downendvoice www.downendvoice.co.uk www.downendvoice.co.uk May 2021, Issue 94
FREE EVERY MONTH IN DOWNEND, MANGOTSFIELD, STAPLE HILL, BROMLEY HEATH & FRENCHAY
Welcome back, shoppers! Tributes paid to 'Princess Meg' Tributes have been paid to Megan Luscombe from Downend, nicknamed Princess Meg, who has died aged 24 after a life lived to the full. PAGE 3
Vegan in college equality battle
Artist Jayde Perkin, of St George, decorates the ABC Blinds shop window in Staple Hill as part of a project welcoming back shoppers to businesses which had to close during the latest lockdown. Full story: Pages 20-21
E-scooters: don't break the law ELECTRIC scooter riders have been warned against "dangerous, foolish and illegal" behaviour after a surge in complaints. An experimental scheme which allows people to hire and use e-scooters on the road, as an alternative to driving short distances, was extended to Downend, Staple Hill, Mangotsfield and Emersons Green in late March. Within days, reports began to multiply on social media of e-scooters being ridden on footpaths,
cycle paths and in parks, and being left parked blocking pavements. The hire scheme, introduced by the West of England Combined Authority and operated by Voi Technology, is the only way to legally use e-scooters: privately-owned scooters remain banned from use in any public space. The Voi scooters can only be hired by over-18s, who need to prove they have a full or provisional Turn to Page 5
A Downend teenager has been allowed to study an alternative after complaining that working on a farm for her animal management course went against her vegan beliefs. PAGE 4
'A miracle that my son's alive' The father of a cyclist hit by a car at Hambrook lights has thanked the strangers who saved his son's life. PAGE 6
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May, 2021
n NEWS
Cannabis factory in Staple Hill house
Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579 Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377
Follow us on Twitter @downendvoice ADVERTISING sales@downendvoice.co.uk Tel 0117 907 8585 Tel 07799 461169 EDITORIAL news@downendvoice.co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Downend Voice, 6 Elkstone Walk, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6JT. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter. DEADLINE Our June edition deadline is May 12. L O C A L I N F O R M AT I O N South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards
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Downend Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Downend Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pickup points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@ downendvoice.co.uk.
COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Downend Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.
A member of the
The cannabis plants found in Overnhill Road, Staple Hill. Picture: Avon and Somerset police POLICE uncovered a cannabis factory with more than 200 plants when they raided a house in Staple Hill. Officers arrested a 28-year-old man during the operation in Overnhill Road on April 19. He was charged with cultivating a Class B drug and appeared before Bristol Magistrates Court two days later. The man was due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on May 19 for a further hearing. Announcing the seizure, the Staple Hill neighbourhood police team said 233 plants had been found at the home.
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May, 2021
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n NEWS
'Princess Meg' was a force of nature
TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'determined and lively' young woman from Downend, who has died aged 24. Megan Luscombe was born with the degenerative condition Friedreich's Ataxia and lived with physical disability. But her mum Janet said Megan "wanted people to see her personality and strength, beyond the wheelchair". She was affectionately known as Princess Meg both for her personality and love of fashion, style and pampering. Born in Kingswood, where she attended Southey pre-school and Falconride Primary, now Kings Forest, Megan moved to Downend, where her family still lives, aged 10. She attended Downend School for five years before moving to the residential National Star College near Cheltenham for further education, studying graphics and design. Megan stayed in Cheltenham and continued to learn new skills after leaving the college: she had recently undertaken courses in ceramics and cookery. She died in her sleep in late March and, while her condition was life-limiting, her death was unexpected. Her family – parents Janet and Sean, and sisters Abigail and Becky – are now fundraising for National Star and inviting everyone who knew Megan to make a donation in her memory. Janet said: "Nothing phased Megan – there was always a way she could achieve anything. "She wanted to do everything that a normal, able bodied person would – it might have been harder for her to do it but she was a very determined young lady, and always did what she wanted to do. "She wanted her independence and achieved it." Megan loved to travel and visited many countries, including visiting Disneyland Paris and going skiing. After a family visit to Mexico, in 2009, Megan caught swine flu. Amid fears at the time that the virus would become a pandemic, Downend School was closed as a precaution, but Janet said Megan saw the funny side of being the cause of her classmates getting
some time off. Megan followed her sister Abigail, who also has Friedreich's Ataxia, to National Star. While there, she made headlines when she fought back against a mugger who tried to snatch money she had withdrawn from a cash machine in Cheltenham. Megan grabbed back half of the money and fought back against the robber, who was then caught by passers-by. She said at the time: "I may not be strong, but I have a strong grip. "People in wheelchairs are seen as easy targets but the thief underestimated me. I can be pretty determined when I want to." During her four years at the college Megan not only achieved an employability skills qualification but was elected to the student union to represent her peers, and was fully involved with college social life. She featured on a BBC3 TV documentary, The Unbreakables, which followed a group of National Star students, and experienced downhill skiing in an adapted sit-ski during trips to Andorra and France. Staff have been left devastated by her death and described her as a "force of nature". Speaking on behalf of National Star, physiotherapy manager Verity Fisher said: "Megan is remembered for her sense of adventure, infectious
laugh and sheer determination, which enabled her to do so much in her short life. "Woe betide anyone who was lulled into a false sense of security by Megan’s physical
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n NEWS A VEGAN college student from Downend says she was told she would fail her course if she did not complete a section on animal farming. Fiji Willetts is studying a BTEC National Extended Diploma in Animal Management at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College, which the college recommends on its website for people looking for careers working at "kennels, catteries, pet stores, wildlife parks, dog grooming salons and zoological institutions". But Fiji said that, after enrolling, she discovered she was expected to pass a unit on farm husbandry, raising livestock for meat, milk, eggs and other animal products, which are not consumed by vegans. Fiji, who has been vegan for four years and has previously organised fundraising dog shows for animal charities, says she
May, 2021
College course 'against my beliefs' – vegan student started suffering with anxiety and raised her concerns with her tutor, but was told she would not be able to study an alternative unit, which she says left her with the choice of failing, enrolling on a different course or leaving the college. She said students were expected to attend working farms as part of the husbandry unit, and a visit to a slaughterhouse was also discussed. Fiji said: “I couldn’t simply break my way of living purely to pass a course. "I am vegan because I love animals and so to go against my
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beliefs and attend a farm, where I would be supporting a farmer, would be wrong." The 18-year-old former Winterbourne Academy pupil contacted the Vegan Society, who helped her submit a formal complaint to the college, to the Education and Skills Funding Agency and then examination awarding body Pearson, on the grounds that veganism is protected under human rights and equality law, and education providers are under a legal duty to offer inclusive courses. Five months after her initial complaint, Fiji started an alternative module and will be able to finish the course. Vegan Society rights advocate Jeanette Rowley said the college had initially said it was “unable to remove" the module from the curriculum or substitute it with another one. She said: "Vegans in the UK have the protection of human rights and equality law and it is vital that schools and colleges understand that they are under a statutory duty to examine how their educational policies and practices might have a negative impact on vegan students." SGS College insists it did offer Fiji the chance to study an alternative module, in advanced animal nutrition or business management in the animal sector, and that she was never told she had to either study the husbandry unit, choose another course or drop out. Principal Sara-Jane Watkins said: "The college has made every effort to explain to Fiji that the unit was chosen with the intention of delivering a holistic and well-rounded programme that both meets local need while also enabling learners to progress onto the next stages of their education. "On at least three separate occasions, the college has also acted to reassure Fiji, and her parents, that the unit had been ethically planned and, in addition to our commitment that it would be delivered to the highest possible standards and with the highest regard for animal welfare, that it would not
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be delivered in a way that either disregards Fiji's beliefs or places her at any disadvantage. "The College also confirmed with Fiji that she would not be expected to undertake any activity with which she was uncomfortable and that she could opt out of all or some of (the unit) if she so wished." Ms Watkins said Fiji "would never have failed" unless she opted out of the husbandry unit and did not study an alternative. Fiji insists that she was only offered an alternative unit in late March, after Pearson became involved. The college says the Equality and Human Rights Commission has confirmed that equality obligations "do not apply to anything done in connection with the content of the curriculum", adding: "This means that you are not restricted in the range of issues, ideas, and materials you use in your syllabus and will have the academic freedom to expose students to a range of thoughts and ideas, however controversial. "Even if the content of the curriculum causes offence to students with certain protected characteristics, this will not make it unlawful unless it is delivered in a way which results in harassment or subjects students to discrimination or other detriment.”
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May, 2021
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n NEWS
Hiring scooters for your kids is illegal From Page 1 driving licence. But many of the complaints involve children using scooters anti-socially. Voi says the "vast majority" of anti-social behaviour incidents involve private e-scooters and not its machines. Staple Hill and Mangotsfield ward South Gloucestershire councillor Ian Boulton said complaints over e-scooter misuse were taking up much of his time. He said: "While the Voi e-scooters are undoubtedly replacing many ‘car miles’ with a cleaner alternative, it is obvious that some people are failing to recognise that hiring a Voi e-scooter makes them as liable to the same rules of the road as if they hired any other motor vehicle. "Riding without a valid driving licence, riding on the pavements, in our parks or any other ‘no-ride’ zone is dangerous, foolish and illegal and our local neighbourhood police team have been keen to say that they will prioritise enforcing existing road traffic laws on anyone who chooses to flout the law. "We are also getting anecdotal evidence that some adults are, almost unbelievably, trying to overcome the law and terms of booking by hiring e-scooters on behalf of their children." As well as risking their child's life, anyone hiring a Voi e-scooter for an under-18 risks prosecution and penalty points, both for themselves and the child once they apply for a licence. A police spokesperson said the force had received "a number of anecdotal reports of anti-
Voi e-scooters parked in Downend social/underage riding since the trials started" and was policing e-scooter offences as part of regular neighbourhood patrols. The spokesperson said while officers would first "engage and explain" with e-scooter users, enforcement was "an option for repeat or serious offences". These included a 26-year-old Staple Hill man who had been stopped late at night on April 16 on a hired e-scooter in Soundwell Road, near Kingswood Leisure Centre, and found to be over the drink-drive limit. The police are urging people with concerns over underage riding to report it to Voi, which can revoke hire agreements before taking enforcement action. A Voi spokesperson said that on the whole the trial had been well-received, with more than 445,000 trips taken on its scooters since it launched in October. She said: "If an adult allows an underage person to ride an e-scooter, it’s the same as letting an underage person drive a car. Users can receive fines for this
infraction, and points can be added to their driving licence." Voi said it was providing users with information about parking safely and had patrols to move any incorrectly parked scooters, adding: "Recently, we started to roll out a new safety feature that allows us to give warnings and fines to any users who have parked their scooters incorrectly. Although
the vast majority of users park their scooters correctly, this feature improves good parking behaviour significantly." Voi said both Page Park and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path were "no riding zones" enforced by geofencing technology, which made its scooters would automatically slow down to walking pace. The spokesperson said that the "vast majority" of both e-scooter accidents and antisocial behaviour reported to the police involved illegal use of privately-owned scooters. She added: "Occasionally we receive reports of anti-social behaviour. In these situations, we work closely with the Avon and Somerset Police, and we have a 3 strike policy – if the user does not comply with our guidelines e-scooter regulations, they can have their account blocked and won’t be able to ride a Voi scooter again."
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May, 2021
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'These strangers saved my son's life' THE father of a young man who was hit by a car on a crossing at the Hambrook traffic lights says it is a miracle his son survived. Thomas Harris was cycling across the three-lane section of the Avon Ring Road, between the M32 and 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. Tom's dad Rich believes his son only survived because of the intensive efforts to save him: first by passers-by, including a nurse from Downend who carried out CPR and an off-duty air ambulance doctor who was stopped in traffic, then by paramedics who were on the scene within minutes, and finally by Southmead Hospital staff, who carried out emergency surgery to relieve the pressure on his brain. Tom was in a coma for seven
Tom Harris hugs his mum Jean for the first time after the collision. days and in intensive care for three weeks afterwards. He was able to return to his South Gloucestershire home just under a month later, but the brain damage he suffered has affected his memory and mobility. Rich said Tom's injuries were "terrible" and added: "It's a miracle he has survived it really. "The police who first arrived told us they thought it was going to be a fatality – that's why the
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road was closed for eight hours afterwards. "He has made a pretty good recovery. He's still got brain damage, problems with the right side of his body, legs and arms, short-term memory loss and post-traumatic amnesia." Although Tom can move around the house a little he will need a wheelchair and mobility scooter to give him the freedom to go out on his own, and will also need speech therapy. His family, who lived in Staple Hill until last year, have launched an online fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £25,000 to fund the adaptations Tom will need. The page can be found by searching for 'Help Thomas on his road to recovery' at gofundme.com or at bit. ly/3sK0n3a. Already more than £5,300 has been donated, much of it from fans of Bristol's two league football clubs after Tom's team, Bristol Rovers, shared news of the appeal. Tom was on his way to a job interview, heading
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from Winterbourne towards Frenchay, when he was hit has he cycled across the A4174. Rich understands that the collision happened as the lights changed and, having crossed two lanes of stationary traffic, Tom did not see a car approaching in the third lane, which was clear, travelling at around the 50mph limit. As Tom celebrated his 21st birthday with his family on April 20, he spoke on the phone with Dawn Cable, the nurse from Downend who helped save his life. Dawn, who had been cycling towards the ring road from Frenchay, heard the accident happen and went to help on seeing Tom in the road. She noticed he was unresponsive and not breathing effectively, and told another member of the public who had called 999 to pass on that information to the emergency services, before she started CPR. She and the air ambulance doctor worked to keep Tom alive until the paramedics arrived and intubated him, restarting his breathing. Dawn is a nurse for the Three Shires Medical Practiceand has been trained in basic life support. She said: "The training that we do just took over – I was on automatic. "Time stood still for me that day. I can remember feeling so relived when I heard the sirens and knew the ambulance was coming." Dawn said: "Tom's got a long road of rehabilitation ahead of him but he seems to be a very determined young man, so I'm sure he'll get there."
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Tel: 01179 854927 Wild Yeast Bakery 79 High Street, Staple Hill, Bristol, BS16 5HE
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May, 2021
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
n NEWS
Petition for traffic calming on Park Road RESIDENTS who set up a SpeedWatch group on their road have launched a petition calling for traffic calming measures. The petition, hosted on South Gloucestershire Council's website, asks the authority to carry out "an urgent traffic calming review for the whole of Park Road to help encourage adherence to, and enforce, the existing speed limits”. People living in Park Road, which runs alongside Page Park, between Broad Street and Salisbury Road, set up a volunteer Community SpeedWatch team to monitor driving on the road last year. They were given a hand-held detector to record how fast drivers were going on the road, which has a 20mph speed limit. Those who have been driving at more than 5mph above the limit have received letters from the police, who back the scheme. The petition says that the volunteer team found at least 13% of all traffic – more than one in every eight vehicles – was driven at more than 25mph, with up to 42% of drivers doing more than 22mph. A spokesperson for the group said: "Every session we have someone going at over 40; 55mph was the top speed we measured, up by the park on a Sunday morning." The road is used by through traffic travelling between Downend, Staple Hill and Kingswood, with the group estimating that an average of 350 vehicles per daytime hour use it. It also has a high level of pedestrians visiting Page Park. The spokesperson said the group did not have a specific form of traffic calming in mind and would leave the best solution to the council to decide. She added: "I would rather have a chicane outside my house than a dead child." The group's petition can be found on the ePetitions section of South Gloucestershire Council's website, or at bit.ly/3gIYL7z. It is open until September 11 and had been signed by more than 50 people as the Voice went to print.
