Bishopston Voice April 2023

Churches swap buildings

TWO churches based 200 metres apart on the Gloucester Road are taking part in a unique swap.

From this month Bishopston and St Andrews (B&A) Church is moving out of its chapel building at number 160A, and into the much larger Baptist Church across the road at number 279.

At the same time Horfield Baptist Church will leave Grade 2 Listed number 279, where they have been worshiping for over

100 years, and move down Pigsty Hill to number 160A.

Both churches say the move answers a prayer for them.

B&A vicar James Stevenson said his church had been facing a £3million repair bill for its two existing buildings, the church at 160A Gloucester Road and St Bartholomew’s church on Maurice Road, next to St Andrews Park.

He said: “We had a split site

Street effort to plant new

that just was not working well for us, and faced a large bill to make them fit for purpose. So we decided we needed to find one building that served our strategy for our work.

“Just about that time we heard that Horfield Baptist Church were also looking for somewhere. Their building also needed repairs, and was too big for them.”

Turn to Page 5

Funding crisis for early years

A nursery owner whose setting has again been judged Good by Ofsted fears continued underfunding could force some providers to shut.

PAGE 15

Community groups unite

An initiative named Bristol Commons, led by the group that was in Hamilton House, aims to bring community organisations together.

PAGE 25

Rev James Stevenson, of B & A Church and Sarah Phillpot of Horfield Baptist Church prepare for the exchange

Lunar Optical has been providing Bishopston with a comprehensive eyecare service for 10 years.

Thank you for supporting your local, independent opticians.

Jill and Killian look forward to the next 10 years on Gloucester Road and opening their new, independent opticians at 3 The Mall, BS8 4DP.

SOFA Project in new appeal

SOFA Project is launching an appeal for quality reusable furniture and household goods following an increase in demand from low-income families.

Despite the recent fall in headline inflation, the price of furniture has risen by over 11% in the last year according to February’s figures released by the Office of National Statistics. The price of fridge and freezers have risen by nearly 16%.

The furniture and household goods donated to SOFA Project will be used to meet local needs, including Bristol City Council’s Local Crisis & Prevention Fund.

Murals are given a revamp

VOLUNTEERS have helped clean graffiti from community murals at Redland and Montpelier stations.

The murals were created in 2019 by artists Dave Bain and Zoë Power in collaboration with students from Cotham Gardens Primary School. More than 85 children were involved in designing the artwork, assembling imagery and shapes inspired by the local area and celebrating their favourite aspects of the community.

The murals are located at known graffiti hotspots and had been painted to deter vandalism and brighten up the stations. Nevertheless, they’d been spray painted and defaced in recent months, so the team of volunteers from Network Rail, Severnside Community Rail Partnership and local residents got to work with water, brushes and elbow grease to remove the worst of the damage.

As the original artwork

had been coated in specialist anti-graffiti varnish, the team were able to restore the murals quickly.

Máedóc Ellis, Network Rail’s community support manager for community rail, said: “Graffiti makes the railway look untidy for passengers and those who live nearby, so it was great to be able to assist the Severnside Community Rail Partnership and local residents to bring the murals back to life and cleanse them of unsightly graffiti.

“Working with community groups to enhance station environments brings further social benefits to the railway and helps to promote sustainable travel while bringing people together on projects that benefit the wider community.”

Faye Keane, Severnside Community Rail Partnership community development officer, said: "We were delighted to have the support of Network Rail volunteers to clean the

vibrant murals at Redland and Montpelier, both of which had huge community input from local schools.

“It was also an opportunity to bring along the newly formed 'Friends of Redland & Montpelier Stations' to try their hand at tag removal - something they had been a little anxious to attempt themselves.

“The volunteer activity caught the attention of the local station users, allowing them to see the people behind the good work done to keep the station environments welcoming and creative. I'd like to say a big thank you on behalf of Severnside CRP to those who gave up their time."

Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said: “The fund supports over 4,000 low income households a year and is even more crucial now as the national cost of living crisis continues.”

Other furniture will be sold through SOFA Project’s shops in Gloucester Road and West Street in Old Market.

Nicci Peck, CEO, said: “We will be pleased to receive good quality reusable household goods and furniture people of Bristol can donate to the likes of SOFA Project. We can also come out and collect for free. ”

SOFA Project has been running for over 40 years in Bristol working with other charities in the region and has been able to help thousands of families.

Donations can be made to SOFA Project and arrangements for free collection by contacting https://www.sofaproject.org. uk/

Volunteers at work removimg graffiti from one of the station murals

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Churches find their prayers answered

From Page 1

The two churches brought in experts to assess the two properties’ values, and how much renovation work was needed on each – and then agreed a deal that allowed B&A to use reserve funds to pay for the swap to the larger building at 279.

The funding is partly from another church sale – last year B&A, sold the Church of the Good Shepherd, in Bishop Road, to Emmanuel Bishopston, which is also Church of England.

Sarah Phillpot, Minister at Horfield Baptist Church, said of the latest move: “This is an almost unprecedented move between denominations and an answer to prayer for both congregations. It will also enable both churches to better serve the local community.”

She said the move would allow the church to move from a period of maintenance, to becoming more focussed on the community once again, whilst maintaining their focus on Sunday morning worship.

The legal exchange was due to take place on 31st March, with Horfield Baptist Church immediately moving to 160A.

Mr Stevenson said: “We are excited to have found a solution that will enable both churches to continue to be based in the heart of the community they serve and to thrive and grow in the long-term. I have seen the sadness on the faces of some

members of the Baptist Church because of the move – but I have also seen their hope, and excitement. It is impressive to see people who have had a home for decades give it up graciously in the cause.”

The B&A team will move community activities including the Ukraine Welcome Hub, free weekly soul food meals, hot meals for Warm Spaces, and the Sixty-One Hub for ex-offenders to 279.

Restoration work is planned on the building, including changes to the access at the front, improved disabled access, and alterations to the layout of the main worship space inside.

The church hopes to have spaces ready for community venue hire by the autumn.

Services will continue at the B&A church by St Andrews Park – but when developments at number 279 are completed, worship will also move there.

Mr Stevenson said they welcomed the future plan to bring together community activities and worship into one place. And he said the church’s intention was that any buyer of the St Andrews church and hall would continue to use it for community use.

The churches say the swap has been met with approval by both congregations and has been through a process of evaluation by a series of professionals and leaders from both the Diocese of Bristol and the Baptist Union.

The two church buildings on Gloucester Road

'Think again' plea on cycle diversion

CYCLISTS have raised safety concerns over the diversion in place while the new Ashley Down rail station is built.

The route means riders and pedestrians have go up Boiling Wells Lane, which runs through a working farm, and then along the busy Muller Road before rejoining the Concorde Way near Aldi on Petherbridge Way.

Ian Pond, from the Bristol Cycling Campaign, has urged a rethink over the diversion, which began on March 6 and is scheduled to last a year.

He said: “Opening the new railway station at Ashley Down is a really important part of providing local residents and commuters with better public transport options, and we fully support this. However, we consider that the official diversion has been rushed through and inadequately implemented, especially on the

Muller Road. This is a very busy road without bike lanes along this section.

“It is clear that many of the around 1,000 cyclists who use the Concorde Way per day are going to ride on the road,

especially those who are bike commuting. Inevitably, this means that the risk of incidents and injury during the closure will increase. We would have expected that steps would have been taken to reduce these

risks, for instance, temporarily restricting the road speed or installing temporary bike lanes.

“Or even better to have constructed a parallel path along the edge of Fairfield School sports ground from Boiling Wells Lane. Sadly, this is another example of how Bristol City Council likes to make claims about its road user hierarchy but fails to prioritise the needs and safety of cyclists and walkers when making these decisions.”

Concorde Way is closed from the allotments up to Station Road, through to the junction between Station Lane and Muller Road. The closure is needed to allow space for workers to build the Ashley Down train station, a project delivered by the West of England Combined Authority, Network Rail, Bristol City Council and Great Western Railway.

Labour Councillor Don

Alexander, cabinet member for transport, said: “It’s exciting that construction work will be starting to bring a railway station back to Ashley Down that will serve the local community and be a valuable extra transport link, offering connectivity to the rest of the rail network, while reducing congestion on our

It's action stations

WORK has begun on building the new Ashley Down station and is expected to take about a year.

It will give residents in the area a rail connection for the first time in nearly 60 years. The former Ashley Hill station was built in 1864 and closed in 1964.

The work is funded by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

Network Rail and is contractor Ben Nuttall say they will try to keep noise at the site to a minimum and they apologise in advance to anyone who is disturbed.

Fourteen trees have been removed and there are plans for 22 replacements. The station

You can find more information about the project at https:// travelwest.info/projects/ashley-down-station.

roads.

