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March, 2021 — ISSUE 71
FREE EVERY MONTH IN THE GREATER FISHPONDS AREA
Words of wizardry and wisdom
Act of kindness inspires poet Seven-year-old Chadayne Smith has written a poem about giving food to a homeless man in Eastville Park. PAGE 17
Victim's plea to hit-run driver
EXPELLIARMUS! Children and teachers from Year 5 at Begbrook Primary Academy dressed up, solved riddles and even had a spell-casting PE lesson on a special Harry Potter day. Full story: Page 5
Stabbing: teens charged A TEENAGE boy and girl have appeared in court charged over the stabbing of a 17-year-old in a Fishponds street. A 16-year-old boy was charged with attempted murder and a girl, also aged 16, has been charged with conspiracy to murder in connection with the attack, which happened in Ridgeway Road on February 12.
A total of eight people have been arrested since the attack, which left its victim fighting for his life. The victim remained in hospital as the Voice went to print, with police reporting that he was in a stable condition. Police are not linking the incident to any other violence in the area but say they have increased Turn to Page 2
A cyclist wants to trace a hit and run driver who caused her multiple injuries. PAGE 4
Residents fear rise in hostels People in Stapleton fear that too many homes in the area are being turned in houses of multiple occupation - hostels. PAGE 12
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fishpondsvoice Publisher & Sales Caroline Galvin 07453 954261
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ADVERTISING sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Tel 07453 954261 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, 15 Mayfield Park, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3nn. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter. DEADLINES April edition deadline is March 24. L O C A L I N F O R M AT I O N Bristol City Council http://www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009
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March, 2021
n NEWS
Stabbing arrests From Page 1 patrols since it happened. They have continued to appeal for witnesses and information about the attack, which happened at about 8pm. Avon and Somerset police say the victim "sustained a number of stab wounds". A man who was arrested on the night of the incident, and an 18-year-old woman, originally arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder, were later released without charge. However four other teenagers remain under investigation. They are a man aged 18 and a 16-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and two 17-year-old boys: one arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and the other on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. All four have been released under investigation as the police enquiry continues. The 16-year-olds who made
their first appearance at Bristol Magistrates Court on February 19 were being held in custody. They cannot be named for legal reasons. Bristol East inspector Deepak Kenth said: "We have provided high-visibility patrols in the area since the incident and continue to do so. We do not believe there is any danger to the wider public at this time and this is being treated as an isolated incident. "However, we’d suggest anyone with concerns talks to those officers on patrol who will be able to assist. We do continue to urge the community to report any suspicious activity to police." Any witnesses who have yet to come forward should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5221 031 520. Police also said that anyone who knows who was responsible can pass information on anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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 Caroline Galvin on 07453954261 or news@fishpondsvoice. co.uk.
COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Fishponds Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.
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CENTRE • PHONE NUMBER BRISTOL NORTH • DOWNEND • 0117 373 8367 Address 32A Downend Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 5UJ kipmcgrath.co.uk/centre kipmcgrath.co.uk/BristolNorth
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£1.1m scheme to improve railway path CHANGES to the Bristol and Bath Railway Path between Fishponds and the city centre have been unveiled. Transport charity Sustrans and the city council are overseeing a £1.1 million improvement scheme for the path on the stretch from Clay Bottom through Whitehall, Easton and St Philip's. The designs include widening the Clay Bottom "wiggle", where the path goes through a sharp S-bend, to create segregated paths for cyclists and pedestrians. Sustrans says many accidents or near misses have been reported there due to poor visibility, and the new layout will reduce the risks. It will also include a new, level access point from Rose Green Road, to make it easier for people to join and leave the path there. Other areas where there will be major changes include the junction at Easton Community Centre, where a large mound of earth will be levelled to create what Sustrans calls a more open, "social space". A new path and seating is planned for the crossing near Whitehall Primary School. At Russell Town Avenue, near City Academy school, access from the road will
Artist's impression of what the Clay Bottom 'wiggle' will look like. Picture: Sustrans be moved to make it easier for people using wheelchairs or pushing buggies, removing a sharp corner and making the slope gentler. The path will also be widened, with separate cycle and pedestrian lanes marked out, at the St Philip's Causeway underpass. The designs were produced following a series of community consultations in late 2019 and early last year. Work has already started at Clay Bottom, where trees have been removed to enable the widening. Sustrans says that in total, 19 trees will
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be removed for the scheme but 250 will be planted, including a new woodland link to to Coombe Brook Nature Reserve. In other areas the work is being planned to minimise disruption to tree roots and wildlife habitats. Sustrans South of England director James Cleeton said the designs reflected the input of "a huge number of people" who use the popular path, from families walking to school and commuters on bikes to community groups and people wanting to get out in nature. He said: "With so many people using the path in so many different ways, creating a balanced design that improves things for everyone has been a big challenge. "Our hope is that this redesigned section of path is one that will now be far more inclusive, accessible and enjoyable for the many types of uses, now and in the future." Council cabinet member for transport Kye Dudd said: "One of the biggest issues raised during the engagement was safety, so we are going to make areas of the path more visible." The designs and more details can be found online at www.sustrans.org.uk/bbrpproject.
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March, 2021
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Hit and run driver 'left me in agony'
AN NHS worker who was left injured in the road by a hit-and-run driver has spoken of her ordeal. Samantha Needle was cycling home from a shift as a crisis support worker for Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust when a car sped through a junction in Speedwell, ignoring give way lines, and ploughed into the front of her bike, throwing her along the side of the car and in to the road. The car went into a cul-de-sac, where the driver turned around, then mounted the kerb to go around Samantha, who was lying next to her damaged bike, before driving off, leaving her in "agony". The 54-year-old cyclist suffered multiple fractures to her ribs, chest, spine and pelvis, and a knee injury and damage to tendons in her shoulder. She was in pain for a month afterwards and has only just got back on her bike, after more than three months. Now she is seeking help to identify the driver. Avon and Somerset police have released shocking CCTV video of the incident at the junction of Kingsmead Road, Meadow Vale and Kingsmead Walk, which happened at around 8.15pm on November 25, in the hope that someone will come forward. The car was a rare convertible Peugeot 206cc or 207cc, and may have suffered damage to the front. Samantha had right of way and was "lit up
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like a Christmas tree", with lights on her bike and helmet, and a high-vis jacket, when the car drove straight across from Meadow Vale Road into Kingsmead Walk. She said: "I remember very little other than the impact, being hit and then being in the road, shouting for help. "A lady who lived opposite the junction heard it and came out to help me, and called the ambulance and police." Samantha was taken to Southmead Hospital where she was initially thought to have only suffered bruising, until staff took a close look at scans and x-rays. She said: "They said they had never seen so many fractures on somebody." Although she returned to work a few days later, Samantha was in pain for a month afterwards and still has problems with her knee and shoulder. It was not until after police told her about the CCTV that she learned about the driver turning back and driving around her. Samantha said: "When I watched it I was shocked and actually thought 'thank goodness I hadn't been a second or two earlier'. "My bike's front wheel looked like a taco – it had literally folded in half. "If it had been an older person, that could have killed them. "Inside it enrages me that someone could have such disregard for another human being. "If you do know that person, if nothing
happens and they aren't held accountable, will they do that to somebody else? "If somebody does know who it is, this is just about doing the right thing and putting a stop to someone else being in that situation." Samantha has just had her bike back from being repaired and was planning her first ride as the Voice went to print. She said: "You do have moments when you think 'is it worth it?' but if you don't get back on and get on with it, you'll never do it. "I don't want it to get the better of me." The police appeal including video of the collision can be viewed by searching for 'Speedwell collision on the police website, avonandsomerset.police.uk. Police have called on anyone with information to call 101 and quote the incident reference number 5220 266 271.
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n NEWS
Harry Potter and the magic of storytelling CHILDREN at Begbrook Primary Academy transformed into wizards and witches as they studied Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The two-week project for Year 5 pupils brought children studying at home together with those still attending, studying together using live video lessons and YouTube videos. Each child was given a copy of the book at the start of term and as well as reading it they used it to inspire their own writing, describing passages and characters from the book and images from the film. The project finished for the halfterm holidays with a Harry Potter Day where all the children – and teachers Rachel Harris, Megan Ridgers and Roxy Badman – dressed up in costume for live lessons, including a quiz, riddles, secret codes, and a PE lesson casting spells. Year 5 lead Miss Harris said: "We even had some homemade wands!" Children were placed into teams named after the Hogwarts houses in the book, with Slytherin winning the "house cup" at the end of the day.
