Downend Voice October 2024

Ava's success on TV's The Voice

SHE'S more used to singing to the dogs at the Downend grooming parlour where she works.

But when Ava Mannings decided to try her luck on TV talent show The Voice UK she found a much more appreciative audience.

All of the celebrity coaches on the show made a bid to add Ava to their teams, putting her through to the main competition on the 13th series of the hit show.

It means family, friends and customers of Top Groom in Downend Road will be able to follow Ava's fortunes as she bids to win the potentially life-changing competition. Turn to Page 3

HAIR DESIGNERS

Here at Craig Anthonys we pride ourselves not only on the styles but also the advice that we can provide. Our award winning team with years of experience in colouring and cutting can provide a style unique to suite you.

To arrange a no obligation consultation pop in or give us a call.

Serie A chance for young player

Jack Nunn, 18, has departed Mangotsfield United for the Italian top flight side Cagliari.

PAGE 5

Fireworks aid good causes

Downend Round Table has given more than £60,000 to local good causes in the last year. The 2024 fireworks display is on November 8.

PAGE 21

Downend reach cricket top flight

Downend Cricket Club's First X1 has won promotion to the Premier One division of the West of England league.

PAGE 49

Ava Mannings sings on The Voice UK. Picture: ITV Plc

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Man dies in M32 crash

A MAN died and two other people were taken to hospital after a crash on the M32.

Four cars and a van were involved in a collision on the southbound exit slip road at junction one for the Avon Ring Road shortly before 10am on August 22.

A police spokesperson said: "Sadly the driver of one of the vehicles died at the scene.

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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 woman who was a passenger in one of the vehicles went to hospital with injuries not currently believed to be life-threatening.

"A man who was the driver of another vehicle went to hospital for treatment and discharged.

"Four other people went home after being examined by medics at the scene."

The man who died in the crash has been named as Michael Stone, who police say lived in the Bristol area. No further details have been released, at the request of his family.

The southbound carriageway was closed for several hours after the incident.

A police investigation into the collision is underway and officers are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage.

No charges have been brought at this stage.

Anyone with information that could help the investigation should call 101 and quote incident reference number 5224 221 408.

Crash charges decision due

POLICE have finished their investigation into the death of a young man who died when a scaffolding lorry overturned on the Avon Ring Road.

A file on the crash which caused the death of Tyler Carley (pictured), on the A4174 between the Dramway and Siston Hill roundabouts in December last year has been submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, who will decide whether to charge anyone in connection with the incident.

Former Mangotsfield School pupil Tyler, who was 20, was killed when the lorry he was a passenger in collided with the central reservation.

A 37-year-old man was arrested in connection with Tyler's death and later released under investigation.

Tyler lived in Kingswood before moving to Mangotsfield and then Thornbury, attending St Stephen's infant and junior schools before going to Mangotsfield School and then the Castle School.

Since his death Tyler's parents have set up a charitable foundation in his memory, supporting charities which support families affected by road deaths and the loss of children and young people who have passed away.

They have organised fundraising events, including a sold-out event to mark what would have been Tyler's 21st birthday this month, and CPR training.

Wartime explosives alert

SEVERAL homes in Mangotsfield had to be evacuated after suspected Second World War munitions were discovered at a house.

Police were called in on the afternoon of August 23.

A spokesperson said: "As a precaution residents of homes in Kingston Drive, Springfield Avenue and Stockwell Close were advised to leave.

"The cordon was later reduced to one property on the advice of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts."

The object is believed to have been identified as a piece of shrapnel.

Police said all residents were able to return home by about 5pm.

'Stunning' Ava turns the celebrities' chairs

From Page 1

Ava appeared on the second episode of the latest series of the show, in the 'blind audition' stage where the celebrity coaches – will.i.am, LeAnn Rimes, Sir Tom Jones and the joint team of McFly's Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones – sit with their backs to each contestant as they hear them sing for the first time.

Coaches who want to add a singer to their team turn their chair around.

Early in her performance of Damn Your Eyes, by Etta James, Tom and Danny turned around for her, followed soon after by the others.

All of the coaches showered her with praise, with will.i.am telling her: "You're going to put Bristol on the map."

LeAnn told Ava her performance was "stunning", beautifully executed and had "incredible feeling".

Sir Tom said: "You're unique in yourself and I love that."

Danny told her: "I don't think you realise how good that was –that was absolutely impeccable, it was unbelievable.

"You're a one-off."

Ava chose Danny and Tom to be her coaches on the show, which was filmed between October and June this year. The result is a closely-guarded secret.

Ava grew up in Fishponds, Downend and Frenchay, and attended Chester Park Infant School, Hambrook Primary School and Winterbourne Academy.

She first performed on stage for Staple Hill-based St Mary's Players, and says her love of singing goes back as far as she

can remember.

Ava, who is 21, told the Downend Voice: "I've been singing since I could talk.

"My mum always had music going and did am dram (amateur dramatics). I'd see mum doing acting and finding so much joy and happiness in music. By time I could talk, walk and sing and dance, I wanted to be on the stage."

Ava's first stage performance was in a production of The Sound of Music by St Mary's Players in 2014, where she played one of the von Trapp children.

She also performed as the voice of Audrey the killer plant in Bristol Amateur Operatic Society (BAOS) Youth's production of Little Shop of Horrors in 2018.

Ava said: "I've got so much love for BAOS, and a lot of them have texted me saying they can't believe I've gone on The Voice."

Ava was also inspired by a

many different artists, from George Michael and Michael Jackson to American rock band Tool.

But her two biggest influences are Barbra Streisand, who she "absolutely adores", and soul legend Aretha Franklin.

Ava said: "There are people out there that will hear that old soul in me."

Even though she knew the result, Ava watched the ITV show nervously when it was screened in September.

She said: "I was sitting there biting my lip, not knowing what they were going to put on – it was a crazy experience.

"I'm extremely excited to finally be able to see it and for the world to be able to see it.

member of staff at Hambrook Primary School, Sue Cessford, who led the school choir.

Sue, who passed away in 2020, encouraged Ava to sing after hearing her humming.

Ava said: "She made me believe there was something there."

Ava took part in school productions at Winterbourne Academy but after leaving school she cut short plans to study music.

She said: "I wanted to start working, paying bills and getting my own flat."

During two years of working as a groomer Ava has sung publicly at the occasional event, including one-off gigs and funerals, "where it means the most".

And she also sings to the dogs at the grooming parlour "to make it through the day".

Ava says she is inspired by

"It was so nice to be part of the series, have coaching and to see all these artists and meet all these people in the industry.

"Seeing the chairs turn around wasn't a feeling I thought I would ever have, it never even crossed my mind it would happen.

"I still feel extremely lucky to have had those chairs turn around for me, and very privileged."

Top Groom owner Caroline Clancy said: "Ava is singing all the time, the whole day, when she's here.

"She's a lovely, lovely girl –she's also amazing with the dogs "Although she's potentially not going to be back with us, we're really rooting for her 100% – she's an amazing kid."

Ava will next appear on The Voice UK in October – the show screens on Saturdays at 8.30pm and is available to stream via ITV's website.

Ava at work at Top Groom in Downend. Picture: ITV Plc

n This artist's impression of the new cafe and health centre was submitted with a planning application for new signage.

Picture: WH Architects Ltd

Bank building to reopen

DOWNEND'S former Lloyds Bank building is set to reopen as a health centre and cafe.

The landmark building on the corner of Badminton Road and Cleeve Road has been empty for more than three years, since Lloyds moved out in March 2021.

Now it is set to become a private healthcare centre and cafe, operated by Lyfe Health, which is expected to open in December.

The new use was revealed in a planning application for signage for the high street building, submitted to South Gloucestershire Council.

Lyfe Health is the new name for private healthcare operator The Medical, which currently operates 11 centres, including one at Cleeve Wood Road, which will relocate as part of the plans.

A spokesperson for the company said the move to a bigger site would enable it to offer a wider range of health services.

It is also planning to open for longer on Saturdays, and eventually on Sundays, at the high street site.

The spokesperson added: "We will also be opening a café, which will be connected to the business but will also be available for everyone, not just clients using our health services."

Morrisons 'committed' to post office

MORRISONS insists it is committed to providing Post Office services in Downend, despite a number of recent closures.

The counter service at the store in Downend Road has been hit by a series of problems since the supermarket giant closed the McColls newsagent for refurbishment in January and reopened it as a Morrisons Daily, relocating the counter from the back to the front of the shop.

At first the shop had no post office service at all, with an "unforeseen issue with cabling" to the new counter cited as the reason for the delay.

Later closures were blamed on staff shortages and in early September a sign was placed on the counter saying that it was temporarily closed due to a fault with the terminal.

Readers have contacted the Voice to raise their concerns, with Bromley Heath resident Mary Burgess saying: "We no longer have a local working post office. Shame on you Morrisons."

A Morrisons spokesperson said: "We're working hard to ensure our team members have the necessary login IDs and essential training required for processing transactions and the mandatory checks required by Post Office Limited.

"We are committed to offering Post Office services at our Downend store and hope to have the service open and fully operational as soon as possible."

A Post Office spokesperson said: “Downend Post Office is operated on our behalf by Morrisons.

"There have been staffing issues at the branch. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause.

"Morrisons is urgently working through these to ensure service is resumed."

Letters: Page 35

A YOUNG Mangotsfield United footballer has signed a contract to play for a top-flight Italian club.

While other 18 year olds prepare to start university, an apprenticeship or job, Jack Nunn has moved to Cagliari, on the Italian island of Sardinia, to join the Serie A side's Under-20s squad.

He has signed a two-year deal, with an option for a third year, and over that time will be aiming to play his way into the first team squad.

Jack has lived in Winterbourne all his life and first played football for Frampton Rangers, aged four.

He joined Mangotsfield United at the age of seven, to take advantage of the opportunity of progression to adult football.

The move paid off, and Jack first broke into the senior team at the age of 16, after showing "great promise" as he progressed through the age groups.

Club chairman Steve Brown said: "Over the last two seasons, he has become a regular and was part of the two sides that won both the League Cup and the County Cup.

"While it’s obviously a huge loss to us here, we couldn’t be more happy for Jack on this fantastic accomplishment, and it’s no more than he deserves!

"We wish him all the very best in his future career and thank him for his loyalty, dedication and service to Mangotsfield United."

Jack was scouted by Cagliari while he was playing in a football tournament for representative national college sides.

He had been picked to play in the tournament on the strength of his performances in

Cossham Street to Cagliari – Jack's dream transfer

midfield for SGS College. There he studied a BTEC in business and finance and trained under former Leeds United head coach Dave Hockaday, who described Jack as a "versatile central defensive midfielder, box-to-box midfielder, number 10, striker, and occasional centre-back".

Jack was part of the England Colleges Football Association side which went to the Roma Caput Mundi invitational football tournament in the Italian capital earlier this year.

He was spotted by Cagliari during his first game and then watched by a club scout, who offered him a trial.

Jack's dad Dave said: "We ended up going to Sardinia for two nights to see the club – it's a

Ground works on course

MANGOTSFIELD United's new pitch is on track to be ready for use in November.

Contractors Tiger Turf and McCardle sent bulldozers in to the Cossham Street ground at the end of June to clear the turf pitch, so a new 3G all-weather surface can be installed.

The £1.2 million project by the club and Mangotsfield & Blackhorse Sports and Community Association has received funding from the Premier League,

Football Association and the government’s Football Foundation.

It also includes installing new LED floodlights and upgrading the clubhouse.

By September the ground had been levelled, removing the previous 2.2m (7ft 2in) drop between its highest and lowest corners.

New fencing is going up and two new covered stands have been built opposite the main Ralph Miller stand.

really nice club. We were invited back at Easter and at the end they were saying they wanted him."

Jack attended Winterbourne Academy before going to SGS, and started playing football for Frampton Rangers at the age of four and a half.

Dave said: "He went just to have a kickabout at the weekend. "His first game was in the tipping-down rain – it didn't deter him."

Jack also played with development side Bristol Inner City from the age of eight, alongside future Bristol City players Ephraim Yeboah, Rae Nelson, Elijah Morrison and Billy Phillips.

He never joined a league

club's academy, and Dave said this had allowed him to just enjoy playing the game.

Dave said: "In academies people are always worried the kids are going to get shoved out, but no-one ever restricted him from playing football.

"It wasn't something he was looking to make a career out of. This opportunity has come up and he's just gone with it.

"The Italians like him because he's got the technical skills they like but he's picked up the physical side of English football as well.

"It's a big move from Winterbourne to Sardinia –we've never even been there on holiday.

"Jack's very grounded and I hope he will cope very well.

"The worst that can happen is he gets two years in Italy, and comes back with a suntan and something to tell the kids about."

Jack has joined the Cagliari squad that plays in the Primavera 1 U20s league.

He is finding life "very different", especially the language, which he is learning.

Jack said: "Obviously it was a great surprise to get scouted by such a prestigious club, and playing football in Italy, or anywhere abroad, was something I never imagined.

"I'm hoping to become an established team member –progression in time to play for the first team would be a dream come true."

n The levelled ground ready for the new pitch

which is due to be on November 23 against Slimbridge.

Sport: Page 49

The club said the work was "on course" to be finished in time for the first home league game,

Jack Nunn signing his contract with Italian club Cagliari

Jack in Mangotsfield United's away kit last season

Metro Mayor is 'absentee landlord'

METRO Mayor Dan Norris has been branded an "absentee landlord" in charge of the West of England Combined Authority, after taking on a second job as an MP.

The accusation came during a debate by councillors into the spending of £10,000 on an advertising wrap to decorate a double-decker promoting the mayor's Birthday Bus scheme, which was described as a "complete scandal".

External auditors Grant Thornton found the incident exposed “significant weaknesses” in the combined authority’s value-for-money arrangements.

A report by the finance firm upheld a previous finding that spending £10,000 last year on the advert, with huge images of Mr Norris and his dog, was for "political gain".

The ad had been intended to promote the Birthday Bus free travel scheme, but officials in the mayor’s office were able to "bypass key governance controls and financial controls" and circumvent oversight by senior officers that would have prevented the purchase going ahead, auditors concluded.

The wrap was never used

because WECA chief executive Richard Ennis, who has since left the organisation, found out about it and ordered that it be pulled.

Liberal Democrat B&NES councillor Toby Simon told WECA's audit committee on September 9 that the report’s findings highlighted serious issues with the working style of Mr Norris, who is now also the Labour MP for North East Somerset & Hanham.

He said: "I was rather shocked to read that the mayor isn’t regularly present in the combined authority office.

"The mayor uses his political adviser as an intermediary when communicating with senior officers.

"And the mayor doesn’t give

enough guidance to officers on his priorities, so he ends up vetoing recommendations at committee.

“This adds up to an ‘absentee landlord’ mayor who picks favourites in the office and can’t work effectively with stakeholders."

In March the government warned WECA over the poor state of professional relationships between the Metro Mayor and leaders of the three councils who comprise the combined authority.

South Gloucestershire Conservative councillor Ben Burton (Frenchay & Downend) said Mr Norris taking on a second job as an MP could directly impact his focus and time needed to address the

serious concerns and could even make the situation worse, such as officers working in “silos” with poor communication between them.

Fellow Tory and Bristol city councillor Jonathan Hucker said the handling of the £10,000 bus advertising spend was "a complete scandal".

He said: "The organisation is obviously dysfunctional on so many levels.

“I’m not terribly optimistic that these issues will be fixed because the metro mayor now has another job."

WECA's current chief executive, Stephen Peacock, said an independent ‘best value improvement panel’ had now met, with WECA committee members confirming their commitment to improvements.

He said: "There are a lot of things within the organisation that need to improve and change."

Mr Norris, who has previously denied any wrongdoing, has been approached for comment by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Bus franchising moves a step closer

THE long-awaited first steps towards public control of bus routes and fares in the region are finally set to be taken.

At present, private companies such as First and Stagecoach run the area’s buses on a commercial basis, with local authorities subsidising services that are seen as vital but lose money.

Now Metro Mayor Dan Norris and the leaders of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset councils, who sit on the West of England Combined Authority committee, are being asked to commit £500,000 to develop plans for a “radical rethink” that could see them taking back control of routes and fares.

Franchising would bring all services into one network overseen by a single organisation, along the lines of Transport for London in the capital.

Metro mayors in Manchester and Sheffield have moved to franchising, deciding when and where buses should run as well as ticket prices, then commissioning private bus companies to run them.

Mr Norris has previously warned franchising is not a "silver bullet" to solve the region's transport issues because the West of England does not have a mass

transit system like a tram network, which in other regions provides a huge income to help pay for buses.

The other big stumbling block is that the West has no passenger transport executive (PTE) to make operational decisions at 'arms-length' from WECA, which deals with strategic transport planning.

Now WECA could explore options including franchising and establishing a PTE.

A paper titled Bus Improvement Options said: "The current system is not meeting the needs of our region and the people who live here.

“There are many issues that contribute towards this – including declining patronage in some areas, variable customer satisfaction levels and a financial system that is increasingly dependent on public funding support to maintain current service levels.

“To address these issues, a radical rethink is needed on how bus services are funded and operated.

“Political leaders, transport user groups and residents across the region have all asked for franchising to be considered.

“However, there are many options for reforming bus services."

WECA's committee is being asked to fund a £500,000 feasibility study by external consultants into the possible choices for local bus reforms, which would report back next year or in 2026.

The report said the study would "consider a wide range of options for future bus reform", including bus franchising, municipal ownership of the whole system and "enhanced partnership" models where authorities work closer with commercial operators without taking on the financial risks of franchising services.

This week the government unveiled “bus revolution” measures in Parliament that would give all local transport authorities new powers to run their own buses.

The Department for Transport also launched a consultation on new, simplified guidance to speed up processes and reduce the costs of bringing services under public control.

The Buses Bill will be brought forward to introduce changes to further support franchising, as well as other measures on areas such as funding and accessible travel. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service School bus protest: Page 8

The bus advert featuring Metro Mayor Dan Norris

A PRESCHOOL based in Page Park has been praised for its highly dedicated staff and "stimulating play environment".

