Fishponds Voice April 2018

fishpondsvoice April, 2018 — ISSUE 39

FREE EVERY MONTH IN THE GREATER FISHPONDS AREA

Popular academy to grow thanks to £1.7m extension A £1.7 MILLION expansion to allow Bristol Brunel Academy in Speedwell to take in more students has been agreed by the city council.

The secondary school will admit 16 extra 11-year-olds this September to help meet increasing demand for places.

This decision will allow the Cabot Learning Federation academy to

increase its admission number by 80 over five years.

The council’s cabinet has also voted in favour of building a £25 million additional secondary school in Lockleaze. This will be sited on Romney Avenue alongside Stoke Park Primary and will be run by Cathedral Schools Trust. It is expected to take in most of its students from

a citywide catchment area, as Bristol Cathedral Choir School does.

The council has received 4,900 applications for Year 7 places in Bristol schools for September – a 6% rise on the 4,625 applications in 2017. It is working with the Government and others to increase supply.

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Gromit on his way DOWNEND & Bromley Heath Parish Council has sponsored a Gromit sculpture as part of The Grand Appeal’s arts trail, Gromit Unleashed 2. The sculpture will be in the village centre from July 2 and the council hopes residents will support it and help raise money for Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council told the Voice it was delighted to back Gromit Unleashed 2 and was looking forward to welcoming visitors to Downend from across Bristol and beyond.

Keep an eye on future editions of Downend Voice for further information ...

Barbara's 36 years in school labs Science technician Barbara Freeman has retired after 36 years working at Bristol Metropolitan Academy and its predecessor schools.

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Youths prepare for mercy mission Young people from Fishponds Baptist Church will be travelling to the Dominican Republic for a mission trip this August.

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Free BMX club for Hillfields BMX is taking off in Hillfields. The track has been rebuilt and a club has been formed, providing free coaching for young people.

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n NEWS From Page 1 Population predictions show that demand for school places will continue to grow. The challenge for the council is to ensure that they are provided in the right areas of need.

Councillor Anna Keen, cabinet member for education and skills said: “Demand for school places has never been higher and we are working hard with partners across the city to make sure we can meet this need. We are in discussions with the Education and Skills Funding Agency to make sure plans are

April, 2018

Big demand for school places being developed which are right for Bristol and will continue to work in partnership with our Learning City colleagues to make sure we can continue to stay ahead of the curve despite the large increases predicted.”

Bristol Brunel Academy was built to accommodate 216 students in each year. For 201718, it is admitting an additional 16 and its eventual capacity for 11-16 year-olds will be 1,160. The

school received 584 applications for places for September, 288 of which gave the school as first choice.

Bristol Metropolitan Academy was also oversubscribed, with 524 applications for 180 places (288 first choices). It will also take an additional 16 students in 2017-18, as will five other indemand secondary schools.

The figures in the Fishponds area are a remarkable

fishpondsvoice Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169

ADVERTISING sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Tel 07453 954261 Tel 07799 461169 EDITORIAL news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Fishponds Voice, 6 Elkstone Walk, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6JT. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

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Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579

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Sales Caroline Galvin 07453 954261

LOCAL INFORMATION Bristol City Council http://www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000

asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999

Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Well Aware Health and social care information www. wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999

DEADLINES

NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009

May edition deadline is April 25.

Anti social behaviour team

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turnaround from just over a decade ago, when the former Whitefield Fishponds School and Speedwell Technology College were struggling and many parents chose to send their children to schools in neighbouring local authority areas.

The new Lockleaze school, to be known as CST Trinity Academy, aims to open in temporary buildings in 2019.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE Fishponds 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. Fishponds 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 pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@ fishpondsvoice.co.uk.

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n NEWS

Wood you believe it? Really quite nice IT'S official - Fishponds is quite nice!

And as if to prove the point, this wooden sign has been put up along the river path, proudly guiding walkers and nature lovers towards Fishponds.

The hand-carved sign was the handiwork of Andrew Gee, Fishponds resident and member of Friends of Eastville Park, who undertook the project as part of a campaign to improve and celebrate the area.

The previous sign was looking somewhat forlorn but the new one, made from an old oak table, now sits perfectly among the natural surroundings.

Andrew said he was spurred into action after neighbour Susan Winter told him that people on the river path were always asking for directions to Fishponds.

He said: "Susan suggested I make one. She's such a lovely lady so I couldn't say no!"

Andrew admits to being

It's official "a gypsy at heart" and always keeps his eye out for abandoned hardwood furniture he can put to good use. "I have a good collection in my garage and every

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now and again find a way to use them more creatively."

Andrew tried carving by hand but then by chance found a small powered wood carving tool in

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a box of bits and pieces, which made the process much easier.

"Lack of investment in the park has meant that things start to look shabby and fall apart," he said. "The signpost was in a sorry state so I've been sat in front of log fire of an evening with my trusty carving tool in hand and have really enjoyed transforming a bit of an old English oak table into something that's useful and 'quite nice'.

"I'm very fond of Eastville Park and am involved with trying to think of ways to improve the environment for the wildlife and the experience for visitors, so I'm always on the lookout for things that need to be done and am the sort of person who just gets on and does them."

The 'Fishponds is quite nice' slogan was coined by the FishFest festival and has been used on mugs, pens and stickers - but never before on a wooden sign.

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April, 2018

n NEWS

Lynne and Pete close their treasure chest for final time

End of an era for Pete and Lynne as they mark closure of The Attic

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THEY say where there's muck there's brass and for Lynne and Pete Mathias the saying couldn't be more true.

The shopkeepers are retiring on a high after nearly 30 years of running The Attic second-hand shop in North Street, Downend.

The emporium was known to be an Aladdin's cave of used, and sometimes new, eclectic delights but now Lynne and Pete, at the ages of 64 and 63 respectively, have decided to take life a little more easy.

The shop was started by Lynne's parents, Bob and Margaret Stevens, way back in 1969. When they retired in 1989, it was inevitable Lynne would take over as she had been working there since she was 17 and knew the business like the back of her hand.

"Dad was working at a big shoe factory in Soundwell Road and bought up all the shoes that people put in to be mended but never came back for. He also went to Bollom, the dry cleaners, and bought lots of clothes which people had put in to be dry cleaned but never bothered picking up.

"He started selling them in the shop. A pair of shoes could be bought for five shillings, which nowadays is 25p!

"We then started selling things on commission which started when a man came in the shop and asked dad if he could sell a bike for him. Dad said, 'I will do - but I'll charge you 15 percent!' Then people started bringing things to us and everything just snowballed from there."

And it certainly did - by 1978 Bob and Margaret were shifting an average 700 items a day with Lynne and Pete going on to sell everything from cookers and mirrors to fishing rods and rowing boats, with white goods being the most popular.

The Attic also offered a house

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clearance service, and the couple will continue to do so from their home in Emersons Green.

Lynne said: "Sometimes people would ask us to dispose of stuff but we'd say to them we would try to sell it in the shop first. We are recyclers, really.

We're selling for people so their items get recycled and used by someone else.

"We'll still be doing some house clearances as well as shed and garage clearances as we're fully licensed to go to the tip. I could never just sit at home and do nothing - I'd go stir crazy."

The couple, who have four children, Robert, Richard, Stuart and Anna, will continue to support local charities, now concentrating on one close to their heart.

"We used to donate a lot of new items to Variety and the hospices but have been supporting the Great Western Air Ambulance for about a year now. It's a charity that we love."

As technology moves forward and times change, Lynne has seen major changes in the type of items which come in to the shop.

"The goods have changed tremendously over the years. It used to be video players but now it's all DVD players."

A day's work at The Attic was never the same, and the couple can look back on some fun times - and some unusual finds.

"We did a house clearance and in one of the bedrooms was a coffin! I hasten to say there was no one in it but we had to call the undertakers to come and take it away.

"Another time there was a shipping container which had to be moved so we had to call in massive cranes to help us. We really do go to town and clear everything.

"One time, a man came in with a coffee table and it was really awful. I told him I was really sorry but we'd never be

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April, 2018

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n NEWS

able to sell something like that.

The man then said: "But I'm buying it!" It turned out he'd picked it from our sheds at the back where we used to store bigger furniture. That was pretty funny!"

But not every job has been a pleasant one.

"We've done some house clearances where people have passed away and no one has found them for about three weeks so there are flies everywhere. We put on overalls, long gloves up to our elbows, wear masks because the stench is unbelievable, and just get on with it. I've been doing it for so long, nothing phases me."

One time Lynne was given two fifty pound notes from a sale.

When she took them to the bank she discovered they were fake.

"That was upsetting but it does happen," she said stoically.

No item was too big - or too small - for the couple to sell.

They've sold everything from a deodorant to a Robin Reliant, which their son sold for them on eBay. "We try not to throw anything away. If we have to then it's

Trinity Rd: have a say

because it's no good to man or beast!" Lynne said.

Thankfully another saying - one man's junk is another man's treasure - is also true and the couple admit to making a good living from other people's unwanted items, gaining a fixed rate of 30 per cent commission from every sale.

"I've had a lovely life out of it with some fantastic holidays," said Lynne.

"To be leaving is quite emotional. People have been coming in to tell us that they'll miss us. We've been part of the community now for so long and have met wonderful friends and customers through the shop."

The closure of The Attic is all the more poignant as Lynne says the shop was the first of its kind in Bristol, attracting customers from all over, with some even coming from France, Spain, Ireland, Newport and Cardiff.

"One man was renting in Bristol but moved back home so we did a bank transfer to India when we sold his things."

Lynne, who marked the last day of the shop on March 24 by inviting customers and

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neighbours in for a farewell drink, believes shutting up shop has come at the right time.

"Even though we're still busy, I think the time is right. We were going to retire a year ago but when it came to it, I didn't feel ready because the shop had been my life since I was 17. A lot of people now sell everything online through eBay or Facebook so I think we are now getting out at the right time.

"It's the end of an era."

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RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on the future of Trinity Road Police Station.

The Avon & Somerset force says the station, which costs about ÂŁ250,000 a year to run, is too big and it is considering redeveloping the site.

Developers will be invited to draw up plans for the site, including options for a permanent smaller police station on the same site.

Superintendent Andy Bennett said: “We know it is important to members of the community that there is a police station in the area."

Public meetings take place on Monday April 9, noon-2pm at Easton Business Centre, Felix Road, BS5 0HE, and on Wednesday April 11, 4-6pm, at The Annex, Broad Plain Boys Club, Clement Street, Bristol, BS2 9ES.

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April, 2018

n NEWS

Jean Hanmer, who led the fight 50 years ago to save Lincombe Barn, dies on her 100th birthday TRIBUTES have been paid to Downend community stalwart Jean Hanmer MBE who died on her 100th birthday on March 5.

Jean's achievements were many and included being awarded an MBE in recognition of setting up Downend Folk House Association in 1970, two years after she fought to save Lincombe Barn from demolition.

Jean also became the first female chairman of the former Mangotsfield Urban District Council.

She was also chairman of governors at both Kingsfield School, now King's Oak Academy, and the now defunct Grange School in Warmley.

Jean lived in the same house in Downend for 66 years and has been described by her family as "pro-active, positive, bright

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Jean and husband James celebrating 50 years of marriage in 1996 and enthusiastic" in contribuing to the community locally.

As a child, Jean was brought up in Dulwich, London, and having led a fairly charmed life as a teenager, didn’t want to join the family commercial laundry business.

Instead, Jean went into education, going to Bedford College in the mid-1930s, then Oxford University.

At the time, it was the exception for females to go into tertiary education, but like her peers at the all-female Bedford College, she was a determined leader and opinion-maker throughout her entire life.

After Oxford, Jean taught geography in Ludlow during the war, then moved to Derby where she met husband James.

After the war James taught near Doncaster, Yorkshire before the family moved to Grace Road, Downend in 1952 when he got a teaching job at Chipping Sodbury Grammar School.

Jean is reputed to have told James that she was determined to have four children - and the result was Owen, a retired paediatrician; Ruth, a retired teacher; Frances; a retired social worker and Patrick, a tropical

forester.

In 1962, at the age of 44, Jean joined Downend Residents' Association and stood for Mangotsfield Urban District Council, becoming its first female chairman, another huge achievement given the era.

In the same decade Jean saw off plans to demolish Lincombe Barn as part of a road-widening scheme and then set about establishing Downend Folk House Association at the Barn, which offered classes, clubs and activities for people in the area.

Her legacy stands to this day, with the Barn continuing to be a popular social hub for hundreds of people.

The MBE in recognition of her work took Jean by surprise; she remained humble - it wasn't important to her but helping other people was because she wanted to 'do something' as she used to say.

Jean was also a Methodist preacher, gardener and keen traveller, particularly after James retired in 1973.

Following his death in 2002, Jean continued to travel, visiting most of the world including South Africa, Malawi, Botswana, Sri Lanka and Australia.

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Jean at a Coronation street party shortly after moving to Grace Road in Downend

Lincombe Barn, which Jean successfully fought to save

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n NEWS

n ON THE BEAT WITH PCSO ANITA PERKS

Abduction You speak, we listen charges A FISHPONDS man who was charged with two counts of attempted child abduction reappeared in court after breaking bail conditions.

Kai Hudson, 26, was charged after an alleged incident in which two 11-year-old girls were approached by a man in Regent Street, Kingswood at about 5.30pm on Sunday March 4.

He pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Bristol Magistrates Court on March 6 and was given conditional bail pending a trial of Bristol Crown Court.

Hudson reappeared before magistrates on March 12 after the conditions of his bail were broken.

He was again granted conditional bail and released until his trial date.

Hudson is expected to appear at Bristol Crown Court on April 6.

HELLO everyone, It’s April and the longer, brighter days are upon us. I for one will be glad to see the back of March and all that snow. If the mercury could also rise, just a little, then everyone will be happier!

My theme for this month’s article is that when you speak, we listen. Firstly you have been reporting anti-social behaviour (ASB) to us, telling us about the effects this has on your daily lives, and we have listened. Due to information we received, we have made several arrests in relation to drug dealing in Royate Hill in Eastville and Lodge Road in Kingswood. A significant quantity of Class A drugs has been seized and taken off our streets. Three people have been arrested and the investigation is ongoing. So great work!

