downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk www.downendvoice.co.uk June, 2021, Issue 95
FREE EVERY MONTH IN DOWNEND, MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE HILL, BROMLEY HEATH & FRENCHAY
We're doing our bit! Vicar Jo ready to say farewell Rev Jo Vickery, vicar of Christ Church, pictured with his wife Shahne, will retire at the end of June after 37 years in full-time ordained ministry and 19 years in Downend. PAGE 21
Liz wins seat on South Glos Council
Children, teachers and parents at a Mangotsfield primary school have won an award for their hard work to cut pollution and congestion, and improve their own health, by reducing car travel on the way to school. Full story: Page 11
Cat shot with crossbow A CAT had to be put down after being shot with a crossbow in Mangotsfield and another lost an eye when it was shot with an air rifle in Shortwood. Police are stepping up patrols in the area and asking anyone who has information to help the investigation to contact them.
The cat owners are appealing for help to track down the "vile people" who targeted their pets. Christine McFarlane, whose cat Loki died in the suspected crossbow incident, said the vet told her it was the worst attack they had seen. Full story: Page 3
Conservative Liz Brennan won the Frenchay & Downend seat on South Gloucestershire Council at last month's by-election. PAGE 5
High streets win grant aid Projects and businesses in Staple Hill and Downend have been given grants to help the high streets recover after the Covid-19 lockdowns. PAGES 12 & 13
HAIR DESIGNERS Why not give yourself a boost and feel uplifted during these times by trying out a new style, cut or even a vibrant colour? All of our stylists aim to offer a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience to help you feel and look amazing. Looking forward to see you soon! Craig & the team
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Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579 Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377
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June, 2021
n NEWS
Teenagers arrested after man is stabbed in street A MAN was taken to hospital after being stabbed in the street in Staple Hill. Two teenagers were arrested in connection with the incident in the High Street on the evening of Friday, May 7. Police say they have stepped up patrols in the area and say they will be dispersing troublemakers following "a surge of anti-social behaviour". The injured man, who is in his 20s, was found by police and paramedics close to the Acacia Road junction at around 10.10pm. An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said the man had been taken to hospital and kept in for several days, although his injuries were "non life-threatening and non life-changing". Police arrested two 18-year-old men on suspicion of affray in relation to the incident – one on the night and one the following afternoon. Both have since been released on bail. Officers stayed in the area carrying out investigations during the morning after the incident, with residents reporting police cars and a scientific investigations van parked nearby and an area of the road at the Acacia Road junction covered over. Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information about what happened to call them on 101, quoting crime reference number 5221 099 787. An announcement on the team's Twitter account said: "Following a surge of anti-social behaviour on Staple Hill High Street and Broad Street, the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be patrolling these areas and dispersing any groups causing a disturbance."
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June, 2021
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n NEWS
'Vile' attacks on cats with crossbow and air rifle POLICE and pet owners are calling for help to track down the "vile people" who have shot at cats with air rifles and a crossbow. At least one family pet died while another lost an eye after being shot by unknown offenders. Investigations are underway and police have appealed for anyone with information about the attacks to contact them. Christine Mcfarlane's cat Loki had to be put down after being shot with a crossbow near her home in Mangotsfield. The five-year-old cat returned to Christine's home early on April 29 but could not get through the cat flap, because what is believed to have been a crossbow bolt around a foot long was lodged in his body, having passed through his lung, stomach, liver and bowels. Christine and her husband took Loki to the emergency vet, Rowe in Bradley Stoke. She said: "They said it was the worst attack they ever saw." Loki had to be put down as, despite what Christine described as "amazing" care, the vet decided that trying to remove the arrow would cause further injury to him. Christine said: "What happened to Loki, and the other attacks on our family pets in the area, is very disturbing. "It's so frightening. I've got a dog, and I'm now frightened to let him out unless I'm with him." Christine believes the attack happened in the Royal Road or Streamside area, close to her home, as they could only find blood from Loki near their house and a neighbour had seen him uninjured at 6am, about half an hour before he came home injured. She said: "Not knowing who did it is the worst thing, and the fact it's happened so close to home." Christine is appealing for anyone who saw anything or thinks they know someone with a weapon that fires black bolts or arrows with metal tips and white plastic flights to contact the police. She said: "Someone must know if there's a person with a crossbow in the area." Less than a week later
Christine Mcfarlane's five-year-old cat Loki died after being shot with a crossbow bolt
George Bristow's cat Louise lost an eye after being shot in the face with an airgun pellet Georgina Bristow's cat Louise was shot with an air rifle somewhere near her home in Shortwood. Louise, who is believed to be around 11 years old, needed emergency surgery and had to have one of her eyes removed after being shot in the face between 3pm and 5pm on May 5. George believes the attack probably took place near the cycle path from Emersons Green to Westerleigh, which passes between Shortwood and Lyde Green. She said: "Our best guess is that this happened on or near the cycle track between the ring road and Yate. She likes to explore the cycle track and fields around it. "Cat owners, please be aware that there are some vile people around." George said she had heard of another cat being shot and killed on Main Road in Shortwood, not long before Louise was attacked, and thinks the two incidents could be linked. Police are understood to have been making house to house enquiries in the area as they investigate the incidents. George said: "It would be amazing if we could find who did this, before it happens again." An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson appealed for anyone with information on
either incident to come forward. People with information on the Mangotsfield incident should call 101 and quote crime reference number 5221 092 158. Anyone with information about the Shortwood incident should quote log number 198 of May 9.
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n NEWS THE father of a cyclist who was hit by a car at the Hambrook traffic lights is calling for changes to the crossing where the collision happened. Thomas Harris was cycling across the three-lane section of the Avon Ring Road, between the M32 and the Bromley Heath roundabout, on March 9 when he was knocked from his bike, then hit by two other vehicles. He suffered fractures to the front and back of his skull and several bleeds to the brain. He was in a coma for seven days and in intensive care for three weeks, and while he has been able to return home, brain damage has affected his memory and mobility. Tom was hit as he crossed the third lane of the road, by a vehicle which his dad Rich understands was travelling at around the 50mph limit. Rich said: "It's a 50mph limit approaching the lights but when
June, 2021
'Unsafe' crossing should be changed, says crash victim's dad you approach the next junction, which is a roundabout, it's 30mph. It's also 30mph in the other direction (from Frenchay and Winterbourne). "They're letting traffic through too quick. There isn't enough time to go across three lanes on the crossing – it's the same timescale as a two-lane crossing. It needs to be changed or someone else will be knocked off in time." Rich says that signs warning vehicles about the crossing need to be improved and is also concerned that the continuation of the experimental order banning some right turns at the junction, which was supposed to have finished in February, could
have contributed to the accident. The family, who lived in Staple Hill until they moved from the area last year, have engaged solicitors to work on possible legal action over safety at the junction. A South Gloucestershire Council spokesman said: “We are aware that a police investigation is in progress and we will review their findings fully once they have been shared with us. “We were required by Government to implement an Experimental Traffic Order at Hambrook traffic lights on the A4174 to improve air quality in the area. Since then, our monitoring data of nitrogen dioxide levels has been
significantly impacted due to Covid-19 restrictions resulting in less traffic on our roads. Because of this we are seeking guidance from the Joint Air Quality Unit as to the way forward with the scheme. “The measures in place at the junction are fully compliant with legislative requirements, including the signalised crossing facilities which were upgraded in 2018 and have been designed to support the safety of all road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists.” An online fundraising campaign to fund adaptations Tom will need as a result of the collision can be found at bit. ly/3sK0n3a.
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June, 2021
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n NEWS
Liz wins by-election for Conservatives CONSERVATIVE Liz Brennan is the new councillor for the Frenchay & Downend ward on South Gloucestershire Council. She won the by-election to fill the seat vacated when fellow Tory and former council deputy leader Jon Hunt stood down from the council last summer, amid strong challenges from the Liberal Democrats and Labour. Almost 45% of voters turned out for the election on May 6 – up from 37% when all three Frenchay & Downend seats were up for grabs at the local elections two years earlier. Ms Brennan's total of 1,819 votes was one more than the highest-placed Conservative winner in 2019, Ben Burton. And third-placed Labour candidate Sean Rhodes' 1,049 votes was a higher total than the highest-placed runner-up in 2019, Labour's AJ Coakham. But the big movers in the election were the Liberal Democrats, who leapfrogged Labour to become runners-up after selecting parish councillor and businessman Raj Sood, who runs the convenience store on Quakers Road. Mr Sood won 1,598 votes, cutting the gap between the Tories and the opposition from 620 two years ago to 221 this year. The Green Party stood a candidate in the ward for the first time, but Oliver Owen was a distant fourth, with 347 votes. Mum-of-three Ms Brennan will join fellow Conservatives Ben Burton and James Griffiths to represent the ward. She said: “Being given this
New Frenchay & Downend councillor Liz Brennan with South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage opportunity by the people of Frenchay and Downend to represent our local community is a great honour and I look forward to representing residents on the council alongside Ben and James, providing a strong voice for our communities. “I am extremely passionate about delivering positive change and cannot wait to get started on delivering for the people who have elected me.” Before she was elected, Ms Brennan was involved in campaigns for high street funding, free swimming lessons for pregnant women and new medicines for people living with cystic fibrosis, after her six-yearold daughter was diagnosed with the debilitating condition. Council leader Toby Savage said: “I am pleased to have such a passionate and committed campaigner as Liz join the council and am sure she will be a fantastic representative for the people of Frenchay and
Downend.” The Liberal Democrats said they were "confidently looking forward to the next local elections" after pushing Labour into third place. Mr Sood said: “I have been running a campaign built on listening to local residents and championing the issues that
matter to them, like helping our local businesses to recover, direct bus services to Southmead Hospital and tackling ring road traffic noise. “I feel indebted to people who showed their faith in me. I will continue to serve them as a parish councillor and local campaigner to the best of my ability.” South Gloucestershire Lib Dem group leader Claire Young said: “Raj’s phenomenal result in Frenchay and Downend – cutting the Tory lead to just 221 - shows that people in South Gloucestershire are growing disenchanted with the ruling Conservative Party.”
Results:
Liz Brennan (Con) 1,819 Raj Sood (LD) 1,598 Sean Rhodes (Lab) 1,049 Oliver Owen (Grn) 347 Turnout 44.6%
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June, 2021
n NEWS
Mark is new police commissioner CONSERVATIVE Mark Shelford has been elected Avon and Somerset’s new police and crime commissioner. The former soldier made election pledges to “reassure, refocus and rebuild” and prioritise preventing crime, not just trying to catch criminals. He received 161,319 votes in the May 6 election, 15,000 ahead of Labour’s Kerry Barker, on 146,293, after first and secondpreference votes were counted. Green candidate Cleo Lake finished in third place, with 64,790 votes, Liberal Democrat Heather Shearer received 52,839 and independent John Smith 46,379. Voting took place across South Gloucestershire, Bristol, B&NES, North Somerset and Somerset. Mr Shelford topped the first round poll in every area except Bristol, while Mr Barker received more second round votes everywhere except for three
of the four Somerset county districts. The election was postponed a year due to the coronavirus pandemic, and Mr Shelford will only serve a three-year term. Speaking after the declaration, he said: “I’m going to have to work quickly, starting tomorrow. “It’s really exciting and quite humbling. "There’s a huge responsibility placed on my shoulders. I’m relishing the opportunity to get started as soon as possible. “The force will grow in stature and be more self-assured. The people of Avon and Somerset will know the police are there for them. “It’s about making the police more efficient and effective. We will do that together.” Mr Shelford had criticised the police for the handling of recent "Kill the Bill" protests in Bristol and said the force should not have allowed a “mob” to pull
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down the statue of slave trader Edward Colston last summer. One of his first tasks will be to appoint a new chief constable, after Andy Marsh steps down in July. Mr Shelford said he would not rush into making an appointment and was looking for “somebody that exudes leadership and command, and has unshakeable belief in the Peelian principles of policing (by consent)". He will also appoint a deputy PCC, and said he will work with the police and crime panel in doing so. Outgoing PCC Sue Mountstevens made Mr Smith, her former chief executive, the first deputy PCC last year. But he was unable to repeat her success at the ballot box. Mr Shelford, a former Army lieutenant colonel, served for four years as a Bath & North East Somerset councillor but lost his seat in 2019 after a boundary change. In his acceptance speech he thanked the election staff, his team, his family and Ms Mountstevens, who he said had "worked tirelessly over the last nine years to keep the people of Avon and Somerset safer". He thanked the “whole police family”, saying: “The public on the doorstep recognise your stoic courage and they all thank you for what you have done over the last years to keep Avon and Somerset safer. “And last, thanks to the public who have lent me your vote. Together we can work to keep Avon and Somerset safer.”
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In his concession speech, Mr Barker, who came second to Ms Mountstevens at the last elections in 2016, said: “Mark, we will be with you and watching you, and wanting to make sure this force gets a better share of resources from government, that the other criminal justice services also get a better share of resources and that we see vast improvements under your leadership.” By Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Results
First round results: Mark Shelford (Con) – 136,988 Kerry Barker (Lab) 93,495 Cleo Lake (Green) – 64,790 Heather Shearer (Lib Dem) – 52,839 John Smith (independent) – 46,379 Second round results: Mark Shelford 161,319 (24,331 second preferences) Kerry Barker 146,293 (52,798 second preferences) Turnout: 30.7%
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June, 2021
n NEWS LABOUR'S Dan Norris has won the West of England Metro Mayor election. The former MP beat Conservative Samuel Williams by 125,482 votes to 85,389, a majority of just over 40,000 votes, after second-preference votes were counted. Green candidate Jerome Thomas was third, with 54,919 votes, while Liberal Democrat Stephen Williams was fourth, with 39,767. The count went to a second round after no-one received an overall majority in the first round of voting. However, Mr Norris had a lead of more than 10,500 votes after first preferences were counted, receiving 84,434 votes to Mr Williams' 72,415. In the second round, where second preference votes from Green and Lib Dem voters were added to the front runners' totals, Mr Norris received another 41,048 votes to Mr Williams' 12,974. It meant Labour gained the mayoralty from the Tories, who had won by 4,377 votes in 2017. The Metro Mayor leads the West of England Combined Authority, which is responsible for strategic development of business, skills, housing and transport in the region. Mr Norris said: “It’s a huge honour to be elected as Metro Mayor, for an amazing part of the world that I am so proud to call home. "I will show the difference an active Metro Mayor makes for our region. “This role is about collaboration and I will be a Metro Mayor who listens carefully and works cooperatively.
7
Dan becomes Metro Mayor
Dan Norris celebrating with his dog Angel at the ss Great Britain after the results of the Metro Mayor election were announced "I’m determined to hit the ground running, with a Jobs and Skills summit in my first 100 days and my Green Recovery Plan. “I also know that the pandemic has been tough and, as we build back, invest in jobs and our high streets, we must learn key lessons. "Together we can create a society where we keep looking out for each other and value what’s truly important.” After the result was announced, Mr Williams paid tribute to his supporters and volunteers, saying: "Thank you for all your support over the past months. It did not go the way we had hoped but we did an outstanding job." The overall turnout in the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) area was almost 37% – higher than four years ago, when it was less than 30%, and higher than the metro
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mayoral contests in Liverpool, Greater Manchester, the West Midlands and Tees Valley. Mr Norris benefited from the increased turnout in Bristol, where elections for the city council and Bristol Mayor were also taking place on May 6: he received more than 50,000 votes in the city, while Mr Williams' 28,000 in Bristol was behind the Greens. Mr Norris was 143 votes behind the Conservative candidate in B&NES, where he was the MP for the now-abolished Wansdyke constituency from 1997 until 2010. In South Gloucestershire Mr Williams was more than 9,000 votes ahead of Mr Norris, where they received 28,693 and 19,168 first-preference votes respectively. As well as his pledges on jobs and the environment, Mr Norris's manifesto included
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a requirement for 35% of all new homes to be "genuinely affordable", an increase in spending on housebuilding and the creation of a 'homelessness taskforce'. He has also pledged to drive through improvements to transport, including investigating mass transit and bus franchising, smart ticketing and tap-in, tap-out payments, improved rail services and walking and cycling options. Mr Norris started his political career as a Bristol city councillor in the 1980s and also served on Avon County Council in the mid-90s. As an MP he was appointed an environment minister by Gordon Brown in 2009 but lost his seat in the 2010 General Election, when he the redrawn and renamed North East Somerset constituency was won by Conservative Jacob ReesMogg. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Results
Round 1 Dan Norris 84,434 Samuel Williams 72,415 Jerome Thomas 54,919 Stephen Williams 41,193 Round 2 Dan Norris 125,482 (41,048 second preferences) Samuel Williams 85,389 (12,974 second preferences) Turnout 36.6% Metro Mayor column: Page 25 Whether you need a quick trim, a full restyle or something completely unique to you we have got you covered! We welcome clients of all ages
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June, 2021
n PETER'S VISION FAMILY EYE CARE FOR GENERATIONS
Seeing our way out of lockdown A Q&A with Peter Turner, Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol.
