first artwork has been installed at the old Mangotsfield station next to the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. Artists Lucas Antics, aka Alex Lucas and Paul Fearnside, installed a mural at the site on June 15-16 to launch the oneyear Mangotsfield Folly project, funded by Arts Council England and Emersons Green Town Council, working with transport charity Sustrans, which oversees the cycle route. The installation follows a rough start for the project, which suffered damage to its wooden framework from vandals, soon after it was built in April. But events have now started in earnest, with nature-focused sound recording, drawing and walking sessions held during the third week of June, and signposts put up to direct visitors to the site. Project manager Suzanne Heath said: "The mural design at the Folly features the tiny,
Paul Fearnside from Lucas Antics puts some finishing touches on to the artwork. Picture: Charles Emerson everyday creatures and wild plants including goldenrod, Timothy grass, buttercups and nettles that live along the Railway Path. But there’s a twist – the cockchafers, zebra spiders, slugs and snails are riding bikes, playing musical instruments and showing off their circus skills. "Alex Lucas was inspired by the anthropomorphized 19th century illustrations of the
French caricaturist Grandville featured in ‘Scenes de la vie privee et publique des animaux’ published in 1842. "The artists are keen for children and families to visit the installation and see if they can spot and name all of the creatures and plants. "Lucas Antics are one of six artists commissioned for Mangotsfield, including poet
and writer Holly Corfield Carr, printmaker Letterpress Collective, photographer Charles Emerson, The Straight & Narrow Sign Co and Feral Practice, an artist who creates installations and audio-visual works. "Artist and researcher Fiona MacDonald (aka Feral Practice) has been back at Mangotsfield to continue her residency, speaking to local experts to learn more about the biodiversity of the site. "Fiona is making Listening Station, an audio drama inspired by the stories of local people: their arrivals, departures, meetings and partings – with human and other beings." As well as the folly structure, Chippenham-based architects Artel 31 plan to install an outdoor table and bench at the old booking office foundations later in the year. For more information visit www.mangotsfieldfolly.uk or follow the project on Instagram @mangotsfield_folly.
HERE FOR YOU IN Downend Whether it’s a place to save your pennies, a place to call your own or just peace of mind, we’re here to point you in the right direction.
MEET THE TEAM AT YOUR LOCAL AGENCY BNS 18 Badminton Road Downend, BS16 6BQ 0117 911 7739 Yorkshire Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association and is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Yorkshire Building Society is entered in the Financial Services Register and its registration number is 106085. Head Office: Yorkshire House, Yorkshire Drive, Bradford BD5 8LJ. ybs.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
10
n NEWS
downendvoice
July, 2022
Reprieve for threatened bus services A DEAL to keep the region's subsidised bus services running for the next seven months has been hammered out by political leaders. Behind-closed-doors negotiations lasting more than four hours between Metro Mayor Dan Norris and the leaders of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset councils succeeded in breaking a deadlock over who pays how much. The rescue package means an initial seven-month extension to current contracts for 80 supported bus services, including the number 17, which links Staple Hill with Southmead Hospital and Kingswood, which are seen as important routes but are not commercially viable so are subsidised with public money. It will allow time for an urgent review of where buses should run across the region ahead of new four-year contracts
for services to be introduced from next April. The political leaders agreed that supported services would be funded through a combination of contributions from the West of England Combined Authority and the three local councils. They also agreed that any subsidised routes in future would be subject to a “value for money mechanism” - a suggestion which had previously seen talks being adjourned without agreement in May. Mr Norris had made this a "red line" in negotiations after saying he was shocked to discover the 948 school bus from Pucklechurch via Mangotsfield to Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in Oldland Common was costing taxpayers £426 return, per pupil, per day. When the talks resumed at a reconvened extraordinary meeting of the Weca committee in Bath Guildhall on June 14, public sessions were delayed for
Mr Norris, Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees, South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage and B&NES leader Kevin Guy to thrash out a deal in private. Four hours later the public session started and finished in just over two minutes, as Cllr Guy formally withdrew a proposal backed by the unitary authorities at the May meeting and a new resolution tabled by Mr Norris was unanimously accepted. Had agreement not been reached, a total of 26 services could have been axed. As well as the 17 and 948, the threatened services included the 967 Westerleigh to Chipping Sodbury and Brimsham Green schools. Afterwards Mr Norris, who had previously criticised behindthe-scenes deals, said: "This is a victory for common sense. We now have a long-term plan, over a four-year period, that will offer stability for passengers and bus companies who want to invest.
"Leaders agreed with me to end the bonkers situation where bus routes are funded to extraordinary levels through an historic accident – and to instead plough that cash straight back into more bus services." Mr Savage said: "Securing this agreement to protect our bus services while we conduct an urgent wider review is a really positive step forward, providing reassurance to our communities who would otherwise face sudden cuts – on top of cuts that have already occurred – at a time when we really need to be rebuilding confidence in public transport. "We need more people on buses, not fewer, and for that we need a resilient network. I look forward to the understanding this review will bring and working together across the region to deliver the services we all need." By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Trusted, reliable care, for you and your loved ones.
“
The care our Mum received went way beyond our expectations. It was so reassuring to know that she was happy and in such good hands.
”
Mrs N, client’s daughter
We can help with ● tasks around the home ● meal preparation & tidy away ● medication support & collecting prescriptions ● companionship & activities to stimulate the mind & body ● shopping & delivery ● personal care ● specialist dementia support
For more information or a chat about our service please call 0117 435 0064 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/bristolnorth To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
11
n NEWS
Now it's all aboard the reading bus CHILDREN at a Downend primary school have been queuing up to get on a bus that has arrived on the school field. It isn't going anywhere and is not a place to play – instead the old single-decker has been transformed into a comfortable reading space for Stanbridge Primary School pupils. The school in Stanbridge Road started looking for a new space after children said they wanted a quiet place to read during their play times. With help from the school's parent teacher association, the school found a bus which has been refurbished to provide comfortable seating, book shelves and decorations. Local graffiti artists Conrico Steez and RAW gave the outside of the bus a makeover. Deputy head teacher David Payne said: Stanbridge Primary School children on board the school's reading bus
The bus is on the school field
"The first day we opened the bus, I spotted 30 children – books in hand – running across the field, desperate to get a spot on the reading bus. "It was a marvellous sight.” School reading lead James Baker said: "We strongly believe that becoming fluent,
BRISTOL DOWNEND
C H R I S TA D E L P H I A N S
passionate, lifelong readers is one of the most important things our children can gain from their time with us. "We are really looking forward to the bus helping to promote reading this next academic year. The children are already loving it!'
The entrance of thy words giveth light
Sunday BiBle TalkS in July @ 2pm 3rd
The power of the devil
10th
What happens after death?
17th
What God’s Angels are doing now
24th
What must I do to be saved?
31st
What the Bible says about baptism
Come along to the Christadelphian Hall on Hill House Road, Downend or watch live on YouTube.
Visit bristoldownend.com for more details To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
12
July, 2022
n NEWS
Bedsits bid opposed Falklands War PLANS to turn a house in Downend into bedsits are being opposed by more than a dozen residents and the parish council. The terraced house in Cassell Road, which was previously a threebed family home, would become a seven-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) if the plans are approved. In his application, property owner Mohibbul Ehtisham, of Easton, says that the house, which he bought last year and has been renovating, is currently intended to be used as a six-bed HMO, but if the application is approved a seventh bedroom would be added. The house has a drive with space for one car, and neighbours have told the council that their street, which is on the boundary of South Gloucestershire and Bristol, between Downend Road and Staple Hill High Street, already suffers parking and traffic problems. A neighbour said: "The parking in Cassell Road is already very difficult and we often have no option but to park in nearby roads." One objector said the property was already being marketed on a property website as being available to rent as a seven-bed home, despite the plans having not received permission. Others said the home's garage was also being converted into accommodation. Concerns were raised over the lack of communal space in the house, potential for noise, the effect on drainage and sewers and lack of adequate waste and recycling storage. Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council objected on the grounds that the property had incomplete plans for a loft conversion and insufficient off-street parking for a seven-person HMO. The plans can be viewed at the planning section of South Glos Council's website, by searching for application number P22/02331/F.
The Grapevine Brasserie www.grapevinebrasserie.co.uk The Grapevine Brasserie, St James Pl, Mangotsfield BS16 9JB MONDAY & TUESDAY
20% off your food bill from 5pm MONDAY - FRIDAY
remembered
RESIDENTS and representatives from community organisations joined veterans at a ceremony in Staple Hill to remember the Falklands War. The commemoration at the war memorial in Page Park was held on Veterans from the Falklands War joined the June 12, two days before ceremony. Picture: Andy Bly the 40th anniversary of the end of the conflict in which 255 British military personnel, three Falkland islanders and 649 Argentinian personnel were killed, following an invasion ordered by the South American country's military dictatorship. The service was organised by the Staple Hill & District Branch of the Royal British Legion, led by Staple Hill Salvation Army with participants from other service organisations, veterans and political representatives. RBL branch chairman Ian Campbell said: 'It is important we remember those who fought and those who returned home injured, mentally and physically. "The Falklands War is still relatively recent and it was an honour to hear some of the memories shared by veterans and their families at the service."
Pa rkway automobile engineering
Lunch offer - 2 courses £15.95 | 3 courses £19.95 2 cocktails for £12 between 3-6pm Free kids meal with every adult meal purchased between 5-6pm WEDNESDAY
Steak night - Choose two steaks between our 8oz sirloin & our 10oz pork steak and 2 large glasses of wine for £35 THURSDAY
Burger night - mix any 2 of our burgers for £22 OR two GVB burgers for £27 SATURDAY
Bottomless processo lunch 2 courses & unlimited processco for £30 SUNDAY
Roast dinners - 2 courses for £19.95 | 3 courses for £23.95 ALL CAN BE BOOKED ONLINE VIA OUR WEBSITE OR YOU CAN CALL US ON
0117 9570614
www.grapevinebrasserie.co.uk info@grapevinebrasserie.co.uk
Mercedes-Benz specialist with over 35 years experience
• Full diagnostic equipment • Factory trained technicians • Collection/delivery service • Courtesy car on request
• MOT’s • Servicing • Gearbox repairs • Electrical faults
0117 965 6164 Parnall Road • Fishponds • Bristol • BS16 3JQ
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022
downendvoice
13
n NEWS
Battery likely cause of recycling centre blaze A FIRE which forced Mangotsfield's Sort It waste and recycling centre to shut is likely to have been caused by a battery thrown away with household rubbish. An investigation by Avon Fire and Rescue Service, reported to a meeting of the area's community engagement forum, found that the blaze was "most likely" the result of "careless disposal of lithium ion batteries". Li-ion batteries are rechargeable and used in products from laptops and mobile phones to cameras and e-cigarettes. They can also be found as rechargeable regularsized batteries such as AA and AAA. The fire service report to the CEF meeting on June 15 said people need to be aware of the potential dangers involved in throwing batteries away rather than recycling them. Staff and people using the Sort It centre in Carsons Road
"We are grateful that Avon Fire and Rescue Service came and dealt with the fire so quickly, and for the hard work of staff to get the Sort It Centre reopen again to minimise any disruption. "Residents can help us to avoid incidents like this by sorting their waste and making sure no recycling is put in the black bin at home or area for mixed, non-recyclable waste at the Sort It recycling centres – particularly electrical items, batteries and gas canisters, which all pose a fire risk unless disposed of properly. "Many shops and supermarkets have containers for recycling batteries. "South Gloucestershire residents can put batteries (in a plastic bag) and small electrical items out with their weekly recycling collection." More information on what to recycle and how can be found at www.southglos.gov.uk/ recycleweekly.
Firefighters outside the Mangotsfield Sort It centre had to be evacuated after the blaze broke out on May 17, with nearby residents advised to shut windows as smoke was blown towards the Siston Hill estate. Firefighters were called in from eight different stations as far away as Portishead, Avonmouth and Yate to tackle the blaze.
The tip was out of action for two and a half days afterwards as contractor Suez, which operates it on behalf of South Gloucestershire Council, assessed the damage and did safety checks. The contractor is meeting the cost of repairs, which has not been revealed. A council spokesperson said:
THE
Janine Chrispin TRAVEL EXPERT
New slip road plan approved REVISED plans for a new dedicated slip road to the Sort It recycling centre in Carsons Road have been approved. South Gloucestershire Council had to redraw plans given permission last year, due to "ownership issues" relating to common land that was part of the scheme. Work on the new slip road, which is designed to prevent queuing during busy periods affecting roads surrounding the tip, is due to start in the autumn. The main difference for residents using the site is that there will no longer be access from the Mangotsfield direction – the slip road will lead directly off the traffic light junction of Carsons Road Link, from the Avon Ring Road, and Carsons Road. The council says public access to the recycling centre will be "maintained wherever possible to minimise disruption" during the work. The plans include measures aimed at protecting wildlife, including a new hedgerow, bird boxes, insect hotels, reptile and amphibian shelters, as well as drainage improvements.
Everyone needs a holiday! Be it relaxing, cruising or action-packed! I am here to make the entire process as stress-free as possible, by finding you that perfect break at the best possible price! Get in touch today! EMAIL: JANINE@THEHOLIDAYVILLAGE.CO.UK CALL: 01174
660 100
FOLLOW ME:
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
MOBILE: 07948
408 027
JANINETHEHOLIDAYVILLAGE
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
14
July, 2022
n NEWS
Huge fundraising drive for climbing frame CHILDREN at a Downend junior school have a great new climbing frame to play on – thanks to a huge fundraising drive. The Friends of Christ Church Junior School launched
a campaign to raise £23,000 to pay for the wood and rope climbing frame, known as a clamber stack, in May last year. The money was raised within a year thanks to donations
Appeal after man glassed outside pub A MAN was taken to hospital after being injured by a glass in a brawl outside the Horseshoe pub in the middle of Downend. Police have appealed for witnesses to the incident, which happened at about 8.15pm on June 10. A spokesman said: "CCTV enquiries are taking place following disorder involving a number of people outside the Horseshoe pub, in Downend. Officers attended and found one man who had been struck with a glass. He was taken to hospital by officers for treatment. Video footage of the incident is being looked at to identify those involved." Police are calling on anyone who witnessed the incident to call them on 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 137 436.
from families, supporters in the community, local businesses and several small grants, with a final contribution from local home care provider Brunelcare. Head teacher Pippa Osborne said she was "absolutely delighted" with the support for the school. She said: "The children are so excited to have this as a part of their daily play. "A huge thanks also to Brunelcare who, with their support, have made this possible for the current Year 6 children. "I believe it is our duty to both educate but also enthuse every child in our care, and providing suitable, safe play equipment is one of the ways we can do this.” Friends co-chair and parent Kelly Ballard said: "After a challenging few years for our children, we wanted to bring something really special to the school that they and many generations to come will enjoy. "Thanks to all who have contributed and a special thanks
Christ Church Junior School head teacher Pippa Osborne with some of the fundraisers and the new clamber stack
to the volunteer mums at the school, who have given up their time to run events and support their children in raising money for the school. "It’s been a huge team effort and I feel very proud to have been part of it." Brunelcare's Harley Adams said: "Our aim is to give back to the local community, and we feel the best way to do this is to support the education of the younger generation.”
MONDAY - FISHPONDS
6.30pm at the Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR Claire 07791574353
MONDAY - KINGSWOOD
9.30am At The Park Centre, Kingswood Hayley Britton 07813561505
TUESDAY - DOWNEND
St Augustines Church Hall Boscombe Crescent BS16 6QU 9.30am and 11.00am Tel.Anna-Marie 07854177308 5.30pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Downend BS16 6QR Claire 07791574353
TUESDAY - FISHPONDS
9.30am at the Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR Claire 07791574353
WEDNESDAY - STAPLE HILL
The Salvation Army 21 Broad Street BS16 5LN Wednesdays at 5.15pm and 6.45pm Tel. Anna-Marie 07854177308
FRIDAY - STAPLE HILL
The Salvation Army, 21 Broad Street BS16 5LN
Fridays at 7.30am 9.00am and 10.30am
Anna-Marie 07854177308
Karen’s Mobile Foot Health Service QUALIFIED FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL I offer a friendly and professional service; trimming nails, treating thickened nails, corns, hard skin and more. I also offer a professional pedicure service.
Call me today on 07585 253372 or email me at: kwfoothealth@gmail.com and I’ll be happy to help
Karen Whiles MCFHP MAFHP To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
YOUR
Community NEWS
Brought to you by
DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL
DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL
get in touch with the Parish Clerk, Angela Hocking, tel. 0117 9567001 or email clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk. The next Council meeting will be held on Thursday 21 July 2022.
held its Annual Meeting in May. The Councillor Jon Hunt first item on the agenda at such meetings is always the election of a new Chairman. As several years have passed since Councillor Janet Biggin has been Chairman of the Council, it was time for a new member to be elected. We are delighted that Councillor Jon Hunt has taken up this role. Many of you will know Jon who has served as both a district and parish councillor in the past. In recognition of his service as a member of South Gloucestershire Council, Jon has now been made an Honorary Alderman. Councillor Sheila Ottewell is appointed as Vice-Chairman of D&BH Parish Council for 2022/23.
STOP LOAN SHARKS
PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGS are ordinarily held on the third Thursday of the month. We welcome members of the public to these meetings which are held at Badminton Road Methodist Church and commence at 7pm. This is an opportunity for any issues or concerns to be raised, or to just come along and hear about all that is going on in the local area.
At the most recent Community Engagement Forum, a presentation was made about Loan Sharks by the England Illegal Money Lending team. With the pandemic and the cost of living rising, more people are turning to illegal lenders. A Loan Shark is defined as ‘someone who lends money without the correct permission required by the Financial Services and Markets Act’. There is a short YouTube video explaining this in more detail at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=5g3_6BxSkdU Stop Loan Sharks are the lead organisation in England with the power to prosecute loan sharks and illegal money lenders. Since 2004, they have helped over 30,000 people who have borrowed from loan sharks. If you have borrowed from a loan shark or are worried about someone else, they will provide help and will keep you safe. Their specially trained staff will provide you with emotional and practical support that is tailored to your needs. Call them 24/7 on 0300 555 2222 or start a Live Chat with them by visiting their website www.stoploansharks.co.uk.
If you would like to know more, please do not hesitate to
DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCILLORS Downend Ward CLLR MIKE BAKER Tel: 07789 393 681
CLLR ISABELLA BROWNE Tel. 07803 051 684
CLLR JAMES GRIFFITHS Tel: 07742 400 474 CLLR JON HUNT Tel. 07525 150 103 CLLR COLIN OGDEN Tel. 0117 940 6531 CLLR SHEILA OTTEWELL Tel: 0117 957 2724
CLLR BEN BURTON Tel: 07870 639 486
CLLR RAJ KUMAR SOOD Tel: 07901 621 632
CLLR JANET BIGGIN Tel: 0117 956 3566 or 07966 204 260
CLLR ALVIS WEST 07767 216 412 Staple Hill Ward CLLR PHILLIP ABBOTT Tel. 0117 957 0075 CLLR MATT PITTS Tel. 07837 870 039 Clerk to the Council Mrs Angela Hocking Tel. 0117 9567001 E-mail. clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk
www.dbhparishcouncil.uk
Gas Central Heating by your Local Heating Company We have been installing Gas Central Heating in Bristol for over 53 years and offer the following services by our fully trained staff at competitive prices and to a very high standard
Accredited Installer
• Full Heating systems - Designed & Installed • Boiler Changes • Replacement Radiators • Gas Cooker and Hob installations • Worcester accredited company and can offer a 10-12 year guarantee on all Worcester boilers • Gas fire and boiler servicing and repairs • Installation of wooden and marble fireplaces gas and electric fires and electric suites and all necessary building and electrical works to allow these fireplaces to be installed
PROUD MEMBER OF
41 VICTORIA STREET, STAPLE HILL, BRISTOL BS16 5JP TELEPHONE 0117 956 4797 Email: heat@anchecker.co.uk
Website www.anchecker.co.uk
1835
HEATING BRISTOL HOMES FOR OVER 53 YEARS
downendvoice
July, 2022
n NEWS CYCLISTS from Mangotsfield and Downend have raised more than £12,000 for five charities, with a ten-day ride the length of Great Britain. The nine riders covered 970 miles as they rode from Land's End to John O'Groats at the end of May. The riders – Andy Chivers, John Davies, Mark Goss, Alistair Poole, Dave Herman, Shaun Chivers, Dave Ewens, Simon Hucker and Paul Sparrow – climbed a total of more than 55,000ft during their journey, contending with 40mph winds, rain, sleet, hail and cold temperatures in northern Scotland as they approached their final goal. A support team of two drivers – Arris Cracke and Malcolm Chivers – brought spares, equipment and supplies. The group is named MaD because most members live in Mangotsfield and Downend. But members said it was an "appropriate banner" for the challenge of riding from the far south west of the country to the far north east. Most members of the group are in their 50s, and have been cycling together for about six years. They regularly meet up on Sundays for rides of around 70 miles, and go on shorter 'social' rides of around 20 miles during the week, but the Lands End to John O'Groats ride was a "bucket list" challenge for many of them. It had also raised more than £12,000
Cyclists' cross-country epic raises more than £12,000
The MaD LEJOG team at John O'Groats for five charities – Diabetes UK, Retina UK, Alzheimer's Research UK and Prostate Cancer Research and the Terrence Higgins Trust – as the Voice went to press. Donations can still be made via the challenge web page at www.lejog2021.com.
