Downend Voice September 2022

you, Aunty Karen!

The company's predecessor, clothing manufacturer Wathen Gardiner & Co, moved in to the factory at the turn of the 20th century and has become a renowned specialist in producing protective clothing, particularly for firefighters. Bristol Uniforms was bought by US firm MSA Safety last year, and the new owner is moving all of its operations from Staple Hill to a newer building in Yate. Page 3

AnthonysTel:01179571551 1 Willow Centre, Downend Road, Downend www.craiganthonys.co.uk After 25 years helping hundreds of parents and children,

FREE EVERY MONTH IN DOWNEND, MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE HILL, BROMLEY HEATH & FRENCHAY downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.ukwww.downendvoice.co.uk September, 2022, Issue 110 Bat Out Of Hell role for Martha Martha Kirby, 24, who grew up in Bromley Heath, returned to home territory when she starred in the musical Bat Out Of Hell at Bristol Hippodrome. PAGE 5 Patients unhappy with GP surgeries Increasing numbers of patients rate local GP surgeries as poor overall, a survey shows. PAGE 10 Follow Staple Hill audio trail The Staple Hill Story Trail is an audio route sharing a century of memories about the area. PAGE 19 20 St James Place Mangotsfield BS16 9JB 0117 910 9002 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.

childminder in Downend. Full story: Page 11

Turn to

Factory to close after 120 years

Craig Karen Westlake has called time on her career as a

Thank

ONE of the Bristol area's oldest firms is leaving the Staple Hill factory it has occupied for more than a century.Bristol Uniforms will move out of the buildings in Wathen Street before the end of the year.

AT

Sutton chiropractic, family health care means every member of the family; infants to grandparents are supported by the environment, skills and care needed to look after their individual goals and needs in pursuit of their healthiest lives. Not just bad backs and stiff necks (although we look after thoseSummertoo)! is often ablaze with activities, events and fun things to do (not just the weather). It gives us an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and perhaps travel- hopefully yours has been a mix of busy and relaxing.During this time we can run into the limits of our bodies as we get back into activities we haven’t in a while. Whether its travel or hiking or playing badminton with the kids. Dehydrated, it shows. Unfit, it shows. Aches and pains, they show. Unresolved injury, it shows. Instead of- phew now that’s over and I can forget about it until next year while I recover from my exhaustion- get a head start on recovering your health, strength and vitality. Family time with physical wellbeing and freedom from pain is way more fun- and imminently possible with high quality chiropractic care. Healthy families are a passion of ours. “family care is all about helping people get the most out of themselves in a meaningful way, so we gear care towards people’s most important ‘why’ in life. Whether that be keeping up with the grandkids or the athlete teenager wanting to stay in the game or improve their batting average. I personally absolutely love working with families, it really is the most rewarding work and an important stepping stone to improving the health of our community across the board”. Here's what one of our lovely families had to say: “Our whole family sees Matt at Sutton Chiropractic regularly - our youngest (prone to chronic headaches), our eldest (sports injuries), us as parents (aches and pains), to our parents (mobility issues and headaches). Ben our youngest child: migraines from a very early age, with little success until we sawBenMatt.had had numerous GP appointments where they had tried adjusting diets etc, but as soon as he met Matt he was put at ease and even after the first few adjustments I could tell he was starting to improve, allowing him to stand and sit with better posture and to attend school more regularly. As Ben has got older, we have noticed he has started to have less migraines and they have become less severe. Matt also helped me with my back, which I found painful when walking or standing for too long, the treatment included gently balancing my pelvis/lower back so my legs became the same length again which had been causing the problems to stay! I had previously tried massages but chiropractic really allows me to continue my career with greater ease. My husband joined the treatment plan when he injured his shoulder. Matt’s approach was able to alleviate his pain over a few weeks treatment. Sending him home with exercises to aid his recovery, he ended up with full movement of his right arm back and no time off of work. Finally our eldest son Dan, asked for assistance for an achy back after several hard Rugby matches. Again his discomfort was relieved quickly and he continued to play at a high level without time off from injury. We all still see Matt on a regular basis and have recommended him to family and friends. We find him professional relaxing and always talks to tell you what’s happening and put you at ease - which was really important for us and our children”. We are here to help you get the most out of life and not accept age, previous injury or other health issues as being something to put up with. Health and the freedom to do what you would like to do, with ease can be for you and your family.Asterm time approaches we are offering free posture checks for children –please contact us for more information.

Matt Sutton

Other Specialties at Sutton Chiropractic Whole family chiropractic care Contact us for: Women'sPostureHeadachesHealth Athletic performance & Paediatricrecovery care Christchurch Family Medical Centre, North Street, Bristol BS16 5SG T: 0117 214 1636 W: E:FB:www.suttonchiro.co.uk@suttonchiroreception@suttonchiro.co.uk Enjoying the gift of health

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 20222 downendvoice

ADVERTISING FEATURE

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 3downendvoiceSeptember, 2022 n NEWS independentyouHelpingremain in your ownContacthomeus:0117 440 6397 Email us: bristol@myhomecare.co.uk Visit us: Brotherswood Court, Almondsbury BS32 4QW Website: bristol.myhomecare.co.uk Short or long visits daily or weekly Trained and DBS checked consistentConsistentstaffcarerstimes • Care at Home and Support • Live in Care • Befriending Service • Meal Provision • Personal Care • Cleaning • Waking Nights From Page 1 The company, now known as MSA Bristol Fire Safety Clothing, says no jobs are being made redundant as a result of the move, with all 76 staff who work at Staple Hill – 61 in service roles and 16 office staff – being offered a transfer to Yate. MSA Safety well-being."improvedThebecomeenvironmentmodernisingthroughemployeesforenhancingandourgrowthretaintransferredmove.madetheinRoad,VictoriaStreetexpectedMarkcommunicationsglobaldirectorDeasysaidthecompanytoleavetheWathenfactory,whichliesbetweenStreetandBeauforttothenorthoftheshopsBroadStreet,bytheendofyear.Hesaid:"NojobsarebeingredundantwiththeInfact,alljobsarebeingandwearehopingtoallofourstaff."MSAisinvestingforgrowth;asitappliestoenhancingfirefighterapparelofferingsmarketreach,butalsotheworkenvironmentthenearly200BristolwhojoinedMSAlastyear’sacquisition."WeareupgradingandtheYateworkingsoourteamcanmorefullyintegrated.YatecampuswillincludefacilitiesforemployeeThefactorysitewasput up for sale earlier this year by agents CBRE, marketed as an storeyincludeddevelopment"employment/residentialopportunity".Theagentssaidthesiteawarehouse,two-officesandcarparking for about 40 vehicles, describing it as an "exciting opportunity to re-purpose/refurbish the existing buildings" or "explore options to comprehensively redevelop the site".Mr Deasy said MSA had been in contact with potential buyers, although no contract has been signed as yet. He added: "We are, however, optimistic the facility will be sold and will have a future in Staple Hill."The factory is believed to have been in use since 1899, when Wathen Gardiner sold its Broad Street premises in central Bristol, although a fire in 1910 wrecked the building and it did not reopen until 1917. Duncan Gill, of Pucklechurch, worked at the factory from 1951 until he retired in 2000 and was the factory's production manager.MrGill said the closure would be a "sad end" for the factory, which had employed around 200 people when he started there. He said: "Many local people worked there, a lot of them being female sewing machinists. "Most of the workers that I knew will now be mothers, fathers, grandmothers, and grandfathers."Tothosewho worked there during this time, your efforts were not wasted or lost, as all your hard work lives on in the brand name Bristol Uniforms."

The Bristol Uniforms factory in Staple Hill

End of an era as factory closes

"On behalf of Mr Hill, who is unfortunately no longer with us, I would like to thank you all for your hard work and loyalty."

Wathen Gardiners also produced bullet-proof vests for lightweight body armour, using synthetic Kevlar panels and special threads. Mr Gill said that in recent years operations at Staple Hill had been scaled down, with the site being used for repairing, washing and servicing protective clothing.Hesaid that when people see a firefighter, "what they are wearing, from top to bottom" will be from Wathen Gardiners and Bristol Uniforms.

In a message to fellow former and current staff, he said: "Though the factory is going, you are not "Whatforgotten.youachieved is all around the world as Bristol Uniforms, and you are still helping to save lives.

The company was founded in 1801 as Gardiner & Sons by John Gardiner, and was initially a wholesale clothing firm. It became Wathen & Gardiner in 1865 when Charles Wathen joined the firm: the street where the factory stands bears his name.Itmade uniforms for the Armed Forces during both world wars.Mr Gill said the firm's transformation into an internationally renowned producer of fire safety and protective clothing happened under managing director Pat Hill, who took over in 1965, by which time the Bristol Uniforms brand had been set up. Working on aluminium silver suits and fleet suits for firefighters and oil tanker workers, the company worked to improve the level of fire protection clothing following the Kings Cross Underground fire of 1987, where "firefighters' leggings melted in the intense heat"; it received an order for thousands of the new suits from the London Fire Service.

Mr Gill said orders from across Europe and other parts of the world, led to them having to find new computerised design and cutting machines and update production systems in the factory to cope with demand.

Greenstone Noble served notice on the Original Factory Shop to quit the premises on the corner of Broad Street and Byron Place earlier this year and the shop, which had traded on the site of the former Somerfield supermarket for more than 10 years, shut in July.

Voice went to print 22 comments had been made on the plans, six in favour and 16 against.

The application says the gym would be staffed by up to six people from 6.30am to 9pm and outside those hours personal trainers would operate "depending on demand", with members able to access the gym using a "secure" swipe card system.

shortlisted

THE owner of the former Original Factory Shop building in Staple Hill plans to turn it into a 24-hour gym.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 20224 downendvoice n NEWSdownendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk ADVERTISING TelTelsales@downendvoice.co.uk0117907858507799461169 EDITORIAL editTheWalk,DownendaddressbeLettersnews@downendvoice.co.uktothepublicationcansenttotheabovee-mailorbyposttoLetters,Voice,6ElkstoneBitton,BristolBS306JT.editorreservestherighttoyourletter. DEADLINE Our October edition deadline is September 14. LOCAL INFORMATION South Gloucestershire www.southglos.gov.ukCouncil 01454 868009 www.avonandsomersetpolice.ukPolice general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 www.avonfire.gov.ukFire General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS Safer111Stronger sscg@southglos.gov.ukteam 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour asbreporting@southglos.gov.ukteam 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism Environment/tradingstreetcare@southglos.gov.uketcstandards 01454 868001 Well HealthAwareand social care www.wellaware.org.ukinformation Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri Weekends8.30am-5pm10amto2pm PUBLISHER’S NOTE Downend Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Downend Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pickup points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@ downendvoice.co.uk. COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Downend Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Follow us on @downendvoiceTwitter Find us on downendvoicewww.facebook.com/Facebook Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 Journalist0700579 Ken MCormick 07715 770377 A member of the St Mary Redcliffe Church Stained Glass Design Competition And Who is My Neighbour? stmaryredcliffe.co.uk

SAT 20 AUGUST - MON 19 SEPTEMBER / MON - SAT 8AM-5PM • SUN 12:30PM-5PM

Gym plan for shop site confirmed

The change of use at the site does not require planning permission but the application is being made to approve a move from the shop's restricted opening hours to 24-hour opening.

Snap Fitness is a global business that already has branches in Filton, Clifton and Ashton Gate.

Free exhibition of five designs to replace four small panels of one of the major stained-glass windows of St Mary Redcliffe Church Contact parish.office@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk or visit our website for further information

The application can be found in the planning section of South Gloucestershire Council's website by searching for application P22/04759/CLP.Asthe

In its planning application, agents Rymack Properties said: "The owners are keen to introduce new tenants and Snap Fitness have reached an agreement to utilise the premises for a 24-hour gymnasium. There are no changes proposed to the building, apart from internal modifications to provide for changing and shower facilities and the gymnasium area itself."

One supporter said it would "benefit the area hugely", while one objectors said: "The high street needs shops and eateries to survive, not another gym."

CALLS to firefighters more than doubled in a single week during the recentAvonheatwave.Fire&Rescue

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 5downendvoiceSeptember, 2022 n NEWS REFURBISHMENTREPAIRREPLACEMENT OF WROUGHT IRON GATES & RAILINGS Affordable and Professional Refurbishment, Repair & Replacement of wrought Iron Gates and Railings in Bristol, Bath and Surrounding Areas. For all enquires please contact us for a no obligation quote Phone: 0117 990 2793 Email: Website:refurb@gatekeep.co.ukwww.gatekeep.co.uk

Heat puts fire service under strain

Service said the hot, dry weather saw the overall number of calls in the week from August 8 to 14 reach 1,306658 more than in the previous week. Firefighters had to deal with more than three times as many grass fires during the heatwave as they did during the same period last year.

Martha Kirby and co-star Glenn Adamson outside the Bristol Hippodrome. Picture Mark Dawson

The service said the hot, dry weather between July 18 and August 14 saw crews called to 117 incidents in fields, parks, roadsides and other grassy areas, compared to 33 on the same days in 2021.

Before starting the run in Bristol Martha said it was "special" to play in her home town, saying: "I'm so excited to come home, mainly for my mum's cooking – but I am excited to just be at the Hippodrome."Shesaidplaying a lead role at the theatre where she had been inspired by so many performances was "incredibly surreal".

Martha stars on Hippodrome stage

"All the family are proud and happy for her – she's our own local home-grown star."

An area of grassland in front of one of the Dower House on the Stoke Park estate, overlooking the M32 near Frenchay, caught fire on August 11 after a disposable barbecue was left unattended by visitors to theTwopark.fires at the Blackhorse Road playing fields were started deliberately, firefighters say. The first, on August 9 at about 6pm, damaged cladding on the pavilion building and the second, on August 13 at about 9pm, caused further damage to the buildings run by Mangotsfield and Blackhorse Sports & Community Association.

A total of seven fire crews came from as far as Pill in North Somerset and Keynsham to help tackle the blaze.

At the height of the heatwave on August 14 firefighters fought to stop a fire in a tree spreading to the Cottage Kennels business in Church Lane, Moorend, near Hambrook. The fire, which is believed to have been started accidentally by nearby power lines, affected outbuildings and a nearby garage but did not reach the kennels.

A DOWNEND woman has taken to the Bristol Hippodrome stage for the first time as a professional – playing the female lead role in a major national touring production.MarthaKirby, who grew up in Bromley Heath, has just finished a two-week run as Raven in the musical Bat Out Of Hell, created by Jim Steinman who wrote the hit album for Meat Loaf. Martha, 24, went to Bromley Heath Infant and Junior schools before attending Downend School up until her GCSEs, after which she moved on to SGS WISE campus in Filton for sixth form.She started dancing classes with her sister Ella at the age of three and took singing lessons with local teacher Fiona Hunt from the age of eight. After leaving sixth form Martha did a full-time year-long course at Bristol drama school The Big Act, before studying a degree course at the Guildford School of Acting. After graduating with first class honours she auditioned for and landed the leading role of Sandy in a touring production of the musical Grease. Martha plays the female lead, Raven, in a show loosely based on the story of Peter Pan, which Steinman credited as the inspiration for some of the songs on the original 1977 Bat Out Of HellThealbum.production started its tour in July and is continuing until October, visiting Belfast, Dublin, Cardiff and Liverpool on the way, before a London West End run next spring. Martha's grandmother Frances Kirby contacted the Voice to share the family's pride at seeing her star in a show at her home city's theatre, where she had seen countless musicals as a child.Frances said: "She loved musicals from a very early age and when she was eight or nine I suggested she look at a course of singing lessons with a local teacher. She did all her grades with top "We'remarks.really proud of the way she has stuck and worked at it. She's doing a job she loves."

JK MORGAN

Have you seen this boat?

No

"The NHS recently announced the first reforms to dentistry services since 2006, which will support practices to improve access including by giving high performing practices the opportunity to increase their activity and treat more patients – discussions around further changes that benefit patients and staff are ongoing."

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 20226 downendvoice n NEWS NEED A BOILERNEW ? 10 YEAR GUARANTEE CALL JULIAN ON 07831 718509 Over 30 years experience JK Morgan plumbing & heating Accredited Installer Check us out on Email: j.kmorgan@hotmail.co.uk

BDA general dental practice committee chair Shawn Charlwood said: "NHS dentistry is at a tipping point, with millions unable to get the care they need and more dentists leaving with every day that passes."We’re seeing the results of years of chronic neglect, set into overdrive by the pressures of the pandemic. The question now is, will ministers step up before it’s too late? "Nothing we’ve heard from government to date gives us any confidence this service has a future. Without real reform and fair funding NHS dentistry will die, and our patients will pay the price."Aspokesperson for NHS England South West said: "Access to NHS dental services in Bristol and South Gloucestershire has historically been challenging, with demand exceeding the capacity available, mainly due to workforce challenges and the capacity of practices to take on new patients.

POLICE are appealing for sightings of a boat stolen from a garden in Downend.Thieves broke in to a car and moved it out of the way so that they could take the grey rigid inflatable boat from the hardstanding where it was stored at a house in Westerleigh Road.

Police have issued a picture of the boat, a Kuter Valiant V-400, which was taken between 9.30pm on June 29, and 11am the following day.The boat had a faded red/orange stripe and a 40hp two-stroke Mariner engine, serial number 6E9S017043. It was towed away on a purpose-built silver/grey trailer with the registration number WF60 XVA. Police have searched CCTV in the area as part of their investigation and are now calling on anyone who has seen it or has any other information about the theft to call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 155 329.

The inflatablestolenboat

A survey of dental practices across the region by the BBC found 98% of them were not offering appointments to new adult NHS patients – the joint highest proportion in the country.When the Voice checked the 50 dental practices closest to Downend, in a five-mile radius, in August using the NHS Find a Dentist website, just one –Oldland Dental Practice in Oldland Common – said it was taking on new adult patients, and then only those entitled to free dentalTwocare.practices – Oldland Dental Practice and Warrington House Dental Practice in Brislington – were accepting new child NHS patients. Most entries on the site, including those for the five practices in Downend, Staple Hill, Frenchay and Emersons Green – either said they were not taking any new NHS patients, only taking new NHS patients referred for specialist treatment by another dentist or GP, or had not given a recent update on theirAroundstatus.a quarter of the 8,533 dental practices across the UK with an NHS contract contacted by BBC researchers from May to July had an open waiting list for new patients, with wait times of a year or longer for most of them.The British Dental Association blames a "discredited" NHS contract it says "funds care for barely half the population and puts government targets ahead of patient care". It says recent "modest" changes came without any new investment, would not address patients' problems accessing services or keep dentists in the NHS.The BDA says thousands of NHS dentists have left the service entirely since lockdown. Last year in South Gloucestershire a practice running two surgeries in Frampton Cotterell and Winterbourne told its 14,000 patients they would have to go private or go elsewhere.

Plumbing, Heating & Gas Engineer NHS dental services are facing a "tipping point" and will "die" without reform, says the profession's official body.

The spokesperson said NHS patients should regularly check the NHS website for updates on practices taking on new patients, call a practice to ask if it has a waiting list or call 111 if they need urgent treatment. places for new NHS dental patients

The BDA says a "decade of savage cuts" has left NHS dentistry in need of an extra £880 million a year just to restore funding to 2010 levels.

Anyone with information should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 173 029. Sparky bandaged after being shot

"The neighbourhood team are not aware of any other similar incidents in recent months."

"I'm hoping it's not a gang of teenagers who are going out shooting things – it's probably someone who doesn't like cats in their garden, who doesn't realise the damage they are"Mycausing.concern is that other cats are being injured too, because surely it can’t just be one family of cats being hurt. "I don't have any enemies, so it's not somebody targeting me. "I do understand that cats can be a pain if they come into your garden and you don’t want them, but squirt water at them with a hosepipe or water pistol, or put citrus"Don’tdown.hurt them – you don't realise how much damage you areSparkycausing."isslowly recovering and has been able to go out again but still has swelling from the wound.After suggestions from wellwishers, Jo set up an online fundraising page towards her vet's bills, which had raised more than £750 as the Voice went to press. It can be found at gofund. me/755565aa.Shehasalso been raising money through car boot sales. An Avon & Somerset police spokesperson said Sparky had been shot "at close range with an air Theweapon".spokesperson added: "Officers are investigating the incident and are appealing for witnesses who may have seen or heard anything to come forward.

n NEWS To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 7downendvoice SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANCY AND TRAINING FOR ALL YOUR CDM, SITE AUDITS, RISK ASSESSMENTS, ASBESTOS SURVEYS, FIRE RISK ASSESSMENTS, TRAINING NEEDS AND MORE. Discounted training if booked online SITE MANAGERS SAFETY TRAINING SCHEME (SMSTS) / SMSTS REFRESHER / SITE SUPERVISOR SAFETY TRAINING SCHEME (SSSTS) / SSSTS REFRESHER / H&S AWARENESS / DIRECTORS ROLE FOR HEALTH & SAFETY LEVEL 3 AWARD IN EMERGENCY FIRST AID, LEVEL 3 FIRST AID AT WORK, LEVEL 2 AWARD FIRE SAFETY ASBESTOS SAFELYMANAGINGAWARENESSSAFELY/WORKING/SAFETY,HEALTH&ENV. FOR CONSTRUCTION Contact us: 01179 575154 Email us: training@logicshesolutions.co.uk Visit us: Sophia House, 9 Soundwell Road, Staple Hill, BS16 4QG Website: www.logicshesolutions.co.uk

All three of the cats – and Candy's sister, Floss – are former feral cats who have been rehomed.Jobelieves whoever is responsible probably lives close to her home in Field View Drive, Downend, which is off Frenchay Road, between Lincombe Barn and Oldbury Court. She says an air rifle was heard going off nearby when police visited to investigate the previous shooting.Josaid:

A CAT owner who has seen two pets shot and a third poisoned is appealing for help to find the culprits.JoHughes is also calling on anyone who does not like cats in their gardens to use more humane methods of keeping themPoliceaway.are investigating the latest attack, in which Jo's sevenyear-old cat Sparky was shot sometime before 6am on July 20. The pellet is lodged near his spine and cannot be removed. He was examined and x-rayed by a vet, who also found internal bruising and bleeding. Sparky's treatment has cost more than £1,500 so far. It is the second time one of Jo's cats has been shot: Sparky's brother Coal was shot in the leg four years ago. And in October last year another cat, Candy, was poisoned, suffering organ failure which meant she had to be put to sleep. She was less than a year old.The attacks have left Jo, a finance manager, "shattered" and her 13-year-old son Ollie very upset.She said: "I can't even put it into words – I just don't like human beings any more."

An (circledhastheshowsx-raywherepelletlodgedinred)

Owner 'shattered' after third cat is attacked

Common eye problems

to look out for specialist Optometrist at the Opticians. Here we list some of the most common causes from allergies and conjunctivitis be a factor – a lack of water in the body

Marta Bochenek-Cutler

0117 965 4434 0117 962 2474 eyecareteam@turnersopticians.co.uk www.turnersopticians.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 20228 downendvoice

needs, our

•advise:Remember to blink while you’re using your screen (sounds obvious but people working on a laptop or phone do not blink as regularly as they normally would)

• Try to have contrast between text and background to avoid working your eyes too hard

are ready to help you at both of our practices. 768 Fishponds Road, Bristol, BS16 3UA 57 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9

• Screens should always be at a comfortable distance and not three inches from your face!