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So Peter, how’s the last year been for you? We literally haven’t stopped. From March 2020 we have been here when our patients needed us. Whether it was emergency responders or those who found themselves working from their dining room tables urgently needing new glasses we were able to respond quickly and look after them. You’ve made some changes, I hear. Well yes and no. We haven’t changed. Our vision remains the same as always; reassuringly thorough eye care for every patient. It’s the NHS funding that should have changed years ago, and sadly has not! As we set out to survive the pandemic it became clear that we could no longer work without a sustainable NHS fee to cover the cost of the thorough eye care we provide. Don’t the NHS pay you? A sight test with us remained 30 minutes long, despite the NHS only funding 6-7 minutes of the care our patients were receiving. So how did you come to this decision? We had several (socially distanced of course) meetings, to try to find a sustainable way to continue caring for our patients for many years to come. It was a long, and often emotional process. We emerged from lockdown as a practice offering reassuringly thorough eye care to the whole family. For the first time in 70 years this is outside of the NHS. Your Grandfather Harold founded the practice; what would he make of this? Harold started work as an Ophthalmic Optician in the 1930s, years before the NHS was formed. Harold believed in quality care at an affordable price. We hold those values dear to this day. I think Harold would be proud that over 80 years later his family Opticians are very much thriving in Bristol. So how can people come and see you now? To make thorough eye care affordable, we launched low cost monthly Direct Debit Vision Plans for eye care, and also for contact lens wearers too. Vision Plan membership lets our patients access the reassuringly thorough eye care then want, when they need it. We also include accidental damage cover for their glasses bought from us as well as emergency appointments if needed too. Full details are on our website. Do you still see children? Most definitely. As parents of young children, we’re keen to offer the thorough care our children benefit from to others too. For one child it’s just £4 per month, for two or more children in a household it’s £6 for all. We also include a pair of single vision lenses (worth £25) for each child who needs them. Your Vision plan sounds interesting. How can I join? You can telephone the practice, or book to come and see us, and we will be happy to set up your vision plan membership. Although most of us are used to Direct Debits, what about those who aren’t? If patients would prefer to pay for their eye care consultations each time they attend, we also offer a pay on the day option. Well Peter, I wish you the very best. You certainly seem reenergised by your new ways of working. As a final question, what if someone has another question? Thank you! If there’s any other questions we’re very happy to help, just email EyeCareTeam@TurnersOpticians.co.uk. This Q&A session was with Peter Turner, who is a Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, and also works part time as a Senior Optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.
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June, 2021
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n NEWS A DOWNEND woman is raising money for the hospice which supported her husband through his final days. Chris Durling was a former Rolls-Royce aero engine design engineer, who died in December of cancer, aged 63. Before his illness, Chris and his wife Janet Blikmans liked to ride bikes together, both locally and on holidays, and Janet is set to ride a 65km circuit from UWE, over the Severn Bridge and through the Wye Valley as part of June's St Peter's Hospice Tour de Bristol event. Janet is determined to raise as much as she can to help the charity, which is the area's only adult hospice. It urgently needs support after a £2 million funding shortage due to a year of lockdowns forced it to cut beds and jobs. Janet said: "St Peter's Hospice supported Chris and myself throughout his illness and in the hospice, in the last two weeks of Chris's life, with the greatest care, respect and dignity. "It is the most amazing place that needs to keep going to help others in the future." After working for RollsRoyce, where he was credited with patents for a number of components he designed, Chris took voluntary redundancy at the age of 57 and turned his talents to renovating houses, having previously built his own home, which Janet described as his "pride and joy". He was finishing his second renovation project when, after seeing a doctor over persistent back pain, he was diagnosed with non-smokers' small cell lung cancer in December 2019. Janet said Chris had never smoked a cigarette and was very active, doing circuit training,
Chris Durling
Janet rides for hospice in memory of husband Chris Janet Blikmans with husband Chris Durling on a bike ride
squash and tennis in addition to cycling. But the extent of the cancer meant that from the start he was not expected to recover and, despite undergoing four different courses of chemotherapy, the disease spread to his liver and brain. Janet and Chris got married in July, having been together for 20 years, and were able to hold a garden party afterwards. St Peter's Hospice had been managing Chris's pain relief and giving advice, support and counselling to him and to Janet before he was given a bed there, two weeks before he died in December last year. Janet said: "All the staff were so amazing to try to make the end of his life as comfortable as possible. "It is a very caring place. The doctors sit with you and talk things through and, as a family member, you are part of that." Coronavirus restrictions mean Janet has been unable to hold a proper memorial for Chris, inviting the many people who knew him, so she now plans to hold one after restrictions are eased on June 21, the week before the cycle ride she has been training hard for. So far she has raised more than £1,400, having set a target of £250, and says she has been "totally overwhelmed" by the support of people who either
knew Chris or responded to shared posts about the bike ride. You can support St Peter's
hospice via Janet's fundraising page at justgiving.com/ fundraising/janetblikmans.
The Grapevine Brasserie www.grapevinebrasserie.co.uk The Grapevine Brasserie, St James Pl, Mangotsfield BS16 9JB
The Grapevine Brasserie is back and now offering H H 25% off food Monday-Wednesday H H H H Burger night is now each and every Thursday H H H Bottomless Prosecco Lunch is every Saturday between 12-5pm (Last sitting 3-5pm). H All can be booked online via our website or you can call us on 01179570614 www.grapevinebrasserie.co.uk | info@grapevinebrasserie.co.uk
H
H H H
H
GRAND OPENING IS MAY 20TH
H H
SERVING FOOD AND DRINKS FROM 9am DAILY TILL LATE
H You can book online via our website or give us a call. H
We do hold back some indoor seating for walk-ins whether that is for food or just for drinks. Our lovely new outdoor seating area is also a great covered space for you to sit and enjoy!
www.mokkablc.co.uk | info@mokkablc.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
10
June, 2021
n NEWS
Senior Film Club resumes Heathfest cancelled for second year after a lengthy interval BRINGING joy and encouraging people to carry on living life to the full is the reason John Moore of Home Instead set up a Senior Film Club. The monthly meet-up for a film screening plus tea and cake was a regular fixture in Henleaze and Downend before the pandemic and John can’t wait for it to get into fullswing again. “It’s for anyone who wants to come along, catch up with old friends, meet new friends or just sit quietly at the back,” says John. “We see the Senior Film Club as so important. It’s a way for people to regain some of their confidence, getting out there and meeting people again. “I’m really looking forward to getting people together to have fun. It’s always been such a highlight to see people leaving the event with a smile on their face. “We’ve seen the impact of the aging process on people as they are missing out on the stimulation of company so now that we can, we’re bringing back the Senior Film Club and hope it gives people a boost.” The film for June's event will be Fisherman’s Friends - a funny film with a serious note , based on real events. The event takes place in Christ Church Hall, Downend on June 21st starting at 2pm. Entrance is £4 including tea and cake. Pre-booking is essential as numbers are limited due to Covid measures. To book please call 0117 435 0064.
A POPULAR annual festival staged in Bromley Heath has been cancelled for the second year in a row. Heathfest is usually held on Bromley Heath playing fields in early July. But last year's event had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus lockdown and, although restrictions are currently in the process of being lifted, continuing uncertainty meant that organisers had to take the decision to cancel the festival in April. The event attracted 4,000 people the last time it was staged in 2019, with live music, stalls, funfair rides and inflatable Zorb balls among the attractions pulling in the crowds. It is also a fundraiser for charities – the 2019 event raised £2000 for South Gloucestershire disability charity Paul's Place and £500 for the volunteer Blood Bikes service which supports the NHS. Organisers broke the news of the cancellation on the events Facebook page, saying: "Once again we are sadly announcing that Heathfest will not be running this Summer. "The festival takes many months to organise and with so many restrictions it has been tricky to predict how 2021 was panning out. "The Festival will be back in 2022 with all your favourite stalls, groups and entertainment!" A date for next year's event is still to be confirmed. Although the festival is not going ahead, organisers are hoping to continue their Laurie Awards for people who have made significant community contributions this year. They have invited nominations to recognise "extra special people" who have given their time and effort to help others during the pandemic. Nominations can be made by messaging the organisers at the Heathfest Facebook page.
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We are looking for kind and compassionate people to join our teams in Downend and the surrounding areas, and help us keep our clients safe, independent and connected within their communities. Our person centred approach to care means you are matched to clients with similar interests or background so there’s a natural start to the support and friendship. And by visiting the same clients regularly, you can really see the difference you make to their lives. If you are looking for a meaningful role, why not get in touch and find out more?
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For more information about joining our team please call 0117 435 0063 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
downendvoice
June, 2021
11
n NEWS
Barley Close school earns travel award A PROJECT to reduce car journeys to and from a Mangotsfield school has won pupils, teachers and parents an award. Barley Close Community Primary School has achieved the Silver Modeshift STARS Award for work to encourage "active travel" – walking, cycling or scooting to school. The active travel project features 41 different initiatives, including a "walking bubble" five minute's walk around the school, where parents who drive are encouraged park and finish their journey on foot, children recording their daily journeys to school on a 'travel tracker' and receiving badges for active travel, and workshops with South Gloucestershire Council's road safety and Bikeability teams. Head teacher Jo Williams said: "Walking, cycling or scooting to school, even for just part of the journey, improves health and well-being, reduces congestion and improves air quality. "We are so proud that we have met the Silver Modeshift standard. I would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff, pupils and families at Barley Close for supporting us and helping the children to be more active. "The support from Andrew MacDonald
and the road safety team in South Glos as well as Catherine McCoy from Living Streets has been second to none, so thank you to all
BRISTOL DOWNEND
C H R I S TA D E L P H I A N S
of them as well." In 2019 Barley Close became the first school in South Gloucestershire to achieve a Modeshift Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools (STARS) Bronze Award for promoting sustainable methods of transport. But the need for further work had been highlighted by a police operation in October last year, which found six parents on the school run to Barley Close driving or using e-scooters illegally, including a disqualified driver who had parked on the school's keep clear zigzag lines to drop children off, in a car he had taken without the owner's consent. The council announced plans for an experimental "school street" traffic order to stop traffic entering Barley Close at dropoff and pick-up times last summer, but the scheme was scrapped after it was found that a large number of residents would have been unable to access driveways and garages. The school now has a dedicated active travel page on its website, includes active travel in the prospectus for new parents and regularly updates parents, neighbours, teachers and pupils on its progress to improve sustainability at school.
The entrance of thy words giveth light
Online BiBle Talks in June 6th
Perfect Planet
13th What We Believe About God’s Promises 20th The Bible: God’s Inspired Message 27th God Loves You - How Do You Respond?
Each Sunday’s talk begins at 2.30pm
Visit bristoldownend.com for more details To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
12
n NEWS BUSINESSES and projects in Downend and Staple Hill have been given grants as part of a drive to help high streets recover from lockdown. Money from South Gloucestershire Council's £400,000 Help us Thrive fund is being given to 63 applicants out of more than 200 who applied. Grants are being spread around a total of eight high street areas, which also include Kingswood, Hanham, Thornbury, Yate, Chipping Sodbury and Filton. In Downend the biggest grant was £10,000 awarded to Forage, a new restaurant which is being set up in the former Crowns coffee and sandwich shop next to Coco Hairdressing on Badminton Road. The council has also pledged £5,000 towards an outdoor seating area at new cafe bar and lounge Mokka, at the Willows shopping centre. In Staple Hill, £5,000 is set to go to the YOU Foundation's
June, 2021
Projects and businesses win high street recovery grants indoor skate park at the former Staple Hill Primary School off Page Road, now known as the YouF Centre. The skateboard park project, known as the Boarding School and featured in April's Downend Voice, will be made up of modular ramps, which can be arranged in designs chosen by the club's 11 to 19-year-old members. Another grant, of £4,998, will go to the Page Park-based Bean Tree Café to fund a project to transform Fountain Square in Staple Hill with murals and other paint work, as part of plans by traders to revitalise the area. The council said it chose projects "aimed at diversifying the high street and introducing
new technologies to help the high street evolve and embrace new ways of working", as well as supporting the growth of existing employers, local communities helping themselves and encouraging social inclusion. Community groups could apply for to £20,000, new businesses up to £10,000 and existing businesses up to £5,000, with anyone applying for more than £5,000 needing to supply evidence they were providing a similar level of funding themselves. Council cabinet member Rachael Hunt said: “It’s great to see so many community organisations and local businesses across the area receive funding, which will help
our high streets recover and flourish again following the Covid-19 pandemic. "High streets are essential social hubs and we are committed to supporting local groups and businesses so they can thrive and adapt to future challenges.” The council has also been allocated £255,000 from the government's Welcome Back Fund, aimed at supporting the safe reopening of high streets. It has diverted a number of applications from parish councils and in bloom groups to this fund. The Voice spoke to two of the recipients of the grants, Mokka and the Bean Tree Cafe. We have been unable to contact Forage.
News: email us at: news@downendvoice.co.uk
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June, 2021
downendvoice
13
n NEWS
Grant funds seating space at cafe bar WHEN Mitch Hoare and his dad Mike started on their plans to set up cafe, bar and lounge Mokka early last year, they had no idea what the coronavirus pandemic was about to throw at them. They pressed on with preparations for the new business through the first lockdown and were all set to open to the public when the second lockdown was introduced in November, followed by the tier system and third lockdown which kept the venue shut. The Voice reported in February that, because Mokka had been unable to trade, the business was ineligible to claim any support grants, furlough payments or business rate reductions offered to other businesses by the government. Mitch and his family, who also run the Grapevine in Mangotsfield and the Foresters in Downend, had invested £100,000 and spent months transforming the building next to the North Street/Badminton Road roundabout into a venue where people could meet, eat and drink.
Mitch Hoare outside Mokka With the hospitality sector having to find new ways to serve customers, Mitch and Mike decided to build an outdoor seating area on the walkway in front of the new business in the Willow Shopping Centre. South Gloucestershire Council granted planning permission for the seating area and, through the Help us Thrive grant, will pay the
£5,000 costs of building it. Mitch and Mike have built raised flower beds at either end, which will be planted by Downend and Bromley Heath In Bloom, and will install a ramp to allow disabled customers access to the seating area, which has been built on a raised wooden platform due to the uneven paving and steps. The business was set to open on May 20, with seating for up to 56 people inside and 28 at the seven outdoor tables. Mitch said: "To get a grant to do this has helped us massively, after the money we put in last year without being able to open. "It's improved the high street, giving people more space to sit outside, under cover." The new seating area has been praised by Frenchay and Downend ward councillors Ben Burton, James Griffiths and Liz Brennan, who said: "It’s great to see how they are making use of the Help to Thrive fund, an initiative we are proud to back."
Art project and audio tour for Staple Hill FOUNTAIN Square in Staple Hill is set for a major makeover after a grant of nearly £5,000 was awarded to fund projects including new wall murals. Leading Bristol street artists will be chosen to paint pictures on the walls of buildings to Melody Beard in Fountain Square brighten up the area, with the steps and Staple Hill High Street and benches also set to be painted. Broad Street from next year. The grant of £4,998 from There will also be a children's South Gloucestershire Council's activity, with a treasure trail. Help Us Thrive fund was applied Melody said: "We're trying for by Melody Beard of the Bean to highlight what the area has Tree Cafe in Page Park, on behalf to offer, connect people to the of local business group the Staple community, and by employing Hill Chamber of Trade. local artists and actors, help Melody said the idea was a creative industry severely similar to the Upfest street art affected by the pandemic." project which attracts visitors to The projects the grant will Bedminster and Southville. fund are just two of several She is negotiating with the planned for the area. An artisan owners of the buildings in the market is planned in Fountain square and the project could see Square on June 19, with local the walls above Iceland and next traders, crafters and food stalls. to the Carpe Diem therapy centre On July 17 a family day will be transformed, among others. held at the square and there will As well as the street art be an art market on August 21. project, which is likely to take Anyone who would like to place in September, the money provide a stall or an attraction will fund the creation of an audio at the family day or art market 'story walk' on a downloadable should email nestpagepark@ app, which people will be able gmail.com for more details on to use on guided walks around how to get involved.
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Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
14
June, 2021
n NEWS
Police seize e-scooters POLICE say they seized three illegally-ridden electric scooters and gave warnings to 13 people in the space of a single week in the Staple Hill area. The area's neighbourhood policing team has been prioritising e-scooter related anti-social behaviour over other projects, including its Operation Torque campaign against noisy and speeding motorists. A spokesperson said the majority, if not all, of the recent cases in early May involved privately-owned scooters, which are currently illegal to use on roads and in public spaces, rather than the officially-sanctioned Voi scooter rental scheme, which requires a driving licence to be shown. A recent request under Freedom of Information law found that, across the whole of South Gloucestershire in the three months from February to April there had been 18 reported incidents involving scooters involved in the legal trial scheme compared with 83 relating to privately-owned scooters. In Downend there had been
four complaints and there had been six in Staple Hill, seven in Emersons Green and eight in Soundwell. A spokesperson said: "Our South Gloucestershire neighbourhood teams are listening to local concerns about road safety and have developed a patrol plan for areas where e-scooter misuse has been problematic. "We’re aware of community concerns about irresponsible e-scooter use in South Gloucestershire, including reports of dangerous and underage riding, which puts pedestrians, motorists and the users themselves at risk. "We’ve found residential areas such as Lyde Green and Staple Hill to be the most problematic and where reports involve rental scooters, we are working in partnership with Voi to address the issues. "However, it should be stressed that these reports represent a small minority of e-scooter users, with the vast majority complying with the rules."
