bishopstonvoice
www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk
March, 2024 Issue 134
FREE EVERY MONTH IN BISHOPSTON, REDLAND & ST ANDREWS Knife deaths prompt action Members and special guests from the local community shared their personal experiences of fighting for racial equality at an event at Fairfield High School to launch new and more diverse GCSE resources Report: Page 15
Police have launched a proactive campaign on teenage knife crime after three deaths and several more serious incidents PAGE 3
'Don't knock down old bank' A bid to demolish a landmark former bank in Gloucester Road and build a block of flats has sparked an outcry. PAGE 13
up the Bowling club faces closure Waking apple trees THE Ardagh Bowling Club, which has been on Horfield Common for almost a century, is on the brink of closure. There is deadlock between the club and Ardagh Community Trust, which took over the running of facilities at the site in Kellaway Avenue, including the bowling green, five years ago.
The club says it will have to shut if it is forced to pay the £12,5o00 annual maintenance costs. But ACT, which has revitalised the site since 2019 and has more improvement plans, says as a charity it cannot pay to maintain a facility for the sole use of the bowling club. Full story: Pages 4 & 5
Hundreds of Wassailers took part in the traditional ceremony at Horfield Organic Community Orchard in January. PAGE 11
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March, 2024
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Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061
Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm
Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bishopston Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. A member of the
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Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Bishopston Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
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March, 2024
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n NEWS
'Let's unite to prevent more knife tragedies' TEMPORARY stop-and-search powers were given to police in Bristol for 48 hours last month following a third fatal stabbing and several other serious knife attacks. The area involved included central Bristol, St Pauls, Easton, Eastville, Ashley Down, Temple and Fishponds. The decision followed the death of 16-year-old Darrian Williams on February 14 after he was the victim of masked attackers in Rawnsley Park, Easton. Two 15-year-old boys have since been charged with murder and possessing a knife in a public place and were due to appear at Bristol Youth Court as the Voice went to print. Darrian’s death came after the killing of 19-year-old Eddie Kinuthia last June and of Max Dixon, 16, and Mason Rist, 15, in Knowle West, in January. A 16-year-old boy knifed in McDonald’s in The Horsefair on February 8 remains critical in hospital while a 20-year-old
suffered knife injuries in an attack in Fishponds Road on February 14. Police are also investigating a serious assault in Mina Road park on February 4 in which a 14-year-old needed hospital treatment for stab injuries. Police consulted the mayor Marvin Rees and other community leaders before deciding to take the short-term stop-and-search measures. They have also launched a proactive operation aimed at getting more knives off the streets – but they say what is most needed is united efforts to prevent young people carrying the knives in the first place. Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Peter Warren said: “Children and young people are being seriously injured and killed on the streets of Bristol and this needs to stop. “We are extremely concerned about the frequency of serious violence incidents involving young people in the city, many of
which involve knives. “Knife crime is a national problem and not something policing can solve on its own but we recognise there is an ongoing issue in our city which we need to put significant resources into to address. “This new operation’s focus will be on tackling immediate problems such as those we’re sadly seeing in Bristol, but it is not a long term solution. “Working together with our colleagues in the Violence Reduction Partnership, including local authorities, education, health and social care, we are committed to understanding and addressing the root causes of serious violence, diverting young people away from becoming involved in criminality and educating them on the dangers of knife crime in particular.” Initiatives already under way include a partnership with NHS South West and HeartSafe to install bleed control kits across Avon and Somerset, with 200
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expected to be in place by April 2024. These kits are designed to be used in an emergency, in the time between an incident and emergency services arriving on scene. They are not designed to be used instead of calling 999. Weapon surrender bins have been installed across the force area, in which people can safely and anonymously discard of knives or weapons they are carrying. Find out more about bleed kits and surrender bins here - https://www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ report/weapons-knives/ Operation Sceptre, a national police week of action to target knife crime, runs twice a year and sees officers focus activities on prevention, disruption, and education around knife crime. Officers carry out targeted searches in areas where intelligence suggests weapons may be stored or hidden, as well as carrying out extra patrols, targeting those who are known to be habitual knife carriers.
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n LETTER
This bus is great - use it or lose it PLEASE can you bring your readers attention to the recently improved Stagecoach bus service 3X from Aztec West to Temple Meads. It covers part of the route previously served by the much missed First Bus No 9. Currently there are 10 buses running hourly per day Monday Saturday. The route travels along the Gloucester Road, Zetland Road, Redland Road, Redland Hill to Blackboy Hill, Whiteladies Road, Queens Road to Temple Meads. This service has not been advertised, to the best of my knowledge, and I fear it may be lost if it is underused. Every time I have used this service it has run to time which is impressive. Janis Taberner
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March, 2024
n NEWS
Is this the end? Deadlock A 98-YEAR-OLD bowling club on Horfield Common says it’s on the brink of closure. The Ardagh Bowling Club has been in dispute with the Ardagh Community Trust (ACT) since the charity took over management of most of the site on Kellaway Avenue five years ago. Now bowling club officials say they have been told they must pay the £12,500 a year maintenance cost of the bowling green – or move out. ACT chief executive Sam Thomson says the club’s lease agreement is with Bristol City Council, and no one is evicting them. ACT took over the site in 2019 when Bristol City Council was asking community organisations to run some park areas, in order to reduce its maintenance costs. Since then volunteers have revitalised the long-neglected park area, with a new café, plant
sales and wider community use. But Sam says ACT cannot pay the bowling green maintenance costs to maintain a facility for the sole use of the bowling club. Sam said: “ACT has secured a future for the Ardagh as a community asset. The alternative was that the site including the public gardens, sports courts, bowling green and pavilion - was sold for development or privatised. "Inevitably this has led to change - it was not sustainable as it was.” She said the bowling club chose not to be part of the community project. She said the £12,500 a year bowling green maintenance
contract would be with the existing company Avon Bowling Green Maintenance. “The charity (ACT) is legally obliged to use its resources only for public benefit - not private benefit. It is not permitted - nor would it be of interest - for the charity to subsidise a private members club.”
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March, 2024
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over fees threatens bowling club
The trust says it will keep the green available for social bowling and other activities such as yoga and tai chi while trustees consider its long term future. The bowling club has published notices on social media saying: “The bowling green will no longer be available to the club
for competitive bowling. “We as a club have been given "non-negotiable" option to use the bowling green for competitive bowling in 2024. The costs demanded are excessive and have been positioned significantly higher than the bowling club can afford.
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“The Ardagh Bowls Club is due to celebrate its centenary in 2026 and has, since 1926, fully facilitated and provided a club for the community to enjoy. We would like to emphasise the social, health and wellbeing attributes that our bowling club can provide for everyone.” Bowling club secretary Jeff Arnold said the club had also been asked by ACT for £5,000 towards a general repair fund for ditches and surrounds, when in the past bowls club members had carried out this work. The club would also be charged £10 an hour to use the green. He said: “One if our main objectives is to get the charity to come to the table and try and meet a compromise. This is something they have refused to do. “Their demands are completely unaffordable and there must be a shift in their stance.”
Bishopston & Ashley Down councillor Emma Edwards said she had talked with both sides in an effort to find an amicable solution. She said: “Accepting this offer is the best way for competitive bowls to continue at the Ardagh site. I think if the club were to accept that and work with the community trust it would be best for members. “I really do hope this can be resolved between the two parties, as the site is clearly loved by the community and the bowling club members; but I think this solution is the only way I can see this happening.” Old photographs show bowling at Ardagh in 1924. The Ardagh Bowling Club was formally started in 1926. The green used to be maintained by Bristol City Council, but by the early 2000s much of the rest of the site had fallen into disrepair.