“I would like to thank everyone for bearing with us throughout the temporary closure of Concorde Way. I know it’s a popular route for walking and cycling but it will all be worth it in the end, when we have a brand new railway station for everyone in the surrounding

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area to use.

“With work nearly complete at Portway, Bristol’s first new train station in almost a century, Ashley Down will soon be another step forward towards the mass transit system our city needs and deserves.”

The new Ashley Down train station will take passengers every

half hour north to Filton Abbey Wood, and eventually to planned stations near the Brabazon arena and in Henbury. Trains running south will stop at Stapleton Road, Lawrence Hill and Bristol Temple Meads.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Pledge to act on knife crime after fatal stabbing

MEASURES to tackle knife crime have been agreed overwhelmingly by Bristol city councillors.

More than £650,000 will be spent installing and improving CCTV on local authority land over the next two years, a serious violence strategy covering the city and wider region will be developed and “blind spots” for attacks will be designed out of future planning developments.

The motion was tabled at a meeting of full council on March 14, by Cllr Mohamed Makawi (Green, Cotham) whose friend Adam Ali Ibrahim was fatally stabbed in Castle Park on January 31.

Labour made several changes to the proposals which the Greens initially opposed before the chamber voted in favour with just one Green member against.

Speaking afterwards, Cllr Makawi said: “I am delighted my motion passed – the council

has sent a clear message that Bristol can, and will, do more to tackle knife crime and, most importantly, its causes.

“By taking simple steps like providing emergency bleed kits and training to night-time venues, fixing ‘blind spots’ and providing more lighting and CCTV in hotspots, we can save lives.

“I really hope we can find more money to support Bristol’s fantastic grassroots and community organisations, who are at the forefront of this in persuading young people to put down blades.

“Of course, the iron test of this motion will be that it is followed by real action, which I hope it will, given the support from all parties – it is too important to ignore.”

He said he was disappointed by Labour’s amendment.

“Greens felt it removed some important parts of the

motion, like references to the council’s drugs strategy, addressing the stigma of neurodiversity and crucially a commitment to improve lighting in known dark areas,” Cllr Makawi said.

“But the amended motion still sends a strong message and commits the council to take action and so despite those changes we were happy to support it.”

Labour councillors said their alterations “strengthened” the motion and removed a requirement to “identify licensed premises which fuel anti-social behaviours at the root of knife carrying and review the licence compliance”.

They said this implied a link between the nighttime economy and knife crime, which was an “unproven and harmful assumption”, and replaced it with a commitment to work with the Bristol Nights Board on preventative measures rather than penalising pubs, bars and clubs. The group backed parts of the original proposals, including increasing the coverage of bleed kits at venues.

Labour cabinet member for public health and communities Cllr Ellie King said: “While taking on board the goodwill of this motion, there were several

reasons why we felt it needed considerable changest.

“The council will now undertake a serious violence strategic needs assessment for both Bristol and the wider Avon & Somerset area. This will enable us to be evidence-led when defining our serious violence interventions for Bristol.

“The amendment also added a new commitment to spend £655,000 upgrading CCTV on the council’s housing department’s land.

“A key point about this amendment is reiterating that any approach to tackling knife crime needs to be proactive as well as reactive"

Licensing committee chairman Cllr Marley Bennett said: ‘Our Labour amendment seeks to strengthen the original motion in several ways.

“Some of it is simply to tighten up the wording where necessary – this includes removing a section which seemed to suggest a link between neurodivergence and knife crime, which had caused some concern.

“The motion will also increase support for young people, work directly with community groups to combat knife crime from the bottom up, and to improve information sharing between agencies.”

Ronaldo Griffiths, 19, of Osprey Road, Bristol, faces a jury trial in July for the alleged murder of 36-year-old Adam Ali Ibrahim, which he denies.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Mohamed Makawi

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Challenging a Will if it does not reflect the testator’s true

Sarah Burgess, Solicitor at AMD Solicitors, looks at challenging a Will if it does not reflect the testator’s true intentions

Advertising Feature

IN recent years, there has been a sharp rise in the number of Will disputes. Most cases are settled using mediation but around 180 cases are taken to the High Court each year. This number is expected to rise because:-

The gift that pays for itself

How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax

- People are living longer. More people are changing their Wills later in life perhaps as their family dynamics change.

- Adult children are facing greater financial struggles and they depend upon an inheritance to get by.

- High property prices means that people’s estates are worth more and so it can be worthwhile to make a claim against an estate.

will be. However a Will can be worded to provide that a gift of 10 % of the value of your estate at that time is given to a charity or charities of your choice. The effect of this will be that the rate of Inheritance Tax payable on the whole estate is reduced from 40 % to 36 %.

By Shelley Faulkner,

solicitor with AMD Solicitors

- During the Covid pandemic new measures were introduced to enable people to witness Wills by video. It is harder to assess whether someone has testamentary capacity remotely and this could result in more Will disputes.

In same circumstances, it has been calculated that this reduction in the tax bill can serve to leave the estate, even after payment of the gift to charity, with a value as high as if the gift had not been made. Thus the gift can in some cases quite literally pay for itself.

the contents of their Will. Example of where a Will failed for lack of knowledge and approval Mr Reeves was a successful businessman who created a £100 million fortune during his lifetime. When he passed away, he was 71 years old. He had four children; Mark, Bill, Lisa and Louise. Mr Reeve’s last Will was made in 2014 and highly favoured his daughter Louise. She was left 80% of his residuary estate, the remaining 20% passed to Lisa. Their brother Bill opposed the application for the 2014 Will being admitted to probate. He argued that their father did not know and approve the contents of the Will and was unduly influenced. Bill asked the court to uphold an earlier Will made in 2012, which left the estate 26.67% to Bill, Lisa and Louise and the remaining 20% equally to Ryan and Ria (Mark’s two children).

for the distribution of the estate, and the estate can then be divided as if the Will had been made in these terms. A Deed of Variation could therefore provide that 10 % of the estate is to pass to a chosen charity or charities, making the estate as a whole eligible for the reduced rate of Inheritance Tax.

In deciding whether the 2014 Will was valid, the court considered the following:

WHILE most of us support a number of charities in our lifetime, it is perhaps not surprising that a smaller number choose to remember a charity in their Will. Clearly the priority for most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to benefit the next generation.

If you find that a relatives’ Will leaves their estate in an unexpected way, it may cause you to question whether they knew and approved

Even where a Will has not been prepared in these terms, it may be possible to take advantage of this tax break. If the beneficiaries of the estate agree, it is possible to effectively amend the terms of a Will within two years of the date of death. A ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn up which sets out the family members’ agreed arrangements

- Its terms were a dramatic departure from 2012 Will with Bill, Ryan and Ria being almost entirely excluded as beneficiaries;

- Evidence whether the 2014 Will reflected Mr Reeves’ true wishes;

- Evidence whether Mr Reeves was

However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax

Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided that at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity.

Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death for Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value

This change in the law is clearly very good news both for charities, and potentially for some estates as well. However the detail of the application can be complex. For example, the estate is divided into different ‘components’ depending on how the property will pass to the beneficiaries, in order to calculate whether the 10 % test has been met. Taking specialist advice on the implications for your particular circumstances is therefore essential.

illiterate.

The Judge found the 2014 was invalid, despite being signed and witnessed correctly, because Louise had been unable to prove that her father had knowledge and approved the terms of distribution. How do I challenge a Will?

issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, Florence Pearce and the other members of the team on 0117 9621205, email probate@ amdsolicitors.com or call in at 15 The Mall Clifton, or 100 Henleaze Road Henleaze.

applied for. These cases can be very emotional and appointing a solicitor to represent your interests will help to minimise the stress and time involved in dealing with a dispute.

If you believe that a Will is invalid then you should seek legal advice immediately. It is better to investigate the validity of a Will before probate has been

AMD’s team of experienced private client solicitors and practitioners includes full

AMD Solicitors takes pride in sponsoring local, Bristol based charities and this year is very pleased to be supporting the Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, the local branch of this national charity which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com.

For advice on contentious probate matters, please contact Sarah Burgess or another member of our team on 0117 923 5562, email info@amdsolicitors.com or call into one of our four Bristol offices.

Copyright AMD Solicitors

FAMILIES using a community hub that’s been supporting people in Lockleaze for 25 years say its future could be jeopardised because of council plans to redevelop the area.

Bristol City Council wants to demolish the Cameron Centre and former police station next door, and replace them with a new community space, and 37 affordable homes.

But Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust (LNT), which uses the centre to provide services for local families, many on low incomes, says the move has come as a surprise.

Chief executive Suzanne Wilson says the proposal could scupper its plans for the future, and she has called on BCC to work alongside the Trust on the project.

She said: “The council plans have been sprung on us. They are planning to build on land where we have been for 25 years, without talking to us.”

