Downend Voice December 2020/January 2021 combined edition by Gary Brindle

downendvoice

Combined December 2020 January 2021 - Issue 91

www.downendvoice.co.uk www.downendvoice.co.uk

FREE EVERY MONTH IN DOWNEND, MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE HILL, BROMLEY HEATH & FRENCHAY

You're a wonder, Arthur! Winter windows are lighting up Scores of residents in Downend and Staple Hill have signed up to create colourful displays for a window trail to brighten the end of a dark year. PAGE 5

Move to curb traffic speeds Last Christmas Arthur Stone almost died as he battled meningitis. The disease claimed his legs but the Staple Hill youngster, pictured with his sisters, has fought back to raise ÂŁ10,000 for charity. Full story: Page 3 Picture: Lisa Whiting Photography

Pavilion plan unveiled A NEW pavilion for King George V playing fields in Downend is being planned by the parish council. The building would replace the ageing 1960s building off Sutherland Avenue, which the council says is in a state of disrepair. People are being asked for their views on the design for the new pavilion - a modular design which would be manufactured off-site

and assembled quickly to minimise disruption to neighbours - before a planning application is submitted in January. The parish council hopes it will not only provide modern facilities for sports clubs but will also become a hub for the whole community.

A 20mph limit and speed bumps are being considered for Acacia Road in Staple Hill to make it safer. PAGE 6

Churches share hope and joy Churches in the area have come up with innovative ways to ensure that residents can celebrate Christmas in 2020, whether in church, online or out of doors. PAGES 22-27

Turn to p4

HAIR DESIGNERS Craig and the team wish you all a very

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 01179 571551

1 Willow Centre Downend Road Downend

www.craiganthonys.co.uk

downendvoice

downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk

Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579 Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377

Follow us on Twitter @downendvoice ADVERTISING sales@downendvoice.co.uk Tel 0117 907 8585 Tel 07799 461169 EDITORIAL news@downendvoice.co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Downend Voice, 6 Elkstone Walk, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6JT. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter. DEADLINE Our February edition deadline is January 12. L O C A L I N F O R M AT I O N South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ downendvoice 01454 868001 Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am to 2pm

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Downend Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Downend Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pickup points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@ downendvoice.co.uk.

COMPLAINTS

Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Downend Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

A member of the

December, 2020

MerryChristmasfrom

DownendVoice

MERRY Christmas everyone! It has been a difficult year for us all, and one that many will be glad to see the back of. Twelve months ago, who could have guessed the tragedies, anguish, disruption, hardship and restrictions which were to transform our lives in 2020? All of us in Downend, Staple Hill and Mangotsfield have shared the troubles that brought normal life to a halt across the country, as lockdowns were launched to try and halt the spread of coronavirus. As in so many other places, lives have been lost, people have lost their jobs and some are now living with the effects of 'long Covid'. Downend Voice, like so many other businesses, had to suspend publication during lockdown and communicate with others online. But through it all, the spirit and determination of people in our communities have shone through. We saw it in lockdown, from the support for the NHS to the help offered to those in need. As our pages show today, people are still doing amazing things in our communities – from Arthur Stone's incredible fundraising after meningitis almost claimed his life, to the efforts of the Winter Windowland organisers to bring everyone closer together at a time when there are limits to what we can do even to celebrate Christmas. Here's hoping that 2021 will be a year of hope and brighter days.

Helping you remain independent in your own home

• Care at Home and Support • Live in Care • Befriending Service • Meal Provision • Personal Care • Cleaning • Waking Nights

Short or long visits daily or weekly Trained and DBS checked staff Consistent carers consistent times

Contact us: 0117 440 6397 Email us: bristol@myhomecare.co.uk Visit us: Brotherswood Court, Almondsbury BS32 4QW Website: bristol.myhomecare.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Meningitis can't crush Arthur's spirit CHRISTMAS 2019 was very nearly Arthur Stone's last. The morning after Boxing Day he was rushed to Bristol Children's Hospital with meningococcal septicaemia, a form of bacterial meningitis. Arthur, from Staple Hill, was put into an induced coma while his body battled the virus. His hands and feet and much of his body turned black where the septicaemia had spread. After more than a week he woke up – but although he had survived the disease, it had claimed his legs below the knee and parts of his fingers, and left him in pain. Arthur faced a long period of treatment and rehabilitation. It was not until February that he was well enough to have the operation to amputate his lower legs and he had further operations, treatment and physiotherapy before he was finally able to return home in March – on the day after the coronavirus lockdown started. Facing a completely changed life without being able to call in friends and family to help, Arthur and his family – mum Serena Askew, dad Alex Stone and sisters Zelda and Nancy – turned to LimbPower. The disability charity introduced them to other families who had been through similar experiences, including children, who messaged Arthur personally, and parents, physiotherapists and artificial limb experts who contacted his mum and dad to offer support and advice. The charity showed Arthur's

Arthur Stone and school friend Solomon Short with their medals and superhero costumes after finishing the Team Stone-Short Winter Wonderwheels Challenge. Picture: Lisa Whiting Photography family they were "not alone", so in return the seven-year-old Staple Hill Primary School pupil decided to raise money for the charity. Superhero fan Arthur, his three-year-old sisters and school friend Solomon Short came up with the Winter Wonderwheels Challenge, aiming to travel a total of 20km (around 12 1/2 miles) by wheelchair, scooter and on foot. They set a fundraising target of £300 – but as word of the challenge and Arthur's story spread, donations flooded in. As the Voice went to print the total had topped £10,000, including online donations of more than £9,700 from around 400 people, with gift aid of almost £2,000. Team Stone-Short did part of the challenge in Page Park, with

the final lap taking place at the end of November at his school. Classmates made superhero masks, and Solomon and Arthur wore superhero costumes as they went through the finishing tape together. Arthur said: "I can’t believe how much we’ve raised for LimbPower, I never imagined in my wildest dreams we’d get to over £10,000!" Serena said: "Not only are we blown away by the amount raised but also by the support and love shown by the local community and even further afield. "There have been so many lovely messages of encouragement, it has turned something that was initially very daunting in to a really positive experience, and Arthur’s confidence has soared. "It’s still very painful to

recount the early days of Arthur’s illness - it came on so fast and with no real warning. To watch him lying there, fighting for his life as the sepsis spread over his body, is something I couldn’t have imagined in my worst nightmares: it is the most horrific thing. Aside from the loss of his legs the damage to his body meant we couldn’t even hug him for weeks. Alex and I were still changing wound dressings in August. "Bristol Children’s Hospital saved Arthur’s life, not only the amazing nurses and doctors but also the hospital school, housekeeping and his play therapist. "Saying that, we were desperate to get home and be a family again with the girls, who have been heroes throughout this whole thing. We managed to get out the day after lockdown and celebrate their third birthday all together. I will never forget the first morning, all of us snuggled in our bed together and safe." Babies are now routinely given a meningitis B vaccine. But children born before September 2015 were not vaccinated and the government has no 'catch-up' programme for older children. Serena has learned of at least three other children who caught meningitis B over the same Christmas period when Arthur fell ill and also had to have amputations also. She wants more parents to be aware of the risks, adding: "It is more common than you think." To donate to the appeal, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ serena-dawn-askew

The Waxworks Bristol thewaxworksbristol

Bristol Home Waxing Studio Here For ALL Your Waxing Needs 20% off all treatments when quoting WAXWORKS20

07850119675 71 Hillhouse Road, BS16 5RT

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

What the new pavilion could look like ...

... and what it looks like now

New pavilion for King George V fields From Page 1 The final cost of the scheme will depend on which bid wins a competitive process to find a contractor, should the planning application be given permission. But the parish council has already set aside just under ÂŁ390,000 for the project, with around ÂŁ80,000 coming from South Gloucestershire Council, including money paid by developers of local sites in legal deals. The parish council is also applying to the Football Foundation for a contribution. Parish council chairman Janet Biggin said: "The pavilion in King George V park was built in the 1960s and is now in a state of disrepair. "The parish council is almost in a position to submit a planning application to South

Gloucestershire Council for its replacement. "We believe the new pavilion provides greatly-improved facilities that meet the objectives of all the various user groups, in addition to creating a modern resource for the whole community to enjoy." Parish and South Gloucestershire councillor Ben Burton said: "We have seen over the last year how getting together for sport or recreation is so important to all members of our community. "The plans have been carefully considered to ensure this facility is flexible to meet the needs of different community groups and also sustainable from a financial perspective. "We hope the whole community will support these plans." Fellow parish and South

How the pavilion might look inside ...

Gloucestershire councillor James Griffiths said: "It is a pleasure to support the rebuilding of the pavilion, which will become a community hub and asset for King George V Park, giving local groups a modern building to use in their community, social and sporting activities.â&#x20AC;? The new building would be made using pre-fabricated plastisol wall panels and timber cladding, with metal shutters to cover all doors and windows when it is not in use. It would be built on the site of the existing pavilion and, if planning permission is secured early in the year, it would be in use by the end of 2021. It will be bigger than the existing pavilion and will be realigned so it is parallel to the fences of nearby properties. The parish council hopes that by adding a reception, larger

function room and improved kitchen and bar areas, it can be used by a wider range of groups and at more times than the existing pavilion. Some people living nearby have expressed reservations over any change of use of the site. A letter sent to the Voice, with 27 signatures, raised concerns over increasing demands for parking, the possibility of latenight noise and the possible effect on other community venues. The parish council says that at this stage nothing has been 'set in stone' in relation to the future use of the site. It is inviting people to have their say before the plan is sent to South Gloucestershire Council for planning permission. Turn to Page 13 for more details of the plans, including how to comment.

... and what the interior walls are like now

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Windowland trail lights up the winter

HUNDREDS of people are transforming their front windows into bright, colourful Christmas displays to brighten the Downend area after a dark year. The Winter Windowland Trail has been set up by residents Nikki Holmes and Josie Vinyard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and has had an incredible response from people across the area. Nikki and Josie formed a Facebook group asking residents to decorate their windows with creative festive scenes and include their addresses in a festive trail, which people can follow on the weekend before Christmas. Residents of Downend, Staple Hill and Bromley Heath were invited to take part, and the group has also gathered members from Mangotsfield, Fishponds, Frenchay, Emersons Green and Kingswood, with almost 700 joining the Facebook group. As the Voice went to print more than 100 people

had submitted entries, with imaginations running wild to create everything from snowstorms, nativity scenes and stained glass windows to a Toy Story Christmas party. 'More entries are very welcome' to: Anyone who would like to include their window on the map should contact the group on Facebook, or email nikkiholmes50@gmail.com, by December 12. Nikki said: "We are two local mums with young families, who moved to Downend when our children were babies and later became friends at the school gates. "We were inspired to create a pumpkin trail earlier in the year after seeing a post from a creative arts group on Facebook. Following the success of this trail, and with the realisation that lots of festive family events were going to be cancelled this year, we decided to take on a winter trail and started the Winter Windowland Trail group. "We have approached shops and businesses and even care homes to try to include everyone in the local community in this event, and to hopefully help people feel a bit more connected to each other at this difficult time." After the creations are all submitted and the trail map finished, it will be made available for people to follow the trail around the area on the weekend of December 19 to 20. As well as brightening up the run-up to Christmas, Nikki and Josie want to try and help people in need this winter by asking those following the trail to make

a donation to the North Bristol Foodbank when they download a trail map, and asking window creators to donate food. To find out more about the trail and how to download a map, search for The Downend and Staple Hill Winter Windowland Trail on Facebook.

Donations can be made at justgiving.com/fundraising/ winterwindowlandtrail. Paper trail maps will be available from December 15 at Mel's Kitchen in Downend or The Card Shop and Bunch Florist in Staple Hill, in return for a small donation to the appeal.

The Botox Clinic Non-invasive body-contouring with Fatdissolving injections Lips enhancement with dermal lip fillers Anti-aging injections Anti-sweating injections Skin revitalisation IPL

Experience the best version of you Bring this advert for 15% off for any treatment of your choice. Bring a friend and you get 10% discount 126 North Street, Bristol, United Kingdom, BS16 5SE 07885 682443 07411 292269 The Botox Clinic

bottoxclinic

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Bid to reduce Acacia Road speed limit A BUSY road in Staple Hill could have its speed limit cut to 20mph. South Gloucestershire Council is asking for views on reducing the limit on Acacia Road from 30mph and introducing a series of speed bumps to slow traffic down. It says there have been six accidents on the road in a five-year period, four of them involving pedestrians or cyclists and three resulting in serious injuries. A consultation on the new speed limit and traffic calming measures has been launched by the council. It follows a residents' petition raised two years ago by ward councillor Ian Boulton and former colleague Shirley Potts. Acacia Road links Staple Hill with the Hillfields estate and is used as a through route by drivers heading between Downend, Fishponds, Kingswood and beyond. Explaining the measures, the

A WORLD OF

Quality

Acacia Road in Staple Hill could become a 20mph zone council said three pedestrians and a cyclist had been involved in collisions on Acacia Road between 2014 and last year, describing it as "a high severity ratio involving vulnerable road users". The 20mph limit will extend the length of Acacia Road from Staple Hill High Street to the Bristol boundary, where it becomes Hillfields Avenue and is subject to a 20mph limit. The council said: "The average speeds on Acacia Road

COVID ith secure w the 5 ent Governm es Guidelin

are too high to implement a sign-only 20mph limit, therefore South Gloucestershire Council is proposing to introduce traffic calming." To slow traffic down the council plans to install five sets of speed cushions – bumps in the middle of each lane – between the Upper Station Road junction and the High Street, by the railway path entrance, south of the Acacia Avenue junction and outside the chip shop north of the Portland Street junction.

A speed table – a single elongated bump, which stretches from kerb to kerb – would be installed between the Kensington Road and Southernhay junctions. Councillor Boulton said: “For some time we have been working with residents of Acacia Road and surrounding streets to raise the issue of speeding vehicles that have caused a number of casualties in recent years. "Not only do we have to consider residents of the road, we also need to remember the children from nearby primary and nursery schools who use this route.As a result of the residents' concerns this proposal has now been prepared, which I hope will reduce the number of casualties on this busy road." The consultation closes on December 14. People can respond online at the consultations section of South Gloucestershire Council's website or by calling 01454 868004.

Choice

Improve the Look & Comfort of Your Home

Value

WINDOWS and DOORS

A WORLD OF

High Performance, Energy Efficient

A WORLD OF Discover a range of

Carpets • Vinyls Laminates • Karndean Commercial solutions We are one of the first businesses in the UK to offer Google Interactive Virtual Reality Tours

0% finance options available OVER 20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE 15 YEAR GUARANTEE Open: Mon-Fri 9 - 5.30pm | Sat 9 - 5pm | Sun 10 - 4pm The Old Coachworks, Bath Road, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL Tel: 0117 947 7721 | www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk

All work carried out will be following government guidelines regarding social distancing

0117 313 4862 - WWW.THEWINDOWHUB.CO.UK

THE WINDOW HUB - THE OLD BAKEHOUSE, 2A TEEWELL HILL, BRISTOL BS16 5PA

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Test site opens as Covid-19 deaths rise

A MOBILE Covid-19 testing station is operating in Mangotsfield. Cleve Rugby Football Club's Hayfields ground in Cossham Street is one of two drive-through sites in South Gloucestershire which opened in mid-November. The number of new coronavirus cases recorded in the area was falling as the Voice went to print. But they remained above the national average, and the number of people who have died with the virus has started to rise again. Mobile testing units like the one in Mangotsfield are set up on a short-term basis and can be moved at a week's notice. Tests are available by appointment only, to people who have symptoms or have been advised to take one, and can be booked by calling 119. The district's first testing centre at UWE's Frenchay

The mobile COVID-19 testing centre at Cleve RFC's ground. Picture: Michael Bell Campus has been reclassified as a local testing site and will now offer only walk-up tests. The overall number of cases in South Gloucestershire in the week to December 1 was 432, giving the district a case rate of 151.5 per 100,000, compared with the England average of 149.5. That was down from 871 cases four weeks earlier, when the rolling case rate topped 300. Figures from the Office for National Statistics showed

that Downend South – an area around the high street, Salisbury Road, Downend Road and Overndale Road – had the highest number of new infections in South Gloucestershire during the week to December 1 with 29, equivalent to 436.8 per 100,000 people. In Downend North, which covers the Bromley Heath area, there were 9 cases, the same number as Mangotsfield. Staple Hill North had 6 cases over the same period, while

the ONS Staple Hill South & Kingswood North West area had 19. Frenchay & Great Stoke, which includes UWE, had 28, while Pucklechurch & Westerleigh had 24. Since the start of the pandemic there have been 6,506 confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Gloucestershire, giving the area, which is currently in Tier 3 of the government's restrictions, a below average case rate of 2,282 per 100,000 of around one in every 44 people. The number of people in the district who have died with Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic has now reached 197, after 26 deaths were recorded in the five weeks to November 20, ten of them in the most recent of those weeks. That followed a seven-week period in which no deaths involving the virus were recorded among South Gloucestershire residents.

Do you struggle to read texts?

DOWNEND

Are your arms not long enough?

If you’re over 40, get your near vision checked Come in and ask for details

16 Downend Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 5UJ CENTRE • PHONE NUMBER BRISTOL NORTH • DOWNEND • 0117 373 8367 Address 32A Downend Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5UJ kipmcgrath.co.uk/centre kipmcgrath.co.uk/BristolNorth

TEL: 0117 956 0939

EMAIL:

downend@norville-opticians.co.uk www.norville-opticians.co.uk

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Schools find new ways to celebrate SCHOOLS are working out new ways to celebrate Christmas as the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect all aspects of life. Traditional whole school nativities and pantomimes with audiences are out. Gone, too, are festive fairs where parents mingle with staff over a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Even within schools, dividing children into bubbles to minimise mixing between year groups means staff need to come up with innovative ways of bringing their communities together. St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School is creating a Christmas film, starting with the traditional reception class nativity, other classes singing carols and accompanying readings, for parents to view online. A Christmas dinner and jumper day will be held in school.