One of the new Volvo FL280 fire engines
New fire engine A NEW "state of the art" fire engine will arrive at the fire station serving the Downend area this summer. Avon Fire & Rescue Service says the Volvo FL280 appliance heading for Kingswood fire station is one of seven which has been designed and kitted out to specifications of a working group of 16 personnel including firefighters and workshop crews. The service says the new appliances are slightly smaller than the vehicles they replace, making it easier to get through narrow streets. As well as foam and water tanks and tools common to most appliances, the machines have new features, such as underchassis lighting for slow speed manoeuvring, microphones for communication between firefighters on the ground and the driver and individual seats to increase comfort on longer journeys, with more storage to enable breathing apparatus and other equipment to be kept out of the cab.
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
BSpoke16 returns to the streets
A YEAR on from the first outdoor trail, BSpoke16 is back in July with another showcase of extraordinary creative talent from our area. Many makers, artists and designers are returning following the first two successful events last summer and winter, which have attracted and inspired more exhibitors to join the collective for the third trail. The event will take place on
July 16-18, from 10am-4pm across the BS16 area at various venues which will be advertised on the trail map, which will be released in early July. A variety of handmade arts, crafts and products will be available to buy, including: drawings, paintings, printmaking, hand cut art, jewellery, needle felt, ceramics, wooden products, cards and unique gifts all by local
bspoke16.co.uk to see this summer’s exhibitors and start planning your route. If you are interested in taking part please email bspoke16@gmail. com for an application form.
craftspeople. The trail will also include makers giving demonstrations of their techniques and will also involve the participation of local schools – more details to follow. Browse the website www.
Outdoor Event...16-18th July...in BS16...
Plan your route in advance and enjoy browsing in a safe environment, outside your local maker’s home.
For more info visit our website or call 0781 3312603
maps available early july
www.bspoke16.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
YOUR
Community NEWS
Brought to you by
DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE With the easing of lockdown It is pleasing to see that our day-to-day activities are getting back to some kind of normality, which we have been looking forward to for so long. It is wonderful to see the football and cricket teams using the local sports pitches once again. At King George V / Badminton Road Playing Fields, the outcome of the planning application for the new pavilion is awaited and we will, of course, keep you updated as soon as more information is known.
CCTV Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council hopes that their decision to purchase the CCTV cameras will lead to a reduction in vandalism and graffiti and make the centre of our parish a safer and smarter place to be. A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “The work to install the community safety CCTV has now started. The power supply cabinets for the cameras and the CCTV posts have now been delivered to site. We anticipate Western Power will attend the site soon to add power to each of the cabinets followed by Virgin who will be adding the broadband network.”
GRANT FUNDING The aim of Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council’s grant scheme is to promote community activity within the parish. By providing financial support to community organisations
working for the benefit of residents, the Council’s intention is to improve the range of activities and services within Downend & Bromley Heath. Grants can be awarded to new as well as existing organisations. Each application is considered on its individual merits. Please visit our website to download and complete the short application form. https://www.dbhparishcouncil.uk/ your-council/agendas-applications/grant-applications
FUTURE COUNCIL MEETINGS Following the High Court Judgement on remote meetings, the legal position is that local councils now need to meet face-to-face, rather than remotely, and be open to attendance in person from the public. In practical terms, the Parish Council will have no choice but to control the numbers of people physically in the meeting room at any one time in order to comply with the Government’s Covid restrictions. D&BH PC has arranged to meet at Downend Library – please visit our website for details of future meetings, www. dbhparishcouncil.uk.
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: 07742 400 474 CLLR SHARON HERNIMAN Tel. 07534 603 704
CLLR COLIN OGDEN Tel. 0117 940 6531 CLLR SHEILA OTTEWELL Tel: 0117 957 2724 CLLR RAJ KUMAR SOOD Tel: 07901 621 632 CLLR ALVIS WEST 07767 216 412 CLLR ANITA WOODBURN Tel. 07786 360 447
Staple Hill Ward CLLR PHILLIP ABBOTT Tel. 0117 957 0075 CLLR MATT PITTS Tel. 07837 870 039 Clerk to the Council Mrs Angela Hocking Tel. 0117 9567001 E-mail. clerk@dbhparishcouncil.co.uk
www.dbhparishcouncil.uk
downendvoice
16
June, 2021
n A DVERTISING FEATURE
New£7mspecialist STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering andMaths) andCreativeCentreat SGSWISECampusisopen THE new Brunel Centre at SGS College’s WISE Campus in Stoke Gifford is designed with sustainability and wellbeing at heart. The Brunel Centre will be home to a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, e-Sports and the recently rebranded Bristol Academy of Media (BAM) courses. With high ceilings and exposed timber interior walls, the whole building has been designed to provide a cutting-edge learning environment. Kevin Hamblin, SGS Group CEO, said: "The build will provide increased capacity in the area for the next generation of scientists, technicians, engineers and creatives and inspire them to push harder to achieve their educational goals. Credit must be given to the West of England Combined Authority who had the foresight and confidence to make this investment, as it will provide a world-class environment for another 400 students a year to study at SGS." A new University Centre, accommodating the relocation of SGS's undergraduate provision will open in September 2021 at the WISE Campus; creating new spaces for the specialist degree programmes in Business, Management, Sports, Media, Games, Specialist Make-up,
Performing and Theatre Arts. SGS has a reputation for delivering quality innovative degrees in a supportive and flexible learning environment. SGS was placed within the top 10% of all universities for overall student satisfaction in 2020. SGS College welcomes you to attend the
launch of the Brunel Centre and Community Open Event (across all Campuses) on Saturday July 3, 2021, from 10am to 4pm and discover the range of college, undergraduate and adult courses. To reserve your place(s) please refer to the website at sgscol.ac.uk or telephone 0800 0567 253.
Higher Education
SATURDAY 3RD JULY 2021, 10:00 – 16:00 SGS College looks forward to welcoming you back onto all our campuses for our Community Open Event. From Undergraduate, Further Education, Leisure, Professional and Apprenticeships programmes, we have a course to offer you. Whether you are looking for full or part-time study, we have flexible study options to suit all. You will have the opportunity to have a personal guided tour on the Campus of your choice, have the opportunity to get involved with a subject specialist masterclass, or find out more about our courses from our staff and students. We will be giving tours around our campuses, to show you why SGS is the place for you. To reserve your place, please refer to our website at www.sgscol.ac.uk or email info@sgscol.ac.uk
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
June, 2021
17
n NEWS
Volunteers give school a spruce-up OUTDOOR play areas for children at Frenchay Primary School are as good as new after a volunteer team got stuck in to a clean-up. Members of the New Life Church, based at Frenchay Village Hall, went to work as part of The Noise, an annual project where volunteers from different churches and communities join together to host events and carry out practical projects to make a difference in neighbourhoods across the Bristol area. They revitalised the school's Gruffalo garden area, installing new edging and bark, redecorating the playhouse and giving its mosaic a thorough jet wash. Head teacher Katherine Marks said: "We have been blessed to have the support of The Noise again this year. "Their hard work and dedication have given some areas of the school a much-needed boost. "The playhouse is now light and inviting and the children are loving playing in it. "The team worked tirelessly for 2 days to tackle many jobs around the site. "They also generously made a donation towards the resources which all the children will benefit from. "With their support Frenchay Primary can continue to adapt and offer a better environment
The team from New Life Church whilst we await our new build. "Thank you to Richard and the team for all their work, positivity, and commitment. We really do appreciate it." The Noise took place over the May Day bank holiday weekend and volunteers also ran pop-up takeaways and treasure hunts, delivered cream teas to pensioners at home and worked on projects to improve public spaces.
Bristol North • 0117 373 8367 32A Downend Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5UJ
installing new edging
kipmcgrath.co.uk/bristolnorth
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downendvoice
18
n NEWS Driver injured A DRIVER had to be cut free from his car and was seriously injured in a crash in Hambrook. Police said the driver was still in hospital two weeks after the crash, which happened on Bristol Road at about 4.45pm on April 25. Avon and Somerset police said the collision happened near the M4 flyover and involved two vehicles. A spokesperson said: "One driver, a male in his 40s, sustained a serious injury and was taken to hospital." Avon Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters used hydraulic equipment to rescue the drive who was trapped in their vehicle before he was passed to paramedics. The road was closed for more than four hours after the crash, as police began an investigation. Anyone who saw what happened, or thinks they may have relevant dashcam footage, should call 101 and quote the incident reference number 5221 088 983.
June, 2021
Teenage boys arrested by armed police after 'machete' seen at shops POLICE arrested four teenage boys in Mangotsfield after a group armed with what one witness described as a "machete" was seen outside the shops. Firearms units were among those called to St James Place at around 4.20pm on April 28. Eyewitness reports shared on social media described youths with a "massive knife" or "machete" running past the shops. They went into a nearby house and police, who arrived soon afterwards, were seen breaking down the door with a battering ram. An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said officers were called at about 4.20pm by witnesses who reported seeing three teenage boys armed with a large knife. The spokesperson said: "Specialist firearms units were
on the scene within minutes and four boys were arrested. "All four were arrested for affray. "One, aged 15, was also arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon in public and possession of cannabis. "The other three, aged 15 and 16, were also arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife in public." The spokesperson said one 16-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of possessing an "electrical incapacitant device" an electric stun gun. She added: "Officers seized a number of knives and other weapons from a nearby address." All four boys were later released on police bail and officers say their enquiries into the incident continue. They have asked witnesses
or anyone who has dashcam or smart doorbell footage they think could help the investigation to call 101 and quote crime reference number 5221 091 761. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. Targeted patrols were being carried out by police neighbourhood teams after the incident. The spokesperson said: "Despite the headlines, carrying a knife is not the norm – but it's still something police take very seriously. "If you're concerned that someone you care about carries a knife, talk to them about it and encourage them to surrender it." More information on knife crime is available on the police website.
LEARN • CREATE • EXPLORE WHERE WILL YOUR FUTURE TAKE YOU? Teaching by subject specialists with excellent academic support available from a personal tutor and mentor Outstanding intellectual enrichment programme Dedicated Sixth Form Centre with personal study space UCAS preparation Higher Education and Careers programme over two years A superbly resourced multi-media library Independent learning programmes to suit individual profiles
A warm welcome awaits you at our Open Events PREP SCHOOL SUMMER EVENT: 12 June LOWER SENIOR SCHOOL (YEARS 7 & 8) OPEN MORNING: 19 June PREP SCHOOL OPEN MORNING: 21 Sept, 10.00am - 12.00pm SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING: 23 Sept, 6.30pm - 9.00pm SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING: 25 Sept, 9.00am - 12.00pm
Book your place at www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk An Independent Co-educational Boarding & Day School for pupils aged 9 months - 18 years
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downendvoice
June, 2021
19
n NEWS
Zac set for 100-mile charity challenge A NINE-year-old boy from Downend is heading off on a gruelling 100-mile walk to raise money for a Bristol homelessness charity. Zac Churchill will tackle the Jurassic Coast walk, from Exmouth in Devon to Studland in Dorset, over five days at the end of July. Zac, who Mangotsfield Primary School and plays football with Mangotsfield United, is collecting sponsorship for Helping Homeless Believe, a Bristol-based charity which provides emergency help for anyone spotted sleeping rough in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. His mum Mel said Zac will be the youngest person to attempt the challenge, which includes almost 4,000 metres of climbing – the equivalent of going up Mount Fuji or halfway up Everest. Mel said: "We have always been into hiking and have encouraged our children in joining us on our outdoor activities. "We have talked about walking the Jurassic Coast for the past few years and when I asked Zac about it, he jumped at the challenge and said that he couldn't wait to see the views.
Zac Churchill "He then suggested that he try and raise money for a charity. "He has always shown a great amount of empathy for the homeless and often gives away his pocket money when we are out and about or suggests buying them a sandwich. This past year has been tough, and he often asks what the homeless have done during
covid." Zac said: "I know the people on the streets have nothing, and it's really sad. "I want to raise money for them so they can get some food and maybe a new sleeping bag. "I have done lots of long walks and climbed lots of mountains. The Jurassic Coast will be the hardest one of all, but I know I can do it. "There are lots of beaches on the walk, so I hope I get lots of ice creams!" Zac will not be letting up when he finishes the challenge, as the family also plans to tackle the "Yorkshire Three Peaks" - Pen-yghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in the Pennines – the following week. Zac has £800 in pledges so far. To donate to his fundraiser, visit gofund.me/c78658be online. Helping Homeless Believe was founded in 2017 and volunteers go out onto the streets offering rough sleepers a "survival pack" of essentials including sleeping bags, gloves, socks and a rucksack, and helps them find services that may be able to help them. For more details visit www. helpinghomelessbelieve.co.uk.
We welcome children from all faiths and backgrounds. Call 0117 956 1166 or email staugustinesstaff@gmail.com
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downendvoice
20
June, 2021
n NEWS
Leyla moves on from church debt centre THIS month we have sadly said “Goodbye” to Leyla Fellows, who is moving on to a new job after managing the Christians Against Poverty debt centre at Christ Church Downend for the past three years. During her time with CAP Leyla has made a huge impact, increasing the capacity of the centre to offer our debt relief service to a greater number of people, several of whom have become debt-free during the last year. This continues to provide such a crucial service to many families, giving them hope and a future free from debt. In 2020 Leyla started our CAP cafe, giving free cooked meals to our clients and access to our expanded self-service foodbank. Although the cafe had to temporarily close due to Covid, the foodbank continued to flourish, with a team of volunteers doing home deliveries to those who needed them. In addition, she has responded to the increased needs within the community during the pandemic, initiating the CAP Schools
Short workouts, fast results
Leyla Fellows with musician and author Rod Williams, when he visited Christ Church to tell his life story Partnership Project. Through making links with four local primary schools, we have been able to support some of their families with monthly food deliveries, and
Vibrocise
wonderful hampers and presents at Christmas. Leyla has been an inspiration to many, and has been a wonderful example of Christian faith expressed through action. Everything she has done has been characterised by kindness and concern for others. Leyla has built a really strong and committed team of church members, who willingly volunteer their services to provide support for people in the local community. We are currently in the process of appointing a new centre manager, but our debt service is still available to anyone within the community who would like to find a route out of debt. Please contact CAP head office on 0800 328 0006 to make an appointment with our debt coach if you would like to access this support.
Anita Dobson Christ Church Downend
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LOCAL ladies from Vibrocise Studios are going to abseil down the tallest skyscraper in Bristol to raise money for St Peter's Hospice. The charity is close to their hearts since having family and close friends who have been supported by the fantastic hospice. Over the past year at St Peter's Hospice, the need for services and care increased considerably at the same time that delivering care became harder. While their regular fundraising events are on pause and shops have been closed for so much of the year, their fundraising and support is so vital and will care for patients and their loved ones across Bristol during the most difficult of times. Neither Kara nor Linda are particularly fond of heights but believe if you're going to raise money, it's got to be a challenge! Linda quoted Franklin Roosevelt "the only thing to fear is fear itself" If you'd like to sponsor them they have a just giving page; http://www. justgiving.com/fundraising/abseilbristolstallestskyscraper-karapenney
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
June, 2021
21
n CHURCH NEWS
Jo says goodbye and thank you The vicar of Christ Church Downend will be retiring at the end of June, after 37 years in full-time ordained ministry and 19 years at Christ Church. Here Rev Jo Vickery looks back over almost two decades of ministry in the community. IT'S been all about life! As I look back over almost two decades of being vicar of Christ Church Downend, that’s what I want to say, and say it with real thankfulness in my heart. The privilege of sharing life with so many people at every stage and age of life has been something I shall treasure, and both Shahne and I want to express our most sincere gratitude not only to the church family but also to the wider community for being agents of change for the good of so many. The way that Downend Voice has carried story after story of courage, creativity, compassion, resilience and hope celebrates these things and is a rare gift for us all; one for which we can be really grateful. Thank you to every member of the Downend Voice team. Along with all kinds of other stories from our locality each month, there have been many from Christ Church which have given a glimpse of the part this church has played in the life of the community, in particular through our engagement with children, young people and families. Partnership with our schools has been incredibly significant, and has grown over the years. We have told stories of how our church-based debt centre, Christians Against Poverty, has worked personally with hundreds of households to bring invaluable support in the often exhausting journey to becoming debt-free. Beyond our local community we have celebrated, for example, our deepening relationships with a school in one of the poorest areas of South Africa, of a village in Uganda, an arts and crafts project in Tanzania, a home for orphaned children in India and a church community in Moldova. They didn’t have a church building to worship or gather in as a village. Seeing that building
being erected and used now, paid for the giving of members of Christ Church as a portion or tithe of their donations to our own building project, has been one of the highlights of our time here. By God’s grace, these partnerships have led to hope-filled lives, both here and all over the world! When I look back at the work that went into the transformation of our Georgian parish church over about eight years, and the generosity that made it possible, I am full of thanksgiving, for now this community has a stunning space which is fit for use in the 21st century. Already it has proved invaluable during the pandemic, as a safe place to gather to worship week by week, and no doubt we shall continue to host concerts, exhibitions, conferences, community groups and events for families, including that massive bouncy castle, which took my breath away when I first experienced it right there in the centre of the church! Though leaving such a loving and vibrant church community will be full of sadness for Shahne and I, the exciting thing is that the future is in God’s hands. His purposes will continue to be all about life – bringing life to church and community. "I have come", said Jesus, "that they might have life, and life in all its fullness". (John 10; 10). And he’s not going to change his mind anytime soon! • Harriet Jolly, one of the parents of young children who attends Christ Church, said: "When I first attended a service at Christ Church 10 years ago, I remember meeting Jo, who was so welcoming. "Jo and Shahne are a wonderful couple, reflecting God's love to us all, and have really helped make Christ Church feel like the one big family it is."