The Trust runs a community hub in Gainsborough Square, offering families help with fuel bills, working with food banks, a Warm and Welcome Space, and a pop up café.

It uses Cameron House for a library, and community activities including faith groups and family activities, and the Trust earns an income from rentals.

Suzanne said they had told BCC they were in talks with Raised in Bristol, a social enterprise nursery, which could bring 20 new jobs, much needed nursery places and a reliable income through profit sharing.

LNT says it need 450sq m of space to house the nursery, and community space to rent – but the new plan only has just over 300sq m of community space.

“We know the local community and are simply

Dismay over plans to knock down vital community hub

about the desire to retain library provision, hireable space for community groups and potentially a cafe. These are all ideas to be considered as part of the final planning process to deliver a mixed use community space and although the budget is tight, we will consider comments received in the consultation carefully.”

He said Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust will be able to apply for a Community Asset Transfer as the preferred bidder, as they are the existing user of the building.

asking that the council work with us as development partners with a meaningful say in the design and construction – we want to get residents involved and provide something the community wants and needs.”

“Knowing the planning system, we now face many years of uncertainty about our future.

“Post pandemic and in a cost of living crisis we are working hard to support our community and this could not have come at a worse time.”

The Trust employs 13 staff and has dozens of loyal volunteers.

It has appealed for local people to lobby their councillors, saying if the development is not suitable, the Trust might not survive.

Its leaflets say: “The new development could be the making or the breaking of the Trust.”

Bristol City Council says the plans take into account public feedback from a consultation exercise in 2021.

It says the development will consist of 37 one, two and three-bedroom flats available for social rent, and a community space, plus parking for 40 cars.

Councillor Tom Renhard, Cabinet Member for Homes and Housing Delivery, said the development was part of the city’s plan to build more council homes to meet the

growing local need.

He said the proposed public space will be at least 30 per cent bigger than the existing centre.

“We recognise the need to invest in communities alongside building homes.

“We have heard from members of the community

“We will support LNT to submit a business plan setting out how the organisation proposes to use the space, which we would expect is developed in partnership with Lockleaze residents to realise the aspirations of the community.”

• It was not only humans that dressed up for World Book Day at Fairfield High School - the doors were adorned too, in a competition that demonstrated much creative flair and love for books. This Where's Wally entry, which came third, featured a number of FHS staff members.

Natural talent in the kitchen

FAIRLAWN Primary School held a Bake Off competition inspired by the theme of nature.

Every child was invited to bring in a bake and the top six designs from Key Stage 1 and 2 went into a technical challenge.

Key Stage 1 decorated a cupcake with a ladybird design and Key Stage 2 made stained glass biscuits. The final winners were Edie in Year 1 and Laura in Year 4. With over 100 entries the bakes were sold at an afterschool sale and made over £350 for Friends of Fairlawn to put back into experiences for the children during the school’s Year of Nature. Robin in Year 4 said: "It was really fun baking all day and now I'm entering the real Junior Bake Off inspired by our Fairlawn one".

Teacher Miss Scott, who organised the event, said: "The pupils rose to this challenge, showing amazing resilience, imagination and skill. Many thanks to the parents who supported their children at home to bring to life their incredible creations and to the Friends of Fairlawn for supporting the entire project."

College's journey of improvement

CITY of Bristol College is celebrating its first Good rating from Ofsted since 2010.

A team of 15 inspectors reached the conclusion after spending four days at the college in January.

Ofsted praised CoBC across a number of areas including the way that “staff and students collectively create a culture where students and apprentices can be themselves. As a result, students and apprentices are respectful and value the diverse and inclusive college population.”

“Teachers and other college staff foster mutual trust and respect. Students and apprentices are keen to learn and are supportive of each other in their learning. As a result, students and apprentices display high levels of positive behaviours and are proud of their work. They enjoy their lessons and are motivated to engage in new experiences,” the inspectors said.

Teachers were said to have extensive subject knowledge and experience.

The new inspection framework also assesses providers on how well they meet skills needs. The report recognises the important role that the college plays in the city and beyond:

“Leaders and managers work effectively with employers and stakeholders to identify the current and future skills needs,” they said.

The college was rated as Inadequate in 2014 and 2016. In inspections in 2013, 2017 and 2019 it was judged to Require Improvement.

Peter Rilett, Chair of the college’s Corporation said: “I am delighted that the recent Ofsted report recognises the journey that City of Bristol College has been on and the distance travelled; rewarding us with a Good rating.

“As Bristol’s College, the report is clear that we have strong relationships with a wide range of partners which helps us to meet local, regional and national skills needs.

“The Corporation appointed Julia Gray to the post of Principal & Chief Executive at the start of this year. Julia brings over twenty years’ experience working in the Further Education sector to this role and will lead the college on the next phase of our journey.”

Julia Gray added: ]“I am so pleased to have joined City of Bristol College at the right time to have had the privilege to work with staff, students, apprentices and stakeholders to lead us through this most recent Ofsted inspection.

“The college plays a key role in the city and region and this successful inspection outcome recognises the hard work of the wholecollege team and the significant achievements of our students and apprentices.

“This Ofsted outcome will allow us to look to the future, our continued improvements and the further work that we can do to meet the needs of the communities we serve.”

The full report can be viewed on the Ofsted website https:// reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/31/131094

n EDUCATION

Pupils 'learning together in harmony'

COTHAM Gardens Primary is an inclusive school that celebrates its diversity, Ofsted says.

Two inspectors from the education watchdog visited in January and concluded that there was no change to the overall Good rating the school has held since 2014.

However, they said they would return within two years for a full inspection.

Cotham Gardens is a co-operative academy that has 543 pupils across two sites. The inspectors said pupils were fulsome in their praise of the school.

“Pupils and parents and carers say that they feel welcome and included. Pupils are tolerant. They enjoy finding out about each other’s cultures, beliefs and values. The school celebrates its diverse character.

“Pupils are considerate towards one another. They behave well around school and in lessons.”

Ofsted said the school had created a broad and balanced curriculum, which was coherent for core subjects but less well sequenced in some other subjects. Assessment was also said to be stronger in some subjects than others.

The school was praised for promoting a love of reading and for supporting children’s

personal development.

“Many pupils enjoy singing in the school choirs. Others are keen to take part in local sporting competitions. Many participate as eco-monitors. Pupils learn about their place in the world and the contribution they can make,” the inspection report said.

Ofsted noted that governors were acting on concerns raised by some staff about the way they were managed.

"Governors, many in new roles, are keen to make a difference. They are committed to driving the necessary improvements at the

school," the report said.

Acting headteacher Seth Insall said: "Here at Cotham Gardens Primary School, we are proud that inspectors recognised our school’s distinctive ethos of 'Celebrating Diversity, Learning Together', highlighting how children and parents and carers alike feel welcome and included.

"Inspectors also commented on how pupils feel safe in school, behave well and are considerate towards one another. Our teachers have worked hard to instil a love of reading in all of the children and we are pleased inspectors could see that this is a priority. School leaders had already started work to create an ambitious, inclusive curriculum that meets the needs of all learners before the Ofsted visit and this will remain a priority for the school over forthcoming months.

"As well as highlighting the breadth and balance of our curriculum, it was pleasing that Ofsted commented on the children’s enjoyment of singing in the school choir. Our Spring Concert took place recently, involving well over one hundred children singing, playing instruments and sharing their own poetry, and was an uplifting and joyous reflection of our school and its community."

A NURSERY owner whose setting has again been praised by Ofsted has warned that continued Government underfunding is putting the sector at risk.

Lisa Mann, owner, Clyde House Day Nursery in Nevil Road, Bishopston, said: 'We were delighted to maintain our Good status at our recent Ofsted inspection.

'This really is no mean feat given the challenges of the last three years, the ongoing recruitment and funding crises at nurseries nationwide, not to mention the introduction of a new assessment framework at the same time!

"Providing inspiring care for Bishopston children for more than 30 years, I am thrilled that the continued hard work and commitment of all our staffled by head of operations Sue Bennett and manager Becky McAuley - has been recognised and praised by Ofsted.

"As a small, family-feel setting, we pride ourselves on building close relationships with each and every child,

Funding crisis is putting nurseries at risk - owner

respecting their individuality and interests. It's great that this was highlighted in the inspection, with Ofsted saying, 'Parents are impressed by staff's responsive flexibility in their planning. ...if a child brings in a favourite or special item from home, staff quickly focus an activity on it and develop children's interest and knowledge further.'

"However, while Good Ofsted ratings are positive, they will soon be meaningless if the government continues to underfund the sector, leaving increasing numbers of nurseries in Bristol and beyond with no option but closure. With huge cost pressures on parents and settings at the moment, I really hope our MPs step up and take a deep look at the sustainability of the nursery sector before it's completely brought to its knees."

