Bishopston Voice June 2024

Green Party members celebrate after winning a record 34 seats on Bristol City Council at the local elections. The party will run the authority with support from the Lib Dems.

Reports: Pages 5&6

Rovers want big screen at Mem

BRISTOL Rovers are seeking planning permission to install a big screen next to their new stand.

The football club’s previous screen was put up for sale in May 2023 ahead of the redevelopment.

They have now submitted an application to put up a new one on the roof of the south-west stand at the Memorial Stadium in Horfield.

Last November, Bristol City Council’s development control committee approved the new

South Stand with capacity for 3,414 fans despite neighbours’ objections that the building would block daylight into their homes and cause more parking problems.

Now Rovers want to improve the match-day experience for Gasheads even more by installing a screen, which could be used as a scoreboard and to show team line-ups, highlights and advertising. Turn to Page 3

Three students from Redland Green School have won the national Youth Speaks debating competition. PAGE 23 Snooker's Steve backs fundraiser

Artists campaigning to save the Jamaica Street Studios creative space in Stokes Croft have won the backing of snooker legend Steve Davis. PAGE 3

St Werburgh's Park Nursery School has again been judged Good by a team from the education watchdog Ofsted. PAGE 9

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Snooker's Steve Davis is backing the campaign to save Jamaica Street Studios

Artists' fundraiser

ARTISTS campaigning to save a creative space in Stokes Croft have won the backing of former snooker star Steve Davis.

Jamaica Street Studios has until June 11 raise £85,000 through a crowdfunding appeal. As the Voice went to print, donations had topped £75,000.

The community interest company that runs the hub, which is home to about 35 artists, has secured more than £500,000 but has to raise money itself to ensure it receives “match funding”.

Davis, who lives in Bristol and has DJ-ed at the studios, is supporting the appeal. In a video message, he said: “These studios are vital – it is such a well-known hub of talent. Bristol has got to do everything it can to keep this space for artists to continue to make work and contribute to this incredible buzzing city.”

Jamaica Street Studios is already working with architects on plans to protect the Grade II listed building at 35-37 Jamaica Street.

It says: “We will invest in the building; improve environmental performance, respect and restore its heritage features, and make it accessible and fit for purpose as a public building. Our mission is to make it even more of an integral part of the community infrastructure, particularly important in our area of high deprivation.

“This means more events, exhibitions, talks, screenings, workshops, music, performances for everyone to enjoy.

“If we don't make our target, the reality is, our project is in serious jeopardy. We only have one year to complete the building purchase. If we don't suceed, we lose our grant and this building goes on the open market.”

The studios have provided affordable space for artists, including sculptors, illustrators, painters, filmmakers, photographers, for about 30 years. Last year the centre opened Kit Form, an accessible and inclusive creative hub for the community. https://www.jamaicastreetstudios.co.uk/crowdfunder

Rovers' big screen bid

From Page 1 Rovers’ planning agents said in a letter to the council as part of the application: “There is a lack of technology infrastructure within the stadium – a large format stadium LED screen will enhance the supporter experience by providing an effective way of increasing supporter engagement during matches.

“It can also be used to deliver essential messages to the supporters.

“The new screen will be located above the south west stand, on a supporting platform that will act as the roof to the stand and which will also offer a new TV camera position.

“As such, the new structure will be located between the West Stand, which includes a mix of seating and terraces with a row of hospitality boxes, and the newly built South Stand.

“The LED screen will increase the total height of the south west stand, but the stand is

located in excess of 35m from the nearest residential properties and the screen will be a discrete element in the overall view of the stadium.”

They said the plans would have no impact on the setting of the Grade II-listed Memorial Gates at the Mem.

“The proposals allow for the continued adaption and modernisation of The Memorial Stadium as an important community facility,” they said.

The agents said the screen would face inwards towards the pitch, so there would be no glare or lighting on to neighbouring homes, and that it would be no taller than the adjacent South Stand. It would be used only on match days or events.

The documents do not say how big the screen will be but the previous one was 8m x 4m.

Bristol Rovers declined to comment.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

n FEATURE

Helping those who have nothing – not even hope

RECENTLY, I met a young man whose face and words are likely to remain with me for some time. But more of him later.

Some weeks previously, during an innocent coffee with a friend, we discussed where we are in our lives right now and some of the directions we might wish to take. This conversation resulted in an ultimately profound and moving experience – four days volunteering with a refugee charity in Calais.

We went as part of a small group on a trip organised by RefYouMe, but once there, were part of the dedicated and hardworking team of Care4Calais, a volunteer-run charity delivering essential aid and support to refugees in Northern France, Belgium and the UK.

Setting off in a car laden with donations from generous friends and neighbours, we arrived with a mixture of excitement and trepidation about what the next few days might hold. This was far out of our comfort zone, but we were keen to witness the behindthe-scenes operation of how such support and aid is managed and delivered.

The next morning saw us join a team of fellow volunteers – diverse ages, backgrounds and stories, but all with a desire to help, make even a small difference, let people know somebody cared. A full day was spent in two vast warehouses packed to the rafters with boxes and pallets containing so much that we take for granted, but which are so vital and appreciated by those who have so little. A strange atmosphere of industry, intent and focus, coupled with humour, music and coffee. Each of us was there for a different reason, but we all shared the value of what we were doing.

My main job that day was helping to bag up almost 500 packages containing a pair of socks, boxer shorts, a T-shirt and a sim card. I was struck by how basic such items are and how easily acquired – unless you have worn the same clothes for a month, when even a clean pair of socks takes on great significance.

The following two mornings were spent getting equipment and supplies cleaned, sorted and ready to take out on distributions

...

ROSIE WATSON travels to Calais as a volunteer with a charity supporting refugees

in the afternoons. Again, all hands on deck – these hands are on deck day in, day out, without respite, to ensure that the communities they serve can access support as much as possible.

Going out to the distribution sites was an experience of profound respect – for those who help and for those who need help. There are no authorised settlements in Calais, no formal camps or facilities any more. Our first site was a tarmac strip on a field, which was lined on our arrival with about 150 young men waiting patiently for our van to arrive. Predominantly Sudanese, with some Afghans, Syrians, Eritreans and Iraqis, they received our packages with glee, many putting on their clean clothes instantly.

That first afternoon was spent serving countless hot drinks and biscuits to those who may not have had a hot drink in ages and may not know when they would get their next. So many were so young – 16, 17 years old – all without families, all having travelled over many countries and many months. Some rose to the normality of the chance to play football, charge phones, get their hair cut or their clothes mended and were the cheeky, buoyant teenagers they ought to be all the time. The older refugees could not hide their weariness and despair, the toll of months, even years, etched on their faces.

When our session finished for the day, a couple of hundred men simply vanished. Across the fields or into the hills, to become as invisible as they could. Some are lucky enough to have tents or tarpaulin that the authorities have not yet discovered and confiscated. Others have nothing, having previously left their tent to return to find they have been effectively evicted. They simply hide in the wilderness, melting away into the ether. This weekend was hot and sunny. It is not always like that.

The second afternoon was at a different site. It was a surreal experience indeed –

preparing supplies for distribution

sitting in the French sunshine in a car park, beside a canal, being soundly beaten at dominoes by Sudanese 17-year-olds. But it was also a chance to talk properly with some of them, hear their stories, learn of their journeys. I met a man whose home, land and business had all been taken from him in Syria. He had nothing left – not even hope. Mohammed, a delightfully polite and articulate 17-year-old Moroccan, wants to come to England and open a barber shop. Ahmet, who had left Iraq many years before, had made countless unsuccessful attempts to cross in a boat. He told me that last time, most ended up in the water. He had been sent back to France. He didn’t say what had happened to those in the water. And I couldn’t bear to ask.

And then the young man I mentioned at the start, the last I spoke to and the most heartbreaking. Nabil, from Syria, was totally alone. His ‘uncle’ (possibly not a genuine uncle), he thought, had got on to a boat the day before and Nabil was hoping to get on one the next day. His family were in Syria. He still wore braces on his teeth. Nabil is 13.