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March, 2024
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Bishopston and Ashley Down this month... 248 Gloucester Road There has been much interest around the fate of 248 Gloucester road, the site of the old bank building on the corner of Gloucester road and Longmead avenue. Developers have put in an application to demolish the site and build a new block of flats. There have been many comments on the application and concern about the loss of the façade. We have met with the developers and architect who have reassured us that no final plan for the building has happened and that they are willing to engage with the local community about the finalised plans. We are also looking into the possibility of getting the façade listed as part of the plan and have put in a request for this to be looked at. We understand how much this means to the local area. Bowling club We understand many are concerned about the future of the Ardagh Bowling Club now that the lease has been transferred to the Ardagh Community Trust. Unfortunately, due to ongoing Council Budget Cuts across the city, there is no longer a budget for the council to support leisure activities in parks, and community asset transfers to community trusts are one way of resolving this to keep sports clubs open. Unfortunately, community
trusts cannot subsidise private leisure clubs under their terms of reference with the council, and so this has been a difficult situation and we understand this has created an upsetting conflict between the club and the trust. We have spoken at length to club members, the trust and council officers and we hope an amicable solution can be found soon that allows both the club and trust to continue to work together for the good of the community. As Green councillors we oppose the ongoing budget cuts and call on the government to fund local authorities properly for the good of residents and local communities. Ashley Down train station We have heard from officers that the new Ashley Down train station is on track to be completed within the next six months and we know this will be welcome news for many. However there has been concerns about the recent loss of parking spaces around the station and access needs. We have spoken with transport officers who have explained that this temporary measure is to keep space available for a disabled parking bay, and for safety reasons for the vehicles accessing the site. Other measures were looked at but were sadly impractical. We have requested the council improve comms with residents and keep them better
informed of any potential changes. We have also reiterated the need to get Concorde way open as soon as possible and we hope this will be opened again when the station opens later this year. There were also concerns about tree removal near the entrance to the site, which we have been assured was agreed as part of the initial plan. The three trees removed were cherry trees, one was deceased and the other two were determined to not survive the works. We have been assured that there is currently no more plans for additional tree removal.
Bike marking at The Ardagh On the back of the success of the event in 2023, where over 40 residents had their bikes marked for free, we are pleased to announce we are helping host another bike marking day at The Ardagh on the 23rd March in the afternoon. Bring your bike along and local community police officers will mark it and get it registered. We will also be on hand to chat about all things cycling, including discussing ways to improve active travel in Bristol and providing cycling maps. We look forward to seeing you there!
Meeting with police about crime In January we met with our local police representatives about issues in the area that residents have raised with us. Specifically issues around speeding, antisocial behaviour and bike theft. We are working with the local police to do another series of speed watch dates, where we can visit roads with speeding issues and monitor the issues using speed guns. The police are also going to inform beat officers about antisocial behaviour on Gloucester road and around the Methodist Church, as well as on match days. We are also working with police to put on another bike marking day at The Ardagh as outlined below. If you have any issues you wish us to raise with the local police, get in touch.
Traffic around Memorial Ground Residents have been in touch with ongoing Muller concerns about traffic and parking Road issues on match days around the Memorial Ground. We have busin lane been touch with Bristol Rovers and understand they are carrying out traffic surveys on match days to improve the situation. We have also been in touch with transport officers about the situation to see if the transport plan can be adjusted. We understand the ongoing parking issue is causing a lot of stress and this is something we would like to address longer terms with some form of residents parking system.
services and are liaising with the police to try and put together a way to make services more reliable.
need for really affordable housing for city residents. While planning permission gets given for many new developments these aren’t always built and wasted homes and other buildings could be a practical way to create housing where it’s needed.
cllr.emma.edwards@bristol.gov.uk cllr.james.crawford@bristol.gov.uk
In Redland this month... Allotment proposals in limbo Many residents remain worried and upset at the Labour administration's proposals for a massive hike in allotment charges plus new rules. The upset led to 3500 consultation responses which are now being reviewed. Some of the changes have been pushed back. Additional charges for ponds, trees and sheds raised questions about damage to the environment and retrospective rules that would be near impossible to enforce by volunteer site reps. Local community orchards and gardens in our neighbourhood have also said how difficult new rules proposed would be for them to survive. Fi listened to around 200 allotmenters’ concerns and Martin has pushed to make sure these changes get debated by councillors before the Mayor brings rent rises to his Labour Cabinet on March 5. There is a public forum there where statements and questions can be tabled in advance. Allotment fees have not changed since 2018 so a review is needed but Fi and Martin are horrified at the shoddy consultation process and impact that such measure could have. While most changes apart from fees are paused the uncertainty will now be left to the new multi party committee administration to deal with after May’s elections.
More library staff promised The frequent, short notice closures affecting Bishopston Library and all the city's branches have been disruptive and damaging. This was caused by a spending block last summer for any casual staff when someone falls sick, retires, or gets a secondment. The budget was there but being reserved for other service overspends. After Martin called for the spending block to be lifted in a council debate it’s finally been announced by the Mayor that the funds will now be released to find casual staff again. The recruitment can now proceed so libraries will stay open as advertised. Recycling services need improving The weekly recycling services have again been unreliable - we keep getting reports of whole streets in our ward getting missed - several weeks running. The council itself is sometimes the cause as trucks get blocked by chaotic parking. It’s two years since we asked the Mayor for action to protect corners from rogue parking but this hasn't been acted on. The new autumn scheduling changes seem to be another cause. Martin has been told a few streets in each area haven’t worked out unfortunately. He’s asked for residents to be better informed of how and when these routes will be adjusted. We have asked to meet with the different
Parking problems After nearly eight years with permit charges unchanged there’s been a second review of charges by the Labour Mayor. Following changes in December a new, tripling of first parking permit costs and elimination of third permits was passed in January by his Cabinet. This was blamed on ‘failure’ of the permit scheme but no evidence was given for claims lots of short local trips are generated in the permit areas. Martin pressed the Cabinet for a coherent approach to ensure streets with no parking management get solutions to the chaos when vehicles are left for free. But no promises were given for any practical solutions in the parts of our ward where there is no permit system for residents, businesses, or meters for visitors. We’re keen to see a better way to manage streets developed in future. Empty homes could be repurposed A successful Green motion debated at the council has raised the issue of action on the many empty homes around the city, and the unused shops and offices which could be repurposed for housing. We’d like to see action taken to bring these back into use especially the
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Funding for services shrinks again Government spending on council services has been tightly controlled and has shrunk in real terms after years of austerity. The latest announcements confirm that most budgets will be under pressure again, with social care making up about four fifths of the council spend. The Mayor’s proposals for how to manage social care costs have now been left to the next administration to resolve after the May elections. The council has to set a balanced budget and only has some discretion over things like council tax and certain fees and charges. This means services are yet again at risk. The budget has been drawn up by the outgoing Mayor although he and most of his Cabinet will not be on the council after May. At the time of writing it will come to the full council for approval in February. Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk Fi: 0117 3534720. Martin 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or /cllrfi. hance
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
n NEWS
Council tax rises COUNCIL tax bills for band D households in Bristol are set to rise by more than £115 from April. Annual charges will increase from £2,345.24 to £2,460.42, while those for band B properties are going up by £89.52, from £1,824.08 to £1,913.60. Bristol city councillors were expected to agree the 4.99 per cent hike at budget full council on Tuesday, February 20, the maximum permitted by government without approval by a local referendum. The bills include a £13 band D rise (4.88 per cent) for Avon & Somerset Police – from £266.20 to £279.20 – despite an initial proposed £10 increase by police & crime commissioner Mark Shelford, with Chief Constable Sarah Crew successfully arguing more resources were needed. There will also be an uplift of £2.48 to £85.43 for Avon Fire & Rescue Service, although this will be decided at a fire authority