Looking for a job that really helps people? Are you a caring person? Are you a carer for a family member? Do you want a flexible job, working from home? Could you support someone to achieve their goals? Do something amazing, become a Shared Lives carer. Do you need support to live your life?
Find out if Shared Lives could support you: www.ategi.org.uk
17
Andy said: "The weather was not 100% kind to us but to be honest, when we finished we could have started riding home. "I thought we would get more tired the more we did but it had the opposite effect – although I'm not sure everyone would agree!"
Have you heard about Shared Lives yet? It’s a bit like foster care – but for an adult. As a Shared Lives carer, you will be paid to support adults who need a little extra help from your own home.You’ll help them to achieve their goals and support them to live independently, helping them live their life, their way. They could spend the day with you, stay overnight or even move in, it’s flexible to you.
What does it mean to be a Shared Lives carer? “I’m proud to be a Shared Lives carer because I believe that everyone deserves to be happy and be themselves, regardless of who they are and that’s exactly what Shared Lives does -placing people in homes with families where they are cared for, loved and respected.” - Kwame, Shared Lives carer
Find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer on our website: www.ategi.org.uk or email us on carerapplication@ategi.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
18
downendvoice
July, 2022
n NEWS
Driver jailed after M32 crash drama A DRIVER who ploughed into two pedestrians after running a red light, then caused a crash on the M32 in which three people were injured, has been jailed. Macauley Tomlinson drove off at high speed from police responding to reports that a woman had been dragged into a car in Hotwell Road, shortly before midnight on April 30. A court heard he drove off at speed through the city centre, hitting two pedestrians as he drove on to St Augustine's Parade, after Macauley Tomlinson running a red light. One of them, a 19-year-old woman, was carried on the bonnet of his Ford Kuga car for around 100m, as Tomlinson swerved the car to try and throw her off. Police said she fractured her shin bone and suffered grazing and bruising. Her boyfriend, also 19, suffered cuts and bruises and has been left with a facial scar. Tomlinson, aged 26, of Midsomer Norton, then drove on to the M32, where he hit speeds of up to 120mph and undertook a taxi on the hard shoulder between Eastville and Hambrook. A pursuing police car collided with the taxi, which overturned. Police said a 34-year-old male passenger was trapped in the taxi for two hours and is still recovering from serious injuries to his pelvis, hip and wrist, after two operations. His pregnant partner, who is 36, was also trapped in the car. A police spokesperson said: "We're relieved that she did not lose the pregnancy. She continues to suffer back pain." The taxi driver, a 38-year-old man, suffered whiplash and ongoing back pain. Tomlinson drove around the Avon Ring Road and was finally arrested on the Wellsway in Keynsham in the early hours of May 1, after police used a stinger to puncture his tyres. He ran away, leaving a woman inside the car, but was tracked by helicopter and caught. Tomlinson was jailed for four years on May 31, after admitting two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He had time taken off his sentence for entering an early guilty plea. Afterwards PC Andy Smetham said: "Tomlinson was driving at speeds of up to 80mph on city centre roads busy with pedestrians on a Saturday night. He reached 120mph on the M32. "He failed to stop even after colliding with two pedestrians and carrying a young woman around 100m on his bonnet. In fact, he swerved the car, trying to dislodge her as she clung to the windscreen wiper. "Tomlinson's actions changed everything for five innocent people: a couple who should be preparing for the arrival of their first child, teenagers who should be pursuing their university studies and a man who has lost his livelihood. "I hope this sentence will enable them to start rebuilding their lives." The incident was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct because of police involvement before the collisions – the Avon and Somerset force has been directed to carry out its own investigation, which is underway.
Send us your news - Email Linda or Ken at news@downendvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
n NEWS
19
New calls for Cossham MIU Downend School HEALTH leaders have been urged to take another look at opening a minor injuries unit at Cossham Hospital. More than 2,000 people petitioned the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group to fill a gap in services in the area, which currently leaves people with minor injuries having to travel to Yate, Southmead Hospital or the Bristol Royal Infirmary. The petition was rejected in April by the CCG, which said staffing shortages meant it would not consider opening an MIU at the hospital in Lodge Road. The governing body said the idea "did not form part of the CCG's urgent care strategy" and “would not be something the CCG would want to consider at this stage". At a South Gloucestershire Council health scrutiny committee on June 8, Kingswood councillor Andrea Reid said: “This minor injuries unit is long-promised and not delivered. “The CCG has now met to consider the petition. People responded in their thousands to this petition, and yet the CCG decided that no debate was necessary. This is needed to tackle health inequalities, which are widening in our communities. “How on earth do they feel this shapes better health? There was no serious consideration given. "I’m staggered and I’m fuming that people are being expected to go out to Yate as their nearest port of call if there is an accident in the family. "There aren’t adequate transport links at the minute: we know we’re struggling with the bus providers. It’s appalling.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
footballers win title DOWNEND School's Year 8 football team have been crowned this year's Bristol and South Gloucestershire champions. The team won the title in May, and qualified for the Gloucestershire Schools FA county cup final. Downend's Year 8 squad Downend narrowly lost the final, played at Hartpury College, near Gloucester, to St Peter's High School from Gloucester. Describing the match as a “hard-fought game of football”, which Downend lost 2-1, a school spokesperson said: “It was a spirited performance, against a very physical side. “The boys who have played in this competition this year have been amazing and have been a credit to both the school and their parents. “Despite this the boys are still the Bristol and South Gloucestershire champions, an achievement which is very welldeserved.” Mangotsfield School's Year 9 football team also made the county cup final for their year group, again facing St Peter's of Gloucester, who won 3-0.
FUNERALS FROM £975 Unattended Funerals Attended Funerals Bristol Funeral CONTACT US AT: 9 Chessel Street
143 Church Road
The Poplars
381 Gloucester Road
49 High Street
BEDMINSTER
BISHOPSWORTH
HAMBROOK
HORFIELD
KINGSWOOD
0117 963 7848
0117 964 1133
0117 956 6774
0117 942 4039
0117 944 6051
2 Pembroke Road
63 Westbury Hill
SHIREHAMP TON WESTBURY ON TRYM 0117 982 3188
0117 962 8954
10 Gilda Parade WHITCHURCH 01275 833 441
TALK TO US ANY TIME
Whatever your funeral wishes or budget, we can provide a funeral to suit you. Prepaid funeral plans also available.
W W W.RDAVIESFUNER AL S.CO.UK Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
20
July, 2022
FOCUS ON
Staple Hill TShirts 4 You
As well as T-shirt & vinyl printing we have a huge stock of workwear with a large selection of industrial shoes and boots available with high vis jackets, gloves, trousers and tops — why waste time
looking anywhere else for your quality named workwear? The T-shirt printing and embroidery service with a full range of leisure wear including tees, polos, hoodies and sweatshirts. Attached to this section is also the signmaking set up where all shopfronts and general signage is catered for with van livery a speciality. Ask Paul about the latest trend of bespoke wall art for your home decor, with a top quality canvas printer now available.
Staple Hill Stores
Known locally by many people as ‘Arkwrights’, quite simply this store has so many different items they are impossible to list. The shop itself is classed as a traditional ironmongers which has served the locals for the last 18 years. The stock ranges from, plants, seeds through to creosote, lightbulbs (over 250 different types), wild bird food and feeders as well as lots of loose traditional hardware items. All the flower and vegetable plants are purchased locally from independent small nurseries. Our hay and straw is grown on a farm near Pucklechurch. Our wooden furniture is made out of drift wood from the river Severn and other woodwork is all made locally by craftsmen.
A sharpening service for tools is also available.
Lloydbottoms We are a well-established, friendly firm of Chartered Accountants, on Staple Hill High Street. We provide a full range of accounting and tax services to local businesses and individuals. Our goal is to provide an outstanding tailored and personal service to our clients: helping our business clients to achieve greater
Sheen Studios Instant Passport Photos ID, OCI Visa Bella Silver 925 Jewellery Figurines - dogs horses etc Limited Edition Bristol Prints Vast range of photo and picture frames
Ladies and Gents Watches
Watch batteries and straps fitted free
STAPLE HILL STORES TRADITIONAL IRONMONGERS £19.99 WITH 10M CABLE
Spares for lawnmowers and strimmers stocked
Tel: 0117 956 0967
110 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH
ALL TYPES OF COMPOST NOW IN
We offer a full sharpening service for all your garden tools
Lawnmower blades • Shears • Loppers • Secauters
Bristol Blue Glass
L L L OY D B O T T OM S chartered accountants
LOTS OF PERENNIAL PLANTS AND SHRUBS
DIFFERENT VARIETIES OF FLOWER AND VEG SEEDS FROM THE MR FOTHERGILL COUNTRY VALUE RANGE @99p
88-90 High Street, Staple Hill
0117 956 8318
118 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH www.lloydbottoms.co.uk Local accountants, offering a friendly and personal accountancy and taxation service to individuals and businesses.
Contact us now! — Free initial consultation
Freephone 0800 781 8783
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
21
budgies, parrot and canary food. Our range of frozen reptile food and live insects is a good asset as there aren’t many shops that sell that any more.
profitability, and our individual clients to enjoy greater wealth. Whether you are an individual looking for help with your tax return, a business needing assistance with VAT or payroll, or a new start-up seeking experienced advice, Lloydbottoms are here to help you. To discuss how we can help you, please contact us for a free initial consultation. We look forward to working with you.
Farleys Farley’s Pet Foods & Supplies has been on Broad Street in Staple Hill
for nine years. It is a family run shop selling pet foods and garden supplies and have grown the garden supplies part of the business. The garden supplies section includes weed killer, fertilizers, treatments, hoses, hose fittings, spades, forks, hoes and we have just started supplying trellis and picket fencing made locally. Within the pet foods section we have Royal Canin, James Wellbeloved, Burn’s, Chudley’s and Altarky and Forthglade wet dog and cat, Nature’s Diet wet foods as well as a wide range of dog treats natural or pre-packed, frozen dog and cat foods, reptile frozen foods, live insects and bedding. Our hay, straw and woodshavings are sourced locally.We offer a wide range of wild bird food, rabbit food, small animal foods, chick foods,
FARLEYS
us on 0117 902218.
Sheen Studios Spectrum Accountancy Solutions Spectrum Accountancy Solutions is an established practice based in Staple Hill. We provide professional advice to all businesses and individuals. The practice is supported by a team of friendly, skilled and experienced staff who will ensure you meet all compliance requirements.We offer a full range of accountancy services from personal taxation, VAT and year end compliance to business advice and Cloud accountancy. If you are affected by the new Making Tax Digital requirement you might want to get in touch with us to discuss your approach further. For an initial, free consultation, call
This father and son business has been running now for 45 years with Michael Sheen the 4th generation of picture framers. Terry, Michael’s father, was one of the founder members of the Chamber of Trade and is still striving to improve the local area. Expert picture framing has been the mainstay of the business for the local area and beyond, where they are able to offer framing advice and ideas as well as picture restoration and renovation. A wide range of jewellery, watches, limited edition prints, gifts and Bristol Blue glass are also available with a watch battery and strap fitting service. If you need passport/visa photos just pop in for their instant photography service.
PET FOODS & GARDEN SUPPLIES
Stockists of James Wellbeloved and Burns Dog Food • Arden Grange Dog & Cat food • All pet supplies • Seasonal Plants & Seeds
40 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 9566787
EMBROIDERED WORKWEAR PLEASE CHECK OPENING HOURS
BIRTHDAY BANNERS
PRINTED HOODIES & T-SHIRTS LATEST TECHNOLOGY PRINTING
TSHIRTS4YOU, 108 High Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 956 8606
info@tshirts4you.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
22
The Window Hub The Window Hub is excited to welcome you to Our first showroom opening 72-74 High Street Staple Hill BS165HN. We pride ourselves on delivering real value for our customers, ensuring peace of mind and helping you get the most from your home. With over 60 years’ industry experience, we know how to achieve value for money for our clients without compromising on quality or professionalism. Whether buying or browsing for new replacement casement, sash, bay or bow windows, Composite Doors, Bifolds, Patio or double doors, Dan, Chris, Omar, Karen in the showroom and their expert survey and Installations team will be happy to help.
July, 2022
Beauty Spot Within our relaxing salon The Beauty Spot provides a warm friendly atmosphere with a range of superb health and beauty treatments from aromatherapy massage to facials. eyebrow shaping to pedicures for both men and women and using only quality products from beauty leaders Decleor, Tea tree, and Nailtiques. All the treatments are carried out by fully qualified therapists, giving you a totally indulgent experience.
To advertise in the Staple Hill feature Contact Gary
sales@downend voice.co.uk
COME &
MAR CH 2 T 6 H
VISITOUR
SHOWROOM 72-74 High Street, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5HN
Rated ‘Excellent’
Trusted trader
T: 0117 313 4862 E: info@thewindowhub.co.uk
www.thewindowhub.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
23
n NEWS
Honour for Jon A FORMER South Gloucestershire councillor has been made an alderman. Jon Hunt represented the Downend ward then the Frenchay & Downend ward on South Gloucestershire Council for nine years before stepping down in 2020. He was the deputy leader and cabinet member for children and young people when he was diagnosed with bowel cancer in May 2019 and told he was unlikely Jon Hunt is presented with a to survive to the end of the year. certificate by Ruth Davis as he But after successful treatment he becomes an honorary alderman recovered, and left the council to take on a job in the civil service. Jon, who remains a Downend & Bromley Heath parish councillor, was nominated for the honorary title, given in recognition of former councillors' service, by council leader Toby Savage and presented with a certificate at the council's May meeting by outgoing chair Ruth Davis. He said: "I was very lucky and privileged to have been the councillor for the Downend ward and later the new Downend and Frenchay ward. I did not expect to leave South Glos Council in the manner that I did but we never quite know what life will throw at us. "It is a huge honour to be awarded honorary alderman status in recognition of my work at South Glos Council. I wish everyone at South Glos well as they continue to work together to make Downend, and South Glos as a whole, a better place to live and work."
Move on ring road noise A BID has been made to include the Avon Ring Road in a pilot scheme to tackle noisy modified cars and motorbikes. The government has announced plans to try out "noise camera" technology, using acoustic detectors to find vehicles breaking legal noise limits and recording evidence so drivers can be prosecuted. The Department for Transport invited MPs to bid to be part of the £300,000 project and Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore, whose constituency includes a stretch of the A4174 from Downend to Hanham, has made a bid for the funding. He said: "I am pleased to continue working with South Gloucestershire Council to tackle the disturbance rowdy drivers impose on local people and by submitting this bid to Government, our aim is to clamp down on this nuisance. I will be pressing ministers to consider our area for inclusion in this national trial." The Voice reported on an increase in noise problems suffered by residents of Downend, Mangotsfield and Emersons Green during the 2020 lockdown, with scores of readers contacting us to share their complaints and one reader saying they were considering moving house to escape the noise. Mr Skidmore's bid is concentrated on the southern end of the road around Warmley, Barrs Court and Hanham, where he is working with ward councillors. However, a spokesperson said that if the trial proved a success the technology could be extended to further areas. The Voice has asked Filton & Bradley Stoke MP Jack Lopresti if he is also considering a bid under the scheme.
FROM STORE TO DOOR IN 24 HOURS
HUNDREDS OF ITEMS IN STOCK READY FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY
EDA, 744 FISHPONDS ROAD, FISHPONDS, BRISTOL
0117 958 4769
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
24
July, 2022
n DOWNEND FOLK CLUB REVIEW CUP O’JOE
(with support from Charlie Limm) Friday May 20, Christ Church Downend IF there's something lovely about the early summer sun, then there's something incredibly lovely about Bluegrass played in a church as that early summer sun washes across four amazing musicians. Without wishing to get all biblical, it seems like a blessing. Cup O’Joe aren't your porch dwelling, grizzled old Bluegrass players huddled around a single microphone, plucking out the Deliverance tune. There's no nameless sense of menace, no clichéd straw chewing. Instead, there are glorious harmonies delivered by siblings who clearly know exactly how the others tick. There's a lightness of touch perfectly suited to this late-ish May evening and there's a sense of musicianship that sort of transcends anything you might expect from a bunch of stringedthings, strummed and picked. Banjo player Tabitha Benedict has been here before, as part of the incomparable Midnight Skyracer. Where they whip up a moonshine drenched party, watching her in Cup O'Joe feels a bit like eavesdropping on the greatest campfire sing-along. When you realise that Benjamin Agnew on double bass and Reuben on guitar are her brothers, that feeling isn't exactly dispelled. The fact that the mandolin player, David Benedict, is her husband (and only
American in a Northern Irish band) leads you to suspect that this lot must have the finest family gatherings ever. You can imagine that those family gatherings over in Co. Armagh are long and languorous, relaxed and free-flowing. Certainly, that's how the two sets of this evening unfurl. Brand new songs tumble into almost new songs, traditional Irish songs gently bump against proper Bluegrass tunes, obscure covers and timeless originals wrap their arms around one another and gaze up at the sky. On an inspired cover of John Hartford's Mississippi Valley, all four of them get to show off their remarkable skills. As happens time and again through the evening, the banjo and mandolin explore to the very edges of the tune while Benjamin's elastic bass tethers the whole thing and Reuben's guitar burns white hot. The musicianship is extraordinary. This is progressive Bluegrass; instruments played with speed but with love and care and warmth. When the banjo is put to one side, Tabitha
picks up an acoustic guitar and sings. As much as her brothers have lovely voices, it is hers that carries this band. Sounding not a million miles from Sara Watkins of Nickel Creek, she crosses genres as well as continents. Navigator is a new song with an old title but is a delight, sung beautifully and crackles with poppy Skyracer vibes. She pulls off something similar on a cover of Gillian Welch's Wichita too. Those are big boots to fill but she fills them. The tune of the night, though, is Can't Sleep Without Caffeine. A Western swing number complete with video animation on the screens above the altar. It is witty and jazzy, effortlessly brilliant with a great tune and allows four incredible musicians and three gorgeous harmonies free rein. This is the sort of song that should be on every lazy summer playlist. Also blessed by the early summer sun was the opening set by Charlie Limm. Unashamedly in thrall to ‘70s singer songwriters, there are echoes of Stevie Nicks, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt in her five songs. Silence Of The Girls is literary, wordy and complex, a showcase for her versatile voice, while a cover of Tom Petty's Wildflowers rocks very gently indeed. The beautiful country folk of Falling Every Time bodes well for a soon-to-be-released EP. By the end of the evening the sun has faded, maybe the campfire has burned down, but that feeling of being blessed remains. Words: Gavin McNamara Photo: Barry Savell
n DOWNEND FOLK CLUB PREVIEW NEXT AT DOWNEND FOLK CLUB:
KIT HAWES & AARON CATLOW (with support from Good Habits) Friday July 15, Christ Church Downend THERE will be a local feel as Downend Folk Club round off their summer programme with a visit from Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow, a Bristol based duo playing acoustic, folk and roots music. Weaving a musical dialogue between fiddle, guitar and voice, Kit and Aaron explore the rich musical heritage of the British Isles, and create original music inspired by the traditions they grew up in. In demand as musicians, writers and arrangers, Kit and Aaron have worked with many established artists including Grammy Awardnominated Yola, Seth Lakeman, Afro Celt Sound System and Roni Size. Since the release of their highly acclaimed debut album The Fox in 2016, the pair have built a reputation as one of the standout acts on the UK music circuit. Praise comes from music lovers and press alike, including Mark Radcliffe on BBC Radio 2 - “reminiscent of Martin Carthy and the late Dave Swarbrick, I can give them no higher accolade", Acoustic Magazine - "head and shoulders above the rest" and Living Tradition "mightily impressive". Their follow up album, which draws its name from the title track Pill Pilots was released in March 2020. The Pill Pilots were a group of highly-skilled mariners, who for over a thousand years guided tall ships through the treacherous waters of the Bristol channel and the river Avon.
Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow
Good Habits
The album was recorded live in a single room and celebrates the time-honoured relationship between the fiddle and guitar. The pair pay tribute to the past, whilst setting themselves apart with an unparalleled mastery of their instruments and dynamic range to create a musical conversation that wends its way through the album's nine tracks. Opening the evening’s entertainment will be a duo who recently wowed the audience at Bristol Folk Festival. Described as “engagingly clear across a rich variety of styles” (Songlines), Good Habits are a UK alt-folk duo, telling stories and turning heads across the globe. Composed of singer-cellist Bonnie Schwarz and accordionist Pete Shaw, the duo create folk-ish musical tales, with captivating lyrics married with their unique brand of brisk instrumental virtuosity. Tickets for the event, which takes place at
Christ Church Downend on Friday 15th July 2022, are available online at downendfolkclub. com and from Melanie’s Kitchen in Downend (cash only). They are priced at £14 each in advance or £16 on the door. There will be a bar, stocking cider, soft drinks, wine, hot drinks and locally-brewed real ale from Hambrook-based Hop Union Brewery (formerly GWB). Audience members are encouraged to bring their own glass/mug/tankard/bucket, as well as reusable bottles for water, as part of the club’s drive to be more environmentally aware. There is a 50p discount for those bringing their own receptacles. There will also be sweet treats available at the bar courtesy of the Radstockbased Great Cake Company, as well as the “stealth raffle” which helps to fund the support artists. For further information, please email downendfolkclub@live.com.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
Create the mood for less than you think with
Solar Sunshades
Shutters Awnings Blinds and Motorisation Conservatories Curtains 0% Finance
availab across ole ur range.
Bristol Showroom 21 Cleeve Wood Road, Downend, Bristol. BS16 2SF
Telephone: 0117 956 4626
www.bristolblindsandshutters.com Formerly Webber & Spencer Ltd
downendvoice
26
n NEWS THE operators of an out of school club say they are disappointed after a mistake relating to safety checks led to a critical Ofsted report. The regulator visited Stanbridge Out Of School Club, which is based at the Downend primary school in Stanbridge Road but run independently, in April. Inspector Shahnaz Scully made many positive comments about the club, which has 55 children aged from five to 11 on its register. But her report said children were "not adequately safeguarded" because the provider had "not ensured the suitability of all staff working directly with the children". The conclusion, which meant that the club did not meet Ofsted requirements, was based on a finding that the club "failed to ensure that all staff who work directly with the children have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check". DBS checks are carried out to ensure unsuitable people are not able to work with children.
July, 2022
Club's disappointment as error brings Ofsted rap The report acknowledged that some of the staff involved actually work at the primary school during the day, but said they needed a separate DBS check for their club roles. It made no other criticisms of the club. The inspector praised the "secure bonds" between children and staff, links with teachers and parents to find out about children's individual needs, encouragement of independence and provision of healthy food, including for children with specific dietary requirements. She said the manager and staff "work well together as a team". The report said: "Parents comment about the good relationship that they have with the staff team, including how their children feel safe and enjoy
RM OPEN AS NO
attending the club. "Children have daily access to outdoors and enjoy being physically active. There is lots of laughter and enjoyment as children compete with staff to race from one end of the playground and back." The club's board of trustees said it was "disappointing" to be told the club did not meet requirements, "despite an otherwise glowing report". They said: "Unfortunately, an administrative error meant that some DBS checks had not been recently updated and were therefore not valid on the day of the inspection. "They had of course had DBS checks before they started their roles, and two are also employed by the school itself in other roles that did have up-to-date certificates.
AL
National Award winners of the Good Garage Scheme
"We agreed on an action plan with the inspector on the day, that we would complete all checks immediately, and all results came through within 48 hours. "Despite this, the official outcome nonetheless stands for the time being. "However, we have now put measures in place to ensure this does not happen again, and we look forward to a reinspection as soon as possible, to return to an outcome that properly reflects the quality of the club and its staff; a quality that, it should be noted, continued throughout the pandemic, where we kept costs down for parents, ensured staff to student ratios and year bubble groups were in place and monitored, and we invested in new play equipment."
ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS DIESEL SPECIALIST CLEANING AIRCON REGAS AND REPAIRS ELECTRICAL REPAIRS FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY FREE COURTESY VEHICLES WOMEN & PENSIONER FRIENDLY FLEETWORK
0117 939 5555 www.sure-car.co.uk
*10% OFF labour when you mention this advert
Unit 1 Stoke View Road, Fishponds Road, BS16 3AE Tel: 0117 9395 555 Email: admin@sure-car.co.uk OPEN: Monday - Friday: 08.30 - 17.30 Saturday: 08.30 - 12.30 | Sunday: Closed *must be mentioned at time of booking
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
27
n NEWS
Music festival is back for more
A FOUR-day music festival is returning to Emersons Green and Mangotsfield this summer. Most of the events in the Ham Farm Festival will take place in the half-acre garden at Ham Farm Cottage, off Emersons Green Lane, from July 28-31. There will also be a concert at St James Church in Mangotsfield to celebrate the church's 800th anniversary and a show at St James Church Hall. The not-for-profit festival was staged for the first time last year by professional musicians Emily and Francisco Correa in the garden of their home, and Emily said it was such a success that they will hold it every year from now on. Emily is a flautist and mezzo soprano singer who teaches the flute at Downend School and works with many large orchestras, while Francisco is a guitarist who teaches at Prior Park School in Bath and also performs as a soloist all over the
country and in South America and mainland Europe. The festival has received funding from South Gloucestershire Council, Emersons Green Town Council and Arts Council England. Over four days and evenings it will include eight concerts, ranging from folk, world and classical music to pop and rock ’n’ roll, two children's shows, three free musicians' workshops, a masterclass and musical games and storytelling. Many of the events will be free, and the ticketed ones with professional musicians will have a maximum price of £15. She said: "All money goes back into festival running costs and musician's fees. We run this festival for the love music of sharing music with our local community. "However we really want the festival to be accessible to everyone, so if anyone is struggling financially and would
Loft Boarding & Insulation
love to come to an event they can contact us through the website to request free tickets. "One of the most exciting events this year is the Misa Criolla concert, on July 31 at 5pm in St James Church. "This is a collaboration between Ham Farm Festival and St James Church, to put on an extra special concert to celebrate their 800 year centenary. "We have collected a choir of 50 local singers and will also have a professional ensemble and soloist to perform Ariel Ramirez's Misa Criolla, an Argentinian Mass with four part choir and indigenous Andean instruments." People volunteered for the choir after a call for singers in the Voice earlier this year, and
String quartet Bowjangles will perform Dracula in Space, a scripted and choreographed play with physical comedy and action, suitable for all ages, at St James Church Hall on July 29 Picture: Steve Ullathorne started rehearsals in May. Emily said: "It's sounding fantastic already!" For more information visit the festival website at www. hamfarmfestival.com.
Join the learning adventure!
Lunchbreak Supervisor Wanted - New Governor TO START ASAP
Our governors come to us through a variety of routes and with a range of
We different are looking to appoint anexperiences. enthusiastic, andwho caring backgrounds, skills and They motivated are all volunteers work together forJoin the benefit the school and are the link between the Lunchbreak Supervisor. the oflearning adventure! school and the community it serves.
Wanted - New Governor
www.useyourloftspace.co.uk USE YOUR LOFT SPACE is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements
0117 2980810
We are currently looking for a co-opted governorSupervisor, and would be you delighted Working alongside the Senior Lunchbreak will to ensure hear from anyone who has:the safety, general welfare and proper conduct of the pupils during desire to contribute and represent the community this• The lunch period. The successful candidate will enjoy working and interacting with youngmind children and have a positive and caring • An open and enquiring Our governors come to us through a variety of routes and with a range of approach. • The ability to look atskills issues different backgrounds, andobjectively experiences. They are all volunteers who workvery together for the of the school and are the link between We are happy tobenefit accept applications part time (2,the 3, 4 days) • The confidence to ask questions and join infor debate school and the community it serves. or full time (5 Days) working so, when applying, please advise your • A willingness to listen and make informed judgements We areavailability currently looking a co-opted and would be work. delighted to andforwhich daysgovernor you would like to hear from anyone who has:School Visits: If you would like to speak with a member of our school If you match the above description you may be the very person to become a • The desire to contribute andplease represent the team or ask few questions incommunity touch the school governor at a Bromley Heath Junior School.get Everyone has via something to offeroffice and we like to open recruit people with asmind wide range school@bhjs.org.uk of interests as possible. • An and enquiring on 01454 867110 oraemail If• you interested, please contact Michele Weeks, Clerk to Governors for The are ability to look at issues objectively more information Monday about thisto role and the • Days/Hours: Friday 1.5appointment hours dailyprocess (currently 11.55am • The confidence to ask questions and join in debate – 1.25pm) This allows for a termly LBS meeting Email: michele.weeks@bhjs.org.uk or telephone 07525931379 • A willingness to listen and make informed judgements
• Grade: H13 • Contract: Permanent, term time only. If you match the above description you may be the very person to become a • Please ask at the office for an application form governor at Bromley Heath Junior School. Everyone has something to offer and we • Applications Monday 18thofJuly at 9am like to recruit peopleclose: with as wide a range interests as possible. Interviews: Tuesday July 19th Michele 2022 Weeks, Clerk to Governors for If•you are interested, please contact more information about this role and the appointment process
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare Email: michele.weeks@bhjs.org.uk or telephone 07525931379 of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment and all appointments will be subject to appropriate vetting, including an enhanced DBS disclosure check.
INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UK To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
28
n NEWS CHILDREN have suffered “unlawful, painful” physical restraint and "unjustified" use of solitary confinement at a secure home in Emersons Green, government inspectors have found. Ofsted gave Vinney Green an overall rating of inadequate and criticised leaders for “repeated failures” over several years. South Gloucestershire Council, which runs the institute for young offenders who are deemed too vulnerable to be placed elsewhere in custody, accepts there were “practices happening which shouldn’t have been” and says it has taken immediate steps to address the concerns. In a report published on June 9, the inspectors said: “There are significant concerns about children’s care, safety and wellbeing." Ofsted's three-day visit in April came a year after the regulator took enforcement action relating to previous unlawful physical restraint by staff. Its latest report said any improvements had not been sustained.
downendvoice
July, 2022
Children's home staff used unlawful, painful restraints
The Vinney Green complex The report said: "This demonstrates failure by the registered manager and leaders. "The unlawful use of physical restraint, single separation and the use of physical restraint techniques that have caused pain have had a detrimental impact on the health and emotional well-being of children.” Ofsted said five children
suffered pain in 20 recorded incidents where staff used a technique called the “finger and thumb hold” from April 2021 to March this year. “Physical restraint of children has also been used unlawfully to bring about children’s compliance with staff requests,” the report said. “A child subject to an inappropriate compliance restraint, which was a serious breach of regulation, was then placed in single separation for two hours. “Records show that the criteria for single separation were not met before or during the two-hour period. “There are repeated failures in leadership at this home over a number of years that has impacted upon children’s rights, care and well-being. “Some of the practices at this home are worrying and this brings into question the culture that is set by the registered manager and senior leaders. “Inspectors remain concerned that the registered manager, leaders and staff do not understand the legal criteria for physical restraint and single separation.” The report did say inspectors had observed “warm and nurturing interactions” and that planning for children to move on from the home was effective. At a council cabinet meeting held days after the report was published, Sam Bromiley, the cabinet member for children and young people, said the situation at Vinney Green was already improving. He said Ofsted inspectors had been back to
the home and a new report was expected to be published soon. Cllr Bromiley said: “We take this feedback and the report very seriously, because our role first and foremost is to protect young people who live at Vinney Green. "Between that inspection and today, staff across South Gloucestershire Council and Vinney Green have worked hard to embed improvements, and there’s an investigation ongoing into the issues raised by Ofsted. “We have also secured external support from experts in the field, who will work with us and the staff at Vinney Green to change the culture in the home. Vinney Green is full of hardworking dedicated staff. "Working in a secure home is not easy, and we’ll work to ensure that staff have all the tools and knowledge they need to ensure this doesn’t happen again. “We’re now almost two months since that original inspection and I’m confident that the improvements needed are already well underway." Labour group leader Pat Rooney said: “This administration has criticised the Labour group for raising our genuine concerns about performance in children’s services, including Vinney Green, for years, including as recently as a few weeks ago at a council meeting. "Now we read about unlawful restraints that have caused children genuine pain, illegal solitary confinement lasting three days, and staff entering children’s bedrooms without knocking first.” Liberal Democrat deputy group leader Maggie Tyrell said: “We’re obviously deeply worried by the report, but also by the fact we’ve previously received reassurances that work at the unit was satisfactory and improving. Now we receive further reassurances that measures have been put in place, to address the issues that have emerged in this latest report.” By Adam Postans and Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
Looking for something new? Join our HealthierTogether @Home virtual ward Join us in developing an innovative alternative to hospital admission: supporting people where they live, using remote technology and apps alongside high-quality, in-person clinical care. Can you help us make a difference?
Current opportunities
With flexible working and full NHS benefits, we’ll support you to learn, grow and develop.
Clerical roles Administrators (Bands 3 and 4) Clinical roles Allied Health Professionals or Registered Nurses Clinicians (Bands 5, 6, 7) Respiratory Specialists (Band 6) Respiratory Advanced Clinical Practitioner (Band 7)
Find out more For details about the new HealthierTogether@ Home service, upcoming roles and to apply, visit www.sirona-cic.org.uk/work-with-us/ introducing-healthier-together-home/ To talk informally about the opportunities on offer, contact sirona.recruitment@nhs.net or call 0300 124 5444.
Service provided by
downendvoice
30
July, 2022
n NEWS
Developer fined for dumping rubbish A PROPERTY developer whose rubbish was dumped near Downend has been ordered to pay more than £6,500 in fines and costs. Ishtiaq Ishaq was prosecuted by South Gloucestershire Council’s environmental crime team after waste from homes he owned, as well as his business, was found next to Bromley Heath Road near Hambrook and three other sites in the council's area – Overscourt Woods in Siston, Beech Lane in Hawkesbury Upton and Brewery Hill in Upton Cheyney – over an 11-day period in September 2020. One of the fly-tips contained details of his home address in St George and his business address. The others contained documents
from a property he owned in South Wales. The council said Ishaq, aged 62, refused to be interviewed by council investigators. He provided a statement in which he claimed he had paid someone to remove bags of waste from his Bristol addresses. He said the removal of waste from the South Wales property he was developing would be the builder’s responsibility. Ishaq claimed he had acted in good faith and denied flytipping the waste but a council spokesperson said he had failed to identify or provide any details of the people he said he had paid to dispose of the waste, or how to contact them. As a result, he was summonsed to court for failing
Short workouts, fast results
Vibrocise Studios Bristol Ltd
in his duty of care to ensure his waste was properly disposed of and to keep records of who took it away. Appearing at Bristol Magistrates Court in May, Ishaq pleaded guilty to the offences and was fined £3,692, ordered to pay court costs of £2,255, clearup costs of £512 and a victim surcharge of £190 – a total of £6,649. Afterwards, cabinet councillor for environmental crime Rachael Hunt said: “This case saw fly-tips take place at four separate locations across the area, without any thought given to the impact it would have on our residents or the environment. “Our award-winning environmental enforcement team has a 100 per cent record of securing successful prosecutions for this type of offence and if you fail in your duty of care and allow rubbish to be fly-tipped here, you can expect to be caught
The rubbish dumped in Bromley Heath Road and brought before the courts." People are advised to take unwanted goods, household or garden waste to one of the council’s Sort It centres. Anyone who sees illegal fly tipping should call the StreetCare helpdesk on 01454 868000, email streetcare@ southglos.gov.uk or visit www. southglos.gov.uk/flytipping.
Try Vibration Training • Vibration plate training is the ultimate fitness solution suitable for all ages & abilities • You’ll notice a difference within weeks • No contract
Benefits • Change in body shape • Fat reduction & inch loss • Rapid strengthening & toning • Cellulite reduction within weeks • Reduced abdominal fat
New customer Special Offer
10 Day Trial for just £12!* *T&Cs apply
We are re-open and "Covid safe" Following government guidelines BOOK NOW www.vibrocisestudios.co.uk
07531 009 371
Vibrocise Studios Bristol
1E Overnhill Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5DN
SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION Visit our showroom at:
41 Victoria Street, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5JP Visit our website:
www.firesandfireplacebristol.co.uk Or call us on:
0117 956 4797 :: 0117 571 889
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
31
n NEWS
Match in memory of Wendy to return A MEMORIAL cricket match for a Downend mum will return this summer, after raising £10,000 last year. Wendy Pound died from a brain tumour in October 2020, just five months after being diagnosed when she suddenly fell ill. The mum-of-three, who had worked at Christ Church Junior School as a lunchtime supervisor and at Silverhill School in Winterbourne, had no previous symptoms – but by the time the tumour was found it was inoperable. Despite a course of chemotherapy, within four months doctors said there was nothing more they could do. To support charity Brain Tumour Research, Wendy's husband Andy and son Matt took each other on as captains in an intra-club match at Downend Cricket Club last July. Matt, 19, a university student, has been playing for the club for ten years and first suggested the match against insurance broker Andy, who is on the club committee, helps with youth cricket and scoring for matches. Last year's match, which also included a raffle and social event, was such a success that another one is being organised this year. The match, involving members of the first, second and third XIs, is open to all and
Andy and Matt Pound before last year's memorial match will take place from 12.30pm on Sunday July 24, which would have been Wendy's 55th birthday. Every £2,740 raised will fund a day of research at one of the charity's centres. Andy said: "Brain cancer is the biggest killer of any cancer among people under the age of 40 – only 12% of people who are diagnosed survive beyond five years. "But it only receives 1% of the national research funding for cancer, which is staggering when you think about it. "Last year, through all of our fundraising, we raised enough to pay for a week's research. "The memorial match was a big part
of that. It was very successful – the players loved it and people talked about it as a fantastic day. "Once again, I'll captain one side and Matt will captain the other – he's after Wendy Pound revenge, having lost last year!" Wendy was not a big fan of the game but loved the social side of the club, meeting up with her friends and to talk and dance at events, and the memorial match will again include post-match entertainment, with an 80s music playlist Wendy would have loved. Andy is collecting another big selection of donations for the fundraising raffle, with an iPad, signed sports shirts and prizes from traders the Butchers Hook and Fruit Tree already on the list of prizes. Anyone who would like to offer a donation for the raffle should email Andy at andy. pound@virginmedia.com. An online fundraising page can be found at justgiving.com/fundraising/wendykirby3. For more information on the charity visit braintumourresearch.org.
A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT QUARRY HOUSE NURSING HOME Providing top quality, best value, holistic care Quarry House in Fishponds offers safe and nurturing care We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy.
We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply • Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible
BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR
IVITIES ACT VITIES TIIV ITIES AC ACT FOR FOR
BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR
ERING CAT RING TER CA CATE ING FOR FOR
BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR
FOR PLAN REFOR CA E PLA SS CARE PLAN NS CAR
BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR
FOR RING E FOR CAT ATER CA RING C TE ING
BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR
FOR PLANS REFOR CA PLANS RE E PLAN CA S CAR
We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home...
Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
32
July, 2022
Celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Across the Downend, Staple Hill, Mangotsfield and Frenchay area, people gathered at special events, in schools and outside their homes to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. From cake and fancy dress to pin-thetail-on-the-corgi competitions, there were many ways people chose to mark the national celebrations of the Queen's 70 years on the throne. But – two years on from the start of the coronavirus pandemic which both confined people to their homes and saw them reaching out to make connections with neighbours – a theme which ran through all of the events was coming together as a community, re-establishing or strengthening connections between families, friends and neighbours. On the following pages we feature pictures from some of the street parties, school and community events which were staged over the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday weekend and in the run-up. We also look at some of the awards made to figures in the community to commemorate the jubilee.
Bunting across Fouracre Crescent
Ignite
YOUR POTENTIAL Sixth Form Open Event Wednesday 28 September - Register now
Senior School Open Morning Saturday 1 October - Register now Renowned for our warm and welcoming community, Kingswood offers an exceptional education of depth and breadth. Visit us to find out more.
A co-educational independent school for nine months – 18 years in Bath
www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
33
Street party: Fouracre Crescent MORE than 300 people attended the Fouracre Crescent Jubilee street party in Bromley Heath on June 2. Planning for the event started back in February when a committee of residents Emma Showering, Kath Squire, Nat Hardidge, Margaret Hanwell, Rob Squire and Ruth Glinister. Emma said: "With the wonderful neighbours and families we have in the Crescent it was a special day to remember. "A big thank you to the Queen, and also neighbours, family, friends and community, and the amazing local business which had put prizes into the raffle. "We had lots of games and prizes for the children and a visit from the local fire brigade, complete with shiny red fire engine, ice-cream van and pizza. And to finish off, everyone received a cupcake followed by a toast for the Queen." A fancy dress parade, judged by parish councillor and shop owner Raj Sood, along with long-standing residents the Crockers, was won by Hollie Mills, Tui Mulcahy and David Buchanan, with all children taking part receiving a medal and goody bag. A raffle raised more than £700 for the local food bank and Ukraine appeal. Emma said: "A big thank-you to all the community and their families for making it a memorable day."