Clyde House opened in 1992 and has 45 children on roll. Ofsted inspector Rachel Howell visited in December and rated it Good for quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.

Ms Howell's report highlighted the strong development of communication and language skills, including for those children with English as an additional language.

"Parents say that children are well cared for, and that staff are kind, lots of fun and build close relationships with each child that respect their individuality and interests. Children behave well," the inspector said.

"Staff encourage children to be increasingly independent. They offer them lots of praise as they try to do things for

themselves, building their confidence and sense of responsibility effectively.

"Partnerships with parents are strong ... Staff communicate successfully with parents through daily chats and messages, as well as entries in an online app. Parents all say they feel well informed."

Lisa Mann's comments came before the Budget on March 15, when the Chancellor promised a huge expansion of early years education and childcare. For some years, providers have complained that the amount they receive from the government to fund 'free' hours for three and four year olds does not cover the costs. More money is promised to pay f or funded provision for one and two year olds but the detail is still awaited.

'We aim for perfection every day'

THE Green Door Nursery in St Andrews has again been judged Good in all areas by Ofsted.

The day nursery in Belvoir Road has been rated Good in every inspection since it opened in 1993.

Registered manager Carla Freeman said: “We are very pleased with the report and consider it our best to date with significant praise of practice cited by the inspector. We came very close to achieving the elusive Outstanding grade and are keenly waiting another opportunity to impress at the next inspection.

“Everyone at the nursery worked exceptionally hard to make sure everything was in place for the inspection to go well on the day. A big thank you to our nursery parents for their support of our practice and to all staff at the nursery for their efforts each and every day.

“An inspection is such a huge event for any nursery that aims for perfection within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)as we do at The Green Door. The statutory framework is a constant in all our work with the children and we treat every day as if it were an inspection.”

Ms Freeman added she was pleased that the nursery’s high standards had been recognised and said the positive comments in the report emphasised the strength of the provision.

The Green Door nursery has 43 children on roll. It was inspected in January by Sarah Peacock from Ofsted.

Among highlights of her report were:

“The highly-motivated manager and her team are committed to providing high quality care and learning experiences for children.”

“Children learn to behave well and they develop good social skills. Staff use their high-quality training well to help children to recognise and manage their feelings and behaviour.”

“Children who have special educational needs (SEND) and disadvantaged children are exceptionally well supported, and any gaps in their learning swiftly close.”

“Partnerships with parents are positive and contribute to high levels of continuity in children's care routines. Parents comment that they enjoy receiving updates from staff during daily conversations and through regular electronic communication.”

Pooh Corner Day Nursery rated Outstanding again

A REDLAND nursery that has been providing childcare for more than 30 years has earned a second Outstanding rating from Ofsted.

Pooh Corner Day Nursery in Lower Redland Road has 98 children on its books.

Inspector Karen Allen visited in January and found it to be Outstanding in all areas: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.

In her report, she praised the senior manager and leaders for their passion and commitment to providing an extremely highquality provision.

“They constantly reflect on practice and are extremely proactive to make improvements to benefit children,” she said.

Ms Allen said nursery staff knew all the children exceptionally well and successfully implemented a wellfocused curriculum.

“Staff work exceptionally

well with parents and other professionals to put in place swift support to help close any gaps in children's learning. As a result, all children, including those with special educational needs and/

or disabilities and those who are bilingual, achieve the best outcomes possible from their starting points.”

The education programme for communication and language

was highlighted, as was the fostering of a love of books.

Children's health, welfare and safety, personal development were also said to be excellent.

"Staff sensitively and successfully support children's positive behaviour and promote children's levels of resilience and self-esteem very effectively," the report said.

The inspector noted that parents and carers appreciated the support they got from staff to promote children's learning and development. They felt well informed about their children's time at nursery and would recommend it to their friends.

The nursery’s leaders, Mary Regan, Sarah Bradley and Nina Romagnoli, said of the report: “Once again, we are Outstanding. Our dedicated management team and staff in combination with our highly child centred approach are the keys of our success! We are ever so proud of our staff and children.”

Redmaids' singers hit the High notes

THEY'RE singing a happy song at Redmaids’ High School after a series of choral successes. On Saturday 11 March, the senior choir and a cappella group Close Encounters took part in the Bristol Festival of Music, Speech & Drama and were both awarded trophies for winning their classes with stunning performances. The Senior Choir won the Susan Weaver trophy for singing Viva La Vida by Coldplay and Soldier, Soldier in the free choice class. Close Encounters won the Malcolm Williams memorial trophy and sang The Sound of Silence and Big Spender to rapturous applause. Adjudicator John Pomphrey complimented both choirs.

The success continued the following day, when Close Encounters travelled to Warwick School for the National Final of the inaugural GSA (Girls' Schools Association) Choir of the Year. After submitting their video entry for the competition in December, Redmaids’ High received the news in February that Close Encounters were one of six choirs selected for the competition final. The students, Rosie, Claudia, Maddy, Charlie, Hattie, Emily and Grace rose to the occasion and performed with vitality and style. Close Encounters were delighted to be placed as runner-up with some fabulous feedback.

Head of Keyboard Studies and longstanding member of the Music Department, Mrs Kate Woodman, who trains both choirs, commended the students. “Singing is incredibly important at Redmaids' High, and we are fortunate to have many talented singers who perform in our six outstanding

Who am I in retirement?

Throughout life, identity influences how we interact with others, how they see us and how we see ourselves. Our sense of identity is partly gained from work. When we meet new people one of the first questions they often ask is ‘what do you do?’ Without the defining elements of a job or career, how do we deal with this question? Who am I in retirement?

Losing identity

A common issue of retirees is not having a satisfactory way of defining themselves to others in the absence of a job role or title. They slip into simply ‘retired’ or a retired

version of a previous identity (eg ‘retired GP). What we call ourselves in retirement is one thing, but alongside is the sense of loss that comes with the transition from working life to retirement life: our place, the point of us, what we are. An identity built over decades is no longer relevant.

What is your true self?

Important psychological shifts take place around retirement. Identity is linked to purpose and we often grieve the loss of workplace structures and routines. This holds especially true for workers who identify strongly with their job and are lost without it.

In work we exist in a familiar structure: there’s an expectation on us that starts at school, where we know our roles and responsibilities, where to be and when. Retirees have described the feeling as ‘free falling’ when they move out of this structure and have to build an alternative that fits the next phase of life. With this is a transition to a new identity and meaning.

What can you do about it?

Instead of staying in the spotlight of your work-related identity, move into a new light!

• Think about your retirement identity before

choirs. The girls are committed and work so hard in every rehearsal which is testament to their fantastic achievement at the events over the weekend.

"The judges were extremely complimentary about their singing, and I am so incredibly proud of them all."

you retire

• Explore what gives you a sense of meaning and purpose

• Remember life before work, before the world shaped you: what did you love to do; what gave you energy; what absorbed you?

• Present yourself in a different way: what might you have done without the influence of others

• Try different identities, based on new activities and experiences

• Work with a retirement coach to reveal component parts to your retirement identity.

If you have concerns about retirement, whether you've retired or are approaching retirement, contact me, Sian Jones, for a free 30 minute consultation. I'm a certified coach, specialising in non-financial retirement.

Sian.Reclaim@gmail.com www.ReclaimLife.co.uk

Would you like to sponsor a tree?

IF|, like Amy and her neighbours. you’d like to sponsor a tree in a local street, you can access the Bristol sponsorship scheme at treesforstreets. org/Bristol

Trees for Streets runs the National Street Tree Sponsorship Scheme, a charity initiative that aims to empower communities and green our streets. It's a very simple process - just select a location on an online map and upload a donation. More information at treesforstreets.org

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME

Trees –

KENNINGTON Avenue in Bishopston once had a tree outside every house – and if residents have their way it will eventually be like that again.

The drive to restore the greenery was started by Amy Williams, who has lived in the street for five years. She was struck by a photograph from 100 years ago that showed the avenue lined with magnificent trees.

So when a tree had to be felled outside her home, Amy was quick to donate to a Bristol City Council scheme to plant a replacement.

Soon afterwards, three more old trees had to come down because of rot and a vehicular collision. Amy decided to take action by inviting others in the street’s WhatsApp group –started during the pandemic – if they would contribute towards new trees.

Donations poured in, and this winter five new trees have been

Providing top quality, best value, holistic care Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care

We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy.

We also ensure:

• Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented

• Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply

• Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand

• Safe face-to-face visits where possible

The tree planting project has fostered community spirit among neigbhours young and older

street's going back to the future

supplied via the Trees for Streets website, which is now hosting the scheme for the council.

Simeon Linstead, project director for Trees for Streets, said: “Amy knew more needed to be done, but rather than cursing the darkness, she decided to light a match.

