Keynsham News Winter 2021

WINTER 2021 - Issue 38

Produced for Keynsham Town Council

Inside: Keynsham Christmas Market – Friday 26th November, 6 – 9 p.m. .

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WELCOME TO

KEYNSHAM NEWS W

elcome to the Winter edition of Keynsham News - in this issue we are looking forward to the upcoming festive season (make sure to get the light switch on date and Christmas events in your diary so you don’t miss out!) and celebrating the achievements of the past year, including the amazing work of Keynsham in Bloom who won a Gold recently - well done everyone!

The next issue of Keynsham News will be in the New Year, if you’d like to be involved, make sure to get in touch with Keynsham Town Council, the offices are starting to slowly reopen, so read on to find out how to contact them.

Until next time, we hope you have a lovely Christmas and New Year and we’ll see you in 2022!

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Chairman’s Welcome

4

Keynsham in bloom

5

COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE LEVY

6

Community AT 67

11

GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIRS

13

MENCAP BOWLING

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KEYNSHAM FOODBANK

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HIGH STREET PUBLIC REALM IMPROVEMENTS

19 15

GOLDIES IS BACK

23

KTCRFM UPDATE

25

FUTURE BRIGHT CAREER COACHING

27

GOOD CITIZEN’S AWARD

28

MEET THE TEAM

29

COVID VACCINATIONS

30

CHRISTMAS MARKET

32

COMMUNITY ENERGY CAFÉS

38

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS

39

SUMMER 2021 - Issue 36

AUTUMN Produced for Keynsham Town Council

SPRING 2020

2020 - Issue

33

- Issue 32

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am Town Counc

Keynsh Produced for

Produced for Keynsh

am Town Counc

Inside – Town Council Annual Report 2020-2021 and Town Centre update

Have your

say on Bus

Transpor

t in Keynsham

- See pages

6&7

COVID-19

Communi

ty Support

Special Editi

Please call Carmen:

01761 458192

on

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Keynsham News is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN Tel 01761 410141.

While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Keynsham Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

The next issue of Keynsham News will be distributed in February. To feature in the next issue, please get in touch by 15th January 2021.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

Chairman’s Welcome

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ife doesn’t seem to get any easier, as we come to the festive season. I hope that the forecast shortages come to nothing and we can all have a family Christmas, the best that it can be after the trials of the last two years.

Looking back at the autumn, when most of us ventured out again, congratulations go to Clarice Corfield and Churches Together for taking the lead in the Eco Festival. Such a joy on such a glorious autumn Saturday to see so many of the Keynsham Community involved in this new initiative. Thank you for those who turned up and to all involved. Thank you to the Keynsham Kindness Festival with a large number of events throughout the town. Another example of the town working together and enriching our lives. Finally, what a pleasure to see a week-long Keynsham Music Festival for 2021, a pale shadow of previous years but hopefully, a taster for the special 25th anniversary festival in 2022.

We also were able to join in Tony Crouch’s Memorial Service in St John’s in October. Having died in January, Tony’s funeral was restricted by Covid protocols so it was right that he should receive recognition for his works in the community, especially the 26 years he served on the Town Council by such a thoughtful and well attended service. He was present at the very first meeting of Keynsham Town Council in 1991 and most of the ones that followed. Tony was a conscientious councillor.

He always considered the weakest in our community the most. He also tried to cut through the red tape to get things done. He did not appreciate it, when the public or indeed the council weren’t consulted properly about any proposed changes. His presence at council and his detailed knowledge will be sadly missed.

We look forward to the Christmas Market and, hopefully, a High Street where phase one is almost complete. I’m sure, like me, you would welcome a bit of stability and peace for this time of year and let

the joy of phase two of the High Street upgrade wait until the New Year. Of course, these renewals are necessary. It is quite an achievement that we have competed and won national grants, so the cost of these improvements generally don’t come from our council tax.

So, we look forward to Christmas and the New Year at this dark time of year. I pray that the festive lights of the season renew you and the joy of the season overwhelms you. At this special time, as my mother used to say: “It is good to count your blessings and think of those who have less to celebrate than we do”.

If we can, we should try to do something about it.

In any event, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from all those involved with the Town Council.

Cllr. Andy Wait, Chairman

KEYNSHAM NEWS

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A GOLD MEDAL FOR KEYNSHAM IN BLOOM

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fter being put on hold with this dreadful pandemic, it’s wonderful to be recognised

by South West In Bloom as worthy of an award.

When judges visited Keynsham earlier in the year, the In Bloom volunteers nervously questioned their horticultural decisions asking questions like: Had we planted the correct flowers? Are we dead heading, weeding and watering regularly enough to maintain the displays throughout the season?

And, what will the judges say?

Remember that some lockdown rules still applied, so care had to be taken, but this didn’t stop our hardy volunteers and their determination has meant success for Keynsham. A big thank you to all involved and please contact the email addresses below if you wish to join our cheerful band of workers. You would be very welcome.

The award ceremony was held in the Winter Gardens at Weston-super-Mare and after being entertained by Jon Wheatly and James AlexanderSinclair, both very experienced garden designers, Keynsham In Bloom received the Gold. A great feeling of relief was felt but we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to make our town an even better place to live. We are now working on removing the summer displays and planting winter bulbs and flowers to bring cheer to all who visit us through the dark winter months.

To get involved or for more information, contact keynshaminbloom@icloud.com or catherinemarywoodman@gmail.com If easier, just pop your written information through the council letterbox.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE LEVY & Community Projects WHAT IS CIL? The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a new tariff system that allows B&NES to raise funds from developers to contribute to the costs of providing some of the infrastructure needed for new development and to mitigate the impact of the increased number of homes/residents.

Unlike s106 money, CIL money does not need to be used for providing infrastructure on the site it is collected from.

The proportion given to Keynsham Town Council is known as a “meaningful proportion” and for areas where there is no Neighbourhood Plan in place, this equates to 15% of CIL receipts from development within the Town/Parish area up to a maximum of £100 per Council Tax dwelling per annum.

However, the proportion will rise to 25% once the Keynsham Neighbourhood Development Plan is approved by referendum and, with the future plan for the Keynsham North new development, this could represent a substantial additional sum of CIL money being received by Keynsham providing the Neighbourhood Plan has been “MADE.”

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What is the Town Council doing with its CIL? The Town Council has already received a considerable amount of CIL over the last 3 years in response to the ongoing developments at Hygge Park and along Charlton Road. Some has already been spent/allocated (e.g. £24k for Kelston Park play area, £40k for the Heritage Action Zone project in the town centre). However, in 2019 the Town Council also agreed to allocate up to £10,000 per year from the Town Council’s CIL receipts towards small value projects suggested by the Community.