meeting on Monday, February 19, with members also given the option of freezing charges at £82.95. Bristol City Council’s portion of the fee, which comprises most of it, is 4.99 per cent more than last year, with two per cent set aside for social care. Band A bills will rise by £76.71, from £1,563.49 to £1,640.20 , while band C’s increase is £89.52 to £1,913.60. Charges for band C households will go up by £102.31 to £2,186.96 and band E from £2,866.40 to £3,007.34, a rise of £140.94. Band F residents will pay £3,553.80, £166.23 more than now, band G is up from £3,908.73 to £4,100.53, with people living in the highest band H forking out an extra £230.16, with bills for 2024/25 at £4,920.64. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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Bristol Waste £4m bailout BRISTOL City Council has given its waste company a £4million bailout, it has been revealed. The extra annual cash injection, funded by taxpayers from April 2024, aims to keep Bristol Waste’s loss-making kerbside collection, recycling and street cleaning services at the current level. It comes after the local authority’s Quality of Life Survey found residents were more satisfied with its services than any other provided by the council, and City Hall chiefs are determined to keep it that way. The business will make a £2million loss in the current financial year but the additional money will see this reduced over the next two years before the firm finally breaks even with a small projected profit of £27,000 in 2026/27, a council meeting was told. Council chief executive Stephen Peacock said: “You will see there is a £4million contribution from Bristol City Council to allow the company to basically maintain the current standard of service. “It’s fantastic news that, despite everything we are dealing with, we have been able to do what the administration was hoping to achieve which was to keep the service the way it is, recognising the Quality of Life Survey data. " Bristol Waste interim finance director Gary Phillips said: “The current year has seen many different cost impacts. “Drivers’ wage increases have been higher than budget, we’ve got an ageing fleet of vehicles, we’re six years into their eight-year life so we’re seeing high costs for spare parts, maintenance, and we are also beholden to fuel costs in the market.” He said prices for recyclable materials, which the business collects and sells on, had “dropped dramatically”. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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n NEWS
March, 2024
Sponsored fast for food charity ANDREW Milton is planning to go without food for 48 hours this month – to highlight efforts to support those who would otherwise go hungry every month. Andrew’s fast, from 5pm on Wednesday March 6 to the same time on Friday March 8, is raising money for Family Food Action, Andrew and his family have donated food and toiletries to FFA, which collects donations from local groups and sends them out to organisations that help families and children in food poverty. He said: “When I was young, people did not have to choose between heating and eating. We have seen this situation get increasingly worse over the last fourteen years. “I want to do something that directly contributes to preventing kids going to school hungry, doctors having to prescribe ‘food’ because someone is malnourished, or in some cases, people actually dying of hunger. This is happening now in our own city and country, one of the richest in the world. “The FFA’s work should not be seen as a solution, we need to end this situation, but until then foodbanks are a literal lifeline for many families and I want to help as much as I can.” FFA started in lockdown following concerns from teachers in some parts of Bristol about food poverty. Residents in Effingham Road, next to St Andrew's Park, started a food collection for those
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A PLAQUE commemorating Agatha Christie is to be installed on an old church tower in Clifton. The 110 foot high tower of Emmanuel Church is still a significant landmark although the church itself was demolished long ago. Agatha Miller, 24, from Torquay,who went on to become writer of 70 crime novels, married Archibald Christie there on Christmas Eve 1914. The plaque has been donated by Clifton and Hotwells Improvement Society (CHIS).
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Andrew with the amount of food he would usuall consume over 48 hours schools. The group expanded across north Bristol and now about 40 streets are involved. Some supporters have now switched to financial donations, enabling FFA to buy in bulk. Supplies are also boosted by regular supermarket collections and support from businesses. The food and hygiene products are sorted by volunteers and delivered to five community partners in Southmead, Lockleaze, St Paul’s, Easton and Eastville, as well as being offered to families at a weekly food club at The Ardagh, You can find Andrew’s Just Giving page at http://tinyurl.com/bdhj3cvy
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bishopstonvoice
10
March, 2024
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Deeds of Variation
FINDING out you are a beneficiary A Deed of Variation may be What are the advantages of of someone’s Will can be a nice useful if: doing a Deed of Variation? reminder of how important you • A beneficiary wishes to redirect •follow Theus beneficiary can decide E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk on Twitter @bishopstonvoice July, 2014 were to them during their lifetime the assets to someone who has a who will inherit the asset unlike a but sometimes you may wish greater financial need; disclaimer where the beneficiary that the estate had been left has no control over who will differently. Perhaps you already • A different beneficiary (e.g. a receive the asset once it has have sufficient assets of your own spouse) would be exempt from been given up by the original and would have preferred your paying inheritance tax; beneficiary; children inherit something or Sarah Burgess perhaps there has been a change • A different beneficiary may • It can be used to rectify of circumstances since the Will qualify for a particular relief that errors distributing an estate if be used to vary a minor’s share was written and it would be more would otherwise be wasted, an executor has already given of the estate and if the Variation beneficial for the money to be for example redirecting the an asset to someone else, for results in additional Inheritance paid into a trust fund. will be. However deceased’s their child ofexample; are sometimes a Will can property be fortothe distribution the estate, carsmembers of the Society ofTax Trustbecoming payable then the so the niland ratethe band can given executors of an estate will need worded to provide thatresidence a gift of estate can then be to younger andfamily Estate members Practitioners, the What is a Deed of Variation and be of claimed; to drive. 10 % of the value your estate divided as if the Will so hadthey beencan learn leading professional body to in be involved. at that time is given to a charity made in these terms. A Deed of this field. We offer a free initial when is it used? If you think that a Deed of or charities Variationto could consultation new clients. If a beneficiary of a Will wishes to of your • Itchoice. wouldThe be beneficial gifttherefore • Ifprovide drafted to include for certain Variation may be beneficial to you effect of this will be that the rate that 10 % of the estate is to pass For advice on administration change who will inherit the assets money to charity to support a provisions, the Deed can actually then please do not hesitate to get of Inheritance Tax payable on the to a chosen charity or charities, of estates, trusts, wills, they were due to receivewhole they estate can isgood benefitthefrom the estate inheritance tax powers in touch with us. reducedcause from 40and making estate assave a whole of attorney and all private client do so using a Deed of Variation. a lower rate ofeligible inheritance andratecapital gains tax especially % to 36 %. for the reduced of issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, A Variation is a documentIn used tax which itbecomes payableTax.if if the Will was Florence made aPearce while and agothe other For advice on wills, inheritance same circumstances, Inheritance has a been thatfunds this pass to charity; to alter who inherits from Willcalculated enough and there are now additional taxon 0117 tax, lasting powers of attorney, members of the team This change in the law is reduction and can be used to redirect assetsin the tax bill can serve clearly very good news reliefs available. 9621205, email probate@administration of estates and all both to leave evenare afterany ambiguities over amdsolicitors.com or call in including cash, land, shares etc. the It estate, • There other private client issues, please for charities, and potentially for of the gift to charity, at 15to The Mall Clifton, or 100 is advisable to instruct apayment solicitor the interpretation ofsome the Will; Important note: contact Sarah Burgess or another estates as well. However points with a value as high as if the Henleaze Road Henleaze. By Shelley the detail of the application to draft the Deed to ensure that To becan effective for tax saving member of our team on 0117 962 gift had not been made. Thus be complex. For example, the a Deed AMDofSolicitors takes pride in email info@amdsolicitors. it is valid and any available • A cases beneficiary was excluded purposes, Variation 1205, the gift tax can in some quite Faulkner, divided different sponsoring Bristol based savings are made. may ismake a intomust be executed withinlocal, 2 years com or call into one of our four literally pay for from itself. the Will and estate ‘components’ depending on year is very solicitor with of the date ofcharities death. and It this cannot Bristol offices. Even whereclaim a Will against has not the estate. how the property will pass to pleased to be supporting the
bishopstonvoice bishopston voice
23
Advertising Feature
The gift that pays for itself
How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax
AMD Solicitors
been prepared in these terms, the beneficiaries, in order to it may be possible to take calculate whether the 10 % test advantage of this tax break. If has been met. Taking specialist the beneficiaries of the estate advice on the implications for WHILE most of us support agree, it is possible to effectively your particular circumstances is a number of charities in our amend the terms of a Will within therefore essential. lifetime, it is perhaps not two years of the date of death. A surprising that a smaller number AMD’s team of experienced ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn choose to remember a charity in up which sets out the familyBS9 4JZprivate client solicitors and 100forHenleaze Road, Henleaze their Will. Clearly the priority practitioners includes full members’ agreed arrangements most is to provide for a surviving15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to benefit the next generation. 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.