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New survey shows Conservative Metro Mayor least well known in UK Research by ‘Centre for Cities’ shows the Conservative Metro Mayor of the West of England has failed to make an impact during his four years in office. Just 7% of people in the West of England could name the Metro Mayor unprompted, the lowest score nationwide. This contrasts with six in ten people in Manchester and London who had their Metro Mayor’s name on the tip of their tongue.
“A great answer on ‘Pointless’ but no good for the West of England” Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris, who grew up in South Gloucestershire, said: “The invisible Tory Metro Mayor has let opportunities slip through his fingers. It’s time for new leadership.” The West of England Initiative representing local businesses has also called for a higher profile Metro Mayor.
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May, 2021
n PETER'S VISION
Reassuringly thorough
W
“When it comes to eyewear, why compromise? Style and comfort come as a pair.”
57 Henleaze Road
768 Fishponds Road
Bristol BS9 4JT
Bristol BS16 3UA
0117 962 2474
0117 965 4434
ELL here we are, a full year later and finally we can taste freedom! Outdoor, socially distanced freedom maybe, but it's a good step to getting our lives back on track. It’s even better that the sun is out and if we can remember where they are, it’s time to bring out our shorts & T-shirts, and hopefully don a pair of sunglasses too! It got me thinking. Now sunglasses season’s definitely here, I’ve had my eye on a new pair of Ray-Ban’s for a few weeks. It’s going to be an oversized chunky acetate frame for me this year, with my favourite grey-green polarised prescription lenses. It’ll certainly make a change from the classic, and to be fair slightly conservative, Ray-Ban’s I usually wear. My wife Jo has already chosen hers too. It’s no surprise that once again she’s ahead of the game - well ahead of me anyway! One of our favourite designers, Tom Davies, has not been idle during lockdown either. From his London design studio, Tom’s latest collection is just stunning to behold and available to view in practice now. You can choose ready to wear Tom Davies glasses, for ladies & gents, that look stunning and are just so comfortable to wear. If you’re after something a little different or find glasses don’t usually fit or suit you then we can offer a tailor made service too, just ask for details. When it comes to your eyes, our vision is that each of you receives world class eye care, which we firmly believe you deserve. However it has become increasingly clear that our vision of reassuringly thorough eye care is not compatible with the NHS funded (free) sight test. With this in mind, we evolved during lockdown into a practice offering Advanced Eye Care to every patient. We’ve re-launched our Vision Plan. Membership is via a low cost monthly Direct Debit, which gives you access to the thorough eye care you want, when you need it. You’ll also receive a glasses discount as well as accidental damage cover for your new glasses. Advanced Eye Care is available for both adults and children too! Full details, including our ‘pay on the day’ option are on our website. I’d like to personally thank each of you for your trust and support throughout this difficult period. Making this change now, allows us to continue providing you and your family with reassuringly thorough eye care for many years to come. Don’t forget, whether it’s for reassuringly thorough eye care, sunglasses, glasses or contact lenses, we’re still here when you need us six days per week. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to see how we can help you. We continue to offer COVID safe ways to choose your new glasses too! To help us keep you all safe, we’re still asking you all to telephone first to book a time to come in. Please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434. We look forward to seeing you soon!
eyecareteam@turnersopticians.co.uk www.turnersopticians.co.uk Turners Eye Care Ltd T/A Turners Opticians Incorporated in England & Wales Reg No. 8201460 Subject to availability, T&C’s apply.
Peter
Peter Turner is a Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, and also works part time as a Senior Optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.
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May, 2021
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n NEWS
Huge response for pub's tribute to Stan WHEN a Downend pub had to close for lockdown, its most loyal regular said he'd be the first person back through the door when it reopened. But Stan Gilvear died before he had the chance to keep his promise. So when the Huntsman in Westerleigh Road was finally able to reopen in April, landlady Helen Bull poured a pint in his memory and left it at his favourite table. She posted a picture of it on Facebook, and her gesture caught the imagination: more than 1,000 people – friends of Stan, others who never met him and even a long-lost relative – left comments on the post, which was shared more than 11,000 times and reached more than two million users. Stan, who lived in Downend for more than 60 years, died in January from an undiagnosed heart condition. A welder by trade, he had worked for Charles Hill ship yard and on the SS Great
Stan Gilvear with a pint Britain after it returned to Bristol in 1970. Stan worked at the Creda washing machine and tumble dryer factory in Yate before taking early retirement around 14 years ago, and had also worked as a cleaner at UWE. He had his last pint at the Huntsman before the November lockdown, as the pub had to stay closed through Tier 3 restrictions and the third lockdown which followed.
Helen said: "He was just a really lovely, kind man who spoke to everyone. “We all raised a glass to Stan and put his pint in the little spot where he always sat, in the bar area by the telly." Helen said the reaction to the post had been "truly overwhelming". She said: "I’m just so glad so many people got to learn about Stan." Stan's partner Tracey Sherratt said he would have been "over the moon" at Helen's gesture and the comments her post had received. She said: “Stan was a very, very friendly gentleman. He was a very polite man and very funny, with his dry sense of humour, which people loved about him. “He was a happy man and very much a family man, with me and my two children. Stan was in their lives for 32 years." Mangotsfield community pastor Clive Heath, who officiated at Stan's funeral, said: "He was a very quiet man, with a dry but great sense of humour. "Stan liked the simple things in life, such as family BBQ’s and holidays and Christmas dinners. "He was a very popular man as the posts have shown. He was loved by the regulars and staff at the Huntsman. "It is always an honour to take any local service, but Stan was loved by all."
DISCOVER WHAT COLSTON’S CAN OFFER YOUR CHILD “We are confident that any child who joins us for Year 5 will thrive in our nurturing and supportive environment.” Mr D Edwards, Head of Lower School
Discover more about our exciting opportunity to join Year 5 this September by contacting our Admissions Team on admissions@colstons.org or by calling 0117 9992 3194 To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
A HUGE THANK YOU
to our amazing team of CAREGivers who have worked tirelessly over the last year to keep our clients safe at home.
“
We as a family cannot express in words our appreciation to Mum’s CAREGivers. They became our friends and each and every one we applaud for the exceptional care given to Mum. Not all heroes wear capes, but these were our Superheroes.
”
Mr P McG, Client’s son
For more information about our service or joining our team please call 0117 435 0064 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/bristolnorth
downendvoice
May, 2021
11
n NEWS
Author pays virtual visit to old school AN author who was born and brought up in Downend made a virtual visit to his old school to share his love of writing with pupils. Joseph Elliott's first novel The Good Hawk was launched last year and has been acclaimed for its portrayal of a heroine with Down’s syndrome. In January this year, a sequel called The Broken Raven was published, with a final book in the trilogy due out early next year. Joseph made a visit via Zoom video link to Christ Church Junior School, where he went as a child and his mum Gill was a teacher for 30 years, before retiring in 2019. He spoke to pupils, some of whom had dressed as characters from his books, about his stories and life as an author, and answered questions from children from all ten classes, via webcam. Joseph then gave pupils some tips on writing skills and read them an extract from The Good Hawk. Afterwards, pupils produced their own writing inspired by Joseph's talk, and he received a bundle of letters from one of the classes thanking him for the talk and telling him about their favourite books. Joseph said: "I was very impressed by how engaged and intelligent all of their questions
Christ Church Junior School pupils Nancy Cook and Poppy Radnedge dressed up as Sigrid, a character from Joseph Elliott's book The Broken Raven were. I was told afterwards that lots of the pupils were excited to read my books, which is great! "When I was a pupil at CCJ, Michael
BRISTOL DOWNEND
C H R I S TA D E L P H I A N S
Rosen visited to give an assembly, which I still remember vividly to this day, and I love the thought that I may have inspired some of the current pupils in the same way that he inspired me." Joseph spent 12 years as an actor in comedy and children’s TV and is well-known to young audiences for his role as Cook, a pirate in the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies series Swashbuckle. He also wrote scripts for the show and other programmes. His first novel was released just a month before the first coronavirus lockdown but has reached many readers through online word of mouth and has been praised in reviews in newspapers including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and the Guardian. It was named one of the Times' children's books of the year and nominated for a number of awards for children's books and audio books. Joseph said: "The response from children all over the world has also been truly wonderful; they have taken my characters into their hearts and can't wait to find out what is going to happen next." To find out more about Joseph's books, visit www.joseph-elliott.net
The entrance of thy words giveth light
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Why we don’t believe God is a Trinity
9th
The Kingdom Made Possible
16th What we Believe about Baptism 23rd Getting to know the Bible - Genesis 30th What will the Kingdom be like?
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
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downendvoice
12
May, 2021
n METRO MAYOR ELECTION VOTERS in South Glos are among those who will vote for the next West of England Mayor on May 6. The boss of the West of England Combined Authority, or WECA, is in charge of coordinating the region’s transport, housing jobs and skills policy, securing government funding and overseeing the spending of more than £1.1 billion over the next 30 years. Current Metro Mayor Tim Bowles, a Conservative, is standing down from the position, which he has held since 2017. Everyone is given a first and second choice vote. If no one receives more than half of the votes when the votes are first counted, the two candidates with the least votes are knocked out. Any second choice votes from their ballot papers are added to the remaining candidates' total to find a winner. The Voice has asked each candidate in the election to send us a 100-word manifesto explaining their priorities, plus a short biography. They are printed here in alphabetical order, as they will appear on ballot papers.
EDA
truly important.
Dan Norris, Labour Local. Experienced. Active. Dan’s been an NSPCC-trained child protection officer, a local MP, Environment Minister and run his own businesses. I’ll be a jobs first Metro Mayor and get people back to work launching my Green Recovery Plan to create 23,000 new jobs. I want to rejuvenate our high streets, double investment in affordable homes, improve public transport, tackle the climate emergency and make the West of England the bee capital of the UK. As an active and visible Metro Mayor, I will lead our recovery, bringing people together to ensure our area is on the map: nationally and internationally. The pandemic has shown what really matters so let’s keep looking out for each other and value what’s
voice to communities in regional decision-making.
Jerome Thomas, Green I’ve lived locally with my family for many years, run a successful UK business and I’m a hard-working city councillor. We need to rapidly move to a low carbon economy, while making sure workers don’t lose out. We need clean energy, affordable green transport, a thriving agricultural sector to supply local food, better support for people who need care and their carers, and more power to communities to take action in the ways they know will work. I’ve identified £1bn of existing regional funds for local investment in green jobs and growth industries, including support for small businesses. I’ll subsidise rural bus routes and lower fares for young people and I’ll give a greater
EDA
V
Samuel Williams, Conservative Samuel is a business founder and charity leader who has worked domestically and internationally to lead social and economic change. The West of England Mayor is a big job that decides how hundreds of millions of pounds are invested across the region. This is time to take hold of opportunity and secure our recovery by: Implementing a modern transport system that works – delivering at least six new stations, crucial rail improvements, ‘on-demand’ services, and cycling and walking services; Deliver improved skills training for high value and sustainable jobs of the future;
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downendvoice
May, 2021 Boosting local enterprise, increasing employment and attracting greater investment; Unblocking the redevelopment logjam and pioneering more sustainable future communities. Stephen Williams, Lib Dem Former Bristol West MP and Minister for Communities. Worked as a business trouble-shooter and is a Bristol University history graduate. I will be a strong champion for the West of England, using my experience in business, as an MP and government minister to get our voice heard loudly in London, winning new investment and powers. I will also: Lead a green and socially just economic recovery; Take control of our buses and run them on clean fuel; Build thousands of new homes to suit all budgets, built to the highest green standards; Demand a range of new powers from government, making more big decisions locally. We can’t afford another inexperienced Conservative mayor. Put my experience to work for you!
Even the PM is in the dark WHOEVER becomes the next Metro Mayor following the election will first need to ensure voters know who they are. Independent political thinktank Centre for Cities found that just 7% of people polled in the West of England area, which includes Bristol and B&NES as well as South Gloucestershire, could name current mayor Tim Bowles. More people (10%) incorrectly thought that Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees was the metro mayor than knew Mr Bowles was the incumbent. They were not alone: the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, asked on a visit to Gloucestershire last month if he could name the Metro Mayor, was unable to say it was Tim Bowles who held the post.
13
n FRENCHAY & DOWNEND COUNCIL ELECTION VOTERS living in South Gloucestershire Council's Frenchay & Downend ward will go to the polls on May 6, in a by-election to elect a new councillor. The election was called after Conservative councillor Jon Hunt stood down last year. The ward starts west of the M32, by Sims Hill, and includes all of Frenchay north of the Bristol boundary, plus Bromley Heath, Cleeve Wood, Cleeve Hill, the high street area, roads north of Salisbury Road and either side of Downend Road. In the east the ward's boundary is around Downend School, which means it only includes Liz Brennan, Conservative Liz is a local swimming teacher, mum of three children, and a highly successful Cystic Fibrosis health campaigner. Liz is now using her campaigning expertise and record of success to deliver her top priorities for delivering positive change in Frenchay and Downend. These three priorities are: Supporting local businesses and our High Street; helping local businesses to thrive post-Covid and securing investment to boost our community. Investing in Schools and family Life; improving school standards by delivering the brand new Frenchay Primary Schools building and upgrading existing buildings in Downend and Bromley Heath. Backing local services and NHS; by assisting the rollout of the vaccine locally and improving our local healthcare provisions. Oliver Owen, Green NHS worker Oliver Owen has lived in South Gloucestershire nearly 10 years. He cares about empowering communities and sustainable development. Climate action through local solutions. The climate crisis
half of Boscombe Crescent, with the other half, and neighbouring Westbourne Road, in the Emersons Green ward. Voting cards have been sent out and polls open from 7am until 10pm. People who have to self-isolate can apply for an emergency proxy vote via the council's website, southglos.gov.uk. The Voice has asked each candidate running in the by-election to send us a 100-word manifesto explaining their priorities, plus a short biography. They are printed here in alphabetical order, as they will appear on ballot papers.
demands urgent actions. So many actions can be done through local decisions – about transport infrastructure; housing and development; and protecting and enhancing our green spaces. These issues are at the heart of Green Party politics. They are crucial to us addressing the climate crisis, and crucial to our communities and the quality of our day-to-day lives. A Green Party vote is a vote for meaningful local solutions to the climate crisis and a clear message to the whole Council that they can and should make a difference. Every vote is counted. Sean Rhodes, Labour Sean works with children with Autism. He is married to Heidi, and is father to two teenage daughters. Frenchay, Downend and Bromley Heath need certainty, not just empty election headlines. Frenchay Primary School has been delayed yet again. Primary school applications for 2022 open in September, and
not a single spade has been lifted on the site. How can young families be expected to plan around this? The so-called 'High Street Fund' for Downend is actually a lottery with other high streets; and the community hospital remains stalled. All this has happened on the watch of 3 Conservative councillors. I will work for certainty on these issues. Don’t let the Frenchay and Downend ward get left behind. Raj Sood, Liberal Democrats Lives and works in the ward, owns and runs a shop on Quakers Road, experienced parish councillor. Living and working here, I want to help my fellow residents and small business owners build back from the pandemic in a fairer, greener and more caring way. I’m fighting for: safer, greener, more convenient transport – better bus services, safer pedestrian and cycle provision, electric car charging points; more help for local businesses to recover; improved services to support our growing community. As a parish councillor in the ward, I have experience of working with and for local residents to get things done. With your support, I can continue that work as a South Gloucestershire councillor.