“With about 120 houses on

the street, Amy realised that they would only need a few pounds from each resident ‘…and that’s a tree!’ If people chipped in more, they would be able to transform their street entirely.

“It was so easy, we just sent a message via WhatsApp saying, ‘We’re planting trees, does anyone want to contribute?’ And

everyone chipped in straight away.”

The neighbours found the tree-planting initiative has had added benefits. It has brought their community together and has been a great way to connect their children with nature, showing them that they can make a positive difference to the

world immediately outside their front door. The children plan to get involved watering the tree over the summer months. The community plans to plant more trees, of the same species as those that were there before, and is considering planting trees further afield in less affluent parts of Bristol.

Kennington Avenue in Bishopston as it looks today and how it was many decades ago when the trees were thriving

Alex Lovell joins Frank Noble, Thom Madine and John Broomhead to celebrate the opening of the new St Peter’s Hospice shop on Whiteladies Road

Hospice opens 'flagship

THE doors have opened on the latest charity shop for St Peter’s Hospice.

The shop, which can be found at 112-114 Whiteladies Road, is the 43rd shop for the hospice and will be the charity's flagship store.

The décor reflects the vibrant nature of the Clifton location, giving the shop an elevated look and feel, using bold colours, neon signs and an emphasis on sustainable design. It’s a great backdrop for the eye-catching clothing, vintage treasures and unique items which can all be discovered in store.

Long-time supporter of St Peter’s Hospice, BBC Points West's Alex Lovell, raised a toast to the opening declaring: “I hope you raise squillions here. Cheers to the shop and its

opening!

“Anybody who knows the area has probably been touched by St Peter’s Hospice or knows somebody whose family have been there.

“We can’t all dig deep at the moment, but we’ve probably got some stuff up in the attic or have some clothes that we don’t fit into that we could bring out and donate and help to raise money for the hospice.”

St Peter’s Hospice retail director, John Broomhead, thanked shop manager, Thom Madine, and the staff and volunteers who’ve been working behind the scenes to get the shop looking fabulous for opening.

John Broomhead said: “We’re really delighted with the look and feel. While this shop appeals to a younger buyer, we have stock

'flagship shop'

that caters for all the family.

“Thank you to the people of Bristol who’ve supported us with their fabulous donations – it wouldn’t be possible without you.”

The retail division is important to the Brentry hospice as it helps to provide a source of stable funding. Frank Noble, CEO of St Peter’s Hospice says: “At the moment our fundraising is down but our retail is up and it’s going to stay up because the quality is so amazing. It means that we are able to plan ahead and provide for our clinical services.”

St Peter’s Hospice flagship shop is open from 9.30am5.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am-4pm on Sunday. The shop operates a daily quiet hour between 9.30- 10.30am (10 –11am on Sundays).

Alex Lovell tries on a hospice shop 'find', above

Left: Outside and inside views of the St Peter's Hospice flagship in Whiteladies Road

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

In Redland this month...

Funds won for parks and streets

We're delighted to have secured an extra £4m to spend on improving parks and streets in the next council budget. Capital from developer contributions is held to spend across the city on strategic priorities that support development. It’s called Strategic CIL, Community Infrastructure Levy. It’s a larger fund than the limited money available in local areas from nearby development, called Area CIL.

Martin drafted an Amendment to the Mayor’s budget calling for £1m a year to be shared between parks and street improvements for four years and was successful in getting a unanimous vote from the council to support this. The Mayor agreed to the change so it is now in the council budget for the coming year. Martin made a similar proposal the last two years but although a council majority supported it in February 2022 the Mayor did not accept it. We now look forward to seeing how projects can get funded on practical improvements to local parks and safer streets. This could help build facilities like better paths, play areas, seating, or concessions to cope with busier parks and to manage traffic better in busier streets

Housing proposed in Cossins Road

We’ve been hearing from residents about proposed redevelopment of the old garages at Cossins Road, next to Redland Green. The garages are run down and the site has been identified by the council in the draft local plan as suitable for housing. The plot is next to the Redland Conservation Area and we’re keen to see something sympathetic and sustainable overlooking the Green. As we write a consultation event for residents is planned and we shall be reviewing the issues raised by people and how the developer responds. You can find details on the Council website by looking on the plannign portal under reference no 23/00665/F - please do let us know what you think!

Bishop Road traffic safety discussions

Following Fi’s recent meeting with the deputy head of Bishop Road school to discuss the traffic problems in the area a number of residents have been in touch with us raising more concerns about local streets. As the school has well over 800 pupils, it only takes a small proportion of carers and parents driving to cause significant problems in the narrow residential streets in the area.

We know the school shares our concerns and has taken a number of steps to try to deal with what

In Bishopston this month...

Road Safety for Brunel Fields

We are aware of the ongoing issues with speeding on Ashley Down road and have had regular visits from Avon and Somerset police and their Speedwatch team, and we have also managed to get an ‘instant green man’ for the crossing by the Co-op.

We know there have been concerns from parents from Brunel Fields school for a while about safe routes to school, and Emma was happy to help Lizzie from the school PSA to present a petition at full council to address the issue.

While there are no plans in place for further crossings, we are looking to work with the school for them to apply for a school street, as Ashley Down School has done and hope that this will create a safer school drop off and pick up in the future.

Concorde Way closure

While we welcome the new that work has finally started on the new Ashley Down Station, we are greatly concerned about the cycling diversions in place. Concorde Way is expected to be closed for over a year and while we accept that can’t be changed, we are challenging the administration to provide better, safer diversion routes. The current diversion pushes over 1,000 cyclists a day onto a busy stretch of road, and in some parts cyclists have to dismount. There are other places that are prone to flooding. Emma put a statement into March Full cabinet and we hope that the diversion is reconsidered soon.

The Ardagh: Cycling Day and trees

On the 14th April we are hosting a cycling awareness afternoon at The Ardagh. Local police will be

in clearly a potentially dangerous situation. Our next step is, together with the school, to be able to work with highways officers and local residents to see what measures are effective and available. Thanks to residents who have been in touch. We are hoping to set up a meeting (probably on line) to make a start on seeing what can be done soon.

Green Group influence grows

As we reported before, from 2024 a committees system will be put in place to run the council and prior to that we’re promised that the budget will be drawn up by a cross party group of councillors. As the largest group on the council, with 25 members, the Green Group shall be seeking some changes to deliver our priorities. But how the council runs through committees and the scope for more public participation is a real priority for us. There are now a series of meetings being held in public to work out how committees will take over running the council. You can find details on the council website pages for Council meetings - a public forum is part of the agenda - and can also email questions to: committeesystem@bristol.gov.uk

Supporting our High Streets

The council’s Vacant Commercial Property Grant scheme is now open to applications until 22

May, for businesses/organisations opening on one of the city’s designated high streets. We're sorry not all retail areas in the ward are included and did propose additional locations get designated.

Full details can be found at Vacant commercial property grant scheme (bristol.gov.uk)

There’s a business information booklet, see https://www.bristol. gov.uk/files/documents/689business-information-booklet/ file. Email business@bristol.gov.uk to discuss or request a visit from a Business Development Officer. The 2023 City Centre and High Streets Culture and Events programme can be found at City Centre and High Streets Economic Recovery Culture and Events Programme (bristol.gov. uk). There’s also a weekly business newsletter with information on business support and grants - see www.bristol.gov.uk/ businessnewsletter

Contacts:

Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk Fi: 0117 3534720. Martin 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or /cllrfi.hance

there to do free bike marking, as will local cycling trainers and bike maintenance specialists. There will also be a panel discussion about improving cycling in Bristol. We are also pleased that the second part of the first phase of tree planting has taken place on the common. The first phase will see trees spaced around the common as well as a new fruit orchard. The trees will contribute to carbon capture, improve biodiversity on the common and help with flooding. A big thanks to all who filled in the consultation and to those volunteering.

Ashley Down school

The consultation for a School Street for Ashley Down school is now closed and the results are in and look really promising. So the next phases of consultation can start. We are also delighted to find out

that our funding bid for new pencil bollards has got through the next round for Community Interest Levy funding. We hope that securing this funding for bollards, along with the School Street initiative will really help the children and parents of Ashley Down school feel safer at drop off and pick up times. To find out more about school streets, visit https://travelwest.info/projects/ bristol-school-streets

Our surgeries continue at the Ardargh every first Friday of the month from 4pm-5pm, if you wish to book a slot you can email us, though there is usually space if you just turn up!

Contacts:

Cllr.EmmaEdwards@bristol.gov.uk

Cllr.LilyFitzgibbon@bristol.gov.uk

Facebook: @ EmmaEdwardsLilyFitzGibbon

Community groups urged to join forces for success

PEOPLE across Bristol are coming together to build a new movement to protect community buildings.