Above: The fancy dress parade Left: The Queen visited in cardboard cut-out form
Street party: Lodge Walk THE street party in Lodge Walk started off in sunshine and ended in heavy rain. But neighbours in the Downend cul-de-sac didn't let that stand in the way of a good party on June 3. Resident Jane Yeo said: "The party was organised by a small group of neighbours, inspired by when we all came out to clap for carers and the NHS during the pandemic. "We took the opportunity to organise the party to celebrate new friendships and encourage more. "Residents and their families attended and the age range was from 10 days old to hmm...we aren’t sure, but several residents well into their 80s. "A Royal quiz was organised, which really taxed our brains, and a lot of fun was had!"
Residents young and old gathered for the Lodge Walk street party
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
34
July, 2022
STREET party tables laid out along the top of Oakdale Road in Bromley Heath made an impressive sight on June 4. Organiser Fiona Konteh said: "We had a great day, despite some dull weather. "The children loved playing in the road and were delighted when the community police team arrived, complete with police van and flashing lights, for the children to explore. "I was 'locked up' in the van but released for good behaviour! "The community really came together and are now keen to explore other opportunities, to develop the friendships forged at the Big Jubilee Lunch. "The bunting has been stored away carefully – all 1,200 flags on 370 metres of tape - and will be kept for the next big occasion." Money raised at the event will be shared between Downend in Bloom and the DEC fund for Ukraine.
Oakdale Road
Oakdale Road residents at their street party
Left: The Oakdale Road street party as seen from a drone Above: Resident Niamh Brimson, 9, in her homemade red, white and blue party outfit, complete foil crown, with organiser Fiona Konteh.
Street party: Downend Road A GROUP of Downend Road residents met up in a space behind their homes for a "mini neighbour back lane party" on June 4. Resident Ann Dunn said: "Originally it started as a couple of neighbours wanting to mark the Jubilee occasion, aiming for the Sunday, but at the last minute we switched it to the Saturday, as the weather report said it would be better." A group of around 14 neighbours met up, stringing up bunting and putting up a table and decorations before having a picnic with cakes, biscuits and tea – and some beef and Yorkshire pudding. Ann said: "It was a lovely occasion catching up, as we don't often do due to our busy lives. "We decided it would be nice to do every June – we'll call it a neighbourly day."
Neighbours in Downend Road at their 'back lane party'
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022
downendvoice
35
Street party: Bridgeleap, Leap Valley and Rockside AN entire estate of 150 households was invited to the Bridgeleap, Leap Valley and Rockside jubilee party on June 4. The party, held in Bridgeleap Road and Rockside Avenue, was officially opened by resident Doris Smith, aged 91, who shared her memories of the Queen's coronation in London in 1953, before party-goers sang the National Anthem. A fancy dress parade was followed by a variety of traditional games including tug of war, an egg and spoon race, pin the tail on the corgi and guessing games, as well as more modern face painting and a bake off. Residents then lined up picnic tables to have tea together, with some bingo and Platinum Jubilee gin punch. A raffle, with donations from residents and local businesses, together with a wine bottle lucky dip, raised £501 for charity Siblings United, which has been set up to support the siblings of sick children.
Resident Annette Linton said: "When the weekly Thursday evening clap to thank the NHS key workers stopped, a group of neighbours started meeting outside for coffee every Saturday morning. "During the winter and when wet or cold we have still met via zoom. "Two years have passed and it is still a priority in the diary as we have strengthened friendships and made new ones. "With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee approaching, it was a no-brainer to plan a street party and to invite the whole estate of 150 households. Again, more relationships were formed as a team of 20-plus people met regularly at the Trident pub to plan a great community event. "The neighbourhood had a really cheery feel – in addition to the community bunting, many families decorated their front windows and gardens, and six community tubs were planted with red, white and blue plants."
Resident Doris Smith, 91, opens the party
Coronation memories
A team strains in the tug of war
The party in full flow
RESIDENT Doris Smith shared her memories of being in London for the Coronation in 1953, when she visited the flat of a friend whose father had been in service to Queen Mary, to watch the procession on the Mall from a stand. She said: "It had been an early start to get through the crowds, many of which had spent the night on the pavement. "Finally, after what seemed to be a long wait, we suddenly heard the cheering of crowds becoming louder as the golden coach drew nearer and finally came into view and there she was, a tiny figure in the bright coach shining despite the grey day." After watching the ceremony on a newly-bought 9in TV, Doris and her friend returned to The Mall to see guests returning to Buckingham Palace. She said: "Mr Churchill was leaning out of the window as far as he could, waving and smiling at the crowd – clearly enjoying the occasion. "But for me, the Queen of Tonga stole the show. She, too, was enjoying the day and not wanting to disappoint the crowds drove past in an open landau, waving and smiling, completely ignoring the rain. "Having watched the rest of the procession, finally I turned away from the crowds to make my way home but happened to glance back at Marlborough House, which backs onto the Mall, and saw the head and shoulders of a single figure – it was the Duke of Windsor!"
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
36
July, 2022
Christ Church jubilee party AROUND a hundred people celebrated the Queen's Platinum Jubilee with a community cream tea at the Christ Church Centre in Bromley Heath. The event on June 4 included tiered plates of sandwiches, scones and small cakes served at the tables, gallons of tea, and music from a piano accordion and CDs. Anne-Louise Critchlow, of Christ Church, said: "Yes, we were celebrating the Queen’s milestone jubilee, but a bit like the cast of EastEnders looking after the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, we also performed in role! "One of the forfeits in our old fashioned ‘pass the parcel’ game was to don our crowns and be duly reverenced and served by our faithful subjects. "Royal protocol was also being tested in our stand up/sit down royal quiz – well, some of us found the standing up part a bit tricky, either because of worn out limbs or too much cream tea! "Naturally we all sang the National Anthem together and reminisced about celebrations in the past, starting with
The Christ Church Centre hosted a traditional cream tea to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Coronation in the 1950s. "Quite a few of us were around then, and some even went back to the coronation of George VI. "Preparing the room in the morning, chatting over the tea urn and clearing up afterwards were all part of the fun and service to the community." The event also celebrated the Queen's life and service, something Anne-Louise said the church aims to carry on in the communities of Downend and Bromley Heath. She said: "To remind us of
our calling to serve in the community, everyone who came to the cream tea was given a free copy of ‘Our Faithful Queen’, a beautifullyillustrated booklet reminding us of how the Queen has remained true to the prayers and promises of her Coronation."
To find out more about the church visit www. christchurchchurchdownend. com.
Mangotsfield's heritage trail MANGOTSFIELD Residents Association organised a history and heritage trail around the old village of Mangotsfield to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The treasure hunt on June 3 started at the scout hall, with the clues leading those taking part to St James Church, where cream teas and other refreshments were being served. Residents also had picnics and decorated their houses as part of the celebrations. Right: The trail led to St James Church for tea. Picture: Chris Taylor
Grand job for scouts SCOUTING and guiding groups at Badminton Road Methodist Church held a Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration with the church community at the end of May. In the process they raised more than £450 for the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal for Bristol Children’s Hospital. Church and Community Worker Naomi Sharp said: "After a lively parade service, everyone went outside to play games and tuck into a fantastic barbecue. Prizes were awarded in a Gromit design competition and everyone had a cracking time!"
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022
downendvoice
37
Celebrations in the schools
Children at Bromley Heath Junior School had their celebration just before the half term holiday, coming in to school dressed in red, white or blue, with learning related to the event followed by a party on the playground. Head teacher Tracy Serle said: "First, children spent part of the morning learning about the significance of the jubilee, linked to the British monarchy and other longstanding world leaders throughout history. "Throughout the morning, children took part in a range of creative tasks such as designing and making bunting for the playground, and decorated their own jubilee biscuits. "Our year three pupils even made cucumber sandwiches." A whole-school party followed in the afternoon, with singing, traditional dance and jubilee poem recitals. Mrs Serle said: "This contributed to an amazing party atmosphere in the playground, to be remembered for years to come."
St Augustine’s Primary School held a jubilee ‘bake off’ competition with some spectacular entries, many replicating the Union Jack in everything from icing to strawberries and blueberries. Children made jubilee artwork, dressed in red, white and blue, decorated plates and had a street party. Head teacher Mark Hilliam said: “Our jubilee celebrations involved a series of events and festivities that children and parents alike really enjoyed. "Despite the rain, we had a wonderful street party, where I was able to announce the winners of the amazing ‘Bake Off’ competition. "It was wonderful to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with the entire school community, and a great time was had by all!”
At The Tynings Primary School in Staple Hill, children were given a celebration badge to commemorate the Queen’s 70 years on the throne, as a gift from the parents, staff and friends association. Head teacher Lois Haydon said: "The children learned about the different decades through the Queen’s reign, producing fantastic art and written work, and held a street party at the end of a great week."
Christ Church Infant School had a double celebration, with a street party at lunchtime where all the children and staff ate lunch outside and sang songs. Head teacher Anna Martin said: "The catering team did a wonderful job of making hundreds of Jubilee packed lunches so the children could enjoy their sandwiches and scones outside." The school's friends group then organised an after-school event, which included music, games and a parade of decorated crowns. Mrs Martin said: "This was a lovely community event that also raised £700 for the school."
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
38
July, 2022
MP and police and fire chiefs honoured for jubilee AN MP, Avon and Somerset's chief constable and the area's former chief fire officer are among those recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for the Platinum Jubilee. Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore, whose constituency includes Mangotsfield, Emersons Green and parts of Downend, was made an OBE for Parliamentary and Public Service. He said he was “extremely grateful and humbled", adding: "I realise that compared to many people locally who work tirelessly for their community, I don’t deserve this, but I’m grateful for my work on the environment and in higher education out of ministerial office being recognised, though I am just doing my job." Mr Skidmore said he was dedicating the award "to the thousands of academics and campaigners who are working to achieve net zero" after working on the government's 2050 target during his time as an energy minister. Sarah Crew, who was appointed Avon and Somerset's first woman chief constable
last November, has been awarded a Queen’s Police Medal for her commitment and dedication to improving the policing response to rape and serious sexual offences, an area where she is the national policing lead, and improve policing in the region. Ms Crew helped in the creation of the Bridge Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Bristol, which supports more than 400 rape and sexual assault survivors every year, and founded the multi-agency Operation Bluestone to investigate sexual offences. Her citation described the chief constable as “an inclusive, caring and victim-focussed leader”. She said: “In truth, this award is a mark of the dedicated work of many people over many years, fellow officers and staff as well as colleagues in other organisations, in the voluntary sector and in our communities. I am honoured to accept it on their behalf and because it gives me the opportunity to bring to wider attention their selfless efforts and achievements in the service of others." Former Avon Fire & Rescue Service chief fire officer Mick Crennell was awarded
the Queen’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service in recognition of his 30-year career as Air ambulance specialist a firefighter, which paramedic in critical included five years in care James Yates with his charge of the region's Jubilee Medal fire service. He said: “For me, firefighting is a true vocation and I’ve been afforded a fantastic 30-year career. To be given the Queen’s Fire Service Medal for doing a job I love, alongside some incredible colleagues and being able to serve the public, is honestly a true privilege.” Members of the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity critical care team are among the serving frontline members of the emergency services, prison services and Armed Forces who have been awarded Platinum Jubilee Medals. GWAAC specialist paramedic in critical care Fleur Mosley said: "I was really honoured and excited to receive my medal, which commemorates such a special and momentous occasion."
Protect your family's inheritance Meet with one of our qualified estate planning consultants to discuss your needs.
Single & joint Wills from
£99.00 *Including VAT
Home visits or online appointments are available.
Call us today on 0117 952 0698
or email info@elm-online.co.uk
www.elm-online.co.uk
Ian Campbell and husband Glen Cooper at the Trooping of the Colour
Ian attends Trooping the Colour ROYAL British Legion branch chairman Ian Campbell was one of 7,000 veterans invited to attend the Trooping of the Colour ceremony which kicked off the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Staple Hill & District branch chairman Ian has recently been given a South Gloucestershire Council Chair’s Community Award, as well as the RBL's own Hewitt Cup, for his work in reviving the branch and serving the local community. At the event to mark the Queen's official birthday, Ian and husband Glen Cooper had seats in the grandstand built for the weekend's Jubilee Party, with a perfect view of the Buckingham Palace balcony. Ian said: "Today was truly a magical experience and something none of us can expect to witness again. "I am extremely grateful to the Royal British Legion for the invite and to all the staff and volunteers on the day for making everything smooth. "It was a particular highlight to see Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family and, of course, the fantastic display from the Royal Air Force. "We could feel the engines shake our bodies – it was immense!''
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022
downendvoice
39
n NEWS
New school for Frenchay is taking shape FRENCHAY'S new primary school is taking shape. Head teacher Katherine Marks said a date of September 14 to 16 had been planned for the move from the school's current home at Churchside to the new building in Alexander Road, on the former Frenchay Hospital site, and the school would need to close for a short while after that to unpack and get set up. Triple glazed windows and insulation are currently being installed to "fully insulate the building like a Thermos flask" to comply with the school's eco-friendly Passivhaus status. Mrs Marks has also been working with Pentagon Play, who will create and install play equipment and playground markings, partly funded by the Friends of Frenchay School, after staff and pupils move in. She said: "It will mean a short delay between moving in and having it fitted but I know it will be worth the wait. "Along with this I have been busy working with the interior designers, choosing the colours for each room along with the furniture and carpets/flooring." The school will have a colour scheme in keeping with its new logo with natural colours and feel. Mrs Marks added: "This reflects our beautiful surroundings, with the conservation area on our doorstep. The view from the classrooms, overlooking the conservation area, is really quite tranquil and calming. We can’t wait to get in!" The school becomes singleform entry school in September, increasing its overall size with additional places available for some new pupils.
The new school building is due to be ready by September
Market returns TRADERS in Staple Hill have organised a summer market to help bring in shoppers. The latest On The Hill market in Fountain Square will be on July 16 from 10am to 4pm. Organisers the Staple Hill Chamber of Trade are making the markets a monthly event, with a variety of stalls, and will move them to the first weekend of the month later in the year. Organisers are looking for entertainers to take part in this and future events – anyone who is interested should email staplehillchamber@gmail.com for more information. Traders wanting to book a stall can also contact the chamber at the same address.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
The transport industry is changing Do you want a change in career? Are you looking to become an HGV Driver? Are you a School or College leaver?
Earn while you learn
£42k/yr* plus regular reviews and all training provided Join our team of professional driving staff in our family run business established in 1979 Opportunities now in
Keynsham Other sites in Manchester, Birmingham, High Wycombe & Tavistock Apply to hr@ijmcgilltransport.com or pop in and see us at Avon Mill Lane, Keynsham Next to the Brassmill Pub (*Terms apply)
downendvoice
July, 2022
41
n DOWNEND MEN IN SHEDS
Paint project is brightening up school DOWNEND Men In Sheds recently had a request from St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School for assistance in refurbishing a number of wooden playground benches and planters, as well as advice on painting approximately 80m of steel railings. The wooden benches were showing signs of prolonged exposure to the weather, with some timber having rotted, whereas the railings were in sound condition but in need of a coat of paint. Additionally there were a number of tubular steel supports to a cantilevered roof, in various colours of now fading and flaking paint. Because the cost, in terms of paint, was significant, the school successfully applied for a grant towards the expenditure from the parish council. DMIS, in conjunction with the parish council, agreed to source the paint and the school set about organising a parent work party to undertake the considerable job of painting the railings. In addition DMIS were able to donate some surplus tins of paint in different colours for painting the steel roof supports. Paint samples were obtained to assess coverage and for the school to decide on
Before and after pictures show a school bench before repair and three painted and transformed benches
their preferred colour. The school caretaker pressure-washed one of the benches, which was then painted as a test, and work is underway to do the same with all the woodwork. Items in need of repair are being partly dismantled for transportation to our workshop in Bromley Heath Park, where decayed sections will be replaced before repainting. The wooden items need two coats of the colour coat and two coats of a lacquer coat, for an extended lifespan outdoors. Members still have many hours of work
ahead before all items are returned to a serviceable and visually-pleasing state. The task of repainting the roof supports will bring the job to its conclusion. You can contact us by email at meninsheds.downend@gmail.com or visit us at the Bromley Park pavilion on a Tuesday or Thursday morning, where you can have a chat and enjoy a cup of coffee with us in the pleasant surroundings of the park. Alternatively, visit our stand at the Frenchay Flower Show on July 9 – we will be under the trees next to the village hall.
OPENING TIMES MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-5PM SATURDAY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
MARBLE SUPREME T: 0117 9563030
UNIT 8 BRIDGE ROAD
KINGSWOOD
E: INFO@MARBLESUPREME.COM
BRISTOL
BS15 4FW
WWW.MARBLESUPREME.COM
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
42
July, 2022
n MESSAGE FROM SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL
Leading the way in delivering new affordable housing HOUSING is a major topic of our time. Constantly-rising prices can make it difficult for younger people to take their first steps onto the property ladder or limit their ability to stay in the communities they grow up in if they want to. Having a safe, secure, affordable home is a fundamental need for everyone at every stage of life, which is why I am so pleased with our record in delivering the high-quality, affordable homes South Gloucestershire needs. Over the past year, more than 560 new affordable homes were completed, of which more than 280 were for social rent, 56 for affordable rent and 224 for shared ownership. This council has a strong track record of affordable housing delivery, having seen almost
1,200 new affordable homes built since 2018. In fact, over recent years, South Gloucestershire has regularly delivered more than 40 per cent of all new affordable homes in the West of England region. It is particularly pleasing to see when the shock waves of the COVID-19 pandemic are still being felt acutely across all sectors, including in construction. Although we have been making real progress, there is always more to do. So, we will continue to work closely with housing associations and developers to make sure that we get the new homes we need, built so that our communities grow in a sustainable way. Glancing at new estates, it can sometimes appear that developers have taken a one-size-fits-all,
cookie cutter approach. But we know that everyone’s needs are different and that’s certainly the case with demands for affordable housing. So, I am delighted that the homes we are seeing built locally are a variety of sizes and types, not just of build, but in terms of tenure. We have rent-to-buy, shared ownership and affordable rent, and they are aiming to deliver for all age groups. We all know that the country needs more homes. But we also know that we need to be careful that in helping more people to live in our communities, we preserve what makes them so attractive in the first place. That means a plan-led approach and the right kinds of homes in the right places, supported with the right infra-
By Steve Reade, cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure.
structure, with homes that meet the needs of residents at different stages of life. South Gloucestershire is leading the way in the West of England region, supporting the housing aspirations of our residents, from first-time buyers to retirees. Long may this continue.
Help create a vision for
Bristol Parkway Station A G AT E WAY TO T H E R E G I O N AT T H E H E A R T O F T H E C O M M U N I T Y
Join the conversation by attending one of our public drop-in events at St Michaels Centre, North Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8PD on:
Thursday 14 July, between 2pm and 6.30pm Wednesday 27 July, between 2pm and 6.30pm We are holding an online event on Wednesday 3 August, between 6pm and 7.30pm. Email regeneration@southglos.gov.uk to receive a link so you can join the Microsoft Teams meeting. For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/parkway-station-masterplan
Share your views and ideas by 14 August 2022
� �
Facebook.com/ sgloscouncil @sgloscouncil
South Gloucestershire Council working in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority, Network Rail and GWR. Funded by the West of England Combined Authority & Local Enterprise Partnership through the Investment Fund, administered by the West of England Combined Authority.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
kingswoodvoice downendvoice
July 2022 July, 2022
21 43
WILL & & PROBATE PROBATE ADVICE WILL ADVICE
20% storage OFF withfor Discount Free wills Summer & powers of attorney
Clients are provided with a record of storage with clear instructions for your executors and attorneys on how to access them when needed. are how you canare make your Certified copies alsosure provided wishes are followed if you suffered free of charge to clients. serious injury (and could make Simpson Solicitors offer not to store decisions on your own) or ifofyou these for our readers - free charge died. – even if they were prepared by Book now another firm.with TheySimpsons also offer to you make those you most care a free sure review to check that they about are protected in theinway are legally valid and work the you including way want you want. Also, appointing when the time acomes Guardian young theyfor offer a freechildren meetingor protecting the inheritance you to with those you have appointed leave from unnecessary make behind sure they understand the tax or care home fees. legal steps they will need to take. With Simpson Solicitors you will have the peace of mind of their award winning service. So, pop in to see them (opposite Costa Coffee in the Kings Chase shopping centre) or call them today on 0117 960 8594.