For full election results coverage see June's Downend Voice
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14
downendvoice
May, 2021
n NEWS
Schools feel impact of cyber attack A CYBER attack on 24 South Gloucestershire schools has left teachers locked out of vital equipment and files, more than a month on. The full extent of the “disruptive and distressing” ransomware attack on seven Castle School Education Trust (CSET) schools, and another 17 schools which used the trust's IT systems, was revealed at a session of the council's cabinet. The CSET schools hit by the “highly sophisticated” attack on March 16, reported in last month's Voice, included Downend and Mangotsfield secondary schools, plus Lyde Green primary. In addition local authority primary schools including Blackhorse, Bromley Heath Infants, Bromley Heath Juniors, Christ Church Infants, Emersons Green, Frenchay, Hambrook, Mangotsfield and Staple Hill were also affected. The cabinet meeting on April
12 was told that more than 1,000 devices were having to have their systems rebuilt. Many teachers started the new term without access to whiteboards, printers, photocopiers and computers which had a huge variety of information and resources, including materials for lessons and photos of activities, on their hard drives. Some live lessons had to be cancelled and parents’ evenings postponed. Ransomware is malicious software which encrypts a computer system’s files and blocks people from accessing data, holding it 'hostage' until a ransom is paid. A council spokesperson said no ransom had been paid and "no personal data has been impacted" by the attack. The council says 16 servers have now been rebuilt, back office systems are in place and services are being restored,
giving every school “core functionality and access to management information”, with some schools more badly affected than others. The spokesperson said the worst impact was on teachers who kept resources in files on their computers, as web or cloudbased data was unaffected. Councillor Alison Evans (Lab, Woodstock), who is a parent, teacher and school governor, said: “I know from personal experience just how disruptive and distressing this attack has been, as my husband is a teacher at one of the targeted schools. “Years of topic lesson and intervention plans have been stolen. “The last year’s remote learning, including countless video lessons, has been lost. “Teachers have been unable to use the technology they’ve spent the last year fully integrating into their teaching. “Online registers, payment
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
assessments, coursework, children’s reports, teacher appraisals and more have been inaccessible for the last month." Cabinet member for education Erica Williams said officers had responded swiftly to the attack and digital experts had taken in devices to make them more secure. She said: “All departments involved are working as fast as they can to resolve this for the schools involved.” By Adam Postans and Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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YOUR
Community NEWS
In last month’s edition of Downend Voice, we provided details of the recipients of our Parish Champion awards. This is an annual award given by the Parish Council to people at the heart of our community who have gone above and beyond to help others. A few snapshots of our recipients receiving their awards are shown below. It was unfortunate we could not present the prizes at our usual ceremony, but at least the sun was shining when we had separate socially distanced meetings outside the Parish Office at Downend Library!
Nick Smith, Downend School – Nick has worked at Downend School since 1996 and has worked with the Downend Community History & Arts Project, Downend Men in Sheds, Downend & Bromley Heath in Bloom to name but a few. Prestige Grounds – We are so very proud of Brad and his team who have provided incredible support in getting the sports pitches and playing
DOWNEND & BROMLEY HEATH PARISH COUNCIL
fields at King George V, Badminton Road and Bromley Heath to an excellent standard. Brad’s attention to detail, professionalism and understanding of what we require has been outstanding.
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
John Honeywell – John, a Downend resident, is retiring as race director of the Frenchay 10K Charity Road Race. 2020 would have been the 40th anniversary of the event.
Brought to you by
Tracey Lush – Tracey is a Lollipop Lady working with the staff and children at Bromley Heath Schools, in addition to being a lunchtime supervisor and supporting the breakfast / tea clubs. Tracey fulfils such an important role within our community.
CCTV IN DOWNEND Due to higher levels of anti-social behaviour around Downend High Street and the surrounding areas over several years, Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council agreed to fund the installation costs of CCTV, with three cameras at key locations along the main High Street. The images from each camera will be transmitted to the Bristol Operations Centre for monitoring purposes. South Gloucestershire Council has agreed to fund the ongoing maintenance and monitoring costs of this project. After a public consultation, it is now anticipated that work will be completed during July.
REGISTER WITH SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL FOR PLANNING APPLICATION ALERTS Did you know that you can follow the progress of a planning application, save searches for future use, set up email alerts for applications in your area, and comment on applications via the South Gloucestershire Council’s public access website? For further information and to register, visit www.southglos.gov. uk and follow the links.
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
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0117 9566060 hello@sunbeams-daynursery.com 31-35 Dibden Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 6UE (Minutes from the ring road, Beefeater Junction)
www.sunbeams-daynursery.com
downendvoice
May, 2021
17
n NEWS
Thumbs up for nursery's unsung heroes CHILDREN attending a Downend nursery joined its owner in paying tribute to the work of staff through the Covid-19 pandemic. The youngsters at Sunbeams Day Nursery and Pre-school in Dibden Road took part in the National Day Nurseries Association’s campaign ‘Thumbs up for Early Years’ campaign to show their appreciation for workers in the sector across the UK. Sunbeams proprietor Jackie Offer praised her own "incredible staff team" and showed her appreciation for the "amazing dedication" of the whole Early Years workforce across the country. Jackie said staff had been "unsung heroes" in what had been "a difficult and demanding year for all of us". Writing an open letter to nursery workers, she told them: "The children would not have been going home happy, full of stories and fun if it were not for you pouring your energy into nurturing them each day, no matter what.
Children at Sunbeams Day Nursery and Pre-school showed their appreciation for the workers who have kept them safe with a big thumbs-up teacher, baby comforter, waitress, disciplinarian, researcher, nose and bottom wiper - the list goes on and on.
"It takes a very special person with a big heart to work with young children. You work long hours switching between
"Thank you all, you are amazing! "Many businesses may have just survived one of the hardest professional challenges they have ever faced. "Management teams have been superb behind the scenes, tirelessly doing everything needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. "Thank you all for not complaining and adapting with good faith to the changes that have been forced upon us. "Thank you for doing this calmly with smiles on your faces, without PPE; and being excited each day to welcome the children into your care. Thank you for gently reassuring parents who put their trust in you, and for overcoming your own anxieties. "Young children have needed their trusted adults to be present physically and mentally to help them reshape the world. Thank you for coming to work when others were told to stay at home. "Thank you for being brave."
“on THURSDAY 6th MAY VOTE CONSERVATIVE TO DELIVER OUR POSITIVE PLAN FOR THE WEST OF ENGLAND” Mark Shelford More Police ON THE STREETS TO Cut Crime
Samuel Williams BETTER ROAD & RAIL LINKS
BOOST TRAINING, Education & SKILLS
CREATE jobs & SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS
Protect green spaces & our environment
Only a vote for Samuel Williams as West of England Mayor and Mark Shelford as Police and Crime Commissioner will ensure our region is safer and more successful WE’RE ALREADY MAKING PROGRESS, Don’t risk our recovery with Labour or the lib dems
Promoted by Max Hopfl on behalf of Samuel Williams and Mark Shelford, all at West of England Conservatives, 5 Westfield Park, Bristol, BS6 6LT.
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downendvoice
18
May, 2021
n P CC ELECTION VOTERS living in South Gloucestershire are among those who will vote for the next Avon and Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner on May 6. The PCC is responsible for the effective policing of the region, drawing up a budget – including the annual precept charged to council tax payers – setting priorities for the force through a police and crime plan and holding the chief constable and officers to account for delivering it. Current commissioner Sue Mountstevens, an independent, is standing down from the position, which she has held since 2012. The election had been due to take place last year but was delayed because of the lockdown. It is being contested by four party political candidates and an independent. As they prepare to face the voters, the Voice has asked each candidate in the election to send us a 100-word manifesto explaining their priorities, plus a short biographys. They are printed here in alphabetical order, as they will appear on ballot papers.
Kerry Barker, Labour As a barrister I dealt with difficult cases of abuse and sexual assaults and know changes have reduced police effectiveness. The police are meant to prevent crimes and catch criminals. Across the area the detection rates for crimes which affect ordinary people (burglaries, robberies, thefts, criminal damage and violent and sexual offences) are dreadful. There has been a massive increase in violent and sexual crime since 2012 when the PCC was first elected. If elected, I will: • Improve neighbourhood policing with more police officers on the beat in your area; • Stop the closure of police stations; • Reinstate specialist teams of detectives. • At the heart of those priorities
will be the safety and welfare of all women. Cleo Lake, Green Cleo is a Bristol city councillor, former Lord Mayor, Avon Fire Authority member and former chair of St Pauls Carnival. With communities for communities. Active democracy is important to me. I will ensure a mechanism for communities to feed into the police and crime plan ahead of it being finalised in March 2022. Community outreach and engagement work would be central to my forward facing transparent approach, which I would prioritise over being sat behind a desk at Portishead HQ, for example. I would support the Independent Advisory Groups as another layer of public scrutiny and consensus building. I would also
require senior commanders to give a monthly verbal update at public meetings in each local or district authority area. Heather Shearer, Lib Dem As vice chair of the Police and Crime Panel I scrutinise the PCC’s work and fight for what people want. Everyone should feel safe. In 201920 1.8m crimes went unsolved nationally. If you call the police, you want something done. People think there is no point in reporting a crime. Just 1 in 10 burglaries are solved in our area. Most burglars have done it before and will again. We have to break that cycle of crime. Every three days a woman is killed by their partner but only 10% of abusers are successfully
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 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
May, 2021 prosecuted. I want to stop abuse before it gets dangerous, prevent domestic abuse and support all victims of sexual violence, both men and women. Mark Shelford, Conservative Brought up just outside Bath, spent over 30 years in the Army, Deputy Leader BATHNES, a member of the PCP. Return to Peelian principles of preventing crime. Reassure residents that the Police are there for them. This means more visible Policing, includes a plan for women’s safety, making the Community more resilient and resistant to crime. Revitalising Neighbourhoods with Specials who live and work in their community. Refocus the Police on fighting the crimes that the residents are most concerned with: County
Lines, associated violence and burglaries, dangerous driving, ASB and the silent crimes of cyber fraud and domestic abuse. Rebuild the Force by making them more effective and efficient, reducing their admin, allowing them to be more proactive. John Smith, Independent Deputy PCC and ran the PCC’s office for 8 years. His independence makes him the best choice for local residents. John Smith, former Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, is standing as an independent candidate. If elected, he’ll keep the party politics out of policing, answering only to residents, not party bosses in Westminster. John’s priorities: supporting the police to enforce COVID-19 regulations appropriately; tackling
19
knife and drug crime, including county lines; catching burglars and reducing burglaries; combating anti-social behaviour; protecting the vulnerable and supporting victims; the most inclusive police
force in the country; improving road safety; preventing fraud and cyber crime; addressing rural crime and supporting rural communities; working in partnership to address business crime.
First job: choose new top cop ONE of the first tasks facing whoever wins the police and crime commissioner election will be to appoint a new chief constable. Andy Marsh, pictured, has confirmed he will not be seeking to extend his contract when it expires at the start of July. Mr Marsh has been Avon and Somerset Constabulary's chief constable since 2016, taking over after a turbulent few years following Sue Mountstevens's election as the first PCC in 2012. Within a week of her election she announced she would invite applications for the role of chief constable, causing the incumbent, Colin Port, to resign rather than reapply for his job. Nick Gargan, who was appointed the following year, was suspended after 14 months amid allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards female officers and staff. He resigned in 2015 after being found guilty of eight misconduct charges. During his suspension the role was filled on an acting basis by John Long and then Gareth Morgan. Mr Marsh said it had been the “honour of a lifetime” to lead the force he joined as a new recruit in 1987.
We welcome children from all faiths and backgrounds. Call 0117 956 1166 or email staugustinesstaff@gmail.com
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downendvoice
20
May, 2021
n NEWS
Staple Hill welcomes back shoppers TRADERS in Staple Hill are working with Bristol artists to send a 'welcome back' message to shoppers. Shop owners have clubbed together to pay four artists to produce colourful pictures with the theme 'Staple Hill Welcomes You' in the windows of businesses in the High Street, Broad Street and Victoria Street. Traders' group the Staple Hill Chamber of Trade, which was itself revived following the first lockdown last year, planned the project to coincide with the reopening of non-essential shops and services in April. Melody Beard, of the Bean Tree cafe in Page Park, said the idea of the project was to provide a springboard for other art and improvement schemes in the area. Planters to brighten up the area are set to arrive by the end of May, and the traders hope to use Fountain Square as the focus
Artist Jayde Perkin with traders Tina Lewis from The Beauty Spot and Melody Beard from Bean Tree Café of several events through the summer: an artisan market is planned for June, with a family fun day on the cards for July and arts events planned for August. In the longer term they hope the square can be improved, with
murals on the walls. The Chamber of Trade has applied for a grant to fund some of its plans from the Thrive fund set up by South Gloucestershire Council to help high streets recover from the pandemic
lockdowns. But the window art scheme has been funded by the traders themselves, with more than 20 of them chipping in £25 each to pay for the four artists' work on their shop windows.
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We are delighted to be opening our doors again The Beauty Spot is open. Come and experience our experience, from waxing to relaxing, we provide all your beauty requirements. Stockists for Decleor, Orly and Tea tree
0117 956 0808 www.beautyspotbristol.co.uk 39 Victoria Street Staple Hill BS16 5JP
Our newly refurbished Perfect Balance salon is at the heart of the high street and boasts an array of fantastic treatments from nails and hair, to beauty and eyebrow threading. Established in 2010 Perfect Balance has been serving the community of staple hill and surrounding areas for over a decade! Our friendly team have a combined total of over 80 years of professional experience and knowledge in the hair and beauty industry. Our passion for our arts and care for our clients is what drives us. We pride ourselves on our work with every pluck, cut and file we put our heart and soul into making your experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible! Please feel free to pop in or call the salon on 0117 9571700 for an appointment. Further information and a full list of treatments and prices can be found on our Facebook or Instagram page at Perfect Balance Nail Design
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May, 2021
Welcome message at Staple Hill Stores hardware shop Melody said: "If the council can't fund things, traders need to fund them themselves." She said the idea for the art project grew out of online conversations among traders as they waited to reopen from the latest lockdown, which started in January. Chamber secretary Tina Lewis, of the Beauty Spot
downendvoice beautician in Victoria Street, said: "Our traders are really excited about this project and hope it will make shoppers smile as they pass by. "It has been a unique experience to watch the artists in action. "We have all struggled this past year. We want to show our local customers we missed them.” Melody said the artists were given free reign to interpret the welcome back message in their own style, adding: "Street art should be a surprise." She said the idea was inspired by street art elsewhere in Bristol but with a particular Staple Hill flavour. The four artists involved in the project, selected from more than 30 applicants, are DC Guts, a finalist in art supplies firm Posca's artist of the year competition, Georgina Dawson, who creates murals on houses across Totterdown, James Yeo, who designs beer cans for Bristol brewery Left Handed Giant, and Jayde Perkin, who created posters for Bristol's 'Resist Amazon, Shop Local' campaign.