Former physiotherapist Marta joined Turners Opticians having re-trained as an optician. She has a particular interest in helping young patients with myopia (short sight). eye care expert eye care team 4JT

• Check your surroundings – staring at a screen dazzled by direct sunlight is not ideal

n TURNERS VISION common eye symptoms Sore eyes Eye strain Glaucoma Blurry vision Red eye whatever your

It’s usually not serious but prevention is always better than cure so I’d

• Remember to take a break, look away from your screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes

Turners Opticians, we see lots of red eye Whilst red eyes can self resolve, if moisturising eye drops don’t quickly provide relief please avoid the temptation to rub your eyes, take out any contacts you might be wearing and book to see us for Eye strain – intense eye use from driving a long distance or staring at your phone can strain your eyes and leave you feeling tired. Glare from your screen, bad posture and draughts can all make it worse.

In very rare cases, eye strain can indicate an underlying eye condition that needs treatment. See your optician if you are repeatedly getting eye strain and the steps above aren’t helping. Blurry vision – blurry vision is common and usually nothing to worry about and may be due to a change in prescription, but it can also be a sign of a more significant change such as cataract. Other common causes include eye strain (including dry eye) and high blood sugar levels. You must contact a doctor or optometrist the same day if you get sudden loss of vision as this could have a serious underlying cause. Glaucoma – this is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. It is most often caused by fluid and pressure building up in the front part of the eye. It’s usually found in people in their 70s and 80s but can be diagnosed in anyone, particularly the over 40s. Glaucoma has been likened to the thief that comes in the night, developing slowly over years and many people do not realise they have glaucoma. It’s often only picked up during a routine eye exam. Glaucoma can lead to loss of peripheral vision if not diagnosed early. Whatever your eye care needs, our expert optometrists and eye care team at Turners Opticians are ready to help you. Please call on 0117 965 4434 or 0117 9622 474 to book a time to come in. You can also book online at your convenience. We look forward to seeing you soon!

New Frenchay school is almost ready

It’s a bit like foster care – but for an adult. As a Shared Lives carer, you will be paid to support adults who need a little extra help from your own home.You’ll help them to achieve their goals and support them to live independently, helping them live their life, their way. They could spend the day with you, stay overnight or even move in, it’s flexible to you.

Frenchay Primary School pupils visit their new school building with council and school leaders and builders

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 9downendvoice n NEWS Looking for a job people?reallythathelps Are you a caring person? Are you a carer for a family Domember?youwant a flexible job, working from Sharedamazing,DotheirsomeoneCouldhome?yousupporttoachievegoals?somethingbecomeaLivescarer.Doyou need support to live your life? Find out if Shared Lives could support www.ategi.org.ukyou: Find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer on our website: www.ategi.org.uk or email us carerapplication@ategi.co.ukon

Have you heard about Shared Lives yet?

Council cabinet members Erica Williams, Ben Burton and Toby Savage said: "We reassessed the original design for the new school in 2020 after the council declared a climate emergency."Wehave invested £800,000 from our Climate Emergency Fund into the project and have been able to improve that design and invest in new technologies and building techniques to deliver what promises to be an excellent new school for these pupils, but something that will benefit them and generations to come.”

“I’m proud to be a Shared Lives carer because I believe that everyone deserves to be happy and be themselves, regardless of who they are and that’s exactly what Shared Lives does -placing people in homes with families where they are cared for, loved and respected.”Kwame, Shared Lives carer What does it mean to be a Shared Lives carer?

PUPILS from Frenchay C of E Primary School had a look at how their new school is shaping up ahead of its opening this month.Agroup of children visited the £11 million school, which is being built on part of the former Frenchay Hospital site, with teachers and leaders from South Gloucestershire Council just before the school holidays. The school is designed to 'Passivhaus' standards of environmental performance, to be highly energy efficient, insulated and have a very low carbon impact, including triple glazing, solar panels, low energy LED lighting, air-source heat pumps and a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system.Itwill have capacity for 420 pupils and was commissioned by the council to respond to increased demand in the area.

The council has designed and project managed the school, which is the first of its kind in theItarea.will use no gas or oil, only electricity, some of which will be generated by solar panels on the roof, with surplus energy going into the national grid.

Head teacher Katherine Marks said: “My staff and I are so excited about starting the new school year in this brand new building."Thepupils who visited the site were fascinated to see how the school is coming together, layer by layer, as well as to meet some of the builders and hearing from them how they are making our new school."

The school's Year 1 to 6 pupils are due to spend a week and a half of the new term on the school's current Churchside site, overlooking Frenchay Common, before the whole school closes on September 14 for the big move. Reception children are set to be the first to use the new classrooms, with stay and play sessions followed by half-day classes from September 12. A week later they are due to be joined by the rest of the school, which reopens in its new home on September 19.

Patients

Leap Valley, in Beaufort Road, and Emersons Green, in St Luke's Close, are run by Green Valleys Health, which installed a new phone system in 2020 following years of complaints. But continuing problems were highlighted in a recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission, which rated both surgeries 'good' overall.

less satisfied with surgeries, survey finds

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 202210 downendvoice ” ” Take a fresh look at caring with Home Instead Unrushed, relationship focused care 1 hour Matchedvisitstoclients in your own area Up to £14 per hour plus NVQ enhancements Guaranteed 12 & 16 hour contracts Variety of work patterns available First class training & career development 12% Holiday pay & a pension scheme toMoving InsteadHome was the best thing I’ve done for my career. Interes ted? Call in for a coffee & cha t at our OPEN DAY Thursday 8th September, 10.30am-2.30pm at 77B North Street, Downend BS16 5SE www.homeinstead.co.uk/bristolnorth For more details call 0117 435 0063 or ourvisitwebsite n NEWS PATIENTS are becoming more dissatisfied with the area's surgeries, a survey has found. The annual NHS GP Patient Survey, published this summer, found almost half of patients at two local surgeries rated their overall experience as "poor", and the number reporting problems getting through on the phone wasMorerising.people also reported having to wait longer than a week for an appointment than in 2021.Themajority of patients of all surgeries said it was "not easy" to get through on the phone to their practice, with 80% of patients of Downend Health Group, which includes the Willow Surgery and Christchurch Family Medical Centre, reporting problems – up from 59% last year. That number rose to 89% among patients of Leap Valley Medical Centre (up from 76%) and 98% at Emersons Green Medical Centre (up from 71%).

The percentage of people offered a same-day appointment at Downend Health Group surgeries was 35% - down 2% on last year. The number of people waiting a week or more increased to 26%, from 20% last year. Others waited more than a day but less than a week, or could not remember how long they waited. At Leap Valley Medical Centre, 21% of patients were offered a same-day appointment – down from 25% last year. And numbers having to wait a week or more rose from 25% in 2021 to 37%.The percentage of patients offered same-day appointments at Emersons Green Medical Centre was 23% - up from 21% last year. The proportion of patients waiting a week or longer was up from 35% in 2021 to 44%. Satisfaction levels fell for all threeThepractices.percentage of patients saying they had a good overall experience of Downend Health Group fell from 81% in 2021 to 61% this year, with the number saying it was poor rising from 9% to 17%.Good ratings for Leap Valley fell from 58% to just 38% this year, with 'poor' ratings rising from 21% to 46%. At Emersons Green Medical Centre the percentage of patients who said their experience was good fell from 66% to 37%, while those saying it was poor rose from 19% to 47%. Some patients gave a neutral answer.Thesurvey was carried out by Ipsos MORI with NHS England, based on around 720,000 responses to questionnaires sent out nationwide between January andAApril.spokesperson for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, which funds GP services, said: "Practices are working hard to make sure everyone can access the right support when they need it, whether that’s online or faceto-face."However, we also recognise there are some areas for improvement. We are continuing to share learning between practices about what works well, and are working to support practices to deliver high-quality services to patients."

Karen said: "They always call me Aunty Karen – even my granddaughter started calling me Aunty Karen!"

KAREN Westlake had a busy job as a buyer for a big company before she found her true vocation.Aftertaking maternity leave from Fishponds firm DRG Flexible Packaging, a friend asked her to join her on a childminding course, and soon after completing it Karen had her first knock on the door from someone asking her to look after a child.Looking back at her career change 25 years later, on her final day as a childminder, Karen said: "I get more satisfaction from helping children than getting a £10 million deal with a company."It'shard work, but I've enjoyed it. "It's so rewarding to help a child take their first steps, say their first word or help them learn how to put their shoes on – my job is to help them develop ready for Karen'sschool."entire house in Downend has been given over to the job, from the front room to the back garden, which has an accessible ramp and a marquee so children can go outside in all weather, installed when Covid restrictions stopped them from visiting other places. After promising husband John they could finally have their home back, she delayed her retirement for one more year to see some of the last children into school.Karen has lost count of the hundreds of families, most of whom live or work locally, she has helped over the years, including many children with specialSomeneeds.stillkeep in touch, sending pictures, letters or messages – and many say hello when they see her in the street.

n NEWS To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 2022 11downendvoice BUILD YOUR KNOWLEDGE BUILD YOUR NETWORK BUILD YOUR FUTURE Attend one of our FREE construction breakfast or lunch workshops ScantheQRcodetoregister FREE SUPPORT for small and medium sized construction business across the West of England Funded by Delivered by S O U T H W E S T

At one stage she employed two assistants and has also had help from her son Ashley, daughter Rachael and mum Diane, known as Nanny Diane by theInchildren.25years Karen only had four days off sick. She says her job involved teamwork with each family and giving children "firm but fair" ground rules, such as "sharing is caring".Among parents at a party at Karen's house to mark her retirement on August 18 was Lucy McCrae, of Downend, whose daughter Sophie, aged two and a half, has been with Karen for 18 Lucymonths.said:"Karen will be massively missed by all of us but she will now be able to have a rest and enjoy her own grandchildren."Shehasalways been willing to go the extra mile for the children and has been an amazing support, especially during Covid."

Aunty Karen calls it a day

OliveOscargrandchildrenRachaeldaughtermumwith(centre)WestlakeKarenherDiane,andand

12 downendvoice September, 2022 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 Parkway automobile engineering Parnall Road • Fishponds • Bristol • BS16 3JQ 0117 965 6164 Mercedes-Benz specialist with over 35 years experience • Full diagnostic equipment • Factory trained technicians • Collection/delivery service • Courtesy car on request • MOT’s • Servicing • Gearbox repairs • Electrical faults n NEWS BUS services could still face cuts, despite extra government funding to keep them running for another six months.

Steve Reade said it was not a "fair and direct comparison", as other combined authorities had networks such as trams and light rail to support. He said the consultation had "come far too late, given the number of vital bus services in South Gloucestershire that have been cut since May 2021".

As the Voice went to print it was not clear how much of the money would come to the region and what effect it would have on localButservices.MrNorris said: "I should warn people that even with this new cash, which of course I welcome, it doesn’t necessarily follow that cuts won’t happen.

Terry Stevens, who has been gathering complaints from fellow passengers, said: "If the Y5 stops, how are users of these services supposed to get out to Yate, for work or leisure, and back home?"

The Voice reported last month that Metro Mayor Dan Norris had warned that the withdrawal from October of support for commercial services would push them over a "cliffedge".Mr Norris later said that two routes serving Staple Hill and Downend – the Y5 to Pucklechurch and Yate through Staple Hill and the 5 to Bristol via Oldbury Court, Blackberry Hill, Stapleton and Eastville, were among those First was planning to cut as part of a 'network review'.

report by Adam Postans, Local ReportingDemocracyService

The meetings heard calls for Mr Norris to be given the same power as the country's other metro mayors to charge a precept to households to support local public transport, on top of councilTransporttax. campaigner David Redgewell said: "It’s a few pounds, it’s not a huge amount, but that pays for your local railway, local trams, local buses, and in the case of Liverpool the Mersey Tunnels and in Tyne the TyneTheferries."Greater Manchester metro mayor's precept was £22 thisMryear.Norris said a precept would be preferable to the current "complicated system" of transport levies paid to Weca by unitary authorities. He said the councils "provide a much lower amount of money than elsewhere in the country – almost three times less than places like councillorGloucestershireManchester".HoweverSouthcabinetfortransport

On August 19 the Department for Transport announced "up to £130 million" of further funding to support bus services from October until next March. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "This funding will ensure millions across the country can continue to use vital bus services, and brings the total we’ve provided to the sector throughout the pandemic to almost £2 billion."

AugustinBusesBigresidentsYoungcouncillorGloucestershireSouthClairetalktoattheChoicesonmeetingYatein

The huge, huge problem is and remains that there are just not enough bus drivers to drive the buses, and that will continue to be the case even with more funding."Weca's consultation with passengers, called Big Choices on Buses, was announced after August's Voice went to print and kicked off with a series of public meetings.Residents from Pucklechurch were among those who attended, to argue for the future of the Y5, which is their only service into Bristol.Parish council chair Gail Boyle said the service had already been reduced to once every two hours, and "quite a few of those do not turn up", adding: "We understand there is a driver shortage but people have been pushed back into their cars."

Metro Mayor Dan Norris and

Around 500 people attended consultation meetings and by August 18, 940 people had responded to an online survey. The metro mayor's office said most attendees "favoured reliability over frequency of services", and there were also suggestions made on new routes and using minibuses on some routes. Voice readers say they are struggling with the cuts that have already been made. Terry Thomas, of Downend, said the loss of the Y2 meant there was no longer a bus that went to Bristol's central bus station, which made it difficult to take his wife, who has dementia, to hospital.Hesaid: "The Y2 was our lifeline. When you're disabled you need to get into the bus station."It's dreadful now."

First said this was "speculation" - but the West of England Combined Authority, which is led by Mr Norris and has responsibility for transport planning in the region, launched a consultation asking passengers to help prioritise future services.

Weca mayor: No 5 bus service still at risk

The Big Choices on Buses consultation runs until August 31 – surveys can be found online at bit.ly/3zsr8jc.Meeting

We asked for your views on bus services after the metro mayor warned more cuts were on their way

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 2022 13downendvoice n LETTERS SPECIAL BRISTOL CHRISTADELPHIANSDOWNEND The entrance of thy words giveth light Sunday BiBle TalkS in SepTemBer @ 2pm 4th To be announced 11th Signs of the Impending Return of Jesus 18th I wish I had Your Faith 25th Is the Old Testament Necessary? Visit bristoldownend.com for more details Come along to the Christadelphian Hall on Hill House Road, Downend or watch live on YouTube. Loss of services is not acceptable We lost the No 18 to Southmead Hospital from Emersons Green. We lost the Y2 From Bristol to Yate via Downend. Now to say we will have the 48 reduced in service. Elderly people living in Downend/Staple Hill have to go further afield to get to Southmead Hospital and Yate. It seems that South Gloucestershire is being hit the hardest. Can (First managing director) Mr Claringbold and Metro Mayor Dan Norris tell me why these vital services were cancelled? Linda Collins Meetings couldn't be reached by bus Since suffering a series of strokes in 2006 I can no longer drive, so am dependent on bus services to get about.When I was a youngster in the 1960s, there were six services to travel from Downend-YateChipping Sodbury, meaning more than 50 buses in each direction daily. Now there isn't one, despite the exponential growth in population.I'vegiven Doug Claringbold and Dan Norris various ways of providing a Downend-Yate service.

3. As the Stagecoach 86 is a supported service its route could be diverted through Downend and back down to Emersons Green Sainsbury's. This would have the additional bonus of replacing the withdrawn 518 service. I emailed Dan Norris about problems caused by the Y2 withdrawal, and he told me about the recent public forums about bus services, including one in Yate. I indicated that I would love to attend, but could not because there isn't a bus to get me there and back! I hope he understands irony.

2. Divert the 48 out and inbound from the Trident stop on Blackhorse Lane to the Willy Wicket stop on Badminton Road, where passengers could catch the Y1 from the lay-bys on the A4174.

1. Divert one Y1 service 2-hourly from A4174 Willy Wicket roundabout to pick up passengers in Blackhorse/Downend, returning via Cleeve Hill to rejoin the A4174.

Jeff Day Westerleigh Road Too many routes, too few drivers I LIVE on Downend Road, with a bus stop into town opposite me. We try to use the bus as much as possible but the service has become increasingly frustrating. The 48 seems to be cancelled more than other services. Sometimes there is only one bus an hour. We miss the Y2 as a quicker route into town. When it was cut back to every two hours I would watch all the metrobuses depart from Cabot Circus and then quite often the Y2 would be cancelled. I know there is a shortage of drivers, but there are far more routes now. UWE is also well served by the 48a. We now of course have all theTheremetrobuses.areonlyso many drivers to go round, especially when you factor in the effect of Brexit and Covid.Itis quicker for my friend in Winterbourne to get into town than for me!

Margaret Morgan 86 gives quicker route to Yate YOU can catch the 48 bus to Emersons Green and then the 86 Stagecoach bus to Yate from the same bus stop. We have tried the Y5 from Fishponds but the 86 bus gets to Yate quicker. The 86 leaves Emersons Green at 9.37am and then every two hours, coming back from Yate at 2.20pm and every two hours.

P Andrews (Mrs)

Foot

Karen’s Mobile Health

Service kwfoothealth@gmail.comIofferafriendlyandprofessionalservice;trimmingnails,treatingthickenednails,corns,hardskinandmore.Ialsoofferaprofessionalpedicureservice.Callmetodayon07585253372oremailmeat:andI’llbehappytohelpKarenWhiles

A HOUSING association with thousands of tenants in South Gloucestershire had to take all of its computer systems offline after a cyberHackersattack.tried to access Bromford's systems on July 20. The housing association has around 100,000 residents in 40,000 homes across England, about 8,000 of which are in South Gloucestershire.

Chief information officer Dan Goodall said: "Following a malicious attempt to access our systems we have now returned most of our services to "Immediatelynormal.after identifying the attempt, we took all our systems offline in order to protect ourselves and our customers’ data.

MANGOTSFIELD'S parade of shops has been put up for sale, with an asking price of £2.2 million. The row of shops on St James Place is currently home to six businesses, including Tesco Express and Bruce's Fish Bar. It has been put on the market by property investment consultants Prideview Group, who say the gross rent from the shop units and six flats - five two-bedroom and one three-bedroom - is £148,310 per year. Some of the land behind the shops, which is not in the area up for sale, is subject to a planning application to demolish two houses and replace them with six semi-detached homes, with garages. The application, made in March, is awaiting planning permission.

"Since then, we have been working closely with our specialist data security partners and have found no evidence that any data has been accessed or that the attempts were successful. Our neighbourhood coaches, income colleagues and support workers remained available for customers. Taking the step of isolating ourselves while we investigated the incident regrettably caused some disruption to our services but by re-opening our systems in a safe manner we have been able to return to our normal ways of working for most services. The incident prompted South Gloucestershire Council to increase its online security.

Church closes A CHURCH has been put up for sale after closing its doors for good. The former Soundwell Spiritualist Church, in Soundwell Road, held its last service in March. A meeting in May held among members concluded there was "no other option than to close the church", as no committee could be formed to continue to run it. It was put on the market in August via Bristol estate agents Burston Cook as in use as a church but "with potential for redevelopment (subject to planning)". The agents invited sealed bids of around £200,000 for the building, opposite the Leicester Square junction, and it was listed as under offer after the August 17 deadline.

14 downendvoice September, 2022 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 MONDAY - FISHPONDS 6.30pm at the Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR Claire 07791574353 TUESDAY - DOWNEND St Augustines Church Hall Boscombe Crescent BS16 6QU 9.30am and 11.00am Tel.Anna-Marie 07854177308 5.30pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Downend BS16 6QR Claire 07791574353 TUESDAY - FISHPONDS 9.30am at the Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR Claire 07791574353 WEDNESDAY - STAPLE HILL The Salvation Army 21 Broad Street BS16 5LN Wednesdays at 5.15pm and 6.45pm Tel. Anna-Marie 07854177308 FRIDAY - STAPLE HILL The Salvation Army, 21 Broad Street BS16 5LN Fridays at 7.30am 9.00am and 10.30am Anna-Marie 07854177308 n NEWS

QUALIFIED FOOT PROFESSIONALHEALTH

MCFHP MAFHP

A spokesperson said: “We take our cyber security seriously and are constantly monitoring and updating our systems to protect ourselves and our schools from malicious cyber-attacks. We share information between partners regarding potential threats and have implemented additional phishing countermeasures and monitoring protocols after a recent, external attack was reported to us.”

Shops up for sale

Hackers target housing association

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL YOUR Community NEWS Brought to you by DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCILLORS Downend Ward CLLR MIKE BAKER Tel: 07789 393 681 CLLR JANET BIGGIN Tel: 0117 956 3566 or 07966 204 260 CLLR ISABELLA BROWNE Tel. 07803 051 684 CLLR BEN BURTON Tel: 07870 639 486 CLLR JAMES GRIFFITHS Tel: 07742 400 474 CLLR JON HUNT Tel. 07525 150 103 CLLR COLIN OGDEN Tel. 0117 940 6531 CLLR SHEILA OTTEWELL Tel: 0117 957 2724 CLLR RAJ KUMAR SOOD Tel: 07901 621 632 CLLR ALVIS WEST 07767 216 412 Staple Hill Ward CLLR PHILLIP ABBOTT Tel. 0117 957 0075 CLLR MATT PITTS Tel. 07837 870 039 Clerk to the Council Mrs Angela Hocking Tel. 0117 9567001 E-mail. clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk BROMLEY HEATH PARK PLAYINGANDFIELDS My name is Sharon Herniman and I have been Chair of the Friends of Bromley Heath Park and Playing Field group since 2016.  Within that time the following has taken •place:-June2017 : Resurfacing of the flooring around the train/toddler play area; • June 2017 : Train tidied and damaged section removed; • February 2018 : Basketball and tennis courts repainted; • February 2018 : Basketball nets replaced; • July 2018 : Skate park improvements – Refurbishment of ramps and tarmac; • April 2019 : Repainting of park play equipment, using Member Award Funding from South Gloucestershire Councillors; • 2019 : Footpath installed • 2019 : Bins replaced; • June 2021 : Resurfacing of flooring around the climbing frame section. This has all be achieved working with Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council, South Gloucestershire Council and Downend Men in Sheds.  A summer family picnic was also held in 2015 which was a huge success and we have attended Heathfest and South Glos Park Forum Groups to talk about the park and playing fields.

to apply for grants in order to bring new things to the area.

HIGH VALUE CAR THEFTS

The Police are reiterating the advice that car owners ensure their vehicles are always locked when unattended and that keys are stored away from doors and windows, possibly in a metal box if the car can be started without placing keys in the ignition. There is a force wide priority to address this issue www.dbhparishcouncil.uk

There will be a further meeting on TUESDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER, 7.30PM AT BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH to which I would encourage as many as possible to attend, so as to ensure the Friends Group remains active and a functioning Group. If you use Bromley Heath Park & Playing Fields, please do come along and offer your support.

The Park and Playing Fields are a huge part of HeathBromleyand used by most within the Community - toddlers and young children, dog walkers, tennis players, basketball players, TheyParishBromleyandSouththeinteractingplaythefamilycricketers,footballers,friend/meetups–FriendsGroupavitalpartinwithcommunity,GlosCouncilDownend&HeathCouncil. alsohavetheability

A meeting was held two weeks ago and attended by four members of the public, plus two Parish Councillors and the Chair of the Neighbourhood Watch.  It was a useful meeting, with some great ideas but to move the Friends Group forward and revitalise it, volunteers really are needed.  We also have the upcoming refurbishment of the pavilion, which will be a great development. This is being undertaken by Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council, but it would be great to also have input from the Friends Group.

