Bishopston Voice June 2025

These are the first five designs unveiled for Bristol's Gromit Unleashed 3 trail, which opens on June 30 in aid of the children's hospital. Will any of them be in our area? Find out in next month's Voiceor keep an eye on grandappeal. org.uk

Hopes rise for parking zones

Werburghs and Ashley Down.

The four areas were proposed when RPS schemes were introduced in Bristol more than a decade ago but have not so far been implemented.

The aim of the zones is to prevent commuters from parking in residential areas.

A report to the city council's transport policy committee last month said the schemes could be funded by income from fines for breaches of the clean air zone regulations.

The report said: “Residents parking schemes have been in place across parts of Bristol for over 10 years. Since the initial batch of schemes were implemented no further schemes have been

delivered aside from minor stand-alone schemes or small extensions for specific purposes.

“Residents parking schemes aim to reduce car use by restricting parking options for commuter traffic. They are focused on areas around the city centre where commuters may seek to drive in from further afield and park before continuing to their place of work or other destinations such as shopping and leisure.”

The report said that as well as areas proposed originally, other places now under consideration were roads close to Southmead Hospital and the new Brabazon arena as well as near the Downs.

Head of city transport Adam Crowther said a decision paper would be brought to the committee in the autumn.

Basketball teens are aiming high

Students at Fairfield High School are fundraising for more basketball hoops so others can follow in the footsteps of Bristol Flyers U16s Moss and Freddy.

PAGE 8

Carla to stand down as leader

Carla Denyer, who was elected Green MP for Bristol Central last year, has announced she will not run again to be party co-leader, a post she has held since 2021.

PAGE 3

Good news story for bookshop

Repairs have been completed at the Amnesty bookshop in Gloucester Road, which was hit by a car earlier this year.

PAGE 9

NEW residents parking zones could soon be created in Bishopston, St Andrews, St

bishopstonvoice

Bishopstonvoice contacts

Emma Cooper

Publisher 0117 908 2121 / 07715 770448

emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Advertising Sales

0117 908 2121

emma @bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Linda Tanner Rosie Watson Editorial

July deadline

Follow us on Twitter @bishopstonvoice

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Bishopstonvoice

Our July deadline is June 16. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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.

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

Complaints

West of England MayorMayor Helen Godwin mayor@ westofengland-ca.gov.uk

0117 428 6210 70 Redcliff Street, Bristol BS1 6AL

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

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,700 copies copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

MP Carla to quit party leader role

BRISTOL Central MP Carla Denyer has decided not to run for re-election as co-leader of the Green Party.

Ms Denyer and co-leader Adrian Ramsey led the party to success at last year’s general election, where they and two others were elected to Parliament.

But now Ms Denyer wants to concentrate on her MP role. Mr Ramsey plans to run for co-leader again alongside Ellie Chowns, another of the four Green MPs. They will be up against the current deputy leader Zack Polanski. Nominations open on June 2 and voting takes place in August.

Ms Denyer, who has been coleader since 2021, when she was a Bristol city councillor, said: “It’s been an enormous privilege to lead the Green Party alongside my excellent co-leader Adrian, wonderfully supported by our deputy leaders - first Amelia (Womack) and then Zack. We’ve

Carla

achieved so much, taking the party from one MP to four, from 450 councillors to over 850, and winning nearly two million votes at the election. But this is just the start for me and the party.

“We’re at a critical juncture in British politics. People are feeling deeply let down and are

looking for real alternatives. And with the hard-right on the rise in the UK and across the world, it’s never been more important for Greens to offer a genuinely hopeful vision for our future –and crucially to put forward real solutions to make lives better.

“That’s what I’ll be focussing

on over the next four years as an MP: fighting for rent controls so that everyone can afford a decent roof over their heads, to secure good green jobs for this generation and the next, and to

MBST: Healing Knee damage from Sports injury to Arthritis

The cellular repair that results from applying MBST can be applied to so many conditions, as well as patients young and old.

This repair process has been proven at quantum cell level in award winning independent research from the university of Innsbruck. It leads to transformation in patients’ outcomes, injuries, mobility, pain and suffering.

Here are two such examples of different knee conditions that I’ve helped heal in the last few months

Steven (37) is an experienced Ice Hockey player for Bristol Pitbulls as well as a coach. He had a really severe infra patellar tendinitis which had intra substance tears. Very painful. He couldn’t do anything with the leg due to pain and associated weakness and quad wasting. After MBST he quickly showed signs of improvement. Tendons take time to heal so we took things steady… After 4 months he was back on the ice and after 6 months he’s almost at full activity. A great outcome for an awkward condition.

Jeremy (87) came to me with stage 3/4 knee arthritis and was struggling with stairs in particular as well as night pain. He’s a very experienced chorister and needs to be able to stand for long periods whilst performing. Scans showed his patello-femoral joint had almost full thickness cartilage loss, as well as degeneration in the tibiofemoral compartment. At 87 years old he’s a remarkable healer and has been pain free and t for stairs since the end of his treatment course.

Age isn’t a factor with MBST. Vitality however does play a part. A lot of my older patients are still living life to the full, getting the most they can from it, yet certain parts of their bodies wear down and become a challenge. This is where MBST can be life changing, adding energy of stimulation healing and regeneration.

Dad runs 44 miles in memory of Amber

BRISTOL Bears academy transition coach Glen Townson ran 44 miles from Ashton Gate to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff to deliver a match-day ball.

It took Glen just over nine hours to complete the ultra-marathon challenge. So far, he’s raised over £10,000 for the Amber Townson Foundation, set up in memory of his two-year-old daughter, who died in August 2023. The foundation’s mission is to raise awareness of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) support affected families and fund critical research.

The West Country derby in Cardiff saw Bristol Bears beat Bath 36 -14. Bristol Bears has been behind Glen all the way. As well as raising awareness of SUDC on the day, team players wore specially designed Amber Townson Foundation shirts encouraging spectators to donate.

It was a symbolic journey of hope and remembrance. Glen said: “This was a deeply

personal mission to honour my daughter’s memory and prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak we have. SUDC remains the fourth leading cause of death for 1-4 year olds in the UK but research and understanding is very limited. We want to change this.

“I had incredible support from my friends on the run. We’ve been training for months and they really kept me going! It was tough, especially the last eight miles, but we’ve raised awareness of SUDC and lots of money in the process, so it was all worth it!

“We were given such a warm welcome when we got to the stadium. People lined the street, and the Bristol Bears team gave us a guard of honour, which was very special. To have the backing and support of Bristol Bears has meant so much to my family and me. The Big Day Out has helped fund vital research into SUDC and provide bereavement counselling and support for

affected families.”

Tom Tainton, chief operating officer of Bristol Bears rugby club, said: “When Glen approached us for help with this challenge, the obvious answer was yes. We know what he and his family have been through, and are still going through, and we just wanted to support one of our own and bring together the local sporting community for this special cause. They got a rapturous reception as they arrived at the Principality Stadium on the day!”

Donations can still be made via the website www.theambertownson.foundation You can donate £5 by texting AMBER to 70460 or contribute via the JustGiving link: https://www.justgiving.com/ theambertownson-foundation

The Foundation is taking part in the Tesco blue token scheme at Golden Hill until the end of June to help raise money for a new community defibrillator.

Bristol Bears transition coach Glen Townson gets a hero's welcome in Cardiff after his 44-mile run in tribute to his daughter Amber, two

School judged 'happy, safe and inclusive'

ORCHARD School Bristol is celebrating a highly positive Ofsted report following its latest inspection.

Two inspectors visited the 958-pupil secondary in March and judged that the school had taken effective action to maintain the standards since the watchdog’s previous visits in 2019 and 2015, when it was said to be Good.

Lead inspector James Oldham wrote: “Pupils are happy and safe at this inclusive school. Pupils stand up for the school’s values, such as being open-minded and responsible.”

His report said Orchard School, which has many pupils who are disadvantaged and have special educational needs and disabilities, had recently raised its expectations of children’s achievement, behaviour and conduct.