An inspector from Ofsted visited Page Park Preschool in July.

Her report said the preschool, based at the pavilion next to the Bean Tree cafe, is 'good' in all areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development.

Inspector Louise Phillips said: "Warm, friendly and nurturing staff welcome the children into this stimulating play environment.

"They endeavour to build strong connections with the children and families in their care.

"The staff have clear expectations for children's learning. They focus on strengthening children's communication and language skills and promoting children's independence."

The report said children develop "strong social skills", helped by staff who encourage them to take turns, learn manners and resolve minor

Preschool is 'like a community'

conflicts.

An "effective curriculum" has been created, with activities based on children's interests.

The inspector said: "Staff follow the children's lead and allow them to make choices about what they want to learn. They engage with the children during their play to extend their knowledge past what they already know."

The report highlighted changes made by the preschool's new management team, and the support given to staff.

n Manager Charlotte Watkins with staff and children at Page Park Preschool

The inspector said: "Staff feel that their ideas are taken on board; the small team work well together, which provides a positive working environment."

Extra support for children with special educational needs or disabilities, with small, quiet group activities and outside help where needed, was highlighted.

The inspector said: "The highly dedicated staff know their children well. They get to know the children's interests, their family dynamics, and any struggles they might have.

"This ensures all their children get the best possible start in life."

Strong partnerships with parents, with detailed feedback, support for learning at home and advice on development issues such as potty training, were noted by the inspector.

She said: "Parents state the preschool is welcoming and is like a community."

It was the education regulator's first overall assessment of the preschool, which has 34 children aged from two to four on its roll, since 2018.

Ofsted last visited to inspect the preschool's outdoor forest school provision in 2022.

Manager Charlotte Watkins said: "We are pleased with the ‘good’ outcome of the inspection, especially as it was within the first year of new management.

"We feel that the comments regarding our setting feeling like a community and how the staff know the children very well sums up the ethos of our preschool."

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Rice or Naan: Pilau Rice, Boiled Rice, Plain Naan, Garlic Naan, Peshwari Naan

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Side Dish: Bombay Aloo, Sag Aloo, Mushroom Bhaji, Cauliflower Bhaji, Vegetable Curry

Rice or Naan: Choose Pilau Rice, Boiled Rice, Plain Naan or Garlic Naan (TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY)

Starter: Onion Bhaji, Chicken Kebab or any

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Starter: Onion Bhaji, Chicken Kebab or any

Samosa, Chicken Tikka Starter

Main Course: Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Korma, Lamb Korma, Chicken Bhuna, Lamb Bhuna, Chicken Patiya, Lamb Pitiya, Chicken Dopiaza, Lamb Dupiaza, Chicken Tikka Jalfrezi, Lamb Jalfrezi, Chicken Dansak, Lamb Dansak, Chicken Rogan Josh, Lamb

Parents stage protest walk in school bus battle

PARENTS of children who have been left without a school bus service staged a walk to show the hazards of the 'approved' route to their school.

They walked for an hour from Downend to Winterbourne Academy with 25 of their children, who are pupils at the secondary school, on the first day of term.

Parents have been calling for action to reinstate the axed 458 service from Straits Parade via Downend to the secondary school.

Commercial operator Stagecoach pulled out of the route last year and the school, which ran the service using its own vehicle until July, says it can no longer afford to run it.

Parent Katie Cains, who helped organise the protest walk, said: "The suggested 'council assessed' walking route to Winterbourne Academy from Downend was not a viable option on the day, due to the

wet weather conditions.

"As a collective we made the decision to walk via Hambrook and crossed at the traffic lights. "Throughout the journey, adults had to assist with road crossings, and raise awareness of multiple cyclists also using the same pathway.

"How children from the age of 11 are supposed to navigate and feel safe on this one-hour route is beyond belief."

Katie said the West of England Combined Authority, which has strategic responsibility for transport, had "failed to support or acknowledge" their concerns – or the extra cars on the road taking children to school.

South Gloucestershire Council held a ballot for seats on two other services which serve Winterbourne Academy, the 459 from Emersons Green via Bromley Heath and the 427 from Frenchay.

The council funds places

for children who are entitled to free school transport and allows other families to pay for their children to use any surplus seats. But there were 107 applications for 78 places, leaving 29 children without a place on either bus.

Parents met with Dave Baker, the chief executive of Olympus Academy Trust, which runs Winterbourne Academy, on September 11 to discuss possible ways forward.

Campaigner Libby Rogers said: "Winterbourne are in talks with South Gloucestershire Council for the 458 route to be reinstated but were wanting reassurance about the number of parents that would pay the £209 per term fee for the year.

"They have further meetings with the council about this and we await the outcome.

"As parents it is frustrating that gathering this information has taken so long and we are

anxious about when a decision will be made. We also remain extremely concerned about the long term sustainability of these routes, and do not want to be in the same incredibly stressful situation again next year."

A spokesperson for Olympus Academy Trust said: "We had a positive meeting with parents.

"We need to gather more data before we can commit to a bus service as it has to be financially viable. We are actively working on this."

A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said: "We remain committed to exploring alternative solutions with Winterbourne Academy, the West of England Combined Authority as the local transport authority, and bus operators for those who weren’t offered a space.”

WECA did not respond to a request for a comment.

Murray takes on big challenge in memory of teammate

A FORMER rugby player who took up ironman triathlons to raise money in memory of a former teammate is taking part in his seventh – and biggest yet.

Murray Bishop, from Downend, is set to swim 3.8 kilometres then cycle 180km and run a marathon in the Iron Man Wales Triathlon.

His first triathlon was only in May this year.

As he started the challenge, Murray said: "It has been a turbulent few years for me recently, and those that know me will know that the answer to turbulence is sport and fitness.

"So 2024 is the year when a 50-year-old asthmatic will take on the triathlon challenge to prove that this fitness is real and that I am still young."

Murray is raising money for charity Young Lives vs Cancer, in memory of his former teammate at Old Bristolians rugby club, Robbie Stuart, who died of leukaemia in 2008, aged 28.

Murray said: "I’m really proud to be doing my bit to help this amazing charity.

"The support Young Lives vs Cancer

provides is vital for children and young people with cancer and is a brilliant help to their families, too."

Murray took part in four triathlons in May, one in June and one in July ahead of the final event in late September around Tenby in Pembrokeshire.

Young Lives vs Cancer helps children and young people aged up to 25 who have been diagnosed with the disease, and their families.

It was formed in 2005 from the merger of Bristol-based CLIC and another children's cancer charity, the Malcolm Sargent Cancer Fund for children, and was known as CLIC Sargent until 2021.

CLIC was set up by Frenchay businessman Bob Woodward after he lost his 11-year-old son Robert to neuroblastoma in 1977.

The charity’s social workers offer specialist support, its 'Homes from Home' offer families a free place to stay near hospitals and it gives financial support to cover extra travel, food and clothing costs.

Last year the charity helped 54 children and young people with cancer in the Bristol area, giving out 75 grants totalling £17,759

to local families. Bristol is home to two Young Lives vs Cancer Homes from Home, CLIC House and Sam’s House, which accommodated 125 families last year – the longest stay was 361 days.

The charity's Bristol fundraising and engagement manager, Sophie Hartley, said: "We rely entirely on donations to fund our vital work and so we can’t thank Murray, and his fellow Old Bristolian Rugby club members enough for their fantastic support."

Donations to Murray’s fundraising challenge can be made online at tinyurl.com/ rb3ux5fd

n Murray Bishop with a medal from one of his earlier triathlons

Pride as students rise to GCSE challenge

LEADERS at Winterbourne Academy say they are proud of the "resilience and achievements" of this year's GCSE students.

The school said 74% of candidates gained at least a 4 in English and maths, and 20% of grades overall were 7 and over – equivalent to an A or A* under the old marking system –or distinction and distinction*.

In individual subjects, 39% of chemistry grades were 7, 8 or 9, with 47% of drama, 33% of computer science, 31% of engineering and 28% of Spanish grades 7 or above.

The school's biology candidates all achieved a grade 4 or higher, with 89% of art, 92% of music, 96% of photography, 79% of English and 81% of maths papers between 4 and 9.

Head teacher Jenny Cartwright said: "These students were in Year 7 when Covid arrived and so have had their secondary education affected from the start.

"I am very proud of their resilience and achievements, and of the positive spirit that

they have brought to Year 11 and their exams.

"I wish every one of them success for the future, and I am sure that their time at Winterbourne will prepare them well for their next steps.

"I would also like to thank the teaching and non-teaching staff who have done so much to prepare these young people for their exams in so many different ways, particularly given the difficulties of the past few years, making a real difference to each individual."

The pupil with the highest overall grades was Dulcie Phillips, who achieved seven grade 9s and three 8s.

Other students highlighted were: James Boyd with four 9s, three 8s and two 7s;

Michelle Chan, four 9s, a distinction*, two 8s and two 7s; Stephen Coney, three 9s, one distinction*, three 8s and one 7; Katie Cooke, three 9s, four 8s and one 7; Lana Grice, three 9s and two 8s; Raul Griffin-Santos, two 9s, four 8s and four 7s; Sam Ovenden, one 9, two distinction*, four 8 and two 7s; Sam RicherCoward, four 9s, one distinction and four 8s.

The school's Year 10 pupils also took exams, in citizenship and religious studies: Evie Clews achieved the highest score on the citizenship paper of any student in the country.

Winterbourne Academy is run by the Olympus Academy Trust.

Raul Griffin-Santos, Cameron Norris and Josh Thomas with their results

Dulcie Phillips, who achieved the school's highest overall grades, with Sam Ovenden

'Exceptional' GCSE results at Downend

LEADERS at schools in the Downend area say they are "delighted" by the performance of this year's GCSE students.

Year 11 pupils at Downend School and Mangotsfield School were among more than 600,000 across the country who picking up their results in late August.

This year's GCSE candidates were in Year 7 at the start of the pandemic, but are the first year to see no adjustments made to their results to take lost classroom learning into account, as part of plans for exams to "return to normal".

Nationally, the number of GCSEs at grade 4 or above was down slightly – 67.4% compared with 67.8% last year.

The percentage of GCSEs awarded at grade 7 and above was 21.7%.

At Downend School, teachers said students had produced "an exceptional set of GCSE results, with strong performance across a wide range of subjects".

The school said 76% of students achieved a grade 4 or above in both English and Maths, with 49% getting a grade 5 or

n Downend School students with their results envelopes

above in the two key subjects.

Across the board, 77% of entries achieved a grade 4 or higher, more than 8% above the national average rate, while a fifth of entries resulted in a grade 7 or above, equivalent to an A or A* under the previous marking system.

Head teacher Linda Ferris said: "We are absolutely delighted with this year’s

examination results.

"So much hard work and effort goes into each and every grade, and we would like to congratulate all of our students on their achievements.

"There were a number of students with a string of top grades, but the hard work and dedication of all our students has allowed them to achieve personal bests, regardless of their starting

points.

"These results are a testament to the commitment of both students and staff at the school.

"Results in core subjects were particularly strong. As a result, our young people are set to progress onto the sixth forms, colleges and apprenticeships of their choice."

Mangotsfield GCSE students celebrate

MANGOTSFIELD School leaders said they were "celebrating another set of strong results" with departing students this year.

The school said there had been a "significant increase" in the number of pupils achieving a grade 4 and 5 in both English and Maths for the second year running.

Head teacher Hetty Blackmore said: "There are so many individual successes to be proud of, and the school is delighted by the personal achievements of the entire cohort.

"Whilst it is hard to select students to praise individually, several have exceeded expectations at a national level."

Students whose achievements were highlighted by the school include:

• Mishka Chouhan, who achieved five grade 9s, two grade 8s and two grade 7s.

• George Jones: four 9s, three 8s and two 6s.

• Rowan Hughes: four 9s, two 8s and two grade 7s

• Gabriella Unciano: four grade 9s, three 8s and two 6s

• Tristan Hughes: three 9s, four 8s and two 7s

• Toby Walker: two 9s, four 8s, two 7s, two 6s

• Nikola Saldaka: one 9, six 8s, one 7, one 6.

• Connor Rigby: one 9, one 8, four 7s, one 6.

• Natalia Pearce: three 8s, four 7s, one 6.

• Joe Threlfall: one 8, three 7s, three 6s, two 5s

Mrs Blackmore said: "We are delighted for the students.

"The effort and dedication shown during their final year has been inspiring, and I am so

pleased with the progress and results of so many.

"We wish them all the best for their bright and brilliant futures.

"This is a testament to the hard work of the students and the dedication of our staff at the school."

Students leave Mangotsfield after Year 11, with some going on to the Downend Sixth Form Centre which serves both Downend School and Mangotsfield School, while others will go to colleges including St Brendan's and SGS, apprenticeships and training.

Mishka Chouhan Gabriella Unciano Connor Rigby Joe Threlfall Nikola Saldaka Natalia Pearce

Flats plan for former Boots building

PLANS to redevelop Staple Hill's former Boots pharmacy, creating six flats, have been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council.

The plans include a three-storey extension to the back of the building to accommodate some of the new one-bedroom flats.

Boots closed its branch on the site in January, as part of a programme of 300 store closures across the country. The US-owned retailer declined say how man staff lost their jobs.

The building was sold at auction earlier this year for £296,000 by property agents Savills.

Kingswood-based DDP Renovations has applied for permission to replace the existing two-bedroom first floor flat with two one-bed flats.

A new flat would also be built on the ground floor, behind an area retained for use as a shop or office, with another two flats on the second floor and one in a third-floor loft conversion, which requires the raising of the roofline and a new roof.

The plans include a cycle store for six bikes but no car parking.

One comment on the plans had been received as the Voice went to print, by an objector who said: "Where are all the people who will live or work at the property park?"

In a planning statement supporting the

n What the extended building could look like.

Picture: SJP Architectural Consultants

application, agent Owen Hoare of Nimble Planning and Development said: "Parking restrictions apply on nearby roads and side streets, and prospective occupants would be aware that the flats do not include car parking.

"Due to these restrictions, indiscriminate parking is not possible, ensuring no negative impact on the broader highway network.

"Additionally, ample bicycle and waste storage will be available on the ground floor. Given the site's sustainability and the lack of parking-related issues, the absence of parking facilities is considered acceptable in this context."

BRISTOL DOWNEND

n Boots closed its store earlier this year

Mr Hoare said the proposed changes would not have a "material impact" on the appearance of the building from the front, or impact the vitality of the high street.

He said the only external alteration would be the extension and a "minor increase" to the roof height.

The agent said the proposed extension would not harm occupiers of neighbouring buildings and complied with planning policies.

He said: "The flats are relatively compact and are likely to appeal more to young professionals than to families with children."

The plans can be viewed and commented on by searching for application P24/01939/F in the planning section of South Gloucestershire Council's website.

Readers help bring Meadow's confidence back

THE mum of a Frenchay teenager undergoing cancer treatment has thanked the donors who have helped her regain her confidence.

Meadow Ferns, who is 13, lost her hair during chemotherapy treatment for leukaemia.

During 52 consecutive days in Bristol Children's Hospital, she suffered a lumbar puncture leak, where fluid escaped from her spinal column, kidney failure, a collapsed heart valve and a growth on her lung.

But it was the loss of her hair which most affected the former St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School pupil, who has autism.

Mum Sarah said Meadow was gripped by anxiety that the wig she was given could be pulled or fall off, and was unwilling to leave her home.

Sarah found an alternative to a wig called Intralace, which uses a breathable mesh to combine Meadow's existing hair with additional human hair, disguising her hair loss. It

allows her own hair to grow back through the mesh.

However the system is only available privately and costs almost £2,000, with checks and adjustments needed every six weeks.

Sarah, a school administrator who has had to go part-time to be with Meadow during her treatment, launched an online appeal to help raise the money.

Since the appeal was

BRISTOL DOWNEND CHRISTADELPHIANS

highlighted in last month's Voice, more than £950 has been given by more than 20 donors, many of them anonymous, to bring the total raised so far to £1,665.

Sarah added this to money she had saved, to pay for Meadow to have the Intralace system put on in a seven-hour process at the end of August. Enough has been donated to also pay for the initial adjustments needed as Meadow's hair grows back.

The effect on Meadow, now a pupil of Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in Oldland Common, was immediate.

Sarah said: "The first day we came home I wanted to go shopping and asked her if she wanted to stay at home but she said 'no, let's go'.

"She's back in school and she's going outside again to play with her friends.

"She's absolutely loving it – it's opened doors that were completely closed to her.

"It's made a huge difference.

"Before she would never even dream of going out with her friends, she would stay indoors and isolate herself.

"We're very grateful to Voice readers – it wouldn't have been possible without you.

"In this day and age, when there's so much distrust, it's a ray of light to see there are people out there who care enough to help someone they haven't even met. It restores your faith in humanity."

Meadow Ferns has the Intralace hair replacement system put on her head

TURNER'S VISION

Back to school vision check

As the school year begins and children either head back to school or start for the first time, it's crucial to ensure their vision is in top shape.

Peter Turner of Turners Opticians 0117 962 2474 0117 965 4434

Vision problems like myopia (shortsightedness) or amblyopia (lazy eye) are more common than many realise and can affect nearly every aspect of a child's development, including academics, sports, social interactions and self-esteem. With an estimated 1.6 million school-aged children in England living with an undiagnosed vision problem, a comprehensive eye exam is essential for identifying any issues early.

Watch for These Symptoms

www.turnersopticians.co.uk

Some signs of vision problems might be mistaken for behavioural issues or learning disabilities such as difficulty organising tasks or prioritising work, relying heavily on pictures to “read” or memorising through listening, inattention or disruptive behaviour in class and a lack of interest in reading or refusal to do homework.

If you notice any of the following symptoms in your child, it could indicate a vision issue that needs attention:

• Frequent blinking or rubbing of the eyes

• Struggling to stay focused on tasks

• Constant headaches

• Covering one eye or tilting the head to one side

• Holding books or screens close to their face

• Difficulty remembering what they read

If undiagnosed, vision problems could even be mistaken for other conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, or behavioural issues, which can have long-lasting effects on a child's education and overall well-being. At Turners Opticians, we have years of experience helping children with their vision and are happy to assess children of any age with an advanced eye examination.