Reception class nativity at St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School

Nativity at Christ Church Junior School

Head teacher Mark Hilliam said: "We are doing our utmost to ensure that our Christmas traditions can continue as much as possible." Pupils are also bringing in chocolate bars to donate to the Bristol Soup Run Trust for homeless people on the streets of Bristol. Pupils at Stanbridge Primary School have also been thinking of others. Each pupil has made a Christmas card – 420 in total - for patients and care home residents after a suggestion by parent Emma Moore, a physiotherapist with the Sirona community rehabilitation team at Downend Clinic. Emma said: "A lot of patients won't be seeing family or have none to visit them, so seeing us is the only contact they will have. "One of the school values is community. Whilst they cannot physically access the community during the pandemic, they can

Will Writing Will Writing & & Estate Planning Estate Planning protect your your family’sfamily’s inheritance A Will Willlets letsyou you protect inheritance and decide youryour assets are shared out – if out you – if you and decidehow how assets are shared don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

WEB-CAM

WILLS

Please feel free Please feel free to call us during call on: us during officetohours

hours 0117office 952 0698

on:

Quality one to one dog grooming services based in Downend, Bristol T: 07500788028 Fb: fb.me/mastersgrooming.bristol

or email 0117 952 0698 info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk

or email

info@elm-online.co.uk We have teamteam of We havea aBristol-based Bristol-based of trained trained Willawriting consultants whocan now We have Bristol-based team Will writing consultants who Mirror www.elm-online.co.uk Wills Single Or can now provide the same personal of trained Will writing consultants provide the same personal face to face face to face meetings via our Couples FROM £99.00 who provide a home visiting service meetings via our Web-Cam-Wills and, Web-Cam-Wills and, subject to health and safety, canto take your instructions in can the still subject safety, we and wehealth can stilland provide a homevisiting service to take your instructions in We have ayour Bristol-based team comfort own home. provide aofhomeMirror Wills Single Or the comfort of your own visiting service to writing takehome.consultants of trained Will Couples FROM £99.00 your instructions the visiting Making Secure Plansservice for Uncertain Futures who provide a inhome comfort of your own and can take your instructions in the home.

Will Writing & Estate Planning

comfort of your own home.

Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance d decide how your assets are shared out – if you n’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Please feel free to call us during To advertise, contact on on: 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk office Gary hours 0117 952 0698

or email

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

Mangotsfield Primary School Christmas crafts

Lucy Moore makes a Christmas card at Stanbridge Primary spread some love and joy." With parents and carers unable to attend any festive events, the challenge is how to involve them. Mangotsfield School's Virtual Winter Concert will be shown on the school's YouTube channel. As well as students' performances, staff have recorded a version of The 12 Days of Christmas for the concert. The school has also created a Festive Door competition for its Twitter page @mangotsfieldsch.

At Barley Close School technology is bringing both the children and parents together. Head teacher Jo Williams said a virtual carol singing assembly will be held and the reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are recording separate "bubble nativities", which will be shared with parents online. She added: "Instead of the usual one, this year we will have three!" At Mangotsfield C of E Primary School the whole school

kicked off the festive season with a 'Ho Ho Ho day', making crafts and window displays, with pupils welcomed with some fake snow. At Christ Church Infants, class nativities and carols are also being recorded and sent to parents, in place of the traditional whole school event at the church. Class parties will include a virtual visit from Father Christmas, with presents delivered by an elf on his behalf, and a snow machine to create a

festive atmosphere. Head teacher Anna Martin said: "We are determined that Christmas will still be a lot of fun this year and although it feels very sad not to be opening up our doors for families to join us in school we really hope they still enjoy what we do and support us to keep everyone safe." At Christ Church Juniors, a Christingle service with Christ Church is going ahead, while a nativity and talent show will be online. There are also class film nights, secret Santas and a Christmas dinner in take-away containers Two class bubbles have had to self-isolate since September but head Pippa Osborne said children had been "incredible" at adapting to online learning, even joining assemblies online. She said: "As with every other school, we are doing everything possible to ensure that this Christmas is just as magical, special and exciting for every child in our school, despite Covid, while still sticking to all the regulations that keep the community safe during this worrying time."

Delivery right up to Christmas Eve for your new appliances

All brand y new, and full d guarantee

EDA RATES E AT GREAT HIN 24 HOURS IC V R E S RED WIT & REPAIR CALL OUT MOST ITEMS DELIVE

Open again and delivery m available fro 1 Dec 28-3

744 FISHPONDS ROAD, FISHPONDS BRISTOL

✆ 0117 958 4769 TRADING OVER 31 YEARS

WASHING MACHINES • OVENS • HOBS • DRYERS • FRIDGE FREEZERS • DISHWASHERS • COOKERS ETC To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

downendvoice

December, 2020

n PETER'S VISION

Less Fog Clearer Vision

New! Anti-Fog Lenses for Glasses. You can stay safe and see clearly too. Available From 57 Henleaze Road

768 Fishponds Road

Bristol BS9 4JT

Bristol BS16 3UA

0117 962 2474

0117 965 4434

eyecareteam@turnersopticians.co.uk www.turnersopticians.co.uk

Seeing through the fog

S I write this our topsy turvy times seem to be continuing. We’re all hoping for enough normality to have the family Christmas that means so much to so many of us, as well as keeping safe too! At least the prospect of a vaccine is seemingly nearer each week that goes by, which keeps our hopes alive and now looks more like a light than just a flicker at the end of the tunnel. Our quest for sourcing the latest technologies for you our patients continues unabated. Those of you who regularly wear glasses will understand my excitement at this one. At last, we can look forward to wearing our glasses with the often required face mask or covering and be able to see clearly too! This new lens, our anti-fog lens, is a super and exciting development. Whatever you wear your glasses for, we’ve now the anti fog lens for you. Amazingly even when we hold this lens over a boiling kettle it stays fog free! Now this was just for demonstration of how amazing the lens is of course, and not something we’d recommend you try at home. The hallelujah moment for us glasses wearers is that if the lens can stay fog free in steam it will be amazingly clear going in and out on cold or wet days, as well as when wearing a face covering. These conditions used to be the nemesis of spectacle lenses, but no more! It was road safety week recently, a timely reminder that seeing clearly for driving is of vital importance. I appreciate that the world of routine eye checks has only recently been returning to normal, but it is our individual responsibility that we all make sure we can see clearly whatever we’re doing, particularly if our negative actions, such as driving without clear vision, could have catastrophic consequences for others too.

You & your loved ones are most welcome to come and see us whatever your eye care needs. Whether you’d like regular glasses or anti fog glasses for near, far or both, our expert teams are ready & waiting to help you! We just ask that you telephone first to book a time to come in, to help us keep you all safe. Please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434. I’ll end on a cheerful note, I sincerely hope you all have an enjoyable Christmas and a relaxing family time. My thoughts and best wishes are with all of you particularly those who, as we have, lost a loved one this year. Here’s to a bright future and a Happy 2021 for us all!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

Peter Turner is a Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, and also works part time as a Senior Optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.

Turners Eye Care Ltd T/A Turners Opticians Incorporated in England & Wales Reg No. 8201460

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Working together to keep path safe CYCLISTS are organising and police taking action after a series of attacks on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. Incidents reported to police and shared on residents' and cyclists' Facebook groups in recent weeks include sexual assaults and harassment, robberies, threats and the placing of tree branches and nails on the path. Police have arrested a 13-year-old boy in relation to a sexual assault and other incidents reported in Fishponds, and are calling on path users to report all incidents to them. Most of the reported incidents have been happening in the early evening and many have been centred on two areas – the old Mangotsfield station, where the path divides between Emersons Green, Warmley and Staple Hill, and the stretch near Morrisons in Fishponds. They include: • A man robbed of an electric scooter at knifepoint on November 19 near Mangotsfield station. • Branches thrown on to the path near Mangotsfield station on November 12 and 16 as cyclists approached. In the second incident a cyclist was threatened with rape when she shouted at a teenage boy hiding in bushes nearby. • Roof felt nails scattered on the path between Mangotsfield and Warmley stations on November 15. • A teenage boy robbed of his bike after being pushed off near Morrisons in Fishponds on November 25

James Cleeton of transport charity Sustrans with his wife Pippa and son Jasper on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path as cyclists rode the path in a show of solidarity on December 5 • A woman chased and sexually assaulted while riding her bike past Morrisons on November 25 and 26. • A cyclist knocked off his bike, suffering a fractured shoulder and broken ribs, by the Whitehall Primary School crossing on December 1. An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said a "problem solving plan" had been introduced in response to public concerns, adding: "Working with local partners including Sustrans and Bristol City Council, measures include targeted highvisibility patrols and days of action, bike marking days and an emphasis on information sharing between Bristol East and South Glos neighbourhood policing teams, both of which cover the length of the path." Ward councillor Ian Boulton said that while there had been problems with crime and anti-social behaviour on the path before, the recent level of anecdotal reports from the Staple Hill and Mangotsfield section was "unprecedented".

But he said the number of reports to police did not match levels reported on social media and added: "It is vital that everyone with any information, either as a victim or a witness, calls the police in order to help them put the jigsaw pieces together. "This will help them to see the whole picture and bring this small group of young men, who are causing so much upset and

distress and only seem to be getting bolder in their behaviour, to justice.” People are being urged to report all incidents they see on 101, or to call 999 if a crime is in progress. Members of the Bristol Cyclists and Bristol & Bath Railway Path – OnePath Facebook groups have been sharing information about incidents and organising ways for people to team up and ride the path together for safety. Transport charity Sustrans helps care for the path. The charity's South area director James Cleeton organised a socially-distanced ride on Saturday for path users to show solidarity. He said the path was "very busy" with people on bikes and on foot, with support from Easton ward councillor Afzal Shah and music from a Fishponds residents group.

£1545 Direct Cremation and £3264 Full Service Cremation Established independent Female Funeral Director

8 Badminton Road, Downend BS16 6BQ

Home visits welcome

Please call: 0117 9564796 24-hr service 7 days a week

www.jamiesonfunerals.com

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

YOUR

Community NEWS

Brought to you by

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

VACANCY FOR A PARISH COUNCILLOR

As Chairman of Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council, I recently received an invitation to be part of the 2020 virtual Service of Remembrance. As you will understand, this year was very different as we cannot remember in our usual manner. I laid a poppy wreath at Page Park war memorial at an event filmed prior to Remembrance Sunday, following all the relevant guidance. The full event can be viewed online at the Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion Facebook page, YouTube and on their website. For residents that may not have access to the internet, DVD’s can be requested from the branch.

Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council is looking for a new Councillor to represent the area. If you have some time to spare and would like to be involved with community projects and generally making Downend & Bromley Heath an even better place to live, work and visit, then please get in touch. Contact: Angela Hocking, Parish Clerk Tel: 0117 9567001 Email: clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk www.dbhparishcouncil.uk

DONATIONS Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council is able to provide grants to local groups and organisations. In these difficult times, D&BH PC has agreed to make a donation in support of the food bank at Resound. No-one in our community should be going hungry and any gifts of food or financial support can help to make a real difference.

CHRISTMAS 2020

Photos by Ian Campbell Photography

After such a gloomy year we hope you enjoy the decorated Christmas tree in the centre of Downend and the silvery lights in the trees along the High Street. Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council wishes you all a very Merry Christmas. May 2021 bring you good luck and happiness.

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCILLORS Downend Ward CLLR MIKE BAKER Tel: 07789 393 681 CLLR JANET BIGGIN Tel: 0117 957 6987 or 07966 204 260 CLLR BEN BURTON Tel: 07870 639 486 CLLR JAMES GRIFFITHS Tel: 07988 775 028 CLLR SHARON HERNIMAN Tel. 07534 603 704

CLLR COLIN OGDEN Tel. 0117 940 6531 CLLR SHEILA OTTEWELL

Staple Hill Ward CLLR PHILLIP ABBOTT Tel. 0117 957 0075 CLLR MATT PITTS Tel. 07837 870 039

Tel: 0117 957 2724 CLLR RAJ KUMAR SOOD Tel: 07901 621 632 CLLR ANITA WOODBURN Tel. 07786 360 447

Clerk to the Council Mrs Angela Hocking Tel. 0117 9567001 E-mail. clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk

www.dbhparishcouncil.uk

New pavilion for King George V playing fields

HAVE YOUR SAY

DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL

60 61

What the new pavilion will look like when in use E

TH ND

RL A EN

AV UE

Main Vehicular & Pedestrian Site Entrance

The area outlined in red shows the footprint of the new pavilion. The existing building is in blue.

consultationresponse@ dbhparishcouncil.uk, fill in a questionnaire at our website www.dbhparishcouncil.uk or send the form below to: Mrs Angela Hocking Clerk to the Council Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council 87

✂

• Meeting room or office with space for 14 people • Two additional office spaces, each with space for two people • Reception area with welcome desk • Toilets for male and female spectators or visitors • Toilet for spectators or visitors with disabilities The pavilion building will be wheelchair accessible with a ramp to the front door. It will be protected by metal shutters to cover the windows and doors when not in use. Before a planning application is submitted and a tender is awarded to build the new pavilion, Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council would like to hear your thoughts on the designs. You can email your views to a dedicated email address, 90

DOWNEND & Bromley Heath Parish Council would like your views on our plans for a new pavilion at King George V playing fields. We believe the new pavilion will provide greatly improved facilities for all of the existing user groups, in addition to creating a modern resource for the whole community to enjoy. Built to a flexible, modular design, the plans we have prepared include: • Four team changing rooms with showers and toilets • Changing room with toilet and shower for sportspeople with disabilities • Changing room with toilet and shower for officials • Clubhouse and function room with space for tables, seating and club bar area • Kitchen

What the new pavilion will look like when not in use, with shutters down

REV D

Parish Office, Downend Library, Buckingham Gardens, Downend, Bristol BS16 5TW. Please ensure we have your response by Friday, January 8, 2021. Site Location Copies of Plan. the plans will be posted King George V Playing Fields Sutherland Ave. of the pavilion and on on Bristol the side parish noticeboards.

1. Do you like the overall design?

25m

Yes/No

(Comments) ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

2. Do you think that the design is sympathetic to the surrounding park and playing fields?

Yes/No

3. Do you think the new Pavilion provides all the facilities that you think are required?

Yes/No

www.dbhparishcouncil.uk

DATE 26/11/2020

D Colours

Portab

tel : 01482 6 Client:

Downend & Project:

New Sport Drawing:

Site Locatio Drawn By:

J.H

Checked By:

Drawing Number:

PBSE6178

This drawing is to be read i dimensions must be chec drawings. The This drawing is co

Quality Childcare 20% DISCOUNT for Children 0-5 Years

Baby Room (0-18 months) spaces now available every day! Our primary objective is to be welcoming and loving and encourage every child, through play, to develop in all aspects to their full potential.

We have an enclosed garden with separate areas suitable for the older and younger children. We love outdoor play – at Sunbeams you child will get dirty and wet whilst enjoying happy childhood experiences.

on sessions for children up to 18 months during their first 4 months, using this advert

Terms and conditions apply – new starters only, for spaces in the Baby room only, subject to available spaces, must produce advert when registering, £70 registration fee applies. Registration forms must be submitted before 28th February 2021 to qualify for discount.

Baby Room Open Day

QualitySaturday 23rd January 2021 Childcare for Children 0-5 Years From 10am – 4pm

Please contact us to book a half hour time slot to allow us to social distance and keep everyone safe. Visitors will need to wear a mask.

Please contact us to arrange a visit -

Tel: 0117 9566060 E-mail: sunbeamsnursery@gmail.com

31-35 Dibden Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 6UE (Minutes from the ring road, Beefeater Junction)

www.sunbeams-daynursery.com

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Jake aims for record-breaking display A STAPLE Hill teenager who decked his home in lights in memory of his sister is hoping to set new records this year. Jake Skinner is raising money for national cancer charity Macmillan Cancer Support by covering the outside of his house in Crossfield Road with Christmas lights in memory of his sister Stacie, who was 17 when she died from anaphylactic shock on Christmas Day 2015. Stacie used to decorate her desk at work with Christmas lights and when the lights were returned to the family, Jake had the idea to remember her through the lights each Christmas. This will be Jake’s third year of raising money with his festive display and this year's display, which was switched on at the end of November, is his biggest yet. It also looks set to beat his previous fundraising record of £2,500: he has set a target of £3,000 this year and his online donation page had passed

Jake Skinner with Macmillan Cancer Support's Kaeti Morrison outside his Staple Hill light display.

£2,800 as the Voice went to print. Jake decided to raise money for Macmillan because of the support his nan received when she was diagnosed with cancer. So far, he has raised £4,900 since he started his first fundraiser for the charity, which provides emotional, financial and clinical support for people living

with cancer. Jake’s dad Jeff said: "We are all incredibly proud of Jake and all of the effort and dedication he puts into the light display each year. "Despite not being able to do an official switching on, Jake is determined to raise as much as possible this year, as we all know how important the work of

MAL R O N S A N E OP National Award winners of the Good Garage Scheme

Macmillan is." Jake won the Enterprise Hero Award in last year's Bristol Young Hero Awards in recognition of his fundraising. Macmillan fundraising manager Kaeti Morrison said: “Jake is an amazing young man and we can’t thank him and his family enough for raising money for Macmillan during the pandemic, when our income has dropped but our support is needed more than ever before. “His Christmas displays are a wonderful way to remember his sister Stacie, at a time which much be really difficult for the family. "We are so grateful to Jake and hope everyone passing enjoys seeing the lights this year.” To donate to Jake’s festive light display fundraiser visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ JakesChristmasLights. For more information about Macmillan call 0300 1000 200 or visit macmillan.org.uk.

ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS DIESEL SPECIALIST CLEANING AIRCON REGAS AND REPAIRS ELECTRICAL REPAIRS FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY FREE COURTESY VEHICLES WOMEN & PENSIONER FRIENDLY FLEETWORK

0117 939 5555 www.sure-car.co.uk

*10% OFF labour when you mention this advert

Unit 1 Stoke View Road, Fishponds Road, BS16 3AE Tel: 0117 9395 555 Email: admin@sure-car.co.uk OPEN: Monday - Friday: 08.30 - 17.30 Saturday: 08.30 - 12.30 | Sunday: Closed *must be mentioned at time of booking

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n DOWNEND FOLK CLUB REVIEW EX-BELLOWHEAD STARS DROP IN FOR ONLINE LOCKDOWN SESSION TWO former members of English folk juggernaut Bellowhead were notable guests as Downend Folk Club again refused to be stopped by November’s second Coronavirus lockdown. Although the club were unable to go ahead with the planned socially-distanced and streamed Lucy Ward concert in November, they more than made it up to local (and, indeed, national and international) music lovers as two former members of the hugely successful 11-piece, lead-singer Jon Boden and fiddleplayer Sam Sweeney, dropped in for “an hour or so” with club chairman Ant Miles, via the club’s ever-growing Facebook page. Other guests for the weekly Friday night sessions included fast-rising singer-songwriter Kitty Macfarlane; as well as new duo The Last Inklings; a Christmas event with Jim Causley; Maz O’Connor; and Ellie Gowers. The events, which focused around chat with a few live songs thrown in, proved a massive hit; just as the first 17 such sessions did between March and August as regular concerts were halted by the pandemic. The club did manage to squeeze in two successful socially-distanced and streamed ticketed concerts in September and October, featuring Nick Hart and Jackie Oates,

but as soon as the Government announced the measures for November, Downend Folk Club were quick to respond. “We decided to reinstate the online “an hour or so with…” events very quickly once the second lockdown came into force, and managed to turn around the first one, with Maz, within five days of the announcement, which is something we’re really proud of,” chairman Ant Miles told Downend Voice. “The response to the first series was incredible; not just in among local lovers of folk, roots and acoustic music, but also across the country and, in fact, the world. We’ve had people watching everywhere from Downend to Dusseldorf and beyond, which has been

amazing and has given this little music club from South Gloucestershire something of an international profile.” The inclusion of Boden and Sweeney certainly helped the case, Ant explained. “It was quite a coup to have those two agree to spend an hour or so chatting with us,” he said. “I was nervous about asking them, but my wife encouraged me to go for it, and we were thrilled that they agreed.” But it wasn’t just the pair, who also appeared as buskers in the Hollywood smash-hit About Time, that had the people tuning in enthralled. “Kitty Macfarlane is a real star in the making,” continued Ant, “while Maz O’Connor and Jim Causley are also very well-known. But we also continued our real-life commitment to featuring up-and-coming artists with The Last Inklings and Ellie Gowers, both of whom will have won a lot of new fans.” As for the future, the club still aren’t sure what the new year will bring. “We’ve got to wait and see, really,” said Ant. “If we can do some more of the socially-distanced and streamed gigs from January onwards, we definitely will, and we have people lined up for them. But if not, maybe we’ll do some more of these. The one thing we won’t do is nothing. We remain committed to bringing the best in folk, roots and acoustic music to the Downend area, and we’ll do that however we can!” For more information about Downend Folk Club, please visit downendfolkclub.co.uk, or find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

FREE

LATE CARE UNTIL 5.30PM

EDUCATION THE GREATEST GIFT THE SOUTH WEST’S ONLY STEAM AND INNOVATION CENTRE Small class sizes, high staff pupil ratio - Specialist teaching Bright, spacious and bespoke classrooms A diverse range of co-curricular activities available Inspirational music, drama and creative arts Boarding from age 7 with a nurturing family atmosphere Offering ‘wrap around care’ and flexi boarding A magnificent 100-acre site, offering ample outdoor space

BOOK YOUR TOUR ON OUR WEBSITE A WARM WELCOME AWAITS T. 01225 734460 E. kps-admissions@kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk An Independent Co-educational Boarding & Day School for pupils aged 9 months - 18 years

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS A FOODBANK is preparing for its biggest ever Christmas rush after seeing an 80% increase in the number of families it has helped during the autumn. Resound Foodbank, based at the church in Blackhorse Road, is planning to make more than 100 deliveries to families in the run-up to Christmas. Organisers expect the November lockdown to further increase the numbers needing help. Families can be referred to a foodbank by a professional such as a social worker, health visitors or Jobcentre official up to three times every six months, although for most it is a one-off. They are given a voucher to exchange for food. The food comes from donations and Resound's latest shopping list for supporters includes Christmas treats such as Christmas cake slices, Yule logs, Christmas pudding and crackers alongside its general items including tinned potatoes, long life milk and toilet paper. Last year resound helped 77 families over Christmas but the expected increase this month

Foodbanks see big rise in demand as winter begins

comes at the end of a year in which demand trebled during the first lockdown and has remained higher than ever. Donations can be brought to the Resound Centre on a Friday morning between 9.30am and noon, when the foodbank is open, or can be dropped off at collection points at Sainsbury's in Emersons Green and Lyde Green, or Lyde Green Community Centre. For more information call 0117 305 0969 or email resoundfoodbank@gmail.com.

Customers at Emersons Green's Sainsbury's store have been among the most generous supporters of Resound over the course of the year, donating 5.1 tonnes of food at the collection point in the supermarket between January and September. That represented more than a third of the 14.1 tonnes of food donated during the nine-month period. Over the past two months a new foodbank has also been set up in Emersons Green by the volunteers behind the Hack the Pandemic project to provide free personal protective equipment for key workers during lockdown. Hack The Problem, based at Emersons Green Village Hall accepts donations on Mondays between 9-11am, Wednesdays between 3-5pm, and Fridays between 7-8pm. In Downend, Christ Church

Infants and Juniors ran a community kitchen during the half-term holidays at the end of October to help ensure families who usually rely on free school meals would not go hungry. Amid a national political row over funding, the head teachers of both schools wrote to families asking them to get in touch if they needed support to buy food, prompting many more families to offer donations and help. The community kitchen, with donations from both schools (pictured), opened up at the infant school. Head teacher Anna Martin said she was "astounded" by the generosity of families and staff, adding: "Almost all of the supplies were very gratefully collected by a range of families from school and the wider community."

We aim to always offer a fast, efficient and reliable service at a great price with no hidden extras

Bristol’s approved dealer for Falken Tyres

• Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • MOT’s • Servicing • Alloy Wheels • Suspension • Cambelts • Clutches • Diagnostic and Electrical Work

Open Monday to Frid ay 0800-1700 and 8-12 on Saturd ay by appointmen s t only

Call us today for a good honest quote

0117 956 7411

@bmmotoring

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

FOCUS ON

Staple Hill TShirts 4 You

As well as T-shirt & vinyl printing we have a huge stock of workwear with a large selection of industrial shoes and boots available with high vis jackets, gloves, trousers and tops — why waste time looking anywhere else for your quality named workwear? The T-shirt printing and embroidery service with a full range of leisure wear including

tees, polos, hoodies and sweatshirts. Attached to this section is also the signmaking set up where all shopfronts and general signage is catered for with van livery a speciality. Ask Paul about the latest trend of bespoke wall art for your home decor, with a top quality canvas printer now available.

Staple Hill Stores Known locally by many people as ‘Arkwrights’, quite simply this store has so many different items they are impossible to list. The shop itself is classed as a traditional ironmongers which has served the locals for the last 18 years. The stock ranges from, plants, seeds through to creosote,

garages with high standards of workmanship and investment in the future. You can check out what others had to say at www. autocaregarages.co.uk So if you need a Service, MOT, Tyres, Brakes or any vehicle repair why not pop in, call up or visit us online @ www. bmmotoring.co.uk lightbulbs (over 250 different types), wild bird food and feeders as well as lots of loose traditional hardware items. A sharpening service for tools is also available.

BM Motoring Centre

We aim to always offer a fast, efficient and reliable service at a great price with no hidden extras Open Monday to Friday 0800-1700 & 8-12 on Saturdays Bristol’s approved dealer for Falken Tyres

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

• Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • MOT’s • Servicing • Alloy Wheels • Suspension • Cambelts • Clutches • Diagnostic and Electrical Work Call us today for a good honest quote

0117 956 7411

@bmmotoring

At BM Motoring we pride ourselves on our 5 star service, the team are always approachable and will go out of our way to help explain any work that has been carried out on your car. A family run business B M Motoring invest heavily in training and the latest equipment to ensure we are always able to offer the very best advise and assistance. A part of the Approved Garages and Autocare nationwide car schemes. These are independent bodies recognising good independent

Lloydbottoms

We are a well-established, friendly firm of Chartered Accountants, on Staple Hill High Street. We provide a full range of accounting and tax services to local businesses and individuals. Our goal is to provide an outstanding tailored and personal service to our clients: helping our business clients to achieve greater profitability, and our individual

STAPLE HILL STORES TRADITIONAL IRONMONGERS

SPECIAL OFFERS THIS MONTH 20% OFF ALL TORCHES WILD BIRD 20% OFF ALL BATTERIES FOOD 20% OFF ALL LIGHT BULBS FOR DECEMBER AND MORE THAN JANUARY 30 VARIETIES 88-90 High Street, Staple Hill

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

0117 956 8318

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020 clients to enjoy greater wealth. Whether you are an individual looking for help with your tax return, a business needing assistance with VAT or payroll, or a new start-up seeking experienced advice, Lloydbottoms are here to help you. To discuss how we can help you, please contact us for a free initial consultation. We look forward to working with you.

and live insects is a good asset as there aren’t many shops that sell that any more.

The Make Up Box

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

My name is Lynne and I have been a local Avon representative for the last 10 years, I am also a full time bookkeeper. I have a customer base of 225 customers which has built over the years, all of these great customers have helped me achieve number 1 top seller in the area for 2016. I made the decision to open an Avon shop, and it's been fun - hard work, but fun - and already I have met some great new people in Staple Hill and surrounding areas. My loyal customer base have popped by as well to support me for which I am very grateful. I hold a large stock of Avon products, and customers are enjoying the fact that there are testers of foundation, lipsticks and perfumes to sample before buying. So come on don't just walk on by, call in and take a look. I aim to make it as easy as possible for people to get their cosmetics, it is simply a walk in Avon book - so pop in and pick up the latest brochure in store and call, text or email your order back to me and collect in store. You now have a permanent Avon Lady at 51 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 01454 860 025 Find us on Facebook

card and gift shop offering an extensive range of cards, gifts and handmade crafts. Frequently described as ‘an Aladdin’s Cave’, The Card Shop has an extensive choice of cards (large, small, ’wordy’, ages – young and old, and humorous) for every occasion. It also stocks a wide variety of gifts, from fun and quirky (mugs, storage tins, money pots, wine glasses), scented candles, scarves, jewellery and accessories, to more traditional items for those special occasions such as weddings, births and anniversaries. We pride ourselves on being able to offer such variety, be it cards or gifts, combined with excellent customer service - we are always happy to help so please do not hesitate to ask. The shop is open 9am-5pm Monday - Saturday.

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

The Card Shop The Card Shop is an independent

PERSONALISED HOODIES

MUGS, COASTERS & TABLEMATS

CANVAS PRINTS TSHIRTS4YOU, 108 High Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 956 8606

Chloe

info@tshirts4you.co.uk

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

downendvoice

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.

been running now for 45 years with Michael Sheen the 4th generation of picture framers. Terry, Michael’s father, was one of the founder members of the Chamber of Trade and is still striving to improve the local area. Expert picture framing has been the mainstay of the business for the local area and beyond, where they are able to offer framing advice and ideas as well as picture restoration and renovation. A wide range of jewellery,

Senator Mobile

Senator Mobile provide something a bit different for the area. They are able to offer for sale a

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 Full English

Breakfast

from £5.50 inc Tea or Coffee

Freshly made

Sandwiches from £3.50

Omelettes

Daily Specials available everyday

from £4.50 with Salad & Coleslaw

Kids Meal

from £4.70 with Salad, Coleslaw & Crisps

e l b a l i a v A

from £3.75

wide range of mobile phones and accessories, including the chance to swap your old model in for a newer phone. If you are missing a charger or need a new phone cover again this is the place to come, they have hundreds to choose from. They are also able to undertake a full repair service from cracked screen replacement to new batteries or any eventuality. How many old phones do you have tucked away in various

Paninis

Telephone orders welcome 07826 765 015

drawers within your house? Have a clear out and recycle your phones at Senator Mobile.

To advertise your business in the Staple Hill feature Contact Gary on

07799461169

FARLEYS Pet Foods & Garden Supplies Stockists of Royal Canin and James Wellbeloved —oOo—

Seasonal Plants & Seeds —oOo—

Reptile Foods & Frozen 40 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 9566787

MOBILE PHONE REPAIR • All makes • All models • Covers • Chargers • Accessories HUGE SELECTION OF REFURBSIHED IPHONES • SAMSUNG • SONY PHONES AT GREAT PRICES

SENATOR MOBILE

99 High St, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5HF 0117 329 2332

Jacket Potato

from £5.10 with Salad, Coleslaw & Chips

y a w a e k a T with Salad, Coleslaw & Crisps

December, 2020

L L L OY D B O T T OM S 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.

Freephone 0800 781 8783

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Rings stolen from two residents at care home INVESTIGATIONS are underway after rings were stolen from two residents with dementia at a Frenchay care home. One was pulled from the finger of an 84-year-old woman and four more were taken from a display frame in the room of a 97-year-old woman at Begbrook House in Sterncourt Road. Avon and Somerset police and the home's operator Barchester Healthcare are both investigating the thefts. But relatives of one victim say they were unaware there had been another theft on the same weekend until the Voice shared a police appeal for information. The 84-year-old woman had a gold full sovereign ring taken from her finger. Police say she has died since the incident and the ring was "of great sentimental value to her family". Fishponds resident Sheila Lockwood contacted the Voice after seeing the appeal for information because her mother had also been a victim of theft at the home. Sheila's mum, who is 97, had her engagement ring, wedding ring, eternity ring and her mother's wedding ring in a frame on the wall of her room, because they no longer stayed on her fingers. They were taken between 6pm on October 17 and 9am on October 18. Sheila said she had only been

The gold sovereign ring stolen from a woman's finger

able to see her mother twice since the lockdown in March and at the time the thefts happened, visits were not allowed. She said: "Of all the things she has, it was always her rings she wanted to see." A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset police said: "Enquiries into both thefts are ongoing. We’re keeping an open mind as to whether they are linked and we’ve not been made aware of any other similar occurrences taking place at the care home previously." Police called on anyone who had seen any of the rings or had any other information about the thefts to call them on 101, quoting crime reference number 5220 236 963 in relation to the sovereign ring and 5220 236 956 in relation to the other four

Rings stolen from Sheila Lockwood's mother

rings. A spokesperson for Barchester Healthcare, which runs Begbrook House, said: "The team at Begbrook House Care Home is taking the alleged thefts very seriously. We are investigating internally and will

be reporting our findings to family members directly. "We continue to make the home as comfortable and safe an environment for our residents and staff as possible, with the well-being of our residents at the forefront of everything we do."

Pa rkway automobile engineering

ed Now reopening ly p and com ent to governm s guideline

How do I clean this? A COUNCILLOR is asking for help to clean up an information board on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. South Gloucestershire Staple Hill & Mangotsfield ward councillor Michael Bell regularly walks on the path and says the board telling visitors about the history of the old Mangotsfield station has become so covered in graffiti it can no longer be read. Michael is planning to clean up the board and is appealing for anyone with knowledge of the best method for removing spray paint to contact him at Michael.bell@southglos.gov.uk or by calling 07875 631817.

Mercedes-Benz specialist with over 35 years experience

• Full diagnostic equipment • Factory trained technicians • Collection/delivery service • Courtesy car on request

• MOT’s • Servicing • Gearbox repairs • Electrical faults

0117 965 6164

Parnall Road • Fishponds • Bristol • BS16 3JQ

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

Christmas

services & events

Rethinking Nativity

HAT do you do when a pandemic means you can’t do all the normal things – squashing people into church to share in a Nativity service for example? At Badminton Road Methodist Church, we had a rethink. We still wanted people in the community to be able to take part, to have fun, to be creative and to share the Christmas story, but also to stay safe. We came up with a Nativity Advent Calendar. Over recent weeks we have constructed a small shed on the church car park, and recruited volunteers from (among others) the Scout Association, our Messy Space toddler group and our Messy Church. We gave them

cardboard cut-outs of figures from the Nativity story and they have been busy decorating with wonderful results! These will be added to the scene in the shed day by day through Advent. If you are taking exercise along the Leap Valley, you could swing by for a look, or you could check progress on Facebook, where we will post pictures each day. Big thanks to everyone who has decorated figures, including members of 78th Kingswood Scout Group. We don’t want to give too much away, but here is a sneak preview of some of their work. Naomi Sharp, Lay Pastor

Badminton Road Methodist Church Wishes Everyone a Safe, Happy and Peaceful Christmas Follow our Nativity Advent Calendar on Facebook or have a look at the shed on our car park. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1.5 NIVUK

Information about Christmas services on our website: www.badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

Happy Christmas from your local churches! Badminton Rd Methodist Church, Christ Church Downend, Downend Baptist Church Emersons Green Baptist Church, Pendennis Good News Church, Resound The Salvation Army Staple Hill, Staple Hill Methodist Church, St James, Mangotsfield

December, 2020

downendvoice

Christmas

services & events

Spreading hope and help THIS December at Grace Church Downend there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Three teams of volunteers have been working hard on three different projects to bring help and hope to the local community over Christmas. The first of these teams has filmed a special online video called ‘Christmas Hope in a Covid World’ that includes traditional carols, drama, a seasonal choir and a short Christmas message of hope for all ages. The second team has created a fun-packed video especially for children that explores the exciting events of the very first Christmas - with eye-witness accounts from the original residents of Bethlehem and some of their animals too, and a Christmas craft for children to join in with at home. The third team of volunteers are making and distributing over 100 seasonal food packages

to those most in need of help this December. This includes 80 parcels that will be distributed with the help of Stanbridge Primary School and Christchurch Infant & Junior Schools and a number of additional packages especially designed for the elderly and those who are going to be alone over Christmas. Alongside these three projects, members of Grace Church have also been supporting the ‘Winter Wonder Bags’ initiative that is run by the East Bristol Children’s Centres. To find out more about all that’s taking place and how you can watch online, visit www.gracechurchbristol.org. Finally, if you’re aware of other people in need over Christmas who could benefit from a free Christmas package, please don’t hesitate to email info@gracechurchbristol.org

“May God bless you all this Christ-mas as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, who came to bring us light and to show how we should love each other as ourselves. With best wishes for a New Year full of light, hope and good health, from the people of Staple Hill Methodist Church.” To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

downendvoice

December, 2020

n CHRIST CHURCH NEWS CONTRARY to rumours, Christmas has not been cancelled – that's the message from Christ Church in Downend. The church has been creative to make a programme of services and events that are both safe and also help people to connect, either in person or online. A combination of in-church, online and outdoor events will ensure as many people as possible can celebrate Christmas with Christ Church. First up are two Carols by Candlelight services on Sunday, December 20, at 5pm and 7.30pm. Like all in-church events, booking is essential, as seating capacity is limited due to spacing to make the events comply with coronavirus rules. Bookings can be made for all events either online via the website christchurchdownend. com or by calling the parish office on 0117 908 9867 for anyone who is not online. The 7.30 pm Carols by Candlelight event will be streamed live on the Christ

Virtually the same ...

Church Downend YouTube channel. Next up is the Downend Christmas Trail, which runs from December 21 to 24. Anita Dobson, from the church, said: "We can't run a Crib Service this year so the Nativity is hitting the High Street! We are organising a trail around Downend shops telling the story of Christmas, with the help of children from church and Christ Church Juniors."

People taking part in the family-friendly trail can find Nativity scenes in shop windows and then scan accompanying QR codes to watch videos telling the Christmas story. Children can collect a jigsaw piece from each shop taking part and trail maps are available to download from christchurchdownend.com/ event-items/christmas-trail. At the end of the trail the church will be open for a visit

to see the whole Nativity scene from 10am to 2pm on Monday to Wednesday and from 10am until 12.30pm on Christmas Eve. Christmas services will have as many of the familiar elements as possible, but as spaces are limited, booking is essential, with each person needing to book a separate, free tickets, except for children in pushchairs or who can sit on laps. Midnight Communion takes place from 11pm on Christmas Eve, while on Christmas Day there will be a traditional Christmas Day Communion at the Church Centre, Quakers Road at 9.15 am, and a Christmas Day Family Service at Christ Church 10.30 am. The 10.30am service will be a celebration for all ages, with children welcome and seated around tables or in the balcony for an interactive short act of worship and celebration.

