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TRANSPORT problems for the Fishponds area will get worse, with the loss of Bristol's Diala-Ride service and a popular electric bike hire scheme confirmed as two bus services are set to be withdrawn.MetroMayor
Dan Norris, who oversees the region's transport system, has confirmed that bus operator First will axe the 5 and Y5 services. Bristol Community Transport has stopped its Dial-a-Ride on demand service and community minibuses, relied on by many elderly and disabled residents.Andthe Big Issue e-bike rental scheme, which was popular in the Fishponds area, has also been withdrawn due to "extensive and relentless levels of vandalism".Itcomesless than three months before Clean Air Zone charges for driving older vehicles into Bristol city centre are introduced. 3 6
GCSE students from Bristol Metropolitan Academy in Fishponds celebrate as they pick up their results, which principal Cameron Shaw says were the best in the school's history. A-level and GCSE results round-up, 10-15
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Transport crisis deepens success story
Railway path is open again A stretch of the Bristol to Bath Railway Path at Clay Bottom has reopened as a £1.1m improvement project nears completion.
PAGE 7 Vassall Centre plans opposed More than 80 objections from neighbours have been submitted to the council over plans to redevelop the Vassall Centre site. PAGE 17 GP ratedsurgerieshighly Patients are finding it harder to get through by phone but overall satisfaction with GP services in Fishponds is high. 23
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GCSE
Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam, CCTV, doorbell or other video footage of the incident, which happened in Vassall Road, between the Straits Parade shops and Gill Avenue in Oldbury Court, at about 11pm on July 19.
Driver 'deliberately drove' at e-scooter
Officers have carried out house-to-house enquiries in the area, and are appealing for anyone who was on Vassall Road and saw the incident - or thinks they saw the car in the moments before or afterwards - to call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 172 210. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"The driver of the car - described as a red Skoda - failed to stop. "The victim went to hospital for treatment to serious injuries. "Thankfully they are not believed to be life-threatening."
An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said: "Witnesses describe a car apparently deliberately being driven towards the man, 19, who was riding an electric scooter on the road at the time.
A night of celebrating and recognising amazing mums in Bristol Celebrity mums will be attending keep checking our socials to find out who and further info For further info please go www.lifecoach4mums.comto
Cyclist headbutted
A TEENAGER was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being knocked off an e-scooter by a car in Fishponds.
fishpondsvoice fishpondsvoice September, 20222 n NEWS To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 A member of the LOCAL INFORMATION Bristol City http://www.bristol.gov.ukCouncil 0117 922 2000 www.avonandsomersetpolice.ukPolice general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 www.avonfire.gov.ukFire General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger sscg@southglos.gov.ukteam 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour asbreporting@southglos.gov.ukteam 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism Environment/tradingstreetcare@southglos.gov.uketcstandards 01454 868001 Well HealthAwareandsocial care www.wellaware.org.ukinformation Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252 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 Kingswood 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 obtained by contacting the Publisher. 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 in Fishponds and the surrounding areas. 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 Brookfield Publishing on 07540 383870 or email news@fishpondsvoice. co.uk. This month 8,000 copies will be distributed in Fishponds and the local area. EDITORIAL Ken McCormick 07715 news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk770377 Linda Tanner news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk PUBLISHER Brookfield Publishing Tel 07540 383 sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk870 ADVERTISING Shaun Edwards Tel 07540 383 sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk870 fishpondsvoiceFacebook fishpondsvoiceInstagram@fishpondsVoiceTwitter OCTOBER DEADLINE To ensure your news or letters are included, please contact us by Wednesday September 21. Advertisers are asked to contact us by the same date. Mum’s Awards Bristol 2022 FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 7PM - 11PM BRISTOL MERCURE GRAND HOTEL
Arson attack on shop
A FIRE at a shop in Stapleton is being treated as suspicious by police. The fire broke out at the Premier convenience store in Averay Road at about 12.45am on July 31. Both the police and fire service were called out to the blaze. A police spokesperson said CCTV enquiries were being carried out. The police have called on anyone who was in the area and either saw anything suspicious or believes they have dashcam footage to call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5222 182 348.
POLICE are calling on anyone who saw a road rage incident on Muller Road to come forward. Officers believe "a number of people" saw the assault, which took place at the junction with Filton Avenue at around 9am on July 25, and are calling on them to come forward. The cyclist was shouted at and headbutted by the driver of a white Volkswagen Transporter van, who was white, in his early 40s and wearing a black cap and top. Police have been going through CCTV footage and are appealing for anyone with information or video footage to call 101 and quote the crime reference 5222 176 937.
She said: "It’s a popular service, although apparently it does not get so much support outside of Bristol. It is much used by people going to work and for people going to the doctors and dentists, as people in Oldbury Court are as near to Downend as they are to Fishponds."The5also travels through the Eastville ward of Marley Bennett, who said its loss, combined with the end of Bristol Community Transport's Dial-A-Ride services, was a "huge blow". He said: "This will lead to people being cut off from work, family, leisure and retail."
He said: "The problem of too few drivers to staff our region’s vital bus services has gone off the Richter Scale.
A First spokesperson said the network review was called to "assess the viability of all routes in light of changes to travel patterns and bus use postpandemic."Thespokesperson said:
Metro Mayor Dan Norris and inBusesBigresidentsYoungcouncillorGloucestershireSouthClairetalktoattheChoicesonmeetingYate
Weca's consultation with passengers included a series of public meetings attended by a total of 500 people, and online surveys filled in by more than 900.The meetings heard calls for Mr Norris to be given the same power as the country's other metro mayors to charge a precept to support local public transport, on top of council tax. But the Metro Mayor was also accused of giving bus passengers an impossible choice between reducing frequency or reliability by Emilia Melville, of pressure group West of England Shared Transport and Active Travel Network.
Cllr Bennett called for "urgent action" from the government to mandate a pay rise for bus drivers, expansion of training programmes and relaxation of visa restrictions to allow more drivers into the country from abroad, as well as a return of bus services to public ownership.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 3 n NEWS To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 Shields Carpentry All Carpentry and Maintenance Call Sam on 0117 9021442 / 07799 206067 Or E-mail shieldscarpentry@hotmail.com • 1st & 2nd Fix • Bedrooms • Kitchens • Flooring • Bathrooms • Fencing • DeckingTimber • All ProductsUPVC • QuotationsFreeI am an experienced dementia Carer with Care Certificate, DBS checked, one off visits or ad hoc too. Hourly rate £12, or £15 per hour weekends and bank holidays. No personal care undertaken Contact: Suzanne Parker Tel 07387354837 Do you care for a loved one but need some time out for yourself? I WILL COME TO YOU (1.5 hours minimum) Local SittingDementiaService TWO bus services through Fishponds will be withdrawn next month, according to the region's Metro Mayor. Dan Norris says the 5, which links Oldbury Court, Channons Hill, Blackberry Hill, Stapleton and Eastville to Downend and the city centre will be axed by operator First from October 8, along with the Y5, which links Fishponds to Staple Hill, Pucklechurch and Yate. But the area could also see the return of the 47 service, which linked Fishponds to Downend and Yate several years ago.Mr Norris said in July that the 5 and Y5, both run on a commercial basis by First, were under threat. First declined to confirm the changes before the Voice went to print, saying it would make an announcement in early September, once the official review process was complete and final timetable changes had been submitted to the regional Traffic Commissioner.ButMrNorris, who has responsibility for transport planning as head of the West of England Combined Authority, said the 5 and Y5 were among 11 commercial services which would be cut, along with seven 'supported' services, which Weca funds.Mr Norris said the combined authority offered to pay for all 87 ‘supported’ bus services but a driver shortage meant operators could no longer run them all, even with public funding.
"We are also living in unprecedented times, with annual inflation in the bus industry letting rip at over 40 per"Thesecent. two major challenges have come together to create the perfect storm, to see commercial bus providers up-and-down the land cutting back on the services theyMrprovide."Norris, who launched a month-long public consultation called Big Choices on Buses during August, said Weca was looking at using "more costeffective" minibuses, whose drivers could be trained more quickly.
But he said this would take time, and it would be next April before funding from the government Bus Service Improvement Plan would be evident in improved timetables.
“The majority of our networks will be retained, and we will work to match our resources with demand for services in order to provide the majority of our customers with the most reliable"Thisnetwork.resetcomes at the same time as ongoing labour market challenges in the bus industry, which are particularly acute in the West of England and have caused unprecedented driver shortages."
Axe to fall on 5 and Y5 bus services
If the 47 service did return it could be seen as a replacement for both the Y5 and the Y2, which went to Yate via Downend and was axed in HoweverApril.ifthe 5 is not retained or replaced it would leave people in Oldbury Court without a service. City councillor Lesley Alexander, whose Frome Vale ward includes Oldbury Court, said the number 5 had been "the bane of my life", after previously fighting to reinstate cancelled Sunday services and dealing with complaints over reliability problems.
"Like all other bus operators in the UK, we have worked closely with our local authority partners to adapt our services so they are sustainable in the long term.
“We recognise this is an important route for Bristol and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that it remains so.”
Mr Norris, who has regional transport powers as the head of the West of England Combined Authority, said: "HCT, the owner of Bristol Community Transport, is in trouble nationwide and has also recently pulled out of running bus services in Yorkshire and is selling off its London operations.“Whenthe West of England Combined Authority became aware of the problematic situation it urgently contacted other bus companies to see if they would take over the running of both the buses and the community“Progresstransport.isbeingmade on the main bus routes, including the flagship m1, and we are hopeful that some of the other services will be taken over by other providers, too, to provide continuity.“Thereis also some limited interest from community transport providers to take over those services going forward but, sadly, not immediately.”
fishpondsvoice September, 20224 n NEWS To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS DIESEL SPECIALIST CLEANING AIRCON REGAS AND REPAIRS ELECTRICAL REPAIRS FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY FREE COURTESY VEHICLES WOMEN & PENSIONER FRIENDLY FLEETWORK Unit 1 Stoke View Road, Fishponds Road, BS16 3AE Tel: 0117 9395 555 Email: admin@sure-car.co.uk OPEN: Monday - Friday: 08.30 - 17.30 Saturday: 08.30 - 12.30 | Sunday: Closed National Award winners of the Good Garage Scheme *10% OFF labour when you mentionadvertthis 0117 939 www.sure-car.co.uk5555 *must be mentioned at time of booking OPENAS NORMAL COMMUNITY bus services used by hundreds of vulnerable people across Bristol have been axed. Bristol Community Transport stopped its Dial-a-Ride service and community minibuses, which had around 600 mainly elderly and disabled users, on August 26. Metro Mayor Dan Norris said “big question marks” also hung over BCT’s 12 mainstream bus services, although the m1 metrobus, which links Stapleton with Hengrove, Bradley Stoke and Cribbs Causeway, is understood to be safe. Most of the scheduled services serve South Bristol and North Somerset but they also include the 506, which runs from Broadmead to Southmead Hospital via Eastville. The social enterprise announced it would "no longer be in a position to deliver" its community transport services, including Dial-a-Ride and minibuses, just three days before they were withdrawn.
A spokesperson for First West of England said: “The m1 service is operated by HCT under contract with First and we expect the service to remain operating.
End of Dial-a-Ride and minibuses as services shut
By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
The on-demand services were relied on by many people with mobility problems to go on essential daily journeys, such as shopping and going to appointments.LynnMcClelland, the chief executive of BCT’s parent organisation HCT Group, said: "We understand just how important these services are for the people that use them and it is the last thing we wanted to do.
Bristol's Liberal Democrats have called on WECA to consider buying Bristol Community Transport to protect services and jobs.
“The move follows a period where we have been rocked by multiple challenges – a period of difficult trading prior to the pandemic, the financial impact of the pandemic itself, followed immediately by the current surge in fuel prices and the cost-ofliving“Thiscrisis.has led to a position where continued delivery of these services is unsustainable.
“We have tried to the very last minute to find an alternative operator for these services but, sadly, we have been unsuccessful, which means these services will now come to an end.”
Sedna® carpet is soft, luxurious, and durable. It is made with ECONYL® regenerated nylon - a yarn made from recycled waste material such as old carpets and abandoned fishing nets collected from the bottom of the sea. Sedna® help to save thousands of beautiful sea creatures like sea turtles, dolphins, and seals that will no longer get stuck in this life-threatening waste.
Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd pride themselves on the personal touch and are very happy to supply any flooring from large contract job to a residential bathroom. Their knowledgeable staff will help you make the right choice on your new flooring with advice on everything including the right choice of underlay which, importantly, could help with insulating your home to help keep your energy bills down. Estate, Bristol, BS5 7EY
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Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company ltd started manufacturing carpets on Crews Hole Road, St George in the early 1980’s and at one time had 12 Axminster Carpet looms which had been purchased from southern Ireland, dismantled there and shipped to Bristol. The factory shop was opened in July 1985 with one of the company aims being to cut out the middle man and sell directly to the public. They believe they were the first company in Bristol to make carpets and sell them directly to the public. With an eye to the future, and with sustainability in mind, they are one of only a few retailers to offer the Sedna range of carpets.