We listened when you reported a burglary A 39-year-old man from Brislington

was sentenced in March to nine months in prison for a burglary in Whitefield Road in Speedwell in which house and vehicle keys were stolen. The break-in happened at about 7.30 on a weekday morning. The householder went to investigate after hearing a noise and saw someone make off. They did the right thing by reporting it straight away. Officers responded immediately and a suspect was arrested nearby.

We listened at school Charlotte, Rick and Kelly all PCSO's from Bridewell Station in the city centre, were invited into a Bristol school to participate in 'Read Aloud Month'. It’s a fantastic initiative set up by Bristol schools, which has even been adopted by our Scandinavian friends. The day was enjoyed by officers, teaching staff and children alike and it gave the children a great boost. We are always pleased to hear from local schools about how we can engage

with young people in our area, so if you have an idea about a project we can be involved in, please get in touch.

We listened at the beat surgery.

I’d like to say a big thank you to all those who have been attending our local beat surgeries. Coming along is a great way to get your voice heard. It would be great to see a few more faces at the next one. Follow us on Twitter @ASPFishponds for details, or email me on anita.perks@ avonandsomerset.police.uk

April, 2018

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April, 2018

n NEWS

LABOUR has selected a city councillor to contest the seat of Filton and Bradley Stoke at the next general election.

Mhairi Threlfall, who represents the Eastville ward on Bristol City Council and is cabinet member for transport, was chosen by members of Filton and Bradley Stoke Labour Party.

They are one of the first local parties in the country to select their prospective candidate for the election, which is not due to take place until 2022.

Conservative Jack Lopresti retained the seat in the 2017 election, although his majority was cut to about 4,000 from 10,000 in 2015.

The constituency, which includes Downend, is now Labour’s 56th Conservative target seat and a must-win for them to form a majority government.

Ms Threlfall was the party's candidate for Kingswood in the 2017 snap general election.

Originally from Scotland, she moved to Bristol more than a decade ago to study chemistry at University of Bristol. She then went on to work for the

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Mhairi aims for Westminster residents between now and the next general election."

Ms Threlfall has already been campaigning in the constituency and recently met with the GKN workers over the hostile takeover bid from Melrose.

She said: "The Melrose bid for GKN is very worrying. Filton’s extremely successful aerospace industry acts as an anchor for the regional economy, and is an excellent example of long term industry and government cooperation. Jeremy Corbyn has been consistently raising this issue in parliament, and I urge the government to use their powers under section 58 of the Enterprise Act 2002 to intervene Mhairi Threlfall, prospective Labour candidate for Filton & Bradley Stoke on public interest grounds, including the impact on local looking forward to picking up University of the West England jobs and our national security." from where Naomi, Labour’s as an enterprise educator in their The election is scheduled to candidate in 2017, left off. employability service. be on May 5, 2022 but can be "I know the constituency Ms Threlfall said: "I am held earlier if an early election very well having worked at UWE honoured to have been selected motion is passed or if there is for nearly 10 years and look as Labour’s candidate for Filton a vote of no confidence in the government. forward to meeting thousands of and Bradley Stoke and am really

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n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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April, 2018

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April, 2018

n NEWS IT'S all go for Baby Bank Network, which recently helped its 1,000th family with baby essentials they otherwise could not afford which has seen demand surge over the past year.

The Bristol-based charity founded in 2015 operates out of a warehouse in Fishponds and relies on volunteers to collect, sort and prepare packages of baby items for families in need across the city. This includes victims of domestic violence, refugees, teenage mums and street workers.

When it launched, it was helping a few families a week now that figure is closer to 20.

Trustee Laura Williams said: "Our volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that no family goes without the basics they need for their baby. We're talking nappies, clothes, cots, prams and feeding items as well as toys, books and stair gates. I'm sad to say, the demand shows no sign of letting up and as more and more families struggle with less money we expect to see more and more people turning to us for help."

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Baby Bank Network to expand as demand for support soars Currently 100% volunteerrun, Baby Bank Network is now looking to employ its first member of staff - an office manager based in Fishponds - to help deliver a daily service. It is also trialling a delivery service and looking to recruit more volunteers.

The charity works with hundreds of referral partners across the city, from midwives and health visitors to charities such as NextLink, Shelter and Unseen to reach those in need but relies on the generosity of volunteers and referral partners to deliver the service outside of their paid work.

"Most of our volunteers are mums themselves, many of whom also have paid work to fit into their busy lives, yet they put in hours each week to help others," explained Laura.

"And then there's our referral

SOS - can you help?

Baby Bank Network desperately needs double buggies, baby monitors, high chairs and stairgates.

If you can help, To donate, email donations@ babybanknetwork.com partners who are so grateful they're able to offer tangible help to the families they support but are having to come from across the area to our Fishponds unit to collect the items around their day jobs. Trying to ensure the warehouse is manned when people can pop in to get the packages is a challenge when relying on volunteers."

Laura says that employing an office manager will help ease the ever-increasing pressure on volunteers and will help ensure the unit is regularly open for

collections. They will also help launch a delivery pilot scheme to explore taking the packages to referral partners who can then deliver them to the families in need.

Laura said: "The demand is there and we want to meet that.

We've come so far with a handful of dedicated volunteers and support from the community but we've still got a long way to go to ensure that no family in Bristol goes without the baby essentials they need."

More details about the parttime office manager job with Baby Bank Network are available at www.babybanknetwork.com You can also find out more about volunteering with Baby Bank Network at the next volunteer open morning on Saturday April 28 at their HQ at the Stoke View Business Park off the main Fishponds Road.

Ceilidh triumph GUESTS at a St Patrick's Day ceilidh danced the night away to raise money for St Joseph's Church in Fishponds.

The event, on Saturday March 17, took place at the church hall and featured The Brewery Band who played a medley of Irish music.

During the evening, a feast of hearty Irish stew was served up followed by apples with cream. Funds were further boosted with a raffle.

The church, in Forest Road, is hoping to raise ÂŁ14,000 for new toilets.

Rowena Sutcliffe, one of the organisers, said the ceilidh was very well attended.

"Following the success of this event, we are planning to arrange another event in September," she said.

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April, 2018

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n NEWS

Litterbugs are facing tougher fines PEOPLE caught dropping litter in Bristol will face increased penalty fines from next week.

From April 1 fines for people who persist in dropping litter or defacing property with graffiti will increase to £100.

Bristol City Council’s cabinet will make a decision on April 3 about whether or not to keep the £50 early payment discount. It is proposed to keep the current £50 rate - the lowest allowed under the new Government regulations.

The council is half way through an initial pilot with Kingdom, which works with local authorities across the country to tackle environmental crime.

On average more than 1,000 people have been issued with Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for committing environmental crimes each month since the pilot scheme was launched in November last year.

The service is being delivered at no cost to the council, as the costs are being met through the payment of FPNs. Surplus funds from the on-the-spot fines will be directed back into tackling environmental issues across the city.

Street-cleaning currently costs £6 million per year and last year around 7,000 tonnes

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of waste was collected from street cleansing rounds.

It is hoped that the new harsher penalty will act as a further deterrent to stop people from dropping litter and encourage them to have more respect for the city.

The Mayor said: "These increases support our robust enforcement approach designed to encourage people to change their behaviour and make Bristol measurably cleaner.

"Keeping Bristol clean is everyone’s responsibility, but the message is still not

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being heard as we are still seeing an average of more than 1,000 fines a month being handed out to people who litter.

"We are working closely with Kingdom to make sure that more fines are handed out for offences that matter most to people across the city.It is hoped that by increasing the maximum fine, more people will take notice and choose not to disrespect our streets by dropping rubbish or not clearing up after their dogs.

"We will not accept littering and tagging in Bristol, we all have a duty to keep the city clean and tidy for both residents and visitors alike."

People who don’t pay their fines could be taken to court and incur costs of up to £2,500.

The introduction of Kingdom’s enforcement team has freed up council officers to tackle larger problems including fly tipping, abandoned vehicles, noise complaints, and dealing with dangerous and stray dogs.

To find out more go to www.bristol.gov. uk/cleanstreets or visit www.bristol.gov.uk/ superheroes to find out how you can help keep Bristol clean.

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n PETER'S VISION

THE book ‘I Can Read with My Eyes Shut’ was apparently written after children’s writer Dr Seuss started to need glasses to help his failing eye sight. He has been quoted many times from this book (which he dedicated to his eye specialist).

I like his encouragement to his readers, “The more that you read, the more things you will know.

The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go”.

Good advice, but suppose you find reading difficult, what then?

Well if the issue you have is just that your arms are not quite long enough anymore then come see us and we can fix you up with a pair of glasses to bring your close vision back into sharp focus.

If, as for many of our younger patients, you just find reading a challenge & chore rather than a pleasure then you should come and see us as well! I read an interesting article recently. The author was writing about children & young people who either find reading more difficult than they should or have a reading ability lower than expected.

Of interest was that the author

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April, 2018

Words in focus

The team at Turners reported that three quarters (that’s a lot!) of those with reading difficulties had passed a normal sight test as they had good sight, but still had difficulty reading.

What’s this all about you may say?

Well to those in the know, vision is about so much more than just sight. Seeing and identifying a few letters on the wall chart or reading card is not always a great indicator of actual visual performance & reading ability.

The author goes on to say that

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when they gave each of these patients with reading difficulties a complete binocular vision assessment they found many had binocular vision problems or visual stress; to quote a colleague ‘eyes that were just not friends!’

So if you, or a (young) person you know finds reading more difficult than it should be what next? May I present our eye exam (NHS funded if U16). This is more in-depth that a standard sight test, and while not a full binocular vision

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assessment, we can certainly look for the signs of underlying visual stress or binocular vision problems and either prescribe glasses to help or arrange further assessment to get to the root of the reading difficulties.

Why this specialist interest in helping others with reading difficulties you may ask? Well, if you want to know you’ll just have to come and see me!

To book an extended eye exam for yourself or those you love, please call 0117 962 2474 or 0117 965 4434. Appointment’s can also be booked via our website, or you are very welcome to pop in to our practices in Henleaze or Fishponds and say Hi! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

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

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April, 2018

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n NEWS

Thanks for community efforts in the snow SEVERAL snowfalls in March created some beautiful scenes in Fishponds and the surrounding area but also caused headaches for individuals and organisations.

The Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees has praised everyone whose efforts during the severe weather meant critical services continued to operate, vulnerable people were cared for and major incidents were avoided.

Council staff worked with police, the NHS, charities, Highways England, private care companies, voluntary agencies and many more, to safeguard health and wellbeing of citizens.

Marvin Rees said: “I want to thank everyone who contributed in some way to making sure that people were kept safe and helped vital services to carry on despite the disruption.

It’s often said that it is in times of crisis that you see the extraordinary qualities of people and I can confidently say that this has been the case over the past few days.

“I am already being inundated with the stories of those who went that extra mile despite the challenges they faced in doing so. I’m hearing of staff in social care walking miles across the city to visit vulnerable people in their homes.

“Outside of the council there are stories emerging of volunteers and charity workers trying tirelessly in the cold to encourage rough sleepers to take up one of the extra temporary beds provided by the city’s charity sector.

"I am grateful to everyone for their hard work and dedication.”

Snowy scenes in Eastville Park, left and above left and at Leap Valley, above

A bit chilly for sitting on this bench in Eastville Park and enjoying the spring

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April, 2018

17

n NEWS

Barbara's 36-year experiment ...

IF THERE'S a magic formula for being a perfect school science technician, then Barbara Freeman has certainly worked it out.

For the Downend resident is finally hanging up her lab coat at Bristol Metropolitan Academy after 36 years' exemplary service.

Over the decades, Barbara has become a familiar face to generations of students as they passed through the predecessor schools, Whitefield Fishponds Community School and Bristol Metropolitan College.

Not content with being known for her skills in the prep room, Barbara also took on roles of fire warden, radiation protector supervisor and health and safety rep for the science department.

And as if those weren't enough extra duties, Barbara also had many unofficial jobs such as helping with costumes and refreshments during shows and performances and handing out drinks and cake during sports days.

Barbara started her school career as a dinner lady in 1982 but was intrigued when a job for a science technician came up.

She was encouraged to apply for it by the then-deputy headteacher of Whitefield who happened to live opposite Barbara.

"He encouraged me to apply for it because he saw how well I got on with the children," Barbara said.

"I got the job, which was originally part-time but have been working full-time for at least 30 years. The more I got involved with science, the more I enjoyed it. I can't remember even liking the subject at school, although it wasn't like it is now with all the elaborate equipment!

"It was from then that I started to realise that I really loved the job and I became really passionate about it."

Barbara's hard work paid off when she was promoted to senior science technician in 2002, a position she was delighted and proud to take up.

The 70-year-old was born in Filton, marrying husband John 52 years ago.

The couple moved to Downend where they have now lived for 43 years, bringing up

Barbara with Year 7 students Mellissa George and Jason Jagmohan their three sons, Lee, 45, Dale, 43, and Kye, 39.

Barbara was originally a stayat-home mum but when the boys were older she went to work for British Rail as a punch card and paper tape operator.

"That was before computers came in!" joked Barbara.

But it wasn't until she experienced working in a school that Barbara discovered her true vocation.

"I love the razzmatazz of being around the children.

There's always something different going on; no two days are the same. It's always been about the pupils for me and we have some lovely pupils here. If I can help them on their way, then I'm happy.

"My most memorable moments are seeing the children go from Year 7 all scared and afraid to Year 11, when they are all grown up and leave school confident and ready for the world. It's all part of their process in life and it's lovely to see them blossom into a beautiful young lady or a lovely young man.

"Everyone has been so shocked that I've given my notice in after all this time and although I'm sad to be going and will miss the pupils and staff, I think it's my time to go."

Barbara will now be able to spend more time with her grandchildren, Madeline, 12,

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and Ava, nine, as well as on her hobbies which include gardening, sewing and decorating.

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To celebrate her retirement Barbara and John have planned two cruises, one around the British Isles and another in the Caribbean.

Toni Court, head of science at Bristol Metropolitan Academy, said: "Barbara has provided decades of dedicated service to the school, especially the science department. The commitment she has shown to her role has been second to none.

"During more than 30 years of service, Barbara has had a huge impact on generations of children that have attended the academy. She is always willing to support the students, both in lessons and out. She gives them a listening ear and emotional support when they need it.