“The school makes a very strong contribution to pupils’ personal development. Pupils benefit from a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.

“Many pupils have leadership roles. They are very proud to hold these positions. These opportunities build pupils’ confidence and develop their sense of responsibility,” Ofsted reported.

Other strengths noted by the watchdog included:

• Lessons are typically calm and orderly.

• The school does not tolerate poor behaviour.

• The curriculum is increasingly ambitious and broad.

• Pupils receive strong careers advice, information and guidance.

Mr Oldham said leaders at the school, which is part of Trust in Learning Academies, knew what it did well and where it needed to make further improvements. T

“They evaluate insightfully the impact of their work and provide useful information to trustees and local governors. This enables trustees and local governors to maintain

strong oversight of the school’s work. Staff are proud to work at the school and are well supported by leaders,” he reported.

To improve further, Ofsted said the school should further strengthen efforts to improve attendance for some pupils. Also, teachers should ensure that pupils discussed content thoroughly in all subjects to deepen their understanding.

Headteacher Melanie Sweet said: "We are delighted with our recent Ofsted report, which shows we are a seriously good, inclusive school where our children are safe and happy and stand up for their values.

“Orchard staff, who, the report notes, are ‘proud to work at the school’, work as a family to ensure that our pupils receive the very best quality of education in order

to go on to brilliant post-16 and post-18 destinations, along with the outstanding pastoral support and personal development opportunities that help them thrive as young people ready to take on the world.

“I am immensely proud of how far we have come as a team, and privileged, every day, to lead this beautiful school. Staff, pupils and the wider community deserve this glowing Ofsted report."

Sue Elliott, CEO of Trust in Learning Academies, said: "I am incredibly proud of the leaders, staff and pupils of Orchard School Bristol.

"They all work incredibly hard to make the school the happy, inclusive and very successful place that it is, and they are all rightly proud of this outcome."

Orchard School Bristol, which has been praised by Ofsted. Inset, headteacher Melanie Sweet

A stitch in time

FAIRFIELD High School students took part in a series of sewing workshops with UWE Bristol’s Makers project and the Old Library Community Hub in Eastville, Nine students created items including tote bags, pencil cases, and hairbands. They mastered the use of sewing machines, learned how to safely and accurately cut fabric, and developed the ability to draw and follow patterns. They also explored techniques in repurposing old materials, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable fashion.

The workshops were led by a team including Ayat Said from Fairfield, Ruth Squires and Kat Corbett from UWE and Beth Cooper from the Old Library Repair Café.

The series concluded with a celebration event held at the Old Library.

You can't beat shooting hoops!

TWO Fairfield High School students have been making waves in youth basketball.

The Year 11s, Moss and Freddy, have played pivotal roles in the Bristol Flyers Under-16 squad.

Moss, who is now 6ft 7in, took up the sport five years ago after being inspired by Michael Jordan’s documentary The Last Dance. Last season, he captained the U16 team, who were runners-up in the National Cup.

Now the pair, who often practise together in the park, are hoping to win hotly-contested places in the Under-18 team

Basketball has had a huge impact on Moss’s life. “It’s great for my physical and mental health,” he said. “Whenever I’m feeling down or bored, I go and play. It relaxes me.”

Jordan Goodchild, head of PE at Fairfield High School, said: “I’ve had the privilege of nurturing and witnessing Moss and Freddy on their basketball journey, and what an incredible one it’s been! Their drive, discipline and natural talent are an inspiring example, both on and off the court. The student council are fundraising for some basketball hoops, so more students can shoot some hoops during their break and lunch times, so if anyone would like to contribute, we’d be very grateful.”

You can contribute at https://tinyurl. com/2ak5b9sx

Moss and Freddy

Bookshop starts a happy new chapter

Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green

SHOPPERS and avid readers around Gloucester Road and beyond are pleased to see a new-look front to the Amnesty Bookshop, with the final touches to its renovation complete following a crash into the shop front earlier in the year.

Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.

The trees will be planted at Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.

Not the first time that the charity shop has suffered damage from a car accident, the front of the store came off worst when a Range Rover skidded on ice late one Friday night in early January. The Range Rover hit a smaller vehicle parked outside the Marie Curie shop next door, shunting the second car into the Amnesty shop front. Next hitting a street bin nearby, this car was finally brought to a halt by a lamp post. Thankfully, nobody was injured in the incident.

The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.

Damage to the Amnesty shop was significant, however. The slats and side runner of the large metal shutter were mangled, damaging the door and leaving the shop inaccessible. Both side windows caved in and the window shelf collapsed.

From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.

For several days after the incident, the shop was unable to open while the damaged shutter was removed, debris and glass cleared and a temporary boarded door put on to provide some access. Once safe, a team of regular

volunteers worked hard to assist with the clean up and get the rest of the store ready for re-opening.

Thanks to everyone’s efforts, the shop was open for business again within a couple of weeks, albeit with its window and outside displays moved elsewhere. Apart from various closures when carpenters, electricians and glass fitters came in to carry out repairs, the shop has managed to maintain business as usual since the incident.

In early May, nearly four months after the crash, thanks to the work of Charlie and his team from CK Carpentry Lofts & Building, the new door and shop front were at last complete.

In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.

Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.

Volunteers at the shop were delighted. One, Kate Mayall, who has volunteered at the store since it opened in 1997, said: “The shop is so full of light now [after being so dark from the temporary boarding] and soon the window will be filled with interesting books and new shelving. What a transformation!”

into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.

“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone

The shop is always on the lookout for more volunteers to keep it open as much as possible. If you can spare four hours a week, please contact the bookshop on: Bristolbookshop@amnesty.org.uk

“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And

0117 3134 862

01392 642 634

Abbot: 01626 932 964

www.thewindowhub.co.uk

Bristol

Exeter

Newton Abbot

The Amnesty bookshop on Gloucester Road

n PHARMACY COLUMN

Flights booked, passport in date? Time to book those travel jabs

HAVE you booked a foreign trip or holiday? Do you need travel jabs or anti-malarials?

After a grey winter, travelling can offer escape, adventure, much-needed relaxation, and the discovery of local food and culture. It is no surprise that many people will make plans – ticking off bucket-list foreign destinations, head off to exotic destinations, whether for a gap year, volunteering, a vareer break, or even work travel. Whatever the inspiration or need for the trip, it is vital to do so safely. We can help you at Kellaway Pharmacy - Part of Bristol Travel Clinic.

Discovering another country's health system is not usually on your wish list or a cherished memory. Remember those TV documentaries, the ones where "unfortunate person stranded on a hospital bed in Paradise" travel insurance was not taken out ("I knew I had forgotten something") or cover was

invalidated ("I did not know they required me to have travel jabs!")? The unplanned additional cost and anxiety all become an endless, expensive nightmare leading to appeals for help.

Many countries have health risks that require vaccinations for protection. The first step is to contact your GP to find out about availability for an NHS travel health appointment and obtain records of your previous vaccinations. Many people now have those available on their NHS App. Getting all the information together

saves time and ensures you only receive the required private vaccinations. The recommended time to seek health advice is eight weeks before your trip.

Last minute? Don't panic. Get in touch with Bristol Travel Clinic on 0800 7723575. Our prices reflect our ethos that money should not be a barrier to accessing health services. We also offer treatment to delay menstrual periods while on holiday and to prevent altitude sickness. If you are not travelling but need vaccinations to protect you from chicken pox, meningitis B, or any other work-related risks, we can also help.

To get advice or book an appointment, call Bristol Travel Clinic on 0800 7723575, Complete the online query form : www. bristoltravelclinic.co.uk or drop into Kellaway Pharmacy for more details. We'll get you ready for wherever your journey takes you.

Will Writing

Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.

Family & Property Trusts

Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

Probate Services

Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.

Robot will cut wait list

DOZENS more patients a year are set to benefit from lifechanging surgery in Bristol thanks to a gynaecological surgery robot at Southmead Hospital.