During a recent renovation of a local public house, a section of floor was uncovered and it showed that that floor had been laid on 5th May 1937 by the father and grandfather of Bristol Carpet's current Directors. This date was the coronation day of King George VI.
The family were the first people in Bristol to sell discount carpets in the 1960’s. This evolved into a cash and carry operation called Bells Cash and Carry with the ethos strong in the company today.
Serving Bristol for over 85 years 6-10 Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading
A family-owned business, Bristol Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd have been supplying flooring to the Bristol area for over 85 years.
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10am-4pm www.bristolcarpet.co.uk email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com Tel: 0117 9517717 Please ask one of our experienced team for details Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate, Bristol BS5 7EY Tel: (0117) 951 7717 email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com web: www.bristolcarpet.co.uk facebook: @BristolCarpets One of the largest stockists of Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West A family run business for over 85 years, supplying and fitting quality flooring in the Bristol and surrounding areas Massive choice of quality carpets and remnants Fitting service available with expert fitters Removal & Disposal of existing carpets Delivery service available FREE large car park FREE measuring & planning service FREE NO obligation estimates FREE sample service (Charges apply) Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday / Bank Holidays 10 am - 4pm
September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 5 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
FEATURE BRISTOL Carpet Manufacturing Company Ltd is one of the largest retail carpet showrooms in the area. Situated on Chapel Lane in Fishponds, they stock over 100,000sq m of Carpet, Vinyl and LVT flooring for immediate delivery and fitting. For your convenience they also have a large free car park.
Big Issue e-bikes were a common sight
It is encouraging interested businesses to get in touch at sales@bigissue.bike.
And in August the firm said it had been "left with no choice" but to pause its open, public rental e-bike service.
'Relentless' vandalism halts bike rental scheme
"Bristol was chosen as the first city in the UK to offer the service because of its green credentials and aspirations."
"This is not a decision we have made lightly, and it is disappointing that the actions of a minority of people have put us in this position.
"We have more e-bikes destroyed in Bristol in one week than in all our facilities combined anywhere else in the world.
September, 20226 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 REFURBISHMENT REPAIR REPLACEMENT OF WROUGHT IRON GATES & RAILINGS Affordable and Professional Refurbishment, Repair & Replacement of wrought Iron Gates and Railings in Bristol, Bath and Surrounding Areas. For all enquires please contact us for a no obligation quote Phone: 0117 990 2793 Email: Website:refurb@gatekeep.co.ukwww.gatekeep.co.uk n NEWS ELECTRIC bikes which were a common sight on Fishponds streets have been withdrawn from public rentals due to "extensive and relentless" vandalism of the machines.
The operator said: "Since we launched the service six months ago, we have experienced extensive and relentless levels of vandalism to our"Wee-bikes.havetaken many measures to try to overcome this issue, including making changes to the design of the e-bikes and trying to work with the local authorities, the police and our subscriber community.
"In practice, this means that our entire fleet is vandalised every two weeks. "
BigIssue eBikes is now planning to provide an alternative service, offering businesses long-term rental of its electric bikes, including maintenance and repairs, and is keeping its customer care centre open.
But in July the Big Issue warned vandalism was "putting the scheme at risk", with baskets being ripped off and bikes being stolen only for thieves to find they could not pedal them without electric assistance and dumping them, with the areas around the river Avon, Southmead and Hartcliffe worst affected.
Subscribers have been told that they will be automatically refunded for the remaining time on their subscriptions.
"Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, the vandalism has not reduced.
The Big Issue e-bike scheme was launched by the social enterprise of the same name, best known for its street newspaper, and Norwegian 'micromobility' company ShareBike to provide an alternative to short car journeys and Voi scooters. It created ten jobs for long-term unemployed people on the bike's maintenance crews, travelling around the city to change batteries, carry out repairs and moveThebikes.operator had said that Fishponds was one of its most popular areas, largely due to a deal with UWE which saw many hired around the Glenside campus on Blackberry Hill, with other areas, including Hillfields, also seeing frequent hires.
"Having begun with a fleet of over 400, we currently have around 200 e-bikes on the street and approximately 10% of these are damaged every day.
"We hope this will be a great way to bring people together, get involved in finishing off the project, and help to make it an even more enjoyable space for everyone to use."
Part of the work involved closing the Clay Bottom 'wiggle', where the path goes through a sharp S-bend near the Fishponds Trading Estate, to create segregated paths for cyclists and pedestrians, and seating. The stretch closed at the beginning of July and reopened in mid-August, with a colourcoded red lane for cyclists, light grey footpath and improved access from Rose Green Road.
The verge has also been widened to improve visibility at an area Sustrans' James Cleeton said was the scene of "countless collisions, near misses and arguments" in the past.Cyclist Eric Downey, who has been commuting from Fishponds to Bedminster on the cycle path for 11 years, welcomed the improvements.Hesaid:"Ilove the cycle path, as it only takes me 20 minutes to get to or from work and it allows me to start the day with a big smile and warm glow.
Fishponds cyclist Eric Downey at the newly-improved Clay Bottom 'wiggle'
"I want to thank Sustrans South, especially James Cleeton, for securing the funding to make the significant improvements to the path.
A POPULAR stretch of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path has reopened, as a £1.1 million improvement project nears completion.
Transport charity Sustrans and the city council have been overseeing the project to widen and resurface some of the busiest stretches of the path, from Clay Bottom through Whitehall and Easton to St Philip's.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 7 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS BUILD YOUR KNOWLEDGE BUILD YOUR NETWORK BUILD YOUR FUTURE Attend one of our FREE construction breakfast or lunch workshops ScantheQRcodetoregister FREE SUPPORT for small and medium sized construction business across the West of England Funded by Delivered by S O U T H W E S T
A Sustrans spokesperson said there would also be some "finishing touches" to do, including signs, ground markings, accessibility improvements and planting, which should be carried out without "substantial disruption".
The spokesperson added: "It's great to hear that the improvements are being enjoyed! "In the autumn, we will be asking for volunteers from the community to come and join us to do some planting along the improved stretch.
"I have occasionally driven in and it can take over an hour on a bad day. I don’t mind the rain, as the path is then ‘surprisingly’ quieter!
"Yes, some people might have been a little upset about the length of time it has taken, but we will now all benefit from the improvements."Consultations on the project started three years ago, when the £1.1m funding for the scheme was announced. Work started in January and the final closures are expected to be lifted in early September, at the St Philip's Causeway underpass, Bruce Road access and areas needing final resurfacing.
Details of the planting and remaining works will be shared online at sustrans.org. uk/bbrp-project. there's good news for Railway Path users
... but
•advise:Remember to blink while you’re using your screen (sounds obvious but people working on a laptop or phone do not blink as regularly as they normally would)
Marta Bochenek-Cutler
Turners Opticians, we see lots of red eye Whilst red eyes can self resolve, if moisturising eye drops don’t quickly provide relief please avoid the temptation to rub your eyes, take out any contacts you might be wearing and book to see us for Eye strain – intense eye use from driving a long distance or staring at your phone can strain your eyes and leave you feeling tired. Glare from your screen, bad posture and draughts can all make it worse.
Former physiotherapist Marta joined Turners Opticians having re-trained as an optician. She has a particular interest in helping young patients with myopia (short sight). eye care needs, our expert eye care team are ready to help you both of our practices. Road, 3UA 57 Road, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9 4JT 0117 965 4434 0117 962 2474
768 Fishponds
• Try to have contrast between text and background to avoid working your eyes too hard In very rare cases, eye strain can indicate an underlying eye condition that needs treatment. See your optician if you are repeatedly getting eye strain and the steps above aren’t helping. Blurry vision – blurry vision is common and usually nothing to worry about and may be due to a change in prescription, but it can also be a sign of a more significant change such as cataract. Other common causes include eye strain (including dry eye) and high blood sugar levels. You must contact a doctor or optometrist the same day if you get sudden loss of vision as this could have a serious underlying cause. Glaucoma – this is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. It is most often caused by fluid and pressure building up in the front part of the eye. It’s usually found in people in their 70s and 80s but can be diagnosed in anyone, particularly the over 40s. Glaucoma has been likened to the thief that comes in the night, developing slowly over years and many people do not realise they have glaucoma. It’s often only picked up during a routine eye exam. Glaucoma can lead to loss of peripheral vision if not diagnosed early. Whatever your eye care needs, our expert optometrists and eye care team at Turners Opticians are ready to help you. Please call on 0117 965 4434 or 0117 9622 474 to book a time to come in. You can also book online at your convenience. We look forward to seeing you soon!
• Check your surroundings – staring at a screen dazzled by direct sunlight is not ideal
• Remember to take a break, look away from your screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes
n TURNERS VISION common eye symptoms Sore eyes Eye strain Glaucoma Blurry vision Red eye whatever your
September, 20228 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
• Screens should always be at a comfortable distance and not three inches from your face!
Henleaze
Bristol, BS16
at
to look out for specialist Optometrist at the Opticians. Here we list some of the most common causes from allergies and conjunctivitis be a factor – a lack of water in the body
Common eye problems
It’s usually not serious but prevention is always better than cure so I’d
eyecareteam@turnersopticians.co.ukwww.turnersopticians.co.uk
The spokesperson said: "On arrival, crews found a large grass fire affecting an area of approximately 150 metres by 100 metres."Using two high-pressure hose reels and grass beaters, crews were able to extinguish the"Thefire. cause of the blaze was determined to have been an unattended
Firefighters damping down the fire in front of the Dower House Picture: Steve England
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 9 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS A SWATHE of grassland in front of one of Bristol's best-known buildings went up in flames after a disposable barbecue was left burning in scorching temperatures. The fire blackened a large area in front of the Dower House on the Stoke Park estate – sometimes referred to as Bristol's 'front garden' due to its prominent position overlooking theFirefightersM32. were called at 4.25pm on August 11, during the recent heatwave, and used hoses and grass beaters to put out the flames. An Avon Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said two crews were needed to tackle the flames.
"TheextentwhoseNaturalistbarbecue."SteveEngland,picturecapturedtheofthedamage,said:speedyresponsebythe fire brigade and public response stopped a serious issue, also the fact that the hay was cut and removed and soil raked over, making a fire break.
Disposable BBQ causes big grass fire
"This is a reason not to have disposable BBQs." The fire broke out on a day when temperatures peaked at 31C (87.8F) and during hot, dry weather saw the overall number of calls to the fire service, in the week from August 8 to 14, reach 1,306 - 658 more than the previous week. Firefighters had to deal with more than three times as many grass fires during the two recent heatwaves as they did during the same period last year: between July 18 and August 14, crews were called to 117 incidents in fields, parks, roadsides and other grassy areas, compared to 33 on the same days in 2021. They included a fire in Rousham Road, Eastville, on August 9 involving bushes and grass, which is believed to have started accidentally, an outof-control bonfire containing aerosols, wood and foliage in Speedwell on August 3 and a grass fire on the Lawrence Hill roundabout on the morning of August 13. Disposable barbecues were blamed for two other blazes, one of which set bushes on fire in Stapleton Road, Easton, on the afternoon of August 10. The other set fire to part of Clifton Down, near Circular Road, on the afternoon of August 7, burning a 100 square metre area of grass. Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton advised people to continue to avoid lighting fires while dry conditions continue.
computer science, which is his main interest. He said: "I'm really pleased."
and an extended project qualification.Natashawas most happy with her 9s in maths and further maths. She joked: "I went to the maths transition day and it was really full of boys - the grade 9s will help me not feel scared about going in to that class!"
Tekin,Eren philosophy.andeconomicsscience,instudycollegeto6sgradeachievedFishponds,fromtwo7s,threeandfive5s.HeisgoingStBrendan'stoA-levelscomputersreligion&Erensaid:"I didn't revise much, except for English, but I got what I wanted!"
September, 2022fishpondsvoice10 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
Mr Shaw said this year's GCSEs had been slightly different to pre-pandemic, with exams in some subjects modified to reflect the fact that pupils had missed "significant chunks" of Advancedschool.notice was given of some of the topics which would be examined but Mr Shaw said that, contrary to some claims being made, children were not given any access to papers in advance and the exams were not made easier and the marking was not more lenient. The expectation was that grades would be down this year. What we're most proud of is ours are not. They've not only not dropped, they have increased again.
Bristol Met success stories
AT Bristol Brunel Academy in Speedwell, the theme of the results was continuing improvement - with some exceptional success stories to tell. Cabot Learning Federation, which runs the school, said the academy was continuing its "journey towards excellence".
"The last time they had an uninterrupted year of learning was when they were in Year 8 and they had a very disrupted education in year 9 and 10. "A lot of schools will be comparing their results to 2019 and ignoring two years of teacher-assessed grades.
"They are testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of our students, their families and, of course, the staff in the academy. ”
Abdirisaq Abdi, from withwasandscience,intoPost-16to7sgradeachievedEastville,one8,sevenandone6.HeisgoingNorthBristolcentrestudyA-levelscomputermathseconomics.Abdirisaqmosthappyhisgrade8in
Symonds,Natasha from andpsychologyinstudyCentreSixthMaryheading7sthreegradeachievedEastville,four9GCSEs,8s,twoandtwo6s.SheistoStRedcliffeFormtoA-levelsmaths,law,sociology,
Cameron Shaw said: "This is the first year of 'back to normal' exams in three years, although it's not been a normal education for these young people.
IT was a day of nerves, excitement, celebrations and some tears as the first year of GCSE students to sit formal, national exams since the start of the pandemic collected their results.
After two years of teacher-assessed results, candidates and schools were warned that this year's overall grades would not be as high as in 2021 - but at least two schools serving children from the area said they had seen their best results ever.
Bristol AcademyBrunel
Bristol AcademyMetropolitan
"Our 2019 grades were our best ever. They then went up in 2020 and 21, but have gone up again for 2022, so not only are they an improvement on our last set of formal exams, they're an improvement on the teacher assessments."We'rereally proud of our young people."
Hard work pays off for GCSE students
THE teenagers queuing to collect their results at Bristol Met could have been forgiven for feeling anxious. Despite missing months of school during two disrupted years of their education, having to "constantly adapt and react" to changes, they had sat exams this year amid talk of grades being lowered nationally. But the school says this year's results were "excellent", with more than 80% of students achieving a pass grade of 4 in both English andPrincipalMaths.
Montpelier High School MONTPELIER High School was another school to declare its GCSE results the best ever.Year 11 GCSE candidates achieved an average grade of 6.59, which the school said was higher than in any previous year.
Among the highest achievers were Lauren Sockett, who achieved ten grade 9s, and Phoebe Aubrey, Hannah Connor, Molly Fenwick-Moore and Isabel Mathew, who all achieved nine grade 9s. Twins Izabella and Nicole Steele achieved 18 top grades between them: Izabella had eight 9s and two 8s, while Nicole had two 9s, three 8s and four 7s. Two students gained seven 9s, three gained six 9s and two had five 9s among their results.Among a year group which had seen its school experience "significantly impacted" by the pandemic, with much of their Year 10 studies taking place remotely during lockdown, some students had an even more direct impact from the pandemic. Megan Hart-Jones suffered from long Covid throughout her exams, which the school said left her fatigued and struggling to revise.However Megan managed to completed all her exams, finishing with "fantastic" results, including three 9s and five 8s. Montpelier High School, formerly Colston's Girls' School, is a non-selective fully comprehensive girls’ school.
Principal Nick Lewis said: “We are extremely proud of our Year 11s. They have achieved great results. These achievements are even greater when we consider their impact on the school and wider community. "Many students reached standards well above those that might have been expected when they started at FHS. FHS prides itself on recognising the success of all students, regardless of starting point. "They leave not just with wonderful results but an education that prepares them for life. The support of parents/guardians and staff has been instrumental in students gaining good grades and I would like to thank them for all they have done, they have gone above and beyond. As our students start their next chapter in life, I want to wish them all the best for the future."
The federation said: "BBA have eight years of consistent improvement across our exam outcomes."
Overall, 18% of grades were the highest grade 9, with some subjects going further: half of all further maths grades and a third of biology, French and music grades were 9.
Across all pupils, 94% of grades were 4 or above and 89% 5 or above.
Fairfield High School students celebrate their GCSEs Montpelier High School pupils Izabella Steele, Sara Saleem, Nicole Steele and Millicent Phillips-Hammond with Principal Kerry McCullagh
"This is a team effort - we know how hard everyone has worked to achieve these results, from our teachers and staff to our parents and carers in support of our fabulous students.
Fairfield High School AT Fairfield High School, GCSE students were praised for their "excellence across a range of subjects" despite the challenges of learning through the pandemic. More than one in every three GCSE grades (35.4%) awarded to candidates from the school in Horfield, which draws many of its students from Eastville, were grade 7 or above - A or higher under the previous marking system. One student secured ten grade 9s, which the school described as "notably exceptional".
"We feel so proud of our class of 2022, the first cohort back to complete full exams following the pandemic.
"This cohort of students exemplify ‘The Brunel Way’ and have shown how, through hard work and dedication, they can achieve exceptional things. "We look forward to welcoming many of our students back to our CLF Post 16 provision."
Principal Jon Jones said: "We would like to congratulate all our students for their examination results.
"They have all absolutely smashed it - with results they should feel extremely proud of. I cannot wait to see what they do next.”
fishpondsvoice 11September, 2022 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
Overall, 67% of students achieved grades of 9-4 in both English and Maths, up 10% from 2019, with 48% securing 9-5 in those key subjects, up 15% from 2019.
Principal Kerry McCullagh said: "There is something very special about MHS students. They throw their heart and soul into everything they do, whether it’s championing a global cause, powering through a pandemic or focusing on their studies, this group of young people is unstoppable.
The federation said: "Students have enjoyed considerable success across the exceptionally broad range of subjects offered at BBA - in particular history, technology, business, art and English have all performed well."Among the high achievers were Talha Ahmed, who achieved eight grade 9s and a grade 8, Amy Frankcom, who achieved four 9s, four 8s and a 7, Aliyah Hussain, who achieved five 9s, two 7s and a 6, and Taliyah Twynam, who achieved two 9s, five 8s and a 7.
To set up a free assessment or to chat to us about how we can support your child, please call us on 0117 373 8367, pop in to our centre at 23 Badminton Road or email us at bristolnorth@ kipmcgrath.co.uk. Visit kipmcgrath.co.uk to find out more.
Personalised learning plan for your child
I first opened the Downend branch of the internationally renowned Kip McGrath franchise six years ago and it has been a joy to witness so many young people grow in confidence, build self-esteem and achieve their potential. As qualified teachers with years of experience, our tutors are able to bring out the best in students who are struggling to keep up, those who need support to stay ‘on track’ as well as those who are looking to excel beyond their year level. Some of our students come to us because they are preparing for exams, including Entrance Exams, SATS and GCSEs. As we embark on a new school year, it’s the perfect time to get started with additional support for your child’s education. We offer a free assessment where we identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses, after which your child is matched to a specialist tutor who will devise a personalised learning plan to meet their needs. Underpinning everything we do is the Kip McGrath ethos that ‘all children can progress if given the right support’.
September, 202212 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n ADVERTISING FEATURE BRISTOL NORTH - 0117 373 8367 23 Badminton Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 6BB kipmcgrath.co.uk/bristol-north
REGULARS to Downend High Street will have noticed that we opened the doors of our new premises at the start of this year. With additional teaching space, we’re really pleased to be able to offer in centre English and maths tuition to even more of our local students, alongside our ongoing online provision. Thanks to our parents for supporting us in the move, as well as to those who have called in to simply wish us well!
Mr McCullough said: "While it is important to remember that our students always learn far more than simply what is required to pass exams, it is certainly very rewarding to see them achieve such good examination results. "This cohort have faced a number of very real challenges during the past two years but they have, with the amazing support of their teachers, risen to all of these challenges and have reaped the rewards of their hard work."By returning results higher than might have been expected following the government’s direction to lower results this year, they have demonstrated just how well they have coped with the academic challenges presented."Weknow that these brilliant young people have also excelled in sport, music, drama and other areas"Intoo.addition, their holistic education will have helped them develop a great many other personal qualities, such as resilience and determination, that will stand them in good stead for the future."
GCSE results from Year 11s again "exceeded expectation" following the government grading announcement, with top grade 9s making up 17% of all results, 58% of grades at 7 to 9 and almost one in four students achieving all their grades at 7 or above.The majority of the Year 11s are returning as sixth formers in September, and will be joined by new arrivals from other schools.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 13 n EDUCATION To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 Collegiate School, Bell Hill, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ Telephone: 0117 992 3194 Email: admissions@collegiate.org.uk SATURDAY 24th SEPTEMBER 2022 JOIN US AT OUR NEXT WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING We are Collegiate Visit collegiate.org.uk to register PUPILS at Colston’s School celebrated "excellent" results in A-level, GCSE and vocational exams.The independent school in Stapleton, which has relaunched as Collegiate School in the new academic year, said performance had "exceeded expectations", after the government announced that this year’s grades would be between the last set of nationally-examined results from 2019 and last year's teacherassessed grades. The school's upper sixth formers achieved 54% of A-level grades at A or A*, 80% of A-level grades at A*-B, and 47% of CTEC and BTEC grades at distinction or distinction*, with 30% of students achieving the equivalent of AAA or awareMcCulloughHeadmasterbetter.Jeremysaid:"Wearethatthiscohorthas been anxiously waiting for their results, their first set of actual public examinations having had their GCSEs cancelled, and so it has been a delight to see so many happy"Wefaces.aredelighted that the vast majority of them have secured their first-choice university course and a number have secured access to competitive apprenticeships."
Colston’s students exceed expectations
Colston's A-level candidates receive their results
Montpelier High School’s coeducational sixth form, V6, said its results Jamie Honeywill is heading to Oxford University
At St Brendan’s Sixth Form College, students achieved a pass rate of 97%, with 59% of Level 3 BTEC and Applied General courses either Distinction or Distinction*.
A-level and BTEC success is celebrated
"So many of our students are moving on to extremely positive destinations, including a range from Oxford, Bristol, Manchester and London universities, along with various degree apprenticeships.
Welcome from the Head of Sixth Form at 5.45pm and 6.00pm for Year 11 students choosing a Sixth Form place for 2023. Tuesday 18th October 5.45pm - 7.45pm
"We’ve had some significant successes through really high challenge and lots of barriers that our students have faced.
More than 500 St Brendan’s students applied to university, and the college said the majority will be going to their first choice.They include Jamie Honeywill, a former Bristol Metropolitan Academy pupil from Fishponds, who secured A* grades in computer science, maths and further maths, and an A in physics, and is heading to Oxford University to study computer science.Thecollege said a record number of students had secured apprenticeships, in fields including accounting, law, business and engineering, taking up employment with companies including Rolls-Royce, Grant Thornton, the NHS, Ministry of Defence and BT.
St Brendan’s principal Marian Curran said: "This year our BTEC and A level benchmarks were higher than in 2019 and in some cases were higher than teacherassessed grades in 2021. This is against a national backdrop where results were meant to be at a mid-way point between 2021 and 2019. "Our students have done extremely well and we are proud of every single one of them."
At Cabot Learning Federation Post 16 sixth form, based at the John Cabot Academy site, Kath Cooper said results had "exceeded expectations". She said: "We are immensely proud of all the work and achievements of our students.
n EDUCATION fishpondsvoice14 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 RESPECT | RESPONSIBILITY | CURIOSITY | RESILIENCE OPEN EVENT
A-LEVEL and BTEC students are looking towards future courses or careers after receiving their results following the first national exams for three years. This summer's Year 13 school and sixth form college candidates were sitting formal exams for the first time: their GCSEs in 2020 were cancelled because of the pandemic.Theyalso faced comparisons with grades awarded to the classes of 2020 and 2021 usingNeverthelessassessments.sixth form and college leaders said this year's students had achieved "excellent" results overall.
"This is a very exiting time for their future and we couldn’t be prouder of all they have achieved."
Director Mark Curtis said: "These results speak for themselves."
Jennifer Crossley, pictured with Montpelier principal Kerry McCullagh, is going to Manchester University had been "fantastic", with one in ten grades at the top A*, 30% A*-A and 55% A*-B or above.The overall pass rate at A-level was 98%, with 77% of grades at A*-C. Among the many high achievers was Katy Thackray, who is heading to Cambridge University to read computer science after achieving four A*s. Jennifer Crossley achieved three A* grades and an A, and will read chemistry with international study at Manchester University, while Alice Mason-Flucke will study civil engineering at Southampton University after securing three A* grades. Bristol University is one of the sponsors of the school and among a number of students heading there to study is Aamina Bashir, who will study dentistry after achieving A* 2A grades.
Principal Kerry McCullagh said: “This cohort of Year 13s has been a real inspiration to everyone at MHS. "Despite the challenges of the pandemic, our students worked with resilience and supported each other, remaining optimistic and good humoured throughout."
At Digitech Studio School in Warmley, 87% of students on media, art and IT courses achieved at least a merit, with everyone passing. All students at creative industries college Boomsatsuma achieved a qualification, with 62% awarded a distinction or higher, including 70% of acting students, and half of all dance students achieving the highest distinction * grade.
September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 15 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 RESPECT | RESPONSIBILITY | CURIOSITY | RESILIENCE OPEN EVENT BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Please see our website to book your place www.montpschool.org Thursday 6th October 4:00pm - 8.00pm
Colleges serving students from the area say they have achieved some "outstanding" results.AtCity of Bristol College, director of further education Pasquale Fasulo said: "Students have worked exceptionally hard this year and we are very proud of their achievements."Alargepercentage of our A Level and advanced vocational students will progress to their first-choice university, with some staying with us to study their higher education course, or going directly into employment."Thecollege reported an increasing number of students taking up a higher apprenticeship, to combine learning with the start of their new careers, and said it was working with hundreds of employers to help find them roles.
“Our students have made exceptional progress and proved that through hard work, commitment and ambition, you can and will realise your dreams."
YEAR 7
At South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS), 69% of students achieved grades A*-C, with an overall pass rate of The97%.college said highlights included 73% of physical education students receiving A*-B grades, 70% A*-B for biology and 66% A*-B in Assistantpsychology.principal Mark Anthony Jones said: "The past two years have been exceptionally challenging for students, teachers and the wider community, but SGS Sixth Form students are celebrating some truly outstanding results.
Flat closed over 'criminal activity'
Michael's quirky tales raise cash for charity
Sanctuary Housing Area Manager Gael Auton said: "We take all complaints of antisocial behaviour extremely seriously.
"We are grateful for the housing association’s support in progressing this matter so that hopefully it will make a positive difference to the community."
Michael Mackriel with his book
POLICE have won a court order to shut a flat in Speedwell after complaints of language,"racially-aggravateddrugdealing and fighting".Thetenant of the flat at La Maison in Deans Drive now faces eviction, after the housing association which manages it started legal action to regain other"reportsclosureappliedpossession.Policesuccessfullyforathree-monthorderinJulyafterofdruguseandcriminalactivity".Aspokespersonsaid:"Since April we have received calls regarding racially-aggravated language, drug dealing and fighting relating to a residential address in La Maison, Deans Drive."
A police community support officer seals up the flat
A STAPLETON grandfather has had a collection of his children's bedtime stories published to raise money for charity.Michael Mackriel originally wrote the stories as birthday or Christmas presents for his grandchildren but has now collected them in a book, the proceeds of which will go to disability charity Mencap.Hesaid:
"Having been totally bored by the stories my grandchildren brought home from school, I decided to do better, writing stories that encompassed the wonderful world of children’s imagination, where anything is possible."Michael, who has lived in Stapleton for 12 years, said he decided to give all of his royalties to Mencap, which provides support and advice and campaigns on behalf of people with learning disabilities, because his late wife worked for many years with disabled children.Thebook, which is called Eleven Quirky Bedtime Stories and includes illustrations, is published by the Choir Press and is available from bigger shops and online sellers, including Amazon, the Book Depository and Barnes & Noble.
Neighbourhood Inspector Kris Harris said: "We are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported this application by providing statements and information about what has been going on in the area in recent months.
"We’d urge anyone who finds themselves experiencing similar issues in their neighbourhood to make sure they report it to police, because your concerns will be taken seriously and we can help.
"It is absolutely unacceptable for people to feel unsafe in their own home. It’s for that reason that the application was made to magistrates and we’re glad it was approved.
The police neighbourhood policing team worked with the city council's anti-social behaviour team, legal services, and landlords Sanctuary Housing to submit a closure order application to Bristol Magistrates Court, which was granted on July 26.
"They told us antisocial behaviour was persistent and it was having a huge toll on their day-to-day lives.
"Everyone should have the right to feel safe and comfortable in their own home, and we are committed to working with our partners to take action whenever problems occur."
September, 202216 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS DOWNENDGROUP STARTS MONDAY12THSEPTEMBER7:30-9PM ATDOWNENDFOLKHOUSE JOINBRISTOLSHOWCHOIRTHISAUTUMN! OVERNDALEROAD,BS162RW bristolshowchoir@gmail.com NOAUDITIONSANDPERFORMINGREGULARLY Groups now fully open Mondays 6.30pm & Tuesdays 9.30am The Beechwood Club, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3TR Tel: Claire 07791574353
A flyer has been circulated from "concerned local residents in Gill Avenue, Little Hayes, Symington Road, Vassall Road and Willow Bed Close" encouraging people to write to the council.
Residents object to Vassall Centre plans
fishpondsvoice 17September, 2022 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 5 DOORS FITTED FOR £479 ANY 5 WHITE PRIMED 6-PANEL ‘COLONIAL’ OR 5-PANEL ‘SUFFOLK’ DOORS WITH YOUR CHOICE OF 6 STYLES OF HANDLE, HINGES, MORTICE CATCH, FITTED IN YOUR HOME FOR £479* GLAZED DOORS EXTRA COST Additional Doors available DOOR EXPRESS 08000 973333 - 07767 376770 A PHONE CALL WILL SECURE YOUR FITTING ORDER DATE This offer applies to door sizes 78”x30” & 78”x27” Other sizes available for a small extra charge www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk Unrushed, relationship focused care 1 hour Matchedvisitstoclients in your own area Up to £14 per hour Variety of work patterns available First class training & career development 12% Holiday pay & a pension scheme Call 0117 435 0063 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/bristolnorth Take a fresh look at caring with Home Instead Interes ted? Call in for a coffee & cha t at our OPEN DAY Thursday 8th September, 10.30am-2.30pm at 77B North Street, Downend BS16 5SE n NEWS
MORE than 80 people living near the Vassall Centre in Oldbury Court have written to the city council to object to redevelopment plans. Bristol Charities, which bought the site last year, submitted plans during the summer to demolish the current centre – built during the Second World War as a military hospital – and replace it with a new "accessible consultation,aunveiledcentre".neighbourhoodmulti-generationalanddisabilityTheplans,whichthecharityearlierthisyearduringlengthypre-applicationincludeatotal of 90 new affordable homes for older people, families and smaller households, as well as specialist supported housing for eight people with disabilities, office space for the existing tenant organisations, a nursery, cafe and community space.
Another said: "In recent months double yellow lines have been enforced and, with the Oldbury Court Estate park now charging for parking, it is already difficult to park near our homes, due to park visitors parking on surrounding streets to avoid paying."Oneobjector who lived "directly opposite" a proposed three storey building said it would affect "our privacy and light".Another described the existing Vassall Centre as a "vibrant hub in the community", and said redevelopment would "remove the history and dampen community spirit".
It has submitted plans for the first phase of the scheme, on the western half of the site, to Bristol City Council, with the second phase to be submitted at a later date.A total of 85 objections were posted on the council's website in the month after the plans were published on July 26. Opponents said the three-storey buildings would "dominate" and block sunlight from the surrounding two-storey homes, would affect privacy by overlooking rooms and gardens, and were not in keeping with the surrounding area. Many people also raised the issue of overcrowding on existing nearby roads due to "inadequate on-site parking" - the plans indicate there will be a net loss of 52 spaces, from 92 to 40, with the number of disabled spaces cut from 18 to 11. Other objections mentioned the density of the development, "oppressive" buildings, noise during construction and "inadequate" safeguards for restricting antisocial behaviour in the new centre.
A neighbour who lives behind the site told the council the sloping ground would make problems of overshadowing and overlooking worse, saying they have "had privacy at the back of our properties for many years and believe we are entitled to privacy going forward".
Chief executive Julian Mines said at the time that Bristol Charities had "consulted extensively with the disability organisations at the centre, local residents and the wider community, listened carefully and revised our approach in response to their views and concerns".Theplans can be viewed by searching for application 22/03476/F on the planning section of the council's website.
One neighbour said: "I have no objection to the focus of the plans: the provision of local housing for the less welloff, facilities for local groups meetings, etc. It is the height of the buildings and the problems of safety and parking that I ask you to re-visit and amend."
Objections have also been submitted on behalf of two of the centre's 14 tenants, the Driving and Mobility Centre (West of England) and the West of England Centre for Inclusive Living.The Driving and Mobility Centre objection said its proposed new provision was "inadequate" as it did not include a "covered weatherproof mobility facility", which was essential for its operations, and office space wasThereduced.WECIL objection said that the plans would contain "no comparable accessible conference facilities" to those currently on site, which were the "heart and unique selling point of the Vassall Centre to date". Just one comment had been listed in support of the application, from neighbours who said they "support the project" but opposed any new site access near their homes. When it unveiled the final plans in July, Bristol Charities stressed that groups currently using the centre would not lose any facilities they currently have, including space for conferences.
September, 202218 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 WILL & PROBATE ADVICE
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To thank you, under the scheme, Simpson Solicitors will prepare a Will (or two mirror Wills for a couple) absolutely free to you. You will still receive their full awardwinning service. They hope that you will then leave a generous legacy in your Will for the Grand Appeal. As a further thank you, if you also need Additional Trust Protection or Powers of Attorney, Simpsons will take 30% o the usual full Michellecost.Baden-Daintree who runs Simpsons’ local o ce says: “I hope many people will take advantage of the scheme and leave a generous gift in their Will to the Grand Appeal. Call our friendly team on 0117 960 8594 if you would like to make or update your Will under this scheme. By leaving a donation in your Will, you can gift a sick child a brighter future.”
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We are so lucky to have Bristol Children’s Hospital covering our area. It provides an unrivalled level of service when our youngsters are most in need. The Grand Appeal charity covers the many extras that the NHS cannot – making life a bit more bearable for sick children and their families. This September our local Will experts – Simpson Solicitors – have again teamed up with The Grand Appeal.Thescheme means you can make a donation to support the Children’s Hospital in your Will. With nothing to pay now, even giving a small percentage of what you leave behind could make a tremendous di erence to help future generations of local sick children.
A FISHPONDS woman is inviting people to talk about mental health, loneliness and trauma.Laura Connor, who describes herself as a trauma survivor, is sharing her story to encourage others to talk freely and take advantage of help on offer.
Laura has been an FE lecturer since 2017, working with teenagers who have special educational needs and disabilities, and challenging behaviour.Shehas also trained as a life coach, offering free online support as well as personal and group coaching and retreats. She said: "I have been lucky to survive my mental illness - by the grace of God, kind NHS staff and other trauma workers.
"More people are suffering right now due to the pandemic, rising cost of living and loneliness - and I want to be part of the"Helpingsolution.others is my life mission and if I can survive all I have been through and manage to achieve what I have, despite having a really serious mental health issue, I can give hope to others."Laura's two free groups include one at the Beechwood Club in Beechwood Road, on the last Saturday of every month at 3.30pm, which aims to teach techniques to empower people to deal with mental health issues, stress and trauma. The Beechwood group has received some funding from a city council Frome Vale community grant and donations of refreshments from Morrison’s. Sessions are free to attend and suitable for anyone aged over 18, with a "diverse demographic".Theothergroup is called FreeTalk and holds sessions at the Nissen Hut in Eastville Park, in conjunction with the park's friends group, who offered free use of the hut. The group, which takes place on the first Thursday of each month from 6.30-8.30pm, offers a space talk freely, with a focus on ending loneliness and tackling mental illness.
"Things continued to get worse - I got into drugs when I was 17, developed anorexia at 18 and was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder at 19."I have been in and out of therapy since 15 and I have turned my life around. "At 23 I went back to college to study music, went to university at 25, then graduated from a masters-level post-grad at 29."
n NEWS September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 19 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 FROM STORE TO DOOR IN 24 HOURS EDA, 744 FISHPONDS ROAD, FISHPONDS, BRISTOL 0117 958 4769 HUNDREDS OF ITEMS IN STOCK READY FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY
Laura has received a grant to run regular trauma support and mental health events in Fishponds and Eastville.
Laura says she started having mental health issues around the age of 11, as she was growing up in Bath.Shesaid: "Things got worse and"Iworse.wasbullied at school and had a difficult home life. By the time I was 14 I was self-harming, had binge-eating disorder and had been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder.
"By 15 I was severely ill, I had a nervous breakdown and was under treatment from a psychiatrist and psychologist.
Come and talk about mental health
Laura Connor
A council spokesman declined to say when the studies would be published in full. Plans for a Bristol underground first surfaced in 2017, and previous estimates have put the total cost at £4 billion.The idea is for a system running along four key routes: to South Bristol and Bristol Airport, to North Bristol, to the east through St George towards Kingswood and south east to Keynsham.MrRees said: “Those of us old enough can remember the endless announcements for tram lines, the announcements of transport systems of the future, and political promises that offered 21st-century travel options. The reality is nothing was delivered, and Bristol commuters continue to crawl. “We have made real progress since first announcing our aspirational plans, and remain unapologetic about our ambition for Bristol."
Local taxes and land values 'could pay for underground' Marvin Rees
Mr Rees said: “These expert studies demonstrate that delivering an underground transport system for Bristol isn’t some grand design. It’s us punching at, not above, our weight, in line with Newcastle, Liverpool and Glasgow.
formthroughunderground,ofconstructionhelpanddevelopmentcouldalsofundthethesomeofas-yet undefined local taxes.The consultants said: “The wider economic benefit potential to the region is key and transformational.”
September, 202220 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS Otis, Year 3, May Park Primary School Follow us on Twitter maypark.bristol.sch.uk/welcome/open-events@MayParkPri
"We must keep this project on the rails and finally transform the way we travel in and around our city."
The West of England Combined Authority board is expected to vote in September on whether to invest more money into the project, at which point details of its outline business case and consultation are expected to be made public.
A future Bristol underground system could move 3,000 passengers per hour in each direction, according to the first study, which was carried out by consultants CH2M and Steer Davies Gleave. The metro scheme “has the potential” to cover its own operating costs, the study said. An overground tram system would cost just a fifth of an underground, but would involve demolishing many buildings on major routes into the city centre, like Church Road or Gloucester Road, according to the second study by consultants Jacobs and Steer.Rising land values along the routes would lead to more
LOCAL taxes and rising land values could help fund an underground network for Bristol, according to two studies. Land along the four proposed underground routes would shoot up in value, if and when the longplanned mass transit system is finally built, as better public transport links would mean property developers building more housing nearby, the studies said.Consultants working for the city council said an underground system could boost the region’s economy up to a level on par with London and the South East. But it is unclear exactly how rising land values would help fund the multi-billion pound project, as only a few details wereBristolpublished.Mayor Marvin Rees published two "executive summaries" of the new studies into the potential of mass transit on his blog.
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
After a break of two weeks for the summer holidays, the charity cafe was due to reopen on Monday, September 5.
And a huge raffle will include prizes ranging from hampers and booze to bouquets, stereos and Premier League football tickets donated by dozens of Bristol businesses.
The wheelchair was supplied by Taylor Made Wheelchairs, a specialist firm which is also preparing to supply an electric wheelchair for Luca Cerabona, from Keynsham, after the charity cafe raised more than £4,900 in its next fundraising drive.
Organisers of the not-for-profit event are still on the lookout for volunteers to help set up and steward the event.
Volunteer Elizabeth Harris said: "It is a pleasure to see the difference our cafe makes to people and their families.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 21 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS COME & OUR SHOWROOM VISIT MARCH 26TH Trusted trader Rated ‘Excellent’ 72-74 High Street, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5HN T: 0117 313 4862 E: www.thewindowhub.co.ukinfo@thewindowhub.co.uk Get ready to party
Charity cafe helps another young person
Party in the Ponds will take place from noon to 7pm on September 3 on a site near the park's children's play area, close to the Oldbury Court Road entrance. Organisers are calling on people from across the area to support the event, which will move to its previous mid-June slot next year if this year's event proves to be a success.
Mary, from Whitchurch, is the tenth person and Luca the 11th to be helped by the cafe since it first opened in February 2020, providing a place for people to meet and have a bargain-priced meal in good company each Monday and Wednesday, from noon until 3pm. Fundraising, good work and support for customers carried on even though the cafe itself had to close during the lockdown.
Back after missing two years because of the pandemic, Party in the Ponds will festure two performance stages this year, including music from Da Fuchaman, The Real SkaDub, Deamscape and Angel Upfront, dance shows on a separate stage from acts including 344 Dance Studio, MF Dance Studio and V Dance Academy, and a performance by Bristol Met pupils. It will also festure a host of stalls, food, from Jamaican and Mexican cuisine to vegan, popcorn, cakes and ice cream, as well as crafts. clothes and games. There will be specialist drinks vendors, including a wine and Prosecco bar, cocktails, a gin and Pimms stall and two beer, lager and cider specialists.
"Together we are really making a difference and achieving good things."
Volunteer Mandy Bryant said: "At the cafe you can expect a chat, lunch, some bargains, raffle, good company and to raise money for Mind and someone in the local community who needs specialist equipment to enhance their quality of life.
Staffed and managed completely by volunteers, the cafe was set up to provide a warm, friendly and welcoming place to meet, with serving cheap food and drink, and collecting donated goods to sell at bargain prices to raise money.
"Mary absolutely loves it - everyone involved is simply brilliant.’
Mary Jones with her chair
Customers come from Fishponds, Speedwell, Kingswood and across the wider area to enjoy the food and company.
PEOPLE are being urged to come along - and bring their friendswhen Fishponds' own free festival, Party in the Ponds, returns. This year's event, on September 3, is at a new site in Vassalls Park, after it outgrew its previous home in Fishponds Park.
For more information email partyintheponds@gmail.com, visit the Party in the Ponds Facebook page or partyintheponds.co.uk website. A VOLUNTEER-run charity cafe in Speedwell has handed over the tenth piece of specialised equipment it has funded for a family.
"Everyone is welcome and you do not need to buy anything, you can just go for company and Representativesconversation."ofTaylor Made Wheelchairs visited the cafe to deliver Mary's chair and collect their next order.
The family-run firm, based in the West Midlands, makes bespoke equipment for individual users.
Customers of Barton Hill RFC Charity Cafe, in Duncombe Lane, donated £4,875 to buy a specialist all-terrain wheelchair to help youngster Mary Jones enjoy trips outdoors. Mary's mum Kee said: "We could not be more thankful to all at the cafe.
Anyone who is interested in stepping up to help should email tommy.trueman@hotmail.co.uk for more details.
Around a quarter of the 8,533 dental practices across the UK with an NHS contract contacted by BBC researchers from May to July had an open waiting list for new patients, with wait times of a year or longer for most of them. The British Dental Association blames a "discredited" NHS contract it says "funds care for barely half the population and puts government targets ahead of patient care". It says recent "modest" changes came without any new investment, would not address patients' problems accessing services or keep dentists in the NHS.The BDA says thousands of NHS dentists have left the service entirely since lockdown, and a "decade of savage cuts" has left NHS dentistry in need of an extra £880 million a year just to restore funding to 2010 levels.BDA general dental practice committee chair Shawn Charlwood said: "NHS dentistry is at a tipping point, with millions unable to get the care they need and more dentists leaving with every day that passes.
A spokesperson for NHS England South West said: "Access to NHS dental services in Bristol and South Gloucestershire has historically been challenging, with demand exceeding the capacity available, mainly due to workforce challenges and the capacity of practices to take on new"Thepatients.NHS recently announced the first reforms to dentistry services since 2006, which will support practices to improve access including by giving high performing practices the opportunity to increase their activity and treat more patients – discussions around further changes that benefit patients and staff are ongoing."Thespokesperson said NHS patients should regularly check the NHS website for updates on practices taking on new patients, call a practice to ask if it has a waiting list or call 111 if they need urgent treatment.
September, 202222 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS St Mary Redcliffe Church Stained Glass Design Competition And Who is My Neighbour? stmaryredcliffe.co.uk Free exhibition of five shortlisted designs to replace four small panels of one of the major stained-glass windows of St Mary Redcliffe Church Contact parish.office@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk or visit our website for further information SAT 20 AUGUST - MON 19 SEPTEMBER / MON - SAT 8AM-5PM • SUN 12:30PM-5PM Contact us Little Heath Earlstone Crescent Barrs Court Bristol BS30 8AA Care Home 0117 450 0320 Reablement Centre 0117 450 0340 Join our team atLittle RHeath Ceablement entre and HCare ome today! Free DBS Check Pension Scheme Company sick pay Real Living Wage Training and Professional Development Our teams at Little Heath are recruiting! We are recruiting Care Assistant Nurse Housekeeper Catering Assistant NHS dental services are facing a "tipping point" and will "die" without reform, says the profession's official body. A survey of dental practices across the region by the BBC found 98% of them were not offering appointments to new adult NHS patients – the joint highest proportion in the country.When the Voice checked the 50 dental practices closest to Fishponds, in a four-mile radius, in late August using the NHS Find a Dentist website, none said they were taking on new NHS adult patients. Only one – Warrington House Dental Practice in Brislington – was accepting new child NHS patients. Most entries on the site, including those for the practices in Lodge Causeway and Oldbury Court, either said they were not taking any new NHS patients, only taking new NHS patients referred for specialist treatment by another dentist or GP, or had not given a recent update on their status.
No places for new NHS dental patients
"We’re seeing the results of years of chronic neglect, set into overdrive by the pressures of the pandemic. The question now is, will ministers step up before it’s too late? "Nothing we’ve heard from government to date gives us any confidence this service has a future. Without real reform and fair funding NHS dentistry will die, and our patients will pay the price."
it harder
And at Eastville's East Trees Health Centre, more than three quarters of patients (77%) reported difficulties, up from 48% last year. The number of patients being offered an appointment on the same day they called their surgery had fallen at some of the practices, while at others it had increased.
19_0000_VolunteerPostcard_Jan2022.indd 1 26/01/2022 23:29 htuognidiuglrilotsirB&GSerihsretsecuolG
‘I enjoy it so much. The girls are lovely and I feel I’m doing something worthwhile. It’s amazing!’ Tayba, leader
At Fishponds Family Practice, the proportion of same-day appointments fell from 27% in 2021 to 23%, having been as high as 49% four years ago. While most patients were offered appointments within a few days, those waiting a week or more had doubled at the practice, from 13% last year to 26%.
The survey was carried out by Ipsos MORI with NHS England, based on around 720,000 responses to questionnaires sent out nationwide between January and April.
East Trees offered 30% of its patients a same-day appointment this year, up from just 18% last year, although the number waiting a week or more had also gone up, from 24% last year to 37%.
A spokesperson for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, which funds GP services, said: "Practices are working hard to make sure everyone can access the right support when they need it; whether that’s online or "However,face-to-face.wealso recognise there are some areas for improvement. We are continuing to share learning between practices about what works well, and are working to support practices to deliver high-quality services to patients."
At Fishponds Family Practice, based at Fishponds Health Centre in Beechwood Road, 62% of patients said it was not easy to get through on the phone - up from 27% lastAtyear.Beechwood Medical Practice, which is based at the same centre, the percentage of patients reporting problems was 32%, up from 19% in 2021.
At Beechwood Medical Practice, the percentage of same-day appointments fell from 24% to 19% this year: four years ago it was 58%. The proportion waiting a week or longer rose slightly from 22% to 24%.
Patients find to get through on phone
PATIENTS are finding it more difficult to get through to GP surgeries in the Fishponds area on the phone, according to new figures. But the annual NHS GP Patient Survey found overall satisfaction with family doctors remains high, although it has slipped slightly compared with last year.
At Old School Surgery, same day appointments had risen from 24% to 34%, higher than 2018 and every year since, while the number of patients waiting a week or more had fallen from 38% to 29%.
At the Old School Surgery in Manor Road, 44% of patients said it had not been easy to get through, up from 30% last year.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 23 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS girlguiding.org.uk/interested withVolunteerus
Some patients who took part in the snapshot survey could not remember how long they had waited for their appointment.Askedtorate their experience of their surgery, the percentage of patients who said it was good overall was: 78% for Fishponds Family Practice, down from 81% last year; 89% for Beechwood, up from 87% last year; 69% good for the Old School, down from 85% last year 67% good for East Trees, down from 75% last year.
• Avon Wildlife Trust Grow Wilder project, Frenchay Park Road, Stapleton. Open on September 17 and 18, 10am-4pm. More information at growwilder.co.uk
Elm Tree Farm in Stapleton. Picture: Hal Miller, Wandering Path Productions
*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.
"Sharing space, sharing the work, sharing produce, sharing ideas… there are just so many benefits to growing with others. Bristol boasts some amazing community growing projects all over the city. The Get Growing Trail offers the chance to have a nosey around some of them and hopefully get inspired to get growing either at home, or with others in your local community.”
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. know Bristol City Council a loan scheme
• Elm Tree Farm, Park Road, Stapleton, next to Stapleton Cricket Club. Tours of the Brandon Trust care farm for adults with learning disabilities and autism, including market garden, nursery and animals, are on offer on September 17 from 10am–4pm. Book via the farm's Facebook page. More details at elmtreefarm.org.
• Edible Bristol Cultivation Place, Speedwell Allotments, Whitefield Road: tours, plant sale and open day, September 17, noon-3pm. More details at ediblebristol. org.uk.This year is the tenth that the trail has taken place and it is returning in full after two scaled-back events during the pandemic.
Meet Bristol's growing communities
• Hillfields Community Garden, Hillfields Park volunteer session, September 17, 10.30am–noon. More details hillfieldsgarden.fishpondsbristol.uk.at
• Royate Hill Community Orchard and Allotment Project, Royate Hill (entrance lane under viaduct on Royate Hill). Applepressing workshop on September 17, 11am–4.30pm. Visitors invited to help press apples to make fresh juice and bring a 2L container to take some away. Wear old clothes and bring work or gardening gloves. Followed by open day on September 18, noon-3pm. More details on the orchard's Facebook page.
Did you
n NEWS September, 202224 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
fund
for homeowners? *
A CITYWIDE event is being held to showcase groups growing food on farms and community projects in Bristol.
For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk Up £1,000toOFF the cost of works to your home**
• Street Goat, Royate Hill Allotments, open days on September 17 and 18, 11am3pm. More details at streetgoat.co.uk.
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.
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
Coordinator Ramona Andrews said: "During the UK national lockdowns, increased interest in connecting with family and friends outdoors bloomed, and there was an increased interest in growing. This trend has continued, leading to a surge in community growing in Bristol this year.
Full details of all 30 garden openings can be found online at bristolfoodnetwork.org.
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.
The Get Growing Garden Trail on the weekend of September 17-18 will give people the chance to visit 30 fruit and vegetable gardens around the city on a harvest-themed tour.They include city farms and the Bristol University Botanic Garden, as well as projects in the Eastville, Fishponds and Stapleton area.The local projects taking part are: • Bridge Farm, Glenfrome Road, Stapleton: open for visits and volunteering on both days from noon-4pm. No booking required - visit bridgefarmbristol.co.uk for more details.