"We have been truly lucky to have her as a technician at Bristol Metropolitan Academy and we will all miss her greatly as she leaves to enjoy her retirement."

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18

April, 2018

n NEWS

Award-winning author opens Frenchay CofE school library PUPILS at Frenchay Church of England Primary School welcomed a very special visitor to help them celebrate the opening of their newly-refurbished library.

World-renowned and award-winning children’s author Joanna Nadin was the guest of honour.

Joanna, who has written more than 70 books, ran an assembly for the whole school where she talked about how she writes her stories. She then answered questions from the children before cutting the ribbon to officially open the library.

The school's PTA have been working tirelessly to fund a huge variety of new books for the revamped room.

Headteacher Mrs Marks even painted a mural on the wall, which was chosen from the children’s designs.

Year 5/6 teacher and English leader Helen Shepherd organised the event. She said: "Joanna was brilliant. She really inspired the

Talented parent Rachael Mather baked this stunning book-related cake to mark the momentous occasion

Awardwinning author Joanna Nadin is pictured with two pupils children by talking about how she gets her ideas for stories.

The children are so enthusiastic about reading and are excited to be able to borrow from a wide range of brand new books.

"I want to say thank you to Joanna and everyone else who has worked so hard to help us."

The occasion was also marked by an own clothes day and there was even a book-inspired cake, made by a parent Rachael Mather.

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The new-look library is a hit with pupils

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April, 2018

n NEWS YOUNG people from Fishponds will be travelling to the Dominican Republic for a mission trip this August.

The group, from Fishponds Baptist Church, opposite the Cross Hands pub, will be helping build two classrooms at a school in Mozovi which will not only enable more children to go to the school but for them to attend for the whole day.

Currently this is not possible as there are too many students and not enough space.

The nine youngsters, aged from seven to 18, will also be taking part in feeding programmes, children’s clubs, a trip to a rehabilitation centre and other activities to help them to understand life in the Dominican Republic.

Church youth leader Rachel Hanford, who will join the group along with three other adults, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for young people of our area to be involved in something special outside of the normal, everyday and to step outside of their comfort zones.

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Young people's mission to help children in Dominican Republic

"As part of the trip they will also learn new skills through the building project and will be able to see the progress that they

make throughout the two weeks they will be spending there.

"This is not a holiday for these young people - yes it will be in a

warm climate, but they are giving up their summer holiday in order to give their time and talents to a community in need. It is a chance for them to experience and learn from another culture whilst making a difference to the lives of the children living Mozovi, the town where the school is situated."

The young people have set up a Just Giving page to help them reach their target of £12,000 so they can carry out their plans.

At the time Fishponds Voice went to print, they had reached just over £1,700.

If you would like to donate to their cause visit Just Giving and search “Fishponds Baptist Church.” Alternatively visit https://www.justgiving. com/campaigns/charity/ fishpondsbaptistchurch/ dominicanrepublic

New walking group VOLUNTEERS are needed to help lead walks in the Fishponds and greater Fishponds areas.

The walks are being organised by The Care Forum at the Vassall Centre in Fishponds.

Full training will be given and a certificate awarded on completion.

It is hoped volunteering will help people keep active, make new friends, improve confidence and develop existing planning and leadership skills.

Elena D'Orso is helping organise the walks. She said: "Our aim is to support people into improving their health and wellbeing by joining a friendly and sociable group to explore their locality on foot, see new sites, appreciate green spaces and take in local cafes and rest stops."

For more details and an application form contact Elena by emailing ElenaDorso@thecareforum.org.uk or call 0117 958 9321 and leave your name and contact number.

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April, 2018

n NEWS

Python is the star attraction for pupils A PYTHON proved to be the star attraction as students from Bristol Brunel Academy celebrated British Science Week.

More than 300 students took part in the annual celebration of all things science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The main event was an animal show where more than 230 Year 7 students got the chance to meet an amazing array of creatures including a meerkat, a tarantula, a 10ft python,

scorpion and breaded dragon.

Fun activities were held throughout the week and included dissections of squid, fish, an eyeball, a rat and a pluck, the lungs, heart and trachea of a goat.

There were plenty of flashes, bangs and whizzes as students, supervised by staff, put on a

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range of exciting, interactive science experiments.

Students watched one of the series of the world class documentary Planet Earth. Year 9 and 10 students also had the amazing opportunity to meet professor Steve Simpson from Exeter University who coproduced Blue Planet.

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Ali Harvey, head of science at Bristol Brunel Academy, said: "This is an amazing opportunity to bring science to life and remind students that science is in so many aspects of their world.

This is also a chance to talk to students about STEM careers and show them how exciting this type of field of work could be."

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April, 2018

21

n FROM OUR MP

Why I support a Clean Air levy AIR pollution is a silent killer. It is now estimated to be responsible for a shocking 300 deaths in Bristol every year. Evidence has emerged over the past decade about the negative health effects that ultrafine particles like nitrogen oxides (NOx) have on human health. And the Volkswagen scandal revealed that many cars were emitting far higher rates of these harmful particles than had been predicted – with ‘real world’ emissions being up to 15 times as high as in a lab. So the situation has become urgent, and action is needed.

On Fishponds Road, Bristol City Council has set up a Monitoring Station which you can use to view live data readings of the air quality and the concentration of harmful air pollutants. Sadly, too often the data from such stations shows that around major roads, particularly in the city centre, there are harmful concentrations of pollutants.

This is especially worrying when considering the number of schools

in these areas, with children becoming increasingly likely to develop asthma and more serious conditions due to air pollution.

A major cross-committee report from environmental, transport, and health committees on air pollution has identified key failings in current regulation and called on the Government to act. Most notably, it has said that we need a new Clean Air Act to improve existing legislation and enshrine the right to clean air in law. In the 1950s we had a Clean Air Act which followed London’s Great Smog that claimed thousands of lives, and was important for preventing the amount of smoke and sulphur pollution in the air. But that was more than 60 years ago, now we need a new law to tackle today’s air pollution problems.

The Government has now been taken to court – and lost – three times by the campaign group Client Earth, because it’s not doing enough on clean air. For instance, it’s said that the sale of

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new diesel and petrol cars must end by 2040, over 20 years from now. Since this date was set the price of production of electric cars has fallen dramatically, and several countries have set more ambitious targets of 2025 or 2030, but our Government is unwilling to budge.

Bristol City Council is doing what it can at a local level, and recently passed a motion committing them to take comprehensive action in order to reduce levels of air pollution.

By the end of 2018 a clean air strategy, which is currently under consideration, should have been finalised. One of the proposals which I support – although I know it will be controversial - is to introduce a charging Clean Air Zone; this would place a levy on the most polluting vehicles to enter the worst affected areas, and is the quickest way to improve air quality.

We need support from the Government though, and in particular, proper levels of investment in our public transport

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Kerry McCarthy MP for Bristol East

writes for Fishponds Voice

infrastructure so that people don’t have to drive. The Government needs to step up and start taking air pollution seriously: there are lives at stake.

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22

April, 2018

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Our unchanging God IN last month’s ‘Fishponds Voice’, Lizzy, the vicar at St Mary’s and All Saints,talked about being new to Fishponds and the impression the area has made on her. I, on the other hand, have lived in Fishponds, in fact in the same house, all my life. Not many people can say that these days. I grew up to the sight and sound of steam trains and the coal shunting yard, later followed by diesels, at the bottom of my garden. The area around my house was full of small factories, the Bristol Pottery, Parnall’s, Weber’s Chocolate Factory, Adlam’s Engineering Works. Palmers Biscuit Factory and Robinsons Paper and Cardboard, all now gone. Quite a change! In their places we have Car Sales and supermarkets,Morrisons, Aldi and Lidls. Our local cinema, Building Society and Post Office are now restaurants, the Full Moon is now the New Moon and my railway

trackis a path for walkers and cyclists. Schools have become Academies and one has become a Surgery. We still have our local park but most of our shops have changed hands over the years and gone are the grocers and butchers where my mother used to shop. although Holmans, the jeweliers is still there, celebrating its hundred years in business this year.

The churches have changed as well. When I was born, there were three Methodist churches in Fishponds. The one that stood on the corner of Wharf Road, the Primitive Methodist, was destroyed in the war and is now a block of flats. The other two, Ebenezer, known as the Clock Chapel, which has now also been turned into flats and Trinity, which stood on the site now occupied by the Poundstore, came together in 1967 and a new church was built in Guinea Lane.

I was brought up at Trinity and

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still have fond memories of that building, but other members have joined us over the years from other backgrounds and we have now celebrated 50 years in our ‘new’ building.

So things change, we can see it all around us. Buildings come and go. Familiar faces also disappear and new ones take their place, but the glorious message of the church is that whatever happens with us and around us, God never changes.

We have just been celebrating the great festival of Easter. Through the sacrificeof his son Jesus, whose death and resurrection we have been remembering, Godhas shown his great love for us. He has promised that whatever may happen in our lives, whatever changes may take place, through good times and bad, he will always be with us and on that we can depend.

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Mary Barrington Senior Steward at Fishponds Methodist Church

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23

n NEWS

Hat trick of prizes for Bristol Starlight IT’S three cheers (and a lot more) for the Bristol Starlight cheerleaders who came away with a hat trick of prizes from a competition in Newport.

Youngsters aged three to 11 attend the classes in Bromley Heath. The older competition squad, aged nine to 11, got first prize in their age group, won best pom routine out of all the pom groups taking part and gained the Spirit award for the first time.

Deb Denny, who runs the squad, explained: “The Spirit award is always the last trophy of the day to be given out and it’s for the team who cheers and supports all the other teams the most – we’ve never won one of those before.”

This month all three competition teams will be competing in Gloucester; for the majority of the children it will be their first competition.

You can also see the cheerleaders perform at Frenchay Flower Show in July.

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24

April, 2018

n NEWS

Attack Food and fitness promoters win Soup! on blind woman POLICE are hunting a thug who attacked a blind lady in Staple Hill and then ran off laughing.

The 41-year-old woman had caught a bus at the Soundwell Road/Portland Street stop, at about 7.45am on Tuesday March 13.

She left the bus at about 7.55am at the end of Soundwell Road, near Page Road car park.

Just after she got off she was assaulted by an unknown suspect who punched her several times in the torso and laughed before running off.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who was travelling along Soundwell Road at around 8am on the Tuesday morning, especially anyone who may have travelled on the same bus.

PC 4870 Dan Whalley said: "The person responsible for this unacceptable assault would have been aware of this lady’s visual impairment.

"She was left with bruising after the attack and has understandably been left shaken and distressed by the incident.

I’d ask anyone who can help our investigation to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch through the police website, www. avonandsomerset.police. uk/contact, or by calling 101, quoting the reference 5218054539.

Bowled over by the support on offer are Downend Soup contestants Jane Rogers from Jump Start Food and Fitness, Clio and Mark from Headway Bristol and Hayley and Kate from Help the Homeless Bristol THREE groups pitched for support at the third Downend Soup community crowdfunding event.

They were Jump Start Food & Fitness, Headway Bristol and Help the Homeless Bristol.

Each had five minutes to explain how they would use all donations received on the night to make a difference to local lives, answering some searching questions from the audience.

After a great set from young musician Giuseppe English, it was time to hear from winners of Downend Soup 2, Staple Hill Community Hub. William Lee helped the audience understand how Soup has helped by donating funds but also raising the profile of their work.

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After help from 55th Fishponds Guides to tally up the votes, the choice of the audience was announced: to award £400 to JumpStart Food and Fitness to help continue their after-school activity for children to gain fitness, teambuilding and healthy eating skills on a local estate.

Businesses and community bakers supported through donations of soup and cake but for the organisers, Ian Browne, Sue Richardson and Helen Buick, the March snow brought a new twist to the event with local bakeries running short of bread. In stepped Michele Fricker from Crust & Crumbs Bakery, adding to contributions from Mel’s Kitchen, Chatterton’s Café, Redland Bakery and Hart’s

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bakery to ensure there was plenty to go round, served by the cheery team from the Downend 41 Club.

Organisers had a new surprise for Downend, with an ambition to create the first ever “Junior Soup” – to encourage children from primary schools to set up their own social enterprise.

Ian Browne said: “From the outset we have always ensured our younger citizens participate in Soup and get a vote of their own; we’re now looking to take this to a whole new level and get ready to be amazed by the imagination of our young people.

It’s an exciting moment and we think the first in the UK”.

If you’d like your school to take part – contact Ian Browne downendsoup@gmail.com

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n NEWS FROM THE MAYOR

fishpondsvoice

25

I vow to help the homeless - and not just when it snows I WAS pleased our budget for 2018/19 was agreed.

This takes the necessary steps to keep the council on a sound financial footing while ensuring we enable people to have as positive an experience as possible of life in Bristol.

However, I want to begin by thanking all those whose efforts during the recent severe weather meant critical services continued to operate, vulnerable people were cared for and major incidents were avoided. It’s often said that it is in times of crisis that you see the extraordinary qualities of people and I can confidently say that this has been the case.

Staff from across the council helped essential services operate throughout the snow and freezing temperatures. They worked alongside colleagues from the police, NHS, homeless charities, Highways England, private care companies, other voluntary agencies and many others. Social care staff walked miles to visit vulnerable people in their homes. Supported by the parks team in 4x4s and Bristol Community Links staff volunteering their time, they ensured that people received every expected meal. Some staff stayed in work overnight to ensure the

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residents of our specialist dementia residential home in Redfield Lodge were cared for.

This dedication was shared by our highways teams who worked 24 hours a day to plough the roads. In difficult conditions they travelled 6,000 miles and spread almost 600 tonnes of grit. Along with the invaluable effort of over 120 volunteer community snow wardens, they ensured that large parts of the city’s roads and footpaths remained passable.

Outside of the council, volunteers and charity workers tirelessly worked to encourage rough sleepers to take the extra beds provided by the city’s charities. Their efforts ensured that the vast majority of the city’s homeless population had a bed during the worst conditions.

Organisations across the city are joining forces to support our homeless population, school results are better than ever and improving and slowly, but surely, the city’s transport networks are being integrated for smoother and more timely journeys. In this year’s council budget, as well as minimising the impact of government cuts on front line services, we ensured funding in our capital budget for supporting these key city aims.