Year 5 pupils at Begbrook Primary Academy dressed up to enjoy their Harry Potter day
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March, 2021
n PETER'S VISION
Myopia matters myopia! Now I’ve not changed prescription since my mid teens, which as a 70s child does mean I have a superb collection of 1980s glasses - think big brown plastic (thanks Dad for that!) that I can still wear. Great for the retro look, or even the odd fancy dress party, but nothing I can wear to work under any circumstances! Seriously though, increasing myopia does matter. The risk of eye health problems increases if your myopia developes past a certain point. The exact dioptric value of the myopia is not as much of a concern as the growth and thinning of the key part of the eye, the retina. In the past there was not thought to be much that can be done about myopia development. The good news is that we now have more options to offer you than ever before. I’ve talked before about Ortho-K, the overnight vision correction, as well as daily disposable contact lenses that
ANOTHER month of lockdown goes by, and with the vaccine rollout gathering pace I can sense a feeling of hope in the air. Of course I think the usual signs of spring help us too! Whether it’s the new shoots from the bulbs, the warmth in the air or the lighter days I think taking time to appreciate the little things can make such a difference to us all. One thing that we’ve been aware of for many years, and is perhaps gaining traction as more treatment options are becoming available, is myopia. Now for those of you who haven’t swallowed an Optometry encyclopedia, myopia is short sight in everyday language. Those of us who are short sighted need glasses or contacts to see in the distance, which for example can be watching TV or driving. I really should add a note for parents here; just because your child can see an aeroplane in the sky or an animal in a field doesn’t mean that they don’t have a degree of
can help slow down myopia. The exciting news, drum roll please… is that we now have a glasses lens option too. This really is quite exciting news for our younger patients who decided against contact lens wear, and previously had no clear option to help slow their myopia progression. If you’d like to know more about this for yourself or those you love just visit our website and click the Myopia tab. We’ve a dedicated email address on the website you’re welcome to use to contact us if you have any concerns or questions about myopia. Don’t forget, whether you’re myopic or not, we’re still here when you need us six days per week. For eye care, advice, glasses and contact lenses just get in touch and we’ll be happy to see how we can help you. Times are tough for many of us, and as a thank you for choosing us for your eye care we’re continuing to offer to help
you in return with a glasses voucher with your extended eye exam. Just ask about our ‘look in to help out’ offer. To help us keep you all safe, we’re still asking you all to telephone first to book a time to come in. Please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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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n NEWS
Park volunteers fear being frozen out VOLUNTEERS working to improve Eastville Park fear they could be frozen out of the base they have been raising money to transform, under a shake-up of Bristol's parks. The Friends of Eastville Park want to make the Nissen hut, next to the park's bowling green, a community hub and home for a revamped bowls club. But the park is now part of the Bristol Future Parks Accelerator scheme, under which "expressions of interest from individuals, communities and business" will be sought to run facilities in the park from May. Before that a public engagement process to define a "spirit of place" for the park, to help inform any decision, will be held. Through years of fundraising events, including a pop-up cafe and Santa's grotto, and grant applications, the Friends are close to being able to fund a £70,000 renovation project for
the Nissen hut. The bowls club is also ready to play fixtures when restrictions allow. But Friends chair Sarah West fears the organisation could now be "elbowed out" by an application from a commercial venture under Future Parks. The Friends are calling on people who use the park to make their voices heard. Sarah said: "We have successfully applied for funds to renovate the Nissen hut, but now everything is on hold until the Future Parks bidding is complete, a process that could see us lose the site to another bidder with an alternative vision. "The aim of the Friends of Eastville Park has always been to be an empowering voice for local park users, either being a voice of accountability or finding ways to collaborate for the good of the park. Now the voices of local people need to be louder than ever.
"Any developments in the park must be what local people want, need, are willing to support, and most of all fit the spirit of Eastville. "We need your help here, to consider what you love about Eastville Park and share it with us in our ongoing surveys, and by writing to your councillor candidate and requesting their support to guide the Future Parks process in Bristol to hear the voices of local communities." The city council was awarded £900,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the National Trust in 2019 to transform how green spaces are used and managed. A recent report to city councillors said expressions of interest were expected from businesses but also from communities looking to take on a building through a community asset transfer. Council head of service for natural and marine environment
Sarah West Jon James told the communities scrutiny commission last month that different criteria would be set out for different parks to ensure whatever was suggested was “fit for purpose”. The Parkie: Page 26
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March, 2021
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n NEWS
Death toll tops 180
Over 40,000 people take tests
MORE than 180 Bristol residents have died with Covid-19 since the start of the year. Figures from the Office for National Statistics show a total of 181 residents who had recently been diagnosed with the virus died – 113 of them in hospital, 56 in care homes, ten in their own homes and two in other institutions – between January 1 and February 12. The number for the first six weeks of 2021 is almost half the total of 392 deaths with Covid-19 in the city during the whole of 2020. Deaths peaked during the week to January 29, when 44 people died – 27 in hospital, 15 in care homes and two at home. Rates of coronavirus infection have been falling through February. During the week to February 22 – the most recent for which figures were available as the Voice went to print – there were 471 cases recorded in Bristol, a case rate of 101.6 per 100,000 people. That was down from 1,882 five weeks previously, when the case rate stood at 406.1 per 100,000. Office for National Statistics data showed 12 cases confirmed during the seven days to February 22 in Fishponds North, which includes Oldbury Court, Manor Road and Fishponds Road between Downend Road and Lodge Causeway – up from 4 the previous week but down from 65 on January 18. Five cases were recorded in Fishponds South, which includes Hillfields, in the week to February 22 – down from 29 five weeks earlier. In Eastville, including Fishponds Road west of Lodge Causeway, eight cases were confirmed during the week to February 22, down from 43 five weeks earlier, and in Speedwell, including Mayfield Park, 10 cases was down from 45 on January 18. The 4 cases in Stapleton were down from 26 in mid-January.
MORE than 40,000 people took Covid-19 tests during two weeks of 'community surge testing' to detect a new variant of the virus. People with no symptoms of coronavirus in Fishponds, Stapleton, Frenchay, Speedwell and Eastville were among those who attended mobile testing units or collected home self-testing kits after the mutation was detected in the area. The programme was restricted to people living or working in 24 specific postcode areas, including BS16 1, 2, 3 and 5, and BS5 6 and 7. It was launched by the NHS to trace the VOC-202102/02 variant of the virus, first detected in the UK in December and designated a "variant of concern", because some scientists think it could spread more easily and be more resistant to vaccines. All positive cases found during the surge testing programme were sent for further tests to establish whether they involved the new variant. The numbers found had not been established as the Voice went to print, but around one per cent of tests overall were positive for some form of Covid-19. Mobile testing units were set up at sites including the council testing centre near Cabot Circus, Bristol & Bath Science Park in Emersons Green and Shaftesbury Park in Frenchay, while Fishponds Library and Junction 3 Library in Easton were opened to 'collect and drop' home testing kits during the programme, which ran from February 7 to 21. Bristol director for public health Christina Gray said the campaign was "an incredible display of hard work and community spirit", adding: “The information will help add to the science which is responsible for helping us stay ahead of the virus and to save lives." Anyone who has symptoms of Covid-19 can call 119 to arrange a test.