The da Vinci Xi device will be used to carry out a range of procedures, including hysterectomies and excision of endometriosis.

North Bristol NHS Trust says the dedicated robot will allow surgeons to operate on an additional 144 gynaecology patients at Southmead per year.

Almost 9,000 robotic-assisted procedures have been carried out at Southmead to date, across different surgical specialties. As well as the newly acquired gynaecology robot, NBT has also invested in a second new robotic

system for colorectal and urology procedures.

Southmead Hospital now has a total of four da Vinci robotic surgery systems, which offer precise wristed instruments with a greater motion capability than the human wrist.

Jessica Preshaw, consultant gynaecological surgeon at North Bristol NHS Trust, said: “Having access to this groundbreaking technology will change the lives of hundreds of women, some of whom have lived with life-

limiting pain and bleeding for years. Getting our own dedicated gynaecology robot is simply phenomenal news for both our service and our patients.”

Islam Gamaleldin, fellow consultant surgeon, explained: “In our experience, the enhanced 3D visualisation and precision offered by the wristed instruments means more complex operations can be completed using minimally invasive techniques with reduced blood loss, fewer complications, and faster recovery with

shorter length of hospital stay compared to traditional open or laparoscopic procedures.”

NBT chief medical officer said: “I am delighted that our gynaecology team now has its own dedicated surgical robot, as I know this will make a tremendous difference to both our patients and staff.

“This investment will not only benefit patients but will also support the professional development of our gynaecology surgery team, enhancing Bristol's reputation for excellence in robotic-assisted surgery.”

The da Vinci Xi, above Right: The gynaecology surgery team at North Bristol NHS Trust's Southmead Hospital

Jointly owned property and Declarations of Trust

Laura Wilkinson Solicitor from AMD Solicitors offers some advice on options available to you as a joint owner of a property.

If you are buying a new place together, or moving into a home your partner already owns, then you should think carefully about how you will own it between you. You should be aware that if you split up you may have no right to an interest in the property if it is in your partner’s name.

Legally there are two types of joint ownership. You can either own the property as Joint Tenants or Tenants in Common.

Owning as Joint Tenants will mean that the joint owners together own the whole property and do not have a particular share in it. If one of the owners dies the other automatically becomes the sole owner.

Ownership as Tenants in Com-

mon however will mean that each owner will have a defined share in the property. The property could be owned in equal shares, or in different sized shares which can be set out in a legally binding written agreement called a “Declaration of Trust” which will contain details of the financial arrangement between the joint owners. People wanting to own a property in separate predetermined shares as set out in a Declaration of Trust, would need to own the property as Tenants in Common.

Under this form of ownership if one of the owners dies, their share of the property will pass on to whoever they specify in a Will, or if a Will is not made, in accordance with the rules of intestacy.

It may be that one party provides the deposit or a substantial share of the purchase price and the other has no or less funds to

contribute. In these circumstances a Declaration of Trust can help you protect your financial contribution and specify how you wish to be repaid in the event that the property is sold. It can also set out how you wish to contribute to mortgage payments and how you wish to be repaid for your contribution should you come to sell the property.

The Declaration of Trust can specify the terms for buying out your joint owner’s share in the property and can also help to avoid prolonged legal disputes over the finances in the event that your relationship with your coowner breaks down.

Declarations of Trust can be as simple, or as complex, as the couple require. Each partner should ideally have separate legal advice. As circumstances change, the deed can be re-written. It can be challenged in court only on grounds of

fraud and misrepresentation. If you would like any advice or assistance with protecting your property, or any other conveyancing matter, please call us on 0117 973 5647 or 0117 974 4100, email info@amdsolicitors.com or call into any one of our 4 Bristol based offices.

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

New Metro Mayor's pledge to collaborate

NEW Metro Mayor Helen Godwin has said things will be “very different” under her than under the previous Labour mayor.

The winner of May's mayoral election has pledged to "work cross-party for the West Country" - and her first act after being sworn in was to appoint Liberal Democrat Kevin Guy as her deputy mayor.

The position of deputy mayor had not been used since Ms Godwin's predecessor Dan Norris was elected in 2021.

During his time in charge the combined authority was put on notice by the government over a number of performance issues, including poor relationships between politicians.

The deputy mayor's position will rotate annually between the leaders of the three councils that make up the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.

Cllr Guy, who is the leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said he was “honoured”

to take up the role.

On the election night the new mayor said her approach "will feel very different but it will be very proactive: just getting stuff done, working with people, working with whoever I need to".

Expanding on the theme after she was sworn in, Ms Godwin said: “To get the best for all of us in the West Country, politicians must put politics to one side. That’s how we’ll lay the Bristol to Portishead Line, build new affordable homes, and help create the jobs of the future."

Ms Godwin also pledged to work "across party lines" with Green Bristol City Council leader Tony Dyer and Lib Dem South Gloucestershire Council leader Maggie Tyrrell, as well as fellow Labour politician Ian Boulton, who is the co-leader of South Gloucestershire.

She said: "We all need to roll up our sleeves and pitch in. Our residents deserve nothing less, and that’s the only way that we will make things happen.”

The leaders of Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and

South Gloucestershire councils, together with the mayor, make up the MCA's decision-making committee.

Cllr Dyer said Ms Godwin was taking over at a “critical time”, adding: “Working alongside Helen and my counterparts in the region’s other local authorities I hope to continue our efforts to bring these valuable working relationships closer for the benefit of all of us.”

The mayor and her will be responsible for delivering the region's Local Growth Plan.

Labour sees off Reform to retain role

LABOUR won the West of England mayoral election, after a strong challenge from Reform UK.

At the region-wide election on May 1, Labour's Helen Godwin successfully defended the role won from the Tories by Dan Norris in 2021.

She polled 51,197 votes, a majority of 5,945 over Reform's Arron Banks, who received 45,252.

Green candidate Mary Page was third, Conservative Steve Smith was fourth and Liberal Democrat Oli Henman was fifth, with independent Ian Scott losing his deposit in last place, after failing to secure 5% of the overall votes cast.

Votes in the three council areas which make up the West

of England Mayoral Combined Authority were counted separately.

Ms Godwin's win was a rare bright spot for Labour on a night when the party lost a by-election, four out of six mayoral elections and 187 of the 285 council seats it was defending across the country.

But it was even worse for the Conservatives, who lost 676 of the 993 council seats they were defending across the country.

The West of England election saw them pushed into fourth place in a poll they had won at the inaugural election in 2017.

The race had proved hard for pollsters to predict, with a YouGov poll a week before the election predicting a Green win, while MoreInCommon predicted

a Labour win with the Tories second.

After the result was announced, Ms Godwin told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “It was always going to be close - we knew that.

"It genuinely is the honour of my life to be your new West of England Mayor.

"Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for the West of England, where we'll bring people together and work more transparently to deliver the ambitious change our communities need.

"This region isn't just my political home—it's where I was born, where my children are growing up, and where my family's roots run deep across the West Country."

The turnout of 30% was more than 6% down on the 2021 election, which had been held at the same time as the Bristol City Council elections.

Ian Boulton, Kevin Guy, Helen Godwin, Maggie Tyrrell and Tony Dyer at Ms Godwin's swearing in as West of England Mayor. Picture: Freia Turland

City crematorium set to go green

THE four aging gas cremators at Canford cemetery in north Bristol – the city council’s “single highest emitter of carbon” – will be replaced with electric versions in a £350,000 project.

A senior officer decision posted on the authority’s website said the burners were 40 years old – 10 years more than their typical lifespan.

It said that although the machines were legally compliant, an expected change in regulations over flue gas mercury levels would mean they were not.

The report said: “The change from gas to lower carbon electric cremators and the installation of modern filtration equipment will require alterations to the existing crematoria building and energy supply.

“The initial phase of this project involves conducting site surveys and designing the

required structural, mechanical, and electrical alterations to the building.

“This phase will also address issues such as planning consent, contractor procurement, risk management and develop an operational plan for works delivery phase.