What can CIL be spent on?

CIL cannot be spent on just any old project – it must be spent on projects that satisfy one of the criteria below: a) the provision, improvement, replacement, operation, or maintenance of infrastructure; or b) anything else that is concerned with addressing the demands that development places on an area.

‘Infrastructure and Services’ are defined as

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Physical infrastructure: e.g. highways, transport links, cycleways, energy supply, water, flood alleviation, waste management Social infrastructure: e.g. education, health, social care, emergency services, art and culture, sports halls, community halls, faith, crematoria Green infrastructure: e.g. parks, woodlands, play areas, public open space

SMALL COMMUNITY PROJECTS – CALL FOR SUGGESTIONS Due to an interruption, because of the COVID Pandemic, the Town Council is extending its suggestion register for one more year and is asking the community to make suggestions on possible projects to be included as part of the budgets being drawn up. for this second year. All suggestions received previously will be included in the project selection pot.

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A suggestions/application form is available from the Town Council by emailing admin@keynsham-tc.gov.uk or contacting the office on 07904 161097 or 0117 9868683.

Remember the suggestions have to relate to improving physical or social infrastructure to help mitigate the increased demands that new development places on the Keynsham area.

So, whether this is some new play equipment, improving rights of way or a small project to benefit your local neighbourhood then please submit your suggestions to the Town Council for consideration.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

AVON WILDLIFE TRUST

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he Avon Wildlife Trust’s Keynsham group’s programme of online talks is now underway for the Winter season.

With two successful evenings under our belt so far, we have a special talk on Wednesday 24th November - “Bringing Beavers Back to Britain”.

Following the exciting news that beavers have naturally populated a river in the Avon catchment area, we are thrilled to have Chris Jones and Josh Harris from the Beaver Trust and Amy Coulthard from Avon Wildlife Trust to tell us their plans going forward for this nocturnal aquatic mammal, which play such an important role in managing waterways, reducing flooding and increasing biodiversity.

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On Friday December 10th, we hope to be able to hold our monthly meeting at our normal venue of Keynsham Baptist Church Hall with “A Christmas Cracker” - a programme of short talks by members and a Christmas wildlife quiz. Advance booking preferred.

On Friday 14th January, we again meet online for a fascinating talk “The Glimmering World of Glowworms” with breeder, Pete Cooper. These tiny illuminating insects have been a hot topic in the last year with reintroduction programmes taking place to counteract their dwindling numbers.

For more details and booking links for our talks, visit our website www.keynshamawt.org. This Winter we are keen to continue with advanced booking, even for our in-person talks to avoid overcrowding in our hall. Contact us by email keynshamawt@gmail.com or phone Kathy on 07850 508702 Photo credit – Bevis Watts

KEYNSHAM NEWS

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KEYNSHAM ROTARY

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fter many months of very restricted activity, Keynsham Rotary is getting back to a semblance of normality. We are now starting to resume our programme of activities, began with our Harvest Supper and Auction on 22nd October.

Later in the New Year, we are planning to resume our Plant Fair in May, which raises money for local charities. Over the years, this has helped organisations, such as the Children’s Hospice South West, Jessie May, Mencap, Meningitis Trust, Prostate Cancer UK, Salvation Army, St Mungo’s and numerous others.

We have also run competitions for local young people, including Young Writer, Young Artist and we are planning a new event (Young Photographer) for 2022. We are particularly keen to encourage young people in achieving their full potential.

In addition, our members are looking to provide local support for community initiatives, especially in the environment, where our efforts can be focused on improving our surroundings for the benefit of everyone.

Rotary is a fantastic organisation. It is not just for a so-called elite section of society, but for those who wish to put “Service Above Self” by bringing their energy and efforts to projects which benefit all. Rotary has around 1.2 million members worldwide and has an incredible ability to focus on local ‘macro’ issues and then ‘telephoto’ to major international concerns and DO SOMETHING ABOUT THEM. Whilst Rotary is burgeoning in Africa and Asia, sadly we seem to be more complacent with our easy lifestyle in the West. We need likeminded people to volunteer and hopefully join organisations like ours, to ensure our communities continue to be supported and that no one is deprived of basic needs in life.

The recent pandemic has clearly shown that volunteering is alive and well and we hope that some may wish to continue in a similar way as matters improve. Rotary is an excellent vehicle in which to travel that road! Why not investigate?

We are a friendly bunch, meeting on Wednesdays at Saltford Golf Club. Have a look at our website (Keynsham Rotary will find us).

The ethos of Rotary - The 4-Way Test Of the things we think, say or do:1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

These are aspirations for life and are not always easy to follow or achieve but they are goals worth pursuing! Looking around our society today, we are sadly in short supply of many of these aspirations.

The Rotary charity is a non-denominational and non-political organisation focused on communities.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

Community Asset: The Paddock

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eynsham Town Council have contacted Bath and North East Somerset Council expressing an interest in the transfer of The Paddock, Keynsham as a community asset. It is hoped that such a transfer will be granted.

Those that come forward with ideas will be invited to a meeting in the new year, to be held by the Town Council and will be given the opportunity to present their project plans for the site and the next steps will then be explained.

It is intended that once the land is transferred to the Town Council, ongoing support will be given to a local community group or collection of groups (working together) to put the land to good use. Several organisations have already presented their ideas for future development of the site, to the Town Council. If your organisation is interested in putting forward a project, we would be pleased to hear from you.

If you are interested, please contact the Acting Town Clerk, Dawn Drury by emailing townclerk@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk or telephoning 0117 9868683 detailing your organisation’s name or group of organisations and giving a brief description of your project idea.

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KEYNSHAM COMMUNITY at 67

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e are pleased to see Community at 67 open again, providing a range of activities for the whole community. Situated at 67 Queens Road, our centre has two rooms and a well equipped kitchen which can be hired for meetings and events.

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning 9.30 – 12.30, the centre is running a café in partnership with Virgin Care – which will provide a great place to drop in with friends for a chat and some great refreshments.

We are also working with The Charlton pub and is hosting a weekly lunchtime get together for local people with a low-cost lunch. The Charlton’s Alison Jordan said: “We are really excited about this partnership, we want to make The Charlton a place where people can meet and enjoy eating together. We hope that this weekly event will appeal to people of all ages who want to meet other people.”

At Community at 67 there are also activities for young people, including a chance to chill out after a week at school with Da Beats Hip Hop/Grime Club Nights for young people in years 7 – 13, every third Friday of the month, the next one being 19th November and then 17th December starting at 7.30.

On Wednesdays there is the Maths Club from 4-5pm for children in Years 5 and 6 and Mondays, 4.30-5.30 a code club.

For those who are interested in developing their craft skills, the Coffee & Crafts group meets Wednesday 10.00 – 1.00. The IT group provides a friendly and very patient team of volunteers who are able to help people with getting online or any aspect of using IT, the group meets Friday 9.00 – 12.00. The scrabble club meets on Wednesday at 1.30 – 3.30 for all those who enjoy the challenge of creating words out of 7 letters.

Community at 67 is offering new groups four weeks free meeting space in order to encourage the creation of new community groups. If you want to set up a group for people with a similar interest, in a spacious and well-equipped centre, please get in touch.

“After such a long period when people couldn’t meet, we have a range of activities that will once again bring people together to share an interest and simply meet and chat, this is so important to help rebuild our community” said Martin Burton, Chair of Trustees. “Our aim as a charity is to support our community both through providing activities at our centre, but also through partnership with local groups. We are always open to new ideas for new activities so please contact us to talk about how we can support you. We are also looking for new trustees and volunteers to help take the charity forward. Being a trustee is a very rewarding experience and your skills will be used to help shape the future of the organisation.”

For information on any of the events, please contact: enquiries@community-67.org or tel.

07737 742300. www.community-67.org

KEYNSHAM NEWS

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no audition required for Good afternoon cHOIRS

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eynsham’s popular Good Afternoon Choir is back singing again! The choir, which is led by music man, Grenville Jones, has moved its rehearsal venue to St John’s / Keynsham Parish Church to allow extra space at choir rehearsals, which are open to everyone, and take place every Wednesday from 2pm-4pm.

This popular community choir has over 60 members and in the past has raised and supported many local groups through its concerts and fundraising. It’s important to know that this is a no-audition choir where the accent is very much on fun and friendship through making music together and everyone is welcome to attend a ‘come and meet us’ rehearsal on any Wednesday where there is no charge.

Looking ahead, a date for your Christmas diary – Saturday December 11th – when the Keynsham Good Afternoon Choir will join with Grenville’s other choirs to provide a wonderful evening of Christmas music at St John’s / Keynsham Parish Church. This concert will support two local causes, the Keynsham and Saltford Dementia Action Alliance as well as the work of Keynsham Mencap across the Town.

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The concert will start at 7.30pm and tickets will soon be available priced £15 from 01761 472468 or via choir members, as it is bound to be a sell out the advice is to get your tickets early!

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

Tree planting in KEYNSHAM

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ollowing my last article, Keynsham Town Council is pleased to confirm that The Woodlands Trust is definitely delivering our trees in November and we have confirmed dates and times for planting!

Manor Road playing fields (near the pavilion) on Saturday 20th November from 10am – 1pm and the Teviot play area on Saturday 27th November from 10am – 1pm.

Please come and join and help us to plant them.

We would love this to be a community activity and to get everyone as involved as we can. I helped out when we planted some trees and shrubs near the Kelston Road play area last year

and it was interesting to learn about what we were planting and why and also to have some involvement in helping my community.

We would like as many young people as possible to join us as the schools who have been involved previously have loved doing it. I hope that they will enjoy making an active difference to their future and hopefully developing their connection with nature.

Let this be the first of many tree planting sessions in Keynsham!

Councilllor Charlotte Buxton

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

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MENCAP, BOWLING at Alexandra

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n Tuesday, 24th August, Keynsham Mencap visited Alexandra Bowling Club as part of their scheme to try different sports.

The group arrived at 3:30pm with two volunteers and qualified coaches, Felicity and Danny Kite, showed them the basics of delivering the bowls, delivering the jack and centring it on the rink.

Following this, three lads decided to have a match and a couple of ends were played. Deano scored on the first end and Jethro got the second shot, receiving applause from the audience, coach and volunteers. All delivered some really good bowls, but I think Jethro had the edge over the others on the second end because he got two shots which received loud applause from the Club Members who were watching the game and cheering on the players. However, Deano delivered two very good back bowls on that last end and Barry put in a couple of good blockers!

It transpired that Jethro’s grandad was a “legend” at bowls and played for Knowle Bowls Club. Jethro has inherited his grandad’s bowls so, hopefully, he will bring them with him next time.

A good two hours was had by all and the group was invited along again with some more friends to have another go.

Susie confidently gave thanks to the coaches for their time and making the day an enjoyable one.

On behalf of the coaches, it was a very profitable afternoon for the group and an exceptionally enjoyable one. Despite any difficulties people may have, they can be overcome through a game of bowls which goes to show it is a totally inclusive sport.

Keynsham Mencap, you are welcome back any time we would love to see you again!

TOWN COUNCIL office update We are pleased to announce that after a long period of closure, following construction disruption and COVID restrictions, the Town Council office at 15–17 Temple Street is now open to the public, Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m.

– 12.30 p.m.

On arrival, please ring the doorbell and a

member of staff will attend to you. Members of the public will be expected to wear a face covering if there is a need to enter the building.

Hand sanitiser will also be available for use.

Due to staff shortages, unfortunately, we are unable to open full-time presently, but hope to be open fully again in the new year.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

Christmas Tree Festival at St John’s Church

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he bi-annual Keynsham Christmas Tree Festival will once again be taking place at St John’s Church, High Street, Keynsham from 3rd – 5th December.

Local community groups and schools are invited to take part by sponsoring and decorating a Christmas tree to showcase their activities and contribution to the community. All efforts will be made to ensure safe distancing of trees and visitors.

It is anticipated that, as in previous years, a large number of people will visit this popular event. The dates are:

Friday 3rd December - 3 pm – 8 pm Saturday 4th December – 10 am – 6 pm Sunday 5th December – 12 noon – 5 pm During the Festival there will be musical entertainment, with a Christmas craft stall and festive refreshments in the Church Hall. This joyous occasion, which has now become a regular part of Christmas in Keynsham, is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the Christmas season.

Anyone interested in taking part should email: treefestival@hotmail.co.uk or ring 0117 9862088 for further details.

Live Well B&NES: information for all

Bath & North East Somerset residents have a brand-new, web-based resource providing information, signposting, resources and support.

Whether you are looking for local childcare, a toddler group, some parenting support; information and resources to support your role as a parent carer with a child with a disability or additional need; or signposting to resources for an adult needing care or support; Live Well B&NES all provides this.

Information, services and groups are regularly added to Live Well B&NES; so if you work with, support, provide services to, or run, groups for children and young people or for adults needing care or support (such as older people, adults with physical disabilities and/or sensory impairments, people living with mental ill health), make sure you’re included! It’s free and takes less than five minutes to register.

www.livewell.bathnes.gov.uk

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

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KEYNSHAM FOODBANK REOPENS

T

here is a lot going on at Keynsham Foodbank this autumn! The third of their three centres should be re-opening about the same time as this goes to press, but first, a plea to donors, and a thank you to Dial-A-Ride.

Due to a recent, unavoidable change in bank account type, Keynsham Foodbank are asking all donors who currently donate by Standing Order to kindly check their bank statements, as generous donations have bounced back.

Chair of Trustees at Keynsham Foodbank, Gwen Edwards, said: “We’ve had to change the type of bank account used by the charity recently. We’ve been very nervous about this, but in the end had no choice. Despite many assurances from the bank that donations would be unaffected, when I checked my bank account this week, I saw that my donation to the food bank had bounced and been returned to me. A quick phone call to the Treasurer confirmed what we had most feared – all the donations we receive via Standing Order have stopped.

“In transferring to the new account, the bank has managed to ensure all of our bills continue to be paid – which is great, but a bit tricky when they’ve bounced all our donations!” she added.

“We kindly urge our generous donors to please update the details they have for us, and if possible, also complete the super short Gift Aid form, which helps us turn every £1 you give into £1.25.

We are so very grateful for the generous support we receive from our community and thank them in advance for taking a few minutes to change their standing order details – we simply cannot do what we do without their financial support.”

All Standing Orders to Keynsham Foodbank have bounced.

Please continue to help us, and kindly take a moment to update your Standing Order.

1. Keynsham Foodbank 60-12-11, new account number 26725592 (only the account number has changed) 2. Completing a Gift-Aid form makes a big difference, and takes less than a minute, www.keynsham.foodbank.org.uk/gift-aid-form/ The volunteer team at Keynsham Foodbank thank the local community for their ongoing generosity and kindness.

Thank You Dial-A-Ride June Brassington, trustee at Keynsham Foodbank said: “On behalf of the Keynsham Foodbank volunteer team, we would like to make a very public and heart-felt thank you to the volunteers at Keynsham & District Dial-A-Ride who have worked in partnership with us, and helped us throughout the pandemic with deliveries. Their activities are now also increasing as our local community continues on its journey to ‘return to usual’ and we return to collect-at-our-door. We thank Dial-A-Ride once again for their support.”

Victoria Re-opens! All 3 Foodbank Centres Now Open for Collection Earlier this summer, the Keynsham Foodbank volunteer team restarted their “collect-fromour-door” service at St Mary’s in Saltford, swiftly followed by St Francis in Keynsham in September.

As we went to press, they were finalising their plans to re-open at Victoria in central Keynsham – see their website and social media for the latest status!

“As October arrives, the Keynsham Foodbank team are as ready as we can be for what we think will be a difficult and busy autumn and winter,” said Garry Wheadon, new Project Manager at Keynsham Foodbank. “We are anticipating significant increases in local people in our community in food crisis.”

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

“The volunteer team at Keynsham Foodbank often take calls from people in urgent need of food. If you, a friend, family member or colleague need our help, please do not wait until the cupboard is bare. If you need us, we are here for you.”

Local people in food crisis receive support from the food bank via E-vouchers which are issued by an extensive list of local agencies. Keynsham Foodbank works with over 100 local referral agencies, including B&NES Welfare, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, the Community Wellbeing Hub, local schools, churches and charities. The Trussell Trust E-voucher system ensures that the food bank receives information securely and can swiftly help people in need of food.

How to get help from Keynsham Foodbank?

Details of how to receive an E-Voucher from one of the referral agencies we work with, are on the Keynsham Foodbank website and Facebook page.

If you would like to give help Our latest “most wanted” items can be found on the Keynsham Foodbank website, Facebook page, and we try to keep the “shopping lists” up to date To donate money (we’ve changed our bank details recently), our new details are: Keynsham Foodbank 60-12-11, new account number 26725592 Volunteer: We are looking for one or two people to join us who have the skills to lead one of our volunteer teams, with strong interpersonal skills and basic IT skills, and we’ll provide you with all necessary training. This is an opportunity to make a real difference in your community. If you think you have the expertise to help us, and would like to know more, please get in touch, we’d love to talk with you. info@keynsham.foodbank.org.uk 07512 591734 Thank you for your generosity and kindness. www.keynshamfoodbank.org.uk

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

19

Keynsham High Street Public REALM Improvements

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wo significant public spaces improvements programmes are being undertaken in Keynsham Town Centre:  Keynsham Public Realm Improvements Phase 1  Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone (HS HAZ) Programme The Phase 1 scheme focuses on the one-way system between Charlton Way and Bath Hill. In contrast, the HS HAZ programme has a wider remit and considers opportunities for improvement throughout the length of the High Street.

Keynsham Public Realm Improvements Phase 1 Updates

and unforeseen delays which we have tried to mitigate along the way. These challenges have included shallow utilities, reinforced concrete and delays caused by the fuel and driver shortage.

The high street was due to re-open to traffic in the autumn but this has now been extended. The council’s annual Christmas embargo on roadworks will now not come into effect until mid-December so that works can continue until then without further delays and so works can be completed as soon as possible.

Due to the exceptional and unique circumstances facing the construction industry, as well as the length of time residents and traders have already been impacted by the scheme, we are looking at options to support the community and to attract more footfall during the Christmas period. These are currently being planned and details will be announced in November.

The council has been working closely with traders to minimise disruption and ensure access during trading hours, shops are still open so please do continue to shop local.

Keynsham Phase 1 works making progress.

We are now over half-way into the public realm works on the High Street.

Over the summer and autumn the works have focused on paving both sides of the street in high quality materials as well as installation of highway drainage and new lighting. Into the winter the paving works will continue along the eastern side of the street as well as the relocation of the bus stop with street furniture installed before Christmas.

Constructions works were ahead of schedule during the summer, however throughout the autumn there have been a number of challenges

The permanent improvements to the public realm between Charlton Road and Bath Hill seek to rejuvenate the town centre and bring people back to the High Street. The enhancements include footpath widening and resurfacing, better signage, cycling and bus stop facilities, and new street furniture, streetlights, landscaping and trees.