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. 139Copyright Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL AMD Solicitors
2 Station Road, Shirehampton BS11 9TT
www.amdsolicitors.com
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
A local award winning law firm A local award winning law firm Telephone our experts on 0117 9621205 If planning for inheritance tax is right for you our experienced specialist solicitors can help Telephone 0117 9621205 or e-mail probate@amdsolicitors.com
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
11
n COMMUNITY NEWS
How does a community orchard grow? HORFIELD Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) was well and truly woken up by many hundreds of Wassailers in January. As the days grow longer, sunlight stirs the sap, that swells the buds, that break into blossom - awaking the trees for another year of harvest hope. We look forward to pressing the juice and returning a symbolic cupful of cider to the tree roots at next year’s Wassail. Fruit trees thrive when well cared for. A community orchard is raised by many hands attending to the soil, pruning, and naturefriendly management of pests and problems. A community orchard spreads it seeds with many minds to organise working meetings, events, and projects. A community orchard brings together people with a whole bunch of practical skills to look after the site, structures, and trees. You are invited to support our lively and lovely orchard by becoming a Friend of HOCO. We also warmly welcome new members keen to learn, and
by West of England Combined Authority (WECA), ‘Bee Active, Bee Fruitful!’ will enrich the orchard habitat for wild bees and other pollinating insects by planting year-round food forage. Get in touch for news of active community volunteer sessions coming up in March and April.
become active Harvest-share members. As well as a share of the fruit harvest, active members enjoy the wellbeing benefits of doing good work in a gorgeous green space with a friendly group. Are you new to fruit growing and orchards? Joining HOCO as an active member and taking part in a course is a great way to learn. Get going with Get Growing Fruit
Trees – an introduction over four seasons, and Pruning for Beginners courses. Professional gardeners and more experienced growers can refresh skills and deepen practical knowledge by taking part in Pruning for Improvers courses. Not sure about joining HOCO? Happy to lend a hand clearing the ground for our new community pollinator project? Part-funded
• Get Growing Fruit Trees – a handson introduction Course dates: Sundays - 10 March, 12 May, 14 July, 15 September Deadline for applications: Friday 8 March • Dormant Season Pruning for Beginners - Saturday 16 March • Dormant Season Pruning for Improvers - Sunday 17 March More information about HOCO membership, courses, and Bee Active volunteer days: www.community-orchard.org.uk Phone: 0117 373 1587 Words by Shannon Smith aka The Apple Tree Lady Photograph by Jamie Carstairs
Your Home Away From Home in Horfield Best value for money (weekly fees starting at £1,200). 24/7 nurse cover. In-house physiotherapist. Idyllic garden & grounds. Constant redecoration projects. Automated care plan system. Wheelchair cars available for all. Great daily activities. Nutritious fresh meals. And much, much more.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
12
March, 2024
NEWS FROM OUR MP
I'll keep fighting fossil fuels bill Work towards a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and Israel The horrors of recent months in Israel and Gaza have been intolerable. We cannot become desensitised to the civilian deaths we are witnessing. There has been no let-up to the suffering in Gaza, no end to the cruelty for hostages. Millions are displaced, desperate, hungry. Israel continues to use devastating tactics that have seen far too many innocent civilians killed, with unacceptable blocks on essential aid, nowhere safe for civilians, a humanitarian catastrophe and now warnings of a deadly famine. Meanwhile, Hamas terrorists continues to hold hostages, hide among civilians and fire rockets into Israel. I was hugely disappointed that the Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu recently repeated his
opposition to a state of Palestine. The Labour Party, and I personally, have long been committed to the idea of two states of Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace. At the time of writing, I am deeply alarmed at reports that Israel is preparing a major military operation in Rafah. An Israeli offensive there would have catastrophic humanitarian consequences. We need an end to the fighting now. Knife crime in the city Like many of you, I have been shocked by the recent incidents of knife crime in Bristol. Last week another young life taken by the cruel knife crime epidemic. My thoughts are with the young boy’s family and friends as they come to terms with this tragic loss. We need swift firm action for those carrying and early
intervention to stop people from doing so in the first place. I’ll continue working for a targeted programme in Bristol to identify young people at risk as well as more youth workers, youth hubs and mental health support. Voting against the Offshore Petroleum Bill Many people have reached out to me about the Offshore Petroleum Bill. I completely agree with what my constituents are telling me about the Bill – it is unnecessary, undermines action on climate change and will not cut energy bills or increase energy security. Therefore, I joined my Labour colleagues and opposed it at its Second Reading in the House of Commons, on 31st January. Doubling down on fossil fuels will make Britain more insecure, not less.
Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice Unfortunately, as you may know, the Bill passed its Second Reading. I assure you that I will continue to support efforts to oppose it through its further parliamentary stages.
n FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE
Bristol mourns Mason and Max My thoughts remain with everyone affected by the tragic deaths of Mason Rist, 15, and Max Dixon, 16, following an incident on Ilminster Avenue in Knowle West in late January. With my cabinet at our meeting last month, we shared our sincerest condolences with their families, who are going through a pain which nobody – no parent – should have to experience. Like people across south Bristol, our whole city, and beyond, I was deeply saddened to hear of this further loss of life. As the police have said, any loss of life is devastating but this case is particularly so, as the two young victims had their entire lives ahead of them. The murder inquiry launched by Avon & Somerset Police has, at the time of writing, arrested and charged a number of people in
relation to these horrific events. With hundreds of local people, and Filwood councillor Chris Jackson, I attended the vigil in Knowle West the evening after this double murder, and found the community’s response and mobilisation incredibly moving and powerful. People have come together to grieve, with a real resolution to do all they can. The council, including my cabinet members, has been working in partnership with the community, schools, partner
organisations like the Robins Foundation and Youth Moves, and the police to support people affected. Our director of public health has written joint letters with the police to the community and local young people signposting everyone affected to the support which is still available. Mental health support is on offer from Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership, Off the Record, Samaritans, and Bristol MIND. We would encourage anyone experiencing a reaction associated with trauma to call 111, contact their GP, and/or talk to someone they trust. Max and Mason are sadly not the first young people that Bristol has lost to knife crime. As a city, we will do all we can to support their families. At Bristol City and Bristol Rovers, we saw a united
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Marvin Rees shares his views with Voice readers city in two minutes’ applause in Mason and Max’s memory. While we can likely unfortunately never totally eliminate the risk, and there is the need for real national reform, we must also continue working locally to try to prevent further tragedies.
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
13
n NEWS
Dismay at bid to knock down old bank
HUNDREDS of people have objected to plans to knock down a former bank on the Gloucester Road. The old Nat West at number 248 is on the corner of Longmead Avenue, between Sainsbury’s Local and Horfield Prison. The derelict Edwardian building has been a roofless shell for several years. Just the façade of the red brick and stonework remain, wrapped in scaffold and tarpaulin. Now the owner Omid Jalil has submitted plans to Bristol City Council to have it totally demolished, and nine flats built in its place, with a café on the ground floor. But people living and working nearby say it’s a historic landmark, and should be saved. Others are concerned about lack of parking if the new six storey building is allowed. The building was last in proper use about ten years ago, when it was home to an employment agency.
THEN
NOW
During the following years it remained mostly empty, apart from when squatters lived there. In 2016 the current owner was given planning permission by Bristol City Council to build two more floors and convert it into nine flats. At the time a BCC planning officer report said the bank was “considered a prominent building that is attractive benefiting the street scene”. It’s thought work started, but was halted during the Covid pandemic. Objectors to the demolition say that old permission is still valid, and they want to see the façade preserved. One objector said on
BCC’s planning portal: “The existing building provides a visual reminder of Gloucester Road's cultural heritage and the people, businesses and industries that played a pivotal role in establishing the area into something which we all love and enjoy living in today. “The decision to demolish the existing structure and replace with a characterless shoebox facade will strongly contrast to surrounding architecture in the Gloucester Road area.” Another said despite being empty for some time, “The existing building is an extremely attractive building that adds to the street scene of the area. “The initial plans to redevelop
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it were brilliant and retained a lot of its original features.” Another said the demolition plan was “criminal”. They said: “As a Bristolian and local business owner I strongly object to this proposal and feel to pull it down would be totally out of keeping with the area. “The proposed large apartment building will significantly increase local population density, exacerbating existing issues with parking and access to essential services like healthcare. One resident said: “Parking problems are already severe and the area cannot cope with more vehicles. The quality of life will have a detrimental impact on residents.” Among more than 230 objections, there was one comment in favour. They said: “Please get rid of this eyesore and build some much needed housing.” The plans are on the council planning website: reference 23/04158/F
bishopstonvoice
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March, 2024
n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence
Close encounter with a gorgeous goldcrest AT the allotment recently I had the task of cutting back the apple from the blackberry from the gooseberries – a Gordian knot if ever there was one. This meddlesome trio entangle themselves amongst each other as soon as my back is turned but the birds love them and I love watching them go! Their growth rate is phenomenal and after a few years even I have to admit they’ve gone too far. Both the bramble and the gooseberry are native to Britain (albeit our garden varieties are bred for extra size and flavour of fruit) and the apple is a close Asian relative of our native crab apple so all are good for wildlife, supporting a range of insects as well as providing fruit for the birds. As I began flexing my secateurs I was amazed to see the gooseberries had scrambled around four metres into the apple tree, forming long flexible whip-like branches to do so and clinging on by their chunky spines. Botanical texts have the wild gooseberry as a small shrub up to 1.5 metres high and the Royal Horticultural Society agrees with this height limit. But then, what you learn from observing nature is that nature often surprises. The Gordian knot took longer to sever than
A goldcrest
Photo: Gail Hampshire
expected, even with my sturdy pair of vintage secateurs, so I will have to be back soon to finish the job before the sap rises much further. As I was reaching into the apple tree a sudden tiny movement caught my eye, and it was not the robin I expected. A goldcrest was bobbing about the tree, its sharp eyes seeking tiny invertebrates and its even sharper beak probing amongst the bark and buds.
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I froze and it came closer, looking me in the eye at least twice (at this point a bird will often fly away as it realises it is being observed). It finally got so close I could easily have reached out and touched it. It is rare to be that near to a wild bird and I held my breath. Fine black stripe over the eye, rakish golden head streak, plumply rounded body, very active movement… goldcrests are very distinctive. Adults weigh around 4-7g and are our smallest birds. Yet these birds survive the whole winter here and points north. Whilst the birds from the northern and eastern parts of their breeding range tend to migrate southwards in winter, individuals can survive a long winter’s night down to minus 25C by burning fat up to a fifth of their body weight! It is therefore not surprising that a prolonged period of freezing temperatures will kill a high percentage of the resident population. However, with clutch sizes being as high as 12 they are well placed to restore their numbers in the following breeding season. Their confiding nature (I love that way of expressing it) is well known so if you see one just stay still and you might be treated to a close encounter, as I was.
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The Carpet Shop • Free measuring service • Fitting included in the carpet price • Wide selection of styles and colours • Fitters with over 20 years experience • Professional, friendly and prompt service
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12% Holiday pay & a pension scheme
Interested? Call us now on 0117 435 0063 or visit
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bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
15
n EDUCATION
Ofsted success for Brunel Field primary BRUNEL Field Primary School in Ashley Down has been rated Good in all areas following its first Ofsted inspection in 12 years. A team of three inspectors who visited in November gave the school the positive judgement for quality of education, leadership and management, behaviour and
attitudes, personal development and early years provision. They said the school was ambitious for all its 411 pupils and had designed a curriculum, with reading at its heart, that gave them the knowledge they needed to succeed. The inspectors praised pupils' calm and sensible behaviour and the warm
relationships across the school and they noted that parents were overwhelmingly positive. "Pupils live out the school vision ‘respect, compassion, commitment and joy.’ "They are polite and welcoming to all. Adults in school know the pupils well," the report said.
Inspectors praise Redland Green School REDLAND Green School has been judged as Good in all areas in its first full inspection for more than seven years. Its sixth-form provision was rated as Outstanding. A team of five inspectors from the watchdog visited the 1622-pupil school in December and said it provided a good quality of education through an ambitious and inclusive curriculum, with teachers having “high expectations of the quality of work that they expect students to produce”. Lead inspector Kelly Olive wrote in her report: “The school has high expectations of pupils’ behaviour. Lessons are calm and purposeful. Relationships among pupils and staff reflect a positive and respectful culture. Pupils are safe and they feel safe.” It was also noted that RGS is “an inclusive and respectful environment where difference is celebrated”. The leadership team at RGS were praised for their strengths: “Leaders know the school well. They initiate changes and
improvements effectively.” With regards to special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the Ofsted report acknowledged that the school identified pupils quickly, and that “appropriate support, which is reviewed regularly, is then put into place.” The inspectors said that to improve further the school should make more precise assessment of pupils’ understanding to inform future teaching and learning. Headteacher Ben Houghton said: “I would like to thank all staff who work tremendously hard at ensuring we strive to improve and provide the best possible education for all in our care. Thank you also to our parents who continue to support us, and finally thank you to our wonderful students who are a constant source of inspiration as they live the school values of Respect - Ambition Responsibility.” Nicky Edmondson, CEO of Excalibur Academies Trust, added: “We are delighted with
Redland Green School headteacher Ben Houghton and Nicky Edmondson, CEO of Excalibur, with students Redland Green’s Ofsted report which quite rightly praises the school’s culture, ethos, curriculum, leadership and
enrichment programme. The hard work being put in by Ben and his team behind the scenes is evident to see.”
Stories with global majority characters at centre
Cashan Campbell, Amy Saleh, Tanisha Hicks-Beresford
EDUCATION professionals in Bristol worked together to create a free scheme of work in response to the lack of diverse GCSE texts on diversity. The Lit Legacies project is based on the play Princess and the Hustler by Chinonyerm Odimba. It centres on Bristol, including the Bus Boycott in 1963. It was launched at Fairfield High School and the guests included Barbara Dettering, one of the seven Saints of St Pauls, who features on the mural in the school’s atrium. Lit Legacies’ team includes UWE Bristol
lecturers Amy Saleh and Malcolm Richards, plus English teachers Cashan Campbell (Fairfield High School), Tanisha HicksBeresford (Bristol Cathedral Choir School) and DeMarco Ryans (St John The Baptist School). Ms Campbell said: “This has been a considerably rewarding and enriching experience for me. I grew up in Bristol, came to school at Fairfield and my beloved Nanny was one of the Seven Saints of St Paul’s. Lit Legacies represents stories of global majority characters, perspectives and life experiences.”
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
Start the journey Discover Reception at Badminton – an education full of adventure awaits Book a private visit at a time that is best for you
badmintonschool.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
17
March, 2024
n EDUCATION
Badminton's musical stars in the spotlight THE musicians of Badminton School gathered at St George’s Bristol, for their annual spring concert. Under the baton of director of music Mark Dowd, the school’s various choirs and orchestras performed pieces by Ola Gjeilo, Steinberg & Kelly’s True Colours and Consider Yourself from Oliver! Three soloists for the concert were students in the Upper Sixth. Jasmine Wong’s rendition of O mio babbino caro, was followed by an electrifying Let the Bright Seraphim from Handel’s oratoria Samson. Yijing Ren’s virtuosic playing of the Schumann Fantasiestucke, Op12 had younger pupils hanging over the balconies of St George’s to watch. When the third soloist, Kristina Gvozdyuk was joined on stage by drums and bass, the atmosphere changed. Electrifying playing of the jazz melodies of Sasko and of Peterson filled the hall and received a rapturous reception. Mr Dowd said: “I am
profoundly proud of what our young musicians have achieved today. For a school to perform at this level usually requires legions of professional musicians supporting the student performers, but not at Badminton. There were many remarkable performances this
evening, but the orchestra’s faultless performance of Strauss’ Emperor Waltz was made even more remarkable with the addition of only a handful of teachers. "The lyrical and technically faultless performance was worthy of any adult orchestra.
I am overjoyed not only that the quality of our musicians was demonstrated this evening, but that their individual enjoyment of performing to over 500 people, was evident in the beaming smiles I had the pleasure of witnessing as they left the stage.”