21
A balloon and a lolly at Sweet Treats
Back on the road at BM Motoring Centre
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May, 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
Ladies and Gents Watches
Watch batteries and straps fitted free
Bristol Blue Glass Tel: 0117 956 0967
110 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH
L L L OY D B O T T OM S chartered accountants
118 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH www.lloydbottoms.co.uk Local accountants, offering a friendly and personal accountancy and taxation service to individuals and businesses.
Contact us now! — Free initial consultation
Freephone 0800 781 8783
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
RUSTIC OUTDOOR FURNITURE AVAILABLE BENCHES • CHAIRS BIRD TABLES We offer a full sharpening service for all your garden tools
Lawnmower blades • Shears • Loppers • Secauters
Spares for lawnmowers and strimmers stocked
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MINI INCINERATOR BIN Ideal for burning personal documents, bank statements etc
130 DIFFERENT VARIETIES OF FLOWER AND VEG SEEDS FROM THE MR FOTHERGILL COUNTRY VALUE RANGE
88-90 High Street, Staple Hill
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
0117 956 8318
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downendvoice
May, 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
EMBROIDERED WORKWEAR PLEASE CHECK OPENING HOURS
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
TSHIRTS4YOU, 108 High Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 956 8606
info@tshirts4you.co.uk
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downendvoice
24
May, 2021
n FOCUS ON STAPLE HILL Expert picture framing has been the mainstay of the business for the local area and beyond, where they are able to offer framing advice and ideas as well as picture restoration and renovation. A wide range of jewellery, watches, limited edition prints, gifts and Bristol Blue glass are also available with a watch battery and strap fitting service. If you need passport/visa photos just pop in for their instant photography service.
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
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
Senator Mobile provide something a bit different for the area.
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
Pam@Christine Peters LADIES FASHIONS
WE’RE BACK! PAM AND HER STAFF WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME BACK OLD AND NEW CUSTOMERS WE HAVE NEW STOCK ARRIVING AND LOTS OF GREATLY REDUCED SALE ITEMS 37 BROAD STREET STAPLE HILL BRISTOL Tel: 0117 956 6601
To advertise your business in the Staple Hill feature Contact Gary on
07799461169 and is still striving to improve the local area.
MOBILE PHONE REPAIR • All makes • All models • Covers • Chargers • Accessories HUGE SELECTION OF REFURBSIHED IPHONES • SAMSUNG • SONY PHONES AT GREAT PRICES
SENATOR MOBILE
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FARLEYS
PET FOODS & GARDEN SUPPLIES
Stockists of James Wellbeloved and Burns Dog Food • All pet supplies • Specialist Reptile Foods • Seasonal Plants & Seeds
40 Broad Street, Staple Hill Tel: 0117 9566787
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Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
May, 2021
25
n NEWS
Gill's such an asset to the community A VOLUNTEER who has made it her mission to help improve an open space in Mangotsfield has been recognised for her work. Gill Walding is the latest recipient of an award for outstanding community service from Mangotsfield Residents Association and the Staple Hill Partnership, for her work at the Hut Field, off Cossham Street, as well as her support for vulnerable people during the first coronavirus lockdown last year. The Hut Field, next to Mangotsfield United's ground, was given to the residents of Mangotsfield by the Cave family and is held in trust. But it is underused and had become unkempt and blighted by litter before Gill stepped forward. Gill, a retired administrator who has lived in Mangotsfield for more than 50 years, has spent hours cutting trees, brambles and bushes back, after noticing the state of the field when
Gill Walding receiving her community award from Clive Heath of Mangotsfield residents Association and ward councillor Michael Bell at the Hut Field looking at the work being done on the nearby EE mobile phone mast. She said: "I thought, 'I can't leave that – I've got to clean it up'. "I cleared a lot of bottles and rubbish but then realised I had to clear a load of brambles and dead trees before I could even get at some of the rubbish." Gill takes a handsaw or a hedge trimmer out on her regular
dog walks and stops at the field to chop back more undergrowth, arranging for the waste to be taken away by the council and even paying professionals to help out with some of the more major tasks. Gill said she was shocked to be given an award but that it was an "absolutely lovely" surprise. Mangotsfield Residents Association chair Clive Heath, who with local councillor
Michael Bell presented the award, said: "Gill has been an asset to the community in many ways, for many years. "In the first lockdown last year she was one of if not the most active volunteers I had, out sometimes twice a day shopping and collecting prescriptions for people in the community. "She has always been active in the community, keeping her street clean and tidy, reporting overgrown hedges and trees, and any other community issues." Clive said as well as improving the Hut Field, Gill had liaised with contractors from EE who were working on the phone mast, keeping the association and councillors informed. He said: "Gill cares about the community and the area she lives in, and is always the first to volunteer to help any one in need – a real asset and inspiration to all."
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26
May, 2021
n NEWS
Step forward for King George V pavilion PLANS for a new pavilion for Downend's King George V playing fields have been lodged with South Gloucestershire Council. The scheme to knock down the pavilion off Sutherland Avenue and replace it with a new building was unveiled last year by Downend and Bromley Heath Parish Council, which said it wanted to create "a modern resource for the whole community to enjoy". The new pavilion includes a reception, larger function room and improved kitchen and bar areas, and changing facilities. Parish council consultation results included in the planning application found 68% of respondents liked the design and 63% thought it provided the right facilities. As the Voice went to print, one neighbour had written to oppose the plans, saying: "I have severe reservations regarding the security implications of this
Computer-generated image of the new pavilion building suggested development, with several blind spots situated around the building. "We have had several instances of trespassers on the roof of the existing building and I think this proposed development will make it even easier for any person or persons to gain access to nearby properties." One of the football teams using the pavilion, Fishponds Old Boys, has written in support.
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Secretary Daryl Litten said: "This new pavilion will install a new sense of life for the playing fields, not just for us as footballers, but the local community where it can be a safe hub for all to come and enjoy. "The plans are long overdue, and we welcome them to progress as soon as is practically possible." Crime prevention design advisor Kevin Wilkinson, of
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for Frenchay and Downend 1 Supporting local businesses and our High Street Helping local businesses to thrive post-Covid & securing the investment to boost our community Investing in schools 2 and family life Improving school standards by delivering the brand new Frenchay Primary School building and upgrading existing buildings in Downend and Bromley Heath.
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the South Gloucestershire neighbourhood policing support team, said the building complied with "crime prevention through environmental design principles". The parish council has already set aside just under £390,000 for the project, with around £80,000 coming from South Gloucestershire Council. The Football Foundation is also being asked for a contribution. The new building would be made using prefabricated plastisol wall panels and timber cladding, with metal shutters to cover all doors and windows when it is not in use. It would be built on the site of the existing pavilion and, if planning permission is granted, could be ready by the end of the year. The plans can be found by searching for application P21/02475/F in the planning section of South Gloucestershire Council's website or at bit. ly/3vi0dlb.
Backing local health 3 services and NHS Continuing the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine by supporting the Council's ongoing Covid response.
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
May, 2021
downendvoice
27
n NEWS
Pat and Dave celebrate Rogue trader jailed 60 years of marriage A STAPLE Hill couple have celebrated their diamond wedding. Pat and Dave Jenkins marked the milestone on April 15 with an outdoor celebration to give family, friends and neighbours the chance to pop by and congratulate them. Sixty years ago their wedding was brought forward and arranged in ten days so that they could be married before Dave, a Grenadier Guard, was posted abroad. A dress had to be found and altered, the local baker persuaded to bake a cake in double-quick time, a service at Holy Trinity church in Kingswood and a reception quickly arranged. Dave, who went on to work as a technical surveyor, and Pat, a nurse at Southmead hospital, have three children – Stuart, Johanna and Suzanne – and eight grandchildren. They say the secret to their long relationship is tolerance and “giveand-take.” Anita Dobson
A ROGUE trader who conned an elderly Mangotsfield resident has been sentenced to 14 months in prison. Rocky Johnstone, 36, of Half Acre Paddock, Calne, who traded as Top Cut Tree Surgeons and Special Branch Tree & Landscapes, pleaded guilty to two offences of fraud and one of theft over a twoyear period. South Gloucestershire Council’s trading standards team launched an investigation in August 2018 after a complaint that Johnstone cold-called at the home of the Mangotsfield resident and cut back some trees before demanding £1,800 for a few hours' work. Johnstone had previously been informed of doorstep trading rules and was prosecuted for fraud. But while his case was at court in early 2020 it was found that he was still illegally trading. Three more victims came forward, including a 96-year-old woman who was charged £100 for 10 minutes' work removing branches. A carer intervened to stop the woman handing over money. A further incident in Bath saw Johnstone keep a £300 deposit from a customer who cancelled a job before it started. Jailing him and banning him from cold calling, delivering flyers or doing garden or building work without Trading Standards approval for five years, Judge Michael Longman told Johnstone was a "menace to the elderly and vulnerable" when he appeared at Bristol Crown Court in March. Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said Johnstone had "targeted elderly and vulnerable residents in a cynical manner" and advised residents never to deal with doorstep traders. Anyone who suspects that rogue traders are operating in their area can call trading standards on 0808 223 1133.
APPROACHING RETIREMENT? Have you reviewed your pensions scheme(s) investments in light of the COVID-19 pandemic? How will you decide on the right choices for you and your family? Have you considered consolidating historic pension scheme(s)? Experienced and local Independent Financial Adviser, Adrian Harding, can guide you up to and into retirement with Truly Independent Financial Advice
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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
28
downendvoice
May, 2021
n NEWS
Surge testing finds just four variant cases A TESTING programme set up to trace a coronavirus variant found just four cases in more than 50,000 tests. The two-week community surge testing programme was established to detect the VOC-21FEB-02 variant of the Covid-19 virus, which was designated as a "variant of concern", because it contains a mutation thought to make it more easily spread and more resistant to vaccines. People in Downend, Staple Hill, Mangotsfield and Frenchay were among those who attended mobile testing units or collected home self-testing kits during February after the coronavirus mutation was detected in the area. Figures released by the government showed that, of the 50,317 samples tested, there were four cases of the VOC-21FEB-02 variant and another two of another mutant strain, known as VUI-21FEB-03, although as of April 22 only around a quarter of confirmed cases had been sequenced. In total, 1,316 cases of coronavirus were confirmed during the programme, which was for people with no symptoms of the virus. This represented a positive result in just over 2.6%, or around one in every 38, of tests.
A Public Health England spokesperson said it was "reassuring" that only a small amount of variants have been detected so far, "which would indicate there wasn’t wider community spread of the variants initially identified". The national vaccination programme moved on to under-50s in mid-April, but lower levels of vaccine supplies meant that fewer venues in South Gloucestershire were offering first jabs. Initially people aged 49 and under were sent letters advising them to use the national booking system to make an appointment at a community pharmacy or Ashton Gate vaccination centre. But on April 26, neither Ashton Gate nor any venues in South Gloucestershire were available to book on the national website: the nearest centre on offer was in Shepton Mallet, Somerset. The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, which is in charge of the roll-out in surgeries, said on April 22 that people aged 40 to 49 had also started to be offered appointments at GP clinics. A spokesperson for the CCG said there
had not been "any noticeable decline in vaccination attendance" that could be attributed to reports of a possible connection between the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab and rare blood clots. The third vaccine to be used by the NHS, made by Moderna, was now being administered at the Ashton Gate vaccination centre, alongside the AstraZeneca vaccine. The CCG spokesperson said that, as the risk of blood clots was seen to be slightly higher in younger people, once the roll-out reached under-30s they would be offered an alternative to the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab. But he added that the Moderna vaccine "isn’t being held back for under 30s" and is being offered to people aged 40 to 49, alongside the AstraZeneca jab. As of April 15 a total of 142,844 people in South Gloucestershire had been given a first dose of Covid-19 vaccination. In the year to April 9 a total of 141 South Gloucestershire residents had died with Covid-19. A total of 47 new cases were confirmed in South Gloucestershire during the week to April 20, which was down from 112 four weeks earlier.
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Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
May, 2021
29
n NEWS
Marathon challenge Vet named the gets 'Freeze' off sofa best in Bristol A DOWNEND man has challenged himself to get off the sofa and run a marathon to raise money for a nature charity. Chris Humphries, also known as Freeze, has been awarded a place to represent the WWF's Team Panda at the London Marathon in October. He is aiming to raise £2,000 with support from his family, friends and local businesses who have given prizes for a raffle which donors who sponsor Chris will be entered into. Chris, 32, a temporary works engineer, said: "In my spare time you are more likely to see me enjoying a pint of Guinness in the Horseshoe or sampling some local food from one of Downend’s restaurants and cafes than out jogging! "It will be a huge challenge and change of lifestyle for me to achieve ‘sofa to 26.4miles’ in 6 months." Chris has lived in Downend for over three years and says its green spaces and walks in the Frome Valley are one of the things he, his wife Joey and stepson Jamie love about the area. He said: "I really wanted to give something back to the natural world me and my family love and are passionate about." Chris plans to run four days per week, with another day of core strength exercises, as he prepares for the run. He said: "Luckily, I will have my amazing wife, friends and family who will be there cheering me on round the course." Chris is inviting anyone who would like to support him to make a donation online at justgiving.com/fundraising/ ChrisHumphriesWWF Every £5 donated will buy a ticket in a raffle, which has prizes from the White Lion at Frenchay, the Beehive Café, Style Collection, Sophie Mills-Thomas art and Dings Crusaders RFC.
Avenue Veterinary Centre receptionist Carole Bath and veterinary surgeon Lorraine Smith A STAPLE Hill vet has been rated Bristol's best in this year's Best UK Vets Awards. Avenue Veterinary Centre was crowned Best in Bristol after achieving the most top-rated client reviews over the past year on two feedback websites. The practice has also been voted in the Top 25 in the UK, after vets across the country encouraged pet owners to leave reviews on www. VetHelpDirect.com and www.Any-UK-Vet.co.uk. Organisers said the award reflected dedication to customer service and outstanding care, with Avenue Veterinary Centre receiving more than 300 four and five-star reviews. Client Aimee Powell said: "I have had many of my animals registered with Avenue Vets over many years. I refuse to go anywhere else for veterinary care! "All staff at Avenue Vets are amazing with our animals, so welcoming and friendly and always providing exceptional care." Practice owner Mark Picton said: “I was really delighted when we were voted Best Vets in Bristol by our clients on Vet Help Direct's website, and I was humbled by the number of our clients who had taken the time to write a review. "I am very pleased that the award and the reviews have reflected how well and hard my team has worked to provide a service. "During a particularly difficult year it has been a lovely way to get feedback from our clients, and feel some connection.” The awards, organised by VetHelpDirect.com and running for the ninth year, are based on pet owners' reviews of veterinary practices around the UK. VetHelpDirect.com chief executive Susie Samuel said: "BestUKVets is a lovely opportunity to reward the practices that are at the top of their game."