Send us your news - Email Linda or Ken at news@downendvoice.co.uk
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downendvoice
22
June, 2021
FOCUS ON
Staple Hill TShirts 4 You
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.
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
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
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
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110 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH
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years. The stock ranges from, plants, seeds through to creosote, lightbulbs (over 250 different types), wild bird food and feeders as well as lots of loose traditional hardware items. A sharpening service for tools is also available.
BM Motoring Centre 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
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
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 clients to enjoy greater wealth. Whether you are an individual looking for help with your tax return, a business needing
STAPLE HILL STORES TRADITIONAL IRONMONGERS
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0117 956 8318
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downendvoice
June, 2021
23
bird food, rabbit food, small animal foods, chick foods, budgies, parrot and canary food. Our range of frozen reptile food and live insects is a good asset as there aren’t many shops that sell that any more.
The Card Shop
assistance with VAT or payroll, or a new start-up seeking experienced advice, Lloydbottoms are here to help you. To discuss how we can help you, please contact us for a free initial consultation. We look forward to working with you.
Farleys Farley’s Pet Foods & Supplies has been on Broad Street in Staple Hill for nine years.
It is a family run shop selling pet foods and garden supplies and have grown the garden supplies part of the business. The garden supplies section includes weed killer, fertilizers, treatments, hoses, hose fittings, spades, forks, hoes and we have just started supplying trellis and picket fencing made locally. Within the pet foods section we have Royal Canin, James Wellbeloved, Burn’s, Chudley’s and Altarky and Forthglade wet dog and cat, Nature’s Diet wet foods as well as a wide range of dog treats natural or pre-packed, frozen dog and cat foods, reptile frozen foods, live insects and bedding. Our hay, straw and woodshavings are sourced locally.We offer a wide range of wild
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The Card Shop is an independent
BIRTHDAY BANNERS
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.
PRINTED HOODIES & T-SHIRTS LATEST TECHNOLOGY PRINTING
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downendvoice
24
June, 2021
n FOCUS ON STAPLE HILL
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.
Senator Mobile Senator Mobile provide something a bit different for the area. They are able to offer for sale a 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 drawers within your house? Have a clear out and recycle your phones at Senator Mobile.
Sheen Studios This father and son business has been running now for 45 years with Michael Sheen the 4th generation of picture framers. Terry, Michael’s father, was one of the founder members of the Chamber of Trade and is still striving to improve the
If you need passport/visa photos just pop in for their instant photography service.
local area. Expert picture framing has been the mainstay of the business for the local area and beyond, where they are able to offer framing advice and ideas as well as picture restoration and renovation. A wide range of jewellery, watches, limited edition prints, gifts and Bristol Blue glass are also available with a watch battery and strap fitting service.
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07799461169
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Stockists of James Wellbeloved and Burns Dog Food • All pet supplies • Specialist Reptile Foods • Seasonal Plants & Seeds
99 High St, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5HF 0117 329 2332
40 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 9566787
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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
PET FOODS & GARDEN SUPPLIES
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downendvoice
June, 2021
25
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Thank you for the chance to serve FIRSTLY, thank you. It’s a huge honour to be elected as your Metro Mayor, for this part of the world that I’m proud to call home. And whether you voted for me or not, I’m going to do my best for you and your family. It’s been a bit of a whirlwind since election day. The votes were counted up on the Saturday after polling day – and a big thank you to the counting staff who worked so hard to get us a result efficiently and in a covidsecure way. Then the results were announced aboard the SS Great Britain, a magnificent backdrop to take the helm on a new job! On the following Monday, I was officially sworn in as Mayor at Temple Quay and had my first meetings. I’ll be frank, I think we have some catching up to do. Because I’m not sure many people know we have a Metro Mayor at the moment locally, nationally or internationally. I want to change that, and put our area on the map. A woman I met the other day commented that it had been nice to see “from Somerset”
as a description on my interview on Good Morning Britain. We’re going to have more of that. My job is like Sadiq Khan’s in London and Andy Burnham’s in Manchester. It’s time for Fishponds, Frome Valley or Filton to lead the national conversation! I said during the campaign that my first priority was jobs, and that is why I will be holding a jobs and skills summit in my first 100 days in office. I’m already having conversations with local businesses and education providers about how we can build back better from the pandemic. If you have ideas, do let me know. My politics have always been red and green. We are in the midst of a climate emergency and I plan to bring my knowledge and experience as a former Environment Minister to the table. That’s why later this year I will launch my ‘Green Recovery Plan’. You might have also heard about my plans to make the West of England the bee and pollinator capital of the UK. I know I have a lot of people to meet,
Metro Mayor
Dan Norris
writes for the Voice
reading to do, budgets to scrutinise and government ministers to challenge. I want to work in a constructive and cooperative way. What matters is that we secure the best for our area. And, just as a final thought, I think my dog might be more popular than me. Angel has also been on TV and got her own hashtag #dansdog – I’ll try not to let it go to her head! This is such an exciting time, but I want to end where I began. For the chance to serve – thank you.
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downendvoice
26
June, 2021
n NEWS
Van brings Covid testing to more people A MOBILE testing unit will visit Staple Hill each week as part of the drive to trace coronavirus cases. The specially-equipped van will give people the option of either collecting a testing kit to take home or to take a test with help from trained staff, for people unfamiliar with the process. The government is encouraging everyone over the age of 16 without Covid-19 symptoms to make regular twiceweekly testing, using rapid home test kits, part of their routine. The testing scheme, along with the vaccine roll-out, local contact tracing and continued hygiene and social distancing, is seen as key to keeping safe as lockdown restrictions are eased. South Gloucestershire Council has already made its libraries, including Downend, Staple Hill and Emersons Green, into collection points for home testing kits, which can be picked
up during opening hours. The testing van will be at Fountain Square in Broad Street, Staple Hill, every Wednesday from 9am until midday. It will also be at Bottegino’s in Emerson Way, Emersons Green, every Tuesday from 9am to midday and at Pucklechurch Community Centre in Abson Road every Sunday from 2pm until 5pm. Case rates in South Gloucestershire continue to be low, with just 37 cases in the district recorded over the seven days to May 11 – a rate of 13 per 100,000 people – and there had been only two deaths with the Covid-19 over the four weeks to May 8. But with another new variant of the disease starting to establish itself people are being urged to continue to test. Council director of public health Sara Blackmore said: “Testing is a really important tool that is helping us to manage
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Covid-19. "Every case we can identify helps us stop the spread and bring the virus further under control. "That is why we are so keen to make testing available to everyone; by taking the tests to our communities so that they can take part in the programme and do their part to keep themselves and those around them as TheCovid testing van which is visiting safe as possible." Staple Hill Home testing involves the weekends in a bid to clear a swabbing the tonsils and “phenomenal” backlog of nonnostrils putting the swab into a emergency surgery that has piled liquid, which is placed on a strip up. which produces a result within The CCG says it will use 30 minutes. online consultations for GPs and Testing has been carried outpatient clinics, extend surgery out by secondary school-aged into evenings and weekends and children since March but expand its “Hospital at Home” everyone in England over the age service, where patients recover of 16 is now being encouraged to from surgery in their own homes take on twice a week. with regular visits from specialist The NHS in Bristol, nurses and therapists, to try North Somerset and South and maximise the number of Gloucestershire has announced operations. plans to carry out extra North Bristol NHS Trust operations and outpatient deputy chief executive Evelyn appointments this summer in an Barker, who is leading the attempt to restore routine care accelerator programme, said: after the pandemic. “Sadly the pandemic has meant The area's clinical many people waiting much commissioning group, which is longer for planned treatment. in charge of planning and paying However, we have also learned for services, is part of a "national a lot, and colleagues across our elective accelerator programme" area are embracing innovative to make up for the millions and creative ways to recover of non-urgent operations services as quickly as possible. postponed to prioritise treating "This is a huge task and will Covid-19 cases over the past 15 take time, but we are pulling months. out all the stops to treat more Southmead Hospital has patients whilst ensuring the wellalready announced plans to being of our dedicated staff.” carry out routine operations at
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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
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downendvoice
June, 2021
27
n NEWS
Support for charity's care farm plans MORE than 100 people have written to planners to support a charity's plans to build facilities for people with learning disabilities at a site near Downend. Volunteer-run Empowering Futures wants to create a polytunnel and teaching building at Moorend Farm, on what is currently pasture land with a stable block. It has asked South Gloucestershire Council for planning permission to make changes at the site near Bury Hill, between Downend and Winterbourne. The charity provides opportunities for people with learning disabilities to learn to look after animals, grow and cook food and "feel valued rather than excluded and isolated from the rest of society". In the application consultants the Rural Planning Practice, writing on behalf of the charity, said: "The land at Moorend will be used for goats, sheep, and hens and to grow plants and vegetables. The animal husbandry and growing is undertaken by the participants under the supervision of the trained volunteers. "A Forest School is proposed, with other skills being taught to include outdoor cookery, willow craft (using willow grown on
site) wool weaving and life skills. "The charity started in 2016 on land begged or borrowed. The generosity of one of the volunteers has enabled the charity to buy its own base. "Having considered eleven possible sites, the site at Moorend was chosen because it was affordable and well located for the users, most of whom live in South Gloucestershire." The building would include a function space, kitchen area and male, female and disabled toilets, along with an animal pen. Two extra parking spaces would be provided in addition to the existing two. As the Voice went to print, 105 people had written in support of the plans, with many saying that the charity provided opportunities not available anywhere else for children and adults with learning disabilities. Among them was Staple Hill and Mangotsfield ward councillor Ian Boulton, who praised the "highly valued" work Empowering Futures has been doing at its polytunnel in Page Park. He said: "This would be a valuable and well used resource and I am happy to support this scheme, as it would be an ideal and suitable use of this open space."
But 15 residents have written to object to the plans, citing reasons including protection of the Green Belt and nearby scheduled ancient monument, Bury Hill Camp, and saying planning permission could set a precedent for further development. Winterbourne Parish Council, which covers the area, has also objected, saying: "Whilst the parish council commends the objective and sentiment of the application, the fact remains that the application is within Greenbelt land. "There is also limited road access: the highway is particularly narrow with steep slopes. "The increase in traffic would hinder what is a pleasant walking spot for many local residents. There are concerns of the effect to neighbouring properties, with noise and debris from the site." However Frampton Cotterell ward councillor Tristan Clark said the scheme would have "limited impact" on the Green Belt and this "must be weighed against the evident social benefits that would arise from the approval of this application". The scheme is awaiting a decision from South Gloucestershire Council.
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The Beechwood club Beechwood Road BS16 3TR
The Salvation Army Broad Street BS16 5LN
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Contact Claire to book a place 07791574353
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downendvoice
28
June, 2021
n NEWS FROM DOWNEND IN BLOOM
Goodbye at last to the panolas WHAT a strange month it has been – this time last year we were basking in sunshine and this year we have been trying to stay warm and constantly dodging the heavy rain showers. Thankfully though, unlike last year, we have not had to water our panolas in the High Street, as they seem to be thriving as they are. This year they seem to be bigger and better than ever, so luckily they seem to like this inclement weather. It is also going to be very sad to remove them from the containers this year, as they are flowering so well. However, we need to remove them at the end of May/beginning of June time to get our bedding plants in. Unfortunately the panolas would probably not survive through the summer, because
they do not like severe heat (hopefully we will get heat at some time!) so we need to replant the containers with summer bedding. We will also be receiving our large floral displays at the beginning of June, and this year we have a new supplier, Plantscape, so we are eagerly awaiting the delivery of these. Exciting times! With the easing of lockdown restrictions, we are hoping that we can finally meet up as a group and will hopefully soon be setting out some dates for meetings and an AGM. We are also going to set some dates for routine maintenance and tidy-ups of our smaller planters. As a group we have obviously not met up since the beginning of 2020, so it will be
good to get together again. It is always nice to have new volunteers, so if you would like to join our group you would be more than welcome. We will soon be posting the dates for meetings on our Facebook page, so why not take a look, come along and find out what we do? The Sunday Times recently rated Downend as “one of the best suburbs in the country to live”.
I like to think it is largely because of the floral displays but it obviously goes deeper than that, with the people and the community feel that the area generates. So why not see if you have a few hours to spare, and join what is a great project? Loving our village Jackie Baker 07504 244361
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June, 2021
29
n VETS' ADVICE
Rabbits need vaccinations too 28TH June to 4th July, we celebrate the 15th anniversary of Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW). As we’re learning more about how to care properly for our rabbits, including feeding them a healthy diet and getting them vaccinated, rabbits are living longer. With more bunnies reaching old age, it’s important that rabbit owners adapt their care to suit their needs. Giving them a life stage appropriate diet, making adaptations to their housing, and looking after their health are great ways to help your bunnies into their golden years. What are the five welfare needs of rabbits? 1. Diet – Follow the Excel Feeding plan to ensure your rabbits are getting everything they need. 2. Environment - Create the perfect housing for your rabbits with plenty of space to hop around! 3. Behaviour- Discover more about what makes your rabbits tick and how to train them. 4. Companionship - Rabbits are social animals and should be kept in suitable pairs or groups. 5. Health - Know what to look out for and the signs of common health problems in rabbits. This year our focus is on protection and prevention of the new strain of rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease known as RVHD-2 and also on the vaccinations that are available to protect your rabbits. RVHD-2 is a new variant of RVHD-1 and is often fatal. Pet rabbits require vaccinations to try and prevent them from getting certain diseases. Two
our pet rabbits contracting these diseases there is a vaccination available known as the ‘Myxo-RHD Plus’ by Nobivac. As both diseases are viral in cause, there is no way to ‘cure’ them, making prevention the best way to make sure your bunny does not succumb. This vaccination has been excellent in putting a stop to many pet bunny deaths. Why not join our Animal Health Care Club to benefit from year round vaccinations, preventative health treatment and discount on neutering, long term medication and food. Hop to it and book your appointment today! Avenue Veterinary Centre
viruses have been present in the UK rabbit population for the last few decades; myxomatosis and Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD). Myxomatosis is a virus which is spread through biting insects or direct contact with affected rabbits. It can cause swellings around the eyes, nose or rear end and is often fatal. If picked up in the early stages it is possible for rabbits to recover from this virus, but recovery may take many months during which, they may sadly pass away at any time. Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic disease is another disease that has been present in the UK rabbit population for a few decades. It was first discovered in the 1980s and since then has claimed the lives of millions of bunny’s worldwide. It is very easy for this virus to
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spread between rabbits, either by direct contact with other rabbits or by objects that have been in contact with infected rabbits. Unlike myxomatosis there are often no early warning signs of Georgina Haddrell RVN a rabbit contracting this horrible Avenue Veterinary Centre virus. Sometimes an owner may 0117 956 9038 notice their rabbit is a bit quieter than normal but sadly the most common presentation is owners discovering their rabbit has passed away unexpectedly. Over the last few years this RHD 2 strain has made its way to the UK and is now on our door-step. There have been confirmed cases in the Bath and Bristol region. Pendennis Avenue, Staple H Hill, Bristol BS16 5DW Until very recently there was no Pendennis Avenue, StapleTel: 0117 956BS16 90385DW w Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, Bristol Tel: 0117 956 9038 www.avenue-vets.com way to protect our bunnies from 0117 956BS16 90385DW www.avenue-vets.com contracting this disease. Luckily, Pendennis Avenue, StapleTel: Hill, Bristol An independent practice Pendennis Avenue, Staple Hill, An independent practice providing a pers a new vaccination Tel: 0117 has 956 become 9038 www.avenue-vets.com caring and compass An independent practice providing a pers Bristol BS16 5DW available to vets in the UK. caring and compassionate service order to try and prevent Tel.a0117 956 9038 service caring and compassionate An In independent practice providing personal, Consultation by appointment
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30
MOT & SERVICING COSTS TO MAKE YOU SMILE
June, 2021
n NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL MP
We must work together at every level of politics
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Jack Lopresti
LAST month, we voted in the largest set of elections outside a general election since the 1950s. Here in Downend, we saw the election of an excellent new local councillor, Liz Brennan. Having had the chance to get her feet under the table, Liz is already working hard for residents. Even before she was elected, Liz successfully campaigned for more funding for Downend High Street and free swimming for pregnant women in our leisure centres. Liz has also made an impact on the national stage, campaigning for new medicines for people living with cystic fibrosis, after her six-year-old daughter was diagnosed with the condition. I know that Liz is keen to help and serve, so I encourage you to get in touch with her if there’s anything at all that she can assist you with. I am also absolutely delighted to see the election of our new Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, Mark Shelford. Mark is a former soldier, serving for 32 years in the army. Public service is second nature to him, as is law and order, having spent time working with forces around the world. He has also started helping our police officers and making sure that they have the tools that they need to do their jobs effectively. The role of the PCC is a vital one. As an elected representative, they are accountable to the people in their force area to oversee how crime is tackled and how their local police force is run and managed. Their goal is to reduce crime and ensure that the police force is running effectively. This is why I campaigned for Mark, and believe he is the right man for the job. Alongside his time in the Army, Mark served for many years as the deputy leader of Bath and North East Somerset and sat on the Police and Crime Panel. He knows how to effect change, taking a straightforward approach to solving the problems that come up in Avon and Somerset. In the past few months, we have seen unacceptable scenes of disorder on some of our streets, as people have engaged in violent protests and clashes with the police. Peaceful protest is at the cornerstone of our democracy, but it will never be acceptable for protests to descend into violence, putting the lives of police officers and protesters at risk. Mark understands these challenges and will be working with the police to both stop these scenes from being repeated and ensuring that the police have the resources they need to deal with them should they arise. I have already struck up an excellent working relationship with Mark after many months on the campaign trail. I know how important it is that we all work cooperatively, at every level of politics. Having a strong PCC like Mark and hard-working councillors like Liz, who can work with me and the Government for the betterment of our area, will be a huge advantage for all the communities that we collectively serve and represent.