The Right Fit: Why Proper Glasses Matter

A poorly fitted pair of glasses can lead to further complications, as a child's developing brain and eyes must work together to align correctly, so it’s important that glasses fit well and have the right lenses to match the prescription. Children under 16 should visit their opticians every year, regardless of whether they need glasses or not.

At Turners Opticians, we're here to support your child’s vision and eye health every step of the way. Our skilled optometrists take the time to carefully assess your child’s vision, ensuring that no potential problem goes unnoticed. Our expert team will even assist in choosing their frames so your child can feel confident and happy with their new look wherever they wear their glasses.

If you have any concerns about your child's vision or eye health, now is the perfect time to book an appointment. Call our Henleaze team at 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds team at 0117 965 4434, or visit our website, www.turnersopticians.co.uk.

See you soon!

YOUR Community NEWS

COMPETITION TIME - Name the new Pavilion!

Would you like to name the new King George V Pavilion? In keeping with our community feel, we think it is only right that the new pavilion should be named by the community that will be using it. If you have any suggestions and would like to get involved in naming the new King George V Pavilion please get in contact via email admin@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk or write to Parish Council, Downend Library, Buckingham Gardens, Bristol, BS16 5TW.

Closing date for suggestions is 4th November and the successful winner will be chosen by the Parish Councillors on 21st November. Good Luck!!

KING GEORGE V PAVILION UPDATE!!

We are excited to confirm that the groundwork has now started for the new pavilion at the King George V Playing Fields. All the utilities and the base level are being prepared ready for the construction modules to be delivered on the 11th November. Following delivery of the modules the final installation is expecting to take approximately 5 weeks. Watch out for updates on the construction progress and completion date!!

PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE PARISH COUNCIL

D&BH PC’s Planning Committee receives details of all planning applications in the parish. These are reviewed fortnightly in a public meeting, the dates of which can be found on our website. The public can attend and address the committee with any concerns or comments that they may have which are relevant to the application, which will then be considered by the committee. The committee’s recommendations are subsequently sent directly to South Gloucestershire Council to list on their website. As South Gloucestershire Council is the statutory local planning authority, they will ultimately make the final decision as to whether an application is permitted or refused.

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL’S WEBSITE FOR HELP AND ADVICE

By visiting the South Gloucestershire Council website https://beta. southglos.gov.uk/report, this enables members of the public to report various concerns or problems around our local area, which will be investigated and the appropriate action taken. Items such as a neighbouring hedge being too high or damage to street

furniture, all such items can be reported, and advice is given as to what you can or can’t do, together with any costs that can be incurred. There is also the option to set up a South Gloucestershire Council account, to be kept informed of updates.

South Gloucestershire Council’s Public Access website enables residents to follow the progress of a planning application, save searches for future use, comment on applications and set up email alerts. To register for notifications, please visit https://beta. southglos.gov.uk/search-planning-applications

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCILLORS

Downend Ward

Councillor Phillip Abbott

phillip.abbott@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 0117 957 0075

Councillor Janet Biggin

janet.biggin@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 0117 957 6987

Councillor Ben Burton ben.burton@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07870 639 486

Councillor Jacky Dockerty jacky.dockerty@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07963 841 270

Councillor James Griffiths

james.griffiths@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07988 775 028

Councillor Matt Pitts matt.pitts@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07837 870 039

Councillor Mike Richards mike.richards@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07846 893 543

Councillor Raj Kumar Sood raj.sood@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07901 621 632

Sam Burch

sam.burch@dphparishcouncil.co.uk 07812592256

Staple Hill Ward

Councillor Dave Somers dave.somers@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk 07831 239 195

Councillor Stephen Pick stephen.pick@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk

Clerk to the Council

Mr Kevin Spratt

Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council

07584 425 242

Parish Office, Downend Library, Buckingham Gardens, Downend, Bristol BS16 5TW

Tel: 0117 9567001

Email: clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL

Green Belt protest as petition launched

MORE than 60 people took part in a protest march against South Gloucestershire Council's plans to make Green Belt land available for housing.

The demo, organised by pressure group South Our Green Spaces South Gloucestershire (SOGS-SG), was held between Warmley and Bridgeyate on September 7.

It came ahead of the closure of the latest stage of a consultation on the council's Local Plan, a 15-year blueprint for future development, including potential sites for more than 22,000 new homes.

A group of about 60 people took part in the march, which was held as a new petition against the proposals was launched on the change.org website.

Among those taking part was Jill Barnes, from Mangotsfield, who said: "There was a great spirit and camaraderie on the march, with more than 60 people taking part.

"We had lots of beeps from passing motorists. We were led by 95-year-old John Lawrence, who was born near Siston Common."

The group's petition can be found online at tinyurl.com/6we5xsf9 and volunteers will also be out collecting signatures around the area in the coming weeks.

An update to the Local Plan unveiled

in the summer added 17 new sites, with a total of 1,751 homes, to the previous draft published last November.

These include 140 homes in the Green Belt at Frenchay Christmas tree farm between the M32 and Old Gloucester Road, 35 at Frenchay Forestry in Common Mead Lane, Frenchay, and seven on a site at Pomphrey Hill, Mangotsfield.

They have been added to proposals announced last year to allocate land near Shortwood for 1,430 new homes, with another 800 north of Lyde Green and 195 at Cossham Street in Mangotsfield, on a field owned by developer Taylor Wimpey.

The latest public consultation ended on

September 13. Once the feedback has been processed, a final version of the Local Plan will be prepared and consulted on again next January.

It is expected to be submitted next June for examination by a planning inspector, which is likely to take place in October of that year, with a view to adoption by April 2026.

However the council may have to go back and find sites for more new homes in the light of changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which underpins the planning system, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.

The changes could see another 6,000 homes added to the target for South Glos.

Campaigners at the start of the latest protest march. Picture: SOGS-SG

Community meets emergency services

HUNDREDS of people met police and firefighters and tried out some of the equipment they rely on at the Emergency Services Fun Day in Page Park.

Visitors were able to try on police helmets and stab vests, get shut inside a police van's locking cell and sit in a fire engine from Kingswood fire station.

The five-hour event on September 7, organised by the Avon & Somerset Outreach Team, also gave people the opportunity to get bikes security marked, pick up crime prevention and careers advice and visit stalls from organisations including Great Western Air Ambulance, South Gloucestershire Council Community Conversations, Frenchay After Burns, Jessie May Trust and South Gloucestershire Race Equality Network.

Abdulkadir Sheikhusein of the Avon & Somerset Outreach Team said: "It was our second year holding this fantastic event, and we're thrilled with how well it went.

"The park was packed with a wonderfully diverse crowd, and we estimate that at least 600 people attended.

"The feedback has been overwhelmingly

Dress to impress

positive, and it's clear that the event brought the community together in a meaningful way.

"We look forward to making next year's event even bigger and better."

The police team was supported by the Friends of Page Park, who set up games stalls and sold plants and copies of next year's park

calendar.

Friends vice-chair Steph Purser said the event raised more than £800 to support future activities and improvements in the park, including more than £500 from calendar sales.

She said: "I can't believe we managed the event without any rain after the weather we had for the previous few days - the sun even showed for a while.

"All the exhibitors had a good day and thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many people."

New friends for Hill House Park

PEOPLE who want to help bring new life to an open space in Downend are being invited to a meeting this month.

FAMILIES are being invited to dress up their children – and pets – in their scariest costumes for this year's Pumpkin Patch event.

The pre-Halloween fun day takes place in Page Park on Saturday October 19, from 11am-3pm.

As well as the traditional children's fancy dress contest, this year for the first time a costume competition for dogs will also be held.

The competitions will be judged by the local police beat team.

The Friends of Page Park need volunteers who can spare an hour or two to help run the event, and are appealing for groups and sports teams who usually use the park to muck in.

Anyone who can help should email friendsofpageparkbs16@gmail. com, visit the Friends Facebook page or website at www.friendsofpagepark.co.uk.

Plans to create an accessible nature reserve, including a new pond, wood, hedgerow and picnic area at Hill House Park, on Hill House Road, were reported in last month's Voice.

Staple Hill & Mangotsfield councillor Katie Cooper, who is working with Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council and South Gloucestershire Council on the project, has set up a meeting to revive the park's friends group on October 21 at 7pm, at Staple Hill Community Hub in Berkeley Road.

The green space was given to the community by Alderman Arthur William Page, who also donated the land for Page Park, and was used as a school playing field until around 20 years ago.

The Friends of Page Park have been liaising with councillors on how to set up a group, and Friends vice-chair Steph Purser said: "This is an exciting project which needs the support of a good friends group to lead it."

n The fire engine was popular with families

n Dexter Watts, 8, and brother Oscar, 10, of Emersons Green, get to grips with a fire hose with watch manager Ben Dickinson of Kingswood fire station

n Paul Walker of the Avon & Somerset Outreach Team with PCSOs Anais Taylor and Emma Sheppard, and PCSO supervisor Georgia Bush

n Freddie Hill, 4, of Kingswood, tries on a traditional police helmet

Bosses say home has improved

MANAGERS at a Downend care home say they have made changes since a visit from the regulator, which led to a report concluding that the home 'requires improvement'.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission visited Edgecumbe Lodge in Overnhill Road, which can accommodate up to 21 older people and people living with dementia, for an assessment between January and early February.

Their report, which was published six months later, gave the home an 'inadequate' rating for safety, citing a fire exit door in a communal bathroom that was not secure or connected to the fire alarm system, a storage boiler cupboard that was not secure, with exposed electrical wires and pipe work, overflowing bins in communal areas and a lift that was not working.

The inspectors also said leadership at the home needed to improve.

Responding to the report, Elaine Sardar-Dean, the compliance director at Serenity Homes, which runs Edgecumbe Lodge, said: "Edgecumbe Lodge has been undergoing a comprehensive programme of improvements over the last 18 months.

"This has included a complete review and refurbishment of all the bedrooms, with bright welcoming wallpapers and new floor coverings. The dining room has undergone a transformation, along with the installation of a new purpose-built lift, replacing an original 30-year-old model which was becoming obsolete.

"All items highlighted to the home during the inspection have been completed and all systems in the home are working effectively."

The home's manager, Vickie Siddall, who joined in May, said: "Our committed quality assurance team of staff and dedicated family members always keep us on our toes, to ensure we can deliver the best care possible to our fantastic ladies and gentlemen who live with us."

The Voice has asked the CQC why its report took six months to publish.

Big rise in rape reports

THE number of rape cases reported to Avon & Somerset Police in the last year soared by almost half, from about 2,000 to just over 3,000.

Chief Constable Sarah Crew said the 47% rise means the force area has a rate of reports higher than anywhere else in the country.

But she said this was largely down to more victims coming forward to report attacks, as they had more confidence in the police to bring charges.

Speaking during a streamed question session with Police & Crime Commissioner Clare Moody, Ms Crew said the increase in recorded rapes was "quite staggering", adding: "Something is going on."

She said the proportion of victims reporting attacks had risen from 3.5% three years ago to 17.4%.

The National Crime Survey suggested there had not been a big rise in rapes committed in the Avon & Somerset force area, so the rise was probably caused by much higher levels of reporting, the chief constable said, adding: "It’s about people being willing to report to the police."

The force pioneered a new way of dealing with rape cases called Operation Bluestone in 2021, where a specialist investigation team was formed, along with better collaboration with victim support services and a focus on perpetrator behaviour rather than victims’ credibility.

Ms Crew said it had resulted in big improvements in charge rates.

She said: “From our perspective, there is a strong hypothesis that people have greater confidence in Avon & Somerset Police and they are coming forward.”

Ms Crew said a change in how crime is recorded means cases where a victim was raped many times during the course of a relationship by the same perpetrator were correctly recorded as multiple crimes.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

How fireworks give back to Downend

ORGANISERS of Downend's annual firework display have given more than £60,000 to good causes since last year's event.

Details of some of the 47 community projects and charities to benefit have been revealed as Downend Round Table prepares to put tickets for this year's display on sale.

The volunteer group puts profits from each year's event into a fund from which donations of between £250 and £7,000 are made to causes in the area.

Among the groups to benefit are the Friends of King George V playing fields, the park which hosts the display every year.

Downend Round Table has sponsored the planting of ten new trees at the playing fields, at a cost of £250 each.

Funds raised at the display have been granted to install a new bench seat at another nearby green space, Leap Valley, to give visitors an extra place to rest and take in the view.

A group which helps people with disabilities to enjoy the Bristol & Bath Railway Path has also been supported by a grant from Downend Round Table.

Warmley Wheelers is an inclusive cycling project based at

Anna-Marie

Warmley Station, which provides adaptive bikes to allow people with learning disabilities to enjoy riding on the path.

A grant has been awarded to Warmley Wheelers to help buy a side-by-side tandem bike so people they support can cycle alongside a family member, friend or support worker, and to help meet its running costs. The organisation relies on donations and grants to survive.

Other recent beneficiaries include: charity Raeyah's Hands

of Support, which helps children with autism who are undergoing cancer treatment and was set up in memory of an Emersons Green girl; Julian Trust Night Shelter, which provides shelter and support for homeless people in Bristol; Green Community Travel, which provides transport

for people unable to access buses and trains; Emersons Green Village Hall; Holly Hedge animal sanctuary.

Funding for educational and recreational activities for children and teenagers has been provided to local scout and guide groups, and school PTAs.

Downend Round Table chairman Paul Wells said: "The Downend Round Table Fireworks is not just about fun and fireworks – it’s about giving back to the community."

This year's display will be on Friday November 8 from 5.30pm, with a quiet children's show at 6.30pm followed by bonfire lighting at 7.15pm and the main display at 8pm, with a variety of stalls and entertainment.

Tickets go on sale on October 1 via the website downendrt. co.uk.

The site also has information for anyone interested in joining Downend Round Table, a nonprofit voluntary organisation for men aged 18 to 45.

TEL 07854 177308

Group - St Augustines Church Hall, Boscombe Crescent, Bristol, BS16 6QR

Group times - Tuesday 9:30 am and 11;00am

Anna-Marie

TEL 07854 177308

Group - The Salvation Army 21, Broad Street, Staple Hill Bristol. BS16 5LN

Lesley

TEL 07503 524459

Group - Lyde Green Community Centre. Thistle Close, Lyde Green, Bristol. BS16 7GW

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

Group Times- Wednesday 6pm & 7:30pm. And Thursday 9:30am

Claire

TEL 07886 443709

Group Times- Friday 7:30am, 9:00 am and 10:30 am

Group - ST Augustines Church Hall, Boscombe Crescent, Bristol, BS16 6QR

Group Times - Tuesday 5:30pm and 7:00pm

n Members of Downend Round Table on a visit to Warmley Wheelers, which received money to help buy a new tandem bike

New homes approved despite parking fears

A BUNGALOW and garage in Staple Hill will be demolished and replaced with four new terraced houses, despite neighbours’ fears they will make "appalling" parking problems even worse.

South Gloucestershire Council's development management committee approved the plans unanimously after being told the concerns were unfounded and that the new buildings in Teewell Avenue would be more in keeping with the area than the existing property.

Staple Hill & Mangotsfield Parish Council and eight residents, backed by ward councillor and council co-leader Ian Boulton, objected to the plans.

They said the proposals amounted to overdevelopment that would have a negative impact on local infrastructure.

The objectors said the extra two-storey homes, which will each have two bedrooms, would cause traffic problems,

exacerbate on-street parking issues, lead to overlooking of nearby homes, block sunlight and were out of character for the area.

Two residents wrote in support of the plans by SDE Bristol, saying the bungalow currently standing on the site was “horrible” and had concrete cancer. They said new homes were needed.

Principal planning officer David Stockdale told the committee on August 29 that the parking situation was acceptable.

He said: "There is an argument that the proposed

The bungalow in Teewell Avenue that will be demolished and replaced with four terraced houses

terrace is actually more in keeping with the area than the bungalow that’s there at the moment.

"Officers consider these to be good plans and a good use of land.

"It meets all our policy requirements – it provides sufficient amenity space and parking, it doesn’t cause an impact on neighbours in terms of overlooking and it fits in neatly with the streetscene."

Mr Stockdale's report to councillors said there was enough distance to neighbouring properties to protect against

“any significantly harmful loss of privacy or overbearing impact”.

It said a condition would be put in place to restrict permitted development rights so that the owners could not build an extension or dormer windows without applying for planning consent.

The report said: “The objections from local residents relating to existing parking problems on Teewell Avenue are noted.

“However, adopted policy does not require the consideration of the loss of on-street parking: it cannot therefore form a valid reason for refusal.

“The proposed new vehicle access to the front of the dwellings would not result in any obstruction to traffic flow along this part of Teewell Avenue.

“Overall, the proposal would not cause any severe highway safety or transportation impact and is therefore acceptable.”

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Flower show is on the move

FRENCHAY Flower Show aims to mark its 80th anniversary by returning to the place where it all began.

The volunteer-run community show attracted a record 4,000 visitors in July and is outgrowing its current site on Frenchay Common, which requires part of Beckspool Road to be closed.

The first ever show in 1945 was held on the grounds of the then Frenchay Hospital – and next year organisers hope to return to the same site, on an open space which has been protected from development as hundreds of new homes are built around it.

The new 'village green' site opposite Jenkins Way is bordered by Lime Tree Avenue, Loverose Lane, Frenchay Park play area and the tennis club, as well as the woodland area next to

Begbrook Park.

With the support of Winterbourne Parish Council, which is taking responsibility for the green space from developers, the flower show organisers hope next year's show, on July 12, will be the first major public event to be staged there.

Show coordinator Roger Lloyd said: "This return to our roots will bring back the nostalgia of the good old days.

"There will be more marquees, flowers, plant sales and a wide variety of new stalls and entertainment. And the classic car display will also

Norville & Dobinson Opticians is an independent, well known and long established opticians in Downend.