DOWNEND CCTV CAMERAS

The three cameras in Downend High Street have proved invaluable to the Police since they have gone live. So far, they have been used to confirm details of an assault that occurred on the High Street and to identify the circumstances in which a vehicle was abandoned at a bus stop. Footage from one of the cameras is currently providing evidence in a case of criminal damage and attempted robbery. The investigation is ongoing so further details cannot be provided at this time.

Having been Chair for 6 years now, I feel the time is right for me to step aside for others to bring some new life and ideas into the Friends Group.  The current Treasurer, Simon Shellard, who has done a great job with keeping track of finances for the Friends Group, will also be stepping down.  We are now looking for volunteers, who can spare a little time to help out and become part of the Group – the key roles would primarily include Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer plus ideally someone to look at grant applications and anyone else who might be able to give some time to the Group.

41 VICTORIA STREET, STAPLE HILL, BRISTOL BS16 5JP TELEPHONE 0117 956 4797 Email: heat@anchecker.co.uk Website www.anchecker.co.uk HEATING BRISTOL HOMES FOR OVER 53 YEARS 1835 Gas HeatingCentralbyyourLocalHeatingCompany We have been installing Gas Central Heating in Bristol for over 53 years and offer the following services by our fully trained staff at competitive prices and to a very high standard • Full Heating systems - Designed & Installed • Boiler Changes • Replacement Radiators • Gas Cooker and Hob installations • Worcester accredited company and can offer a 10-12 year guarantee on all Worcester boilers • Gas fire and boiler servicing and repairs • Installation of wooden and marble fireplaces gas and electric fires and electric suites and all necessary building and electrical works to allow these fireplaces to be installed PROUD MEMBER OF Accredited Installer

BRISTOL Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd is one of the largest in the Situated on Chapel Lane in Fishponds, they stock over 100,000sq m Carpet, Vinyl For they also have a large free park.

7717 email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com web: www.bristolcarpet.co.uk facebook: @BristolCarpets One of the largest stockists of Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West A family run business for over 85 years, supplying and fitting quality flooring in the Bristol and surrounding areas Massive choice of quality carpets and remnants Fitting service available with expert fitters Removal & Disposal of existing carpets Delivery service available FREE large car park FREE measuring & planning service FREE NO obligation estimates FREE sample service (Charges apply) Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10 am - 4pm

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 17downendvoice Please ask one of our experienced team for details Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate, Bristol BS5 7EY Tel: (0117) 951 7717 email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com web: www.bristolcarpet.co.uk facebook: @BristolCarpets One of the largest stockists of Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West A family run business for over 50 years, supplying and fitting quality flooring in the Bristol and surrounding areas Massive choice of quality carpets and remnants Fitting service available with expert fitters Removal & Disposal of existing carpets Delivery service available FREE measuring & planning service FREE NO obligation estimates FREE sample service (Charges apply) Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10 am - 4pm Vinyl & Carpet remnants available - can be fitted in just 3 days! ADVERTISING FEATURE

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A family-owned business, Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd have been supplying flooring to the Bristol area for over 85 years. During a recent renovation of a local public house, a section of floor was uncovered and it showed that that floor had been laid on 5th May 1937 by the father and grandfather of Bristol Carpet's current Directors. This date was the coronation day of King George VI. The family were the first people in Bristol to sell discount carpets in the 1960’s. This evolved into a cash and carry operation called Bells Cash and Carry with the ethos strong in the company today.

Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company ltd started manufacturing carpets on Crews Hole Road, St George in the early 1980’s and at one time had 12 Axminster Carpet looms which had been purchased from southern Ireland, dismantled there and shipped to Bristol. The factory shop was opened in July 1985 with one of the company aims being to cut out the middle man and sell directly to the public. They believe they were the first company in Bristol to make carpets and sell them directly to the public. With an eye to the future, and with sustainability in mind, they are one of only a few retailers to offer the Sedna range of carpets. Sedna® carpet is soft, luxurious, and durable. It is made with ECONYL® regenerated nylon - a yarn made from recycled waste material such as old carpets and abandoned fishing nets collected from the bottom of the sea. Sedna® help to save thousands of beautiful sea creatures like sea turtles, dolphins, and seals that will no longer get stuck in this life-threatening waste.

and LVT flooring for immediate delivery and fitting.

Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10am-4pm www.bristolcarpet.co.uk email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com Tel: 0117 9517717 Please ask one of our experienced team for details Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate, Bristol BS5 7EY Tel: (0117)

Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd pride themselves on the personal touch and are very happy to supply any flooring from large contract job to a residential bathroom. Their knowledgeable staff will help you make the right choice on your new flooring with advice on everything including the right choice of underlay which, importantly, could help with insulating your home to help keep your energy bills down. Bristol, BS5 7EY 951

Serving Bristol for over 85 years 6-10 Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate,

Councils had to make them cover "the smallest geographic area possible" or risk the government removing the restrictions.

The council is requiring landlords in parts of two wards – Filton and Stoke Park & Cheswick – to apply for permission to convert any house into an HMO, following a public consultation.

New measures called Article 4 directions (A4D), withdrawing 'permitted development rights' which allow HMO conversions without permission, are being used after the council adopted new local planning rules last year, setting limits on concentrations of HMOs.There have been complaints that parts of Filton and Stoke Park have become 'overrun' with shared homes, affecting communities and being blamed for increased antisocial behaviour, parking problems and noise.

Residents of Coronation Road only discovered that a three-bed semi-detached home in their street was being converted to a sixbed HMO when builders arrived to strip out the inside, removing the roof, most of the walls and chimney stacks.

NEW rules to make it harder to turn family homes into bedsits in some areas of South Gloucestershire are set to be introduced by the council.Butthe proposals will not cover the Downend area, where family homes can be turned into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) for up to six people, without planning permission.

Neighbours David and Julie Prangell wrote to the council to raise their concerns. They said: "To have six single people living there could mean six additional vehicles in the road, which is already full of parked cars."It seems to us that property developers will be flocking to South Gloucestershire to buy up properties and convert them to HMOs as, by not having to get planning permission, there is no discussion with residents in the area and their plans cannot be blocked."Acouncil spokesperson told the Voice A4D restrictions could only be introduced, in accordance with national guidelines, in an area where there was "robust evidence" of a concentration of HMOs, and it was necessary "to protect the well-being of an area".

New rules on bedsits will not affect Downend

The spokesperson added: "We will continue to monitor the development of HMOs across the district and may consider the introduction of further A4Ds if there is evidence that it would be expedient to do so."

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 18 downendvoice September, 2022 n NEWS

HMOs have also caused concern in the Downend area, where an application to turn a three-bed terraced house in Cassell Road into a seven-bed HMO sparked objections from 18 residents. Plans to convert buildings at the Orchard, off North Street, and Dial Lane into 10-bed HMOs were passed despite objections.

Staple Hill & Mangotsfield councillor Ian Boulton, whose ward includes Coronation Road, said the "transient" nature of HMO populations, often students, could affect communities but the area did not have the same concentration of bedsits as Filton and, in an "appropriate proportion", good quality HMOs could be useful. He added: "We will need to remain mindful of the effect an inappropriate and disproportionate number of HMOs can have on a neighbourhood and be prepared to call for the same restrictions if we ever feel the overall balance of housing provision is being jeopardised in our area."

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 2022 19downendvoice n NEWS WWW.RDAVIESFUNERALS.CO.UK Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral. Unattended Funerals Attended Funerals Bristol Funeral FUNERALS FROM £975 9 Chessel Street BEDMINSTER 0117 963 7848 143 Church Road BISHOPSWORTH 0117 964 1133 The Poplars HAMBROOK 0117 956 6774 381 Gloucester Road HORFIELD 0117 942 4039 49 High Street KINGSWOOD 0117 944 6051 2 Pembroke Road SHIREHAMPTON 0117 982 3188 63 Westbury Hill WESTBURY ON TRYM 0117 962 8954 10 Gilda Parade WHITCHURCH 01275 833 441 CONTACT US AT: Whatever your funeral wishes or budget, we can provide a funeral to suit you. Prepaid funeral plans also available. TALK TO US ANYTIME STORIES from Staple Hill's history are being brought back to life on an audio trail you can follow with your mobile phone. The Staple Hill Story Walk includes recorded memories of life on the High Street, Broad Street and Page Park, from the early 1900s onwards. They include tales of a survivor of the Titanic disaster, visits to funfairs in Page Park, and memories of shops, from chippies to tailors. People can listen on a smartphone while they walk along a trail route – the free phone app hosting the stories, called Echoes, uses geolocation technology to trigger each story when the user reaches the place on the trail it relates to.

A first of its kind for the Bristol area, it was created by Melody Beard, of the Bean Tree Café in Page Park, and funded by a grant from South Gloucestershire Council's Help Us Thrive scheme to support high streets. It has taken a year to develop, collect stories from local residents and turn them into recordings, with accompanying pictures and an original score by local musician Richard Lobb. The stories are a mixture of history and personal experiences.

More than 50 were submitted, then whittled down to a final 13, which are up to two minutes long.

Take a stroll and discover the lost Staple Hill

Nom Wholefoods's Nikki Watten with the story trail stop at her shop

The audio trail has been created to help bring people back to the shopping area, which has been hit hard by lockdown and the cost of living crisis, by experiencing it in a new way –with the hope they will visit some traders while they are there.

Telling her own story is resident Sue Hiscox, whose family ran the most popular fish and chip shop on the High Street for decades, at the house she still livesSue,in. who knows Staple Hill "like the back of my hand", wanted to share how the chip shop served as a place for people in the community to connect. Another story is of resident Robert Bateman, who was forced into the last lifeboat to leave the Titanic by his brother, as the liner sank in 1912. Melody said: "The 13 stories show the changes the High Street has faced and bring the listener into the lives of the people who live in Staple Hill. They are intimate accounts of an area proud of its heritage and keen to show what a welcoming community it has today." The app can be downloaded using QR codes which have been posted on stickers in shop windows around the area, or at bit.ly/3AyaWxe.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 202220 downendvoice TShirts 4 You As well as T-shirt & vinyl printing we have a huge stock of workwear with a large selection of industrial shoes and boots available with high vis jackets, gloves, trousers and tops — why waste time looking anywhere else for your quality named workwear?

The T-shirt printing and embroidery service with a full range of leisure wear including tees, polos, hoodies and sweatshirts. Attached to this section is also the signmaking set up where all shopfronts and general signage is catered for with van livery a speciality. Ask Paul about the latest trend of bespoke wall art for your home decor, with a top quality canvas printer now available.

Staple Hill Stores

Known locally by many people as ‘Arkwrights’, quite simply this store has so many different items they are impossible to list. The shop itself is classed as a traditional ironmongers which has served the locals for the last 18 years.The stock ranges from, plants, seeds through to creosote, lightbulbs (over 250 different types), wild bird food and feeders as well as lots of loose traditional hardware items. All the flower and vegetable plants are purchased locally from independent small nurseries. Our hay and straw is grown on a farm near Pucklechurch. Our wooden furniture is made out of drift wood from the river Severn and other woodwork is all made locally by craftsmen. A sharpening service for tools is also available. Lloydbottoms We are a well-established, friendly firm of Chartered Accountants, on Staple Hill High Street. We provide a full range of accounting and tax services to local businesses and individuals.Ourgoal is to provide an outstanding tailored and personal service to our clients: helping our business clients to achieve greater profitability, and our individual clients to enjoy greater wealth. Whether you are an individual looking for help with your tax return, a business needing assistance with VAT or payroll, or a new start-up seeking experienced advice, Lloydbottoms are here to helpToyou.discuss how we can help you, please contact us for a free

FOCUS ON Staple Hill STAPLE HILL STORES TRADITIONAL IRONMONGERS 88-90 High Street, Staple Hill 0117 956 8318 We offer a full sharpening service for all your garden tools Lawnmower blades • Shears • Loppers • Secateurs Spares for lawnmowers and strimmers stocked MORE THAN 250 DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIGHTBULBS LOTS ROCKERYOF/BORDER PLANTS FOR SALE Mainly perennials - Purchased from nursery which sells to garden centres all over the country” FARLEYS 40 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 9566787 Stockists of &suppliesDogDogWellbelovedJamesandBurnsFood•ArdenGrange&Catfood•Allpet•SeasonalPlantsSeeds PET FOODS &SUPPLIESGARDEN Sheen Studios Instant Passport Photos ID, OCI Visa Bella Silver 925 Jewellery Figurines - dogs horses etc Limited Edition Bristol Prints Vast range of photo and picture frames Ladies and Gents Watches Watch batteries and straps fitted free Bristol Blue Glass Tel: 0117 956 0967 110 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH L LLOYDBOTTOMS chartered accountants 118 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH www.lloydbottoms.co.uk Local accountants, offering a friendly and personal accountancy and taxation service to individuals and businesses. Contact us now! — Free initial consultation Freephone 0800 781 8783

TSHIRTS4YOU, 108 High Street, Staple Hill

EMBROIDEREDWORKWEARWORKWEAR OPENINGPLEASECHECKHOURS BIRTHDAYBANNERS TECHNOLOGYLATESTPRINTING PRINTED HOODIES & T-SHIRTS 99 High St, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5HF 0117 329 2332 • All makes • All models • Covers • Chargers • Accessories HUGE SELECTION OF REFURBSIHED IPHONES • SAMSUNG • SONY PHONES AT GREAT PRICES SENATOR MOBILE MOBILE PHONE REPAIR To advertise in the Staple Hill feature Contact Gary sales@downendvoice.co.uk

initial consultation. We look forward to working with you. Farleys Farley’s Pet Foods & Supplies has been on Broad Street in Staple Hill for nine years. It is a family run shop selling pet foods and garden supplies and have grown the garden supplies part of the business. The garden supplies section includes weed killer, fertilizers, treatments, hoses, hose fittings, spades, forks, hoes and we have just started supplying trellis and picket fencing made locally. Within the pet foods section we have Royal Canin, James Wellbeloved, Burn’s, Chudley’s and Altarky and Forthglade wet dog and cat, Nature’s Diet wet foods as well as a wide range of dog treats natural or pre-packed, frozen dog and cat foods, reptile frozen foods, live insects and bedding. Our hay, straw and woodshavings are sourced locally.We offer a wide range of wild bird food, rabbit food, small animal foods, chick foods, budgies, parrot and canary food. Our range of frozen reptile food and live insects is a good asset as there aren’t many shops that sell that any more.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 21downendvoice

Spectrum Accountancy Solutions Spectrum Accountancy Solutions is an established practice based in Staple Hill. We provide professional advice to all businesses and individuals. The practice is supported by a team of friendly, skilled and experienced staff who will ensure you meet all compliance requirements.We offer a full range of accountancy services from personal taxation, VAT and year end compliance to business advice and Cloud accountancy. If you are affected by the new Making Tax Digital requirement you might want to get in touch with us to discuss your approach further. For an initial, free consultation, call us on 0117 902218.

Sheen Studios This father and son business has been running now for 45 years with Michael Sheen the 4th generation of picture framers. Terry, Michael’s father, was one of the founder members of the Chamber of Trade and is still striving to improve the localExpertarea. picture framing has been the mainstay of the business for the local area and beyond, where they are able to offer framing advice and ideas as well as picture restoration and renovation. A wide range of jewellery, watches, limited edition prints, gifts and Bristol Blue glass are also available with a watch battery and strap fitting service. If you need passport/visa photos just pop in for their instant photography service. Tel: 0117 956 8606 info@tshirts4you.co.uk

Create the mood for less than you think with Solar Sunshades Shutters Awnings Blinds and Motorisation Conservatories Curtains acrossFinance0%availableourrange. Bristol Showroom 21 Cleeve Wood Road, Downend, Bristol. BS16 2SF Telephone: 0117 956 4626 Formerlywww.bristolblindsandshutters.comWebber&SpencerLtd

Julyfestival,alreadyCouncil.andSouthcamegrantjokedtheytheytheyatheatrespanners,isthequartetinternationally-acclaimedcomedy"theSzreter.ofinstrumentalistsprofessionalandachoir35localsingersledbyAnyaAnotherhighlightwas"sci-fihorrormusicalDraculaInSpace,bystringBowjangles.ChrisTaylor,whoattendedevent,said:"Bowjanglesananarchicgroupofgenrewhobroughtmusic,andcomedytogetherinwayyou'veneverseenbefore;dancedwhilsttheyplayed,sangwhilsttheyplayed,leapt,tumbled,juggledandwhilsttheyplayed!"Thefestivalreliesheavilyonfunding,whichthisyearfromArtsCouncilEngland,GloucestershireCouncilEmersonsGreenTownEmilyandFranciscoareplanningnextyear'swhichwilltakeplaceon27-30.

A choir formed from local people took part in the Misa Criolla concert at St James Church

The non-profit festival is organised on a voluntary basis by professional musicians Emily and Francisco Correa, who hosted many of the events in their garden at Ham Farm. Emily is a flautist and mezzo soprano singer who teaches the flute at Downend School and Francisco is an internationallyperforming guitarist.

Emily said: "Whilst half the festival public was from BS16, people came from all over South Gloucestershire, and as far away as London, to enjoy the music on offer."Allages and tastes were catered for, with kids' shows, rock’n’roll lovers, pop and rock covers, musical theatre, comedy, world music and classical recitals."One of this year’s highlights was the collaboration with St James’s Church to put on the Misa Criolla concert, in celebration of the 800 year centenary of this special church in Mangotsfield." Emily, the soloist in the concert, was joined by five

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 23downendvoice FROM STORE TO DOOR IN 24 HOURS EDA, 744 FISHPONDS ROAD, FISHPONDS, BRISTOL 0117 958 4769 HUNDREDS OF ITEMS IN STOCK READY FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY n NEWS ORGANISERS of a community music festival held in Mangotsfield and Emersons Green say it was a "resounding success".Thisyear's Ham Farm Festival saw 80 performers take part in 13 events over four days between July 28 and 31, from international touring artists to community music groups and singers who joined a choir for the festival's closing concert after answering an appeal in the Voice earlier this year. Many of the events took place at Ham Farm Cottage, near Vinney Green, with others happening at St James’s church and church hall.

Choir concert among highlights of music festival

Words: Bea Furlong

Aaron takes lead-vocal just once, for the title track of their latest album Pill Pilots, a song about a group of highly-skilled mariners, who for over a thousand years guided tall ships through the treacherous waters of the Bristol channel and the river Avon. You could hear a pin-drop.January’s concert will be a tribute to Cliff Woolley, a long-serving member of the Downend Folk Club team who sadly passed away last Summer. It will be headlined by the most popular support artist featured between September and July, as voted for by the regulars, the committee and Cliff’s wife Gaynor. If Good Habits aren’t right near the top of the list, then the heat has clearly gone to people’s heads. Made up of Bonnie Schwarz (cello, vocals) and Pete Shaw (accordion, backing vocals), they are the perfect foil to the headline duo, with their thoughtful alt-indie-folk vibes and energy charming the audience from the first note. Their set almost takes the form of a story, with Bonnie cast as narrator as Pete provides the musical interludes. They take us on a journey; their journey, as they head for a couple of months in New Zealand and end up stuck there for a year due to you-know-what’. I’ll Still Be Here deals directly with this topic, while their take on Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill is also a highlight. I’m sure we’ll see them again, whether they are here in January or not. But the last word goes to Kit and Aaron, much as it did this evening as the crowd demanded an encore. Downend Folk Club takes its annual month off in August, but what a way to wind things up for the Summer. Can they just gig here? As far as I’m concerned, absolutely.

It will be an evening of endings and new beginnings as Downend’s popular folk concert series returns after the Summer break. The concert is the first under the new name of Downend Folk & Roots, which comes along with an extensive rebrand including a striking new logo featuring a fox. But it will be an ending for the headline guests, Road Not Taken, as they visit the venue where they were formed for the last time (for the foreseeable future anyway), the concert part of their farewell UK tour.From humble beginnings in 2014, the band has seen an amazing rise, finding themselves supporting the likes of Lady Maisery, India Electric Co. and Jim Moray, and spreading their wings further afield with performances at many of the country’s top folk festivals. Their album Fragment was released in September 2019, and was accompanied by a full UK tour of 14 dates, as well as a myriad of radio plays and press coverage. Made up of singer Anita Dobson, fiddle-player Claire Hamlen, guitarist Ant Miles (the founder of Downend Folk & Roots), and multi-instrumentalist Joe Hamlen, Road Not Taken perform a mix of original material and inventive and atmospheric arrangements of traditional folk songs and tunes, "songs given enough of a twist to make them something new. It feels as though they’ve been draped in glittering cobwebs and that is a very fine thing indeed.” Their music was hailed by FATEA Magazine as “folk with all the feels of the romantic period composers.”

n DOWNEND FOLK & ROOTS PREVIEW ROAD NOT TAKEN + BELLA GAFFNEY FRIDAY 16TH

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 24 downendvoice September, 2022 n DOWNEND FOLK & ROOTS REVIEW KIT HAWES & AARON CATLOW + GOOD HABITS FRIDAY 15TH JULY 2022 CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND “CAN we just gig here?”, the trilby-wearing fiddle player asks the audience towards the end of the concert. Judging by the reaction of the gathered music-lovers, they’d be absolutely fine with that.

Photos: Ant Miles & Barry Savell SEPTEMBER 2022 CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND

Road Not Taken Bella Gaffney Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow Good Habits

Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow have been pillars of the Bristol folk music scene for years now, and so it’s astonishing to realise that this is their first visit to Downend Folk Club. But my goodness, it was worth the wait as they proved an absolute triumph in the relative coolness of Christ Church Downend on this hottest of hot days. Kicking off the first half very aptly with The Fox, it’s clear from the outset that this is a duo at the top of their game. Aaron Catlow is a ball of energy… probably the most animated fiddleplayers I’ve ever seen. His body twists and turns, his legs fly out at every angle and yet, despite this blur of movement, his playing is perfect, his fingers moving at a similar pace to the rest of his body as he effortlessly flies through tune after tune, reel after reel. Kit Hawes is less-animated, but not by much, with rock-god guitar shapes and leaning and crouching in evidence plentifully. As the duo launch into their second number, a tune-set called Sullivan’s Hay, it’s very quickly apparent that they are both masters of their instrument. There’s none of the instrument-switching, “here’s one on the banjo” that we often see at Downend Folk Club. This is fiddle, guitar and two voices all night long… these two know what they’re good at and do lots of that. Not that it’s one-dimensional; far from it. The tune-sets thrill and delight, but there’s variety even there… there are those where the pace seems unbelievable, the pair’s fingers moving in a blur, but there are also moments of quiet beauty.And then there are the songs. Both Kit and Aaron can sing… and I really mean, they can sing. Their voices compliment each other perfectly, and whether harmonising on old numbers like Hard Times of Old England (“this was first a hit in the 1800’s and then again in the 1950’s”, quips Kit), John Barleycorn or on one of their own songs, it seems they were born to sing, and play, together.

Opening the evening’s entertainment will be 2016 Celtic Connections Danny Kyle Award winner Bella Gaffney, who writes and performs folk inspired songs along with her own original arrangements of traditional pieces. 2022 will see the release of Bella’s new album which is inspired by connections made over the lockdown period. Her latest single Fair and Tender Ladies, a duet with Sam Kelly, was released in April to great acclaim along with airplay on BBC radio. Bella is also part of sought after folk band The Magpies who were the headliners at Downend last September).