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31
n NEWS
Disease claims nine estate ash trees NINE trees have next to a busy road have had to be felled after they were found to be infected by a deadly disease. Trees on Emerson Way, near the Blackhorse garage, were found to have ash dieback disease by South Gloucestershire Council staff. The council said the disease, which is caused by a fungus, is highly destructive and causes trees to become a safety risk, as branches or even whole trees can fall. A council spokesperson said: “Sadly, we had to remove nine trees along Emerson Way due to ash dieback being identified during a recent survey. "Ash dieback is a national problem and if left unattended the infected trees gradually die and become unstable. "We have a comprehensive re-planting programme and aim to replace all of the trees being removed because of the disease." Since being introduced to Europe from East Asia about 30 years ago the disease has devastated European ash trees, which have no natural defence against it. It has spread through airborne fungus spores and trade in infected ash saplings.
Before: One of the trees, above After: The ashes had to be axed The council said: "The disease is now found across the UK, including in South Gloucestershire, there is no cure and very few trees are showing signs of long term resistance, therefore control of the spread is no longer considered viable." Fewer than one in every 20 ash trees is expected to develop resistance to the disease, which kills leaves before spreading into the stalks and then branches and crown of the
tree. The council has been carrying out a project to remove infected ash trees since last year, concentrating first on felling trees that could be at risk of falling on main roads, then on minor roads, in schools and in public open spaces. The council says it has a policy to replace lost trees but says "it may not always be practical to plant a new tree in the exact location of those removed".
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Scotney Castle by Brian Kinsman
downendvoice
32
June, 2021
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
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June, 2021
33
n PAGE PARK NEWS
Bandstand is looking loved again THE bandstand in Page Park is looking loved again after being renovated and redecorated. Contractors from Mitie carried out the work. Most of the structure just needed a clean and paint but there was some rotten wood in the ceiling, which was replaced, and 32 roof tiles also needed replacing. The cost of the work, which also includes a planting scheme for the four flower beds around the bandstand, has been made possible by a £10,000 grant from Enovert Environmental Trust and £1,000 from the Friends of Page Park. The project has gone really well and it's been a pleasure to work with such a lovely and helpful bunch of people. The bandstand was in a terrible state. We hope our visitors will appreciate and respect all the work that has gone into preserving the bandstand and treat it kindly. There are no events booked yet but we hope to start some concerts, as soon as we feel we are winning against the pandemic. We'd like to bring in some different entertainment and performances and we are looking for people to come forward if they would like to help organise events – it would be particularly good to get the younger generation
Before
After
involved. If you would like to put something on, get in touch with us via the contact page of the website www.friendsofpagepark.co.uk.
Work has also started on the celebration bench – the foundations have been dug and the area is being landscaped. The park is looking amazing,
thanks to the ground crew and volunteers – if you'd like to help, we meet every Wednesday from 9-11am in the sensory garden.
Time to send in your photos THE closing date for the Friends of Page Park photo competition is fast approaching. We are getting some really beautiful pictures but we really want lots of people to enter. Amateur and professional photographers alike are welcome to enter up to four pictures each in the competition, with the best 12 photos chosen to form the Friends’ 2022 calendar. Photos must be in landscape format only, must not contain any people, and should say where in the park they were taken. The judges are looking for pictures depicting the passing of the seasons and will judge them on originality, appeal, composition, technical ability and
interpretation of the theme. This year's calendar was a lifesaver for the Friends' fundraising and we want next year's to be bigger and better. The competition is open until June 30 and photos should be in JPG format and between 2 and 5 megabytes. Entries can be emailed to pageparkcompetition@ gmail.com and more details are available online at www.friendsofpagepark.co.uk. There will also be advertising space available on the calendar – businesses interested can contact the Friends via Facebook. Steph Purser Friends of Page Park
n MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
What a difference an hour can make
SATURDAY May 1 saw the return of the Mangotsfield Residents Association Hour A Month (HAM), where volunteers get together to work improving the area. It was the first time we’d been able to get together for quite a while. Most of the time was spent catching up, but there was the odd bit of weeding and digging out of old tree roots. It’s amazing what a difference an hour can make. We’ve also started to resurrect old plans. We’ll admit to having to remind ourselves what those plans are, but there is now progress on the Dame School Garden and on some improvements to the base of the war memorial. We also have a plan to add wild flowers to Mangotsfield Common: we just need to finalise which pot of money is going to pay for it. As you'll have seen in last month's Voice, we have presented a community award to Gill Walding.
Gill seems to have adopted the Hut Field, keeping it clear of litter and cutting back brambles to keep pathways clear and all at her own expense. Thanks, Gill. The next Mangotsfield Litter Pick, organised by our local councillors, was set to take place on Saturday May 22. We weren’t quite sure where this would be as the Voice went to print, as the original site now seems clear, but if you are interested in taking part in this or future litter picks, please contact us. We’d love more people to get involved in the community so if you’d like to, or you need any help, then please get in touch by email at MangotsfieldRA@gmail.com, via the ever-popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page or by calling 07507 168700. In the meantime, please stay safe, and look out for one another. Chris Amos
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Gill Walding
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34
June, 2021
n AROUND THE WIs
DOWNEND WI WE are so pleased to welcome back existing members and also lots of new members to Downend WI, we were overwhelmed with such a positive response considering the events of the past year. It has been a challenge as a group to keep things going and organise interesting meetings. We know Zoom isn’t for everyone, and personally I feel lucky to be part of a group who are imaginative and creative, and have so much energy to get things done. Our April meeting was no exception: we were joined by Becky from Bijoux Floral Design, who demonstrated how to make a Floral spring wreath. It was so different from the usual flower arrangements, so refreshing and easy – at least Becky made it look easy! But as we all know, people who are good at what they do make it look so effortless. The base of the wreath was made using moss, as it’s more environmentally-friendly than oasis and also reusable. She used lots of greenery, spring flowers and even flowering bulbs the results were stunning and one lucky member got to win it in the prize draw. For our May meeting we will be having a self-care massage session – sounds very relaxing – and will give us an opportunity to find out how to look after our physical and mental health.
As more restrictions are lifted, we are hoping for some good weather so we can meet outdoors, perhaps a picnic, and subject to the Government guidelines, we could well be back in Christ Church Hall before we know. Anyone interested in joining us, as a member or guest, can contact our president, Julie, at downendwi@yahoo.co.uk for details. We would love to hear from you. Ros, Secretary
stages, and of course hoping the government roadmap doesn’t change. We are delighted that more than 35 members and six new members have joined us for 2021/22 and are looking forward to our WI experience. If you are not a member but would like to join us, please let me know by emailing carol@applause. co.uk Carol Coombs
BROMLEY HEATH WI MANGOTSFIELD WI OUR April meeting featured a talk by a scene of crime officer. All those of you who have been following ‘Line of Duty’ will immediately know this as a SOCO! She had, early in her career, been one of the pioneers of the use of footprints, in a similar way to fingerprints, which proved a successful tool in determining the identity of suspects and was also involved in the early adoption of DNA technologies. It was a very fascinating and thought-provoking presentation. In May we will be discussing this year’s resolution, which is a call to increase the awareness of the subtle signs of ovarian cancer. In June, after the 21st, we are planning a face-to-face meeting outside. This will be the first time all our members will have had the opportunity to meet up in person for over a year. It is currently in the planning
EMERSONS TAXIS
AT our meeting in mid-May we were due to welcome Jessica Gay, the senior community and events fundraiser at Julian House, the Bath-based charity for the homeless, to tell us about their work and the direct support they can provide through their local services and projects. Clearly, they are undertaking very important work – and I promise to tell you more about it in my next article. Meanwhile, I hope to retain your interest by telling you about one of our longest-standing and certainly hardest-working sub groups, none other than BHWI’s very own Allotment Group, who are proud to have been successfully tending and cultivating our allotment for 6 years or more. BHWI rent a plot at the Dial Lane allotment site at the rear of the Co-op car park, and the allotment group members share the joys and labours between them – sad to say not always equally! Liz and Evelyn are by far the most active members of the group, happily out in all winds and weathers weeding the soil, and
pruning and transplanting our various fruit bushes and plants. A truly green-fingered pair, and the back bone of our team. Equally well-intentioned, but generally far less active throughout winter, are Irene, Sarah and yours truly, all of whom are currently growing plants from seeds and will be planting things out over the next few weeks. This year we hope to have a bumper harvest, as last October, and, working on a rota basis, we all spent a few happy hours wheelbarrowing a huge pile of well-rotted manure down onto our plot. Phew – from both a hard work and smell point of view! The remaining but more passive members of our group are all keen gardeners who currently don’t have the free time available to participate fully, but are always keen to hear about our exploits, encourage our efforts and sometimes even enjoy the fruits of our labour. As with everything at BHWI, new recruits to this sub-group are always welcome. Unfortunately, last year’s normal Dial Lane Allotment Group show fell victim to Covid-19, but in previous years we have won many awards in a variety of fruit and veg categories. Watch out other allotmenteers, as next time “we’ll be back”! Notwithstanding the opportunity that Covid-19 has given all of our members to become experienced 'Zoomers', we are delighted to say that Bromley Heath WI anticipate resuming our 'in-person' meetings, at Bromley Heath Junior School, in September. How we are all looking forward to this day – updates will certainly follow. If you would like to give the WI a try, please email us at bromleyheathwi@gmail.com for some further information. Thank you and Stay Safe. Margaret Hanwell
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www.uk ice.co .downendvoice May
MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE
2021,.co.u Issue 94 k
HILL, BROMLEY
Welcome back, shoppers!
HEATH & FRENCH AY
Tributes paid 'Princess Meg'to
Artist Jayde Perkin, project welcoming of St George, decorates the ABC Blinds back shoppers shop window Full story: Pages to businesses in Staple Hill 20-21 which had to as part of close during the latest lockdown. a
E-scooters: don't
break the law
ELECTRIC scooter "dangerous, foolish riders have been warned against cycle paths and surge in complaints.and illegal" behaviour in parks, and after a blocking pavements. being left parked An experimenta l scheme which to hire and use The hire scheme, allows people e-scooters on England Combined introduced by the West alternative to the road, as an of driving short Authority and Voi Technology, distances, to Downend, Staple Hill, Mangotsfi was extended is the only way operated by e-scooters: privately-ow to legally use Emersons Green eld and in late March. ned scooters banned from Within days, remain use in reports began media of e-scooters The Voi scooters any public space. to multiply on social being ridden who need to prove can only be hired by over-18s, on footpaths, they have a full Turn to Page or provisional 5
View us online at:
Tributes have been paid to Megan Luscombe from nicknamed PrincessDownend, Meg, who has died aged 24 lived to the full. after a life PAGE 3
Vegan in college equality battle
A Downend teenager has been allowed to study an after complaining alternative on a farm for her that working animal management course went against her vegan beliefs. PAGE 4
'A miracle that my son's alive'
The father of a cyclist a car at Hambrook hit by lights has thanked the strangers who saved his son's life. PAGE 6
HAIR DESIGNE
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Why not give yourself colour? All of our stylists a boost and feel uplifted during these times by trying aim to offer a safe, out a new style, cut comfortable and enjoyable or even a vibrant experience to help you feel and look Looking forward to amazing. see you soon! Craig & the team
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June, 2021
35
n RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Carrot cake with orange frosting with Mel of Melanie’s Kitchen
T
HIS month’s recipe is a repeat of one from many years ago and a cake that consistently sells out when I make it for the shop. It’s an easy cake to make as you basically bung everything in a bowl, mix, then pour into a tin. Grating the carrots especially if you do them by hand, seems to take the most time (apart from the washing up). When we had a café area in the shop (Covid has finished that off forever!) I often made a large version and iced it with a cream cheese topping which some people seem to prefer – it will then require refrigeration if not eaten at once. The orange frosted version keeps in a tin for a few days or will freeze well – unwrap before defrosting or the icing will stick to wrapping! INGREDIENTS Tin: either 8”/20cm square tin or 9”/23cm deep round tin or make 2 cakes in 1lb (500g) loaf tins. I used a 26 x 9cm long tin. Line your tin with non-stick paper. Heat oven to 170 C (190C if no fan) 150g carrot –grated 175g castor sugar 25g sultanas 175g rapeseed oil (or sunflower or vegetable) 1 level tsp baking powder 75g desiccated coconut
1tsp ground cinnamon 200g self-raising flour 3 Large free range eggs beaten Zest and juice of 1 orange Icing sugar METHOD 1. P ut oil, sugar ,eggs in a mixing bowl and beat together . 2. Add carrot, sultanas and coconut and mix 3. S tir in flour cinnamon and baking powder and mix lightly to combine. 4. P our mix into prepared tin/tins and place in centre of pre- heated oven. 5. B ake for 35-45 mins until risen golden and cooked through (a skewer pushed in the middle will come out clean) 6. C ool in tin for 15 minutes then turn out on to a wire rack. 7. When cold ice Icing: Mix together orange juice and zest plus enough icing sugar to give the consistency of double cream, drizzle over cake. Cream Cheese Icing – tub of full fat cream cheese ,equal amount of softened butter, zest of an orange, juice of half an orange and icing sugar (twice the weight of the butter) Beat well together.
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n NEWS POLICE are warning people to stay alert to burglars who are trying to trick their way into homes after an elderly Staple Hill resident was targeted. The burglar struck in Seymour Road. He claimed he was working on the house next door and had noticed that the victim's roof was leaking. She allowed him in and he went upstairs, before coming back down and claiming that the house had damp and it would cost £3,000 to fix. When the resident told him she couldn't afford to pay that amount the man then reduced his price to £200 but left when this offer was also refused. After the man had left the victim asked a neighbour to check the house and he found that a wardrobe door had been opened and a handbag emptied on to the bed. Although no description of the conman has been given, police have asked anyone who thinks they might have information about the incident, which happened at about 2pm on
June, 2021
Warning after conman burgles elderly resident April 30, to contact them on 101 and quote the crime reference number 5221 095 899. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Avon and Somerset police have urged residents to be aware of the latest scam tactic being used. A spokesperson said: "We’d remind the public to be wary of all unexpected or unknown callers. "Rogue Traders or burglars will often use scare tactics to gain entry and pressurise the victim into handing over money. "Many of the services offered by cold callers are totally unnecessary and are often overpriced. Always use a tradesperson who has been recommended to you by a trusted source and agree a price before
any work starts. Never pay in cash." Police are encouraging everyone to follow these crime prevention steps: • Never open the door to an unexpected caller until you’ve checked their identification – use a door chain or viewer, intercom or a ‘smart’ doorbell. If you’re not sure, don’t open the door. • Never agree to have work done or part with money on your doorstep and ideally get written quotes from at least two traders for any work. Always agree a start and finish date and agree a price before any work starts on your home. • If you are suspicious of a caller tell the police straight away – ring 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated, otherwise call 101. • Store any high value items such
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as jewellery, passports and cash in a properly secured and hidden safe or bank vault. • Keep windows and doors secured if you’re not in the room and never keep large sums of money in the house. • If you see someone calling door-to-door, but only on frail or elderly neighbours, call 999 straight away. • Ask a trusted neighbour to help you deal with unexpected callers. • Look out for vulnerable and elderly neighbours and make sure they know what to do when they receive an unexpected caller. • If you think you've been deceived, are concerned about a trader or have any doubts call 101 or contact Citizens Advice consumer services. For more details visit www. citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer.