“The purpose of this report is to record the decision to allocate a budget of £350k to complete this design and development work.”

It said that because the project had a “significant decarbonisation component”, the design and development of the scheme would be done by City Leap, the 20-year partnership with private company Ameresco to deliver low carbon energy infrastructure projects.

The decision report, by executive director for growth and regeneration John Smith,

said money to pay for it would come from the council’s decarbonisation fund while it could also receive government cash from a grant programme to reduce public authorities’ CO2 emissions.

It said: “Canford’s four gas cremators are approximately 40 years old, with cremators typically requiring full replacement after 30 years.

“Canford Crematorium is Bristol City Council’s single highest emitter of carbon.

“New electric cremators will help to meet the council’s carbon reduction targets and reduce

energy costs.

“The current cremators are not fitted with flue gas mercury abatement (filtration) equipment. Although currently compliant, an anticipated change to regulations is expected which will mandate 100 per cent mercury abatement.

“Revenue generated by the crematoria supports the wider council cemeteries and parks operations.”

The crematorium is at Canford Lane, Westbury-onTrym.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

11-12 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8AL

443 223

THE great-grandson of the inventor of the Walnut Whip has been elected as one of the youngest lord mayors of Bristol.

Cllr Henry Michallat, 27, (Conservative, Stoke Bishop) was sworn into the ceremonial role at the annual general full council meeting of Bristol City Council last month.

Accepting the position, Cllr Michallat said he would dedicate his year as Bristol’s first citizen to improving the life chances of children with dyslexia and promoting the city’s arts, culture and history.

His predecessor Cllr Andrew Varney (Lib Dem, Brislington West) becomes deputy lord mayor for the next 12 months.

Cllr Michallat, who was born at Southmead Hospital and grew up in north Bristol, told the meeting: “It’s both an incredible honour and deep privilege to sit before you as one of the youngest lord mayors of the great city of Bristol.

“This role carries with it a rich history dating back to 1216, a sense of tradition and a profound responsibility. I am truly humbled to be elected to this historic office and I promise to serve with the utmost dedication and commitment to our city.

“While the position of lord mayor is ceremonial and not a political role, it offers a unique opportunity to serve as a symbol of unity, progress and pride for the city.”

Cllr Michallat, an auctioneer and valuer at Clevedon Salerooms, said: “My family has been in Bristol for over 100 years, my great-grandfather coming to Bristol in the 1920s where he had an illustrious career as a chocolatier and inventor of the Walnut Whip.

“My theme for the year is to celebrate and promote Bristol’s arts, culture and history.

“Bristol is a city that’s always been at the forefront of creativity, whether it’s through our incredible music scene, our world-renowned street art, our historic landmarks or our diverse cultural expression.

“From the ancient walls of Bristol Castle to our buzzing theatres, art venues and museums, our city has always been a place where innovation and tradition go hand in hand.

“I believe that by promoting and championing our rich arts and cultural heritage we can not only preserve what makes Bristol unique but also build a more

New Lord Mayor, 27, has 'that X factor of likeability'

inclusive and dynamic city for future generations.

“I also plan to highlight the historical significance of Bristol, from its maritime heritage to its role in the Industrial Revolution and important architecture and ensure that these stories are told in a way that is inclusive and respectful of all the different communities that make up our great city.

“I wish to explore not only our successes but also our challenges and how to overcome them.”

Cllr Michallat said he and his partner Josh, who will be his consort on official engagements, would dedicate time to improving life chances for children with dyslexia by working with local schools and charities to raise awareness.

“This is something which is close to our hearts,” he said.

“I pledge to honour this position with integrity, humility and a deep love for the city I have always called home.

“Together we will continue to make Bristol a place where creativity flourishes, heritage is cherished and every voice is heard.”

Fellow Conservative ward Cllr John Goulandris proposed the appointment, which received unanimous cross-party approval.

He said: “Henry will be our youngest lord mayor in living memory and will bring a youthful dynamism to the role.

“However, he also has a maturity well beyond his years.

“He has been active in community affairs since his early teenage years and I have had the

pleasure of campaigning with Henry well before he became my fellow councillor in Stoke Bishop.

“Like me, Henry has a surname with decidedly nonBristolian roots. Henry’s greatgrandfather emigrated from France in 1908. However, Henry

himself is a true Bristolian, born and bred here.

“Henry will bring many personal qualities to the role of lord mayor. He has tremendous personal charm, always calm in manner and extremely patient.

“Henry has that X factor of likeability – that ability to relate to all people, young and old.

“When we go door-knocking, people who won’t say very much to me or to other canvassers open up and chat with Henry like a long-lost friend.

“I know that Henry together with his consort Josh will bring a friendly, sensitive and refreshingly modern approach to their respective roles.”

Cllr Michallat was first elected in 2021 and, as lord mayor, will chair full council meetings

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Lord Mayor Cllr Henry Michallat in the chair at City Hall

n FROM BRISTOL NORTH WEST'S MP

Murals make their mark

YOU can't use a broad brush to describe Bristol North West. Every part of our rich and diverse constituency has its own architectural style and vibe.

Yet, there is a common aesthetic that links all parts of Bristol North West: street art.

There are numerous examples of decorative street art adorning our high streets, and you can even do a full ‘Bumpsy’ art trail in Sea Mills!

Some notable examples, though, have used art to shine a light on important issues. In Avonmouth and Shirehampton, a mural has been painted onto a new flood defence depicting local wildlife. At Southmead Hospital, a large mural was commissioned to mark 70 years of the NHS. And in the grounds of HMP Bristol in Bishopston, there's a mural of the suffragette Theresa Garnett who was imprisoned there.

I got to see the latest addition to our street art scene during a

recent visit to the Seat Unique Stadium, where a new mural pays homage to four great fast bowlers in the history of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club.

I was there to record a video message to announce the fantastic news that Gloucestershire Country Cricket Club has been selected as one of seven host venues for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026! I was delighted to contribute to their bid last summer with a letter of support.

The good news came alongside the announcement that the Club has signed a non-binding ‘Heads of Terms agreement’ that will enable it to explore a site in South Gloucestershire as a potential new home for the Club.

Prior to the announcement, I spoke to the Club’s CEO about this, and he said it’s hard to know whether it’ll lead to something or not. But even if it does, the

n FROM BRISTOL CENTRAL'S MP

Here for you

A FEW weeks ago I visited residents at Queen’s Court. When I was a councillor in Bristol, I spent years supporting tenants there who were struggling to get action taken on issues like mould, damp and disrepair. During my first visit since becoming an MP I was shocked to find conditions in the flats as bad as ever: mould on the walls, filthy brown wastewater coming up through the plughole, residents telling me they had been left without clean water for days at a time. After visiting, I wrote to the property management company, City Estates, asking them to meet with residents to hear first-hand about their issues. Sadly, they’ve refused – but I won’t stop fighting for action to be taken.

Meanwhile, I’ve heard from many people who are really worried that the Supreme Court ruling and Equality and Human Rights Commission guidance on sex and gender will put trans people (and all women perceived as not feminine enough by others) at risk of violence, harassment and intimidation. I’ve called for the guidance to be withdrawn

and replaced with something that takes into account the needs of everyone who will be affected. But while this discussion makes headlines, I’m really concerned about all the things we’re not talking about: the chronic underfunding of women’s refuges and domestic violence services; NHS waiting lists leaving women in terrible pain waiting for gynaecological care; mothers being forced to skip meals to feed their children. I’ll keep standing up for the rights of all women.

This month I attended Bristol City of Sanctuary’s event to hear from refugees and asylum seekers about their experiences. Labour has been boasting about deportations and is promising to ‘smash the gangs’, but they refuse to create safe and managed routes for people to claim asylum - the real way to end people smuggling. Now is a crucial time to listen to the people who will be affected by these cruel policies and rhetoric. It was really valuable to hear about concerns - in particular their call for free bus travel for asylum seekers. Many are expected to live off just £8.86 a month, making vital bus journeys like travel to appointments almost

Club won’t be leaving its historic ground at Ashley Down anytime soon, as they have secured international match-hosting rights in Bristol until 2032.