Summer is the time where families I will help you have the right tailorand friends tend to get together. made legal solution for you”. Whether travelling together to Sigrid Grind continues: “The go on holiday abroad or for a special Summer Offer along with UK holiday or visiting relatives. free parking at the Kings Wills and Powers of Attorney are family disputes over whatChase you However, beforefor youthose set off you Shopping means that if you legal protection you wanted toCentre happen. really care should make sure have beenWitter putting off taking legal most about. That is you whyhave it is Melissa at local experts up-to-date Wills Powers of advice – now is thesays: right“It time so important thatand they are kept Simpson Solicitors is to Attorney place just inbycase get sorted.key I willpeople explain safely andincan be –found those important ineverything your something in English. will then oversee you trust. goes wrong. lifeplain know where Ithese important Melissa Witter, legal advisor at the signing process Lasting Powersa of Attorney documents are kept,sosothat theyour local experts Simpson Solicitors documents (LPAs) are documents that mean originals canare belegally found valid. when” withifoffices opposite Costa Being aThere fully is regulated that you were seriously ill Coffee or needed. no pointand keeping in Kingswood says:most “I would insured firm, Simpsons give you injured, those you trustlike are them in law a safe at home, if your to help youby getyou thetoright that extra piece of mind of the work authorised helplegal you family do not know the access protection in place for your being make key decisions, sign for you, code”. done properly, with clear particular circumstances. I find fixed prices and free“That document pay bills, manage your money Sigrid Grind adds: is why every clientup is for different I will storage. and speak you toand medics. Simpson Solicitors offer a free take as long asthose you need as I guide Don’tlifetime leave it storage to chance. Wills Without them you trust can secure service you helpless through and yourunable options. and Powers of Attorney feel toThat fullyway – so Lasting your original documents support you. are protected against fire, water DISCOUNT SUMMER 2022 Call Simpson's friendly 0117damage 960 8594 or email message@simpsonslawuk.com Wills are where you can provide damage andteam evenonbomb to book your FREE, no obligation meeting. When booking mention DISCOUNT SUMMER 2022 and they will clear financial protection for thosereview(although we have not tested give youabout 20% off already prices Wills, Additional you care on the yourtheir death. You competitive this!). We willfor also keep a highly Trust Protection and Lasting Powers of Attorney. This is guardians a limited offer and to qualify you doelectronic need to quote can also appoint to raise encrypted copyDISCOUNT of your SUMMER 2022 when booking and your review meeting must take place before 31 August 2022. your children. They can also prevent signed documents”.
Melissa Witter Melissa Witter
Sigrid Grind Sigrid Grind
Kings Kings Chase ChaseShopping Shopping Centre, Centre, Kingswood Kingswood
0117 0117 960 960 8594 8594
www.simpsonsolicitors.com www.simpsonsolicitors.com
FREE WILL REVIEW
WE’LL MAKE SURE YOU’RE NOT REMEMBERED FOR LEAVING BEHIND LEGAL PROBLEMS Simpson Solicitors’ award winning team will help you do the job properly. Protecting those you most care about with Wills and Powers of Attorney. At the FREE review meeting we’ll take as long as you need to consider what is best for your particular situation. Then we offer clear fixed prices with no hidden costs.
SPE
R FFE
FF O % of 2
CIA
LO
20full pricfeAttorney o ers Pow
On your own Your Will is how you decide who will inherit from you. Living Together Avoid disputes and provide for your partner in the
way you want.
Parent Wills In case the worst happened, provide for children under 18 and decide who you would want to raise them. Later Life Wills Protect your family’s inheritance from Care Home fees and Tax Lasting Powers of Attorney Ensure your wishes are followed by appointing those you trust, in case of serious injury or illness.
Wills
“We were made to feel very welcome and cared for” H.L. “You have lifted a great weight off our shoulders” C.R.
Powers of Attorney
Probate
BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 960 8594 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR pop into our Kings Chase Shopping Centre offices in Kingswood (opposite Costa). If getting to us is difficult, our FREE Home Visit service covers Bitton, Downend, Fishponds, Hanham, Kingswood, Oldland, St George, Staple Hill, Warmley, Willsbridge and surrounding areas.
Got News?contact Call 07540 383870 Email:Gotnews@kingswoodvoice.co.uk To advertise, Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
44
July, 2022
nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA July 2 n BRISTOL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CLASSICAL SUMMER CONCERT 7.30pm at Frenchay Parish Church on the common BS16 1LJ. Contact 0117 9562106. Tickets £15 on the door, £12 in advance, Students £5 Children free. Interval drink included. July 5 n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORM CHURCH invite you to their monthly COFFEE MORNING from 10.30 a.m. to 12 noon. Come along for a warm welcome and a cup of coffee.(plus cakes and biscuits! For further details please telephone June Watts on 0117 9566625. July 6 n LINCOMBE BARN SUMMER 'CREAM TEA CRUISE' around Bristol Harbour and stretches of the Avon. Departure from the Barn 1.15pm. Boat departs 2.15-4.15pm. Cost £21.50 including transport. Non-members £2 extra. Please book in the office during office hours. Steps and handrail for access to boat – Bristol Packet Staff can assist. July 9 n FRENCHAY FLOWER SHOW. Frenchay and Hambrook Horticultural Society and Frenchay Village C.I.C. are delighted to announce the return of this popular flower show after a two year break. The show will be held on Frenchay Common by the Friends' Meeting House on Saturday 9th of July with a selection of plant, charity, and food stalls open from 12.30 and the show tent opening at 1.30. The Frenchay Vintage & Classic Vehicle Show will be on the main showground in conjunction with the flower show. Cream Teas will be available in the Village Hall provided by the WI. Admission is £2.50 for adults, with children under 16 free. For show details, a full list of
classes and, entry forms please visit www.frenchayflowershow.com. July 9 n KINGSWOOD RFC WALKING RUGBY FESTIVAL, Grimsbury Road, Kingswood. Matches start at noon. Fun day of walking rugby with teams from near and far. Outdoor bar and food, entertainment after presentations. Supporting Macmillan Cancer Support. More details at www. KingswoodRFCwalkingrugby.co.uk. July 14 n EVENING OUTING TO A NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME GARDEN with Downend Horticultural Society. For more details call Roger on 0117 957 1703. July 15 n JUBILEE CELEBRATION CONCERT featuring Staple Hill Salvation Army Band, vocalist Rachel Milestone and euphonium soloist Josh Dickens, 7.30pm at Staple Hill Salvation Army Hall, Broad Street. Tickets £5 (children free) can be reserved by calling Jon on 07917 232788 or by visiting www.staplehillsa.uk. July 16 n JUMBLE SALE (UPCYCLING) IN AID OF UKRAINE, 2pm in Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street. Refreshments available. Everyone is welcome. All profits to local charity 'Little bit of Love from Bristol to Ukraine'. July 16 n ON THE HILL MONTHLY MARKET, Fountain Square, Staple Hill, 10am-4pm. Organised by Staple Hill Chamber of Trade. During your visit, check out what the High Street has to offer, from hardware, butchers and grocers to eco refills and barbers to florists. July 16 n SATURDAY JAZZ SPECIALS AT CADBURY HEATH SOCIAL CLUB, 2-5pm: The Gatsby Gang. Bar, raffle, large car park, afternoon teas (pre-order). Tickets £10. More
information from Carol Coombs on 0117 960 8347 or carol@applause. co.uk. Also jazz every Wednesday – see warmleyjazz.co.uk for more details. July 18 n DOWNEND SENIOR FILM CLUB The Full Monty (1997) 15 at 2pm. Six unemployed steel workers form a striptease act to help boost their incomes. Despite insecurities, they perform before a sell-out audience who cheer them on to go the ‘Full Monty!’ Starring Robert Carlyle, Mark Addy, Tom Wilkinson & Lesley Sharp. Tickets: £4.00 including tea & cake. Carers welcome, easy access. For more information and to book, please call 0117 435 0064. July 23 n FREE SINGING SESSION WITH CONDUCTOR IAN HOLMES, Lincombe Barn, 2-4pm. Ian is a former director of UWE's Centre for Performing Arts and is conductor of the Lydbrook Band. One-off event, limited numbers so to book a place email sing23july@hotmail. com. August 4-7 BEYOND HEDONISM' THE GREEN GATHERING 2022, award winning, family friendly, off grid festival, 4th - 7th August, Piercefield Park near Chepstow. This is the annual fundraiser for the Green Gathering Charity, which promotes ecology and sustainability through education and the arts. Tickets and info at: http://www.greengathering.org.uk.
REGULAR EVENTS n BRISTOL U3A: Have you reached a point in your life where you have fewer responsibilities and more time for yourself? Would you like to take part in activities where you can share skills, abilities or hobbies whilst having fun and making new friends? Why not become a member and find an
interest group to join. Go to www. bristolu3a.org.uk for details. Monday n MEDITATION SESSIONS IN FRENCHAY The pandemic has made us more mindful of our lives, what we miss and how we connect with others and nature. Just come along to the sessions that run from 3rd Monday each month at 7pm Frenchay Unitarian Chapel BS16 1ND from 20Sept for the Personcentred Group Meditation and 1st Wednesday at 7pm from 6th Oct for the Kundalini movement meditation. Blessings to you. For more information contact Andrea on 07791119658 homewards.ma@ btinternet.com. n SINGALONG 4 ALL - Mondays 10.30/11.30, Grace court, Dial Lane, Downend BS16 5UP. £4 ...£1 tea n bikkies Tel: Barbara 07816839141. n SOCIAL BADMINTON every Monday at Kingswood Leisure Centre from 2-4pm. Intermediate level, all welcome. n EDDS & TALES Baby & Toddler Group Every Monday, Christchurch Parish Hall, North Street, Downend. 10.00 - 11.30 (term time only) £3 per family (first visit free) including drinks, snacks and craft activity ALL WELCOME - Just turn up Join our Facebook group Edds and Tales n STAPLE HILL JOB SEEKER SUPPORT GROUP, Staple Hill Community Hub, Berkeley House, 1A Berkeley Rd, every Monday from 1.30-3.30pm. Laptops and Wi-Fi available for job searches, free tea and coffee, welcoming environment. Run by local councillor Katie Cooper and volunteers. Call Julie on 01454 868374 with any questions or to let us know you are coming. n PUCKLECHURCH SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Meet every Monday, Wednesday evening 7.30 - 10.00 and Sunday 2.30 - 5.00. Refreshments inc. All levels really Welcome. For more information
Microsuction and irrigation (syringing) Ear Wax Removal Service
Ear Clear Bristol THE SOLUTION IS HEAR Call Sarah Hayward (Ear Wax Removal Specialist) on
07798608859 or visit
www.earclearbristol.co.uk 92 Westbourne Rd, Downend, BS16 6RF
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022 ring Kath 07517 1297 Tuesday n DOWNEND GARDENING IN RETIREMENT CLUB Meetings on the third Tuesday of each month. Venue as usual: Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, Downend. Time 10.15am. New members and Visitors welcomed. Varied speakers. n BROMLEY HEATH GARDENING CLUB Meets at Christ Church Centre, Quakers Road, every third Tuesday of the month at 2.30pm. Talks, day trips and short holidays - everyone welcome. Call May on 0117 957 3695 for details. n MESSY SPACE AT BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH, 10.0011.30am. This is a term-time group for babies and toddlers with their carers: play, crafts, story, refreshments. More information: www.badmintonroadmethodist.org. uk or 0117 239 3875 n BOARD GAMES NIGHT every Tuesday from 7pm. All Welcome The Wooden Walls Micropub, 30 Broad Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5NU Wednesday n DOWNEND FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB: Would you like to arrange flowers? Friendly club meets at 7.30pm on the first and third Wednesdays, from September to June, at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. For more information call Joyce on 0117 956 8978. n DOWNEND BRIDGE CLUB NEW MEMBERS ARE WANTED Come and join us and play duplicate Bridge at Lincombe Barn Downend on Wednesday afternoons 2pm. We are a small, easy-going and friendly club. All levels are welcome although some knowledge and experience is necessary as we cannot offer lessons. Just a fun afternoon playing Bridge with like-minded people. Please contact eveforbes77@gmail.com or 01179836886 or Yvonne Scoulding rscoulding@google.com or 01179568944 n CLEEVESINGERS OF DOWNEND Enjoy singing, then come and join this four part choir who meet on Wednesday evenings at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road 7.30 p.m. from September until July. You would receive a warm welcome by this happy choir who have at least three concerts a year whose repertoire includes items from Shows, Abba, Beattles and general popular songs which includes appropriate pieces for the time of year. For more information contact the Secretary on 0117 9561881.
downendvoice n DOWNEND SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB Musical entertainment from 2-4pm every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at North Street Church Hall. All are welcome. n THE WOMEN’S SECTION OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION We meet the third Wednesday of every month in the afternoon. We meet at 2pm at the old school hall now known as the YOU Foundation by the car park in Page Road Staple Hill. Speakers, quizzes and handy craft afternoon finishes with tea. If you are interested in our activities please telephone Madeleine Bills Secretary. 0117 9560805. n DOWNEND TANG SOO DO meets at Christchurch Parish Hall, North Street on Wednesday evenings from 7.30-9pm. Suitable for beginners and ages 10+. First class is free. More details from Ian on 07817 744689 or at the Downend Tang Soo Do Facebook page. n FRENCHAY PROBUS CLUB We meet at Frenchay Village Hall on the first Wednesday of each month between 10.00 and 12.00 hrs. For further details contact: frenchayprobus@outlook.com n WARMLEY JAZZ CLUB, every Wednesday £5 on the door. Cadbury Heath Social Club. Doors open 7.30pm. More details at warmleyjazz.co.uk. n MEET THE BEAT TEAM, Bean Tree Cafe, Page Park. Every Wednesday afternoon, 2-3pm. If you have any problems or issues you would like to discuss with the police neighbourhood team, please come along. n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets Wednesday evening at 7.15pm at Upper Horfield community Centre ( next to Eden Grove Church ) New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For more info contact Sheila on 01179570792 or shinett@blueyonder.co.uk. n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORM CHURCH invite you to their regular twice monthly sessions of Friendly Voices. These are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 10.30 a.m. to 12 noon. Come along for a sing-along (and coffee) Carers very welcome. For further information contact June Watts on 0117 9566625. n CROSS STITCH Like to learn this absorbing relaxing hobby and have fun at the same time? Why not join the Club at Lincombe Barn. Beginners and those with all abilities welcome. New term commences beginning of September on Wednesday
45
mornings 10.00 am until 12 noon. Contact Lincombe Barn on 9562367 for further details. Thursday n BARN BELLS handbell ringers meet at Lincombe Barn, Downend, from 2-4pm weekly. Anyone who can read music is welcome to join. n IGNITE YOUTH GROUP. Thursdays, term time only, at the Youth Hub & Parish Hall , 57 North Street, Downend. Year 6-8, 6.30-7.45pm. Year 9-11s, 8-9.15pm. A place to relax and have fun with friends. Free entry. Tuck available. Visit www.igniteyouthchristchurchdownend.co.uk to sign up and see the full programme. n WINTERBOURNE WINDS, a friendly amateur wind band who play a wide range of music including pop, musicals and classical, rehearse at Frenchay Village Hall from 7.40-9.30pm. New members, especially flute, oboe, trumpet, horn and percussion players, are welcome. For more information email winterbournewinds@yahoo.com. Friday n TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON’S. Weekly beginners Tai Chi & Qi Gong class for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and carers. We meet for Tai Chi, tea and cake at Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. Time: Fridays (term times) 10.15 – 12.15 including tea / coffee break. Contact: Claire - Claire@ Taichibodyandmind.co.uk (07769 857672) or Sarah - buqiworks@ gmail.com (07815 662844) n PAGE PARK UKULELE CLUB, Bean Tree café, Fridays at 1pm. All abilities welcomed. Places £4 each. For further details call or text 'Ukulele' to Ben on 07910 668258. n MANGO JAMS PARENT/ CARER AND TODDLER GROUP meets every Friday at St James Church Hall, Richmond Road, Mangotsfield, 9.15am to 11.15am.
Warm and friendly group run by volunteers from St James Church: everyone welcome to attend. n JIGSAW TODDLER GROUP, Fridays in term time at Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, from 9.45-11.15am. Toys, crafts, songs, refreshments and learning about faith in a fun way. No need to book. Saturday n BRISTOL SUGARCRAFT GUILD We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Hall, Elm Park, Filton. If you would like to make sugar flowers and models we hold workshops with instruction. Beginners very welcome. call Jean Kington on 01454 314178. Sunday n EMERSONS GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH has now resumed normal face-to-face church services. Church services are held every Sunday morning from 10.30am11.30am at Emersons Green Village Hall, Emersons Way. For more information contact Rev Kevin Donaghy 0117 9575418, e-mail church.egbc@outlook.com or visit www.emersonsgreenchurch.org n BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH. In-person Sunday worship continues weekly at 10.30am and all are welcome. We are still taking a cautious approach and ask people to wear a mask. Contact: Revd Samuel Uwimana: 0117 239 5984 or www. badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORM CHURCH are back holding regular weekly Sunday morning worship at Cossham Street. Services start at 10.30 a.m. with different speakers each week. New members very welcome. For more information contact Peter Redding (Ch. Sec.). on 0117 9657075
Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5DW Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com
An independent practice providing a personal, caring and compassionate service Consultation by appointment 9am-11am Monday-Saturday 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
46
July, 2022
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Reasons to be optimistic: brilliant West of England green jobs
I CAN’T get a new NHS dentist for love nor money. I’ve got constituents telling me they can’t renew their passports, or pay HMRC, or get a driving test, or that you have to ring back tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow to see the GP. This is Backlog Britain, and it is letting West of England families down. Couple this with lorry driver shortages and Brexit bureaucracy-related delays, especially when full UK border controls came into force at the end of January and there are a whole series of other problems grinding us down - getting an electrician, or frankly a full choice at the local supermarket. Chlorine shortages at swimming pools and even the great British classic of fish and chips is facing an uncertain future. Some of these problems were unforeseeable - let’s be fair - but others could have been avoided with some governmental horizon-scanning. After all, with an ageing workforce the lorry driver shortage has been on the cards for years. Given the environmental crisis we face and the need for rapid change, one thing I want to ensure is that we in the West do some green
horizon-scanning and get ahead of the curve when it comes to jobs of the future. So I made that the focus of this year’s Jobs and Skills Summit which I run. Change is coming. Soon, when you take your electric car to the garage, you’ll want to speak to a mechanic who’s been trained in up-to-date tech, not who can get a rusty petrol banger started. When the central heating is playing up, it won’t be a plumber you’ll need but a heat pump engineer. That future is coming very, very soon. It means training workers right now. So it was great to meet brilliant students from Chew Valley school, who are the first to be taking part in a new West of England Combined Authority-funded programme to encourage local youngsters to consider green jobs. At round-tables I heard from union reps, talented tradespeople (including those working at Bristol’s Urbane Eco, who are retrofitting homes across the region) and South Gloucestershire engineers working on ‘cleantech’. I asked them about what encouraged them into their careers. With a £20 million skills budget, it is so im-
Metro Mayor
Dan Norris
writes for the Voice
portant for me to hear direct what skills training works, what needs improvement and to find out local people’s top tips to get more people enthused. Opportunities abound for decent, well-paid and fulfilling jobs which will get Britain working again and are vital if we are to reach our very ambitious and necessary West of England net-zero targets. You can’t just scrape by on a wing and a prayer, whatever the PM thinks. I’ve never been a “what will be, will be” person – I think the future is, very much, ours to see.
HEALTH & WELLBEING CLINICS Fast access to expert advice Chartered Physiotherapists • Osteopaths • Chiropody & Podiatry • Chiropractors • Massage Therapy
MARATHON TRAINING? SHIN SPLINTS BACK PAIN? SORE KNEES? ACHING MUSCLES?
HEADACHES? NECK PAIN? FROZEN SHOULDER? TENNIS ELBOW? RSI?
See the team at Therasmart
to find out how we can help you
Our promise is to provide expert advice using the latest research so that you can receive the best treatment
PENDENNIS OPENING TIMES 8.30AM - 8PM (Mon-Thurs) 8.30AM - 2PM (Friday) 8.30AM - 1PM (Saturday) 11 HAYNES LANE STAPLE HILL BRISTOL BS16 5JE
0117 956 3978 WWW.THERASMART.CO.UK INFO@THERASMART.CO.UK
CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
47
n STYLE ADVICE
Colour can help look your best THE idea that knowing ‘your colours’ will affect your life can have some people rolling their eyes. However, if I were to tell you which colours looked great on you and it made you feel happier every time you got dressed, you might be more interested. Am I right? No one wants to stand in front of their wardrobe uninspired by its contents, so a smart way to wear clothes that you love and love you back is to learn which colours suit you best. Once you know them, you’ll not only look good, but you’ll also feel more confident, be happier, get dressed quicker, and shop better – not wasting money on clothing you don’t fancy putting on. Short of having your colours analysed, I thought I would share some tips for when you choose your clothes. As a rule of thumb, warm colours work best for warmer complexions and cooler colours
This John Lewis Never Fully Dressed midi dress has warm colours. work best for paler complexions. Of course, you must take eye colour and hair colour into consideration, so this is a basic rule. For more detailed
Are you looking for a change in career? Do you have the drive and determination to be part of a market leading business?
understanding you would need an analysis but, armed with this knowledge, you can look at picking out warm colours (yellow undertone) and cool colours (blue undertone) to enhance your complexion. Some people say your veins can help determine your skin tone, green being warm and blue being cool. So take a look at the underside of your wrist to see if that helps. Next up, hold the garment near to your face. If your skin shows a natural radiance – a glow – then it's working for you. You should notice that your skin looks a lot smoother, your eye colour pops, and the whites of your eyes stand out. If a colour doesn’t suit you, your face will look washed out, and the bits you don’t want to show, like dark circles, will be more drawn out. Perhaps start by looking at the shirt or blouse that people always
Gail Painter's fashion tips give you compliments for when you wear it. Chances are, it’s the flattering shade that’s turning heads. More on colour next month. Not sure what to wear or how to wear it? Email your fashion and style questions to info@ notgivinin.com and look out for the answers in future issues of the Voice. www.notgivinin.com
We’re the UK division of one of the leading leasing companies, managing over 1.7 million vehicles across 43 countries worldwide. We pride ourselves on our open culture, our commitment to employee development and our platinum corporate social responsibility status. The only thing we invest in as much as the future of mobility is our people who are at the heart of everything we do.