I have no political bias and went with little understanding, but I write this now with a deeply reflective sense of what is important, what we take for granted, and what wonderful people there are out there, trying so hard, against the odds, to make a small difference to people who just want an identity, a place of safety, and a better life.

Rosie

Box mountain in the warehouse

10 years of the Brunel building

SOUTHMEAD Hospital has been celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Brunel building.

Staff and services moved into the building over a couple of weeks in May 2014 and millions of patients and visitors have been through its doors over the last decade.

An exhibition of photos of people who work there is on show in the atrium. The pictures, which capture staff from a variety of departments including doctors, nurses, surgeons, therapists, domestics and catering staff, in different parts of the building, including the more behind the scenes areas that members of the public do not usually see, were taken by a group of students from UWE Bristol.

North Bristol NHS Trust is

Some of the team of volunteer Move Makers at Southmead Hospital's Brunel building

also celebrating ten years of the Move Maker volunteers.

The role was introduced for the opening of the Brunel building at Southmead Hospital and was originally intended to last for three weeks to help people navigate the new hospital. Today the team of about 100 volunteers volunteer over 60

hours a day on average, 52 weeks a year – including Christmas and bank holidays. Since May 2014, the Move Makers have collectively given 240,000 hours to Southmead Hospital. Since July 2015, they have transported more than 400,000 passengers in the atrium buggy. The team pushes 50 outpatient

or visitor wheelchairs each day. Steve Hams, Chief Nursing Officer, said: “We’re so proud to have this amazing team welcoming patients and visitors to our hospital. Their brightly coloured uniform makes them immediately identifiable, and their smile and warmth makes them unforgettable.”

Greens win historic victory Labour take PCC role

LABOUR’S Clare Moody is the new Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner.

She narrowly defeated the Conservative Mark Shelford, who has held the role for the last three years.

Just over 300,000 people across Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire voted in the election for the person to set the direction of the local police force and hold them to account. There were less than 5,000 votes between the two frontrunners.

Ms Moody received 95,982, while Mr Shelford — who was ahead in every council area except for Bristol — received 91,006. Katy Grant (Green) received 64,623 votes and Benet Allen (Liberal Democrat) received 45,864.

Turnout in the election was 23.09% — a drop from 30.72% in 2021 when the election was held concurrently with the West of England Metro Mayor election.

THE Greens stormed to victory in the Bristol City Council local elections but fell agonisingly short of an overall majority.

The party ended with 34 councillors, two shy of the magic figure of 36 required to be bigger than all the other groups combined.

Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats made gains over the Conservatives, but Labour, which ran the council for the last eight years under outgoing mayor Marvin Rees, whose role has been scrapped following a referendum to move to a committee system, ended with a net loss of two councillors, leaving them on 21.

The Greens gained an extra 10 seats.

The Lib Dems have eight members in the chamber, an increase of three, while the Tories lost half of their 14 seats and now have just seven.

Both Knowle Community Party councillors – who defected

from the Lib Dems after the 2021 local elections to form their own party – were voted out, including veteran Cllr Gary Hopkins, and were replaced by Greens.

There were some notable scalps, including in Westburyon-Trym & Henleaze which saw a gigantic swing from Conservative to Liberal Democrat. All three Tories lost their seats to the three Lib Dems, who include former Lib Dem MP and government minister Stephen Williams.

City council Labour cabinet member Marley Bennett lost his seat in Eastville.

The results indicate the Greens have a strong chance of winning the Bristol Central MP seat in the upcoming general election.

Carla Denyer, co-leader of the national party who has stood down as a Bristol councillor, is the parliamentary candidate trying to beat Labour and become the second Green MP.

She said all councillors

in every ward within the constituency were now Greens, with Labour losing out.

Labour group leader Cllr Tom Renhard said the party had some good results, including ousting a Conservative in Frome Vale.

The four Green councillors in Bishopston & Ashley Down and Redland retained their seats. The results were:

Bishopston & Ashley Down

Two seats were available in Bishopston & Ashley Down and the Greens held both. Turnout: 49%

Emma Edwards, Green: 2,615

James Crawford, Green: 2,405

Andrew Milton, Labour: 1,432

Eileen

By

Adam Postans Local Democracy Reporting Service

THE Greens will lead Bristol City Council, effectively in partnership with the Lib Dems, following their election victory.

Councillor Tony Dyer will be the party’s first leader of the authority, with fellow Green Councillor Heather Mack as deputy.

The group, which became the biggest in the chamber with 34 members, having gained 10 at the polls on May 2 – just two shy of an overall majority – will chair six of the eight new policy committees being set up following the switch from the mayoral model of the last 12 years. The Lib Dems will take up the other two, while all parties will hold vice-chair positions.

Labour say the announcement on Wednesday, May 15, means there will be a Green/Lib Dem coalition.

The Greens, however, say the new

New era begins at City Hall

committee system has no official administration or opposition because it is designed so that all parties work together.

The group also says Labour declined to accept the two roles of policy committee chair which it was entitled to based on the number of councillors each party now has.

The new leaders and key positions were due to be formally agreed at the annual meeting of full council on Tuesday, May 21, and comes after lengthy talks between the groups over the past fortnight.

Bishopston & Ashley Down Councillor Emma Edwards, who will remain as leader of the Green group, a separate role to that

of council leader under the authority’s constitution, said: “I am delighted that we have reached an agreement on how the city will be run for the next four years. The council will be led by Greens and will involve representatives of all parties with the aim of making the best possible decisions for the people of Bristol. The start of the committee system, voted for by the people of Bristol, marks a new era for politics in this city.

Labour says it will take all its seats on the policy committees and “work collaboratively with the administration on shared priorities”.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

A NEW LOOK FOR YOUR OLD KITCHEN THIS SUMMER

The Green Party group, led by Bishopston & Ashley Down's Councillor Emma Edwards, in the council chamber at City Hall

Celebrating diversity

Montpelier High School staff and students showcased their diversity at a Culture and Identity Day.

Costumes including sports tops, flags and national dress wdere worn with pride and joy.

Headteacher Ben Spence said: “We were thrilled to witness students' cultures, passions, and interests come to life through their outfits.”

Fairfield's new principal

EDEL Cronin, who has recently been interim principal at Fairfield High School, is the school's new permanent principal.

She has previously been svice principal, transition lead and achievement coordinator and, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and innovative learning environment.

She said: "I am honoured to be chosen to represent this wonderful, diverse school and look forward to giving everything I have in order to ensure it continues to flourish.”

Jeremy Benson, chair of the

academy committee, said Ms Cronin was "the perfect fit for Fairfield as it enters its next exciting chapter."

Inclusion award for Cashan

Fairfield High School’s assistant vice principal Cashan Campbell has been given a Project Inclusion award for her research into the different educational experiences of African and Caribbean parents in Bristol schools.

National physics prize

Three Year 13 students from Redmaids' High School have won a national award from the Royal Society at the British Physics Olympiad Awards.

Catherine, Daisy and Sarah had already won a gold award for their investigation in the experimental project category, in which they looked at the motion of a slinky under gravity.

Ofsted praises nursery school

ST Werburgh’s Park Nursery School has again been rated Good by the education watchdog Ofsted.

Two inspectors who visited the school in Glenfrome Road in March said it was “friendly and inclusive”.

Their report said:

• The school is ambitious for all. Adults know children well.

• Children develop positive attitudes to their learning.

• The school is a calm and happy place to learn.

• Staff have high expectations of how children should behave.

The inspectors noted that St Werburgh's Park had in the past year become part of the Central Bristol Nursery Schools Federation, a change that had been managed effectively.

"Leaders work successfully

alongside governors and other schools across the federation to continue to enhance the school’s offer," the report said. Governors were said to have the same high aspirations for pupils as staff as well as having a good understanding of the strengths and areas for development.

The inspectors said the school, which has 102 pupils aged two to four, placed importance on children understanding their local community.

"The school provides rich experiences to help children understand the wider world," Ofsted reported.

"Children relish the opportunity to explore and investigate both inside and outside of the classroom," the inspectors said.

A pilgrim’s progress – going solo in Spain

MY idea of a holiday is usually lying on a sunbed, but this time I opted for something completely different – hiking 115km through North-West Spain on the Camino de Santiago, solo!