In other news, at the end of April, I was invited to cut the ribbon to open a new café on Gloucester Road, close to HMP Bristol, which is staffed by former prisoners. It’s the brainchild of the local charity The Restore Trust, and the aim is to reduce reoffending rates by providing practical skills and work experience to individuals transitioning from prison.

Finally, I’m looking forward to meeting many of you at my upcoming town hall event on Saturday, 7th June (2.30-4pm) about resetting our relationship with the EU, which will be held in Westbury-on-Trym. The event is now waiting list-only, with tickets snapped up quickly by subscribers to my monthly digital newsletter. Full details of the

event can be found at darrenjones.co.uk/events, and you can subscribe to my newsletter at darren-jones.co.uk/contact.

• As always, if you need my help or have a question, you can email darren.jones.mp@parliament.uk, call my office on 0117 959 6545 or write to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

completely unaffordable. I will be working with the West of England Combined Authority to see if we can make this a reality. We also discussed giving people seeking asylum the right to work to help prevent them from becoming destitute, and to allow them to contribute their skills. I will continue to press the government to change this restriction.

I also spoke at a rally organised by Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Bristol Stop the War Coalition and others to mark 77 years since the Palestinian Nakba began – the permanent displacement and dispossession of Palestinian people from their homes and land in 1948. People from across Bristol came together to demand an end to the genocide and the suffering of Palestinians.

Finally, you might have heard that when the Green Party holds its internal elections this year, I won’t be re-standing as coleader. I’m proud to have achieved what I set out to do as leader –growing and diversifying the party and taking us from one MP to four. Now I want to pour all of my skills, passion and energy into the issues that I and my constituents care so much about, like fighting

for rent controls, tackling the climate emergency, and calling for a more compassionate approach to migration. This city will always be at the heart of everything I do as an MP, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.

• If you live in Bristol Central and have a local issue you need support with, you can email me at bristolcentraloffice@parliament.uk or write to Carla Denyer MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA For enquiries about national issues email me using carla.denyer.mp@ parliament.uk

BOOK REVIEW

The Ministry of Time

HAVE you ever wanted to travel through time? Would you want to travel back into the past or forward into the future? Would you worry that your actions might change the course of history?

All these issues and much more are aired by Kaliane Bradley in her novel The Ministry of Time. Our unnamed narrator lands a lucrative job in a new Government Department. Her task along with four colleagues is to act as a bridge living with and supporting five persons who have been extracted from the past to see if time travel is feasible and to monitor the effect on their physical and mental health. These expats include Thomas Cardingham from the 1645 Battle of Naseby, Margaret Kemble from the 1665 Great Plague of London, Anne Spencer from the 1793 French Revolution and

n NEWS

Arthur Reginald-Smythe from the 1916 Battle of the Somme. Our narrator is tasked with supporting Commander Graham Gore an English Navy officer and polar explorer who took part in two expeditions to the Artic in 1847 and a survey of the coastline of Australia. The five expats were extracted from historical warzones, natural disasters and epidemics to avoid the chaos inherent in changing the course of history. They would have died in their own timelines anyway so removing them from the past ought not to impact the future.

We follow our narrator as she introduces the Commander to modern technology including the washing machine, gas cooker, vacuum cleaner, radio, tv, the internet and the London Underground. We relish the anguish of the Commander as he

Crime fiction in focus

CALLING all crime-fiction aficionados – as part of National Crime Reading Month, two local authors are holding a literary evening at The Folk House on Wednesday June 18 at 8pm to celebrate this genre.

A former mental health advocate for 20 years, Claire Barnard's debut novel, Pieces of the Jigsaw, is a crime mystery which was longlisted for the Watson Little X Indie Novella Prize 2023.

The event also sees the relaunch of Martin Williams’s first novel, The Pearl Divers Saliva, and his third book, Anthony Johnson, Committed for Murder, both stories with a crime element.

Having met at an art studio in 2000, both authors have in common personal and professional experience of mental health and this is a theme that informs and runs throughout their work.

Claire said: “It's taken some time to get this book into print. I started writing it in 2009, finished the first draft in 2012 and wanted to get it traditionally published. I did try, but didn't get much response from my submissions to agents and publishers. I used to be very snobby about self-publishing, but now everyone is doing it, including established authors, so I'm in good company. I've had a really great response from readers and I'm very pleased I've done it now. Getting my novel finished and published also means I can move on with other projects - at last! Next out - a collection of short stories...all with a mental health theme”.

Redland-based Martin had his first book published in 2008 and is hoping to renew interest in past work, as well as highlighting his current novel about a couple who meet in a mental hospital. Having suffered from personal mental health difficulties, Martin says he finds writing “therapeutic. Just to spend two to three hours a day getting something off my chest and on to the page”.

On the evening, Claire and Martin will read from their books, be interviewed about their writing and also take questions from the audience. To finish, they will read excerpts from new works in progress. Books will be on sale (cash only) and they will be happy to sign your copy; the books are also available on Amazon.

This will be a free event, although the bar will be open. Further information is available on clairebarnard.co.uk or by emailing info@clairebarnard.co.uk

by Kaliane Bradley

struggles to communicate with our independently minded feminist narrator. Over time the five bridges develop strong interdependent bonds with the five expats who gradually adjust to a new world and our narrator and the Commander begin a romantic relationship. Their blissful existence is shattered by the appearance of a sinister figure from the future who poses a threat to bridges and expats alike.

This is an beautifully written, intelligent, witty and thought provoking time travel romance with unforgettable characters.

For this book and many more come and visit your local library at 100 Gloucester Road. You will be greeted with a friendly smile and a warm welcome.

Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library

n FRIENDS OF REDLAND LIBRARY

Event: A Life in Books

A talk by renowned author Tessa Hadley

Date: Tuesday, 10th June 7pm (Doors open 6:45pm)

Venue: Redland Library, Bristol

Admission: £5 ( pay at the door – cash only )

Tessa Hadley has published eight novels - including The Past, Late in the Day, and Free Love - and four collections of short stories. Her latest collection, After the Funeral, came out in paperback in July 2024. Her novella, The Party, was published last November and is set in 1950s Bristol. She has short stories regularly in the New Yorker, and reviews for the Guardian and the London Review of Books; she was awarded a Windham Campbell prize for Fiction and the Hawthornden Prize in 2016, and has won the Edge Hill Prize twice: in 2018, for Bad Dreams, and in 2024, for After The Funeral.

Tessa went to Redland Library every week for years and years as a child and so this is a return to her roots.

This event is organised by The Friends of Redland Library. We are a voluntary group set up to support Redland Library, helping to sustain and improve its service, and also connecting it with the local and wider community. Redland Library is situated on Whiteladies Road, close to Clifton Down train station.

Details of future events can be found on our website https:// FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk

Pre-Reception at Badminton

Our new Pre-Reception Class welcomes girls in the September after they turn three.

With twice-weekly swimming lessons, outdoor learning and expert Early Years teachers, Pre-Reception is the perfect place to start your daughter’s educational journey.

Contact us to find out more about our ‘Stay & Play’ sessions and to book a private tour.

n NEWS

Bid to shape new future for libraries

A REVIEW of Bristol’s library service is under way in an effort to make it fit for the future amid a long-term cash crisis.

A cross-party taskforce has been set up to look at the options – and closure of some of the 26 branches has not been ruled out.

The group will report back in November to the public health and communities committee.

Council leaders dropped plans to more than halve the annual funding for libraries from £4.7million to £2.3million earlier this year so that a working group could look at the service without the pressure of cuts and imminent closures. It will report back in November,

Previous proposals for library branch closures were dropped in 2018 and 2022 following huge public opposition, but continuing budget pressures mean that some action is likely to be needed.

Communities committee chairman Cllr Stephen Williams (Lib Dem, Westbury-on-Trym

& Henleaze) told a meeting last month that the working group was being set up to design a new four- or five-year library strategy for what councillors wanted the service to look like.

He said: “This task-and-finish group is not to consider the future of the library buildings, it is simply to design what we think a modern, fit-for-purpose library service should be.”

A proposal from Labour to commit to keeping all the libraries open was voted down after officer Patsy Mellor told the meeting it would restrict options and transformative thinking because people would think the outcome had already been decided.

Cllr Patrick McAllister (Green, Hotwells & Harbourside) said: “We all know something does

FEEL AT HOME WITH EXCEPTIONAL CARE

need to happen with the library service with the present funding issues across the council.

“It’s a zombie library service.

“They’re technically still open but a lot of them aren’t staffed, hours are limited, several are open three days a week, often only during working hours.

“People learn, sadly, that they can’t rely on their library service because it’s not open when they need it. hat further drives down demand and use – it’s a vicious circle.”

He suggested the city’s universities could be asked to sponsor parts of the service because students benefited from them.

Cllr Tom Blenkinsop (Labour, Avonmouth & Lawrence Weston said: “One of the things that would serve the most deprived areas of Bristol least is if their libraries were permanently closed.”

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

VE Day event

Bristol Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA) was one of many organisations that marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day. It held an afternoon of tea, laughter, singing and entertainment on May 9 at the charity’s new Happy Days Hub in Lawrence Weston.

The Happy Days Hub, which opened in March, is open on Mondays and Fridays from 10am-2pm at Ambition House BS11. BDAA still needs volunteers to support the Hub – there are a variety of key roles including supporting the café, helping with activities, being companions at the groups. Further details here: www.bdaa. org.uk/volunteering/ or email office@bdaa.org.uk.

Hospice gardens open

VISITORS are being invited to view the gardens at St Peter’s Hospice later this month.

The gardens, designed to be a therapeutic and welcoming space for patients and their families, will be open from 10am-4pm on Sunday June 22 with refreshments and guest talks also on the agenda.

There will also be craft workshops from Ffion Morgan, live music from Pizzazz orchestra, cream teas and tours from St Peter’s Hospice head gardener Anneke van Eijkern.

Guest talks will come from horticulturist Caradoc Doy and the National Trust’s youngest head gardener Sam Finch.

Event organiser and community fundraising manager, Sophie Cullinane, said: “The gardens are an important way to build a sense of community – patients, families and staff can come together and relax. They are lovingly crafted by our team of dedicated volunteers and our head gardener Anneke.

“This event is a way to help us continue to maintain a relaxing and welcoming space that supports people in our community when they need it most.”

St Peter’s Hospice is Bristol’s only adult hospice providing inpatient care as well as community support to those with lifelimiting illnesses.

Tickets cost £8 each or are free for those aged 15 or under. Book online in advance to secure places.

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

Party)

WE hope you are all having a lovely summer, and have been enjoying the glorious weather. While we have been busy, Emma has had to take some time off recently from councillor work due to needing to care for a family member, and she thanks people for their patience if there is any delay in getting back to you. Things are settling down now so hopefully normal service will resume soon.

Pencil bollards for Downend Road

Last year Emma and James were successful in a bid for some community interest levy money, via the Area committees, for some pencil bollards on behalf of Ashley Down school. Downend Road has long had issues with dangerous driving and parking and the school have been keen for measures to create safer school routes. We are delighted to announce the the pencil bollards have now been installed and they look great! Pencil bollards help notify drivers where schools are and indicate safe crossings for school children, as well as being a fun bit of street furniture for the children. We want to thank the officers who helped with this and the school for their work in the bid.

Update on the digital billboard

We were recently alerted by residents to a planning application for a digital advertising street ‘hub’ outside the Sainsbury’s on Gloucester Road, at the bottom of Longmead Avenue. Residents are concerned about this use of the public realm and that the digital billboard, as well as being a waste of energy, would be a distraction to drivers and a hazard to pedestrians. We were both happy to put in objections to this application as we agreed with the concerns. We are delighted to inform you that in May we heard the news that the application has been rejected and the billboard won’t be going ahead. Thanks to all residents who contacted us and put in objections.

Down View flats

We were incredibly concerned and saddened to hear of a fire that occurred in the Down View block of flats on Ashley Down Road at the end of April. We have been in contact with council housing staff and the fire authority and we attended a meeting with the residents and officers. We want assurances that fire risks have all been looked at and the evacuation plan is reviewed, as well and making sure all maintenance is up to date. We want to send our thoughts to all affected by this and reassure people we are working with the relevant people to make sure the block is made as safe as possible.

Gloucester Cricket Club

In May Emma attended the Gloucester Cricket Ground residents meeting. We heard from residents as well as the club about plans

for the upcoming season including traffic management plans. We know there is a lot of interest in if or when the club might be moving from the Nevil Road site and while nothing is concrete yet, the club are actively looking at sites in South Gloucestershire. While there is no dates in place yet or any confirmation of the news, we will let you know if there are any further developments in the future.

Ashley Down Road

We have received ongoing complaints about speeding on Ashley Down Road and adjacent Ralph Road for some time. While we have secured additional signage, had all the crossings turned to instant green man settings, and worked with residents on reporting, we know the problem persists. In April, Emma went out with the local police to do speed checks, something they have agreed to do more frequently. They have also offered to work with us on getting a community speed watch set up, where residents can monitor speeding cars themselves. If you would be interested in getting involved in community speed watch on these roads, or any other roads where speeding is an issue, then do get in touch with us. Also please do report any incidents of dangerous driving via the council ‘Report a street safety issue’ page.

Ashley Down railway station

We continue to look closely at ways to improve Ashley Down railway station. We know there has been some tagging of walls, and we are delighted that Severnside Community Rail Partnership have invited us to join the steering group for the creation of a new mural for the site. We're looking forward to getting stuck in!

Area Committee update

At our latest Area Committee, we were pleased to support progressing a project, for new bat boxes on Horfield common, to the next stage. Our green spaces are not just really valuable for residents, but key for protecting and improving biodiversity. We'd like to thank the Friends of Horfield Common for submitting the application and look forward to seeing how the project progresses.

New ward surgery venue and time

A reminder that now that the weather is getting warmer, we are relocating our monthly ward surgery back to the Garden area of The Ardagh, we will be located on the tables in front of the garden room. We are also changing the day of the week,, and the new time will be 4pm -5.45pm Second Thursday of every month. and we hope to see you there soon!

Contact us

Cllr.james.crawford@bristol.gov.uk

Cllr.Emma.edwards@bristol.gov.uk

Redland: Martin Fodor and Fi Hance (Green Party)

Collections improving

After a concerted effort the reliability issues with recycling and waste collections have significantly improved in recent weeks. There can still be issues with vehicle reliability, staffing, and access to some streets but the level of missed streets has fallen from hundreds to a handful on most days. We're keeping a close watch on this since our ward was among the worst affected and of course are aiming for the full service on the scheduled day. As we write, the committee Martin chairs is due to get a detailed report from our contract manager at the end of May reviewing progress since September when we revealed the scale of the routing and reliability problems we’d inherited and the actions being taken to tackle them. We’ll be asking about all the issues that have affected services as well as recent concerns about stocks of replacement bins and boxes. The vehicle fleet is nearing the end of its life and replacement plans will be looked into this summer along with the best ways to accommodate the bulky materials like cardboard in future. As always please do report any missed services from 5pm on the expected day.

Issues on The Downs

We've been contacted by several residents who are concerned about increased numbers of people living in vans by the Downs and incidences of anti social behaviour and littering which appear to be linked to this. We appreciated how these issues are affecting enjoyment of the Downs and concerns about the increased number of vans.

There are a variety of issues that have built up over many years and have been exacerbated recently.

In terms of van dwelling we got in touch with the council's housing lead who told us:

“The number of vehicle dwellers in Bristol has grown significantly in recent years and we recognise the challenge this brings. We acknowledge that this is a complex situation, and we are developing a new policy to balance offering support to vehicle dwellers, alongside considering the needs of local communities.