Sound like somewhere you want to work?
We’re currently recruiting for a variety of roles in our Bristol office, based in Emersons Green, including: • Fleet Support Administrator
• Credit Controller
• Customer Service Advisor (Corporate)
• Customer Service Advisor (Driver Care)
• Dealer Services Support Administrator
• Credit Analyst/Underwriter
• Finance Support Assistant What are you waiting for? Find out more about our jobs available and apply at:
• Remarketing & Defleet Administrator
» alduk.careers/bristol
www.aldautomotive.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
Independent living & keeping active in body and mind at Badminton Gardens
Across South Gloucestershire there are seven ExtraCare housing schemes, offering purpose-built homes for people over the age of 55. Each scheme has its own thriving community and a range of facilities and activities on your doorstep. Badminton Gardens, in Downend, is in a quiet neighbourhood, next door to a medical centre, close to a local shop and main bus route. There’s a resident’s lounge, treatment room, hair salon, a guest room for visiting friends and family, restaurant and coffee bar, and communal gardens for exercising and gardening. Mike and Elsie moved to Badminton Gardens nine years ago, from Mangotsfield, where they had lived for 40 years. It was a change in Elsie’s health that prompted the move. We knew of Badminton Gardens because we used to visit a relative who lived here. She called it the Badminton hotel! We were going to have to make extensive adaptions to our old home but here it’s all in place. The apartments are spacious, something visitors are always surprised by, and all Elsie’s health needs are being met. Mike is club secretary of the Entertainment Committee and says there are always activities and events on for people who want to get involved, carpet curling is one of the new sports the committee are looking to introduce.
Fred and Angela moved to in in October 2021, right in the middle of the pandemic. The couple were living in Staple Hill but the bungalow they lived in didn’t have the space for essential medical equipment. They visited Badminton Gardens, to look around, and after that visit moving in felt like the right thing to do. The best thing about living here is feeling safe, and it’s great to have your own front door if you don’t feel like being with people. We’ve got to know a lot of people already and always have the opportunity for a laugh, says Fred. Fred is a member of the knit and natter group and whilst knitting is not Angela’s cup of tea, Fred says “I find knitting relaxing and it helps my concentration. There are about nine members of the group, and we send our knitting to charities like animal rescue.” For someone, or a couple, who weren’t sure about moving here, we’d say go for it! There’s nothing to be afraid of and you will always be made welcome, says Angela.
ExtraCare housing gives you the benefit of independence, living in your own apartment, with your own front door, safe in the knowledge that care is available, on site, if and when you need it, allowing you to make the most out of life. There are options to buy, buy through shared ownership or rent. Depending on your income you may qualify for housing benefit to pay your rent. If you’d like to find out more, talk to our ExtraCare team on : 01454 868007 or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/extracare
3137 Badminton Gardens.indd 1
18/05/2022 11:56
downendvoice
July, 2022
n NEWS
n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
Flower show returns
Community brought to life Did you get involved in any of the celebrations to mark the Platinum Jubilee? Perhaps a street party or a school event. Some enjoyed watching Jubilee Pageants, services and processions on tv, but there was something special about coming together as community to mark a once in a lifetime event. We didn’t need to be monarchists to engage with others in our neighbourhood and what an opportunity it provided to get to know others in our streets. Our street BBQ gave me the opportunity to get to know people I’d passed in the streets and therefore strengthen a sense of
connection and belonging. The Church sometimes gets a bad press, but on the same weekend that we celebrated 70 years of the Queen’s reign churches up and down the land celebrated Pentecost the birthday of the church. 2000 years on from the time when Jesus’ followers were equipped to take the good news to the surrounding people Christians gathered together to celebrate the church’s life. The Church is community - a gathering of people who certainly haven’t got it all together, who don’t always get on, but recognise their need of God, know they’re loved by him and seek to encourage
49
With
Paul Peterson Associate Minister Christ Church Downend each other to live in a way that pleases him and makes the world a better place. In this community there are churches of different shapes and sizes with assorted styles of worship, all offering a warm welcome and a message of hope and love. Come and see what true community can look like!
THE Frenchay Flower Show returns in July, after missing two years because of the pandemic. It will be the 77th staging of the flower show, which has more than 150 competition classes for adults and children, ranging from flowers, fruit and vegetables to cake, paintings, photos, scarecrows and sock puppets. Frenchay and Hambrook Horticultural Society and Frenchay Village CIC are jointly staging the show on Saturday July 9, on Frenchay Common by the Friends' Meeting House. There will also be a selection of stalls, cream teas and a variety of cars in the Frenchay Vintage & Classic Vehicle Show, which runs in conjunction with the flower show. The show opens at 12.30pm. Admission is £2.50 for adults, with children under 16 free. For more details and to enter a class, visit the website at www. frenchayflowershow.com.
A family run business for over 50 years, supplying and fitting quality flooring in the Bristol and surrounding areas
One of the largest stockists of Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West Massive choice of quality carpets and remnants Fitting service available with expert fitters Removal & Disposal of existing carpets Delivery service available (Charges apply) FREE measuring & planning service FREE NO obligation estimates FREE sample service Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10 am - 4pm
Vinyl & Carpet remnants available - can be fitted in just 3 days!
Please ask one of our experienced team for details Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate, Bristol BS5 7EY Tel: (0117) 951 7717 email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com web: www.bristolcarpet.co.uk facebook: @BristolCarpets To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
50
July, 2022
n AROUND THE WIs STAPLE HILL WI
IT was marvellous to be part of the community Jubilee celebrations. Our stunning flower arrangement was displayed at Staple Hill Methodist church on the Jubilee weekend. Staple Hill WI are looking forward to welcoming Roger Lancaster, who will come and speak to us on July 19. His talk is titled ‘Mercy Ships’. Sounds intriguing? Come along to find out more, if you are not already a member. We do not have a meeting in the hall for August, when we head off for an activity. This summer it will be an afternoon tea at the Vintage Birdcage in Yate. We will be meeting on August 23, to indulge and enjoy the summer sun. Are you reading this and thinking you would like to meet new people? You may not be able to commit lots of time – that’s OK, we meet once a month. As a member you can participate in as much or as little as you like. We have a diverse membership
and anyone is welcome. We have ample parking for ladies who need to drive to us and we meet on the third Tuesday of most months. Our meeting starts at 7.30pm: come and join us in Christ Church Hall on North Street in Downend. Make new friends, learn new skills, enjoy a cuppa and some cake! Looking forward to seeing you all soon. You can drop us an email to find out more at katetarr@avonfwi. org.uk. Kate Tarr
BROMLEY HEATH WI
AS an opener this month, we want to name-drop and say thank you to our fantastic Vice-President Susan Pitt not only for writing last month’s article in Voice but also for leading our June meeting, because unfortunately Liza was unwell. Unfortunately, our anticipated speaker for June had to cancel, so we decided to enjoy an extra Platinum Jubilee celebration. When an occasion as important as this comes around the ladies of BHWI are keen to make the most of it, especially because Queen Elizabeth II has been a Women’s
Institute member since 1943, and is President of Sandringham WI. Sadly, to date, she hasn’t requested dual membership with us here at Bromley Heath, but we are everhopeful. This evening, however, was a very special occasion and Her Majesty was there to greet us all – even if it was just a life-size cardboard cut-out, with not a corgi in sight. Once the formal stuff was over, committee members Mel S and Mary B started distributing delicious home-made scones with jam and cream along with the Jubilee quiz, covering the 70 years of the Queen’s reign. Team members who were keen Royalists with good knowledge of world events, famous people and significant dates proved invaluable. Later in the evening when Sue read out the correct answers, there were so many cries of “Oh – One Year Out” that you’d think we were on Radio 2’s Pop Master with Ken Bruce. A few members missed our May “star gazing” meeting to take part in the annual Avon Federation of WIs quiz in Portishead. There were 35 teams in total from all over the Avon region and our own Sarah S, Sue Jacques. Margaret H and Jenny finished in the top third, scoring 98 points against the ultimate winner’s total of 118. Legend has it that all good things come in threes, and this is certainly the case here at BHWI, because in our meeting on July 14 we will be enjoying a third quiz – this time a general knowledge quiz hosted by Quiz Master Matt, who is making a welcome return to help us boost our IQ. Better start swotting now, ladies, if you want to come out on top! Margaret Hanwell
DOWNEND WI
THE speaker for our June 28 meeting is Louise Walker, a professional home organiser: she will be talking about how to declutter, organise and streamline our homes to create a calmer, less stressful environment to live in. At our meeting on May 31, our members were treated to a demonstration by a professional chef, who showed us how to display fruits, vegetables and cheese to look stylish and appealing, and shared lots of professional hints, tips and ideas. This was very timely, with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee parties and celebrations taking place over the following weekend! Members then enjoyed the food at the end of the evening, with a glass of fizz to toast the
Queen for her 70 years on the throne. As part of the evening's celebration, members sang the WI anthem Jerusalem for the first time in our history. People enjoyed the singing so much that we may even make this an annual event. We meet at Christ Church Hall, in North Street, Downend on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. If you would like to find out more about joining, please contact our president, Julie, at Downendwi@yahoo.co.uk. You are always welcome as a guest, for a small charge of £4, including refreshments. Deb (on behalf of the committee)
BEECHMERE BELLES WI
THE committee outdid themselves for our celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. All members were formally invited to attend an afternoon tea. Tables were laid out beautifully with Union Jack tablecloths, beautiful flowers, fruit skewers, and all the other wonderful things that make an afternoon tea. The scones, jam and clotted cream were to die for, and of course there was the age-old conversation on how to pronounce scone and whether it is jam or cream first. As the national anthem played, we raised a glass and toasted the Queen's 70-year reign. Food over with, it was heads down for a right royal quiz, pin the tail on the corgi and roll a pound coin for a large bottle of bubbly. I need to add here that no corgis were harmed in the pursuit of giggles! We used this meeting to help the local charity we support, the Resound food bank. Our wonderful members donated food, treats and washing-up liquid. It's funny we think of food when we read about food banks but actually it's all the other bits as well: deodorant, female products and shower gel. Beechmere Belles will continue to help as much as we can. Our doors are open every fourth Thursday of the month, at 7.30pm at Emersons Green Village Hall. We meet in the Willow room upstairs. There is always tea, coffee and cake, so please drop in to say hi and see what the WI is all about. If you would like more information check out Emersons Green & Lyde Green WI Beechmere Belles, Facebook page or email us at beechmerebelles@gmail.com.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
51
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
Be on guard against summer holiday fraud SINCE the Platinum Jubilee celebrations that took place in early June, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on the brilliant sense of community that surrounded the occasion. After two uncertain years, the coming together of neighbourhoods and the fantastically-organised street parties highlighted how important community groups are and the impressive amount that they can achieve. The Jubilee celebrations coincided with Volunteers’ Week. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has always depended on the good will of local volunteers who sit on its scrutiny panels. So, I would like to express how grateful I am for the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, who are an essential part of our team. Whilst celebrating those who continue to make the OPCC a better organisation, I would also like to congratulate Chief Constable Sarah Crew for being awarded the Queen’s Police Medal. She has been recognised for her commitment and
dedication to improving the policing response to rape and serious sexual offences (RASSO). The Chief Constable holds the position of national policing lead for RASSO at the National Police Chief’s Council and has played an instrumental role in providing support for victims and survivors. Last year, she focused on building her national role launching an evidence-based approach to investigating RASSO offences, called Project Bluestone. This pioneering initiative was developed in collaboration with leading academics and in consultation with partners across the criminal justice system and victim services. Avon and Somerset Police was at the helm of implementing this pilot project, with the outcomes and findings now informing a national change in the policing approach to RASSO offences. Finally, with the summer holidays fast approaching, I wanted to raise awareness around holiday fraud and urge local people to be mindful and vigilant when booking flights or accommodation online.
®
With many excited to go abroad following the pandemic, criminals are taking the opportunity to exploit holiday-goers for their own financial gain. Although there are many legitimate booking platforms, some criminals use these sites to defraud victims by advertising counterfeit accommodation. Equally, many are conned by fraudsters impersonating legitimate travel companies, comparison websites and airline websites. In other cases, victims reported responding to an approach or advertisement on social media. Victims have reported being contacted by criminals masquerading as airline or flight comparison employees who offer to take them through the booking procedure, taking a payment at the end. Thereafter, the fraudster may cut off contact or provide their victim with false booking information. Unfortunately, it is not rare for those targeted to only realise that they have been defrauded once they arrive at the airport and are not permitted to check-in.
With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford I must emphasise the importance of conducting thorough research before giving away personal details or handing over money. If a travel deal feels suspicious or too good to be true, trust your instincts. You can visit my website to read the top tips on avoiding holiday fraud and remember, if you do fall victim, always report the crime to Action Fraud.
UP TO 50% LESS THAN A NEW FITTED KITCHEN by simply replacing the doors and worktops
FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
> > > >
MODERN
CLASSIC
TRADITIONAL
CONTEMPORARY
Replacement kitchen doors Cost effective made to measure solution Worktops and appliances Installation in as little as 2-3 days by local professionals
9.8/10 BEFORE
AFTER
11/12 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AL Call us now for a free estimate:
0117 944 3223 dreamdoors.co.uk
UK MANUFACTURED
THE UK’S # 1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER COMPANY
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
52
downendvoice
n MUD PIE EXPLORERS
July, 2022
n CREATIVE ARTS DAY
Why do we feel better when we are out in the woods? IT’S often said that spending time in nature makes us feel good. But why? Many studies have shown that nature connectedness helps us to relax, reduce stress, manage our emotions and feel happier. It increases our immune function, balances our moods and increases our resilience. This applies even if you can’t actually go outside, you can get the same effect simply by looking at an image of a tree or flower, or touching a piece of wood. Research has shown that walking in nature increases short term memory, and even just a 15 minute walk or living near a green space reduces stress, decreases anxiety and helps stabilise moods. Being in nature reminds us that we are part of something bigger, that life on this planet is not just centred on humans. Humans evolved outside. Modern life with its walls, concrete, traffic, alarms and screens is a very recent development in evolutionary terms, even if it seems completely normal to those who were born into it. Our brains were formed in relationship with the natural world, so of course our brains are hard-wired to react positively to natural environments. Our brains need time to process information, and spending some time outdoors in nature is an ideal way to do this. There is a tangible feeling when we enter a natural space of relief, of stress lifting. Our minds are continually processing information from our senses, but when we are out in nature we can tune into the senses more easily. Sitting still in nature is a great way to focus on beauty. Sometimes creatures start popping out as the forest ‘gets used’ to us being around. As we remain still we notice more and more about what is going on around us and it’s easier to appreciate beauty, both large and small. If you would like to, try taking some binoculars or a magnifying glass with you, to focus on things you might not normally be able to notice. Maybe take a notebook and write down the things you notice or the thoughts or emotions you experience. Focussing on taking photos, drawing or painting can be another good way to connect to natural spaces. Spending time in nature, in whatever way suits you best will be very likely to help you balance your mood, stay positive and increase your powers of concentration and creativity. We invite you to make it a regular part of your routine to spend some time in nature. Remember to tune into all your senses, move slowly, appreciate the beauty, and breathe! At Mud Pie Explorers we see first hand the benefits that the children we work with experience from spending time playing outdoors in nature. If you think your child would benefit from more time in Nature maybe you would like to book them in for an adventure with us? Pop along to www.mud-pies. co.uk to find out more.
Red Elephant: "Students will exhibit alongside local artists and makers including Karen Davies of Mustard Cuts with her hand-cut paper art."
Free community event: Creative Arts Day at Mangotsfield Secondary School THE creative art departments at Mangotsfield secondary School are looking forward to a collaborative event with BSpoke16 artists on Saturday 9th July, 11am-4pm. The school hall, art rooms and front outdoor space will be open to the public to visit the FREE community event; ‘Creative Arts Day and Makers market'. The Creative Arts Day will also be incorporating Mangotsfield’s first Performing Arts Spectacular. There will be a range of sketches, musical performances, dance and magic acts to entertain audiences throughout the day on stage, competing for the 1st prize of vouchers to Bristol Hippodrome. The school art leaders will have art stalls selling artworks made at home and in school. The school stall ‘Mango Prints’ will be selling a range of prints creating in response to music, abstract art, Eco Issues and natural forms. The money from the print sales and raffle ticket sales will be invested back into the art department to provide further creative opportunities for the students. To extend experiences students will also be offering free craft tables for the visitors to create crafts on the day to take home. There will be wide range of arts, crafts and refreshment stalls at the event, offering further opportunities for the students at Mangotsfield to work and learn from creative people in the local community. Visit BSpoke16.co.uk to view the full list of exhibitors.
Creative Arts Day
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
53
n CHRISTINE'S COLUMN
Summer 1966 and all that YOU would think a family holiday on the Sealink ferry to spend a couple of weeks with my Swedish penfriend Birgitta and her family would be enough excitement, wouldn't you? But no—no sooner had we arrived at the Ship Hotel in Grimsby before crossing the North Sea to Sweden than there was chanting going on in the street below our bedroom. We looked out of the window and saw crowds of people coming along the road, waving their arms in the air with jubilation. Of course, my brother said with glee, it's because England has won the World Cup! How we managed to get to
sleep that night I do not know. We did have a lovely time in Sweden in Trollhattan with our Swedish friends and in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. We stayed in our friends' luxurious flat in Trollhattan while they stayed in their delightful summerhouse, which you can guess we visited. My parents asked Birgitta if she would like to go to Stockholm with us but, like me at the time, we were both very shy, so she politely declined the invitation. So, we were left to our own devices and we enjoyed exploring the capital immensely. On the return journey we stayed at the Ship Hotel again but
this time, while we were having breakfast, a group of long-haired young men were also having breakfast. My mum said: "They look like a pop group!" Sure enough, after a bit of investigation they turned out to be The Merseys - well, the backing group anyway. My brother Alan found out which room they were staying in. Luckily enough, when he knocked on their door they invited us in. It was with trepidation that we ventured in to ask for their autographs. The actual Merseys—Tony Crane and Billy Kinsley — were still in bed!
with
Christine Broadway One of the lads went and got their autographs for us. It was jolly lucky I had my autograph book with me!
n DOWNEND GARDENING CLUB AT LINCOMBE BARN WE are having a good June: we went on a morning trip to Yeo Valley organic garden. It was a lovely visit to walk around the beautiful garden, all grown organically. We were quite taken with some poppies which had ladybird spots on them, so we are looking out for them for the future addition to our own gardens. The view of Blagdon Lake from the gardens was lovely. We are already thinking where we will go next year. I hope your summer gardens are looking good, and with some sunshine the flowers are opening - and the bees and butterflies are out and about enjoying the pollen. Garden centres have plenty of bedding and perennial plants which are ready to go into our borders now. We are lucky to have such a good selection to choose from. However, as our finances are
stretched, purchasing plants may become difficult, so we can divide plants to increase them, perhaps do a swap with a neighbour, save seeds from our plants and take cuttings: plenty of opportunities to increase our stock. Lots of schools, churches and organisations have summer fairs, and often have a plant stall where you can pick up a bargain. Some of the plants in my garden are known by the name of the person who gave them to me rather than their botanical names. It is a nice way to think of friends, when they come into bloom every year. Many people took part in 'No Mow May' and I hope you enjoyed the extra insects and birds that would have visited your garden, making it a busy place and food haven for the insects. We let a fairly large part of our church field turn into a meadow this summer. It has been wonderful to see the
n DOWNEND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OUR last meeting was a talk on growing vegetables in the greenhouse all year round. We also had an afternoon out to look around a cacti grower's greenhouse. Our next meeting is an evening outing to a National Garden Scheme garden. For more information call me on 0117 957 1703. Roger Davis
beautiful grasses and meadow flowers and we will certainly do it again next year. I hope in future more people will look for areas where we can let nature take over for a while.