My reasons for going were partly a challenge, partly to improve my fitness levels, partly because I thought it would be a fun holiday with time for a little bit of contemplation thrown in. But as a middle-aged woman who spends a great deal of time working on a computer, my fitness levels aren’t great – so my starting point was Sarria, a mere 115km distance from Santiago, compared with nearly 500km if you start in the Pyrenees.

I’m a newbie to Nordic Walking. Six months later I’d got the bug and was determined to use my walking poles on the journey. I flew from the UK to Santiago and was booked into a lovely little boutique hotel. I had a sleepless first night!

The next morning, a bus journey took me to Sarria, but I retired that night reading news alerts on my phone about expected severe storms. Apparently, even the Mayor of Madrid was advising everyone to stay indoors. Fortunately, all remained balmy, and setting off on my first morning was very exciting. Going down to the hotel lobby there was a tremendous buzz and lots of animated groups.

I decided to start later to let the crowds dissipate. What I hadn’t considered was that this would mean me commencing my journey

Karen, from Bristol Nordic Walking group, tackles the Camino de Santiago in Spain

entirely on my own. I get nervous walking on my own in the UK for goodness sake! What was I doing?

My walk and the next few days were past cornfields, through woods and along paths lined with fallen apples, acorns and chestnuts. Later on in my journey it was dominated by eucalyptus forests, which smell heavenly and look dramatic from a distance.

I arrived at my hotel exhausted, but by day two I was getting into the swing of it. I left Portomarin with hordes of other ‘pilgrims’, through thick mist to the river crossing. Some young groups in the procession were singing, others chanting. I met up with fellow ‘peregrinos’ (pilgrims) walking at my pace and planning to arrive at Santiago the same time as me. That’s the best thing – it doesn’t take long to spot them and then your paths keep criss-crossing. And so my Camino continued. Not quite

Eat, Pray, Love, more Eat, Walk, Sleep. No great Spiritual Awakening. I spent most of my time wondering where I’d stop for lunch and REALLY looking forward to a midday Estrella Galicia, the local beer!

The days blended into each other until day nine and I arrived in Lavacolla. I’d booked into Pazo Xan Xordo, an enchanting old manor, and on the last day I set off, very excited. I walked the last few kms, feeling elated as I walked down from Monte de Gozo into Santiago. And when I finally approached the cathedral and heard the bagpipe player who heralds one’s entrance to the main square in front of it, I welled up.

Wiping away my tears of happiness/pride/ relief, I headed off to the Pilgrim’s Office. I showed my Pilgrim’s Passport which had to be stamped at least twice every day for the last 100km to be entitled to a Compostela. This proved that I’d walked the walk and done the required distance. On my first evening back in Santiago, I was invited to join some fellow peregrinos for a celebratory dinner and it was absolutely wonderful. Here we all were, proud, tired, united.

It was lovely to end my journey on such a high note, but if I were to walk the Camino again it would most definitely not be alone. With all the wonderful things I did see and do, and the memories made, there was just one thing I hadn’t quite considered – dining alone in a restaurant is totally rubbish!

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Pictured: Linwood Small Prints II

Changes to recovery of costs in Civil Litigation (CPR 45)

Litigation can lead to significant financial burdens for the parties involved.

The general rule in respect of cost recovery in litigation, has for a long time been that the successful party in the litigation is entitled to recover their legal costs from the losing party.

However, the implementation of the new fixed recovery costs regime (“FRC”) on 1st October 2023 has dramatically changed the recovery of legal costs in litigation.

The FRC is applicable to the majority of civil proceedings where the value of the claim is less than £100,000.00, and as its name would suggest, the successful party can only claim a fixed sum of legal costs depending on the stage at which the litigation reached before concluding.

The FRC has also introduced a new claims “track” and complexity bands which affect the amount of fixed costs recoverable.

Track Allocation

Claims are categorised into different tracks primarily based on their monetary value and complexity. The Court retains discretion to adjust track allocations in the interest of justice.

The four tracks are:

•Small Claims Track- for claims with a value of less than £10,000;

•Fast Track – for claims with a value between £10,000 and £25,000;

•Intermediate Track – for claims with a value between £25,000 and £100,000;

•Multi-track – for claims with a value of £100,000 or more.

Complexity Bands

There are four complexity bands for Fast Track Claims and Intermediate Track claims.

Assignment to a specific band depends on the complexity of the claim. Simpler claims will be assigned to Band 1, while more complex claims with be assigned

to band 4.

The amount of recoverable costs the successful party may be entitled to under the FRC will depend on both the track and the complexity band that the claim is assigned to.

Exemptions

There are only a few exemptions from the FRC in Fast and Intermediate Track Claims, as follows:

•Residential housing claims including possession, disrepair and unlawful eviction;

•Any claim where a party is a protected party;

•The Court may consider a claim for an amount of costs which is greater than the FRC where a party or witness for the party is vulnerable and the vulnerability has required additional work to be undertaken and by reason of that additional work alone, the claim for an amount that is 20% greater than the amount of the FRC.

Conclusion

The introduction of the FRC marks a significant shift in legal costs recovery for civil litigation claims. The above should not be taken nor used as legal advice. If you do require assistance with any civil dispute please do contact Martin Hall on 0117 973 3989 or by emailing info@amdsolicitors.com

Martin Hall

NEWS FROM YOUR MP

Running in support of Bristol Refugee Rights and Brigstowe

I am writing this update on the morning after running the Bristol 10k in support of Brigstowe project. Brigstowe supports people living with HIV within Bristol and the surrounding area. Through delivering their vital services they are tackling poverty and unemployment amongst people living with HIV in our community.

A few weeks ago, I also ran in the London Marathon, finishing with a new personal best. I had run in support of Bristol Refugee Rights who do fantastic work with and for asylum seekers and refugees in Bristol. Thank you to everyone who supported my fundraising campaigns.

#ThisGirlRuns

Shockingly 860,000 girls are missing out on the joy and health benefits of physical activity. I raised this directly with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport in the House of Commons. As a brown woman

growing up in the 1970s, I didn’t think sport was for me and missed out on its benefits until later in life. Now, as someone who tries to get out for a run most mornings, I want to make sure every girl in Bristol can enjoy sport and physical activity.

Labour’s plan for better buses

Buses are by far the most used form of public transport in the country, but the government’s broken bus system is failing the millions who depend on them. It is one of the issues people most often raise with me.

Labour has announced the biggest reform to England’s buses in forty years, which would put power back where it belongs: in the hands of the communities who depend on buses the most. Labour’s plans mean local leaders will have more control and flexibility over bus funding. It will also remove barriers that currently limit bus franchising powers only to metropolitan mayors and provide more accountability over bus operators.

Support for football fans

I led Labour’s response to the long-awaited Football Governance Bill which I had been calling on the Tories to bring forward for months. Football is at the heart of cities like Bristol. It was great to get on the terraces recently to see Rovers and meet with the owner and CEO ahead of the new law being debated.

In the debate I called for the new independent football regulator to have the powers it needs to ensure clubs like Bristol Rovers are financially sustainable, for strengthened owners and directors tests and for fans to have a greater say in how their clubs are run.

Opening up access to culture

Speaking at the International Opera Awards I recognised the importance of bursaries for young talented singers and of the joy and jobs opera brings to our country. Whilst the lazy criticism often levelled at opera is that it is elitist, historically opera has had significant interest and

involvement from working class people. I’m determined to make opera is for everyone. As Culture Secretary in the next Labour government I’ll revolutionise access to the arts, everyone should have a stake in our worldleading cultural sector.

Muller Road bus lane

Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice

HENLEAZE OPEN GARDENS

THE Henleaze Society is hosting an Open Gardens Day on Sunday 9 June (1.30- 5.30pm). Eight gardens in and around the Henleaze area will be open - free of charge - to Society members. Many garden hosts will be collecting for their favourite charities and providing refreshments in addition to selling plants.

Chair Helen Furber comments, “This year we are welcoming two new garden hosts. We anticipate hundreds of people visiting the gardens. Many will also take advantage of some excellent refreshments, in addition to purchasing plants.