Tickets for the event, which takes place at Christ Church Downend on Friday 16th September 2022, are available online downendfolkandroots.comat and from Melanie’s Kitchen in Downend (cash only). They are priced at £14 each in advance or £16 on the door.There will be a bar, stocking cider, soft drinks, wine, hot drinks and locally-brewed real ale from locally-based Hop Union Brewery (formerly GWB). 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 the Radstock-based Great Cake Company, as well as a prize draw, which helps to fund the support artists for each concert. For further information, downendfolkandroots.com.comemail info@downendfolkandroots.pleaseorvisitthewebsite

Grants for sports facilities

The two associations were waiting for confirmation from the council before releasing more details of the projects, after the awards were announced council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt, who said: “It is fantastic that we are in a position locally to provide the equipment and facilities to help keep people of all ages active."

PLANS to demolish a former factory and build 73 new affordable flats in Soundwell have been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council.

n NEWS September, 2022 25downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 FRIDAY 21 OCTOBER JACOB & DRINKWATER CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND £14 adv / £16 on the door FRIDAY 16 BELSHAZZAR’SDECEMBERFEAST+COOPER&TOLLERCHRISTCHURCHDOWNEND£20adv+onthedoordownendfolkandroots.com

The Voice reported earlier this year that Sovereign Housing Association wanted to replace Exhibition House, on the corner of Hayward Road and North View, and neighbouring buildings on the site near Soundwell Road with 40 twobedroom flats and 33 onebedroom flats. Its plans were submitted at the end of July - but had already received 37 objections from residents in the first three weeks, with only one in support. Many of the objections to the new homes, which would be available either for social rent or shared ownership schemes, centre on proposals to provide just 18 parking spaces for the entirePeopledevelopment.whohave lodged objections on the council's planning website described the proposals as "laughable" and "totally unacceptable". One resident said: "On a good day it's hard for residents to park around here - with 73 new flats and only 18 new spaces, it's going to beAgentsunbearable."BlackBox

TWO sports facilities in the area are set to be improved after being allocated money collected from developers.Justunder £236,000 is being allocated to Blackhorse Sports and Community Association to fund the redevelopment of the changing rooms at the Blackhorse Road Playing Field, creating a new modern facility with four separate team changing rooms allowing for a mix of ages and genders to encourage more participants at once. And £30,000 is set to be awarded to Pomphrey Hill Community Sports Association to fund drainage improvements at Pomphrey Hill Playing Fields. The money has come from legal deals struck with developers as part of planning permission for projects between Lyde Green and Emersons Green.

Planning defended the level of parking provision in their statement outlining the plans, saying: "The level of parking proposed is intentional and consistent with the council’s urban living agenda to promote more sustainable living patterns in response to climate change objectives."

Two previous applications to turn the site into more than 70 homes were rejected, in 2007 and 2008, but the agents said these were "of little relevance" as they were for market housing developments and predated changes in planning policy to encourage more "urban living". The plans can be viewed on the council website by searching for application P22/04202/F

Plans for 73 flats go in

bring new ideas for activities and attractions.Thelast

to plan

who

THE Mangotsfield Festival back next set a date and already starting next year's which take place on June 10. And they are calling on people love the festival to step up, help run next year's event and Mangotsfield Festival took place in 2019. The following two years saw it cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions, while this year's event was called off as organisers faced too many logistical challenges in getting it ready, including a shortage of volunteers.

The festival committee is inviting people who would like to help ensure its future to come along to a meeting in September and get Mangotsfieldinvolved.

n NEWS September, 202226 downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS DIESEL SPECIALIST CLEANING AIRCON REGAS AND REPAIRS ELECTRICAL REPAIRS FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY FREE COURTESY VEHICLES WOMEN & PENSIONER FRIENDLY FLEETWORK Unit 1 Stoke View Road, Fishponds Road, BS16 3AE Tel: 0117 9395 555 Email: admin@sure-car.co.uk OPEN: Monday - Friday: 08.30 - 17.30 Saturday: 08.30 - 12.30 | Sunday: Closed National Award winners of the Good Garage Scheme *10% OFF labour when you mentionadvertthis 0117 939 www.sure-car.co.uk5555 *must be mentioned at time of booking OPENAS NORMAL

"Before Covid struck the festival committee were trying to give the festival a 'family' feel. We will continue to do that next year."Chris said the committee wants to "add more" to the usual stalls, music, dance displays, dog show and activities. But he said: "The festival takes a lot of planning and organising and with a small, ageing committee it’s becoming more and more"Wechallenging.reallydoneed more help – fresh faced, new ideas would be a real boost."

The AGM will take place on Tuesday September 6 at 7.45pm in the Scout Hall on Northcote Road, opposite the Lamb pub.

Festival chair Chris Amos said: "After the last few difficult years for us all, we are back and have kicked off the planning for the 2023 Festival.

Chris said: "Why not come along? We'd love to see lots more people helping us organise and run it, whether that's before the event or during it and whether you want to 'get stuck in' or just spend an hour helping –all would be more than welcome."

will be

year after having to miss the last three summers.Organisers have

Mangotsfield Festival chair Chris Amos hands over a donation at Barley Close Primary School

are

Chris said: "Without them the festival could not happen."

"It’s a focal point for the local community to come together and is an opportunity for local voluntary groups to raise money.

will

For more information on the festival email chair@mangotsfieldfestival.co.uk. Anyone who would like a stall at next year's event should email stalls@mangotsfieldfestival. co.uk.

Mangotsfield Festival will return next year

event,

The festival raises money for local good causes and despite not running this year, it has supported Mangotsfield, Barley Close and Emersons Green primary schools and St James Church by making donations to their summer fairs so that they can provide more entertainment and activities for young people.The festival receives support from South Gloucestershire Council, Emersons Green Town Council and a number of local businesses who donate their services.

Karen said: “I am so grateful to head teacher Pippa Osborne and all at Christ Church Junior School who, at a day's notice, made it possible for the festival to relocate there and continue.

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Traditional high street as well as a hub to enjoy freshly brewed A DOWNEND school stepped in at the last minute to stage a dance school's end of year festival.Christ Church Junior School hosted 200 pupils of LTD (Love To Dance) dance school from Downend, Staple Hill and across Bristol, in front of an audience of around 700 people.

"Thanks also goes to all the amazing parents and helpers who gave their time and made donations – it was a real team effort.”Young performers showed their skills in street, lyrical, contemporary, jazz and musical theatre dance, while adult performers encouraged spectators to join them in their Latin Zumba finale. Musicians Charlotte Challis and Ben Searle welcomed guests at the entrance, while spectators had picnics and watched the performances in the evening sun.

bread,inspecialisingbakery,handmadeSourdoughBaguettes,Sandwichesand pastries

Karen said: “The festival was a celebration of reuniting after a difficult few years, and already the children are talking about 2023."A sincere thank you to all involved."

Festival raises £2,000 for Ukraine families

coffee and treats FollowPleaseus

The event in July featured performers aged from four to 86. Dancers wore blue and yellow to show their support for Ukraine, and the event raised £2,000 to support families affected by the Russian invasion via the Disasters Emergency Committee Humanitarian Fund. Karen Davis, who runs LTD, said: “Two of our dance families are hosting families from Ukraine so it is a cause close to ourIthearts.”wasthe first end of year celebration for LTD for three years, after the last two were cancelled due to the pandemic, and the event's theme was "together again". But only 48 hours before the festival was due to take place it was nearly cancelled, after bad weather meant the original venue could not be used.

Tributes to church organist Vernon

Vernon Hendy pictured at the Glenside Hospital Museum organ earlier this year. Picture courtesy of Mike Jempson

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 202228 downendvoice REPLACEMENTFORYOURTRANSFORMKITCHENAFRACTIONOFTHECOSTWITHDOORS&WORKTOPS ✓ Replacement made-to-measure doors & worktops ✓ Save £1000s compared to a new kitchen ✓ Door swaps in as little as one day ✓ 100s of designs and colour options 0117 990 customer@bristolkitchenmakeovers.co.uk2809www.bristolkitchenmakeovers.co.ukBEFOREBEFOREAFTER AFTER SHOWROOM NOW OPEN: Unit 3, Farrington Farm, Farrington Gurney BS39 6UB Bristol Kitchen Makeovers.indd 1 14/07/2022 09:41:46 n NEWS TRIBUTES have been paid to an organist who played at Christ Church in Downend for 16 years.Vernon Hendy's "sensitive and lovely" playing also entertained visitors to Fishponds' Glenside Hospital Museum for almost three decades. Vernon died on July 15, shortly after suffering a stroke. He was 82. Born at his aunt’s house in Downend Road, Fishponds on November 20, 1939, Vernon spent his childhood in nearby Forest Road.His father taught him to play the piano and he later took up the organ, taking lessons from Garth Benson, the celebrated organist at St Mary Redcliffe. The family attended the Salvation Army in Channons Hill, then Morley Congregational Chapel in Lodge Causeway. When he married Vera (nee Evans, also of Fishponds) in 1963, they lived in Lincombe Road, Downend until 1988, then Manor Place, off Malmains Drive in Frenchay. When he left school, Vernon spent five years in an apprenticeship with Old Market building firm William Cowling, but when his father heard of a vacancy for a fitter at Glenside Hospital in 1959, Vernon began a 34-year association with the hospital on the In 1967 he discovered the hospital chapel had an organ and started playing it in his lunchAfterbreaks.thehospital closed in 1994, he played the organ each week while visitors looked around Glenside Hospital Museum, continuing until three days before his stroke lastMuseummonth. chair of trustees Anwyl CooperWillis said: "His playing was sensitive and lovely. So many visitors commented on the enjoyment they received from the lovely organ"Hemusic.wasalways a quiet but happy presence to the rest of us volunteers. His absence and the silence of the organ is such a gap in our Vernon'smuseum."organ-playing was held in high regard at many local churches throughout his life. After Morley closed in 1980, he was organist at Christ Church Downend for 16 years, before moving to Nailsea in 2002 and helping out in many churches, including Shirehampton Methodist and churches in Yatton, Tickenham, Backwell and Nailsea. President of the Bristol and District Organists Association in 2009/10 – a rare honour for an amateur organist – he played many organs around the country, including the one at St Paul’s Cathedral, for a birthday present.Vernon will be sadly missed by daughters Kathryn and Gill, sons-in-law Ian and Rob and grandchildren Dom, Miranda, Ben and Dan, as well as his sister Christine and her family.

Kathryn King

803intheaboutleadersRecitalsupport.communitywhichfundsSeptemberatQuintessentialsCotswoldswillbeplayingChristChurchDownendon10at7.30pmtoraiseforanorphanageinIndia,thechurchandotherlocalgroupsinDownendAlsofeaturedwillbeanOrganbyIanHigginson.LukePaddon,oneoftheyouthatChristChurch,willtalkhistimeattheorphanage.Refreshmentswillbeservedinintervalandtheseareincludedtheticketprice.Ticketsareavailableon07743226.

For

Shirley Nash

Dinosaur causes a stir at the Lamb FOLLOWING the ending of their successful children’s holiday club, Waste Watchers, volunteers and helpers from St James Church in Mangotsfield went to the Lamb Inn for lunch and a quiet drink. Their peace was suddenly shattered by a marauding dinosaur, who without any warning started terrorising those eating there!

"Fortunately nobody was hurt and all of us, including the dinosaur, finished our meals and drinks peacefully.”

Church members can also scan in hard copies of pictures – to arrange this email Mike Beard at celebrateamike.beard789@gmail.com.Thechurchandvillagehavegreathistoryandwe’dlovetobysharingmemories for us all to enjoy.

Chris Taylor Eco exhibition OUR struggle with high energy bills and increasingly hot summers are a reminder of how urgent the climate crisis is. A new free interactive eco art exhibition, The Creation Project, is coming to Christ Church Downend on Saturday September 24, from 10am-4pm.Artworks from a collection of local artists have been created to inspire, challenge and provoke discussion and action. The exhibition has been put together by Hazelnut Community Farm in Lockleaze, with a grant from the Diocese of Bristol. There will be a chance for visitors to respond in their own creativeRefreshmentsways. will be served and the exhibition is suitable for all ages.Tofind out more, visit christchurchdownend.com.www.

Something to say? Email us at: news@downendvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 29downendvoice DOWNENDGROUP STARTS MONDAY12THSEPTEMBER7:30-9PM ATDOWNENDFOLKHOUSE JOINBRISTOLSHOWCHOIRTHISAUTUMN! OVERNDALEROAD,BS162RW bristolshowchoir@gmail.com NOAUDITIONSANDPERFORMINGREGULARLY Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5DW Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com An independent practice providing a personal, caring and compassionate service Consultation by appointment 9am-11am 4.30pm-6.30pm2pm-3.15pmMonday-SaturdayMonday-FridayMonday-Friday n CHURCH NEWS

At Badminton Road Methodist we are launching a new church gathering for all ages in September, calledFunnyTOAST.name for church? Maybe! But it is what it says on the tin…we eat toast (with a choice of spreads and extras), share our news, join in activities, games, prayer, songs and have a fun time. TOAST is a no-fuss, “unchurchy church”, when we enjoy exploring faith in each other’s company.Ifyou’d like to come along, it is from 5-6.15pm on the first Saturday of the month, starting on September 3. For those looking for something relaxed and informal but a bit more sedate, Messy Vintage offers Christcentred fun and fellowship with the older generation – all welcome every second Friday of the month, 10.30am to noon, starting on September 9. more information visit badmintonroadmethodist.org.ukwww. or call 0117 239 5984. Naomi Sharp Box of concertSurprises WIND quintet

Anita Dobson celebrated Chris Taylor

A dinosaur dropped in on St James Church's holiday club helpers as they

finishing their voluntary work. Picture:

Toast anyone?

Anita Dobson Share memories of Mangotsfield PEOPLE with memories and pictures of Mangotsfield are being encouraged to share them online as part of St James Church's 800th anniversary celebrations. The church is publishing an 'online scrapbook' of church and village life, with photos and reminiscences, at emailcontributestjameschurch.co.uk.scrapbook.Anyonewhowouldliketostoriesorphotoscanthemto stjamesmangotsfield.comvillagememories@

Rev Teresa Taylor said: “The dinosaur attacked Rev Peter Hussey, who was sat just inside the door. It was really frightening – if it hadn’t been for the quick thinking of an offer of a pint from Chris, which seemed to calm the dinosaur down, I really do not know what might have happened.

help,you’dpeopleScoutSeptemberones.toSeptembercoffeeyournotaresupportpartnersavailablespecificallyfocussouthglos.gov.uk.CommunityEngagement@contactingThismonth'stopicishatecrime,andwhatservicesarefromthecouncilandtheirtohelppreventitandtovictims.Thesefocustopicsalwaysworthhearing,sowhyjointhemeeting?Finally,acoupleofdatesfordiary.ThenextMRA/RedLionmorningisonWednesday7from10am:achancemeetoldfriendsandmakenewOurnextmeetingisonTuesday27,at7.30pmintheHall.Asalways,we’dlovemoretogetinvolved,soifliketo,oryouneedanythenpleasegetintouchat MangotsfieldRA@gmail.com, via the ever-popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page or telephone our chair Clive Heath on 07507 168700, or me on 07918 701881. Chris Amos Join our new gardening group

The next South Glos community engagement forum is on Wednesday September 7, with a 7pm kick-off. It’s an online event again and can be accessed by

September, 202230 downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 Vibrocise Studios Bristol Ltd Short workouts, fast results Try TrainingVibration • Vibration plate training is the ultimate fitness solution suitable for all ages & abilities • You’ll notice a difference within weeks • No contract Benefits • Change in body shape • Fat reduction & inch loss • Rapid strengthening & toning • Cellulite reduction within weeks • Reduced abdominal fat New for10SpecialcustomerOfferDayTrialjust£12!**T&Csapply BOOK NOW www.vibrocisestudios.co.uk 07531 009 371 1E Overnhill Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5DNVibrocise Studios Bristol We are re-open and "Covid safe" Following government guidelines Visit our showroom at: 41 Victoria Street, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5JP SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION Visit our www.firesandfireplacebristol.co.ukwebsite:Orcalluson:01179564797::0117571889 n MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION AS I write this I’m watching the rain fall. It reminds me that we need to say a big thank you to all those who have fed and watered the village planters over the last few months. The fact that they all look in remarkably good condition is testament to their efforts. The plants are beginning to look a bit tired in some of them now, so we’ll be replanting in September. We’ve started a weekly gardening group, every Wednesday morning from 10.30am. We are currently meeting at the Dame School, so we can finally clear it up ready for planting. If you can spare an hour, why not come along? Graffiti. Some of it is brilliant, true works of art. Unfortunately, we seem to be victims of the type that isn’t, just tagging on any available piece of wall or telecoms company cabinet. We are engaging with two telecoms companies to try to remove it, but anyone can report it to them and they will come and clean it up – no promises on how quickly, I’m afraid. Scams are a constant menace, especially as they tend to be aimed at the more vulnerable in our community. We recently had a very pleasant and informative chat with one of South Glos Council’s trading standards team, who try to keep on top of Therethis.is a lot more information and help out there than you perhaps realise. Friends Against Scams (friendsagainstscams.org.uk) is a particularly useful resource to help educate and support people. It’s well worth a look.

• White or black T-shirt – a musthave layering piece.

• Neutral colour blazer – adds sophistication to everything else in the wardrobe.

• Black ankle boots – Chelsea or lace-up styles can be worn with trousers and skirts

STYLE ADVICE

• Knee length dress – can be worn with smart shoes (ballet pumps or loafers) or worn overMostleggings/trousersoftheabovepieces can be worn by guys too. Simply take out the skirts and dresses and add in more trousers. Perhaps chinos and cargo-style trousers. Not sure what to wear or how to wear it? Email your fashion and style questions to info@notgivinin.com and look out for the answers in future issues of the Voice. www.notgivinin.com GailfashionPainter'stips

• Striped long sleeve Breton style T-shirt – perfect for creating chic outfits.

THE transition from school to college is an exciting time for young people, but it can lead to some anxiety around what to wear. No longer required to dress in school uniform, the freedom of choice can be daunting.

• Chunky trainers – neutral colours are stylish and comfy

• Graphic T-shirt – quirky and edgy

• Sweatshirt – student staple, but opt for plain designs to get maximum wear

• Cotton or denim shirt – to wear on its own or as a layering piece as the weather gets chillier

• Mid blue jeans – an everyday classic. The latest styles include wide leg and straight options.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 31downendvoice A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT QUARRY HOUSE NURSING HOME We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home... Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk Providing top quality, best value, holistic care BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS Quarry House in Fishponds offers safe and nurturing care We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy. We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply • Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand

• Casual skirt – knee length pencil or tiered maxi lengths are wearable options

Shopping for students n

It’s the first major leap into adult life, and I’m often contacted by parents who want to help their children segue from teen to young adult, while identifying what’s appropriate for studying and helping them find their own unique style. While clothes are one of life’s necessities, they also say much about us before we speak a word, and dressing at this stage of life can be as much about fitting in as revealing who you are as a person. Therefore, I suggest starting with good student relevant basics. A canny student will then adopt her or his own way of wearing items in their own good time. Suggested staples for a female student would include:

• Denim or quilted jacket – casual options for autumn and spring transitional seasons.

• Safe face-to-face visits where possible

• Black or navy tailored trousers – dress down with trainers, or wear with flats or heels for a smarter look.

To set up a free assessment or to chat to us about how we can support your child, please call us on 0117 373 8367, pop in to our centre at 23 Badminton Road or email us at bristolnorth@ kipmcgrath.co.uk. Visit kipmcgrath.co.uk to find out more.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 202232 downendvoice n ADVERTISING FEATURE BRISTOL NORTH - 0117 373 8367 23 Badminton Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 6BB kipmcgrath.co.uk/bristol-north

will

Personalised learning plan for your child

REGULARS to Downend High Street have noticed that we opened the doors of our new premises at the start of this year. With additional teaching space, we’re really pleased to be able to offer in centre English and maths tuition to even more of our local students, alongside our ongoing online provision. Thanks to our parents for supporting us in the move, as well as to those who have called in to simply wish us well!

I first opened the Downend branch of the internationally renowned Kip McGrath franchise six years ago and it has been a joy to witness so many young people grow in confidence, build self-esteem and achieve their potential. As qualified teachers with years of experience, our tutors are able to bring out the best in students who are struggling to keep up, those who need support to stay ‘on track’ as well as those who are looking to excel beyond their year level. Some of our students come to us because they are preparing for exams, including Entrance Exams, SATS and GCSEs. As we embark on a new school year, it’s the perfect time to get started with additional support for your child’s education. We offer a free assessment where we identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses, after which your child is matched to a specialist tutor who will devise a personalised learning plan to meet their needs. Underpinning everything we do is the Kip McGrath ethos that ‘all children can progress if given the right support’.

A-level and BTEC success is celebrated

Downend School head teacher Lisa Howell said: "Year 13 students should all be congratulated on their excellent results."They have all shown such determination and resilience, and as a result have all received the grades they needed to progress onto their first choice destinations."Wearevery proud of all of their achievements, and wish them well as with their next steps."Among the notable achievers highlighted by the school were Evie Gilder, who will study Archaeology and Anthropology at Oxford University after securing A*AA grades; Laura Cable, who also achieved A*AA and will study psychology at Newcastle University; Josh Poole, who will study medicine and Birmingham University after achieving AAA grades; Abbie Smith (A*A*B) who will study occupational therapy at Plymouth University and Erin Richardson (BBB) who will study psychology of child development at Anglia Ruskin University. At St Brendan’s Sixth Form College, students managed to achieve a pass rate of 97%, with 59% of Level 3 BTEC and Applied General courses either Distinction or Distinction*.

Head teacher Jason Beardmore said: "This year, Winterbourne students have once again come through with excellent A-level results. There have been many standout achievements by individuals, whilst consistent and impressive achievement in a wide range of subjects across the board is testament to a solid and broad post-16 curriculum and strong teaching at allgovernors"WinterbourneWinterbourne.staffandwishouryoungpeopletheverybestforthefuture."

A-LEVEL and BTEC students are looking towards future courses or careers after receiving their results following the first national exams for three years. This summer's Year 13 school and sixth form college candidates were sitting formal exams for the first time: their GCSEs in 2020 were cancelled because of the pandemic. They also faced comparisons with grades awarded to the classes of 2020 and 2021 using overall.achievedsaidNeverthelessassessments.schoolleadersthisyear'sstudentshad"excellent"results

At AcademyWinterbourne , 78% of all grades were A*-C at A-level or Distinction*-Merit at BTEC, and 33% at A*- A or Distinction*Distinction respectively, with 12 students attaining all A* or A grades or equivalent.

Among the notable achievers were former Mangotsfield School pupil Alfie Stubbs, who achieved grade As in English Language & Literature, History and Psychology, and is going to Bristol University to study history.Former Downend School pupil Helena Hayward achieved A* grades in biology and chemistry, and an A in geography. She is heading to Sheffield University to study medicine.StBrendan’s principal Marian Curran said: "Considering the journey over the last two years, I am pleased that so many of our students are progressing to their first choice university courses with such excellent BTEC and A-level"Thisgrades.yearour BTEC and A level benchmarks were higher than in 2019 and in some cases were higher than teacherassessed grades in 2021. "This is against a national backdrop where results were meant to be at a mid-way point between 2021 and 2019. Our students have done extremely well and we are proud of every single one of them."

Alfie Stubbs Helena Hayward

SCHOOLMANGOTSFIELD

A record number of students have secured apprenticeships, in fields including accounting, law, business and engineering, taking up employment with companies including Rolls-Royce, Grant Thornton, the NHS, Ministry of Defence and BT.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 2022 33downendvoice Thursday 29th September 2022 5.00 pm to 8.00 www.mangotsfieldschool.org.ukpm

Mangotsfield is a “community focused, ambitious school.” (Ofsted 2022). Mrs Hetty (Headteacher)Blackmore Come and join us! Tel: 01454 862700 Open Morning appointments available at 9.15am daily. To book an appointment, please email man-info@cset.co.uk adding ‘Open Morning’ in the subject line Mangotsfield School Rodway BS16BristolMangotsfieldHill9LH Mangotsfield School Open Eveningman-info@cset.co.uk

More than 500 St Brendan’s students applied to university, and the college said the majority will be going to their first choice university, including six studying medicine or veterinary medicine and three studying at Bristol University after taking part in the Bristol Scholars Scheme.

The college said highlights included 73% of physical education students receiving A*-B grades, 70% A*-B for biology and 66% A*-B in psychology. In the college's newest BTEC subject, forensics and criminal investigation, 66% of students achieved high grades.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 34 downendvoice September, 2022 A co-educational independent school for nine months – 18 years in Bath www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Sixth Form Open Evening Wednesday 28 September - Register now Ignite YOUR POTENTIAL

n EDUCATION Colleges 'outstanding'welcomeresults

“Our students have made exceptional progress and proved that through hard work, commitment and ambition, you can and will realise your dreams."

At Digitech Studio School in Warmley, 87% of students on media, art and IT courses achieved at least a merit, with everyone passing.Interim principal Chris Ballard said: "We are immensely proud of all our students' achievements. The high-quality work they have produced and outcomes they have achieved is testament to both them and the staff who have worked tirelessly throughout a challenging two years."Allstudents at creative industries college Boomsatsuma achieved a qualification, with 62% awarded a distinction or higher, including 70% of acting students, with half of all dance students achieving the highest distinction * grade.

Head teacher Jeremy McCullough said: "We are aware that this cohort has been anxiously waiting for their results, their first set of actual public examinations having had their GCSEs cancelled, and so it has been a delight to see so many happy faces.

Colston’s exceeds expectations

The school – which is relaunching as Collegiate School this month – said that, after the government announced that this year’s grades would be between the last set of nationally-examined results from 2019 and last year's teacher-assessed grades – its own students' grades had "exceeded this expectation". They included 54% of A-level grades at A or A*, 80% grades at A*-B, 47% of CTEC and BTEC grades at distinction or distinction* and 30% of the students achieving the equivalent of AAA or better.

At South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS), 69% of students achieved grades A*-C, with an overall pass rate of 97%.

Kingswood is renowned for an environment that nurtures, while supporting and challenging students to achieve their greatest results. Our bespoke and personal care, pastorally and academically, means that students leave us as kind, powerfully educated, rounded young adults, ready to make a difference. Visit us to find out more.

STUDENTS in Colston’s School's upper sixth form have achieved "excellent results" in A-level, BTEC and CTEC exams.

"We are delighted that the vast majority of them have secured their first-choice university course and a number have secured access to competitive apprenticeships."

COLLEGES serving students from the Downend area say they have achieved some "outstanding" results.

Assistant principal Mark Anthony Jones said: "The past two years have been exceptionally challenging for students, teachers and the wider community, but SGS Sixth Form students are celebrating some truly outstanding results.

awards recognise inspiring pupils

"Despite all of the physical challenges that Leah faces in everyday activities, she has unbelievably high expectations of herself. Her determination to be independent has always been a strength of hers, alongside her can-do"Thereattitude.arenever things that are too tough or too hard, her attitude is to always find a way. I wish we could bottle what Leah has! She is a true inspiration to everyone."Leah'sfriend Joleigh Hancock, who is also in Year 10 at Downend School, won the kindness award. Clare said: "Joleigh is incredibly supportive to her friend in a wheelchair. To support her in being independent of adults in school, Joleigh meets her in the morning, helps with her belongings and pushes her wheelchair when needed. "She does it not because she has to but because she is her friend."Yasmine Esho, who is also in Year 10 at Downend School, received an award recognising the "unbelievable barriers" she had overcome to be at school after arriving in the UK as a refugee from Syria. Clare said: "She is the only member of her family to speak English. She cares for her family, is a brilliant friend to her classmates and is positive in the face of "Whenadversity.shearrived at Downend she had attended very little school. She has shown incredible determination to learn English and continue to improve at all of her school subjects, all the while learning them in a very new"Shelanguage.deserves immense amounts of credit for her positive attitude."Mangotsfield School pupil Max Scoltock received the creativity award, while Harmesh Singh received the unsung hero award.The Year 5 and 6 football team at Lyde Green Primary School received the resilience award.

THREE Downend School pupils and two from Mangotsfield School are among the children singled out for praise at a special ceremony to recognise "inspiring personal achievement". The Castle School Education Trust, which runs several secondary and primary schools in South recognisingceremonyorganisedGloucestershire,itsownawardsatUWEinJuly,pupilswhoexcel in areas not on the curriculum. There were awards for kindness, sporting achievement, creativity, outstanding individual progress, organisedataward.outstandingphysicalpupil'unsungschoolcontributions,teamwork,environmentalism,communityresilience,livingvaluesandbeinganhero'.DownendSchoolYear10LeahDunn,whohasadisability,wontheindividualprogressDeputyheadofeducationCSETClareBradford,whotheevent,said:

Collegiate School, Bell Hill, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ Telephone: 0117 992 3194 Email: admissions@collegiate.org.uk SATURDAY 24th SEPTEMBER 2022 JOIN US AT OUR NEXT WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING We are Collegiate Visit collegiate.org.uk to register September, 2022 35downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n EDUCATION Winners at the CSET awards ceremony with organiser Clare Bradford

School

Part of Working in Partnership with: Join us in Year 10 or 12 Come and have a look around... We’re a small studio school that provides specialist courses to prepare students for successful careers in creative, digital and high tech sectors. Perfect for the coders, designers, creatives, film makers and entrepreneurs of the future. OPEN EVENING Tuesday 20 Sept 2022, 4-6pm Visit www.digitechstudioschool.co.uk for more ToVariousACADEMYdetails.TOURSdatesavailable.reserveyourspacecall 0117 992 7100 or email info@digitechstudioschool.co.uk To find out more and to view all our courses visit: www.digitechstudioschool.co.uk Year tomustApplications10besubmittedSouthGlosCouncilby31Oct2022 CLF0223_Digitech Full Page (Voice Advert)(91042).indd 1 13/07/2022 10:17

Terry (pictured, centre left) was joined by wife Lin (right) as he was presented with a tea and cake voucher donated by the Bean Tree cafe by competition organiser Colin Bracey and Friends of Page Park vice-chair Steph Purser. He will receive the first calendar off the press. Steph said: "We had some amazing photos to choose from this year, and are already looking forward to next year's competition starting in January."

Friends announce winner of photo competition

The Friends have organised some dates for sales of the calendar in the park - the dates set so far are Saturday September 17, October 15, November 19 and December 17 - volunteers are needed to help with the sales. Calendars will also be on sale at various shops and businesses in the area.

"The park is also looking its best after our National Lottery Heritage Fund-funded revamp and the hard work of both our grounds operatives and outstanding volunteers, the Friends of Page Park."

THE council and Friends of Page Park are asking everyone who uses the park to fill in this year's annual visitor survey. The survey not only helps plan future projects and priorities for the park, it also provides evidence needed when applying for grants and other forms of funding. The survey can be found online at southglos. researchfeedback.net/s/pp22 and paper copies can be found at the Bean Tree cafe. Copies need to be filled in by September 30.

THE winner of this year's Page Park Photo Competition has been announced. Terry Graham's photo will take pride and place on the front cover of our 2023 Calendar, which will be unveiled during September.

Fill in a survey

Volunteers needed VOLUNTEERS are needed to help sell fundraising calendars, act as leaders for Walking Well guided walks, which start from the Clock Tower at 11.15am every Tuesday, help maintain the Sensory Garden every Wednesday morning from 9-11am and help the Friends behind the scenes. Anyone who would like to get involved should email friendsofpageparkbs16@gmail.com.

PAGE Park has won an internationallyrecognised excellence award for the fourth year in aTherow.park in Staple Hill was announced as a recipient of the Green Flag award at the end of July.The award scheme is a "benchmark" recognising well-managed parks and green spaces, in areas including access, community involvement, biodiversity, cleanliness, control of dog fouling and maintenance. Announcing the latest award, South Gloucestershire Council said: "The ‘green heart’ of Staple Hill has proved more popular than ever, with visitor numbers shooting up ever since the pandemic!

September, 2022 37downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 RHS Level 2 Theory courses now booking for Autumn 2022 at theGardenBotanic For further details botanic-gardens@bristol.ac.ukbotanic-garden.bristol.visitac.uk01174282041 Start your career change here… Learn more about your garden… Voice RHS ad_Aug22.indd 1 11/08/2022 11:58 n PAGE PARK NEWS Park wins excellence award for fourth year running

Starting school in September 2023? Come and see what Staple Hill Primary School has to offer Join us for a tour of our wonderful school and meet our team: Saturday 8th Oct at 10am Wednesday 12th Oct at 2pm Thursday 13th Oct at 9.30am Wednesday 9th Nov at 6.30pm Tuesday 15th Nov at 2pm Thursday 17th Nov at 9.30am Thursday 8th Dec at 2pm Thursday 5th Jan at 9.30am Call 01454 867240 or email enquiries@staplehillschool.co.uk “Honestly, it feels like a family.” Parent comment to OFSTED 2022 Twitter:www.staplehillschool.co.uk@eyfsStapleHilland@StapleHillPS

HAVING had so much water last year, we are now in drought conditions in much of the country. Luckily we have escaped the ban, but we have had a very trying time keeping our plants going. A few months ago In Bloom was lucky enough to be awarded the loan of two electric bikes for six months to try out and use. This is a South Glos initiative: they are trying to encourage more people intoWecycling.have been putting them to great use, using them to cycle around to the displays to do maintenance, such as deadheading and a bit of extra watering. It makes it so much easier than driving around, as we do not have to find a parking space. Also, so much better for the environment!Wesoonrealised, however, that he would need a bit of extra help to carry the water around, so we investigated the use of a trailer which would help with this. We went to EcoMove in Hotwells, who supplied the bikes, and they loaned us one to try. It has worked a treat, and In Bloom volunteers can now be seen riding around with the trailer on the back and lots of tools, water carriers and equipment in tow. A great asset to In Bloom! Jackie Baker

WORK has started to build 30 "climate friendly and energy efficient" new family homes in Frenchay.

“Daft place to put bollard.”a We don’t judge, we just fix it.

South CouncilGloucestershirehaslinked up with housing company Aequus, owned by neighbouring B&NES council, to build the Manor MalmainsdevelopmentGardensoffDrive.The30homes,ranging from one to four bedrooms, include 11 classed as affordable, of which eight will be designated for social rent via Alliance Homes and three will be available for shared ownership.

Call Nick Abraham today 0800 145 5118 for a FREE estimate on repairs to bumper scuffs, paint scratches, minor dents and alloy wheels. Find out more at chipsaway.co.uk

A turf-cutting ceremony was held at the site in August to mark the start of the building work. The council says the homes include "climate friendly elements" including solar panels, air source heat pumps, extra insulation, mechanical ventilation and recovery systems and a dedicated electric vehicle charging point, which it says will give them energy bills an estimated 70 per cent lower than similar average properties.

n NEWS

Build starts

An In Bloom bike and trailer convenient and cost-effective repairs with a lifetime guarantee.

Cabinet councillor Ben Burton said: "With so many families in need of a new home, and rising energy prices impacting everyone at the moment, these climate friendly, efficient properties will make a real difference to people’s lives."

A turf-cutting event held for the new development

September, 2022 39downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 Eco transport for In Bloom

n DOWNEND IN BLOOM www.elm-online.co.uk Meet with one of our qualified estate planning consultants to discuss your needs. Protect your family's inheritance Single & joint Wills £99.00from*IncludingVAT Call us today on 0117 952 0698 or email info@elm-online.co.uk Home visits or online appointments are available. Quality,

THE prolonged spell of fine weather has resulted in an increase in members of the public calling at the pavilion in Bromley Park.We were somewhat surprised one morning when a lady arrived at the pavilion carrying an empty plastic milk container. Our visitor proceeded to explain the reason for her visit concerned her early morning milk delivery, where her milkman delivers to her doorstep at around 3am, so that the container is left in full view for several hours without any protection, and also could be of interest to certain four-legged night prowlers. It happened that a partly assembled bird box, without its roof, was on the table and one of our members took the container and simply dropped it into the bird box. The bird box just happened to be large enough to accept the milk container, apart from the fact that the container protruded from the top of the bird box. The offer was made to take the basic bird box pattern and extend the sides to fully enclose the container, omitting the hole for a bird. On returning to collect the finished job, the customer very kindly presented us with a selection of fairy cakes to accompany our morning coffee.

New invention keeps your milk safe girlguiding.org.uk/interested

Both the above jobs were of a manageable size and could be undertaken in a few hours. During the same period we received another request which unfortunately had to be declined, due to its level of difficulty, expected cost and work content.

19_0000_VolunteerPostcard_Jan2022.indd 1 26/01/2022 23:29 htuognidiuglrilotsirB&GSerihsretsecuolG

The bird box design (left) was adapted to fit a milk container (right)

On another occasion, in conversation with a member of the public outside the pavilion, we were asked if there was a possibility to undertake a repair to the broken leg of an elderly chair which had sentimental value. A visit was arranged to examine the damaged article, which looked to be within our capabilities to repair. The chair was collected by a member and using a high-strength glue, together with suitable clamps, the leg was reunited with its frame. In this instance the article was returned on the same day.

Readers will no doubt have seen the TV series The Repair Shop, where expert craftspeople restore family heirlooms for the public, which usually have an emotional family story attached. Whilst we do not claim to have either the range of skills or the facilities to undertake such complex restorations, there are simpler repairs that we may be able to Generallyundertake.ourmembers are happy and prepared to help people in the locality with small projects, where we consider we have the required skills to undertake the work. You can contact us by email at meninsheds.downend@gmail.com or visit us at the Bromley Park pavilion on a Tuesday or Thursday morning to meet members and view our facilities first-hand.

withVolunteerus

‘I enjoy it so much. The girls are lovely and I feel I’m doing something worthwhile. It’s amazing!’ Tayba, leader

September, 2022 41downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n DOWNEND MEN IN SHEDS

OUR lunch club cook and manager Rachel Donovan is leaving us, after five years in the job. She will be sorely missed. Rachel has been fantastic, not only serving up tasty lunches every Monday and Friday, but also making sure the lunch club provides a warm and friendly welcome to everyone who comes along.

On her time as a member of our happy team, she said: "It’s the social side that I have enjoyed the most - seeing the regulars and meeting and getting to know new people.

PENDENNISOPENINGTIMES 8.30AM - 8PM (Mon-Thurs) 8.30AM - 2PM (Friday) 8.30AM - 1PM (Saturday) 11 HAYNES LANE STAPLE HILL BRISTOL BS16 5JE 0117 956 INFO@THERASMART.CO.UKWWW.THERASMART.CO.UK3978 HEALTH & WELLBEING CLINICS Fast access to expert advice Chartered Physiotherapists • Osteopaths • Chiropody & Podiatry • Chiropractors • Massage Therapy See the team at Therasmart to find out how we can help you Our promise is to provide expert advice using the latest research so that you can receive the best treatment MARATHON TRAINING? SHIN ACHINGSOREBACKSPLINTSPAIN?KNEES?MUSCLES? RSI?TENNISFROZENNECKHEADACHES?PAIN?SHOULDER?ELBOW? CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION

Pictured

"Also, no two days are the same. There’s always something new happening, or some new story that someone has to tell."

So now we are recruiting for a new lunch club cook and manager. If you’re able to produce home-cooked meals and have a warm and friendly disposition, then this could be for you. The role is roughly from 10am to 2pm on Mondays and Fridays, so fits in well with school run duties, and has good paid holidays and a competitive rate of pay. If you would like to learn more, please get in touch either by calling Julie on 01454 868374 or by emailing hello@staplehillcommunityhub.org.uk.

In other news, we have had a very positive response to the trial programme of our new, free gardening and nature club for children aged seven to 11. The aim of the ‘Staple Hill Sprouts’ club is to immerse children in green space, nature and gardening activities – improving social skills, physical and mental health plus connection to their local area. That’s a splendid idea - and a great name! William Lee right: Rachel Donovan will be missed at Staple Hill Community Hub

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 202242 downendvoice n STAPLE HILL COMMUNITY HUB So long, Rachel – and thanks for all the lunches!

Simpson Solicitors’ award winning team will help you do the job properly. most care about with Wills and Powers of Attorney. review take as long as you need to consider what is best Then we offer clear fixed prices with no hidden costs.

meeting we’ll

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 43downendvoice WILL & PROBATE ADVICE 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. The Grand Appeal charity covers the many extras that the NHS cannot – making life a bit more bearable for sick children and their families. This September our local Will experts – Simpson Solicitors – have again teamed up with The Grand Appeal.Thescheme means you can make a donation to support the Children’s Hospital in your Will. With nothing to pay now, even giving a small percentage of what you leave behind could make a tremendous di erence to help future generations of local sick children.

Wills Powers Attorneyof Probate

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“You have lifted a great weight off our shoulders” C.R.

for your particular situation.

To thank you, under the scheme, Simpson Solicitors will prepare a Will (or two mirror Wills for a couple) absolutely free to you. You will still receive their full awardwinning service. They hope that you will then leave a generous legacy in your Will for the Grand Appeal. As a further thank you, if you also need Additional Trust Protection or Powers of Attorney, Simpsons will take 30% o the usual full Michellecost.Baden-Daintree who runs Simpsons’ local o ce 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 if you would like to make or update your Will under this scheme. By leaving a donation in your Will, you can gift a sick child a brighter future.”

Michelle Baden-Daintree

20%SPECIALOFFEROFF fullpriceof2 PowersofAttorney

Get a FREE Will and support Bristol Children's Hospital

Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Kingswood 0117 960 8594 message@simpsonslawuk.com FOR LEAVING

Protecting those you

BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 960 8594 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR pop into our Kings Chase Shopping Centre offices in Kingswood (opposite Costa). If getting to us is difficult, our FREE Home Visit service covers Bitton, Downend, Fishponds, Hanham, Kingswood, Oldland, St George, Staple Hill, Warmley, Willsbridge and surrounding areas. On your own Your Will is how you decide who will inherit from you. Living Together Avoid disputes and provide for your partner in the way you want. Parent Wills In case the worst happened, provide for children under 18 and decide who you would want to raise them. Later Life Wills Protect your family’s inheritance from Care Home fees and Tax Lasting Powers of Attorney Ensure your wishes are followed by appointing those you trust, in case of serious injury or illness. n WILLS & PROBATE ADVICE

At the FREE

“We were made to feel very welcome and cared for” H.L.

4 ALL - Mondays 10.30/11.30, Grace court, Dial Lane, Downend BS16 5UP. £4 ...£1 tea n bikkies Tel: Barbara 07816839141. n SOCIAL BADMINTON every Monday at Kingswood Leisure Centre from 2-4pm. Intermediate level, all welcome. n EDDS & TALES Baby & Toddler Group Every Monday, Christchurch Parish Hall, North Street, Downend. 10.00 - 11.30 (term time only) £3 per family (first visit free) including drinks, snacks and craft activity ALL WELCOME - Just turn up Join our Facebook group Edds and Tales n STAPLE HILL JOB SEEKER SUPPORT GROUP, Staple Hill Community Hub, Berkeley House, 1A Berkeley Rd, every Monday from 1.30-3.30pm. Laptops and Wi-Fi available for job searches, free tea and coffee, welcoming environment. Run by local councillor Katie Cooper and volunteers. Call Julie on 01454 868374 with any questions or to let us know you are coming. n PUCKLECHURCH SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Meet every Monday, Wednesday evening 7.30 - 10.00 and Sunday 2.30 - 5.00. Refreshments inc. All levels really Welcome. For more information ring Kath 07517 1297 Tuesday n DOWNEND GARDENING IN RETIREMENT CLUB Meetings on the third Tuesday of each month. Venue as usual: Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, Downend. Time 10.15am. New members and Visitors welcomed. Varied speakers. n BROMLEY HEATH

September 25 n FAMILY FUN DAY raising funds for the Edventure Project, a home education community group. Henfield Hall, Coalpit Heath from 11am-3pm. Children's games, psychic medium, healthcare and beauty treatments, bug hunt, refreshments and raffle. More details from Kara on 0753 100 9371 or com.theedventureproject@gmail.

September 24 n ECO EXHIBITION 'THE CREATION PROJECT', 10am4pm, Christ Church Downend. Interactive art exhibition from local professional artists in association with Hazelnut Community Farm in Lockleaze. Refreshments served. Suitable for all ages.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 44 downendvoice September, 2022 n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA We would love to yourpubliciseevent 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: co.uknews@downendvoice. or call us on 07770 700579 / 07880 731148 Microsuction and irrigation (syringing) Ear Wax Removal Service Call Sarah Hayward (Ear Wax Removal Specialist) on 07798608859 or visit www.earclearbristol.co.uk 92 Westbourne Rd, Downend, BS16 6RF Ear Clear Bristol THE SOLUTION IS HEAR From 23 July until 4 September 2022 n DISHES OF DISCOVERY AT BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN - Already known as the ‘world’s smelliest museum’ with hundreds of sights, sounds and smells, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is about to get tasty this summer. Embark on a global voyage of taste without leaving Bristol as you sample delicacies inspired by Victorian voyages to destinations visited by the ship.

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September 17 n (BRISTOL TO) CANTERBURY TALES – slides and stories from a modern-day pilgrimage, with Naomi Sharp. Badminton Road Methodist Church, 2pm. No charge. Refreshments afterwards.

September 19 n DOWNEND SENIOR FILM CLUB Monday 19th September at 2pm The Madness of King George (PG). The 1994 multi award-winning comedy drama starring Nigel Hawthorne and Helen Mirren. Tickets: £4.00 including tea & cake. Carers welcome, easy access For more information and to book, please call 0117 435 0064. Christ Church Hall, 57 North Street, Downend BS16 5SG

September 15 n DOWNEND AND KINGSWOOD RNLI branch AGM at Staple Hill Methodist Church at 8pm September 15 n STAPLE HILL CHRISTMAS TREE FUNDRAISING AND PATCH

September 1 MANGOTSFIELD Thursday September 1st from 10.30 a.m. to 12 noon at Cossham Street. So please, come along for a warm welcome and a cup of coffee. Any questions? telephone June Watts on 0117 9566625.