Visit our website to find out more
admissions@cliftonhigh.co.uk | 0117 933 9087 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
Pupils are happy and safe. They feel that staff are caring and respectful and ambitious for their futures. Parents say this too.” Ofsted
www.fairfield.excalibur.org.uk
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
19
n EDUCATION
Ross is appointed head of QEH Juniors QEH Junior School has appointed a new headteacher. Ross Wolverson will replace David Kendall, who is retiring in the summer after seven years at the independent boys’ school. Mr Wolverson is currently Head of Winsley Primary School and a member of the leadership team at Palladian Academy Trust. He previously held senior positions in independent schools including Monkton Combe School in Bath and Shebbear College in Devon. He has had a research paper exploring boys’ literacy published by the Department for Education. Mr Wolverson served for many years as an officer in the RAF (Reserve) and worked for several international charities and NGOs overseas where he learned valuable leadership and collaborative skills.
Ross Wolverson
He is married to Melissa who works for University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Trust’s Dental Service. They have two sons Henry , 8, and Artie, 5. Mr Wolverson said: “I am honoured and incredibly excited by the prospect of leading a school which
specialises in the holistic education and development of boys. I was extremely impressed by the young men I met when I visited the school. Their polite and friendly confidence was a joy to see. The staff are so committed to the well-being and education of the boys, and I look forward to
working with them. “The school itself has a genuine warmth and being in a converted Georgian townhouse has a welcoming family feel. Our goal is to educate the next generation of boys who are ‘gentle- men’ rooted in a valuesbased approach to education while also continually innovating our curriculum. I am eager to contribute to QEH Junior School and ensure that it continues to provide an outstanding education for boys in Years 3 to 6.” Rupert Heathcote, head of QEH, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Mr Wolverson to the QEH family. His leadership qualities and passion for education are outstanding. We are confident that he will build upon the exceptional leadership of Mr. Kendall and guide the Junior School into the next stage of its exciting future.”
JUNIOR SCHOOL STAY AND PLAY Saturday 16 March 2024
We warmly invite boys aged 5-7 and their parents to a morning of fun activities and an opportunity to learn more about QEH Junior School.
Book your place now
‘Excellent’ in all areas ISI report, 2022
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
20
n LEARNING THROUGH PLAY Our play idea for this month is focusing on messy and sensory play. We embrace the mess at Magic Dragon and do lots of the messy play for you but if you fancy some at home here are some ideas. A very simple and fun sensory activity that can entertain your child is to put some rice, pasta, lentils, or whatever you have to hand into a large tray and provide some pots, cups, spoons and tubs. Your child will love scooping and pouring, filling and tipping. This is also a fantastic activity for grasping an idea of some mathematical concepts such as capacity and volume. You can foster this gentle learning with some questions such as “Which cup can hold more?”, “Will all of this pasta fit in that pot?”, “I wonder which one is bigger?”. At Magic Dragon we embrace scooping and pouring and will fill our large tuff trays with an array of sensory items, sometimes we will have cars to drive through flour, or oats, funnels and different sized bottles, or pasta with tongs to strengthen our grip. We find that sensory play appeals to all ages and is very soothing for children and adults alike Messy play is activity that some people can find off-putting but with a little bit of preparation it can be a fantastic way of engaging with your children. A great hack to protect your table and floor and allow your children to explore without worrying about
the furnishings is to invest in a super cheap shower curtain! Shaving foam is a really fun and inexpensive product for you and your children to play with. Select a couple of pots from the recycling, help your child to squirt in some shaving foam and watch their delight as they get stuck in. You could add in some flour, glitter or food coloring (if you’re feeling brave!) and provide some tools for stirring, scooping and spreading. Messy play of this kind allows children to explore different textures and consistencies, to investigate ideas and encourages independent play. Getting stuck in the mud outdoors is another easy messy play activity. Go and find a puddle, dig some holes in the garden or fill flowerpots with soil if space is limited. Outdoors messy play is a fantastically engaging activity for children and allows them to explore the outside world. At Magic Dragon we have an area of mud in our forest garden dedicated to digging and using in our mud kitchen. If you fancy a less mucky approach then our final suggestion might be for you- water play! Children adore playing with water indoors or outdoors. Provide some toys, an empty bottle, a garden trug whatever is at hand and let your children relish in the sensory experience of playing with water. Adding in some washing-up liquid and giving your
child a whisk will allow for some bubble play that will help develop your child’s gross and fine motor skills, support their language development, enhance their observational skills and problem-solving skills. Above all, sensory play is great fun and will keep your child occupied for a while. There is daily sensory provision at Magic Dragon both indoors and outdoors. Magic Dragon have extended their hours and now open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Monday through to Thursday. Book a visit to come and have a look around our wonderful setting. Call 07971 421 834 or visit www. magicdragonpreschool.org.uk for more information.
n EDUCATION
Adding up support for NSPCC METRO Mayor Dan Norris visited Cabot Primary School in St Paul's to take part in the NSPCC’s Number Day. The annual event aims to encourage children to take part in maths while also helping the children’s charity to raise funds for its activities, such as its schools service which sees staff and volunteers delivering workshops that aim to protect children from sexual abuse. Mr Norris, mayor of the West of England said he was keen to support Number Day having worked as a child protection officer before entering politics. xxx Tara Wright, from the NSPCC, said: “Number Day is a fantastic time for all children to explore their love of maths. It’s always great to see how the day is celebrated in Bristol and South Gloucestershire."
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Watch them grow Reception – Sixth Form Open Morning Monday 6th May
badmintonschool.co.uk
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OPEN WEEKEND
LE
SATURDAY 23RD & SUNDAY 24TH MARCH FREE ACTIVITIES ALL WEEKEND INCLUDING: FREE GYM SESSIONS F R E E A D U LT S W I M M I N G F R E E F A M I LY F U N S W I M S FREE BADMINTON F R E E TA B L E T E N N I S FREE YOGA FREE KETTLEBELL CLASS FREE INDOOR CYCLING F O R F U L L T I M E TA B L E O F ACTIVITIES AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. EXERCISE CLASSES AND RACKET SPORTS MUST BE B O O K E D I N A D VA N C E .
GUTHRIE RD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL BS8 3EZ
W W W. C C S L- C L I F TO N C O L L E G E . C O M
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bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
23
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES
How sheep help with winemaking AS I write this, I’m getting close to the end of vine pruning. So that’s 2400ish vines prepped and ready for summer 2024! Before the vines start growing in mid April I have asked a local farmer if he can put some sheep in the vineyard to help get the grass down. The grass is already getting quite long! The sheep like to scratch themselves against the vine trunks which can be a bit of a pain, but they are very good at nibbling down the grass and tidying things up before the growing season begins. This summer I’ll be spending a lot of time removing old polythene weed control and putting a good layer of mulch under the vines. The sheep will give me a headstart with this process because there won’t be so much strimming to do. Vineyard volunteers Steve and Clare are half way through pollarding the 90-odd willow
Labels for the new Dunleavy fizzes
Willow prunings lining the bottom edge of the vineyard. We’ve piled up all the willow prunings and will get them made into woodchip as soon as the weather allows it. The woodchip is great as a mulch once it’s had a bit of time to rot down. The vineyard has been feeling quite spring-like recently with a lot of bird song in the hedgerows. It's been lovely. In the winery, our new still
rosé will be bottled soon and we have three different fizz being prepped for sale. First off, we’ll release a new sparkling white, followed shortly by a sparkling rosé. We’ve not made a sparkling rosé before so this is rather fun! Later on in the year we’ll be releasing a sparkling red. We will also be releasing something called a col fondo. This is a slightly fizzy, bottle fermented wine made
using natural yeasts. We have used the same red grapes that we use for our rosé to make the col fondo. Can’t wait to taste it! hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)
Housing Forums
for Bristol council tenants – get involved!
Afternoon:
Evening:
Wednesday 13 March, 1–3pm
Wednesday 20 March, 6–8pm
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 Spring 2024, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.
● Come along and hear from Bristol Waste and find out everything you need to know about your rubbish and recycling, including top tips on how to reduce your waste and make the most out of Recycling and Reuse Centres. All rubbish questions welcome!
● You will also be able to find out about how we are working with residents with additional care
and support needs to help them maintain their tenancies, and the ongoing work we are doing around fire safety in high rise blocks.