“We hope that current and new members will enjoy the event – whether they choose to visit one or all of the gardens.”

Annual membership of The Henleaze Society, covering everyone in your household, is £5 (or £7.50 including postage if outside the Henleaze area). Benefits include receiving quarterly hard copy Newsletters, electronic updates about Henleaze and invitations to events such as the Open Gardens Day.

Further information is available at https:// www.henleazesociety.co.uk To join the Society and request free tickets for the Open Gardens event, email ths.newsletter@gmail.com.

ONE DAY CHOIR

A HUNDRED and twenty people joined together at TrinityHenleaze United Reformed Church to learn and then sing the song One Day which raised £810 for the Red Cross.

The plan to use the song, with its theme of peace and unity in a war-torn world, was masterminded by music teacher and former headteacher, John Searle who was inspired by a conversation about One Day with local care worker Christine Khalif.

“With there being so much death and destruction going on in the world we wanted to create a collective expression of compassion from anyone who wanted to join in whether they had any religious affiliations or not” says John, an Elder at the church.

In just an hour those who came, including choir members from around Bristol as well as those with no singing experience, were rehearsed by John with the aid of a backing band and screens displaying the words.

Some of the verses were sung in Arabic and Hebrew. After a final run through their efforts were recorded.

Those who came were encouraged to watch a series of videos of the song being sung around the world by following this link: https:??www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XqvKDCP5-xE

Stan Hazell

One postcode – so many artists!

BS9 ARTS TRAIL

8 and 9 June 2024, 11am to 5pm in Henleaze, Stoke Bishop & Westbury-on-Trym

WHERE can you enjoy the work of over 80 artists, find out what goes into making each piece and the inspiration behind it?

BS9 Arts Trail returns to our streets on 8 and 9 June 2024, in leafy north Bristol’s Henleaze, Stoke Bishop & Westbury-on-Trym.

Buying direct from an artist means you can gain a closer understanding of each artwork and the person who made it.

Artists include painters, sculptors, printmakers, ceramicists, photographers, potters, jewellery designers, glass workers,

enamellists and a wood turner spread across 11 interesting venues.

All works are for sale and include items from £3 to £3,000, so whether you want a greetings card, a hand-crafted mug, a unique piece of jewellery or a statement painting, BS9 Arts Trail is the place to come!

The trail includes part-time and full-time professional artists, many of whom began their path to becoming professional thanks to the BS9 Art Trail. Some have made it their full-time career and exhibit in galleries and art fairs across the UK and beyond. Others choose to keep it local and you can meet all these artists right here in BS9.

Many of us have creative hobbies and perhaps you have wondered whether you could

sell your work. This is the perfect opportunity to meet artists who have taken that brave first step. The venues are easy to access and all are located around the

northern side of The Downs. Most of the trail’s 11 venues host multiple artists. Many venues have cafés and facilities to provide a warm welcome. The trail is served by bus routes (1, 2, 3, 4), it’s a great area for walking and cycling, and all venues have parking nearby. The event is sponsored by VWV. Leila Goodarzi, a partner in VWV Estates tax and trusts team, said: "As a firm with established roots in Bristol, supporting local culture is not just an honour but a responsibility. The BS9 Arts Trail is a testament to the creativity that thrives in our city, and we are honoured to support its ongoing success."

For full information visit https:// www.bs9arts.co.uk

Imagine a life free from exhausting chores. Chantry Court is a lively retirement community that handles everyday tasks, giving you the freedom to enjoy your days your way, with support and care on hand whenever required.

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

Redland: Martin Fodor and Fi Hance (Green Party)

Our thanks to voters May 2nd's elections saw us both reelected with substantial majorities. We're honoured and humbled by the continued support from voters across Redland ward. Our thanks to everyone who voted as well as the many helpers and supporters without whom we couldn't hope to visit so many of you and get our messages across the ward. The ward had a turnout of over 48%, well above the citywide average.

A dramatic rise in the number of Green wins saw our Group consolidate our numbers up from 24 to 34 out of 70 city councillors. Bristol already had the largest Green Group in the country and this record has now grown! We've nominated our colleague Cllr Tony Dyer to be leader of the council. Whilst we will still be working with some very restricted budgets, we hope that with so many Greens involved this will bring some Green changes to Bristol.

A new start for the council

Following the Annual Meeting of the council in May a new system of decision making by eight politically proportionate policy committees will begin. At the time of writing we can't confirm who will take the chair and vice chair positions but they will always be from different parties to share decision making. They will help set agendas but all council members will take part in making major decisions for the first time in decades and the ratio of seats per policy committee has

been agreed in proportion as: 4 Greens, 3 Labour, and one each for Liberal Democrats and Conservatives. This will be the first time in years that most of us have access to all the information available to decision makers and we're also being offered a new forward plan to help develop options when decisions are needed. In keeping with our commitment to distributing power according to seats the Green Group has worked with all the other parties to share policy chairs and vice chairs to ensure the same proportions as the election outcomes. Every party has a lead member involved in setting agendas for meetings.

New Area Committees

Nine different Area Committees will bring decisions closer to communities. Our new Area 2 comprises Redland, Bishopston and Ashley Down, Westbury on Trym and Henleaze, and Stoke Bishop. As well as distributing developer contrbutions to fund local projects there will be a new emphasis on local input to council decision making such as road safety, allotments, parks and waste management. With official new local consultation mechanisms starting the voluntary Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Community Partnership has been formally wound up and its final act was to distribute its remaining assets to the Ardagh Community Trust, Friends of Bishopston Library, and the Redland Club Community Centre. We'd like to

record our thanks for all the help and input from the former BCR Community Partnership over recent years.

Recycling and waste services to be reviewed

Dissatisfaction with unreliable waste and recycling collections has continued in our area. We've been pressing for the schedules to be revisited since these changed in autumn and the problems emerged, resulting in missed collections of recycling for far too many streets, often for weeks at a time. Some changes are planned around the end of May to restore reliability including a smaller recycling vehicle to service Melbourne Road which has had access issues. Some streets may get new collection dates where they have been let down by overrunning rounds. We do hope when these changes are made recycling of food waste and packaging materials will be improved to help reduce waste and fund the service with recycling income. In the meantime, please do let us know if you are experiencing problems, along with reporting them on the Council website

Trade waste changes

Many people have contacted us about chaotic and unsightly waste storage and flytipping along The Promenade on Gloucester Road. The absence of storage areas for traders on both sides of the road and the large numbers of flats above shops and blocks nearby has led to many problems.

A project is under way to use council powers to improve the ways trade waste is stored and presented all the way up Cheltenham Rd and Gloucester Rd. This will be followed by attention to the way waste is stored in flats although there are different, more limited powers for tackling this. The publicity about changes in waste storage has rightly caused concern to businesses and we've had a meeting with traders, waste managers and high street officers. We want to ensure their concerns are discussed and support is offered to ensure changes are as practical and effective as possible and their waste contractors offer the best service that works for them. Thanks to the Facebook page Shop Local Gloucester Road for arranging this.

New e-cargo bikes available

Gloucester Road has a new service: shared use e-cargo bikes for hire. The initial location is at the south end of The Promenade. This is a West of England Combined Authority scheme operated by ‘Nextbike’ with Tier. The aim is to trial a scheme alongside the e-bikes and e-scooters to reduce cardependency and promote sustainable travel for those with bulky loads that need moving. We hope this will offer more flexible deliveries and reduce dependency on hiring vans. Do contact us if you have any queries.

Contact us: Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk Fi: 0117 3534720. Martin 0788 4736101

Bishopston & Ashley Down: Emma Edwards and James Crawford (Green Party)

FIRSTLY we wanted to say a big thank you to residents for re-electing us as your councillors for Bishopston and Ashley Down. It is a real honour and we look forward to working hard for residents for four more years. We’ve had a fantastic time meetings lots of residents on the door steps and learning even more about the issues in the ward and discussing solutions. Bishopston and Ashley Down had the second highest turn out in the city, and that really reflects on how engaged and community focused this community is. We are now going into a committee system on Bristol City Council and Emma has been working as Group Leader to negotiate with the other parties how this will work. One of the benefits of the new committee system is more change for residents to be heard and for there to be more transparency and engagement and we hope more residents will get involved and keep us informed of the issues that mean the most to them. We will continue to door knock throughout

the year and will also carry on with our monthly surgeries on the *second Friday of every month from 4pm5.45pm* at The Horfield Quakers Friend’s meeting House on Gloucester road. We hope to see many of you there in the future.