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 from 6th Oct for the Kundalini movement meditation. Blessings to you. For more information contact Andrea on 07791119658 homewards.ma@ btinternet.com. n

AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORMED CHURCH are holding their usual monthly COFFEE MORNING on

September 25 n MANGO REDS V BLUES CHARITY FUNDRAISING MATCH at Mangotsfield United FC, Cossham Street, all day from 10.30am. Raising money for St Peters Hospice and Special Friends Autistic Club, with music, bouncy castle, hot food, bar, raffle and auction. Free entry, collection for charities around the ground. To register to play visit the Red Lion in St James Street.

October 1 n JUMBLE SALE FOR UKRAINE, 2-4pm, Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, Downend. Entrance 20p. REGULAR EVENTS n BRISTOL U3A: Have you reached a point in your life where you have fewer responsibilities and more time for yourself? Would you like to take part in activities where you can share skills, abilities or hobbies whilst having fun and making new friends? Why not become a member and find an interest group to join. Go to www. bristolu3a.org.uk for details.

September 3 n ST JAMES CELEBRATE 800 DOG SHOW AND CRAFT FAIR, St James Church Hall, Richmond Road, Mangotsfield,from 11am. Free entry for spectators, dog owners pay £1 for each class they enter their dog into. Register on the day or in advance. More details from elgalannah@gmail.com or 0777 9015509.

September 10 n CONCERT IN AID OF INDIAN ORPHANAGE, 7.30pm at Christ Church Downend. Performance by Cotswolds Quintessentials Wind Quintet and organ recital by Ian Higginson. Tickets £5 from 0774 803 3226.

LAW 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY GARDEN PARTY, 3pm-6pm, at Patch Law, back garden of 104 Broad Street, just across the road from Page Park. All welcome. Refreshments, cakes, stalls and activities. For further information contact Patch Law on 0117 290 0905 or enquiries@patchlaw.co.uk.

SINGALONG

information

n

SCRABBLE Downend Folk House Thursdays 1000-12noon

students

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 christchurchdownend.co.ukwww.igniteyouth-t o sign up and see the full programme.

ukwww.badmintonroadmethodist.org. or 0117

7:30pm Friendly - non-competitive – strengthen – stretch Details at

GREEN UNITED REFORM CHURCH invite you to their regular twice monthly sessions of Friendly Voices. These are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 10.30 a.m. to 12 noon. Come along for a sing-along (and coffee) Carers very welcome. For further information contact June Watts on 0117 9566625.

babies

NEW YOGA CLASSES AT FRENCHAY VILLAGE HALL Mondays:

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.

FRIENDLY VOICES is a dementia friendly singing group. There is no cost and the sessions are led by a qualified music therapist, Sharon, who brings a lot of experience and plenty of instruments to have fun with. The sessions are open to all and if you think that you ,or someone you love, would benefit by them please come along or contact June Watts on 0117 9566625

n

WINTERBOURNE WINDS, a friendly amateur wind band who play a wide range of music including pop, musicals and classical, rehearse at Frenchay Village Hall from 7.40-9.30pm. New members, especially flute, oboe, trumpet, horn and percussion players, are welcome. For more information email winterbournewinds@yahoo.com. n

n

Gary

n WARMLEY JAZZ CLUB, every Wednesday £5 on the door. Cadbury Heath Social Club. Doors open 7.30pm. More details at warmleyjazz.co.uk. n MEET THE BEAT TEAM, Bean Tree Cafe, Page Park. Every Wednesday afternoon, 2-3pm. If you have any problems or issues you would like to discuss with the police neighbourhood team, please come along.

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets 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. For further information contact Sheila on 01179570792 or 07435316458 or email shinett@ blueyonder.co.uk.

Shows,

come and

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.

yoga2@btinternet.com From beginners

n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE

n BOARD

n DOWNEND

September, 2022 45downendvoice To advertise,

who

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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 MESSY

01179568944 n

n JIGSAW TODDLER GROUP, Fridays in term time at Christ Church Parish Hall, North Street, from 9.45-11.15am. Toys, crafts, songs, refreshments and learning about faith in a fun way. No need to book.

Saturday n BRISTOL SUGARCRAFT GUILD We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Hall, Elm Park, Filton. If you would like to make sugar flowers and models we hold workshops with instruction. Beginners very welcome. call Jean Kington on 01454 314178. Sunday n EMERSONS GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH services are held every Sunday morning from 10.30am11.30am at Emersons Green Village Hall, Emersons Way. For more information contact Rev Kevin Donaghy 0117 9575418, e-mail church.egbc@outlook.com or visit www.emersonsgreenchurch.org n BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH BS16 6NU. All are welcome to worship each Sunday, 10.30am. First Sunday of the month is usually a service of Holy Communion. Information: 0117 239 5984 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 very welcome. For more details please contact Peter Redding (Ch.Sec.) on 0117 9657075. contact on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 9:30 to 10:30am 6:30 to www.yoga2.co.uk email Chris and Shelagh to more experienced

Wednesday n DOWNEND

CLEEVESINGERS OF DOWNEND Enjoy singing, then join this four part choir meet on Wednesday evenings at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road 7.30 p.m. from September until July. would receive a warm this happy choir have at least three concerts a year whose repertoire includes items from Abba, Beattles and popular more contact the Secretary on 0117 9561881.

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 Thursday n BARN BELLS handbell ringers meet at Lincombe Barn, Downend, from 2-4pm weekly. Anyone who can read music is welcome to join.

songs. For

welcome by

Info: 0117 9562367 Maureen Walker Friday

DOWNEND SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB Musical entertainment from 2-4pm every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at North Street Church Hall. All are welcome. n THE WOMEN’S SECTION OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION We meet the third Wednesday of every month in the afternoon. We meet at 2pm at the old school hall now known as the YOU Foundation by the car park in Page Road Staple Hill. Speakers, quizzes and handy craft afternoon finishes with tea. If you are interested in our activities please telephone Madeleine Bills Secretary. 0117 9560805.

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n

story, refreshments.

general

n TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON’S. Weekly beginners Tai Chi & Qi Gong class for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and carers. We meet for Tai Chi, tea and cake at Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. Time: Fridays (term times) 10.15 – 12.15 including tea / coffee break. Contact: ClaireTaichibodyandmind.co.ukClaire@(07769 857672) or Sarah - buqiworks@ gmail.com (07815 662844)

PAGE PARK UKULELE CLUB, Bean Tree café, Fridays at 1pm. All abilities welcomed. Places £4 each. For further details call or text 'Ukulele' to Ben on 07910 668258.

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 frenchayprobus@outlook.comcontact:

Tuesdays:

n

or

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n

You

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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. SPACE AT BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH, 10.0011.30am. This is a term-time group for and toddlers with their carers: play, crafts, More information: 239 3875 GAMES NIGHT every Tuesday from 7pm. All Welcome The Wooden Walls Micropub, 30 Broad Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5NU FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB We meet at 7.30pm on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month from September to June. At Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road, Downend, BS16 2RW. For more information call Genise on 0777 245 1217 BRIDGE CLUBNEW MEMBERS ARE WANTED Come and join us and play duplicate Bridge at Lincombe Barn Downend on Wednesday afternoons 2pm. We are a small, easy-going and friendly club. All levels are welcome. Please contact eveforbes77@gmail.com or 01179836886 or Yvonne Scoulding rscoulding@google.com or

n MANGO JAMS PARENT/ CARER AND TODDLER GROUP meets every Friday at St James Church Hall, Richmond Road, Mangotsfield, 9.15am to 11.15am. Warm and friendly group run by volunteers from St James Church: everyone welcome to attend.

who

A public appeal for witnesses shared via the Voice Facebook page led to a witness who helped the victim after the incident coming forward.

Boy attacked

n NEWS MARBLE SUPREME UNIT 8 BRIDGE ROAD KINGSWOOD BRISTOL BS15 4FW T: 0117 9563030 E: INFO@MARBLESUPREME.COM WWW.MARBLESUPREME.COM OPENING TIMES MONDAY-FRIDAYSATURDAY8AM-5PM BY APPOINTMENT ONLY To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 46 downendvoice September, 2022 n NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL MP

Jack Lopresti MP for Filton & Bradley Stoke

Frustration over motorway junction delays

IN Parliament recently I was very honoured to speak in the first Sir David Amess Summer Adjournment debate. Sir David always raised a large number of issues relating to his constituency.Inthisdebate, which has now been named after him, I emphasised the frustration surrounding the situation with the incomplete M49 junction, which was largely built in 2019, but has not yet been completed despite a £50 million investment. I will continue to raise this issue at the level of national government and cite the improvements that would be made from its completion to air quality in the surrounding areas and villages, as well as reducing traffic in these areas to maintain their rural character.

I also championed the local aerospace and defence industry and the local levelling-up bid for the restoration of a Grade II-listed WWI hangar at Filton Airfield, and I took the opportunity to champion the importance of our aerospace and defence industry during the week of the Farnborough air show. On August 12 I held my regular surgery for local residents. I often hold these in community hubs across our area, recently in Frenchay. The latest was held at my constituency office in Bradley Stoke, where I met a number of residents who had requested a meeting with me to discuss their concerns and situations.Overthe past month I have been busy with my role as deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, chairing multiple events, including a leadership hustings and a debate with Jacob Rees-Mogg and Mark Harper advocating for their respective favoured candidates. It is a very exciting time in politics. As always, should you need my help with anything, my office is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm. Please telephone me on 01454 617783 or email me at jack.lopresti.mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance, or to book a surgery.

A TEENAGE boy was thrown from his bike and punched by another teenager who tried to robAvonhim. and Somerset police say the victim, who is 15, was stopped by a boy of a similar age, wearing a school shirt and a ski mask, as he cycled past the Horseshoe pub at around 3.30pm on July 5. A spokesperson said: "He was threatened, punched, and thrown from his bike, which was damaged by the offender in the altercation. The offender failed to take the bike as the victim had tangled his legs in the frame."

The Voice understands police have now identified a suspect in theirAnyoneinvestigation.whohas information which could help the investigation should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 159 693.

1 26/07/2022 17:19 n ADVERTISING

All Mama Bear’s staff are appropriately qualified as Early Years educators and receive continuous professional training in areas such as paediatric first aid and food hygiene, as well as specific areas such as caring for children with special educational needs and Makaton sign language.Aswell as having Stanbridge starring in its own right in this year’s awards from daynurseries.co.uk, the Mama Bear’s group was named for the second year running as one of the top 20 recommended large nursery groups in the UK in 2021.

This pre-school has recently been awarded in the top 20 nurseries and pre-schools in the South West as voted by Day Nurseries (trip advisor for childcare). Stanbridge currently has a score of 10 out of 10 and is one of our most popular locations. It is a term time only pre-school for children from 2 years up. Children benefit from a cosy home from home environment yet have the opportunity to explore and benefit from such as award winning facility.

“We find that many families, especially those who have older children already attending full-time school or those whose parents only work term-time, really don’t need nursery or pre-school provision for younger brothers or sisters during school holidays, so it makes sense to provide one of our Downend nurseries on a term-time only model. “And it’s really nice for the little ones, because it means their regular attendance patterns are likely to be consistent across the year – without extra breaks in term-time for family holidays – which means their attendance will coincide with that of the little friends they get used to playing with at Mama Bear’s.

FEATURE EARLY years childcare provider Mama Bear’s Nursery and Pre-school, which has three settings in the Downend area, has announced it is to change to term-time bookings only in response to needs expressed by parents at its Stanbridge nursery in Downend. The nursery has just been named by parents as one of the ‘Top 20 nurseries in South West England’ by leading nurseries review site, daynurseries.co.uk, gaining the maximum score of 10 based on reviews from children’s families andMamacarers.Bear’s

“Obviously our Stanbridge nursery and preschool is particularly convenient for any families with older brothers or sisters who already attend Stanbridge Primary School or are going to start there in September.

Mama Bear’s Day Nursery and Pre-school, Stanbridge Primary School, Stanbridge Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 6AL Visit our website mamabear.co.uk MB_Stanbridge_Advert_180x120.indd

“All children have supervised access to our large garden, whilst indoors children aged 2-3 years are based in the Caterpillar Room and 3-5 year-olds are based in the Butterfly Room: both offering a stimulating environment with a wide range of activities tailored to the different needs of each age-group.”

This setting is perfect for primary school transition, located in the heart of Downend the nursery is well placed to serve families living or working Ifnearby.youwould like to find out more please email: sbmanager@mamabear.co.uk or call 01179 582 065

Details of how to apply for the limited number of places at Mama Bear’s Stanbridge nursery and pre-school can be found at www. mamabear.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 47downendvoice

The award scheme is based exclusively on positive reviews received from service users, with criteria including overall standard, facilities and outside space, learning, resources and equipment and ICT, care, activities, staff, food and nutrition, management, cleanliness, safeguarding as well as value for money.

Mama Bear’s Day Nursery at Stanbridge in Downend Wins Top Award

Stanbridge is located on the site of Stanbridge Primary School on Stanbridge Road in Downend. It has been open on the school site since 2014 and has been run by Mama Bear’s since September 2020, having previously operated under the Bright Sparks banner.Anna White, area manager for Mama Bear’s, said: “Parents in this area have a good selection of nurseries and pre-schools to choose from, including two other Mama Bear’s settings on Downend Road and on Coronation Road, however this will be the only one that offers attendance just for term-time and is also the only one included in this year’s daynurseries awards as one of the top 20 in the South West.

Top-rated nursery responds to parents’ needs

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

Closing date for entries 30th September 2022. Up to three photos per person. Photos should be local and have been taken in the last two years.

Scan Here For More Info: To celebrate the natural beauty of our neighbourhood, we are inviting local people to submit photos taken in the local area capturing any aspect of nature from the detail of a flower to the grandeur of a sunset. The Town Council covers a wide area from Lyde Green to Rodway and includes Badminton, Blackhorse, Emersons Green and Pomphrey The winning entries will be included in a Calendar and there will be an exhibition and prize giving in the autumn

Bee's ride has raised more than £820 for the charity so far, beating his £500 target. He said: "I'd like to send a big thank you to anyone who donated." His fundraising page remains open for donations at justgiving. com/fundraising/bristol-to-bruges. Bee McNamara in Bruges n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

The cyclists have set themselves a £7,000 target, and Nick and Darren have already raised over £5,000 by completing a 24 hour cycle ride on static bikes earlier this year. Andy and Ben will join them when they set off from Land's End at 6am on August 26, with the aim of passing through South Gloucestershire that evening before heading to Wales, the North West and then Scotland.

MANY of us will be feeling refreshed from a summer break, perhaps far from home or maybe from a staycation, enjoying everything our amazing West of England has to offer. But now it’s back to work, which is where, astonishingly, we spend a whopping third of our lives. What that tells me is that having a decent job really matters. We’ve all done jobs that aren’t great. I was never a fan of 6am shifts at a factory job I did; nor of the particles of rust that irritated my eyes as a young scaffolder’s assistant; and there have been a few bosses that I met that would give fictional boss David Brent a run for his money. But equally, you remember those fantastic men tors in your career, the people that made time to invest in you, and where you felt every day was worthwhile.So,because we spend 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime, I am determined to try and make sure those hours are the very best they can be. That’s why, as part of my push for decent jobs, I have launched my Good Employment Charter, fulfilling a manifesto pledge I gave to you in the Metro Mayor election last year. The charter is a co-operative effort between employers, employees and trade unions.

Cycle relay for Dave

The friends have been training for eight months, totalling over 2,000 miles each in the process.

The tests are about secure work, where peo ple know when the next shift is coming; paying a real living wage; making sure workers are listened to and can get training and promotions. It’s also about making sure people stay healthy.

There are two tiers: “supporters” - working with aspiring organisations to help them raise employment standards – and “members”, where employers prove they are exemplars.

The challenge is the latest fundraiser for Staple Hill dad David Gibbs.Dave was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive cancer of the brain and spinal cord, last September, and has been told the surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy he has undergone will not permanently stop it from growing back.

Bee's ride pays off

His family and friends are raising £150,000 to pay for personalised cancer vaccine treatment in Germany.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

The 900-mile route usually takes cyclists up to two weeks but Nick Anstruther, Darren Weston, Andy Hunter and Ben Ridgway will attempt to tackle it in less than 60 hours in a non-stop relay, cycling 30-mile stints then resting, driving and cycling again.

First to sign up were Wallace and Gromit’s creators, Aardman, the world famous, four-time Oscar-winning animation studio. They’re being joined by businesses and organisations big and small from across the West of England. Why? Because happy and healthy staff are also productive staff and mean a successful business. It’s a win-win for employees and employers.But,sadly, across our region there remains a less good side, with too many jobs not offering workers the respect, security, wages or future prospects they deserve, and their hard work and effortsShockinglymerit. today, one in six West of England workers take home less pay than the Real Living Wage and a record one in six families live in poverty.Inflation has hit a 40-year high, even as wages fall at their fastest rate in two decades. Plus, too many people don’t know what hours they will work and so what salary they’ll earn from week to week, as they languish on zero hours contracts when they would rather have certainty.Every company that signs up to the charter receives bespoke training organised by the West of England Combined Authority that I lead. I’m proud the West of England Good Employment Charter is making a difference in something so central to our lives. Please ask the place where you work to sign up too, at www.goodemploymentcharter.co.uk.

Giving West of England workers a fair share

FOUR friends from Downend, Staple Hill and Warmley are taking on a gruelling Land’s End to John O’Groats cycling relay challenge to help their friend pay for cancer treatment not available on the NHS.

A STAPLE Hill man has raised more than £800 for the charity which has helped him to live withBeediabetes.McNamara cycled the five-day, 350-mile journey from Bristol to Bruges in Belgium in lateHeJuly.was riding to raise funds for charity Diabetes UK, which has helped him to live with the serious condition, where the body's blood sugar level is too high, since he was diagnosed ten years ago. Bee rode solo from Bristol to Southampton and along the South Coast to Dover. There he met up with his wife Sarah, who cycled the final leg through France and Belgium with him.

Donations can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cyclingdavesbrainfund.Updatesonthe trip will be posted on the @donate4dave Facebook page, where details of two ice cream and bake sales, to be held in Downend on the Sunday and Monday of the August bank holiday weekend, are also being posted, along with general updates on the appeal.

Bee said the ride was "brilliant", and enabled him to prove it was possible to push himself physically despite his condition, with his blood sugar levels becoming more stable as the challenge went on. He said: "I'd like to think my endeavours might encourage other diabetics who may be nervous of pushing themselves to give it a go."

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 49downendvoice n NEWS

Kate Tarr DOWNEND WI OUR meeting on August 30 is back to our annual 'Quiz & Fizz' session. This is the meeting that shows who the competitive members are amongst us! If you didn’t already know, our Queen is actually a member of the Women’s Institute: she’s also the President of the Sandringham WI herself, so it was only fitting that earlier in the year we made a special card for a very special WI member. The card was signed by our members, wishing her congratulations on her Platinum Jubilee. We have recently been delighted to have received a thank you card from the Queen. A big 'thank you', too, to Roger from Avon Valley Railway, who was able to join us at very short notice for our July meeting. When we found out that our booked speaker was poorly with covid, our committee members went into overdrive to find someone to step in and save the day.Roger’s enthusiasm was captivating. He explained so much about Bitton station's history, so much so that members are keen to go and experience more of the sights and sounds for themselves. August has given us some amazing hot weather. Here’s a quote by American Author Rasmenia Massoud: "August is the last flicker of fun and heat before everything fades and dies. The final moments of fun before the freeze. In the winter, everything changes." We can all relate to that, so we hope that you are all making the most of your time relaxing, recharging and reconnecting during this month of hot weather and lazy days. It’s a perfect time for reflection and self-care of mind, body, and soul – whether spending time on your own in your garden or with others (possibly with a cheeky Pimms).Ohyes, back to those apple trees laden with ripe apples for the picking, and the blackberries – who said that WI’s have stopped making apple and blackberry pie?! We meet at Christ Church Hall, North Street, Downend on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. If you would like to find out more about joining Downend WI, please contact our president, Julie, at Downendwi@yahoo.co.uk. You are always welcome as a guest, for a small charge of £4, including refreshments, to give us a try. Suzzie, Committee Member n Singer

Thelearn.first bootcamp session is on September 14 from 6.307.15pm at the YOU Foundation in Staple Hill.

STAPLE Hill community wind band Westerly Winds is running a free 'bootcamp' for musicians who would like to learn a bass brass instrument, such as a trombone, tuba or euphonium. The band has around 45 members who rehearse every week and is preparing for a concert of Broadway show tunes in October.Butitneeds new players to join its bass line and is looking to find people who already know some basics of music but would like to try out a bass brass instrument.Instruments are available to loan and musical director Andy Loveridge will work with anyone who takes up the offer to help them

SINGER Carrianne has been added to the list of performers at a fundraising football match in Mangotsfield.TheMango Reds v Blues match, organised by Mangotsfield Community Association and played at Mangotsfield United's Cossham Street ground, takes place on Sunday September 25. Carrianne will sing from 5-7pm after the match, which will feature two teams from the village playing a friendly, aiming to raise thousands of pounds for charity.Entry is free to the all-day event, which starts at 10.30am and will include music from local DJs, a bouncy castle, hot food, a bar, a raffle with "quality prizes" and an Moreauction.information and updates on the event can be found on the Mangotsfield Community Association Facebook page.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 50 downendvoice September, 2022 n AROUND THE WIs STAPLE HILL WI I WOULD love to thank Ila, who came to us with the most beautiful collection of saris. Not only was Ila very informative and friendly, she allowed us to try them on! What a great evening – I know I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially being dressed by Ila. Once again, we would like to thank the team at the Grapevine Brassiere in Mangotsfield. Our evening there was superb, and it was so lovely to return. We seem to be on the theme of food! In addition to the Grapevine, we also had a marvellous time at the Vintage Birdcage cakery in Yate. It is lovely to be part of such a sociable and friendly group. Don’t forget – if you are a member, the walking group resumes in MeetingsSeptember.resumein the hall on September 20 – we cant wait to see youAreall. you reading this and thinking you would like to meet newYoupeople?maynot be able to commit lots of time – that’s OK, we meet once a month. As a member you can participate in as much or as little as youWelike.have a diverse membership and anyone is welcome. We have ample parking for ladies who need to drive to us and we meet on the third Tuesday of mostOurmonths.meetings start at 7.30pm –come and join us in Christ Church Hall on North Street, Downend. Make new friends, learn new skills, enjoy a cuppa and some cake!You can drop us an email to find out more at katetarr@avonfwi. org.uk.

NEWS

matchfundraisingjoins

bootcampBrass

In South Gloucestershire, 44 per cent of waste in the average black bin could be recycled at home, and we are keen to reduce that figure! Practical, useful advice and tips to save money, access support available and get better at recycling can be found on our dedicated webpages: port-for-residentssouthglos.gov.uk/financial-supbeta. and southglos.gov.uk/food-waste.beta.

In the summer we held a series of pop-up events at shopping centres in Thornbury, Bradley Stoke, Kingswood and Yate, with our financial support team providing a wealth of help ful information and discussing the support on offer. But while the roadshows have come to an end, we are still keen to help residents find out about potential ways to reduce costs and provide answers to the questions we hear from people asking for help, whether it is on how to apply for funding or extra support, concerns over eligibility or whether the sup port is right for you. As well as this, there is a great deal of information out there about various council initiatives, such as the Commu nity Resilience Fund, Household Support Fund, as well as Council Tax rebates and guidance on Universal Credit. You can find more informa tion on these specific measures at the bottom of this column. The roadshows also helped people understand more about how they can cut down on the amount of food waste from their home and how to recycle more, with some fantastic tips to not only reduce waste but save money at the same time.