It will be good over the next month to keep on top of the weeding and watering, and relax and enjoy our gardens. Have a lovely summer. Mary Head, Secretary
Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family firm with 25 years experience
25% OF
WITH T F H ADVERTIS
H Senior Citizens Special H Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off H Patios H Fencing H Tree Work H Turfing H Hedgecutting H Planting (Shrubs etc) H Organic manure delivered — Also applied H Professional and guarnteed work H Brick & Blocklaying
CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE
Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122
www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
55
n HUNTERS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Downend £315,000 Offered for sale with no onward chain is this charming period semidetached workmans cottage built � � � circa 1850. Pilgrim Cottage offers a wealth of character and charm with its beautiful inglenook fireplace with wood burner, beamed ceilings, exposed floor boards and original bread oven. Located within the heart of Downend Village this property is conveniently positioned only a short walk from the local high street with its variety of shops, coffee shops and restaurants, whilst also being in close proximity to both King George V playing fields, the popular Page Park and several local schools. The property is displayed throughout in very good order whilst still retaining some period features. The accommodation comprises: lounge, dining room/ study, kitchen/breakfast room with hand built wooden unit and solid wood and quartz work tops. A spiral staircase rises to the first floor which consists of two double bedrooms and a large family
HERE TO GET
you
THERE
bathroom with shower cubicle. Externally the property has a lovely private low maintenance mature courtyard style garden
which is laid mainly to flagstone with matching side path offering side gated access and enclosed by a stone built boundary wall.
To arrange an internal viewing appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us on (0117) 9561234.
Emergency Number: 07798 905337 KEEP IT IN YOUR MOBILE
Lock Stuck
and Barrels
The complete door & window specialist
Locked Out? Need to replace or change your locks?
H. G. Harris Family Funeral Directors 9 Broad Street, Staple Hill Bristol BS16 5LN Tel: 0117 956 9479 Fax: 0117 956 4070 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net
■ Swift low cost emergency service to all home and commercial lock-outs ■ Non destructive entry methods gaining entry quickly and efficiently from the initial call ■ Keys or handbag stolen? Burgled? Need your locks changed or re-keying on a new home? Call us.
ALSO: Low cost repair/replacement of uPVC ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR: LOCKS, HINGES, HANDLES & MISTED UP/BROKEN DOWN DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS Full explanation and costs given before any works carried out. All work fully guaranteed. No call-out fee
Call Dave on 07798 905337 www.thebristollocksmith.co.uk Based locally in South Glos
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
57
n M COLEMAN ESTATE AGENTS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
M
E S T A T E A G E N T S
M.Coleman are offering a fantastic incentive for vendors looking to put their property on the market during the months of March and April 2016. For all properties instructed during this period proceeding to a successful completion M.Coleman Estate Agents will meet your Energy Performance Certificate and Solicitors Selling costs. * Including VAT excluding disbursements. We provide a quality service to all our clients based on traditional values of honesty, integrity and courtesy. Our team benefits experience extending beyond 100 years and this expertise is passed to you to ensure we achieve the best possible price for the sale of your home. We listen to our client’s needs and believe communication is paramount in providing the best level of service throughout the selling process. * Terms & Conditions Apply – Please ask for details
M
Coleman
IF you are a discerning buyer looking to create your forever family home, look no further. M.Coleman Estate Agents are delighted to offer for sale this three-bedroom detached property occupying a pleasant corner plot. Situated in the popular Cleeve Wood area of Downend this home has rooms of generous proportions; the entrance hall gives an immediate impression of the light and airy nature which extends throughout. The lounge is positioned to the front of the property and leads by way of glazed sliding doors to the dining room which in turn opens onto the garden. The lounge area benefits from a feature fire surround housing a ‘Living Flame’ gas fire which helps create a warm and comfortable feeling. The fitted kitchen has a range of wall and base units utilising all available space, integrated appliances include an eye-level double oven, hob, extractor and dishwasher with space for a fridge freezer. A door to the side of the kitchen leads to a utility room with additional units, plumbing for a washing machine plus doors to the garden, a cloakroom and personal access to the garage. You will be pleasantly surprised at the size of the first-floor accommodation with the master bedroom offering a dual aspect, en-suite WC and two doors, a reminder of the property's original four bedroom layout. There are a further two bedrooms with the larger
NO SOLICITOR SELLING FEES*
Coleman
9 Clevedale, Downend, Bristol, BS16 2SQ £450,000 – No onward chain
E S T A T E A G E N T S
boasting fitted wardrobes. The family bathroom has a three-piece suite including a shower over the bath, an obscured double-glazed window floods the room with light. The fully enclosed garden is predominantly laid to level lawn bounded by thoughtfully planted mature borders, a paved patio offers the perfect spot to entertain friends and family. There are further gardens to the front and side both laid to lawn; a drive creates off-street parking and leads to an integrated garage which benefits from power and lighting.
From
19 Cleeve Wood Road Downend Bristol BS16 2SF Tel: 0117 9566221 www.mcoleman.co.uk
£895
*
for a fully fitted electric garage door. WAS £1,354 INCLUDING VAT.
NOW RECRUITING
SUPPORT WORKERS
Please send your CV to vacancies@aspirations-support.co.uk
0117 9651447 www.aspirations-support.co.uk
WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: • • • • •
EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING 2 REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS
Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space.
Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge.
CALL US TODAY ON:
01454 740 034 MOBILE:
07537 149 128
*Offer valid for openings up to 2.4m wide & including 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
the place for you…
Scan to get an instant valuation for your property.
downendvoice
July, 2022
59
n OCEAN ESTATE AGENTS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
Offers in excess of £575,000
NEW to the market is this 4/5 bedroom semi-detached home located in Baugh Gardens in Bromley Heath. Ideally located for the Infants & Junior School, for access on to the A1474 and for open green space around Downend and Frenchay this would make a perfect family home especially for those looking for addition work from home' space or for an extended family living together. Set over 3 floors and having been extended to the side and rear there is plenty of space in this home. The ground floor accommodation presents as entrance hall, lounge with bay window and a kitchen diner with access to the rear garden from the kitchen. The ground floor extension offers a lounge/kitchen/ diner with a patio door leading to the rear garden, 1 bedroom and a bathroom. It also benefits from its own private access. This part of the home is currently being used for business purposes but can also be used as an annexe. On the first floor
there are 3 bedrooms ( 2 doubles, 1 single) and a shower room. A further double bedroom can be found in the loft. As the property is situated in the corner of the cul-de-sac
the garden stretches outwards offering sizeable outdoor space with different areas to enjoy, there is side access, off street parking the bonus of a garage. If you would like further information
about this home or would like to book a viewing, please give Ocean Downend a call. Material Information (Provided by the Owner) - Freehold. Council Tax Band: E.
“I love how varied my job is! Each day is different, which means I can fit it around my family.”
START A REWARDING CAREER
WHERE NO TWO DAYS ARE THE SAME!
Louise Boustead Your local Family Law and Divorce legal specialist in Staple Hill
0117 943 4800 20 High Street
If you are looking for: A fresh start in a rewarding career filled with job satisfaction A job with lots of variety, excellent pay and flexibility A career that allows you to make a big difference in your local community Then Right at Home has an exciting opportunity for you to join its award-winning team of CareGivers, with access to a real career pathway. We offer all the tools, training and qualifications you need to forge a great career in care.
Discover a fulfilling career with Right at Home.
Call our friendly team today and see why we are an award-winning homecare company with a difference.
0117 370 1710
000 000www.rightathomeuk.co.uk/bristol 0000 I www.rightathomeuk.co.uk I email@rightathome.com email: recruitmentbristol@rightathome.co.uk
Proud to be part of a network with national 5* Employer recognition
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
60
July, 2022
n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH DOWNEND CAMERA CLUB
Exmoor Coast by Helen Sheppard
Land and sea TAKING pictures of the coast is something that almost everyone does, and it’s certainly a staple subject for enthusiast photographers. The challenge for us is the usual one: rather than just taking pretty pictures, how can something more interesting, striking, or just simply different be produced? The subject is of great help with this – there is natural drama in the way the land meets the sea, an infinite variety of coast, light, weather and tide. Three pictures shown here are club competition entries, and all show the subject in its most placid form. ‘Tide’s out at Lee Bay’ is more about land than sea. The details in the composition provide the interest: the rocky headland, the buildings, the sweep of the kelp-
Tide's out at Lee Bay by Derek Britton strewn land sloping down to the sea, and the tiny figure walking down the path. ‘Exmoor Coast’ appears a simpler shot, although the composition is carefully balanced – the tree and the land are on the classic thirds of the picture. The land has a vibrant colour, and there is a pleasing contrast between it and the sea and sky, that both have enough detail to be interesting, without overpowering the picture. Closer to home, ‘Sunset at Battery Point’ adds interest to the customary drama of the sun going down. The location is instantly recognisable to those who know, and that helps in giving a sense of place; we know that it’s Wales in the far distance, and where the Sunset at Battery Point by Vilma Toms ship is going. What’s more, the ship, the Spica Leader, is a vehicle carrier, so it’s bringing in a few Following the easing of the that shows details of the club, more cars. Just a little more useless pandemic, actual meetings and members' galleries and past information! events have now restarted, with competition winners, plus a Downend Camera Club is a photographic presentations and forum for discussion of all things friendly informal group who meet competitions. photographic. on Tuesdays at 7.30pm at the The club is on both Facebook Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, and Instagram and has a website Ed Shorney LOW Downend. at downendcameraclub.org.uk
Steve Bellamy Ctta eeetllsllaam S e myy S ev vre epB B
LOW LOW
OVERHEADS = LOWER PRICES
OVERHEADS •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s OVERHEADS LOWER ==LOWER •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl PRICES PRICES chosen in the comfort of your •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Huge and vinyl vinyl ownselection home of •Huge selection of carpets carpets and chosen of your your chosen in in the the comfort comfort of •Free quotations without own own home home COMPLETE FUNERALS FROM £3200 obligation towithout purchase •Free quotations •Free quotations obligation to obligation to purchase •No pressure selling CONTACT US ANYTIME ON 0117 956 4796 •No pressure •No pressure selling •Professional service established •Professional established •Professional service established forover over 30 years WWW.JAMIESONFUNERALS.COM for 30 for over 30 years years •All inclusive prices, •All prices, no hidden hidden extras, •Allinclusive inclusive prices, noextras, hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay the quoted price you pay you pay theprice price quoted is the price We Tel: 07860 441776 Wewill willbetter betterany anylike likefor for Tel: 07860 8 like Badminton Rd, Downend, Bristol BS16 6BQ We will better any for Tel: 07860 441776 like all inclusive quote like all inclusive quote or 0117 0117 2565994 or
C Car pets
or 0117 2565994
like all inclusive quote
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022
downendvoice
n LIBRARY NEWS
n NEWS
News from Downend, Emersons Green & Staple Hill libraries
Children lend a hand
Visit Downend, Emersons Green or Staple Hill library and become a Gadgeteer with the Summer Reading Challenge 2022 - it’s FUN and FREE! All children aged 4 – 11 are invited to take part! Children read books over the summer holiday and collect stickers (including some stinky ones!) to complete their special Gadgeteers poster and get a medal and certificate. Join Gadgeteers, Summer Reading Challenge 2022 at a South Gloucestershire library from Saturday 9 July to Saturday 10 September and pick up your FREE bag of Gadgeteer Goodies* and see the difference the Summer Reading Challenge makes to your child’s reading: ‘Wonderful. Really got our daughter engaged and excited about reading. Great idea to keep them reading over the summer’ Parent, Emersons Green ‘…I’d like to do this every day of my entire life!’ Child, Staple Hill Children love taking part and there are lots of awesome FREE activities: Fizz Pop Science workshops and Gadgeteer themed crafts and Lego clubs. Find out more at www.southglos.gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge or like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sgloslibraries for the latest updates.
61
CHILDREN from Christ Church Infant School have helped the volunteer team keeping the high street area looking blooming great. Pupils joined up with volunteers from Downend & Bromley Heath In Bloom group to replant some of the planters by the shops in Downend Road and Badminton Road. In return the In Bloom group not only donated some planters to the school but also came in to help pupils Christ Church Infant School pupils help plant them. with planting in the high street Head teacher Anna Martin said: "The volunteers taught the children so much about plants and what they needed to thrive, and helped make the entrance to our school look much nicer. "Two of our focuses at the moment are about showing respect (our Christian value of the term) to our environment and also to give back to our community, so these lovely opportunities really helped us to do both of those things."
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
62
n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB
Where are they by Linda Meaton
Canine Companions by Joy Flood
Put it in black and white
PHOTOGRAPHY, as we know it, began in 1836 at Lacock Abbey with light falling on photo-sensitive paper and, necessarily, producing a black and white image. For most of its history since, photography has been mainly black and white, with colour being predominant only in the last 60 years. Most keen photographers, in the days of film, enjoyed using black and white; it was cheaper and you could do your own developing fairly easily. However, with modern digital
photography, why continue to use black and white? Without colour, the photographer’s skill may be more tested: getting composition, contrast and tone right becomes imperative without colour. However, if you are wanting your photograph to enhance an emotion or tell a story, black and white can enhance it. All three of this month’s photographs, winners from our last black and white competition, make that point very clearly. Linda Meaton’s studio photograph, ‘Where are they?’ gained third place with its deeply contrasted lighting and shadows instantly tells a story. Is he anxious or afraid, or simply impatient? Why is he drinking? The mystery is for your imagination to provide answers. Joy Flood was highly commended for her gentle photograph ‘Canine Companions’.
Daves Garden Services n Low maintenance specialist n Patio, Walling, Gravels and Sleeper work n Fencing, Decking, Turfing, Planting and more! n 28 years experience, locally based n We aim to beat any similar quote n References/Photos available n Artificial grass available
Call Dave on 07901 554068 for a free quotation
SPECIAL OFFER
25% OFF OAP’s 30% with this ad
HURRY BOOKINGS GOING FAST
Government guidelines strictly followed with social distancing
Not in my day! by Jeff Mckinstry No enigmas here, just a portrait of the bond that can exist between men and dogs. Again, the story and focus might not have come out so well with colour. Jeff McKinstry was commended for ‘Not in my day!’ which combines both humour (the expression on the face of the older man) and enigma (what is the younger man doing?). Again, a strong image, using deep contrast, helps to highlight the story We continue to see new
members joining us. Why not join us, too? If you’re looking for company and new acquaintances, new members and guests are always made welcome (£3 if you just want to try us out). If you’re interested and would like to be part of a small, but flourishing, club take a look at our website lincombebarncameraclub. co.uk or contact us at lincombe. barn@gmail.com. Stay safe – and keep your focus! Sid Stace
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
July, 2022
n MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
63
Looking for a place to store the community's stuff FIRST things first. A huge thank you to everyone who helped organise and run all the events and activities, big and small, for the Jubilee weekend: it was a great success. We might not realise it now, but this was a unique occasion, unlikely to happen again. On Friday June 10 we held our latest meeting. It was not that well-attended but we did welcome some new faces. One topic that did generate some discussion was around a community storage facility and the sharing of community resources. Many local voluntary groups need equipment or “stuff” from time to time, to help them run events. If we had a secure community store we could perhaps encourage the sharing of equipment and “stuff”. This saves groups having to buy or hire at commercial rates, which means more money goes to the cause they represent. But we’ll need a lot of help to get this off the ground, so if you think it’s worth doing and want to help, then please get in touch. About this time we would normally be commenting on what a great time people had at the Mangotsfield Festival, but it's no secret that was cancelled again this year.
However, there are lots of local summer fairs happening over the coming weeks, so please give them your support – they all bring the local community together and help make it a better place. Our local South Gloucestershire Council community engagement forum took place on June 15. One thing that keeps coming up is the reporting of crime, including anti-social behaviour, so a reminder: please report it to the police and not to social media. And finally, we were recently reminded that covid has not gone away. One of our members' family spent a few nights in hospital as a result of contracting it. They are now home and recovering, thankfully. Please take care – you all know the score by now. As always, we’d love more people to get involved, so if you’d like to or you need any help, then please get in touch via MangotsfieldRA@ gmail.com, via the ever popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page or call our chair, Clive Heath, on 07507 168 700 or me on 07918 701 881. Chris Amos
Anniversary book
One of the finished quilts produced by Emersons Green Quilters
Quilters help care leavers A GROUP of quilt makers who meet in Downend are helping out young people make a home after leaving care. Emersons Green Quilters, who meet at the Christ Church Centre in Quakers Road, Bromley Heath, dedicated their June meeting to working together to make stitched blocks to be made into quilts for the charity Quilts for Care Leavers. The quilts will be given to young people aged 16 to 25 as they start living independently after spending time in the care system. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm and welcomes newcomers of all ages, backgrounds and sewing abilities, either as members or visitors. The next meeting is on July 14, with expert speaker Dawn Cameron Dick sharing ideas and skills. For more details visit the website emersonsgreenquilters.weebly. com, the group's Facebook page or email emersonsgreenquilters@ gmail.com.
A NEW booklet celebrating the 800th anniversary of St James Church in Mangotsfield has been published. The church is marking the milestone this year and the new booklet covers its history from 1222 to the present day. Copies are available, for £5, in the church, and can also be ordered from Staple Hill & Mangotsfield councillor Michael Bell by calling 0787 563 1817 or emailing michael.bell@southglos. gov.uk. He said: "It is full of facts and photos, and should be of interest to everyone."
Loneliness & Local Dementia Sitting Service Do you care for a loved one but need some time out for yourself? I WILL COME TO YOU (one hour minimum)
I am an experienced dementia Carer with Care Certificate, DBS checked, one off visits or ad hoc too. Hourly rate £10, or £13 per hour weekends and bank holidays. No personal care undertaken
Contact: Suzanne Parker Tel 07387354837
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
64
July, 2022
n LOCAL HISTORY
Centuries of local history on display HUNDREDS of people visited the local history stall run by CHAP – the Community History and Arts Project – at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration in Page Park. The stall told the story of Downend and Emersons Green from the 1200s right up to 2021. Our voluntary group members enjoyed hearing local people’s stories and knowledge, and handed out our free historical map, which is also available on the website downendchap.org/ historical-map. Visitors enjoyed looking at copies of ancient maps which showed what our area once looked like as a small village. They were surprised to learn about Edward Hodges Bailey, who was born here in 1788 and went on to become a famous sculptor, designing the statue of Nelson that tops Trafalgar Square in London. People of all ages enjoyed handling and learning about some historical artefacts from World War Two – an incendiary device,
The CHAP World War II display a helmet, a child’s gas mask and a blackout lamp. People also reflected on more recent times, looking back at photographs of the lockdowns Downend and Emersons Green
BROKEN DOWN AND MISTED GLASS REPLACED
uPVC Windows Doors & Conservatories Local, family business established for over 20 years n Free, no obligation quotations n All work guaranteed n Backed by Certass certification
MS Systems
Based in Bromley Heath, Bristol Tel 07970 793590 Email: mssystems@blueyonder.co.uk
residents lived through during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some people said that felt like a lifetime ago, agreeing how important it is to capture events as we live through them, because today’s everyday life will become tomorrow’s history. But the most popular exhibit by far was the one about punishment.
Children and adults alike enjoyed trying out the stocks made by Downend Men in Sheds. Stocks like these used to be outside the Green Dragon in Downend when magistrates met inside the pub for the assizes (an early court) in the 17th century. People found guilty of misdemeanours were put in the stocks and left to suffer whatever humiliation and punishment passers-by could throw at them. Nowadays, thankfully, it was just a case of having their picture taken! CHAP is a not-for-profit voluntary organisation that aims to produce a community history resource and encourage the local community to take part in all its activities. The group aims to create a coherent identity for Downend and Emersons Green, built around interesting or significant places, people and events from the past. For more information visit www.downendchap.org, email downendchap@gmail.com or write to CHAP, 49 Overnhill Road, Downend, BS16 5DS. Helen Rana CHAP
Jo joins wild relay A DOWNEND woman is taking part in a special relay from Land's End to John O'Groats. Jo Humphries will be one of hundreds of women who will take turns to carry a baton across the country over 74 days as part of the Women’s End2End Relay. The event, which is raising money to support UK based conservation work carried out by the Woodland Trust, has Jo Humphries been organised by Love Her Wild, a nonprofit group which supports women to organise expeditions and promote outdoor activities, with the motto “we believe every woman deserves an adventure”. The End2End Relay will cover 2,028km (1,260 miles), plotting a course through some of Britain's "most incredible wild spaces". It started on June 16 and Jo, 37, is joining the challenge on Day 18, from Sandford to Easton-in-Gordano in North Somerset. She has invited other local women to join her. Jo said: "I’m really excited to be part of this relay. "I’ve been a member of the Love Her Wild community since I started my passion for hiking and the group has given me loads of inspiration for other things to do in the great outdoors. "The group is so supportive and aims to empower women to get out there! To be part of such a large event, joining women supporting one another feels really good. If any local women want to join me – give me a shout!" Anyone who would like to find out more should visit www. loveherwild.com/end2end or email bex@loveherwild.com.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
65
n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE
Some common complaints CHIROPRACTORS can help with all sorts of common health problems and ailments – even the ones you probably thought we had no interest in! When I was pondering what to talk about with you this month, it occurred to me that I have seen a lot of ‘classic cases’ recently, so I thought I’d share some of them with you. These involve areas of general health and well-being. It’s clear that patients, GPs and other healthcare professionals are often unaware that chiropractors can get great results with these problems – as well as all the other aspects of health and fitness we deal with. So here goes… Headaches Let’s start with a classic problem most of us have suffered with from time to time – headaches. While we have all had a headache before, some poor patients suffer more than others. On a regular basis, patients come to see me about something completely different and only mention their headaches in passing. Many headaches, including migraines, stem from problems in the neck involving the joints, muscles and nerves. Chiropractors are very well placed to use our hands-on care, exercise prescription and daily living advice to help you reduce or even eliminate this problem. Some headaches can arise from complications with your jaw. If you suffer with headaches but also have a ‘clicky’ jaw or uneven bite, it’s possible that the two are
linked and can be easily treated. Tennis elbow At the moment, I’m treating about five or six of these painful injuries each week. This is an extremely common condition that relates to pain in the outside of the elbow, often caused by gripping, twisting or repetitive movements like tennis or guitar playing. Often, we can help tennis elbow by simply identifying the cause and taking appropriate steps to prevent repeats in the future. However, that may not be enough to get rid of the current painful symptoms. A common treatment plan would include soft tissue work, gentle elbow manipulation, laser or shockwave therapy and kinesiotaping – which allows the free flow of blood and lymphatic fluid to cleanse and heal the inflammation – to protect the elbow between appointments. In these cases, it’s also important to check for any neck involvement. Slipped discs & trapped nerves Technically, health professionals would call these disc bulges, herniations or radiculopathies, although most people might refer to them as slipped discs and trapped nerves. They commonly happen in the neck, giving arm pain, or in the lower back, resulting in leg pain. Rarely, they can occur in the thoracic spine – that’s the bit where your ribs attach. The most important thing is, these need to be diagnosed correctly with a thorough history and neurological exam.