A Special Happy Easter this year after what has been a challenging year We will be open Easter day and if you are interested in any of our service times or events please like and follow our facebook pages
Blessings from all the East Bristol Partnership Churches East Bristol Partnership www.ebpbristol.wordpress.com All Saints Church, Fishponds www.allsaintsfishponds.co.uk St Aidan’s Church, St George www.staidansbristol.co.uk St John’s Church, Fishponds www.stjohnsfishponds.com St Mary’s Church, Fishponds www.stmarysfishponds.org.uk St Michael’s Church, Kingswood www.stmichaelstwomilehill.wordpress.com St Ambrose and St Leonards, Whitehall www.ebpbristol.wordpress.com
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March, 2021
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n NEWS
Ethnic minorities urged to have jabs
DOCTORS and community leaders in Eastville and nearby areas are working together to ensure everyone who is eligible for a Covid-19 vaccination has it. A campaign is under way to share information and increase confidence, amid concerns some people were "hesitant" about having a jab. From this month the NHS will add some community centres to the list of venues where vaccinations are offered, to make them easier to access. An online Covid-19 vaccine "webinar", aimed to dispel common myths and misconceptions around the jab, was held by the city council’s Race Equality Covid-19 steering group to increase confidence, particularly among people from black, Asian and other minority ethnic backgrounds. It was attended by more than 500 people and included an expert panel of healthcare professionals, answering hundreds of questions. The clinical lead for the NHS vaccination programme in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, Dr Tim Whittlestone, said: "There is clear evidence that Covid-19 does not affect all population groups equally. Statistics in England show more people from
Bishop Raymond Veira from the House of Praise church receives his Covid-19 jab black, Asian and minority ethnic groups are dying from coronavirus than those from white ethnic groups. "We also believe that some groups may feel more hesitant about getting vaccinated, deterring them from getting one when it is offered. "We are working closely with faith-led groups, charities, voluntary organisations and community groups to share accurate information, better understand any barriers to vaccinations, and to help build trust. “By working closely with those who know their communities the best, we hope to ensure as many people as possible feel able to
make a well-informed decision about getting vaccinated in future.” Bishop Raymond Veira from the House of Praise in Easton was recently vaccinated at East Trees Health Centre in Eastville and said he hoped to set an example. He said: "I have decided to get the vaccine for my own health reasons but also for my family and for my community. "I understand people’s concerns and we should not ignore these but embrace them – I had concerns of my own. It is important to make an informed decision, to educate ourselves by asking questions and reading." Deputy mayor Asher Craig said while the online event was open to everyone in the city, about 40 per cent of those who registered were from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. She added: "I know that trust and confidence in the vaccine is key. "I would urge people to ask medical professionals the questions you want the answers to so you know you’re receiving the correct information and then you can make your own mind up." For more information, visit bnssghealthiertogether.org.uk/covid-19mass-vaccination online.
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March, 2021
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High hopes of skating up Everest (Road) A FISHPONDS resident is roller skating up Everest – Everest Road, that is – to raise money to help children play. Paula Brown took on the challenge partly to keep her fit during lockdown but also to raise money to help teenagers take part in sports activities. Paula, who works as a play therapist, was aiming to complete 97 skates up the hill from the river Frome to Everest Road, which she has worked out represents the difference in altitude between Everest Base camp and the summit. She said: "I'm getting lots of encouragement from local people, especially kids! "It gets me out in the fresh air and keeps me fit. "It's really hard, as I haven't skated since I was young, and skating uphill over leaves and twigs is hard, though also lots of fun. I feel like I'm 13." Paula is raising money for St Paul's Adventure Playground to provide sports activity packs to local teenagers, including equipment and instructions. Paula said: "We know that many children and young people are suffering due to the
restrictions on their ability to play and exercise freely outdoors and these packs go some way towards responding to these
issues." To donate to the cause visit apeproject. enthuse.com/donate#!/ online.
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March, 2021
12
n NEWS STAPLETON residents are calling for the city council to take action to stop homes in their neighbourhood being converted into multi-occupant houses. They say houses in the area are being illegally used as HMOs - houses split into at least three separate bedsits - and say commercial vehicles connected to them are clogging roads and blocking pavements. A resident posted pictures of the vans on the council's 'Fix My Street' page and said at least ten were connected to a single house in Begbrook Lane, which was being used as an HMO without permission. The resident, who posted anonymously, said vehicles were being parked near the school, making it hazardous for children and parents, adding: "It’s starkly obvious that a business is being operated here." A resident who contacted the Voice, and asked not to be named, said: "The character of the area has been changed and a lot of residents are very concerned." As the Voice went to print,
Residents fear homes are being turned into hostels Tail-lift vans lined up in Begbrook Lane, Stapleton 41 people had written to the council to object to plans to convert a semi-detached house in nearby Dryleaze Road into eight-bedroom HMO, which one resident said would "effectively turn it into a hostel". The application is being brought by Brighton-based student accommodation provider Rivers Birtwell, which has a history of buying homes and turning them into HMOs. Agents Lewis & Co said the application would cause "no
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cumulative adverse impact" to the area and said less than 10% of properties within a 100m radius were already HMOs. They said: "The house is well-suited to HMO use, making it unlikely that the proposal will harm neighbouring amenity." But another resident said the number of homes being used as HMOs was under-reported and raised concerns that only one offstreet parking space was being provided for eight occupants. The resident said: "Dryleaze Road is already overcrowded with on-street parking. "It can already be hazardous driving up the road, with cars double-parked leaving only a car's width between them, and I worry about the ability of a fire engine to get up the road in an emergency." Frome Vale ward councillor
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Lesley Alexander said two HMOs in Begbrook Lane were now facing enforcement action, with the parking situation being looked into by the highways department. She said HMOs with fewer than six occupants did not need planning permission, and Stapleton was not an area the council had targeted for licensing of smaller HMOs, but she believed personally that all HMOs should be licensed. Cllr Alexander said people could register complaints at planning.enforcement@bristol. gov.uk. Eight residents have also objected to plans to convert a house in Forest Road, Fishponds, into a four-bed HMO, while in Huyton Road an application has been made to extend a six-bed HMO to accommodate eight. .
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
13
n NEWS
Campaigners save former pub from demolition SUPERMARKET giant Morrisons has been refused permission to knock down historic former pub the Farriers Arms. The company owns the building, which is next to the supermarket at the corner of Fishponds Road and Hockeys Lane, and has been empty for more than 10 years. It wanted to replace it with an open area described as a "public realm", with seating, and also wanted to change the nearby road junction to reinstate left turns from Fishponds Road into Hockeys Lane. But Bristol City Council has refused Morrisons' application, saying it would "result in unjustified substantial harm to a
non-designated heritage asset". The council also said reinstating left turns at Hockeys Lane would "result in a significant detrimental impact on pedestrian and vehicle safety" The Farriers Arms stands on the site of a forge believed to have been established around 300 years ago. It became a pub during the 20th century. But Morrisons told the council it "detracts from the character and appearance of the area" and was subject to crime and anti-social behaviour. The company argued that the building was "of low significance" due to its poor
state of repair and "extensive" changes made in the last 100 years. The council received 25 letters from the public – ten in support, 11 objections and four "neutral" comments. Resident and historian Mike Jempson said: "I'm glad it's been refused because it's an historic building and we have precious few of those around here. "It would be nice to think that Morrisons might approach community organisations about the future but we've heard nothing so far." The Voice has asked Morrisons for a comment on the future of the site.
Farriers Arms John Penny of Fishponds Local History Society looks at the history of the Farriers Arms and former owners the Daws family
The Farriers Arms in 1973. Picture courtesy of John Penny
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WHAT is now a busy corner of Fishponds Road was open land when the earliest detailed map of the area was drawn up in 1781. An auction in 1818 at the Full Moon Inn first recorded a blacksmith working on the site, at one of three tenements leased by the Duchess Dowager of Beaufort. An 1839 survey map showed for the first time buildings on the corner of Fishponds Road and Hockey’s Lane, with an accompanying book listing a smith’s shop rented by William Daws. Born in Stapleton about 1790, William had married local girl Mary Offer in 1822, and the 1851 census recorded him as a “horse doctor and smith”. William had bought the plot by the time he died in 1860, leaving it to his son, who continued as the local blacksmith, with his mother Mary looking after the financial side. William junior, who was unmarried, died in 1863, followed by his mother the following year. The business then passed to George Allsop Daws who, like his uncle and grandfather, continued to work as a blacksmith but, with his wife Caroline, first started to sell beer from 1867. The first record of the Farriers’ Arms name is in newspaper reports of a court case involving a sailor "charged with breaking and entering... with intent to commit a felony"; Caroline had seen four strange men come into the pub and later found one of them hiding under her bed. Censuses up to 1901 recorded George as both a farrier and brewer, but by 1911 he described himself only as a “trade licensed victualler.” He died in July that year, aged 73, and Caroline ran the pub until August 1925, when she sold it to the Bristol brewery, Georges & Co. She moved to family-owned Clay Farm in Forest Road, where in 1938 she died, aged 91. From 1925 the Farriers Arms was a tied house. The first tenant was Frank Langley, who had served in the Labour Corps during the First World War, and was discharged disabled with malaria. He ran at the pub until he retired, aged 67, in 1943, after which a series of tenants ran it until it finally closed in October 2010. In 1949 the adjoining smithy was rented by an organ builder, before being used for car sales and repairs by Grove Garage in the early 1970s, then by Fishponds Motors, prior to demolition for the widening of Hockey’s Lane. George and Caroline Daws' children continued to live in Forest Road. All unmarried, the last to pass away was Holly, who lived alone at Clay Farm for decades before she died in Downend, aged 100, in 1990. The old farmhouse was eventually demolished and new houses, including Daws Court, were built on the site.