The council was awarded £1.5 million towards the cost of implementing the first phase, it is funded by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership through the Local Growth and Getting Building funds, administered by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and funded

by WECA through its Love our High Streets programme.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

Construction updates are regularly posted on the project webpage at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ keynsham. Thank you for your continued patience

Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone Programme Updates Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone (HS HAZ) was awarded £1.1million as part of Historic England’s High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HS HAZ) Programme with additional match funding provided by Keynsham Town Council (£40,000) and Bath & North East Somerset Council (B&NES) which has contributed £100,000 from the Community Infrastructure Levy. The four-year partnership programme, part of B&NES Council’s High Streets Renewal Programme, is due to be completed in March 2024.

New website launched: Sign up to the mailing list and check out the new website to stay up to date with the latest information from Keynsham’s HS HAZ Programme: HiKeynsham.co.uk Have you had your say about proposals for Temple Street?

Phase 2: Temple Street Improvements consultation window closes on Monday 22 November 2021.

while we undertake these works as we make Keynsham High Street an even more attractive and welcoming place.

When: This six-week consultation ends on Monday 22 November 2021. To have your say, please review the Proposed Concept Design Pack and complete a feedback form and/or attend an event.

Where: Some key highlights from the proposed concept designs can be seen in the diagram and illustration below. The full Proposed Concept Design Pack and feedback forms can be accessed on the HiKeynsham.co.uk website. Paper copies can be collected from Temple Street Canteen, Keynsham Library and Keynsham Town Council.

The Proposed Concept Design Pack can also be viewed on a large scale on shopfront windows in Temple Street (just down from Keynsham Town Council and Baby and Co).

A series of drop-in sessions and physical and virtual meetings have been, and will be, be held for residents, businesses, and community groups to provide feedback and have their voices heard.

Information about future sessions can be found on HiKeynsham.co.uk under the ‘What’s On’ section.

One of the final sessions will be a drop-in session at Temple Street Canteen anytime between 13.00 – 16.00 on Thursday 18 November 2021.

What: How would you like Temple Street’s public spaces to look in the future? Concept design proposals to make the area more attractive, engaging and vibrant while enhancing its historic identity have been released as part of the Keynsham Heritage Action Zone (HS HAZ) Programme.

Who: Landscape Architects Macgregor Smith have worked with the project partners (Historic England, Keynsham Town Council and B&NES Council) and members of the local community to create the proposals for Temple Street. We are now inviting you to have your say.

Illustrative view looking north along the eastern side of Temple Street - view taken from 3D model of Temple Street showing pavement width increased and carriageway width reduced (with two-way traffic maintained).

KEYNSHAM NEWS

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Suggested vision for the wider Temple Street area – summary of opportunities for the wider Temple Street area

Illustrative view from near the Trout looking towards the eastern side of Temple Street - view taken from 3D model of Temple Street showing pavement width increased and carriageway width reduced (with two-way traffic maintained).

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

MANOR ROAD FOOTBALL PITCH HIRE

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eynsham Town Council is delighted to announce that both junior and full size pitches can now be booked for the 2021/22 season at the Manor Road playing fields.

Pitches can be used for matches and training with three possible booking options available: Casual Bookings, Seasonal Team Bookings & Club Pitch Bookings.

Manor Road can also be booked for tournaments.

If you would like more information, including prices, or would like to book a pitch of the whole facility then please call 0117 9868683 or email admin@keynsham-tc.gov.uk

A pitch can be booked for the following times (unless by arrangement) Saturdays/Sundays Mornings: 10.00am-12.30pm Afternoons: 1.30pm-4pm Local teams (made up of at least 50% Keynsham residents) are also eligible for significant discounts on all types of booking.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

GOLDIES IS BACK

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Those attending the sessions were older adults, many living in community housing, adults with learning difficulties and people living with dementia - everyone is welcome at a Goldies session.

ighteen months after the Covid Lockdown forced all of its popular SING&SMILE daytime sing-alongs to close, the Golden-Oldies Charity are now delighted to be re-introducing sessions across England and Wales. This includes our popular session at Keynsham Methodist Church in the Key Centre, on the last Friday of every month from 2.00-3.00pm led by Sue Crick.

The next session takes place on Friday 26th November, why not invite a friend and pop along?!

Over the years, the Charity has received considerable support from many philanthropic Trusts, Local Authorities, Organisations and the National Lottery in both England and Wales.

There has also been considerable media coverage of Goldies over the years and, through 2020, the popular ITV soap Emmerdale featured a Goldies session during its commercial breaks, made possible with the support of the People’s Postcode Lottery Community Fund.

The Charity, more fondly referred to as ‘Goldies’, was founded by Bath-based musician Grenville Jones in 2007. For many years, Grenville had built a reputation as one of the UK’s foremost choir leaders and had learnt first-hand of the positive social effects of singing in a choir or a music group.

Academic studies have endorsed the benefits that the Golden-Oldies Charity brings to isolated people. It has also worked with Primary Schools in recent years with support from the Lottery Heritage Fund and in 2018 received the accolade of winning the Education Category of the National Lottery Awards - a project based on the music of the First World War.

“I wanted to grab the atmosphere of fun and friendship and bring it to older isolated people through daytime ‘singalongs’ of the memoryevoking hits of the 50s and onwards.”

Grenville himself took the first four sessions in and around Bath and Bristol in 2008 and is always quick to point out that his Charity is NOT about choir singing.

“Goldies gives older isolated people something to look forward to, a chance to get out, make new friends and singalong to those popular hits of the past,” he said.

From small beginnings, and with Sir Cliff Richard as Patron, the work of the Charity has grown across England and Wales (Goldies Cymru) and, prior to Lockdown in March 2020, there were over 200 daytime fun singalong Goldies sessions taking place in Libraries, community rooms and Church halls, led by 74 dedicated locally-based session leaders.

When forced by Covid to close all sessions, Goldies looked to the internet, Facebook and YouTube to bring its fun sessions to people in their homes. Popular Wales-based leaders Rachel Parry and Cheryl Davies lead the twice-weekly sessions under the www.goldieslive.com banner, with people joining from their homes across the United Kingdom. These will continue through to next Spring.

The Keynsham Goldies Charity Shop on Keynsham High Street is beautifully stocked and open Monday to Saturday, please pop in next time you’re in town. The Charity is always looking to recruit new session leaders and volunteers, currently with vacancies in B&NES, and to hear from organisations who work with older isolated people. Visit the website www.goldenoldies.org.uk, call the office on 01761 470006 or email events@golden-oldies.org.uk for more information.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

How Should Keynsham Celebrate for Her Majesty?