A Baby Bank Network volunteer with some donations
Baby
A
FISHPONDS-based charitable group which helps thousands of families in the city is looking for newBabyvolunteers.BankNetwork operates from a small trading estate off Fishponds Road, redistributing high-quality baby items including clothes, slings, high chairs, cots and pushchairs, donated by the public, to families in need. It ensures items donors no longer need are used again, at the same time helping parents including those who are on low incomes, homeless, refugees or escaping domestic violence.
THE SOLUTION IS HEAR
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 25 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n NEWS Mondays 18:45 & 19:55 at The Life Church Saturdays 9.15 at All Saints Church Hall Please contact Emily to book your place on 07974252486 email: info@teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook and Instagram: Emily Osborne Pilates Pilates classes in Fishponds Suitable for all levels Microsuction and irrigation (syringing) Ear Wax Removal Service Call Sarah Hayward (Ear Wax Removal Specialist) on 07798608859 or visit www.earclearbristol.co.uk 92 Westbourne Rd, Downend, BS16 6RF Ear Clear Bristol
Bank needs you
"We would love some more volunteers to help us pack bundles of clothes and toiletries."
Established in 2015, by last year Baby Bank Network supported more than 1,500 families with baby items. It takes referrals from children's centres, midwives and agencies that support vulnerable families to ensure babies' basic needs are met, and all donations go directly to families.
Ness McLean, from the group, said: "None of this would be possible without our team of volunteers, who fundraise, collect, sort and prepare items for families.
Anyone willing to spare a couple of hours per week or fortnight, who has items to donate or would like more information on Baby Bank Network can visit the group's website at www.babybanknetwork. com or its Facebook page.
As a church minister, this echoed loudly for me with three events recorded in the life of Jesus in theThegospels.firstwas just before Jesus began his ministry, his 'race', when he was baptised in the Jordan river.The gospels say that as Jesus came out of the water, a voice was heard from heaven saying: “This is my son, I am pleased with him”. The second was just as Jesus was about to finish his 'race' at the cross, the cruellest and hardest part.He went up a mountain with three disciples and again a voice came from heaven: “This is my son, listen to him." After he had finished the race and had been crucified, the Bible says he was raised to life from the dead, an event declaring that Jesus was the son of God. It’s as though God was shouting down the universe’s microphone: “That’s my son, he has overcome the world!” The Bible that says for all who believe in him, God gives them the right to become his sons and daughters, and helps us to run the race set out before us. We have a whole host of people who have already run the race ahead of us and crossed the finishing line to spur us on, but I believe the ultimate encourager is God himself, who if we listen to him, will be our coach and father.
Tony Davies Church WaterbrookLeader,Church,Stapleton
Father-and-son athletics story has lesson for us all
September, 202226 Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge. CALL US TODAY ON: 01454 740 034 MOBILE: 07537 149 128 WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: • EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING • 2 REMOTE CONTROLS • ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION • FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR • AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS garagefifor£895From*afullyttedelectricdoor. *O er valid for openings up to 2.4m wide & including 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override. To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH IT'S hard not to feel that all news is bad news. There seem only so many sad news stories we can absorb and, over time, we regrettably become less responsive than we would want to be.So from time to time, it’s encouraging to hear a personal story of success or good news. Although not an avid follower of athletics, I was recently inspired by hearing of the British athlete Jake Wightman and his victory in the 1500 metres at the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon,WhatUSA.caught my attention was that Jake’s father, Geoff, was commentating as the stadium announcer.Geoffis a former athlete and very knowledgeable about running. The commenting was very professional and dispassionate.
After the race, when Jake had crossed the finishing line, the stadium cameras turned around to Geoff on the gantry in the stadium, where he stood commentating.Geoffhadto explain why the cameras were on him and he said: "That’s my son! He is the world champion and I’m his coach!" This was an outburst of emotion, pride, and joy. One could sense the elation in the achievement and join in with it.
To coach your son through all the arduous and difficult times, day after day, cannot have been easy, and to see it all come together must have been a tremendous joy. For Jake a large part of his success came in listening to and following the advice of his coach.
The council says the homes include "climate friendly elements" including solar panels, air source heat pumps, extra insulation, mechanical ventilation and recovery systems and a dedicated electric vehicle charging point, which it says will give them energy bills an estimated 70 per cent lower than similar average properties.
CAMPAIGNERS were refused access to toilets in Bristol cafes and shops involved in a council-run scheme to replace 18 shut public loos. The city council closed the toilets in 2018 and planned to replace them by encouraging shops, cafes, pubs and other venues to open their toilets to the public.
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 27 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
Please visit our careers page on www.eteach.com/schools/briarwood-school-25106 or contact us via emal on HR.briarwoodsp@bristol-schools.uk
Campaigners refused toilet entry
WORK has started to build 30 "climate friendly and energy efficient" new family homes in Frenchay. CouncilGloucestershireSouthhaslinked up with housing company Aequus, owned by neighbouring B&NES council, to build the Manor Gardens development off Malmains Drive. The 30 homes, ranging from one to four bedrooms, include 11 classed as affordable, of which eight will be designated for social rent via Alliance Homes and three will be available for shared ownership.
Briarwood School, Briar Way, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 4EA www.briarwood.bristol.sch.uk
A turf-cutting event held for the new development
The letter said: “The lack of access to public toilets in Bristol isn’t simply inconvenient, it raises issues of equality and dignity. Lack of toilets had led to the use of public spaces as substitutes, effectively open sewers in our city. Parts of Bristol stink of urine and faeces, in parks, alleyways and car parks. It’s grossly unhygienic, detracts greatly from the impression the city has on residents and visitors, and raises significant public health concerns."
Start on new homes
But research conducted by the community union Acorn has shown that most of the 126 venues in the Community Toilet Scheme do not have the required posters up clearly advertising the scheme and many staff appear to be unaware they are involved in the scheme.
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Are you looking for a way to get involved with your local community?
Briarwood is a Bristol Special School, based in Fishponds and Barton Hill, committed to providing a high quality of education, care and life skills for children and young people with severe learning difficulties and complex needs including autism and sensory impairment from 3-19 years.
Have you considered being a School Governor? If you are interested please contact Deborah Smith for more information chairbriarwoodsp@bristol-schools.uk
A turf-cutting ceremony was held at the site in August to mark the start of the building work.
Acorn campaigners say they were unable to use 28% of the toilets they visited.
A recent open letter addressed to council chiefs, signed by Acorn Bristol and several other groups including Bristol Women’s Commission, described the Community Toilet Scheme as a “sticking plaster that isn’t functioning effectively as a replacement for the missing toilets”.
n NEWS
Are you a passionate, empathetic, hardworking person, who likes to make a difference in children’s lives, if so, we have exciting opportunities to work at our rapidly expanding Special School in a variety of roles.
Cabinet councillor Ben Burton said: "With so many families in need of a new home, and rising energy prices impacting everyone at the moment, these climate friendly, efficient properties will make a real difference to people’s lives."
No financial incentive is given to take part in the scheme. Council cabinet member for public health and communities, Ellie King, said: “All toilets on the list have been recently visited to check if signage was present and to ensure staff knew about the scheme. We are actively increasing the number of toilets signed up to the Community Toilet Scheme."
Bristol is introducing a Clean Air Zone to reduce harmful pollution. Older and more polluting vehicles will be charged to enter the zone. Check your vehicle online and find out how we can help you prepare for the zone. CleanBristol’sGetbristol.gov.uk/cleanairzonereadyforAirZone November 2022
"The after-effects of the pandemic, including increased isolation and financial pressures, coupled with the rising cost of living, are putting families under more stress and impacting children."Volunteers usually have parenting experience themselves and stand side by side with parents to give children a better start."
A CHARITY which supports families through some of their toughest times is looking for new volunteers to join a training course, as demand for its services Home-Startgrows.Bristol recruits and trains volunteers who typically spend two to three hours a week visiting a family in their own home.
"Yet they only weigh the same as a Cadbury's Cream Egg! Sarah said: "They only nest in buildings, in small gaps, under tiles and in fascias, so a lot of nest sites are lost inadvertently, when people do repairs and re-roof properties."
Manager Terri Fletcher said: "We are seeing a growing need from young families, as pressures on them increase.
But Kelly says the BS16 postcode area, which includes Fishponds, Stapleton and Frenchay, is a "swift hot-spot", with many birds making summer homes in buildings here. She said: "Swifts are awesome birds, amazing flyers - they only land to breed.
Locally 12 nest boxes have been fitted by the project, with several more planned.
Sarah and Kelly can supply boxes at cost price and provide advice on the best place to mountTheythem.areespecially keen to work with local businesses. Sarah said: "Commercial buildings and churches often provide great opportunities for colony boxes and are a great way to demonstrate corporate social responsibility."
Picture: Robert Booth
Plea for volunteers
Making endangered swifts welcome
Activity will continue throughout the autumn and winter to increase nesting sites ahead of the 2023 migration.
The charity supports families in Bristol and South Gloucestershire who may be struggling and who have at least one child under the age of five.
Kelly Allen, of Emersons Green, and ecologist Sarah Roberts, of Mangotsfield, have been working to map and increase the number of swift nesting sites.
fishpondsvoice 29September, 2022 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 Loft Boarding & USEwww.useyourloftspace.co.ukInsulationYOURLOFTSPACEisthereliable,affordableandtrustedlocalcompanyforallyourloftboarding,andloftinsulationrequirements01172980810INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UKBAGS HOPE of CFT BRISTOL CHURCH Bristol Dance Company Brook Road, Fishponds Bristol BS16 3SQ Web: WWW CFT BRISTOL ORG Every Little Help Counts! Do you need FREE provisions and supplies to get you to the end of the month? If so, please drop by at the Bristol Dance Company on any Sunday, 12noon to 1pm to pick up a free bag of provisions. No questions asked and you don't have to be a member of our Church. Please text "Bag" and your first name to the number, 07881 339217 so that we can reserve a bag for you n NEWS
A swift in flight.
Anyone who wants to find out more should email Sarahseeksbirds@gmail.com or look for recent posts in the BS16 Wildlife Group Facebook group.
The fast-flying migratory species is on a red list of atrisk birds, with numbers having fallen by more than half since the 1990s.
to fly
"They spend months in the air and sleep on the wing. They travel huge distances to migrate to Europe in the summer from Africa, and are only here from May to August, their cries being the sound of summer.
The volunteer training course starts on September 20 and runs every Tuesday from 9.30am-2.30pm for five weeks, finishing on October 18, at the Greenway Centre, Southmead. Visit homestartbristol.org.uk, email admin@ homestartbristol.org.uk, or call 0117 950 1170 for more information.
THEY may have left back to Africa but a project is aiming to ensure that swifts have a warm welcome when they return to the area next year.
Kerry McCarthy MP for Bristol East writes Fishpondsfor Voice
fishpondsvoice September, 202230 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
THE cost-of-living crisis has continued to grow this summer.People are looking to the Government for help, but with a leadership contest rumbling on, a Prime Minister on holiday and a stopgap Chancellor who knows he won’t be in the job come September, they’re not getting it. This interregnum couldn’t come at a worse time, with Ofgem now having confirmed the energy price cap rise that will come into effect in October, pushing the typical bill way up beyond many households' means. We urgently need the Government to come up with a way to ensure millions don’t fall into fuel poverty this winter. Whoever enters Number 10 in September must at least show they are on the side of working people by freezing bills. At a time when Bristol City Council is having to set up ‘warm places’ in community spaces like schools and libraries to offer sanctuary to those who can’t heat their homes, ensuring people don’t pay a penny more on their fuel bill has to be top of the new Prime Minister’s 'to-do' list. Over the summer local residents have been asking me why their families are paying the price for a broken energy sector, as oil and gas giants record obscene profits. Why does the burden fall on those who are already struggling? It’s this contradiction which has encouraged Labour to call for a price cap freeze at the previous £1,971 level, a move that would be paid for through extra tax from major oil and gas companies, like Shell and BP. This would save people in Bristol East £43 million in total, with savings across Bristol of £193m.Wealso need a longer-term strategy for energy security and affordability, alongside a commitment to achieve our climate targets, insulating millions of homes across the country over the next decade and ending our dependence on foreign gas imports by investing heavily in renewable energy. Bristol is ahead of the curve on this, as it often is. Over the summer recess I went to see the water-sourced heat pumps in Castle Park, met with City Leap to hear about the council’s ambitious energy programme, and heard from Bristol Energy Co-operative about community energy schemes. I also visited Bristol-based charity Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) who, along with Citizens Advice, provide brilliant, cost-free support andByadvice.taking urgent action we can prevent millions of families from falling into fuel poverty. Support can’t come soon enough.Inthe meantime, if you need help, please do contact CSE on 0800 082 2234 or Bristol Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7957.