5 DOORS FITTED FOR £479 ANY 5 WHITE PRIMED 6-PANEL‘COLONIAL’ OR 5-PANEL‘SUFFOLK’DOORS WITH YOUR CHOICE OF 6 STYLES OF HANDLE, HINGES, MORTICE CATCH, FITTED IN YOUR HOME FOR £479* GLAZED DOORS EXTRA COST Additional Doors available
DOOR EXPRESS
08000 973333 - 07767 376770 A PHONE CALL WILL SECURE YOUR FITTING ORDER DATE
This offer applies to door sizes 78”x30” & 78”x27” Other sizes available for a small extra charge
Chiropractors are trained in doing this so are well placed to diagnose trapped nerves from disc injuries. When radiculopathies (trapped nerves) are suspected, an MRI scan will confirm the cause, which is often a disc injury. I have seen other rarer causes including cysts, spurs and infections, so it can be helpful to rule these out. Disc injuries can be extremely painful especially when they trap a nerve, so we will often co-manage patients with their GP for pain relief. We would teach them how to manage at home with techniques to sleep, stand and sit without pain. Then we explain how they can self-manage their condition alongside the care we provide. The number one treatment for discs is distraction or traction of the area with followup treatments of laser, soft tissue work and other gentle therapies. Patients often enjoy this treatment as it can give shortterm pain relief quite quickly. It is important to understand two things with disc injuries. First, research shows that even a significant disc injury can be improved with traction, exercise and conservative care 80% of the time. Otherwise, more invasive treatments may be needed, including injections or surgery. Second, disc injuries don’t just ‘pop’ back in, they take time to heal. This can take from weeks to months but with steady, conservative treatment you will have a better chance of avoiding surgery, dramatically reducing recuperation and disability time.
with Tim Button, Doctor of Chiropractic at Cleve Chiropractic and Next Step in Mangotsfield
0117 957 5388
drtimbutton@cleve chiropractic.com www.clevechiropractic.com facebook.com/clevechiro twitter.com/clevechiro
Policeman’s heel These are also known as heel bruises. They cause extremely annoying pains underneath the heel and are different to plantar fasciitis, which inflicts pain more in the arch. Policeman’s heel is often caused by inappropriate footwear, being overweight, walking barefoot on hard floor, or even a small stone in your shoe – which is what the pain then feels like! The ‘fix’ involves one of my favourite treatment techniques, where we tape the heel so tightly that it creates a clever cushion underneath to take the pressure off the site of pain. The taping normally lasts 3-5 days and, all being well, we repeat it for around 3 weeks to give the heel bruise time to recover. Then ‘voila’, the heel pain has gone!
EMERSONS TAXIS Emersons Green, Downend & Surrounding Areas
ALL UK AIRPORTS, PORTS & STATIONS COVERED 4, 5 & 6 SEATERS AVAILABLE H Lady Driver available on request H For a Friendly Prompt Service call or e-mail
07960 067 767 framptontaxis@tiscali.co.uk www.framptontaxis.co.uk
www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
66
n SPORT
July, 2022
Carsons build on good start New manager for Mangos THE good start to the season has continued across Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club. There have been a number of highlights: on a team front it was great to see the U13 girls playing their first hard ball match, and winning. On an individual basis, the outstanding performance came from U16 player Max Buckingham, scoring his first century in a 2nd team match against Chilcompton. The innings showed an amazing amount of maturity for such a young player, always placing the ball into gaps and batting at a very quick tempo, which allowed him to score his century in 25 overs. There have also been other individual performances from a number of young players, particularly in the 3rd team, which regularly has a majority of youth team players in it. Their performances have seen the team, at the time of writing, leading their division. This is a reflection on the boys' attitude and approach, as well as the time and dedication given by their respective coaches when leading the age groups. The first team are currently sitting comfortably in mid-table, having won three of their five games to date. After their promotion of two divisions last season, the second team are currently in second place. There have been a number of very comfortable victories for the team in excess of 100 runs. There have been a number of useful contributions from Alex Wallage, James Davies, Steve Sykes, Tom Smurthwaite and Will Thatcher. Finally the club is also indebted to the fundraising efforts of John Douglass, who recently gave up his Saturday afternoon to undertake a 15km obstacle challenge. In doing this he raised over £700 towards club funds. Ian Coles
MANGOTSFIELD United have appointed John Allen as the club's new first team manager. John stood down as manager of Toolstation Western League Premier Division side Keynsham Town to take over the Mangos hot seat on May 31. Former Keynsham Town assistant managers Russ Holt and Josh Bruton, and coach Rich Williams will join John at Cossham Street. The new manager has made no public statements as yet in terms of his plans, or who will be wearing the maroon and sky blue shirts in 2022-23, but that will all follow once pre-season training gets under way by the end of June. The following pre-season friendlies have been confirmed: Saturday July 9: Odd Down (away) Tuesday July 13: Wells City (home) Saturday July 16: Westbury United (away) More fixtures have been arranged but have not yet been officially confirmed. One additional piece of news concerns one of the opponents in the Mangos’ Hellenic League campaign, which starts in August. Following the resignation of Walton Casuals from the Southern League Premier Division, Merthyr Town FC have been given a reprieve and will not be relegated. Cinderford Town, who had been due to join Mangotsfield in the Hellenic League after finishing one place and four points above them, will now remain in the Southern League Division One South, whilst Worcester Raiders have been given promotion to the Hellenic League Premier Division to fill the place vacated by Cinderford. This will mean the Mangos will now have home and away fixtures against Worcester Raiders instead of Cinderford Town. Dave Smale
CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC & PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE WE’VE MOVED, BUT NOT TOO FAR... With a Team approach to healthcare.
Supporting Premiership Football, Rugby, 2012 Olympics and World Athletic Championship 2017
ore added often Choose a class.We..m d discounts bsite with offers an k& Udated on Faceboo
l Chiropractic & Physiotherapy l Back & Leg Pain, Sciatica l Sports Massage l Pilates l Headaches & Migraines l Trapped Nerves l Repetitive Strain Injuries l Occupational Injuries l Sports Injury Specialist l Competitively priced
Y IATR POD L BE
WIL BLE ILA AVA 020 IN 2
Member of the British Chiropractic Association
DAY Monday
CLASS Pilates Pilates Pilates
TIME 10:00 – 11:00 11:00 – 12:00 18:00 – 19:00
Currently online Currently online Live & online
Wednesday Pilates
12:00 – 13:00
From 26/08/20
Friday
10:00 – 11:00
Live & online
Pilates
Check details on Facebook & Website for developments £49 for a block of 6 Pilates sessions.
The practice of pain relief Contact
0117 957 5388
CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangotsfield, Bristol BS16 9EN w w w. c l e v e c h i r o p r a c t i c . c o m
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022
67
n SPORT
Bowls club's new recruits make the grade PAGE Park Bowls Club has produced its latest crop of players. From an original 30 applicants, 25 completed the seven-week beginners' course at the club, the majority of whom will be applying for membership. Lead coach Don Willcox already has 14 new applicants signed up for next year’s course. Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the club, which is between the sensory garden and Park Road, can call Don on 07718 306623, email donwillcox@hotmail.co.uk or visit the club's website at www.pageparkbowling.org.uk.
The newly-qualified bowlers with their certificates
Cleve RFC welcomes coach Nathan CLEVE RFC would like to welcome home Nathan Huntley. Nathan played mini and junior rugby then over 200 first team games for Cleve. It's great to have him back at the club in his new role as head coach, and we are looking forward to the new season. Nathan said: "I've played for Cleve for 28 years and am honoured to be appointed head coach. "I understand what it means to pull the shirt on and represent the badge. "I'm really excited to get started and put my own stamp
on things. "I want to introduce an exciting style of rugby that everyone understands and enjoys, creating an environment that both players and supporters want to be a part of." Our senior players start back for pre-season training on July 5, and anyone interested is very welcome to come along. Email us at cleve80@outlook. com for more details. This season we also have colts rugby for under-17s and 18s, with Simon Clark and James Irvin leading the coaching. Cleve's first-team season in
the Counties 1 Tribute Western North division kicks off with two home fixtures in September, against Cinderford II on the 3rd
and Old Bristolians on the 10th. Adam Sheppard Director of Rugby
Cleve director of rugby Adam Sheppard and chair Simon Wilstead with new head coach Nathan Huntley Picture: Evie Sheppard
ACUPUNCTURE
ACUPUNCTURE Gisela Norman, a highly experienced acupuncturist of 30 years Gisela treats a wide range of conditions from physical complaints, including infertility to emotional and stress related problems. Call her to discuss your health issue on:
07968 855 001
or make an appointment direct at the
Willow Surgery, Hill House Road, Downend on: 0117 970 9505 A Member of British Acupuncture Council and Lecturer
BURGLAR ALARMS
MARK EVANS BURGLAR ALARMS • BURGLAR ALARMS, REPAIRS • MAINTENANCE SERVICE & INSTALLATION • WE SERVICE ALL MAKES OF ALARMS FROM AN UPGRADE AND SERVICE TO NEW ALARM SYSTEMS • ALARM SERVICES FROM £55
FIND OUR REVIEWS ON THE WHICH TRUSTED TRADERS WEBSITE
TEL: 0117 956 0695 MOB: 07770 233 475
EMAIL ENQUIRIES@MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK WWW.MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
68
July, 2022
ELECTRICIANS
AERIALS
MARK EVANS ELECTRICAL
A.G. AERIALS For Digital TV
Est 1967 • Free Quotes • No VAT
Ring Round — Then Ring Us We will undercut any quote for quality work
TELEPHONE
DOWNEND 0117 956 4516 MOBILE 07770 634 804
HOUSE RE-WIRING SPECIALISTS
FIND OUR REVIEWS ON
• SMALL ELECTRICAL JOBS • LED LIGHTING THE WHICH TRUSTED TRADERS WEBSITE • GARDEN LIGHTING, OUTBUILDINGS & HOME OFFICES • TESTING & INSPECTION OF WIRING • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES • BURGLAR ALARMS, REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE & INSTALLATION
TEL: 0117 956 0695 MOB 07770 233 475
EMAIL ENQUIRIES@MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK WWW.MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK
BATHROOMS & KITCHENS
AERIALS
Bathroom & Kitchen Specialists
Est.2004
The Aerial Co.
● TV Aerials & Satellites ● Extra Points ● Repairs ● Sky Work Undertaken ● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting ● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions ● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems
All work carried out by us
One call is all you need
Book now for your makeover
OSBORNE & SONS All work guaranteed.
Call Tony 0777 6188595
Call Nick on 07970 529787 Email: theaerialco@yahoo.com
AERIALS
CLEANING SERVICES
tony1osborne@yahoo.co.uk Find us on Facebook osborneandsons
CARPENTRY
PHILIP PERKINS
Poor Reception Problems Solved Digital Aerials Satellites Repairs Fully Guaranteed Additional TV Points
Carpentry General Carpenter/Kitchen Fitter (Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen)
Humax Recorders TV Sales
• Kitchens supplied & fitted or supply only • Full kitchen or fronts only • Worktops • Fitted Wardrobes • Door Hanging • Skirting • Stairs & Balustrades • Laminate & Wood Flooring • All aspects of general carpentry work
www.theaerialman.co.uk | info@theaerialman.co.uk
0117 9373941 OR 07788 115945
ARCHITECT SERVICES
CAR REPAIRS
CALL FOR A QUOTE - NO JOB TOO SMALL
ELECTRICIANS
100%Mobile Mobile - to work or home! 100% - to work or home!
Bumper Scuffs • Alloy Wheel Bumper Scuffs • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment • Vandal Scratches Refurbishment • Vandal Scractches Minor Dents • Calliper Painting Minor Dents • Calliper Painting Headlight Restoration • Motorcycles Repairs 70% cheaperthan than body 70% cheaper carcar body shopsshops
Call Nick on 0117 2872392
Keynsham Based
Tel: 0117 329 3773 Mob: 07780 713 665
Outside Work = Perfect for Social distancing
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
0117 303 9000
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
July, 2022 ELECTRICIANS
69
GARDEN MAINTENANCE
atom electrical specialist domestic installers
All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires. For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service...
call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974
FREE Quotations
www.atomelectrical.co.uk info@atomelectrical.co.uk
ELECTRICIANS
LANDSCAPING
Hawthorn Landscapes and Tree Care
D. ATTWELL
LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works
We are a family run business est 1990 we do all types of Fencing, turfing,patios,power cleaning Trees and shrubs topped shaped and felled All types of rubbish removed - cheaper than a skip
Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building
Email hawthornlandscapes@yahoo.co.uk
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
Freephone 0800 858 9803 Mobile 07580 260 676
For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
MACHINE HIRE
GUTTERING SERVICES
Digger Hire Grass Cutter Hire Garden Clearance
Apricot Electrical DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL
THE REWIRING SPECIALISTS FREE Rewires and Repairs ESTIMATES PIR Security Lighting Testing Certificates Building Society Wiring Reports FRIENDLY, HONEST AND PROFESSIONAL
200 Overndale Road, Downend Bristol BS16 2RH Mobile
0117 956 3285
07976 665448
FENCING
Replacement and Maintenance:
Guttering, Downpipes UPVC Fascia Boards Soffits and Cladding Unblock & Gutter Cleaning
We can supply the machines manned or unmanned
J AND J CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE & PEST CONTROL LTD
All work guaranteed Based in Bristol area Call Paul for free quote
Tel 07779242184
01454 850201 or 07980 001109 GUTTER CLEANING
DOWNEND FENCING
Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning
E) (ERECTING SERVIC types of e - All 45 years experienc arance etc. cle , irs pa re fencing, L AL NO JOB TOO SM
TEL: 0797 3381663
GARAGE DOORS
All Types of Garage Doors • Third generation Family Business • World Class Customer Service • Independent Specialists • Free Surveys & Advice • 10 Year Finish & “Safe & Reliable Function” Warranty • Downend Based Call Charlie on 07375 883596 or email charlie@egdbristol.com
EGDBristol.com
JET WASHING
Call or Book online
www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 0117 3708528 Mob: 07543056558 Based in Downend, Bristol
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS
HOUSE CLEARANCE
Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance
House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip
07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 £99 1/4 Load Load £99 £99 Half Half £149 Half Load Load Load £149£149
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£20.00 +VAT
Per month
3/4 Load 3/4 £199 3/4 Load Load £199£199 Full Load Full £249 Full Load Load £249£249
www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk
E-Mail: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
70 OVEN CLEANING
July, 2022
PLUMBING & HEATING BRISTOL: 0117 9000 986 MOBILE: 07834 633376
UP TO 10 YEAR
3 generations in the plumbing and heating industry and a quality service from a local family business Boiler service and repair, new boilers supplied and installed, full system and design, free 10 year parts and labour warranty on new boilers, general plumbing. We are also Gas Safe registered - OAP DISCOUNTS
PAINTING & DECORATING
SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & •External Tiler • Mason Painter Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured
Free Quotations
Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411
Classic & Natural stone tiles High Quality Finish www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry PAINTING & DECORATING Interior & façade painting
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
Builder & Interior Decorator
17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience
T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
PAINTING & DECORATING
J L Painting & Decorating Jason Lee Qualified Painter & Decorator No Job too small Free No obligation quote Telephone:
07474573780 0117 2792264 e: jl.painting.decorating@outlook.com
PAINTING & DECORATING
£400 OFF YOUR NEW
BOILER FORALIMITEDTIME
PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY INCLUDED
PLUMBING & HEATING
STEVE PAINTER
DECORATING SERVICES
629179
Third generation family business offering professional exterior and interior painting and decorating services locally.
Traditionally trained Quality workmanship Paperhanging specialist Friendly and reliable Competitively priced Call Steve Painter on:
01179 565 190 / 07853 250 035
07878249260 phil@andersonheatingservices.co.uk
PLUMBING & HEATING
PLUMBING
Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk
Boiler installation, servicing and repairs 10 Year Warranty’s available
518308
PLUMBING & HEATING
PLUMBING
CREST HEATING & PLUMBING
BOILERS, BATHROOMS AND GENERAL PLUMBING
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HONEST & RELIABLE
TEL: 07765 250816
56746
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
July, 2022 PLUMBING
downendvoice SHOWER REPAIRS
WASTE DISPOSAL
B R O K E N S H O W E R ? A p r i c o t S h o w e r s A p p r o v e d C o n t r a c t o r
* TAPS, WASHERS * BALL VALVES * LEAKS, WASTES * OVERFLOWS, DRIPS * LEAD PIPES * TOILETS, FLUSHES
S h o w e r i n s t a l l a t i o n s A l l m a k e s s u p p l i e d I n s t a l l e d , r e p a i r e d R e p l a c e m e n t u n i t s
F R E E E S T I M A T E S
F R I E N D L Y P R O M P T S E R V I C E , A L L W O R K G U A R A N T E E D
A p r i c o t E l e c t r i c a l
2 0 0 O v e r n d a l e R o a d , D o w n e n d B r i s t o l B S 1 6 2 R H Mobile
0117 956 3285
71
07976 665448
TREE SURGEONS
RUBBISH CLEARED
Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074
We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
WIGS
Wigs Bristol
LOCATED IN DOWNEND
We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes.
Please book an appointment on:
0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
J AND J CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES Providing general building, factory facilities work, gardening, pest control
Tel 07779242184 ROOFING
N . BROWN
ROOFIN G LIMITED
SLATING • TILING • REPAIRS GUTTERS • FASCIAS FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES
Give Nigel a call he’s local and has a wealth of experience
✆ 07779 786072
TREE SURGEONS
J.A. Cole & Sons Tree Surgeons • Tree Surgery • Hedge & Shrub work • Precision Felling • Size Reduction • Fully insured • Domestic & Commercial .
PROFESSIONAL EXPERT SERVICE - 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF TREE WORK Free Quotations & Advice
0117 9567298 07768 973291
www.bristol-tree-surgeons.co.uk
WASP REMOVAL
Kwik Care Pest Control
Wasp Removal Fully qualified Competitive prices Call now for a free quote
Jon 07483 826104 0117 9860642 www.kwik-care.co.uk
WINDOW & DOOR SOLUTIONS
We replace & install all new Windows, Doors, Bi-folding Doors, conservatories and much more! We can also service & repair all types of PVC, Aluminium & Timber windows/doors From Misted Double Glazing - Lock Repairs - Hinge Replacement - Door/ Window Handles and more.
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL
077867 30804 or 0117 279 9409 info@treadwellwindows.co.uk treadwellwindows.co.uk BASED IN DOWNEND!
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY EST. 1973
BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER
THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES
SALE NOW ON
MOST PLANTS HALF PRICE OR LESS - SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS
PICK YOUR OWN READY SOON BLACK & REDCURRANTS + RASPBERRIES
(To avoid disappointment please check St Aldams Facebook page and Website for availability)
ERIN MULTIPURPOSE COMPOST Top Quality
£6.50 each or 3 for £17
GREAT FOR OUR POTS, TUBS, CONTAINERS BASKETS AND GARDENS
LOOK OUT FOR OUR SPECIAL OFFERS WHY NOT COME AND SEE US AT ST ALDAMS? SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY
OPEN 7
DAYS
9AM-5 P
M
WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk