Frome Valley Voice January 2018

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2018 Issue 55

FREE EVERY MONTH IN WINTERBOURNE, FRAMPTON COTTERELL, COALPIT HEATH, IRON ACTON & WINTERBOURNE DOWN

Countdown starts for academy’s new era IT’S been a long time coming but formal approval for Winterbourne International Academy (WIA) to be run by a different trust has finally been given.

The official switch is now planned to take place on February 1, 2018, or as soon after that date as possible, when the school will become the ninth in South Gloucestershire to be part of the Olympus Academy Trust.

Locally-based Olympus had formed a consortium with Castle School Education Trust to propose taking over sponsorship of Winterbourne when the crisis-hit Ridings’ Federation of Academies, which ran WIA, decided to re-broker as the best way of solving its financial problems.

Other set-backs at the academy included Ofsted putting it into special measures and the loss of two consecutive shortlived chief executive principals.

The Olympus/Castle consortium has provided interim leadership at Winterbourne for some time and in the autumn

of 2017, the Department for Education gave its backing “in principle” for Olympus to take over WIA. However, further negotiations

were required before the arrangement could be finalised and clearance given for the changeover to take place.

Full story page 2

Signs are good for Kelbra

Bank to close branch NatWest to shut in Winterbourne PAGE 5

Top of the class Frampton Cotterell schools excel PAGE 9

Winter comes to Winterbourne Ice skating date for community centre PAGE 11

Carry on sunshine

Solar farm given five year extension PAGE 12

What a difference a year makes Frampton Rugby sixth in table after unbeaten December PAGE 45 Zeus Explorer Scouts are celebrating after persuading councillors to keep Frampton Cotterell’s twinning signs. More, page 3

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January, 2018

n NEWS WINTERBOURNE International Academy has been given the official go-ahead to join a new trust as work continues to put the school back on track.

Dave Baker, the interim chief executive, said he was “delighted” to confirm it had received approval from all quarters to join the locally-based Olympus Academy Trust (OAT).

He said: “The plan, therefore, is for Winterbourne to join Olympus on February 1, 2018, or as soon after as possible.

“In the short-term, support and leadership will continue as at present. We will share further details in the New Year.”

Mr Baker, who is also the OAT chief executive, said permission from all parties came “following what feels like a lengthy period of discussion and negotiation” with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and the Department for Education (DfE) about the support needed

Academy given green light for transfer to new trust for Winterbourne (WIA) to join Olympus.

The move to OAT finally removes uncertainty surrounding the academy’s future.

Although the DfE had given its backing “in principle” in the autumn of 2017 for the transfer to take place, the school had to wait for official clearance before proceeding.

Now, in just a matter of weeks, the changeover will take place and a new era will start for WIA, its pupils and staff.

As the former Ridings High School, it became an academy in September 2009 - along with the then King Edmund School in Yate - under the umbrella of the Ridings’ Federation of Academies.

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The two academies were created through a scheme in which stronger schools were invited to partner weaker ones and both got new buildings as a result.

However, the federation experienced a string of problems in recent years, from a financial crisis surrounding a potential £1 million deficit, poor Ofsted ratings for both academies and the departure of two short-lived chief executive principals. WIA went on to be put into special measures by Ofsted.

A consortium of Olympus and Castle School Education Trust applied to take over sponsorship of WIA and have provided interim leadership at the school for some time.

That included the secondment of Peter Smart, headteacher at the Castle School in Thornbury, to the post of interim principal.

Meanwhile, the Yate academy split away and has transferred to the Greenshaw Learning Trust.

Financially, the large deficit has now gone and money borrowed from ESFA in 2016, which initiated a financial notice to improve, is being repaid.

Winterbourne will become the ninth South Gloucestershire school to be part of Olympus, which also has Bradley Stoke Community School, Abbeywood Community School and a number of primary schools in its portfolio.

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PROOF Wrap around care at Watermore Primary School Watermore is interested to receive expressions of interest from external providers to take over the running of the existing breakfast club, which is currently run as a charity by parent volunteers. The successful tenderer should be in a position to take over the service from the start of the 2018/19 academic year at the latest.

The breakfast club currently takes 42 children and has a waiting list. It operates from the hall, library and former IT room in the Orchard (Woodend Road) site.

Once the new school building is opened in September 2019, it is our expectation that the organisation running the breakfast club will commence an after-school club. A recent questionnaire sent to parents suggested that there would be significant demand for after school care.

Watermore is running a tender process to select the provider and parties who wish to register their interest should contact the Clerk at alex.jones@watermoreprimary.org.uk. The closing date for initial applications is Thursday 18th January 2018. The potential providers who are shortlisted will be invited to produce a business plan proposal by 2nd March 2018.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

3

n NEWS

Scouts help save New Year, New Year’s twinning signs Resolution: Charity needs daffodil volunteers MARIE Curie is appealing for people in the Frome Valley to ‘get behind the daffodil’, by volunteering to collect donations for the charity’s annual Great Daffodil Appeal in February and March.

The charity needs volunteers to encourage people in the local community to give a donation and wear a daffodil pin. The money raised from the Great Daffodil Appeal will help Marie Curie Nurses provide care and support to people living with a terminal illness and their loved ones at home in South Gloucestershire. The

appeal is now in its 32nd year and has raised more than £74 million since 1986.

Helen Isbell , Community Fundraiser for Marie Curie in South Gloucestershire said: “It’s easy to sign up, whether you have taken part before or you’re doing it for the first time - and families, friends and workmates can sign up to volunteer together.”

To volunteer to collect for Marie Curie and support the Great Daffodil Appeal call Helen on 0117 9247275 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/ daffodil.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

THE Zeus Explorer Scouts are celebrating after persuading Frampton Cotterell Parish Council to keep twinning signs on roads into the village.

The signs, telling people the village is twinned with Kelbra in Germany, are part of signs welcoming motorists into Frampton Cotterell. Councillors were considering removing them and just leaving the village name instead.

The Explorer Scouts went to a parish council meeting to tell people about their recent trip to Kelbra in Germany where they met the mayor of Kelbra, visited a school and learnt about the twinned town. The Explorers were joined on their excursions by members of the Kelbra Twinning Association, who provided the scouts with transport during their stay.

They didn’t realise that there was an agenda item to discuss having the current twinning

signs removed from Frampton Cotterell.

After hearing from the explorer scouts and representation from the twinning group, the council decided to keep the signs.

Helen Jackson, one of the supporters of Zeus Explorer Scouts said: “Young kids often get a bad press but in this case they've helped the community spirit both here in Frampton Cotterell and in Kelbra.”

Chris Harris, the scout leader said: “The explorers were really proud to be able to feedback to the council the fantastic opportunities twinning provides.

It is great that young people can have the opportunity to stand up in front of their elected counsellors and highlight what is important to them.”

The parish council have asked the scouts to make a presentation to the wider community in the new year.

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February deadline Our February edition will be going to print on January 29. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by January 24. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Frome Valley Voice 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. Frome Valley Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

5

n NEWS

Winterbourne to lose Winterbourne man to head national charity its NatWest bank A BRANCH of NatWest bank in Winterbourne is set to disappear from the village’s High Street when it closes with nearly 200 others around the country.

The bank said it proposed to shut the branch on June 6.

After then, customers will have to go to the nearest alternative branches in Yate, Filton or Fishponds.

However, NatWest said everyday banking services could be done at local post offices.

The bank said: “Closing a branch is a decision we take very seriously. A broad range of local factors are considered and contribute to our decision-making process.”

It said more people were choosing to do

their banking online, with a mobile banking app or over the phone.

NatWest said that meant some branches were being used a lot less than they used to be.

Meanwhile, the bank’s Chipping Sodbury branch is also due to close on May 30.

A BUSINESSMAN from Winterbourne has become chairman of a national charity that makes wishes come true for children with life threatening illnesses.

Andrew Simmonds is to head Round Table Children’s Wish, a registered charity that has been operating for 27 years and has its headquarters in Bournemouth. The charity was originally formed by a group of Round Tablers but now operates independently.

Mr Simmonds, a family man with two young children, is well known in the Bristol area for his work with Round Table over 14 years, including being the organiser of Bristol’s largest charity firework display for the past 7 years.

He is also a trustee of the

Great Western Air Ambulance charity.

He told the Voice “I’m delighted to take on this new role. The work that the charity does in providing handcrafted wishes for children and young people when they have life threatening illnesses is fantastic.”

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n NEWS MOTORISTS driving from Winterbourne to the ring road can now turn left at the Hambrook lights during the road works.

The option to turn towards Downend had been removed to try and keep the traffic moving whilst the work on the Bromley Heath Viaduct continued.

But the decision has been reversed after feedback from local residents and councillors, as well as a review of traffic management.

Although there were improvements to the traffic flow generally, there has been significant congestion through Frenchay, leading to complaints from local people.

Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Colin Hunt said: “We have now completed a three-week trial. I would like to thank residents for their patience whilst we collected traffic management information, camera data and route assessments during peak hours.”

Other traffic management implemented during the work at Bromley Heath Viaduct will remain in place including other changes at the Hambrook lights.

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n EDUCATION

New school building on the drawing board PLANS for the re-building of the junior school site of Watermore Primary have been unveiled.

It is proposed to spend £4.5 million on the Frampton Cotterell premises so the school’s infants, who are taught elsewhere in the village, can finally join the older pupils under one roof.

The school has operated on two separate sites since 2011 when Brockeridge Infant School and Highcroft Junior School merged to create Watermore Primary.

But they have remained in different roads ever since and the set-up has been described as “an operational challenge”.

When it was decided to amalgamate the schools, South Gloucestershire Council said it wanted to eventually have all staff and pupils on the junior site in Lower Stone Close.

Due to a lack of funding, that never happened, despite a number of bids to the Department for Education.

As time went on, a backlog of

repairs and maintenance grew and a report produced in early 2017 said there was increasing urgency to spend £1.6 million on such work, with no guarantee of the longer term value for money and none of it addressing the main fabric of the buildings.

As previously reported in Frome Valley Voice, re-building the junior school will allow the infant site in Woodend Road to be sold, together with a small piece of land on the corner of the junior site for housing.

Disposal of the land could generate around £1.4 million to £1.5 million, which would go towards the cost of the re-

building project.

However, there are concerns among local residents and parish leaders that the village could lose part of its history should the old Brockeridge school building in Woodend Road make way for redevelopment.

Many local residents would have been pupils there and an outline idea was put forward earlier in 2017 to turn the school buildings into a small business hub.

Local councillor Claire Young said: “Government funding is in short supply but the costs of maintaining the two ageing buildings, added to the problems of operating a split site school, has made it more cost effective to replace them with a new building.

“The main concerns appear to be parking and dropping off, reduction in play space and the future of the much loved old Brockeridge school, where generations of local residents started their education.”

The new school could be ready for the start of the 2019-20 academic year.

After-school service to be added to breakfast club WATERMORE Primary has started to look for a new provider to take over its successful breakfast club and add on an after-school service.

The club is currently run by parent volunteers as a charity, has 42 children attending and a waiting list.

It operates from the Frampton Cotterell school’s Woodend Road site - where the infants are taught - but that will eventually close under plans to re-build the junior site in Lower Stone Close and bring all the children and staff together.

Watermore hopes the new school will open in September 2019 and in preparation wants to have the new breakfast club provider in place for the 2018-19 academic year, with the afterschool facility running for the following year.

Headteacher Janet Hoyle said: “A recent questionnaire

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

sent to parents suggested there would be significant demand for after-school care.

“We are designing the new school building so we can provide facilities that will support increased provision of wrap-around care, which is so important to an increasing number of parents.

“The existing breakfast club has done a wonderful job over the last five years but is constrained by the facilities we can provide currently. ”Watermore is running a tender process during the coming months to select the provider and parties wishing to register their interest should email alex. jones@watermoreprimary. org.uk. The closing date for initial applications is Thursday, January 18.

Those shortlisted will be invited to produce a business plan proposal by March 2.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n EDUCATION

League topping performances by Frampton’s two primary schools FRAMPTON Cotterell’s two primary schools are celebrating being at the top of the performance table in South Gloucestershire.

With 89 per cent of pupils meeting expected standards at the end of key stage two - before leaving for secondary school - Watermore Primary was the second best performer in the district. It was beaten only by Marshfield Primary with 91 per cent.

Frampton Cotterell Primary had 88 per cent of its children meeting the expected standards to put it into equal third place.

The schools’ progress scores were also good, with Watermore scoring well above average in reading, above average in maths and average in writing.

Frampton Cotterell was well above average in writing and average in the other two key subjects.