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fishpondsvoice
14
March, 2021
n NEWS
'Nasty' attack on man,18 Woman dumped used A TEENAGER was punched and kicked by muggers who attacked him as he visited a nature reserve between Fishponds and Speedwell. The 18-year-old man was walking in woods at Coombe Brook Nature Reserve, between Holly Lodge Road and Moorlands Road, when he was assaulted by two other teenagers, who grabbed his collar. One punched him to the ground, where he was then kicked by the other attacker. The muggers took a pair of headphones from their victim and ran off after the incident, which happened between 12.45pm and 1.15pm on February 3. Police are calling on anyone who thinks they saw something that could help their investigation, has CCTV footage or recognises the descriptions of the muggers to come forward. Both were described as being in their late teens and Asian.
One was about 5ft 9in tall and of average build, with black bushy eyebrows, dark eyes and black medium-length hair. He was wearing a thin black coat with the hood up, black jogging bottoms and black trainers, with a light blue snoodtype face covering and a silver bangle on his right wrist. The other was about 5ft 10in tall and slim, with long black hair. He was wearing a blue face mask, a thicker black coat, black jogging bottoms and black Nike Air Max 720 trainers. PC Luke Bainbridge said: “This was a nasty attack. Fortunately the victim’s injuries were minor and he did not require hospital treatment." Anyone who can help the police enquiry should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5221 024 223. Information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
nappies in country lane A FISHPONDS woman who dumped used nappies and other household waste in a country lane has been ordered to pay more than £200 in fines and costs. Bin bags containing the waste were found in a gateway on Trench Lane, near Winterbourne, in March last year. The rubbish included paperwork which identified Aniela Popescu and her home address in Kimberley Road. South Gloucestershire Council’s environmental enforcement team visited the 31-year-old woman and she was interviewed under caution, admitting that she had "an excess of household waste" and had dumped it on her way to work. The council said Popescu told officers she had left the rubbish in a gateway "where she had regularly seen waste left after a local car boot sale had taken place". She pleaded guilty to the illegal disposal of waste and was fined £80, along with £100 in costs and a victim surcharge of £34 – a total of £214 – when she appeared at Bristol Magistrates Court in January. After the case, South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said: “There really is no excuse for this type of behaviour. "Fly-tipping is a blight on our countryside, has a negative impact on our communities and local environment, and we all have a responsibility to make sure that our waste is disposed of in the appropriate manner."
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fishpondsvoice
16
March, 2021
n NEWS
Inspectors investigate hospital safety concerns A MEDIUM secure mental health hospital in Fishponds has been deemed safe by inspectors, who made a surprise visit after receiving safety concerns. But the Care Quality Commission report into Fromeside – which cares for people who have a criminal history or behaviour that means they cannot be treated by mainstream services – also found issues with unfilled vacancies, poor communication between medical and nursing staff and care plans. The report into the 81-bed unit at Blackberry Hill Hospital, run by Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, February 10), was launched because the CQC received “information that gave us some cause for concerns about the safety and quality of the services”. These related to how patients’ rights were being respected and whether the service had suitably-qualified staff who could consistently deliver the specialist care and treatment needed, the report said. “We also had reports that the environment was not adequate for all patients, whose care, at times, had to be delivered away from the wards, in seclusion or long-term segregation, due to a number of risks,” it said. The report said Fromeside provided safe
Fromeside at Blackberry Hill Hospital care and its staff managed risks well. Inspectors found care plans were developed following a comprehensive assessment and patients were given a range of treatments suitable to their needs. But they said teams from different specialisms did not always work well together and vacancies for permanent staff meant levels were maintained by bank and agency workers, although recruitment was in progress. Some care plans “lacked guidance" on how staff should meet patients’ needs, but the report said managers had put action plans in place to improve procedures. Inspectors said some records, including
mental capacity assessments and details of whether patients detained under the Mental Health Act had been regularly told their rights, were not always kept in care files, along with some reports made following "incidents" at the unit. The inspection of five medium secure wards in December focused only on whether the service was safe and effective, so did not affect the unit's overall “good” rating. The trust as whole is deemed to “require improvement” by the CQC. AWP director of nursing and quality Julie Kerry said: "Our primary focus is always to provide high quality care to our patients, so for this to be recognised by CQC inspectors is good news for the people we care for, their families and carers, as well as our staff working across AWP. "We recognise we still have work to do and we have plans in place to address the points raised by the CQC, so that we can continue to further improve our care planning and delivery." She thanked staff for “their hard work and commitment" during a "challenging 12 months" for everyone in the NHS. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
17
n NEWS A NURSE from Fishponds is selling homemade soaps to raise money for hospital charity Above & Beyond. Alexandra Jenkins has worked at the Bristol Heart Institute for two years and has seen the benefits funding from the NHS charity bring to the hospital. As well as working in the NHS, Alex has personal connections to Bristol's city centre hospitals. Her husband Carl has had multiple heart operations and procedures through his life, first at the children's hospital and later at the BHI. Alex said: “The care he received at the BHI was part of the reason I chose to apply for a job there many years later." Alex's dad was treated at Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, both as an outpatient and an inpatient, after being diagnosed with cancer at 55. She said: “His care was also second to none. He sadly moved to palliative care and the staff at BHOC helped to get him home
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the biggest supporter of my fundraiser. "I started making soaps as a lockdown boredom activity and I had some interest from friends and family asking to buy them. “It’s a safe hobby I can do at home and I have some experience with other similar things, such as making scrubs and bath salts. “It’s very therapeutic, especially since it involves essential oils which I personally find very helpful for my mental well-being. I also enjoy the creative aspect of thinking of recipes and blends, and love using dried flowers to make interesting effects in the
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soap." Above & Beyond is the official charity for University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust and raises money for projects the NHS cannot fund, from equipment and research to comforts on wards. Spokesperson Natalie Millbank said: “As a member of NHS staff, Alex knows first-hand the difference donations make, so it’s great to have her join our fundraising efforts." Soaps are available in return for a voluntary donation. To buy a soap, email Alex on alexandrajsmith@hotmail.co.uk. To donate visit justgiving. com/fundraising/soapynurse. More information about Above & Beyond can be found at www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk.