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ear Keynsham Residents, on Thursday 2nd to Sunday the 4th of June 2022 the United Kingdom will be celebrating 70 years of the Queen’s reign. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has announced what he describes as, “a blockbuster weekend of celebrations,” which will include one additional Bank Holiday (Mayday Bank Holiday will be moved to create a 4-day weekend).

The Town Council is asking for your suggestions, please. We will need to start planning soon, so please send your ideas to admin@keynsham-tc. gov.uk or put them on paper and deliver them to the Town Council office (we are open to the public Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–12.30 p.m. – outside these hours, just post your idea through the letter box.)

We have the wonderful opportunity to create memorable events to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here in Keynsham. There will, of course, be the opportunity to hold your own street parties, but what sort of events would you like to see held in Keynsham?

We need to receive your exciting and inspirational ideas by 10th December 2021.

Thank you.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

25

KTCRFM UPDATE

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he Bristol area local DAB multiplex received its go ahead from Ofcom in May and will soon be operational, making use of KTCRfm’s transmission facility – perfect for Keynsham, South Gloucestershire and east and south Bristol.

Perfect sound in the offing if you don’t have it already on FM receivers!

Many people are now listening to KTCRfm regularly including the builder working in our studio area, and who was subsequently very pleased, not to say surprised, to hear a “shout-out” for him on his radio the next morning!

We receive many good comments about our local news coverage daily on the Good Morning show, and weekly with the KTCR show – both news and community developments and especially sorting the work of local people: musicians, writers, organisers, etc, etc.

The Week In newspaper provides local headlines twice a week.

KTCRfm is local radio for local people! Two Keynsham Town Councillors host popular weekly shows: Clive Fricker with his BackTracks show, featuring local personalities each week (resuming from its summer break) and David Brassington with his country music show.

Local football is covered weekly by the highly acclaimed Western League Show every Thursday or Saturday. Local history and heritage figure largely on KTCRfm and look out for extensive coverage of “Keynsham” things that should be on the Christmas Shopping lists over the next couple of months.

Speciality music shows include jazz, blues, rock, funk and reggae, and in between all the shows, the KTCRfm music bank is proving very popular too – 24 hour a day, every day.

To see all, visit our Facebook page by searching for KTCRfm radio. Or listen to Good Morning on 108.5fm each morning at 8 or 9 am to hear details.

KTCRfm also broadcasts on the internet at www. ktcrfm.com.

New shows introduced to KTCR in our autumn rescheduling include the weekly Folk and Blues Show, ShoutOut, the local LBGT radio show, The Old Gits show – a morning men’s chat platform, and the Jelli Records Show.

Over 40 local people are now making or contributing the KTCRfm. Sadly we have had to say goodbye to Harri Mendes, who is now presenting his show on the University of Exeter’s xpression fm station, but hopefully the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme community placements with KTCRfm will remain.

KTCRfm prides itself on its coverage of local groups, businesses, and activity. If your organisation or group is not covered by the station it’s about time it was! Email ktcrfm@gmail.com.

The theme for national Local Radio Day in October was “love this place”. That’s what KTCRfm is all about.

KEYNSHAM NEWS

27

FUTURE BRIGHT FREE career coaching

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uture Bright offers FREE career coaching, with access to training and support to help you develop the skills and confidence you need to take your next step.

Louise’s Story When Louise started working with Future Bright she was burnt out and looking for a change. A difficult period in her life, coupled with a challenging job, meant that she needed to revaluate her priorities. Louise’s Career Progression Coach, Carol, was a sounding board, support and cheerleader as Louise applied for new roles and eventually secured a job with Wessex Water.

Once Louise had settled into her new job, she started to explore her dream of becoming a yoga teacher. Carol helped Louise to secure funding to move forwards with her yoga training and linked her up with support to help her set up her own business. Wessex Water have been very supportive of Louise’s business and she is now running yoga sessions for their staff. Louise is planning to expand her business and run classes and retreats in the UK and abroad. Louise is loving both her jobs and looking forwards to the future.

We asked Louise if she had any advice for people considering joining the Future Bright programme and this is what she said: “DO IT! If you can think it in your mind, they will do their best to make it a reality! You never know how radically different your life can be if you just have a moment’s courage to go for it!”

Is Future Bright for me?

Future Bright offers FREE one-to-one career coaching to residents: • in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire • aged 18 and over • in paid work (including zero hours and selfemployed) and receiving benefits or tax credits • or earning below £9.50 an hour

What will I get?

• Support: Work with your personal career coach one-to-one • Advice: Practical help to take control of your work and pay • Skills: Access to training and development tailored to your needs

How do I sign up?

Go to www.futurebright.org.uk and fill in our online form or call 01225 395555 for a chat with the team.

Future Bright is funded and managed by the West of England Combined Authority and delivered by Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

GOOD CITIZEN AWARDS 2021/2022

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eynsham is once again looking for nominations for its Good Citizen Award.

2021/2022 will be the 14th year that the Town Council will be running the awards that aim to reward the individuals who devote their own time and effort to enhancing the community and area in and around the town.

Acting Town Clerk, Dawn Drury, said: “It’s important for the Town Council to recognise the good work of the citizens of Keynsham. The town has many worthy organisations that make Keynsham a better place for all, and within those organisations are some very special people that deserve the recognition of the Good Citizen Award.”

Over the coming weeks, residents are being asked to nominate anyone they feel deserves

recognition for what they have contributed to Keynsham.

All the awardees will receive a framed certificate and £100 to put towards a community group or charity of their choice, within the Keynsham area.

The categories are Young Citizen under 25 years of age, Good Citizen over 25 years of age and Lifetime Achievement for outstanding long-term service of the community.

Last year, the Town Council awarded a Good Citizen over 25 years of age award to Colin McSherry for his volunteering work across our community.

If you would like to nominate somebody to receive an award in 2021/2022 email admin@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk for a nomination form.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

MEET THE TEAM KEVIN

ROB

Q. What is your experience as a Grounds Maintenance Worker?

Q. What is your experience as a Grounds Maintenance Worker?

Maintaining outside spaces and cemetery grounds for another local authority.

Working on reinstatement in cultivated areas and private gardens for utility companies. I have also worked for a local landscaper. .

Q. What are the most enjoyable aspects of working for the Council?

Working outside, maintaining grounds, cutting grass and hearing appreciative comments from the general public.