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The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Henleaze & Westbury Voice

At the very top of our agenda is my key pledge to tackle the housing crisis. We are spending nearly £200m in our one of a kind house-building program. We are also well on our way to meeting our target of 2,000 new homes (of which 800 affordable) per year by 2020.

Working in partnership with others is getting results and you will see real progress this year.

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26

April, 2018

n NEWS

Windfalls for sports clubs MEMBERS of two sports clubs in Frenchay are having a ball celebrating cash handouts.

Frenchay Cricket Club receive £4,000 to spend on facilities with Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club benefiting from £3,690.

The cash is part of a £450,000 investment in open spaces and sports facilities by South Gloucestershire Council.

The money, raised from house-builders’ contributions to local infrastructure, is being distributed to local groups and parish councils after the authority handed responsibility to them for the upkeep of sports pitches and pavilions last April.

Frenchay Cricket Club, at the Bob Stone Ground in Frenchay, will spend the cash on new sight screens which are used to help batsmen see the ball better.

Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club, also at the Bob Stone Ground, will use the money on installing new ‘access for all’ electronic gates.

Also benefiting is Downend and Bromley Heath Parish Council with £62,000 to help fund a new changing room pavilion at King George V playing fields; £7,600 for AEK Boco Football Club for toilet and storage facilities; nearly £9,000 for Kingswood RFC to improve floodlighting at Deanery Road.

BMX is taking off in Hillfields CHILDREN and young people in Hillfields are enjoying the thrills and spills of BMX now that the local track has been rebuilt.

The project is under way thanks to funding from Bristol City Council, Sport England, British Cycling, and the John James Foundation. It is led

by Access Sport’s new BMX programme in Bristol.

Team members have been visiting schools in the area, including Minerva Primary Academy, to introduce pupils to the sport, teach bike maintenance, and help create the Hillfields BMX club.

Regular sessions are held at the redeveloped pump track behind Hillfields Youth Centre

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on Saturday afternoons from 2-4pm. There is also a free Easter camp for 5-18 year-olds on April 5 from 10am to 1pm.

BMX bikes, helmets, gloves and pads are provided by the club and a Level 2 British Cycling Go- Ride Coach coaches every session.

The track, rebuilt by BMX specialists, aims to cater for both experienced riders and those new to cycling.

Lucy Fisher, from Access Sport, said: Everyone is welcome; whether you are young, old, an experienced rider, new

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to cycling, new to BMX or just looking for a new challenge.

“We are also looking for volunteers to help run this community club. There are a variety of ways to help, from coaching to photography to administration.”

Access Sport will fund the training (worth £735) for four community coaches. Contact Lucy on lucy.fisher@accesssport. co.uk or call 0117 941 5829.

Find out more on the BMX Bristol Facebook page or @ BMX_Bristol on Twitter and Instagram.

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April, 2018

fishpondsvoice

n NEWS

'Despicable' attack on woman, 96 A SEXUAL assault on a 96-year-old woman as she waited for a bus in Staple Hill has been described by police as "despicable".

The incident, which was only reported to police recently, happened at around 4.45pm on Wednesday January 31.

The victim was on her own at the bus stop on Soundwell Road, Staple Hill near to the Portcullis pub when she was approached by a man thought to be in his late 50s.

The man, who claimed to be from the former Republic of Yugoslavia, repeatedly touched the elderly woman inappropriately before eventually walking off in the direction of Downend.

The victim described the man as being tanned, about 5ft 8ins, of large build with straight dark hair. He is also said to have a large face and big hands. He was wearing a navy anorak, navy jumper and black or dark coloured shoes with white soles which were possible trainers.

He was also carrying a rucksack.

Investigating officer, PC Courtney Handley, said: "This was a despicable assault on an vulnerable elderly woman while she waited for a bus.I’d like to praise the bravery she has shown by reporting what happened and we are now making sure she has access to all the support she needs. We’re doing everything we can to identify the man responsible but we also need the public’s help. Do you recognise the description provided? Have you seen anyone matching the description in the Staple Hill or Downend areas during the past few weeks?

"Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any information."

If you can help, please call PC Handley via 101, providing the call handler with the reference 5218049342.

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27

Greater Fishponds Neighbourhood Partnership in action for Frome Vale Ward Dear Friends and residents of Frome Vale, We invite you to a public meeting on April 25 at 7pm in the Vassall Centre.

During the last year there have been significant reductions in council budgets and as part of this we have seen many changes. This has included the way the old Greater Fishponds Neighbourhood Partnership (GFNP) used to run. The GFNP was made up of three areas, 1) Frome Vale Forum, 2) Eastville Forum and finally Hillfields Forum.

Some of the money in the council's budget is money raised by property development in the area, and needs to be spent by local residents, For example the latest council report on Community Infrastructure Levy (money from developers) shows that there is £162 000 to spend within the old GFNP area (Frome Vale, Eastville and Hillfields Wards), £94, 000 of this was a contribution from the St Mathias site, and as such should be spend on projects in Frome Vale Ward.

Under the old system there was a community plan for spending this money, and we need your help to put together our priorities for the new plan. We would like to suggest the projects that need to be finished under the old system are prioritised, but we would like to hear your ideas and suggestions about where the money could be spent in the future.

Because we are moving from one system to another, and this brings many challenges, those who attended the old GFNP meetings were automatically invited to help set up a new group. We called the new group, the Fishponds (Frome Vale) Committee and we have been working together to set up some rules about how the committee should be run in the future. We would like to explain this committee, what it offers, what it used to be, and how you can become involved at our meeting. There will be refreshments but feel free to contribute to the evening, if you wish. We would both love to see you there.

Frome Vale Councillors Nicola Bowden-Jones and Lesley Alexander

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28

n NEWS

n ANOTHER Fishponds medal recipient was Sergeant Major Martin Dove, for his voluntary youth work.

Martin volunteers with the Bristol Army Cadet Force, helping thousands of young people to enjoy Cadets and gain qualifications. He has helped to organise Battlefield Tours to France, enabling young people to learn about the Great War. Martin is also a regimental bugler and works hard to coach and support the Army Cadet Band at military and civic events.

April, 2018

Maureen receives Lord Mayor's medal MAUREEN Coles has been given a Bristol Lord Mayor's Medal for decades of campaigning, volunteering and improving the community in Begbrook and Stapleton.

She has been involved with the Begbrook Retirement Club at Greenfinch Lodge since it opened so it was fitting that she received the medal from the club’s founder Councillor Lesley Alexander, the current Lord Mayor.

Maureen has been a community champion for five decades and has worked with family and friends to help protect

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and preserve city heritage sites including Stoke Park as well as starting and running Friends of Begbrook Green Park.

Maureen also played a big part in establishing the Begbrook Community Centre.

She was one of 21 “unsung heroes” who were presented with medals by Councillor Alexander.

She said: “It is inspiring to

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hear about the good work that these selfless individuals have done to support people in need across the city.

“They are truly dedicated to helping others and their work provides an absolute lifeline to so many people. This event is a way of celebrating that and saying thank you for everything they have done.”

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n NEWS

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So many local folk with tales to tell! Come and join THE People’s University of Fishponds has an exciting range of talks coming up over the next few months.

The series kicks off with Fishponds Voice’s very own gardening columnist, Tim Barton, on Sunday April 8 at the newly reopened Kingfisher Cafe. Tim will be talking about growing your own vegetables all year round.

A tour of all things musical and medieval follows on May 13 with ‘Prof’ Pete Rowley from Folk around Fishponds. Pete will showcase some weird and wonderful early instruments.

Then, on July 1, the UK’s animation and puppetry hub, based at Bristol’s Harbourside, will be visiting with a talk on all things animation, followed by a talk on bees and bee-keeping with local expert Alyson Hurst from Hives & Herbals on July 8.

Organiser Kate Brooks - who recently won a Bristol Women’s Voice award for her contribution to the community - said: "We’ll

the Riff Raff

Kate Brooks

Tim Barton

be taking a break in August, but we’ll be back with an inspirational talk on September 16 from the UK’s second strongest woman, Strongwoman competitor Zoe Thompson, on the challenges she’s faced. That will be followed by a cookery workshop, hopefully a chance to visit Glenside Museum and learn about Victorian madness, then a very useful psychology talk on the science of sleep."

"All speakers have local

connections and we never cease to be amazed at what a range of talent and creativity there is round here - we keep meeting new people with tales to tell!" The People’s University is planning to print some pamphlets on their popular talks, including the recent very successful talk on Muller’s Orphanage. You can join their mailing list for details: www. peoplesuniversityoffishponds. com

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

IF you enjoy singing, why not try joining the Riff Raff choir in Fishponds?

It is a home-grown, Bristolbased pop and rock choir, which sings a vibrant mix of popular songs from across the decades, including pop classics and current UK chart songs.

All the songs, including many original arrangements, are performed a cappella and always delivered with a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm.

Riff Raff Choir was founded

by Elaine Wilson and Joe Blench in 2010 and the Fishponds group started in 2014.

Together with the Clifton and Southville groups, the choir now has 230 members.

Rehearsals are held upstairs in the Cross Hands pub on Thursdays evenings.

There is no audition to join Riff Raff and no singing experience necessary. You don't need to be able to read music.

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

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30

April, 2018

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Nearly 12 stone lighter - and a lot happier MIKE WEBB, 69

Start weight: 28st 2lbs Current weight: 16st 41⁄2lbs Total weight loss: 11st 111⁄2lbs Targent weight: 10st 0lb I WAS referred to Slimming World on health grounds. I was very apprehensive whether using this plan would be any better than previous attempts to lose weight. I’d tried other weight loss organisations and meal replacement drinks which I couldn't stick with so they failed to help.

Before losing weight I found it very difficult to climb stairs or walk very far. I needed to use a walking stick and having to stop regularly to ease the discomfort in my back and knees. I had to use the bus even for short journeys and "Dial a ride" for GP or hospital appointments.

I was so overweight that young

as it used to be me that offered. It brought it home to me that I needed to do something about it as people were obviously concerned and aware that I needed help.

Since losing the weight, my health has improved considerably, I no longer use a walking stick and do a lot of walking again (averaging over 11,000 steps a day).

Apart from the walking that I do every day, I have so much more energy and more importantly my selfconfidence has returned.

I feel younger and have even joined the local gym which I would not have done before.

Unlike other weight Slimming World's Sian and Martine model loss programmes I know the trousers Mike wore at his first meeting that Slimming World's programme still allows me and even older people were to eat healthily. I cannot believe offering me their seat on public transport which embarrassed me

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

that I now enjoy preparing and eating meals following the plan. I’m able to eat regularly 3 good meals a day and have generous portions of fresh fruit and vegetables to keep me satisfied - and still lose weight.

It is very important that we attend group each week, not leave after being weighed but to stay and get involved in the group.

Members discuss their week, give tips and recipe ideas and give praise and encouragement. Our Consultant, Zoe, is very motivating and I enjoy being part of the Social Team of our group.

I’d like to summarise by saying that I wish to thank my GP, the Weight Management Nurse at the Beechwood Health Centre and Bristol Council.

After years of trying to lose weight and not having a healthy diet or any exercise, I know that if I hadn’t been given a Referral to Slimming World I wouldn’t be where I am today on my lifestyle changing journey. Thank you.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

33

n FRIENDS OF EASTVILLE PARK

The world flocks to our neck of the woods THIS month's round-up has something of a bizarre international flavour to it, which just goes to show that Eastville Park is a lot more than a big green blob on the map of Bristol.

American signal crayfish, Siberia, cowgirls, parakeets, Italian snakes and dangerous journeys from North Africa all feature in our stories in this edition so buckle up and enjoy the ride!

The ‘Beast From The East’ carried on winds originating in Siberia obligingly headed along the Frome Valley and transformed the park into the winter wonderland we dream of. There’s something really special about being able to trample through a pure white blanket of snow at dawn, hoping you’ll be the first to leave your fleeting moment of history making in your footsteps.

Because you know for sure that as curtains are drawn back a frenzied search for wellies, warm jackets and gloves soon gives way to a ‘rush for the slopes’ as excited children head for our very own Winter Olympics venue at the bottom of Everest Road.

Further into the park, more magic begins to unfold; beyond the muffled excited cries and laughter of children a perfectly silent and serene landscape of a river slowly giving up the fight to flow eastwards towards the lake, a dull white sheen of icy froth loses its sense of direction and chooses to take shelter in the sparse vegetation on the river bank. The shapes of the trees change in an instant; laden heavy by a barrage of clinging snowflakes that refuse to budge and warn the early buds that spring is not quite here yet. As we reach the lake it’s not difficult to imagine we’re on the set of a Scandi-Noir, all is monochromesoft relief in black and white. We are entertained by the waterfowl as they adapt to another new day - no graceful glide or paddle to be had here. And of course, the birds don’t have much to sing about either.

They’re probably busy thinking about how they’ll keep warm and find enough food to get them through the day.

Walkers in the park might notice a lack of anglers on the lake or river between March 14 and June 16 as the closed fishing season is on us, giving the stock a chance to spawn the next generation. All responsible anglers know the rules so let’s hope there

are no infringements this year.

Staying with the river theme, there was panic in the park following reports from Vassalls that some otter traps had been discovered in the river and removed by an RSPCA inspector. The fear turned to relief after enquiries found that the contraptions were in fact legally set crayfish traps which are used throughout the country to try to reduce the population of American signal crayfish. This particular species was introduced in 1970s to be farmed in controlled waters.

Unfortunately, many of them escaped and swiftly spread across watercourses and land, where they began to out-compete the native white-clawed crayfish for both food and habitat. They can also carry crayfish plague and, being larger than our native species, cause considerable damage burrowing into the river banks.

Favourites One day soon, when the threat of snow and ice has passed, spring will return and we’ll be celebrating the arrival of visiting birdlife (who had the common sense to migrate to warmer climes rather than shiver here amongst us over winter!)

Many of them will have made the long journey from Morocco, Algeria and other North African countries, giving us a chance to see the old favourites again: blackcap, chiffchaff, willow warbler and whitethroat, among others. And of course the amazing aerial displays of the swallows and house martins are sure to enthral us all. Bristol Ornithological Club often organise walks around Eastville Park and you can find details of future dates on their website.