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March, 2021
18
n NEWS
Council tax bills rise by more than £100 BRISTOL'S average council tax bill will go up by more than £100 from next month, after the city council set its budget for the year. The total bill for a median Band D taxpayer, once police and fire charges are added, will rise from £2,061.03 to £2,163.65 from April, a rise of just under 5%. The city council's share of the bill is up by £87.74 or 4.99%, the maximum allowed without a local referendum. This is broken down into 1.99% to cover general council services and another 3% to pay for spiralling costs of adult social care. Band D taxpayers will pay the police £241.20 in 2021/22, up £13.39 or 5.88 % on last year's bill. Avon Fire Authority's charge of £76.43 is £1.49 or 1.99% up on last year. The city council's budget was passed at a four-and-a-half hour council meeting in February. While voting was mainly on party lines, one Fishponds Labour councillor rebelled to vote against it. Nicola Bowden-Jones, who represents the Frome Vale ward, attacked her colleagues for deciding to freeze council rents. Cllr Bowden-Jones, who was Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for Kingswood in the 2019 general election, seconded a Green budget amendment to reverse that decision and impose a 1.5 per cent rise, equal to £1.22 a week. She said: “This council rent freeze is nothing to do with coronavirus or helping people on
low incomes, let’s be honest. “We are happy to put up council tax for the same people by five per cent, yet apparently a 1.5 per cent rent rise is too much for people to take, even though the benefits system for both is the same.” Cllr Bowden-Jones said not increasing rent restricted the council's ability "to repair, regenerate, retrofit and build houses". She then singled out cabinet members for criticism, and said some of her colleagues “have been told they will not be able to stand in the May elections if they vote to save our council housing". Cabinet councillor for finance Craig Cheney, who represents Hillfields, said Cllr BowdenJones's speech had contained "various untruths and some unfair slurs" on her colleagues. He said: "For us this has been a very difficult judgement to make and it has been based absolutely and entirely on what we think is morally the right thing to do." He said a rent rise would represent “taking a meal away from people", adding: "I find that very difficult in the pandemic to countenance." Mayor Marvin Rees said setting the last budget before May’s local elections would involve "the usual council bunfights” between parties but that they should be concentrating instead on crises facing the city, such as Covid-19 and the climate emergency. But Conservative group leader Mark Weston said the Tories
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had “deep concerns” about the mayor’s budget and that it was their job to hold him to account. He said: “Somehow trying to imply that holding you to account and scrutinising your actions is wrong, undemocratic and might actually endanger lives due to the pandemic is just lunacy.” Liberal Democrat group leader Gary Hopkins said Mr Rees had failed to deliver on his pledge to build 2,000 homes a year, 800 of them affordable, by 2020. He said that before the directly elected mayoral system was introduced in Bristol in 2012, the council enjoyed productive partnerships with all other West of England authorities on regional transport issues but that “now we have a war with neighbours and isolationism”. Cllr Hopkins said: “We had funded and opened new swimming pools and sports facilities – now we have a closure agenda.” Green group leader Cllr Eleanor Combley said she was not “violently opposed” to the mayor’s budget but could not vote for it because it was “lacking
Nicola Bowden-Jones and Craig Cheney in ambition and vision”. She said: “After five years pushing for action, we cannot afford to keep kicking the can down the road on the climate emergency and hoping big companies will step in to save us. “We cannot afford to miss out on millions of pounds for new council housing and we cannot afford to keep neglecting our parks and local neighbourhoods or throw millions at big developments without proper scrutiny of where the money is going.” All six opposition budget amendments were voted down. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
What you will pay in 2021/22 CITY BAND COUNCIL POLICE A £1,230.68 £160.80 B £1,435.79 £187.60 C £1,640.90 £214.40 D £1,846.02 £241.20 E £2,256.24 £294.80 F £2,666.47 £348.40 G £3,076.70 £402.00 H £3,692.04 £482.40
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n FUNDING for 70 new Avon and Somerset police officers has been approved, only after a row between police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens and councillors. The commissioner had wanted to raise bills for Band D taxpayers by £15 from April. But members of the police and crime panel vetoed the 6.6% rise, saying it was too much for families struggling with the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the end the panel accepted a £13.39, with the gap plugged using £1 million of reserves which had been earmarked for the PCC's fund. Ms Mountstevens said the use of reserves was "unsustainable" and that crime victims would lose out. But panel member and B&NES councillor Andy Wait said the financial position of local authorities was "far worse than the police". By Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
19
n NEWS
Helping the homeless inspires Chadayne to write WHEN Chadayne Smith saw a homeless man in Eastville Park he was inspired – both to help him and to write about it, too. The seven-year-old, from Clay Bottom, first saw the man as he walked to school. He asked mum Simone Williams if they could help him, and Chadayne turned the story of one of their trips to take the man food into a poem. His poem, written as part of lockdown lessons, earned Chadayne a merit from his teachers at Colston's School, and he wrote to the Fishponds Voice to share it with readers. Chadayne says poetry is his favourite subject at school, although when he grows up he wants to be a professional footballer – he currently plays for Bristol team 4TheFuture – or start his own business. Simone said learning at home had its problems but her children had good support from school and had been given laptops to work on by a church and a foodbank. Chadayne's confidence has "boomed" thanks to his writing. Simone said: "The school has worked really collaboratively to support and nurture his confidence."
The Homeless Treat: I didn't get to see my friends today I did lots of maths today instead I guess it's better than staying in bed But hurray! I did a good thing On our way me and my sister sing The Three Little Frog song We were going to take the homeless man treats He got some healthy food to eat After, we gave him some money to buy some treats Maybe some sweets! Then we walked back home on our feet We took the back street So the police man can't see
She said the poem told the story of Chadayne's journey, right down to his wanting to avoid the police on the way home, because he was worried about being fined for going out during the pandemic.
When we got home we washed our hands so they are clean And that's the end of the homeless treat.
Battle to find NHS dentist PEOPLE in the Fishponds area are finding it "almost impossible" to get an NHS dentist. Independent patients' champion Healthwatch Bristol says dental treatment on the NHS is now "out of reach" and private treatments unaffordable for many, with up to £1,000 charged for some procedures. There are more than 50 Bristol dental practices listed on the NHS website, but Healthwatch says only one group currently says it can accept new NHS patients - with a wait of at least six months. Healthwatch Bristol has had more than 130 people report struggling to get treatment and facing months of pain as a result. It says that of nine dentists surveyed in the BS5 and BS16 postcode areas, two were only accepting children, three had no vacancies at all and four had not updated their status on the NHS
website for three months. One patient told Healthwatch: "The health of my teeth and gums are suffering and I am struggling to find a dentist who will take on new NHS patients. I live in BS5 and I have also tried dentists in BS16, BS7 and BS15." A spokesperson for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said that since dentists had reopened after the first Covid-19 lockdown, infection control measures and social distancing rules had affected their ability to see and treat patients. She added: “We apologise to anyone who has been unable to access the dental treatment they need in a timely way. “Many practices are currently prioritising patients based on clinical need while they remobilise their overall routine capacity as the pandemic continues."
To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261 To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261
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fishpondsvoice
20
March, 2021
n NEWS
We won't all have to pay £9 a day SOME drivers of polluting cars will be able to apply for a oneyear exemption to Bristol's new Clean Air Zone charges, while others will not have to pay at all. Bristol City Council must have a CAZ in place by October 29 and earlier this year confirmed that tens of thousands of motorists driving polluting private cars, taxis and vans would be charged £9 a day to enter the zone in the city centre. Larger vehicles such as buses and lorries emitting unacceptably high levels of pollutants will be charged £100 a day. Charges will only apply to diesel vehicles that are Euro 5 standard and below, mainly built before 2015, and to petrol
vehicles that are Euro 3 and below, built before 2007. City mayor Marvin Rees said there would be a number of exemptions and mitigations to protect certain groups. People who live within the CAZ area and Bristol-based blue badge holders will be able to apply for a one-year exemption before they have to start paying a fee. People on low incomes will also be able to apply for a oneyear exemption if they have to drive in and out of the zone to get to work. This group – individuals earning less than £24,000 a year and no more than £12.45 per hour – will also be prioritised for financial support packages under
the proposals. The council is also proposing exemptions for people who have to go to hospital for admissions and appointments or to visit loved ones regularly. Mr Rees said: “We’re looking at a scheme with hospitals for families that have to be frequent visitors to loved ones, particularly children, for example, in hospital.” Most of the exemptions are for one year, to allow time for people to upgrade to cleaner vehicles and take advantage of financial support and scrappage schemes. Emergency service vehicles, disabled passenger vehicles, motorbikes and classic cars are
automatically exempt under rules set out by the Government. The council has estimated that, if traffic returns to preCovid levels, about 74,700 out of 258,000 vehicles entering Bristol’s CAZ each day would be charged when the zone goes live. It estimates around 27 per cent of private cars are not compliant with emission standards and will attract a clean air charge. Mr Rees said: “We don’t want the burden falling disproportionately on people who are most vulnerable and we don’t want to undermine jobs within the city." By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Elections will go ahead in May ONE-way polling stations, postal and proxy voting will be used to ensure May’s local elections are “safe and fair”, Bristol’s Mayor has said. The government announced last month that voting will go ahead, following speculation that the Covid-19 would delay scheduled elections for a second year running. It means that Bristol's mayoral and council elections, and the metro mayor and police and crime commissioner elections delayed from last year, will be staged on May 6. Cabinet Office plans for keeping voters safe include fitting polling stations with
screens and hand sanitiser. Voters will have to wear masks and will be encouraged to bring their own pen or pencil to fill in the ballot. The Government is also introducing emergency proxy voting legislation to allow those who have to isolate or shield to nominate a proxy as late as 5pm on polling day. Marvin Rees, who is standing for re-election, said people could register to vote either on the council or Gov.uk website. The Conservatives have announced their candidate for the role of Bristol Mayor. Alastair Watson, a former ward councillor for Westbury-
L
on-Trym and Lord Mayor in 2014/15, has been chosen by the Tories to replace Samuel Williams, who switched to become his party's candidate for the Metro Mayor role after the current incumbent, Tim Bowles, announced he would not seek re-election. Mr Watson, a businessman who held the education portfolio in previous mayor George Ferguson's cross-party cabinet, said he wanted to focus on "improving transport links in and around the city, increasing the number of affordable homes and achieving ambitious environment improvements".