CHRISTMAS is upon us again

Send for our pamphlet

“The Origins of Christmas” and learn more about this festival. Also available is our booklet

“Jesus Christ – His Life and Work”

which explains the true significance of Christ’s life and death, and His central part in fulfilling the true Christian hope – the Kingdom of God on Earth. All enquiries to The Household of Faith, 31 Mayfield Park North, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3NH 07506056660

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n CHURCH NEWS

Praying 24/7 A WEEK of prayer will kick off the new year at Christ Church, Downend. Since Good Friday in April, the church has shared in 24 hours of continuous prayer from 7pm on the first Friday of the month to 7pm the following day. People book in for an hour and although not physically together, find a way to be united. Diane Paddon, from the church, said: "These prayer times, known as One Church One Day,

have been a source of great encouragement and inspiration in a year of unparalleled restrictions and often hidden suffering." As the new year begins there will be a full week of 24/7 prayer from 7pm on January 1 until 7pm the following Friday, which Diane describes as "covering our whole community in prayer". The event will start and finish with an hourlong session on Zoom and people are being encouraged to sign up to take part at www.247prayer.com/signup/63acac. For more details visit the Christ Church Downend website from December 13 or email diane.paddon@christchurchdownend.com.

Co-op's big boost for youth group A YOUTH group based at Christ Church Downend has been given more than £6,000 to support its work, thanks to Co-op customers. The Ignite Youth Groups received a total of £6,415.81 from the Co-op Local Community Fund, which supports projects using money spent on some of the supermarket's branded products. Before the lockdown the volunteer youth team was running 11 free youth groups each week, as well as youth events, community projects and residential sessions. Although the pandemic has affected its activities it has continued to run three groups each week on Zoom, even during the holidays.

The youth team has also run well-being sessions at Downend School and training to deliver new well-being courses for young people and adults called Kintsugi Hope. Ignite Youth Group's Diane Paddon said: "Kintsugi Hope courses help young people and adults find treasure in life's scars. These courses have the potential to be of great benefit to our community. "Thanks to the generosity of Downend Coop and Coop members, the Christ Church youth team will continue to be able to offer support and a safe fun space for young people to meet and flourish in mental, physical and spiritual wholeness."

Frenchay services FRENCHAY Unitarians will be having services at 10.30am during Advent and Christmas in-chapel or online as Covid-19 rules allow. For links to join services online, email info@ bristolunitarians.co.uk. On Sunday, December 13 (3rd in Advent) the theme is a Dickens of a Christmas, with Andrea Clark-Ward and Peter Bruce. On Sunday December 20 (4th Advent) the sermon is Finding the Heart of Christmas in Troubling Times: A time of reflection, hope, silence and hearing the warm cheer of carols, with Rev John Harley. On Christmas Day there will be a gathering and celebration with music, and an option to share a memory if you wish. All are welcome, of any faith or none, at Frenchay Chapel in Beckspool Road. For more information visit www.bristolunitarians.co.uk online.

APPROACHING RETIREMENT? Have you reviewed your pensions scheme(s) investments in light of the COVID-19 pandemic? How will you decide on the right choices for you and your family? Have you considered consolidating historic pension scheme(s)? Experienced and local Independent Financial Adviser, Adrian Harding, can guide you up to and into retirement with Truly Independent Financial Advice

FREE INITIAL MEETING

For a FREE initial meeting and to discuss your financial future: T: 07494 492 377 E: Adrian.Harding@trulyonline.co.uk W: adrian-harding.trulyifa.co.uk Truly Independent Financial Advice Truly Independent Ltd™ is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company Name: Truly Independent Ltd. Company Reg No: SC367442. Company registered in Scotland. Principal Office and Correspondence Address: Atlantic House, Parkhouse, Carlisle CA3 0LJ. Registered Office: Forsyth House, 93 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3ES.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

downendvoice

MOT & SERVICING COSTS TO MAKE YOU SMILE

December, 2020

n NEWS

Plot sells for £160,000 A PLOT of land which includes trees alongside one of Downend's busiest roads has been sold at auction – for well above its guide price. The 12 or so sycamore trees stand on a plot of land containing 10 lock-up garages, which are rented privately, off Cleeve Lodge Close. The trees tower over Westerleigh Road, between the Peache Road double mini-roundabout and King George V playing fields. The site, next to the Deanna Court flats, was put up for auction via agents Maggs and Allen, with a guide price of £100,000, on November 3. But the auction, which was streamed live and attracted a combination of online and phone bidders, saw the final hammer price reach £160,000. The agents had described the site as "an excellent opportunity for investors and developers". People living nearby have raised concerns that the trees could be under threat if the new owner seeks to develop the land. The agents told potential buyers the garages are currently let for a total of £7,272 in rent, "with potential to increase" to £9,000 per year. They also said: "The land and garages may also offer potential for redevelopment, subject to obtaining the necessary consents." No planning application had been received for the site as the Voice went to print.

SERVICE FROM £99 MOT FROM £35

Finance options available! BUY NOW, PAY OVER 12, 24 OR 36 MONTHS .. contact us

my car • my choice • my garage

Showhomes wanted 5 and 10-year guarantees No job too big or small

my car • my choice • my garage

ThIS MONTh’S SpEcIAL OFFErS

EMERSONS GREEN 301 Farendell Road, SpEcIAL OFFErS Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7FF T: 0844 846 3562

Car & Van & Van

h’S

KINGSWOOD Station Road, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 4XX T: 0844 846 3563

MOT ONLY

£39.

Get in touch for free estimates and quotes ...

www.stonewaypaving.co.uk | 01179 595894 E: info@stonewaypaving.co.uk

SErVIcINg FR

£99

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

SErVIc

n Block paving n Landscaping n General building

Service Centre

Service Centre 99 * Book online at: www.mygaragebristol.co.uk

Specialising in .... n Resin driveways n Stone paving n Resin bonded n Tarmac

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Art project shows a lot of heart

SPECTACULAR art displays have been created by children at six primary schools working together. Each one of the more than 2,000 pupils of Barley Close, Pucklechurch, Beacon Rise, Marshfield, Christ Church Infants and Christ Church Juniors has designed, created and painted a clay heart for the collaborative art project over the course of the autumn term. Each year group has painted their hearts a different colour and the hearts have then been collected together and travelled from school to school, with an appropriate covid isolation gap between each visit, for pupils to arrange in a way of their choosing, making a series of spectacular displays. The schools are members of the Ignite schools hub, which brings together primary schools in a network sharing knowledge, support and skills to promote good practice, improvement, training and learning strategies, and is part of the South Gloucestershire Learning Alliance. Christ Church Infant school pupils arranged the hearts into a rainbow sunburst, with a heart in the centre, effect on the floor of Christ Church in Downend. At Christ Church Juniors, children decided to display the hearts in a giant concentric heart pattern to link in with learning about the value of humility, showing love to others and putting others before yourself. Head teacher Pippa Osborne said: "We have explored examples of how people have

Above: Children from Christ Church Infant School created this giant heart sunburst on the floor of Christ Church in Downend been doing this during lockdown and how they can play their part in helping others, too. • Christ Church Junior School and Christ Church Downend have been awarded the Church School Partnership award by the Bristol Diocesan Board of Education. The award celebrates the collaboration between the church community and the school and relations between pupils, school staff and church community. Mrs Osborne said: "Every child at our school feels welcomed and valued by the Church and this strong partnership helps us teach our Christian values through both worship and our curriculum."

Children from Christ Church Junior School created this concentric heart pattern

Copson� Grandfield� CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS�

“Free Initial Consultation”� with one of our Senior Accountants� call today!�

30 -31 ST. JAMES PLACE, MANGOTSFIELD, BRISTOL. BS16 9JB.� www.copsongrandfield.co.uk EMAIL admin@copsongrandfield.co.uk FAX 0117 9701809�

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

From our family to yours Thank you for the sacrifices youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made to keep everyone safe this year. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll continue to be here for you 24/7, whatever 2021 brings. We wish you a peaceful Christmas and a happy and hopeful New Year.

J15358_ASP Voice advert 180x250mm_Dec 2020 v2.indd 1

02/12/2020 15:53

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Out of school clubs face funds crisis AN APPEAL has been launched to support an organisation providing vital out of school care for families. Oldbury Court Out of School Clubs has been looking after the children of working parents for 32 years, providing sessions before and after school for children attending eight schools in Downend, Staple Hill and Fishponds, as well as holiday clubs. More than 200 families usually rely on the club to provide care, both at its main site in Delabere Avenue in Oldbury Court and at schools. But the coronavirus pandemic has left it facing severe financial pressures. During lockdown the club furloughed some staff but others worked to ensure children of key workers could be looked after. While schools have now fully reopened, many parents working from home no longer use the club. And many of those who do have credit left over from fees paid before March. But rules on school bubbles and distancing mean the club has had to continue staffing at the same levels as before, while providing a quarter of its regular number of spaces and using more venues, which means costs are rising as its income falls. The non-profit community group's chair,

Graham Thompson, says it has so far had to make one member of staff redundant and had to cancel plans for holiday provision over Christmas. The club has had to ask parents to increase the fees they pay for each session and is rapidly using up its reserves. But Graham says it needs to raise more money, and ask parents to declare fees currently held in credit as a gift, if it is to run holiday clubs next spring and secure its future beyond the next six months. Graham said: "We have one family where

both parents work in Southmead Hospital, in covid wards. If there's no school holiday cover for them, what do they do?" Schools whose pupils use the OOSC's provision include Christ Church Infants and Juniors in Downend, Staple Hill Primary, Fishponds C of E Academy, Avanti Gardens, Frome Vale, and Chester Park Infants and Juniors. Parent Rebecca Oregan has two sons who use the out of school club. She said: "The OCOOSC provides a vital service. It allows parents and carers to go to work, safe in the knowledge that their children will be cared for and will learn and create a wide range of things in a fun, safe environment. "It would be such a shame if this facility was to close, and would impact so many families." An online fundraiser for the group has been launched at website GoFundMe by parent Hannah Spawls, who said: "These affordable childcare facilities are absolutely vital to so many families so please, please, donate if you can." To donate to the online appeal, visit uk.gofundme.com/f/save-oldbury-court-outof-school-clubs

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n PAGE PARK NEWS

Help the park: make it your new year resolution PAGE Park has had one of its busiest years ever, as the coronavirus pandemic transformed the way people use open spaces. Now the park's friends group is urging anyone who has found a new love for their nearest green oasis to make a new year's resolution to sign up and help keep it in shape. Friends of Page Park vice-chair Steph Purser said: "The park has taken on another life and importance this year. "It's really lovely that people feel safe to be there and it has been very, very busy. "We attract people from quite a wide area. "People appreciate their green spaces more than ever. In a very strange year, you can go to the park and almost forget covid exists." But the park's spaces and facilities have "taken a bit of a bashing" from the increase in use, and Steph says it is more important than ever that people join the band of volunteers who work in partnership with the council to maintain and improve it. Volunteering sessions take place on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.30am, with volunteers asked to bring some tools to work with and meet at the bowls green gate. Tasks carried out by volunteers include

These friends made use of rules allowing them to meet up outdoors to have a cup of tea and a chat in Page Park last month. Picture courtesy of Steph Purser including planting of hedgerows and flower beds. For those out at work on weekdays there are plenty of other opportunities to help the friends, including help with communication, finance, event organisation and ideas for

facilities, activities and fundraising. Steph said: "A lot of us are older and we need younger people to come on board and give us a hand. "It's not just about helping your park, it's about meeting people and an opportunity to learn more about horticulture." Steph said Page Park was not the only park which needs volunteers to help out, with other open spaces also in need of help from people living nearby â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a list is available in the parks section of South Gloucestershire Council's website, at bit.ly/39Swesq. This year the friends have been unable to carry out many of their regular fundraising activities but have found new ways of raising money, through plant sales and a very successful calendar, which used pictures taken of the park by local photographers, picked via a competition. As the Voice went to press, almost 800 of the 850 print run had been sold, with a few still left in Staple Hill and Downend shops. The calendar has raised around ÂŁ2,000 towards restoration work on the bandstand. You can contact the friends via their Facebook page, website www. friendsofpagepark.co.uk or by e-mail at friendsofpageparkbs16@gmail.com.

Bristol Budget 21/22 Tell us your views on proposed council tax options Complete the survey online bristol.gov.uk/budget2021-2022. The council tax consultation closes on 28 December. For a paper copy or other alternative format email consultation@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 922 2848. If you are on a low income, council tax reduction could help pay your council tax bill. Find out more at bristol.gov.uk/council-tax-reduction

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Goodbye to manager at heart of preschool A DOWNEND preschool has said farewell to the manager who has worked with more than 500 children during her 20 years in charge. Elaine Williams handed her role – and mascot Freddy the Teddy – over to new manager Kelly Breslin as she retired from St Augustine of Canterbury Preschool in Boscombe Crescent at the end of November. Elaine worked in banking before changing career, gaining experience at Oldland Preschool and working for the NSPCC before taking over as manager at St Augustine’s. She said: "I would like to thank all the families who have supported the preschool over the years. "I have been so lucky to have been able to spend every day filled with fun and laughter. The preschool is a very special place, with caring staff, supportive parents and children who like to have fun, particularly outside, whatever the weather...I can finally put my thermals away now!” Elaine was given gifts and well wishes from children and staff, past and present on her last day. Preschool Committee Chairperson Catherine Green said: "Elaine will be very much missed by children and staff. She has been the heart of our preschool for many years.

"We’re looking forward to inviting her back as a guest to events in the future." New manager Kelly has 13 years of preschool and takes over as the preschool has recently expanded, with two new rooms. She said: “I’m looking forward to getting to know the children and their families, and

welcoming many new faces in the future.” The preschool welcomes children of all faiths and backgrounds and currently has spaces available. Call 0117 956 1166 or email staff@ staugustinespreschool.co.uk for more details.

THINKING ABOUT A RECEPTION PLACE IN SEPTEMBER 2021? Join our Virtual Open Event to discover what Colston’s can offer your child

Saturday 23rd January at 9.30am Please register to join us at

www.colstons.org/visiting-colstons To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

downendvoice

December, 2020

n DOWNEND AND BROMLEY HEATH IN BLOOM WHERE has this year disappeared?! It will certainly go down in our memories, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for sure. As we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been able to do our usual Christmas fundraising event at Cleeve Wood this year, we decided we would follow the trend and try selling online. We have our Facebook page, which seems to reach lots of people, so we made up a catalogue of all of the wooden items that our In Bloom Woodworking Crew make, and published it to the page. It certainly has been a success. The crew have made hundreds of items which include reindeer, trees, snowmen, bird houses, feeders, hedgehog houses, lanterns, planters and bug houses. We have had a socially distanced collection point and very happy recipients. As most of you will know, our items are all made from recycled materials and we would like to thank Bracey builders and C&A Johnson for their donations of wood, which have helped enable us to make them. I must thank all of the crew (who have all been working from home due to Covid) and to Barbara for what has been a very successful fundraiser for In Bloom. The only negative point is that there is nothing like face-to-face contact, and we do enjoy going to events where we can meet and talk to people about In Bloom. Talking of fundraising, I would also like to say a huge thank-you to three organisations: firstly to the Willow Ladies Club, who have had to disband after many years, which is very sad, and

The In Bloom Christmas display outside the BT building in Downend Road gave us a cheque from their remaining funds. Also to Direct Line, who have given us a grant towards our work (thank you to Will, who works for them, in setting this up). Last, but certainly not least, the Co-op have also chosen us for their local charity this year (please nominate us as your chosen charity via your Co-op card, if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already done so). We are hoping that some of this money will be able to go towards our project with Downend School, which we are hoping to get up and running next year. In this year, when funding opportunities

have been limited, the support from all of these people has been fantastic and is very much appreciated. Finally, trying to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to Downend High Street, we are putting up a Christmas display outside the BT building, so hope you enjoy. Have a wonderful Christmas and look forward to the New Year, when hopefully we will be able to get back to some sort of normal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; off to order next summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floral displays! Jackie Baker 07504 244361

a family run business for over 50 years

One of the largest stockists of carpet, vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West â&#x20AC;˘ Fitting service available with expert fitters â&#x20AC;˘ Removal & Disposal of existing carpets â&#x20AC;˘ Delivery service available Charges apply*

Free measuring & planning service FREE NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES Free Sample Service

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 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n BOOK REVIEW

The perfect gift for the know-it-all Bristolian

Singing bus driver lightens Covid gloom

IF, like me, you are a Bristolian, you might think you know almost everything there is to know about the place we call home. Been there, done it and got the ‘Gert Lush’ T-shirt. However, a new book is challenging people who are West Country know-it-alls. 111 places in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss is written by local journalist Martin Booth, and the book is brought alive by the images of Bristol-based photographer Barbara Evripidou. It’s not a complicated book, with a page about each place and a picture on the facing page. To a local, some of the places highlighted may not be a huge surprise; the cross-harbour ferry, Brunel’s Buttery, Bristol Central Library and the County Ground, to name a few. However, Booth digs down into the rich underbelly of the city and surrounding area to highlight some obscure gems. Who knew there was a pub with a picture of Nicolas Cage on its sign, or that there’s a wicker nose stuck on the side of a house in Redland? How about Vale Street in Totterdown, the steepest residential street in the UK? If you like your food and drink there’s plenty to discover, from gin distilleries in Redland, cider houses, chocolate shops and cafes secreted away on the River Avon to the fabulous Bristol Sweet Mart in Easton. Art and culture - even the circus - is well represented, as well as historic sites and tales. Apparently Nipper, the dog on the HMV logo, was a Bristolian. For those who still feel you know the city better than the book, perhaps put it in the guest bedroom and buy the sister book for Bath, which should keep you equally busy. For the rest of us, the book offers a chance to rediscover a place we may not know as well as we thought. Perhaps the first visit (definitely by bus or taxi) should be to Cheers Drive in Speedwell. Voted for by local residents, it is, as the author says, “Bristol’s very own Boaty McBoatface”. 111 Places in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss: £12.99, published by Emons Richard Drew

HMV’s Nipper - a Bristolian canine

LLLL BBBBBBBB SSSSS WWWW N e e d m o re s t o r ag e s p ace ? Make use of your loft and create more space in your home

Loft Ladders

Raised Loft Storage

Loft Lighting

Insulation

Loft storage solutions for period and new build homes that don’t void your warranty

A BUS driver who drives late night 48 and 49 services through Downend, Staple Hill and Emersons Green has a not-sosecret talent. Singer Roger Brady records and performs under the name Jah Garvey – and passengers on his buses can be treated to an on-board performance. Roger, who is originally from Jamaica, started driving for bus operator First when he moved to Bristol in 2008, based at the Lawrence Hill depot. The 41-year-old writes songs inspired by the stories of the people he encounters on his journeys. His latest, Brand New Day is an upbeat celebration of all the people who have carried on working through the pandemic and had clocked up more than 4,000 hits on YouTube as the Voice went to print. Since moving to the UK Roger has worked with a series of producers in Bristol and performed at stage shows, festivals, carnivals and many venues around the country. He said: "I find my work as a driver a real inspiration for my music. For me, it is about supporting people by representing their lives through music and being able to encourage happiness and personal growth in every person I meet. "One of the routes I regularly drive is the service 48/49 – it’s a journey that is always full of both

Roger Brady, aka Jah Garvey, whose song is a YouTube hit familiar and new faces. "Everyone who boards has a story to tell – not everyone will tell you their story, but you can catch moments of people's lives passing by. “I have been creating music for a long time now. It’s my passion, and each song has the potential to have an impact on peoples’ lives. "Brand New Day is about telling the story of workers, whatever their field, and the richness of everyday life when we are at work: something that I personally get to experience fully as a driver." First West of England managing director James Freeman said Roger's "passion and talent for music is an inspiration, especially during the tough time that everyone has had this year".