Daves Garden Services n Low maintenance specialist n Patio, Walling, Gravels and Sleeper work n Fencing, Decking, Turfing, Planting and more! n 27 years experience, locally based n We aim to beat any similar quote n References/Photos available n Artificial grass available
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Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148
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30
MOT & SERVICING COSTS TO MAKE YOU SMILE
May, 2021
n DOWNEND IN BLOOM
Looking forward to a blooming, thriving high street
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WELL, here we are, slowly emerging from our third lockdown and what a welcome we get when we walk through the High Street and see all the panolas smiling away at us. I always think they look like smiley faces. They will hopefully now take us through until we have our summer floral displays at the end of May or beginning of June. This year we are having slight changes to our summer flowers, with some trailing begonias added to our usual list of petunias, surfina, busy Lizzie and upright begonia: they should look good. We are also starting to try to get the polytunnel in Downend School up and running, with one of our volunteers investigating a watering system. We will hopefully plant up some summer bedding in there for the first time, so exciting times. It is great to see the High Street opening up, with the shops and cafes doing good business. The sun always helps for the outside seating at the cafes. We also welcome Mokka, Red Rose and Forage, who will be adding to our complement of shops, cafes and restaurants. Looking forward to our thriving High Street: let’s support them all we can. We are hoping, with the regulations easing, that we will soon be able to continue our In Bloom meetings. We always welcome new faces to our group and as soon as we can make plans for meetings we will put the dates on to our Facebook page. People are most welcome to come along and see what we do, so please, come and join us – we are a friendly bunch. We also want to plan our monthly maintenance in the High Street, so that will be something to look forward to (not sure our members would agree, as it is hard work!) Finally I would like to thank everyone who has supported In Bloom this year in buying Christmas items, bird houses, planters and the like. We have done so well, and are really grateful for the money we have raised towards the flowers. The next time I write, we may actually have a date for the arrival of our plants, so how wonderful that will be – we really missed them last year and think they will be really appreciated after our difficult year. Jackie Baker Facebook: downendandbromleyheathinbloom
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May, 2021
n NEWS CHILDREN at a Downend school have started to take to the water again after their swimming pool was refurbished. Christ Church Infant School teamed up with swimming teacher Jane Short, who has run First Strokes Swim School for nearly 25 years, to replace the pool, which had rusted to the point where it was no longer usable. Jane has agreed to pay £12,000 towards the cost of the refurbishment, which the school will treat as advance payment on hire costs and add to money raised by parents and supporters. In a normal year around 250 children learn to swim with First Strokes at Christ Church. School pupils were due to start using the pool again for swimming lessons from the last week of April. Head teacher Anna Martin said: "We are extremely grateful to Jane Short for funding the majority of this project and to the families at CCI for donating so many funds over the years to make this possible. "The pool looks absolutely
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Ready to make a splash
Children from Christ Church Infant School with head teacher Anna Martin and First Strokes Swim School owner Jane Short beautiful and the children could not wait to try it out. "The swimming pool reopening also feels as though
life is getting back to normal at CCI and, after having had so many months without being able to go swimming, this will be such
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a treat for all of the children – even better that it is in a brand new pool!"
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Scotney Castle by Brian Kinsman
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May, 2021
n WILL & PROBATE ADVICE Kate Garraway's problems with no power of attorney in place Kate Garraway from Good Morning Britain has shown it really is time to explode the myth that Lasting Powers of Attorney are just for the elderly. Known as LPAs, adults of all ages should have the protection of them. Like many young couples, Kate and her husband Derek Draper did not have LPAs in place. This was a mistake they regret. No LPAs has significantly added to the terrible year they have experienced when Derek became seriously ill and hospitalised battling the effects of coronavirus. “We can only speak to the account holder” is an annoying message we have all heard. Kate found that where Derek was the named person but had lost his mental capacity it became a huge problem. Bank and savings accounts were frozen as he had not set up an LPA to authorise Kate to access them if he became ill. Kate explained “One of the practical problems is the car is entirely in Derek’s name, the
insurance is in Derek’s name, a lot of our bank accounts. I can’t get access to things because legally I haven’t got power of attorney.” Melissa Whitter at Kingswood firm Simpson Solicitors agrees. “Kate Garraway’s story shows us that however young and healthy you feel, it is really important to plan ahead just in case you are unfortunate enough to lose your capacity to look after your finances and to make important life decisions.” What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? A Finance LPA is a powerful legal document where you can appoint people you trust to pay your bills and manage your financial affairs if you are too unwell to do this yourself. There is also a separate Health LPA to allow those you trust to speak up on your behalf and make the decisions you would want in relation to the treatment you receive and where you are cared for.
By planning ahead, you can take control and choose who you trust to make important decisions about your health, care, property and money on your behalf - in case you became ill or injured and needed their support. Next steps All adults should set up LPAs whilst they are well and can understand what they are signing. Simpson Solicitors offer a complete service guiding you through setting up these powerful legal documents. This covers advice to you on the different options of how to appoint those you trust, drafting the LPAs with extra clauses for your particular circumstances, acting as your Certificate Provider (that you have the mental capacity to sign), answering questions from those you appoint, dealing with the Court registration process and then providing certified copies and guidance to those you have appointed.
Melissa Witter
of Simpson Solicitors, Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Kingswood
0117 960 8594 www.simpsonsolicitors.com Melissa.Witter@simpsonslawuk.com @michelleatsimpsonsolicitors
Just call 0117 960 8594 to book a FREE review meeting with local experts Simpson Solicitors to find our more. Pop in to see them at the Kings Chases centre opposite Costa Coffee, Mention The Voice to receive 20% off their full price.
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BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 960 8594 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR Kings Chase Shopping Centre offices in Kingswood (opposite Costa). If getting to us is difficult our FREE home visit service covers Bitton, Downend, Fishponds, Hanham, Kingswood, Oldland, St George, Staple Hill, Warmley, Willsbridge and surrounding areas.
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May, 2021
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n PAGE PARK NEWS
Bowls returns
Celebration bench
BOWLS has returned to Page Park. A match on April 24 was the first at Page Park Bowls Club since September 2019, with only limited activity last year due to coronavirus restrictions. Members of the club are welcoming newcomers, with a coaching course for beginners wanting to take up the sport due to start on May 15. The basic level training will be held at the club, next to the park's sensory garden, from 10am to noon on Saturdays, under the tuition of qualified English Bowls Association coaches. People need to register their interest in advance by calling Don Willcox on 0117 908 3249 or 07718 306623, or emailing donwillcox@ hotmail.co.uk. Due to Covid-19 restrictions player numbers will be limited, so anyone interested in the course is being advised to book as soon as possible. Equipment will be provided but anyone taking part needs to wear flat-soled shoes, as heels and ribs can damage the playing surface. People who have completed the course can join the club, or others in the area. There will be an initial registration fee of £5 and a charge of £2.50 per session to cover costs. More information about the club can be found at www. pageparkbowling.org.uk.
THIS bench to celebrate the five-year Heritage Lottery Project to improve Page Park will be installed later this year. The Celebration Bench will be made from Purbeck and Caithness stone and the cost of around £10,000 will come from a grant. It will be installed at the back of the park's tennis pavilion, on an area of ground currently covered by two large mounds of earth, which will be landscaped and planted with a selection of wild flowers, shrubs and small trees. The horseshoe-shaped bench will be engraved with an inscription and decoration of leaves, squirrel and bird footprints. Steph Purser, of the Friends of Page Park, said the idea was to give people a new place to sit and "see the park from a different angle", away from its busiest areas. Volunteers have been working over the past month to improve the park, including painting the sensory garden's raised beds and replanting trampled flowers, while contractors have been working on the renovation of the bandstand.
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To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk SJP11763e V2 TYE A5 Landscape Ad - Practice.indd 1
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May, 2021
n AROUND THE WIs
BROMLEY HEATH WI THE second Thursday of the month had come around very quickly and that evening, via Zoom, we would be hearing from Sarah Slater, a Historic Royal Palaces Guided Lecturer, about the “Sex, Scandal and Salacious Gossip” in Hampton Court Palace around the time of Henry VIII. In fairness, it does take quite a bit to shock our members, but I confess that by the end of the talk we were all delighted to be living in a time of readily-available hot and cold running water, good sanitation, drainage and family planning methods that did not put life and limb at risk. Via Zoom we got to see Sarah in her full Tudor period costume and she promised to receive us in the same outfit should our members decide to have a post covid day out at Hampton Court. Many of our ladies were particularly excited by the prospect of a nocturnal ghost walk across the rooftops of Henry’s home. We understand that Hampton Court Palace's spine-tingling ghost tour takes you back in time to uncover the macabre mysteries hidden behind the palace walls. With all those ex-wives and thousands of others that Henry sent for execution during his reign, I reckon it could get quite crowded up there at times. Anyway, we’ll have to wait and see on that one! It’s been a long time since some of us left our house at night, let alone travel beyond the city. I’m relieved to report that our
president, Liza, and her fellow committee members refrained from playing an April Fool’s joke on our WI, but this was not the case in some other WI branches. I understand that in a few areas the members were notified that because the WI wanted to attract new members and comply with current equality legislation they were opening up the membership to men! Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, I am unaware of the level and variety of feedback those branches might have received to that prospect, but happily it was only a joke and the WI will prevail as a women-only organisation. Sorry to disappoint any gentlemen who had heard and been excited by this 'fake news'! In May we will be welcoming Jessica Gay, senior community and events fundraiser at Julian House, the Bath-based charity for the homeless. She will be telling us about their work and the direct support they can provide through their local services and projects. Although we do not expect to be able to resume our normal in-person monthly meetings at Bromley Heath Junior School until September at the earliest, we are keen to keep Zooming around the country, or indeed the world, to enjoy the endless variety of educational opportunities that this allows us. Please email us at bromleyheathwi@gmail.com if you would like to join this meeting online, free of charge, or just require some further information about the benefits of Women's Institute membership. Finally, all of our members would like to send their condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth on the sad loss of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen has been a member of
the WI since 1943 and is president of Sandringham WI. Let’s continue to be cautious, so that we can all stay safe from COVID-19 and be safely out and about enjoying life once again. Margaret Hanwell
MANGOTSFIELD WI OUR March meeting was very well supported, and rather energetic. The ‘armchair exercises’ evening sounds quite relaxing but, in practice, found muscles many of us didn’t know we had. Philomena had us going for three quarters of an hour, nonstop, with lovely inspiring music to get us all going. The feedback was really positive, with our members saying they would like to run the evening again. Our April meeting featured a talk via Zoom by a retired police scenes of crime officer – a very interesting look behind the investigations that take place. With the government road map still following its course, we are now planning some outdoor events for the summer months. We have two bank holidays coming up, so we wish all our readers a happy and safe time over these breaks – perhaps getting away for a couple of days or finally meeting up with family so sorely missed over the winter. If you are not a member but would like to join us, please let me know by emailing carol@applause. co.uk. Carol Coombs
SHEP’S BARBER SHOP 25 St James Place Mangotsfield BS16 9JB www.sheps-barbers.co.uk
DOWNEND WI OH happy days! Spring has sprung and some restrictions have been eased; things always look better when the sun is shining. March’s meeting was a demonstration by Dame Chocolate, who showed us the basics of making bespoke chocolates. This involved tempering the melted chocolate using a hairdryer (who knew?) right through to decoration. I have clearly missed my vocation, as it also involves lots of tasting to ensure satisfaction. Apparently, there is a difference between a chocolate maker and a chocolatier. The first makes the product from scratch - or beans if you want the technical term - and the second creates chocolates from callets, which are basically chocolate chips. Either way, the end product is definitely worth eating. By the way, did you know chocolate should not be stored in a refrigerator, as it impairs quality and flavour? April’s meeting was a spring wreath demonstration, by Bijoux Floral Design. For our May meeting, on the 25th, we are having a selfcare massage session. We would like to thank our existing members, who have rejoined, for their ongoing support and our new members, who we look forward to seeing on Zoom until we can meet again in the hall. It’s not too late to join us, or for a session as a guest. Please contact us at downendwi@yahoo.co.uk. Ros, Secretary
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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
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May, 2021
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n RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Red velvet cupcakes Another year, another lockdown birthday for a family member. It’s become something of a tradition for me to make a very chocolatey cake topped with chocolate icing and decorated with chocolates ( it’s a birthday so calories don’t count !) This year, however, I wanted to mark the occasion with something a bit more sophisticated so plumped for red velvet ,a sort of gently chocolately vanilla cake. It’s a favourite of the birthday person and having made a red velvet cake I am desperately trying to remind myself that I don’t like them! It’s a fallacy that you need to use loads of colouring (unless you really want it to be bright red) to get that lovely sandstone red colour of the original recipe. The original colour comes from the chemical reaction that occurs when you mix raw cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda, vinegar. If you use buttermilk it really makes a difference to the taste and texture of the cake, and use full fat cream cheese not reduced
with Mel of Melanie’s Kitchen
fat in the icing. I admit I cut down the amount of icing sugar in the topping , next time maybe I’ll use more then I won’t want to eat any! Once iced keep in a cool, dry place ,eat within a couple of days, unused cakes can be frozen . Red Velvet Cupcakes (makes 24) 150 ml Rapeseed or sunflower oil 250g self raising flour plus ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda 280g light brown soft sugar 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon cocoa (generous) 200ml buttermilk plus a couple of drops of vinegar 1tsp vanilla paste or 2 of extract 1tsp (about 7g) red gel colour (it must be labelled bake stable or your cake may be green!) Pre heat oven to Gas 4 180c or 160c fan You need 2x12 hole cupcake tins with cupcake liners in 1 Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl until well combined (break up any lumps of sugar) 2 Whisk oil, eggs, milk, vanilla,
colour in a jug 3 Add wet mix plus vinegar and 50ml water to dry mix and whisk until smooth. 4 Divide evenly between cases and bake for approx 18-22 mins until a cocktail stick inserted in the centre of a cake comes out clean.
Cool then ice with cream cheese butter icing Icing: Soften 125 g butter then beat in 300-350g icing sugar and 1tsp vanilla, when pale beat in 175g full fat cream cheese . Pipe onto cold cakes, sprinkle with chocolate gratings.
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May, 2021
n CHURCH NEWS
Now St James is raising the hall roof FOLLOWING on from the recent renovation and refurbishment of St James Church, Mangotsfield, attention has now turned to the church hall. It is a space which, when we are not in a pandemic, is usually a hive of activity for many community groups, including uniformed organisations, WI, toddler groups and many other activities. Urgent repairs were carried out to the roof last year to try and keep us watertight, but it became obvious that a major overhaul of the roof was becoming a matter of some urgency. Thanks to the generosity of church members, and a timely £37,000 grant from Suez Community Trust, the whole roof is now being renewed. Roofing contractors P & M Lewis started work on the roof shortly after Easter. St James is extremely grateful to Suez for making this latest
St James Church Hall. Picture: Chris Taylor work possible on the church hall. A programme of further refurbishment is planned as funds are raised. We look forward to gradually
welcoming our groups back to the hall as regulations permit. There are also a few opportunities available to rent space in the hall: for more
AL M R O N S A N OPE National Award winners of the Good Garage Scheme
information please contact our Hall Administrator at stjamesmango@gmail.com. SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding awards through the Landfill Communities Fund. Trust chairman Marek Gordon said: “We were delighted to be able to offer funding to St James Church Mangotsfield.” At St James church itself, we have just taken delivery of our chairs, which we could not get because of lockdowns in Ireland where they were made. Services are being held weekly, within social distancing rules, and the first weddings will be in late May. We continue to post an online service on Sundays on YouTube and, technology allowing, we are now live-streaming our live services on a Sunday. We plan to start our community café as soon as covid rules allow. Rev Teresa Taylor
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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
May, 2021
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n CHURCH NEWS
Alpha is back at Christ Church Tree of Hope THE yew tree on the churchyard at Christ Church Downend has withstood many storms, and can be seen as a symbol of the hope we have that we are not alone. Many people from the local community came to tie a ribbon on the tree in memory of a loved one or as a simple prayer during Lent, when we were still in lockdown. Easter is a time of hope as we celebrate Jesus rising from death, so it was fitting that we brought flowers to the tree from Easter Sunday as a sign of our thankfulness, and a reminder that death does not have to be the end. Anita Dobson
Quarry Court
THERE has been so much to get our heads around this year: what’s life all about? How can I cope? Can I find happiness? Perhaps this time has made you more curious about the Christian faith and you would like to find out more. Or you may feel drawn to return to church after time away, and are not sure how to go about it. Or you may want to strengthen your faith in the midst of uncertain times. Alpha is a 10-week course based on excellent video presentations about different aspects of the Christian faith and stories from people who have explored and found faith. After watching the video together, there’s time for discussion and questions in a safe, friendly environment. No question is too big or too small! You can find out more about Alpha at our introductory online session on Monday May 10, with the full series starting on Monday May 17 in person in the Youth Hub, at the rear of Christ Church Parish Hall, from 7.45pm. To book a place, get in touch with Paul by email at paul. peterson@christchurchdownend.com or call 07939 125375. Anita Dobson
Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX
Families @4 WE'VE been learning to do church differently over the last year, especially with families. Since numbers in church are limited in the mornings due to the social distancing rules, we now gather as families in the afternoon, each family round a separate table. This enables parents and children to learn and explore faith together. You’re very welcome to join us any Sunday at 4 pm. Please let us know you’re coming – book a table with Liz at children@christchurchdownend. com.