Meeting Gloucester Rd traders

James and neighbouring Redland councillor Martin recently attended a meeting between council waste officers and Gloucester road traders to discuss the new guidelines on bin storage, which is aiming to reduce the number of bins stored on the highway. It was a constructive meeting with traders able to voice their concerns on the plans. Officers are planning on working closely with traders, and commercial waste collection companies, to help the scheme during the rollout.

Bank façade at 248 Gloucester Rd

The developers for the old bank at 248 Gloucester road have made two new

applications for demolition, one with the façade due to be retained, and one of complete demolition. We suspect the developer plans to try again with the demolition and if not they will develop the site with the façade incorporated. We’ll be liaising with the planning officers closely to ensure that resident’s views are heard, and that the previous refusal is taken into account as part of the determination. You can put in your comments via the Bristol City Council planning portal.

Ashley Down train station

We are regularly told by residents how much they are looking forward to the new train station, where work continues to progress. The contractor will be able to confirm an opening date in the coming months. Whilst it is expected that the station infrastructure will be finished in summer, there will be a period of testing and commissioning before the station is open to the public. GWR is also in discussion with Bristol Rovers and the cricket ground

to cover management of match days. The officers will continue to update us fortnightly on progress which we will pass on to residents.

Gloucestershire Cricket Club

Residents continue to get in touch with us regarding the uncertain future for the cricket club at Nevil road, and what, if any, future development plans will be. Emma attended a residents meeting in late April and we will continue to support residents through this period of uncertainty.

School safety for Ashley Down pupils

We were delighted to hear that our bid for funding for some more safety measures around Ashley Down school, namely some pencil bollards, has been approved and the site has now been assessed for suitability and determined they can go ahead. We will be working closely with officers and the school to help determined the exact placing of these bollards, to ensure they have the most benefit.

n NEWS

Lidl wants more shops in Bristol

DISCOUNT chain Lidl is aiming to open new supermarkets in Westbury on Trym, Clifton and Stoke Bishop.

It also wants to relocate its Southmead store from its site at the double mini roundabout on Southmead Road.

Lidl announced its expansion plans as it celebrated the 30th anniversary of its arrival in the UK. It is now the sixth biggest chain in the country with 960 stores and eight per cent of market share.

It has set its sights on opening hundreds more stores in the coming months and Greater Bristol is one of its key target areas.

Lidl's most recent store in our area is the one at Muller Road in Lockleaze.

Richard Taylor, Lidl Great Britain's chief development officer, said: "As we celebrate our 30th year, our commitment to ensuring that all households across the country have access to high-quality produce at

affordable prices is stronger than ever.

"We're planning to open hundreds of new Lidl stores but ultimately see no ceiling on our ambition or growth potential.

"This is why we're continuing to invest in new locations whilst exploring innovative routes to expansion."

Lidl is looking for sites in prominent locations with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow, with 1.5+ acres for a standalone store and up to four acres for mixed-use schemes.

Lidl would like to move from Southmead Road

Sites should allow for unit sizes between 18,000 and 26,500 sq ft and over 100 dedicated car parking spaces, and Lidl’s flexible approach means it will consider freehold, leasehold or long leasehold opportunities. Should a site be successfully identified, the discounter will pay a finders’ fee of either 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price, or 10% of the first year’s rent for leaseholds, which would equate to £22,500 for a completed £1.5m site purchase.

Housing Forums

for Bristol council tenants – get involved!

Evening: Monday 10 June, 6–8pm

Afternoon: Thursday 13 June, 1–3pm

Your opinions help us make decisions!

If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and make suggestions about improvements. For summer 2024, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and hear about the ongoing work we are doing to ensure fire safety for residents in our high rise blocks and find out about our future plans.

● We’re also giving you the opportunity to make improvements to communal areas around your home. You can find out how to submit suggestions for changes you would like to see in your area.

Action on lack of bus drivers

MORE than 220 bus drivers have been trained in the past 12 months to help meet a regional shortage.

The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has provided funding to help recruit drivers for First Bus and other operators using some of the £105 million secured by Metro Mayor Dan Norris for the Bus Service Improvement Plan.

Mr Norris says getting on top of the driver shortage with operators is “key” to building a sustainable West of England bus network, along with attracting passengers back on the region’s buses.

Passenger numbers in the West of England grew by 17% last year.

• Mr Norris, a former Labour MP, has been selected to contest the Hanham and North East Somerset seat at the general election. He has said that if he is successful, there will be a "period of overlap" with his Metro Mayor role if he is elected.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email  tpu@bristol.gov.uk

RUNNING for 14 years, the Get Growing Trail is a unique opportunity for people from across Bristol to explore the city’s fruit and veg gardens – Bristol’s community allotments and orchards, smallholdings, city farms and productive parks. This year the trail takes place over the weekend of 15–16 June with 32 sites opening on one or both of the days, supported with a series of hands-on workshops in the run-up to and over the weekend.

Plot your own route using the map on the Bristol Good Food website at bristolgoodfood. org/ggt and find out more about the free workshops on offer as well as the timings for when the sites will be open over the weekend (opening times vary from site to site). This year's trail offers a diverse range of locations rarely accessible to the public - whether you're a seasoned grower, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about living more sustainably.

Returning to the trail this year is Horfield Organic Community Orchard, nestled between Bishop Road and Kellaway Avenue. Celebrating 26 years of fostering fruit growing as a means to build community, enhance well-being, and promote local food, the orchard invites visitors to participate in a range of activities, including the 'Bee Active, Bee Fruitful!' project aimed at supporting pollinators.

For those eager to learn the art of fruit tree pruning, the orchard will offer hands-on taster sessions during the trail led by experienced

Get Growing, Bishopston!

practitioners. Participants will have the opportunity to work with fruit trees, gaining skills in assessing, planning, and pruning for optimal health and future fruitfulness. Two onehour taster sessions are available on Saturday 15 June and the site will be open 2-5pm – links to book the workshops can be found on the Bristol Good Food website.

In addition to the orchard, other sites on the trail showcase Bristol's urban agriculture

scene. The beautiful Golden Hill Community Garden, nestled at the end of Monk Road, invites visitors to explore its tranquil setting, complete with raised beds, ponds, and an edible forest. Volunteer sessions are available on Wednesdays, offering an opportunity to get involved in the garden's upkeep and maintenance. Come along on Saturday 15 June, 10am-1pm, for cake and tea and plants for sale.

Further along, the Metford Road Community Orchard in Redland beckons with its mature organic orchard and forest garden, teeming with a diverse array of fruits, herbs, and wildflowers. While accessibility is limited due to terrain, the orchard promises a warm welcome to all nature enthusiasts, with guided tours, light refreshments, and the chance to immerse yourself in a thriving ecosystem. Open Sunday 16 June, 12–5pm.

Whether you're a green-fingered enthusiast or simply seeking a weekend of exploration, the Get Growing Trail offers a captivating journey through Bristol's community growing spaces. So, mark your calendars, plot your route, and celebrate the abundance of nature and the spirit of community on June 15–16. For more information and to plan your adventure, visit bristolgoodfood.org/ggt

GROWING TRAIL

n NATURE WATCH with

Dawn Lawrence

The silent greensong of the old land

WHAT did your street look like before it was a street? The lie of the land shows that a stream must have run roughly where Cranbrook Road runs now. The steeper slopes above it were likely pastures where sheep trod the flowery turf into little corduroy ridges. Beyond were scattered farmhouses surrounded by small fields dotted with ponds, the hedges with frequent standard trees (old maps are delightfully detailed on this point).

Remnants of that ancient landscape still persist. At the northern end of Elton Road you can still see a section of the stream and in the corner garden there is a stand of ash trees. They may not be old enough to pre-date the houses, but I bet their parents were.

The ancient track that now joins Bishop Road to Longmead Avenue is lined with hedges of native dogwood, blackthorn, field maple etc. Old maps show a stand of trees at the Longmead end: all that remains are elm suckers in the hedge, the trees taken by Dutch elm disease. The same map shows many of the still living ash and beech trees on Horfield Common.

What other hints are there? At the bottom of our road, there is a front garden where wild garlic crowds in from the edges. This plant

likes ancient, damp, shady places; no surprise then to find that about 50 metres away there used to be a wooded stream. I can imagine the bulbs being transported those few metres as the new gardens were topped with local soil. In the next road a wild bluebell (one of the deep blue, dangly ones) flowers at the base of a garden wall on the pavement with a few plants inside the garden. Bluebells would have lined the hedges and perhaps have also moved with

Garden House

the soil.

The UK has lost most of our herb-rich grasslands in the last 50 years (barely 3% remain). Yet the delicate plants that have been extinguished by modern farming still persist in places in our area. The grassy slope by the Church of the Good Shepherd supports several uncommon grassland flowers and a lone pyramidal orchid popped up on a front lawn on Redland Road a few years ago. Milkmaids is another plant that indicates old pasture and can still be spotted around here. It seems likely that local turf was turned into lawns as the suburbs spread.

The arable fields have given us their weeds: swinecress, poppies, shepherd’s purse and many more now line the kerbs. I also find sorrel, goat’s beard and wild carrot from the pastures along with hedge woundwort, goosegrass and hedge bindweed from the hedgerows. Of course, there may have been many avenues of introduction of these species since this land was last farmed, but undoubtedly some of them will have persisted since that time. They still sing their silent greensong of the old land, as they creep by generations along the gutters or remain standing tall on the Common.

Bird’s foot trefoil (red buds and yellow flowers) and daisies on the lawn at Church of the Good Shepherd Photo: Dawn Lawrence

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Aerospace Bristol and Cameron Balloons to celebrate

Bristol’s hot air ballooning heritage this summer

‘Look up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will put hot air ballooning history on display, offer a behind-the-scenes look at how hot air balloons are made, and give visitors the chance to enjoy a packed programme of family activities.

From Britain’s first modern hot air balloon, the Bristol Belle, to the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta and the incredible colours and shapes that decorate the city’s skies each August, Bristol is the home of hot air ballooning in the UK.

This summer, Aerospace Bristol and Cameron Balloons will celebrate that heritage with a temporary exhibition at the museum and a special programme of hot air balloon themed activities running throughout the summer holiday.

‘Look Up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will give museum visitors the chance to

discover how and why hot air ballooning took off in Bristol, find out how Bedminster-based Cameron Balloons design and manufacture their amazing special shapes, and get hands-on with a range of hot air balloon themed activities.

Sally Cordwell, CEO of Aerospace Bristol, said:

"Aerospace Bristol tells a fascinating story of aviation achievements spanning more than

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

a century, from the early days of powered flight to the supersonic Concorde and beyond. Thanks to this new partnership with Cameron Balloons, we’re excited to expand that story and celebrate hot air ballooning as an important part of our city’s rich aviation heritage.”

Jess Siggers, Marketing Manager of Cameron Balloons, said: “Cameron Balloons are thrilled to be partnering with Aerospace Bristol this summer. Since our

company’s inception in 1971, we’ve proudly created and built thousands of hot air balloons for pilots and operators around the world from our home of Bristol, born from the passion and vision of our founder, aeronautical engineer Don Cameron.

We’re looking forward to telling the story of Bristol’s ballooning heritage alongside Aerospace Bristol’s innovative ethos and educational qualities, celebrating the boundless possibilities of aviation together and hopefully introducing the joy and excitement of ballooning to some pilots of the future!”

‘Look Up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will run from Wednesday 24th July to Sunday 1st September. The exhibition and activities are included with museum admission and Aerospace Bristol tickets include free return visits for 12 months.

Keeping a weather eye on our wines

I CAN'T believe I'm saying this, but the vines have survived the frost risk period. When they started growing in the last week of March, I thought there would be absolutely no way they would get to the end of April with no frost damage. Normally if they started growing this early there would definitely be one or two very cold nights where the growth would get wiped out and we’d have to start again from scratch. But somehow this year we have managed to evade the frost. What this means is that the vines now have several inches of good, green growth on them and are several weeks ahead of where they would sometimes be. By the time we get to late summer and autumn this means the grapes will have plenty of time to ripen and we could even be in for an early harvest. All of these things are music to my ears!

After the wet winter we had, it's been so enjoyable to watch the vineyard coming back life and feel the warm sun again. Sometimes it can be a bit of a scramble in spring to keep the grass from swamping the young vines. This year feels different

because the sheep did a really good job nibbling the grass down just before the vines started growing. It's given me a bit of a head start with things and has made it much easier to keep everything nice and orderly.

On the wine front we now have three sparkling wines available; a sparkling white, sparkling red and sparkling rosé. As always, we've enjoyed having fun with the labels and have created some bright and colourful designs to complement our lovely fruity wines.

hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

@DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Our trains are on track for success

BRITAIN’S railway system is the oldest in the world; we invented the railways and introduced them to the globe. That is something to be really proud about.

And we should celebrate our region’s role in this story. Britain’s most famous engineer, Brunel, changed the face of the English landscape with his groundbreaking viaducts, bridges, and tunnels for the Great Western Railway. He set standards for a well-built railway.

Fast forward to the present day, and I’m really pleased to be able to point to some great stats about how our local railways are going full steam ahead, with more passengers than ever before.

It’s now 12 months since half-hourly services were introduced to and from Temple Meads serving Filton Abbey Wood, near Parkway, and Yate, as well as in Keynsham, Oldfield Park, Bath and elsewhere.

In that time, over 3.4 million journeys have been made by passengers. This is a year-on-year increase in passengers of 27%.

This impressive growth is a great news for passengers and the planet.

The new and improved services have been funded by a £7 million-plus investment by the Combined Authority and delivered by GWR

and Network Rail. This substantial investment underscores our commitment to upgrading and improving our transport infrastructure.

Growing passenger numbers is my biggest priority in terms of building the sustainable West of England public transport system we all want to see.

Increased usage not only supports economic growth but also contributes significantly to our environmental goals, by reducing car dependency and lowering emissions.

But I am not stopping there: we’re planning for the future.

I’ve revived plans to electrify railway lines in the West, starting with tracks from Temple Meads. Electrification is a crucial step towards a greener, more efficient rail network, reducing delays and environmental impacts.

Additionally, I have launched a new station study. This is doing very early-stage work to look at the case for building additional stations in Lockleaze, St Anne’s, Saltford, and Ashton Gate.

Expanding our rail network with new stations is essential for improving accessibility and convenience for our passengers. These new stations could help to better connect our communities, providing more travel options and support the local economy.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

Our efforts to improve the railway system are not just about numbers and infrastructure; they are about creating a better quality of life for the residents of our region. By providing efficient, reliable, and sustainable transport options, we are making it easier for people to commute, travel, and explore.

The future of our region’s railways is looking brighter. With continued investment, innovative projects, and a clear vision, we are on track to create a transport system that is not only a source of regional pride, but also a model for others to follow.

Let’s celebrate our progress and look forward to even more improvements that will keep our trains – and our region – moving forward.

Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon,

Alfred Pollentine (1836-1890) - Oil on canvas - The Grand Canal, Venice Sold for £3,000

n NEWS

Winning is wonderful - I'm not going to lie!

STUDENTS from Redland Green School have won the Youth Speaks debating competition, beating schools from across the UK. The Rotary competition develops young people’s skills in public speaking; each team puts forward a motion of their choice, which they propose and oppose in a formal debate.

The first round of the competition was the Local Heat held in Bristol in November. The Redland Green team then went on to win the District Final, held in Gloucester in February, and the Cluster Final in Cardiff in March, before travelling to Norwich for the National Final at the end of April.

The Redland Green team were: Year 12 students Will Smith, chairperson, Sophia Brunt, proposer, and Razia Scase, Opposer. Their motion was: “Lying is a necessary evil”.