Check out our website Collection or delivery of all our products now available

01373 813 438 www.loftboardingsouthwest.co.uk

www.beautyspotbristol.co.uk 39 Victoria Street Staple Hill BS16 5JP

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION DID you watch the Mangotsfield Remembrance service on-line? If you did, then I am sure you will agree that it was wonderful. We owe a huge thanks to Ian Campbell, of the Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion, for planning it, filming it, and then editing it to produce the finished article. We also owe a big thank-you to all who took part in it: everyone was outstanding and helped make it a very moving and memorable event. As I write, we are finalising plans to build the Nativity scene at the Dame School and put up lights in the village. It will be very much as last year – perhaps the lights will be a bit tidier and the Nativity a bit brighter, or perhaps “less

n NEWS LLOYDS Bank has confirmed the date when it will shut its Downend branch. The bank in Badminton Road had been scheduled to close in May this year, one of the latest in a series of closures implemented by the banking giant. But the branch was given a reprieve during lockdown, when Lloyds said its priority at the time was "keeping as many

dim”. We hope you all enjoy them. I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a horrible year for so many people. Let’s hope 2021 is better and we can get back to a more normal life. There are many things the MRA want to do: all are on hold at the moment. We’d love more people to get involved so if you’d like to, or you need any help, then please get in touch by email at mangotsfieldourvillage@gmail.com, via the ever-popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page or by telephone on 07507 168700. In the meantime, please stay safe, look out for one another, and have the best Christmas and New Year you possibly can. Chris Amos

Bank to shut in March branches as possible open to provide essential services". However the banking giant has now said that the branch will shut for good on March 3 2021. Letters have been sent to customers with accounts based at the branch to confirm the decision.

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson said: “We have made the difficult decision to close Downend Bristol due to the changing ways customers choose to bank with us, which means the branch is being used less often. "We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause;

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

customers can continue to bank locally by visiting the nearby Post Office, which is less than half a mile from the branch. The nearest alternative branch is Fishponds Bristol." The initial announcement of the closure was condemned by customers and local councillors, particularly as it followed the loss of the bank's branch on Staple Hill High Street.

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

Scotney Castle by Brian Kinsman

downendvoice

December, 2020

n AROUND THE WIs

DOWNEND WI SO, December is here and Xmas not too far away, and it’s going to be a different one this year - but regardless of how difficult a year it has been, we need to be thankful for the good things that have happened, and not forget those. For our WI we had two meetings in person and have made the transition to virtual meetings, which we recognise will never work for everyone but have been a success, and another way of keeping in touch with our members. We are planning on meetings for the start of next year using Zoom, and then hope we can get back to some sort of normality and see people face-to-face. So we wish our members, and the wider community, best wishes for Christmas - and here’s to a hopefully better new year. Julie, President

For the second part of the meeting we had a Christmas quiz. Alison, our Frome Valley Group secretary, very kindly emailed the quiz, which had us all in stitches. Probably more to do with my presentation of it that the actual questions and answers! We at Mangotsfield WI wish our readers a very safe Christmas; we have all sorts of challenges with family bubbles and how we manage what is usually a wonderful family get-together. I am sure you will join with me in hoping the New Year will bring a welcome respite. If you are not a member but would like to join us, please let me know by emailing carol@applause. co.uk. We are still following the changes in the information provided by the Government and our national federation, with a view to finding out when we might meet up again in the hall. But as we all know, it is looking pretty remote at the moment. Carol Coombs

BROMLEY HEATH WI

MANGOTSFIELD WI IN October our youngest member Bethany Tucker, who is just 29, presented a talk on her quest to become a Paralympian at the next games. It was a thought-provoking and intense account of where she had come from and where she is today. Bethany has overcome many challenges relating to her health and personal well-being, and it was emotional and uplifting to hear how she has coped and moved forward with her life. She feels that her WI has been a key element in finding friends and support for her goals. At our November meeting Carol, our president, gave an insight into her new role as Avon Federation representative for ACWW (Associated Country Women of the World). She presented ACWW’s new initiative, entitled ‘Orange the World’, a thought provoking and serious subject, concerning the ‘shadow pandemic’ and its effects on women.

SADLY, this report, covering both our November and December Zoom meetings, will be our last for “Good Old 2020”, but quite frankly at BHWI we shall be jolly glad to see the back of it! In fact, some of us may even decline the opportunity to add a year to our tender age, as over the last 10 months plus we have existed rather than lived in the way our ladies normally do! Firstly, I would like to say a huge 'thank you' to long-standing BHWI Committee members Helen Kendall and Pat Cottrell, who have opted to stand down after many years of fantastic service. These lovely ladies volunteered to join our committee long before Donald Trump was voted into office, and quite frankly could teach him a lot about getting things done successfully and leaving office with good grace and dignity. Thank you both so much for all your hard work, enthusiasm, dedication and commitment over the years. Zooming straight on to our November online get-together, where our members enjoyed a talk and demonstration on sugarcraft by our very own Pauline Curtis. Pauline, who trades as the Mary

Rumley Sugarcraft school, is a fantastic cake maker, producing creative designs to suit a wide variety of occasions. In addition, she shares her skills and experience through a number of sugarcraft courses, primarily in person, but she has naturally expanded to online teaching over the last few months. With consummate ease, Pauline showed us how to craft a beautiful floral decoration in icing sugar to adorn our Christmas cakes. I confess my own cake decorating skills currently stop at hundreds and thousands (sometimes with a glace cherry), but watching and listening to Pauline was a joy, because I had relinquished the option to “craft along with Curtis”. Far more relaxing to sit back and watch an expert rather than end up consigning your own best efforts to the recycling bin. Even from afar, Liza clearly still has high hopes of turning some of us into crafting queens, because at our final 2020 meeting we are being treated to an online demonstration of how to make a Christmas table decoration, by local freelance florist Vicky Veasey. Vicky has been a speaker in person at our meetings on more than one occasion previously, but this will be her first online demo, with an option to craft along should we so wish. Finally, the ladies of Bromley Heath Women's Institute would like to wish you all a happy Covid-free Christmas and send their Best Wishes for 2021, when hopefully a vaccine will allow us all the luxury of returning to our ‘new normal’? Whatever that may turn out to be, please bring it on! Susan Pitt

BEECHMERE BELLES WI CHRISTMAS started really early this year, and it's been lovely to see the streets lit up so beautifully in our neighbourhoods, with everybody shining that extra bit of light on what has been a tough year. November is the last meeting of the year for Beechmere Belles, as we take our month break in December. This is always such a lovely meeting, with a craft arranged and taught by a couple of our very talented members: lots

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

of ladies sitting around creating a Christmassy "thing" whilst having a chat and catching up. We were not going to let a pandemic stop us from having this last get-together, even if it was virtually. Two members of the committee worked hard to find a craft that could be taught over Zoom and then sourced, cut and packed craft bags for the members that wanted to take part. Craft bags were dropped through letter boxes, Christmas jumpers or headwear was donned, a little tipple was poured and we logged on. Considering we hadn't tried craft by Zoom before it was a successful evening: we had two paper crafts to try and everybody produced at least one perfect piece. I will admit that every parcel packed this Christmas will be having my new skill incorporated in the decoration. What I have enjoyed the most since I joined the WI is learning new crafts. It seems the New Year may be more of the same when it comes to actual gatherings, but we have plans in place to continue our virtual meetings. We were able to hold our AGM in October by having a hybrid meeting: we needed two members to be in the same house and luckily we have family members that were able to do that, and members that attended online. All the posts were re-elected and the committee voted back in, so we are all set to go for 2021. The downside to the hybrid meeting was no celebration cake, as October is also our birthday month. We are always treated to one of our members' wonderful creations: not only does it look absolutely fantastic, it tastes lovely as well. We also have a little glass of bubbles and take up our pencils for the annual quiz. This year after the meeting we had bingo. It was a good laugh and, I'll be honest, I am so grateful for the members that put up with my calling skills. 2020 did not go to plan for anybody but we have tried to make the best of it and are grateful that everybody is healthy, and that is the most important thing. 2021 is unknown, but that's what New Year is all about, saying goodbye to the old and looking forward with hope to the future. One thing is for sure: Beechmere Belles will continue. May I wish all the members and everybody a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Stay safe.

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

downendvoice

n NEWS THE West of England Combined Authority is asking people living and working in the region for their views to help shape the Spatial Development Strategy, a plan to make sure homes, employment spaces and vital transport links are planned in the right places over the next 20 years. As the region’s population grows and as people live longer, the amount and type of housing that is needed across the West of England is changing. Covid 19 has also altered the way many people are working, travelling and spending their leisure time. The strategy will help make sure residents have the homes they need, where they want to live with the connections to get to job opportunities, education and leisure across the region. It offers an opportunity to plan for a cleaner, greener recovery, ensuring new development is resilient, contributes towards reducing carbon emissions, and brings improvements for nature and sustainability. Residents and businesses can give their views via a survey on

December, 2020

Have your say on future development of the West of England region the West of England Combined Authority website. West of England Mayor Tim Bowles said: “This Spatial Development Strategy will make sure that over the next 20 years, we are building homes in the right places so that the West of England remains a great place to live and work. Importantly, it will also make sure we are building sustainable communities that are less reliant on cars, improving our environment and connecting our residents to jobs, education, businesses and leisure facilities right across the region.” The West of England Combined Authority is working with Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils, stakeholders and residents to develop the plan. Nicola Beech, Bristol City Council Cabinet Member for Spatial Planning and City Design,

said: “As we plan how to build a more sustainable and inclusive Bristol it’s really important that we hear what people value most. This plan will shape the west of England for years to come and so we want everyone to share what is important to them, whether that’s improving travel links, protecting green spaces, building homes, or anything else that will help us to create a more equal, sustainable and diverse region that reflects the priorities of those who live and work here.” The survey closes on 14 December 2020. Once the Spatial Development Strategy is agreed and published, it will form part of the ‘development plan’ alongside council’s own Local Plans and

Neighbourhood Plans which will be considered when determining planning applications across the region. For more information and the survey visit https://www. westofengland-ca.gov.uk/futureof-the-region/

e p a h s Help RE

U T U THE FR REGION F OU

We’re developing a Spatial Development Strategy to create a greener, more connected and inclusive place to live and work. Have your say to make sure new homes, employment spaces and transport are planned in the right places at www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/future-of-the-region For a paper copy or information in an alternative format, contact 0117 428 6210 or planning@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB December 2020 / January 2021 kingswoodvoice

n WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

This January make a difference to those you love those you trust (who would most The service starts with a free want to support you) are left advice meeting. Either face to feeling helpless and unable to face in the office, or if getting in is make sure you got the support difficult for you it can be at your AFTER the year we have all had, you would want. Lasting Powers home, or by telephone or Zoom. it has highlighted how the most of Attorney mean they can help Always in a COVID safe way. The important thing in our lives is the you with decisions on where award winning team (Law Firm of people we love and care about. you live, what medical care you the Year 2020) also give you the 2020 and the threat of COVID receive and managing you promise of No Hidden Costs and hanging over us all, has also money and paying your bills – if include a free supported signing highlighted how important it is to Lincombe Barnaffairs Camera Club's photo panel, Summer placed Westernand Counties Photographic you became tooRain, ill to do this third in ameeting free life-long storage Federation competition have our legal in order – to yourself. of your documents in their clear make a big difference to those John and Michelle Our local experts, Simpson fixed prices. most is only bywould havinghave believed ATwe this timelove. lastItyear, who meet together in person, after Easter is the earliSolicitors, will ensure this is all Michelle Baden-Daintree, says Baden-Daintree an up to date Will and Powers what the next twelve months would bring? At est that anyone can offer, but modern technoldone properly for you. They can “Our service will let you make big brings usoftogether of Attorney in Camera place, that if you Simpson Lincombe Barn Club we were looking ogyanow viaSolicitors, Zoom. We are help you make sure your wishes difference to those you love. The became seriously ill you can Kingsusing Chase Shopping forward to our usual busy programme of meetplanning competitions that in the new are clear and legally valid, to free meeting doesn’t just cover the make sure your wishes are ings, competitions and outings. Where did 2020 year, and a build-upCentre, to rejoining the physical Kingswood support those you intended; Will. We will guide you through all followed. go? world. preventing family fallout. the issues you should think about 0117 960 8594 Anwas out not of date Will All lost.Will We or areno a member, albeit one this year we managed joint placeproblems with ourfor your With vaccines about to become available, If you have young or vulnerable tothird prevent can mean those you love suffer the www.simpsonsolicitors.com of the smaller ones, of the Western Counties hopefully we won’t have to wait too long. panel Summer Rain. members of your family, the family. You will not feel rushed, as upset of the inheritance jbd@simpsonslawuk.com Photographic Federation, going whichto has 103 Simpson’s clubs If you would like to be part of our resurgence Congratulations Fullerton, service covers advice to Joy Flood, we takeAnita as long as you need” the wrong people or being wasted mbd@simpsonslawuk.com and a number of annual competitions. on how bestRachel take a look at our website at www.lincombeDomleo, Mary Osborn and Wendy to provide future John Baden-Daintree, says “Book on legal disputes or paying care One of the most prestigious is the Kingor contact us at lincombe. and thanks to Jeff provision forRayner, them inwho theirtook the photos, your free January meeting barncameraclub.co.uk now That way you’ll be remembered home fees or inheritance tax swood Salver, where a panel of five photoHave a good Christmas and a Mckinstry, who them into our suchfriendly an particular circumstances. As combined well as by calling teambarn@gmail.com. on for all the right reasons and not for that could have been avoided. graphs, each from a different club member, safe new year! attractive-looking panel. advice for parents on appointing 0117 960 8594 and get 20% off leaving a legal mess for your family Not having up to date Lasting must be presented. Two years ago we won and Sid Stace Wetheir still don’t know when will becompetitive able to guardians to raise children. ourwe already prices. to sort out”. Powers of Attorney can mean

A bad year ends with good news

FREE WILL REVIEW

WE’LL MAKE SURE YOU ARE REMEMBERED FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS

No one wants to leave behind a legal mess for their family to sort. Simpson Solicitors will give you peace of mind that your Wills & Powers of Attorney are properly prepared. Our friendly legal advisors are all fully trained, regulated and insured. Start with a free review meeting. Then we offer clear fixed prices with a promise of no hidden costs.

SPE

20%AL OFFER our O g & Po reat va F F lue w ers Wi pric of Attor lls es w ney it this adve h rt

On your own Wills: It’s how you decide who you want to inherit from you. “We were made to feel very welcome and cared for” H.L. “You have lifted a great weight off our shoulders” C.R.

Living Together Wills: Without one, your partner will not inherit anything from you, if you are not married or in a registered civil partnership. Parent Wills: Provide for children under 18 and chose who you want to raise them. Retirement Wills: Care home fee protection and avoidance of unnecessary tax.

Wills

Powers of Attorney

Probate

BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 960 8594 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR 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.

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

Got News? Call 07540 383870

Email: news@kingswoodvoice.co.uk

downendvoice

December, 2020

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

We need to welcome 2021 with kindness and tolerance

’M sure many of us will be happy to see the end of 2020, which turned out to be an extraordinarily unusual year and a time that challenged us all. Our personal and professional lives changed beyond any of our expectations, and our communities and businesses have continued to adapt during the pandemic. It has also been a year where people across the country have lost loved ones as a result of this awful virus. My thoughts are with those families who will be having a very different Christmas and I wish them all the best for the New Year. This year has also been a time when we saw steps in the right direction for social change. In response to the horrific events in Minnesota that resulted in the death of George Floyd, we

Quarry Court

witnessed powerful protests take place across the world and businesses realising the need to support and empower the BAME community. The global pandemic further highlighted the disparities and divides along racial and socio-economic lines and the disproportionate impact coronavirus has had on many communities. This year has served as a stark reminder that we still have so much to do, but such awareness puts us in a better position to start making these changes. On a positive note, during the global health emergency we have seen acts of kindness and wonderful stories of people and organisations coming together to support each other during these unprecedented times. The pandemic has proven the

importance of working together and supporting each other. I’m sure there are still many challenges ahead, but I am reassured that we will face these together. It is undeniable that we will have a very different Christmas to the ones we usually have. However, there will still be officers, police staff, paramedics and other emergency colleagues who will be working during the festive period to keep us safe. Regardless of coronavirus, it is always an extremely busy time of year for those who work in our emergency services and I know they always go above and beyond to keep us safe. I want to say a massive thank you to those in the NHS, police and other emergency services, as well as those in voluntary and charity organisations, for

Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX

With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens their hard work to support local communities during the festive period and for their efforts in protecting local people throughout this challenging year. Let’s start the New Year with kindness and tolerance towards one another, and continue to bring our communities together in 2021.

PRICES FROM:

£195,000

2-BED APARTMENTS WITH CARPETS INCLUDED FROM

£250,000

Luxury Independent Living Apartments with the reassurance of extra care on site

One or two bedrooms, lounge/ diner and kitchen, balcony or patio with most apartments

Stylish restaurant with terrace and garden view, and hairdressing salon

0117 965 3003

For more information or to book a viewing of our stunning apartments, please call: Email Ross.Vickerman@taylorsestateagents.co.uk | www.quarrycourt.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Metro Mayor Tim to bow out REGIONAL mayor Tim Bowles is to retire from politics. Mr Bowles, elected the first West of England Mayor in 2017, has announced that he will not seek re-election to the £65,000-a-year role, known as the Metro Mayor, when his term ends next spring. Conservative Mr Bowles has been involved in local politics for 20 years. He was a South Gloucestershire councillor for the Winterbourne ward for seven years before he was elected to lead the West of England Combined Authority, and remains a Winterbourne parish councillor. He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the West of England as a councillor and as the region’s first Metro Mayor. "The combined authority has brought hundreds of millions of pounds to the region and seen major improvements that benefit every single person."