Q. What has been your most memorable experience “on the job” to date (i.e. a specific incident/occurrence/event)?

Joining the council and being made to feel welcome. I feel very much part of the grounds maintenance team and it’s been great to learn new skills. Also to be able to assist public members when looking for graves down at the cemetery as part of their family history.

Q. Away from work what are your hobbies/ interests?

Watching football and speedway and playing skittles.

Q. What do you think are the best things about Keynsham?

A good diverse high street with plenty of variety allowing me to shop local – it’s very important for me to support the local economy.

Q. What are the most enjoyable aspects of working for the Council?

The variety of work – working outdoors and in the community I live in. I also enjoy working with the ground maintenance team, especially Chris Champion, my guru!

Q. What has been your most memorable experience “on the job” to date (i.e. a specific incident/occurrence/event)?

So far, my first experience of grave digging and backfill.

Q. Away from work what are your hobbies/ interests?

Music and reading factual literature. The last book I read was A Grave Mistake by Christopher Champion.

Q. What do you think are the best things about Keynsham?

Truthfully, it is a great place to live and work.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

COVID VACCINATIONS

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his autumn and winter, it’s more important than ever to ensure you and your colleagues/staff get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19. This is because: more people are likely to get flu this winter as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it during the COVID-19 pandemic If you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, research shows you’re more likely to be seriously ill.

Getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 will provide protection for you and those around you for both these serious illnesses. Remember, you can pass on COVID-19 and flu viruses without knowing.

Find out if you’re eligible this autumn/winter at nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

Are you an employer?

If yes, you’re in a unique position to encourage your staff to get vaccinated for COVID-19.

There are number of things you can do as an employer to promote vaccination within your workforce: 1. Download the Government’s employers’ communication toolkit (https://bit.ly/3oCzvUv) and use and share the content and assets to help you have valuable conversations with your employees.

2. Share and direct people to trusted sources of information (e.g. Gov.uk and NHS) when they ask for more details.

3. Share practical information about how to get vaccinated. For more information see https:// www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ coronavirus-vaccination/coronavirus-vaccine/ 4. Post articles or blog posts in your company’s

communications (for example, newsletters, intranet, emails, portals) about the importance of COVID-19 vaccination, as well as how and where to get the vaccine in your local area.

Do you own a nightlife or hospitality business in B&NES? Are you interested in promoting the COVID-19 vaccination to staff and clients? If the answer is yes, B&NES Council Public Health team have created a social media toolkit containing suggested social media posts and images which you can use to encourage your followers to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Please contact public_health@bathnes.gov.uk for a download link to the social media toolkit or head online to: https://bit.ly/3lIPcaL

KEYNSHAM NEWS

31

Scouts IDENTIFIED ON COVER

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ollowing the hugely successful launch by Keynsham Scouts of their new book, they are delighted to report that relations and friends are still living in our community and have named Tony Hill and Malcom Cooper as the Scouts featured on the cover. Tony and Malcom were great friends and shared many an adventure together.

The book looks at the history of Keynsham through the prism of our local Scout movement, today one of the largest in the UK. Author Allen Warren MBE, an eminent historian, was himself a Keynsham Scout joining in 1956, studied at Oxford, became Head of History at York University and provost of Vanburgh 1984-2008.

The book is published in a limited-edition hardback, purchase price £15. There are a few copies left and would make an excellent Christmas present. They can be purchased while stocks last by contacting history@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk As one of the largest youth groups within the community, if you would like to know more about volunteering as adult help, please email scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk continuing the traditions from 1909 into the future is so important.

ASP Poetry Circle MEETINGs Third Thursday of every month. Bring a couple of poems, another poet’s or your own.

For more info on ASP Poetry Circle on our web site https://asppoetrycircle.wordpress.com

Held at: Suite 7 - Mathematics, Broadlands School, St Francis Road, Keynsham BS31 2DY from 7.30 - 8.30 p.m.

We have some Covid 19 protocols to follow, please contact us for the details.

32

KEYNSHAM NEWS

Keynsham Christmas Market Friday 26th November 2021

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n Friday, 26th November the Town’s Christmas lights will be switched on.

Unlike previous years, when we have been able to hold our usual Winter Festival, this year we have had to re-think our plans, due to the High Street still being closed during the B&NES Phase I High Street works. Instead of our usual event activities, Keynsham Town Council present our plans for a special Christmas Market (6-9pm) with stalls selling gifts on both Market Walk and in The Space.

Our local shops are also being encouraged to stay open offering late night shopping. So, support your local shops and traders and visit the market too.

For any trader or community group wishing to book a Christmas related stall, email culturalpc@keynsham-tc.gov.uk or telephone 0117 9868683 for a booking form.

Local bands have also been invited to entertain us with Christmas music and we will have our usual visit by Father Christmas.

0117 901 2546

Christmas Market

34

KEYNSHAM NEWS

Keynsham & Saltford LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

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he Society’s book on our recent history, published last year, has sold over 500 copies, and found its way to former residents across the world. But there are still some left.

area and its residents since the end of the war.

Titled Keynsham & Saltford 1945 – 2020, it was researched and written by the Local History Society over the last few years.

If you would like a reminder of Bob Trott, the blacksmith, seen in the photograph from the 1960s, Keynsham High Street in the days of Woolies or the story of our local sports clubs, they are all included, along with many other topics.

As well as appealing to those who live locally, the book makes an ideal gift for those who have moved away. It is available at £15.00 per copy direct from the Society. Details are on their website at: www.keysalthist.org.uk, by emailing books@keysalthist.org.uk or telephone, 0117 9864453.

The volume has 176 pages, in full colour, with over 200 illustrations, and tells the story of the

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

35

A VERY SUCCESSFUL ECO FESTIVAL

K

eynsham Town Council was delighted to support and take part in this hugely successful Keynsham and Saltford Eco Festival.

We provided officer support and advice to the Churches Together team on how to organise the events they had planned. We also provided a Grant to help towards meeting the costs that would be incurred.

Cllr Charlotte Buxton said: “This is a great example of the Town Council supporting a local group to meet shared aims and objectives. Climate Change is the biggest challenge of our generation. We want to help our residents know what and how they can help make a difference in reducing our impact on the environment. These events helped achieve this. A big thank you to everyone who took part.”

To find out more on how you can help tackle the Climate Emergency visit www.imperial.ac.uk/ stories/climate-action/

Grants Presentation Evening 30th September 2021

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n 30th September 2021, Keynsham Town Council welcomed the lucky recipients of the 2021 grants awards to an annual presentation evening. All recipient groups received their certificates and were given the opportunity to tell the audience about their organisation or charity.