We provide quality eye care for NHS & private patients, using the latest technology, and have a great range of stylish eyewear to suit all budgets in our spacious, modern practice.

To book an appointment contact our friendly team on 0117 956 0939

n Crowds at the classic car display at this year's Frenchay Flower Show, held on Frenchay Common

include a few WWII vintage army vehicles.

"By shifting the show there we will also include the people who have moved into the new homes built on the Frenchay Hospital site in recent years.

"After the massive success of this year's show, when over 4,000 visitors enjoyed an extravaganza, we've ambitions to make this a brilliant family event for the wider community of Frenchay.

"We're planning an event that will be fun for all ages, with various activities and entertainment."

Organisers have already secured many of the community groups involved in previous shows, including Downend Flower Arranging Club, Downend Men in Sheds, Bristol Phoenix Art Club and Bristol Starlight Cheer Squad to help on the day next year.

They are also planning to offer early bird discounted tickets for sale online in the new year, and are giving an early shout-out to stall holders, traders, and food concessions to contact them.

One area organisers are paying special attention to is sponsorship from local businesses.

Roger said: "Sponsorship is crucial to staging the event.

"The show is an expensive enterprise with marquees costing many thousands to hire, not to mention fencing, power generation, insurance and facilities."

Anyone who is interested in sponsoring next year's show or having a stall at the event contact the organisers by email at enquiries@fenchayflowershow. com.

LOCAL HISTORY with CHAP

ARCHITECTURE and planning

student Elliott Sargent has been digging deeper to find out more about Downend’s lost ‘House of the Future’.

This fantastically-advanced building, featured in an old BBC One West report detailed in July's Voice, was testing energy-saving technologies 60 years ago.

CHAP member Elliott spoke to former Downend resident Beryl Cook, who revealed that this forward-looking house was erected in just one week in late 1964, and occupied part of the walled garden of the former Cleve Hill House Estate. This was on Cleeve Court, just off Cleeve Park Road.

The house was designed by John Ollis, a lecturer at Bristol’s School of Architecture. The timberframe design and glass curtainwalling on the south-side meant the house was very quick to erect. Even this aspect of the house was very advanced: it came flat-packed, like a piece of Ikea furniture!

The bungalow design was to conform to a council ruling that nothing should be built higher than the garden wall.

The house was highly advanced for its time, including a deep

Remembering the House of the Future

n The 'House of the Future' in the 1960s. Picture: Beryl Cook

concrete base that helped to draw heat up from the ground. This was a very early form of ground-source heat pump, a heating method now being employed to aid our conversion to renewable energy.

The walls were constructed of multiple layers: wood on each side, silver reflective foil and two-inch polystyrene, which helped with heat conservation. This was an innovative method of insulation,

and helped contribute to energy savings.

The living/dining room and two bedrooms looked south onto the walled garden, but did not have opening windows: instead doors opened out onto the garden, which aided heat retention.

Unfortunately, the house was later demolished, we believe around the turn of the millennium. CHAP would be fascinated to

hear any other local memories of the house, particularly if anyone remembers attending a playgroup that used to be held in the garden of the house, known as “Mrs Cook’s Playgroup”.

This was led from the garage of the house, which had been converted into a permanent playroom, and run by Mrs Cook for seven years.

Please contact CHAP at big.gin@ talktalk.net or 49 Overnhill Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5DS, to share your memories.

Elliott is passionate about 20th century architecture, and has produced a trail map of buildings in Bristol which is available from Elliottsargent.etsy.com

Downend Community History and Art Project (CHAP) is a notfor-profit voluntary organisation that aims to produce a community history resource, encourage the local community to take part in activities and create a coherent identity for Downend and Emersons Green, built around interesting or significant places, people and events from the past.

A Harvest for the World?

IN 1976 the Isley Brothers sang the question: "When will there be a harvest for the world?"

Jasper Isley was asking “when will there be a time that people have an equal share of what’s going on, and when will they have equity in their lives?”

That equity still seems very distant in the world we live in today. Food poverty is rife in this country and still seems to be growing. Also acknowledged is the widening gap between the very rich and the extremely poor in this country, although we are relatively free from strife.

So now give a thought for those millions of innocent people that are caught up in wars and conflicts that they never asked for and are not party to.

The food and water poverty that they endure is unimaginable

to us. Yet the more we hear and watch about these victims of war, the more desensitised we can become towards their situation.

However, even though the world produces enough food to feed the entire population, according to the charity ‘Action Against Hunger’, less than half of the population can afford a healthy diet.

Some are unable to buy food even when it is available.

New £120m bin contract

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council has awarded a new eight-year, £120 million contract to collect waste and recycling from homes and businesses to current provider Suez.

The council says the new contract, which is subject to final ratification by the ruling Lib Dem-Labour cabinet in November, follows an "extensive, competitive tendering process".

The new contract will start in August next year, and replaces the current 25-year PFI (Private Finance Initiative) arrangement.

The authority says it will "deliver improved value for money" and also allow for the council to improve its recycling rate.

The contract only covers kerbside waste and recycling collections, as the council is taking the running of its Sort It recycling centres and waste transfer stations back in-house.

It says most improvements will be "behind the scenes", but residents will be able to use a new app to make it quicker and easier to report problems.

Cabinet member for waste and recycling services Sean Rhodes said: "The new contract will also allow us to make even greater progress to increase recycling rates.

"It provides the flexibility to, over time, recycle more and different materials from households at the kerbside, making it easier for everyone to play their part to improve our environment and reduce waste."

Earlier this year the council said that it wants to eventually make black bin collections every three weeks instead of every fortnight, with bidders for the contract asked to submit costs for three-weekly as well as fortnightly collections.

But a spokesperson said at the time that changes to the frequency of black bin collections would only happen after steps to recycle more had reduced the amount of recyclables and food waste being put into black bins, which currently make up almost two thirds of their contents.

Suez chief executive officer John Scanlon said the new contract included extending the collection of flexible plastic packaging to all households.

In many areas of conflict and famine caused by the changing environment, food production has stalled.

It is heart-warming to hear the stories of the many millions of people who contribute to food banks in this country and donate to those international charities that are combating poverty and starvation.

The news may seem full of negative stories but there are also

positive steps being made, by individuals and organisations.

It may seem that these are not making a difference but just the other day, a message from a local charity in Western Kenya explained: "Whatever seems a little to you goes a long way to help.”

We believe there is power in prayer and God can work miracles in this world, either directly or by working through us.

On Sunday October 6, we will be joining many churches to pray for those experiencing food poverty, wherever they are and for whatever reason.

We would encourage you all to pray, whether at home or at your local church, to ask God’s help to find ways to help those living in food poverty.

We will be giving thanks for the harvest in the UK and for many of us having enough to eat. Pray for those who have no idea when or where the next meal is coming from.

Perhaps together, through prayer and action, we can play our parts in bringing a harvest to the world.

Mark Tanner

Delivering change will take time

HUGE congratulations to everyone who recently collected their exam results (and to the parents, guardians and teachers!) - best of luck for your new chapter.

Parliament is back in session, following a productive few weeks hiring a team, getting things set up, working with my team on 672 cases for local residents, canvassing to hear priorities, and meeting community

TURNERS HEARING CARE BLOG

Wax or hearing loss?

Ear wax factoid: Your middle ear contains the 3 smallest bones in your body, which despite their tiny size all fit on a 1p coin.

Can ear wax build up be dangerous?

organisations. In just 10 days back in Westminster, our new government has made great headway, including with new legislation to:

• Bring our railways into public ownership

• Set up Great British Energy to provide energy security and to help get bills down

• Tackle the sewage scandal and hold water bosses to account

• Reform renters’ rights

• Give local leaders and communities control over bus services

I’ve raised other local issues too, including asking a question in the Commons on HMOs and securing a meeting with the Housing Minister.

I met the chief executive of NHS England and discussed access to local services. I also met with GWR to do the same.

I got into politics to help right the wrong that sees someone’s background too often determine their life chances and life choices, and am now part of the leadership of a cross-party group, backed by Martin Lewis, focusing on financial education for young people.

It’ll take time to deliver the scale of the change that our community and country needs. Our new government inherited a dire £22 billion gap in this year’s public finances, requiring the Chancellor to take tough decisions following a Treasury audit.

One of these is that it is no longer feasible for Winter Fuel Payments to be given out to all

A buildup of excessive ear wax can cause pain in the ear, an ear infection, itching in the ear and a feeling of a full ear. You might also experience vertigo or dizziness. It’s also one of the most common causes of hearing related problems.

Who can get wax build up?

People who have a narrow ear, skin problems such as eczema, over 65’s as our ear wax hardens with age, people who suffer from Sjögren's syndrome and people who get recurrent ear infections.

What should I do if I think I might have a wax build up?

Again, and I make no apologies for repeating this advice, please please do not poke around in your ear with a cotton bud! This can potentially push your wax further into your ear or even cause harm. Just book in for a consultation.

I’m here at Turner’s Opticians to check your ears for you and see if you have a wax build up - I can even show you videos of the insides of your ears! At the same appointment you can also have your hearing checked too. If your ears do have surplus wax that is causing you the problem, I can use our sophisticated micro-suction equipment to gently and effectively remove it for you.

Hope to hear from you soon!

retirees, regardless of income.

As things have stood, even the very wealthiest retirees – including millionaires –have been able to receive this extra money from the government.

I’m grateful to have heard from a range of people on this issue, including some local retirees who have told me they would rather this went to those who need it, and into our public services, including the NHS.

There is a wide package of support for those just above the threshold, and a big effort to support those eligible for Pension Credit to apply.

There is so much being done locally for the common good, and I’ve recently attended a powerful event to celebrate Ukraine’s Independence Day, joined the Multi-Faith Forum event which followed the riots, heard about support for grassroots football at Cribbs FC and joined the team at Resound’s foodbank in Blackhorse.

I’m always keen to support this community action, and you, in any way I can.

You can contact me at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.

Debbie

Debbie Campbell is a qualified and experienced Audiologist, who has joined the clinical team at Turners Opticians in Fishponds having worked for many years in NHS Audiology clinics.

Claire Hazelgrove with Cribbs FC Chairman Nick Veale

New head at Frenchay

A NEW head teacher has been appointed at Frenchay C of E Primary School.

Nikki Dawson took charge of the school in Alexander Road at the start of the new academic year.

Mrs Dawson was previously deputy head and special needs and disabilities coordinator at nearby Frome Vale Academy, where she worked for many years and which was given an 'outstanding' rating by Ofsted at its most recent inspection in 2022.

She has taken over as permanent head from Katherine Marks, who stepped down earlier this year after seven years in charge, having led the school from its old site at Churchside, next to Frenchay Common, to its new expanded £11 million building on the former Frenchay Hospital site.

Mrs Dawson said: "I am incredibly grateful to the board of governors for giving me this opportunity to join such a wonderful setting with such strong values.

"I am really looking forward to working with, and getting to know, not just the staff and pupils but also the wider community."

Volunteering is 'good for you'

A VOLUNTEER who helps pupils at Blackhorse Primary School practise reading is encouraging others to get involved.

Pam Eastley is a volunteer with charity RSVP West, which has a presence across South Gloucestershire, Bristol, B&NES and North Somerset.

She said: "Volunteering is good for you and for others. This is certainly what I've found since retiring.

"It's great working with the children.

"Our volunteers are all over 50 and many are retired or semi-retired.

"Other projects besides the schools project include a knitting group, surgery drivers and befrienders, and The Matthew."

Anyone who is interested in volunteering can find more details and apply online at rsvp-west.org.uk, or contact Pam at pamela.eastley@rsvpwest.org.uk.

Blackhorse Primary School executive head teacher Simon Botten said: "Reading volunteers like Pam have been enormously useful for supporting the children with their reading at Blackhorse, allowing us to give more time to individuals to help them secure this vital skill.

"Both Emersons Green Primary and Blackhorse Primary School are always on the lookout for volunteers to help with either reading or maths (helping children learn their multiplication tables), so if this is something you'd like to get involved in, please get in touch with the schools."

Nikki Dawson

A volunteer reader with a pupil at Blackhorse Primary School

Call for hosts to help Ukrainians

SOUTH Gloucestershire

Council is renewing an appeal for residents to offer accommodation to Ukrainians forced to leave their country by war.

So far 360 people in the area have offered space in their homes to a total of 576 Ukrainian citizens since the Russian invasion two and a half years ago.

But the authority says it expects to need hosts for 70 new arrivals in the coming months.

The government provides funding to support hosts, with the payments recently increased from £350 to £500 per month, along with other forms of

support.

The council's role is to identify and prepare hosts, while connecting Ukrainians who arrive in the district with support to adapt to life in the UK.

The council’s Resettling Communities team also provides hosts and their guests with support for six months, including access to drop-in sessions, activities and events.

Support offered to Ukrainians includes advice on access to

“Leaders and staff inspire pupils to achieve their best through a demanding, rich curriculum’.”

Ofsted 2021

OPEN DAYS

1st & 9th October at 9.30am, 11:30am and 1:30pm 16th October / 18th November at 6pm 8th & 9th November at 10am

medical services, benefits, language lessons, employment, and re-housing.

A council spokesperson said the authority has had "tremendous success" in supporting Ukrainians, adding: "Almost all the school-aged children are in full time education.

"Over 80% of the adults have been supported into employment or enrolled in further education, and we have already supported over 60% with access to independent living in the community."

For more information people can visit dedicated pages on the council website at www. southglos.gov.uk/ukraine.

People who are interested in hosting can email homesforukraine@southglos. gov.uk.

New disabled parking bay

A NEW disabled parking bay for Downend's high street area is being proposed by South Gloucestershire Council.

The bay on Downend Road, outside Kustom Floors and Furniture, will be one of two which will be enforced under a new order being introduced by the council.

The other is outside the Mortgage Advice Bureau in Badminton Road, which is currently marked on the road but has no kerbside sign.

The council is also updating orders relating to double yellows on more than 30 roads, including Badminton Road, Buckingham Gardens, Buckingham Place, Carpenters Shop Lane, Chestnut Road, Christchurch Avenue, Christchurch Lane, Church View, Clarence Road, Cleeve Road, Cleeve Hill Road Extension, Coronation Road, Croomes Hill, Dial Lane, Downend Road, Downend Park Road, Edmund Close, Grace Road, Hill House Road, Longden Road, North Street, Overndale Road, Overnhill Court, Overnhill Road, Park Road, Peache Road, Salisbury Gardens, Salisbury Road, Shrubbery Road, Sunridge, West Park Road, Westerleigh Road and Woodlands Rise.

Changes include new double yellows at the junction of Overndale Road and Croomes Hill, and on Woodlands Rise near Overndale Road.

Double yellows on Chestnut Road and on Dial Lane, near Grace Court, are being extended, with some new double yellows on Downend Road, Overnhill Road and Overnhill Court.

DOWNEND FOLK & ROOTS PREVIEW:

RACHAEL McSHANE & THE CARTOGRAPHERS + JOHNNY CAMPBELL

FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER 2024

It is perhaps a marker of the quality of artists Downend Folk & Roots has a reputation for programming, that a visit from a member of folk supergroup Bellowhead comes as no real surprise.

Rachael McShane is a renowned folk singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player from the North East of England. She gained fame as an original member of Bellowhead, touring with them extensively and making a number of television appearances. The band recorded five studio albums and, together, they won a staggering total of eight BBC Folk Awards. Parting ways in 2016, the band returned in 2022 for a series of ecstaticallyreceived performances that reminded audiences of their unique alchemy, energy and talent.

Away from her Bellowhead fame, Rachael is a much soughtafter performer and recording artist. Her debut solo album No Man’s Fool arrived in 2009 via Navigator Records, establishing impressive credentials that

THE Royal British Legion is inviting people to join a celebratory evening in Staple Hill to launch this year's Poppy Appeal.

The Poppy Appeal Ball will take place on October 12 at Page Community Association in Page Road.

Organisers say it will be an evening of "elegance, remembrance, and community spirit", with live music, entertainment, games, a raffle and a three-course meal.

Details have been announced alongside a call for volunteers to help distribute poppies and collect donations in the run up to Remembrance Day on November 11.

The ball is being organised by Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion, which covers Downend, Staple Hill, Mangotsfield, Emersons Green and Fishponds.

All proceeds will go towards RBL's work supporting veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

The Poppy Appeal is the

eventually led her to signing with the prestigious Topic Records, the oldest independent record label in the world. She also is the leader of The Cartographers, a band that features the exceptional talents of guitarist Ian Stephenson (Kan, Baltic Crossing), and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting). Their music is a powerful blend of traditional folk and contemporary sounds, with Rachael's stunning voice and instrumental skills leading the line. The Cartographers have garnered a loyal following thanks to their impressive live performances and critically acclaimed debut album, When All Is Still (2018, Topic Records).

Opening the evening will be Johnny Campbell, who emerged onto the UK folk scene writing selfpenned material and delving deep into Northern English folk song and story.

The album From Hull & Halifax & Hell (2020) took him to The Faroe Islands where he recorded a live album on the island of Nolsoy. Since musical instruments hadn't arrived on the islands until the 19th century, this is perhaps the first time Northern English traditional song has been recorded on these islands.

Since March 2020, Johnny hasn't relented, releasing three singles; Hard Times of Old England,

Winter Hill Trespass & A Right to Roam. 2024 sees Johnny releasing True North, an album of Northern English traditional songs recorded on their respective county summits.

Tickets for the concert, which takes place at Christ Church Downend on Friday 18 October, are available online from downendfolkandroots.com and from Melanie's Kitchen in Downend (cash only). They are priced at £15 each in advance or £17 on the door. Doors open at 7.00pm and the music starts around 7.45pm.

The concert will also be live-streamed in partnership with Live to your Living Room, so if you can’t get to Downend, you can watch from the comfort of your own home. Further

information and tickets for the live-stream are available from livetoyourlivingroom.com.