Of other schools in the area, St Michel’s Primary in Winterbourne had 79 per cent of pupils meeting expected standards, while Manor Primary in Coalpit Heath scored 68 per cent and Iron Acton Primary reached 67 per cent. Elm Park Primary in Winterbourne had a score of 51 per cent.

As a whole, South Gloucestershire had 60 per cent of pupils at the expected standard. Throughout England it was 61 per cent.

9

Ice day out for skaters at fund raising event SKATERS can glide across the ice when a rink is set up for a day at Winterbourne Community Centre.

Part of the car park will be used to accommodate the rink on Saturday, February 3, when 25-minute sessions will be available for anyone to have a go at the activity.

However, tickets can only be bought in advance and they go on sale at the centre on January 8.

They cost £6 each or £20 for a family of four, to include the hire of skates.

Special skates for toddlers, ice scooters and a chair for those with disabilities can be available if requested and snow produced by a machine will add to the atmosphere.

The event will raise money for Winterbourne and District Community Association, which runs the centre in Watleys End Road, as well as Silverhill School, Fromeside Gymnastics Club and Elm Park Primary School.

If the event is a success, the community association hopes to make it an annual event.

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January, 2018

n NEWS

Theo's Stomp raises thousands for Jessie May

our supporters together and remember Theo while fundraising for the cause so close to our hearts.”

Theo and his twin brother Ollie were born in 2010 but soon afterwards he was diagnosed with a rare, terminal condition called ARC Syndrome.

Wicket in Downend to pick up an extra 30 children who all completed the final leg.

Sarah said: “This year’s Stomp was another great success with lots of support from the people of Bristol who saw us along the way.

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Sarah said: “Jessie May did so much for Theo and our family when we really needed it. The support of Jessie May nurses remained constant and their bereavement support was vital to us.

“Theo was an inspiration to all that were lucky enough to meet him. He managed to carry on longer than the experts predicted and gave our family nine amazing months while he was with us.

“We were lucky enough to be able to have Theo at home when he was well enough and this was helped enormously by the support we received from Jessie May. “As Ollie and his younger sister Phoebe grow up, we want them to know and understand that Theo is, and always will be their brother. These fundraisers are vitally important to keeping Theo’s memory alive.”

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BABY Theo Cameron was remembered when more than 70 people took part in an annual fund raising walk for the Jessie May charity.

Theo was just nine-monthsold when he died in 2011, having been cared for by the hospiceat-home service provided to families of children and young people with life-limiting conditions.

Theo’s parents Sarah Harttrup and Scott Cameron, who live in Winterbourne, wanted to support the Bristolbased charity and organised the 20km Stomp across Bristol. They also hold a summer family fund raiser called Theo’s Day. The family had already raised £30,000 over the past five years and this year’s Stomp has now boosted that by another £4,000 through sponsorship and donations.

On the day, those taking part set off from the water tower near Durdham Downs and stopped off at pubs, cafes and restaurants along the way with collection buckets.

They completed the walk at the Cross Hands in Winterbourne, via the Willy

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

11

n NEWS

Sunshine Churches sing their way to big power to charity donation carry on for further five years at solar farm

A SOLAR farm in Winterbourne can operate for a further five years, South Gloucestershire Council planners have agreed.

An application was made to extend the 25-year limit of the panels at Grange Farm, Old Gloucester Road to 30 years, with a further six months added on to allow for decommissioning.

The extra time will also mean more income for Frampton Cotterell Parish Council, which receives an annual community benefit of about £14,000 while the solar farm operates.

THE annual Big Christmas Sing for Christian Aid has raised almost £2,000.

The 9th concert organised by Churches Together in Frampton and Coalpit Heath sees a variety of organisations come together for an evening of music and fundraising.

The concert featured carols and songs from Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School, Watermore Primary School, The Manor C of E Primary School’s Glee Club, Junior Fascinating Rhythm, Crossbow Singers, Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir, RhythmMix & the Frampton Shantymen. There was also a popular return for the ad hoc community choir that comes together for the event each year.

Organiser Alison Bray told the Voice: “This year’s Big Christmas Sing far surpassed our expectations and previous

concerts. £905.18 was raised, which will be doubled as a result of UK Aid to £1810.36; with £116 in Gift Aid so the grand total raised is £1926.36! It’s

absolutely amazing. Needless to say, poeple’s support will bring lasting joy to those who will benefit from your kind donations.”

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

12

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n NEWS

New jazz festival for 2018 entices popular singer back to Thornbury SINGER Jessica Radcliffe will make a welcome return to Thornbury to appear at its new jazz festival.

Having performed in the town on five previous occasions, she has now agreed to be part of the inaugural Thornbury Jazz Festival in March.

She will be accompanied by the Park Row Five with Gareth Williams on saxophone and flute, Rob Bartlett on trumpet, Stuart Potter on keyboard and piano, Ray Loadman on double bass and James Heming on drums.

The festival takes place on Saturday, March 10, with Thornbury Swing Band launching the evening of entertainment at 6pm in a cafe setting in the Armstrong Hall.

Also in the programme will be the Mark Randall Six and the Class Act Trio.

Concert-goers will be able to get hot food for £5 throughout the evening and a bar will be available.

Ticket prices range from £6 for the swing band concert to £18 for the whole event and will be available from midJanuary in Thornbury Town Hall or by phoning 01454 412272.

The festival is part of the phase one fund raising efforts to improve the Armstrong Hall.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2018

n NEWS

fromevalleyvoice

13

n BEAUTY BLOG

By Sarah Young of Spoilt Hair & Beauty

Arts trail this summer PEOPLE in the Winterbourne and Frampton Cotterell area can look forward to another Wallace & Gromit arts trail taking place across Bristol this summer.

More than 60 decorated sculptures of the popular pair - and the pesky penguin Feathers McGraw - will go on show in the city from July 2 to September 2.

Locations for the Gromit Unleashed 2 trail are still being decided. If you would like to suggest a site within an approximate 10-mile radius of the city centre, contact the organisers by January 4.

As with the previous Gromit trail in 2013 and the Shaun the Sheep trail in 2015, schools can also get involved with the project, which is run by Bristol Children’s Hospital charity The Grand Appeal with animation studio Aardman.They can apply to decorate a smaller sculpture of Feathers McGraw.

The trail will raise money for the children’s hospital and the Special Care Baby Unit at St Michael’s Hospital.

Wallace & Gromit creator Nick Park and Aardman founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton added: “It’s been nearly a quarter of a century since we brought Wallace, Gromit and Feathers together in The Wrong Trousers, and we’re delighted that they’ll be together once again in our home city of Bristol.

Celebrating our 50th anniversary Zion United Church, Woodend Road, Frampton Cotterell is celebrating 50 years as one church on the weekend of 27th and 28th January 2018.

There will be a display of the history of the four churches coming together as one with tea, coffee and cakes on Saturday morning from 10 -12 in the beacon.

On the evening of 27th between 7- 10 pm Zion is having a 60s party in the church with a live band, food, a nonalcoholic bar with drinks to purchase and 60s music. This is a ticketed event and tickets will cost £10 each and are available from Zion Office (Tel:01454 776618) with a prize for optional 60s fancy dress.

AFTER the excitement of Christmas, it’s time to look forward to a fresh new year. Are you looking back wishing time was not flying so much or are you really looking forward to the new year and what that might bring.

It’s always a good time to look at what’s new especially in the hair and beauty industry although nothing much really changes, just a slight tweak here and there.

According to Vogue, 2018 spring summer is going to be a great season for glittering, shimmering and rhinestones, from your make up to your jewellery.

It sounds a lot like December, so continue with a glitter eye shadow and shimmery lip and you’ll be set for the new year.

It’s time to get your make up and have a clear out. Most products have a shelve life so yes, you must discard of those old lip sticks and eye shadows, which, if

On Sunday morning Zion is holding a celebration service to which all are welcome. Do come and join us.

We offer fixed fees and FREE HOME VISITS if required.

Call today: 01174 401555 Leigh Court, Abbots Leigh, Bristol BS8 3RA

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

you are like me are probable well past their sell by date.

It’s also a busy time in the salon where clients are looking for a new look, whether this is a new cut or new colour. Why now just go a slightly lighter or darker shade, not too drastic, almost un-noticeable and then if you like it go a up or down a shade next time.

The big hair trends for 2018 are going to be a natural curl; don’t fight it enjoy it. Less ice blondes and more warm golden tones, far more manageable and big roller, big blow dry hair, a wet look, less sleek though and more natural, the scrunchie, school girl plaits, hair bands and, yes, silver hair continuing to be a trend.

So you see nothing much changes, it just goes round in cycles.

Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy 2018.

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14

n NEWS

January, 2018

Recycling figures released by South Glos RESIDENTS in South Gloucestershire have recycled an extra 1,279 tonnes of waste since weekly collections were brought in, paving the way for the introduction of smaller black bins in the New Year.

New figures released by South Gloucestershire Council show the success of the authority's new weekly kerbside recycling collections, which began in June this year.

The additional 1,279 tonnes of recycling is a 14 per cent increase and includes an extra 600 tonnes of paper and cardboard, an extra 364 tonnes of food waste and an extra 315 tonnes made up of plastics, cans and textiles.

Waste that cannot be recycled is disposed of either as energy from waste or into landfill and the council has to pay at least £101 to dispose of every tonne of black bin waste in this way, so the extra 1,270 tonnes of recycling has allowed the council to save around £130,000 since

weekly collections began.

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An initiative to replace the current black bins for smaller bins will be rolled out from January 15.

Cabinet Member for Communities and Tourism, councillor Heather Goddard, said: "This is fantastic news, I am so pleased that the changes we have made to make recycling easier for residents are paying off. Our communities deserve a real pat on the back for their efforts.

"Our new waste strategy is all about reducing the waste we send to landfill, which is expensive and no good for our environment. Before we launched our new strategy, 52 per cent of waste put into our black bins could have been recycled from home. This first response to making recycling easier is very encouraging.

"The next step is to reduce the size of people’s waste bins, which will start to happen in the New Year. From January 15 we will be exchanging the 240 litre black bins for non-recyclable waste with 140 litre bins, to reduce recyclable waste ending up in the black bins and achieve our recycling target of 50 per cent by 2020. It is clear now that

the pressure on those bins will be far less, thanks to residents’ recycling efforts.

"There have been a number of other initiatives as part of the new approach, including making allowances for larger families to have extra black bin capacity and introducing separate bags for disposable nappy waste to help families with young children manage their non-recyclable waste.

"The people of South Gloucestershire have really risen to this challenge and I hope they will recycle a bumper load of Christmas wrapping and boxes having had a lovely holiday season."

Residents have had Christmas collection calendars delivered but can check the dates for their area on the council website at: www.southglos.gov.uk/ collectionday Waste and recycling collections will not take place on Monday 25, Tuesday 26 December or Monday 1 January.

Sort It recycling centres will be closed from 2pm Sunday 24 December. They will be closed all day on Monday 25, Tuesday 26 December and Monday 1 January.

Advertise your business in Frome Valley Voiceemail richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n NEWS

There's still time to name your community hero WOULD you like to thank a volunteer who has gone the extra mile? There’s still time to put forward local heroes for the South Gloucestershire Council Chair's Community Awards 2018.

The annual honours recognise and celebrate the valuable contribution local unpaid volunteers and community groups make to life in South Gloucestershire.

The next celebration of community work and volunteering takes place in March and nominations close on Friday January 5.

Suggestions for nominations include individuals and groups who have contributed to community development, promoting equality, arts, sports, play, environment, working with older or young people, advice and advocacy or someone who has simply been a good

neighbour.

From charity fundraisers to local football club managers, sports coaches and arts festival organisers, these awards have seen South Gloucestershire Council honour the dedication and commitment of hundreds of unsung heroes across the district.

Council chairman Ian Blair said: “It is really important to recognise the dedication of the people who give up their own time to bring our communities together and improve the lives of local people. These awards offer a great way to celebrate their hard work and commitment.”

You can nominate your community hero online at www.southglos.gov.uk/ communityawards If you are unable to access the inte0rnet or have any questions, please call 01454 863019 or email communityawards@ southglos.gov.uk

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New year, new start

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

Retirement living for the not-so-retiring Opening this year, Stoke Gifford Retirement Village will provide 261 comfortable new one and two bedroom homes for people over 55, with options for rental, shared ownership and outright purchase.

The Village is built around a superb range of social, leisure and well-being facilities including: Fitness Suite and Well-being Suite Bistro and Bar Shop Hair and Beauty Salon Village Hall Hobby and Games Room IT suite and Library Greenhouse and Landscaped Piazza Here you can relax in the knowledge that if you or your partner need care, now or in the future, it can be provided by a dedicated 24/7 on-site team.