Just before the last snowstorm arrived, there were sightings of

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bats around the lake: pipistrelle or daubentons - nobody’s quite sure which - but if you’d like to know for sure then you can join Avon Bat Group on one of their walk n talks around the park on 27, 28 or 29 April. Visit their website to book a place.

Following on from the amazing response to our DuckFeed Art Project, we thought it would be nice to open it out to artists who sketch, draw or paint anything park related. Well, no understatement to say that the images that are coming are absolutely superb!

Impossible to describe just how talented these people are so please visit Friends of Eastville Park ArtScene FB page to see for yourself! We’d like to show some of them here in Fishponds Voice next month too so keep an eye out for May issue.

We’re busy thinking about summer activities for children, so if you like the sound of pooh sticks and raft races, get excited early! And if you’re familiar with the National Trust ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’, you’ve got high expectations! (so we’ll probably get to 20 odd). We’re going to need some help over the summer so let us know on our group page if you’d like to be involved in a fun packed summer- especially if you’re a fund raiser who finds the job really easy and needs a bigger challenge!

So we had the beast from the east. Now we need something from the wild west for a sense of balance! How about the Easton Cowgirls? Bad enough grazing woodland on Purdown but Eastville Park?- C’MON!!!! (Actually), they’re a football team who train in the park and got in touch with us to ask how they could help to keep things lookin’ good. We’re on it and we’ll

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keep you up to date about what they get up-or down- to.

By the time you’re reading this, we’ll have had our Friends Open Meeting where we’re encouraging huge numbers of local residents to let us know face to face the kind of things they’d like to see or for us to do in our park. The more the merrier, so do come along and have your say- you will be heard and have the opportunity to influence stuff. I’ll give feedback here next month and a date for the next meeting.

There’s also still time to help us with our 2018 Consultation Survey which will help us to understand where to concentrate our efforts in attracting funds from the council for improvements.

And while the council aren’t really spending anything in our parks, as a friends group we try to do a bit here and there for ourselves. This month we’ll be out cleaning and renovating the signs and notices dotted around the park - a bit of a ‘springclean’ you might say.

And finally, the moan of the month: What pleasure does ANYONE get from going to the effort of smashing up a wrought iron Victorian bench at the side of the lake and dumping the pieces in the lake? We all get mad sometimes but, really?

A small mention at the bottom of this month’s article - because that’s where he belongs- for the pond life who thinks it’s OK to expose himself to women and children in our park. One day, I guess, you won’t be quite fast enough to run away from the people who’d like to catch up with you.

The Parkie

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

35

n CULTURAL FIX WITH ANNA BLIGHTMAN

Enjoy riches on our doorstep THE last time I wrote we hadn’t had any snow. That feels like an innocent time, so long ago…we are all now more hardy, resilient and ready to tackle such an onslaught, right ?

Whilst it brought delight to many, including my children, it was also pretty powerful in its ability to stop movement. Yes, travel was difficult in vehicles across the city and further (I had to cancel a trip to London) but some days it was difficult to even walk anywhere. To have that freedom of movement

suddenly taken made me start thinking about how inactive we are these days.

There have been lots of reports about how little we move as a nation, and how this is affecting not only our physical health, but also our mental wellbeing. People in the UK are 24 per cent less active than they were in 1961, bringing with this catastrophic increases in heart disease, diabetes, strokes and obesity. I read that 45 per cent of women (that’s nearly half of all women in the UK) aren’t active enough to be deemed in good health. And that one in ten adults have not walked for more than five minutes in the past four weeks. Shocking.

Ultimately it is hard to take away convenience.

Current trends have removed physical movement from our daily lives. Washing machines wash our clothes, cars and

buses transport us, computers do pretty much everything else, including consuming most of our leisure time. It’s much easier to remain sedentary, especially if the thought of a high impact aerobics class makes you want to stay firmly seated.

But moving makes you feel good, it may be daunting at first but can be as simple as going for a walk. Being active is also said to be central to our mental health with some scientists believing that it brings about a sense of greater self esteem and self control.

Get up and out into Oldbury Court, amble through Snuff Mills.

We are spoilt here in Fishponds with all this lovely greenery and lots of dedicated walks along the River Frome right on our doorstep.

Movement is key. Now that spring is here and the snow has melted, (fingers crossed) there is never been a better time to emerge into the light and get going.

For more information on the

River Frome walks visit: http:// www.fromewalkway.org.uk/ Thanks to all those who have got in touch with regards to the bookclub - if you are interested in joining us then please do email me for more information: Anna Blightman anna@thedistantfuture alwayssoundslovely.com

n NEWS

Church welcomes walkers - with two legs or four STAPLETON Baptist Church opens its doors every Wednesday to all passers-by, including dog walkers as well as seniors, for free refreshments and bacon rolls.

The minister Beatrice Anayo is there to offer a chat, a listening ear and a prayer if needed.

A spokesman said: “People are welcome to come and relax and quietly reflect or meet and share.”

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

37

n GARDENING IT’S been a trying month in the garden and on the allotment, just when we thought that spring had started we’ve been hit with not just one but two deluges of snow. As I write this I’m looking out of the window at a blanket of white that is not being kind to the hardy seedlings that couldn’t fit in the greenhouse. In fact it’s being pretty horrible to everything as most plants have had a taste of the warmer weather and have started to put on a spurt of growth. I have a quantity of Stipa tenuissima grasses dotted around the garden that were just getting off to a nice start that have frost damaged tops now, still beautiful though.

I’m hoping that as we approach the vernal equinox we are going to be set for a more clement period that means that we can really get going in the garden. April traditionally brings us some really nice days, certainly at the start but as we have witnessed that here is little predictability around the British weather. Looking back over some older photographs from last year has given me hope that this winter will come to an end soon as the pictures that I have of the end of April and the beginning of May are really exciting.

As I always point out April is the month we get our trees back in leaf. It starts slowly building up for the first couple of weeks then bursts out at the end into a festival of fresh green foliage. The smell at this time is fabulous as the first cuts of the fresh grass are made and the nettles put on an exceptional amount of growth. Incidentally the lovely (for some people) smell of freshly cut grass is actually a distress signal from the plant as it releases green leaf volatiles. These are chemicals that assists in the generation of new cell growth helping to prevent infection to the wounded areas. It still smells great to me though and the grass doesn’t seem to mind.

Gymnosperms and Angiosperms Here we start to get onto the plants that we are more familiar with.

If you were paying attention in your latin classes you’ll know that the prefix angio means covered, this refers to the way that the seeds are made and dispersed as opposed to gymnosperms where the seeds are open or naked.

Gymno as in gymnasium and gymnast relates to the way that the romans used to exercise, luckily you’ll find most people clothed these days though. They are plants grouped into a classification called spermatophytes or seed producing plants that cover all conifers,

The

city gardener

By Tim Barton

cycads and flowering plants.

Seeds represent a significant development in plants in that the gametophyte stage of the plant, that’s the reproductive stage, is protected within an ovule.

The most common gymnosperms are conifers and the seeds that you’ll see are in the fir cones. Even though there are many fewer conifer species they dominate the huge areas of the planet’s surface in both the northern hemisphere and higher regions of the south. They produce both male and female cones that make the pollen and seed respectively. The pollen is wind bourne and doesn’t require interaction with any insects to pollinate the female cones although the dispersal of the seeds is carried out in many different ways.

There are other differences between gymnosperms and angiosperms, the most major and apparent though is that the latter produce flowers. Some are hard to see as flowers, as in most grasses but they are flowers all the same. Other differences are that the seeds are enclosed in a carpel within the ovary and that the ovary develops considerably after fertilisation often enclosing the seed in a fruit. It’s a shame that there is so little space as this topic can go on and on but next month I’ll go into flowers a bit more as these are unbelievably varied yet all demonstrating similar characteristics. Hoping the we’ve finally seen the back of the cold weather you can venture outside and get on with these tasks.

Divide herbaceous perennials.

Hoe borders to keep annual and perennial weeds from establishing and spreading.

Dig up and divide herbs such as chives, mint and marjoram.

Sow wild flower seed and hardy annuals now that soil is warmer and once you are clear of frosts.

Keep an eye on fruit blossom incase there is an unexpected cold snap though.

Lightly cut back lavender to prevent it getting too leggy, but be careful as it won’t grow back from

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old wood.

Check hardwood cuttings taken last year as they may need potting on.

Look at helping the declining hedgehog population but making a home of logs or unkempt plants and a gap in fences for them to get through.

If you haven’t got potatoes in yet then the weather should be warm enough to do so. If you’ve little space then try growing them in a bag.

Feed hedges and shrubs with a little bone meal now that they’ll be growing again.

Feed your lawn with an organic nitrogen fertilizer.

Mulch around plants with garden compost to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

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Take cuttings from tender perennials such as pelargoniums.

Harden off plants by giving the an outing during the day but bringing them back in at night for the first week or so. http://www.aimlessgardening.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

38

April, 2018

n FISHPONDS MUM

Swing into action in support of park WHILE there are a variety of playgrounds for children in Fishponds, Oldbury Court and Eastville Park, some of them are looking rather tired and I for one have been fearing the impact of council cuts on public spaces and what it might do to our children’s safe spaces.

A playground is such a quick, easy win. We visit our local playground every week, without fail, come rain or shine, as do countless others and they really matter to lots of families. Not only is it free, it encourages outdoor free flowing play, early socialisation and blends communities together.

Most people with small children, knackered and penniless, visit the playground; it’s a great way to get to know your neighbours and the local community. I often find myself sharing stories to a random parent in the park at 9.15am, as the commuter traffic is slowing and the birds are singing. It’s a great way to connect with people.

The playground in Fishponds Park, next to St. Mary’s, certainly needs refreshing. After the success of events held in the park to celebrate Fishponds, this space has been somewhat reclaimed and is regularly used by parents taking their children there. It’s served

the community steadily for years.

Whilst it’s a small playground, it provides some welcome relief post-local shop for slightly bored little ones.

Great news then that the Friends of Fishponds Park have begun a campaign, with designs to improve and develop it. With the backing of Bristol City Council, the modernisation of the play area is

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about to begin.

Brian Smith, group chairman, said: “The first phase will be the relocation of the fence, which will accommodate the new design, giving more space for the play area.”

Friends of Fishponds Park, who are actively raising funds, are pleased that the work is finally commencing and estimate that the total cost of completing the new play area is £100,000. Already £60,000 has been secured from Council Funding, but there is still a long way to go.

The design looks very inspiring.

The new playground has been designed by our local resident Cath Masri-Stone, who has

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come up with a unique layout and has gained much interest on their Facebook page @ FishpondsParkBristol.

The group has recently set up a crowd-funding scheme in order to raise a further £5,000 towards the redevelopment. So far £760 has been generously donated by local residents and a further £1,000 has come from Tesco’s Bag For Life. The aim is to raise as much as possible from the community to enable them to apply for the remaining £40K from The Land Fill Trust Fund.

So with around £3K left to raise and a deadline of March 31 they urge anyone interested in helping to donate via www.localgiving.com/ fishponds

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

April, 2018

fishpondsvoice

39

n LETTER

n NEWS

Memories of Duchess Park - and reflections on costly conservation

Come and join us, say food growers IT’S the growing season in more ways than one for a food cooperative project in Frenchay.

Sims Hill Shared Harvest has a huge new polytunnel on its site at Feed Bristol.

Sims Hill provides weekly veg boxes for over 80 households, as well as an education project for young people, an alternative food bank centre and volunteering opportunities for local people.

Its new farm manager is James Miller and his assistant grower is Chloe Russell. Sims Hill also employs three further part-time staff for community and education projects and deliveries, alongside a team of ten part-time "workshares" and over fifteen regular volunteers.

If anyone fancies joining the team, there is a volunteer day every third Sunday of the month 10.30am - 3.30pm meeting at Feed Bristol (BS16 1HB).

Sims Hill member Corra Boushel said: "We are incredibly grateful to the funders for supporting the ongoing and long-term future of Sims Hill. Having this covered growing space will allow the project to flourish, providing more locally grown food throughout the year and continue the work of nurturing a strong community as well."

The new large polytunnel, funded by a local private philanthropic trust, complements two existing smaller tunnels and 7 acre field space next to the M32.

Weekly veg boxes can be collected from two pick-up points in Frenchay. Find out more at www.simshill.co.uk

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THE half a million pounds conservation work being undertaken at Stoke Park/Duchess Park estate will be welcomed by the honeybees I keep in the garden of our family home which overlooks the estate (Fishponds Voice, February 2018) I previously kept bees on land managed by The Brandon Trust through Elmtree Farm, which lay between the estate and Frenchay Park Road. Repeated vandalism by trespassers with the resulting loss of all the bees brought that arrangement to an end, however.

Eventually the hives were restocked and relocated to the safety and security of office rooftops in central Bristol, where happily they now thrive.

Many residents in Stapleton and Frenchay refer to the estate as Duchess Park, which is the name I recall being in use when I visited this country on holidays as a small child. It was a proud reflection of the noble history of the estate as it once formed part of the land owned by the Dukes of Beaufort.

Earlier residents of the area may have had the pleasure of hearing hounds speak as Dukes of the past managed the estate through hunting. Today the only noise constantly filling the air is that of traffic on the M32, Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road.

Local legend has it that a monument on the estate marks the spot where a former Duchess fell from her horse while out

riding from the Dower House.

More recently Her Grace The Duchess, Amanda Beaufort, sent her compliments for the wonderful taste of a jar of honey I sent to Badminton.

My own best memory of the estate from those holiday visits is of cooking potatoes in fires made from dead wood deep in the woodlands; a sort of junior version of Ray Mears. It was fun and exciting and I always stank of smoke. I also published a magazine about the area, which received generous support from local businesses when I canvassed for advertising. All proceeds were donated to Stapleton Baptist Church. A copy of the magazine was sent to the 10th Duke, himself an accomplished huntsman, and he replied with a further donation.

One cannot, however, help but smile at the plans for future grazing of the estate and the benefits anticipated to be derived from it.

As recently as three years ago a ten minute walk up Stoke Lane would have taken you past three herds of grazing cattle, some pigs and goats, and sometimes one would even have sight of foxes and badgers. Since Metrobus, house building and an expanded UWE the only thing now left is one token herd of cattle.

Conservation management is indeed a costly business.