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He said he had vehemently opposed the creation of Bristol Energy while on the council and said the current mayor's "dithering" to limit losses from the venture had "cost the city dear". The Lib Dems unveiled Caroline Gooch as their new candidate in January, replacing Mary Page, while Green candidate Sandy Hore-Ruthven launched his campaign in earnest at the end of February, calling the Greens "the only serious alternative" to Labour at the election. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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February 2021 March, 2021
15 21
n WILL & PROBATE ADVICE
Staying open at Kings Chase, Kingswood LOCAL Wills experts Simpson Solicitors remain OPEN in the Kings Chase shopping centre in Kingswood (opposite Costa Coffee) during the lockdown to help readers of Kingswood, Downend and Fishponds Voice. The Government have identified the importance of having up to date Wills and Powers of Attorney in place during the COVID pandemic. The team at Simpson Solicitors have again been designated as key workers. So please support this local service and “Shop Local”. Solicitor, John Baden-Daintree says “If you became seriously ill or died, having Powers of Attorney and a Will in place is the only way you can make sure your wishes are followed. Not having them in place can cause great difficulty to your family.”
To find how they can help you or members of your family, just telephone 0117 960 8594 or pop into Simpson Solicitors to arrange a FREE Review Meeting with a friendly advisor. They will take as long as you need to guide you. They provide a COVID safe environment and you can choose your preferred way to get the ball rolling: ● Telephone Meeting ● Zoom Video Meeting (they can help you set this up)
● In person at your home ● In person at their offices If you then go ahead our readers will be offered 20% OFF their already competitive charges. Their No Hidden Costs service includes amendments and a supported Signing Meeting as well as free storage of your documents. This local, award winning service is designed to give you the peace of mind that everything has been prepared properly and is legally valid.
John and Michelle Baden-Daintree of Simpson Solicitors, Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Kingswood
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No one wants to leave behind a legal mess for their family to sort. Simpson Solicitors will give you peace of mind that your Wills & Powers of Attorney are properly prepared. Our friendly legal advisors are all fully trained, regulated and insured. Start with a free review meeting. Then we offer clear fixed prices with a promise of no hidden costs.
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fishpondsvoice
22
March, 2021
n MAYOR'S VIEW
Domestic abuse is everyone’s business DOMESTIC abuse and sexual violence affect the lives of too many people in our city. The majority of victims and survivors are women, but these are crimes which threaten people in all walks of life and from all backgrounds. They can also have lifelong effects on children who grow up witnessing it in their home. And in the most devastating cases, domestic abuse kills. That’s why we want to end it. One of my administration’s first acts was to give victims of domestic abuse priority for housing, to ensure survivors have somewhere safe and secure where they can recover. This month, we build on that commitment by welcoming over £1 million of government funding to help the council meet the requirements of the new Domestic Abuse Act. This funding coincides with the launch of a report from the Mayoral Commission on Domestic Abuse, which sets out the principles that we want to underpin our city’s response to abuse and sexual violence. The Commission was established last summer, when we convened a group of experts and support services from across the city to discuss the impact that Covid-19 restrictions would have on domestic abuse and sexual violence and on our ability – as a city – to support survivors. As well as responding to this challenge, we were clear that this was a call to action: to harness the energy and expertise in Bristol to improve our
response to domestic abuse and help keep people safe over the long-term. I invited Councillor Asher Craig (Cabinet Member for Equalities, Communities and Public Health) and Councillor Helen Godwin (Cabinet Member for Homes, Children and Families) to co-chair the commission. Over a series of workshops, they brought together local and national support services, charities and researchers to examine all aspects of our response to abuse. To support the principles put forward in the report, commissioners developed 35 recommendations covering issues ranging from developing accommodation options, to how we help people recover from abuse over their lifetime, through to how we can prevent abuse from occurring in the first place. One of the key principles that emerged from the commission’s work is the need to make sure that tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence is everybody’s business. That means we need the whole city to unite and feel confident in taking action when they witness or when someone discloses they are experiencing abuse. We need businesses, community organisations, public services, support services, neighbours, friends and families to join us in making it clear that Bristol is a Zero Tolerance City for domestic abuse and sexual violence. You can help by checking in on your friends and family: visit bristolsafeguarding.org/areyouok for more
The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Fishponds Voice information. Help is available for businesses from Hestia, who have been commissioned by the government to help employers shape their response to domestic abuse. We are asking all employers in the city to visit Hestia’s website to find out how you can help support employees who may be experiencing domestic abuse: www.hestia.org/pages/ category/everyones-business. By working together as One City, we can fulfil our ambition to eliminate domestic abuse and sexual violence in Bristol, and help survivors to build safety, recover, and to thrive.
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
23
n PLANNING MATTERS WITH CHRIS GOSLING
The walkable neighbourhood YOU can't have missed the fact that planners tend to fall into jargon, whether they love it, loathe it or seek to hide behind it. One of the latest buzzwords, or rather phrases, is the 'walkable neighbourhood'. It sounds like it should have been part of the planning vocabulary for ever, but I tried to track down the source and, as far as I can discover, it originated in the Manual for Streets, the 2010 version, which incidentally is about to be updated. The Manual for Streets, produced by the Department for Transport, is maybe not the first planning document that most planners reach for, but it has always been full of wise words which tend to become misapplied. For instance, the original document set out the idea that when encouraging the public to choose to walk, not just the distance, but also the experience of
the journey is an important factor. This makes perfect sense. Of the choices of approach into Fishponds, many people opt for the cycle path parallel to Fishponds Road rather than the road itself. This is even despite the road being more likely to take you closer to your destination. The concept of the walkable neighbourhood has been a topic during lockdown, as an aim of town planning. It came about through the necessity of leaving the car at home for shopping and the distance to the shops becoming a crucial measurement of the success or otherwise of neighbourhoods. This is particularly important with an ageing population and for those who already suffer from mobility difficulties. Manual for Streets suggests, under this heading, that "walkable neighbourhoods are characterised by having a range of facilities within 10 minutes' (up to 800m)
walking distance of residential areas, which residents may access comfortably by foot". It goes on to state that this is not an upper limit, but that it is unfortunately how it is often applied. Comfort and convenience disappear as the magic number takes over. The remedy for accessibility by foot is often a matter of retrofitting. When the facilities and the residential areas are already there, threading footpaths between them as an afterthought is a nightmare task. It is much more easily achieved at the outset in the planning of residential layouts. Even then, the classic case of where the layouts fail soon becomes evident. This evidence usually takes the form of mainly minor variations, known as desire lines. These are the routes that the users actually want to take from A to B and not the ones prescribed for them. They can usually be seen
across public land or private land that is open to the public: The grass or even plants have gone, suppressed by the path users taking the direct route. Have a look near where you live: I bet you will spot one. The unofficial accesses onto the cycle path are a prime example. They are an example that, wherever possible, the user is king and common sense will out. If walkable neighbourhoods are not designed that way, lockdown or not, pedestrians do what they can to make them so. Chrisgoslingplanning@gmail.com
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fishpondsvoice
24
March, 2021
n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
As the Bible says, do not be afraid
FEAR is an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, harm etc. Not all fears are based on reality and they can become phobias. Some of them are the false evidence of things appearing to be real, in which there’s no true threat of imminent physical danger, loss of someone or something dear to us, there is actually nothing there at all. There is a negative fear which is of Satan (the enemy) and it holds us in its grip. The positive fear enables us to escape real danger etc. The fear God gives is full of love, peace, grace and hope in the Holy Spirit through Jesus. Fear amplifies our senses and awareness. It keeps us alert and can help us be better prepared. It can give us sensible respect for obvious dangers, and keep us safe. But conversely if we let it take hold, it can paralyse us with abnormal fears of ‘what might happen’, of ‘the dark’, ‘of heights’,
etc. The Bible mentions 365 times that we should not fear. God evidently knows that the devil seeks to terrorise us constantly, so he reassures us on a daily basis that he is right there with us and for us; therefore there is no cause for us to fear. There are two main types of fear. There is 1. Innate fear: this type is universal, inborn, survival, identity fears. We can also get fearful at the growth in man’s phenomenal advancement in the world’s knowledge or technologies. 2. Love and connection fear: this class is related to love, awe and reverence, i.e. connection to a higher authority or power. (This power is of God.) Let’s look at this little illustration on how negative fear can become problematic to us. When the cloud wants to empty its fluid on the earth, it starts by turning or changing colour from
white to light grey, then darker, depending on how heavy the rain will be. Fear begins from the hearing of something or an imagination. It then spreads its wings, depending on the vessel upon which it sits. If the vessel (or person) becomes so anxious the fear will eventually grow more. Like heavy rain comes with strong winds that could cause destruction - e.g. mud-slides, floods, tornados, - so is fear. It can become a stronghold in the vessel, harbouring it, thereby causing depression, anxiety and other dangerous medical conditions, and can even lead to suicide. Friends, let us be assured that God is with us in every situation we face in life. In every turmoil and struggle, God is right there strengthening, helping and even holding us by the hands. Our God is greater; He gives us power to live courageously, boldly,
Rev Beatrice Anayo Stapleton Baptist Church
fearlessly in this life; when many things we are surrounded by tell us to be afraid, His truth whispers strong and sure to the deepest core of our spirit, encouraging us “Fear Not”. Deut 3:22.