The Village is a vision of The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, a registered charity pioneering the UK’s most innovative and exciting new retirement villages.

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Off Coldharbour Lane, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS16 1EJ For more information please call

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or email stokegifford@extracare.org.uk

or online at www.stokegiffordvillage.co.uk Charges will apply. Details of any costs associated with your home, care and village services will be provided as part of your application. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, registered charity number 327816, is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales as company number 2205136. Its registered office is at 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN. Copyright Š 2017 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

17

n NEWS

Gaming machines centre allowed to open in Yate despite opposition from town leaders A CONTROVERSIAL adult gaming centre can open in Yate Shopping Centre after both planning permission and a premises licence were granted.

South Gloucestershire Council’s licensing subcommittee said it had been a difficult decision to make and acknowledged concerns expressed by objectors.

But it said it had to take into account the lack of opposition by “responsible authorities”, including the police and the Safeguarding Children’s Board.

It also said conditions to be imposed would mitigate to some extent the concerns put forward.

The proposal by Mirage Property Services - part of the Shipleys Amusement Centres

group - is to use a former jewellers in North Walk as an adult-only centre.

The applicants said the premises would contain 35 gaming machines, with a maximum stake of £2 and payout of £500. The majority of machines would have either a £1 stake with a £100 pay-out or a 10 pence stake with £5 pay-out and there would be no fixed odds betting terminals on the premises.

Yate Town Council had opposed the plan, fearing vulnerable people could be drawn to gambling.

It said the unit was close to the Armadillo youth cafe, used after school and in the evening by secondary school students,

and near a residential care home for people with learning and other disabilities, who often spent a considerable time in the shopping centre.

It also said Yate's food bank demonstrated the financial stress some local people were already facing, and that there were two designated areas of priority social need in the vicinity.

The applicants said they would operate only during the shopping centre opening hours, with at least two staff members on the premises at all times who would know the requirements for excluding under-18s and vulnerable people from using the premises.

Their offer to liaise with relevant, local community groups

and organisations involved with the welfare of vulnerable adults and children was also attached to the permission as a condition of the licence.

South Gloucestershire planning officer Griff Bunce said in his report: “Concern has been raised by the town council that the development would have undesirable social consequences.

“The operators have a statutory duty to control access to the venue. It should not, therefore, fall within the remit of the local planning authority to enforce existing appropriate legislation.”

“The assessment from a planning perspective is whether the use is appropriate within a town centre.”

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fromevalleyvoice

18

January, 2018

n NEWS

Making their stay more comfortable RELATIVES and carers of patients nearing the end of their lives in Bristol’s city centre hospitals will be offered help to make their stay more comfortable.

They will receive Comfort Boxes, funded by hospital charity Above & Beyond. These contain items such as toothpaste and toothbrush, wet wipes and hand cream; a sleeping mask and ear plugs; and tea, coffee and biscuits.

Also included is a leaflet which provides useful information about visiting hours, arranging an overnight stay and where to buy food and drink on hospital sites.

Sue Coghlan, Sister on Ward 78 at St Michael’s Hospital, said: “During difficult times, it really is the little things that can make all the difference to a relative’s or carer’s stay on the ward. Having simple amenities such as the ability to make yourself a cup of tea in the early hours without having to leave your loved one’s side is so important. These comfort boxes will allow us to provide the best possible care for the patient and their family, friend or carer when they need it most.”

Paul Kearney, CEO of Above & Beyond, added: “Our hospital staff give excellent care to patients and the

Comfort Box will allow them to offer that little bit extra to relatives and carers as well. Providing comfort in times of need is vitally important and, in difficult circumstances, we’re proud to be able to support the staff in going above and beyond what the NHS can provide.”

The funds for the Comfort Box initiative were approved by Above & Beyond’s board of trustees. Staff have also used the funds to buy special chairs that convert into a bed for visitors staying overnight.

Other grants approved by trustees this year include £108,000 for the continuation of the much-valued free hospital bus service used by 12,000 patients, visitors and staff per month and £10,283 for an educational, appbased projection system, Magic Carpet, to keep young patients engaged and active during stays in the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

Founded in 1974, Above & Beyond raises money for all nine city centre hospitals, many of which are specialist centres for the South West region. http://www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Sue Coghlan, Sister on Ward 78 at St Michael’s Hospital, with a Comfort Box and one of the new chairs which converts into a bed.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

19

n NEWS

Armed Forces Day to be held in Thornbury

AN annual event to honour the contribution made by past and present members of the armed forces will be held in Thornbury for the first time in 2018.

Armed Forces Day has until now been marked in South Gloucestershire in either Kingswood or Staple Hill, with each taking its turn to host a parade and range of activities.

The 2017 event in Staple Hill was attended by some 16,000 people throughout the day.

Now South Gloucestershire Council wants it to become more far reaching and from 2018 it will rotate between three locations once Thornbury becomes a venue.

Pat Savage, treasurer of the South Gloucestershire

Armed Forces Day committee, said: “The day honours the contribution made by current members of the armed forces and by veterans of all ages.

“It raises awareness in the community of the work the military do, the skills that can be learned by joining the forces and how those skills benefit the community on leaving the forces.

“As well as the parade through the town, there will be a wide variety of stalls, stands and activities on the Chantry field.

The event is free to enter and has something for all the family.”

The event will take place on Saturday, June 30.

Photograph courtesy of Rich McD

Retirement Living at Woodland Court

Retirement choice that’s right for you Woodland Court’s retirement living concept offers a new lifestyle alternative for older people. We provide you with the opportunity to enjoy genuine independence, together with the option to call upon professional care and support to suit changing needs.

Living at Woodland Court allows you to live in your own home with a lifestyle of your choosing.

For more information and to request a brochure, contact us by:

Phone: 0117 906 1400 Email: woodlandenquiries@brunelcare.org.uk

Post: Woodland Court, Partridge Drive (off Overndale Road), Downend, Bristol, BS16 2RF

www.woodlandcourt.org.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

20

January, 2018

n NEWS

Certainly not bamboozled by business: Yate youngsters sweep the board in business competition If you need a smart presentation board made from bamboo, we might know just the people. A group of sixth form students at Brimsham Green School have taken a business competition by storm, winning three awards. They now hope their venture, Bamboo Business will repeat their success on the national stage. Year 13 student and budding entrepreneur Ellis Conway told the Voice more about their experience.

SIXTH form students at Brimsham Green are given the incredible opportunity to be a part of the Young Enterprise scheme as their enrichment sessions for one year.

This allows a select group of around 14 students to meet for

two hours of designated lesson time per week to create their own business from scratch, with the guidance of business advisors and meetings run by Young Enterprise themselves. The national Young Enterprise competition involves schools from all over the country whose teams pull together to try and build the best, most

professional business possible.

Young Enterprise is a non-profit charity that allows young people to expand their knowledge through the hands-on experience gained by participating in the establishing and running of a brand-new business. There are three levels of competition in which student businesses take part; local, regional

and national. At each level the companies are judged and marked against different requirements and at the end of the programme, an overall winner is announced.

As a member of this year's Young Enterprise team, I can confidently say that there is a lot more work involved than I first expected, however it all becomes worth it when you can produce a final product that the whole team can take pride in. Each team member is allocated a job role and from there we begin to build a business, with each member focusing on the responsibilities of their job title. Everything from finance and fundraising to branding and manufacturing is down to us, including the many legal considerations to think about.

When the branding is finished, the company must then begin to think about practicalities of buying and then engraving our

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

21

n NEWS chosen product of bamboo serving boards, as well as our financial situation regarding what we can and cannot afford. Our main targets for sales are the multiple trade fairs arranged by Young Enterprise, however we are seeing an increasing audience for sales through our social media accounts such as our Facebook page and our website also.

Our company, The Bamboo Business, has already experienced a surprising level of success selling our bamboo presentation boards

within just a few months of the company's beginning. At one of our local trade fairs on 2 December at St Nicholas' Market in Bristol, we were awarded with three out of four awards.

The first award was for 'Best Customer Service', a category that we were marked 70/80 for, on account of our friendly and persuasive team members. Our second award was for 'Best Trade Stand', in which we scored 73/80 for the way that our product was presented on the stand we were

given and the professionalism seen within the stand by the judges.

The third and final award we were given was the 'Best Overall Company' which was given based on the collective scores of all categories we were marked on. It is incredibly rare for one school to win the majority of awards at one trade fair and as a result of this we were all massively surprised and proud, students and teachers alike.

In these months since the beginning of The Bamboo Business, we have sold 104 high quality bamboo boards and made £1066 revenue so far, with profits reaching over £500. A particular success for us was the sale of 18 serving boards to local business The Vintage Birdcage Cakery, where they are now used to display and serve selected food to their customers.

We were able to personalise the boards with their popular birdcage logo and as a result of this there are now more plans to continue selling to local businesses to improve and strengthen our brand.

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Research from the many years since Young Enterprise was founded in 1962, shows that Young Enterprise alumni are twice as likely to have successes through setting up their own business than their peers and we hope for many more achievements to come in our journey to the final competition.

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fromevalleyvoice

22

January, 2018

n ADVERTISING FEATURE AS we get older, we often complain that we can no longer do the things we could ‘when we were young’, but most people want to enjoy an active lifestyle well into old age. In fact, it is important to maintain activity as this not only keeps our joints healthy and in good working order, but it also keeps other parts of our bodies healthy too.

Mr Evert Smith, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire Bristol Hospital, finds that many of us believe that you have to be ‘of a certain age’ to contemplate having a joint replacement.

However, if a joint such as a hip or knee is no longer working properly, a joint replacement is sometimes the best option and putting off replacement surgery can often cause more problems.

Mr Smith answers some frequently asked questions about joint health and joint replacement surgery:

Putting up with joint pain is not the healthy option

Question: When seeking a specialist opinion, what do patients typically complain of and what can be done?

Answer: Joint pain is increasingly common as we age. It is important that patients do not to ignore joint pain that is worsened by walking. Pain is the body’s way of telling us that something is wrong. However, many people ignore the warning signs and battle through the pain with the help of analgesics, or through sheer grit.

Joint pain can be managed in many ways, and does not necessarily mean you will need a joint replacement operation. A course of physiotherapy may be all that is needed to get you back on track. The important thing is to get it checked out, first by your GP and then with a scan or x-ray investigation.

Putting up with the pain is not a sensible option. Persistent or increasing pain is a warning sign and it should be investigated.

Question: What might happen if joint pain is ignored and can it worsen over time such that surgery becomes a necessity?

Answer: It is a fact of life that as we get older our joints are likely to become stiffer and can cause pain.

However, putting off treatment will only worsen the situation and may

have a detrimental effect on other joints, as they try to take the strain of the malfunctioning or painful joint.

For example, If you limp due to a painful knee, you are likely to alter the way you walk, and this in turn will put a strain on other joints such as your hips, your other knee or your back as these joints try to accommodate an altered posture or style of walking.

This may be acceptable in the case of a short-term injury, but when this occurs over a prolonged period, it will affect other parts of your body.

Question: Do people stop undertaking physical activity to avoid the pain of damaged joints, and can this affect general health?

Answer: If carrying out your normal everyday functions, such as walking, exercising or performing ordinary tasks becomes too painful such that you avoid or stop doing things, it is important to get treatment because reducing activity can affect ones health.

For example, your heart and lungs can be adversely affected if you do not take regular exercise and you may also gain weight.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Benefits of joint replacement surgery Joint replacement operations have an excellent success rate.

A new hip or knee can give you a completely new lease of life.

Walking and other activities that you previously loved but could no longer do, not only become possible again but are actually enjoyable.

Many people in their 50s and 60s who are suffering joint pain come to me having given up their favourite activity such as golf or tennis. Following successful surgery, they can return to their former favourite activities.

Depending on age and general fitness, low impact activities are possible.

I always advise my patients not to let painful joints dictate their lifestyle when there are so many treatment options available to resolve these issues.

Spire Bristol Hospital offer a range of diagnostic scans, including x-rays, MRI and CT scans, whilst providing access to a consultant of your choice. If you or someone you know is suffering from joint pain and needs to see a specialist, a private consultation can be an option for everyone.

Spire Bristol Hospital are able to provide finance options through Zebre Health Finance. So, you

don’t necessarily need to have private insurance to access private healthcare.

Call Spire’s patient treatment advisors today on 0117 980 4080 or email info@spirebristol.com for more information on how to book an appointment or obtain information on the finance options available to you.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2018

n NEWS

fromevalleyvoice

23

Nuclear reactors planned for new Oldbury B power plant gain regulators’ approval REGULATORS have approved the design of the reactors that are proposed to generate electricity at a new Oldbury B nuclear power station at Shepperdine, near Thornbury.