The authority, known as Weca, is made up from South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Bath & North East Somerset councils and has a region-wide role in policies such as housing, transport and skills. Mr Bowles said Weca was "getting the region moving with a proper transport system", including the MetroWest rail network and Metrobus, was backing future technology such as 5G, supported businesses and helped more than 700 people through the Future Bright training scheme. He said extra funding brought by Weca had directly created 4,000 new jobs and 13,000 new qualifications. South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage said: “The impact that Tim has had as the inaugural West of England mayor, building the combined authority from scratch and bringing together the local authorities, both across

Are you looking for a change in career? Do you have the drive and determination to be part of a market leading business?

geographical and political borders, has set our region on a truly positive path." The region's Tories have yet to announce a candidate to succeed Mr Bowles at next May's elections. In November Labour announced that former Wansdyke MP Dan Norris, who served as a minister during his 13-year Parliamentary career, had been selected as the party's candidate. The former Chipping Sodbury Comprehensive School pupil served on Avon county and Bristol city councils in the 1980s and 90s. The Liberal Democrats chose former Bristol West MP Stephen Williams, who was a minister in the coalition government from 2013-15, as their candidate in July. He also contested the 2017 Metro Mayor election. Weca's councils are currently embroiled in a row over a bid by North Somerset Council to join,

with Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees arguing that the government needs to show that existing areas would not lose out financially by adding a new member, while the Tories and Lib Dems accuse him of “putting party politics before doing the right thing for the region”. Calls have now been made by Lib Dems for next year's election to be delayed until an agreement on North Somerset joining is reached.

We are the UK division of Europe’s largest vehicle leasing company, with our Group’s ambition to be the global leader in sustainable mobility solutions by 2025. We pride ourselves on our open culture, our commitment to employee development and our platinum corporate social responsibility status. The only thing we invest in as much as the future of mobility is our people, who are at the heart of everything we do.

Sound like somewhere you want to work? We’re currently recruiting for a variety of roles in our Bristol office, based in Emersons Green, including: • Credit Underwriters • Dealer Services Support Administrators

• Customer Service Advisors • Credit Controllers

What are you waiting for?

Find out more about our available jobs and apply at:

» alduk.careers/bristol www.aldautomotive.com

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

downendvoice

n LIBRARY NEWS

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA

Update from Downend, Emersons Green and Staple Hill libraries ALL South Gloucestershire Libraries continue to work within current Government regulations with safety measures in place. Services we are currently able to offer during this time include borrowing items using our Click and Collect service and limited computer access, we recommend booking this in advance. All the information you need to plan your visit is on our website www.southglos.gov.uk/ librarychanges or you can call 01454 865022 (Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm, Sat 9.30am – 12pm). Details of our Christmas opening hours will also be available at the above website. Our free online library is always open 24/7 eBooks, eAudiobooks, eComics, digital magazines and

December, 2020

newspapers continue to be available for library members to download anytime - www. southglos.gov.uk/eresources has all the details. It now also includes Who Else Writes Like?, and for children, Who Next? where you can find authors who write in a similar way to those you have already enjoyed reading. Simply log in with your library card number and select South Gloucestershire. If you are not already a library member you can join online at bit.ly/joinLW. - membership is free. You will receive an Online Membership number which will work for our digital services right away. Please enter an email address when you register for greater control of your account.

GROUPS organising events in the Downend, Mangotsfield, Staple Hill and Frenchay areas are being invited to tell readers about them. Our popular What's On section was suspended at the start of the lockdown, as community events and meetings were cancelled indefinitely. Now some groups are planning events again, we offer free space to publicise non profit-making activities once more. Clubs, charities and societies can send details of events to the Voice by email at news@downendvoice.co.uk. Businesses staging profit-making events and paid-for classes in the area can advertise in the What's On section for a small charge every month, by contacting sales@downendvoice.co.uk. Because of the many changes to venues, groups and clubs since March 2020, regular entries that appeared before lockdown will not automatically be reused in the What's On section so any information should be re-sent to one of the addresses above. Downend Local History Society n Mindful of the safety of our members and guests and given the requirements imposed on large groups at The Barn to be Covid-19 compliant, the committee had decided not to resume our meetings at the present time. We will review the situation again in a few months. Gill Delve , programme secretary 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. We, at Bristol U3A, are still very active and ‘meeting’ despite the lockdown

CHRISTMAS TOYS AND HAMPERS FOR DOGS NOW AVAILABLE Bristol’s independent pet shop Widest choice of natural treats & chews Largest Raw frozen dog food store & frozen raw bone selection in Bristol Visit our Warmley store on Tower Lane, behind Kingswood Heritage Museum. Open to the public 7 days a week. Monday to Saturday 11 - 4pm Sunday 12 - 3pm www.naturaltreatsbristol.co.uk Find us at Unit 5 WBP (behind Kingswood Heritage Museum) Tower Lane, Warmley BS30 8XT naturaltreatsbristolwarmley To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Feel it’s always winter but never Christmas? 2020 marks the 70th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic children’s fantasy novel, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The adventure begins when four young siblings find a secret doorway into the magical land of Narnia. When Lucy first goes through the wardrobe it looks like she’s stumbled upon a winter wonderland. But under the light of a lamppost, she meets Mr Tumnus, the faun, who tells her about the White Witch and the sinister truth that lies behind the beautiful snowflakes: “It’s she that makes it always winter. Always winter and never Christmas; think of that!” With this phrase, C.S. Lewis captures the despair this Narnian creature felt, in words we can all understand. Winter without Christmas? That’s not the way it’s supposed to be! Perhaps you love winter? But what if it were never Christmas?! No decorations, lights, carols, TV specials, turkey. No family gatherings or presents? Always

winter, but never Christmas. Say it isn’t so! Perhaps 2020 has felt like that for you? In difficult times, we look for hope — something to hold on to, something to look forward to, someone to say to us, “It will get better.” One cold evening, when Lucy is sitting in Mr. Beaver’s home, he senses her sadness at the darkness that inhabits Narnia, and sings: “Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight; At the sound of his roar, sorrow will be no more; When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death; And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again.” Through this song, Mr. Beaver turns her eyes to a day when Aslan the lion will step into the darkness of Narnia in order to break the curse of the White Witch and restore the world to the way it should be. It’s a hint of hope. Thankfully, hope is not limited to that fantasy world. Christmas offers hope to us too. But to find this hope we have to look beyond

the traditions and trimmings to the very first Christmas. 2,000 years ago things weren’t easy. Jesus was born in dark times of oppression and injustice. Which is why John, one of the eyewitnesses and biographers of Jesus wrote of the very first Christmas: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5). Then in two more sentences he makes some massive claims that get to the heart of Christmas, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) “Grace” is the Bible’s word for unearned kindness — a free gift for undeserving people. “Truth” speaks of God keeping the promise he made to send a rescuer to save people from sin. God promised he would come, and he did. In Jesus. That’s what the angels announced to the shepherds outside Bethlehem on

the first Christmas night: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11) In a world that feels so dark, these words remind us that Jesus is the light and hope of this world. At Christmas, his light dawned. Hope has come. Jesus is on the move — like Aslan in Narnia — to rescue a needy world, overcome the darkness of sin, and shatter the curse of our wintry cold hearts to bring us into relationship with him. This Christmas, of all Christmases, we’re in need of hope. If the Bible is true, Jesus brings it. Why not find out more about it for yourself? You have nothing to lose, and a whole lot of hope to gain.

Nathan Smith

Grace Church Bristol www.gracechurchbristol.org

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

UP TO 50% LESS THAN A NEW KITCHEN

• Trusted reputation

THE UK’S # 1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER EXPERTS.

by simply replacing the doors and worktops EST. 1999

• Huge choice of doors, worktops appliances, sinks & taps • Free planning & design service • Door swaps to full kitchens – tailored to your needs RE

BEFO

FAMIL Y BUSIN RUN ESS

SOCIAL DISTANCING & HYGIENE REGULATIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN OUR SHOWROOM, ON APPOINTMENTS AND DURING INSTALLATIONS. ®

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM NOW. CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON:

AVERAGE SCORE

9.6/10

Showroom: 11/12 The Promenade, EST. 1999 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8AL

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

0117 944 3223

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

downendvoice

December, 2020

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Dark chocolate & amaretti semifreddo with Mel of Melanie’s Kitchen A RECIPE to cheer you up over the festive season – it can be made in advance and stored in the freezer until needed. The recipe cuts into 8-10 slices but you can just slice off what you require and pop the rest back in the freezer. The biscuits are the crunchy amaretti biscuits that are easily available at this time of year. I make the recipe with half milk chocolate so all the family can enjoy it – it’s more luxurious made with all dark cho. Be aware the dessert contains raw egg .

Dark chocolate & amaretti semifreddo serves 8-10 250g dark chocolate, broken into pieces (or use half and half milk and dark chocolate) 4 large eggs, separated 50g castor sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 500ml double thick cream 150g amaretti biscuits, crushed 1 dessertspoon of Disaranno almond liqueur (optional, it makes the set softer don’t be tempted to add more!) extra amaretti biscuits and cocoa powder for decorating.

Method Grease a large loaf tin and line with cling wrap. (or use a plastic freezer box, lined with cling film) Melt the dark chocolate and leave to one side to cool. Whisk the egg whites to soft peak stage and set aside. Place the egg yolks and castor sugar in a large mixing bowl on top of a pan of simmering water. Whisk on high speed for a few minutes until pale and thick. Whisk in the vanilla extract and cooled chocolate. Add the cream , whisk until combined. Carefully fold in the egg whites and the amaretti biscuits plus the liqueur if using. Tip the mixture into the prepared tin/box , smooth the top. Cover and freeze until firm ((at least 4hours) Remove from the freezer just before serving. Carefully turn the semifreddo out onto a serving platter. Top with crushed amaretti biscuits and a dusting of cocoa powder. Slice with a sharp knife and serve immediately. Any extra can be placed back in freezer for later.

Join us as a foster carer today

Could you be the start of Connie’s new adventure? Help make sure we are able to give all children and young people who come in to our care security and kindness at a difficult time in their lives. Join us as a foster carer today. To 2356 advertise, Gary 3on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Fosteringcontact Adverts 3.indd

 www.fostersouthglos.org.uk

 BThere2Care  fostering@southglos.gov.uk  01454 866423

Got News? Call Ken On02/12/2020 07715 770377 10:39

downendvoice

December, 2020

n PHOTOGRAPHY

TAKING BET TER PHOTOGRAPHS

DOW

LU B

WITH

D CA MER

Five Spotted Burnet by Helen Sheppard AS we are now well into autumn, that season of mists and mellow…well, rain, it was not that surprising that two of the three images judged to be the best in the final (open subject) club competition of the year were autumnal landscapes. That said, the third image was something quite different, an insect close-up. Variety is truly the spice of club photography. The overall winning shot was Autumn at Keswick, taken at the banks of Derwentwater just outside the town. The overall composition, the buildings, the backdrop of the hills, plus the colours of the trees makes a memorable image. It does go to show that, however familiar the spot, the combination of light, time, weather and season can produce something unique. A justification for those of us who, as the joke among keen amateur snappers goes, often put our

tripods in those very same tripod marks made by so many who have gone before. Five Spotted Burnet is a macro shot of a feeding moth, a notoriously difficult type of shot in terms of finding the subject, getting the lighting right, and managing to photograph it so that it is sharp. Here that combination has been achieved, producing an interesting image with pleasing colours and a nicely blurred background. Highlands is a fine reflection shot, the middle section given emphasis by the strips of bright blue sky, top and bottom. Here, even if the location is well-known, credit must be given to the photographer for something quite unusual – an image of Scotland when it is not raining. Downend Camera Club is a friendly informal group who normally meet on Tuesdays at

Autumn at Keswick by Derek Britton

Highlands by Dave Gregory 7.30 pm at the Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, Downend, although meetings are currently suspended. We are continuing with a programme of online photographic presentations as well as regular competitions. The club has a Facebook page

and an exciting new website at www.downendcameraclub. org.uk that shows details of the club, members' galleries, past competition winners and a new feature, a forum for discussion of all things photographic. Ed Shorney

n COMMUNITY NEWS Bromley Heath Neighbourhood Watch WE are aware, sympathise and are equally frustrated by news of a car theft and tools thefts from vans in our watch area recently. On one social media site someone observed that we are being targeted. Another asked, do we have a neighbourhood watch? First, we aren't being targeted. Sadly, this sort of thing will happen all the time, as the organised thieves and the opportunists are on the lookout continuously; they don't go away unless enough evidence can be amassed to arrest and imprison. Even then, there are others who may follow on. Second, a neighbourhood watch is and always will be only as strong as its residents, who need to engage, volunteer to be involved in it, and take on board the good advice which is offered regularly and repeatedly by way of our newsletter and our social media output. In addition, all need to make the actions and

behaviours necessary, on an ongoing basis, part of the way lives are led. Here are 12 facts of Bromley Heath life, if we aren’t vigilant and engaged: 1. I f it is too good to be true, avoid it! Online, phone and doorstep scammers are never far away. 2. L eaving your home in darkness, post visible through your door glazing or your garden unkempt invites burglars' attention. 3. L eaving your bins/recycling out well before or after collection invites burglars' attention. 4. L eaving boxes from expensive items out for recycling without folding the logos out of sight invites burglars' attention. 5. L eaving garage, shed and outhouse doors and windows insecure, and expensive items unlocked inside, invites burglars' attention. 6. L eave anything from small change to tools in a vehicle outside overnight and it’ll go. 7. D on’t leave items in your front garden or to an open side at home - they’ll go. 8. D ecent weather? Leave open windows and

rooms unoccupied while you are in the back garden and an opportunist can swiftly enter and exit with your laptop, wallet or mobile phone. 9. If we don’t support, engage and monitor our children and young people, anti-social behaviour might just be perpetrated by one of our own. 10. Is there some litter or recycling left over from collection day or dropped by someone selfish? Nobody’s coming to clear it! If you don’t want to contact Streetcare, why not just pop out and deal with it? 11. Leaves building up with weeds growing in the gutter and blocking the gulleys? Nobody’s coming to clear it! If you don’t want to contact Streetcare to remedy it, why not just pop out and deal with it? 12. The word ‘assume’ can be broken up and make an embarrassing little phrase about ourselves (something of u and me)! If something isn’t right, why not do something about it? There is no harm in multiple reports to those who can help. Bill Crocker

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

n GARDENING CLUB AT LINCOMBE BARN

New date for trail

Celebrate the joy of growing

A TRAIL showcasing the talents of talented local artists, designers and makers has been rearranged. The BSpoke16 Festive Trail, which is being staged across the BS16 postcode area, including Downend, Soundwell, Emersons Green and Fishponds, had to be moved from its original date in November because of the second lockdown. With non-essential businesses allowed to reopen, the trail will take place on December 11, 12 and 13, from 10am-4pm each day.It is the second outdoor trail this year, after a trail in July, which attracted 60 exhibitors and hundreds of visitors. December's event involves 80 local makers – a printed map is available from the Bean Tree Cafe in Page Park or from 28 Westerleigh Road, Downend. More details are available on the BSpoke16 Facebook page and www.bspoke16.co.uk.

HOW do we start a report nowadays? After being locked down again, we are probably all quite down. So let's talk about something that cheers us all up, whether we have a garden or not: our gardens, and the joy of looking and admiring those near to us. We have been given plenty of time to sweep paths and cut back most of the dead and overflowing dead plants, and the necessity of putting some of our more tender plants away for the winter. I have a banana and a small Dickensian fern to cover up with straw or fleece and a Cavendish banana, which is still small, thank goodness, which I have now in my kitchen for the winter. I planted some potatoes late summer, so hope they will be OK for Christmas. They are in tubs, as I do not have a vegetable patch or room for it, but I do grow herbs. There is still plenty of time to plant tulip bulbs for the spring, something we can all look forward to when they bloom. It is also time to plant bare root plants: you have until February to complete this. We can use this time to take photos of our gardens and decide if we need to re-design any parts of it or decide a plant is not suited to where it is and plan to move it when the time is right. While there is time, get out the coloured pencils and spend a couple of days thinking about what you

would like to achieve. You can also go through plant and bulb catalogues to see if there is something you haven't tried before and would like to give it a go. Remember though that you will have to consider what type of soil you have and if it suits the plant. If you are at a loss there are plenty of gardening books, some of which concentrate on small gardens and some on estates so whichever you have there is a book for you. Check paths to see if they are fairly level so there are no falls or trips and clean away any slippery algae. If you have some greenery, you could have a go at making a wreath or spray to go on the front door, or a tub filled with greenery, and add some Christmas decorations. It will be a welcome sight to passers-by, as well as visitors, if we are able to welcome them. Also, keep the birds visiting in our gardens by putting out hoppers of seed; any bruised apples can go out for the blackbirds. In whichever way we have to spend Christmas, take care and look after yourselves, enjoy the result of your labours over the past year. I wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas and may the New Year be one where we are able to have a vaccine that will improve the lives of those in this country and around the world. Mary Head, secretary

Can you help us keep our clients safe in their own homes?