The Bristol Commons initiative comes from Coexist - the group that launched Hamilton House and turned it into a thriving community hub.

It is looking at how to prepare for a future in a landscape that is much changed since Coexist’s eviction from the Stokes Croft property in December 2018.

Community organisations have been hit by the pandemic, rising fuel prices, the cost of Coexist helped establish the mutual aid network during the pandemic, and has donated resources, funding and provided advice and mentoring to struggling community projects.

Danny Balla, co-director

of Coexist, said: “We’ve had hundreds of conversations with community organisations and community leaders over the last 18 months. One thing is clear - everyone is struggling, the system is broken and we need to regroup and support each other. Whether it is funding cuts and closures, or the lack of capacity in our community hubs, to a growing sense of impending doom - people and organisations are at their limit.

“The good news is that there is another way. There are some amazing stories from around the UK and Europe of how we can do things differently - even in the current climate. The Community Power Act, Community Wealth Building such as ‘The Preston Model’, organisations like Heeley Development Trust in

Sheffield that have been growing community assets for almost 20 years - there are lots of things we could be doing here in Bristol.

“If we bring these ideas together, we have a chance of creating something really special: A dynamic, values-based community coalition that can step in where the council has gone Missing In Action. We need to build a new model. We need to rebuild the commons!”

The Bristol Commons is a commitment to working together - individuals and organisations - to share resources, plan strategically using collaborative approaches rather than being in competition, and uniting to safeguard community assets.

It was being launched at an event at The Trinity Centre on March 28.

Vaccination centre closes its doors

THE Covid-19 vaccination centre at UWE Bristol has shut its doors after 19 months.

Since it opened in July 2021 in the decommissioned Nightingale Hospital space, more than 273,000 jabs have been administered there.

Health chiefs say people needing jabs should now go to vaccination clinics in community settings, GP clinics and pharmacies – details can be found at www.grabajab.net.

Anne Morris, chief nurse and operational lead for the vaccination programme in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) said:

“The closure of BNSSG’s large-scale vaccination centre is a positive milestone and part of the natural evolution of our Covid-19 Vaccination Programme. The community-based vaccination model we have

in place makes the most of the strengths within our health system and makes it as easy as possible for people to get their Covid vaccinations.“Despite the success of the Covid Vaccination Programme, we cannot afford to be complacent about this virus. We continue offer first and second dose Covid-19 vaccinations at regular community vaccination clinics across our area for anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated and is now ready – you can find your nearest community vaccination clinic at www. grabajab.net. If you have been putting getting vaccinated, please don’t delay.”

Professor Steve West, Vice-Chancellor at UWE Bristol, said: “We are grateful to have been able to offer our facilities to support the NHS and the local community during such a challenging time."

Charity challenge

A STOKE Bishop resident cycled over 260 miles around Bristol in 24 hours in aid of the charity Parkinson’s UK.

Fraser Jamieson, 57, has raised more than £4,000 to fund the charity’s vital work.

Fraser decided to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK because his step-father David, pictured, lives with the condition

He said: “The 24-hour cycling challenge was tough both mentally and physically but nowhere near as challenging as living with Parkinson's is for David. He was a very active person before he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, especially long distance walking. So many things that he had planned to do in retirement are now impossible for him."

How to make our fizz really sparkle

THERE is a whiff of spring in the air. The celandine is flowering at the base of the hedgerow and I’m starting to feel a slight pressure to finish my pruning! I wouldn’t say I’ve enjoyed working in the cold weather but I’m pleased we’ve had it because all the vines are still nice and dormant.

As things start to hot up it becomes harder to decide which tasks take priority. Once the vines start to grow, things tend to settle into a routine but right now I’m constantly wondering whether to focus on strimming, mulching or pruning. There aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything so I try to make the best of it. I’ve been thinking about the best way to balance grass growth with baby vine growth. I want to allow strips of grass to grow tall to encourage wildlife but don’t want the baby

vines to be crowded out. Every year I try to change things around a bit but ultimately the weather has quite a lot more control over everything than I do!

As part of my new, more holistic approach, I’ve ordered 30 cubic metres of mushroom compost to lay over the ground to help suppress weeds and nourish the vines. Spreading

that will keep me busy I’m sure!

On the wine front I’ve been busy working to create some exciting new rosé and sparkling wines labels. We’ve been trying different dosage options for our new fizz. Dosage is the final stage of the traditional sparkling wine making process where you can choose to add tiny amounts of sugar or even brandy to add a special zing to the flavour. It’s quite a fun process. Even a small addition can make a big difference to the final flavour. These new wines will all be released in the next few months. Can’t wait to share them with you!

hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

@DYvineyards (twitter) dunleavy vineyards Facebook & Instagram)

Trying different options for the dosage of our new fizz

n VET'S ADVICE

The return of fleas and ticks

AFTER the cold winter months when flea and tick infestations are at their quietest, we are now heading into a warmer Spring which will bring back the little critters. Are your pets ready for them?

We recommend antiparasitic products to help keep your cats and dogs clear of these unwanted visitors however we also need to balance their use with the effects on the environment.

Some chemicals in animal medications are now being found in toxic levels in UK waterways, this is particularly true of antiparasitics, and the drugs Imidocloprid and Fipronil have been specifically named. Both of these drugs are available in spot on flea medications, Fipronil is available ‘over the counter’ from pet shops or online without a veterinary prescription. There is a warning on the packaging regarding safe disposal and environmental contamination but how many of us read the small print?

Fortunately we do now have flea and tick medications for dogs

and cats that are very effective in tastey tablet formulations. This immediately will reduce environmental impact as the product is not in the hair shed by the pet and is not liable to contaminate waterways if the dog swims. Traces of medications can be found in pet faeces so we would always recommend picking up your pet’s poo both in the garden as well as in public areas and even in open country to stop any risk of contamination. Disposal in a biodegradeable poo bag into a dog waste bin is the safest method of disposal.

If spot on formulations are used it is recommended that the dog is not allowed to swim for at least two days ( Fipronil) and four days ( Imidocloprid) after application in

the data sheets. Perhaps we should recommend no swimming while the product is active to minimise environmental impact?

We also need to be more vigilant about disposal of packaging of medicinal products. Empty packaging can also cause contamination of the environment. This is particularly true of spot on formulations where a drop of the product often remains in the packaging after use. Packaging should be safely returned to your veterinary practice for disposal, lids should be replaced onto spot on pipettes to prevent any leakage.

The recommendation would now be to preferably use a tablet formulation of a flea and tick preparation. Faeces should be picked up from all pets and disposed of properly.

So, when it comes to choosing what is the best product for protecting your cat or dog from fleas and ticks, do bear in mind the wider picture. Now we have much more effective treatments than before and available as palatable tablets. Please do call our reception

team for further advice.

Nicky Bromhall MRCVS Head Vet Animal Health Centre

1,000 Coils of Fear

by Olivia Wenzel

Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library

Olivia Wenzel is a writer, performer and musician, born in the former East Germany in 1985 and who today lives and works in Berlin. 1,000 Coils of Fear is her first novel. The unnamed narrator has a white punk German mother and a black Angolan father. The author is a playwright and this is reflected by the novels structure which takes the form of the narrator engaging in a witty question and answer dialogue with herself. There are several examples of the everyday racism the narrator experiences because of her colour. She finds herself frequently chosen for security screening at airports and when she attends a play about the Berlin Wall coming down, she realizes she is the only black person in the audience of around a thousand people. She is sitting with her boyfriend, by a bathing lake, when four neo-nazis turn up making racial slurs with one proudly showing off his swastika tattoo. The

narrator visits New York and rejoices in the freedom of walking down Fifth Avenue eating a banana. Back in her native Germany, a black woman eating a banana would inevitably invite a racist ape analogy or the banana would be seen as an analogy for a penis and attract a sexist comment. In New York she has the novel experience of being openly smiled at not less than five times every day. She confesses that as a kid there was nothing she wanted more than a magic ointment that she could apply before going to bed, that would make her white overnight. These experiences are neatly

interwoven with her family’s backstory. We learn about her blond, beautiful grandmother, whose dream growing up in the newly formed socialist East Germany, after the Second World War, was to be a stewardess and to travel all over the world. Instead, she became pregnant, and ended up at the age of 40, disabled with chronic back pain, unemployable and voting for the extreme right. Her mother excelled at school, being elected class president before transforming into a rebellious punk who ended up being followed by the Stasi and imprisoned by the East German state with custody of her daughter being granted to the grandparents. This is a quirky, innovative and thought provoking novel, superbly translated by Priscilla Layne, illustrating the racism and homophobia experienced by a queer woman of colour growing up in a unified Germany. You can find a copy of this book at Bishopston Library. If you are not already a library memb

Opening Hours

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Wednesday (11am-5pm)

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n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

You’re not the only victim if you buy a fake

AS the national lead PCC for Economic and Cybercrime, I’m always supportive when I see a national campaign highlighting the impact that fraud can have on communities and how we can work together to stop this criminal activity.