Horizon Nuclear Power, the company behind the major project, welcomed the announcement, saying it was a major leap forward in the process for the technology to be built at its planned sites in both Oldbury and on Anglesey.

But it cautioned that the generic design assessment of the UK Advanced Boiling Water Reactor, designed by Hitachi-GE, did not in itself give permission to build.

It now has to start a process of site specific safety and environmental applications in parallel to that for its nuclear site licence. It also needs planning permission from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Only when those are achieved can the company move to construction first at Wylfa Newydd and later at Oldbury, where it is proposed to have two of the reactors next to the Magnox plant now being decommissioned.

Horizon said the new station would create up to 850 permanent jobs, with a construction workforce of around 4,000 for the majority of the time and up to 9,000 workers at the peak of construction.

Duncan Hawthorne, Horizon’s chief executive, said: “This is a huge milestone for Horizon and a major leap forward for us in bringing much-needed new nuclear power to the UK.”

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Oldbury’s new reactors will be the same as the ones for Horizon’s proposed new site in Wales

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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EPC

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LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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Frampton Cotterell - £310,000 ●

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Frampton CotterellYate £450,000 - £275,000

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Coalpit Heath £359,950 ●

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Executive Detached House Conservatory Double Garage Deceptively Spacious En-suite & Family Bathroom ● Four Bedrooms ● End of Terrace Town House ● Three Bedrooms Views Over Green Belt Farm Land Two Receptions ● Kitchen/Dining Room Double Garage ● Garage & Parking ● 15’ Lounge with Bi-Fold Doors Private Development Of Only 4 Houses Four Bedrooms Large Rear Garden

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0145

01454 252 140

Winterbourne Down £279,950 Call our LETTINGS Department

Detached Family House Cloakroom, Utility Room & Comprehensive tenant referencing AST tenancy agreement 4 Double Bedrooms Study All viewings accompanied 29' Dual Aspect Lounge En-suite & Family Bathroom Collection fo 1st months rent & tenancy deposit 16' Kitchen/Breakfast Room Large Driveway & Garage ●

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Victorian Semi Detached Three Bedrooms 24' Lounge/Dining Room 15' Kitchen

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Breakfast Area Circa 160ft Rear Garden Single Garage Workshop/Shed

On 01454 252 141 to discuss your individual requirements ●

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Competitive & Transparent Fees • Fully Qualified Staff LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Lettings Dept. 01454 2 For more details please call 01454 252 141 4 Flaxpits Lane • Winterbourne Bristol BS36 1JX Landlords Special Offer

TENANT FIND £199 + VAT

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26

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA January 3 n Frampton Walks. Interesting local history – expect to take longer to look. 10.30am Ram Hill & Dramway 2 mile walk. WfH Grade 2. Approx. 1 hour. Miners Village Hall, Badminton Rd, Coalpit Heath BS36 2QB. January 8 n Bristol BS. Monday January 8 commencing 7.30pm. Slide show

by Colin Parsons illustrating the recent evolvement of the modern exhibition budgerigar. Temporary venue while local council are carrying out extensive alterations to our usual venue: The Methodist Hall, Down Road, Winterbourne Down, Bristol BS36 1BN. Visitors welcome to join us without commitment to join. Further details from the Secretary Colin Parsons.

Tel 01454 775878. colinpauline@ hotmail.com or Chairman Alan Fretten. Mobile 07922538894 E-mail alan_fretten13@hotmail. com January 8 n Pilates, and Pump & Tone, at Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre.

Mondays and Wednesdays :- Pump & Tone 6:30pm; Pilates 7:30pm.

Starting from 8th January 2018. £6:00 per class; or a monthly tariff available inclusive of the Tuesday Bradley Stoke classes as well. www. exercisewithlailibrooks.com for full information. Ring 01454 618488, or email laili@tiscali.co.uk, or just turn up.

January 8 n Branch Lines around Swindon & The MSWJ’ presented by Brian Arman. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RG. Tuesday 9th January 7:30 for 7:45 pm. The meeting is open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is appreciated.

Contact: Dave Winter 01454 324230.

January 10 nThe South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group’s (SGMRG) next talk will be on Wednesday 10th January 2018 at 7:30pm for 8:00pm start in the Miners Institute (aka Coalpit Heath Village Hall), 214 Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath, BS36 2QB. Non SGMRG members are welcome, £2 each; there is no need to book in advance. The talk will be by Jon Maisey, an SGMRG member, and will be about Windrush Quarry, an underground stone quarry in the Cotswolds, so similar to a Bath "stone mine".

January 15 n Prospect is a support group

for Bristol and district prostate cancer patients, partners and carers. The next meeting will be at BAWA, Filton BS34 7RF, on January 15, with a speaker (7pm).

Coffee mornings are held at the Macmillan Centre, Southmead Hospital, on the first Thursday of each month (10am-noon), to help new patients. Website: http:// www prostatecancerbristol.org.uk and the Tackle helpline, 0800 035 5302, will put callers in touch with Prospect January 17 n Severn Vale Smallholders Association Events Spring 2018.

Meetings to be held at in the Stuart Room at the Chantry, Castle Street, Thornbury. Wednesday 17th January, All About Apples 7:30 pm.

David Frith January 23 n Frampton Walks. Easy stroll along country lane with lovely voews. Frampton End Stroll, 2 miles,10.30am Opposite café, Church Rd, Frampton Cotterell BS36 2JX. Appox 1 hour.

January 25 n Avon Organic Group The local group for everyone interested in organic growing and organic foods. This month we welcome Mike Feingold, Bristol’s Permaculture Guru, talking about Ideas from Permaculture and leading a discussion on how to make growing easier and more productive. Thursday, 25th January 2018, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. All welcome.

Visitors £5 / Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com January 29 n The Friends of Frome valley medical centre are holding their AGM at the practice on 29th January 2018 @ 7.30 pm February 3 nSodbury Vale Model Railway Club's 34th Annual Model Railway Exhibition will be held on Saturday 3rd February 2018 at St Mary's Church, Church Road, Yate. Open 10.00am to 4.30pm. Full details at www.sodburyvalemrc.co.uk

Regular events Monday n Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

(termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781. n Open Door bereavement suport group. 10.30-12.00 every first Monday., St Peter’s Church Baby Group 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781. n Memory Cafe, run by the Alzheimer’s Society. The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 2pm - 4pm 1st Monday of month.

Scrabble, The Community Centre, Winterbourne, 2- 4.30pm n Manor Hall Gardening & Social Club The Manor Hall 2.-3.30pm.

First Monday of the month, (except for Bank Holidays on the second Monday). n 1st Winterbourne Down and Buryside Beavers Scouts 5pm until 6:30pm at the Scout hut on Green Dragon Road, Winterborne. n 1st Winterbourne Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Meet Monday evenings in St. Michael’s Room. winterbournesmgsl@ cotswoldedgescouts.org.uk 01454 775024 n North Road Ladies, Iron Action Parish Hall, 7.30, every first Monday. n Women’s Fellowship Zion Church Hall 2.30p.m.- 3.45 Programme of speakers, choirs., followed by a cup of tea. 1.50p per week. For details ring Pat Lax 886830 n Iron Acton WI Iron Acton Parish Hall, 7.30, second Monday of month. n Crossbow Singers, Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 7.30.

Term Time only, starting in September. We would love to welcome more tenors and basses.

Please contact Jenny on 01454 313037. n Winterbourn Down Border Morris Morris Dancing, All Saint’s Church Hall, 8.15pm n Line dancing with Laughter in Line, Zion Church Hall, Woodend Rd, Frampton Cotterell. Beginners 7.30pm, Improvers, 8.30pm.

Info Sarah 01454 773929 www. laughterinline.org n Winterbourne Scrabble Club - weekly 2.00 - 4.30 pm at Winterbourne & District Community Centre, Watleys End Road, Winterbourne. Further info from Gill on 01454 773573. n Slimming World Monday: 5.30pm & 7.30pm Watermore Primary School Call Alison: 07972376055 n Winterbourne Afternoon WI meets at Salem Church Hall, Factory Road, Winterbourne on

January, 2018

We would love to publicise your event 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: contact@richard@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800 120

the 2nd Monday of each month at 2pm. We welcome visitors. Contact 01454 250 for details or look at our web site www.wawimoonfruit.com or email lesleysharman@gmail.com n Bristol Budgerigar Society.

Temporary venue while local council are carrying out extensive alterations to our usual venue: The Methodist Hall, Down Road, Winterbourne Down, Bristol BS36 1BN. Meetings commence at 7.30pm on the second Monday of each month. Chairman Alan Fretten. Mobile 07922538894 E-mail alan_fretten13@hotmail. com Details from the Secretary Colin Parsons Tel 01454 775878.

E-mail colinpauline@hotmail. com Membership; Adult £7.00, senior £5.00, same address partners £10.00, different address partners appropriate single rate each. Juniors free. Visitors always welcome without commitment or charge to see the wonderful budgerigar breeding, exhibition and social experience that Bristol Budgerigar Society can offer. n Pickleball - the exciting new racquet sport - is now at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre. Sessions on Monday’s from 10 - 12.00.

Everybody welcome - no upper age limit - all equipment provided, just wear comfortable clothing and trainers - first session FREE. Check us out on Facebook at Bristol Pickleball Club. n Pilates, and Pump & Tone, at Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre.

Mondays and Wednesdays :- Pump & Tone 6:30pm; Pilates 7:30pm. £6:00 per class; or a monthly tariff of £40.00 allowing unlimited access to the Chipping Sodbury and Bradley Stoke classes is available as well. www.exercisewithlailibrooks. com for full information. Ring 01454 618488, or email laili@tiscali.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED co.uk, or just turn up.

Tuesday n Rhymetime. Winterbourne Library. 10.30- 11am. Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/ toddlers to enjoy together. n Slimming World 9.30am & 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm, The Greenfield Centre, call Frankie 07519347243 n Knit and Natter The Beacon@ Zion United Church. 10am 12noon. Contact Mary Thexton 01454 850704 n Yate Visually Impaired Group.

Yate Fire Station 2.30 pm every other Tuesday Contact Gay Williams 01454 321749 gab56@ btinternet.com n Winterbourne Tuesday group, The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 7.30 -10pm, second Tuesday of month. Everyone welcome. n Crossbow Bridge Club, Crossbow House. 7.30pm n Slimming World 7.30 Elm Park School, Winterbourne. Tel Becca 07721 907780 n Centre Squares (dancing).

Winterbourne Comunity Centre 7.45pm n Frampton Cotterell WI. Crossbow House, 7.45, fourth Tuesday of month n Folk Dancing. Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 8.30 -10.30pm, 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month. n South Gloucestershire Waterpolo club. Junior & Senior players Male Female. Winterbourne Int Academy pool. 7:00 - 8:30 pm. For more info: kazrose@blueyonder.co.uk or nash17@virginmedia.com n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesday 1.30 - 3.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473. New members welcome. n Pucklechurch Folk Dance Club.

We meet every other Tuesday at Pucklechurch Community Centre from 7.45 pm to 8.15 pm. Contact

Veronica Holder – 0117 937 2818 n 60+ Dance Fit class beginning on Tuesday September 5th 11.0012.00 at Crossbow House .£4.50 a session. Suitable for all levels of fitness . Please contact Nina for more information : 07833917974 n Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society, All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down, BS36 1BX, 7.30 pm. 2nd Tuesday of the month. Info: Richard on 01454 773218. n A film night for grown ups Every 3rd Tuesday of the month in the Church at 6-30pm followed by supper also popcorn during the film. A welcome donation at the end of the evening will be most grateful the date for October is 17th. We also do a film night for children with supper on a Saturday evening once a month please see the church website. nFrome Valley Mens Probus Club.

We meet 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. 10 – 12 noon at the Townhall, C/Sodbury. Guest Speaker every meeting, occasional lunches, day trips. Contact George for further info. Tele: 01454 882908 Wednesday n Pre School Storytime.

Winterbourne Library10.30 - 11am, every week, term time only. n ‘Silver Chords Group, over 50’s social club. Every other Weds, Mason’s View Community Centre Winterbourne. 1.45pm.

Entertainment and coach trips.

Everyone welcome Contact Doreen 01454 776484. n Winterbourne Police Beat Post.

Greenfield Centre 2-3pm n Slimming World 7.30pm Frampton Cotterell Cof E School.

Tel Lisa 07815 759118 n Coalpit Heath WI. Church Hall of St Saviours Church, Coalpit Heath.

First Wednesday of each month.

7.45pm. New members welcome. n The Winterbourne Players, 8.00 pm, Community Centre, Watleys End Road. More info, Brian 07792

656689. n Beginners Meditation Class on Wednesdays 7pm to 8pm at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne To reserve your place on the next 5 week course, please contact Sarah Presley on 07590 621495/ sarahpresley@live.com n Actonians Drama Group 7.30 pm Parish Hall, Iron Acton More info 01454 228760 www.actonians. co.uk Junior Actonians 6.00 pm - 7.30 pm Parish Hall Iron Acton More info 01454 228277. n 2nd Wednesday of each month - Carer’s Group 2 - 4pm at The Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell n 4th Wednesday of each month - Forget me Not sing along group 2pm - 3.30 pm at The Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell. If you like a good sing song please come and join us.

For more information ring Rona on 886925 or Jean on 775786. n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Wednesday 1.30 - 4.30 and 7.30 - 10.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473. n Manor Hall community coffee morning, open to all, Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath. 3rd Wednesday of every month from 10am to 12 noon in the Jubilee Room. Free entry and all profits from the refreshments will go to the Manor Hall at Coalpit Heath Charity. Handmade cards will be on sale, sold in aid of the BRACE Charity. n Slimming World Frampton Cottrell C of E School. Call Lisa: 07815759118 n Stapleton Probus meet on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month at Begbrook CA, Frenchay Park Road 10am -12noon. Also have an active Bowls Section.

St Saviour's Church, Coalpit Heath Butterflies Welcome Awaits We are a new and friendly group and meet in St Saviours Church Hall in Beesemoor Road, Coalpit Heath BS36 2RP. Mondays 10am till 11-30am. £3 Pay as go. Refreshments included for grown ups, Also Drink and snack included for children. Our next session start in the new year on Monday 8th January, e-mail butterfliestoddlegroup@gmail. com.

Film night for grown ups These are the 3rd Tuesday of the month, Our next film night is 16th January and is followed by supper.

Meet In the Church at 6-30pm, Come along and bring friends.

Please let Mary know as numbers for catering.

01454 887870 Friday Lunches.

Fridays from 11-15am onwards for tea or coffee if you like. Then stay

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

for lunch from midday, soup Roll and Bread in the Church Hall, No charge, but Donations excepted towards Church funds.

Parish Praise In the Church, 1st Sunday of the month is for all ages at 10am followed by Refreshments A Warm Welcome awaits you.

For more information go to church website. www.coalpitheath.org.uk

27 Visitors Welcome. Details available, contact Registrar, John Suddell 01454 250811 n Beginners Meditation Class on Wednesdays 7pm to 8pm in Winterbourne Down. To reserve you place on the next 5 week course, please contact Sarah Presley on 07590 621495/ sarahpresley@live.com n Short Matt Bowls, St Saviours Church Hall. A warm welcome awaits all visitors on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month in the church Hall from 2pm-4pm, Being just enjoyed by all taking part and spectators. n The Frenchay Folk Dance Club meet fortnightly at Frenchay Village Hall from 7:45 until 10:15.

Check frenchayfdc.co.uk or contact 0117 9409508 for more information n Wednesdays starting 6 September Bellydance Classes with Sacha From 7.30pm . Contact Sacha on 07971 578151 or email sachabellydance@yahoo.co.uk for full details Ridgewood Community Association, Yate BS37 4AF n Yate/ Chipping Sodbury Afternoon Choir meets on Wednesdays 2pm to 4pm at St Marys Church Yate. No auditions required. Contact Nikki on 01761472468 for more details or just turn up at the church and have a free sing on the first visit. n Frenchay Probus Club. We meet every first and third Wednesday of the month in the Frenchay village hall. Coffee at 10.00am and the meeting is from 10.30 to 12.00. More details on frenchayprobusclub.com n Pilates, and Pump & Tone, at Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre.

Mondays and Wednesdays :- Pump & Tone 6:30pm; Pilates 7:30pm. £6:00 per class; or a monthly tariff of £40.00 allowing unlimited access to the Chipping Sodbury and Bradley Stoke classes is available as well. www. exercisewithlailibrooks.com for full information. Ring 01454 618488, or email laili@tiscali.co.uk, or just turn up.

Thursday n Probus. The Miners Club, Coalpit Heath. 10am, 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month n Praise and Play. All Saints’ Church Hall Winterbourne Down 10-12 during term times. For preschool children and their parents/ carers. n Stay & Play, 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave,

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

28

January, 2018

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED Winterbourne. Call Helen 01454 n Winterbourne Winds beginners/ intermediate/returners wind band rehearse Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne BS36 1NJ. Brass & Woodwind players, percussionist, bassist wanted to join sociable group. Instruments available for loan. Contact Dan 01172 395210. n Tiny Tots. 2.00-3.00pm,St Peter’s Church, n St John’s Ambulance. St Saviour’s Hall, Beesmoor Road.

6.15 - 9pm (term time). n Steam Engine Club, Miners Club, Coalpit Heath. 7pm, last Thursday of month. Line dancing. Iron Acton Parish Hall, High St, Iron Acton.

New beginners, 7.20pm. Improvers, 8.30pm. www.laughterinline.com n Winterbourne Musical Theatre.

Winterbourne Community Association, 7.30pm. n Winterbourne Flower Club. St Michaels Rooms, Winterbourne 7.30pm, 1st (Practice) and 3rd (Demonstration) Thursdays of each month. Further information call 01454 776753 n Winterbourne Evening Women’s Institute St. Michael’s Rooms in Winterbourne at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of every month except August n Crossbow Camera Club Crossbow House, 8pm, every Thursday (from September).

Contact Mike Challenger 07833316081 n Bingo British Legion Club Ryecroft Road, Frampton Cotterell.

8.15pm.Free entry n Winterbourne Flower Club, St Michaels Rooms, Winterbourne 7.30pm, 1st (Practice) and 3rd (Demonstration) Thursdays of each month. Further information call

01454 776753 n South Gloucestershire Decorative and Fine Arts Society meet at Bradley Stoke Community School Fiddlers Lane Bradley Stoke. 3rd Thursday evening of the month. Starting October 7-00 for 7-30 start refreshments.

Sallykitching@googlemail.com Tel no 01454 774401 n Sugarcraft: If you are interested in sugar icing why not come along to our meeting? We have demonstrations monthly on flowers and models and practice/ workshops with instruction. We meet on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30pm – 9.30pm at St Andrews Hall, Elm Park, Filton.

Visitors welcome. Contact Jean Kington on 0117 956 8737 for more information. n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Thursday 1.30 - 4.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473. New members welcome. n Winterbourne Down WI meetings held on the first Thursday of each month at 7.30pm in All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. n Stationary Engine Club, Meets at Miner’s Club Coalpit Heath 7:30 pm first Thursday of every month. n Frampton World Dance for beginners, 2nd & 4th Thursdays in month, 2.00 - 4.00pm, Zion Church Hall, Upper Chapel Lane, Frampton BS36 2HY. Learn easy gentle dances from around the world, no partner needed, for people of all ages.

Authentic music, social break for tea and chat. £3. Contact Hilary Jay 07792 495 367 n Severn Counties Foreign & British Bird Society Meetings

at 8pm, Winterbourne Down Methodist Church Hall, Down Road, Winterbourne, BS36 1BN on 3rd Thursday of each month.

The local club for all keepers of canaries, finches or other birds.

Monthly talks, club events, twice yearly shows. All welcome. Contact severncounties@gmail.com, Tel Molly Durbin 01275 373743. Web Address: http://www.foreignbritishbirds.info/index.html n Frampton Singalong will be back on 1st Thursday in the month, 2 pm at Crossbow House, BS36 2DB. Favourite songs from the shows, live music and sitting exercises.

Tea, cakes & fresh fruit £3.00 All welcome - no voice needed! Hilary Jay 07515 351 813 n Frampton Friendship & Dance for beginners/improvers every 4th Thursday in the month, 2.00 4.00pm, Zion Church Hall, Upper Chapel Lane, BS36 2HY. Gentle exercise with easy dances from around the world to live authentic music and experienced teacher.

No partner needed, all ages. Social break with refreshments. £3.00. All welcome. Hilary Jay 07515 351 813 n Avon Harmony is a ladies barbershop chorus. We welcome visitors for a no obligation taster session. We rehearse at The Dance Studio at Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road, Bristol BS7 9NL. Every Thursday evening 7.30pm 9.45pm Tel: 01454 773952

Thursday Travel Club Meets first Thursday of the monthSt Saviour’s Church Hall, Beesmoor Road, Coalpit Heath n March 2nd: Peter Davey; Around Bath by Tram. n Winterbourne Winds beginners/

We would love to publicise your event 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: contact@richard@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800 120

intermediate/returners wind band rehearse Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne BS36 1NJ. Brass & Woodwind players, percussionist, bassist wanted to join sociable group. Instruments available for loan. Contact Dan 01172 395210.

Contact Roger: 07925 296930 or 01454 77701 Friday n Frome Valley Art Group Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne.

1pm to 4pm and 6.30pm to 9pm n Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell. 7.30pm – 9.00pm. New members welcomed, no audition, search www.fcmvc.co.uk or email contact@fcmvc.co.uk.. n Frampton Cotterell Community Associon. Fridays at Crossbow

What’s on at Winterbourne Library Open Access Monday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Tuesday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Wednesday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Thursday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Friday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Saturday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Sunday: 8.30am – 7.30pm Staffed Times Tuesday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Wednesday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Friday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Saturday: 9.30am – 12.30pm See above for new opening times at Winterbourne library

If you register your card for our new Open Access system, and attend an induction, you’ll be able to access library facilities throughout the week. You can borrow and return books and use the computers. Speak to a member of staff for more details.

Rhymetime: Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/toddlers to enjoy together every Tuesday morning 10.30 – 11.00am Pre School Storytime: Join us weekly on Wednesdays 10.30 – 11.00am for stories and a simple

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

craft. Now running throughout the year.

knitting, sewing or crochet projects.

Lego Club: Creative fun with stories, poems and Lego. Listen to stories and poems, then create a model to display at the library.

We’ll be meeting on 6 January 10.30 – 11.30am.

Suitable for the primary age range, children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Craft Group is meeting on 13 and 27 January 10.00am – 12 noon. New members will always be made welcome by this friendly group.

Share tips and ideas for your

For more information on any of the above please contact us: Telephone: 01454 868006 Email: winterbourne.library@ southglos.gov.uk Visit our website to find out more: www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries Follow us on twitter: www. twitter.com@southgloslibs ‘Like’ us on Facebook for all the latest at South Gloucestershire Libraries.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

29

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED House School Road Ist Friday of every month Quiz- 3rd Friday of every month Bingo, start at 8 pm. n St Saviours Church Coalpit Heath. The Church opening every Friday meeting every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month but in the church hall. With a bring and buy lunch just bring something to go on the table to share, but tea and coffee will be provided from 11-15am till 1pm, Visitors are most welcome. n Frome Valley Art Group.

Meets every Friday at 1.30 and 7-9pm at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, BS36 1NJ Internationally renowned artist, Trevor Waugh, will give a watercolour demonstration on Friday 20th October at 7.00pm.

Free for members and £4 for

guests. For further details and reservations please contact lesleysharman@gmail.com n Frome Valley Art Group Winterbourne. Looking to find that inner talent or start a new interest? Drop in for a free taster session, Fridays at 2pm or 7pm.

We have a busy programme of demonstrations and Saturday workshops by professional artists to help your development.

Our Annual exhibition in May displays members’ work .

Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne BS36 1NJ. Contact Dave: 0117 9790043 Andrew: 01454 778310. Eric: 01454 615619 Lesley: 01454 250817. Email fromevalleyartwinterbourne@ gmail.com Saturday

Countdown begins for Badminton Horse Trials PREPARATIONS for one of the biggest sporting events in the world are well underway, with tickets for the 2018 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials due to go on sale in January.

The box office will open for priority booking on January 3, with public booking starting on January 10.

The event will run at the South Gloucestershire home of the Duke of Beaufort from Wednesday, May 2, to Sunday, May 6, with the first day taken up by the Mitsubishi Motors Cup for grassroots riders.

The feature international occupies the following four days, with leading horses and riders from around the globe taking part. Many will be hoping for a good performance to be in with a chance of selection for the world eventing championships later in the year.

Eric Winter, who made his debut as Badminton’s crosscountry course designer in 2017, is producing his second track and said there would be plenty of changes, including a new

bank early on the course and a new combination of obstacles in Huntsman’s Close.

He said: “The course will run in the opposite direction to the last event and no fence will be in the same place.”

Away from the competition, a new food and drink area will be introduced in the shopping village and the British Horse Society has been named as the event’s charity of the year.

The society is celebrating its platinum anniversary, having helped and supported horses, their owners and riders for 70 years.

It has more than 100,000 members and is dedicated to education, equine welfare, protecting and increasing access to bridleways and equestrian routes, as well as safety for horse and riders.

Lynn Petersen, its chief executive, said: “We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to showcase our work to the thousands of people who attend Badminton.”

n Brockeridge Quilters, Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne.

10am to 4pm, third Saturday of the month. n Bingo Open7/00pm,Bingo 8/00pm Music & Dancing from 8/30pm-11/30pm Every Saturday night.(£4) at the Royal British Legion Ryecroft Rd n Patchwork and Quilting Beginner classes starting in September on alternate Saturdays.

For more information contact Sallieann Harrison on 01454 774591. Also Patchwork and Quilting Classes Block of the Month for intermediate quilters. One Saturday every month for seven months starting in September.

Contact Sallieann Harrison on 01454 774591.

Sunday

n Japanese Embroidery Class Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne 9.30am to 4pm, (monthly).

Contact: Jo Tripp 01454 850147. n Nature Reserves, Winterbourne work party meets 1030am, Church Lane, Winterbourne, 2nd & 4th Sundays in the month.

Newleaze reserve (Bristol Road) 10.30am Ist Sunday of month Huckford Quarry 2.30pm 3rd Sunday of month. Contact Frank Smith 01454 778975. n Car Boot Sale Every Sunday 9am Beesmoor Road Playing Field, Frampton Cotterell. £5 per car/van Call 07802 336731 n Indoor short mat bowls at Pucklechurch Community Centre.

Established players and beginners welcome. Bowls provided. Sessions Sunday afternoon and Monday

Frampton garage (South Glos) Ltd MOT’s

£34

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Includes free headlight adjustment and bulbs and free retest (small fee applies for headlight bulbs)

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SEASO AL SERVICE &NM OT

£79.50 £109.50 + VAT

and filter + VAT Includes engine oil test, full change, coolant viscosityinspection underside inspection, tyrecheck, full and report, visual brake all lights under bonnet inspection, ked checked, all fluids chec and tested.

+ VAT

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30

January, 2018

n NEWS

n LETTERS Can you help?

Could you make a difference to the life of a Chernobyl child?

We are appealing for two host families to help us next summer.

Do you remember the Chernobyl disaster back in April 1986? The population of Belarus can never forget.

They will be forever affected by the legacy of the world’s worst nuclear disaster – the radioactive fallout was nearly 400 times greater than the bombs dropped in 1945 on Hiroshima & Nagasaki combined. The World Health Organisation has classified 500,000 of the children in Belarus as being “at risk” - or put another way - only 6% of the children are considered healthy!

The Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline charity was established by Victor Mizzi O.B.E. in 1992. Building on his example, we are bringing a group of 16 children from the Osipovichi district of Belarus this summer for a month’s respite break.

Could you share your home

with two 11 year old children for two weeks from Sunday 22nd July to Sunday 5th August? There is a comprehensive network of support for host families – you would not be on your own. The children will take part in lots of planned activities that we have organised on their behalf. These range from sports to the arts, from local visits to coach trips to the sea or countryside. There will be two interpreters with the group and they are on hand around the clock should there be any language difficulties or for general advice and assistance.

If you think that you can help us to help these most unfortunate children please call Andy March: 07812 159942, visit our web site at www.ccll.org.uk/bristol to find out more, or visit the Gallery so that you can see all the fun and activities from previous summers.

You can also find us on Facebook go to @ccllbristol Thank you for thinking about helping us to help these children.

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Gardening charity looking for growing support

A CHARITY that provides therapeutic gardening session in care homes in looking for new volunteers in South Gloucestershire.

Growing Support wants people to help support groups of older people and people with dementia in residential care or day care.

Those interested in helping need to be available for 2 hours at least once a fortnight. They must be able to travel independently to the projects and and to commit if possible for a minimum of six months.

If you would like to know more about this role contact Growing Support at volunteers@growingsupport.co.uk or call 07419 825 261

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

31

n NEWS

Chocolate Quarter hasn't half got a history

Cosmo Fry, grandson of Cecil Fry, is pictured in January 2016 laying the foundation stone of the new St Monica’s facility at Somerdale using the same ceremonial mason's tools that his grandfather used nearly 100 years ago outlets, and leisure facilities.

Although the exhibition will run for several months, a special event is planned for Sunday January 28 when there’s a chance to meet some former Fry’s staff who promise to have a sweet surprise in store for visitors.

Frenchay Village Museum re-opens after the winter shutdown on January 6, and is open Saturday and Sunday from 2-5pm and Wednesday from 1-4pm. Entry is free.

D OO ST L F RU CA N T LO U CA YO

AN EXHIBITION chronicling the dramatic changes at the former Fry’s factory at Somerdale since chocolate production ended in March 2011 is the latest to feature at Frenchay Village Museum.

Somerdale - Then and Now has been put together by a number of ex-Somerdale employees and will run at the museum until just before Easter.

Cecil Fry, of the Grove, Frenchay, became chairman of Fry’s in 1924 when his father Roderick retired.

Work on moving the Bristol factories to Keynsham had already begun when Cecil took over, and he laid the foundation stone of the office block at Somerdale in 1932. The ceremonial mason’s tools that Cecil used are now housed in Frenchay Village Museum.

Following the closure of the Somerdale chocolate factory in 2011, the three original factory blocks were acquired

by St Monica Trust to create a retirement living community called The Chocolate Quarter.

In January 2106 Cecil’s grandson Cosmo Fry used the same ceremonial mason’s tools to lay the foundation stone of the new St Monica’s facility.

The £60 million pound development by St Monica Trust will eventually provide 140 assisted living apartments and a 90-bed care home, as well as providing office space, retail

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Cecil Fry became the chairman of Fry's in 1924

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

32

n REVIEW SEEING top class ballet on a budget isn’t easy, but the growing trend for live cinema screenings of productions is sweeping the world, and South Gloucestershire is no exception. The Vue cinema in Longwell Green joined over 1300 cinemas around the globe in showing one of the most famous ballets, and Vicky Drew was on hand to try it out for us.

Think Christmas, think The Nutcracker, the wonderful ballet with the infamous dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy which has been delighting ballet fans for years. Seeing The Nutcracker is a delight to behold, however the cost of a ticket alongside travel to The Royal Opera House in London is prohibitive to many which is why it it is good news that The Nutcracker is being screened in cinemas around the world.

On opening night screenings were taking place with the added bonus of an introduction by Darcy Bussell, the Strictly judge and a former ballerina who once

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

Almost as good as the real thing performed the demanding and mesmerising dance of The Sugar Plum Fairy herself.

This particular performance

by The Royal Ballet debuted in 1984 and showcases the talents of the company, both young and old. At first it seems a little strange to be listening to the sounds of The Opera House in a Vue cinema, however being able to see close up shots of the orchestra and having a sneak peek backstage (which is strictly off limits to the average theatre goer) is certainly an advantage.

As the curtains open on stage, hush befell the cinema and it was a relief that rustling popcorn did not feature in this particular cinema screening. The opening scenes of The Nutcracker have a stage filled with action as Christmas is celebrated and Clara is presented with her nutcracker soldier. It is during these scenes that being in a cinema is a little frustrating as the camera dictates which area of

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

the stage is in view and at times the camera action is a little jerky as shots flick between close-ups and whole stage. Soon the focus shifts to fewer characters and the magic of the dance is able to dominate the experience.

As the mysterious magician Drosselmeyer seeks to break the spell that turned his nephew into a nutcracker soldier, he guides Clara through a world of wonder and magic. Being able to view the performance so close is a real treat and enables the audience to marvel at the skill of the dancers.

With the added commentary, cinemas audiences are given an insight into the casting and rehearsal schedules of the dancers which is both informative and entertaining.

For the die hard ballet fan I am sure that the cinema experience is no substitute for a night at the Royal Opera House, however anything that makes ballet accessible and more affordable to the masses can only be a good thing. And for me it really did bring a touch of Christmas to the cinema.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT

Merlin announces partnership talks with Bromford Housing to deliver more for customers

“Both our organisations have ambitious development programmes. Working together these can be combined and expanded to deliver 14,000 new homes in the next decade.”

Bromford CEO Philippa Jones and Merlin’s CEO Robert Nettleton announcing partnership talks

South Gloucestershire-based Merlin is in formal talks with Midlands-based Bromford to create a partnership which will work with nearly 100,000 customers to achieve more of what they hope for and deliver the largest housing association-led new homes programme throughout Gloucestershire.

The partnership will see the organisations – with nearly 40,000 homes between them, a combined turnover of £250m and strong operating margin- join together to invest £1.5bn in 14,000 new homes over the next decade.

with a shared vision of enabling customers to use great affordable homes as a springboard to achieve more of what they hope for themselves, their families and their communities.

“Both our organisations have ambitious development programmes. Working together these can be combined and expanded to deliver 14,000 new homes in the next decade. This capability and a common passion to offer an exceptional customer experience, will help our combined business grow and deliver more of a difference.”

Over the coming months the organisations will seek feedback and consult customers and stakeholders on the vision for the In a joint statement, CEOs Philippa partnership which includes: Unlocking the ability to do more Jones from Bromford and Robert in communities the housing Nettleton from Merlin said: associations work in, especially “This is a partnership where each in coaching and empowering organisation brings expertise customers to build resilience and that complements the other and take control of their own lives. This service aspirations that fit really well. It brings together two forward partnership will allow Merlin and Bromford to share expertise to thinking housing associations

benefit the whole and enable them both to reach more customers than they can do alone.

Expanding existing ambitious development programmes to deliver 14 000 new homes in the next decade. This capability makes the aspiration of developing and regenerating new communities possible. Together the partnership will be able to deliver the largest housing association led development programme in its area of operation.

Transforming customer experience by developing automated digital services alongside the housing associations’ continued strong focus on local services and personal relationships.

Enhancing flexible working practices and a culture based on values and behaviours which will attract and retain the best talent, expand apprenticeships and create more graduate opportunities.

Merlin will be sharing more information with customers and carrying out a formal consultation in January.

34

n NEWS

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

Yate Shopping Centre welcomes new textile retailer to West Walk SPECIALIST textile retailer Julian Charles has opened a store in Yate Shopping Centre.

The company, which started 70 years ago, has occupied a former pharmacy unit in West Walk.

Andrew Lowrey, the shopping centre manager, said: “Julian Charles is the latest addition to Yate Shopping Centre, which has seen a major improvement in its retail, dining and leisure offer in recent years.�

News?

Call Richard on 01454 800 120

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

35

n ON THE BEAT

Local Police News with PCSO Andy Pound

WE’VE been working with villagers, community organisations like the parish council and South Gloucestershire Council’s antisocial behaviour team to deal with anti-social behaviour. We’ve targeted our patrols and my colleague PCSO Jacqui McCormack is working with the local secondary school to raise awareness of the issues with children, parents and carers.

A number of individuals have been identified as being involved in some of the nuisance. We’re now working with the council ASB team to run some workshops for young people to explain the issues and impact of their behaviour, as well as the potential consequences for them.

While on patrol a teenager was found in possession of a small amount of cannabis and has been required to attend a drug awareness programme.

It’s important to report any issues as they’re happening. For example we had a call saying a moped was being ridden in

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To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

an anti-social way in Frampton Cotterell. When officers attended the moped had been abandoned in St Saviours Rise. It was causing an obstruction and had no insurance, MOT or registered keeper and so it was seized.

My colleague PC Liz Ball has been supporting the RSCPA in a prosecution for animal cruelty. A 24-year-old man has now been

convicted following an incident in Winterbourne in May in which a horse was struck about the head with a plank of wood.

The man was given a 24-week jail term, suspended for two years, and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work. He has been disqualified from keeping horses for life and ordered to pay £500 in costs.

Be proud awards THE Be Proud Awards are organised jointly by Avon and Somerset Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, to acknowledge the dedicated officers, staff and volunteers who work to keep the communities of Avon and Somerset safe.

You can submit nominations for: Neighbourhood Officer of

the Year; Response Officer of the Year; Investigator of the Year; Police Staff Member of the Year; Police Support Volunteer of the Year; Special Constable of the Year; Specialist Operations Award and Policing Team of the Year.

The closing date is 27 January 2018 and you can nominate online at www. beproudawards.com

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Exercise With Laili Brooks At Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS

PUMP & TONE 6:30 - 7:30 pm PILATES 7:30 - 8:30 pm £6:00 per class; or £40:00 monthly tariff inclusive of the Tuesday Bradley Stoke classes as well www.exercisewithlailibrooks.com Ring 01454 618488, or email laili@tiscali.co.uk, or just turn up

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

37

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second hand Style A look at everyday cars on the cusp of becoming modern classics VW Golf GTi 30th Anniversary Edition, 2007: Fore (cylinders) WHAT’S this, a VW Golf recommended as a future classic?

Well, how original… Yes, it’s true, nearly all Golf GTis eventually become classics of some sort, but what about limited production run anniversary editions?

VW launched the GTi in 1977, and Mk1 and Mk2 models are undeniably classic cars with a rising price tag to match. The Mk3 rusts, and the associated 1997 20th anniversary model was a bit halfhearted and hardly any were GTis. The less said about the flaccid Mk4 the better, but the Mk5 30th anniversary edition is both old enough to now be reasonably priced and yet young enough to use every day. It looks great, and for once the ‘special edition’ extras are worth paying for over a standard GTi. So what should you look out for?

The engine, a well proven 210bhp 2.0 turbo, needs a cambelt change every 70,000 miles. Part of the exhaust pipe needs to come off to do the job, so you’ll need to budget about £600 for the work.

If you must buy an automatic (and

my test drive car came with one), it can go expensively wrong. This one had already been fixed, and gearbox oil changes every 40k miles may help to prevent what could be a £2k bill. Ouch. That’s a shame, as the box itself is keen and responsive, so my advice is to either get a fully comprehensive used warranty or better still buy one with the more preferable six speed manual.

I like how this Anniversary edition looks, sitting on uprated 18 inch alloys that would have been great on all GTis but are a special extra for this model. On start-up the exhaust is quite boomy, and it pops nicely on the overrun.

This is no doubt engineered in deliberately by VW, but it works

for me.

I found the car struggled for traction on even moderate throttle settings from standstill – the road was damp but it scrabbled far too much and sometimes all the way up to 50mph. That said, there is plenty of power for the front wheels to handle, and I call into question the need for the heavier, thirstier and altogether less ‘pure’ R32 V6 alternative. Handling is excellent, suspension firm for a VW but not as sharp as the best from BMW or even Ford. Brakes are excellent, very sharp and gave me real confidence.

Inside there’s a lovely thickrimmed steering wheel and the usual comprehensive dash layout and reasonably high standard

equipment level. That said, whilst everything certainly feels well screwed together it never actually felt ‘premium’. Maybe that’s where sister company Audi comes in with their A3, although at a price of course. I missed parking sensors and a reversing camera, but loved the special edition golf-ball auto shift lever and check pattern retro seats – leather would have looked incongruous.

VWs, Golfs in particular and the GTi above all have a loyal, borderline obsessive following.

Special edition GTis are, to my mind, immediate minor classics that have nonetheless been built to be used every day. If you’re in the market for a practical hatchback with proper pace and a few thoughtful extras, you could do much worse than this Golf 30th edition. Don’t expect the last word in cosseting luxury, and focus instead on how much fun it is.

VW Golf GTi 30th Edition, what to pay: £7k for a 100,000 mile example to £10k for a pristine 50,000 miler Next month: 6 cylinders

News! Email us at richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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ith old w h c u o t in “I got back ne and met new friends onlithe course. friends on loved it!”

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Would you or someone you know benefit from learning or improving their computer skills?

In a relaxed and friendly environment, with approachable and patient tutors, you will be able to learn the following skills: • Use the Internet to search for information, shop safely online, book holidays, flights, hotels and other activities.

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• Learn about ICT, safety and security when working online.

Courses start twice a year at the following venues:

Monday am - Winterbourne Library Tuesday am – Downend Library Wednesday am – Emersons Green Library Wednesday am – Bradley Stoke Library

If you would like to book or have any questions please call Ann Hawkins on 0117 909 2296 or email

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Courses start in September and February but you can start throughout the year as long as there are spaces available.

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

39

n WILLOW BROOK CLINIC

By Craig de Groot, Chiropractor at the Willow Brook Clinic

New Year Resolutions for a Healthy Spine 2018 has arrived and, like many of us, you may be considering what you can do better in the coming year. Here are some ideas that you can use to improve the health

of your spine and your overall wellness.

1. G et at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you exercise. Start with simply stretching and walking if you have not exercised in a while. From small acorns, large oaks grow…

2. Breathe deeply. Taking a deep breath, mindfulness and taking breaks throughout the day help to reduce stress. Lowering your stress level can boost your immune system and decrease tiredness.

3. Laugh! Laughing fires off physical reactions and ‘feel good’ hormones that benefit your

health. So get giggling.

4. Eat your veg. Our bodies need vitamins, minerals and fibre that fruit and vegetables give us. Maintaining a healthy diet, including fruit and vegetables, helps to maintain a healthy spine.

5. Sleep better. Think about your sleeping environment. Is it tidy and comfortable? Is it the right temperature? Do you put your tech away before bed? Changing your sleeping environment can improve the quality of sleep that you get. Better sleep improves your wellbeing and your posture.

6. Lose weight. Really try. Aim for a pound a month – by December

you could have lost 12! Less weight on your skeleton makes it easier for the bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments to move; taking the pressure off your spinal, and other, joints.

7. See a chiropractor. Your spine plays an important part in your overall health by ensuring that your nervous system functions smoothly. Chiropractors do not only relieve pain from spinal conditions, but can also help to manage and maintain your overall health.

New resolutions are not always easy to follow. Pick one, start small and give it a go!

Get well, stay well.

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40

n LOCAL MP

Luke Hall MP writes for Frome Valley Voice

January, 2018

Exciting year for the community THE year ahead promises to an exciting year for our community, for instance we are hosting Armed Forces Day in Thornbury for the first time, marking the centenary of the end of the First World War and giving us the opportunity to remember, in Thornbury, the sacrifice our brave service men and women made to protect our liberty.

We do also have challenges ahead of us, especially continuing our fight against the inappropriate development proposed for Thornbury and Buckover. I know many people are concerned that we still have not received concrete assurances about the improvements in local school places, health services, or vitally, the transport improvements that would be needed to accommodate change on this scale. I also understand these plans would represent a complete change in the communities of Thornbury and Alveston, and how concerned

you must be about them. Many people locally have also told me they feel that no matter how hard we object, the plans will still go ahead anyway. I would ask you to continue to work with me to keep up the fight.

So far, working together as the local MP, alongside the community, we have; • Held a debate in Parliament, explaining directly to the Housing Minister how detrimental these plans are for our community, paving the way for challenges to these plans at later stages.

• Using the MP’s survey, we have demonstrated that there is a complete lack of community support for the plans. This has stopped South Gloucestershire Council receiving financial and technical support for Buckover ‘Garden Village’, and provides concrete evidence which will be submitted to the planning inspectorate.

• Held our elected officials who

have control of these plans to account; for example Metro Mayor Tim Bowles, on his promise to join me in opposing these plans.

Now that the consultation has closed, an independent inspector, appointed by the Secretary of State, will now begin to examine the technical arguments within the development plan. Here, alongside the community I will be making the case as loudly as possible to demonstrate that these plans are inappropriate and unsound.

I know how important this is to the future of Thornbury and Alveston, and I want to assure you that I am standing alongside you throughout this fight.

As both a local man and the local MP, I am truly honoured to represent our community. I would like to wish everybody in our community a very happy New Year.

If there is anything I can do to be of help in the weeks and months ahead then please do get in touch.

Will Writing & Estate Planning

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Fresh homemade food, complimented by our range of chosen drinks and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Globe caters for everyone, with our play area and easily accessible facilities.

Our pavilion is suitable for all occasions such as meetings, weddings buffets etc. We cater for all sizes of parties with menus tailor made for the event.

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

n NEWS THE company which suffered a major fire at its Yate warehouse has moved to new premises.

AJM Pet Products carried on trading in the immediate aftermath of the blaze thanks to the support of nearby companies.

But it has now relocated to the Aztec West Business Park due to the shortage of suitable alternative premises in Yate.

The fire in October started accidentally and destroyed the 10,000 sq ft warehouse on the Beeches Industrial Estate.

After its initial response, Avon Fire and Rescue crews were called back a number of times to deal with flare-ups from identified hotspots.

In response to fears about asbestos, smoke and odours, Public Health England said it did not consider the exposure was likely to pose a significant risk to health but advised people living and working locally to minimise their time outdoors in areas affected by the smoke.

Cushman and Wakefield, which manages the estate, has

41

Blaze-hit Yate company moves to new premises as demolition starts at fire ravaged warehouse employed a specialist contractor to carry out the clean-up operation and the Health and Safety Executive is monitoring the demolition phase.

South Gloucestershire Council said the contractor cleaned up any asbestoscontaining materials spread by the fire which may have fallen as debris in the immediate vicinity during the initial stage of the fire.

Cushman and Wakefield said: “We can confirm that unit 49, declared structurally unsafe to enter following the fire, and the adjacent unit 50, will be demolished following safe removal of debris and extensive review by the loss adjuster, insurers and structural

engineers.

“We anticipate the demolition process will take a maximum of three weeks. This timetable is governed by the health and safety and environmental considerations surrounding the demolition.

“We recognise that the smoke has caused local disruption for which we apologise. We are fully focused on concluding the demolition work as quickly as is safely possible.”

AJM’s managing director, Andrew Pierce, said: “The way in which everyone rallied round has been amazing and we are very grateful.

“We were initially provided

with temporary storage space near our warehouse by a local company and then were able to utilise warehouse space at logistics company David Hathaway.”

But he said with big orders coming through, it would have been challenging if Colliers International had not brokered a deal for the Aztec West premises quickly.

Mr Pierce said: “Five years ago there would have been a choice of industrial property in Yate. Now there is nothing, so finding us a new warehouse that we could move into quickly was a huge achievement.”

Vulnerable groups urged to get free vaccination MORE people in South Gloucestershire have been included in the category of vulnerable individuals who can get a free flu jab.

The NHS has added health and care workers to the list of those eligible for the annual vaccination.

It is now encouraging staff who are employed by a registered residential care or nursing home, as well as registered domiciliary care providers, and who are directly involved in the care of vulnerable people to take up the offer.

Schools can also fund privately-provided vaccinations for their staff.

Meanwhile, South Gloucestershire Council is for a second time funding the vaccine for many of its employees through an expenses claim scheme.

The council said by not having the jab, people working in social care, healthcare and

education potentially put themselves and those they came in contact with at risk of serious illness.

Others eligible for free vaccinations include the over65s, those with long-term health conditions and pregnant women.

There are two types of vaccination for children injection and nasal spray - which are administered to youngsters of specific ages either in GP surgeries or at school.

Anyone considered at risk if they develop the illness should have received a letter inviting them to be vaccinated - a procedure available at doctors’ surgeries and some pharmacies.

Anyone who should be protected but has not been approached should contact their GP. The NHS said the protection offered by vaccination not only protected those receiving it but also any vulnerable people with whom they came in contact.

Flu complications include bronchitis and pneumonia, which could result in

hospitalisation, and the worsening of existing medical conditions.

Thousands of pounds already raised by 2017 Ride and Stride event THE annual Ride and Stride fund raiser has so far collected £40,000 for the repair and improvement of churches.

Places of worship of any Christian denomination across South Gloucestershire, north Bristol and Gloucestershire can benefit from the event.

Held each September, it

involves walkers, cyclists, horse riders and drivers visiting churches along their chosen route in support of the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust.

Money raised is given out in grants to churches, with half the cash going to the participants’ own chosen churches.

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fromevalleyvoice

42

n NEWS A CHIPPING Sodbury pensioner was conned out of nearly £26,000 by a man who carried out unnecessary work on his house.

John Docherty, 42, of Rochester, Kent, has now been sentenced to two years and three months in prison after admitting five counts of fraud when he appeared at Bristol Crown Court.

Docherty, who also uses the names John Casey and “Frank”, targeted the 73-year-old man in May 2016 by cold calling at his home.

He said his name was Frank, that he had been working on a neighbouring property and had noticed excessive moss on his roof, which he offered to remove for £350. The resident agreed for that work to be done.

A number of men worked on the property and during the next month, Docherty claimed numerous other problems

Rogue trader jailed for conning Chipping Sodbury pensioner needed immediate attention.

They included repairs to roof tiles, pointing of walls, strengthening waterlogged roof timbers and strengthening the A-frame in the roof.

Fearful for the condition of his property, the resident agreed to all of the work being carried out but all payments were requested in cash and the pensioner was told not to tell the bank why he was withdrawing the money.