● 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
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
24
March, 2024
n WHAT'S ON March 20 n BRISTOL FRIENDS OF WNO warmly invite you to a talk at The Apostle Room , Clifton Cathedral on Wednesday 20th March 6.45 for 7.15 start. What I have learned since leaving WNO Phil Gibby, now Southwest Director for Arts Council England, will reflect on the present debate about support and funding for opera. Easy parking, bar, Friends £8, Visitors £10. Further information from Melanie David. Tel: 01934 842014 email: melaniejdavid@ btinternet.com
March 23 n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR will perform Scarlatti’s Stabat Mater and Gabriel Jackson’s Requiem in All Saints, Clifton on Saturday 23rd March 2024 at 7.30pm. Tickets £22 (reserved), £15 (unreserved), £1 students & under 18s. Tel: 0117 214 0721, www. bristolbach.org.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 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.theartssocietybristol.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/
01934 830 111 info@clevedonsalerooms.com Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
www.clevedonsalerooms.com
Thursday 14th March Spring Specialist Sale Featured Lots
Archibald Thorburn (1860-1935) ‘Male Black Grouse’
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) draft screenplay film script - revised third draft
Est: £5,000 - £8,000
Est: £1,000 - £1,500
Clevedon Valuation Days at Clevedon Salerooms, every Monday 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm Bristol Valuation Day Tuesday 14th May, 10am -3pm, Stoke Lodge, Shirehampton Rd, BS9 1BN Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
March, 2024 CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org. Wednesday 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 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 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.
bishopstonvoice 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 OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm 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 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 other information.
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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 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. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278 n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR are now recruiting new members. We are a friendly auditioned choir of between 30 and 40 singers. All voice parts are welcome. We rehearse on a Thursday evening at Bristol Grammar School from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. If interested please contact Julie at membership@bristolbach.org.uk n LOCAL CHOIR. 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 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
0300 323 0700 info@wecr.org.uk www.wecr.org.uk Previously known as We Care & Repair, we have over 30 years of experience
We specialise in:
Call us on 0300 323 0700
Accessible bathroom & kitchen installations Home adaptations, conversions, extensions & repairs Handyperson service Occupational Therapy
Our aim is to improve the homes of older people and those with disabilities - enabling them to live independently in the surroundings they love for as long as they choose Appointed provider for:
Your local and friendly veterinary practice To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
26
March, 2024
n PHARMACY BLOG
Introducing Pharmacy First scheme xxxx
BRISTOL pharmacist Ade recently played a prominent role on TV explaining the national ‘‘Pharmacy First’’ scheme, built on a successful local pilot, enabling accessible local NHS care. Here are the details:
over 30 days to 2 years
• Open to all
• Free NHS treatment?
The Pharmacy First scheme now offered in Kellaway Pharmacy enables all members of our community, in fact, anyone in Bristol, to visit us as a first port of call for NHS care for various conditions. Video consultations are also available. Our service is broader than the national one and includes:
This is an NHS-funded service, so any supply will be like receiving NHS prescription items. After consultations with a pharmacist, people with symptoms suggestive of these conditions will be provided with advice, where clinically appropriate, supplied a prescription-only treatment, including antibiotics or other medicines. The consultation notes will be added to your NHS record.
As ever, we will continue offering prescriptions, over the counter treatments and childhood, Covid, seasonal and travel vaccinations.
1. Sinusitis – for children and adults 12 years and over; 2. Sore throat – for children and adults 5 years and over; 3. Earache (acute otitis media and externa) – for children and adults 1 year and over; 4. Infected insect bite – for children and adults 1 year and over; 5. Impetigo – for children and adults 1 year and over; 6. Shingles – for adults 18 years and over; and 7. Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women 16 to 64 years. 8. Infected eye treatment – for children aged
If the pharmacy team cannot help with the condition the patient is presenting with, they will be referred to the appropriate healthcare access point, such as a GP surgery or A&E. We will also help to support evidence-based self-care because many conditions can be managed without needing urgent NHS care. • Kellaway Pharmacy will not be dishing out antibiotics " willy-nilly"; this is no paid-forsupply scheme! The pharmacist will assess your needs and provide you with evidence-based
care using the same NHS guidelines and tools employed by all clinicians.
0117 9246579
18 Kellaway Avenue, Westbury Park, BS6 7XR
• Will this help local GP Access? The NHS hopes this scheme will make getting the help people need easier and quicker while freeing up 10 million GP Appointments for more complicated needs. GP surgeries are also advised to refer people directly to this service. We have long campaigned for this, and we already had prescribing clinicians who could only provide private care, so this is a most welcome development for the health of communities around the country but is just a first step in the right direction; the Welsh Pharmacy First scheme covers 26 conditions! It's great news that people across Bristol can access more NHS care from us. For Details: Call 0117 9246579 or visit www. pharmacyfirstbristol.com • Remember: We can offer video consultations. • Top Tip: Keep a copy of the list of conditions.
n WHAT'S ON KELLAWAY PHARMACY NOW OFFERS
NHS FUNDED PRESCRIPTION TREATMENTS
FOR A VARIETY OF AILMENTS.
(INCLUDING ANTIBIOTICS WHERE APPROPRIATE)
EARACHE
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
SINUSITIS
QUICK, EASY & CONVENIENT LOCAL CARE!
(adults and children aged 12 years & above)
INFECTED INSECT BITES (adults and children aged 1 year & above)
SORE THROAT
(adults and children aged 5 years & above)
SHINGLES
(adults aged 18 years & above)
URINARY TRACT INFECTION (women, aged 16 to 64 years)
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS (children aged 30 days to 2 years)
IMPETIGO
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
VISIT YOUR
Find us at:
Kellaway Pharmacy
VIDEO ATION CONSULT TMENTS APPOIN BLE! AVAILA
18 Kellaway Avenue, Bristol BS6 7XR
0117 924 6579 www.pharmacyfirstbristol.com
A touch of glass ... THE tenth Bishopston Window Wanderland takes place this month – and there’s still time to create a display. This year’s event, organised by St Bonaventure’s primary school in Egerton Road, is from March 9-11. The theme of the free community arts festival is Let there be Light. People are invited to create window displays, simple or spectacular. Participating properties will be featured on trail maps. More information can be found on the website and on Facebook. The launch event is at St Bon’s at 6pm on March 9. It’s sponsored by CJ Hole, Fed, Pizzarova and Joes Bakery. If you’d like to help with the organisation, or find out more, email wwbishopston@gmail. com. If your Voice arrived early, you might also catch the Chandos Neighbourhood
Pippi Longstocking - one of the displays in last year's Bishopston Window Wanderland Association’s ninth Window Wanderland, which was taking place from 6-9pm on Saturday February 24 and Sunday February 25.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
27
n SPORT
GCCC welcome back Alleyne as head coach
MARK Alleyne has been appointed head coach at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club on a three-year deal. Alleyne, Shire’s most decorated player with nine trophies and a County Championship promotion to his name, will join at the beginning of March to take charge of the remainder of pre-season training. Alleyne, 55, is hugely popular with the Shire’s fan base. A mural of him was painted on to the walls of the Seat Unique Stadium in 2019 and his career in numbers features at the ‘Legends Walkway’ area of the ground, He said: “There is a really exciting blend of youth and experience at Gloucestershire and that’s why when the opportunity came up, I didn’t give it a second thought. I can’t wait to get started and am excited to see what the future holds.” The club is gearing up for the new season with two major signings, Australian internationals Cameron Bancroft and Beau Webster. Bancroft, 31, who will be available for all forms of cricket, played at Gloucestershire for a short stint in 2016 and a whole season in 2017. A top-order batter, he has amassed 14,500 domestic runs and 10 Test match appearances for his country.
Mark Alleyne returns to the Shire He said: “I love playing county cricket and the opportunity to play all formats with the club is something I’m really excited about. With a new coach and a really talented playing group I’m looking forward to the season ahead.” All-rounder Webster, 30, is eligible to play in Shire’s T20 Vitality Blast campaign. He will also be available for selection for Gloucestershire’s County Championship fixtures against Yorkshire and Glamorgan in June.