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May, 2021
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n GARDENING CLUB AT LINCOMBE BARN
Brightening the corners of your garden WE have had some lovely sunny days recently, and I hope you have all managed to get out into your gardens. We need to control the weeds by pulling them out, then we have no need for chemicals and protect the wildlife. It is also good exercise and we get some fresh air and, if we are in the front garden, a chance to have a chat with friends, neighbours and passers-by. At the end of May we can begin to think about putting out our bedding plants, not before the last week, though, as there is still a chance of a frost. There will be plenty of plants available to feed pollen to the bees, hoverflies and other insects, to enjoy through the summer. The flowers will also give us a good display of colour to brighten our days. You may like a corner of all-white plants: like the garden at Sissinghurst in Kent, you can have marguerites; Shasta daisies are quite tall, so give the garden
height; campanula, and Clematis - you can add cream, and that will make a cooling patch for a hot spot in the garden. On the other hand, you might like bright colours and go for red and yellow - it is quite exciting thinking of what colours you would like this year and try a new variety of plant. There are plenty to choose from. What better way to spend an afternoon than visiting a garden centre or nursery, take some notes or a photo, and then decide what will fit into your space and enjoy another visit and come away with a plant or two? Grasses also add movement to the garden, as breezes move through them - they also rustle, which adds a gentle noise. We also will be sowing our vegetable seeds. We can sow them in our borders as well: think about beetroot in a border, with the lovely leaves. Carrot leaves are like ferns, giving a lightness to the border as well as delicious
vegetables. I am pleased to report my blueberry has survived the winter outside, so I look forward to some fruits later in the season. That was a new addition at the end of autumn last year. I plant a container with potatoes: it's good to have some fresh potatoes, if only for a couple of meals - nothing beats it. Take photos of your garden through the year - that way you will be able to see where you need to
make any changes or want to move a plant to a better position. We are hoping to re-start the gardening club at the barn in September, so will hope to see some of you then. We will give confirmed dates later. It will be a busy time of year for us all as we plant our hanging baskets, borders and planters, so enjoy this time and perhaps try something new. Happy Gardening. Mary Head, secretary
Open day at preschool COME and meet the fabulous Abacus@Mangotsfield Team on Saturday 15th May 2021 at 10am - 12pm. We will be ready to welcome you to our lovely preschool in United Reform Church, Mangotsfield to discuss your childcare requirements. We are open 8.30pm - 3.30pm term time only, caring for children from 2 - 4 years. We have a safe enclosed garden encouraging outside play with lots of fun activities! We would love to meet you! Alternatively we can arrange an appointment. Please call us on 01454 867285.
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40
nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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. Downend Local History Society n Mindful of the safety of our members and guests and given the requirements imposed on large groups at The Barn to be Covid-19 compliant, the committee had decided not to resume our meetings at the present time. We will review the situation again in a few months. Gill Delve , programme secretary n Bristol U3A: Have you reached a point in your life where you have fewer responsibilities and more time for yourself? Would you like to take part in activities where you can share skills, abilities or hobbies whilst having fun and making new friends? Why not become a member and find an interest group to join. Go to www.bristolu3a.org.uk for details. We, at Bristol U3A, are still very active and ‘meeting’ despite the lockdown.
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Find us at Unit 5 WBP (behind Kingswood Heritage Museum) Tower Lane, Warmley BS30 8XT naturaltreatsbristolwarmley
May, 2021
n LIBRARY NEWS
Update from Downend, Emersons Green and Staple Hill libraries WE are following the Government roadmap out of lockdown and offering services according to current restrictions. These include self-service borrowing and free access to computers and Wi-Fi. However services may change at short notice and our webpage www.southglos. gov.uk/librarychanges is kept updated. You can • E njoy the simple pleasure of choosing your own items, we have lots of new titles in stock. Our catalogue of 2.5 million items gives you even more to choose from at your fingertips. • I f you prefer, you can still order ahead using our Click and Collect service. Book a collection slot online https:// sglibraries.eventbrite.com or by calling 01454 865022, answer a few questions and we'll choose items based on your answers - for you, for your children or both. “I’m so excited to pick up my books…I think the staff picking titles based on questions I’ve answered is such an interesting
and exciting idea” " I could not have chosen better books myself" • Use a computer or Wi-Fi for free for 1 hour each day, including scanning and printing. Call 01454 865022 or email CorporateContactCentre@ southglos.gov.uk to book ahead and guarantee your space. • If you have a baby aged 0 – 12 months pick up a FREE Bookstart Baby Bag by visiting any South Gloucestershire library or by ordering in advance and ordering one using the Click and Collect service (see above). Books to help you look after your wellbeing Now more than ever many of us find ourselves needing a bit of support and advice to get through difficult times; we have the expert endorsed national Reading Well collections of books for all ages on mental health topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement and grief free to borrow and reserve. Find out more at www.southglos. gov.UK/LIBRARYCHANGES.
Youth theatre launches A YOUTH theatre company has opened to help young performers develop their skills. Stand and Deliver Youth Theatre is for students aged 11 to 18 and sessions include improvisation exercises, audition technique, script writing, as well as studying of theatrical practitioners and playwrights such as Harold Pinter and Alan Ayckbourn. It is run by director Julia McDade, who trained with the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and has taught at schools in the area including Clifton College, Bristol Grammar School, Red Maids and Colstons. Julia also runs MJM Associates, a theatrical agency for young people, with past students having gone on to perform in shows including the West End production of Billy Elliot and TV dramas Skins, Victoria, Casualty, Mistresses and Lark Rise to Candleford. Her students have also gone on to train at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, The BRIT School and other renowned performing arts schools. Julia said: "At Stand and Deliver we are passionate about every aspect of theatre and performance. Our ethos is that every student matters, and ideas are encouraged making everyone feel a valued group member." People who want to take join can arrange a free taster session by calling Julia on 07771 634060 or emailing juliamcdade1@gmail. com.
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downendvoice
May, 2021
41
n DOWNEND FOLK CLUB PREVIEW NEXT AT DOWNEND FOLK CLUB
SAM SWEENEY IN CONCERT
Friday 21st May 2021, Christ Church Downend. DOWNEND Folk Club are completely thrilled to be returning to in-venue concerts in May, and equally thrilled to welcome Sam Sweeney as their guest. Sam will perform a rare solo gig in the beautiful surroundings of Christ Church Downend on Friday 21st May in front of a COVID-safe and socially-distanced audience of 60. The concert is already sold out, but Sam will also feature in the new-look "an hour or so" a couple of days later, on the Sunday evening. Nominated four times, and winner in 2015, of Musician Of The Year at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Sam is a veteran of the mighty 11-piece, former and inaugural artistic director of the National Youth Folk Ensemble, founder member of the acclaimed instrumental trio Leveret, and "one of the defining English fiddle players of his generation" (Mark Radcliffe) at the forefront of the revival in English traditional music. Sam has made two critically acclaimed solo albums (The Unfinished Violin and Unearth Repeat) and has also recorded and performed with The Full English, Eliza Carthy, Jon Boden & The Remnant Kings, Fay Hield, Emily Portman
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and Martin Carthy, as well as his own critically acclaimed show Made In The Great War. The concert is sold out (please email downendfolkclub@live.com to be added to the waiting list in case of any returns)… but if you’ve missed out, fear not! 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 Sam when he 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 Sam, as well as finding out a bit more about his past and his plans for the future. A handful of the tunes Sam plays during the concert will also be recorded. The resulting chat and tunes will then be streamed on Sunday 23rd May 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 more information, please go to www.downendfolkclub.co.uk, email downendfolkclub@live.com, or find the club on social media.
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42
May, 2021
n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH IT’S just over a year since I did my last Thought for the month, and what a year it has been. I am sure that you are already enjoying the small steps that have been taken towards freedom and are looking forward in the coming months to the possibility of life returning to normal. However, seeing the long queues at the shops and the significant increase in traffic on the roads I was wondering whether we actually want or need to go back to living the way we did before. Was our pre-pandemic life really the life of freedom that we say we desire or were we burdened with the pressures of living in a way that is unsustainable for our health and also our planet. We have learnt that many of the things we strive to have do not bring us the security and guarantees of peace and contentment that we thought they would and our lives over the past year have been thrown onto a completely different course to the one we expected. They are just things that rot, depreciate in value and become useless and out of fashion all too quickly.
Freedom to live Jesus spent much of his time on earth just being with people of all sorts and simply enjoying their company and they enjoyed his. There wasn’t a desire to constantly strive to have the best of everything in fact Jesus said ‘Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’ During lockdown we have missed the ability to be with people and spend time just enjoying their company and so we have been reminded of the importance of friendship and family and the value of having good memories in case those people are suddenly taken out of our lives. Hopefully we will soon be able to get together properly again but I would hate us to miss the
opportunity to be free to just do that and instead burden ourselves with all the other busyness as we rush to restore our ‘old life’. Also, many people have taken the opportunity to volunteer to help others and they have experienced the satisfaction that is gained from helping those less able to help themselves. Easter, that we celebrated a few weeks ago, is the reminder of how Jesus volunteered to give up his life so that we might be forgiven for all the wrong things we do. None of us are good enough to come into the presence of God through our own actions so Jesus acted to help those unable to help themselves, which is all of us. We simply need to turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness and determine to follow him. If we do that, he promises that we can have real freedom for he says ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and
DavidQuintin DownendBaptist Church humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’ We each have a choice, to chase after the things of the world that never satisfy and just keep us seeking more and more, or, we can seek real peace and contentment by turning to Jesus and enjoying true freedom and a new eternal life that begins now.
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downendvoice
May, 2021
43
n PHOTOGRAPHY
Cabot Circus by Ian Boulton
A pair of Common Blues by Helen Sheppard
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FOR many keen photographers there is a constant challenge – how to produce images that stand out from the crowd. The digital age has meant a huge increase in the number of photographs taken, and the internet means that it is possible for them to be shared with just about anyone who can go online. The increase in quantity has been matched with quality, and stunning images are just a click of a mouse away. What is interesting (and encouraging) though, is that it is still possible to produce interesting and quality work that achieves that holy grail in enthusiast photography: something a bit different. Three examples from the latest club competition are shown here. ‘Cabot Circus’ is a slow-speed shot of a crowd moving along a passage out of the shopping centre. What is interesting is that sense of movement conveyed in a still image: it is almost surreal in that hardly any face or figure is clearly discernible, but the scene is instantly recognisable. ‘A Pair of Common Blues’ is a clever image, and is unusual in that pictures of butterflies generally show the wings folded open, or side-on. It seems unlikely that the two subjects posed like this, so this looks like a composite shot of two separate insects (they appear quite different from each other) - but if so, it is so well done that it is not possible to see the join. ‘Masked McDonald's’ achieved a singular accolade from the judge of the competition when he
TAKING BET TER PHOTOGRAPHS
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commented that he had not seen another picture like it before. It is a striking image, the yellow central area of interest given additional impact by the dark blue surround. What these images show is that it is always possible to produce work that has individuality, even among the welter of digital images that are produced. Thank goodness. Downend Camera Club is a friendly informal group who normally meet on Tuesdays at 7.30pm at the Assembly Hall in Salisbury Road, Downend, although actual meetings are currently suspended. For the time being we are continuing with a programme of online photographic 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. Please do check it out. Ed Shorney
Masked McDonald's by Robin Chun
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Our Open Spaces We are incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of beautiful green spaces within our area. Many of us have particularly benefited from this during lockdown, both physically and mentally. Our green spaces are also critical in protecting the environment, and with the Town Council recently having declared a Climate Emergency, along with other Town and Parish Councils across the country, we are committed to protecting our open spaces.
TREES Trees are recognised as a critical environmental asset. We ensure that the trees on the commons are regularly inspected by an arboriculturist and any works they specify are then carried out by a qualified tree surgeon. Last year we planted 10 new trees on Blackhorse Road common and have left a grassed area within the circle of trees uncut to benefit pollinators.
COMMON LAND The commons are an important and well used amenity for our residents and the wider public, the largest being Rodway Common, which occupies around 35 acres.
DIBDEN LANE ALLOTMENTS The Town Council run the Dibden Lane allotments, which features 103 plots of varying sizes and represents a valuable green space in the area. The allotments are popular and well maintained, with 48 people on the waiting list. The Town Council actively monitors and maintains the allotment site and hosts an annual Allotments Awards evening. If you live within the Town Council boundary and wish to have an allotment, please contact us to be added to the waiting list.
The Town Council owns, or is custodian, of the following common land: Rodway Common including Carson’s Copse Vinney Green Common Blackhorse Road (by the junction of Dibden Lane and Elm Tree Avenue) Emersons Green Common including Green Lane next to Emersons Green Park and part of the common land at Windsor Place The Town Council has legal responsibilities in relation to the common land as set out in the Commons Act 2006. Importantly, common land must be maintained for access by all users – any works which have the effect of impeding access is prohibited. The common land itself is protected and ‘digging of ditches and trenches and the building of embankments’ is against the law. Rodway Common has a unique grassland habitat that needs to be preserved. There has, unfortunately, been ongoing issues at Rodway Common with excavations, destruction of flora, and vandalism of signage. In line with the requirements of the Commons Act 2006, we politely remind residents that we want all users to benefit from, and enjoy, the commons, but that wilful destruction of the land, and its flora, cannot be accepted. It is disappointing for everybody when taxpayer money has to be used to carry out avoidable remedial works.
WILDFLOWERS AND GRASS CUTTING The grass on most of the common land is cut regularly as part of the regular maintenance schedule. Last year a local naturalist, Ed Drewitt, produced a report which included sections on Green Lane and Emersons Green Common (the Green). Ed reported that Emersons Green Common was “covered in native wildflowers that have no doubt been flowering here for hundreds of years without any intervention”. We have subsequently implemented Ed’s recommendations, meaning that each year, a quarter of the common will be left uncut on a rotating basis, with the cuttings from the remaining three quarters to be removed to benefit the wildflowers. Last year we sewed wildflower seeds on the roundabout by Blackhorse Garage for the benefit of our pollinating insects. We are hoping that this year, we will see them starting to grow and that we will benefit from their natural beauty for years to com.