There will be a bar, stocking cider, soft drinks, wine, hot drinks and real ale from locally-based Hop Union Brewery. Audience members are encouraged to bring their own glass/ mug/tankard, as well as reusable bottles for water, as part of the drive to be more environmentally aware; there is a 50p discount for those that do. There will also be sweet treats available at the bar courtesy of Radstock-based The Great Cake Company, as well as a prize draw, which helps to fund the support artists for each concert.

For further information, please email info@downendfolkandroots. com, visit downendfolkandroots. com or find them on social media.

Have a ball and help veterans

Royal British Legion’s largest fundraising campaign, held annually in the weeks before Remembrance Day.

Last year's appeal raised more than £63,000.

Poppy Appeal organiser Ian Campbell said: "The Poppy Appeal Ball is not only a celebration of our community’s support for armed forces personnel and veterans but also a key fundraising event.

n Poppy Appeal volunteers at Sainsbury's in Emersons Green

"Every ticket purchased and every donation made during the evening will help us continue our vital work, supporting those who have sacrificed so much.

"We also welcome local businesses and individuals to contribute through sponsorships or by donating items for the raffle."

The black tie/evening dress or uniform event starts at 6.30pm and runs until 10.30pm.

Tickets cost £28.50 and are available online at www. staplehillrbl.org.uk/events, by calling 0795 010 4450 or emailing poppyappealbristol@ gmail.com.

The Poppy Appeal is also calling on residents in the area to volunteer to distribute poppies for this year's appeal at local supermarkets, high streets, and community events between October 24 and November 10. Individuals, families, and community groups are welcome to take part.

Ian said: "Volunteers are essential to help raise vital funds for veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

"This year, your help is needed more than ever. Whether you can spare a few hours or several days, your contribution will make a real difference."

To volunteer, call 0795 010 4450 or email poppyappealbristol@gmail.com.

Time to have your say on policing

AS your Police and Crime Commissioner, my role is to ensure that the voices of people in Avon and Somerset are central to the policing strategy.

Today, I’m inviting you to help shape the future of local policing by participating in several key initiatives.

I’m pleased to announce the launch of a public consultation on the draft Police and Crime Plan. This plan will set the priorities for Avon and Somerset Police through to 2029, and it’s essential that it reflects what matters to you.

The plan focuses on five key priorities:

*Strengthening neighbourhood policing: ensuring a visible police presence that actively engages with communities and tackles antisocial behaviour.

*Reducing violent crime: addressing male violence against women and girls, as well as serious youth violence.

*Preventing crime: collaborating with other organisations and the public to build safer communities.

*Supporting victims: ensuring victims receive the help they need, when they need it.

*Improving policing standards: providing a fair and effective police service.

This consultation is your opportunity to comment on the draft plan and suggest how these priorities can be implemented.

Additionally, I’m seeking your views on local police funding, particularly regarding how much extra, if any, you would be willing to contribute through your council tax.

Your insights are vital to ensuring the plan reflects the needs and concerns of your community.

The consultation is open until the end of October.

You can participate by completing the survey online or by attending one of my public forums.

The forums are attended by myself, local policing leads, and my team, providing an opportunity for us to hear from you directly.

To find out more, visit the Police and Crime Plan page on my website, www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.

Your voice matters — I look forward to hearing your views as we address these important issues together.

I recently marked my first 100 days in office. I have really enjoyed them, and I feel privileged to represent all the diverse communities of Avon and Somerset.

I have visited police teams, community leaders, charities, community interest companies, commissioned services, local authority leaders, statutory partners and business leaders in Bath & North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Somerset, North Somerset and finally Bristol.

It's been a steep learning curve, and there has been so much to take on board, but luckily I am someone who really enjoys being in the detail and I've been reading reports, meeting people, having conversations and learning in greater depth about the policing issues faced by communities in our area.

Meeting the police leaders and many teams in different

departments has been invaluable in developing my understanding of some of the challenges we face.

Getting out and about and meeting people face-to-face in my community engagement days has been brilliant in helping me to understand how much is being done in terms of supporting victims and working with young people to support their futures.

It has made me realise just how many excellent individuals there are in key roles and organisations, who are using their roles to really make a difference.

Library of Things is coming to Frenchay

A NEW type of library which allows people to borrow tools and equipment instead of books is planning to open its latest branch in Frenchay.

The first Library of Things was opened in Kingswood three years ago by charity Share Bristol.

The idea behind the concept is that there are items like garden and DIY tools, camping equipment and party decorations, which people need once in a while but don't actually need to own.

Started with funding from South Gloucestershire Council, the Library of Things charges members a flat rate to join and they can then borrow items as often as they like with no extra fees.

Share Bristol opened a second Library of Things in Bedminster earlier this year and now wants to open a third branch in Frenchay.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "There are now over 600 Bristol households that

are members of Share Bristol’s Library of Things, a number which has more than doubled since April this year.

"With at least 1,500 things

testing and adding around 100 new items to the Library of Things catalogue each month over the summer.

"Borrowing rates are reaching new highs too, with 422 loans checked out in July, many of which were popular summer items like tents and other camping gear, strimmers, lawn mowers, pressure washers and gazebos, alongside year-round favourites like carpet cleaners and drills."

To fund the new branch the charity has launched a crowdfunding page, which had raised £8,200 of its £9,000 target as the Voice went to print.

Share Bristol has secured a pledge of match funding from the Aviva Community Fund, to effectively double the amount donated online.

available to borrow across the current two sites, the offering continues to grow, as Share Bristol’s dedicated volunteers have been sorting, cleaning,

People who donate are being offered vouchers towards membership of the new Library of Things if the project goes ahead.

Leo Smith

The donation page can be found at tinyurl.com/4snxtah6.

This lawnmower is one of the garden tools popular with members of the Library of Things in Kingswood. Picture: Titch Photographic.

WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

Free Legal Stock Take meeting

Get a FREE Grand Appeal Will and support Bristol Children's Hospital

Nowadays we all have so much life admin to sort out – it is easy for things to get out of date.

We are so lucky to have Bristol Children’s Hospital covering our area. It provides an unrivalled level of service when our youngsters are most in need.

A FREE review meeting with our local, friendly team at Simpson Solicitors is like a Free Legal Stock Take meeting. Being a fully regulated law firm there is no pushy follow up as there is no obligation to instruct them. Just the peace of mind that you have received proper legal advice.

Local solicitor John BadenDaintree says, “The Bristol Children’s hospital literally saved our 6 year old daughter’s life –mobilising an expert team not available elsewhere. During her slow recovery we saw how The Grand Appeal charity covered the many extras that the NHS cannotmaking life a bit more bearable for sick children and their families at the toughest of times”

This October our local Will experts – Simpson Solicitors – have again teamed up with The Grand Appeal.

The Free Legal Stock Take meeting focusses on making sure your legal affairs are in order and if needed they can help you with a new Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney. It is all about making life as easy as possible for those that you care about - if you were to become seriously ill or die unexpectedly.

The scheme allows you to leave

Living

Parent

√ documents are legally valid: Checking your Will or Powers of Attorney are signed in accordance with the complex rules that apply, with advice to make sure they still reflect your current family arrangements.

√ to make sure it’s owned in the best way to prevent problems. There is a £3 charge from HM Land Registry.

√ Reviewing what you own: Making sure those you trust can find and are legally able to access your bank accounts, investments, and life insurance if you were seriously ill or had died.

a legacy to support the Children’s Hospital in your Will. As there is nothing to pay for your Will the charity hope that in exchange people will use their Will to give a small percentage of their Estate to The Grand Appeal. That way the donation will not be taken until they have died - supporting future generations of local sick

children.

√ Inheritance Tax and Care Home Fees: Applying the current rules to your situation with advice so your family don’t receive an avoidable bill for tax or care home fees.

√ Free secure storage service: Offered for your legal documents and the information you might want your family to be able to access.

There are limited places available under the scheme so book now. Then Simpson Solicitors will prepare a Will (or 2 mirror Wills for a couple) absolutely free to you. You will still receive their full award-winning service. They will check your home ownership for £3 and advise you on optional extras such as Additional Trust Protection and Powers of Attorney.

To arrange your Free Review meeting you can pop in to their Kingswood Office or email message@simpsonslawuk.com or call 0117 960 8594 Remember, they offer a FREE home meeting service if you find it difficult getting to their offices.

Michelle Baden-Daintree says “I hope many people will take advantage of the scheme and leave a generous gift in their Will to the Grand Appeal. Call our friendly team on 0117 960 8594 saying you’d like to make a Grand Appeal Scheme Will. Then by leaving a donation in your Will, you can gift a sick child a brighter future.”

Free Will Review

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Michelle Baden-Daintree

Giving thanks

8.2 BILLION! According to Worldometer that is the planet’s current population. 8.2 billion individual human beings like you and me who each day hope to have the food and water they need for life. Yet in our non-agricultural community maybe, we do not stop and give enough thought to where all our food comes from (beyond the local shops that is) or to be appreciative that we have it. Yet every day we expect it to be there - and in abundance.

At Harvest time we do occasionally give thought to farmers and producers locally and around the world, but how about beyond that? The amount, variety and nutritional benefit of food for us all is incredible, and the Bible informs us it is all designed, created, sustained and provided for us by God who is good to all. A song in the Bible says of him,

‘The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.’ Psalm 145, verse 15 and16. We are thankful to farmers, food producers and retailers. As children we may look to parents for our food. When times are difficult, we may turn to one of the local food banks. Ultimately though it is God who supplies what we need, it is to him we are to look to, to trust and to give our thanks.

But what about those who go without? Has God forgotten to open his hand when famine strikes a country, or when a household cannot pay both the bills and put food on the table? No, he has not forgotten. The next line of the song tells us, ‘The LORD is righteous [good, perfect] in all his ways and faithful in all he does.’ He provides for all. When people go without

it is not God’s fault, but ours. Although God is the ultimate source of our needs, if we are able, we still need to plant seeds or work to buy our food. And although God is the ultimate source of the needs of others, we are still to show love, compassion and support to those who are without.

From age ten I grew up with my younger sister and my mum whose health only permitted her to work part time. We were part of a church that taught us of God’s love and demonstrated it with acts of support. I came to personally experience further lines in the song.

The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.

Psalm 145 verse 18 and 19. God is so good to this world that he does not simply

provide for our physical needs, but he saves those who call upon him. Jesus, God the Son came and described himself as ‘the living bread that came down from heaven’ (John 6:51). He came to die and provide our greatest need –that of forgiveness. He came to give us life, new life with God that lasts forever. In body, mind and soul we can know and experience God’s daily goodness, give him the thanks for it, and share it with others.

Early one morning

WE photographers can suffer for our art, crawling off to exotic and remote places, getting up at ungodly hours of the day – and all for what purpose?

Well, a good photograph of course!

And, as for getting up early in the morning, that’s to catch the light of the golden hour.

“What”, I can hear a chorus of voices asking, “is the golden hour?”

In photography, the golden hour is the period of time shortly before sunset or after sunrise which is considered the best time of day for photography because the light:

*Is soft: the sun's rays hit the subject at an angle, which diffuses the light.

*Is directional: the sun is low in the sky, creating longer shadows.

*Is warm: the light has lots of reds, oranges, and yellows.

There’s a difference between morning and evening – the direction

of the sun.

Temperature, the latitude and the surrounding landscape (hills, forest, mountain, desert or water for example) can also cause the light to reflect in very different ways.

Which brings me to the subject of this month’s photographs: liquid sunrise.

All three photographs were taken at about six o’clock in the morning over water.

Two were taken in the far North of Norway, where I rose long before breakfast in order to hang over the side of a boat, camera in hand. At these latitudes the sun angles in very sharply, giving long shadows, sharp contrasts and particularly golden light.

'Sailing into the morning' was taken heading north, close to the North Cape, Europe’s most northerly point, but from the boat’s stern, camera pointing south. Another ship is heading south, the hills to the east bright red while the sky to the west still has the purples of early dawn.

My second photograph, 'Early morning sea fret', was taken 24 hours later, sailing south. In case you don’t know, a sea fret is a low-lying fog over the sea, usually brought on by the rising sun. Here you can see movement from East to West of the sun, reflecting from the fret.

More than 1,000 miles to the

south, Jeff McKinstry also rose at six in the morning, to catch a different quality of light in 'Dawn on the Bosphorus'.

Coming in at a less oblique angle, the light is softer as it cuts, in beams, through the haze above the city, highlighting the minarets. The sea below is given a golden dapple.

Are you interested in photography and want to find out more?

Why not join us? New members, visitors and guests are always made welcome (£3 if you just want to try

CHRISTINE'S COLUMN WITH CHRISTINE BROADWAY

WE had a grand turnout for Chris Biggs' talk at September's speaker and coffee morning at Lincombe Barn.

Among some of his fans turning up, it was so welcome to see some new faces in the audience. I do hope they will all come back again, as well as the stalwarts.

Chris's talk, which was illustrated throughout (we are extremely lucky in having a large screen painted on the wall in one of the halls), started off with an insight as to how Downend has changed over the years.

This was much appreciated by everyone. I have never lived

A trip back to lost Bristol

in Downend and have only got to know it through going to Lincombe Barn.

Chris is a photographer and, as he takes his dog for a walk, he takes photos.

As the final picture of Downend faded off the screen, so another one came on and this was the title page of Bristol Lost.

Chris showed very early pictures of Bristol Bridge, with St Nicholas Church and Bristol Castle.

Some photos were of the old

swimming baths that I am sure we all went to at school, Broadweir and Speedwell. There were photos of Eastville Stadium, once the home of Bristol Rovers, speedway, greyhound racing and of course the Bristol Evening Post Uncle Bob's Firework Display.

Sadly the hour flew by. Everyone had enjoyed the event, as the applause showed.

We will be having Chris back again, as he has many more pictures of Bristol Lost to show us.

us out).

We meet on the second, fourth and fifth Tuesdays of the month at Lincombe Barn, at 7.30pm.

We have a full year’s programme of activities: competitions, presentations from guest speakers, outings in search of good subjects and learning exercises for members.

For more information on our small but flourishing club, take a look at our website at www. lincombebarncameraclub.co.uk or email lincombe.barn@gmail.com

Sid Stace

If you wished you had come to this one, you will be welcome at the next.

Our next speaker, on Thursday October 3, will be Steph Purser, who is known for her involvement in the Friends of Page Park.

No doubt she will tell us about the historical side of the park, the work of the volunteers and the events that go on there.

Please do come along - all welcome.

n Dawn on the Bosphorus by Jeff McKinstry

n Early morning sea fret by Sid Stace

n Sailing in to the morning by Sid Stace

Post office is a disgrace

IS Morrisons trying to close down Downend post office, which actually is owned and run (ruined?) by it?

Since it reopened months ago, it has been closed on and off for several reasons – computer line down, staff unavailable.

Although there is a crackingly better one in Staple Hill, that one is 15 minutes' walk away: OK for me as I am able-bodied, but for many served by the premises that is out of the question.

All the staff – when there – are very good, and patient under trying and very cramped conditions.

Accepting that the grocery part has been there for years, and is more cramped than before, is there really a need for it? The Co-op and Sainsbury's are yards away.

It seems like a deliberate move by Morrisons to close the post office due to "lack of use"!

Perhaps a solution is for the Post Office to move into the back of the Co-op (as at Straits Parade in Fishponds), and close the grocery shop and stop fooling the locals that there is a "service" for them?

Alan Elkan Downend

SINCE Morrisons took over the business, the post office counter no longer operates.

First of all it was always closed for lunch, then we were told they can't get anyone to work on it.

What was in place originally actually worked very efficiently.

What a disgrace!

We no longer have a local working post office. Shame on you, Morrisons. Bring back a working, efficient post office

Shop named in top 100

A STAPLE Hill shop has been named as one of the country's 100 most impressive small firms.

Nom Wholefoods in Broad Street has been selected as part of this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up by the Small Business Saturday UK campaign.

The campaign aims to encourage people to support for small businesses and 'shop local' in the run-up to Small Business Saturday on December 7.

Nom Wholefoods is a refill shop which

counter as a matter of urgency.

Mary Burgess Bromley Heath

Test yourself in the Hard Half Marathon

THE next Doynton Hard Half Marathon is now open for entries.

Hosted by Emersons Green Running Club and now in its ninth year, this brilliant crosscountry race starts and finishes at Doynton and takes runners on a tour of Doynton, Dyrham and Wick across beautiful countryside, farmland, the Cotswold escarpment and the Golden Valley Nature Reserve.

Runners will cross rivers, climb hills, navigate ditches, cross bridges, scramble over stiles, and leap muddy puddles throughout the wellmarked 13 mile course.

The popularity of the race has increased every year and more than 650 runners are expected to line up at the start of the next race, on February 2, 2025.

The race attracts lots of returning fans and those giving it a go for the first time, from serious racers to those who want to have some fun and enjoy the challenge with friends.

They’re supported over the whole route by over 90 marshals, with four water stations.

Over the years the Doynton Hard Half Marathon has raised over £8,000 for charities including Suicide Prevention UK, Motivation, Air Cadets and the Royal United Hospital.

The race raises money for charity through entry fees, donations from runners and a cake and hot drink stall at headquarters on race day.

This year the main charities supported by the race will be North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank, Bath Welcomes Refugees, Medical

helps reduce plastic waste by providing loose food, cleaning and bathroom products.

It was founded by Nikki Watten in 2019 and opened on Broad Street in 2021.

Nikki said: "I'm over the moon to be selected as one of the SmallBiz100 line-up.

"Small Business Saturday coincides with our community event Christmas on the Hill, which makes for a fantastic day to be shopping local and supporting local businesses in Staple Hill.”

Small Business Saturday UK director Michelle Ovens said: "This year’s SmallBiz100 list shows the huge contribution small businesses make to their communities and the wider UK economy.

"Despite the economy turning a corner,

Detection Dogs and the Cotswold Way Association.

The race is open to over 18s: you can enter at doyntonhardhalfmarathon.co.uk.

Victoria Burchill Race organiser & director

Join our quiz night

KINGSWOOD Y’s Men’s Club is a local group based at Lincombe Barn who hold fundraising events to support local charities.