Fuel bills support can't come soon enough n NEWS FROM OUR MP www.elm-online.co.uk Meet with one of our qualified estate planning consultants to discuss your needs. Protect your family's inheritance Single & joint Wills £99.00from*IncludingVAT Call us today on 0117 952 0698 or email info@elm-online.co.uk Home visits or online appointments are available. Parkway automobile engineering Parnall Road • Fishponds • Bristol • BS16 3JQ 0117 965 6164 Mercedes-Benz specialist with over 35 years experience • Full diagnostic equipment • Factory trained technicians • Collection/delivery service • Courtesy car on request • MOT’s • Servicing • Gearbox repairs • Electrical faults
n HISTORY Mike Jempson chats with ‘history man’ John Pimm, who has many a tale to tell ANYONE visiting Glenside Hospital Museum will notice an elderly gent in a flat cap ensconced in the information booth opposite the entrance.Thisis the redoubtable John Pimm, very much a part of the place. He has written about the Dower House on Purdown, and Stoke Park Colony where he was a driver, and compiled the museum’s exhibit about it. But engage John in conversation and you will discover his interests extend far wider. He has his own theory about Oliver Cromwell’s visit to Stapleton to plan the siege of Bristol, then England’s second largest city. It had been recaptured from the Roundheads during the Civil War in 1643, by Prince Rupert of the Rhine, nephew of King Charles I. The fact that a sword from the English Civil War period was found at Wickham Court off Blackberry Hill cuts no mustard with John who is sceptical that the Lord Protector held a council of war there with General Sir Thomas Fairfax in September 1645. “The horsemen of the New Model Army may well have watered their steeds at the River Frome nearby,” says John, “but I believe Cromwell and his Commander in Chief would have surveyed the scene from above at the Dower House.”Prince Rupert was to surrender the port city within three weeks. A confirmed republican and bachelor, John likes to think he may be descended from Tavistock MP John Pym (1584 -1643). It was King Charles’ failure to arrest the parliamentarian who had challenged him that led to the English Civil War and the triumph of the BornPuritans.on23 May 1939, John claims to share his birthday with Pym, and recalls that his boyhood hero Kit Carson (1809 – 1868) also died on 23 BroughtMay.upon cowboy comics portraying the fictional exploits of the Wild West trapper and frontiersman, John has travelled to New Mexico in search of the facts about Christopher Houston ‘Kit’ Carson.“Iwanted to know what he was really like,” explains John, who is keen to rehabilitate a reputation sullied by claims that Carson was a ruthless killer of native Americans. Although illiterate, Carson spoke several First Nation languages as well as French and Spanish. His first two wives were from the Arapaho and Cheyenne nations, and he served as an Indian agent with the Utes of Colorado.
“We’ve got to let them live in their time, not ours,” he says. Always a bit of a rebel, Stapleton-born John tried to bunk out of his National Service, going absent without leave several times. Once he hid overnight at timber merchants John Randell & Son where he had been apprenticed; another time in a pit he’d dug beneath a bench in a workshop behind his family home. To avoid a patrolling policeman he ducked into the cart shed where the City Council kept snow ploughs, and with help from two girl friends he even bedded down in a room above The Old Tavern on Blackberry Hill, unbeknownst to his mother who workedCaughtthere.and sent back over and over again to take his punishment in military clink, he spent time in Shepton Mallet Prison, now another museum.Afterhis last escapade he was sent to Long Marston, near Stratford-on-Avon. where a Major Tierney respected his views. “I wanted to be a soldier, you didn’t,” he told the errant young man and set John up as staff driver. It was a move that would later help him get work at Stoke Park. John’s craftsmanship is evident throughout the museum, where fellow volunteers also admire his skill as a calligrapher.
John Pimm Navajo Richard K. Yazzie’s ‘Long Walk Home’ mural in Gallup, New Mexico
• Glenside Hospital Museum is open from 10am-1pm on Wednesdays and 10am-4pm on Saturdays. www.glensidemuseum.org.uk
September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 31 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
From Cromwell to Kit Carson
But after the American Civil War Carson, who fought with the Union side, was given the task of quelling uprisings amongst tribes who objected to the White man’s takeover of their territory. Initially resistant, he accepted the task of driving thousands of Navajos some 300 miles from Arizona to a ‘reservation’ in New Mexico. As a result he is remembered for the Long Walk inflicted on them. The Navajos have not forgiven him for killing their livestock and destroying their crops and way of life. John’s ambition is to visit them and apologise on Carson’s behalf.
First known photo of Kit Carson Oliver Cromwell
Positive, Resilient, Meaningful Chester Park Infant School Are you looking for a school for your child? Enquire now 0117 3773047 Experienced and caring staff who provide exceptional education to all children. Engaging outdoor learning areas and equipment! Vibrant and safe learning spaces where children thrive. A Meaningful Curriculum that is designed to promote independence and lifelong learning skills. Regular forest school sessions to develop resilience, social development and emotional skills! Is your child due to start Reception Year in 2023? Come and see what Chester Park can offer your child Open Evening Wednesday 12th October 2022 - 6.30-8pm Do you have a child born between 1st September 2018 and 31st August 2019? If so, we will be holding an Open Evening for you to view Chester Park, the Headteacher will give a talk at 6.30pm and you will be able to tour the schools and talk to teaching staff. Book now call 0117 3773047 or email cchesterparki@bristol schools.uk “Adults form positive and caring relationships with pupils. Pupils trust adults in the school and feel valued and respected” - Ofsted 2019
Shading and green spaces provide respite from scorching city streets, providing a 20-degree lower temperature difference.
September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 33 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 MIKEBUILDINGPALMER STAPLETON BRISTOL All Building work undertaken ROOFING, EXTENSIONS, ALTERATIONS, PLASTERING & RENDERING BRICKWORK & LANDSCAPING Professional Local Building Contractor 07833 michaeldickasonpalmer@gmail.com691895 L LLOYDBOTTOMS chartered accountants 118 High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HH www.lloydbottoms.co.uk Local accountants, offering a friendly and personal accountancy and taxation service to individuals and businesses. Contact us now! — Free initial consultation Freephone 0800 781 8783 n FRIENDS OF EASTVILLE PARK AS a working parent of young children, I don’t have a lot of free time but I love to volunteer at the pop-café when I can. I meet interesting, kind people I learn something new from, and sometimes get advice that helps set the direction of the Friends of Eastville Park. Our new CIO charity status has meant we have some new responsibilities to embrace, but it also means we have better access to certain grants and funds. We are preparing plans for the next phase of improvements, from additional play equipment and improved storage for the bowlers to a dedicated space for a more frequent café, and toilet facilities. It will be a big bid, so if park users have suggestions of what needs improving or would like to help, please do get in touch via our emailTheaddress.newfacilities will continue to connect people to the history of the park, to nature, and be a space for well-being.Thecommunity hub has been busy this summer, hosting lawn bowls matches, pop-up cafes, film club, weddings, birthday parties, yoga and a Friday food club that helps tackle food poverty by redistributing food otherwise at risk of going to waste to those who need it in Eastville. Membership costs £1 per year and enables people to take a full bag of shopping home each week for just £3.50. For more details email eastvilleparkfoodclub@gmail.com or call 07591 748548. You may have noticed autumn seems to have arrived early, with many of the trees turning brown and dropping leaves. Just as the grass has turned yellow, the recent heatwaves have brought a false autumn in response to water stress. Once we have enough rain the grass should recover - we may even see a false spring again if trees can resume the last part of the growing season before true autumn.
It’s great to escape to the park on such hot days, but do spare a thought for the council waste teams, who have huge amounts of extra work when people bring packaging to the park then don’t take it home again. Please help your park by protecting the grass from BBQ burns, and dispose of waste in your home recycling rather than overwhelming the park bins. Our warming world means that by 2030 we in Bristol will see unusual weather events like heatwaves and surface water flooding much more often.
Having more trees along streets surrounding parks and green spaces provides more shade, resilience to surface water flooding, reduced air pollution and space for nature that joins together, while also having a positive impact on well-being. If you’re able to sponsor a tree in your street or local park, visit theThursdayorjoiningYouandthroughandthecarefullyallowinghabitatssub-group'swroteprovider/bristol-city-council.sponsor.treesforstreets.org/InJuly'sVoiceMartynCordeyabouttheFOEPNatureworktomanagearoundEastvillePark,somegreenspacestobereturnedtonatureforbenefitofinsectspecies,birdswildflowersthatarestressedunpredictableseasonschemicalsintheenvironment.cansupportyourparkbyinwiththenaturegroup,Parkworksessions(onthefirsteachmonth),avoidinguseofglyphosateweedkiller or slug pellets, and planting a few wildflowers or pollinator support species in your garden or window box.Eastville play area also has £108,000 in community infrastructure levy funding waiting to be spent. It has been a tremendously long journey from funding award to being able to use it in the park on more than minor improvements.Wehaveconducted surveys to understand how best to improve the play area for older children, taken advice from play specialists, and worked with the council to prepare the tendering process, and now the council is finally ready to receive bids from play equipment providers. It’s an exciting time! It’s easy to become impatient when projects progress slowly but, just like the wildflower meadows, we plant the seeds and slowly but surely, beautiful things happen. The Parkie
Help us sow the seeds of change Food club produce Wild flowers in the park
fishpondsvoice September, 202234 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 n PLANNING MATTERS WITH CHRIS GOSLING
On a new estate where nobody has moved in, who is there to point out the inconsistencies between the plans and what is being built? I very much doubt planners, designers or architects would advocate making such changes, and for small builders, the cost savings would not tally with the possible cost of having to re-do their work with the correct materials.Thistrend is much more likely to occur at the behest of accountants at the volume housebuilders where, for example, the savings in leadwork over a whole estate can be substantial. If such changes are being made, however, then national advice needs to be taken into account, and you really can’t argue with its intent.
In recent years, to cut down on the costs of leadwork, tiles and fitting, some new houses have a plastic canopy over a bay. I am even led to believe that plastic chimney pots exist although, unlike these dismal canopies, I have yet to see one. I sincerely hope that they would not be connected to a fireplace that can accommodate a real fire. When buying a new house, who looks at those kind of external details? When selling it a few years later, however, it might be difficult to explain why the entire roof over over a bay has faded in the sunlight.
Chrisgoslingplanning@gmail.com
I HAVEN'T often commended government planning policy in thisIncolumn.manyrespects it is a hindrance rather than a help, either being ill-thought-out or having unintended consequences that leaves people tearing their hair out, myself included. Therefore it is nice to highlight one area of policy I was surprised the government even picked up on, let alone the line that it took. For those with their search engine at the ready, it is paragraph 135 of the National Planning Policy Framework and it requires planning departments to seek to ensure that the quality of an approved scheme is not diminished between permission and completion. There is even an example given - changing building materials. So what is diminished quality? It normally comes down to costcutting. You may not be aware there are cheaper alternatives available and, in some cases, house builders will simply make changes without seeking permission.Theclassic approach is trying to replace natural stone with reconstituted stone. This product is made using stone or dust that would otherwise be tipped, to produce an 'authentic' face on a concrete block. Being of a regular size, you can avoid the expense of employing a stonemason. But it leaves a ‘lifeless’ finish, without the colour and shape variations found in natural stone. There are some cases where you can easily spot the difference, when natural and reconstituted stone are in close proximity: there is always a clear winner.Another example common to most new housing estates is using the best materials on the houses that are most visible - the sales home and those at the front of the estate. Further in, the finishes become more generic and - you guessed it - cheaper to build.
Lack of quality street
The tests are about secure work, where peo ple know when the next shift is coming; paying a real living wage; making sure workers are listened to and can get training and promotions. It’s also about making sure people stay healthy.
Giving West of England workers a fair share
First to sign up were Wallace and Gromit’s creators, Aardman, the world famous, four-time Oscar-winning animation studio. They’re being joined by businesses and organisations big and small from across the West of England. Why? Because happy and healthy staff are also productive staff and mean a successful business. It’s a win-win for employees and employers.But,sadly, across our region there remains a less good side, with too many jobs not offering workers the respect, security, wages or future prospects they deserve, and their hard work and effortsShockinglymerit. today, one in six West of England workers take home less pay than the Real Living Wage and a record one in six families live in poverty.Inflation has hit a 40-year high, even as wages fall at their fastest rate in two decades. Plus, too many people don’t know what hours they will work and so what salary they’ll earn from week to week, as they languish on zero hours contracts when they would rather have certainty.Every company that signs up to the charter receives bespoke training organised by the West of England Combined Authority that I lead. I’m proud the West of England Good Employment Charter is making a difference in something so central to our lives. Please ask the place where you work to sign up too, at www.goodemploymentcharter.co.uk.
There are two tiers: “supporters” - working with aspiring organisations to help them raise employment standards – and “members”, where employers prove they are exemplars.