Sophia argued that lying is something we all do from time to time in order to help social interactions run smoothly, and gave a number of touching and humorous examples of this. Razia argued that all forms of lying are inherently evil, and used

BOOKS

examples as far apart as Father Christmas and the recent “Partygate” scandal to set out her passionatelyargued opposition. The presentation was managed by Will, who ensured that the audience were left with an even-handed overview of both sides of the debate.

The judges praised the team’s persuasive arguments, their confident, engaging and authentic delivery, and their excellent teamwork.

Sophia said: “This competition has increased my confidence in public speaking, and improved my ability to communicate effectively. Above all, it has taught me the how to captivate an audience.”

Razia added: “I'm very proud of our entire team. But we couldn't have done any of it without our teacher, Miranda Pinder.” Will said: “It’s been amazing to work alongside (and against) really talented teenagers in Bristol, the South West and the whole of the UK.”

In addition to their overall win, Will won Best Chairperson at the Cluster Final, and Sophia won Best Proposer at the National Final.

The Home Child

LIZ Berry is a poet and author raised in the Black Country. The Home Child is a novel written in verse, relating the story of her great aunt, Eliza Showell, who in 1908, at the age of 12, was sent from a children’s home in Birmingham to Nova Scotia in Canada.

Between 1860 and 1960, over 100,000 of Britain’s poorest and most vulnerable children were sent to Canada to work as indentured farm labourers and domestic servants. They were known as Home Children. Some like Eliza were orphans, but most were from families, who were unable to care for them due to poverty, illness or the loss of a working parent.

We follow Eliza’s story, starting with her childhood in a slum dwelling in Bilston, with images of earth spewing Sulphur and the pounding and hammering of men working in the steel furnaces

and the coal mines. She dreams of riding a horse bareback across a meadow, escaping the confines of the steelworks, the workhouse and the chapel.

When her sick mother dies, Eliza is separated from her two brothers and sent to live in a children’s home. From there she endures an eleven day voyage across the Atlantic to the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. She is sent to work at a farm owned by Mr & Mrs McPhail where she becomes Lizzie McPhail whose daily duties include rising afore cockcrow, lighting the fire, sloping the pigs, feeding the hens, cooking breakfast, washing the dishes, sweeping the floors, cooking supper, and tending to the bedridden Mrs McPhail.

In her free time, Lizzie finds solace in nature and animals, befriending a foal in the absence of any human companions. Her

by Liz Berry

life is transformed when a 14 year old boy called Daniel McFadden is sent to work at the farm. Eliza leaves him a pear on the step, he gives her a scarlet ribbon stolen from a local shop and they embark on a teenage romance, out of sight of their employers.

This is a beautifully crafted and deeply moving novel, shedding light on a dark and shameful period of our history. The language is real and unflinching, infused with the dialect of the author’s native Black Country. You can find this novel, along with many others at your local library at 100 Gloucester Road. Please come and visit us and obtain a library card, giving you free internet access and the opportunity to borrow from an extensive catalogue of over two million books. You will be assured of a warm welcome.

Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library Opening

Monday (1pm-7pm) Tuesday ( closed)

(11am-5pm) Thursday (11am-5pm) Friday (11am-5pm)

Saturday (11am-5pm) Sunday (closed)

Sophia Brunt, Will Smith and Razia Scase from RGS won the national Youth Speaks debating competition

n WHAT'S ON IN OUR AREA

Saturday June 8 and Sunday June 9

BS9 ARTS TRAIL 11am to 5pm. More than 80 artists exhibiting in Henleaze, Stoke Bishop & Westbury-on-Trym. For more details, visit https://www.bs9arts. co.uk

Fridays June 14 and 28

n COFFEE AND CRAFT COMMUNITY GROUP, 10.3012.05 at Horfield Baptist Church, 160A Gloucester Road, Horfield. You are invited to bring your current craft project and enjoy a time of conversation with other people from our Community. Further information from Pam 0117 9248166

Saturday June 22

n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR'S SUMMER CONCERT will be a beautiful and entertaining mix of fun, thoughtful, poignant, and sensuous music, including secular works by Bob Chilcott, Cecilia McDowall, William Mathias, and George Shearing. Summer Concert Saturday 22nd June 2024 7.30pm. Redland Hall, Redmaid’s High School, BS9 3AW. Tickets: £22 (reserved), £15 (unreserved), students & under 18s £1. www.bristolbach. org.uk - Tel: 0117 214 0721. Email: tickets@bristolbach. org.uk

Saturday June 29

n CAR BOOT SALE at Redland Green School, 1-4pm. Community event with live music and refreshments. Organised by the PTA. For further information, contact RGSPTA@redlandgreen. bristol.sch.uk

Friday July 5

n WESTBURY SINGERS concert, ‘The Deep Rolling Sea’, songs and ballads celebrating the Ocean (and Love) 7.30pm in Westbury Village Hall, BS9 4AG. Tickets £10, For info visit wotsingers@gmail. com.

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n SHARED READING AT ST PAUL’S LIBRARY. Meet and connect with others Mondays 2pm – 3.30pm. St Paul’s Learning Centre, 94 Grosvenor Road, Bristol BS2 8XJ. Email: support@thereader.org.uk

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

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 (9.45) and like to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to join and help to solve some of today's challenging issues, contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628.

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

n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917

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 visit our website www.

theartssociety-bristol.org.uk

n BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18thcentury. St Edyth’s Church Hall, St Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, 7.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. All voices (SATB), string, wind and reed instruments welcome. No auditions but ability to read music helpful. www.bristolharmony. wordpress.com or call Fritjof 0117 924 3440. Contact before attending.

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

We are a 'threshold choir' 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 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/support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org.

Tuesday and Saturday

n BRISTOL HF RAMBLING CLUB

We are a friendly sociable club with a variety of walks. We have 2 Tuesday walks of either 8-9 miles or 5-6 miles. On Saturdays we have varying length walks including a hill walk eg Brecon Beacons once a month. If you would like more information please visit our website.

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 Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo.co.uk

n SWIFTS INCLUSIVE SPORTS swimming sessions are for adults 18+ with any type of disability (hoist available) on Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm. £5 per session at Henbury Leisure Centre. Contact Karen Lloyd at 07734 335 878.

n GOLDEN HILL WI Meets the first Wednesday of every month. 1-3pm. Golden Hill Sports Ground, Wimbledon Rd, BS6 7YA. A vibrant, lively new afternoon WI in BS6. We have an exciting and varied programme to offer to members. Visitors and new members will be given a warm welcome. For more information contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@gmail.com.

n WELCOME WEDNESDAY

Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your local area. Call 0117 435 0063 for more information.

n HEALING SESSIONS Spiritual Healing is available from 2pm to 3.30pm by the accredited healing team at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www. westburyparksc.org

n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE

For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30 start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www. westburyparksc.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 at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. NEW TIME 3.30 to 4.45 pm. Donation basis. Supported by Healing Trust members. Contact Selina 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@yahoo. co.uk for dates and information.

n BISHOPSTON COMMUNITY CHOIR Meet on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm to 9.00pm at Horfield Baptist Church, 160a Gloucester Road, Bishopston BS7 8NT. Everyone welcome, no audition necessary. Contact us via email on bishoproadchoir@gmail.com

n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR 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. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on

07752 332278

n HENBURY SINGERS

RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet each Thursday 7.30-9.15pm at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, Cedar Park BS9 1BW. We perform sacred and secular music under our conductor Andrew Kirk. No auditions. 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 ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING

aLooking for a new hobby? Join us for fun, fitness and friendship (singles welcome). First evening free! Thursdays: New/Inexperienced dancers 7–8.30pm (£4). Intermediate/Advanced dancers 7.30–10pm (£6). St Monica Trust, Oatley House Main Hall, BS9 3TN. www.rscdsbristol.info. Contact Ruth 01179683057.

n THE STEPFORD SINGERS WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CHOIR meets at Horfield Baptist Church, Bishopston on Thursday afternoons, 1pm to 3pm. No auditions and no need to read music! Come for a free taster session with our friendly, supportive group and learn to sing in harmony. For info, contact Fran franbolton66@gmail.com

Friday

n BRISTOL SPANISH CIRCLE

Come and meet a group of friendly people and enjoy talks in Spanish, musical events and social evenings. We meet every month from September to June, usually on the last Friday of the month, at St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze. For more info, see https://www. spanishcirclebristol.com/

n COMMUNITY NEWS

HORFIELD COMMUNITY ORCHARD

ALL are welcome to enjoy the lush life at our Summer Orchard Open Day on Saturday 15 June, 2-5pm. Our midsummer orchard is bursting with activity. Leaves and shoots are growing fast, and turning solar energy into food for the trees. Sun and rain nourish fruitlets formed by pollinationfood for us.