Our next occasion is our annual quiz night on October 26. All profits will go to our charity fund.

It will be held at Tynings School in Eastleigh Close, Staple Hill, at 7pm.

Why not get together some friends, to form a group of six to make a team? We charge £10 a head, which includes a buffet supper.

Our charity fund supports many local charities, many of which nowadays are struggling for financial support. You can even suggest a local charity we may be able to help!

Application forms may be obtained either from our secretary Alan Wallington on 07876 418337 and wally@ysmen.co.uk or our treasurer on 0117 9564320 and chrisholmes25@gmail.com.

Come along and join us for a fun evening!

Jeremy Mundy

Get your jab

CHILDREN and pregnant women are the first in line for the annual flu vaccination programme which is now underway in the South West.

Older people, clinically at-risk adults, care home residents and frontline workers will start receiving their jabs from October.

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are our best defences against these viruses and can be lifesaving, so I would urge everyone eligible to book their jabs when they become available, to protect themselves and people around them.

These viruses leave thousands of people in hospital each year, and the vaccinations help us to keep more people well during the winter months, when we expect the NHS to again be under significant pressure – please come forward as soon as you are invited.

Dr Kheelna Bavalia South West Medical Director, NHS England

the nation’s small businesses continue to feel the fallout of a challenging few years and still need significant support to get back on their feet."

Downend Post Office

Crossing the finishing line at the Doynton Hard Half Marathon

Nikki Watten

Grace

'Social skip day' in Staple Hill

RESIDENTS of flats in Staple Hill had the chance for a big clear-out on their first 'social skip day'.

Social landlord Bromford arranged with waste company Suez to bring a huge skip to the car park in Nelson Road so residents of Berkeley House, Nelson House, Pendennis House, Haynes House, Pleasant House and Shrubbery Court could bring out bulky waste items, from mattresses and furniture to old TVs and bikes.

Bromford's Kevin Johnson and ward councillor Michael Bell with some of the items brought out for recycling

The housing association sent flyers round and its 'neighbourhood coaches', who liaise with residents, also made people aware of the event, helping to bring down a wardrobe from an elderly resident's fourth-floor flat.

Waste was sorted, with reusable items given away, scrap metal and electrical items separated and non-recyclable waste taken to a waste energy plant in Avonmouth.

Bromford's programme manager for cleaning, waste and pest control Kevin Johnson said the idea was to give people a time and a place to bring rubbish that might otherwise end up being dumped. He said: "It's better to encourage people to come to us rather than have to clean things up."

Bromley Heath Probus Club

IN late August our Probus club had the opportunity to visit the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity at their helicopter and specialist paramedics base at Almondsbury.

We were amazed at the number of call-outs the service attends. In 2023, they were there for 1,979 people. In 2024 they expect that number to rise to over 2,300 – just over six people every day.

The staff were informative and helpful, and were only too pleased to answer the barrage of questions our members asked.

Their usual bright lime green and blue helicopter was in for its annual service, so we were treated to a look inside their dark red 'courtesy' helicopter.

Our group gave extremely generous donations before our departure.

Our talk ‘Behind the Curtain at the Bristol Hippodrome’ was a video tour led by Katie Bell, who worked there for many years.

The tour started in the entrance foyer and wound its way through the front of house, on to the stage area and then behind, over and under the stage.

Katie was a mine of information and stories from the theatre, keeping us hypnotised for an hour.

We meet on the first and third Thursday of the month at the Assembly Hall in Salisbury Road, Downend, from 10am.

For more information visit our website, www.bromleyheathprobus.org, or call 0117 957 4583.

Eric Arnold

Give our scouts a helping hand

MANGOTSFIELD Scout group are in need of additional volunteers.

The group was established in 1957 and has run weekly activities since this time for young people aged six to 18 years.

They meet at Baden hall opposite the Lamb pub, and hope to be celebrating their 70th anniversary in a few years' time.

Over 100 young people attend the scout group each week.

This year, the cubs attended an activity camp near Taunton. The scouts also slept under canvas on a farm in Oxfordshire, and activities included canoeing, a patrol competition, air rifle shooting, archery, axe throwing, wild camping and a trip to Oxford speedway.

The beavers have been working on their gardener's badge, outdoor challenges and have collected funds for charity Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Being part of scouting enables young people to learn new skills for life, have fun, gain awards and make new friends.

If you think you could help the group in any way, please contact them via info@ mangotsfieldscouts.org.uk.

We have obtained funds for a flagpole which we hope will be sited in the Alec Large memorial park, by Mangotsfield war memorial.

FARLEYS

We have applied for planning permission and hope to hear the result in the next couple of weeks.

The Mangotsfield Remembrance service has been scheduled for Sunday November 10 at 12.30pm at the war memorial: we hope the pole will be up in time.

Our next monthly coffee morning at the Red Lion has been arranged for Wednesday October 2 at 10am – all welcome.

We have recently received some money from South Gloucestershire councillors' memberawarded funding for more plants for the Dame school.

We were pleased to learn that Rev James Cannan has taken over as the vicar at St James church: we look forward to working in partnership with James in the future on new initiatives for Mangotsfield.

We understand that two cars and a motorcycle have been stolen recently in the area – please keep vehicles secure.

There are a number of local Christmas events planned for Mangotsfield: dates for these will be confirmed in the next issue.

If you want to get in touch with the Mangotsfield Residents Association, please do so by email at mangotsfieldRA@gmail.com, via the Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page, or by

n Mangotsfield scouts learn to cook outdoors

phone. You can call our chair, Clive Heath, on 07507 168700 or secretary Chris Amos on 0791 870 1881.

Simon Budd Vice Chair

Make a positive impact as a volunteer

IT’S been a busy summer at the Staple Hill Community Hub!

We appreciate that the cost of living is still challenging for most of us, and we will continue to support our community as much as possible.

This includes using our kitchen to prepare your meals, coffee mornings, after-school clubs and ‘Singing for the Brain’.

We cannot do this without volunteers, and we need people to offer their time.

You may well have seen our call for volunteers on social media.

Currently we need people to help with our Singing for the Brain sessions on a Tuesday afternoon from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, to help with teas and coffees.

Also, our lunch club needs more volunteers, as it is so successful! Lunches are served Mondays and Fridays, and help is needed between 10.30am and 2pm.

It’s getting busier and busier and, if you include takeaways, there was one day recently where we served up nearly 30 lunches.

It’s good to know that, as a volunteer, you get a free lunch thrown in!

You often see or hear things about volunteering, and how good it can be for your own health and well-being, but don’t take our word for it.

We asked one of our volunteers, Lucy (pictured), what she gets from it.

She told us: "I’ve been volunteering at the Hub for nearly two years now, since attending their Job Searchers Support Group.

Join us at our annual meeting

WE will be holding our annual meeting and discussion evening this year at the Sandringham Pub on Quakers Road, on October 28 at 7.30pm.

The main part of the meeting will be taken up with discussions around the tables on the issue of our 20mph zone across Bromley Heath, and the apparent ignoring of it by so many.

Following last year's feedback to our consultation, we haven't pursued the one-road solution originally mooted, namely Oakdale Road. It became clear that a Bromley Heathwide solution is needed that a majority can rally around.

"I feel I make a positive impact at the Hub, and it provides me with a sense of purpose. I have made many new friends and have gained valuable experience.

"I find it is very rewarding to give back and make a difference in the lives of others."

If volunteering at one of our clubs is not your thing, have you ever thought about becoming a

To help things along our local police beat team will be represented, as will our parish council and South Glos council.

Bromley Heath residents are invited too, of course, to make your contributions before things are moved forward.

We look forward to seeing you on the night.

The annual meeting part is about 20 minutes long and deals with the necessary business side of things.

As usual, we'll be looking for new volunteers for the committee. If you are interested, drop us a line to contactus@bhnw. org.uk and we'll get back to you for a chat about what's involved.

Many young people are now starting a new year at school or university.

Steve Bellamy

For university students, the first few weeks and months should be fun and exciting, but can also bring new challenges around safety and responsibility.

trustee?

One of our current trustees, William Lee, explained what the role entails.

He said: "As a trustee you get the chance to take an overview of the Hub's activities and be involved in shaping how these can develop to best support our community.

"There is also the option to be more closely engaged in one or two of our projects, working with staff and volunteers to help them succeed.

"There's both a sense of responsibility at helping steer things along and a real feeling of reward from the contribution you can make to the Hub's work in helping local people."

Would you like to know more? However, much time you have to spare, please get in touch with our friendly team by calling 01454 868374 or by popping in to see us at the bottom of Berkeley House, on Berkeley Road in Staple Hill.

Matthew Pick

It is well known that young people aged 16 to 24 are disproportionately more likely to be victims of crime.

Despite this, statistics on campus crime are only patchily recorded by many UK universities, and just a handful make the information available to would-be students.

There’s plenty that young people can do to keep themselves safe and aware, and plenty that we can do to help them stay safe and enjoy their time at university.

The latest issue of The Lookout from the national Neighbourhood Watch organisation is a bumper freshers' issue, with articles, illustrations and advice from six talented students on hard-hitting topics. It can be found at tinyurl.com/3tv9cnkm.

For more details on how crime affects students and advice on crime prevention visit tinyurl. com/bdfyh6us.

Bill Crocker

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Bus services designed by you, for you

WHEN it comes to making our public transport better, there’s nothing like real people power.

The people reading this know what you and your community need to get around better than anyone else.

That’s why when I came up with the WESTlocal bus services, I wanted local people to be at the heart of it.

WESTlocal is my scheme that lets communities get their hands on cash to design and run their very own, brand new, not-forprofit bus services.

I am delighted that so many local communities and organisations took up my challenge and put together winning bids.

Because of their involvement, the routes are imaginative and designed with the needs of their communities in mind. They’ve benefited hundreds of local people already, and I’m pleased to say there are now more of them.

Alongside the two existing routes, the new WESTlocals –eight in total – started operating on September 1, and are getting people around in Keynsham, Yate, Charfield, Chew Valley, Winford, Avonmouth, and to SGS College, to name just a few places.

Other WESTlocal routes are being extended because of the feedback people have given.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the stories that have come through from the people involved.

In The Dings, they’ve numbered their WESTlocal 61 in honour of 87-year-old Marilyn, who moved there in 1961 and has been a fierce campaigner for the new service.

The 99 Chew Valley service has been nicknamed the “Cat” because of the shape of its route. This wouldn’t have happened if there wasn’t a real sense of

community ownership. How many other bus routes have got their own nickname?

People who use the WESTlocals have told me they really value the service, especially the great community spirit on board. They’re getting people to work, to the shops, and connecting them to the busier routes into our towns and cities.

There’s a big debate happening about the kind of public transport our country needs. Here in our region, we are taking forward these conversations too.

I am determined that, whatever happens, we create public transport in the West of England that is more sustainable and represents value for money for local people, because only by making buses more affordable, reliable, and frequent will we encourage people to leave the car at home and use other ways

of getting around.

I don’t underestimate the scale of this challenge. There’s much more to do.

The success of WESTlocal has shown that local communities want to get involved, so I’m going to be working with the government to get the West of England more money for these kinds of projects.

We’ve shown that there’s demand for them locally and I’m determined to aim even bigger next time.

I’m doing everything I can to make sure the West of England has a bus system we can be proud of – one that’s better for passengers and better for the planet, too.

DOWNEND WI

WOW! It's autumn already – where has the summer gone?

At our August meeting, our members enjoyed our annual Quiz & Fizz event, with questions written by our treasurer Carey. There were some very pleased winning smiles in the room!

For our next meeting on September 24 we are very much looking forward to welcoming Liz Ferguson from Frenchay Museum, with local history and stories.

October is our AGM, and we look forward to welcoming a speaker from our charity for the forthcoming year. The charity will be voted for by our lovely members, as we have a couple of worthwhile options for consideration.

As always when things are beyond our control, some of the items on the programme may be subject to change, but we sincerely hope not: our fabulous 2025 programme is almost ready to share, so please watch this space for further information soon!

We are always very pleased to hear feedback whilst walking around Downend on how we are continuing to cheer up the community with the wonderful toppers, created by our very clever subgroup supported by members.

I hope you were able to see the wonderful Olympics creation before we had to take it down. Sadly, this was due to weather damage and much earlier than we had planned.

If you fancy the chance to meet new people and experience new things, you would be more than welcome to come and see what we are all about at one of our meetings, at Christ Church Hall, North Street, Downend on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. Guests are welcome for a small charge of £4, which includes tea or coffee.

You can also contact us via our email address, downendwi@yahoo. co.uk.

We look forward to welcoming you! Shelley Brown, President STAPLE HILL WI

SUMMER now seems ages ago, but we can still enjoy the memories of our cruise down the River Avon, on a perfect summer's day in a beautiful boat, with every part above deck level made of glass, making wonderful panoramic views.

We had a very knowledgeable guide, who told even lifelong Bristolians some very interesting facts about buildings and places

that we passed on our way to an excellent lunch, at Beese's Tea Gardens.

On the way back, he spotted a kingfisher, herons and a couple of peregrine falcons, which always nest on the same building.

As we had time to spare, we were treated to a trip up to the SS Great Britain. It was amazing to see how the waterfront had changed over recent years, with all the new developments.

Now we're looking forward to our autumn programme. Our first meeting was about fraud protection: something that we all need to think about.

Our book group, walking group and coffee mornings have carried on as usual and we look forward to our AGM and quiz night at our October meeting.

We meet as usual on the third Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm, at Christ Church Parish Hall in North Street, Downend. There is plenty of parking. We welcome visitors, as we are a very friendly, small group.

If you want to know more about us please visit our website at staplehillwi.weebly.com.

Maureen Wood

FRENCHAY WI

IT was great to be back from our summer recess and catch up with old and new friends at our September meeting.

We were entertained by the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew. A very interesting and lively evening was had by all.

Susan Lewis, a local author of thrillers and crime stories, will be telling us all about her books at our next meeting, on October 21.

We have many other events lined up for the rest of the year.

We meet on the third Monday of every month at Frenchay Village Hall, at 7.30pm.

There is always a friendly reception awaiting old and new members.

If you are interested in joining us, or would like more information, please email the secretary at Frenchaywi@gmail.com.

Linda O’Carroll

BROMLEY HEATH WI

BACK in July when I last walked to our WI meeting, I was wearing a T-shirt and sauntered home whilst it was still daylight.

Sadly, for our September meeting I had to zip my anorak tight around me before I left home carrying my food bank contribution in chilled hands.

Arriving slightly early, I enjoyed a quick chat with Smiling Sue on the welcome desk and then moved

on to get my mug of steaming hot tea and a biscuit, which is still only £1. No inflated prices here yet!

President Sue was keen to tell us how much our members had enjoyed their trip to see the musical An Officer and a Gentleman at the Hippodrome, and confirmed she would be happy to book tickets for other popular shows in the area. (Sadly, I don’t think she meant Oasis tickets!)

Last, but by no means least, we all enjoyed a very entertaining talk from Andrew Stowe of Auctioneum – the Bristol & Bath Auctions house, based in Hanham.

Andrew described the wide variety of services that the company provide and how they came to be known as specialists in the valuation and sale of entertainment memorabilia.

At the close we all went home wondering why we’d casually thrown away all those tickets and posters from rock concerts that we’d attended in our youth, but hindsight is a wonderful thing.

Far too soon, Sue was wishing us good night and looking forward to October 10, when we will be having a talk about the importance of making a will and lasting power of attorney.

Please email us at bromleyheath wi@gmail.com if you would like some information about the benefits of joining the WI.

Margaret Hanwell

BEECHMERE BELLES WI

WE hope you have had a wonderful summer and are making the most of the last of the warmer weather.

Having said that, we often get an Indian summer in October –fingers crossed!

We had our September meeting in our usual room in Emersons Green Village Hall.

One of our ex-members talked about and demonstrated Reiki, an energy healing technique.

Katie found a talk we had on healing therapies so interesting that she re-trained and is now qualified to practice Reiki – and so busy that unfortunately she doesn’t have time to come to meetings regularly!

It was lovely to see her again.

We also met one Saturday morning for a coffee in a local bistro; it was lovely to sit and put the world to rights (with cake, of course).

On October 24 we'll be having our AGM and birthday party, celebrating 10 years of Beechmere Belles WI.

We'll do the 'business' part of the evening as quickly as we can, so we can enjoy the 'party' part!

We welcome guests to any of our meetings: your first is free (unless it’s a craft evening, when we charge £5 to cover materials).

We meet at Emersons Green Village Hall at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of each month except December.

Watch this space for some hints about our programme for 2025.

If you would like to know more, please email us at beechmerebelles@gmail.com or follow the Emersons Green & Lyde Green WI Beechmere Belles Facebook page.

MANGOTSFIELD DOLLY MIXTURES

AT our September meeting we had a very interesting presentation by Fiona Warin, on the Land Army.

She gave about a dozen of our Dollies names and personas for the evening, then described how they would have been interviewed, what they would have done, their uniform, quarters, living and experiences.

It was fascinating to hear how different women were affected in different ways by the Land Army process.

There was a war on. Women had to take on these tasks that were needed. Some were very hard and some women had quite a difficult time.

Fiona was really engaging, and drew us all into that world.

We are all looking forward to November, when we will be hosting the reforming of Kevin Grenfell’s ‘Hot Banana’ on Saturday 2nd from 2-4.30pm.

This will be a lively session with swing, jump jive and lindy hop music, so plenty of space needed on St James Church Hall’s dance floor.

If you’re not sure where we are, the hall is in Richmond Road BS16 9EZ

Our November meeting in the hall will be wreath making for Christmas, by one of our Dollies

A trip to Blenheim Palace for the Christmas lights is booked and, in December, there will be a 19 bus trip to Bath for lunch at the Coeur de Lyon pub and a visit to the Christmas market; later in the month there will be a celebration pub lunch at the Lamb in Mangotsfield.

Carol Coombs

October 12

n POPPY APPEAL BALL, Page Community Association, Page Road, 6.30-10.30pm. Black tie event raising money for Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Tickets from www.staplehillrbl. org.uk/events, 0795 010 4450 or poppyappealbristol@gmail.com.