MANY of us will be feeling refreshed from a summer break, perhaps far from home or maybe from a staycation, enjoying everything our amazing West of England has to offer. But now it’s back to work, which is where, astonishingly, we spend a whopping third of our lives. What that tells me is that having a decent job really matters. We’ve all done jobs that aren’t great. I was never a fan of 6am shifts at a factory job I did; nor of the particles of rust that irritated my eyes as a young scaffolder’s assistant; and there have been a few bosses that I met that would give fictional boss David Brent a run for his money. But equally, you remember those fantastic men tors in your career, the people that made time to invest in you, and where you felt every day was worthwhile.So,because we spend 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime, I am determined to try and make sure those hours are the very best they can be. That’s why, as part of my push for decent jobs, I have launched my Good Employment Charter, fulfilling a manifesto pledge I gave to you in the Metro Mayor election last year. The charter is a co-operative effort between employers, employees and trade unions.
n LETTERS
Something must be done
COULD you be an adult volunteer at 151st Bristol Fishponds Baptist Scout Group? We have Beavers (6-8yrs), Cubs (8-10yrs) and Scouts (10-14). All sections have waiting lists and we plan to open a Squirrel Drey for four to six year olds. We change lives by offering fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventure and the chance to help others, so that we make a positive impact in communities. This is only possible thanks to our team of adult volunteers, who support Scouts in a range of roles, from working directly with young people to helping manage a group, to being a charity trustee. Our award-winning training scheme for volunteers means that adults get as much from Scouts as young people. If you want to get involved, we can offer you all the support you need. For an information pack contact me at jt151gsl@gmail.com or call 07738 108335.
I READ in disgust that First are making more cuts to buses through Fishponds (Voice, August). We currently have such a slow service, a journey of a few miles takes up to 30Theminutes.busesthat go down Stapleton Road are always held up by people double parked on a main road. The Y2 and Y5 services were great, as you could bypass this chaos and get into town in 10 minutes flat. Other areas of the city get express buses, why can't we? Even Marvin's future fantasy transport plans didn't offer services through Fishponds. More can be done with the 48A, running it down the M32, through Fishponds, Stapleton, UWE and on to Parkway station. As for killing off the Number 5 route, this again is sometimes a quicker service back to Fishponds. Most cities in the UK have amazing public transport systems. It's about time something was done about it - thank goodness Dan Norris is on board, if you pardon the pun. Jason D'Arcy Leaders needed
Jenny Turner Group Scout Leader
Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice
fishpondsvoiceSeptember, 2022 35 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 ww w .clevechi r opractic.co m CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangots eld, Bristol BS16 9ENAssociationChiBritishofMembertheropractic Contact 0117 957 5388 A Team approach to healthcare. Supporting Premiership Football, Rugby, 2012 Olympics and World Athletic Championship 2017 The practice of pain relief Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Back & Leg Pain, Sciatica Sports SportsHeadachesMassage&MigrainesTrappedNervesRepetitiveStrainInjuriesOccupationalInjuriesInjurySpecialistCompetitivelypriced n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
A letter from Provence via the Commonwealth Games
fishpondsvoice September, 202236 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377
I also volunteered for back-to-back, eight-hour stints so that I didn’t miss too many days at my own clinic.Iwas originally a bit disappointed with this placement. I considered Warwick to be away from the central hub and the early shifts maybe a little slow… but, as atmosphere was muted and the energy in the polyclinic was low. As I walked through the double doors it was as if I had entered a Wild West saloon – everyone looked up at me. You could see they were thinking: who is this guy? Perhaps I was the new sheriff!Some of the physios and sports therapists who had been there for a couple of days told me they pretty much hadn’t seen an athlete since they had arrived. This place needed a lift so I set myself the task of seeing what there was on offer.Theathletes seemed to be walking right past the clinic. Then I clocked that there were loads of rugby players, which started to get me really excited. That’s the sports language I know best. Soon enough I saw a big group of Aussies walking around clearly getting their bearings so, instead of looking at them looking at me, I went over and said hello and asked if they had been inside the polyclinic for a look round yet. No? OK, would you like me to show you what we have? It was amazing. As I walked around, the first people I introduced were the dentists and optometrists. Next along the line were the GPs and sports docs, then I introduced the radiologist Next up were the physical therapists. Obviously I explained that I was a chiropractor – I might have mentioned that I have worked in the rugby’s Premiership – and they were surprised to see me working at the Games. They would normally just bring their physio, sports doc and sports therapist along with them. Many had experienced and liked chiro from back home, so we were a welcome sight. The Aussies’ tour went on to the physios, sports massage, podiatry and osteo teams before we reached the well-stocked pharmacy – who seemed to take great delight in explaining that they were providing more than 50,000 condoms for free at the Games!After a morning of tours –Tonga, Fiji, Canada, Scotland, England and Mauritius were among those who followed –the afternoon quickly got busy, with my first patient a rugby sevens player from Tonga. As I demonstrated how we can increase a player’s muscle control, making them feel like a million dollars, he was hooked. He asked if I could see his whole team and, via his telephone, the word started to spread. Before he left, I explained that he would do well with a sports massage straight away, so off he Thiswent.became the routine. I treated one player, they referred a friend, then promised to come back again. I would offer them access to a scan if they needed or suggested they go and get their eyes checked and teeth cleaned while they were there. The clinic became super busy – not just because of me – but I’m proud of the little kick start I gave it. When I had a moment, I spoke with all the other professions, spreading the word about chiropractic and giving a few hands-on demonstrations. I believe this really helped dispel any myths about chiro. I explained about the four or five years of fulltime university studies we need to complete before we qualify. I now have great contact with more sports docs, GPs, physios and chiros that I hadn’t met before. A number asked me to help them find a trusted local chiro to them (you start by going to the British Chiropractic Association website). A few were even interested in the chiro conversion course in Bournemouth.So,asIlisten to the cicadas, my children run dangerously around me with water pistols in Provence and I can hear the family wondering which vineyard to visit at lunchtime, I’m signing off, hoping that everyone has enjoyed a happy and healthy summer. with Tim Button, Doctor of Chiropractic at Cleve Chiropractic and Next Step in Mangotsfield
BY the time you read this, the summer will be nearly over, but I hope you will indulge me as I brieflyEverreminisce…sinceIwas a kid, we have headed off to Provence for our summer holidays, this time meeting mum and dad who drove down in their camper van and my brother and his family. So it was a big Button family trip down memory lane. This year, I had a very important job to do before I could put my feet up in the south of France. So, despite the temptation to just talk here about vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields, I’ll concentrate on the true preholiday highlight – working at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.Four of us from Cleve Chiropractic – Catherine, Lucy, Charlie and myself – were selected to help athletes at the Games, so we had chiro, physio and sports therapy all weekWarwickholiday,Becausecovered.ofmyimpendingIwasgivenshiftsattheUniversitycampusthebeforetheGamesstarted.
n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE
0117 957 5388
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September 17 HILLFIELDS COMMUNITY GARDEN VOLUNTEER GROUP, 10.30am-noon, Hillfields Park. Help look after the garden in a friendly group. Activities for children. No tools or experience needed - all ages welcome. More details com.hillfieldscommunitygarden@gmail.from
REGULAR EVENTS
September 17-18 GET GROWING TRAIL 2022. Free open events at Bridge Farm, Glenfrome Road, Stapleton, Elm Tree Farm, Park Road, Stapleton, Avon Wildlife Trust Grow Wilder project, Frenchay Park Road, Stapleton, Royate Hill Community Orchard and Allotment Project, and Edible Bristol Cultivation Place, at Speedwell Allotments, Whitefield Road. For more details see p24 or visit bristolfoodnetwork.org.
MANGO REDS V BLUES CHARITY FUNDRAISING MATCH at Mangotsfield United FC, Cossham Street, all day from 10.30am. Raising money for St Peters Hospice and Special Friends Autistic Club, with music, bouncy castle, hot food, bar, raffle and auction. Free entry, collection for charities around the ground. To register to play visit the Red Lion in St James Street.
Tuesday PHOENIX ART CLUB meets on Tuesdays at Stapleton Church Hall, Park Road, from 10am to midday. Wednesday BARTON HILL RFC CHARITY CAFE, Duncombe Lane, Speedwell, from noon until 3pm. Food and drink, bargain donated goods, friendly and welcoming place to meet, staffed entirely by volunteers raising money for charity.
September 25
September 5 n HILLFIELDS COMMUNITY GARDEN WILD WOMEN, 7-9pm. Supportive group for women of all ages, sharing seasonal food and drink, and exploring simple mindfulness techniques. No need to book, just turn up on the day. More information hillfieldswildwomen@gmail.com.from
Monday BARTON HILL RFC CHARITY CAFE, Duncombe Lane, Speedwell, from noon until 3pm. Food and drink, bargain donated goods, friendly and welcoming place to meet, staffed entirely by volunteers raising money for charity.
DOWNEND FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB meets at 7.30pm on the first and third Wednesday of each month from September to June, at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road, Downend. For more information call Genise on 0777 245 1217. Friday n EASTVILLE PARK FOODCLUB OPEN FOR COLLECTIONS, every Friday 12-1.30pm (please note change of opening hours). To enquire about membership, email eastvilleparkfoodclub@gmail.com or call 07591 748548. We would love to yourpubliciseevent
Send details of your events and activities in the following format: WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: voice.co.uknews@fishponds-
September, 2022 fishpondsvoice 37 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT QUARRY HOUSE NURSING HOME We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home... Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk Providing top quality, best value, holistic care BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS BEST FOR IN CLASS CATERING BEST FOR IN CLASS ACTIVITIESBEST FOR IN CLASS CATERINGBEST FOR IN CLASS CARE PLANS Quarry House in Fishponds offers safe and nurturing care We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy. We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply • Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA Until 4 September 2022. n DISHES OF DISCOVERY AT BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN - Already known as the ‘world’s smelliest museum’ with hundreds of sights, sounds and smells, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is about to get tasty this summer. Embark on a global voyage of taste without leaving Bristol as you sample delicacies inspired by Victorian voyages to destinations visited by the ship.
September 3 n PARTY IN THE PONDS, VASSALLS PARK, OLDBURY COURT, noon-7pm. Free event with music, dance and a huge variety of stalls: Jamaican, Mexican, vegan, cakes, candy floss and ice cream; face painting, wood carving, crafts and games.
September 20 DOWNEND GARDENING IN RETIREMENT CLUB, 10.15am, Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road. Nonmembers welcome. £3 including tea/coffee. Easily reached by any bus into Downend.
September, 202238 To advertise, contact Shaun Tel 07540 383 870 Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Ken On 07715 770377 ELECTRICAL SERVICES ELECTRICAL SERVICESAERIALSAERIALS CLEANING For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service... call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974 infowww.atomelectrical.co.uk@atomelectrical.co.uk All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires. FREE Quotations specialist domestic installers atom electrical Call Nick on 07970 529787 Email: theaerialco@yahoo.com ● TV Aerials & Satellites ● Extra Points ● Repairs ● Sky Work Undertaken ● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting ● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions ● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems The AerialEst.2004Co. n SPORT Boxers can take the heat in Torquay THE new competitive season started early for Downend Boxing Club members who took part in the Riviera Box Cup at the height of the heatwave.JayHolloway, Gio Davino, Jasmine Poole, Riley Catley and, in an extra contest, Usamah Zaman, worked very hard for the tournament in Torquay, on August 13-14. Jay, 18, opened against Liam Harper of Exhall, in a toe-to-toe, all-action clash of styles, with both guys throwing hard shots in the extremely demanding hot conditions. Liam took a points decision. Gio, 21, was involved in a bout against Peckham's Jemal Sesay that could only be described as epic. The London boxer possessed fast hands and feet but Gio employed great upper body defence, nullifying most of the attacks and using effective body punching to score.
Caught with a straight shot, prompting a protection count, in the second round, the Downend boxer came firing straight back, knocking down his opponent. At the end the audience were on their feet giving generous applause - but the points decision went to Jemal.Usamah, 22, was without an opponent ahead of his final due to a withdrawal on Saturday, so took an extra contest against Tyrone Roper of Lucky Gloves, Slough. The heat had taken it completely out of the Downend boxer, who found it difficult to move and lost a points decision. Day two, however, was vastly different in the Box Cup final for Usamah, who had been the runner up in last year’s tournament.
Opponent Nicholas Rosa of Peckham applied pressure from the first bell, making the Bristolian box and move whilst throwing eye-catching long shots across the three rounds: Usamah took the championship title on a unanimous decision.Straight afterwards Jasmine, 20, contested her final against Tracey Sheppard, of Newdigate Warwickshire.Jasminelanded fast punches through the centre of her aggressive opponent's defence: Tracey would not take a backwards step and Jasmine had to get on her bike to punch and move her way to a unanimous decision, winning the title belt for best female performance. In his second contest, Riley, 18, showed great determination and courage against the strong Mike Bowman of Leigh Park, Hants, who already had nine bouts. A good start from Riley saw him box calmly and score with long shots but Mike came steaming back, using hard hooks to fluster Riley and prompt a standing count. Digging deep, Riley had a torrid start to the third session but regained his composure and got behind his jab, to earn a split points decision.Looking on was proud dad and former world champion Glenn Catley, who paid tribute to both lads.
Craig Turner Jasmine Poole with coach Craig Turner after winning the belt for best female performance at the Riviera Box Cup.
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