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Tasmanian Webster, who is 6' 6", excels in T20 cricket in Australia and has had recent success in the Big Bash League. Meanwhile, GCCC is mourning one of its greatest players, Mike Procter, who died in February. The South African played a total of 482 matches for the Shire between 1965 and 1981, scoring 20,072 runs and taking 1,113 wickets in first-class and List A cricket. At the peak of his careers, Gloucestershire was affectionately nicknamed ‘Proctershire’ in recognition of his achievements. Procter was a regular and popular visitor to the Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol and last visited the Club during Gloucestershire’s County Championship match vs Worcestershire at Cheltenham College in July last year. He was an avid supporter of the Gloucestershire Exiles and kept in close contact with many of his former teammates with whom he became lifelong friends. A spokesman said: “Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket is deeply saddened by Mike’s death and would like to send their best wishes to Mike’s family during this terribly sad time.”
Alpine LANDSCAPING
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www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
28
March, 2024
BOOKS
The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born by Ayi Kwei Armah Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library
WE start and finish on a bus. It is April 1965 and the setting is newly independent Ghana. One of the bus passengers is an unnamed railway clerk on his way to work. Throughout the novel he will be referred to as the man. Corruption is rife in Ghana, under the leadership of President Kwame Nkrumah, but the man is determined to be an honest citizen, resisting the temptation of easy bribes. One day at work, he is approached by a timber contractor, whose timber is rotting in the forest, awaiting transportation to the coast. He offers the man a bribe if he arranges for his timber to be allocated a goods train and conveyance to the port for export. The man refuses the bribe. When he tells his wife, Oyo, about the attempted bribe, she is angry at his refusal, dreaming of a better life, involving a new house, a new wig, expensive perfume and a shiny new Mercedes car. A few days later, he encounters an old classmate called Koomson who is now a Government
minister. The man and his wife are invited to dinner at Koomson’s palatial home where Koomson offers the man and his wife, a lifetime's supply of fish in return for their signature on the purchase of a fishing boat, thus masking Koomson’s involvement in a fraudulent money making scheme. We, the reader, follow the thoughts of the man, over the following days, as he is forced to decide whether to stay true to his values and principles or to accept the bribe of his childhood friend to satisfy the materialistic dreams of his wife and family. This is an enjoyable and highly readable novel with believable characters, forming part of the acclaimed African Writers Series. You can find this novel, along with many others in your local Bishopston Library. Come in and visit us at 100 Gloucester Road. You will be assured a warm welcome and you can walk out with a brand new library card, giving you free access to the internet and over two million books via the Libraries West catalogue.
Opening Hours: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
(1pm-7pm) ( closed) (11am-5pm) (11am-5pm) (11am-5pm) (11am-5pm) (closed)
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W W W.RDAVIESFUNER AL S.CO.UK Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
March, 2024 AERIAL SPECIALISTS
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29
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
30 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
atom electrical specialist domestic installers
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www.ElderwoodElectrical.com Office - 0117 9322379 Mobile - 07725 058581 HANDYMAN
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
FURNISHINGS & REUPHOLSTERY
KTS Electrical Services domestic | commercial | industrial fuseboards | rewires | lighting callouts | inspections | certification 07982 196 197 @kts.electrical info@kts-electrical.co.uk
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Your Soft Furnishings Specialists in Bristol Sofas l Curtains & Blinds Footstools l Reupholstery
Call Nick on 0117 2872082 0117 303 9000 GARDENING SERVICES
Handcrafting bespoke soft furnishings in Bristol for over 30 years. 119 Coldharbour Road, BS6 7SD 0117 924 8383 l sofamagic.co.uk
GARDENING SERVICES
BACK TO THE
Handy Man Services
• Hang • Repair • Plumb • Assemble • Install • Fix • Replace • Paint Experienced, reliable, friendly Jobs big and small
Contact Gary 07984 614108 FLOORING
ROOTS GARDEN MAINTENANCE
RHS Qualified • Garden/planting ideas • Garden Clearance • Herb gardens • Organic vegetable gardening • Turfing & Lawn maintenance We are friendly, local & reliable
Tel: 07723 304420 Email: kashbub@hotmail.com
fully licensed and insured
HOUSE & RUBBISH CLEARANCE
MAN WITH A VAN
House clearance & waste management services
HOUSE CLEARANCE GARAGE CLEARANCE GARDEN CLEARANCE GENERAL RUBBISH CLEARANCE FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED
MINIMUM COLLECTION FROM £49 - FREE QUOTATIONS
Visit us: www.junkmonsters.co.uk Email us: info@junkmonsters.co.uk Call us: 07592 506 003
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
March, 2024 PAINTING & DECORATING
31
PLUMBING & HEATING
Rob Ogborn (L.C.G.I) Master Decorator (Since 1990) Internal/External Tiler • •Mason • Painter
• Painting & Decorating • Wall-papering • Stenciling • Faux/broken colour work
Tel: 0117 9422589 Mob: 07814 113038
Classic & Natural stone tiles High Quality Finish robertogborn@yahoo.co.uk Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry PAINTING & DECORATING Interior & façade painting
PAINTING & DECORATING
Blue Flame
Gas of & PAT Testing Nobody likesLandlord the thought paying for a major new Nobody thelet thought of expensive paying forone. a major item in thelikes house, alone an Yet a new item in might the house, let alone an expensive one. Yet a boiler save you a considerable amount in gas new boiler might saveyour youenergy a considerable amount consumption, lowering bills and also helps in gas consumption, lowering your energy bills and save on repair bills.
ROOFING
Save £’s£’sononfuelfuel billsbills withwith a new ‘A’ rated energyenergy saving Save a new ‘A’ rated saving boiler! boiler! And receive up to a 13 year warranty! And receive up to a 13 year warranty!
T M HOBBS ROOFING
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
Builder & Interior Decorator
APPROVEDINSTALLERS INSTALLERS FOR FOR APPROVED
T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
www.blueflameservice.co.uk www.blueflameservice.co.uk
0797 0122137
0117 960 0296
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PLUMBING
PLUMBING
www.snugsash.co.uk
ed@thebristolplumber.com
07736 229727
facebook.com/thebristolplumber
CALL 07769 693300
WWW.COPPERMILLHEATING.COM
SASH WINDOWS
We can fit double glazing to your sash windows!
07540607626
FREE ESTIMATES
Tel: 01179 426 436
• Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting
No VAT, Free no obligation quote
• CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION & REPAIR • GAS, OIL & LPG • P O W E R F L U S H I N G • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES • BOILER SERVICING • PLUMBING INSTALLATION & REPAIR
Pitched or flat roofs repaired or replaced Guttering & Cladding, uPVC Fascias & Soffits Chimneys, flashings & parapet walls repaired Skylights & Veluxes Installed Insurance Work Undertaken • Free Estimates Minor work welcome
Sash window specialist
10+ Years Experience, Tiling, Bathroom Fitting, Kitchens, Radiators, All Small Jobs
PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS
Established 1989 • Based in Bishopston
SnugSash.co.uk
Bathroom & Kitchen Installation
COPPERMILL HEATING
www.carterdecorating.co.uk
15/03/2022 16:34
The Bristol Plumber
PLUMBING
Painter & Decorator
Services Professional Specialists in NEW and replacement boiler Decorating Services installations in and around0117 Bristol Painting & Decorating Association 960 and 0296 Accredited (with PDA guarantee) surrounding areas. 0797 0122137 For a free competitive quotation: Boiler Servicing/Repairs Specialists in NEW and replacement boiler installations in and around Bristol and surrounding areas. 07786 513788 or 0117 907 6997 Landlord Gas & PAT Testing Boiler Servicing / Repairs Cranside Avenue, Redland, BS6 7RA
also helps save on repair bills.
17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience
Stephen Carter
SnugSash
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
D J T Property Services • Decorating • Tiling • PVC • Flooring Interior & Exterior Free Estimates Competitive Rates No job too big or small
Office: 0117 982 3930 or 0777 391 6802
WASTE DISPOSAL
RUBBISH CLEARED
Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074
We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
Glena Avenue, BS4 – for sale with Ocean Knowle
est. 1983
Celebrating 40 years of helping Bristol move home. oceanhome.co.uk