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June, 2021
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37
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
I relish the chance to make a difference
I
AM delighted to be writing today as the new Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset. A huge responsibility has been placed on my shoulders and, a week on, I am still incredibly humbled that local people gave me their vote. I absolutely relish the chance to get stuck in and to make a difference in all the villages, parishes, towns and cities across the force area. I thought this would be a good opportunity to let you know a little bit about me and my background; I spent over 30 years as an Army officer and served alongside police across the globe, gaining an understanding of their
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role and sharing the risks they faced. As a result, I feel I have a good understanding of service life and the pressures those protecting communities face. Following my military service, I became deputy leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council and also sat on the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Panel, which supported and scrutinised the actions, decisions and performance of PCC Sue Mountstevens. In my role as PCC, I will be focusing on delivering a more efficient and effective police service, and I look forward to explaining in the future how together my office, officers and staff will be reassuring, refocusing
and rebuilding a safer community for Avon and Somerset. This week, I have started to build on my understanding of how the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and Avon and Somerset Police operates, as well as being able to meet numerous policing teams who are based at Express Park in Bridgwater. I want to meet as many officers and staff as possible to understand how I can make their jobs more effective and efficient so you – local people – receive the best police service. Into the summer, I intend to be out and about meeting local people and communities groups to understand your concerns and
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June, 2021
n NEWS A SOUNDWELL pensioner received more than 4,000 birthday wishes as she reached the grand old age of 105. Edna Alvis celebrated with flowers, cake and balloons at a garden party at Deerhurst care home, where she is a resident. BBC Radio Bristol were invited along to record the celebrations in April and, after video was shared on the corporation's social media channels, Edna’s story was shared around the world. She received more than 4,000 birthday messages, including some from the USA, Australia and Nigeria. Care home manager Lesley Hobbs said: “Edna is thrilled. "She can’t believe all the attention it’s received but she is one very happy lady, and thoroughly enjoying the limelight. "Edna has enjoyed reading all of the comments, and is overwhelmed by the number of birthday wishes she has received." One well-wisher joked
39
Greetings from around the world for Edna, 105
that Edna 'didn't even look 90' - and she revealed that her secret to long life was "having a
Scarecrow hunt A SCARECROW hunt is taking place to raise money for two Downend schools. The Christ Church Infant and Junior schools' scarecrow hunt will take place from June 11 to 14 and aims to bring together families and local businesses. Organisers are drawing up a map to help people track down the scarecrows, which will be on display in front windows. The event has been organised by the parent teacher associations of both schools. For more information email friendsofccj@outlook.com. Previous hunts have featured more than 70 scarecrows and this year's had already attracted more than 65 as the Voice went to print, from families, shops and other businesses across Downend and Staple Hill.
great family and a sherry on a Sunday". Edna moved into Deerhurst, run by Brunelcare, in 2018. The charity said that at the time Edna thought she only had three weeks to live, but after receiving dedicated care she is still going strong after three years. Edna said: “Here it’s been marvellous, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. "They have been marvellous to all of us, we don’t want for anything.” Brunelcare is a Bristol-based charity which has been providing housing, care and support for older people in sheltered housing schemes, specialist care homes and in people’s own homes. For more information about the charity visit www. brunelcare.org.uk online.
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40
n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA
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GROUPS organising events in the Downend, Mangotsfield, Staple Hill and Frenchay areas are 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. Monday, June 21 n Senior Film Club The film for June's event will be Fisherman’s Friends - a funny film with a serious note, based on real events. The event takes place in Christ Church Hall, Downend on June 21st starting at 2pm. Entrance is £4 including tea and cake. Pre-booking is essential as numbers are limited due to Covid measures. To book please call 0117 435 0064. Thursday, July 8 n BROMLEY HEATH GARDENING CLUB. A coach trip to Sidmouth on Thursday July 8 has been arranged: cost £17. Please ring May on 0117 957 3695 to book. Regular Events n Bristol U3A: Have you reached a point in your life where you have fewer responsibilities and more time for yourself? Would you like to take part in activities where you can share skills, abilities or hobbies whilst having fun and making new friends? Why not become a member and find an interest group to join. Go to www.bristolu3a.org.uk for details. n The Cleeve Singers of Downend are looking ahead to September and require more singers in all voice departments to join us. Rehearsals, subject to possible alteration, will hopefully begin on Wednesday, 1st September at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road, Downend at 7.30 p.m. We are a happy friendly choir who cannot wait to return after the lockdowns. If you like musicals, popular items and would like to give us a try, please contact our Secretary by email: cleevesingers@gmail.com or 'phone the Barn on 9562367.
Send us your news - Email Linda or Ken at news@downendvoice.co.uk
June, 2021
n LIBRARY NEWS
Update from Downend, Emersons Green and Staple Hill libraries We are open for browsing, FREE computer use, Wifi and (for a small charge) printing. Click and Collect and Home Library Service is also still available. Call 01454 865022 to find out more. Some libraries are resuming Storytime & Rhyme Times, see www. southglos.gov.uk/librarychanges for more details If you have a baby aged 0 – 12 months pick up a FREE Bookstart Baby Bag by visiting any South Gloucestershire library. We anticipate resuming our Rhyme Time sessions for pre-school children by the end of June. Please email downend.library@southglos.gov.uk for more details. Take part in our FREE book trail and quiz around Emersons Green park. We have a story and quiz for children to follow around the park, with accompanying quiz sheets available from the library.
n NEWS
Junction changes ruled out RESIDENTS calling for changes to a junction blighted by accidents have been told there is "no justification" for introducing a one-way system. Earlier this year the Voice reported that people living near the junction of Westbourne Road and Boscombe Crescent in Downend feared that someone could be killed by out-of-control vehicles coming down Boscombe Crescent. The residents called for Boscombe Crescent to be made one-way, uphill only, and for physical measures to prevent accidents. However, in a letter to resident Brian Adams, who had requested that South Gloucestershire Council investigated changes at the junction, the council's highways department said there was "no justification" for a oneway scheme or any new safety measures, including new warning signs or adding to the road to the gritting schedule in icy weather. The letter said: "From experience we have found that the introduction of a one way
restriction can increase traffic speeds and the risk of accidents without the introduction of costly traffic calming measures. "A one-way restriction would impose huge inconvenience on a large number of residents, not being able to exit Boscombe Crescent at the southern end. "It may also cause issues at the other end of Boscombe Crescent, with additional traffic having to use that junction, and possibly issues with ‘rat running’ via Lytchet Drive and Lulworth Crescent." The council said introducing a one-way scheme would normally be in response to "a history of recorded injury accidents or other issue of concern" but there had been no such accidents for more than 30 years. The council also said it had "insufficient" resources to grit Boscombe Crescent on the approach to the junction or provide a grit bin, as it was not the only way in or out of the road. The junction has been added to the council's list of areas in need of "enforceable waiting restrictions", the council said.
Is left best on railway path? SUSTRANS is hoping to settle a question dividing users of the Bristol to Bath railway path: should everyone keep left? While cyclists tend to stick to the rule of the road and stay on the left, there is debate among users as to whether pedestrians would be better on the left side, in the same direction as cyclists, or on the right, where they are facing oncoming bike traffic. To have a say go to bit.ly/3bwoe0w before June 13.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
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June, 2021
41
n DOWNEND FOLK CLUB PREVIEW NEXT AT DOWNEND FOLK CLUB
ELLIE GOWERS (TRIO) IN CONCERT Friday 18th June 2021, Christ Church Downend After relaunching their monthly concert series last month, after over a year without live, in-person music, Downend Folk Club continue to bring some of the country’s rising folk, roots and acoustic stars to South Gloucestershire as they welcome Ellie Gowers, whose EP Parting Breath made quite an impact during the spring lockdown. The club, who kept their loyal fanbase and new followers alike entertained throughout all three lockdowns with an innovative series of online events, welcome Ellie to Christ Church Downend, where she will be joined on-stage by Alex Garden (violin) and Lukas Drinkwater (double-bass). As always, the event is on the third Friday of the month and it’s already well on the way to selling out, given the COVID-secure capacity of 60 at the church. Ellie Gowers has been making an impression wherever she lands. Her music embeds a fierce energy that echoes the 60’s folk revival scene and she is known to hold pride of place on stage with her strong and lucent vocals. Her songs are built from a childhood love of literature and traditional folk song, but also discuss the more
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modern narratives of the present day. These influences fuse together to create a sound that has been deemed unique and incomparable. In the last two years, Ellie has released the EP From Here on Out and followed that with her latest single Against the Tide which earned her a TEDx talk. These songs have been toured widely, both in headline shows and support slots for critically acclaimed artists. After the unpredictable circumstances that 2020 brought with it, Ellie found herself making good use of her time, beginning to work on projects she had only ever thought about. Collab- orations were done with friends new and old, songs were written, a festival was played, and she was also included in the line up of the Filkin’s Drift Ensemble, covering Arthur McBride. Ellie enters 2021 with a brand new EP named Parting Breath, which was released in March to widespread critical acclaim and radio play across both regional and national stations, culminating in a first Radio 2 airing last month. Tickets for the event, which takes place at Christ Church Downend on Friday 18th June
2021, are available downendfolkclub.co.uk. They are priced at £15 each and must be purchased in advance. At this stage, capacity is strictly limited to 60, but the club will make more tickets available if restrictions allow. There will be no bar or raffle, but ticket-holders are invited to bring their own refreshments. As part of the club’s online plan moving forward, Chairman Ant Miles will also be sitting down for a cuppa and a bit of a natter with Ellie when she visits for the concert, as Downend Folk Club continue with their hugely successful "an hour or so" online series, which ran throughout all three lockdowns... but in a slightly different way. Audience questions are invited but they must be submitted in advance. The best will be selected put to Ellie, as well as finding out a bit more about her past and his plans for the future. A handful of the songs that Ellie plays during the concert will also be recorded. The resulting chat and tunes will then be streamed on Sunday 20th June 2021, at 8.00pm on the simultaneously on the club’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. Do make sure that you've liked/followed/suscribed! The show will be available to view for two weeks afterwards. As always, this “an hour or so” event will be free to attend, but there will be an online tip-jar. For further information, please visit the club’s website, find them on Facebook or Twitter or email downendfolkclub@live.com.
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June, 2021
n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
Looking unto Jesus
E
VERYONE loves heroes: Superman, Spiderman, Ironman, or even Bananaman. Comics, TV shows and movies all tell stories of these heroes. Even the Bible has a chapter on heroes. That chapter is is found in Hebrews, and it’s always helped me to get a proper perspective on life in the 21st Century. In Hebrews 11 we are reminded about a number of characters from the Old Testament who were heroes. The men and women listed were heroes not because of their superhuman origins, strength or abilities — in fact, they were all remarkably normal people, just like us, with all the frailties, fragility and fallibility of regular human existence — but they were listed in this “Hall of Heroes” because they put they faith in God, even in the most
difficult of circumstances of life. The chapter speaks not only about their exploits of faith, but also their awareness that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. They realised that while they had to live life on this earth, their ultimate destination and goal was in the future — they looked forward to a true city and home where God was the designer and builder. The lives and stories of these men and women are intended to serve as examples for us today of how to live by faith in God. But the author of Hebrews doesn’t want to encourage us to simply stop and look at these ancient heroes to somehow motivate us to run our race of life and be just like them, but rather to look at them and follow their gaze as they look to God, and all the promises of his word that he would fulfil in
Jesus Christ - the ultimate hero of all. In the ongoing difficult days we face, even as there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel of the Covid-19 pandemic, and in the multitude of other challenges that this life throws at us, we are all looking for hope, even perhaps for a hero who can rescue us. We thank God for the doctors, nurses and all the other NHS staff who have served tirelessly and sacrificially over the last 12+months; and for the researchers and scientists who have lead the way in producing the vaccine. Their efforts have been heroic. But the Bible calls us to look outward and upward, and to see that the only real, lasting hope for our lives can be found in Jesus - who died and rose again to rescue all those who would trust in him from sin
NathanSmith Pastor GraceChurchBristol and death; and who promises that one day he is returning to earth to remake this world, to dwell with his people, to fix everything that is broken and make right everything that is wrong. Forever. Are you looking to him?
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June, 2021
43
n PHOTOGRAPHY
Feeding Time by Derek Britton
Shield Bug by Ian Boulton
N
EN
LU B
WITH
DOW
MACRO, or close-up, photography is something that fascinates many keen enthusiast picture-takers. For many it is an interest that evolves over time, as the realisation grows that there is so much to see and record in the small world. Concentrating on small-scale areas has the advantage that there is greater control of the image, there is more attention on the subject and often fewer distractions in the image, although that is not to say that macro work is easy. There are significant technical issues to be addressed, notably focus and lighting. One aspect of macro work, taking pictures of insects, adds other problems, as together with many creatures in the natural world, they have a tendency not to be that keen to cooperate when their picture is taken. Here are shown three images of insects submitted in recent club competitions: ‘Feeding Time’ demonstrates the value of a close-up, showing details of the insect that we do not usually see. It does show one of the issues of using macro lenses, the shallow depth of field. This means that only part of the subject is sharp, while the foreground and the back wing is blurred, with even the front wing going out focus. This can be a problem, but as here it can be used as a creative effect to produce a striking image. ‘Shield Bug’ has its subject much smaller in the frame, but it has a strong composition. All of the insect is sharp, and the surrounding parts are mostly diffused and out of focus, but that actually strengthens the image. As
TAKING BET TER PHOTOGRAPHS
AC
Bugs' lives
D CA MER
it is looking directly into the lens, we can make a connection with the insect. ‘Ladybird’ has a different tone. As the insect is shown directly from above, the interest in the shot is the contrast in the red and black of its body and head (the diagonal position helps the composition) contrasting with the green of the foliage. Without seeing the eyes, this insect seems to be more impersonal than the other two. Do insects have personality? Downend Camera Club is a friendly informal group who normally meet on Tuesdays at 7.30 pm at the Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, Downend, although inperson meetings are currently suspended. For the time being we are continuing with a programme of online presentations as well as regular competitions. The club has a Facebook page and a 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
Ladybird by Dave Gregory
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June, 2021
n NEWS
Maddie runs for MIND A VOICE deliverer has run 27 miles in 27 days in solidarity with the 27% of students who report mental health issues at university. Maddie Barnett, of Emersons Green, took part in charity Mind's 27 27 challenge to raise awareness that the number of students reporting a mental health problem is increasing, and is now five times greater than it was ten years ago, while the number of students dropping out because of mental health
problems has trebled. In the process she also raised £123 to support the charity's work. Maddie, a sixth former at Bristol Cathedral Choir School who aims to go on to study medicine, said: "Everyone’s mental well-being matters and it isn’t shameful to reach out for support. "Mind, the mental health charity, supports people of all ages."
Send us your news - Email Linda or Ken at news@downendvoice.co.uk “Whoaagh! It’s too early for Christmas!” you say? Well, after the lockdown disappointment of 2020, we are looking forward to Christmas 2021, with the launch of our ‘Design A Christmas Street Light’ competition. We are inviting primary school age children (4-11 years) in the Emersons Green Ward area to design a Christmas streetlight, for entry into our competition. Two winning designs will be turned into real Christmas streetlights that will be displayed in Emersons Green and Lyde Green along with the other streetlights. In order to make sure the winning designs can be manufactured in time for our Christmas 2021 display, the closing date for entries will be Sunday 25 July. For full details of the competition, and an entry form, please see the information on our website, on our Facebook page.
Premises for Youth Works We are on the search for a local community space that could be used for youth work sessions. Ideally, we are looking for a building, or part of a building, that could be used on an exclusive basis by our young people and youth workers for regular sessions during weekday evenings. A kitchen and some space for storage would be needed. If you know of anything local that may be suitable, please get in touch, by emailing clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk
INTRODUCING… Councillor Caroline Johnson “I moved to Emersons Green with my husband nearly 23 years ago and joined the Town Council in 2015. I was initially co-opted as a member and then subsequently elected by residents in 2019 to represent the Emersons Green ward. I joined the Council to help to make it work better for the local community and, as a keen cyclist and walker, I am passionate about creating a greener community for Emersons Green. I serve on the Finance Committee and am Chair of the Personnel Committee. I am a member of the Climate Emergency Working Group and am also the Town Council representative on the Bristol East Cycling and Walking Group.” If you wish to contact any of our councillors directly, all councillor contact details are available on our website: http://www.emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk/town-council/councillors/ clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk
/
www.emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk
Tel: 0117 3026989
Due to changes in legislation, Town Council meetings can no longer be held virtually. Emersons Green Town Council plans to return to face-to-face meetings from 21 June, subject to successful implementation of the government’s lockdown exit roadmap. Planning Committee 10.30am 21 June Finance Committee 7.00pm 24 June
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June, 2021
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45
n LOCAL HISTORY
A history of Rodway Hill House David Blackmore of Mangotsfield Residents' Association looks at the history of one of the area's oldest buildings FOR many centuries there were two manor houses in the village of Mangotsfield: one adjoining our village church and one on Rodway Hill. The first was built some time between 1222 and 1228, for Sir William de Putot, who was High Sheriff of Gloucestershire from 1225-1231 and Mayor of Bristol in 1241. Sir William had been granted the land called 'Chulhenerull' (Charnhill), in the village then known as Manegoddesfelde, in return for a rent of one pair of white gloves. The manor house, built on land made available when the Kings Forest was reduced in size to 4,500 acres, had an adjoining chapel, which later became St James Church. Sir William had no son or heir, so his lands passed to his grandson David Blount of Bitton, and it was the Blounts who built the presentday manor house on Rodway Hill, probably in about 1350. During the 15th century Rodway Hill House belonged to William 'The Wastall', the 2nd Lord Berkeley, who was born in 1426 at Berkeley Castle. A supporter of Edward IV during a revolt by the Duke of Clarence and the Earl of Warwick in 1470, when Berkeley died in 1492 he bequeathed Rodway manor house and all of his estates to the crown, having disinherited his younger brother Sir Maurice, for marrying a commoner "of mean blood". The house later returned to the Blounts, the last of whom, Margaret, was related through her mother to Jane Seymour, the mother of Edward VI; the Seymours were from Frampton Cotterell and Bitton. After she died her husband John, Lord Hussey of Sleaford in Lincolnshire, sold both manor houses to Robert Dormer, a Buckinghamshire wool merchant, in July 1515. At that point its estate included 20 houses, 20 farm buildings, a water mill and 500 acres of land.