“Work is now under way to refresh the way vehicle dweller encampments are managed, providing a clearer process and explanation for when action will be taken. The emphasis will be on support and not enforcement work and help us come up with a balanced and sustainable solution.

“We know that we need to reduce the need for so many people to live in vehicles, and remain committed to increasing the number of wellbuilt, affordable homes in Bristol so that people have a safe and secure place they can call home.”

There is new work under way to increase the number of pitches available to rent on ‘meanwhile sites’ where vans can stay with basic toilet facilities provided.

In terms of caravans that are by the roadside there’s a different situation to vans since these

are not registered and cannot be subject to parking enforcement. Some unoccupied caravans and vans have recently been removed. There will be a consultation in autumn on possible new parking enforcement powers that might be brought in.

Since many people facing homelessness and staying in vans also have additional needs there’s a welfare process also used to assess the needs of people.

We’re conscious that some threats have been made, some hate speech has been posted on social media and have to warn people not to take illegal action or inflame the situation in an attempt to move the problem.

As many residents will realise, parts of our ward are not covered by any parking management or RPS patrols so any simple ‘moving on’ action could displace van dwellers onto nearby residential streets.

There have also been some traditional travelling community groups arriving on the Downs and camping during the dry weather, which can happen each summer. These groups tend to move on and while a county court process is under way they often leave before this gets through the legal processes.

Both Martin and Fi are hoping to be involved in any new policy formation and will keep you posted. We’re sorry but just as the situation has developed incrementally over many years and covers many different issues we can’t promise

immediate action or to solve every issue at once. Rest assured a great deal of work is under way. In the meantime if you witness behaviour which may be criminal please let the police know by calling 101.

Unblocking corners – proposal for action

We've been compiling a list of streets where corners get blocked and recycling can't always be collected.

This has affected several streets in the area which have been having similar problems with waste collection due to tight corners and inconsiderate parking. Smaller collection lorries have been used in the area but even so they sometimes can’t get through.

With new double yellow lines [DYLs] we're hoping rogue parking can be enforced to keep access safe and clear. We plan to tackle as many street corners lacking DYLs. We're working with Bristol Waste to identify all the frequently blocked corners they know of including our ward's Monmouth Road and Melbourne Road that we’ve highlighted previously. We are hopeful this should help and shall keep you informed of progress. Please let us know if you think there are missing DYLs to add to this scheme.

Gas main replacement

Nine local roads across parts of Redland ward are subject to road closures in the next seven

months. Gas main replacement works started in early May and will affect streets around Raglan Road via Hazelton Road to Clare Road and Elton Road. Look out for diversions. We spoke to the company Wales and West Utilities and are liaising to avoid as much inconvenience as possible. They can be contacted on 0800 9122999 but do let us know if anything can't be resolved directly. Once replacement pipes in each road have been prepared each single gas supply should be disconnected for a single day while the new main gets connected to the house.

Community Day

Finally a big thank you to all who were involved in the community day at Redland Green on Bank Holiday Monday. Redland Green Parish Church Hall was full of local residents young and old to the sounds of Dr Jazz, eating cake, and generally having a good time. A reminder in what can be difficult times of how lovely our area is.

Contact us:

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

•

•

Bristol’s Best-Kept Secret?

This Enchanting Summer Fair Is Open to All A hidden gem in the heart of Cotham promises a magical day out for families — with crafts, food, and nature at its heart.

Tucked away on a green and leafy campus in Cotham, the Bristol Steiner Waldorf School is opening its gates for a very special community celebration: the Waldorf Summer Fair, taking place on the 14th June.

This much-loved annual event invites the wider public to step into a world of handmade magic — a place where children can create flower crowns, families enjoy live music under the trees, and the scent of freshly baked cakes fills the air.

The fair reflects the school’s holistic ethos and deep connection to nature, offering a rare glimpse into the unique world of Steiner Waldorf education. Visitors can expect:

* Nature-based crafts and activities for children * Homemade food and cakes * Live music and entertainment * A puppet show and other enchanting performances * Artisan stalls and handmade gifts

Txtpert

n WHAT'S ON IN OUR AREA

n BLAISE COMMUNITY

GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, BS10 7QS. Open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10-2. Interesting walled kitchen garden, free to enter, new volunteers welcomed. Plants always available. Events: Café on 14th June 10-2 and Plant & Pollination Day with Café on 12th July 10-2.

n LA SCALA DELI HENLEAZE

Join us for our Italian wine tasting evenings. Limited availability. Led by our in-house sommelier.

June 12 & 27- Sardinia Regional Tasting

June 14 - Summertime Pink Wine

June 19 - Big Bubbles

July 11 - Summertime Pink Wine

July 18 & 24- Trentino Alto Adige

July 19 - Mountain side vineyards

August 1 - Mountainside Vineyards

August 7 & 22- Friuli-Venezia Giulia

August 9 - "The big 5" of Northern Italy

Special events: WINE & DINE

6 wines paired with 5 courses

MAY 31 WINE & DINE Menu 1

JUNE 20 WINE & DINE Menu 1

JULY 26th WINE & DINE Menu 2

AUG 16th WINE & DINE Menu 2 Private Events also available Bookings: www.lascaladeli.com

n YOGA FOR ALL is a Bristol yoga school where movement is fun, achievable and for everyone. Classes in Bishopston Library, Cotham Parish Church, Spin City and online. See www.yogaforall. co.uk for details!

Saturday May 31

n SPRING GARDEN FESTIVALPLANT SALE : St Matthew's Church, Clare Road, Kingsdown, BS6 5TB, 1-3 pm. All ages welcome. Community, family event... wildlife garden, tea, cake, games, music, magic, face painting, prayer tent and bargain plants! www.stmatthews-bristol.org. uk

21st June

n NORTHERN LIGHTS WITH THE BRISTOL BACH CHOIR In Tyndale Baptist Church, BS8 2QG on 21st June at 7.30pm will explore the richly varied choral works from the Baltic states. Tickets from £1 www. bristolbach.org.uk

June 22nd

n AFTERNOON OF FLUTE AND GUITAR MUSIC taking you from the seas of Japan to the fields of Somerset. 3pm, Redland Quaker Meeting BS6 6JE. Loosely inspired by the cities where composers lived and worked, and the landscapes and seascapes that they loved, we're looking forward to bringing you our new programme including works by Miyagi, Handel, Bartok and Granados. We're delighted to have sponsorship from the Marchus Trust for this concert. https:// www.tickettailor.com/events/ duoavona/1656666 guitarflute.net

REGULAR EVENTS

Various days

n PILATES classes, Northcote Scout Hall, BS9 3TY. Mondays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Mixed Ability inc. Beginners); Tuesdays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Gentle); Thursdays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.45am (Mixed Ability - inc Beginners). Small, friendly classes. Please register interest before attending. Full details at www.mindbodypilates.org. Contact; Leanne 07817189474 or leanne@ mindbodypilates.org

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. dickens-society.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875.

n BRISTOL GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR rehearses at Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church (BS9 3AA) 2-4pm (term time only). We are a fun and friendly, non-audition, community choir for both male and female voices - one of 32 Good Afternoon Choirs who ‘sing in the afternoon’ around the South West and further afield. New members are always welcome. For further details please visit our website – www. goodafternoonchoir.org – or contact us on 01761 472468 or via e-mail at gac@ grenvillemusic.co.uk

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

FOLKSTARS: We are looking to expand the Folkstars project in the local area. If you would like your school to be considered email info@folkstars.co.uk ADULTS, want to try out guitar / violin or improve your playing? Folkstars are running a new tuition club in BS7 where you can learn weekly from experienced musicians in a relaxed / sociable setting. We have a limited number of FREE guitars and violins available to borrow for the first to join. The group will cover folk music alongside pop and rock songs as chosen by the members. To register your interest visit www. folkstars.co.uk/adult-tuition

INSTRUMENT AMNESTY: If you have an unused guitar or violin gathering dust Folkstars would love to hear from you! Any condition, we will fix and use to give more kids in Bristol the chance to play an instrument. Smaller sizes a bonus but all sizes useful. Email info@folkstars.co.uk or text 07927746661 to arrange a collection.