September, 2022 51downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 ® FAMILY UPBUSINESSRUNTO 50% LESS THAN A NEW FITTED KITCHEN by simply replacing the doors and worktops MODERN CLASSIC TRADITIONAL CONTEMPORARY > Replacement kitchen doors > Cost effective made to measure solution > Worktops and appliances > Installation in as little as 2-3 days by local professionals 9.8/10 11/12 The GloucesterPromenade,Road,Bristol BS7 8AL Call us now for a free estimate: 0117 944 3223 THE UK’S # 1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER COMPANYdreamdoors.co.ukBEFORE AFTER UK MANUFACTURED n MESSAGE FROM SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL Helping with the cost of living WHENEVER I speak to residents on the doorstep these days, the number one issue is without a doubt the cost of living, with everyone looking for ways to save money during these challenging times. We know people are feeling the pinch, and your council is working hard to help residents in managing their budgets. In addition to information on our website and links to other or ganisations who can offer help and advice, council officers have been getting out into communi ties to talk directly to residents about all the ways that we are providing assistance.

With Ben Burton, cabinet member for corporate resources

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September, 2022 53downendvoice To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 n LIBRARY NEWS News from Downend, Emersons Green & Staple Hill libraries

n LOCAL HISTORY Local, family business established for over 20 years n Free, no obligation quotations n All work guaranteed n Backed by certificationCertass uPVC Windows Doors & Conservatories MS Systems Based in Bromley Heath, Bristol Tel 07970 793590 Email: mssystems@blueyonder.co.uk MISTEDDOWNBROKENANDGLASSREPLACED

DOWNEND'S Community History and Art Project has been looking into some of the people who lived in our area in the past. One interesting character is Edward Hodges Baily, who was born in Downend on March 10, 1788, and went on to create the statue of Lord Nelson at the top of one of Britain's iconic monuments, Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square.Edward's father, William, carved ships'Hisfigureheads.motherwas named Martha, but we haven’t found any more information about her yet. Edward did badly at school – in fact, the Dictionary of National Biography said that he "showed the common artistic repugnance to the regular studies". His entry continues: "Young Baily would carve strange portraits of his schoolfellows, and showed no capacity for ordinary school work."Baily persisted with art, though, and was introduced to sculpture through his friendship with a local artist.He began modelling in clay and was recommended to the celebrated sculptor John Flaxman. Baily moved to London aged 19, where he worked in Flaxman’s studio for seven years and became a renowned sculptor. In 1821 he was admitted as a full member of the prestigious Royal Academy.

HelenCHAPRana

THE school summer holidays may be coming to an end but children still have time to complete their Summer Reading Challenge as it runs to Saturday 10th September – so make sure you finish and get your medal, certificate, swimming voucher and stickers! And the fun doesn’t stop there because we have Lego Clubs at all our libraries with the next sessions being at Staple Hill Library on Saturday 3rd September at 10am (please book for this one as space limited) and Downend Library on Saturday 17th September at 10.30am (no booking required).

peopleinterestingEmersonsandresource,tovoluntaryDownend,writedownendchap@gmail.comemailortoCHAP,49OvernhillRoad,Bristol,BS165DS.CHAPisanot-for-profitorganisationaimingproduceacommunityhistorysenseofbelongingidentityforDownendandGreen,builtaroundorsignificantplaces,andeventsfromthepast.

The Downend man who put Nelson on his column

As well as the statue of Lord Nelson at the top of Nelson’s Column, Baily produced numerous public sculptures and designs for John Nash’s enlargement of Buckingham Palace. An amazing achievement for a local boy! He died in 1867 and is buried in Highgate Cemetery in London. Baily's marble sculpture Eve at the Fountain can be seen at the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. Do you know anything about Bailys living in Downend? CHAP would like to find out which house Edward and his family lived at. If you can help CHAP track down the house, please

Also Downend Library run a FREE Rhyme Time session for preschoolers on Wednesdays at 9.30am or if you cant make that one Staple Hill Library run a similar session on Thursdays at 9.30am, both are drop in sessions – no need to book.

Adults – did you know we no longer charge a fee for reservations – so you can choose from over 2 million items on the Libraries West catalogue www.librarieswest.org.uk and get it sent to your local library for collection, all for FREE? Need some assistance to use a computer? Do you have an IPhone problem? Then book a FREE appointment with our Digital Champions (available in all 3 libraries) – either see staff for details or call 01454 865022 (ansaphone at busy times).

Statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson on Nelson's Column by Edward Hodges Baily. Picture: Wikimedia Commons Edward Hodges Baily, from the 1867 Illustrated London News. Picture: The Victorian Web.

HUNTERS Estate Agents, Downend are delighted to offer for sale this well presented double bay fronted extended semi-detached family home which occupies a position in the popular area of Bromley Heath. This property is conveniently located for access onto the Avon ring road, for major commuting routes and for the Bristol cycle path, as well as for Bromley Heath Infant and Junior schools which are within easy walking distance.. In our opinion this property would ideally suit a growing family due to the spacious accommodation which is decorated and designed to a fabulous contemporary style and an early internal viewing appointment is highly recommended to fully appreciate what this super house has to offer.Upon entering the property, the entrance hall has a contemporary style brick floor and stairs with low level feature lighting leading to the first floor. The lounge has a bay window to the front, feature fireplace and fitted cupboards and shelving to both alcoves. The property has been extended to the side which creates a study/playroom and a wonderful open plan kitchen/diner to the rear which creates an excellent social area in the heart of the house for the family to enjoy. The kitchen is fitted with an extensive range of modern wall and base units with marble work surface and breakfast bar and from the dining area there bi-folding doors which lead into the rear garden. Leading from the kitchen there is a door into a utility room and cloakroom. To the first floor there is a modern bathroom with an over bath shower system and three good sized bedrooms. The bay fronted master bedroom is fitted with an excellent range of fitted wardrobes and cupboard

H E R E TO G E T y o u T H E R E ��� n HUNTERS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Emergency Number:

KEEP IT IN YOUR MOBILE Lock Stuck and Barrels The complete door & window specialist Locked Out? Need to replace or change your locks? ■ Swift low cost emergency service to all home and commercial lock-outs ■ Non destructive entry methods gaining entry quickly and efciently from the initial call ■ Keys or handbag stolen? Burgled? Need your locks changed or re-keying on a new home? Call us. Call Dave on 07798 905337 www.thebristollocksmith.co.uk Based locally in South Glos ALSO: Low cost repair/replacement of uPVC ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR: LOCKS, HINGES, HANDLES & MISTED UP/BROKEN DOWN DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS Full explanation and costs given before any works carried out. All work fully guaranteed. No call-out fee H. G. Harris Family Funeral Directors Tel: 0117 956 9479 Fax: 0117 956 4070 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net 9 Broad Street, Staple Hill Bristol BS16 5LN

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 55downendvoiceSeptember, 2022 Downend - £470,000

Additionalunits.benefits include; UPVC double glazed windows and a modern Vaillant boiler supplying gas centralExternallyheating.to the front of the property there is a small area of lawn and off street parking and to the rear there is a good sized private rear garden that is mainly laid to lawn has a designated seating area with barbeque. 07798 905337

EXTENDED by the current owners and situated in the ever popular Overnhill Road we are delighted to offer for sale this four bedroom bay fronted detached property.

The welcoming entrance hall gives access to two separate reception rooms, a lounge to the front of the property and dining room to the rear with patio doors leading to the garden.

To the front of the property is a drive offering off road parking and leading to the integral garage plus an attractive lawned area. Located within what we believe to be a realistic walking distance to the high streets of Staple Hill, Downend and Fishponds with all the associated amenities. The property is approximately five miles from Bristol City Centre and provides easy access to public transport, the Bristol-Bath cycle path and the Avon Ring Road and motorway networks. Road BS16

Downend Bristol

The kitchen has a range of wall and base units finished with wood effect shaker style doors. Integrated appliances include a gas hob, electric oven, extractor and dishwasher with space for an undercounter fridge.

2SF Tel: 0117 www.mcoleman.co.uk9566221ESTATE AGENTS M Coleman NO FEES*SELLINGSOLICITOR M.Coleman are offering a fantastic incentive for vendors looking to put their property on the market during the months of March and April 2016. For all properties instructed during this period proceeding to a successful completion M.Coleman Estate Agents will meet your Energy Performance Certificate and Solicitors Selling costs. * Including VAT excluding disbursements. We provide a quality service to all our clients based on traditional values of honesty, integrity and courtesy. Our team benefits experience extending beyond 100 years and this expertise is passed to you to ensure we achieve the best possible price for the sale of your home. We listen to our client’s needs and believe communication is paramount in providing the best level of service throughout the selling *process.Terms& Conditions Apply – Please ask for details ESTATE AGENTS M Coleman Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge. CALL US TODAY ON: 01454 740 034 MOBILE: 07537 149 128 WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: • EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING • 2 REMOTE CONTROLS • ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION • FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR • AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS garagefifor£895From*afullyttedelectricdoor. *O er valid for openings up to 2.4m wide & including 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override. NOW WORKERSSUPPORTvacancies@aspirations-support.co.ukPleasewww.aspirations-support.co.ukRECRUITING01179651447sendyourCVto

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 57downendvoiceSeptember, 2022 n M COLEMAN ESTATE AGENTS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH 1a Overnhill Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 Offers5DNover £500,000

To the side of the kitchen is a sun room/studio which boasts an impressive pitched ceiling; French doors and a bespoke double glazed sky light flood the room with natural light; there is space for a washing machine and tumble dryer. A shower room completes the ground floor. You will be pleasantly surprised at the size of the first floor accommodation; the landing gives access to four bedrooms, three of which are doubles in size. The family bathroom has a white three piece suite with an electric shower over the bath and a separate shower room. We then come to the charming rear garden which has two patio areas, one of which is slightly elevated and accessed from the studio. There is also a well-tended lawn and useful storage shed.

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0117 943 4800 20 High Street

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 59downendvoice n OCEAN ESTATE AGENTS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH 000 000 0000 I www.rightathomeuk.co.uk I email@rightathome.com

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=The current owners having been here since new have continuously modernised and maintained the property which offers bright and spacious accommodation throughout. Presenting as large entrance hall, WC, a generous size lounge measuring the full depth of the property with French doors opening out onto the garden, kitchen and utility room. Upstairs there are 4 double bedrooms with the 2 larger rooms offering fitted wardrobes. There is a family bathroom and an en-suite to the master bedroom. The outside space has been landscaped and can be enjoyed throughout the year with the benefit of little maintenance. There are raised beds, a modern decked area perfect for enjoying the afternoon sun, outside sockets, water tap and the benefit of rear access. The double garage is located at the rear with 2 parking spaces directly in front of the garage.Aviewing comes highly recommended to appreciate this wonderful family home. Material information ( provided by owner). Freehold. Council tax band D.

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 60 downendvoice Steve Bellamy Car pets •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl chosen in the comfort of your own home •Free quotations without obligation to purchase •No pressure selling •Professional service established for over 30 years •All inclusive prices, no hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay Tel: 07860 441776 or 0117 2565994 OVERHEADSLOW=LOWER We will better any like for like all inclusive quote Steve Bellamy Car pets •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl chosen in the comfort of your own home •Free quotations without obligation to purchase •No pressure selling •Professional service established for over 30 years •All inclusive prices, no hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay Tel: 07860 441776 or 0117 2565994 OVERHEADSLOW=LOWERPRICES We will better any like for like all inclusive quote Steve Bellamy Car pets •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl chosen in the comfort of your own home •Free quotations without obligation to purchase •No pressure selling •Professional service established for over 30 years •All inclusive prices, no hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay Tel: 07860 441776 or 0117 2565994 OVERHEADSLOW=LOWERPRICES We will better any like for like all inclusive quote 8 Badminton Rd, Downend, Bristol BS16 6BQ COMPLETE FUNERALS FROM £3200 CONTACT US ANYTIME ON 0117 956 WWW.JAMIESONFUNERALS.COM4796 September, 2022 n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH DOWNEND CAMERA CLUB

‘Windsurfer’ is a more conventional shot, but technically fine, well exposed with bright vibrant colours: the action frozen, the surge of spray produced by the board pushing into the water emphasising the action. The diagonal angle of the subject makes for a strong composition. There is a total change of mood with ‘A Flight of Fancy’. A timed exposure has smoothed out the sea, giving the picture a dreamy feel. There is a contrast between the colour and shape of the jutting harbour wall and the navigation marker, with the bird about to take off. The marker adds some colour –a bit of red in an image often helps! Downend Camera Club is a friendly informal group who meet on Tuesdays at 7.30pm at the Assembly Hall in Salisbury Road, Downend.Theclub offers an active and interesting programme, including photographic presentations and competitions.Someofour members' best work will be on show in a free exhibition at Christ Church in Downend from October 12, so do come along to enjoy some stunning images.

At seasidethe

THE seaside is for many people the place to go for fun and excitement, so it’s no surprise that is a favourite subject for all kinds of photographers.Opportunities abound for interesting and unusual images, from the infinite variation of light and water to the action that takes place at or near the coast. Three pictures shown here have featured in recent club

‘Charlestoncompetitions.HarbourJumpers’ is nicely composed, with pleasing colours: the old stone wall of the harbour contrasting with the blue of the sea and sky. There’s excitement here too, with a connection between the tumbling diver and his watching mates. With their wetsuits they look a serious bunch. Do they give each other points for technical merit?

A flight of fancy by Alan Thunhurst

Windsurfer by Dave Britton

Ed Shorney Charlestown Harbour Jumpers by Ben Newby

The club is on both Facebook and Instagram and has a website at ukdownendcameraclub.org.thatincludesdetailsofthe club, members' galleries, past competition winners and a forum for discussion of all things photographic.

Michael Bell Staple Hill & Mangotsfield cllr £10,000 grant was a waste of money

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 61downendvoice

Respect recyclingourcrews

Home-Start Bristol recruits and trains volunteers, who typically spend two to three hours a week visiting a family in their own home, providing paid.Volunteerbackgrounds,welcomesGreenwayamandcourseonfromonestrugglingandhelpstocompassionatenon-judgemental,supporttailoredthefamily’sneeds.ThecharitytosupportfamiliesinBristolSouthGloswhomaybeandwhohaveatleastchildundertheageoffive.Weareseeingagrowingneedyoungfamilies,aspressuresthemincrease.Thevolunteertrainingstartson20thSeptemberrunseveryTuesday9.30–2.30pmforfiveweeks,atCentre,Southmead.HSBvolunteersofallages,andexperiences.travelexpenseswillbeVisit

I FEEL I must comment on the closure of Forage (Voice, August). Surely anyone could see we already had enough places to eat in Downend. We have three cafes, three Indian restaurants, two pubs, a fish and chip shop and an Italian restaurant.Itwastoo small and not wheelchair-friendly.Ithinkitwasawaste of a £10,000 grant to spend on gold chairs, lights, knives and forks to help them out. So enough is enough with places to eat in Downend! The grant could have helped otherLet'sshops.help the businesses we have left: the bridal shop, florist, cake shop, etc.

WHAT a contrast between three contributions to the community of Mangotsfield.Firstlylocal residents Mavis and Diane, who voluntarily give their time to de-weeding, watering and tidying up the Dame School garden, and elsewhere. And the South Glos Streetcare Team and local volunteers have once again done us proud with the floral displays in the Alec Large Park (as well as Page Park).

homestartbristol.org.uk, email admin@homestartbristol.org. uk,

Struggling families need your help

Work with us to save pub THE Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Bristol Pubs Group became aware that the White Swan public house in North Street, Downend had closed a while ago, but expected it to reopen again at the end of the covid pandemic. However, it now appears that the pub has been sold by owners Admiral Taverns for a potential alternative non-pub use (Voice, June). We are extremely concerned over the level of pub closures generally, which have now reached alarmingly high levels, so the potential loss of this popular local pub will affect future long term community cohesion and wellbeing for people in Downend, by reducing customer choice and the opportunity for people to socialise Therefore, we would like former pub regulars and interested local residents to contact us via the e-mail below to help them save the pub, by registering it as an 'Asset of Community Value' (ACV). An ACV gives the community the opportunity to bid for the property if it is sold or leased for 25 years or Whenmore.apub has an ACV, if it is put on the market, the owner must notify the council. The council will then contact the nominating group, which has six weeks to decide whether to put in a bid. If the nominating group decides to bid, a six-month moratorium is triggered, giving the community time to arrange the necessary finances. We believe that the White Swan could have a viable long term future and look forward to working with the local community to save theirWepub.would also welcome contact from former regulars of the Downend Tavern, Downend Road to see what can be done to help safeguard their pub. Our contact e-mail is org.uk.bristolpubsgroup@camrabristol.

WE are a local charity that supports families through some of their toughest times and are looking for new volunteers to join our training course this September, as demand from struggling families grows.

NigelChairmanMorris

LETTERS

LauraMangotsfieldRickards

Chris BurleyHarrisCrest contributionsContrasting

Compare this with the person (or persons) unknown whose own contribution to the community is spraying their mindless graffiti nearby on walls and telecom boxes. I will let the Downend

Paul Foss A unique flower? AFTER nearly 10 years grown from seed, my Caper bush has finally flowered.Ibetthis is the only one in Downend, possibly the whole of Bristol and may be even the entire UK? Have any other keen gardeners like me grown one – or seen one?

Voice readers make their own judgement.

or phone me on 0117 950 1170 to find out more. Terri Home-StartFletcherBristol flowerbushcaperHarris'sChris Mavis and Diane Alec Large Park flowers Graffiti

MP's mustcommentsbechallenged

n

I CAN'T let Jack Lopresti's comments on Boris Johnson (Voice, August) go unchallenged. If Boris Johnson was such a great leader, why is he having to step down as Prime Minister? Has he led our "great country" out of the EU? He is leaving behind issues which still have to be sorted out.The duplicity of Boris Johnson has led to a great distrust of politics and politicians, probably unprecedented.PleaseMrLopresti, live in the real world and see your hero for what he actually is, warts and all.

CAMRA Bristol Pubs Group

ElizabethFrenchayParsons

MARK Hall's letter about dirty recycling (Voice, August) was welcome and timely but I was sorry to see that it made no mention of the words 'courtesy', 'thoughtfulness' or 'respect'. As he points out, it is simplicity itself to rinse out a tin or plastic container before putting it in the recycling bin, and even easier to empty unwanted food from a cardboard container. If we are to have any respect for the people who are going to sort out our recycling then that is what we must do. At the height of the pandemic we were full of praise for the unsung people, the poorly paid, who perform essential services.Should we not now act on that praise and ensure our recycling is fit for others to handle?

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 62 downendvoice Daves Garden Services Call Dave on 07901 554068 for a free quotation SPECIAL OFFER 25% OFF OAP’s 30% with this ad HURRYGOINGBOOKINGSFAST n Low maintenance specialist n Patio, Walling, Gravels and Sleeper work n Fencing, Decking, Turfing, Planting and more! n 28 years experience, locally based n We aim to beat any similar quote n References/Photos available n Artificial grass available Government guidelines strictly followed with social distancing n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB

THE last full, face-to-face meeting of the club year also brought the last competition, with the subject being abstract images. A simple little word, you might think, but one that presents major problems of definition. Abstract art does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but, instead, uses shapes, colours, forms, line, composition and gestural marks to achieve its Picasso,effect.whowas most certainly not an abstract artist, abhorred the concept, calling it an oxymoron - a contradiction in terms. Others like Mondrian, Malevich or Rothko had no problems but dived deep into theirPhotographersimaginations. have to work from the real world that they photograph, either by careful selection or manipulation. They may seek to involve the use of colour, light, shadow, texture, shape and/or form to convey a feeling, sensation or impression. It was a test that defeated many, but not all by any means.

photographyAbstract

Bruce Gibbs gained second place in the competition with 'Boing', a splendidly abstract presentation, full of colour and shape, with its origins, so far as I can tell, in Bristol’s Festival of Light. Anita Fullerton was commended for her 'Kaleidoscope of Colour', which was clearly of peeling paint – but the apparently random, and indecipherable, appearance of letters gives the photograph a mystery. My own offering, 'Squiggle', was also commended. Derived from a photograph of reflection of a yacht mast on the waters of Portishead Marina, I like to think it has elements of Joan Miro. What do ITheknow?club returns to live meetings on September 13, with the next competition, ‘The Decisive Moment’, coming in early November.Meanwhile, members will have been gathering new images on holidays, outings (together or individually) or just by observing the world around them Why not join us for the coming year? New members and guests are always made welcome, if you’re looking for new acquaintances and regular activities (£3 if you just want to try us out). So, if you’re interested and would like to be part of a small but flourishing club, take a look at our website abstracted!gmail.com.orlincombebarncameraclub.co.ukatcontactusatlincombe.barn@Staysafe,anddon’tgettoo Sid Stace

Boing by Bruce Gibbs Squiggle by Sid Stace

Kaleidoscope of Colour by Anita Fullerton

Mary Head

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 63downendvoice CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk122LANDSCAPINGEstablishedfamilyfirmwith25yearsexperience H Senior Citizens Special H Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off H Patios H Fencing H Tree Work H Turfing H Hedgecutting H Planting (Shrubs etc) H Organic manure delivered — Also applied H Professional and guarnteed work H Brick & Blocklaying 25% OFFWITHADVERTTHIS Alpine n CHRISTINE'S COLUMN THERE are some places that draw you to them, and Brixham is one of them. On one of those lovely sunny days my friend Thelma and I were aboard a coach heading in thatThedirection.coachput us down right by a shop well known for its yummy pasties. Once there, we purchased one each and found a place to sit, overlooking a car park. After munching on our lunch we ambled down, looking at the numerous curio and charity shops, to the harbour. Last time I was in Brixham, about a year ago, I forgot to buy a fridge magnet for my small collection. This time, in an RNLI shop, I bought one of a puffin and a model lifeboat. The harbour was, as usual resplendent in all its glory, with fishing boats bobbing about on the slightly choppy water. Holiday makers mingled about, some licking ice creams and some drinking pints of beer. Usually I would buy an ice cream, but this time I just wanted a latte and my friend a cup of tea, and found a suitable place I had gone in lastWeyear.were having a real relaxing day, just chatting and mooching around.After our drinks, we made our way to the harbour wall and watched people walking along, eating fish and chips. We decided to investigate, and found the holiday makers were coming from the Rockfish, which had quite a variety of fish at assorted prices. We came away with a piece of vacuumpacked smoked haddock each, for our meal when we got to our respective homes. At least being vacuum packed it would not stink the coach Somehowout!it was time to make our way back to the coach, but not before Thelma had had a dish of freshBackcockles.atLincombe Barn we are preparing to begin our speaker mornings again, on Thursday October 6, with a talk about the Clifton Suspension Bridge. More details next month. The day we went to Brixham BroadwayChristinewith

DOWNEND

OUR last meeting was an evening outing to Cox's Hill House, a hillside garden with wonderful flowers near Chipping Sodbury, on a good sunny evening.Ournext meeting is a talk on Dyrham Park on September 8 at 7.30pm, at the Assembly Hall in Salisbury Road, Downend. more information call 0117 957 1703. Roger Davis

My little cyclamen are already beginning to come into flower – a bit early, but lovely to see. We can begin to plant daffodils and grape hyacinths – I planted several different species for this year in pots, as they are apt to spread.Itis also safe to cut back hedges, as the birds have finished nesting.Iwas lucky enough to have two sparrow fledglings: they are very busy on the seed hoppers, and it is lovely to see them drinking from the branch I have in the pond. They manage to bathe amongst the water lilies – it is only a small pond but they make good use of it. Perhaps it is time I put a camera in the garden to see who else comes to visit? I know I have frogs, so I top up the pond with the cold water before the hot comes through and it keeps the pond fresh. There are several dishes around with water in, and I often see wasps and bees on the lily pads taking a drink. We had a break in August and will be back at the barn on September 8 with a quiz or two. Everyone is getting very good at plant recognition, and we are sharing tips and our gardening knowledge. It is a very friendly group and we are always ready to chat with new members. Enjoy the rest of the good weather, start preparing the garden, and enjoy the moments we get to be outside. Happy gardening!