Dr Stephen Buston Stapleton

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fishpondsvoice

40

April, April,2018 2018

n PROPS COLUMN

Students are in training for a tough gym challenge fundraiser. Perhaps you could join them?

PROPS is a not-for-profit charity, and our income from student fees cover basic running costs and staff salaries. Fundraising and donations are vital to help fund activities and any extra investments in new equipment, vehicles and developing the organisation. A cooking group have been putting their baking skills to the test since the start of the year, and challenged themselves to find ways of sneaking vegetables into cakes. They then organised and held a fundraising cake sale at the Vassall Centre, which raised ÂŁ100.

A big thanks to all who took part and made purchases. The delicious recipes contained parsnips, courgette, beetroot and sweet potato!

Another upcoming fundraiser is a gym challenge day, which is being held in conjunction with Impact Gym in Kingswood. A group of six students have been working

with a personal trainer to build up their fitness. Together as a team, they have been planning this event which will take place on Sunday

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May 6 from12-3pm. Teams will be facing tough fitness challenges, organised by a qualified personal trainer, and having lots of fun!

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PROPS students will be taking part, and are looking for others to join in. Would you like to get involved?

Contact Lauren Walker for further information by emailing lauren@ propsbristol.co.uk PROPS students are continuing with their hard work getting ready for our first art exhibition at the Fishponds Old Library from May 15-16. The exhibition will be open during the day and in the evening.

On Wednesday 16th there will be a celebration event between 7-9pm with an auction, drinks and nibbles, costing ÂŁ5 per person, including a raffle ticket. We look forward to welcoming you all there.

To find out more about PROPS, or to get in touch, visit www. propsbristol.org, email info@ propsbristol.co.uk or call 0117 965 3514.

Helen Brittain Programme and development manager

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

41

n VET BLOG

Bunnies aren't just for Easter RABBITS are becoming more popular pets and with spring arriving we often see an increase in rabbit ownership. However, we advise that anyone planning on getting a rabbit thinks carefully as rabbits require as much attention and care as a dog and often make poor pets for children.

Many rabbits dislike being picked up and can kick out damaging their fragile backs. They also require a lot of space. A hutch simply isn’t enough. A large, foxproof, shed is perfect for outdoors bunnies with a regular opportunity to run and binky in a larger space.

They are also much happier when kept in neutered pairs or groups.

Unneutered pairs are highly likely to have multiple litters, or to fight if they are the same sex. Their behaviour can be complex, not being neutered, being lonely or having insufficient nutrition or exercise can affect this greatly,

sometimes making them grumpy and nippy.

It is also worthwhile considering their preventative health. We recommend a minimum of yearly myxomatosis, VHD1 AND VHD2 (Filavac) vaccinations.

During the warmer months (MaySeptember) we strongly advise fly-strike prevention. Some rabbits may also benefit from E. Cuniculi treatment at certain times.

If you are looking to source a pet rabbit we would suggest looking at local rescue centres.

They offer lots of help and advice, usually with a bonding service if you already have a resident bunny. Bunnies are also usually vaccinated and neutered which can help reduce time and stress for you. Please contact us if you would like to be put in touch with a local rescue centre.

Being a responsible rabbit owner requires a lot of time,

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patience and space. If you would like to chat to one of our nurses please feel free to call Kingswood Vets4Pets on 0117 961 6417 and we can advise you further. We also offer a rabbit specific Complete Care package which provides great value with annual vaccinations, including the filavac, products for flystrike prevention and also perks such as nail clipping.

Catherine Spence at Kingswood Vets4Pets

Willowdean Court, 247a Charlton Road, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 1LT Telephone: 0117 961 6417

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

43

n PLANNING

David & Goliath to join forces?

THE planning system is very much a victim of target culture, not least when it comes to providing housing. I have chosen my words carefully. Judgement on performance is not made against what a Local Planning Authority can actually do, i.e. approve planning permissions, but instead on provision and delivery.

Given that Councils only build houses themselves in exceptional circumstances, meeting these targets is largely out of their hands. To an extent, that focus on delivery is fair, as bricks and mortar provide much better protection from the elements than a planning permission can.

The difficulty with meeting housing targets is that, when there is a target in the thousands, the focus turns to sites which can provide big numbers, to make a significant inroad into that figure.

Concentrating on larger sites has its drawbacks, however. Infrastructure requirements can mean that rather than steady progress being made on site, nothing happens at all until a site is ready with the necessary infrastructure. Land banking, delaying starts until the greatest profit can be made, also has a slowing effect. These factors combine to bring about a current shortfall of around half a million

homes, which already have been approved. The factors listed, among others, mean that the chance of closing the gap is significantly reduced.

The government recognised these limitations a few of years ago and took steps to encourage smaller builders to help make up the shortfall. One of these was to remove the requirement for affordable housing for sites of 10 or less dwellings. This has had some impact in bringing small sites forward. Smaller builders generally cannot afford to land bank as cash-flow is critical. Their workers need to be kept occupied and their employment is of benefit to the local economy, rather than benefiting shareholders.

The aim is to bring both David and Goliath onto the same side, to address the supply problem from both ends of the scale simultaneously. It is clear that neither side will achieve this on its own. The contribution that building small sites can make should not be overlooked. Larger sites are often on the edge of settlements and however well designed and well planned they are, they end up feeling soulless, often housing transient populations, with little stake in their community and surroundings. Smaller sites

have to take full regard of their surroundings in most cases, often to integrate with the existing street scene, because that is required to achieve planning permission.

They also house small numbers of people moving in who will not swamp the area.

In many ways, it is easier to gain planning permission for a larger site. Less neighbours are directly affected and normally only at the site boundaries, many of which are often fields. What is on offer is a tempting number of new dwellings which can make a significant dent in the housing target. In contrast, smaller sites are more likely to be in gardens, close to flats and houses, but the houses created are more likely to fit in with their surroundings and represent incremental growth of an area.

In the general absence of state, local authority and housing association building, David and Goliath acting together, despite

Planning matters

Chris Gosling the various drawbacks, is the only practical way of ensuring that the homes that the country needs are provided.

Chrisgoslingplanning@gmail.com

n NEWS IN BRIEF £1,000 bonus for school

A BROTHER and sister from the Tynings School in Staple Hill have been giving their nan even more hugs than usual after she bagged more than £1,000 of prizes for fellow pupils.

Maria Lang, grandmother to Connor and Kayla, won a draw at her local Tesco store. Her prize included £500 of book tokens and £500 to spend on school equipment.

Because the draw was organised in association with Kleenex, the win also included 20 cases of the manufacturer's products.

Deputy headteacher Angela Berger teamed up with Connor and Kayla to invite Maria in to the school to say a big thank you.

Mrs Berger said: "We are so thrilled to have £1,000 to spend on resources for the children. We will make sure we spend the money wisely. Thank you, Mrs Lang!"

Get the dancing shoes on!

SPLASH of Soul returns once again on Sunday April 8.

The northern soul event was established several years ago and has been gaining momentum ever since.

April's do will see guest appearances from the Rendell Brothers from Glastonbury Soul Club as well as usual DJs, Martyn Johnson, Jimmy Manu and Malcolm Beedle.

Splash of Soul takes place at Barton Hill Rugby Club in Duncombe Road, Speedwell, from 2-8pm. Entry is £3.

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

44

April, 2018

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA Saturday March 31 n 11 am - 3pm, Avon Wildlife Trust will be leading a step building day at Coombe Brook Valley (up the steep slope to the meadow). Meet at the top of the steps on Moorlands Road. For more event dates or to keep in touch: see our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/ FriendsOfCoombeBrook/ Website: http:// friendsofcoombebrookvalley. weebly.com/ Email: coombebrook@gmail.com Wednesday April 4 n Holiday Club at Speedwell Methodist Church BS15 1ES. 10am to noon followed by optional lunch. Craft activities, toddler play area, story & singing. Children need a parent or carer with them.

Thursday April 5 n Downend Local History Society, Downend Folk House, Overndale Road at 7.30 pm. A History of Troopers Hill. Speaker: Rob Acton-Campbell. Originally known as Harris Hill, a talk on the varied history of this local landmark.

Visitors welcome at £3 including refreshments.

Sunday April 8 n Splash of Soul, northern soul event, Barton Hill Rugby Club, Duncombe Road, Speedwell, 2-8pm. Guest appearances from the Rendell Brothers from Glastonbury Soul Club.

Entry £3.

Tuesday April 10 n Speaker morning with coffee.

Michael Managhan. "It shouldn't happen to a writer" Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. 10 for 10.30am. Pay at door.

Friday April 13 n Activate drop-in lunchtime

Promote your events and classes with our special feature space STARTING FROM JUST

£5

+ VAT

n Fishponds Friendship and Exercise Club Fishponds Baptist Church (scout hall) 10-11.30am each Tuesday. Chair based gentle exercise for older people.Tea, coffee, friendly chat. Instructor: Spencer Davies.

Telephone 07825 155954.

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concert, 1-2 pm. Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane, Fishponds, featuring the Bromley Duo. Tea/coffee and biscuits available. Admission free, Retiring collection. Contact 0117 965 4521.

Saturday April 14 n Resurrection Praise 7pm at Speedwell Methodist Church BS15 1ES. Open to all.

Saturday April 21 n St George's Day Tea Party in Fishponds Park. Activate Fishponds are holding their ninth annnual tea party in the park. 2-5 pm. There will be live music by the Concord Wind Band, Punch & Judy Show and Morris Dancers, traditional games, quizzes, puzzles and colouring for the children. Tea & cake. A free event for everyone.

If wet, event will take place in the Fishponds Methodist Church Hall, Guinea Lane, Fishponds. 0117 958 4164. n Kingswood Old Scholars' Association Spring Lunch at Lincombe Barn at 12.30pm. All ex-pupils of Kingswood Grammar School are welcome. For more details contact Mike Bendrey on 0117 956 5689 or kosanews@ tiscali.co.uk Saturday April 28 n Breakfast at Speedwell Methodist Church BS15 1ES 10am to noon. A full breakfast, or a bacon roll, coffee and homemade cake.

No need to hurry. An opportunity to ask for prayer. All welcome.

Friday May 4 n Tea Dance. Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. 1.45-3.45pm. Pay at the door.

Enquiries 0117 972 1424.

Friday May 11 n Fashion Show & Proper Afternoon Tea at Christ Church Parish Hall on Friday 11 May from 2-5pm. Local Downend ladies will be modelling clothing from Pam @ Christine Peters Ltd. in Staple Hill.

Tickets will be £10 from the Parish Office weekdays 9.30-12pm or from Pam at her shop in Staple Hill 9.304.30 Monday-Saturday.

Saturday May 12 n Spring Fayre. All Saints Community Hall, Grove Road Fishponds. BS16 2DH. 12-3pm.

Enjoy lunch; purchase some plants for your garden. Browse through the various crafts that will be available and have some fun with our selection of games. Entrance fee 50 pence per adult.

Tuesday May 15 n Speaker morning with coffee.

Lindsey Henniker-Heaton "The

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Concorde museum and Filton aviation history." Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. 10 for 10.30am. Pay at door.

Thursday May 17 n Coach outing to Lacock village and Abbey, from Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn depart 9.30am. Return at Barn about 5pm.

Tickets for coach £10 (members plus £4 for non-Barn members).

Coach tickets available in advance at Barn Office, 0117 956 2367.

Individual admissions to be purchased at Lacock.

REGULAR EVENTS IN THE FISHPONDS AREA Mondays n Gentle/beginners drop-in yoga class, Kingfisher Cafe, Straits Parade, 6.45pm - 8pm. £8.

Contact Debbie: 0796 8223670 or visit www.omkariyoga.com n Holistic Massage, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 9am n Tiny Tots, All Saints Community Hall 10:30am n Bereavement and Well-being support, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 11am n Computer Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Table Tennis for over 55’s, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Welcome Club for Retireds+, St Aidan’s Church Hall 2pm n Zumba keep fit, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 9.30-10.30am For details call 0734 1813 559. n Pilates class.

The Cross Hands Pub. 7.30 8.30 p.m. Booking essential. £42 for six sessions. All levels welcome. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@ teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates.

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities (non profitmaking only) in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk or call us on 07770 700579 / 07880 731148 Leisure Centre 2-4 pm, intermediate level. n 4-8pm Ages 3 -15yrs Hip Hop classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n 7-8pm, Zumba Dance for fitness with Lisa at Bristol Dance Company, Brook Road, Fishponds, BS16 3SQ. Tel 0117 965 6699. n 252 Beaver Scouts 6 - 7 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Sarah 0789 2852226 n Hatha Flow Yoga, gentle and nurturing. St Matthias (Former UWE Campus). Steiner Academy Bristol.

7.15 - 8.15 pm. All levels, ideal for beginners. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@ yogawithyolanda.me

Tuesdays n Art workshops with GreenFox Workshops, Kingfisher Cafe, Straits Parade, 7.30-9pm. Call to book (gemmalane99@gmail. com/07532327810). First Tuesday of the month. n Bristol Blues Club. Live blues/ rock music at 9pm in the Downend Tavern. Local, national and international musicians. https://bristolbluesclub.wixsite. com/mysite

n Alzheimer’s choir, Beechwood Club, 11am to 1pm, Paula Shears 0117 9610693 n Sequence dancing with Teresa, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2pm. Tel 0117 965 0203 for details. n Ballroom tuition, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 3pm.

Contact Teresa 0117 9650203 n Slimming World, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 6.309pm. Contact Ami 0746 2727 229 n Social badminton, Kingswood

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

April, 2018 n Nordic Walking Classes, Oldbury Court 9.30-10.30am. Email: bristolnordicwalking.co.uk to book your place n Fishponds Friendship and Exercise Club.Fishponds Baptist Church (scout hall) 10-11.30am each Tuesday.