This is why I was delighted to see that the charity Crimestoppers has launched a year-long national campaign to raise awareness about the personal dangers and harms that consumers face when they knowingly or unknowingly buy fake goods.

Causing a £9 billion annual loss to the UK economy, counterfeit goods fraud can be defined as the sale of fake items as authentic goods from established brands.

The criminals behind this crime intend to deceive and exploit consumers into buying fake products, thinking they’ve bagged themselves a bargain. It’s worth stressing that those individuals who deliberately buy a fake product

are also committing a crime and contributing to the problem.

There’s always a victim when you buy a fake product: fake goods cause 80,500 UK job losses every year and the crime has links to organised crime groups who are complicit in human trafficking, child sexual exploitation and prostitution.

While criminals are becoming more skilful at finding new ways of ripping people off, there are a few signs to look out for to protect yourself when you’re looking for a good deal.

These include: the price being too good to be true; dodgy websites and an unusual place of sale; spelling and grammatical errors on websites and product packaging; differences in product or packaging; and missing information like the batch number.

I’m urging local people to report any information they have in relation to counterfeit fraud using Crimestoppers’ anonymous

reporting service, which can be found online or by calling 0800 555 111.

Dog theft is a wide concern for pet owners in our force area.

Last month, to mark National Dog Theft Awareness Day, my team spoke to Avon & Somerset Police’s Animal Welfare Legislation Officer, PC Natalie Cosgrove.

She told us that the force recorded 16 cases of dog theft in 2021 and only five in 2022. While a reduction and, I’m sure reassuring to many, that is still five cases too many.

If you are a dog owner, there are specific security precautions you can take to make dog theft harder, including camera doorbells, keeping doors locked and sensor lighting outside your house.

I would also like to remind those who have a dog to not leave it unattended in your car, your garden, or tied up outside shops.

Remember, microchipping is not only a legal requirement,

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark

Shelford

it means your dog will be much easier to track down if it is stolen.

I also urge dog owners to consider DNA tracking to help identify their dog if it is stolen then recovered by the police. More information on DNA tracking can be found on the ‘DNA Protected’ website.

If your dog has been stolen, you should immediately contact the police and report the crime as theft.

Easter Sculpture Festival

at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden

Friday 7th to Monday 10th April, 10am-5pm

Spectacular garden sculptures, workshops and refreshments in a beautiful setting

Admission: Adults £10 (£11 with Gift Aid). Children, Friends of the Garden, students, University staff and alumni FREE.

Online booking in advance or card only at the gate

www.bristol.ac.uk/ botanic-garden

n NEWS FROM OUR MP

Fixing the problem with buses

MANY people have written to me about the state of buses in Bristol. Cancellations and delays are a regular occurrence, which has led to public distrust in buses and fewer people using them. If we want to meet our net zero goals, we need a functioning and viable public bus service.

While there is some funding available, current government policies mean there are many blocks in how this funding can be used.

The No. 47 (previously the No. 5) is set to be one of the number of routes to be axed from April. It is a perfect example of this vicious cycle.

I have been lobbying First Bus and West of England Mayor for better buses. I have stressed the importance of the No. 47 and many other bus routes across Bristol, particularly for vulnerable people but frankly for lots of us trying to make ends meet in a cost-of-living crisis.

The responses I received from

my recent survey were shocking. People unable to get to work or their weekly shop. Others feeling that without a bus they would be a “prisoner in [their] own home” (their words).

All of this could be avoided by giving people power and public control of local bus services. The government could choose to make it simpler for communities to spend public money on what matters most to them. This is what a Labour will do through our ‘Take Back Control Act’ if we win the next General Election.

By the time you read this, there may no longer be a bus service in St Werburghs and St Pauls, which will be a huge shame. I promise to always hold those in power to account to ensure Bristol has an affordable and wellconnected buses.

Illegal Migration Bill

Last month the government announced their ‘Illegal’ Migration Bill. It is an unworkable and shameful proposed law in

response to the arrival of asylum seekers by small boats across the Channel. It tells a woman whose been trafficked to the UK for sexual exploitation or an Afghan interpreter or a family from Syria that their cases won’t even be heard.

As your MP I strongly oppose this proposed new law and voted against it.

Ministers need to deal with the backlog of asylum applications, improve the safe and legal routes such as family reunion and resettlement schemes, crack down on criminal smuggler gangs and tackle humanitarian crises at source. This is what Labour would do and we spelled this out in our ‘reasoned amendment’. The government voted against this amendment, so I and my colleagues voted against the Bill.

The overwhelming majority of the millions of people worldwide fleeing war and persecution remain displaced in their own country or living in refugee camps in neighbouring countries. The much smaller proportion who

make their way to the UK often do so because they have a link to our country.

I have an ongoing petition on my website (www.debbonaire. co.uk). Please sign this petition if you oppose the Bill and circulate it amongst others in Bristol West.

n WHAT'S ON

11 April

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE on Jewellery in the Age of Victoria is at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW. We welcome new members and guests. For more information on our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, see our website www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk

Saturday 22 April

KETTLE OF FISH concert

1532 Performing Arts Centre, Elton Rd, BS8 1SJ. The acclaimed singers, who reside in Bishopston and Redland, are back to entertain you with another eclectic mix of songs after their sell-out concerts last year.

Tickets available on www.1532bristol.co.uk

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n REDLAND WIND BAND has vacancies for some woodwind, brass and percussion players. This friendly group meets 7.30-9.30pm at Redland Church Hall, Redland Green. Contact via email on redlandwindband@gmail.com

n TAI CHI & QI GONG. Weekly beginners / improvers classes with Tai Chi Body and Mind. These classes are for your physical and mental health and wellbeing –there is no fighting. In Person: Mondays, Fairfield High School, Alfoxton Rd. 7.30 – 8.30pm. Online: Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30pm. Contact: Claire - Claire@taichibodyandmind. co.uk (07769 857672).

n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. New members welcome. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875 for further details.

n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579

n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON

AREA DISCUSSION GROUP are a merry band of retired people who meet at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday morning (0945) and like to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the worldnear and far. If you would like to join us and help to solve some of today's challenging issues whilst enjoying good company, tea, and chocolate biscuits - please contact

bishopstonvoice

James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628. We would very much like to hear from you.

n BRISTOL COMMUNITY GAMELAN play the music of Java at Cotham School from 6.30-8.30. We play by numbers – only 1-6, without the 4 ! So no auditions, no need to read music. If you fancy a different musical experience, contact us via email on keithripley27@gmail.com

Tuesday

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE welcomes new members. Our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, take place on the second Tuesday of the month from September to May at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information on our lectures and other activities visit our website www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk

n BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR AND BAND are now rehearsing regularly again. We are looking for new members SATB as well as string, reed and wind instrumentalists. We sing and play lively church and village music from the 18th century. We meet at St Edyth’s Church Hall in Sea Mills on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. No auditions but ability to read music is helpful. Ring Fritjof on 0117 924 3440 or see www. bristolharmony.wordpress.com.

Please contact before attending so we can have music ready.

n POETRY UNLIMITED – poetry circle meet on the First Tuesday of every month 11am - 12 midday. Basement Room, Café Kino, 108 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RU. £2.50 - £3.00 donation towards the cost of the room. Bring a couple of poems to share, other poets or your own. Contact Dee: wetwo@ gentlyblown.co.uk Web: www. poetryunlimitedbristol.weebly.com

n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL is recruiting new members We are a 'threshold choir' actively looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn soothing and uplifting songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join or support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org.

Wednesday

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB

meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Sheila on 01179570792 or 07435316458 or email shinett@blueyonder.co.uk

n HEALING SESSIONS run by accredited healers take place 2 til 3.30pm at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org

n BRISTOL VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR welcomes new members at any time. We meet at 7.30pm in St Werburghs Primary School during term time. See www.bristolvoices. org.uk for details.