INTRODUCING…. Councillor Dave Somers Councillor Somers joined the Town Council in 2016 when he moved back into the area and is a representative of the Pomphrey Ward. Prior to this, Dave was a Councillor with Rangeworthy Parish Council from 2007 - 2015. Dave is a very active Member of the Town Council, sitting on several of our Committees, and Chairman of both the Planning and Open Spaces Committees. “I was born and brought up St George and married my wife, Kath in 1966. I have two grown up daughters and 3 grandchildren. I previously ran my own heating business for 43 years, and still belong to the Probus Club. In the past, I played football for Bristol Rovers and Glenside Athletic, and cricket for Yate and ICI. I have also ridden in motor cycle trials. I am a keen rugby supporter having supported Bath Rugby Club for over 30 years. Having lived locally for a long time, I am very committed to this community and have built up a wide knowledge of the area. I enjoy my work as a Town Councillor and feel that it is a privilege to be able to give something back to this wonderful community and its residents”
downendvoice
May, 2021
45
n NEWS
Skydivers will help Downend shop charities WHEN grandfather Peter Smith was approaching his 75th birthday, his family knew exactly what to get him – a 15,000ft skydive. Peter, who lives in Downend, has always loved heights, so his wife Rachel and four children clubbed together to buy him a present Peter would be unlikely to forget in a hurry. But before Peter could get on to the plane in May last year, the coronavirus pandemic took hold and his skydive had to be called off. Now the relaxation of restrictions means the jump is back on – and Peter is raring to go. He said: “I've always liked being up high and this was compounded by the fact that two of my sons have done skydives and both enjoyed it. “I apparently showed enough enthusiasm to make them believe I'd quite like to do one myself.
My wife told me 'If you're not careful, you'll get one for your 75th birthday present'. She said it so often that when they gave me the skydive, it didn't actually come as a surprise. In fact, I would have been more surprised had they not bought me one!” Peter, a former deputy head at both St George and Merrywood schools, decided he would do the skydive in aid of children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent and has set a target of raising £1,000. The charity has a shop in Downend where Rachel has volunteered for several years. Peter said: “I thought, why have that much fun without doing something worthy with it? We have experience of people who have benefited from this incredible charity – there couldn't be a finer charity than CLIC.” Peter, who has six grandchildren, had to pass a medical before being allowed to
A VOLUNTEER at Downend's St Peter's Hospice shop is set to raise more than £1,000 with a skydive for the charity. Sasha Dornan has had a Saturday job at the shop since last summer, so has seen first-hand how repeated lockdowns have affected the charity's income. The 17-year-old pupil at Sir Bernard Lovell school, from Longwell Green, has paid for the skydive herself so that all the money goes to the charity. She said: “My manager told me that St Peter’s Hospice is really struggling because it’s lost all the normal income from sponsored walks, marathons, running the charity shops and so on. “They’ve had to close some of the beds at
Retired teacher Peter Smith will jump out of an aeroplane at 15,000ft to raise money for CLIC Sargent jump. “I played football into my 60s so I'm not completely over the hill. If I was to say that jumping out of a plane for the first time at the age of 75 doesn't give me any apprehension, I'd be lying. "It's a tandem jump though,
the hospice in Brentry because they haven’t got enough money to run them. “I came up with the idea of a sponsored skydive and my manager said, ‘But who will do that?’” “I said, ‘I will!’” St Peter’s Hospice is the only hospice in Bristol that cares for adults with progressive life-limiting illness. Last year it missed out on £2 million in funding, with all 52 of its shops closing for much of the year. Sasha’s 15,000ft tandem jump is due to take place at an airfield in Salisbury on May 16. She said: “I’m trying not to think about it because I’ll get too scared. I started watching some YouTube videos of people
so I will be attached to somebody who will do the main work so I'll just enjoy the journey down." Peter's jump is scheduled for May 14 and you can sponsor him online at justgiving.com/Petersmith1944
skydiving then realised that was a bad idea. “The only other thing I’ve done to raise money for charity was a sponsored silence at primary school so this is a bit more dramatic! My mum Sasha is a bit worried and Dornan would rather I stay on the ground. “I’m hoping I’ll enjoy it on the day.” Sasha’s fundraising page is at justgiving. com/fundraising/Sasha-DornanSPH.
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GENERAL MAINTENANCE
The majority of the verges and footpaths in the area are the responsibility of South Gloucestershire Council. However, the Town Council carries out additional cuts of the grass verges throughout the year, in addition to the cuts provided by South Gloucestershire Council in the Spring and Autumn. The Town Council also carries out some additional Summer maintenance on footpaths All Town Council meetings are open to members of the public and are currently held remotely by Zoom. Please see our website for meeting agendas, including joining instructions, or contact us on: clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Open Spaces Committee 7.00pm 4 May Annual Full Town Council meeting 8.30pm 6 May Planning Committee meetings To be confirmed Finance Committee To be confirmed
The Open Spaces Committee usually meets on the first Tuesday of every other month at 7.00pm. As with all Town Council meetings, members of the public are welcome to attend. Please see our website for dates and joining instructions.
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
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downendvoice
May, 2021
47
n PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LINCOMBE BARN CAMERA CLUB
Nymphaeaceae by Sid Stace
The Nelson Staircase by Bruce Gibbs
Panel of three competition LOCKDOWN continues and we’re all getting used to the new normal. For a camera club with fortnightly meetings, those face-toface contacts with their exchanges of news and advice are important but, slowly, we have learned how to use Zoom to the same effect, but with the added benefit of being face to face with all the others present. A good example was the meeting of April 14, the Panel of Three. This is a unique competition where the challenge is to have three pictures arranged artistically on a panel. They must be thematically linked, or tell a story, and be developed similarly: quite a challenge. Zoom allowed us to see the pleasure of all members hearing the high praise from our judge, Simon Caplan, for the whole entry – a rare event indeed. A sense of pride for the achievement of the whole club was palpable. Judge for yourselves: here are three of the prize winners.
First, 'The Nelson Staircase' by Bruce Gibbs. One of the great staircases in London’s Somerset House, with the visual puzzle of its elegant curving lines providing the unifying element. Next, my own 'Nymphaeaceae', the botanical name for water lilies, isolated in black in order to bring out the flower’s inherent beauty. Those two were both Highly Commended. Second prize went to Jeff Mckinstry for 'Hidden Smiles', face-to-face to show how important the eyes can be even when mouths are masked, and all in dramatic black and white. We always welcome new members, so if you’re interested and would like to be part of our reemergence, take a look at our website at 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. Hidden Smiles by Jeff Mckinstry Stay safe! Sid Stace LOW
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downendvoice
May, 2021
n NEWS
Finding the plot
Join the treasure hunt A CHARITY which has been helping children affected by the world's worst nuclear disaster has found a new way to raise money. Chernobyl Children’s LifeLine Bristol has been providing holidays since 1998 for children whose lives are still affected by the aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. The group usually brings 16 children and two leaders every year to the Bristol area for a fourweek respite break when they get to experience activities they cannot do at home due to their economic situation, including day trips to the seaside. The charity also works with schools in Belarus, providing laptops, sports equipment, replacing windows, refurbishing playgrounds and even installing a school's first proper toilets. To keep its fundraising going during pandemic restrictions, Chernobyl Children’s LifeLine Bristol has teamed up with Treasure Hunt Bristol to create a fundraising activity which can be done while social distancing. The treasure hunt is played
49
using a smartphone and involves solving clues and following maps taking participants on a tour of the city lasting up to three hours, staying outdoors and in public places at all times. The activity can be done at any time during daylight hours and can be booked in advance, with people using the charity's CCLL-BRISTOL code given a 20% discount. Bookings can be made at www.treasurehuntbristol.com. Charity vice-chair James Hyden, of Downend, said the group had several volunteers in Downend, Emersons Green and the wider area and was always in need of more to host children or provide days out for them. He said: "Due to covid restrictions the charity cannot host children in the UK this year, so we are fundraising in the hope that we can offer the children a trip next summer." Chernobyl Children’s LifeLine has helped tens of thousands of children from across Belarus and Ukraine since 1992. For more details visit facebook.com/ ccllbristol or www.ccll.org.uk.
A TEACHING assistant who always wanted to write a children’s book has seen her dream become a reality, after writing it during lockdown. Helen Isaac grew up in Fishponds and at Oakdale Court, Downend, before going to London to do a teaching degree. She now lives in Winterbourne Down and works at Elm Park Primary school in Winterbourne. Her book, called Allotment Fun, is aimed at three to five-year-old children and is illustrated by Tim Burgess, an artist who lives in Winterbourne and went to Elm Park Primary school himself. Helen said: “Allotment Fun is about a little girl who has lots of fun growing all sorts of things on her allotment. Working in education for many years, I've found that young children love the excitement of growing things, even something as simple as cress or sunflowers. Being involved with nature is good for all of us.” Helen intended to sign up for a writing course first, but her husband encouraged her to take the plunge and just start her book. Her own allotment was a source of inspiration. Allotment Fun is published by Bumblebee Books, the children’s section of Olympia Publishers. It’s available directly from the publishers or from large online booksellers.
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downendvoice
May, 2021
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n HUNTERS PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Hambrook Offers in excess of £600,000 HUNTERS Estate Agents, Downend � � sale are delighted to offer �for this superb dormer bungalow located within quiet no-through road within the sought after Hambrook/Frenchay borders. The property offers versatile living accommodation which is arranged over 2 floors and is extremely well presented throughout. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge/diner with wood burner, a stylish shaker style kitchen/breakfast room with breakfast bar, utility, inner hall/ study area, 2 double bedrooms and bathroom. To the first floor can be found an impressive 18ft master bedroom with en-suite shower room and dressing room and a study room. Externally there is a superb 125ft (approx) rear garden with immaculate lawn and patios areas to bottom and side of garden providing ample outdoor seating and a large frontage with driveway providing ample off street parking.
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May, 2021
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n OCEAN PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Downend Asking price £350,000 OCEAN are pleased to bring to the market this double bay fronted extended terrace family home. Situated between both Downend and Staple High streets, this property is also local to many schools and within walking distance of Page Park. The ground floor presents as: entrance hall, lounge with bay window, sitting room/dining area plus a galley kitchen. With an extended single story to the rear, this family home offers a larger kitchen and a further dining space/ play area. Upstairs you will find 3 bedrooms (2 doubles, 1 single) and a family bathroom. Externally this property comes with off street parking to the front with the rear garden approximately measuring around 80ft. To the back of the garden this property also comes with a garage and further off street parking. Call Ocean now on 0117 244 1050.
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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.
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May, 2021
n LOCAL HISTORY
Cave family history: Grand houses, wartime service and sacrifice Last month historian David Blackmore told how the Cave family settled in the area in the 19th century. This month, he looks at how Cleve Hill House became a hospital and the family lost a son in the First World War. BY the mid-19th century the Cave family was well-established in Mangotsfield and Downend. Sir Stephen Cave, who had bought Cleve Hill House, in Downend, in 1804, bequeathed it to his eldest son, Daniel, who had been baptised at St James' Church, Mangotsfield, in 1789. After marrying a British doctor's daughter in Italy, Daniel and his bride Frances re-took their marriage vows at St James's in 1820 and had six girls and four boys during their marriage. A banker and magistrate, Daniel would become 1st High Sheriff of Bristol in 1836 and a Justice of the Peace for Gloucestershire. Although the family spent some time living in Devon, Daniel died at Cleve Hill in March 1872, and was buried in Bristol at St Paul's church, Portland Square. Daniel and Frances's eldest son, Stephen, bought a substantial estate at Sidbury, near Sidmouth in Devon. Although he never lived there, it was later to become the Cave family seat and is still owned by them today.
Lt Walter Henry Charles Cave was killed in action on his 20th birthday at Ypres, Belgium
Sir Stephen Cave was a Conservative MP, government minister and director of the Bank of England
Sir Charles Daniel Cave, 1st baronet
An Oxford-educated writer and lawyer, born five months after his parents' marriage in Italy, Sir Stephen Cave was the Conservative MP for New Shoreham, Sussex, from 1859 until 1880, twice serving as Postmaster General. He was also chairman of the West India Committee and a director of the Bank of England. The Sidbury estate, along with Cleve Hill House and Rodway Hill House, were bequeathed by Sir Stephen to his brother, Sir Charles Daniel, who was High Sheriff of Bristol in 1863 and became the first director of the Union Bank of London. Sir Charles Daniel was created 1st Baronet Cave of Sidbury Manor, of Cleve Hill and of Stoneleigh House, Clifton, in 1896. Among his children was Walter Frederick Cave, who played cricket for Gloucestershire in 1883 before becoming an architect and landscape gardener, serving
as President of the Architectural Association from 1907-1909 and designing gardens of stately homes including Tyntesfield, North Somerset, where his Arts and Crafts style is in evidence at the Orangery. Sir Charles Daniel's fifth son Sir Charles Henry Cave and his wife Beatrice frequently lived at Rodway Hill House between 1900 and 1922. Their son Walter Henry Charles Cave, who was born in March 1895, was to become a victim of the First World War. Applying for an Army commission on leaving school in August 1914, instead of attending Cambridge University as originally intended, he was made a 2nd Lieutenant on probation to the 3rd (Special Reserve) Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment. After six months guarding strategically important sites in Dorset, Walter was transferred to the 1st Battalion 'in the field', among a group of replacements that arrived in Ypres, Belgium, on February 18, 1915. Less than a month later, on his 20th birthday, he was killed by an exploding German shell at his observation point at the walled city's Lille Gate. He was buried near where he fell and is commemorated on the Mangotsfield War Memorial in the Alec Large Memorial Gardens. By this time Cleve Hill House, which stood on the north side of Cleve Hill Road, where the presentday Cleve Lawns lies, had become home to the Cleve Hill Voluntary Aid Hospital, which opened in October 1914, with 100 beds. Walter's grandfather Sir Charles Daniel Cave had offered it to the authorities for use as a hospital for
the duration. Walter's mother, Lady Beatrice, became the Commandant and his father Charles Henry Cave the Quartermaster, while the hospital was staffed by detachments of British Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) nurses from Downend, Frenchay and Frampton Cotterell, and a civilian kitchen staff. VAD nurses, who had to be aged between 23 and 38, were unpaid, signing up to "do their bit” for the war effort. Beatrice Cave was made an OBE in 1918 for her work at the hospital, but the war marked the end of the family's ownership of Cleve Hill House. In September 1920 the whole 1,400 acre Cave estate was sold at auction and split into 47 lots for development, including properties in Downend and Mangotsfield. Before the auction, plans were made for the Caves' tenant farmers to buy the land they had previously rented. The 1921 spring electoral register shows Sir Charles Henry Cave, Beatrice and their two surviving sons still living at Rodway Hill House, but they would depart for the family seat in Devon following the death at Sidbury Manor of Sir Charles Daniel, the 1st Baronet, in October 1922. He was buried at St James in Mangotsfield. Cleve Hill House itself was eventually demolished in 1930. Sir Charles Henry Cave, the 2nd Baronet, died in July 1932. The Baronetcy has passed through the male line to Sir George Charles Cave, who became the 6th Baronet upon the death of his father in June 2018.