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 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 7.30pm 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/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org

n BRISTOL A CAPPELLA: Tuesdays 7.30pm, Victoria Methodist Church. Bristol A Cappella is an award-winning mixed barbershop chorus of around 30 members who love to sing close harmony a cappella. Our songs are mainly from pop music, with a bit of rock and some musicals. www. bristolacappella.co.uk/ Contact: membership@bristolacappella.co.uk

n BRISTOL GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR rehearses at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church (BS9 3AA) on Monday afternoons 2.00-4.00pm (term time only). We are a fun and friendly, non-audition, community choir for both male and female voices - one of 32 Good Afternoon Choirs who ‘sing in the afternoon’ around the South West and further afield. New members are always welcome and, whether you come alone or with a friend, we will be very pleased to meet you! For further details please visit our website – www. goodafternoonchoir.org – or contact us on 01761 472468 or via e-mail at gac@ grenvillemusic.co.uk

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 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 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. Contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@gmail.com.

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.

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

Continued on Page 26

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 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.

Thursday

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 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

n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING ]

Looking 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.

Loft Boarding & Insulation

info. Contact Ruth 01179683057.

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

n FRIENDS TOGETHER DEMENTIA FRIENDLY CAFÉ A Dementia accessible café for all on the first Thursday of every month, 10am12pm; The Randall Room at All Saints Church, Pembroke Rd, Clifton. Support, guidance, information and friendship with complimentary tea, coffee and homemade cake. No need to book – just come along and be a part of our community! For more information contact All Saints Parish Office: 0117 974 1355

n HENBURY SINGERS welcomes

new members at Stoke Bishop Primary School, Cedar Park BS9 1BW, 7.30 – 9.15, a warm welcome awaits you at Henbury Singers. We perform sacred and secular music under our conductor Andrew Kirk. No auditions. www.henburysingers.org Contact the secretary at secretary@henburysingers. org

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 HEALING FOR WELLBEING - New time, 5pm to 6.15 pm. Drop in sessions with trained practitioners. Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. All welcome - donation basis. For information, visit http://www. facebook.com/BristolHealingGroup or https://www.thehealingtrust.org.uk/ healing/healing-centre or phone Selina 0117 9466434.

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 on

June, 2025

bishoproadchoir@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 HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB. Come along at 5.45pm on Fridays to see if bowling could be the sport for you. Coaching available. Experienced bowlers welcome. Situated in Grange Court Road, by Newman Hall. This is a friendly Club with good bowling facilities and social events throughout the year. Phone, Tom Logan, on 0117 962 1669 or email hbcsec@ henleazebowlingclub.org.uk for further details.

Saturday

n SEA MILLS REPAIR CAFE offers sewing, woodwork, general, electrical and cycle repairs at the Methodist Church, Sea Mills Square, from 10am12pm, every second Saturday of the month (except August). This is a voluntary service run by experienced repairers. Donations welcome. FFI see Facebook @seamillsrepaircafe

bishopstonvoice

n COMMUNITY NEWS

ONLY 16% of the fruit eaten in the UK is grown here. Three easy changes? Buy from local and UK producers. Get active in community fruit growing projects. “Have a grow” in your garden or allotment.

There’s inspiration for all at the Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) Summer Orchard Open Day event on Saturday 7 June. We’re delighted to be a Bristol Festival of Nature community event. It is also Have a Grow day, a UK-wide event organised by Social Farms & Gardens. Activities include: Art in the Orchard; Peepers Open for Pollinators; Taster Sessions - Fruit Tree Summer Care (by advance booking, see HOCO website). Homemade cake, refreshments, and produce for sale - please bring cash.

HOCO is open to new Harvestshare members until the end of June. There’s still time to sign up for our new climate resilience action project: Fruitful Futures. Do you want to plant and grow new

fruit trees for future generations?

Bing your hands, head, humour, and heart to this project! Fruitgrowing experience is helpful – a creative, can-do approach is essential.

Summer Orchard Open DaySaturday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm

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.

See the HOCO website for more information: https://communityorchard.org.uk/

Words by Shannon Smith aka The Apple Tree Lady

by Jamie Carstairs

Photo

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

Just a bit of rain would be quite nice ...

EVERYTHING is progressing well in the vineyard. The frost risk has passed and the vines are looking really good.

Most of the recent rainfall we’ve had in Bristol has completely missed the vineyard in North Somerset so we’d love a bit more rain to make sure the vines don’t become stressed. This might sound strange, but In the UK we use special vine rootstocks that are suited to wet UK rainfall levels, so the vines get stressed just like other plants in dry conditions.

At the moment it’s ok and they are happy. We can see some lovely, big flower bunches developing which will hopefully become big bunches of grapes in a few months time.

The warm weather has brought out lots of butterflies and insects and the swallows are back albeit in slightly lower numbers than last year.

We’ve been busy mulching the drier areas of the vineyard with woodchip and mushroom compost to help prepare the ground for a dry summer although we never know what delights are ahead – it might be monsoon conditions from now until September!

hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

@DYvineyards (X/Twitter)

dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)

On the wine front, we will have a new sparkling white wine available imminently and our new red col fondo as well. Watch this space.

bishopstonvoice

n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence

Midsummer heralds myths and moths

ON a warm midsummer night in our back garden you might see a strange radiance appear after sunset, lighting the overhanging boughs of hazel and apple and making their leaves glow in the dark. As with all night lights many small creatures are led astray including caddis flies, beetles, and an occasional surprised butterfly, whilst sometimes a canny toad sits nearby. At times a faint cloud of insects will shimmer around the light (though, to face brutal reality for a moment, numbers are reduced compared to when we first arrived in Bishopston; the insect decline is noticeable even in a garden which has been progressively “wilded” over the last 25 years). But the main reason the light is there is to attract those merry wanderers of the night, moths.

June is the beginning of the main mothing season (yes, enthusiasts call it mothing, and themselves mothers - best written

“moth-ers” to avoid confusion).

The moth trap has vertical baffles placed above the bulb and as the moths frantically trip the light fantastic they occasionally hit one and tumble into the wide container below. Here they find refuge under old egg boxes to await identification in the morning. The next night they are left in the dark to escape unharmed. Our Moth-er in Chief has listed nearly 800 species in our garden including beauties

such as lime hawkmoth with gorgeously patterned haute couture wings, burnished brass gleaming like a soldier on parade, and green silver lines whose gossamer costume of light green streaked with silver is worthy of Moth herself, one of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night fairies.

Among the most mysterious of moths are the group called the swifts. In evolutionary terms they are considered primitive which simply means they have changed little from their earliest moth-like ancestors, which could equally be styled ‘well-adapted’. The larvae spend two winters underground (unlike most British moths that are content with one) amongst the roots of their feedplants which include a wide variety of common plants. Many swifts like “rough grassy places” so they should feel at home in our patch and, indeed, orange swifts have become progressively more common with

us. The male gold swift (of which we have had only one) produces a sex pheromone which smells of pineapple (it really does). But most enchanting of all is the ghost moth (of which we have also had only one individual). The males have white wings (females are yellow) and they “lek” at dusk, that is they congregate in an ethereal mating dance as if to celebrate Midsummer in the traditional way.

White moths feature in European folklore as the souls of the departed and it is from this connection that ghost moth probably received its name. Fluttering moths are mentioned in the last passage of Wuthering Heights and it is suggested that Brontë is referencing this ancient symbolism. The narrator then asserts that the dead must surely experience peaceful slumbers, here amongst the moths and the harebells.

© Dawn Lawrence

Green silver lines moth, a Midsummer Night’s dream

Photo by Rupert Higgins