For

n DOWNEND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY HouseHillCox's

Time to get ready for autumn I HOPE you are all keeping as cool as possible in these heat waves. I am using grey water to water the plants I have in pots, and they are doing well. I am also keeping water out for the birds and the dogs at the Wegate.are now approaching autumn and will be able to appreciate all the wonderful colours, as trees and shrubs change to those wonderful autumn tones. Many of you will be gathering crops that you have grown, and enjoying the taste of really fresh food, so full of vitamins. Some of you will be making jams and pickles, and stocking up the freezer for the Septemberwinter. is a time we can begin to tidy gardens, pulling up any flowers ready for the compost heap, cutting others back for their winter rest, ready to come again next year.

n GARDENING CLUB AT LINCOMBE BARN

We’re hiring… Please check out www.suez.co.uk/southglosjobs for more information and to apply, or contact Kirsty for an informal discussion on 07773 124095 or careers.uk@suez.com LGV drivers and crew members for our South recyclingGloucestershireandwastecollections team: Yate and Warmley Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend working Yate 6.45am – 3.15pm Warmley 7am – 3.30pm Driverssalary£27,087.23 p/a The roles involve driving and operating vehicles collecting household waste and recycling. Applicants will need a current LGV Class 2 licence and valid CPC card. £1,000 welcome bonus offered conditionally on successful completion of probationary period. WORKING FOR SUEZ We offer training, development opportunities, wide-ranging benefits and rewards that reflect your hard work. In a friendly supportive environment, you’ll be inspired to grow and play your part in creating a greener as we serve residents.South Gloucestershire recycling and recovery UK www.suez.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 65downendvoice EMERSONS TAXIS Emersons Green, Downend & Surrounding Areas ALL UK AIRPORTS, PORTS & STATIONS COVERED 4, 5 & 6 SEATERS AVAILABLE H Lady Driver available on request H For a Friendly Prompt Service call or e-mail 07960 067 767 www.framptontaxis.co.ukframptontaxis@tiscali.co.uk 5 DOORS FITTED FOR £479 ANY 5 WHITE PRIMED 6-PANEL ‘COLONIAL’ OR 5-PANEL ‘SUFFOLK’ DOORS WITH YOUR CHOICE OF 6 STYLES OF HANDLE, HINGES, MORTICE CATCH, FITTED IN YOUR HOME FOR £479* GLAZED DOORS EXTRA COST Additional Doors available DOOR EXPRESS 08000 973333 - 07767 376770 A PHONE CALL WILL SECURE YOUR FITTING ORDER DATE This offer applies to door sizes 78”x30” & 78”x27” Other sizes available for a small extra charge www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk n SPORT CARSONS & Mangotsfield Cricket Club secured their first silverware of the season when the under-16s won the Gloucestershire youth T20 Development final. Star players on the day were Hugo Bradbury and Max Buckingham, scoring 43 not out and 37 respectively as they beat their hosts Golden Hill by six wickets, with nine balls to spare. In a match which started earlier than originally scheduled because of August's hot weather, Golden Hill lost the toss and reached 133-6, with Loachlen Massey taking 3-20 from four overs, before opener Bradbury led Carsons to the silverware. The club’s U19 team were playing the semi-final for their age group as the Voice went to print.Over the last month the 1st XI have closed the gap on secondplaced Bristol Lions to just 3 points in Division 6. The 2nd XI have already secured promotion and were 1 point ahead of secondplaced Nailsea ahead of the sides meeting for a likely championship decider in late August.The3rd team are also top of their division and guaranteed promotion after one of their rivals pulled out.

Ian Coles and Steve Hill

Dave Smale

September fixtures: 6th Thornbury Town (away) 10th Cribbs FC (home) 7.45pm 20th Royal Wootton Bassett Town 24th(home)Abingdon Utd (home, FA Vase) 27th Chipping Sodbury (away)

One person who has had a significant role in the club’s success this season is U15 batsman Matthew Clatworthy, who has scored runs for all the club’s teams over the course of the season, scoring his second century for the adult teams as well as making a half-century on his 1st XI debut. So far Matthew has amassed 1,300 runs, at an average of 40.38. If he continues his current form he is on course to pass 1,500 runs for the season – an incredible achievement for such a young player.

Mangos make poor start to new season

Silverware for Carsons & Mangotsfield Carsons and Mangotsfield's winning U16 team

MANGOTSFIELD United’s start to life in the Hellenic League Premier Division started in the worst possible way. The club is already in the bottom three after 3 games, and has exited the FA Cup at the earliest possible stage. After a pre-season campaign of six wins and two defeats, the real action started with a 1-0 defeat away to Royal Wootton BassettNextTown.upwas a pulsating FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie at local neighbours Cadbury Heath, which ended 2-2. Will Hailston gave the Mangos an early lead, beating the home keeper at his near post, and they led 1-0 at the break but after continued pressure, Heath levelled on 55 minutes. Jordan Metters put the Mangos ahead with 13 minutes to go, with a 25-yard drive into the top corner, only for Heath to deservedly equalise following a corner with 3 minutes to go, setting up a replay at Cossham Street. And what a disaster that was to prove for the Mangos, as Heath romped to a deserved 5-2 win in what was a cracking game for the neutrals. Heath took the lead on 4 minutes with a 20-yard free kick and while Joe Beardwell levelled for the Mangos on 31 minutes, the away side re-took the lead right on half time. Things got worse on 52 minutes when Heath went 3-1 up and, while Will Hailston pulled one back on 83 minutes, not one but two stoppage-time goals for Heath completed the rout. Mangotsfield’s first home league match four days later also ended in defeat, 3-1 by Oxfordshire side Wantage Town. The visitors took the lead in hot conditions, against the run of play, on 22 minutes. Despite some neat forward play, the equaliser didn’t come until 54 minutes when Will Hailston fired home from the edge of the box. Just five minutes later Wantage were back in front from the penalty spot, and got a third on 66 minutes, leaving the Mangos bottom of the league. The first point of the season came in a 2-2 home draw against near neighbours Chipping Sodbury Town, lifting the Mangos to 3rd from bottom. Will Hailston put the hosts ahead early in the second half, only for Sodbury to equalise a few minutes later. Both sides went for the win in the latter stages. Sodbury took the lead on 75 minutes but Will Hailston netted again to secure the point five minutes later.

0117

I also volunteered for back-to-back, eight-hour stints so that I didn’t miss too many days at my own clinic.Iwas originally a bit disappointed with this placement. I considered Warwick to be away from the central hub and the early shifts maybe a little slow… but, as atmosphere was muted and the energy in the polyclinic was low. As I walked through the double doors it was as if I had entered a Wild West saloon – everyone looked up at me. You could see they were thinking: who is this guy? Perhaps I was the new sheriff!Some of the physios and sports therapists who had been there for a couple of days told me they pretty much hadn’t seen an athlete since they had arrived. This place needed a lift so I set myself the task of seeing what there was on offer.Theathletes seemed to be walking right past the clinic. Then I clocked that there were loads of rugby players, which started to get me really excited. That’s the sports language I know best. Soon enough I saw a big group of Aussies walking around clearly getting their bearings so, instead of looking at them looking at me, I went over and said hello and asked if they had been inside the polyclinic for a look round yet. No? OK, would you like me to show you what we have? It was amazing. As I walked around, the first people I introduced were the dentists and optometrists. Next along the line were the GPs and sports docs, then I introduced the radiologist Next up were the physical therapists. Obviously I explained that I was a chiropractor – I might have mentioned that I have worked in the rugby’s Premiership – and they were surprised to see me working at the Games. They would normally just bring their physio, sports doc and sports therapist along with them. Many had experienced and liked chiro from back home, so we were a welcome sight. The Aussies’ tour went on to the physios, sports massage, podiatry and osteo teams before we reached the well-stocked pharmacy – who seemed to take great delight in explaining that they were providing more than 50,000 condoms for free at the Games!After a morning of tours –Tonga, Fiji, Canada, Scotland, England and Mauritius were among those who followed –the afternoon quickly got busy, with my first patient a rugby sevens player from Tonga. As I demonstrated how we can increase a player’s muscle control, making them feel like a million dollars, he was hooked. He asked if I could see his whole team and, via his telephone, the word started to spread. Before he left, I explained that he would do well with a sports massage straight away, so off he Thiswent.became the routine. I treated one player, they referred a friend, then promised to come back again. I would offer them access to a scan if they needed or suggested they go and get their eyes checked and teeth cleaned while they were there. The clinic became super busy – not just because of me – but I’m proud of the little kick start I gave it. When I had a moment, I spoke with all the other professions, spreading the word about chiropractic and giving a few hands-on demonstrations. I believe this really helped dispel any myths about chiro. I explained about the four or five years of fulltime university studies we need to complete before we qualify. I now have great contact with more sports docs, GPs, physios and chiros that I hadn’t met before. A number asked me to help them find a trusted local chiro to them (you start by going to the British Chiropractic Association website). A few were even interested in the chiro conversion course in Bournemouth.So,asIlisten to the cicadas, my children run dangerously around me with water pistols in Provence and I can hear the family wondering which vineyard to visit at lunchtime, I’m signing off, hoping that everyone has enjoyed a happy and healthy summer. with Tim Button, Doctor of Chiropractic at Cleve Chiropractic and Next Step in Mangotsfield 957 5388

BY the time you read this, the summer will be nearly over, but I hope you will indulge me as I brieflyEverreminisce…sinceIwas a kid, we have headed off to Provence for our summer holidays, this time meeting mum and dad who drove down in their camper van and my brother and his family. So it was a big Button family trip down memory lane. This year, I had a very important job to do before I could put my feet up in the south of France. So, despite the temptation to just talk here about vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields, I’ll concentrate on the true preholiday highlight – working at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.Four of us from Cleve Chiropractic – Catherine, Lucy, Charlie and myself – were selected to help athletes at the Games, so we had chiro, physio and sports therapy all weekWarwickholiday,Becausecovered.ofmyimpendingIwasgivenshiftsattheUniversitycampusthebeforetheGamesstarted.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 66 downendvoice September, 2022

twitter.com/clevechirofacebook.com/clevechirowww.clevechiropractic.comchiropractic.comdrtimbutton@cleve

A letter from Provence via the Commonwealth Games

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

The month ends with Longlevens travelling to Cleve. The club will be keen to hit the ground running to accommodate a tough start to the season.

Steve Bateman

CLEVE RFC open the season with a home game against Cinderford on September 3. Nathan Huntley, new head coach and ex-Cleve player, has been working hard with the current group of players. The whole club is excited and looking forward to first game, which will be followed by a tough encounter against old Bristolians on theThey10th.are a formidable side and will allow us to measure the progress made by the current bunch of youngsters.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 67downendvoice ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE Gisela Norman, a highly experienced acupuncturist of 30 years Gisela treats a wide range of conditions from physical complaints, including infertility to emotional and stress related problems. Call her to discuss your health issue on: 07968 855 001 or make an appointment direct at the Willow Surgery, Hill House Road, Downend on: 0117 970 9505 A Member of British Acupuncture Council and Lecturer BURGLAR ALARMS • BURGLAR ALARMS, REPAIRS • MAINTENANCE SERVICE & INSTALLATION • WE SERVICE ALL MAKES OF ALARMS FROM AN UPGRADE AND SERVICE TO NEW ALARM SYSTEMS • ALARM SERVICES FROM £55 TEL: 0117 956 0695 MOB: 07770 233 475 EMAIL ENQUIRIES@MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK WWW.MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK FIND OUR REVIEWS ON THE WHICH TRUSTED TRADERS WEBSITE MARK BURGLAREVANSALARMS n SPORT CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC & PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE WE’VE MOVED, BUT NOT TOO FAR... With a Team approach to healthcare. Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Back & Leg Pain, Sciatica l Sports Massage Pilates l Headaches & Migraines Trapped Nerves l Repetitive Strain Injuries Occupational Injuries l Sports Injury Specialist Competitively priced CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangotsfield, Bristol BS16 9EN Contact 0117 957 5388 The practice of pain relief www.clevechiropractic.com ofMemberthe AssociationChiropracticBritish MondayDAYCLASSTIME Pilates 10:00 – 11:00 Currently online Pilates 11:00 – 12:00 Currently online Pilates18:00 – 19:00Live & online Wednesday Pilates 12:00 – 13:00From 26/08/20 Friday Pilates 10:00 – 11:00Live & online Check details on Facebook & Website for developments Choose a class...more added often Udated on Facebook & Website with offers and discounts PODIATRYWILLBEAVAILABLEIN2020 Supporting Premiership Football, Rugby, 2012 Olympics and World Athletic Championship 2017 £49 for a block of 6 sessions.Pilates Cleve face tough start

our

BRISTOL & West Hockey Club's Men’s 1st team capped off a brilliant summer league with an impressive second-placed finish in Division 1. The 2nd team, competing in the top division for the first time, fought well in each game but could only manage 3 points and will drop into Div 2 for next summer. Men’s 3s finished in a superb second place in Div 3, whilst the 4th team ended up bottom of the pile in Div 4. The Ladies also had a busy summer, playing nearly double the amount of games as the Men. All training sessions and matches are held at Mangotsfield School, with post-match hospitality provided by Cleve Rugby Club. For training or membership enquiries CommunicationsBAWHC@outlook.com.

email

B&W are runners-up

Harry Bryant

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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 202268 downendvoice CLEANING SERVICES       Call Nick on 0117 2872392 ELECTRICIANS ELECTRICIANSCAR REPAIRS 100% Mobile - to work or home! Bumper Scuffs • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment • Vandal Scratches Minor Dents • Calliper Painting Headlight Restoration • Motorcycles Repairs 70% cheaper than car body shops Tel: 0117 329 3773 Mob: 07780 713 665 Outside Work = Perfect for Social distancing • SMALL ELECTRICAL JOBS • LED LIGHTING • GARDEN LIGHTING, OUTBUILDINGS & HOME OFFICES • TESTING & INSPECTION OF WIRING • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES • BURGLAR ALARMS, REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE & INSTALLATION TEL: 0117 956 0695 MOB 07770 233 475 EMAIL ENQUIRIES@MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK WWW.MARKEVANSELECTRICAL.CO.UK FIND OUR REVIEWS ON THE WHICH TRUSTED TRADERS WEBSITE MARK HOUSEELECTRICALEVANSRE-WIRINGSPECIALISTS BATHROOMS & KITCHENS All work carried out by us One call is all you need Book now for your makeover OSBORNE & SONS All work guaranteed. Call Tony 0777 6188595 osborneandsonsFindtony1osborne@yahoo.co.ukusonFacebook Bathroom & Kitchen Specialists CARER/HELPERCARPENTRY PHILIP PERKINS General Carpenter/Kitchen Fitter (Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen) 0117 9373941 OR 07788 115945 CALL FOR A QUOTE - NO JOB TOO SMALL Carpentry • Kitchens supplied & fitted or supply only • Full kitchen or fronts only • Worktops • Fitted Wardrobes • Door Hanging • Skirting • Stairs & Balustrades • Laminate & Wood Flooring • All aspects of general carpentry work AERIALS A.G. AERIALS For Digital TV Ring Round — Then Ring Us We will undercut any quote for quality work Est 1967 • Free Quotes • No VAT TELEPHONE DOWNEND 0117 956 4516 MOBILE 07770 634 804 AERIALS Call Nick on 07970 529787 Email: theaerialco@yahoo.com ● TV Aerials & Satellites ● Extra Points ● Repairs ● Sky Work Undertaken ● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting ● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions ● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems The AerialEst.2004Co. AERIALS Carer/Helper Available to help with personal care, chores, taking out and pet care. Sitting service available. Shopping and taking client out as a car driver fully business assistance Fully trained, Business insured, DBS checked. REFERENCES AVAILABLE For more information Tel 07886922190

ELECTRICIANS Apricot Electrical DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL ESTIMATESFREE 0117 956 3285 07976Mobile665448 Rewires and Repairs PIR Security Lighting Testing BuildingCertificatesSocietyWiring Reports 200 Overndale Road, Downend Bristol BS16 2RH FRIENDLY, HONEST AND PROFESSIONAL THE REWIRING SPECIALISTS ELECTRICIANS For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service... call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974 infowww.atomelectrical.co.uk@atomelectrical.co.uk All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires. FREE Quotations specialist domestic installers atom electrical FENCING DOWNEND FENCING (ERECTING SERVICE) 45 years experience - All types of fencing, repairs, clearance etc. NO JOB TOO SMALL TEL: 0797 3381663 FENCING FRENCHAY FENCING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE all work guaranteed - all quotes free OVER 20 EXPERIENCEYEARS LOCALLY BASED Call Mike on 07962226226 or Andy on 07747148106 Contact us at Facebook: Frenchay fencing To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 69downendvoice MACHINE HIRE GUTTER CLEANING GUTTERING SERVICES Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning Call or Book online www.marksguttercleaning.co.ukTel:01173708528Mob:07543056558 Based in Downend, Bristol HOUSE CLEARANCE J AND J MAINTENANCECONSTRUCTION&PESTCONTROLLTD Tel 07779242184 Digger Hire Grass Cutter Hire Garden Clearance We can supply the machines manned or unmanned GARDEN MAINTENANCE D. ATTWELL • FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES GARAGE DOORS • Third generation Family Business • World Class Customer Service • Independent Specialists • Free Surveys & Advice • 10 Year Finish & “Safe & Reliable WarrantyFunction” • Downend Based Call Charlie on 07375 883596 or email charlie@egdbristol.com EGDBristol.com All Types of Garage Doors JET WASHING House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On Average cheaper than a skip. 1/4 Load £99 Half Load £149 4 Load £199 Full Load £249 Tel: 07592 506 www.junkmonsters.co.uk003 House, Garden, Office Clearance - Plus all other waste removal - On average cheaper than a skip Tel: 07592 506 003 House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On Average cheaper than a skip. 1/4 Load £99 Half Load £149 4 Load £199 Full Load £249 Tel: 07592 506 www.junkmonsters.co.uk003 House, Garden, Office Clearance - Plus all other waste removal - On average cheaper than a skip Tel: 07592 506 003 House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On Average cheaper than a skip. 1/4 Load £99 Half Load £149 3/4 Load £199 Full Load £249 Tel: 07592 506 www.junkmonsters.co.uk003 House, Garden, Office Clearance - Plus all other waste removal - On average cheaper than a skip Tel: 07592 506 003 GARDEN MAINTENANCE Greenslade Lawn & ServicesGarden Specialising in: Regular Grass Cutting, Strimming, Hedge Cutting, Fence Painting, Lawn Fertilisation & Weed Control Prices from £10 with free fertilisation & weed kill Call Chris: 07786392241 or 0117 9406854

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 September, 202270 downendvoice PAINTING & DECORATING J L Painting & Decorating Jason Lee Qualified Painter & Decorator No Job too small Free No obligation quote 011707474573780Telephone:2792264 e: jl.painting.decorating@outlook.com PAINTING & DECORATING Third generation family business offering professional exterior and interior painting and decorating services locally. Quality PaperhangingworkmanshipspecialistCompetitivelypriced ST E V E PA I NT E R D ECOR AT I N G S E RV I C ES Call Steve Painter on: 01179 565 190 / 07853 250 035 PLUMBINGPLUMBING & HEATING Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk Boiler installation, servicing and repairs 10 Year Warranty’savailable 518308 PLUMBING & HEATING 07878249260 phil@andersonheatingservices.co.uk 629179 56746 CREST HEATING & PLUMBING BOILERS, BATHROOMS AND GENERAL PLUMBING TEL: 07765 250816 OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HONEST & RELIABLE PLUMBING & HEATING PLUMBING & HEATING 10 INCLUDEDWARRANTYLABOURPARTSYEAR&UP FORBOILEROFF£400TOYOURNEWALIMITEDTIME BRISTOL: 0117 9000 986 MOBILE: 07834 633376 3 generations in the plumbing and heating industry and a quality service from a local family business Boiler service and repair, new boilers supplied and installed, full system and design, free 10 year parts and labour warranty on new boilers, general plumbing. We are also Gas Safe registered - OAP DISCOUNTS PLUMBING PAINTING & DECORATING Builder & Interior DecoratorDacrisco Builder E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 Classic & Natural stone tiles Specialising in Italian showers Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Interior & Exterior Masonry Interior & façade painting High Quality Finish Free Quote Bristol & Surrounding Areas Tiler • Mason • Painter17Years ExperienceInterior & Exterior Masonry Tiling Interior & Facade Painting No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com PAINTING & DECORATING SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured Free Quotations Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411 www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk OVEN CLEANING     

PLUMBING WIGS LOCATED IN DOWNEND Wwww.wigsbristol.comehavebeensupplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes. Please book an appointment on: 0117 956 0805 Wigs Bristol Wigs Bristol WASTE WINDOWDISPOSAL&DOOR SOLUTIONSTREE TREEWASPSURGEONSREMOVALSURGEONSJ.A. Cole & Sons Tree Surgeons • Tree Surgery • Hedge & Shrub work • Precision Felling • Size Reduction • Fully insured • Domestic & Commercial . PROFESSIONAL EXPERT SERVICE - 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF TREE WORK Free Quotations & Advice 0117 077689567298973291 www.bristol-tree-surgeons.co.uk CLEAREDRUBBISH Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074 We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends sales@t ellwindows co.uk Windows Doors 07786730804www.treadwellwindows.co.ukConservatories01172799409Call us today for a FREE no-obligation quotation Local business based in Downend • We replace & install Windows, Doors, Bi-Folding doors, Conservatories + much more • uPVC, Aluminium and Timber Windows & Doors • Service & repairs of all types of uPVC, misted double glazing, lock repairs & hinge replacements • Internorm UK specialist for the South West SHOWER REPAIRS Apricot Showers Approved Contractor FREE ESTIMATES 0117 956 3285 Mobile 07976 665448 Shower installations All makes supplied Installed, repaired Replacement units Apricot Electrical 200 Overndale Road, Downend Bristol BS16 2RH FRIENDLY PROMPT SERVICE, ALL WORK GUARANTEED BROKEN SHOWER? ROOFING LIMITED N. BROWN SLATING • TILING • REPAIRS GUTTERS • FASCIAS FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Give Nigel a call he’s local and has a wealth of experience ✆ 07779 786072 PROPERTYROOFING MAINTENANCE J AND J CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES Providing general building, factory facilities work, gardening, pest control Tel 07779242184 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579 September, 2022 71downendvoice Fully CallCompetitivequalifiedpricesnowforafreequote Jon 07483 826104 0117 9860642 www.kwik-care.co.uk Wasp Removal Kwik Care Pest Control

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