The coat of arms
Rodway Hill House as it is today, seen from Manor Road The first manor, by the church, was sold by Dormer to Sir Jarrit Smyth of Long Ashton in 1558 and would eventually be acquired in 1846 by St James Church, and demolished to extend its burial ground. Sir Maurice Berkeley never gave up the hope of one day repossessing the estate, and sold off other land to buy the manor from Dormer around 1519-20. But in 1520 Maurice died and the Rodway manor went to his brother Thomas, 5th Lord Berkeley, who moved from Yorkshire to Mangotsfield on being made Sheriff of Gloucestershire in 1522, altering and enlarging the manor house to its present size. It appears that the house was previously aligned from north to south, rather than its current east to west alignment, and once had a long, lawned terrace for playing bowls. At the foot of present day Manor Road the remains of the stock ponds for coarse fish such as tench, carp and bream can still be found. Two dovecotes at the rear of the house supplied eggs and meat, and the 'pillows', artificial warrens on the opposite side of the road from the house, were for rabbits, reared for the kitchen table. Thomas rebuilt the Charnell's Mill and constructed the Charnell's Pool by diverting the Charnell's brook. He died at Rodway Hill House in January 1532 and was buried at Mangotsfield church in a funeral described as “an imposing spectacle”, only for his body to be removed three months later to the Abbey Church of St Augustine, now
Bristol Cathedral. His grandson, Henry, was the last of the Berkeleys to own Rodway Hill House and his profligate lifestyle of “cards, dice, tenys, bowling ally and hawking”, saw him sell a large amount of the Berkeley possessions, including Rodway Hill House, a year before his death in 1612, to Philip Langley for £2,225 (around £500,000 now). Langley owned the rights to the coal fields in Mangotsfield and was an MP, Mayor of Bristol and High Sheriff of Gloucestershire. In 1663 the quarry and colliery owner John Meredith bought the estate and set about enlarging and restoring the house, and laying out a vineyard on the sheltered western slope between the house and the 'Charnells'. Rodway House remained with the Merediths for three generations before it was sold to Charles Bragge, who also owned Cleve Hill in Downend, then to some relatives of the slave trader Edward Colston, who owned it for most of the 18th century, latterly jointly with Lord Middleton, a proprietor of the Coalpit Heath Colliery. During the 19th century the manor was owned by Middleton's heirs until it was bought by the banker Daniel Cave between 1857 and 1859. Various elements of the shield of arms above the front porch can be linked to the Meredith and Berkeley families, as well as the de Clares, who intermarried with the Berkeleys, and the Dormer family, but what appear to be 'bulls' heads' have so far eluded all attempts of identification. Speculation that the shield of
arms is connected to the Boleyn family is unfounded, and there is no evidence to back up claims that Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour or Catherine Parr made visits. The manor once housed a school attended by WG Grace, who played his first competitive cricket match on Rodway Hill in 1857, aged nine, for his older brother Henry's West Gloucestershire team against a side from Bedminster. WG batted at number 11 and scored 3 not out. In 1922 Sir Charles Henry Cave, his wife Beatrice and their two sons left Rodway Hill House, which had already been bought by Henry Young, a land agent for the Caves who combined farming at Rodway Hill Farm with his auctioneering and estate agency business, Young & Howes. Henry's son Edward Alway Young continued in farming and auctioneering but was also a keen sportsman, and had helped to form the Mangotsfield Football Club at a meeting at the Crown Inn, St James Place in August 1888, when he was elected club chairman and team captain. After Edward died in 1948, Rodway Hill House was sold for an undisclosed sum to an unnamed buyer. The east and west wings were converted into at least two residences and made Grade II Listed buildings in 1953. By this time the rapid expansion of housing in Mangotsfield and Downend meant most, if not all of the surrounding farms and farmland were disappearing, with the Charnhill development covering parts of the Rodway Hill estate and the neighbouring Blackhorse, Oaklands and Barley Close farms sold to developers. For well over 650 years Rodway Hill House had been associated with the village of Mangotsfield but it now resides within the recently-created parish of Emerson's Green.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
46
downendvoice
June, 2021
n NEWS
Bus stop has moved – why hasn't shelter? A STAPLE Hill trader is frustrated after a bus stop outside his business was moved – but the shelter was left in place. George Georgiou has run the Butcher's Hook on the High Street for three-and-a-half years. He says the shelter in front of his shop makes it invisible to passing motorists and it should be moved to join the relocated bus stop outside the former Lloyds Bank branch. George, who is the chair of the Staple Hill Chamber of Trade, said the stop was moved last year, to ensure social distancing between people waiting for buses and customers queuing to enter his shop. But the shelter, which includes a screen giving live information about bus arrivals, has stayed put. George said: "I've spent a lot of money redecorating outside the shop but I have so many customers telling me they didn't
George Georgiou outside the Butcher's Hook, which has a bus shelter in front - but no stop realise it was here when they were driving past looking for it. "You need to be visible. "In the summer I want to do a barbecue and use my outdoor space in front of the shop but I can't do that with a bus shelter here. "Moving it 20ft won't make a difference to the bus but it will make a massive difference to me.
"They're supposed to be trying to help the High Street – that's not helping me thrive." George said he had raised the issue with South Gloucestershire Council, which is responsible for the stop and had a visit from council leader Toby Savage to discuss it. He has also contacted his MP, Jack Lopresti. He has also complained
about graffiti and damage to the shelter's windows which made it an "eyesore" and impossible to see through – and on the day the Voice visited, the council had sent a worker to replace the old plastic panes. A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “The bus stop was temporarily moved a few metres away from the shelter in July 2020 to provide additional space outside an identified ‘pinch point’ as part of our response to the Covid-19 pandemic to make public places safer. The bus shelter has been in place for over 10 years and has been left in place to provide cover for people waiting for the bus. It cannot be moved as it provides real time information for this popular route and requires electrical connections. “We have a longer-term ambition to review all the bus stops and shelters on Staple Hill High Street, and this stop will be included in that review."
Flower show is back DOWNEND Horticultural Society is returning from lockdown with confirmation that the annual Downend Flower Show will take place. The society will hold its first talk, on wildlife in the garden, on June 10, in the Downend Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, where meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30 pm. Lockdown has not stopped members planting and planning for the year ahead, and this year will be a special one as it will be the 75th annual Downend Flower Show on August 14. The show includes classes for flowers, vegetables, flower arrangements, cakes and jam, and is open to members and nonmembers alike, with visitors welcome at the Assembly Hall from 2-4pm. The society is also planning an outing to the Savill Garden, in Windsor Great Park, on July 4. Anyone who is interested in joining the club can come along to the meeting or call Roger Davis 0117 957 1703 or Hilary Walton 0117 979 2832.
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
June, 2021
47
n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB
Lone Tree by Rachel Domleo
Heron by Mary Osborn
Pictures of isolation AS I write this, we are finally moving out of the most severe lockdown to a condition where we can enjoy more social contact, albeit still restricted. The past months have obviously been a burden on us all, governing our way of thinking in ways we were barely aware of. Looking for illustrations for this month I went back to our last open competition, and was struck by how often isolation seemed to be the theme. Mary Osborn’s splendid close up, 'Heron', is certainly on his own but probably hoping that a fish may, reluctantly, join him for dinner. The boat in Anita Fullerton’s 'Past Its Prime' is cast up and alone. Will anyone ever sail her again? We’ve all experienced being stuck alone at a bus stop wondering whether when our bus will appear, so clearly illustrated in Jeff
Mckinstry’s Where’s My Bus, an excellent example of storytelling in photographic form. Finally, nothing could be more isolated than Rachel Domleo’s 'Lone Tree', sitting on a crag with only the clouds to keep it company. Deservedly the first prize winner. Hopefully I’ll present a more sociable set of photographs next month. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for company and new acquaintances we always welcome new members. So, if you’re interested and would like to be part of our social re-emergence, take a look at our website at www.lincombebarncameraclub.co.uk or contact us at lincombe.barn@gmail.com. You may find yourself being invited to a future Zoom meeting and new faces to meet and socialise with. Stay safe! Past its Prime by Anita Fullerton Sid Stace LOW
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A5 flyer 2021 - Creating your happy place - gardening.indd 1
14/05/2021 10:10
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June, 2021
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n HUNTERS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Wedgewood Road, Downend, BS16 6LT. Asking Price -£530,000
HERE TO GET
you
THERE
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Hunters Estate Agents, Downend are delighted to offer for sale this substantial 1950's built 4/5 bedroom detached family home offering an enviable position backing onto Bromley Heath Park whilst being a short walk to he local Infant and Junior schools. The area provides excellent transport links ontoThe Ring Road, M32, M4/5 motorways. The property offers well presented living accommodation which comprises to the ground floor: porch, hallway, shower room, 26ft lounge/diner with feature fireplace, conservatory, kitchen/ diner with built in oven & hob and dishwasher. To the first floor can be found 4/5 bedrooms, bedroom 4 and 5 being interconnected with ensuite dressing room and a family bathroom. Externally there is a large lawn
rear garden with patios to front and back and a summerhouse. The front of the property is laid to brick paving with driveway providing off
street parking for 4 cars with access to a single size garage. Rarely do detached properties of this style come available locally,
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June, 2021
downendvoice
51
n OCEAN PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Downend £279,950 OCEAN are pleased to bring to the market this 2 bedroom ground floor apartment that is offered for sale with no onward chain. Marshfield Park is a purpose built block of desirable apartments located on the borders of Downend and Frenchay providing stunning open views across Frenchay and the Frome Valley Conservation area. This property also offers easy access to major transport links such as the M32, M4 and M5, and is close to local shops within Downend. The accommodation presents as entrance hall, a very light an airy feel with a large living room leading to a sun room that offers a beautiful outlook over Frenchay. Further to the accommodation is a kitchen, dining room, 2 double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Externally there is a well maintained gardens mainly being are laid to lawn with planted flowerbeds. Additionally there is 1 allocated parking space and visitor parking located at the front. Call Ocean now to view on 0117 244 1050.
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www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
June, 2021
53
n M COLEMAN ESTATE AGENTS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
M
Coleman
Mayflower Court, StapleNO Hill,SOLICITOR Bristol, BS16 5FD SELLING £415,000 FEES*
E S T A T E A G E N T S
M COLEMAN are delighted to bring to the market this end terrace M.Coleman are offering a fantastic incentive for vendors looking to put their propertyby on the market during the months of March and April 2016. residence built Barrett Homes in 2010, boasting four double size For all properties instructed during this period proceeding to a successful rooms, we completion are sureM.Coleman the property Estate Agents will meet your Energy Performance and Solicitors Selling costs. * Including VAT excluding disbursements. will appealCertificate to an array of buyers. Upon entering the home, you provide a quality service to all our clients are greetedWe with a welcoming based on traditional values of honesty, integrity and courtesy. team benefits experience entrance hall thatOurgives access extending beyond 100 years and this expertise passed toairy you to ensure we achieve the best to a bright isand sitting room possible price for the sale of your home. which boasts a dual aspect with We listen to our client’s needs and believe a double glazed window toproviding the communication is paramount in the best level of service throughout the selling front elevation process. and French doors to the garden at the rear. There is * Terms & mounted Conditions Apply – Pleaseelectric ask for details a modern wall fire and granite hearth giving a warm and cosy feel to the room. The open plan kitchen dining room has a kitchen of perfectly balanced 19 Cleeve Wood Road Downend proportions and simple clean lines Bristol BS16 2SF Tel: 0117 9566221 offering a range of fitted units with with tiled enclosure and a mains www.mcoleman.co.uk cream high gloss shaker style doors plumbed shower. There are a and granite effect worktop and further three bedrooms, all of upstand. double proportions, bedroom two Integrated appliances include offering built in wardrobes; the a five ring gas hob, electric double bright family bathroom has a white oven, extractor fan and dishwasher three piece suite. with space for tall fridge/freezer; Externally the fully enclosed the wall mounted gas fired boiler rear garden is well established is neatly hidden within a unit. A with a variety of carefully planted doorway leads to a utility room shrubs. There are various seating with matching wall units and under areas, capturing sun through the counter space with plumbing for day and a level lawn. Gated access a washing machine and tumbleat the rear leads to a garage with dryer. A ground floor cloakroom off road parking to the front of the and storage cupboard accessed garage for two vehicles. from the hallway complete this Located within what we believe floor. to be a realistic walking distance You will be pleasantly surprised to the amenities of both Staple Hill at the size of the first floor and Downend High Streets, the accommodation all accessed from property is moments away from a spacious landing, the master the ever popular Page Park offering bedroom offers fitted wardrobes a vast open space to include a and an en-suite shower room Coleman
M
E S T A T E A G E N T S
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transport and the motorway links are also close at hand making this a perfect property for the busy commuter.
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oes your home need some attention after months of having everyone home, and being out of routine? I am a professional home organiser, and would love to help. Whether it’s a spare room, overflowing cupboards, the children’s bedrooms and toys, your kitchen cupboards, or piles of “stuff” lying around, I can sort it. My Facebook page, Louise Declutter Bristol, has lots of before and after photos and testimonials.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
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54
June, 2021
n GARDENING FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Wisteria lifts my mood AS I write it is Mental Health Awareness week. We have advanced a million miles from where we were. Women were locked up with ‘hysteria’ in the past, and there was a dreadful stigma attached to mental illness. As someone who has always struggled with my mental health, I can see how things are better. Celebrities have come out and admitted that they have had issues, and there have been campaigns by the Royal Family to encourage talking and sharing feelings. I personally think there is still a long way to go. People are afraid to talk because they do not want to burden the listener or to bring them down. The listener is afraid to listen, because they do not know what to say. They think they have to ‘fix’ the problem. The fact is that they cannot
practically fix it. They can listen and accept and reassure. That is all they need to do. My mood normally lifts with the weather, and the season of spring. However, it has been different this year, as it has been very cold. The plants are smaller than they normally would be; the new growth has been nipped by the cold. I am slower to recover from the winter than usual also. The wisteria is out, and looking and smelling beautiful, and that has been lifting me. It is the time that the laburnum trees are flowering – a sea of bright yellow. I am a little bit obsessed with petunia ‘Night Sky’ this year. I have chosen it for some of my customers and for my own planters. It reminds me of space. My wildflower bed is coming on strongly now and I cannot
wait to see it in bloom. The good thing about this cold weather is that there have been fewer aphids around. The rose bushes are growing well without the aphids to distort the new growth! There are fewer slugs and snails around also. Everything is planted in my vegetable bed now. The plants are small and still need a little protection, but they are in place. Now is a good time to mulch your flower beds to feed the soil, which in turn feeds the plants and promotes vigorous growth and flower production. There is lots of weeding to do this time of year. The hostas are popping up above the soil surface. The dahlias are also sprouting, promising a lovely display that will continue until the first frosts. There is much enjoyment to be found in the garden – if you
with
April Hulin
know where to look! The coronavirus restrictions are carrying on lifting, and by the time you read this, we will be allowed to eat together and to meet indoors. Have a lovely time, whatever you are doing! April Hulin Hulinapril@gmail.com
n CHRISTINE'S COLUMN
Choose your own garden style I QUITE often get asked, what style is my garden? Some people say it is cottagey, but a lot of cottage garden plants make rather large clumps as they mature, far too big for my piece of paradise. I just say: "I grow what I like!" And that's it – your garden and the plants you choose can be your own choice. If you would like a certain style, OK, then go ahead. In the past, in my last garden in North Common, I created a Japanese garden, hot borders, a twilight border and of course a cottage garden. To update you, I found what I believed was a Ville de Lyon clematis in a container, along with a Blue Alpina clematis: both, I think, were fighting for space. So I moved Ville de Lyon to go on the same side of my arch as the rose, Schoolgirl. Alas, there was a small shoot on it but after I planted it, I
Rose variety Golden Showers, taken last year.
with
Christine Broadway
noticed after a short while the shoot had disappeared! Maybe a bird had pecked it off? Anyway not long after when I was in a well known supermarket I saw and bought a Niobe clematis for £3.50 – a bargain. This is a red one, too, and
there was enough room around the arch with the Schoolgirl rose and hopefully clematis Ville de Lyon. I hope when it gets over its shock of its transplant it will send up fresh shoots. I'm looking forward with
renewed hope and vigour (after having all these injections once a month for this horrid depression I have suffered with over the past years) to seeing my garden in full bloom this year. Gardening is truly one of the best therapies for mental illness. Take Care Christine Broadway
LET US KNOW YOUR VIEWS - EMAIL US AT: NEWS@DOWNENDVOICE.CO.UK To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
June, 2021
downendvoice
55
n GARDENING CLUB AT LINCOMBE BARN
A splash of colour and summer scents WE are now coming to the beginning of the month of June, when we will be working flat out. It is time to safely put out all our summer bedding plants. How good that will be, to have an excuse to go out and visit the garden centres. There will be plenty of plants around to make a good splash of colour. I have some perennial plants doing quite well at the moment, and hope the slugs do not pay a visit and make short work of the new lupins. I think some cosmos, with their feathery leaves, will make a good addition to the borders. My photinia Red Robin is at this moment looking beautiful, with red leaves and the white flowers almost out, just in time for Pentecost, so I can trim it back after that. It always flowers ready to be arranged in church. It is always good to have some scented plants in the garden: lavender is a good small shrub, with many different varieties and shades, then there is jasmine, the summer climber with a heavy scent. Garden pinks and sweet William both have a good perfume, and don't forget sweet peas. Gardeners and visitors who have difficulty with their sight will find these flowers a joy as they give off their perfume. Many of you will be sowing your vegetable in a succession, so if you have had cloches over them you may have them peeping through. My potatoes in a tub are showing shoots, so time
to cover them up. I usually get a couple of meals of really fresh new potatoes: there's nothing like it. Hopefully you have sown some salad vegetables to enjoy in the warmer weather – it's good to go out a pick a lettuce fresh from the garden. We will all be weeding, hoeing and tidying around on the fine days, and then stopping for a cup of tea, to admire what we have achieved. We should by now also be able to invite someone into our garden for a chat. Were you happy with your spring garden, or have you noticed a corner which could do with a few different bulbs next year? I haven't grown lilies, so I might have a look at adding those, and some more small daffodils of a different variety, to give me something to look forward to. We are always thinking so far ahead when we are planning our gardens but when it rains, it keeps us busy. Don't forget to take a photo or two: this way you can see where it would be good to change or add a plant or two. I will leave you with that thought, and encourage you to go out and visit some of the gardens on the National Garden Scheme. They are always a pleasant afternoon out, sometimes with a cream tea, but always providing some inspiration. Happy Gardening (or viewing) Mary Head
n NEWS Foodbank doors open A FOODBANK has reopened its doors for people to collect food for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. The Resound Foodbank in Blackhorse Road provides parcels to people in need. The number of people referred for help is still 50% above the level two years ago, and the service is also supporting some schools who are passing on food to families in need. The charity's latest donations list includes tomato based pasta sauce, adult toothbrushes, disposable toothbrushes, toilet rolls, tinned mushrooms and tinned green beans, dog food (wet and dry), Weetabix and Shredded Wheat, macaroni cheese, small bottles of squash and wrapped chocolate biscuit bars such as Penguin or Kit-Kat. Donations can be dropped off on Fridays between 10am and noon. For info call 0117 305 0969.