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May, 2021
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n NEWS
Football club wins alcohol licence battle A FOOTBALL club has won the right to sell alcohol at its pavilion in Soundwell, despite fears it would become a “speakeasy”. Councillors approved the application for Bristol Rovers Supporters Junior Football Club in Church Road, restricting it to training sessions and matches only. A similar bid was rejected last year, despite receiving no objections from the police or regulatory services. Staple Hill and Mangotsfield ward councillor Ian Boulton told South Gloucestershire Council's licensing subcommittee that residents and a church had raised concerns, including over parking. He told the remote hearing on March 29: “The key concerns of neighbours, including the church, are that it seems peculiar to have effectively a changing room and small pavilion area to be licensed for alcohol and an off-licence. “They are concerned it will become a speakeasy, a drinking den, in such a residential area and what sort of message this sends about alcohol by a junior football club.” Bristol Rovers Supporters vice-chairman Nick Hammond said the club had more than 300 junior members. It had expanded from
The pavilion in Church Road, Soundwell its main site at Southey playing fields in Kingswood, which has had an alcohol licence for many years, and members wanted the same facilities in Soundwell. Mr Hammond said: “Literally 100 metres up the road is a local pub. We have no intention of competing with it or being anything like a pub or an off-licence. It will only be open to our members or those using our facilities. We are not endorsing anyone coming to use it as a drinking establishment.” He said on-site drinking would be limited to the clubhouse and a hard standing area
around the building, and that no glass would be used. Mr Hammond said the pavilion would also have a small cafe serving sandwiches and pastries, which would be open to everyone. The club maintains the fields by agreement with the council, which axed its playing fields and pavilions budget under austerity measures in 2017. “I don’t want to alienate the community whatsoever,” said Mr Hammond. He said the club had agreed with the council that land near the play area at the bottom of the site would provide 50 parking spaces and the club would create a secure walkway from the main road to the play park. A letter of support from the council’s place maintenance coordinator said the site would have lost formal football provision and the pavilion would have been mothballed without the club's involvement since 2017. Granting the application, panel chairman Keith Burchell said alcohol sales would be restricted to training sessions and matches. He said the additional parking mitigated concerns about traffic. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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56
n GARDENING FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Choosing the best tree for your garden I HOPE you have all been enjoying the sunshine, even though it has been quite nippy. The cold nights have meant that growth has been slow. Germination of seeds has been slow, too, and the new growth on many plants has been zapped by the frost. I have been watering the pots in the garden with the supply of water from the water butt, as we have not had much rain. Whilst things have been slow to start, as soon as we get a little warmth, they will soon spring into action! Hopefully you are all planting and sowing in earnest for the new season, and enjoying making these preparations. I have sown lots of vegetable seeds into pots and into my plot directly. I have sown lots of flower seeds also. If you are not so keen on sowing seeds, you can buy young plants from garden
centres: be careful to keep them protected until the night frosts have passed. Thank you for all your messages of support, comments and questions. I would like to answer a question that I am repeatedly asked: what trees are good to plant in a domestic garden? Firstly, unless you have an exceptionally large patch, it is important not to plant trees that are too tall. This is due to the roots stretching out and reaching under the property or the canopy becoming too large and blocking out the light for neighbours. Also, some trees could be inappropriate, as they could drop fruit or needles, or take much of the moisture from the soil, so that nothing else can thrive. The following trees and large shrubs would be suitable, as they are not too tall or are suitably
slow growing: syringa vulgaris (lilac); hamamelis mollis (Chinese witch hazel); garrya elliptica (silk tassel) – hamamelis and garrya provide excellent winter interest; prunus serrula – lovely spring blossom and deep red bark; acer negundo ‘Kellys Gold’. Or consider a crab apple, like malus ‘Golden Hornet’. These trees stay small and are excellent for pollinating insects. You could also try magnolia stellata ‘Ballerina’ - choose your site carefully, according to the instructions on the label. Bees are amazing little creatures, as we all are aware. Did you know that bees can smell the footsteps of other bees on the petals of flowers? This is so that they can work out whether it is worth making the effort to go inside the flower to check for nectar. If the flower has been recently visited by another bee,
with
April Hulin
they will not take the time to see if the flower has refilled its nectar supply. It is thought that bees are aware how long it takes each plant to restock their nectar bank, and they can tell by the smell of footprints how long ago another bee was there. Have a fabulous month – enjoy the lighter nights. April Hulin Hulinapril@gmail.com
n CHRISTINE'S COLUMN
Rambling roses bring great joy WELL, it is a month on now and my garden is gradually coming along, as you can see from the photo of the Chaenomeles, Japanese quince. You can get orangey-red flowered ones too. In autumn they have edible fruits, which you can use for preserves. They are fragrant, appleshaped and yellow in colour. Since my last column I have decided not to have a slate garden, as there is insufficient room. Unfortunately the silverleaved plant I spoke about rotted off after moving it. It was my own fault, it was happy where it was and in moving it I must have upset it! The other day I visited a garden centre near where I live and bought a rose, Golden
My quince, Chaenomeles Jet Trail, with the snowflake leucojum aestivum, Gravetye Giant, growing up through
with
Christine Broadway Showers, a climber to go on one side of my garden arch. It has a companion on the same side, a clematis Viticella Etoile Violette (Violette Star), a small-flowered dark purple one.
When the rose has climbed up the arch they will intertwine. On the other side of the arch the climbing rose Schoolgirl, an orangey one, is doing very well, and in due course I will buy a
companion for that, too. Villa de Lyon, a pretty red one, I would like to get. I hope you are enjoying your gardens too, now that the weather is gradually getting warmer.
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May, 2021
57
n NEWS
Team needs a new sponsor MANGOTSFIELD United Junior FC's Under 12s team is looking for a new kit sponsor. Despite a thriving youth membership, like many clubs, the organisation has seen its income dwindle in the last year due to Covid-19 restrictions. The traditional fundraiser, a popular annual summer tournament at Pomphrey Hill, had to be cancelled last year due to the lockdown, which left a big gap in the club’s income. The junior club was formed in 2001 after Mangotsfield United FC’s then chairman, Roger Pullin, was approached by North Bristol Colts to play under the Mangotsfield name. Since 2001 the junior club has grown from six teams to over 30 and last year formed a link with Downend Flyers girls' football club. Starting with the Mini Mangos, the club is able to provide coaching and football for all children, boys and girls, from four years old to adults. The junior club is completely
Mangos play again
Mangotsfield United Junior FC's Under 12s looking for a new sponsor run by volunteers and is an FA Charter Standard club, which means there are FA qualified coaches at every age level, offering football in a safe and friendly environment. The Under 12 age group had 45 players, spread across three teams playing competitively in the Avon Youth League. They have matches across Bristol and the surrounding area, and are
seeking a sponsor whose logo would be printed on the team’s match shirts for the next two years. Interested businesses can email tomdrowe@hotmail.com to find out more information. The U12s also have places available for new players and are running open training sessions in May. Parents can contact the same email address for details. Tom Rowe
MANGOTSFIELD United started a series of 'end of season' friendlies with a 4-0 home win over Shortwood United. Goals from George Neill, Wayne N'Deramani, Max Williams and Marcus Kelly decided the match on April 17, which is part of the return of grassroots football as lockdown restrictions are eased. Three more friendlies were planned – at home to Cadbury Heath on April 24, away to Bradford Town on May 15 and home to Bishop Sutton on May 22. It is hoped fans will be allowed into the ground for the Bishop Sutton game. Players have been back in training since the lifting of restrictions on organised sport and after the friendlies the players are expected to take a break in June before 'preseason' training in July. The club is still waiting to hear from the Southern League about the constitution of the leagues next season. Dave Smale
CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC & PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE WE’VE MOVED, BUT NOT TOO FAR... With a Team approach to healthcare.
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May, 2021
n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE
Look after yourself Charlie Spence, a member of the physiotherapy team at Cleve Chiropractic, explains why riders must look after themselves – as well as their horses.
AS riders, we’re all guilty of spending a lot of time and money on looking after our equine friends – but what about us? The human element is a vital part of the partnership that helps us enjoy the sport we love. Investing only in the horse can be detrimental to our own progression so, if we put a little time and effort into the rider’s health and well-being, we’ll make both ours and our horses’ lives a lot easier. That’s why, at Cleve Chiropractic, we have the expertise to help you get in trim for your horse riding, whatever your age or level of fitness. Unfortunately, when it comes to injuries and rehabilitation,
there’s no ‘one programme fits all’. That’s why we offer one-toone assessments and online consultations to identify any asymmetries, weaknesses and mobility restrictions, to ensure our clients receive the best possible care and advice. Our horses can be in tip-top condition but we are often frustrated by physical shortcomings, despite taking on board what we’re being asked to achieve by our equestrian instructors. Do you ever get to a point where you want to yell: ‘I’m doing my best!’ Do any of the following sound familiar to you? • Your weight is shifted to one side • Collapsing on one side • Uneven shoulders • Fixing with one arm • Falling in front of, or behind, the movement • Better dressage scores on one rein compared to the other So
why is this happening? The rider’s base of support in the saddle is the pelvis and inner thighs. The pelvis receives every movement of the horse and every movement of our pelvis is directly communicated to the horse. Therefore, we can act in harmony with one another. All riders should understand the importance of weight distribution and control of our seat. But, if you’re not prepared well enough, questions have to be asked. If you have an anteriorly tilted pelvis, or ribcage rotation when you stand, how on earth are you meant to sit straight in the saddle? If you have poor hip internal rotation, how can place your leg behind the girth? Of course, you might not realise that you have any of these problems. But one or more of these ‘faults’ might be the reason why you’re desperately trying to follow your riding instructor but you can’t, for example, get the correct canter lead, or bend in that shoulder. If you would like to improve your performance, it’s well worth investing a little bit of time and energy in yourself – give us a call at Cleve Chiropractic to find out how we can help. Meanwhile, here’s a couple of examples of common issues we see with local horse riders. INTERNAL ROTATOR MOBILITY The movement riders require for good mobility at the hip joint. A fundamental aid on the horse is to put our leg on behind the girth. To do this effectively, we need good internal rotation and extension at the hip. If this muscle is weak, or we have restricted mobility, it becomes difficult to use the correct aid to ‘ask’ the horse what we want to achieve – for example,
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
canter transition or lateral work requires the leg to go behind the girth. This exercise will help improve your hip mobility and muscular strength. THE CLAM Hip stabilisers are responsible for maintaining the correct biomechanical function of the lower body to prevent injuries at the hip, knee and ankle. When you’re riding, weakness through your hip stabilisers can produce excess movement at the pelvis. In turn, this can cause miscommunication between you and the horse, if your weight is changing from one side to the other. Or you might always be sitting to one side due to a unilateral weakness. If any of this sounds familiar, or your need some expert advice on any aspect of personal fitness, call Cleve Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Centre on 0117 957 5388 – we’re here to help!
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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May, 2021
59
n SPORT
Great start to the season for Carsons and Mangotsfield THE season has got off to a great start for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club, both on and off the field. At the time of writing, on the playing front, the club have had three comprehensive wins in their warm-up games against Bristol New XL, Alveston and Whitchurch. The club are also participating in the ECB’s All Stars and Dynamos Programme. Carsons and Mangotsfield have been inundated with interest from parents to sign up their children.
The club have gone from having 40 participants in 2020 to in excess of 100 for this season. Many of them are girls, in the newly formed girls’ section being run by Mike Dowse. This meant that a number of new coaches were required, as the demand was unprecedented in the club’s history. Club chair Andy King said that it was great to see the club’s membership come forward and offer to help out at these sessions.
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Many of them have come up through the youth ranks and are now showing their gratitude for the time and effort given to them by their coaches. Andy felt that it represented the spirit that exists within the club. Andy also wants to thank South Gloucestershire Council for providing the club with a £3,000 grant to install pipework to assist in watering the squares. This was all part of the push to move the club forward. Ian Coles
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SJM DECORATING
Hairdresser 20 years plus experience Cutting womens, gents and children. Styling and blow drying, perming, colouring and highlighting. Wedding & prom hair
Call Karina on
07789718422 LANDSCAPING
Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & •External Tiler • Mason Painter Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured
Free Quotations
Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411
www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk Classic & Natural stone tiles High Quality Finish Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry PAINTING & DECORATING Interior & façade painting
Hawthorn Landscapes and Tree Care Replacement and Maintenance:
Guttering, Downpipes UPVC Fascia Boards Soffits and Cladding Unblock & Gutter Cleaning
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
All work guaranteed Based in Bristol area Call Paul for free quote
Freephone 0800 858 9803 Mobile 07580 260 676
01454 850201 or 07980 001109
OVEN CLEANING
GUTTER CLEANING
Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning Call or Book online
www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 0117 3708528 Mob: 07543056558 Based in Downend, Bristol
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
Builder & Interior Decorator
17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience
T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
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
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
downendvoice
62 PLUMBING
PLASTERING
May, 2021 PLUMBING & HEATING
SBS PLASTERING City and Guilds Qualified
Affordable | Reliable | Professional Free Quotations
Tel: 07900 551199 Tel: 0117 9567100
email: sbsplastering@aol.co.uk CHECK OUT REVIEWS ON GOOGLE
PLUMBING
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
0% FINANCE AVAILABLE* Contact us via:
0117 9600269 info@blueflameservice.co.uk www.blueflameservice.co.uk FULLY ACCREDITED WITH
*FINANCE PROVIDED BY INPROVEASY
PLUMBING
PLUMBING & HEATING
Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk
Boiler installation, servicing and repairs 10 Year Warranty’s available Finance also available
518308
0117
957 5092
629179
07878249260 phil@andersonheatingservices.co.uk
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
JJ PLUMBING
CREST HEATING & PLUMBING
BOILERS • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS
BOILERS, BATHROOMS AND GENERAL PLUMBING
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HONEST & RELIABLE
TEL: 07765 250816
Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT
PLUMBING
PLUMBING & HEATING
PLUMBING & HEATING
MOBILE: 07989 072976 TEL: 01454 859474 www.plumber-in-bristol.co.uk
J AND J CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES Providing general building, factory facilities work, gardening, pest control
Tel 07779242184 56746
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 9461169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
downendvoice
May, 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
ROOFING
TREE SURGEONS
N . BROWN
ROOFIN G LIMITED
SLATING • TILING • REPAIRS GUTTERS • FASCIAS FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES
Give Nigel a call he’s local and has a wealth of experience
✆ 07779 786072 ROOFING
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
TREE SURGEONS
A MURPHY
FLAT ROOFING Over 40 years experience References available on request
F R E E E S T I M A T E S
F R I E N D L Y P R O M P T S E R V I C E , A L L W O R K G U A R A N T E E D
A p r i c o t E l e c t r i c a l
2 0 0 O v e r n d a l e R o a d , D o w n e n d B r i s t o l B S 1 6 2 R H Mobile
0117 956 3285
07976 665448
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.
BASED IN DOWNEND! WASTE DISPOSAL
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
www.wigsbristol.com
info@treadwellwindows.co.uk treadwellwindows.co.uk
TEL: 0117 431 5880 MOBILE: 07976 442703
A p p r o v e d C o n t r a c t o r
0117 956 6556
077867 30804 or 0117 279 9409
Downend based BS16 6AP
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
Please book an appointment on:
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL
Mastic | Asphalt | Felt Roofing Contractors
SHOWER REPAIRS
We stock many styles and makes.
RUBBISH CLEARED
Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074
We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
WINDOW & 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
www.maynardwindows.co.uk e: maynardwindows@mail.com
To advertise, contact Gary on 0779 946 1169 Or 0117 907 8585. Email: sales@downendvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
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