We are looking for kind and compassionate people to join our teams across north Bristol, and help us to keep our clients safe, independent and connected within their communities. We are all facing uncertain and challenging times at the moment, but imagine if you were also eldery and in isolation. Our mission is to help our clients continue to live their lives as fully as possible. If you are looking for a meaningful role, and really want to make a difference at a difﬁcult time, why not get in touch and ﬁnd out more? We offer

●

Full training

●

Flexible hours

●

Great rates of pay

For more information about joining our team please call 0117 989 8210 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/bristolnorth - We’d love to hear from you. To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n VETS' ADVICE

HRISTMAS is now just around the corner and in more normal times, people would now be rushed off their feet with all sorts of activities at home, work, and school. Even in this exceptional and unpredictable year, Christmas is still an exciting time full of festivities, and for most pet owners an emergency trip to the vet is the last thing they want during the Christmas season. But pet owners need to be aware that many seemingly harmless foods, household items, and many of our Christmas traditions are unsuitable and potentially dangerous for our four-legged friends. You will probably have a Christmas tree which your dog or cat may be interested in, especially young puppies and kittens. The bright lights and dangling baubles are just too hard to resist for some. Chewing the tree, its ornaments, or tinsel can cause a nasty tummy upset or even an obstruction requiring surgery, so it is wise to supervise your pet with the tree and its decorations. The cables for decorative electric lights are a huge hazard and can be very tempting to the inquisitive puppy or house rabbit. Ensure cables are kept insulated, covered, and out of reach of pets to prevent burns or electrocution. Plants like Poinsettias and Amaryllis are popular at Christmas, but they are not just appealing to humans; many dogs and cats will find these plants irresistible too. It’s therefore important that these plants are kept out of reach because they are poisonous and can cause mouth or stomach irritation just from eating a small part of the plant. Mistletoe can also be dangerous; the berries, in particular, can be even more toxic

Beware, this is a dangerous time of year for our pets

than poinsettias. And don’t forget the presents - keep your wrapped presents, especially edible ones in a secure pet-free area. You don’t want your pet to rip everything open before Santa arrives! Many households have food and sweet goodies around during the festive season and it is easy for people to forget that pets might help themselves. It’s relatively well known that chocolate is poisonous to pets, but less widely known that raisins, sultanas, and currants (and the grapes they come from) in our Christmas cake, and pudding can be deadly for animals too. A relatively small amount of grape products can cause kidney failure and it is difficult to predict how much is a problem because susceptibility seems to vary

but they are not recommended due to the chemicals found on them and the choking risk. Food items are also popular, but how about a warm coat for the wintry weather? A light-up collar for those dark walks? Catnip toys for that legal high? Or if old bones are getting a bit creaky, maybe an orthopaedic pet bed or pet physiotherapy session would be appreciated. And a snuffle mat or interactive feeding puzzle game can be great stimulation for your beloved pet too. All of these are lovely alternatives. However you chose to celebrate this year, the team at Avenue Veterinary Centre would like to thank you very much for your continued support during these challenging times, and we would like to take the opportunity to wish you and your pets a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe New Year.

between animals. At Christmas time we can be tempted to share our Christmas dinner with our pets but please choose carefully what to give. Cooked bones can be a problem if eaten, especially turkey and chicken bones because they can splinter and cause damage to the gut or become lodged. String from a meat joint can also be consumed and cause problems, so it is important to dispose of the carcass carefully and pet-proof your rubbish bin. Onions and garlic can be toxic, and rich fatty foods and left-overs that the pet Pendennis Avenue, Staple H Hill, Bristol BS16 5DW is not used to can cause vomitingPendennis Avenue, StapleTel: 0117 956BS16 90385DW w Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, Bristol Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com and diarrhoea. 0117 956BS16 90385DW www.avenue-vets.com If Santa usually visits the Staple pets Tel: inHill, Pendennis Avenue, Bristol An independent practice Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, An independent practice providing a pers your household what would they Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com caring and compass a pers Bristol BS16providing 5DW put on their wish list?An Manyindependent people caring andpractice compassionate service used to give dogs rawhide chews, Tel.a0117 956 9038 service caring and compassionate An independent practice providing personal, Consultation by appointment

Consultation by appointment caring and compassionate service Consultation by appointment

9am-11am Monday-Saturday 9am-11am Monday-Saturday 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday Consultation by appointment 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday 9am-11am Monday-Saturday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday 9am-11am Monday-Saturday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday

Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5DW Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com

An independent practice providing a personal, caring and compassionate service Consultation by appointment 9am-11am Monday-Saturday 2pm-3.15pm Monday-Friday 4.30pm-6.30pm Monday-Friday

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL MP

There will be brighter days ahead 2020 is be a year we will all remember. A year when our lives had to change in ways that we couldn’t even imagine last Christmas. We’ve stayed at home, stayed alert, protected the NHS and undoubtedly saved lives through our collective efforts to look out for one another in the battle against a terrible virus. While the summer brought some relief, winter has been tougher. The introduction of new national restrictions is not something any of us wanted, but it was right to make sure that we didn’t go back to where we were in March. Luckily, thanks to everyone following the rules and staying safe, we can already see the number of cases across South Gloucestershire and the country start to fall, and we can look forward to Christmas and the new year with renewed hope. We can be hopeful not just because cases are falling but also because, as I write this, we have

heard news of a third successful vaccine trial, the Oxford vaccine by AstraZeneca. With this, the Pfizer vaccine and the Moderna vaccine we can be hopeful about a return to something a little more like normal life by Easter. This is a remarkable scientific achievement, not just for our own country and scientists but people around the world who have worked to understand this virus and work out how we can put a stop to this pandemic. If there is one thing that we can take from all this, it is the strength of our collective endeavour. Our heroes in the front-line health service, including the South West Critical Care Transfer Service, whom I nominated for the NHS Parliamentary Awards, and who have been named regional champions, have led the fight against this virus. Doctors, nurses, paramedics, porters: every member of the NHS team around

the country has kept us safe, treated us when we’re sick and kept the country going. And it’s not just staff in the NHS. Essential workers in every sector have kept the country on the road. Supermarket workers have made sure we have everything we need for our weekly shop. Lorry drivers have been putting in the miles, delivering our online shopping and transporting vital medical equipment. Street cleaners have looked after our towns. We can’t forget, too, those who serve and are deployed overseas, serving Queen and country to keep us safe and helping the world’s most vulnerable people. While the world is upside down for many of us, the grim reality of conflict is still ongoing for far too many people. I am particularly proud of those deployed abroad on Operation BROADSHARE, helping those worse off than us to tackle

Jack Lopresti the coronavirus pandemic, many of whom are Reservists who have left ordinary jobs to serve in extraordinary ways. We must hold them in our prayers. There will be brighter days ahead. A vaccine on the horizon heralds a return to normal life, not just in this country but around the world. It will be different, but I believe that the strength and resolve of this period will carry us through into whatever future we decide to build for ourselves and future generations. This is going to be a very different Christmas to what we are used to, but we will all have to make the best of it and I wish you all a Happy Christmas, and a much better New Year.

Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family firm with 25 years experience

25% OF

WITH T F H ADVERTIS

H Senior Citizens Special H Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off H Patios H Fencing H Tree Work H Turfing H Hedgecutting H Planting (Shrubs etc) H Organic manure delivered — Also applied H Professional and guarnteed work H Brick & Blocklaying

CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122

www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

December, 2020

downendvoice

n NEWS

Staple Hill and Mangotsfield pay tribute

Wreath-laying at Page Park. Picture courtesy of Staple Hill & District RBL REMEMBRANCE events took place without the crowds who usually turn out to honour those who have died in war. But the services lost none of their dignity and solemnity as they were held in accordance with lockdown regulations. Ceremonies at Page Park in Staple Hill and Mangotsfield War Memorial were recorded in advance and streamed online on Remembrance Sunday morning, with 5,400 people viewing the Staple Hill service and 3,600 watching Mangotsfield.

Many people made their own journeys to the memorials during the day to pay their respects or leave wreaths or crosses of their own. Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion chairman Ian Campbell said: "The response to the services was fantastic, and whilst we were disappointed that we could not hold the usual parade and service in Page Park, with the Salvation Army and Staple Hill Partnership, we managed to create a moving virtual service of remembrance."

Paige and Mason Baker, aged 8 and 5 respectively, made their own tributes to the fallen and took them to Page Park with their mum and their dad, who served in 40 Commando Royal Marines. Picture by Phil Criddle Coronavirus restrictions also affected the way the Poppy Appeal could operate, with collections limited and some shops with tins having to close. However the RBL was able to sell poppies outdoors under a gazebo in Staple Hill and was also able to take online donations and orders for poppies, for collection. Ian said: "I even had a queue at my home at one point." The final total raised is

expected to be around £10,000. Ian added: "I would like to thank everyone that helped make the services possible, especially the Salvation Army Band and everyone that laid a wreath and cross to remember those that gave the ultimate sacrifice." Mangotsfield community pastor Clive Heath, who with Rev Teresa Taylor led the Mangotsfield service, thanked the veterans, RBL members, councillors, cubs and scouts who LOW took part.

Steve Bellamy Ctta eeetllsllaam S e myy S ev vre epB B

OVERHEADS •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s OVERHEADS LOWER ==LOWER •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl PRICES PRICES chosen in the comfort of your •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s vinyl’s •Home selection carpet and •Huge and vinyl vinyl ownselection home of •Huge selection of carpets carpets and chosen in the comfort of your your chosen in the comfort of •Free quotations without own own home home obligation towithout purchase •Free quotations •Free quotations obligation to obligation to purchase •No pressure selling •No pressure •No pressure selling •Professional service established •Professional established •Professional service established forover over 30 years for 30 for over 30 years years •All inclusive prices, •All prices, no hidden hidden extras, •Allinclusive inclusive prices, noextras, hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay the quoted price you pay you pay theprice price quoted is the price We Tel: 07860 441776 Wewill willbetter betterany anylike likefor for Tel: 07860 We will better any Tel: 07860 441776 like all inclusive quote like all inclusive quote or 0117 0117 2565994 or

C Car pets

Wreaths at Mangotsfield War Memorial. Picture: Michael Bell

LOW LOW

OVERHEAD = LOWER PRICES

or 0117 2565994

like all inclusive

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

Get ready to

deck the halls

Three times more people look for properties between Christmas and January.

Make sure yours is seen. Call us today to get on the market. DOWNEN D@ HUNT ERS . COM / 01 1 7 956 1 2 3 4 SALES / LETTINGS / MANAGEMENT / H U N T ERS .COM

**If Ifyou youare areunder undercontract contractwith withanother anotheragent, agent,you youmay maystill stillbe beliable liable to toalso alsopay pay their their fee. fee. Source: 2nd Jan Jan2019: 2020:39,490,071 39,490,071 Source:Rightmove Rightmove GA GA pageviews pageviews Christmas Day 2019: 2018: 11,910,091; 2nd

downendvoice

December, 2020

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Shaw Close, Mangotsfield, Bristol, BS16 9LD Asking price £495,000

HERE TO GET

you

THERE

� � �

HUNTERS Estate Agents, Downend are delighted to bring to the market this fantastic detached family home located within this popular small modern development in Mangotsfield. The property offers a quiet secluded position within a quiet cul-de-sac with open outlook to front and is handily placed, a short drive to Emersons Green retail centre whilst offering fantastic transport links onto The Avon Ring Road and close proximity to Bristol - Bath Cycle Path. The property is being sold with no onward chain and was constructed by Bellway Homes of their "Winchester" design. The current owners having made many improvements and upgrades during their ownership to create a very well presented property with spacious living accommodation which comprises in brief to the ground floor: entrance hall, lounge, dining room, study, cloakroom, utility and a kitchen/

breakfast room with modern white high gloss units and integrated appliances to include: oven, hob, dish washer and 2 wine chillers. To the first floor can be found 4 generous size bedrooms, a modern re-fitted en-suite to master bedroom and shower room.

The property further benefits from having: double glazing, gas central heating, a well tended lawn rear garden with patio, a double detached garage and a

4 car driveway and open green woodland outlook to front. There is the added advantage of the property being sold with no onward chain.

Emergency Number: 07798 905337 KEEP IT IN YOUR MOBILE

Lock Stuck

and Barrels

The complete door & window specialist

Locked Out? Need to replace or change your locks? ■ Swift low cost emergency service to all home and commercial lock-outs ■ Non destructive entry methods gaining entry quickly and efficiently from the initial call ■ Keys or handbag stolen? Burgled? Need your locks changed or re-keying on a new home? Call us.

ALSO: Low cost repair/replacement of uPVC ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR: LOCKS, HINGES, HANDLES & MISTED UP/BROKEN DOWN DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS Full explanation and costs given before any works carried out. All work fully guaranteed. No call-out fee

Call Dave on 07798 905337 www.thebristollocksmith.co.uk Based locally in South Glos

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

Christmas STAY

connected

THIS

Christmas is about family. When you market your property with us we promise to treat you like one of ours. We offer you innovative marketing and your own FREE personalised property website that you can share on social media.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE STAMP DUTY HOLIDAY AND CONTACT US TODAY Mcoleman_StayConnected_.indd 1

T. 0117 9566221 W. mcoleman.co.uk E. sales@mcoleman.co.uk 26/11/2020 12:46

December, 2020

downendvoice

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Oakdale Court, Bromley Heath, Bristol, BS16 6DZ M COLEMAN Estate Agents are thrilled to be offering for sale this charming executive style five bedroom detached residence in an ever popular cul de sac. Rarely do family homes of this type come to the market in such a sought after location. Coming to the market for the first time and owned by the current vendors from its construction in the late eighties the property offers generous living accommodation for the growing family. The ground floor comprises a welcoming entrance hallway, the well proportioned lounge has an attractive window seat overlooking the garden and a feature fireplace housing a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Living Flameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gas fire that lends a warm and homely atmosphere. Double doors open into the dining room which in turn leads to a conservatory and the kitchen. Thoughtfully designed and offering perfectly balanced proportions the natural light thanks to the addition of kitchen has a range of wall and base a Velux style window are five double units finished with solid wooden bedrooms and the family bathroom. doors in a Shaker style; sleek brushed The master bedroom boasts two steel handles and granite worktops windows to the rear elevation, a walk give this classic style a contemporary through dressing area and en-suite twist. Integrated appliances include shower room. Bedrooms two, three an eye level double oven, hob, and four all benefit from fitted extractor fan, dishwasher and fridge. wardrobes whilst bedroom two is The utility room is fitted with a further enhanced by the provision sink, additional wall and base units, of an en-suite shower room. The plumbing for a washing machine lovely family bathroom has a white plus space for a tumble dryer and four piece suite including a separate tall freezer as well as a door to the mains plumbed shower cubicle and side and two storage cupboards. obscured double glazed window to Additionally there is cloakroom the rear elevation. accessed from the hallway and a There is a beautifully maintained Rainbows been a symbol hopepatio andarea promise dual aspect sunroom which has two havegarden which has aof paved double glazed French doors opening during Covid-19. And we say thank and well tended level lawn; it isyou. a very onto the garden as well asThank personal space which enclosed you forprivate playing your partisinfully keeping up the access to the garage. making it perfectspirit for those with community You will be pleasantly surprised drive creating off road parking for young children. This is a delightful at the size of the first floor several vehicles, the mature borders #inthistogether spot to relax or entertain especially accommodation, accessed from are stocked with a variety of plants in the spring and summer months. a landing which is flooded with a and shrubs and there is also access to To the front is an impressive tarmac

THANK YOU

0117 9566221 | mcoleman.co.uk | sales@mcoleman.co.uk

a double garage which benefits from an electrically operated door, power, lighting and a charging point for an electric vehicle.

Christine English

BSc (Hons) Podiatry, M Ch S, HCPC Registered

Chiropodist / Podiatrist All aspects of foot care from a degree trained professional

0117 956 3978 Pendennis Clinic,

11 Haynes Lane, Staple Hill, Bristol, BS16 5JE

FREE PARKING OPPOSITE CLINIC

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

Here’s to a cosy Christmas at home… Wishing you a happy & festive Christmas from all at Ocean.

December, 2020

downendvoice

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Offers in excess of ÂŁ375,000 OCEAN are pleased to bring to the market this 3 bedroom semi detached bungalow on Cleeve Park Road in Downend. It is ideally situated on the boarders of Downend and Bromley Heath with the local high street and schools within walking distance. This property also offers easy access to local transport links such as the Ring Road and M4. Upon entering the bungalow there is a large hallway, 3 double bedrooms, a family bathroom and kitchen. From the kitchen there is access to a conservatory area with French doors to the rear garden measuring at approx 100ft. Externally there is both front and rear gardens, a garage and driveway. This property is also being sold with no chain.

Domestic and Commercial Fencing Specialists

We supply and install all types of fencing, decking and gates

H. G. Harris Family Funeral Directors 9 Broad Street, Staple Hill Bristol BS16 5LN Tel: 0117 956 9479 Fax: 0117 956 4070 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net

Installation Types

n Closed board n Feather Edge n Timber panel n Picket fencing n Slotted post, Panel & Gravel boards

n General Repairs n Chainlink n Gates n Decking n Railings

Henleaze House,13 Harbury Road, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9 4PN

0117 9898208 or 07811 149095

e-mail: info@heads-apart.co.uk www.heads-apart.co.uk/garden-services

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

downendvoice

December, 2020

n LETTERS Is sculpture round the wrong way? I WAS a fierce opponent of demolishing the old Mangotsfield C of E Primary School, favouring the developer somehow incorporating the old school facade into the new development. Therefore I have to stop myself being overcritical. However, I instantly noted a glaring anomaly in the placement of the (actually very nice) sculpture

now in place on the site (Voice, November). The sculpture was commissioned after requests from the public, former staff and pupils and the Mangotsfield Residents Association to commemorate the old school, and should therefore be seen by them as they walk by. Can anyone explain to me why the sculpture is facing into the development site and not facing the road so passing locals can enjoy it? Is it just me? Trish Jenkins

Hilary Bloor DSCh, MInstChP

Chiropodist HCPC Reg No 18014

is relocating to:The Fishponds Practice. 834 Fishponds Road Bristol BS16 3XA. Telephone: (0117) 9491290 www.soletosoulbristol.co.uk With effect from 1st November 2020.

Memories of old school I read with interest your recent article about Mangotsfield School (Voice, November). My name is Brenda Radford (nee Hicks) and I attended the school from 1940. I was a little sad to see it knocked down but to see the sculpture is lovely. I remember many things about the school, including the round coal stove lit in winter and being a milk monitor. Mr Bailey brought the milk churns from his farm into the cloakroom and the monitors had to wash the milk bottles without any hot water and then fill them ready for lunchtime. Another thing I remember is the annual visit of the school dentist- we would have our teeth filled there and then! Additionally the 'nit nurse' would make a yearly appearance. The toilets were out in the yard - boys and girls together. It was always wet on the floor and the girls had to walk past the boys' drain to get to one of the two girls closets. We took no notice of the boys! During the war we also had the air raid drill. The shelter was a brick building with long benches and we'd march in with our gas masks at the ready. I remember that a lovely gentleman called Mr Farmiloe was our headmaster and Mr Thomas, who was just out of the RAF, was one of our teachers, and we all liked him too. Those were the days when we all walked to school and very often there were no accompanying parents. How times have changed. Brenda Radford

Did you help make stone circle? KINGSWOOD Heritage Museum would like to know more about the stone circle that was created in Emersons Green on an artificial hilltop when the Avon Ring Road was built, near the Pucklechurch/ Shortwood roundabout. Do you know when the stone circle was created, and by whom? Were you involved? If you can tell the museum about the stone circle, please contact us by email at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com or phone 0117 960 5664. Richard Hartill Kingswood Heritage Museum

Sparrowhawk spotted again I WAS visiting my dad at Barley Close in Mangotsfield with my daughter Amelia on October 16 in the evening and as we looked out of the patio window we noticed a sparrowhawk dive down into the garden, grab a baby pigeon and rip it to shreds, leaving loads of feathers in the garden. Our next door neighbour also witnessed it. I only realised it was a sparrowhawk when I saw another picture of it in the latest edition of the Downend Voice! (Voice, November) Tracey & Amelia

Louise Boustead Your local Family Law and Divorce legal specialist in Staple Hill

0117 943 4800 20 High Street

Memories of To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS

Betsy wins first professional lead role AN actor from Downend is preparing to take on a starring role in her first professional Christmas pantomime. Betsy Pearce is set to perform in front of a socially-distanced audience in a production of Jack and the Beanstalk at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne Minster, Dorset. The theatre is in an area currently under Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions, allowing the show to go ahead. Betsy won her role as Princess Apricot, who is held in Cloudland by the evil giant Blunderbore, before lockdown in March. She then faced a long, anxious wait to see whether it could go ahead before finally being sent a script a few weeks ago, so she could learn her lines and songs before heading to Dorset to join her fellow cast members in a bubble, a week before the first curtain-up. Betsy attended Gracefield Preparatory School and Colston's School in Stapleton, where she won a drama scholarship, before training for three years on a full scholarship at the Urdang Academy in London, graduating last year. She started to learn her stagecraft in Downend, joining the First Steps & Carly Elizabeth School of Dance at the age of two and joining the Bristol School of Performing

Arts aged eight. Betsy's role at Wimborne Minster is her first lead professional role. Audience numbers are restricted, with temperature checks on arrival and no interval. Betsy said: "I was overjoyed to be offered the role and then devastated when coronavirus hit and everything was on hold. "However the pantomime has been given the go ahead to open and I can't wait to

perform. "My family and friends have all bought tickets and can't wait to come and watch this professional pantomime, produced by Made to Measure productions." Although this is Betsy's first professional lead role she has performed many times on stage in Bristol, including roles in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Annie, Never Forget, Joseph, and Jekyll & Hyde. She has also been in the cast of several pantomimes at the Bristol Hippodrome, with the high point sharing a stage with Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney in the 2008 production of Cinderella. Last year Betsy performed in Beauty and the Beast at the city's at Redgrave Theatre. But the step up to a lead role in this year, in a production which runs from December 18 to January 4, is all the more special after the disruption caused to theatres across the country by the pandemic. Betsy said: "I'm so excited to be able to perform this year, especially with so many theatres and productions cancelled. "I and many of my friends have worked so hard to be part of the arts and unfortunately, due to coronavirus, we have all had to put it on hold."