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n SPORT
Club supporters will walk to away fixture SUPPORTERS of Downend Cricket Club are planning to walk the 12 miles to their away match at Bath to raise money for good causes. The money raised by the sponsored walk, which it is hoped will become an annual event, will be split evenly between the club and nominated charity Marie Curie Cancer Care. The walk takes place on June 5, starting at 8.30am from the Grace Memorial Ground in Downend Road. We are walking to Bath Cricket Ground along the cycle track – hopefully in time for the match! People who join in do not have to walk the whole route – any distance and participation of all generations would be most welcome, and if you prefer to cycle, scoot or dance your way along, even better. Anyone who would like to take part can get involved by adding a comment to the post on the sponsored walk on the Downend Cricket Club Hub Facebook page. Sponsorship forms will also be available at the club. Donations can be made via a page on the JustGiving.com website, which can be found at bit.ly/3eVH2sh. Funds raised for the club help pay for costs and improvements such as the recentlycompleted revamp of the changing rooms. There are some other great events lined up for this year. On the field, Downend 1st XI lost their first
The Downend Cricket Club changing rooms, before and after refurbishment game in the West Of England Premier Cricket League Premier 1 at home to Lansdown but tied their second game in a thriller away to Bridgwater. They then won their home game against Bedminster on the last ball on May 15. The 2nd XI won their first game in the Bristol & District Cricket Association first division, against Bristol Pakistanis, by five wickets, while
their second game against Brislington was cancelled and their match against Chew Magna was abandoned with Downend on top. The 3rd Xl lost their first game to Clevedon, while the second and third games were cancelled. At junior level the Under 11s and Under 13s lost their first games both in close finishes. Miles Davis
Carsons and Mangotsfield continue good start THE good start to the season has continued for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club. This hasn’t all been down to the pre-season fitness and high levels of attendance at training. A few days before the league season started the club took ownership of covers for the wicket, thanks to the sponsorship of JD Carpentry, SVE Services, Pearce Bros Auto Rentals, First Friends, Obsidian Accountancy, and Lansdown Place Wealth Management. In the first game played at home the second team were at a crucial point when rain came down and, by using the covers, they were able to save the game, which resulted in a home win. The second week of the season, with the first team at home against St George Valley, saw a number of games called off but by protecting the wicket when the rain relented, and some quick maintenance, a 25-over game was started. Carsons and Mangotsfield posted 158/9, with a number of useful contributions with the bat. However, the star man was 1st team captain Sam Brayley, who took three wickets in four balls and eventually got a fourth. This enabled the team to win by 50 runs. The second team on the same day played
First XI line-up and the club's new covers away in appalling conditions at King George V Park, against Coalpit Heath. The home side seemed particularly keen to play and, having lost the toss, were put in to bat. Quickly, thanks to the opening bowling of Ollie Catton and Michael Coles, Coalpit Heath were under a lot of pressure at 1-3, before Glyn Flinders finished with remarkable figures of 2-5, as they were bowled out for 47. Carsons and Mangotsfield only lost one wicket in reaching their target, with club newcomer Tom Smurthwaite scoring 30 not out.
The Sunday team has also had a great start to the season, winning both league games so far. Their first game saw them win by four wickets against Backwell Flax Bourton, thanks to an unbeaten half century from Andy King. In the most recent game, against Blagdon, the star performers were Sam Brayley and Ollie Catton, who both scored 50s. In Under-15 Ollie’s case, this was his maiden 50 in adult cricket. Their efforts saw Carsons and Mangotsfield cruise to a comfortable away win. Ian Coles
News: contact us at: news@downendvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
June, 2021
57
n SPORT
Downend Boxing Club resumes training TRAINING has resumed at Downend Boxing Club as distancing rules are eased. Operating in accordance with England Boxing conditions, boxers aged under 18 can now mix for training, including pad work and sparring, and 32 of them attended the club at the Harry Crook Centre in Fishponds to have annual medicals to re-commence training. Adults were still limited to training in segregated areas, with sparring not allowed for over-18s at this stage. But the club hopes this will change as covid restrictions are further eased and, in time, there will be a return to competition. Training in the gym has been hit by the lockdowns called over the last year to stop the spread of Covid-19. Although some training in the gym was allowed during the autumn, distancing rules were still in place, and for most of the past year boxers have had to train at home or outdoors. Head coach Craig Turner said: "We are exceptionally proud of our young people, who have continued to dedicate themselves to training during this terrible time. "We have received films and pictures from them training in sheds and fields in all sorts of innovative ways, from lifting bricks to
making punch bags from tyres. "England boxing initiated the Strava running challenge that was won for five weeks by 20-year-old Jasmine Poole, and her achievement prompted a lockdown training film of Jasmine’s regimen to be posted on the England boxing website. "Consistently, the young people have exhibited their commitment to the sport and personal discipline in maintaining not only their physical but mental health. "Our outdoor sessions were always fully attended and our young people were always hugely excited to see their teammates. "But excited is an understatement when the return to the gym was announced! "We received twenty messages wanting to know details of when they should attend, and although sessions for under 18’s are restricted to seven at a time, a stream of young people can be seen waiting for their turn. "They are already working hard!"
Pictured right: Downend Boxing Club's Archie Smith working with Max Buckley on the first session back
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June, 2021
n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE
Back on holidays! L
IKE a breath of sea air on a warm summer morning, holidays are back! It’s time to haul those shorts and the swimming gear out of hibernation, dust off the beach towels and get set for some serious R and R. But wait… after more than a year of being cautious, we can’t afford to ruin all that good work. That’s why the powers that be have advised us which countries are considered safe to visit – and we must continue to abide by the rules. In the UK, too, there’s still a list of sensible dos and don’ts that we must follow. As a chiropractor and health professional, it’s part of my job to advise people how to look after themselves, particularly when they’re getting ready for that well-earned break away from the daily grind. So here goes…
ON THE MOVE Remember that there are pitfalls to avoid before you even reach your holiday destination. You shouldn’t be sitting in a car for hours on end without taking a break. For the benefit of both your body and your powers of concentration, it’s best to drive only for a maximum of two hours in one hit. If you’re on a long-haul flight, get up and walk around every two hours – or between films! When it comes to luggage, you should only attempt to lift those heavy bags using your strong legs and clenching your buttocks before you begin. Of course, if you have mobility problems, you can contact the airport or your travel operator in advance to see what help they’re able to offer. How often have you reached your hotel, settled down for a good night’s sleep and wished
you’d brought your favourite pillow along for the ride? This is a great idea, especially if you suffer with neck problems. Pillows are easy to pack and can also be used as a head rest during the flight. WHEN YOU GET THERE Don’t even think about walking for miles in flip-flops, when you get off the beach put your trainers on! Don’t walk into and around the town in flip flops. This can cause no end of foot, ankle and back problems. Just pack a pair of your most comfortable shoes that you know you can rely on. I’m a serious advocate for the many benefits of vitamin D – an even tan being an important one – but there are sensible precautions to take before throwing down that towel and soaking up the rays. Be careful not to lie on your front with your back arched for too long as this is a common cause of back pain and don’t forget to use natural sun creams from reputable sources – and wear a hat! Carefully study the recommendations for particular skin types, especially if you’re prone to burning easily or suffering from heat rashes and other conditions. ENJOY A PROPER BREAK If you’re a serious exerciser – maybe a three to seven times a week runner or gym nut, all year round – remember that your body
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
will thank you for a week or two away from the serious stuff. Why not have a change of routine and get into some swimming, for example? Even professional athletes need to give their bodies a rest, so you should do the same when you’re on holiday. If you’re not into regular exercise but find yourself enjoying a lovely swim or long walk on holiday… don’t stop when you get back home! Hopefully you will have discovered a new healthy routine that you can build into your regular daily life. Extend that holiday feeling by discovering your neighbourhood swimming pool or even braving an open water venue. You could take to the local streets to clock up those 10,000 steps a day – you can still dream of Malta while you’re walking around Mangotsfield!
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 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
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June, 2021
n SPORT SPECTATORS will be allowed back at Mangotsfield United's Cossham Street as coronavirus restrictions are relaxed. With the 2020-21 season scrapped, the Mangos are playing some "end of season friendlies", which have included a 5-2 home win over Thornbury Town on May 8, with goals by Seb Scott (2), Harry Haughton, Owen Humphries and Josh Beadle. This and the away defeat to Bradford Town on May 15 were played behind closed doors. But at the home game against Bitton on May 22, with a 3pm kick-off, spectators were due to be able to attend and watch the game as normal, subject to capacity limits. All spectator facilities were also set to open.
Fans to return at Mangotsfield Utd Pre-season friendlies at home to Keynsham Town on July 10 and away to Shepton Mallet on July 17 have also been arranged, but as yet there is no real news on how the Southern League will look when we kick off competitively again in August. Everyone at Cossham Street is pleased for Louis Britton, who scored for Bristol City on his debut against Brentford on May 8. Louis, who is 20, had a spell at Mangotsfield United after signing from Brislington, and came to local prominence when he scored all five goals in a 5-0 win v Cinderford Town three years
ACUPUNCTURE
AERIALS
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Gisela Norman, a highly experienced acupuncturist of 30 years Gisela treats a wide range of conditions from physical complaints, including infertility to emotional and stress related problems. Call her to discuss your health issue on:
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ago. Bristol City snapped him up after he scored further goals for the Mangos, and after loaning him out at several higher-level non-league sides, Louis has finally made it into the City first team. Louis is the son of former Mangotsfield striker Geoff Britton, who played for the club in the 1980s. The club has confirmed on Twitter that the long-awaited repairs to the floodlighting at Cossham Street have now been carried out – that is really good news! Dave Smale
CARPENTRY & INTERIORS
The Aerial Co.
AERIALS
59
Call Tony 0777 6188595 tony1osborne@yahoo.co.uk Find us on Facebook osborneandsons
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60 BURGLAR ALARMS
ELECTRICIANS
June, 2021 ELECTRICIANS
MARK EVANS
MARK EVANS
Electricians & Alarm Specialists
Electricians & Alarm Specialists
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Vinney Green Farmhouse Emersons Green BS16 7AF
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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
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T H E R E W I R I N G S P E C I A L I S T S 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
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G FENCIN RVICE)
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& PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
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all work guaranteed - all quotes free OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE LOCALLY BASED
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Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
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June, 2021 GUTTERING SERVICES
Replacement and Maintenance:
Guttering, Downpipes UPVC Fascia Boards Soffits and Cladding Unblock & Gutter Cleaning All work guaranteed Based in Bristol area Call Paul for free quote
HAIRDRESSER
PAINTING & DECORATING
Professional Mobile
J L Painting & Decorating
Hairdresser 20 years plus experience Cutting womens, gents and children. Styling and blow drying, perming, colouring and highlighting. Wedding & prom hair
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Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning Call or Book online
Hawthorn Landscapes and Tree Care We are a family run business est 1990 we do all types of Fencing, turfing,patios,power cleaning Trees and shrubs topped shaped and felled All types of rubbish removed - cheaper than a skip Email hawthornlandscapes@yahoo.co.uk
www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 0117 3708528 Mob: 07543056558
Freephone 0800 858 9803 Mobile 07580 260 676
Based in Downend, Bristol
OVEN CLEANING
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07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003
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 1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89
Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199
£18.30 +VAT
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sales@downendvoice. co.uk
07474573780 0117 2792264 e: jl.painting.decorating@outlook.com
PAINTING & DECORATING
SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & •External Tiler • Mason Painter Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured
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61
E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
PAINTING & DECORATING STEVE PAINTER
DECORATING SERVICES
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
PLASTERING
SBS PLASTERING City and Guilds Qualified
Affordable | Reliable | Professional Free Quotations
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email: sbsplastering@aol.co.uk CHECK OUT REVIEWS ON GOOGLE
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June, 2021
PLUMBING
PLUMBING
PLUMBING & HEATING
We would be pleased to help you with your
Boiler/Heating systems installed Unvented Cylinders Electric Boilers Underfloor heating Boiler repairs Boiler servicing Gas & PAT safety testing
* TAPS, WASHERS * BALL VALVES * LEAKS, WASTES * OVERFLOWS, DRIPS * LEAD PIPES * TOILETS, FLUSHES
PLUMBING & HEATING
0% FINANCE AVAILABLE* Contact us via:
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Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk
Boiler installation, servicing and repairs
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ROOFING
N . BROWN
ROOFIN G LIMITED
629179
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BOILERS, BATHROOMS AND GENERAL PLUMBING
FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HONEST & RELIABLE
TEL: 07765 250816
56746
PLUMBING
Give Nigel a call he’s local and has a wealth of experience
07878249260 phil@andersonheatingservices.co.uk
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✆ 07779 786072 ROOFING
A MURPHY Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT
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957 5092
FLAT ROOFING J AND J CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES
Mastic | Asphalt | Felt Roofing Contractors
Providing general building, factory facilities work, gardening, pest control
Tel 07779242184
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Downend based BS16 6AP Over 40 years experience References available on request
TEL: 0117 431 5880 MOBILE: 07976 442703 Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
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June, 2021
63 WIGS
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.
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.
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
TREE SURGEONS
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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
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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
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07976 665448
TREE SURGEONS
J.A. Cole & Sons Tree Surgeons • Tree Surgery • Hedge & Shrub work • Precision Felling • Size Reduction • Fully insured • Domestic & Commercial .
PROFESSIONAL EXPERT SERVICE - 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF TREE WORK Free Quotations & Advice
0117 9567298 07768 973291
www.bristol-tree-surgeons.co.uk
WASP REMOVAL
Kwik Care Pest Control
Wasp Removal Fully qualified Competitive prices Call now for a free quote
Jon 07483 826104 0117 9860642 www.kwik-care.co.uk WASTE DISPOSAL
ADVERTISE HERE
LOCAL SERVICES
siness Advertise your bu here from just
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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
We stock many styles and makes.
Please book an appointment on:
0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com
WINDOW & DOOR SOLUTIONS
We replace & install all new Windows, Doors, Bi-folding Doors, conservatories and much more! We can also service & repair all types of PVC, Aluminium & Timber windows/doors From Misted Double Glazing - Lock Repairs - Hinge Replacement - Door/ Window Handles and more.
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL
077867 30804 or 0117 279 9409 info@treadwellwindows.co.uk treadwellwindows.co.uk BASED IN DOWNEND! WINDOW & DOOR SPECIALISTS
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
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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
You can make a real difference to a child’s life Foster with us and help build better, brighter futures for children across Bristol
In return, you’ll get: L Dedicated support and regular contact
with other foster carers L Weekly allowance per child and a fee L Training and development opportunities
foster with bristol
Want to know more? Visit www.bristol.gov.uk/foster call us on 0117 353 4200 or email fostering@bristol.gov.uk
BristolFostering
@BCCFostering