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
25
n NEWS
MoD apprentice earns praise A FISHPONDS apprentice has been able to continue learning on the job – despite working from home. Samuel Maggs had already started working as a business administration apprentice with the Ministry of Defence's procurement arm at Abbey Wood and had already visited a shipyard in Scotland where a new Royal Navy ship, HMS Tamar, was being built when the first lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic kicked in last March. Since then 23-year-old Sam has been mostly working at home but says the Defence Equipment & Support organisation has helped him to feel part of the wider team, with regular online catch-ups with his fellow apprentices. He said: "Keeping tabs on people and making sure that everybody's mental health is as best as it can be in a difficult scenario is of real importance to everybody in the organisation."
The trust put in apprentices was rewarding for Sam when DE&S needed to set up an on-site hub for essential workers who could not do their work from home. Sam volunteered to help and was later commended for his work setting up the hub. He said: "Having only been there a couple of months, but to still be trusted to give that
support in the difficult scenario that we were in, and then to have that recognised with a commendation and an award afterwards, was really special." DE&S celebrated the work of the more than 400 apprentices it employs as part of National Apprenticeship Week in February. It has four apprenticeship schemes open in areas including engineering, finance and project management. Sam said: said. “The apprenticeship scheme provides a good alternative to those that don't want to do a degree, who want to go straight into the working world, that may not feel like they've got the qualifications or the experience to do so. “But, on the other end of the spectrum, we've got people in the cohort who are already established in a job and wanted a career change." For more information visit bit.ly/3qK9nVW.
Attack on police car POLICE are trying to trace whoever was responsible for slashing the tyres of a patrol car in a Fishponds street while an officer was visiting a crime victim. The marked car was parked in Cassell Road, between Downend Road and Staple Hill High Street, when the vandal attack took place between 4.15pm and 5.30pm on Saturday January 23. Two tyres were slashed as the officer took a statement from a victim of crime nearby. After examining CCTV and carrying out house-to-house enquiries, Avon and Somerset police have called on anyone who saw the damage being caused, or knows who did it, to call 101, quoting the crime reference number 5221 016 350.
Concerns over police powers
A GROUP is holding an online meeting about policing in Bristol under lockdown. Bristol Copwatch is bringing together activists and experts on policing to address issues including the use of stop and search, and new Covid-19 powers during the pandemic. The meeting was set to take place on March 6, 1-3pm, after Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services criticised forces, including Avon & Somerset, for their "unfair" use of stop of search powers. (Register at cop-watchers.org/events.) The HMICFRS said: "Police forces must explain the disproportionate use of police powers such as stop and search and use of force on Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people." Avon & Somerset police said in response: "Stop and search can play an important role in the detection and prevention of crime but we are mindful of the concerns of the communities we serve about the unfairness of disproportionate use of these powers."
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March, 2021
26
n PARKIE COLUMN
Spring is bursting out around us WE’RE well into 2021 now, with the unusually early buds of spring bursting out around us. With the worst of winter behind us and some wonderful warmer sunny days over the last couple of weeks, there is a great vibe about the place already. The park is now used to seeing throngs of visitors, especially on a weekend, enjoying relaxing walks along the river path or idling an hour away at the lake, watching the antics of our incredible variety of birdlife. Our latest visitors, a good number of Canadian geese, are a great attraction and are very eager to endear themselves as they join the swans and ducks keen for our Friends of Eastville Park bags of seed, which have helped us raise much-needed funds for the park. The cormorants are perched high, keeping a watchful eye on their next meal and providing great entertainment as they drop down to feed on an abundant supply of
Friends of
EASTVILLE PARK Kingfisher costume Picture by C Quinnell
fish in the lake. The kingfisher remains a firm favourite, with more and more people able to catch a glimpse but still an elusive prize for those who just never seem to be in the right place at the right time. The tribute picture printed here has, bizarrely, turned out to be our most-viewed item ever on the group page. We have several other costumes we plan to surprise park visitors with over the next few months. As difficult as 2020 has been for all of us, our group has been
able to stay busy throughout the year, and it’s a great testament to our volunteers and supporters that the newsletter from our secretary Chrissy Quinnell is crammed full of positive and encouraging activities that have kept our spirits high and given us hope for the year to come. Keep an eye out for some exciting announcements over the next few weeks. We're really pleased to welcome back the Tokyo World festival on September 18-19 and look forward to the glitter-adorned lovelies
being able to finally have some fun in the park once again. The festivals attract mixed feelings in the community but overall, because they are well-managed, safe and enjoyed by so many youngsters, the Friends continue to support them. Over the years, the donations we receive from festivals have significantly helped us to carry out much-needed work to many areas around the park. As early signs of a move towards some sort of normality fill us with enthusiasm for the rest of this year we hope that everyone gets the chance soon to do the things that bring them joy – including more visits to Eastville Park. The Parkie
Tributes to umpire TRIBUTES have been paid to a Fishponds man wellknown in church and cricketing circles. Philip Bush died in Bristol Royal Infirmary on December 28 after a sudden decline in his health, aged 73. His funeral took place at Fishponds Baptist Church on January 26. Always friendly and chatty, Philip was well known around Fishponds and at work in Bristol County Court, from which he retired in 2007. Latterly, he lived in Manor Road but had lived for 25 years in Marina Gardens, having moved there from Lodore Road. In his younger days Philip was a volunteer for Bristol Old People’s Welfare and a Youth Leader in the Congregational and United Reformed Churches. Later, he moved to Fishponds Baptist Church and also participated in mid-week services at Christ Church, Downend. Philip worked at Bristol County Court for 38 years. His great love was cricket. Although unable to play due to an injury early in his life, he found other ways to contribute and was involved in the Bristol Youth Cricket League for 40 years, including 30 years as league secretary and nine as a team manager. Philip was also a well-known umpire with the Bristol Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers, despite suffering from hay fever. Association general secretary Martin Brown said: "Phil was an extremely loyal and valued member of our association and was highly respected and revered as an umpire, colleague, and friend throughout his active membership." In whatever sphere he contributed, Philip was an organiser. He was a unique character, a friend to many, and everyone who knew him shall remember him with affection. We are all poorer without him. As a Christian, Philip had every confidence in his eternal future. His funeral service was one of thanksgiving for all he has contributed to others in so many different ways. Richard Bush
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fishpondsvoice
March, 2021
27
n HOME CARE & FUNDING
Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead
Bristol City Council funding partnership scheme to help homeowners across the city
I
F you are a homeowner in Bristol and need to make essential repairs to your home, a loan funded by Bristol City Council may be the answer. Now we are all spending more time in our homes, it could be a good opportunity to think about home repairs to keep your home warm, safe and suitable for your needs. Linking multiple support services into one helpful not-for-profit scheme, Bristol City Council work with Lendology CIC who are a Social Enterprise lender who manage the lending aspect of the scheme, and We Care Home Improvements, who are a not-forprofit home repair agency, who manage the works element of the scheme. From replacement heating to whole new roofs, to damp remedy and structural repairs, through to updating electrical wiring, plumbing, or kitchens and bathrooms which are in poor condition, improving the energy efficiency of your home, or future-proofing
your facilities, the eligible works are varied. In addition to the loan scheme, Bristol City Council are pleased to be offering a top-up grant of up to £1,000* to reduce the cost of the works to your home where you have been successful in applying for a loan. This has helped a huge number of homeowners to date to reduce the cost of their home repairs. Mrs W, a Bristol homeowner, applied to the scheme when her boiler broke. Before contacting Lendology, she did not know what she would do and was worried about affording a new boiler. We Care Home Improvements were able to arrange the work to fit a replacement boiler, whilst Lendology completed a holistic assessment of her finances, and arranged a loan product best suited to her situation. Bristol City Council were able to apply the full £1,000 loan reduction grant, therefore reducing the cost of the new
boiler to Mrs W. The client is now much more positive and warmer at home, with lower energy bills too. To anyone thinking of using the scheme, Mrs W says “Go for it!”. For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk *Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value. Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction.