In total, Docherty was paid £25,800 for the work during May 2016.

Docherty then claimed a further £20,000 of work was necessary to replace the damp

HAVE YOUR SAY

proof course and for silicone injections in brick work.

He pressurised the pensioner to have the work done and said if he didn’t, he would report him to the local authority as someone who was living in a property unfit for human habitation. He also refused to continue with other work already paid for until the £20,000 was paid.

The case was investigated and successfully prosecuted by South Gloucestershire Council’s trading standards team.

Working with Avon and Somerset Police and acting on a tip off, a police officer was waiting at the property when Docherty arrived to collect the

£20,000.

He was arrested and charged but then absconded to Ireland and failed to appear for an initial court hearing in October 2016.

An application was made for a European Arrest Warrant and Docherty was finally arrested in Hampshire in September 2017 on an unrelated matter and taken into custody in Bristol.

A surveyor said it was difficult to justify why any of the work carried out it was necessary and described the workmanship as very poor.

Prosecution costs, compensation and Proceeds of Crime Act matters will be dealt with at a later hearing.

Let us know your feelings go to our Facebook page

Searching for owls in forgotten landscape OWL expert Ian McGuire will lead an afternoon safari to seek out the migrant short-eared owl and other birds of prey around Aust.

The event is part of the Forgotten Landscape natural and cultural heritage project, which aims to conserve and improve the lower Severn Vale levels.

Those going along on Sunday, January 14, might also see merlins, kestrels and peregrine falcons.

Bookings can be made by visiting the project website www.

January, 2018

Alveston event raises money for cancer charity

aforgottenlandscape.org.uk where details of other events can also be found.

The project covers the foreshore and coastal floodplain of the River Severn from Oldbury-on-Severn, Shepperdine and Hill in the north to Avonmouth in the south and includes the South Gloucestershire parishes of Almondsbury, Aust, Hill, Oldbury, Olveston, Pilning, Rockhampton and Severn Beach, as well as Avonmouth and part of the Kingsweston ward in Bristol.

Ancient cider custom planned for Littleton orchard A TRADITIONAL wassail will be held in Littleton-on-Severn to bless a cider orchard to encourage a good crop of apples.

A Wassail Queen and Green Man will toast the trees and scare off evil spirits in the orchard behind the White Hart pub from 7.30pm on Friday, January 12.

There will also be songs and a Mummers play by the Barley Rye Choir, supported by the Get Singing Community Choir.

Food and cider, including mulled cider, will be available around a bonfire during the evening, which has been organised by the Littleton Lifesavers Cider Club.

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THE Thornbury branch of Cancer Research UK has handed over a cheque for £10,000 after a Christmas event at St Helen’s Church in Alveston.

“Sip`n Sing” saw the quartet Betar Brass accompany carols. St Mary's Handbell Ringers performed and there were also poems and stories.

The evening raised more than £900 and a cheque for £10,000 was presented to Nikki Collins a Senior Cancer Research UK Manager by the Thornbury branch chairman Lynfa Fisher

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

43

SPORT STARTS HERE

Hammer time: old and young get spinning with Yate Athletics Club HAMMER throwers are different from other athletes. Often bigger than their teammates, they are often found in the scrum at rugby when not actually throwing hammers.

Their conversation is all about distances thrown, the number of turns before releasing the hammer, the various weights they have to throw, angles of swing. They tend to go around in groups, convinced that no one else can understand the fascination of their chosen event.

It would be easy to assume that bulk is the main requisite for hammer throwers, but in fact speed is much more important.

Watching top throwers perform can be mesmerising, as their circling feet become a blur.

Watch Sophie Hitchon throwing and it’s not hard to believe that she used to be a dancer.

Yate & District AC is blessed with a fine group of hammer enthusiasts. They hang around the throwing circle eying each other’s efforts critically. Or they compete at tipping tractor tyres over and over, or hurling medicine balls at each other.

Outstanding this summer has been the achievements of Karen Jones, who competes in the V50 category: that is for ladies aged fifty to fifty-five. On one day in June she became British champion with the threekilogram hammer and also with

the 7.25 weight, which is like a hammer but heavier and with a shorter chain. She is ranked number one in the country at both events and recently has been ranked number fourteen in the world.

On a technical note, Karen still only throws with two circles of the hammer, when top throwers usually turn three times, if not four.

Eugene Lawlor, who competes as a V55, is also a two times British Champion.

His personal best throw with the five-kilo hammer is an impressive 50.27m, enough to rank him number eight in the world.

Not yet world ranked but with an English Schools silver medal to his name is under 17 athlete Toby Conibear. His personal best of 52.05m is enough to rank him number four in Britain. He is improving all the time and has clearly caught the hammer bug and rarely misses a training session. However, his best achievement of the summer almost didn’t happen.

Hammer throwing is a very technical event. Swinging a heavy steel ball round your head, then spinning round as many times as you can control before hurling it out of the cage in what you hope is the right direction, takes a massive amount of practice and there is a multitude

Owen, Toby and James celebrating their clean sweep at the SW Champiomships of things that can go wrong.

For Toby, competing at English Schools, they did. Twice he no-threw, meaning that he had just one more chance to register a throw and stay in the competition. It was no help at all that his main rival had already thrown farther than Toby’s personal best. Concentration and preparation were called for, and Toby proved to be up to the challenge His third throw was

enough to win the silver medal.

The winner went on to no-throw a further five times!

The Yate group is completed with Owen Merrett, Tyler Molton, James Viner and Leah Hale, all of whom are ranked in the top British hundred. Holding them together is coach Matt Spicer, whose personal best with the 7.26k hammer ranks him eighth in the country. Matt is assisted by Paul Thorn.

It’s hockey, but not as we know it PUCKLECHURCH Ladies hockey team have taken advantage of a break in league action to play a friendly game against Knowle with a difference - it was played in fancy dress.

Although the official winter league ended the last week of November, Pucklechurch were keen to keep playing.

Short on players, they ended up hosting two Knowle teams and Badminton Ladies for two shorter games. From snowmen and Christmas puddings to flamingoes and parrots the players enjoyed the extra dimension to the game.

Pucklechurch, a little confused by all the different outfits, did spend time tackling their own players and passing to the umpire dressed as a reindeer.

Training for the new season starts on January 8 at Winterbourne International Academy. Email pucklechurchlhc@gmail.com for more details

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2018

n TAKE A BREAK

PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE Adult puzzles Children’s puzzles O U L L S W A T E R R R I I T M N F A

F K S C H S Y A T R T A M F S A T I C

O O A A S Q E H F D T O L E Y R I C A

M T R R E H S A Y I R E D S E A C E S

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N K A B A S R K E Q A H S C B A A C I

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3 2

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This month: Bodies of water

Can you find 35 bodies of water hidden vertically, horizontally or diagonally?

WORDSEARCH

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Adriatic, Aral Sea, Atlantic, Baffin Bay, Baikal, Baltic, Bass Sea, Bay of Biscay, Black Sea, Bosporus, Caribbean, Caspian Sea, Chukotsk Sea, Coral Sea, East China Sea, Great Bear, Gulf of Oman, Irish Sea, Kara Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Maracaibo, Lake Nyasa, Lake Ontario, North Sea, Pacific, Red Sea, Sargasso Sea, Skaggerak, Tasman Sea, Timor Sea, Ullswater, White Sea, Yellow Sea

o

fromevalleyvoice

44

WHICH WEDGES? This is tricky – can you tell which wedges make up No. 5? You may have to turn the pieces.

This month: Countries

The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad

Clues Across 1. 75682542 (8) 4. 792632 (6) 5. 3454 (4) 6. 27822 (5) 7. 38446742 (8)

Down 1. 78746263 (8) 2. 6626 (4) 3. 26484552 (8) 5. 3276 (4)

2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L

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

1

2

3

4

5 6

7

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2018

45

n SPORT

Frampton Rugby Club finish year on high FRAMPTON Rugby club headed into 2018 riding high in the Gloucester Premiership as they saw out December unbeaten in the league.

Frampton finished the year in sixth place in the table, looking to close the gap on those above them. It’s a complete turn around from last year, where Frampton were fighting relegation.

Frampton beat Gloucester Old Boys with tries from Mitch Smith and Dec Grimstead in an emphatic display which ended in a 17-9 victory. Gloucester Old Boys headed back up the M5

without a bonus point.

Frampton drew against Gordon League 14-14 in a evenly fought battle where victory for either side would have seen them close the gap on those chasing the title. Tries from Dan Spalding and Rhys Jennings and conversions from James Knight saw Frampton claim a vital point.

As Frome Valley Voice was going to press, Frampton were preparing for a vital match against Gordano in the quarter finals of the Bristol Combination Vase. Victory would add even more momentum to a successful first half of the season.

Kicker James Knight looks to add to the scoreline

Cheered into the corner; Dec Grimstead evades the Old Boy’s cover to score

At a stretch: Mitch Smith scores against Gloucester Old Boys

Second team top the table

FRAMPTON second team have finished the first half of the season on top of the Bristol & District 1 league table after a tough fought win against Cleve II, who had not lost a game all season and had comfortably beaten all teams in the league.

Frampton turned up for the game with minutes to spare and managed a two minute warm up; Cleve meanwhile had been warming up for over an hour.

This didn't stop Frampton from dominating the game in the forwards with the likes of Brandon Ball, John Stewart and Mark Smith leading from the front.

The end of the first half saw Frampton lead 8-0 with a push over try from a 5m scrum dotted down by veteran Rob Kier. Cleve tried to come back in the second half and scored a try in the corner after the bounce of the ball fell into the wingers hand to score.

Frampton continued their dominance in the forwards by slowing the game down and in the last minutes of the game scored another push over try, this time scored by Callum Bleakman. Frampton won the game 13-5 to finish the year on top of the table.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Winners are grinners: Frampton second team enjoy their victory at Cleve

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

46

January, 2018

n SPORT

Frampton 3rds share the spoils in thriller

Match report by John Britton Barts 29 - 29 Frampton 3rds AFTER a typical Frampton 3rds start, letting Barts score two soft tries in the first 10 minutes, captain Tim Phillips told the team to “stop letting them run through us”. Frampton started making their tackles and got hold of the ball for five minutes with Kev Long and Zaff controlling play.

Pete Edwards evaded four

tacklers to score after 20 minutes and get us in the game. Both teams scored again before halftime leaving Frampton a 17- 12 deficit to overturn.

The second half started with full back Simon Taylor making a try saving tackle to deny Barts an overlap and then minutes later Simon Robinson levelled the scores after a quick tap and go, but a lack of concentration saw Barts score soon after the restart.

The Barts forwards were not

happy at running uphill and a backline of Fletcher, Allaker & Robinson looked to move the Barts forwards around and create space. It allowed Pete Edwards to run into space and score again.

Frampton were all over the home team by now with Jay Suckling & Geordie smashing through tackles but Barts were dangerous on the counter attack and as players tired, gaps opened up for both teams. Barts managed to pinch a breakaway

try by four players while the rest of their team watched at the other end of the pitch.

Frampton stuck with their game plan, equalising with five minutes to go and by now it was all Frampton but despite two penalties on Barts 10m, they couldn’t get the winning score with the game ending 29 – 29.

Man of the Match: Pete Edwards – 4 tries plus a try saving tackle in last minute of the game after a Barts breakaway

Youngsters run riot in comprehensive victory Frampton Cotterell 59 Yatton 0 Frampton started the match well, and from the kick off were on the attack. Following a good passing move the ball found its was to Nick who crossed over in the corner to give the U14s an early 5-0 lead.

As Yatton kicked off the ball was caught by Ed at full back and he weaved in and out of the opposition defence, finding Sam who in turn found Jamie and his strength saw him score.

Yatton then applied some pressure and some great tackling

by Alfie, Marcus and Kane kept the visitors at bay. However when a Frampton scum was awarded deep inside their own half the ball was played back to

Jack whose deep kick out foxed the opposition and when Mike stole the ball he passed to Jamie to break several tackles to score his second try of the day.

Another try came soon after when from a scrum Lewis found Jack who sprinted clear to score under the posts. With Yatton on the back foot their kick out found Ed again who ran down the line only to be tackled 5 metres out.

His quick thinking found the supporting Lewis to score.

Olley then scored a push over try and before the half came to an end another kick out by Frampton was picked up by Rohan for a try.

There was no let up in the second half and a great run by Matt opened up Yatton again and the pass down the line found

Corey who crossed over to score.

A good run by Kane found Olley who in turn burst forward only to be tackled a metre out,

but when the ball fell loose it was Rohan again who was on hand to end the scoring for a rampant Frampton performance.

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