Chair based gentle exercise for older people.Tea, coffee, friendly chat. Instructor: Spencer Davies. Telephone 07825 155954. n Morning Prayer, St John’s Church 9:15am n Foot Care Sessions, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 9:30am n Coffee and Craft Morning, St John’s Church 10am n Sing and Sign for babies / toddlers, All Saints Community Hall 10am n Level 1 Walking Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Music for Toddlers, St Mary’s Parish Rooms 10:30am n Lunch Club, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12:30pm n Film Club for over 55’s, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Pre-school Storytime/ Rhymetime, Fishponds Library 2.15-2.45pm n Eucharist with signing for the Deaf, Hillside Court, Batten Road, St George, Bristol, BS5 8NL 3pm n Messy Church, Fishponds CofE Academy 3:15pm n Woodcraft , All Saints Church Hall/Link 6pm n Evening Prayer, St Aidan’s Church 7pm n Evening Prayer, St Ambrose Church 7pm n Frenchay Parent and Toddler

Advertise your event in our What's On section ONLY

£15 + VAT FOR A 5CM X 1 COLUMN DISPLAY ADVERT

Exercise Movement and Dance class for ladies

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Low impact classes offer dance, exercise and core strengthening. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints.

6.25-7.30pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Tel: Rachael at FL Exercise on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@talktalk.net .

Classes run on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking (£8 per class -1st Class Free)

group, upstairs in the Frenchay Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am n Scouts (10-14 years), Fishponds Baptist Church Youth Hall. 7.309pm (Term Time only) Email: 151bristolscouts@gmail.com n Slimming World, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 9.30am to midday, Call Ami 0746 2727 229 n Diabetes UK, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 6.15-8.15pm.

Meeting in small room. n Zumba, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 7-8pm.

Contact Anna 0779 9180 437 n Badminton, Downend Sports Centre 8 -10pm. Call 0117 9400706.

Email: ridgewaydownend@yahoo. co.uk n ‘Friends and Neighbours’, Fishponds Methodist Church Hall, Guinea Lane, 2 - 4pm alternate Tuesdays. A friendly, sociable group, usually with a speaker and followed by a cup of tea. n Staple Hill Probus Club meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Downend Cricket Club.

10.30am-12.45pm. Tea and coffee from 10am n 8.15pm Fitness Yoga (beginners & improvers) at Beechwood Club.

Your first class is free! To book call/text Nikki 07525 735500 or email nikki@urban-yoga.net n Staple Hill Probus Club meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Downend Cricket Club.

10.30am-12.45pm. Tea and coffee from 10am n Pilates classes, Steiner Academy, Oldbury Court Road, 7-8pm, £6.50 Bring an exercise/yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. 07952 941 531 n 4-8pm Ages 8 -25 yrs Hip Hop & Contemporary dance classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159. n Willow Ladies Club Downend, meet the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 10am-11.30am at the Assembly Rooms, Salisbury Road, Downend. Guest speakers, outings, new members welcome for ladies of any age. n Under 5s Make a Mess session Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10.15am £5 / £4 extra siblings. www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002 n New session for Under 5s has space for structured making, free play and exploration - 1.45-2.45pm every week £5 / £4 extra siblings www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002 n Under 5s Make a Mess session Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10.15am £5 / £4 extra siblings. www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002 n Monthly social meet up for disabled people at the Old Post Office pub, Fishponds Road. Open and friendly group, meets second

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

45

Tuesday of month 6-7.30pm. Part of WECIL's peer support community - www.wecil.co.uk. n 10.15am, Under 5s Make A Mess session, Children's Scrapstore, Sevier Street, St Werburghs. £5 / £4 extra siblings, www. childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 914 3002.

Wednesdays n 252 Cubs 6.45 - 8 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Graham 956 6996 n 7.30-8.30pm, Zumba Dance for fitness with Lisa at Bristol Dance Company, Brook Road, Fishponds, BS16 3SQ. Tel 0117 965 6699. n Weekly Salsa class for complete beginners with Cressida. Starting Sep 6. Cross Hands Pub, 1 Staple Hill Road. 7.30-9pm includes social and dancing. No partner needed.

Ffi call 07808 581739 n Shared reading group is taking place at Hillfields and Little Hayes Family Hub and Library 12,30-2pm.

Contact Emma Crago for details, 07970 247410, emmacrago@ thereader.org.uk n Songs for Little People, The Kingfisher Café 9.45pm £4 per little person, siblings £2. n Eucharist, St Ambrose Church

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

10am n Arts and Crafts, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10:30am n Coffee Morning, St Ambrose Church 10:30am n Tai Chi, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 11am n Level 3 Walking Group, starting from St Ambrose Beehive Centre 1pm n Arts and Crafts, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 1:30pm n Punjabi Dance and Song, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Support and Activity Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Chair based exercise class, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Ladies Circle, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2:30pm n Wives Group, St John’s Church 2:30pm n Messy Church, Air Balloon Primary School, Hillside Rd, St George 3:30pm n Home Group, Location varies 6:30pm n Phoenix Art Club, Fishponds Methodist Church Hall, Guinea Lane, Fishponds 10am-noon. All mediums, all abilities. n Dancing Tots, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 10-11am

Continued on next page

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

46

April, 2018

n WHAT’S ON n Hannah More Club for senior citizens, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2-4pm (fortnightly) n Women’s Reading Group, Beechwood Club, 1.30-3 pm, fourth Wednesday of every month.

Call Anne 0117 9041875 for information. n 5.45pm Fitness Yoga (beginners & improvers) at Beechwood Club.

Your first class is free! To book call/text Nikki 07525 735500 or email nikki@urban-yoga.net n Dance Tots, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR 7-8pm.

Contact Eric 0791 4006 589 n Keep fit class, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 7- 8pm.

Contact Beryl 0117 9774534. n Cycle UK (CTC). For all cyclists from beginners to professionals, commuters to sports. Beechwood Club, Fishponds, BS16 3TR. 8-10PM winter months only (other months are rides, see http://www. cyclebristolctc.org.uk/) n Lodge Causeway Townswomen’s Guild, Briarwood School, Briar Way, Fishponds. Second Wednesday of the month (except August) 7.15pm.

Different speaker each month plus handicrafts and walking group. Call 0779 9108 890 n Yoga, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 5.456.45pm. Call Nikki 0752 5735 500 n Flower Arranging practice classes, Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road 7.30 p.m, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday, September – May. All levels welcome. Call Isabel Cooke on 0117 9568504 n Frenchay Probus Club meets on the first and third Wednesday every month in Frenchay Village Hall.

10 am to noon. Visitors welcome. www.frenchayprobusclub.com n Frenchay Folk Dance Club meets in Frenchay Village Hall on alternate Wednesdays at 7.45pm.

Calling from Alan Davies and music by Mike Elsom. Dancers of all abilities and experience are welcome. Information at www. frenchayfdc.co.uk or by emailing FFDCSecretary@outlook.com. n Walks for single people. Solo Rendezvous meet at Downend Cricket Club, every Wednesday, 8.30pm, entrance £3, and walk every Sunday. Please phone for walk details: 01454 775508 / 01454 774984 / 0117 9850210. n Frenchay Folk Dance Club meets in Frenchay Village Hall on alternate Wednesdays at 7.45pm.

More information is available at www.frenchayfdc.co.uk or by emailing FFDCSecretary@outlook. com. n Frenchay Probus Club meets on the first and third Wednesday every month in Frenchay Village Hall. 10 am to noon. Visitors welcome. n 6-6.50pm All Boys Ages 7 -15 yrs Hip Hop classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n Diamond fellowship at Fishponds Baptist Church hall, Downend Road, 10.30am. Open to everyone, first and third Wednesdays every month. Variety of speakers, coffee mornings and annual day out and Christmas meal. Contact 0117 9653421. n Pilates classes.

The Life Church, Forest Road.

10.15 - 11.15 a.m. and 6.45 7.45 p.m. Booking essential. £42 for six sessions. All levels welcome. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@ teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates. n Hatha Flow Yoga. St Matthias (Former UWE Campus). Steiner Academy Bristol. 7.00 - 8.00 pm. All

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

levels welcome. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@ yogawithyolanda.me

Thursdays n Dance Fit with Cressida.

Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd. Easy pace weekly exercise class with range of dance steps and music. 2pm-3pm plus tea and chat. Starting Sep 7. Ffi call 07808 581739. n Yoga class for beginners.

Lincombe Barn, Overndale Rd, Downend. 6.30-8pm.Traditional yoga postures with focus on breathing and relaxation. Contact before: katarzyna48@hotmail.com or 0752 5937201. n 252 Scouts 6.30 - 8 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Graham 956 6996 n Morning Prayer - St Aidans Church 9:15am n Body toning/conditioning , Beechwood Club 9.30-10.30am.

Call Sabrina 0794 1353 735 n Coffee and Craft Morning , St Aidan’s Church 10am n Free Beginners Computer Classes, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Eucharist, St John’s Church 10am n Eucharist, St Mary’s Church 10am n Parent and Toddler Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Ballroom Dance Class, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12pm n Exercises and Sing-a-long Activity Session, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Fit Steps, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Dance, Latin Rhythm, and Zumba gold, Beechwood Club 2-3pm. Call Cressida 0780 8587 39 n Knit & Natter, Fishponds Library 2-4 pm (fortnightly) n Frenchay Parent and Toddler group, upstairs in the Frenchay Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

n The Senior Citizen Friendship Club, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR 3.30-5pm. Call 0782 5155 954. Email: Spencer@sportingchange.biz n Come and try Taoist Tai Chi, a moving meditation to improve the health of our bodies and minds.

We have classes in Fishponds and Kingswood - come and try your first class for free!

Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane, BS16 2HB Thursdays 7-8.30 Kingswood Community Centre, High Street BS15 4AB Tuesdays 1012 or Wednesdays 7-8.30pm For more information see www. taoist.org or call Crispin on 07407175127 n Fishponds and Downend Rotary Club, The Langley Arms, Guest Avenue, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7GA, evening. Full details on website - Google “F&D Rotary” and look for homepage. n Baby Bebop Mums, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 11am-1pm, babies up to one year.

Call Ruth 0796 6032 414 n East Park Residents meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at May Park School from 6-7pm. . Further information from Hazel Durn on 0117 9513868 or Tony Locke on 07919 173450 n 4.15-7pm Competition Crew Ages 7-18 yrs Hip Hop classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n 7-9pm Kingswood Choir at United Church Kingswood, Regent Street, all abilities welcome.

Contact Patsy Holdsworth 01179078994 n 9.30am Fitness Yoga (beginners & improvers) at Beechwood Club.

Your first class is free! To book call/text Nikki 07525 735500 or email nikki@urban-yoga.net n Under 5s Make a Mess session Tuesdays and Thursdays at

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

April, 2018

n WHAT’S ON

10.15am £5 / £4 extra siblings. www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002

Fridays n Coffee Morning from 10.30am11.30am at Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane. Entrance through main church door.

Greeting cards and preserves on sale in aid of St Peter's Hospice. n Nordic Walking Classes, Oldbury Court 9.30-10.30am. Contact bristolnordicwalking.co.uk to book. n The Friday Playgroup, All Saints Community Hal 10-11.30 am in termtime. £2.50 + 50p per sibling; includes kids' snacks and drinks and tea and coffee.

See the Facebook page or email fishpondsfridayplaygroup@gmail. com n Line Dancing, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10:30am n Rhymetime for babies and toddlers, Hillfields Library 11.30amnoon n Senior Citizens Bingo Club with optional fish and chip lunch, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12pm n The First Friday Film Club - All Saints Church Hall, 2pm n Taekwondo, St John’s Church Hall 5:30pm n Grove Road Youth Club, All Saints Community Hall 7pm n Sensible keep fit to music for older ladies. Hillfields Park Baptist Church, Thicket Avenue, Fishponds 9am. Good company and a chat over coffee. Call 0117 9561231. n High density Zumba, Beechwood Club, Fishponds 6.157.15pm. Call Anna 0779 9180 437 n Zumba, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 9.30-10.30pm n Alzheimer’s group, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2-4pm 2nd Friday in month, n Zumba keep fit, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 9.3010.30am. Call Sally 0771 2776 753

n Baby Bebop (Mums / Babies up to 1 year old) Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 11am-1pm.

Contact Ruth 0796 6032 414 n Alzheimer’s meetings Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 2-4pm (2nd Friday in each month). Tel no. 0117 9756 441 n Coffee Morning, Speedwell Methodist Church, 10am-noon.

Open to all. Friendly and caring.

Lunch once a month. n Community art club at Castle Suite, Badminton Gardens, Beaufort Road BS16 6UE. 10amnoon on alternate Fridays.

Alternate Fridays. £5 per session and materials are supplied. Contact Paul Foss on pobble57@yahoo. co.uk or 0117 957 0045 n Kingswood Photographic Society, St Barnabas Church Hall, Church Avenue, Warmley, BS30 5JJ, 7-9.30pm. We welcome and support all levels of experience including beginners. n 4.10-8pm Ages 6-18 yrs Hip Hop & Contemporary dance classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n Living After Loss, St Mary's Parish Rooms, back entrance of church, every other Friday, 11am-noon.

Next sessions 13/4,27/4,11/5,25/5 and 8Contact Lizzie on 0117 9650856 n Every second Friday of the month, 4-6 pm. Messy church with crafts, celebration and meal.

Stapleton church hall, Park Road.

Further details on Facebook or you can email youngpeople@ holytrinitystapleton.org.uk

Saturdays n Diabetes group, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2-4pm, 2nd Saturday, 2 monthly, September n Rehabilitation Pilates (Beginners), Lincombe Barn, Downend Folk House, in Britannia room. 9am. £7. Samantha 07736 309272, www.gentlefitness.co.uk

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

47

n Pilates class.

All Saints Church Hall, Grove Road. 9.15 - 10.15 a.m. Drop-in class, no booking necessary.

All levels welcome. £7 per class. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@ teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates. n Life Universecity LC soul health and wellness education classes, 12.30 -2pm Fishponds Old Library, Fishponds Rd. Rolling Administration 1st Saturdays of the month starts 3rd March (except Breaks: Summer Jul –Aug / Winter Dec –Jan) For info or to register Tel: 07508390298/Email: life. universecity@gmail.com

Sundays n Morning Worship and children’s activities, Speedwell Methodist Church, 378 Speedwell Road.