We Care & Repair
5 Hide Market, Waterloo Road, Bristol BS2 0BH 0300 323 0700 www.wecr.org.uk info@wecr.org.uk Ellie Lister Service Delivery Manager
Lendology
www.lendology.org.uk, loans@lendology.org.uk, and 01823 461099
Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.
Up to
£1,000 OFF
Did you know Bristol City Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners? *
the cost of works to your home**
Working in partnership with We Care Home Improvements and Lendology CIC, the partnership takes the stress out of funding and finding contractors for home repairs, improvements or adaptations. If you are a homeowner, of any age, and need to make essential repairs to your home, call us today for more information. Works covered under the scheme include roof repair, electrical and plumbing work, damp and structural remedies, heating installations or replacement, amongst other works.
For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk
For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk
*Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value. Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.
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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk
Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579
fishpondsvoice
28
March, 2021
n FROM OUR MP
Have jab when it's offered – I certainly will! WITH the vaccination programme running at pace and the Prime Minister having revealed his ‘roadmap’ out of restrictions we can now, finally, see a light at the end of the tunnel. We have also seen encouraging evidence about the effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines. Data from Scotland shows recipients of just the first dose were 85% or 94% less likely to be hospitalised with Covid, depending on the jab used. There is also positive evidence that vaccines reduce transmission, with Public Health England saying that one dose reduces the risk of catching covid by over 70%. It is brilliant that so many people received their first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine – over 18 million people in total. Whilst overall take-up has been very good, even exceeding initial expectations, there are concerns about the rate of take up of vaccination amongst certain communities, including people
from a black or other ethnic minority background. Tragically, these communities have already been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Community leaders have been working hard to tackle disinformation. These vaccines have met strict standards of safety. Reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been very rare, whilst no long-term complications have been reported. Getting a vaccination is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and others, and I would urge everyone to have their jab when offered – I certainly will be! The Prime Minister has outlined his roadmap for relaxing Covid restrictions, setting a timeline for most measures to be removed by the summer. I hope this announcement will offer reassurance, but I fully appreciate others will be equally anxious about the risk Covid-19 will continue to pose.
In a stark contrast to his blind optimism at the start of the pandemic, the Prime Minister is now being more cautious. I hope this means the Government has finally learned from its experience of failing to keep the virus under control. As the Prime Minister says, this relaxation of restrictions must be irreversible. There will be four steps in total, with the first starting on March 8, with the re-opening of schools, and at least five weeks between each to allow for enough time to collect data on how it is affecting the covid case rate. Labour is calling for improvements to isolation support (a SAGE report found only 3/10 people who should be self-isolating are actually doing so), the early vaccination of teachers, and economic support to people who have slipped through the cracks, including 3 million self-employed people. For now, the lockdown is still
Kerry McCarthy MP for Bristol East
writes for Fishponds Voice
in force. Not everyone vulnerable has the protection from a vaccine yet. We must all continue to follow the guidance and reduce our social contact to save lives.
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March, 2021
29
n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE
Springis springing Blog 81 - It’s getting to that time of year again when the light lasts for just a few minutes longer each day and everything seems to be waking up from the dark slumbers of winter. Somehow this seems more appropriate than ever for the times in which we are living – and the whole country appears to be ready for a new wave of positivity. Vaccination numbers are up, Covid cases are down. There are rumours of summer holidays and schoolchildren being allowed back in the classroom. Like most parents, I’m constantly amazed by the innocence of young children and how they can help you stay grounded, even in the most difficult of circumstances. Oscar, the youngest addition to the Button family, has learnt the word “horse” or “orse”, as he puts it, and lets us know every moment of the day – he even shouts it out in his sleep. It reminds me that, at Cleve Chiropractic, we treat local “orse” riders on a regular basis. I’m so pleased that the lovely riders have been allowed to carry on
exercising their beautiful animals and we can still treat them when they fall off! Despite all the falls, kicks or bites they suffer, riders always seem capable of keeping a smile on their faces when it comes to the joy of caring for and riding their precious horses. I wonder if any of them will help me show Oscar a real “orse” one day? I hope so – and I can’t wait to see the look on his little face. With the advent of spring comes the welcome arrival of two new faces at Cleve Chiropractic. Dele Bamisaye is someone I know only too well as he used to be one of my patients. He worked as a radiotherapist in the NHS for 10 years before switching his focus to the private sector. As an athlete, Dele competed at a national level and saw the benefits that chiropractic had on his training, recovery and performance. He’s taken that interest a step further by completing a chiropractic masters degree and the International Certificate in Sports Chiropractic (ICSC) qualification, which allows him
to treat athletes at the highest level of their sport. Now Dele is ready to help you achieve your goals and fulfil your potential. His experience and expertise are just a phone call away. I’m so pleased that Dele has agreed to come and take over Mike Jordan’s full-time duties, although Mike is staying on with us, working every other Saturday. Our second newcomer is acupuncturist Jennie Abraham, who adds another important dimension to our health and fitness portfolio. Her skills can help with chronic and acute pain that you might suffer in your joints or muscles, or as a result of a sprain, for example. Apart from assisting with general well-being, acupuncture can be beneficial for arthritis, headaches and migraines, regulating the menstrual cycle and PMS, fertility, stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, IBS and other digestive issues. It's also fantastic for helping to keep the body in balance to prevent illnesses and pain. Finally for this month, a reminder that Cleve Chiropractic remained open throughout the
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
latest lockdown. We’re Covid safe and have all the necessary PPE and sanitization protocols in place. Please stay safe and remember that we’re here to help whenever you need us.
Youth panel for teenager A TEENAGER arrested over a series of sex assaults on the railway path in Fishponds has been referred to a youth crime panel. The boy was 13 at the time of his arrest in December in connection with ten sexual offences on the path in the previous month, mostly on the stretch between Morrisons and the Forest Road bridge, near the Royal Mail delivery office. He is now 14. A police spokesperson said: "The matter has been referred to a multi-agency youth panel and an assessment is ongoing to determine the most appropriate outcome." Community panels aim to reduce re-offending by young people, usually those who have admitted guilt for a first offence. They meet with youths and their parents to look at the impact of their actions, take responsibility and change their behaviour.
A Team approach to healthcare.
Supporting Premiership Football, Rugby, 2012 Olympics and World Athletic Championship 2017 Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Back & Leg Pain, Sciatica Sports Massage Headaches & Migraines Trapped Nerves Repetitive Strain Injuries Occupational Injuries Sports Injury Specialist Competitively priced
The practice of pain relief Member of the British Chiropractic Association
CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangotsfield, Bristol BS16 9EN
Contact
0117 957 5388
w w w. c l e v e c h i r o p r a c t i c . c o m
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March, 2021
30
n BOXING
Callum turns pro as Kourtney joins Army A YOUNG boxer is following his dream of turning professional. Callum Smith, aged 20, is one of the members of the Downend Boxing Club still striving for success despite the pandemic. Callum has boxed since the age of 11 and has had more than 60 contests, many at the elite competition level for each age group as he has grown up. Among the tournaments where he has represented the club, based at the Harry Crook Centre in Fishponds, are the Celtic Box Cup in Ireland, where he won a silver medal, and the prestigious Haringey box cup. Callum will be trained by Welsh former professional boxer and middleweight world title challenger Gary Lockett, in Cardiff. Downend Boxing Club coach Craig Turner said: "Callum is massively gifted. Trying to hit him is like trying to catch butter melting in a pan, and whilst you're missing, he's hitting you with fast, accurate shots.
Callum Smith with Downend Boxing club coach Craig Turner
Kourtney Morgan-Hemmens has joined the Army
Jasmine Poole is leading the country's boxers in a home running challenge
"With continued commitment and drive, Callum can be special, and we would all love to see that happen." Former Downend boxer Kourtney Morgan-Hemmens could continue her sporting career in the Army. Kourtney, 19, is the first woman to wear the Mercian Regiment's badge after passing
out of training at Catterick. The regiment is known as the Heart of England's infantry. Craig said: "We couldn't be prouder of her – next stop possibly the Army boxing team." As the young members of the boxing club continue to train at home during lockdown, England Boxing has launched the national Strava running challenge to keep
the country's boxers in shape. The challenge is to run one kilometre in the fastest time recorded by the Strava app. Downend boxer Jasmine Poole won the competition on two consecutive weeks, with times of 3min 27s and 3min 30s respectively. Jasmine plans to continue to defend her title.
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