October 2

n Mothers' Union, Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, Downend, 2.15pm. Talk by Maureen Price: The busiest leprosy hospital in the world.

October 6

n ALL-AGE HARVEST SERVICE, Christ Church Downend, 10.30am. Cafe-style short interactive service for all. Bring dry food donations. Bring and share lunch after the service. Followed at 6.30pm by Prayer Against Food Poverty, hosted by BS16 churches.

October 12

n COFFEE MORNING at Staple Hill Salvation Army, Broad Street, 10am-noon.

October 12

n THE DOWNEND AND KINGSWOOD BRANCH OF THE RNLI will be holding a coffee morning at Staple Hill Methodist church Saturday 12th October 10am -midday. Bric a brac , cakes and souvenir table. Everyone is welcome!"

October 15

n VINTAGE ADVENTURE –activities, refreshments and friendship for seniors and carers. Venue: Church Centre, Quakers Road BS16 6NH

October 19

n ART EXHIBITION at The Nest at the Bean Tree Cafe, Page Park, 10am-4pm. Local painters show their artwork, available to buy. Free entry, donations to the Brainstrust brain tumour charity welcome.

October 19

n PUMPKIN PATCH at Page Park, 11am-3pm. Silly games, fancy dress competitions for children and for dogs ahead of Halloween.

October 20

n MESSY CHURCH at Staple Hill

Salvation Army, Broad Street, 4pm. Craft-based family event for all the family, with two-course meal. Free admission.

October 20

n CELTIC SERVICE, reflective worship at Christ Church Downend, 6.30pm.

October 21

n FRIENDS OF HILLHOUSE

ROAD PARK – meeting to reform this group as part of improvement plans. Staple Hill Community Hub, 7pm.

October 31

n FREE TRICK OR TREAT HALLOWEEN EVENT will take place at West 70 Photography in Cleeve Wood Road Shops in Downend from 5pm until 7pm approx. Family friendly for the local area. Free sweets and photographs of those in costume

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? Go to www. bristolu3a.org.uk for details.

Monday

n MEDITATION SESSIONS IN FRENCHAY 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 for the Kundalini movement meditation. Contact Andrea on 0117 956 5826 Homewards.ma@icloud.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 PUCKLECHURCH SHORT

Walker Court, Lincombe Road, Downend, every Monday, 10.30am12.20pm. All welcome.

n LUNCH CLUB AT STAPLE HILL COMMUNITY HUB, Berkeley House, Berkeley Road, every Monday, 12.15pm. More details from the hub on 01454 868374.

n KINGSWOOD LACE MAKERSNew members welcome We are a friendly self-help group making bobbin lace We meet at Lincombe Barn Downend Monday afternoon 2 – 4 pm On third Monday we meet in evening 7.15 - 9.15 The cost of membership is £70 for afternoon and evening, £20 just evening. We can help people but would like them to give some experience of making lace. First meeting free to see if you like us. Contact Beverly on walkingwithlace@yahoo.co.uk

n DOWNEND SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB meets on Mondays, 2-4pm at Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street. New members welcome. No experience necessary – tuition and bowls provided. For more details contact Mike on 0779 136 6894.

n JOB SEARCHERS SUPPORT GROUP, Staple Hill Community Hub, 2nd Monday of the month, 2-4pm. With a benefits advisor. Call 01454 868374 for more information.

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL ‘Wild, Wise Curious’ Discussion Group with coffee and cake 12.30 weekly For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com 07527-118586

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL Mindful Pilates weekly – Contact Debbie 07771 544549

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL 7pm

Person-Centred Meditation evening Monthly For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com 07527118586

Tuesday

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 PUCKLECHURCH FOLK DANCING CLUB Pucklechurch Community Hall.Abson Road every other Tuesday from 7.30 to 10.15p.m All welcome either with a partner or solo. Enjoy an evening with us. Call Sue on 07742114566 or Linda on 07843240414.

n MESSY SPACE, Badminton Road Methodist Church Downend. Term-time group for toddlers and their carers, 10-11.45am. Toys, books, play dough, paint & craft, singing and refreshments. First visit free, then £3 per child or £5 per family. More information at www. badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk or 0117 956 1106.

n FRIENDSHIP & EXERCISE GROUP, Salvation Army, Broad Street, Staple Hill, every Tuesday 10-11.30am.

n MOVE-IT CLUB for children aged 7-11, Staple Hill Community Hub, Berkeley House, Berkeley Road, every Tuesday 3.30pm. More details from hub on 01454 868374.

n TEA AND TOAST after school drop-in for primary aged children and families, Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, Downend, term-time Tuesdays, 3.15-4.30pm. All welcome for tea, squash, toast, board games, colouring and play in a friendly atmosphere.

n DOWNEND WI meets at Christ Church Hall, North Street, Downend on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. For details email downendwi@yahoo.co.uk.

n RIDGEWAY BADMINTON CLUB meets every Tuesday evening from 8-10pm at Downend Sports Centre for informal badminton doubles/ singles matches between adults of all ages. First visit free. For more information contact Graham on 07968 050 320

MAT BOWLS CLUB are looking for new players. We meet every Monday evenings and Sunday & Wednesday afternoons 3.15pm6pm at Pucklechurch Community Centre. Refreshments available. For more information contact John 0117 9372873.

n SILK PAINTING at Downend Baptist Church. Come along to an enjoyable afternoon, every alternate Monday 2pm-4pm. Make cards, tuition given, tea and biscuits provided, cost includes all materials. One large card £2 or 3 for £5, small cards £1 each. Please contact 0117 9608935 for more details.

n COFFEE MORNING at Percy

n DOWNEND GARDENING IN RETIREMENT CLUB Third Tuesday of every month at 10.15am Varied Topics Non Members welcome at £3 including Tea / Coffee. Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road. Downend. Easily reached by any bus into Downend

n BOARD GAMES NIGHT every Tuesday from 7pm. All Welcome The Wooden Walls Micropub, 30 Broad Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5NU

n LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB meets every second, fourth and fifth Tuesday of the month at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. New members always welcome. For information see website at www. lincombebarncameraclub.co.uk or email lincombe.barn@gmail.com.

n SINGING FOR THE BRAIN, free music club for people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, Staple Hill Hub, every Tuesday 2-3pm. Call 01454 868374 for more information.

n COFFEE AFTERNOON with free coffee & cake, friendly conversation and a ‘thought for the day’. First Tuesday of the month, 2pm at the Pendennis Good News Centre, Pendennis Road, Staple Hill. All welcome.

n KARATE FOR MUMS AND DADS, 7pm, Page Community Association Staple Hill. More information from www.zenkarate. club.

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL 7pm Kundalini Osho Movement Meditation (Monthly) For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com 07527118586

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL Sound Bath Experience (Donations) 7pm Monthly For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com 07527118586

Wednesday

n DOWNEND BRIDGE CLUBNEW MEMBERS ARE WANTED Come and join us and play duplicate Bridge at Lincombe Barn Downend on Wednesday afternoons 2pm. All levels welcome. Please contact eveforbes77@gmail. com or 0117 9836886 or Yvonne Scoulding rscoulding@googlemail. com or 0117 9568944

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. For more information contact the Secretary on 0117 9561881.

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 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN'S SECTION meets once a month on the first Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm. New members welcome - come and spend an afternoon with us before you join. We meet at the Youth Building by the long stay car park and Page Hall. Telephone 0117 956 0805.

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 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 except first one of the month, 7.30pm, Cadbury Heath Social Club, £7 on the door. More details at warmleyjazz.co.uk.

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcomefirst visit free so come along and give us a try. Information: Jo Hunter by email atpurplewellies@live.co.uk 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 mornings 10.00 am until noon. Contact Lincombe Barn 9562367.

n THE FRENCHAY FOLK

DANCE CLUB meet fortnightly at Frenchay Village Hall from 7:45 until 10:15pm. All standards of dancer are welcome to enjoy live Bands and experienced Callers. Visit frenchayfdc.co.uk or call 0117 3021543 for more information.

n FRIENDLY VOICES dementiafriendly singing group, Mangotsfield & Castle Green URC, Cossham Street, second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, 10.30am to noon. No charge, carers welcome. Sessions led by music therapist. More details from June Watts on 0117 956 6625.

n WEDNESDAY CAFE FOR SENIORS, at Badminton Road Methodist Church (BS16 6NU) every Wednesday 10am to 12 noon. All Welcome – just come along – make new friends over a cuppa and cake. Information: 0117 239 5984

n DOWNEND FLOWER

ARRANGING CLUB We are a friendly group, we meet at 7.30pm on 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from September to June at Lincolne Barn, Overndale Road, BS16 2RW. Ring Genise on 0777 2451217 for more information.

n STAPLE HILL METHODIST

CHURCH Fellowship group 3rd Wednesday of the month, 2.153.45pm Coffee/tea, homemade cake and a chat!

n LADIES ENTERPRISE CLUB every 1st and 3rd Wednesday afternoon at the Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, Downend, 2.30pm4pm. If you would like to belong to a warm, friendly group we would love to see you. Contact Ruth on 07733413823 for more details

n MOTHERS UNION - worship, friendship, supporting charities, refreshments: First Wednesday of the month, 2.15pm at Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street. Non-members welcome. More details from 0117 908 9867.

n FRENCHAY & HAMBROOK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meets at Friends Meeting House, Frenchay, 7.30pm first Wednesday of the month from September to March. Talks on garden-related topics, meet other gardeners, trips in April & May. Phone 0117 967 2390 for more information.

n COFFEE MORNING, Staple Hill Community Hub, Berkeley House, Berkeley Road, every Wednesday 9.30-10.30am. More details from

the hub on 01454 868374. n KEEP FIT, God's House International Centre, The Sanctuary, 55 High Street, Staple Hill, every Wednesday 10-11am, followed by cup of tea and a chat. For adults 50+. More information from Lin on 0770 707 6281 or email Lincornish@hotmail.co.uk.

n SPROUTS, free gardening and nature club for children aged 7-11, Staple Hill Hub every Wednesday, 4-6pm. Call 01454 868374 for further information. Thursday n LADIES-ONLY KARATE GROUP, 7pm Page Community Association Staple Hill. Confidence-building exercise. More information from www.zenkarate.club.

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 DEWDROP INN CAFE, Resound church, Blackhorse Road, Mangotsfield. Every fourth Thursday of the month, 2-4pm. A place for the community to relax and unwind with old & new friends. Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits £2. n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORMED CHURCH regular coffee mornings, held on the first Thursday of the month, 10.30am-noon n SCRABBLE Downend Folk House Thursdays 10-12noon Info: 07789772538 Jonathan Seegrove.

n WARM SPACE CAFE at Christ Church, Downend, free every Thursday 11-2pm. Soup and roll lunch from noon. Live music, including Music Train on 2nd and 4th Thursdays. Dementia-friendly cafe on 3rd Thursday of the month, 11am-1.30pm.

n HAMBROOK MEN’S PROBUS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 10am-noon at Whiteshill Chapel, Hambrook, with a speaker at each meeting. Friendly group, new members welcome. For details call the secretary on 01454 778250.

n SOCIAL WALKING GROUP meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, Badminton Road Downend. For more details contact Janet Pearce on 0799 058 4008.

n BROMLEY HEATH PROBUS CLUB, holds fortnightly meetings with Speakers for ladies and

We would love to publicise your event

Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: news@downendvoice. co.uk or call us on 07770 700579 / 07880 731148

gentlemen on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month from 10:00 am till 12:00. We also enjoy lunches/outings together. Please join us at the Assembley Hall, Downend. More details on 0117 9574583 or see our website.

n FRIENDSHIP AND EXERCISE GROUP, Staple Hill Methodist Church, High Street, Staple Hill, every Thursday - first session 9.30am, second session 11am.

n BROMLEY HEATH WI meets at Bromley Heath Junior School Hall on the second Thursday of each month (except August) at 7.30pm. Email bromleyheathwi@gmail.com for more information.

n FAMILY DROP-IN with free after-school refreshments and activities for families. Every Thursday, 3.15-4.45pm during term time, at Pendennis Good News Centre, Pendennis Road, Staple Hill. n DOWNEND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meets every second Thursday of the month at Downend Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, at 7.30pm. New members welcome. More details from downendhortsoc@gmail.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. Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. 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

Continued on next page

'Ukulele' to Ben on 07910 668258.

n JIGSAW TODDLER GROUP, Fridays in term time at Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, from 9.45-11.15am.

n LATER LIVE MUSIC, Resound church, Blackhorse Road, Mangotsfield. Every second Friday monthly, except August & December, 8-10pm, £2.50. facebook.com/lateratresound.

n ARTWINGS, Resound church, Blackhorse Road, Mangotsfield. Every fourth Friday, except August & December, 7.30pm. Explore new ways of creating and making, natter over refreshments. £5, includes materials.

n RAINBOW TOTS PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP meets at Emersons Green Village Hall every Friday morning in term time, from 10-11.30am. For more info email church.egbc@outlook.com

n IN-THE-PINK We are a group of mature ladies who meet for sensible exercise to music every Friday 9am - 10am followed by chat & coffee time. Pay sessionby-session basis. Get yourself fit & make new friends at Hillfields Park Baptist Church, Thicket Avenue. For details call Julie 07903123793.

n TUTTIFLUTTI, an inclusive ensemble welcoming flautists of all ages from Grade 3 up, rehearses at Lincombe Barn on Fridays in term time, from 6.30-7.30pm. New members always welcome. Details from Fiona on 07817 629 691.

n LUNCH CLUB, Staple Hill Community Hub, Berkeley House, Berkeley Road, every Friday from 12.15pm. For details 01454 868374.

n AFTER MORNING SCHOOL DROP-OFF KARATE GROUP for mums and dads, 9am, Page Community Association Staple Hill. More information at www. zenkarate.club.

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.

n STAPLE HILL METHODIST

CHURCH Coffee mornings in our beautiful building every Saturday 10.00-12.00 in aid of church funds or charities. Enjoy Fairtrade coffee, tea and cake, and stalls.

Sunday

n EMERSONS GREEN BAPTIST

CHURCH services are held every Sunday morning from 10.30am11.30am at Emersons Green Village Hall, Emersons Way. We also hold regular craft services - please check our Facebook page for dates contact Simon on 07765 201435, e-mail church.egbc@outlook.com or visit www.emersonsgreenchurch.org

n BADMINTON ROAD

METHODIST CHURCH BS16

6NU. Sunday worship followed by sharing refreshments, 10.30am – all welcome. Service of Holy Communion usually fourth Sunday of the month. More information from www. badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk

n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE

GREEN UNITED REFORMED

CHURCH hold regular weekly Sunday morning worship at Cossham Street. Services start at 10.30 a.m.with different speakers each week. New members welcome. For details contact Peter Redding (Ch. Sec.) on 0117 9657075.

n STAPLE HILL METHODIST

CHURCH, High Street BS16 5HQ Sunday services 10.30am + Sunday Club for ages 5-17. Holy Communion 2nd Sunday of the month – all invited. Taizé worship 6.00pm 3rd Sunday of the month. Contact Rev Dr Aboseh Ngwana 07482 550888, Philippa Church Liaison at staplehillmethodist@ hotmail.co.uk or www. staplehillmethodist.com

n CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND: 9.15 am Traditional morning worship (Holy Communion on 2nd & 4th Sundays) at Church Centre, Quakers Road BS16 6NH. 10.30 Morning worship with youth and children's groups at Christ Church Downend, Downend Rd BS16 5UF n COMMUNITY GARDEN WORKING PARTY, Percy Walker Court, Lincombe Road, Downend, every Sunday 10am-noon. All welcome.

n KARATE FOR MUMS AND DADS, 7pm, Page Community Association, Staple Hill. More information from www.zenkarate. club.

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL Sunday Services weekly 10.30am (except 8th online from Llangasty Retreat Centre). For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com 07527118586

n FRENCHAY CHAPEL AA meeting weekly Sun evening. For more info or to go on weekly email contact peter.a.bruce@gmail. com 07527-118586

DOWNEND MEN IN SHEDS

Whistle while you woodwork

DOWNEND Men in Sheds have a WhatsApp group, which is used by most of our members to discuss activities and for general chit-chat.

Recently one of our members posted a photo showing a set of figurines (pictured) he had made at home in his workshop.

It will be evident that the skills required for this type of work extend beyond wood working, and the committee suggested that the member bring the items to one of our sessions.

Not only were the items presented for inspection but our members were given a detailed explanation of the stages and techniques involved in their production.

The first stage involves finding and printing a picture of the subject, normally obtained from the internet, followed by scaling on the computer to the size required.

The outline is then transferred onto a sheet of thin plywood and painstakingly cut out using a scroll saw, followed by sanding smooth and priming the surface: at this point the wood working stage is complete.

Painting may appear to be a straightforward process, but our members were surprised to hear the process stages and materials involved were by far the most demanding stage, involving a series of specialized techniques that the maker had acquired and perfected to achieve the high quality artistic finish.

Samples of this type of work have been offered by DMIS for sale at past craft fairs; pre-cut unpainted wooden profiles have also been offered for sale for a small charge, for customers to take home and paint at their leisure.

Currently DMIS do not have a scroll saw, so there is a strict limit on what one member can or is willing to produce. The talk has prompted discussions about the possibility of purchasing a scroll saw and then having the ability to train other interested members in the techniques involved.

No doubt it is not a skill that will be acquired without practice, but with in-house expert guidance, the opportunity will be given careful consideration. John Lockwood

BRISTOL u3a

BRISTOL u3a is for anyone with some free time for themselves.

There’s no lower age limit but most of our members are retired or semiretired.

There are over 350 of us in East & North-East Bristol, and around 1,700 members across Greater Bristol as a whole.

We’re fiercely proud that everything we do is by members, for members.

We have no staff, so everyone chips in with ideas for one-off social activities or brand new “interest groups”, formed when a small group of members decides to pursue a hobby or interest in the company of others.