Thursday

n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feel more relaxed, peaceful, calmer. Drop-in 3.00 - 4.15 pm at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. Donation basis. Supported by members of The Healing Trust. Contact: Selina 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@yahoo. co.uk.

n BISHOPSTON COMMUNITY CHOIR Meet on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm to 9.00pm at St Michael's and All Angels Church on Gloucester Road. Everyone welcome, no audition necessary. Contact us via email on bishoproadchoir@gmail.com

n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. For more information contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278

n LOCAL CHOIR ACTIVELY RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See our website www.henburysingers. org or contact the secretary at secretary@henburysingers.org.

n HIGHBURY BADMINTON

CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/ highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall

n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE

For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm

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: news@bishopstonvoice. co.uk

start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org

n BRISTOL MALE VOICE

CHOIR Always been keen to sing? Come along to our rehearsal nights, 7pm - 9.15pm on Thursdays in St Andrew's Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. No need to read music, no audition, just a voice test to establish whether you are tenor, baritone of bass. We cover many musical styles, enjoy singing in a great social vibe as we prepare for our regular concerts in local and national venues. From the Beatles to Mozart, from classical choruses to classic pop. Ffi : www. bristolmvc.org.uk ; facebook; or contact Steve: secretary@ bristolmvc.org.uk;or ring 07776447699; or 07587143220

n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING at St. Monica’s Oatley Hall, Cote Lane, BS9 3UN on Thursdays 7.30 – 10.00 p.m. £6.00 per session. Have fun, make friends, keep fit. Phone Trish 0788 052 8925/www. rscdsbristol.info

n THE STEPFORD SINGERS

WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CHOIR meets at St Michael & All Angels Church, Bishopston on Thursday afternoons, 1pm to 3pm. No auditions and no need to read music - just come and sing, laugh and have a cuppa! For more info, contact Fran franbolton66@gmail. com

Friday

n CALLIGRAPHERS wanted to join us at St Edyth’s Church Hall, Sea Mills, on Fridays 1000-1200. We are a long established self-led group who would welcome new members. Come and meet us on Friday or call Peter at 0117 329 4516.

n NATURE WATCH

With Dawn Lawrence

LAST month, in attempting to endear slugs to you, I mentioned their role in soil formation and it got me thinking about that marvellous stuff. Take some ground up rock, water it, aerate it and you have the growth medium for virtually all the plants on the planet; it is vital to the future of all mankind (in more ways than one). But… you need to add another magical ingredient before crushed wet rock becomes actual soil. Life! We all know how important organic matter is to soil structure; from dead leaves via decomposition right down to organic molecules. But soil is full of life itself, in the same way as a coral reef is full of life, just at a different scale.

Healthy soil is full of macro-invertebrates including earthworms, flatworms, slugs, millipedes, ants and aphids. Then there are strange microscopic ones such as springtails, mites and pseudoscorpions.

These invertebrates do not simply live in the soil but contribute to making the actual substance and giving it structure, and not just by the passive contribution of their dead bodies. Their burrows and movements churn and aerate the soil (some earthworms can burrow 2 metres down). They drag organic matter underground and eat it and each other, greatly speeding decomposition. And the activity of earthworms

7TH - 9TH JULY 2023

PRIDDY VILLAGE GREEN SOMERSET BA53BB

has been shown to greatly enhance both the numbers and diversity of microbes.

The invertebrate activity in soil can be impressive but the microbial life is mindboggling. I remember reading of scientists who were growing microbes from soil in petri dishes. Something prompted them to try a different growth medium and they found a vast range of new species that had never been detected before; microbes that couldn’t survive on the

standard medium. It was like gazing through the first telescope and realising that the stars you could see with the naked eye were just a tiny proportion of the total. Billions of bacteria are present in each gramme of fertile soil and there can be tens of thousands of different species growing around the roots of each plant. And then there are the fungi, algae and protozoa also making their contribution.

The zone of influence of plant roots is called the rhizosphere. It is here that plants absorb water and nutrients and they also release substances that affect the microbes present. Plant roots can promote the growth of useful microbes – bacteria that can fix nitrogen from the air for example – but they can also deter unwelcome microbes and form physical connections with fungi with which they exchange sugars for minerals. Increasingly it appears that most plants rely on these fungal connections to thrive.

Undisturbed soil is particularly varied in structure and biodiversity, that is soil under permanent grass or in woodland: it is a remarkably powerful carbon sink as a result. Consequently, soils, including those in healthy peat bogs, can play a huge role in tackling the climate crisis, further helping mankind. Marvellous stuff, soil.

tim edey *kris drever

dervish * fara * The jeremiahs

Tarren * opa rosa * Kabantu

Old baby mackerel * the dillyboys bonfire radicals* honey and the bear

Mishra * the rin tins * Amadou diagne medicine creek * the drystones

Nick hart * the Often herd

Sam evans * Bryony Griffith + Alice Jones

And many more ! ! ! !

Workshops, sessions, ceilidhs dance festival, childrens ’ festival and the fringe

Tickets and info from www.priddyfolk.org

A pseudoscorpion – don’t worry, it’s only a few millimetres long. Photo: Andy Murray

Our spring pond is teeming with life. Find the differences between the pictures then colour them in

11 Berkshire Road, West Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8EU

£1.195m

The property itself has a handsome facade typical of the Victorian era. The double bay is a feature that creates an elevated sense of space and light to the interior. Internally the the layout in brief is as follows; The entrance porch gives useful access to the rear of the property and opens into the spacious entrance hallway. A double set of original doors inset with stained glass panels, sets the tone for the level of retained character and quality of finish throughout. As soon as you enter the property, you are greeted by tall ceilings and generous proportions - all hallmarks of Victorian design. The central hallway opens firstly to the left into the principal reception, complete with ornate ceiling cornice, a feature fireplace and large bay window. Together they provide an abundance of natural light and charm giving a warm and inviting atmosphere. Next up is a 2nd reception, currently arranged as a handy home office. The rear of the property has been knocked through, offering a full width kitchen/dining and additional living

space - a perfect family/entertaining area. From here a separate utility room and shower room can be accessed.

The first floor has four double bedrooms, one with ensuite shower

The Carpet Shop

and a well appointed bathroom. Stairs rise from the landing up to the fifth bedroom and then on into ample loft storage (further potential to convert subject to consents).

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Wanted: your ideas to keep us moving

I’VE always said that local people know their communities best. I’ve also always remarked that people across the West are endlessly able to come up with great ideas. You only have to look at my Big Choices public meetings I held last summer to see that!

Now you may or may not have come to these meetings, where I listened to thousands of people air their concerns and suggest solutions to the many, many challenges we have on the buses at present. If you did, thank you for engaging in one of the knottiest issues this region is facing right now!

If you didn’t, fear not. You’ve still got time to tell me your community’s unique transport challenges and help me find the best transport solution for its particular needs.

Welcome to WESTlocal - a new £2 million fund from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority to help communities design and then run their own version of new transport in their patch.

Maybe the challenge in your area is driving children to school? Getting older residents to the shops? Workers to large local employers at the start and end of shifts?

Whatever it is, with WESTlocal - open

to a wide selection of community groups, schools, faith groups, town and parish councils, and more - we will unleash the power of local people working together, and keep residents on the move.

All you need to do is come up with an idea, then get together with other groups in your community (or go it alone if you want to), identify a range of transport needs and come up with a transport scheme to tackle them. We will support you to put those plans into action and make them a success.

The fund is super-flexible, and communities can consider a range of ideas, with fixed timetables or flexible services, and pre-booked or “buy on the bus” services. They could run to key locations – think GPs or colleges. And various vehicles can be used. Traditional buses, minibuses - you name it!

Your proposed scheme must serve residents based in the West of England area. Your ideas must be locally designed and new - they can’t simply keep schemes going that are already in place.

For those thinking “but I’ve never run public transport before, Dan” - don’t worry.

Expert advice and support will be made

available every step of the way, to help all those looking to set up a new transport scheme.

Once you have got your idea, contact transport.operations@westofengland-ca.gov. uk and put ‘WESTlocal idea’ in the address line.

The West of England Combined Authority will get back to you to explain the rest of the process. You have from now until the end of April 2024 to have the idea and get the application process in. Okay, so now you can get going - there’s nothing stopping you!

This is people-powered transport, designed and delivered locally.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

Birds on your doorstep: the wren

TAKE a stroll along a woodland path and you may well hear a loud and insistent bird call, a series of trills and sharp rattling notes. Don’t look up into the trees for the source, but down among the undergrowth. That is where the diminutive Wren is foraging, turning up the leaves in search of spiders and insects.In shades of brown, short and dumpy in shape, with a pert little tail that sits upright from the body and a sharp pointed beak, it is expert at hopping and dashing along the ground, keeping as close to shelter as possible.

In spring the Wren will perch in full view, singing loudly to attract a mate. He builds a series of up to 6 nests, hoping one will be chosen by a female. Having made her choice she then lines it with moss and leaves before laying a clutch of up to 8 eggs.

Wrens do not use bird tables, so if you want to attract them to the garden try scattering meal worms

or seed near the safety of bushes and a Wren might just surprise you as it darts out for a quick meal. Di Bunniss. Avonbirding. blogspot.com

Alastair Fraser Bristol Ornithological Club Avonbirding.blogspot.com

PAINTING

•

• Faux/broken colour work Tel: 0117 9422589 Mob: 07814 113038

robertogborn@yahoo.co.uk