Come and see new pollinatorfriendly areas recently planted as part of our community pollinator project, Bee Active, Bee Fruitful! Find out simple ways to enrich food sources for wild pollinators in urban gardens and allotments. How many different kinds of pollinators can you discover in the orchard on the day?

All sorts of ground-dwelling creatures make Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) their home. Over the years we’ve seen newts, frogs, stag beetles, hedgehogs, and slow worms. Too often it’s because their shelter was accidently turned over. We are creating habitat areas in parts of the orchard that are less disturbed by human activity. Workshops

HOCO is offering these activities on the day as fundraisers-by-donation: • Art in the Orchard led by Julian

Volunteers at work at the community orchard, left

Below, a slow worm at the site

Gregg. Changing seasons and human activity inspire Julian’s watercolours, drawings and prints. All budding artists are welcome to enjoy this friendly plein air session. Bring your own art making materials, along with drinking water. Drop-in from 3pm to 5pm.

• Learn to prune fruit trees - for beginners led by Shannon Smith. Introducing the basics of assessing, planning, and pruning trees for health and fruitfulness. 1-hour sessions at 2.30pm & 4pm. Please see the HOCO website for advance booking information.

This HOCO Open Day is part of the city-wide Get Growing Trail weekend organised by Bristol Food Network. All our public events raise

funds for HOCO through the sale of homemade cake, refreshments, plants, preserves and produce. Visitors can support the orchard by joining as a Friend of HOCO.

To find the orchard (nearest postcode BS7 8JP) - Walk down the lane beside 22 Kings Drive (between Bishop Road & Kellaway Avenue), turn left and it’s the first gate on the right. or take the lane beside 134 Longmead Avenue (BS7 8QQ) until you come to the last gate on the left. More information: www.community-orchard.org.uk

E-mail: hocohello@gmail.com

Phone: 0117 373 1587

Words by Shannon Smith aka The Apple Tree Lady

Photographs by Jamie Carstairs

No.2 Broadway Road is a

This popular tree lined road is within a family-friendly neighbourhood, right in the heart of West Bishopston. The sought after Redland Green Secondary School is within 600m and Bishop Road Primary School is within 525m. This location also gives easy access to Gloucester Road, Whiteladies Road, the Downs and St Andrew's Park - with the city centre also close by.

n FEATURE

The rewards pursuing a career in care homes

The rewards of pursuing a career in care homes

Lucy Bolland outlines how she went from a care assistant role to that of a nurse manager with Bristol Care Homes

Lucy Bolland outlines how she went from a care assistant role to that of a nurse manager with Bristol Care Homes

How long have you been a nurse?

How long have you been a nurse?

I started my career in care at Beech House in Thornbury about 20 years ago when I worked as a carer before going to Surrey University to train as a nurse. I worked as an NHS nurse for ten years in gynaecology, general surgery and an early pregnancy unit. Relocating back to Thornbury with my family, I became a bank nurse at Beech House. It was a career pathway change from hospital nursing to being part of a community as a care home nurse, but it is so much more rewarding and fulfilling as job.

I started my career in care at Beech House in Thornbury about 20 years ago when I worked as a carer before going to Surrey University to train as a nurse. I worked as an NHS nurse for ten years in gynaecology, general surgery and an early pregnancy unit. Relocating back to Thornbury with my family, I became a bank nurse at Beech House. It was a career pathway change from hospital nursing to being part of a community as a care home nurse, but it is so much more rewarding and fulfilling as job.

a bigger difference in our residents’ lives.

a bigger difference in our residents’ lives.

manager; I happily said yes. I learned an awful lot in a very short space of time. Next, a permanent deputy nurse manager vacancy became available at Glebe House in Almondsbury and once again I knew I had to step up. After two years in this role, I took on the nurse manager position at Beech House.

manager; I happily said yes. I learned an awful lot in a very short space of time. Next, a permanent deputy nurse manager vacancy became available at Glebe House in Almondsbury and once again I knew I had to step up. After two years in this role, I took on the nurse manager position at Beech House.

What made you stay so many years with Bristol Care Homes and pursue a management career?

What made you stay so many years with Bristol Care Homes and pursue a management career?

something clinical because I still have those skills and it is important for me to keep using them

something clinical because I still have those skills and it is important for me to keep using them

What does a typical work day look like?

What does a typical work day look like?

The best way to describe this role is that you never know what you will walk into, and you are always spinning many plates; but you can follow through and see the positive outcomes. Working together as a team is important to me.

The best way to describe this role is that you never know what you will walk into, and you are always spinning many plates; but you can follow through and see the positive outcomes. Working together as a team is important to me.

I had young children, so I needed flexibility, and luckily the manager at that time was very accommodating. When Covid hit I had to decide whether to continue working and keep my children in school, or to stop. In the end, I kept working to look after our residents. Even though I was doing more and more hours, I felt that I was making

I had young children, so I needed flexibility, and luckily the manager at that time was very accommodating. When Covid hit I had to decide whether to continue working and keep my children in school, or to stop. In the end, I kept working to look after our residents. Even though I was doing more and more hours, I felt that I was making

I started undertaking some administration tasks including the rotas and audits. I was then given the opportunity to step up and support both the management and our residents by getting more involved in the running of the home. I really enjoyed it and saw different ways of how the home was run; I understood the pressures from different perspective.

I started undertaking some administration tasks including the rotas and audits. I was then given the opportunity to step up and support both the management and our residents by getting more involved in the running of the home. I really enjoyed it and saw different ways of how the home was run; I understood the pressures from different perspective.

I was offered the opportunity to transfer to Quarry House in Fishponds as interim deputy nurse

I was offered the opportunity to transfer to Quarry House in Fishponds as interim deputy nurse

Besides being given the flexibility I needed, access to the training I wanted and all the support I needed, I felt motivated to stay because Bristol Care Homes really believed in me. They saw my capability to grow and develop my career.

Besides being given the flexibility I needed, access to the training I wanted and all the support I needed, I felt motivated to stay because Bristol Care Homes really believed in me. They saw my capability to grow and develop my career.

Do you miss ‘hands-on’ nursing after moving into management?

Do you miss ‘hands-on’ nursing after moving into management?

Yes and no. I do miss spending my work hours principally involved with hands-on nursing; however I still get involved in the nursing aspects of the home. I’ll be the first one arriving when the emergency bell goes off and I’ll be the first giving staff support with

Yes and no. I do miss spending my work hours principally involved with hands-on nursing; however I still get involved in the nursing aspects of the home. I’ll be the first one arriving when the emergency bell goes off and I’ll be the first giving staff support with

What is the best/most rewarding thing about being a home manager?

What is the best/most rewarding thing about being a home manager?

Seeing our residents happy, having meaningful conversations with family and staff and knowing that the small things make so much difference. It is also very rewarding to see staff develop and blossom within their job roles, making a big difference to families and supporting them through what can be a very difficult journey.

What advice would you offer to someone thinking about a career in care home nursing?

Seeing our residents happy, having meaningful conversations with family and staff and knowing that the small things make so much difference. It is also very rewarding to see staff develop and blossom within their job roles, making a big difference to families and supporting them through what can be a very difficult journey. What advice would you offer to someone thinking about a career in care home nursing?

Go for it! It is really rewarding, and you can make such a difference to someone’s life.

Go for it! It is really rewarding, and you can make such a difference to someone’s life.

Monk Road, Bishopston, BS7

by Ocean Bishopston