This can include activities like walking, cycling, dancing, Tai Chi or table tennis; playing games such as Scrabble or Mah Jong; learning and practising a language; visiting the cinema, gardens or places of interest; learning about the history of our local area; book groups; discussion groups; painting, drawing and crafting groups – anything goes! There are now over 170 groups across Bristol and over 30 in our area.

Once you’ve joined Bristol u3a (£20 a year for single membership, £34 for joint membership), almost everything else is free.

Google “Bristol u3a” and you’ll find the full list of groups and how to join.

If this has piqued your curiosity, why not come along to an informal social next month to enjoy a cuppa and a chat with some current members?

You don’t have to be a member to come along. We're at the Market Café and Lounge above Kingswood Indoor Market in Regent Street on October 21 from 2.30pm at the Crafty Egg in Fishponds on October 23 from 2.30pm.

To find out more, email learnlaughlive@bristolu3a.org.uk. Lindsay Gough

Autumn colours

AUTUMN, with its rich palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, is a dream for photographers seeking to capture the beauty of nature in transition.

The season's unique light, vibrant foliage, and moody atmosphere offer endless opportunities to create stunning images that evoke warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of calm.

Timing is crucial in autumn photography. The golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides soft, warm light that enhances the colours of the leaves and creates a magical glow.

Early mornings often bring mist, adding a mystical element to your shots. Pay attention to weather forecasts: overcast days can be perfect for capturing saturated colours without harsh shadows.

When framing your shots, consider the rule of thirds to create balanced compositions. Look for leading lines, such as paths, rivers, or fences, which can guide the viewer’s eye through the image. Experiment with different perspectives,

like shooting upwards to capture the canopy of colourful leaves against the sky or getting low to the ground to focus on fallen leaves.

Autumn offers a wealth of details, from dew-covered spider webs to the intricate patterns on a single leaf. Macro photography can highlight these small wonders, bringing out textures and colours that might otherwise go unnoticed. Capturing close-ups of leaves, acorns, or mushrooms can add variety to your autumn portfolio.

colours. A still body of water can create a mirrorlike reflection, while moving water can add dynamism to your images.

Water bodies like lakes, rivers, and ponds can enhance autumn photography by reflecting the vibrant foliage, doubling the impact of the

FRENCHAY PROBUS CLUB

OUR annual Summer Lunch was held in August at the Kendleshire Golf Club, where the setting, the pre-lunch entertainment, the meal itself, and the getting-together of the Probus members and their lady guests, all made for a most enjoyable occasion.

The entertainment was provided by The Filtonaires, a ‘seniors’ rock band with acoustic guitars and well-honed harmonies, delivering well-known songs from the 1950s onwards in fine style. Notably, their line-up included

The main September meeting introduced members to a form of art that many will not have been familiar with, but which proved to be most impressive, namely ‘Canal Art’.

This was a colourful form of folk art that originated primarily from the owners of working narrowboats on the English canal network during the 19th century. They decorated their boats with brightly-coloured pictures,

Experiment with long exposures to capture the smooth, flowing movement of water against the stillness of the autumn landscape.

Autumn is not just about colours; it’s about the mood. Foggy mornings, sun-dappled forests, and quiet, leaf-strewn paths all convey the serene, introspective nature of the season. Including elements like people wrapped in cosy clothing, steaming mugs of coffee, or pumpkins can add a human touch and tell a story within your photos.

Autumn photography is about more than just the vibrant colours – it’s about capturing the essence of a season that invites reflection, warmth, and a connection to nature.

principally of flowers but also, very typically, of castles overlooking rivers.

As currently practised, this artform lends itself to the decoration of otherwise-defunct metal objects, such as milk churns, coal scuttles and watering cans.

The guest speaker, Angela Ryan, applied herself very successfully to learning the skill during lockdowns, with very impressive results shown to the meeting, and gave a most interesting and entertaining talk.

For the club's contact details,

with a welcome to men in retirement happy to meet socially, please see our entry in the Voice's 'what's on' pages.

Ed Allingham n Canal art

David Britton

n Maple Grove David Britton

n Colours David Britton

n Reflections David Britton

the current Probus club chairman, Peter Davies.

Page Park

bowlers win promotion

PAGE Park Bowls Club is marking the end of another successful season with two of the four men's league teams winning promotion.

The club's second and third teams have each gained promotion by becoming runners up in their respective divisions.

Page Park B move into Division One of the North East Bristol League, whilst Page Park C move to Division Three of the Bristol & District League.

Also, for the second year running, the club is among the finalists for the Bowls Club of the Year prize, in the prestigious Mirror Club Awards.

The winner will be announced at the Gala Dinner at the Apollo in Leicester, in November of this year.

Away from competition, through various fundraising events during this season we have managed to raise over £1,400 for our adopted charities: Raeyah’s Hands of

Support, St Peter’s Hospice and youth charity VIBE.

Subject to approval at this year's annual meeting, we shall be changing our club colours, and have also raised enough to provide new shirts for over half of our club members.

With league, friendly and competition fixtures, we play approximately 270 matches every season against other clubs.

The superb condition of our green has also made us a venue of choice for hosting county matches by both Bristol City & County and

Gloucester Bowls Associations, together with increasing requests to hold local league finals and championships.

We are actively seeking additional sponsorship from local businesses and would welcome enquiries from any business interested in having their logo on our new shirts.

Anyone interested can make contact and find out more information through our website, www.pageparkbowling.org.uk.

Don Willcox Club captain

Hockey club gets new pitch and kit

BRISTOL & West Hockey Club members are looking forward to playing on a new pitch thanks to a refurbishment project carried out at Mangotsfield School.

The club has been based at the school on Rodway Hill for the last two years, after its previous pitch at Winterbourne Academy was switched to a 3G artificial surface, which is unsuitable for hockey.

This summer the pitch at Mangotsfield School was relaid with a new 2G surface, with new LED floodlights and safety barriers for spectators.

Club chairman Andy Bryce said: "The pitch refurbishment project was funded by Castle School Education Trust. B&WHC also contributed some money to the project for the provision of the spectator barriers.

"The school considered the option of conversion to a 3G pitch, which is a type of surface that is primarily suitable for football.

"However, after consultation with B&WHC and recognition of its heavy use for youth and adult hockey by the local community,

the school opted for replacing the existing 2G surface.

"We are extremely grateful that Mangotsfield School and CSET took the view to safeguard the provision of Hockey in the area.

"The new surface and new energy efficient flood lighting now provide a high quality facility and will mean that B&WHC can continue to grow

and offer more ways for the school and local community to get involved in this exciting and engaging sport."

Bristol & West have also unveiled a rebrand for the club ahead of the new season, which starts this month.

A new badge, combining elements of Bristol & West and Jaspers Ladies, will go on a new kit made out of 100% recyclable

shirt fabrics, manufactured from recycling waste fibres and plastic bottles.

The current club kit has been in use for over 10 years and has served us very well.

Main club sponsor Danco, along with local businesses, Bryant Associates Wealth Management and TA Baylis Electrical Services, have helped massively in subsidising the new playing kit.

On the pitch, B&WHC men came second overall in the Southport Se7ens hockey festival, with the women coming third and a mixed team second against clubs from across the country.

The club also entered teams in the Keynsham Hockey Club Annual Memorial Tournament in support of Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation, winning the tournament for a second year running and helping raise £1,434.37 was raised over a fun day of social hockey.

For more information about Bristol & West HC, visit www. bandwhc.org.uk.

Harry Bryant

n Bristol & West Hockey Club members

n Members of the two promoted teams at Page Park Bowls Club

Big win to start season for Cleve

CLEVE started their season in the Counties 1 Tribute Western North division with a thumping 50-21 win over Old Redcliffians II at the Hayfields.

The day started with a sponsors, injured players and members' lunch attended by one of the oldest Cleve members, 92-year-old Mel Thomas, who was an ex-Chase School master and Cleve mentor for many players in the 60s and 70s.

The main course, however, was Cleve versus Old Reds.

Reds kicked off and immediately started to pressure Cleve’s line. Cleve were on the defensive and gave away penalties, with Reds taking a 14-0 lead, the second try following a counter attack and a 50-yard run in.

The setback appeared to

motivate Cleve, who started moving the ball wide efficiently, and Theo Garnett put the ball down in the corner for an unconverted try.

Cleve had several senior players in their pack, and they began to bring their experience to bear. Harry Casson made some good drives and Neil 'Chuckie' Evans recycled the ball well.

The pressure on Reds' line led to a penalty, which Matt Jarvis despatched to the corner. The catch and drive worked well and over went the forwards to score, with Jarvis adding the conversion to make it 12-14.

Cleve were now moving the ball well. Another good drive by Harry Casson had the winger picked up to score, with Jarvis again converting to put Cleve ahead 19-14.

Cleve did not allow Reds back into the game. After another penalty, good movement of the ball saw Arthur Davis score in the corner to make it 29-14.

Again, Cleve exposed Reds on the wings. Some good passing put Andy Priddle in under the posts. The game was now

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dominated by Cleve. A ruck close to the line produce some good ball for Cam Bull to go over.

In the last 20 minutes Cleve pinned Reds down in their 22. The forwards bullied their way over and a conversion was made to make it 50-14 before, against the run of play, Reds went through the middle of the defence and scored under the posts to make the final Score 50-21.

Cleve seconds were also successful in their home game versus Bristol Barbarians.

After the first half ended 0-0, the second half saw an avalanche of points for Cleve, who won 47-0.

Several Junior teams were also in action against Old Reds. The day was a great start to the season involving all at the club.

Steve Bateman

Double promotion

THE final day of the season saw a double promotion for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club.

Going in to the final round of matches the 1st team sat in second place in the Bristol & District Fifth Division, having lost top spot to Bristol Aces the previous week, when bad weather claimed their penultimate match.

The final match was a title decider against the Aces, who batted first and scored 228-9, with Will Thatcher taking 3-38, including two early wickets.

In response, steady batting throughout the innings saw the total overhauled in the final over. The batting was led by Kieran Gallagher, who scored an unbeaten 101, there were also useful contributions from George Farmer and Oli Clatworthy as the 1sts took top spot by three points.

The 2nd team had a more straightforward match at Chilcompton, with the Division 8 East championship already guaranteed. They bowled out the hosts for 93, with Tour Ponting taking 3-20 and James Davis 3-24. Tom Smurthwaite scored 24 not out in the run chase.

The 3rd team retained their position in Division 8 North prior to the final match of the season against Bishopston. At one point struggling at 11-3, they recovered to 215-8 but Bishopston overhauled their target off the penultimate ball of the match.

The 4th team's league finished several week before the end of the season.

The Sunday team's final match of the season was abandoned due to weather. Finishing 9th, they await confirmation as to whether they have been relegated.

Club chair Andy King thanked all those who had helped in the club's success over the season, which included the Bateman cup and U11's cup previously reported in the Voice.

Andy also thanked all those who have sponsored the club this season.

n A Cleve RFC lineout against Old Reds

Top flight beckons for Downend Cricket Club

DOWNEND Cricket Club's First XI will play at the highest level of club cricket in the region next season.

The team won the West of England Premier Cricket League Premier 2 Bristol/Somerset division, winning 13 of their 18 matches.

It means that next year they will take on the region's biggest clubs, including Bristol, Bath and Bridgwater, in the Premier One division.

Masoor Khan was the top scorer over the season, with 878 runs, while Canister Gunaratnam took 35 wickets.

Head coach Theo Gordon, who guided the side to the top in his first season, said: "I couldn’t be more thrilled with how things have turned out.

"Winning promotion and getting the club back to the highest level we can compete at is a huge achievement for all of us.

"The club has really embraced the idea of having a head coach,

which has helped us add to the vision of achieving success both on and off the pitch.

"I have been incredibly fortunate to work with such a talented and dedicated group of players.

"Our captain, Callum Loud, has been instrumental, and his recruitment of Masoor Khan and Canni Gunaratnam has strengthened what was already a very competitive squad.

Mangos' away form continues to impress

IT is perhaps the strangest season ever endured by a football club at any level.

Mangotsfield United are playing all their away games first, while waiting for their new 3G pitch to be ready by November (which will start a long period of home matches).

One can only be impressed by the way the team has adapted to this scenario. After the first eight league games, they have climbed to 7th spot, just outside of the play-offs.

After early defeats to Corsham Town and Royal Wootton Bassett Town in the FA Cup, the Mangos had gone seven games unbeaten by the time September's first two fixtures were played.

Following wins against Thornbury Town, Royal Wootton Bassett Town in the league and a draw against Fairford Town, detailed in last month's Voice, the Mangos took on two other highly-fancied teams showing early form, Highworth Town and Roman Glass St George.

Both matches ended in 1-1 draws.

At Highworth Town, the Mangos trailed to a 35th minute goal by Sam Packer, but a strong second half saw George Neill equalise on 73 minutes.

At Roman Glass St George, Mircea Ilea

"Being a head coach at a new club is never easy, but the warm welcome from both the club members and the players made it much easier for me to make an immediate impact.

"We set a clear goal of winning the league and securing promotion, and I’m proud to say we accomplished exactly that.

"I couldn’t be more proud of this team and the effort everyone has put in. Looking ahead, I

am excited for the challenge of competing in Prem 1 next season.

"I have no doubt that we will continue to be competitive and challenge some of the bigger clubs out there."

The club's Second Xl finished fifth, the highest of the newlypromoted teams, in the Bristol & District Senior division, winning eight of their 17 matches.

Dan Semple top-scored with 386 runs, while Joe Tolman took 35 wickets.

Third XI narrowly missed out on promotion from Bristol & District Division 7, finishing as runners-up after winning 15 of their 16 matches.

Matt Curtis top-scored with 544 runs, while Temor Nadeem took 22 wickets.

The club had one outstanding fixture as the Voice went to print, the Bristol Midweek T20 final against Knowle, which has been cancelled twice due to the weather and is now expected to take place at the start of next season.

levelled on 41 minutes, after Lewis LeighGilchrist had opened the scoring for the Glass nine minutes earlier. This was a particularly pleasing point, as RGSG had been a bit of a bogey side for the Mangos in recent years.

The run of three successive draws ended at the start of September, when Mangotsfield visited old Southern League adversaries Cirencester Town.

Cirencester are much-changed this season, following their drop into the Hellenic League, and the Mangos saw them off 3-0 up at The Talent Hire Stadium.

An early penalty by George Neill set the scene for the visitors, then a header by Mircea Ilea made it 2-0 early in the 2nd half.

A third goal on the hour, a close-range strike by Joe Cattermole, sealed the win.

Another strong performance then came at Slimbridge, where the Mangos have had some good wins in the past.

This proved to be another one, Mangotsfield leading 2-0 at the break through goals from Mircea Ilea from a corner on 15 minutes, and George Neill in the 27th after Joe Cattermole intercepted a pass in the Slimbridge half.

Ilea then added a third in the second half, poking in a rebound in the 68th minute after the Slimbridge keeper spilled a shot from Neill.

Slimbridge put the visitors under a lot of late pressure, resulting in them getting a very late goal back on 90+3 minutes.

Forthcoming fixtures (all away):

September 24: Malmesbury Victoria

September 28: Pershore Town

October 5: Hereford Pegasus

October 12: Sporting Club Inkberrow

October 19: Worcester Raiders

October 26: Westfields

Dave Smale

n Mircea Ilea scores at Slimbridge. Picture: Shaun Lecrass/Mangotsfield Utd

n Downend's First XI celebrating their Premier 2 title

From 5K to half marathon: my chiropractic guide to injury-free running

THOSE of you who regularly read this blog or come into the clinic will know of my new-found love of running.

Only a year ago I never thought I could do more than 5K, but I have just completed my first halfmarathon.

Running is an incredible journey of self-improvement, endurance and discipline.

With the right approach to training, nutrition and injury prevention, transforming from a 5K runner to a long-distance athlete is achievable.

Here's a guide to making the leap safely and effectively, while ensuring your body stays strong and pain-free.

Start with a solid training plan: When increasing your running distance, gradual progression is key. Overloading your body too quickly can lead to injuries, especially in your muscles, joints, and tendons.

The 10% Rule suggests you increase your weekly mileage by no more than 10% each week.

Mix in cross-training:

Incorporating strength training, cycling, or swimming into your routine can help improve overall fitness while reducing wear and tear on your joints.

Strong muscles—especially in the core, glutes, and legs—offer better support and help stabilise your body, reducing the risk of injury.

Rest and recovery: Rest is just as important as running. Plan for at least one or two rest days per week to allow your muscles to recover and rebuild. Stretching, yoga, and chiropractic care are also effective ways to release tension and correct any issues caused by repetitive running movements.

Nutrition and hydration: As you increase your distance, your body's energy needs also change. Proper fuelling before, during, and after a run can make all the difference in your performance and recovery.

Eating a meal rich in carbohydrates, such as oatmeal,

bananas, or whole grains, 2-3 hours before a long run will provide your muscles with the necessary glycogen stores. Avoid heavy fats and proteins.

For runs longer than 60 minutes, maintain your energy levels with quick-digesting carbs: energy gels, sports drinks or a banana. Drink water or an electrolyte solution every 20-30 minutes.

Post-run recovery: Within 30 minutes of finishing, consume a mix of carbs and protein, like a smoothie with fruit and protein powder, or a sandwich with lean protein. Rehydrate with water and electrolytes.

Injury prevention and chiropractic care: Address small issues before they become major problems.

Buy a high-quality pair of longdistance running shoes and replace them every 500-800 kilometres, or when they start to lose support.

Always warm up your muscles with dynamic stretches or a light jog before a run. Afterwards,

stretching and foam rolling will help reduce the risk of stiffness or injury.

Regular chiropractic visits can help identify issues and imbalances that could lead to injuries, and enhance your body's natural ability to heal.

By following a well-structured training plan, paying attention to nutrition and hydration, and incorporating injury-prevention strategies, not only is a half marathon within your reach, so is the full marathon that may once have seemed impossible.

Your body is capable of far more than you imagine. You’ve already conquered the first step by deciding to try – so lace up those shoes, and let's get moving!

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