10.30am Friendly, informal and lively. n Morning Worship, New Place, Eastville Methodist Church, Fishponds Road. 10.45am. Holy Communion once a month. n Eucharist, All Saints Church 8am n Eucharist, St Mary’s Church 10am with Giggle Club in Parish Rooms n Eucharist, St Ambrose Church 10am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St Michael’s Church 10am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St Aidan’s Church 10:30am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St John’s 10:30am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, All Saints Church 10.30am n All Sorts Youth Group, St Aidan’s Church hall 6pm(fortnightly) n Evensong , St Mary’s Church

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

6:30pm n Worship, Staple Hill Methodist Church 10.30am and 6pm. A creche is available for little ones and Sunday Club. Taize Worship second Sunday evening of month and communion first morning and evening of month. 0117 957 5221 n Fishponds Baptist Church (opposite the Cross Hands pub) - 10.30am. Children and youth provision for all ages. 6.30pm every Sunday, apart from the 3rd Sunday in the month which is ‘Messy church’ at 4pm with crafts, food and fun for all the family.

There is a songs of praise service on the 4th Sunday at 3pm. n Redemption Life, Beechwood Club, BS16 3TR 9.30am-1pm n Church Group, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR 1pm n ARC, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 3.30-5.30pm or 7-9pm For bookings and other inquiries about Beechwood Club, call Terry King 0117 965 020, after 4pm. email: tk007h9736@ blueyonder.co.uk n Morning Worship, Fishponds Methodist Church, 10.30am n R.F.I.Church Group, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 1-3pm n Sisters fellowship international, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 4-6pm. n Weekly Meeting for Worship 10.30 - 11.30, all welcome, With Children's Meeting 1st. and 3rd. Sundays Frenchay Quaker Meeting House, Beckspool Road, Frenchay BS16 1NT www.bristolquakers.org.uk n All Age Worship featuring the band, choir and children at Staple Hill Salvation Army, Staple Hill n Shortwood Methodist Church worship, 2.45pm, all welcome n Morning Worship, Mangotsfield and Castle Green United Reformed Church, Cossham Street, Mangotsfield10.30am.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoicefishpondsvoice

48 April, 2018

April, 2018

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Open day at ‘affordable luxury’ extra care retirement apartments

FAMILIES thinking about the future for their loved ones are being encouraged to visit an ‘extra’ care’ development in Fishponds.

Quarry Court offers independent living but with a little bit of additional security.

Run by successful care company Bristol Care Homes, Quarry Court is a luxurious set of apartments offering ‘extra care’, which means independent living but with help at hand, if needed, 24 hours a day.

The open day, on Saturday, April 7th, will offer visitors personal tours of the development and flats, advice on selling an existing property and there will be refreshments available all day.

And for those needing help to get there, the team at Quarry Court will arrange transport there and back.

Quarry Court has all the amenities needed for quality

living – high standard 1 and 2 bed apartments, a spa, a hair salon and a restaurant.

And with prices from £239,000, these apartments are highly

affordable for people looking to downsize.

BCH owner Geoff Crocker said: “These apartments really are superb. And they are in a lovely,

quiet location but also close enough to cafes, shops and other services on Fishponds High Street.

“We would love to welcome families to our open day on April 7th when we can, over a cup of tea, explain a bit more about what we can offer.

“We know it is a massive decision for people moving out of their home, but we really try to make it a home from home at Quarry Court.

“Please contact us at ann. pinnock@bristolcarehomes.co.uk or call 07498 919315. You can be sure of a great welcome.”

Directions, From Fishponds Road, take Channons Hill (Opposite Aldi) and after 350 yards take a right onto Pound Lane, then right again onto Adelaide Place. BS16 2FX For more information, see advert on Page 34.

Get out on the green GREENBANK Bowling Club is hosting an open day so men and women can try the sport out to see if they like it.

The club will have bowlers on hand to show visitors what to do.

People should wear flat-soled shoes, like trainers or plimsolls.

Tea and coffee will be served.

It takes place on Sunday April 22 from 10am-1pm at the club in Gordon Road, Whitehall, BS5 7DP. For further information, call Graham on 0117 965 7822 nnn

PAGE Park Bowling Club is offering a course for those wishing to learn how to play the sport.

It takes place at the Club Green, Page Park, Staple Hill on Saturday mornings from 10am to noon for six weeks, beginning on Saturday April 28. It will be run by three Bowls England qualified coaches.

The club will provide all necessary equipment but you will need to wear shoes with flat soles, no heels or ribs.

If you complete the course fully you will be ready to take your place in a team playing friendly matches.

For further details contact Bob Wood, 3 Oakdale Walk, Downend, BS16 6DY/0117 956 7921; Paul Roach on 0117 956 6881 or Don Wilcox on 0117 908 3249. nnn

THE 85 or so members of Begbrook Green Bowling Club are looking forward to the start of the season. Club night is every Tuesday starting from April 10 at 6pm off Frenchay Park Road in Stapleton.

Contact Val on 01454 774864 or e-mail@secretary@ begbrookgreenbc.org.uk

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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50

n SPORT

Cricket girls travel to Sri Lanka SIX years after getting their first taste of cricket through Frenchay Cricket Club’s Chance to Shine programme, two girls travelled to Sri Lanka with the Gloucestershire U17 squad.

Georgie Hunt and Molly Bliss were both nine when they first picked up a bat and ball. The girls progressed through the Frenchay and Gloucestershire county age group squads, and now aged 15, they have also played senior cricket for Frenchay.

Their performances earned the girls the opportunity to fly over 5000 miles to play cricket in Sri Lanka as part of the 2018 bottlegreen Gloucestershire tour.

As part of the ten-day tour the pair played at the Pallekele International Stadium, a venue that has hosted six Test Matches.

Georgie, who went to Frenchay CE Primary and now attends Mangotsfield School, and Molly, who was at Bromley Heath Juniors before going on to Winterbourne Academy, were

among six members of Frenchay CC in the squad.

Jim Donaldson, Chance to

Shine and Frenchay CC coach, who gave Georgie her first taste of the sport said: “It’s fabulous, a once in a lifetime experience for our two Chance to Shine Girls who have both worked really hard on their cricketing development since joining Frenchay. " It’s just fantastic that

the seeds sown through the Chance to Shine programme six years ago could lead to such a wonderful and fully deserved opportunity.”

Since 2005 Chance to Shine has reached more than 3.5 million in more than 14,000 state schools across the country, 46 per cent of whom are female.

Sporting chance MANGOTSFIELD United Juniors have more than thirty teams and are always looking for new players at all ages of all abilities, especially under 12s, Year 7.

The club would also welcome anyone who fancies the challenge of managing a side or joining as a committee member.

For more information please contact Pete Brown by emailing petebrwn@yahoo.co.uk or call him on 07916 339918.

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

n TAKE A BREAK

PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE Adult puzzles Children’s puzzles R X L I E V E N S R I V E R A W A B E

I U E N R U I S D A E L P J P S L I N

M X E O N Y V A N D Y K E E M V M N R

B D A L I B S B A N S K Y O N O A G Y

U R S A N E R N S T Q S R D N C N H M

L T A N I G A U G I N E P E A U Z A O

L R M Q E S B O Y D M K T E U V U M O

K A U B U U T G R N D A V I N C I M R

C C E L U E J E M A N E T J T S O E E

TXT PERT Nicholson

A E L J I T G R E G I G R I S I E L S

P Y P K I T A J E N C L A E S Z A R E

E E A M A P P L E T H O R P E S D N S

A M L G H L I V S R O D I N J D E O C

U I M A B C L Z B I L B K D U B G L O

X N E M O N A S H R S R Q F U A A D R

N L R N S W E T T Y O L Y M O R S E O

U Y P I C A S S O O N W E A O W E S T

G O Y A H D E R A I N O N Y L O W R Y

EASY for children

3 1 2

SOLUTIONS

4

TXT PERT

T Q K F B L K F D V E R M E E R C P H

SUDOKU

Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.

Across 2 Togo, 4 Namibia, 6 Guam, 8 Iran, 9 Fiji.

Down 1 Mongolia, 2 Tobago, 3 Ghana, 5 Malta, 7 Mali.

This month: Artists

Can you find 54 artists hidden vertically, horizontally or diagonally?

WORDSEARCH

WORDSEARCH

Allston, Angelico, Bansky, Bernini, Bingham, Bosch, Boyd, Braque, Brown, Bruyn, Claesz, Cole, Corot, Da Vinci, Dali, Davies, Degas, Derain, Dufy, Durer, Ernst, Etty, Goya, Gris, Henry Moore, Kitaj, Klee, Lievens, Lowry, Manet, Manzu, Mapplethorpe, Matisse, Monet, Morse, Nash, Nicholson, Nolan, Nolde, Pasmore, Pencz, Picasso, Raphael, Rivera, Rodin, Ruisdael, Samuel Palmer, Sisley, Steen, Sully, Titian, Tracey Emin, Vermeer, West.

e

fishpondsvoice

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WHICH WAY, HEDGEHOG? The hedgehog has woken up and wants to get to the forest, but how?

This month: Countries

Vandyke The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad Nolan Clues DownVermeer 1 2 Nolde Across 2.Pasmore 8646 (8) 4. 6264242 (7) Pencz 6. 4826 (4) 8.Picasso 4726 (4) 9.Raphael 3454 (4)

West 1. 66646542 (8) 2. 862246 (6) 3. 44262 (5) 5. 62582 (5) 7. 6254 (4)

Rivera 2 Rodin is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F Ruisdael 4 is G, H or I 5 Samuel is J, K, orPalmer L

6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z

4

3

5

6

7

8 9

© www.123rf.com/profile_izakowski

Sisley Spenser Steen Sully Titian Tracey Emin Trimbull

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

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April, 2018

53

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

Just keep moving!

Blog 49: Tackling back pain RESEARCH released to mark Chiropractic Awareness Week (9 – 15 April), has found that nearly half (47%) of people in the South West of England are currently experiencing back or neck pain.

There has also been a notable rise in the number of people aged 3140 in the region experiencing back and neck pain.

The research, which was carried out by the British Chiropractic Association (BCA), found that for sufferers in the South West, the top triggers for this pain were:: • Lifting or carrying heavy objects (60%) • Sitting for long periods of time (52%), and; • Poor posture (35%) The BCA’s research findings align with what I see at Cleve Chiropractic on a day to day basis, however it’s particularly interesting that lifting and carrying was the most cited trigger for neck and back pain. It really highlights the importance of maintaining a strong and active body that can move well and cope with the demands you are making of it.

For those of you in Bristol who are finding that sedentary lifestyles and sitting for long periods of time are causing you a problem, I would encourage that you make a TWO boxers from Downend Boxing Club won the Western Counties Junior championships at the Harry Crook Centre, Fishponds.

Jack Oram and Jude Moore, both 15, far right, took the regional title at their respective weights, to win through to the national quarter finals.

Meanwhile 18-year-old Bailey Phillips won his way to a national semi-final place in the youth championships which took place at the Doncaster dome.

He faced the tough Lewis Wharton of Wearmouth boxing club. Fast combination punching and quick footwork earned Bailey a unanimous points decision.

The following day Bailey faced Jimmy Sains of the famous Repton boxing club of London.

Bailey went at his opponent from the first bell forcing Sains onto the ropes and making his

change. We are designed to move and if you hold your body in any position for an extended period of time, it is likely you will feel pain.

I find that patients are increasingly reporting sedentary lifestyles and work lives that have them sat at their desk all day, so to help prevent back and neck pain occurring in these patients, there are a number of simple exercises and small changes I recommend are incorporated into your daily routine. For example, shrugging and circling your shoulders whilst sitting and taking the stairs are easy ways to improve your back health - these may sound simple but I know from my patients that they really work!

My top tips to help Bristol to prevent and manage neck and back pain are: Take a break: When sitting for long periods of time, ensure you stand up and move around every 30 minutes. When at work, also make sure your desk is set up to support a comfortable position.

This is different for everyone so if you don’t feel comfortable in your current set up, try altering the height of your chair or screen.

Keep on moving: Physical activity can be beneficial for managing back pain, however it’s important that if this is of a moderate to

high intensity that you warm up and down properly to get your body ready to move! If a previous injury is causing you pain, adapt your exercise or seek some advice.

Activities such as swimming, walking or yoga can be less demanding on your body while keeping you mobile!

Other things to bear in mind are: Lifting and carrying: Remember to bend from the knees, not the waist when lifting heavy items.

Face in the direction of movement, and take your time. Hold the object as close to your body as possible, and where you can avoid carrying objects which are too heavy to manage alone, ask for help or use the necessary equipment.

Sleep comfortably: The Sleep Council recommends buying a new mattress at least every 7 years.

Mattresses lose their support over time, so if you can feel the springs through your mattress, or the mattress is no longer level, your mattress is no longer providing the support you need. Everyone has different support requirements, so when purchasing your mattress ensure it is supportive for you.

If you share a bed and require different mattress types, consider two single mattresses which are designed to be joined together.

Success for boxers

opponent take evasive action.

Sains's slick points scoring on the back foot won him a close points decision.

Bailey, pictured with his coach

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Grainee, said afterwards: "I am delighted with my performance, especially as I have now been invited to train with the England team next month."

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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

0117 957 5388

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

Straighten Up!: The BCA has created a programme of 3-minute exercises, Straighten Up UK, which can be slotted in to your daily schedule to help prevent back pain by promoting movement, balance, strength and flexibility in the spine All of us at Cleve Chiropractic recommend that, if you are experiencing pain for more than a few days you should seek professional help. When needed we can assess you and help to get you moving again without pain.

All Stars cricket is back THE popular All Stars cricket sessions for children aged five to eight are returning this season.

One of the clubs offering them is Carsons & Mangotsfield CC, starting on Friday May 11.

All Stars Cricket is a programme from the England and Wales Cricket Board, which is aimed at giving girls and boys a fun, first-time experience of cricket. They can learn catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and teamwork - in a safe and inclusive environment.

All Stars Cricket have 1,800 centres across the country. To sign up and find out more, please visit https://ecb.clubspark.uk/ AllStars/Course/3adca4b0-9c8b4d27-8888-0c35d8bdd04e

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

54

fishpondsvoice

fishpondsvoice DEBT COLLECTION

April, 2018 ELECTRICIANS

LOCAL SERVICES AERIALS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

FENCING, GATES & TRELLIS

HOUSE CLEARANCE

DOUBLE GLAZING SERVICES

GARDENING

HYPNOTHERAPY

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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April, 2018

55

GUTTERING REPAIRS

PLUMBING & HEATING

ROOFING SERVICES

PAINTING & DECORATING

PLUMBING & HEATING

PLUMBING

PAINTING & DECORATING

PLUMBING

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

TREE SERVICES

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579