Congratulations were extended to all attendees by the Chair of Council, Councillor Andy Wait and Chair of the Town Council’s Grants Committee, Councillor Dave Biddleston.

The 2022 grants application forms and details of how to apply will be available to download from the Town Council’s website and on request by

emailing admin@keynsham-tc.gov.uk from 1st April 2022.

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KEYNSHAM NEWS

WORRIED ABOUT HEATING YOUR HOME

W

ith energy bills likely to soar this winter, AgeUK B&NES is urging people to see if they are eligible for the Warm Home Discount Scheme, which saves households £140 off their electricity bill. The charity is concerned that for some, the rising prices could mean choosing between heating or eating and are encouraging people to get in touch with their Information and Advice Team wo are on hand to offer advice and support. The team can do a free, simple benefit check which can save households vital money each year.

Information & Advice Manager, Gill Adams, said: “We know that affording to heat your home through Autumn and Winter is often a worry for people. With price rises, it is likely that everyone is going to feel the pinch, meaning that people on low incomes could really struggle.

We help hundreds of people a year save money on their energy bills and would really encourage people over 65 to give us a call and see if they could be saving - many people do not even realise they are eligible!”

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is different to the Winter Fuel Allowance which all people of pension age receive. It is a one-off payment of £140 paid through your supplier, taking money off your electricity bill. Pre-payment meters and pay as you go meters are included. If you receive pension credit or are on a low income, you could be eligible.

Gill Adams continues: “Everyone deserves to live in a warm home that can be affordably heated and whilst there are a great many ways to save energy, ultimately, if you are struggling to pay a bill or keep up payments it is your energy companies duty to help.”

AgeUK Bath & North East Somerset’s Information and Advice Team can be contacted on 01225 466135 or advice@ageukbanes.co.uk

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Mini Walking Festival REPORT

W

e are pleased to report that Keynsham Walkers are Welcome raised £490 towards Children in Need by taking part in the BBC Countryfile Ramble.

This was all part of the two day mini walking festival that was held over the weekend of 9th -10th October. There were three walks arranged of varying standards, and it culminated in a social/ quiz night on the Sunday afternoon. Well over 100 people took part in all the events.

The walks were in superb walking weather. The first, led by Dave Johnson, took us towards Bitton, along the cycle path, then back along the River Avon. The second, which was on the Sunday morning, was a shorter affair, led by Derek Butler, and a circular walk either side of the River Chew to Chewton Place. The last one, and by far the longest, again led by Dave Johnson, took us along the River Avon to Hanham coming back via Hanham Woods. A refreshment stop was held at The Lock & Weir where we were made very welcome. This was the walk in which 35 of

us joined the BBC Children in Need Countryfile Ramble. Considering we are still suffering the effects of the coronavirus, this was an excellent turnout and a good time was had by all.

The festival finished with a social/quiz held at Club@22. Fifty questions were asked on various topics, with a picture round compiled by our Secretary, Dawn Drury. A sumptuous buffet was laid on by Helen Reed of Indigo Kitchen, the resident caterer. Neil Joyner, the General Manager, very kindly kept the Club open for us as we overran our expected time frame.

We hope to be back next year with a bigger festival.

Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor

F

ollowing the resignation of Councillor Alex Ross on 10th October 2021, a Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor has been published. As this newsletter is distributed, we will be either preparing for an election, if one should be called by ten electors, or preparing for the post to be filled by co-option. If the latter, notices will be displayed on the Town Council notice boards, on the website and on the Town

Council Facebook page inviting nominations for co-option.

The Town Council would like to wish Alex Ross all the best in his new job in journalism.

For further information contact Dawn Drury – Acting Town Clerk, email townclerk@keynsham-tc. gov.uk or telephone 0117 9868683.

38

KEYNSHAM NEWS

KEYNSHAM’s Pop-up Community Energy Cafés

I

nterested in finding out about cheap ways to keep your home warm this winter and how to cut energy bills and carbon? Curious about new technologies for heating your home? Want to learn more about renewable energy?

Local community organisation Keynsham Community Energy is hosting a number of pop up Energy Cafés this winter to share help and advice.

They’ll also be giving away low-cost, easy-to-fit DIY energy saving products.

With energy costs going up, they’ll be swapping top tips with Keynsham residents about how to reduce gas and electricity costs by installing cheap and cheerful products, access grants and loans for energy efficiency measures, and where to get help with energy bills.

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• Tuesday 25th January (12:00 – 2:00pm) Community @67 Lunch Club at The Charlton pub (drop in for lunch) • Saturday 5th February (drop in between 2pm & 4pm) – Temple Street Canteen + free tea or coffee Keynsham Community Energy is able to run these cafes and provide the products thanks to a grant from the Bath and West Community Energy Fund, which aims to help people cut their energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.

KEYNSHAM NEWS

39

YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS Keynsham Town Councillors are elected to help you.

If you have any problems or want action taken on a local issue which concerns you contact one of your local Councillors below.

Andy Wait Dave Biddleston Liberal Democrat East Labour South Tel: 01179 867389 Tel: 0117 9870081

David Brassington Liberal Democrat North Tel: 0117 9867876

Caitlin Brennan Liberal Democrat East Tel: 01179 863905 07557 223037

Charlotte Buxton Keynsham South Tel: 07886 739906

Email: chartlotte.buxton@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: andy.wait @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: dave.biddleston @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: david..brassington @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Deb Cooper Independent North Tel: 01179 864203 07564 155944

Clive Fricker Independent East Tel: 01179 869250

Andy McGuinness Alan Greenfield Andy Halliday Liberal Democrat East Liberal Democrat East Labour North Tel: 07815 163036 Tel: 07757 673492 Tel: 01179 865735

Email: deb.cooper @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: clive.fricker @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Hal MacFie Brian Simmons Liberal Democrat East Independent Tel: 01179 863590 Tel: 01179 096596 07786 436656 07855 631844 Email: hal.macfie @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: brian.simmons @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: caitlin..brennan @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: alan.greenfield @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: andy.halliday @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: andy.mcguinness @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Allan Sinclair Independent South Tel: 01179 865658

Jonathan Wallcroft Labour South Tel: 07464 798073

VACANCY

Email: allan.sinclair @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Email: Jonathan.wallcroft @keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Keynsham Town Council, 15-17 Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1HF, Tel: 0117 9868683 07904 161097 (temp) | Email: townclerk@keynsham-tc.gov.uk | www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk

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