Happy Days Nurseries are recruiting in Bristol! Happy Days is an established provider of nursery childcare in the South West. Our mission is to provide high quality childcare, early year’s education and play experiences, which meet the individual needs of all children.

We are looking for qualified Childcare Practitioners for our Bristol Nurseries in Bradley Stoke, Thornbury, Cheswick Village (Stoke Gifford) and our new Lyde Green Nursery • Do you yearn for a new challenge for 2021? • Do you want a career not just a job – we’ll support your CPD you need to succeed • Discover the benefits of working within the early years sector • Are you a L2/L3 Childcare Practitioner looking for the next step in your career or looking to return to the early year’s sector? • Happy Days mentor and support their employees along the way • We can offer the choice of permanent or supply roles to suit your lifestyle

Apply before 31 January 2021 and you will be eligible to receive our £300 welcome bonus* (*Terms & Conditions apply)

Interested in finding out more? Email your CV and your location preference to: hradmin@happydaysnurseries.com

“Happy Days, committed to safer recruitment” To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

downendvoice

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

What lockdown did to lifestyles

’M very much a “people person” – so I’m delighted to share with you the results of some very interesting research by the British Chiropractic Association. They asked 10,000 people about their experiences during the first Covid-19 lockdown. For example, how did they manage with changes to their exercise, diet and sleep patterns? The survey, conducted by OnePoll and the BCA, investigated habits and routines to understand the changes to the population’s physical well-being as a result of lockdown and the impact continued restrictions may have. Across all age groups, people have been more sedentary since March, on average spending 11 hours a day sitting. All age groups found exercise the most challenging routine to stick to and that’s what they want to most improve in 2021. This research revealed that 18 to 24-year-olds have experienced the biggest impact to their physical well-being, as a result of

lockdown lifestyle changes. The figures show that 79% have now dropped the schedules they set up in March. There are so many great nuggets of information contained within this report and I wanted to share just a few of them here: • Men are 41% more likely to stick to routines than women (23%). • Exercise and getting outside each day are the hardest routines to stick to, with 42% not finding time for these during the week. • With 43% of us working from home during lockdown, more than a quarter have experienced new symptoms of back, shoulder and neck pain. • To manage tension and back pain, 25% of people have purchased self-support tools, 15% have consulted their GP and 10% have consulted a chiropractor – nearly half of those polled haven’t sought any support yet (46%). While facts and figures are useful, nothing quite beats coming up with a plan of action and sticking to it! At Cleve Chiropractic, we’re

privileged to have Catherine Quinn, the current BCA president, among our team of consultants – and she’s been busy drawing up a list of helpful tips to promote better back health: • Build a routine that’s realistic and works for your lifestyle. Incorporating movement into your day is so important, but many of us set unmanageable goals. • Our bodies love variation, so try to mix up the position you work in – if you work at a desk or table, consider a laptop stand which will allow you work standing up. • A great night’s sleep is a game changer – it’s all too easy to scroll through TikTok and Instagram reels when you’re in bed. Try to protect the hour before you go to bed as your personal wind down time and avoid blue light tech. • To look after your back health there are lots of easy exercises you can do at home. We’ve created some bitesize videos with simple stretches and exercises. You can find them On our Facebook page, under the videos tab.

with Tim Button, Doctor of Chiropractic at Cleve Chiropractic and Next Step in Mangotsfield

0117 957 5388

drtimbutton@cleve chiropractic.com www.clevechiropractic.com facebook.com/clevechiro twitter.com/clevechiro

Finally, I’m delighted to say that we have remained open during this second lockdown. We have all the required PPE and risk assessments in place – we’re very Covid secure and many patients have remarked on how safe and clean the clinic feels.

CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC & PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE WE’VE MOVED, BUT NOT TOO FAR... With a Team approach to healthcare.

Supporting Premiership Football, Rugby, 2012 Olympics and World Athletic Championship 2017

ore added often Choose a class.We..m d discounts bsite with offers an k& Udated on Faceboo

l Chiropractic & Physiotherapy l Back & Leg Pain, Sciatica l Sports Massage l Pilates l Headaches & Migraines l Trapped Nerves l Repetitive Strain Injuries l Occupational Injuries l Sports Injury Specialist l Competitively priced

Y IATR POD L BE

WIL BLE ILA AVA 020 IN 2

Member of the British Chiropractic Association

DAY Monday

CLASS Pilates Pilates Pilates

TIME 10:00 – 11:00 11:00 – 12:00 18:00 – 19:00

Currently online Currently online Live & online

Wednesday Pilates

12:00 – 13:00

From 26/08/20

Friday

10:00 – 11:00

Live & online

Pilates

Check details on Facebook & Website for developments £49 for a block of 6 Pilates sessions.

The practice of pain relief Contact

0117 957 5388

CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangotsfield, Bristol BS16 9EN w w w. c l e v e c h i r o p r a c t i c . c o m

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020

December, 2020 59

n SPORT

Cricket club makes enormous strides AN unusual season for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club ended in an unusual way, with an annual general meeting held over Zoom. Club president Colin Angell felt that the club had pulled together socially, thanks to efforts of James Cathro and Clubman of the Year, James Davis. It had also been successful on the pitch, with the 2nd XI winning their pod and the starting of a Saturday 4th XI plus an occasional 2nd team on a Sunday. Following on from his reelection as chairman, Andy King said the club had made some enormous strides over the last 12 months. Plans are well under way to celebrate 100 years of Carsons Cricket Club, with additional fixtures being planned as well as a centenary dinner, albeit coviddependent. On the playing front, Andy was able to confirm that for the first

time the club will have a specific girls' section, run by Mike Dowse and aimed at girls in school years 3 to 6. This will be done in conjunction with trying to strengthen ties with local schools, to encourage both boys and girls in playing cricket. The club is also looking to create a ladies' softball team and hopes to be able to announce more details in the New Year, once full plans are finalised. The aim of playing more cricket over the coming seasons will put a greater pressure on the square and time spent preparing wickets. Therefore the club is looking into improving the water supply to both squares, which it is hoped will include a rainwater harvesting system. Due to the larger number of adult members the club is also moving the senior nets to Hanham Woods on a Monday evening, from 8pm-9pm. The academy

section of the club will remain at Mangotsfield School. In addition to the normal academy sessions, the club is also looking into running some additional sessions for school years 3 to 6 at Mangotsfield, hopefully in March. Overall Andy felt the club was in a very strong position and could look to the coming season from a positive base. Carsons and Mangotsfield 1st XI are again going to be led by Sam Brayley, supported by Craig Woodland. The club is looking for new adult members and also players for the academy teams, particularly in the Under-15 (school years 9 and 10) team. Any potential players who are interested in joining should call Andy King on 07988 745985 or vice-chairman Ian Coles on 07746 112998.

Downend Voice

Ian Coles

Wait goes on for Mangos MANGOTSFIELD United face a wait to find out when they will play their next match. The Southern Football League issued a joint statement with the Isthmian and Northern Premier leagues on December 3 to announce that the pause in fixtures brought about by November's lockdown would continue at least until it is next reconsidered on December 16. Some 68 clubs in the Southern League voted in favour of the move, with 14 disagreeing. The leagues hope to restart fixtures in January but this will not be until there is a change in the tier system and/ or some progress on a deal for the funding of clubs. Their last three fixtures were all defeats to high-flying sides, 3-0 home and away to Cirencester Town and Basingstoke Town respectively, and a 3-2 home defeat to Slimbridge Town.

AERIALS

AERIALS LOCALSERVICES A.G. For Digital TV Advertise your business

Give Gary a call on 07799461169 ACUPUNCTURE

AERIALS

Est 1967 • Free Quotes • No VAT

Ring Round — Then Ring Us We will undercut any quote for quality work

TELEPHONE

DOWNEND 0117 956 4516 MOBILE 07770 634 804 ARCHITECT SERVICES

ACUPUNCTURE Gisela Norman, a highly experienced acupuncturist of 30 years

www.theaerialman.co.uk

07968 855 001

• Digital Aerials • Fully Guaranteed • Repairs • Satellites • Free Quotes • OAP Discount • Additional TV Points • Humax Recorders

Willow Surgery, Hill House Road, Downend on: 0117 970 9505

Affordable Prices - Reliable Service

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: or make an appointment direct at the

A Member of British Acupuncture Council and Lecturer

0117 967 9028

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

downendvoice

60 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

December, 2020

BURGLAR ALARMS

CLEANING SERVICES

MARK EVANS

Bathroom & Kitchen Specialists

Annie’s Broom

Electricians & Alarm Specialists

Vinney Green Farmhouse Emersons Green BS16 7AF

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

M.J.E. ALARMS

Domestic cleaning and household chores in Bristol & South Glos area

0117 9560695

Contact Annie 07904 500 879 5 Buckingham Place, BS16 5TN anniesbroom.co.uk email: anniesbroom@gmail.com

Burglar Alarms Repairs, Upgrades, Servicing & Installations

tony1osborne@yahoo.co.uk Find us on Facebook osborneandsons

CARPENTRY & INTERIORS

ELECTRICIANS

A p r i c o t E l e c t r i c a l

We service all makes of alarms, from an upgrade and service to new alarm systems

General Carpentry & Floor Fitting

D O M E S T I C A N D C O M M E R C I A L

T H E R E W I R I N G S P E C I A L I S T S

Alarm Services from £45

Kitchens, all wood flooring, LVT flooring, Door hanging

F R E E R e w i r e s a n d R e p a i r s E S T I M A T E S P I R S e c u r i t y L i g h t i n g T e s t i n g C e r t i f i c a t e s B u i l d i n g S o c i e t y W i r i n g R e p o r t s

0117 956 0695 / 07770 233475

A family run business Contact Alan on 07411834534 or 01179374887

enquiries@markevanselectrical.co.uk

F R I E N D L Y , H O N E S T A N D P R O F E S S I O N A L

2 0 0 O v e r n d a l e R o a d , D o w n e n d B r i s t o l B S 1 6 2 R H Mobile

0117 956 3285

Trusted Trader

CARPENTRY

CLEANING SERVICES

07976 665448

ELECTRICIANS

PHILIP PERKINS

Carpentry General Carpenter/Kitchen Fitter (Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen)



• 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



CALL FOR A QUOTE - NO JOB TOO SMALL 0117 9373941 OR 07788 115945

CAR REPAIRS

Call Nick on 0117 2872392

 

0117 303 9000

 

ELECTRICIANS

atom electrical specialist domestic installers

100%Mobile Mobile - to work or home! 100% - to work or home!

Bumper Scuffs • Alloy Wheel Bumper Scuffs • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment • Vandal Scratches Refurbishment • Vandal Scractches Minor Dents • Calliper Painting Minor Dents • Calliper Painting Headlight Restoration • Motorcycles Repairs

70% cheaperthan than body 70% cheaper carcar body shopsshops

All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires. For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service...

call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974

Keynsham Based

Tel: 0117 329 3773 Mob: 07780 713 665

Outside Work = Perfect for Social distancing

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

FREE Quotations www.atomelectrical.co.uk info@atomelectrical.co.uk

Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

downendvoice

December, 2020 ELECTRICIANS

HOUSE CLEARANCE

FENCING

MARK EVANS

Electricians & Alarm Specialists

Vinney Green Farmhouse Emersons Green BS16 7AF

Experts in

Full housge rewirrainnteed at a all work gu t prices s e b e th

Our electricians can also provide extra sockets, low voltage halogen lighting, electrical testing, landlord certificates, kitchen and bathroom electrical work, garden lighting and all your electrical needs

0117 956 0695 / 07770 233475

enquiries@markevanselectrical.co.uk Trusted Trader

DOWNEND FENCINGE)

all work guaranteed - all quotes free

Call Mike on 07962226226 or 0117 9701939 or Andy on 07747148106 Contact us at Facebook: Frenchay fencing ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as

£18.30 +VAT

Per month EMAIL

sales@downendvoice. co.uk

1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179

TEL: 0797 3381663

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

D. ATTWELL

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building

 

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

PAINTING & DECORATING

J L Painting & Decorating Replacement and Maintenance:

Guttering, Downpipes UPVC Fascia Boards Soffits and Cladding Unblock & Gutter Cleaning

OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE LOCALLY BASED

07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003

e - All types of 45 years experienc arance etc. cle , irs fencing, repa L NO JOB TOO SMAL

FRENCHAY FENCING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip

(ERECTING SERVIC

GUTTERING SERVICES

FENCING

All work guaranteed Based in Bristol area Call Paul for free quote

01454 850201 or 07980 001109 GUTTER CLEANING

Jason Lee Qualified Painter & Decorator

Tiler • Mason • Painter

No Job too small Free No obligation quote Telephone:

07474573780 0117 2792264 Classic & Natural stone tiles

High Quality Finish

e: jl.painting.decorating@outlook.com Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry PAINTING & DECORATING Interior & façade painting

Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning Call or Book online

www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 0117 3708528 Mob: 07543056558 Based in Downend, Bristol

Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator

Builder & Interior Decorator

17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience

T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com

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

downendvoice

62 PAINTING & DECORATING

PLUMBING

December, 2020 PLUMBING & HEATING

STEVE PAINTER

DECORATING SERVICES

Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk

Third generation family business offering professional exterior and interior painting and decorating services locally.

Traditionally trained Quality workmanship Paperhanging specialist Friendly and reliable Competitively priced Call Steve Painter on:

01179 565 190 / 07853 250 035 PAINTING & DECORATING

SJM DECORATING

* TAPS, WASHERS * BALL VALVES * LEAKS, WASTES * OVERFLOWS, DRIPS * LEAD PIPES * TOILETS, FLUSHES

Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured

Free Quotations

PLUMBING

SBS PLASTERING

JJ PLUMBING

email: sbsplastering@aol.co.uk

CREST HEATING & PLUMBING

PLUMBING & HEATING

629179

MOBILE: 07989 072976 TEL: 01454 859474 www.plumber-in-bristol.co.uk 07878249260 phil@andersonheatingservices.co.uk

PLUMBING

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

0117

56746

BOILERS • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS

CHECK OUT REVIEWS ON GOOGLE

PLUMBING

518308

PLUMBING & HEATING

TEL: 07765 250816

PLASTERING

Tel: 07900 551199 Tel: 0117 9567100

Finance also available

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HONEST & RELIABLE

www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk

Affordable | Reliable | Professional Free Quotations

10 Year Warranty’s available

BOILERS, BATHROOMS AND GENERAL PLUMBING

Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

City and Guilds Qualified

Boiler installation, servicing and repairs

957 5092

To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk

J AND J CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES Providing general building, factory facilities work, gardening, pest control

Tel 07779242184 Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377

WINDOW & DOOR SOLUTIONS

PLUMBING & HEATING Bristol: 0117 9000 986 Mobile: 07834 633376

3 generations in the plumbing and heating industry and a quality service from a local family business.

We replace & install all new Windows, Doors, Bi-folding Doors, conservatories and much more!

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

ROOFING

TOENAIL CUTTING

N . BROWN

ROOFIN G LIMITED

SLATING • TILING • REPAIRS GUTTERS • FASCIAS

Give your toes a treat

Toenail cutting and foot care in the comfort of your own home. Affordable, professional.

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Give Nigel a call he’s local and has a wealth of experience

✆ 07779 786072 ROOFING

Free foot massage!

Call 07523299147 or visit www.neatfeet.net TREE SURGEONS

J.A. Cole & Sons FLAT ROOFING Tree Surgeons

We can also service & repair all types of PVC, Aluminium & Timber windows/doors From Misted Double Glazing - Lock Repairs - Hinge Replacement - Door/ Window Handles and more.

FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL

077867 30804 or 0117 279 9409 info@treadwellwindows.co.uk treadwellwindows.co.uk BASED IN DOWNEND! WINDOW & DOOR SPECIALISTS

A MURPHY

Mastic | Asphalt | Felt Roofing Contractors Downend based BS16 6AP Over 40 years experience References available on request

TEL: 0117 956 1015 MOBILE: 07976 442703

PROFESSIONAL EXPERT SERVICE - 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF TREE WORK Free Quotations & Advice

0117 9567298 07768 973291

www.bristol-tree-surgeons.co.uk

WASTE DISPOSAL

SHOWER REPAIRS

B R O K E N S H O W E R ? A p r i c o t S h o w e r s A p p r o v e d C o n t r a c t o r

S h o w e r i n s t a l l a t i o n s A l l m a k e s s u p p l i e d I n s t a l l e d , r e p a i r e d R e p l a c e m e n t u n i t s

F R E E E S T I M A T E S

F R I E N D L Y P R O M P T S E R V I C E , A L L W O R K G U A R A N T E E D

A p r i c o t E l e c t r i c a l

2 0 0 O v e r n d a l e R o a d , D o w n e n d B r i s t o l B S 1 6 2 R H Mobile

0117 956 3285

• Tree Surgery • Hedge & Shrub work • Precision Felling • Size Reduction • Fully insured • Domestic & Commercial .

07976 665448

RUBBISH CLEARED

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends

Window and Door Specialists • Supply & Fit • Fascias, Soﬃts and Guttering • Conservatories • Commercial & Shop Fronts • Composite Doors • Windows & Doors • Repairs & Replacement Glazing • Bi-Folding Doors • UPVC and Aluminium

tel: 07977490777

www.maynardwindows.co.uk e: maynardwindows@mail.com

WIGS

Wigs Bristol

LOCATED IN DOWNEND

We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes.

Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY EST. 1973

BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER

THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES

Christmas at St Aldams

CHRISTMAS TREES • lighting • wreaths • POTS & NOVELTIES • SEASONAL VEG

NEW EXTENSIVE RANGE OF VEG ONIONS, POTATOES, CARROTS, PARSNIPS, CAULIFLOWERS, CABBAGE, LEEKS ETC

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR EVENING OPENING HOURS WHY NOT COME AND SEE US AT ST ALDAMS? SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY

OPEN 7

DAYS

9AM-5 P

WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk