Bishopston Voice August 2017 by Emma Cooper

bishopstonvoice www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017 Issue 57

Final farewell to Redland High School

See page 9

FREE EVERY MONTH IN BISHOPSTON, REDLAND & ST ANDREWS

Cuts 'put schools at risk' Headteacher Sarah Baker

SARAH Baker, founding head teacher at Redland Green School, fears that continuing financial constraints threaten the achievements made by her school and others in Bristol over the last 12 years. Ms Baker, who wrote to parents earlier this year asking them to contribute to school funds, has told

Bishopston Voice that the recent announcement by Education Secretary of additional funding would not make up for years of reductions. Ms Baker, chair of the Bristol Secondary Heads' group, said: "We are dropping down to almost inoperable levels now." Full story: Pages 4 & 5

Street Trees 'need more funding' Campaigners have challenged a proposed 78 per cent reduction in Bristol's Street Trees budget to just £53,000 a year. PAGE 6

Final farewell to Redland High

School's out for the very last time at Redland High, which has shut after 135 years and merged with The Red Maids' School. PAGE 9

Action demand at 'unsafe' prison A crowdfunding appeal has been launched to keep Gloucester Road pub, the Prince of Wales, independent. Landlady Anna Gorman, pictured with her children Dylan, 13, Lauren, 11, and baby Clara, and pub managers Charlotte and Toby, explains why this battle matters on Page 5

Campaigners are urging action after inspectors found Bristol Prison was overcrowded, understaffed PAGE 29

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Useful numbers 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

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PUBLIC meetings about Your Neighbourhood Consultation have begun, both with the Mayor in attendance and separately in local areas to highlight specific concerns. Bristol City Council need to save £4.7 million over the next three years. Its suggestions to achieve this could see most of the city’s libraries close, along with the majority of public toilets, an impact on school crossing patrols, Community Links and the withdrawal of funding for Neighbourhood Partnerships. The council is conducting an online survey on its proposals bristol.citizenspace. com/bristol-city-council/ yourneighbourhood/ until Tuesday 5 September. Paper copies are also available on request at both Bishopston and Redland Libraries. A special session to help people fill in the form is being held on 10 August at Bishopston Library. The Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Neighbourhood Forum met on July 19 to discuss the best way to fill in the detailed and lengthy form to preserve as many local services as possible.

The importance of getting your form in early was stressed as comments are being read as each document is received. Also, using numbers or bullet points was recommended for comments, as it makes them easier to read. Each section is laid out with options presented to select. Local councillors pointed out that people do not need to select any of these choices. If you don’t agree with what is presented write ‘none of the above’ in the comments section and then list your own ideas. The council proposes to reduce the number of branch libraries from 26 to nine, spread geographically around the city. The Central Library would remain and there would be two types of branch libraries: Area libraries and Local libraries. Bishopston Library has been listed in Bristol East’s section, where it remains open if Option 1 or 3 is selected. However, under all three options there would be no more council funding for Redland Library even though it is one of the most well used libraries in Bristol. It is possible Your Neighbourhood Consultation at The Greenway Centre

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 11,250 copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

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comments now! to ignore the enforced options 1 - 3 and go straight to the text box where you can say that you want more local libraries or make suggestions about a communityrun service. The crossing patrol at Bishop Road School is unaffected by the proposals; however councillors recommend that people still comment on this, mentioning on the form that they want their school crossing patrol to be retained. Residents were vocal in their criticism of the consultation document. One person described it as ‘poor’ due to the lack of consultation before the document was created and another voiced the opinion that the Mayor and his cohorts have already done a done deal. A point was raised that the council could choose to close libraries where the buildings are valuable assets. The first of of a series of eight public consultation events involving the Mayor, Cabinet

members and senior Bristol City Council managers began at The Greenway Centre in Doncaster Road on 29 June. Mayor Marvin Rees, Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor with responsibilities for communities and Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor with responsibility for Finance, Governance and Performance were in attendance answering questions. There was much concern from the audience about the closure of public toilets, especially from people with disabilities who rely on the service. Cllr Craig replied that she has been contacted by organisations in other areas who want to take over running community toilets and that this was an option here too. Cllr Craig also said that she has been hearing that people want their library saved in all areas of Bristol; however the proposals reflect the amount of libraries that the council can afford to run given the budget.

One questioner raised the issue of why we need another consultation at public expense? Mayor Marvin Rees answered that it was because the council wants to know what the people of Bristol think. The website states that “Your feedback, along with the views of other local groups and partners and the results of our Equalities Impact Assessments, will be taken into consideration in developing a set of final

NEW

proposals that match local needs wherever possible. The proposals will be put to the Mayor and his Cabinet to make a final decision. In making a decision they will also take consultation responses and Equalities Impact Assessments into consideration.” So that’s the invitation: fill in your forms and let them know your views. Preferably sooner, rather than at the last minute on September 5.

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August, 2017

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'It breaks my heart to think we could be dropping back on all the improvements we’ve made'

Redland Green School has some of the best exam results in Bristol - but funding cuts are putting this proud record at risk. In an interview with Bishopston Voice, head teacher Sarah Baker explains the financial crisis in education

FEWER teachers and support staff, bigger class sizes, a reduced curriculum … these are the realities for Redland Green School as it looks ahead to the new academic year and beyond. Head teacher Sarah Baker, who has led the secondary since it opened in 2006, made headlines earlier this year when she wrote to parents to ask them to consider making financial contributions to the school. Just before the summer holidays, Education Secretary Justine Greening announced an additional £1.3bn would go into school budgets and said that all would see a 0.5 per cent increase in their per-pupil funding from April. She has delayed implementation of a national funding formula, which could have put city schools at risk of more cuts. But Ms Baker said these measures were nowhere near enough to solve the challenges her school, and others, face. Budgets have been squeezed

Sarah Baker with students on a non-uniform day, raising money for the Hope Foundation, RGS’s link charity in India meet the needs of a growing over several years and it is school population in Bristol." becoming increasingly hard to Cuts are already having make ends meet, which has led to an impact on subject choice. tough decisions. German A-level is no longer She said: “The issue is not offered and GCSE textiles has really about whether we have a been dropped. new funding system or an old funding system - it’s about the Curriculum lack of money in the system. The Ms Baker said: “We make size of the pot is the issue with decisions every year based on the constant cuts. what people choose so we can "We are very pleased that the maximise options. In Key Stage government has responded to 3, children won’t get such a the school leaders, parents and broad range as they would have politicians who have been raising done before in subjects such as concerns about cuts in funding. Art, Design and Technology and This will provide some relief in that limits their options when the short term, but we still have they get to Key Stage 4 and concerns it will be insufficient to Key Stage 5. Once you’ve lost a teacher, it’s very hard to bring 'The issue is not really about whether we have a new that subject back. funding system or an old funding system - it’s about the “We will be reviewing our lack of money in the system' curriculum in full next year with

parents and will have to make sure that we have a rational curriculum that meets the needs of our students and that is value for money. The money will be a much more important factor than it would have been when we were set up. Now we have to say what we would like to do and within that ask what we can afford to do.” The school’s overall annual budget is over £7 million but revenue was down by more than £200,000 this year, having already dropped six per cent the year before. This is despite an increase in the number of students at the school - 27 in each new Year 7 intake. Additional funding that used to come via the city council for High Needs and Special Educational Needs is drastically down, sixth form funding has been cut and other grants reduced. Less than eight per cent of Redland Green students are classed as disadvantaged, compared to a citywide average of nearly 30 per cent. Schools receive additional funding for each disadvantaged student. “We get about £80,000 a year whereas there will be some schools that get hundreds of thousands. That’s why if you look at funding per student overall, Redland Green is the lowest funded school in the city. “I think it’s important

Where to spend Bristol Pounds on Gloucester Rd A BEAUTIFUL map of Gloucester Road is launching this month, showing all businesses who accept Bristol Pounds alongside artwork from residents in the area. Gloucester Road is the longest independent high street in Britain and a whopping 55 of the businesses on the road trade in Bristol’s money. Artwork on the map has been created by local artists and provided by Gloucester Road Central, a traders’ association, who are running a project to put the artists’ work on

banners hanging from lampposts. Adam Rich, communications manager at the Bristol Pound, said: “Gloucester Road is a lifeline of independent Bristol and a hub of creativity – the new Gloucester Road map is a celebration of these things, while also being a practical tool to help you spend your money in a way which benefits the city.” The Bristol Pound is an alternative currency which encourages spending in independent shops, while also changing the way money works. Bristolians open a Bristol

Pound account and change their sterling money into the local currency. They can then spend Bristol Pounds online, using their phone or withdraw paper Bristol Pound notes. Those without an account can still use Bristol Pounds, by swapping sterling notes at the till of a business called a Bristol Pound ‘Cash Point’. The map is available for free at any of the Bristol Pound businesses on the road. Find out more about the Bristol Pound and sign up for an account at www.bristolpound.org

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

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RGS students taking part in enrichment activities

'We are dropping down to almost inoperable levels now - we’ve had to go to parents and ask them to give us money if they can' that people understand how challenging it is for us at the moment. We are dropping down to almost inoperable levels now - we’ve had to go to parents and ask them to give us some money if they can. We are asking for funding for things that ten years ago we would have been able to fund ourselves,” said Ms Baker. The school, which has nearly 1400 students aged 11 to 18, has cut staff over recent years in spite of rising pupil numbers. It now has 83 full-time teachers (down three), 23 learning support assistants (down three) and 40 other support staff (down five). This means fewer staff in place

to administer trips, counselling or help children who need extra input. Class sizes will be increased to 29 or 30, instead of 27 and the school is looking at ways to use technology to reduce costs and teacher workload. Staff costs amount to 80% of the school’s budget. “We want experienced staff and that’s what makes this school good but one of our challenges is that our staff are relatively expensive because we have experienced, wellqualified staff who like working here and want to stay. Other schools can’t recruit staff.” Ms Baker fears that the financial constraints put at risk the progress made by her school and others in the city over the last 10-15 years. “Bristol had a double system with one of the highest rates of private education and people going out of the city. One of the

reasons that this school was set up to ensure that there was a good state education for all children. That has ripples and has been part of a movement in

which parents now have faith in the Bristol school system and send their children to school in the city when they didn’t before. “It’s not just Redland Green, it’s Orchard, Henbury, Fairfield - they are all good now. We work with other schools, sharing information and strategies.” Sarah Baker is chair of the network of secondary heads and works with the primary heads and City of Bristol College to try to improve schools. “It breaks my heart to think that we could be dropping back on all the improvements we’ve made. All the inclusion work we’ve done. How we’ve got children from disadvantaged backgrounds improving outcomes. “We will continue to provide a really excellent education for the children but it is unlikely to have as many trimmings as it might have had. If parents, the local community and local businesses can contribute in any way to enrich the opportunities our students have then we’d really welcome that,” she added.

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Tree maintenance cuts are challenged THE issue of cuts to the Street Trees budget was raised by Green councillor Carla Denyer at the Members’ Forum in a Full Council meeting. Councillor Denyer submitted joint questions to the Mayor with Green Councillor Clive Stevens which noted several issues raised by the Bristol Tree Forum: The Council’s Highways Department did not consult the Council’s arboricultural officers, the Tree Forum or any other relevant experts about street trees before making their decision to reduce the budget by 78%, which would effectively mean ceasing most tree maintenance. The Highways department are justifying cuts by saying that they will maintain the minimum statutory service, regularly checking trees every few years, however, this is not cost-efficient as regular pollarding would be cheaper (a point on which horticultural experts agree). There has been no costed business case or risk assessment for the budget cuts. The last point may be particularly significant as cuts to tree maintenance could potentially result in public damages, for example caused by trees falling on property, subsidence or people tripping over exposed roots, which the council could then be liable for. Councillor Denyer also asked the Mayor whether the Council’s insurer (Zurich) was consulted over the decision to cut tree maintenance, and whether the insurance would remain valid to cover claims following the budget reductions. The Mayor was unable to answer the question, EWA Kluk, dispensing assistant at Kellaway Pharmacy, scooped the Service Excellence Award at a gala lunch at the Dorchester Hotel, London. The event celebrated the best of pharmacy who go above and beyond their duty to support their local communities. The host and editor of Training Matters, Gemma Woodall, said: “This year’s entries were outstanding and it was an incredibly tough task for the judging panel to whittle down the entries for each of the categories.

and promised a response in writing (at the time of writing this had not been received). Earlier in July the Bristol Tree Forum held an open meeting at City Hall as they are very concerned about maintaining budgets and street trees. The meeting was so well-attended with people from Cotham, Redland, Stoke Bishop and all over the city turning up that a larger room had to be found. Stressing that the Bristol Tree Forum remains a ‘friend’ of the Council, speakers pointed out how the current decision to cut budgets without consultation has blown away all trust. The Deputy Mayor Cllr Asher Craig confirmed that due to budget cuts, there is now only £53,000 each year for tree management, so the council will be no longer be undertaking any pollarding on the city’s population of street trees. There will also be a termination of epicormic removal which will

now only be removed when reported on the grounds of Health and Safety. Later in the meeting the Highways manager when questioned several times finally admitted that this decision had been taken without any consultation or advice from the City’s Arboricultural team. Cllr Asher Craig said: “I’m not immune to concerns of the Tree Forum. We are in a very challenging situation - facing some difficult decisions. We weren’t expecting to be facing the financial cliff edge we did when Marvin took over in May. “£53,000 will result in discontinuing tree pollarding. We are looking at all options including a lottery, donations similar to the Manchester model and crowd funding. We are not planning on cutting down any trees anytime soon. We want to work with you. I want to rebuild the trust.” In the last week local

Streetscene volunteers have been out in Cotham and Redland cutting back epicormic growth from local trees (all the shoots at the base of the trunk). Redland Cllr Martin Fodor said: “We need to thank our local street scene volunteers as without them only the barest action is being promised in future unless these cuts are rethought. “I've been contacted about two street trees in the last few weeks, both raising issues that the end of street tree maintenance highlights: in one case an unsafe tree, spotted through the planned tree works (now proposed to be abolished) which would therefore not lead to scheduled unsafe tree removal. This could then lead to exactly the kind of accident and insurance claim that would help wipe out the budget saving that's been assumed. “The other is an example of the need for a tree maintenance budget, as a resident who relies on a mobility scooter was almost thrown from the scooter by tree root damage to a pavement. Planned maintenance would help reduce this risk, as regular pruning, while sometimes controversial and savage to the street scene, does slow tree growth and reduce the onset of damage. Fortunately in this case i was able to get highways to agree to repair the pavement to reduce the risk of tipping over a mobility scooter. “These examples highlight the need for preventive maintenance budgets which in the long term should save money and also secure all the health and well being benefits of street trees.”

Celebrating the best of pharmacy The finalists really are the best of the best and their dedication and commitment to their roles really is commendable.” Pharmacist Jess Williams said: “Our team is proud of what Ewa has achieved and is very pleased that her dedication in serving the community is recognised. Ewa truly exemplifies our pharmacy ethos of passionately caring for our patients and their dignity.”

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

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Prince of Wales pub battles to remain independent by Jayne Bennett

WITH the number of pubs in the UK declining every week, the Prince of Wales on Bristol’s Gloucester Road is a shining example of how an independent pub can still pull in the punters by serving top quality local food, ales, ciders and soft drinks for over a decade. However, the Bristol landmark is now under threat from owners Enterprise Inns, who have plans to turn this much loved hostelry into a companymanaged pub – and landlady Anna Gorman is not giving up without a fight! Anna, who has rented the Prince of Wales from the brewery for 15 years, was due to hand back the pub in December last year, but was given a year’s reprieve to fight in the courts to get a new lease for the pub. In 2016, a change in regulations meant that pubs had to get rid of the controversial ‘beer ties’ which forced pubs to buy their beer from the owners of the building, meaning that more of the larger brewery chains started bringing in their own house managers, including Enterprise Inns. Anna has said she will be the first landlord in the country to fight Enterprise Inns on its new stance, and continue to utilise good quality, local produce, including meat from Gloucester Road legend Tom Murray and olives from Spanish hero El Comado. The pub also sells a wide range of beers and drinks from independent brewers and producers, including Bristol Beer Factory, New Bristol Brewery, Dawkins Ales and Bath Ales. The cost of fighting the case could rise as high as £40,000 – Anna has already spent £7,000 on legal fees – and so she has launched a crowd funding appeal in the hope that the local community will get behind her and help her fight for the pub’s right to stay independent. More than £2,000 was given to the pub’s campaign in the first day, but Anna still needs more people to get behind the cause, sign the petition and donate. Says Anna: “I am not taking this threat from Enterprise lightly and plan on being the first landlord in legal history to take the multi-million-pound company to court over my right

to keep the Prince of Wales as it is, a traditional local pub for the Gloucester Road community. The Prince of Wales is part of a large collection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants which run along the Gloucester Road. “This independent ethos encapsulated by the Prince of Wales would be at great risk if Enterprise Inns were to introduce their own managed house in place of our beloved local. Enterprise Inns want to forcibly remove me as a tenant from the Prince of Wales and turn it into a managed house run by the Bermondsey pub company. They aim to run a chain of 200 pubs by 2020, replacing individual characterful community pubs with generic chain branding. “I am the first landlord in legal history to confront Enterprise Inns over this policy. I have issued court proceedings in order to gain a new lease, so the Prince of Wales can continue to be an integral part of the Gloucester Road community. The only problem is, fighting a multimillion-pound company does not come cheap. The legal fees so far have totalled nearly £7,000. The cost of the whole proceedings is estimated to be in the region of £40,000. The Prince of Wales cannot afford to fight its battle alone. We are asking you for help. We are reaching out to our fellow Gloucester Road traders, our suppliers and our customers.” The Ei Publican Partnerships

said: “As there is an ongoing legal process related to the Prince of Wales pub, it is inappropriate for us to comment at this time.” Anna needs to raise a further

£33,000 to continue the fight against the brewery giants. Visit https://www. crowdfunder.co.uk/save-theprince-of-wales-1 if you wish to donate.

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS AFTER 135 years of educating the young women of Bristol, Redland High School for Girls closes its doors for the final time on Friday July 7, ahead of the formal opening of Redmaids’ High School in September. The closure of the site was announced last year, after a merger was agreed between Redland High and The Red Maids’ School. To celebratethe school and the thousands of women who have benefited from the independent education it has provided, a commemorative tea-party, organised by the Friends of Redland High School, was held on the Headmistress's terrace. As well as enjoying the beautiful grounds and sharing stories, the pupils, staff, parents and friends who attended took part in a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest number of people playing the game, ‘He loves me, he loves me not’, The flower they used was the daisy, which is the emblem of the school. Previously this record was held by 331 people in Milan, in April 2009. Redland High managed to get 427 people to participate! Perdita Davidson, the Acting Headmistress of Redland High, said: “It has been my honour to teach at this school for 17 years, and to lead this community over the past 12 months. "Redland High has helped girls to achieve the most incredible things, including becoming Bristol’s first female architect, the first female

Final farewell to Redland High School

paediatrician in the southwest and the first woman to be president of the Aeronautical Society. “Although this is the end of an era, the exceptional teaching and supportive ethos of Redland High will continue at Redmaids’ High School and I am looking forward to the next chapter in our story.” The new school, based at the former Red Maids’ site in Westbury-on-Trym, incorporates all the best elements from both former schools and includes a new state-of-the-art auditorium, which has been named ‘Redland Hall’ in recognition of Redland High.

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bishopstonvoice

n MP COLUMN

August, 2017

Let's make Bristol truly accessible

Thangam Debbonaire column

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

ANY of you have talked with me about the various ways I’m trying to help make Bristol more truly accessible – a city that’s autism-friendly, or one that welcomes refugees, for example. In June, I met an inspirational group of Bishopstonians called SENDaWelcome. They’re a voluntary group of parents of children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), and they’re helping to make our city more accessible to people with any form of SEND. These wonderful people have established an open and friendly form of mutual support but are going way beyond that to create social change, starting with their own neighbourhood. I met parents and children involved in SENDaWelcome in the Boston Tea Party next to Nevil Road. Boston Tea Party hosts the group as part of doing whatever they can to make their

premises accessible, friendly and welcoming to people with special needs. Why is that so important? Well, as some of the parents told me, too often they feel isolated in their own community, because of perceptions of their child’s disability, stigma or uncomfortableness by a shop or café or neighbours. They had experienced the feeling of being judged by their child’s disability. By working with shops and cafes like Boston Tea Party, SENDaWelcome is trying to change that – helping the staff in those places to understand more about disability and accessibility and providing reassurances and information to parents of children with a special education need that they’ll be welcomed there. And, gradually, to shift public attitudes generally. SENDaWelcome is also organising activities for children

and young people with SEND, and hoping to set up apprenticeships locally which are suitable for their children, with employers who will understand what they might need. The atmosphere in the Boston Tea Party that afternoon was lively, but safe, kind and welcoming to all the parents and children. It was also really inspiring. As one parent said to me: “I’ve felt isolated here but, surely in Bishopston of all places, we can change how people respond to children with special needs, and show the rest of the city and the world how that can be done.” I hope we can all take some inspiration from that, and get involved in some way. After all, that’s what we love about Bristol; it’s full of people trying to change the world, one neighbourhood at a time. You can find the group on Twitter @SENDaWelcome, and on Facebook @SENDawelcomeBristol.

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August, 2017

n NEWS

Southmead Prostate Cancer Care Appeal gets boost from consultant’s triathlon by Jayne Bennett THE Prostate Cancer Care Appeal at Southmead Hospital has gained new strength from consultant urologist Anthony Koupparis, who raised more than £6,000 by taking part in the Cotswolds 226 Triathlon last month. Anthony, 42, works as a part of the urology team at Southmead Hospital and came up with the idea of doing a full Ironman triathlon event to raise money for the appeal, which has been running since last September. “At Southmead we offer world-class robotic surgery treatment to men suffering with prostate cancer and our appeal is to buy two new robots so we can help even more men. It’s such a worthwhile cause,” explained Anthony. For the triathlon on 25 June, Anthony completed a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle, topped off a full 26-mile marathon; a massive undertaking for a novice. “I’ve been training every week since Christmas and it’s been quite tough. But I got a message of support from Chrissy Wellington – four-time world Ironman champion and one of the world’s most amazing athletes – and that has really encouraged me!” The new ambitious appeal aims to raise £2 million to fund the two new robots and give men with prostate cancer in the south west the best prospect of recovery and survival. A charity Buskathon event, held in the atrium of Southmead Hospital’s Brunel Building during June, also raised a record amount of £13,300 for the appeal. The event featured 90 live performances from choirs, bands, classical musicians and dancing groups. The hospital also

hosted BBC Music Day which brought together singers from 60 choirs from across the south west in a series of live broadcasts on the BBC, also featuring jazz saxophonist YolanDa. There were also performances in Broadmead and John Lewis, and Let’s Rock Bristol donated tickets to the charity which raised more than £3,000. Adrian Brown, community appeals manager, said: “This year’s Buskathon has exceeded expectations and provided a month of spectacular live music to entertain and uplift our staff, visitors and patients. “Not only have we raised a significant amount for our Prostate Cancer Care Appeal but we have enhanced the experience of coming into hospital for patients and visitors to create a more healing environment.” Southmead Hospital has the largest urological centre in the country, treating thousands of prostate cancer patients a year. It is also one of only five centres in the UK to specialise in robotic surgery to treat the disease. But having helped save the lives of many men, Southmead’s current robot is aging, and the Prostate Cancer Care Appeal is hoping to raise enough cash to fund two new robots so that even more men can be offered this life-saving treatment. “Robotic prostate surgery is much better for men suffering with prostate cancer than traditional surgical methods,” explains Anthony, who is lead urology consultant. “It’s more accurate, less invasive, causes less blood loss, and reduces the length of stay in hospital. Men also have much better long-term prospects for a full recovery. “Our team at Southmead are regional, national and European leaders for robotic surgery and the Appeal will ensure we stay at the forefront of this technology.

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“We realise this is an ambitious appeal, but with support we can carry on giving men the best possible future,” adds Anthony. The charity is now keen to hear from individuals, companies and other organisations who would also like to get fundraising to support the Appeal – there are lots of ways people can help. Find out more about the Prostate Cancer Care Appeal at www. southmead hospitalcharity.org/ prostate, or you can still sponsor Anthony’s challenge at https: // prostate.everydayhero. com/uk/ anthony-1

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

The long awaited Independent Health Visitor has arrived in Bristol . . . The Independent Health Visiting Service I offer is individual and professional. It is an alternative to the service offered by the NHS available at a time suitable to you. I can make referrals and liaise with your GP just as your NHS Health Visitor. As all families are different and are constantly developing, the services I offer are non judgmental and led by you. As well as working office hours, I’m available evenings and weekends. You will only see me for continuity of care, ensuring no conflicting advice is given. So if you need support with feeding, weaning, sleeping, behaviour, or a new baby visit I would love to meet you. See my website for more services. If you mention the Bishopston Voice you will receive one FREE 20 minute consultation in your home in 2017 www.lizheckford.co.uk hello@lizheckford.co.uk 07811 403580

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Bloggs salon through to national finals GLOUCESTER Road hairdressing salon, Bloggs Hair Design, is celebrating after being shortlisted as one of the best in the business at the prestigious British Hairdressing Business Awards, in the coveted Salon Of The Year 2 category. This particular award category recognises small salons who personify a forwardthinking business, with inspiring marketing, strong customer relations and an engaged and inspiring team in place. Executive Director of Hairdressers Journal, Jayne Lewis-Orr said: “This category is all about celebrating those smaller salons that are out there making a massive difference. Whether they’re independent or part of a group, they’ve got a proven track record and the happy clients to prove it. They have a solid business plan, great customer care and a solid team in place to support them. In short, it’s about best-in-class behavior that gets results.” Salon owner Joe Hemmings launched the business at 288 Gloucester Road in 2010. He said: “We’re delighted to be named as finalists for this prestigious award and I have the whole team to thank for getting us here. We strive to provide the best salon experience possible

and this spot on the shortlist shows that we’re getting that right, with the results to prove it.” And it’s onwards and upwards for the Bloggs team, as their new Harbourside salon on Millennium Promenade launched last week to great acclaim. The awards take place on 11 September in London. For more information see www. bloggshairdesign.co.uk

News?

Give Sue a call on 07976 706120 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Saying no to loneliness

BRISTOL Lord Mayor Lesley Alexander was the guest of honour for a film afternoon for older people put on by a group of Year 9 students from Colston’s Girls’ School. The students put on the community event as part of the Prince's Trust Achieve programme, in which they learn skills such as teamwork and employability. They chose to work with the charity LinkAge because it has a ‘Say No to Loneliness’ project and they invited the Lord

Mayor because reducing isolation among the elderly is one of her main projects this year. The visitors enjoyed watching Singing in the Rain before chatting to one another and to the girls over afternoon tea. Many of them praised the students for their hard work, hospitality and attention to detail. One of them, Mary Lee, said: “I t is a wonderful idea to bring the generations together for something like this. The girls have worked so hard and I really enjoyed it.”

Parking zone changes due RESIDENTS' parking came to Redland and Cotham ward in summer 2014. This caused lots of controversy at the time but since then little debate in the streets where it is in place. The follow-up six-month review was completed early in 2015. This led to proposals for revisions to the scheme plus extensions on either side of Redland Road. A permit system for users of the local allotments was also promisedo. Redland Councillor Martin Fodor said: “There have been many issues around the changes and extensions, but the news now is that despite delays to the build of the new facilities the scheme should finally have gone live on August 14. We shall keep a close watch on everything until it settles down and do get in touch if there are teething problems or issues that you can’t get answers to from the council.” Martin has asked the Mayor for a promise of action to people in streets where most residents want something done about commuter parking, such as those on either side of Gloucester Road.

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n EDUCATION

An exciting year for sixth-formers at Colston’s School

SIXTH -formers at Colston’s have just completed a very successful year, both inside and outside the classroom. Alongside their academic studies students participated in a range of co-curricular sporting and creative activities, community volunteering projects and the school’s innovative Future Leaders programme. Through this programme students are not only taught specific employability and life skills, but are also given the opportunity to experience reallife projects designed to stretch them and to fill any gaps they have in their professional profile. Involvement with real companies (this year’s students worked with Rolls-Royce, TasteTech and Superdry among others) gives the students a valuable insight into what employers and universities are looking for. The professional projects culminated in a presentation evening, during which the students confidently pitched their ideas to industry experts, with an added dimension of excitement as they competed against their peers to be the winning team. Sophie Reed, who is studying sciences and mathematics, described the professional project she took part in this year: “We really enjoyed developing our research skills in the field

of science whilst learning a lot about the marketing and financial side of the industry too. My favourite part of the project was our visit to TasteTech as it enabled us to see how products, similar to the one we designed, are being developed in the industry.” While Dr Paul Hill, Deputy Headmaster at Colston’s, commented “We have seen a tangible impact of the Future Leaders programme with some incredible university, apprenticeship and employments offers being made to our students. It is clear the universities and employers really value the work our students are doing to develop outstanding employability skills.” It’s not just the staff and students who are proud of the Future Leaders programme; it has received external recognition and was recently a finalist for an Education and Business Partnership Award at the Bristol Evening Post Education Awards. These students are now looking forward to joining the Upper Sixth in September, with all the opportunities for leadership that Colston’s provides through its prefect system and peer mentoring scheme, ensuring that they are well equipped to continue to succeed when they leave school.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n EDUCATION

Claremont's joy at glorious new garden A GARDEN party was held at Claremont Secondary School in early July to celebrate the 10th anniversary since the school opened its doors at the Redland Green site and the completion of a newly designed outdoor area. Claremont is a special school for pupils with physical difficulties, complex needs and associated learning difficulties with just over 40 pupils at the secondary school and a further 35 at the primary school site in Henleaze. Claremont staff member, Ruth Glasspool said: “We had an outdoor space but it was very boring and concrete - not very inviting for the students to come out and use. We wanted it to be a space for the students to extend their learning outside the classroom and to develop play because it’s hard for our students to come outside as it takes so many helpers.” Funding was tight for the project but a boost of £2,000 from the Quartet Community

Foundation was a most welcome help and meant that the little pieces that make a difference could be funded, like the plant pots and the umbrellas. Ruth contacted the Garden Design School at the Bristol Botanic Gardens, and three recent graduates volunteered their services. Designer Anne Sharp from Anne Sharp Garden Designs

said: “It looked sad before - hard landscaping with no colours, no flower, not a space that would stimulate. “We wanted to understand what was good for the children. When you are building a sensory garden for kids you are thinking about colour, touch smell, and ordinarily hearing, and movement. This school is special and the kids are special so you have to be just that little bit more careful about it. “Caroline and I came in and met Ruth, took measurements, and drew up plans with our colleague Alex Collins. Ruth organised the contractors to come in and do the work then Caroline and Alex came back and helped with all of the planting. It’s simple colours, bright flowers, and nothing too complicated.” Caroline Butler from Hawkmoth Garden Design added: “We came in to do the planting on the hottest day of the year - which you wouldn’t usually do but Ruth and her team have managed to keep it watered - and alive! “And, Phil Matthews,

landscape gardener for Bristol City council worked a minor miracle with the amount of money and bedding plants. “We revamped the herb garden, which is a really nice sensory area for the kids, and made some suggestions on planting around the trees because they are at hand height. We have some Stachys byzantina in the far planter, which feels like rabbit’s ears, some Ajuga which is nice and glossy and hardy geraniums. All of the plants are tough old plants - if they get wheeled over or yanked out or neglected they will survive!” The children can get down onto the ground now that artificial turf has been added. They are using it for PE sessions and can feel that it’s a different surface even when they come over on a wheelchair. Indoors, Rene Goodland from Goodland’s Tea Party was busy completing the set of imprints that students have been making on ceramic tiles. The finished tiles will be mounted and placed on the railings outside. Rene said: “The different tones of blue are based on the logo of the school and almost like the ocean and the sky. The children chose the colours and we have different textures that were added to the tiles for children who want to have a bit more sensory feel, especially for those with visual impairments. “It’s been amazing doing it with the kids, taking the impressions. Some have done hands, toes, knuckles, there is an elbow - it’s all dependent on what abilities they can do. We had to really get a bit creative. It was really fun and the kids enjoyed the process of it as well.”

Designers Anne Sharp and Caroline Butler

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n EDUCATION

Primary school poets celebrate their talent TALENTED young poets from primary schools across Bristol celebrate getting their work published in a book in July. The poems are the winning entries in an annual citywide primary school poetry competition run by Ablaze, a local education charity. This year’s theme is 'Friendship' and the competition attracted hundreds of entries. The book, 'A Celebration of Poetry in Bristol's Primary Schools', is the second published by Ablaze and Intellect Books. Poems by 70 talented children are featured in the latest edition. “Once again we were overwhelmed by the talent and quality of the entries we received,” said Sally Melvin, chief executive of Ablaze. “The poems were a real pleasure to read. They were funny, heartfelt, inventive and often very moving.” Judges were looking for the best poems in three categories: pupils under seven years; those

The winners with Huw Powell, local children's author (back row right) and Miles Chambers, Bristol's first poet laureate (back row left) aged between seven and nine; and a nine to eleven-year old category. Winners and runnersup in each category were selected and an overall 'best poem' was chosen. At the celebration event in the city centre, Bristol’s awardwinning young poets recited their work in front of an invited audience which included proud teachers and parents, before receiving their prizes from celebrated children's author,

Consistently high attainment over the last three years and in the top two schools for student progress over the last two years. Educating girls 11 - 18.

Huw Powell. This year's overall winner was Iris Taylor from SS Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School in Redland. Iris, a Year 5 pupil, recited her poem 'Friendship is a Miraculous Thing', which was praised by the judges as a beautifully constructed celebration of the strength and joy of friendship. Anona Whatley from Whitehall Primary School also collected her prize for the

winning cover design for the book. Children from Bishop Road Primary School also took part. Ronnie Packham, Year 2, was the winner of the under 7 age category with his poem 'Teddies on Guard'. Alex Auton-Green, Year 4, won the 7-9 age category with the poem 'Who Needs Friends?' The event was hosted at the offices of law firm Clarke Willmott, whose staff volunteer for Ablaze. Ablaze works with volunteers from businesses and other groups to raise aspirations, achievement and skill levels in young people in primary and secondary schools in the more disadvantaged parts of Bristol. Each year more than 2,000 young people in the city are supported by volunteers through Ablaze on a variety of programmes. Copies of the book are available for £5. Email Victoria. Gibbs@AblazeBristol.org

Open Evenings September 14th & 19th 6.00pm - 8.00pm

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

n EDUCATION TWO teams of students from Fairfield High School (FHS) took part in Bristol’s CommunityApprentice. The inter-school competition - not dissimilar to The Apprentice on television - was run by local education charity 'Envision'. Young people were challenged to develop, and crucially demonstrate, skills and personal qualities whilst managing their own projects. In this case, however, young people competed to benefit the community, rather than make the most profit. In June, team Regen competed against three other schools in the CommunityApprentice Boardroom Final hosted by the University of Bristol. The team were selected from all 21 teams across the city to take part as they proved they had made a big difference to their community and themselves. The competition was the toughest yet but the team had done a lot of preparation and did their school proud in front of Mayor Marvin Rees and Envision’s Chief Executive Jennie Butterworth. The Mayor chose Team

August, 2017

FHS students chosen as Mayor’s Community-Apprentices

Regen as the winners who went above and beyond to transform their community by completing a litter pick and mural in their local area, designed by children from nearby primary schools. He praised their work and in particular the way they had involved the whole community, left a legacy and developed as a team: The team have won the chance to continue making a difference by designing a poster campaign about littering for

Bristol train stations, which will be supported by Burges Salmon and Great Western Railway later this year. Collectively this year, all 21 teams have volunteered over 7,000 hours to help their communities, including another team from FHS, Team Hopefulness who raised over £600 for local homelessness charity Julian House and educated the Year 7 group on money management to prevent homelessness in the future. To

recognise their perseverance and commitment to the programme the team were nominated for the Resilience and Problem Solving award. Each student who graduated received a personalised reference written by their business mentors detailing the skills they had developed on the programme. Justine Reid, a mentor from Burges Salmon said: “The mentoring sessions have been a real opportunity for the teams to ask questions about different careers and see an office environment. They are also given practical advice and exposure to professionals which will help with future interviews. My highlight was watching the team present at the Boardroom Final and witnessing how much their presentation skills had improved and how proud they were of their great performances.”

Looking for an exceptional local school? Look no further as we celebrate a significant rise in overall results from last year! Open Evening: Thursday 21st September, 6-9pm Open Mornings: Thursday 5th October, Friday 6th October, Tuesday 10th October and Wednesday 11th October, 9.15-10.30am

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n BISHOPSTON MUM BY the time you will be reading this, the Summer holidays will be well and truly here. If you are a dad or mum with kids at home, do not despair, there's lots to do locally! The wonderful Golden Hill Community Garden will be open to the public every Wednesday throughout the holidays from 10am – 4pm. The garden is free entry and great to drop-in at any time of the day to explore. There are toys to play with, watering cans and garden tools if your child wants to do some gardening and there are also fishing nets for pond dipping in the garden's large pond! Also taking place at the garden are some Enid Blyton inspired holiday club sessions for ages 5 - 12 on Tuesdays from 25 July until 29 August. Kids can enjoy treasure hunts, games, storytelling from Enid Blyton's books, dressingup, home-made pizza and lashing of fun! Sessions are £26 per day (£21 for extra siblings) and take place from 10am – 4pm. And, if you are a parent to a child with a special educational need or disability, there will be Inclusive Family Holiday Adventure Days taking place at the garden on 27 July, 10 August and 24 August, plus an Inclusive Family Sunday Club taking place on 6 August and 3 September. Sessions are just £5 and include sensory trails, music, games, treasure hunts pizza cooking and lots more fun for all of the family. Booking is essential for the Enid Blyton inspired holiday club sessions, Inclusive Family

If your child likes pond dipping, there's a pond dipping platform at Horfield Common, as well as the great play park to enjoy. And, at St Andrews Park, there's a big play area, green space to picnic on or play, and a small nature reserve. For parents with young children, Cairns Café will be open from 24 July - 18 August, Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am – 2pm. Free entry and drop-in, Cairns Café is lively and friendly, plus great for young families. Volunteers are kind and helpful and will be serving drinks, cakes and light lunches – all reasonably priced. You can find Cairns Café at Cairns Road Baptist Church, Westbury Park. Taking place not too far from Bishopston will be some free, drop-in 'Pop-up Play' days with Unique Voice at Blaise Castle Estate Grounds, Henbury on 9, 11, 16, 19, 24, 25 and 30 August. There are a choice of two sessions: 10 – 11.30am or 12 – 1.30pm. There'll be games, stories and crafts and sessions are ideal for children aged 3 years and over. Blaise Castle Estate is a great place to visit r with kids of all ages at any time. Free entry, there's a great play park, museum, lots of green space, woods to explore, plus a castle! Here's to having lots of fun over the summer! Holiday Adventure Days and Inclusive Family Sunday Club - please email Lucy on ghcgarden@ gmail.com to sign up.

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Community cafe replaces One in Eight shop

MANY local residents have been wondering what has become of a stalwart fixture on our high street; the One in Eight charity shop. The folks who are now managing the premises feel it’s time people were put in the picture. North Bristol Community Project (NBCP) is a local grassroots charity which has been based at 160 Gloucester Road for 34 years. Their aim is to promote well-being and community participation through the delivery of educational courses, leisure activities and volunteer opportunities. Rita Gupta said: “Our charity shop helped fund some of these activities, however as it wasn’t economically viable over the last few years, we sadly came to the conclusion this January that it had to go. In its place we are hoping to host a vibrant community cafe for local residents to drop in,

have a natter and meet their neighbours. We are looking for entrepreneurial folk who might be interested in taking this exciting venture forward.” The latest range of courses include: IT for Silver Surfers , Thursdays 2-3.30pm, Sewing Bee, Mondays 10.30-12.30, ESOL lunch club Fridays 12-2pm. If there is demand, they are also open to running an After School Craft Club two days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4.30-6.30pm. The Tuesday

group will be for kids aged 8-14, boys as well as girls who would like to learn to use a sewing machine and hand stitch to make their own clothes, customise them (ucpcyling) and a range of other items. The Thursday group will be for those interested in print-making, T-shirt design, painting, drawing, mosaics and collage. £10 covers the cost of tuition, basic materials, tools and all equipment necessary. Bring your own bits and pieces if you

like. All abilities are welcome. Refreshments are available at £1.50. NBCP also have a range of rooms available for private hire, co-working spaces to rent, hotdesking and affordable studio space. On the third Saturday of every month they host a Family friendly Food Fest. The last three have been Latino inspired, which catered for the large Hispanic diaspora here in Bristol. Future events will celebrate cuisine from all over the world. As well as delicious food, there will be live acoustic music, arts and crafts. If you would like to have a stall or find out more, do get in touch. nbcp84@gmail.com or ring Rita on 07742377799 or 0117 92462254. For more information visit the website www. northbristolcommunityproject. org.uk

New group is on a mission to protect trading diversity A MULTI-PARTNER working group has been established to help the Gloucester Road retail area continue to thrive. The inaugural meeting was held in June, bringing together the Mayor, Councillors, Bristol City Council, Bristol Waste Company, Destination Bristol, and the Bishopston Cotham and Redland Street Scene Group. The Gloucester Road traders were represented by the Business Improvement District, Gloucester Road Central and the new Gloucester Road Enterprise And Trade association.

Opening the meeting, Mayor Marvin Rees made it clear that the common aim should be protecting and nurturing the diversity of Gloucester Road’s businesses, and that crossstakeholder working in this way is key to the present, and future, wellbeing of the road as a retail area. This is especially pertinent within the bounds of decreased budgets across the public sector, and it is hoped the working group can achieve more together than apart. The working group discussed a range of topics, including crime,

street scene, traffic, parking, tourism and how to support the road’s economic development. The attendees committed to various actions across all subject areas discussed. The meeting followed on from informal discussions between stakeholders, and from a meeting held with traders and the Mayor earlier in the year. The working group will now meet regularly as a forum for multi-partner working and collaboration. Tom Brook, Councillor for Bishopston & Ashley Down and chair of the working group, said:

“It was great to have such a collaborative and productive discussion with such a wide array of stakeholders. It’s exactly this kind of co-operative working that we need to increase the road’s success and to make it more resilient for the future. There is a clear recognition from the city-wide stakeholders involved that Gloucester Road is a brilliant asset, not only to our local area but to Bristol as a whole. I’m eager to see the results of the working group moving forward, as we work together to promote and improve the road.”

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS In Bishopston this month... Ardagh Community Asset Transfer Congratulations to the Ardagh Community Trust, who have submitted their application to take on responsibility for running the Ardagh building on Horfield Common. They have some really exciting plans for the future, and we were all too happy to support their application. Now the Council will review the application, which hopefully won’t take too long, and the Trust can then start making their plans a reality. Community Partnership The new Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Community Partnership held its latest meeting on 19 July. One key item for discussion was the Council’s ‘Your Neighbourhood consultation’ (see elsewhere in our column). If you are interested in getting involved in the Partnership, at any level from meeting attendee to committee member, please do get in touch. You can also find out more on our website: http://

www.bcrnp.org.uk/ Community SpeedWatch Is speeding traffic making your streets a dangerous and unpleasant place to live, work and play? Community SpeedWatch could be a solution to tackle this. By using volunteers to monitor speeds and report them to the Police, it gives your local Police the evidence they need to allocate their resources to address this anti-social behaviour. Volunteers are needed for new Community SpeedWatches in our area. If you are interested in helping out please get in touch with us. Here’s the link to further information about the scheme: www.avonandsomerset.police. uk/csw Friends of Bishopston Library It’s great to hear that a new Friends of Bishopston Library group has been started. The new Library has been embraced by the community, and having a Friends group established is an

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important step for the future. If you’re interested in getting involved in it please let us know. Gloucester Road Stakeholders’ Meeting We recently attended a meeting of Gloucester Road stakeholders, bringing together the Mayor, traders’ groups, council officers, Bristol Waste, Destination Bristol, and BCR Street Scene. The aim was to foster better collaboration and communication between the different parties with an interest in the road. We had a productive discussion about a number of key issues including crime, street scene, tourism, traffic and parking. The attendees committed to various actions, and overall it was a promising meeting for working together in the future. HMP Bristol Planning Application Horfield Prison has been granted planning permission to build a new education block within its site. We’re aware that some nearby residents were concerned by the possibility of being overlooked – the permission granted includes measures

geared towards preventing this, such as frosted windows and mandating that the building is always used for education purposes. Hopefully these will help, and drawbacks aside we’re heartened to see such an investment in education and rehabilitation within the prison, giving a much more fit for purpose facility that will benefit the inmates greatly. Your Neighbourhood Consultation The council’s Your Neighbourhood consultation is still ongoing. This is looking at the impact of cuts and changes to services, from support for adults with disabilities to school crossing patrols and from libraries to public toilets. You can feed into the consultation by contacting one of us, but the easiest way contribute your views is online at http://www.bristol. gov.uk/yourneighbourhood please get involved and have your say! Cllr Tom Brook cllr.tom.brook@bristol.gov.uk 07584370425 Cllr Eleanor Combley cllr.eleanor.combley@bristol. gov.uk 07584370427

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS In Cotham this month... Universities Expansion: Mitigation I have been building bridges across the unbalanced communities in Cotham ward for 10 years, working with the universities, residents, students and landlords. On 19th July I secured unanimous support at a debate I led at Council. This gives the mayor the strongest platform to work with other university towns and cities to make a robust case to Westminster to recover business rates from student landlords, equivalent to £10m annually. Universities and their students bring great financial and social value to the city but the council cannot fund 100% of our services with less than 90% of rates income. The city must also design sustainable proposals for the expansion of student numbers without further impacting the housing crisis in the city. From other meetings I can report that both universities are now planning new student

housing with minimum impact on established communities and the wider housing ‘market’. BCC has finally agreed to be tougher with waste issues; the effect is likely to be seen most in high-density areas like Cotham. Bristol University wants to work with one of my initiatives to bring residents and students together on a community project that could transform our street scene locally and across the city. Please don’t forget to respond before 5th September to the consultation on cuts. I chair the relevant scrutiny commission and the group tasked to review options for libraries (a bit late!) and there are many. Time to deliver the agreed savings is short and I have sought ways of sustaining the service - even ‘mothballing’- to find a better answer for a wider service across the city than the desperate solution suggested. Cllr. Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristo;l. gov.uk /07833 484344

University mitigation motion and the name changers This weeks Full Council meeting saw a cross party motion passed regarding mitigating the proposed university expansions which are creating unbalanced communities and an unsustainable drain on services heightened by the cuts coming in under austerity. It was fantastic to see a good number of ward residents in attendance to ask questions and make statements detailing how their communities have been affected by the influx of students. No one is anti university or anti student however we do now need to have tangible conversations and actions in order to cover the costs incurred to services that cannot be recouped due to council tax exemption and business rate relief. As a member of the gentrification task force in the council I am also mindful how residents in private rented accommodation may be priced

out of their communities. Colston's Primary will soon be celebrating its 70th year and is currently planning a range of events to mark the occasion including a consultation on its name change. As a former Colston's Girls' School student and Countering Colston campaigner I welcome the idea of a name change in fact I received this news on my arrival back from Trinidad having been invited to the launch of the Cross Rhodes Freedom Project http:// crossrhodestt.com returning with the mantra of 'We cannot change history but we can change our relationship to it.' More information about the history of Colston's primary school and the consultation which closes in October can be found here: http:// www. colstonsprimary.co.uk/myschool/governors-new/schoolname-review-consultation Cleo Lake cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk 07584 480531

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n NEWS In Redland this month... Redland ward news At the time of writing it’s been fairly quiet in Redland ward. We’ve been busy with council business, Fi as Cabinet member covering waste, energy and other issues. Martin as chair of a Development Control committee and the scrutiny of Neighbourhoods. Consultation There’s still time to respond to a set of up to five consultations covering cuts and changes to vital local services that affect all of us in various ways. Remember that there’s no need to make a choice of the ‘options’ that are presented – any tick for one of these will be taken as support, whereas written comments in the text boxes available allow you to say ‘none of the above’ or that you’d rather see things done differently. The council is open to suggestions for rethinking services despite only offering a few specific choices e.g. for fewer libraries to serve the city or fewer school crossing patrols.

We’d rather the options do not encourage areas to be played off against each other to save their local facilities. Public toilets We disappointed to see that the council decided to pull the plug on completing our new local toilet facilities in the Baths complex on Gloucester Rd. The old toilets were demolished for the new buildings, the temporary toilets were located for a time in Sommerville Rd but these were closed to allow the sale of the site there for redevelopment. A consultation is underway right now about the future of all council run toilets that front on to streets (not ones within parks for now). If you have views on this make sure you read and respond to the consultation that covers this. Students and flytipping The end of term is usually marked with a surge of flytipping around the city where students vacate the houses they rent.

Our Streetscene group in the neighbourhood have been very busy responding to the flytipping that takes place. The universities do have an end of term charity initiative and tonnes of unwanted items, clothes, unused food and furniture get gathered up when they are donated. This year a record amount was saved for reuse by this ‘Big Give’ worth hundreds of thousands. However, we’re all familiar with the heaps of rubbish left behind in gardens and streets. Some of this is from students themselves but some is undoubtedly deposited by landlords or agents – who may have kept the forfeited deposits for non cleaning of the house but then failed to make legal arrangements to remove the waste. Other waste is from refurbishment which they then undertake. A meeting was held with the universities and Bristol Waste recently where local people could discuss the problem and we have high hopes that in future we can all work together to improve the

annual situation in some ways at least.

New community partnership and new Library – get involved Please get in touch with our temporary steering group to offer help the new Community Partnership get going. There are lots of ways to help with practical arrangements, projects and publicity. It will achieve much more if we all play our part in this group that’s helping manage our community. Please contact info@ bcrnp.org.uk Don’t forget to get involved in the new Friends of Bishopston Library as well! Fi Hance Green Party Councillor for Redland Ward Cabinet member for Energy and Waste. Tel: 0117 353 4720 Martin Fodor cllrmartin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk 07884 736101

at our lovely houses in Redland and Henleaze

ABF Adcontact Half Page 180x120 1 22/02/2017 11:09 To21435 advertise, Emma onAW.indd 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n NEWS In St Andrews this month... AT July’s Full Council meeting a petition was presented urging “Let Bristol Breathe Clean Air”. There was support across all parties in the Council for action to be taken to improve the city’s air quality. Air pollution contributes to a range of serious health problems and is estimated to cause 300 deaths per year in Bristol (representing 8.5% of all deaths in the city). This problem is not limited to the City Centre – the graph (inset) shows levels of Nitrogen Dioxide in the Gloucester Road area over the past few years, with the red line representing the safe, legal limit (which almost all areas around the A38 continually exceed). The Council are making dealing with this problem a top priority and a Mayoral Working Group are investigating a range of measures to clean up our air, including through the introduction of a Clean Air Zone. Bristol (jointly with South Gloucestershire) has been awarded half a million pounds to undertake a study investigating options for the

introduction of such a zone, which would levy a charge on polluting vehicles to discourage them from entering a certain area (or areas) of the city. There is still time to take part in the ‘Your Neighbourhood’ consultation by visiting www.bristol.gov. uk/yourneighbourhood. There should also paper copies available in your local library. The consultation concerns proposed changes to: Neighbourhood Partnerships; school crossing patrols; public toilets; libraries; and some of the services for adults with learning disabilities and dementia. Please don’t miss this opportunity to let the Council know your views on these significant changes to some crucial services. Of particular note for our area is that one of the proposals for libraries involves the cessation of Council funding to Bishopston library. Finally, we’re aware that there is widespread concern over savings to the street tree maintenance budget that were

passed in February's budget. There are around 16,000 street trees in Bristol, but maintaining them comes at a cost to the local authority and all services in the Council are being affected by the cuts to its funding made by central government. Cllr Davies recently attended a meeting of the Bristol Tree Forum where there was passionate discussion about what the savings would mean for street trees in Bristol. The Mayor of Bristol stated during July’s Full Council that there would be further consultation with groups such as the Tree Forum around the implementation of these savings.

We will continue to follow the progress on this issue closely. Finally, if you ever have an issue you’d like to raise with us in person, please do come to our monthly surgery, which is held on the first Friday of each month, from 1.00pm – 2.00pm, in the Library within St Pauls Learning Centre (94 Grosvenor Rd, BS2 8XJ).

Mike Davies, cllr.mike.davies@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 413 Jude English cllr.jude.english@bristol.gov.uk 07584 151 099 Carole Johnson cllr.carole.johnson@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 414

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Baby Bank Network celebrates its second birthday with a big fund-raising party A BRISTOL charity launched by a team of local mums celebrated its second birthday this month, having helped almost 700 babies in the city. Baby Bank Network invited supporters along to a Family Fun Day on July 1st at Horfield Parish Church Hall, just off Gloucester Road. Baby groups and kids activity providers such as Diddi Dance, PlayHooray, Baby Sensory and Sing and Sign came along and plenty of fun was had with a bouncy castle, thanks to Bouncers n Shakers, face painting with Water Babies, and an animal-themed fancy dress competition as well as a Teddy Bear's picnic. The 100% volunteer-run charity collects pre-loved baby essentials and gives them to families in need - this includes victims of domestic violence and human trafficking, refugees and homeless people as well as low income families. In order to reach those babies, the charity works with referral partners such as health visitors, midwives, Shelter, Next Link and Home Start. It was just weeks after its launch two years ago that the group of volunteers had helped their first family and they're now helping at least one family a day in Bristol with plans underway to double this effort. Co-founder and Trustee Becky Gilbert said: "It’s been an incredible couple of years. When we started collecting a few bits in a donated storage unit, little did we know just how important our charity would become. We now have a warehouse in Fishponds and are helping hundreds of babies in need every year. I'm so proud of what we've achieved and this party is not just about raising money but about celebrating that with the volunteers and supporters who have made this all possible." The 'Growing Baby Bank Network' crowdfunding campaign (http://www.

crowdfunder.co.uk/baby-banknetwork) was launched earlier this month to raise money to help expand and future-proof the service, with a number of rewards on offer in return for pledges. And thanks to the 'Better Bristol' crowdfunding initiative, Baby Bank Network has just secured £6,000 - with a stretch target of £7,500 set ahead of the end of the crowdfunder. The organisation hopes to be able to employ its first member of staff by the end of the year, a crucial step in its aim to ensure that no baby goes without the basics. "We're seeing a huge number of referrals coming in at the moment," said Becky, a mum of two. “We were fortunate enough to receive a grant from the Foundation for Children (http:// www.foundationforchildren. org.uk/) to cover our rent for the next three years but we're totally relying on the goodwill of volunteers to deliver the service - most of whom are busy mums themselves. "We wanted to ensure that we could continue helping people and never have to turn a

family away. A staff member will help us do this and pave the way for us to take on more referral partners and help more people." Referral partner Amanda Bryant, from Unseen www. unseenuk.org, a charity that helps victims of human trafficking said: "Most of our service users are single women with young children who are living in asylum seeking accommodation on a small amount of money to cover food, gas and electric and baby products. They're obviously not in a position to work so are unable to improve their financial situation. It's been a real lifeline to find a charity that has such

good quality second hand baby items that we’re able to give the women at no cost to them. They're absolutely thrilled and delighted with the help that Baby Bank Network has given." Volunteer and Trustee Laura Williams said: "We've been so fortunate to receive a wealth of donations of baby items from families across Bristol but we also need funds to helps us deliver and grow our service, fundraising events like our birthday party are a big part of this and we'd invite families to come along, have a good time and help us raise some much needed money in the process."

WE'RE ONLINE TOO WWW.BISHOPSTONVOICE.CO.UK To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Join the adventure at Golden Hill Gardens GOLDEN Hill Gardens have plenty of fun stuff coming up this summer in the garden - any lovers of adventure age 5-12 should come along to the Golden Adventure Days! This time with an adventure book theme they’ll be heading off to the Garden of Adventure for smuggling, secret passages, laying trails, crafts, games and lashing and lashings of fun! Every Tuesday in the summer holidays from Tuesday 25 July 29 August, 10am-4pm £26 (£21 for siblings) including lunch and snacks toasted on the fire. It’s a great way to get outside, make new friends and a fabulous workout for the imagination. And, for families with a child or children with SEND and their siblings, they are running three accessible adventure days on Thursday July 27, Thursday August 10 and Thursday August 24. Thanks to funding from the Avon and Somerset Police Young Person's Transformer grant, these days are just £5 including a delicious lunch and adults come

THE SPEED and agility of the De Havilland Mosquito aircraft made it one of the fastest and most versatile of the Second World War, and now local author and former pilot David Ogilvy OBE has written a book to celebrate the achievements of this remarkable plane. David, 88, from Westbury Fields in Westbury-on-Trym, was one of the last surviving pilots to have flown Mosquitos operationally, and when he was approached by publishers Amberley to write the inside story of the secret development he found it impossible to refuse. “The Mosquito was a very special aeroplane to me,” says David, who has devoted his life to the aviation industry. “There have been books written before, but none by an actual Mosquito pilot so I thought I’d better crack on with it while I still could!” The Mosquito was one of the first multi-role aircraft and was used for reconnaissance as well as a fighter, fighter-bomber, night fighter and interceptor. David was one of the later Mosquito pilots, taking to the controls of the squadron plane after the war had finished, flying missions deep into Russian

for free. Expect something for everyone - inclusive games, sensory activities, singing round the fire, crafts, cooking, dens, hammocks and a relaxing

place to meet and chat to other parents. Golden Hill Gardens can be found just through the gates at the end of Monk Rd, behind Bishop Road School.

Get in touch to book on Lucy Mitchell - 07506 905 394, ghcgarden@gmail.com or for further details see www. thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com

The De Havilland Mosquito

airspace. “I was very worried that I would be shot down as a spy!” laughs David. Despite being made largely of ply and balsa wood, the Mosquito was surprisingly strong. “The skin was almost like a ply and balsa wood sandwich,” says David. “It was very strong and certainly proved to be very successful. It was powered by

two Rolls-Royce Merlin engines.” With six years in the RAF under his belt, flying Tiger Moth and Meteors as well as Mosquitos, David went on to become a pilot trainer and Chief Instructor of the Air Schools Group, going on to become the general manager of the Shuttleworth Collection and founding member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots’ Association.

This book comes along as preparations are being made to bring a working Mosquito back to Britain from New Zealand, and although David isn’t actively involved in the project he says that the team involved are certain to be looking to him for advice as none of them has actually flown a Mosquito. “I am a very fortunate fellow,” adds David. “I couldn’t have asked for more from my career, just from being in the right place at the right time I got to surround myself with all these wonderful aircraft. “I may have only had six years in the RAF but it was long enough to give me the experience I needed to get out and do the things I wanted to do – for some reason I always seemed to be much younger than anyone around me! I am a very lucky chap.” The De Havilland Mosquito: Throught the Eyes of a Pilot, by David Ogilvy, is published by Amberley Publishing (£14.99). It is also available in Kindle, Kobo, and iBook formats.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n NEWS

£700 for charities WESTBURY Park declared its gardens open at the beginning of July as part of the annual Westbury Park Festival. Visitors to the 18 gardens enjoyed an afternoon stroll around the area viewing the well-tended plots on Canowie Road, Coldharbour Road, a large offering of delights on Devonshire Road and St Alban’s and across to the The Glen and the Downs. Some gardeners made features of sculpture and artwork as well as cottage garden plants

and ponds. A swathe of roses adorned one front garden, drawing you further in to admire the enclosed walled garden at the rear. There were mature plants, vegetable and herb plots to admire and a lovely community spirit to the day. More than £700 was raised through a combination of ticket sales, and afternoon tea and cake. The money will be donated to the Westbury Park Festival, Avon Riding Centre and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Horfield Methodist playgroup closes AFTER 50 years of service to the community, Horfield Methodist Playgroup has closed. A survey, carried out by the church, established that the needs of parents and carers have changed with a large majority needing full-time, all the year round care for their children. Low numbers are not economically viable, so with heavy hearts the staff and committee decided to close the setting in July. fron Parry said: “The playgroup has left a legacy of which we are proud - years of lasting friendships and memories for the children and parents. Hundreds of children have experienced a warm, enjoyable environment, which helped them develop a strong sense of belonging and a strong foundation in their early years on which to base their educational journey. “We had a long serving, dedicated staff who were positive role models and always at hand to offer gentle reassurance and praise.” During the last weeks, the children and parents attended, “Moving On Praise”, led by the RevcPatrick Stonehewer and there was a party on the last day with bouncy castle, face-painting, songs and food. It is hoped that a celebration of 50 years of service to the community will be held in the autumn, when everyone connected with the setting will be invited to attend.

Free 10 week

course starts September 2017

Philosophy for living BATH: Tuesdays at 7.15pm starting 26th Sep 2017 at 30 Milsom St Bath BA1 1DG

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The aim of philosophy is to set people free; free from pressure and free from worry; free to grow, free to be themselves. So it seems fitting that a philosophy course should be free. This ten session course, called Philosophy , looks at life and its meaning, the world and its causes and applying mindfulness to every moment. Based on the classic philosophies of East and West, it invites us to see life as a place to test the words of the wise. Feel free to join us.

If you would like to know more or to register please contact: Email: bathandbristolphilosophy@gmail.com Or call: 07873 230651 Bath and Bristol School of Philosophy: branch of The Fellowship of the School of Economic Science.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n PRIMAL POSTURE with

Clare Chapman

When did you last do a roly poly? ONE of the things you probably enjoyed as a child was life in the round. I say that because babies and children are instinctively playful and in touch with their bodies, relishing the threedimensional physicality of life. Remember spinning round, turning upside down, swinging on branches and rolling at the drop of a hat? It’s part of healthy development, and just what the human body evolved to do. Unlike our hunter gatherer and labouring ancestors, nowadays we usually go through years of schooling, followed by study and/ or comparatively sedentary work. We have learned to park our bodies on furniture and stare at screens. This is widely acknowledged of course. What is perhaps less talked about is how our human experience becomes increasingly forward oriented, tunnel-visioned and two-dimensional.

Even modern approaches to exercise could be seen to compound our rather linear, endgaining habits: • Exercise machines • Running to data • Lane swimming When was the last time you went upside down? Really explored the

Just £49* for the best start they can have in life

movement of your arms or legs behind you? Invited your body to swing, twirl or spiral? Finding ways to move in the round has many physical benefits. It helps develop and retain greater range of movement, balance, freedom in the joints, agility, and general resilience in the body’s structure.

Also, it can be playful, and literally gives you a fresh perspective! New and varied physical experiences stimulate the brain and gets those neurons firing and connecting. If you feel this has been missing from your life, try a playful roly-poly in the pool, or a new dance, suitable sport, gardening or perhaps martial arts or Yoga. Something that invites you to step outside the box, use your peripheral vision, open out your arms and chest, wiggle your toes. Have fun! Clare Chapman is a Postural Health and Yoga teacher. Book a free posture workshop at: www.gokhalemethod.com Weds Aug 9th 3pm Spicer+Cole Glos. Rd . Sun Aug 27th 3pm Bakesmiths Whiteladies Rd or call 07982 231317 for further information.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n NEWS

URGENT action is being demanded after an inspection report found Bristol Prison to be overcrowded and unsafe. Inspectors who visited the prison in Horfield in March found that standards had fallen from an already low base to the point where it was fundamentally unsafe for staff and prisoners. The prison was understaffed and, although it was designated to accommodate only 424 men, it was actually holding 543. Seven men had died by suicide since the last inspection in 2014, including five in the last 12 months alone. Incidents of self-injury had rocketed – there were 230 incidents in the six months before this inspection, compared with 58 during the period before the last one. The report, published on July 25, found that violence was rife, with much of it related to drugs and debt, although it had slightly reduced in recent months. One in three men surveyed by inspectors said that they felt unsafe at the time of the inspection – double the number when Horfield was last

Campaigners demand action after Bristol Prison is found to be unsafe

Horfield Prison, Bristol by Kate Lambert inspected, and far higher than at similar prisons. Frances Crook, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “With its warnings about suicide, violence, drug-taking and filth, today’s report on Bristol – a prison that has faced significant problems for many years – ought to be a shocking anomaly. “In truth, however, we have

seen dozens of such reports as the dangerously overcrowded prison system has descended into deadly chaos.On the day of the Queen’s Speech, the new Secretary of State for Justice sought to assure us that the government would respond positively to criticism from Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons. Now, I expect to see action.” One in seven men had developed a drug problem while at the prison. More than half said that it was easy to get drugs, and the extraordinarily high rate of positive drug tests – 30 per cent

– indicated that they were right. A lack of staff meant that men were spending longer locked in their cells with nothing to do. The importance of education, training and work was not given enough priority. Staff shortages also affected work to prepare prisoners for release. One in three men was released to homelessness or temporary accommodation. The prison was dirty and infested with cockroaches. One man said that at night he did not use his toilet because he was fed up with inadvertently crunching the insects under his bare feet in the dark. Instead, he used the sink, which was closer to his bed. The findings come a week after the Chief Inspector 's annual report, which concluded that the state was failing in its duty to people in prison.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

n NEWS Yoga for Health by

Diana Penny of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)

Yoga Pose of the Month: Savasana Reclining relaxation pose. Savasana relieves tension and recharges the batteries. Hold for 5–10 minutes. Here is the final pose finishing off the 12-part sequence begun last September. If you have collected all 12 parts you now have a complete sequence to practise at home. If you are confused about any postures, then bring along the guide to a class at Yogawest and a teacher will help you. Look out for a new sequence starting in September. Take some time to carefully align the centre of your chest, pelvis,

bishopstonvoice inner legs, and heels; maintain an even weight on both sides of your body. Close your eyes. Relax your throat. In these reclining poses it’s important not to lose the meditative quality of the pose. Be present and stay with the moment. Let your belly relax and spread to the sides. Hold the sides of the mat, and roll your shoulders away from your ears. Elongate the back of your neck and rest your head on the centre of the back of the skull. Extend your arms out to the sides so there is space between your upper arms and your side chest and armpit region. Turn them outward so that your palms face up. Let go completely. Allow the breath to become soft and quiet. Draw inward and gaze into the internal space of your soul. Surrender the intelligence of the brain to the wisdom of your heart. Hold for 5—10 minutes. Drawings and posture text reproduced by kind permission of Bobby Clennell, a senior Iyengar teacher in New York.

August, 2017

News? 1. Sit on your mat, with your legs bent and your feet flat on the floor.

2. Lean onto your elbows, and lower your spine to the floor.

Give Sue a call on 07976 706120

3. Slide a folded blanket under your head and neck, to touch your shoulders.

4. Straighten your legs. Carefully place them, one at a time, on the floor on the centre of the back of the thighs and calves. Let your feet fall out to the sides.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

n NEWS PARTY in the Park returns for the 11th year this September and promises a massive celebration so book that date in your diary. Gates open at the Golden Hill Sports Ground at 1pm on Saturday 16 September with live music on stage throughout the day until the dazzling firework display at 8pm. Expect to see demonstrations by Japanese Drummers, Korfball, Taekwondo, and Air Cadets Squadron 2442 in action. There is a Licensed Bar onsite, also serving wide range of children's drinks and bottled water plus a BBQ, Curry, Pizza and savouries for sale. New events this year will be Tethered Balloon Rides (not technically new but this year hoping the balloon can go up), Neuron Racer, Gyroscope, Tractor Rides, 9 hole Crazy Golf, a Pirate Assault Course and many, many more events to keep everyone happy at this family friendly event. And, back by popular demand: Shooting Star Slide, Wipeout, Super Mario Assault Course, Horsey Hoppers and Go Karts.

bishopstonvoice

All set for Party in the Park

There are lots of exciting prizes to win including Retail and Restaurant Vouchers in the Grand Raffle. The best entrance to use for anyone in BS9 is at the top

of Henleaze Park Drive, off Henleaze Road (Ikon) and then top of the hill. There is restricted parking at Party in the Park and in the roads off Kellaway Avenue. If you do need to drive to the

event please park away from the event and walk the final ½ mile. Passes are provided for anyone wishing to return back to the event later.

n VINEYARD NEWS

with Ingrid Bates

NO two years are the same when you grow fruit in the UK. Looking back at my previous July posts it’s interesting to see how much variation there is in July. Some years the vines are just at the point of flowering and we are not sure how many grapes will appear but in other years we can already see the little grapes swelling. This year the flowering has finished and the little grapes are at the small, hard, pea stage. All things being well, they’ll gradually grow and start to go ripen in August. After the frost damage we suffered back in April I was expecting little to no harvest so the sight of a decent crop is very welcome and quite unexpected. For the last month I’ve been doing the very monotonous tasks of tucking in, shoot selecting and leaf thinning. In some years these tasks arise sequentially over the course of the summer but the warm weather this year has brought everything on at once, piling on the pressure to work as quickly as possible. Warm summer weather is very welcome but also carries the threat of mildew which adds to the feeling of urgency

to keep the vines tidy with air circulating around the leaves and developing grapes. There are times when looking at 38 rows of vines can be a little overwhelming but one by one I have worked my way through them and finally feel like things are nicely in order. At this time of year, vineyard work can feel a little like painting the Forth Bridge. You get to the end and then notice that the start needs tidying again. On the wine front, our award winning rosé is disappearing fast and our first sparkling wine is about to be bottled. After bottling, the sparkling wine will be sent to its new home at Furleigh Estate in Dorset where it’ll sit for a minimum of eight months before being riddled and disgorged in the traditional method. It’s a long process but will be worth the wait! Email: hello@ dunleavyvineyards.co.uk Search: www. dunleavyvineyards.co.uk Twitter: @DYvineyards Facebook: dunleavy vineyards

Cotham Park Rugby Club Founded in Cotham in 1901 and now playing in Beggar Bush Lane. We are recruiting both boys and girls for their Years 6 and 7 squads. Everyone gets a game in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with the emphasis on enjoyment Register at

www.Cothampark.co.uk

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS FROM THE MAYOR

Let's make city voices heard I HAVE asked other cities to join me for a national day of lobbying on 12 September when I will be in Westminster to deliver a paper putting forward our alternative plan for the future of local government. Local authorities and public services across the country are facing financial challenges as a result of austerity and it is time to take a positive step towards tackling this problem. We will be arguing for more powers and funding in order to be able to do our job and look after the communities that we represent. I look forward to putting our constructive challenge before the government and working with our MPs to make sure Bristol’s voice is heard in Westminster. We will be sharing more information nearer the time regarding how people can get involved. Also this month, we have been pushing on with the other work that we want to do. I was delighted to be able to host our local Chess in Schools and Communities annual tournament last month at City Hall. It’s a little known fact that I’m a big chess fan. It was great to have children from a wide range of

backgrounds here battling it out in a game of wits having had lessons for the last few weeks. We have also launched our Feeding Bristol initiative alongside the 5K Partnership, Kerry McCarthy MP and Feeding Britain. Currently, 20,000 people in the city use foodbanks every year. This needs to change. We are putting a call out to supermarkets, businesses, charities, faith groups and trades unions to help us make Bristol a Zero Hunger City and I look forward to hearing what ideas come back. I am pushing on with my priority to make sure we meet my target of delivering 2,000 homes a year by 2020. Last month I was delighted to announce our plans build around 130 new homes on the Alderman Moore’s site 40 per cent of which would be affordable. We are also helping to bring back empty properties in to use with school caretaker properties that we hope to bring back in to use by Christmas. We are still holding our consultation on the savings proposals we have had to put forward following our uncovering of the sorry state

The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice

of the council’s finances. We are looking for your ideas and solutions in order to shape the proposals we have put forward. To take part in the Your Neighbourhood and Supporting People consultations you can do so online at www.bristol.gov.uk/ YourNeighbourhood. The survey remains open until Tuesday September 5.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA July 29 n The next meeting of the South Western Branch of the Elgar Society is on Sat 29th July, at 2.15pm at the Bristol Music Club, 76 St. Paul's Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1LP. Our speaker will be Dr. Christopher Wiltshire who will introduce recordings and memories of people acquainted with our composer. Visitors pay £3.00 which includes refreshments. Please do come along, we would love to see you and your friends. For more information - please contact Doug Smith - Tel. 0117 9673480, or email - dougmusical@tiscali.co.uk September 4 n Avon Wind Band Association Registered Charity No 1165352. A new learner class will begin on at Bailey’s Court Primary School, Bradley Stoke starting at 7.30 p.m. for those wishing to play a woodwind or brass instrument. To join the Class please contact Keith Hunt, Chairman of the Association on 0117 9049125 or by e-mail keh35@blueyonder.co.uk. Don’t worry if you do not have your own instrument as the charity can loan you one at no extra cost. For more information visit our website www. avonwindbandassociation.com

WHAT’S ON A REGULAR BASIS Monday n Toddler group at Ardagh Pavilion, Kellaway Avenue, Horfield Common. Ages 0-3, cost £2.50 per family includes refreshments and biscuits. All welcome. Friendly vibrant group just drop in. Contact Kay on 01179426580 for further details. n FitSteps, Ashley Down Primary School, Olveston Road, 7-8pm. FitSteps® the new craze in dance fitness classes from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’s’ very own Natalie Lowe, Ian Waite and Mark Foster. n Morris for fitness and fun, 7.15pm – 8.15pm at Horfield URC, Muller Road, Horfield, BS7 9RE during term time only, no performance element, small groups. Sticks and hankies provided. Tel/text: Kim on 07813 346819 / 0117 9401566 n Redland Wind Band rehearses at the Quakers Meeting Room on Gloucester Road at 7.30pm. We sometimes have vacancies, currently mainly for bass instruments, horns and percussionists. Contact Andy Brown at redlandwindband@googlemail. com or on 07594240269 or via our website www.redlandwindband.

co.uk . Get in touch if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like to book us for events or fundraisers. n Redland Green Choir meets for rehearsals every Monday 7.30pm9.30pm at Redland Green School. We sing a wide variety of music. New members welcome: no auditions. For more information, visit redlandgreenchoir.org.uk. or phone 0117 9443042. n Beaufort Junior Badminton Club. Venue: Cotham School Sports Hall, Cotham Lawn Road, BS6 6DT. Date/Time: Mondays from 6-7pm, term time only. Age Group: 11 18 years. All standards. Coaching and club play but also progression to Avon County Teams and senior clubs. Coaches CRB checked and Badminton England qualified. Contact: Penny Shears 0794 101 3514. Email: pennyshears@ googlemail.com n RAFA, City of Bristol branch and club Eastfield Westbury on Trym for ex-RAF and associate members. Skittle Alley, parties and functions. Live entertainment on Saturday evenings. Open Monday to Saturday lunchtimes and evenings. Sundays noon till 5pm. All enquiries telephone 0117 3291913. n New Fitness League (Exercise Movement and Dance class) for ladies. Low impact classes offer a fusion of dance, exercise and core strengthening, choreographed to music. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.20-7.45pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Contact Rachael on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@ talktalk.net . The classes are ran on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking. This works out at £8 per class (1st Class Free). n Mondays 10:00am, 11:15am, 18:00pm. Yoga for everyone and all stages of life. Move, breathe, strengthen, calm at our beautiful YogaSpace Bishopston studio. Find out more at www.bristolyogaspace. co.uk or contact Clara hello@ bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Senior Film Club, every third Monday in the month at 2pm St Peter's Hall, The Drive, Henleaze, BS9 4LD. All Welcome. Refreshments £3. Dial-a-ride transport possible by personal arrangement ; 0845 130 1875. Next gathering is on Monday August 21st - “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen”, 2011 drama comedy starring Ewan McGregor & Kristin Scott Thomas ‘British Comedy

of the Year’. Monday September 18th - “Chariots of Fire”, 1981 British drama recounting the events of the 1924 Olympics, starring Ben Cross, Ian Charleson, & Nicholas Farrell. n Redland Green Bowls Club welcomes new members, come along to our club on Redland Green any Monday after 4pm , or book a free taster session any other time ,with one of our qualified coaches. Jean or Gerry :Tel 9624466 . HALF PRICE membership for the first year (£50) n Westbury Park WI. The Westbury Park WI meet on the first Monday of every month at Redland Church Halls, Redland Green BS6 7HE, 7.309pm. For those who want to walk as a group across the park, please meet at the Metford Road entrance to park by 7.15pm. Contact: westburyparkwi@gmail.com n Redland Green Bowls Club welcomes new members, come along to our club on Redland Green any Monday after 4pm , or book a free taster session with one of our qualified coaches. Jean or Gerry :Tel 9624466 . HALF price membership for the first year (£50) Tuesday n The Golden Buds is a group aimed at 18 months to 4yearolds and is a fabulous opportunity to be outside with your little ones, digging, playing, finding newts and frogs, watering, singing and making things all in the heart of urban Bristol! Sessions run from 9.30-11am and 11.30-1pm in school terms. We take booking on a term by term basis. Each session costs £5, a second sibling is £2.50 and under 12 months can come along free. There’s squash and biscuits and a snack from the garden as well as a hot drink for parents. For more info, visit: thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Scottish Country Dancing Get fit with Westbury Scottish Club. Classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze, (Tel: Tina 0117 9075462). Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze, (Tel: Cheryl 0117 9590970). 7.30pm to 9.30pm wscbristol.com n After school French Club for primary children at Gloucester Rd Quaker Meeting House. KS1 class: 4.10-4.50pm. £4.50. KS2 class: 5.005.40pm. £4.50. Playful practical classes full of games, songs and general silliness to inspire interest and confidence in French. Like French Club Bristol on Facebook or email: alice_m_watson@msn.com

August, 2017

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

n Women’s Reading Group looking for new members. Meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the Month at 7:30pm. An informal group that reads a wide range of fiction. Contact Kay Snowdon ksnowdon29@gmail.com for further details. n A weekly Music Appreciation class is running throughout the winter. Come and join us as we listen to and talk about a selection of mainly classical music. No prior knowledge needed. Tuesdays 11-1 at St Mary Magdalene Church Rooms, Stoke Bishop. Music in Britain 18901939 including Elgar Delius and Vaughan Williams. Cost £15 for a single taster session or £100 for the whole 8week term. To book email matthewhm@ peacemail.com, or phone 0117 214 0418. For more info visit: heartmusicbristol.wordpress.com n Melody Makers Baby Friendly Choir A fun and friendly daytime choir for ladies running Tuesdays during term time.9:30-11:00am, The Beehive Pub, BS9 4QY. £5 per session, discounts for members. Contact Natalie www.facebook. com/melodymakerschoir 07890393175. Wednesday n Golden Hill Community Garden. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Come and get involved in your local community garden! No experience necessary and kids welcome. Learn about growing and relax in our beautiful space with a cup of tea. No need to come every week or stay all day. Our site is wheelchair accessible including our toilet. For more information contact Lucy ghcgarden@gmail. com or 07506 905 394. We’re just through the gates at the end of Monk Rd BS7 8NE www. thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Bristol Voices Community Choir

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017 are welcoming new members, £5 a week (£3 concs) payable at the start of each term. We meet during the school term from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St Werburgh’s Primary School, James St, BS2 9US. The school is fully accessible and has free parking. No experience necessary, no auditions and you don’t have to read music as all the songs are taught by ear. Our repertoire includes pop, folk, gospel, jazz, show tunes and world music. Find out more about the choir, at www.bristolvoices.org.uk n New Harmony Ladies’ Choir Bristol. Established choir since 1994, we offer a chance for ladies to get together and have a good old sing! No auditions are necessary apart from placing you into the correct voice group soprano, mezzo soprano or alto. We perform several concerts a year and sometimes travel to other parts of the country to sing with other choirs. Our repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular, folk, and show songs. Everyone is welcome to Horfield URC church hall, Muller Rd on Wednesdays 7.30-9.30. We’d love to meet you. For more information contact our website www.nhlcbristol.co.uk or our secretary, Angela nhlc@talktalk. com n Lazy Dog Film Club. A free, small, but perfectly formed community film club based at the Lazy Dog pub on Ashley Down Road. We run the club every other week (Wednesday) in the upstairs of the Pub on Ashley Hill. We screen from Sept - July every year. All showings start at 8pm but we do advise people to book free places via LazyDogFilmClub@gmail.com , as we only have 35 seats per showing. For more information on the upcoming films, visit: www. facebook.com/LazyDogFilmClub n Horfield Townswomen’s Guild. This friendly Townswomen’s Guild meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Gregory the Great Church Hall, Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0PD at 2.30pm. Why not come along and meet us? Just turn up, or ring Edna on 949 5413, and she will look out for you. n Squirrel Camp Forest School, Badock’s Wood, 9.45-11.15 and 1.00-2.30 (during term time). £6 per family. Contact: jennysanderson@ blueyonder.co.uk. n Sing! with the Bristol Children’s Choir. Open to children aged 7-13 from any school in Bristol. If your child loves singing and would like to do more, Out There Music Children’s Choir could be what you are looking for. Meet every in term time from 4.45-6pm in the performing arts studio at Cotham School. More info, contact Holly Shannon on 07866587424, admin@

bishopstonvoice outtheremusicbristol.co.uk . n Spiritual Healing at Westbury Park Spiritualist church BS6 7TH Every Wednesday, 2pm - 3.30pm every week. No appointment necessary, animals welcome. Come along and feel the benefit. Also healing after Sunday evening service@8pm. n Wednesdays 10:00am. Baby & Me post-natal yoga class, 10:00 11:00am plus tea and chat after. Supportive, friendly class with babies made very welcome. Move, breathe, meet and chat with other new mums at YogaSpace Bishopston. Find out more at www. bristolyogaspace.co.uk or contact Clara hello@bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Why not join welsh national opera Friends. We support this world class company and everyone is very welcome to join. We offer monthly evening meetings at Redmaids High School MONTHLY at 7.15pm. Talks with music. Costs-£7.00 or £1.00 for students (Friends £5.00). For further information contact: Margaret Borkowski:borkmail@gmail.com n Melody Makers Pop Choir. An evening choir for men and women singing popular songs. Wednesday's term time 7:30-9:00pm The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze. Book a FREE taster www. melodymakerschoir.co.uk n Read together a short story and poem. Weekly drop-in adult group, shared reading. It's fun, sometimes surprising, moving and exciting. No preparation, just come along and listen. Bishopston Library, every Wednesday 11.30am to 1.00pm. We read and chat. Refreshments provided. Free. Thursday n Bishop Road Community Choir. We are a mixed community choir, meeting at Bishop Road School from 7.45pm to 9pm. Everyone welcome to join, regardless of singing experience. There is no audition and the choir is open to anyone, not just parents of children at the school. We sing a variety of songs and perform locally. £3.00 per session. n Bristol Ladies Choir sings a wide range of music from classical to light. The choir rehearses weekly and gives two main concerts each year. The choir also participates in approximately 9 to 10 other concerts in the Bristol area each year. Meet at 2.15pm - 3.45pm at Church of the Good Shepherd, Bishop Road, Bishopston, BS7 8NA. New members welcome. For more information contact Hazel on 0117 9246587 or visit www. bristolladieschoir.org.uk n The Stepford Singers. Come

and try Bishopston’s all female community choir. No need to read music and no auditions! We meet 1pm - 3pm so you can still be in time to pick up kids from school. For more info, email fran@ naturalvoice.net n West Bristol Orchestra meet at the United Reformed Church, Muller Road, from 7.15 - 9.15pm and play a wide range of classical music arranged for our small friendly orchestra. String players of Grade 5 and above are particularly welcome. For further information please ring 0117 968 3998. n Avon Harmony Ladies A Cappella Chorus meets for rehearsals every Thursday 7.30 -10pm at Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road BS7 9NL. We are always made welcome, and we are actively recruiting new members. There is no need to be able to read music; we provide teaching tracks for learning by ear. See our website for more details www.avonharmony.co.uk or contact Mandy on 0117 652693 or Barbara on 07717 424421. n Horfield Quakers hold a halfhour meeting for worship to be held every Thursday Evening from 6.307pm, at Horfield Quaker Meeting House, 300 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8PD. All are welcome. n Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation at Horfield Leisure Centre, 7.30-9.15pm. Classes offer you the time to celebrate your pregnancy, ask questions and meet other mumstobe in a safe and welcoming environment. For more information visit www.lymalnick. info, or contact Ly on 07843 377 718 / ly.malnick@gmail.com n Slimming World Bishopston. St Michael and All Angels Church (Pigsty Hill) Gloucester Road. Groups at 9.30am and 7.30pm every Thursday. £9.95 to join and £4.95 per week after that. 6 and 12 week countdowns available. Just turn up or Call Sue on 0117 924 3556 or 07702 578 298 for a chat. n Kings Lawn Tennis Club Rusty Rackets, 19:30-21: 00. Want to get back into tennis? Come along to our fun and welcoming Rusty Rackets session every Thursday evening at Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade ( just off Kings Drive) BS7 8JG. Nonmembers (£8) and members (£6) welcome! Contact Head Coach Elly Shearman only tennis .kings@hotmail.com for more details! n Bridge for Beginners and Improvers West of England Bridge Club now welcomes new/novice bridge players for weekly sessions held every Thursday afternoon. Cost £3. Doors open at 1.45pm and play is from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. No partner needed and we have experienced players to help and

35 advice. Beginners lessons also offered email bridgeclassbristol @ gmail.com or ring 0117 2302694 for more info. Venue: Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road, Bristol BS6 7YA. Full details at www. woebc.co.uk n Spiritualist church Westbury Park Cairns Road BS6 7TH Open development circle Thursday evening at 7.15 for 7.30 start All are welcome to come along and find the Spirit within you. You don’t have to be a church member. n Sporting Memories Group at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Ground most Thursdays from 11am to 12.30pm. A group suitable for people that are isolated or lonely and may have memory difficulties. The group is particularly for those that are interested in sport. Please contact John Collis on 07757527634 or come along to the ground from 11am. Saturday nWhiteladies Farmers’ and Fair Trading Market is now held EVERY Saturday, from 8.30am-2pm. Takes place at the junction of Whiteladies/Apsley/Burlington Roads. Stalls cover bread, cheese, local lamb and chicken, fish, preserves, cakes, sushi, local fruit and veg, wild food larder, and recycled tools, wooden items and much more. n Coffee, Tea and Refreshments served every Saturday from 10.30am to noon at Bishopston Methodist Church, 245 Gloucester Road. Join us for a rest and a chat. n The Clifton Garden Society are eager to attract new members from all parts of Bristol. The Society offer monthly visits by coach to country houses and gardens, a quarterly newsletter. and an annual holiday. If you would like to join this friendly group please call 0117 9737296 for full details.

New owners for The Town House THE Town House has been purchased by the team behind Gloucester Road pub The Grace and The Westbury Park Pub and Kitchen. The new owners will keep the Whiteladies Road business as a modern, bar-led operation with great food. Dougal Templeton said: “Our approach when taking over a site has been to work out what the neighbourhood needs and listen to the regulars and locals. We will take our time with the Town House as it doesn't need massive change, like our other sites have. But we're aware of its past legacy as a quality place to eat. We'll look to relaunch after summer."

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n SUSTAINABILITY with Hamish Mills, Sustainable Redland

Fracking on the Mendips? We must be alert to the actions of big firms BUSINESSES like Cuadrilla, South Western Energy Ltd and UK Methane are dependent on the ignorance and silence of people like you and me. It is essential for them that we remain in the dark about the rights they have been granted by our elected representatives, that we do not understand the environmental and economic effects of their work and that when they bring about disasters, it is we tax-payers who will pay to remedy them. These three companies and plenty more are in the business of fracking. That means extracting oil and methane gas from shale and coal bed formations. It’s done by forcing huge quantities of water

mixed with toxic chemicals into horizontal bore holes stretching up to 4 kilometres from a vertical one, forcing the gas/oil to flow, and disposing of the toxic water by underground injection. The serious danger of that mixture reaching anyone’s water supply is obvious. We Bristolians need to be alert. We must be aware of what could happen to our water supply, which rises mainly in a fracking block in the Mendips. We might think nobody would be crazy enough to risk polluting an entire city and no doubt the frackers would say the chances of toxic escapes are so minimal they can be discounted. BP probably said the same thing when they drilled for oil in the

Group's Gre&t expectations GLOUCESTER Road Enterprise & Trade (GRE&T) is the new Gloucester Road traders association based in the section above Pigsty Hill. There are 127 business subscribers to its newsletter GRE&T News, which provides news and comments about issues affecting the members and action the association is taking. GRE&T is approaching Bristol Energy and Bristol Waste about special deals for GRE&T members. It is also looking to co-ordinate Christmas arrangements with the GRBID traders’ organisation at the south end of Gloucester Road. Retired Gloucester Road solicitor, Peter Browne, now Hon Sec of GRE&T, said: “We are off to a good start with the Newsletter. But to get the deals we are looking for and be effective, we need to show that we have a committed membership. " I will be visiting traders over the next week or two, to sign them up.” Membership costs £10. Look out for members’ window stickers with the GRE&T logo, designed by Liam at Xpress Printing. Enquiries to Peter Browne (Hon Sec) at email: peter753@btinternet.com or text: 07791 455 872.

Gulf of Mexico, the builders of Fukushima about tsunamis, and the Chernobyl operators about switching off safety systems. If these and plenty more have all happened why should we think our water supply is safe? If we are to trust the government to protect our environment, we need to know why it has allowed fracking businesses to inject toxic chemicals into our underground water supplies, allowed them to drill under our properties and on our land without our permission as well as areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and has agreed that we tax-payers should pick up the tabs in the event of disaster.

If we want to continue having a safe supply of water and unpolluted countryside around our city it is up to us to protect it - doing nothing is not an option, Here is what we must do: Inform ourselves. Become engaged. Have a look at videos like Gasland. Spread the word around family and friends, environmental and outdoor groups, schools, any kind of aquatic organization, churches, etc. Help make any farmers we might know in affected areas of the long term risks to their livelihood, including the loss of value of their properties Support and respond to groups like Frack Free EQS, and Frack Off.

Artists support new library

HAVE you seen the lovely artwork on the walls of Bishopston Library? After spotting that the walls in the new library were looking a bit bare Gloucester Road art gallery, Room 212, offered to print images by local artists onto canvas. Now the computer area has much loved images of Gloucester Road by Jenny Urquhart. The children's area has images inspired by poems such as the Owl and the Pussycat by Laura Robertson, an illustration from The Bristol Giants book by local author Oliver Rigby and a Fox in Sox by Rosie Webb who has created a couple of children's books. The most popular image could surely

be the Arches Fox, taken from an amazing mosaic created by Toni Burrows. More artwork will be added and North Bristol Artists plan to create an exhibition in the library in the build up to the trail in November. Some of the artwork will also be part of the Gloucester Road Art Banners project, due to be installed in the autumn. With our libraries under pressure through Bristol City Council cuts, Room 212 owner Sarah Thorp hopes that involving local artists will help raise awareness. Please get in touch with her if you would like to be involved www.room212.co.uk or follow the Friends of Bishopston Library facebook page.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n VETS' ADVICE Here at the Animal Health Centre we are seeing lots of puppies as the school holidays provide more time to train the new addition. Some puppies arrive with all the boxes ticked and a pile of paperwork, however some arrive without any advice or paperwork for their new owner. Some are not treated correctly for fleas or worms while others can become very poorly due to infectious diseases. If you are looking for a pedigree puppy, the Kennel Club Assured breeder scheme is the best place to start as these breeders have been visited and assessed to ensure the puppies have the best start. Just because a puppy has Kennel Club registration as a pedigree, it does

A short guide to buying a puppy not mean that they are from an assured breeder! With any puppy, you will want to see: • The mother with the rest of the litter – ask whether they were bred in the place you are visiting. Is mum confident and sociable or is she shy and withdrawn? • Microchip documents – legally all puppies should be microchipped by eight weeks old • Certificates – for vaccinations, kennel club registration and any breed specific health tests that have been performed. With crossbreed puppies, you still want the parent dogs to have been DNA tested or screened for inherited conditions. Puppy dealers are becoming more careful, sometimes inviting people to a home environment to sell puppies, be suspicious if they are selling multiple breeds at the same time. Never buy a puppy from the back of a van or without seeing

the mother. Check the vaccine card, the veterinary practice should be local to where you are buying the puppy. Sadly, some puppies are reared in poor conditions, making them susceptible to dangerous infectious diseases such as parvovirus. To avoid heartache and the cost of treating a poorly puppy, check out the Kennel Club and RSPCA websites for more information. The best advice is to be patient; it is better to wait for a puppy to be ready from an assured breeder than to rush and buy a poorly puppy. Finally, do bring your new puppy in to see us as soon as you can for cuddles, a health check and some advice.

Sophie McGill. Veterinary Surgeon

Animal Health Centre Gloucester Road’s Independent Veterinary Practice 358 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8TP 0117 9247832 www.animalhealthcentre.org

Valid for one transaction only until 31st August 2017

www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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August, 2017

n BOOKS OF THE MONTH The Essex Serpent

By Sarah Perry, reviewed by Bob THE novel opens in 1893 with recently widowed Cora Seaborne deciding to move from London to the Essex countryside with her 11 year old son Francis and Martha who is the boy’s nanny. In Essex , Nora befriends the Reverend Will Ransome and his wife Stella. She also meets up with her good friend Luke Garrett who is a renowned surgeon and his wealthy friend George Spencer. The title of the book refers to the Essex equivalent of the Loch Ness Monster. This is a winged serpent first reportedly seen in 1669 and more recently deemed responsible for the death of a local man washed up on the local marshes with a broken neck. Nora is determined to resolve if the serpent really exists or whether

it is just an old folk tale used to frighten young children. The Essex Serpent is a beautifully written and engaging book which cleverly interweaves the developing relationship between Nora and Will with the search for the serpent and the wider national issues of the late Victorian era including the rise of socialist ideas, the fight for the emancipation of women and the clash between advances in science and the comfort and security offered by faith and religion.

Northern Lights

By Phillip Pullman (first book of the ‘His Dark Materials’ trilogy) reviewed by Reuben The Northern Lights is a book for young adults about a girl called Lyra. She lives in Oxford College but in a different universe. She wants to go to the North with her Uncle Asriel but isn’t allowed to. But when she

meets Mrs Coulter her dreams about seeing the North come true. The Northern Lights is an exciting book that I liked because it has a wide range of characters and people in it. It also is quite tense at certain points. Overall I’d say it's very good. It also makes some parallels between religion in the story and in real life and is very philosophical. This will be Reuben’s last Book review. Staff at Bishopston library would like to thank Reuben for his input over the past years. If any child is interested in becoming a book reviewer for the

library- please contact the Library 0117 93576220 For these books and many more, visit us at Bishopston Library. If we don’t have exactly what you’re looking for, there are over 2 million items from which you can reserve across LibrariesWest and collect from any library Opening Hours: Monday……….1–7pm Tuesday……….closed Wednesday…..11am-5pm Thursday……..11am-5pm Friday…………11am-5pm Saturday:……..11am–5pm

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

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n NEWS KINGS tennis club hosted their inaugural women and girls event on 22 June. Over 80 women and girls of all ages came along to play tennis and try out some new activities. On offer were a variety of sessions including basketball with Bristol Women's Flyers, Bodyjam and Charlotte Peacey fitness boot camp as well as a range of tennis activities from cardio tennis to free play, prize court to mini tennis. Inspired by the Judy Murray She Rallies campaign, the event focused on women and girls coming together and having fun. One attendee said: "It's been a brilliant occasion- I really enjoyed the chance for me and my daughter to spend time together doing sport. One of the most popular sessions on the day was Lil Miss Hits, the Judy Murray-designed session for under 8 girls which incorporates fun equipment and encourages girls to have their very first rally using balloons and dance which teaches coordination as well as being great fun. Delivered by the She

Judy rallies the tennis women Rallies south west ambassador Mandy Stone with the help of Helen Abbott, the session was very successful. Later in the same week Kings head coach Elly Shearman and volunteer Jo Gildersleve were invited to meet Judy Murray at the She Rallies south west event hosted at David Lloyd Long Ashton which brought women and girls together to learn how to inspire a love of tennis In new generations of girls. Judy answered questions about all aspects of her life and the She Rallies campaign including one from an inquisitive six year old who wanted to know which was her favourite son (answer- both!). Judy explained that by focusing on making the activities fun and encouraging girls to play with friends they can be encouraged to get active and learn the skills to play tennis and other sports in a less competitive environment. She talked about the importance of female role

models in encouraging more girls and women not only into the sport but also into coaching roles. The She Rallies scheme is designed to empower all women and girls to become tennis activators - so anyone can learn how to deliver these fun sessions to girls be they a brownie leader, mum, PE teacher or tennis coach. Courses are running across the South West so

check out the website and book your place. You could inspire the next Johanna Konta or Heather Watson! Look out for some of these courses at Kings on the coaching website https://clubspark.lta. org.uk/EllyShearmanCoaching coming up soon, as well as more information on the nationwide initiative http://sherallies.com/

Giving teenage girls skills for sustainability careers A SUMMER holiday programme for teenage girls is available to help them thrive in the job market as well as develop more resilience and confidence. The Bootcamp is a 3-day residential programme at Bristol University on 22-24 August for young women aged 14- 19 years who are interested in a career in sustainability but aren’t quite sure how to go about it. In a fast changing job market, young people benefit from training in the ‘softer’ but essential skills for employability, including team working, problem solving and clearer communication. Bristol-based social enterprise Catalyse Change has created a solution - an inspiring and empowering ‘Catalyst Bootcamp’ for teenage girls to help them to be skilled for a changing

world. Organiser Traci Lewis explains: “The Catalyst Bootcamp is taking place at the beautiful Clifton Hill House student residence. It will provide a unique and inspiring learning opportunity for young women to get a taste of career opportunities and pathways in sustainability and the tools to move forward within it.” There are also a limited number of bursaries available - sponsored by local businesses and organisations - to provide free places for young women from disadvantaged and lowincome backgrounds. Tickets cost £295 for the 3-day residential, including all meals, see http:// catalysechange.com/ or book at https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/catalyst-bootcamptickets-35473361780

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Boost for tennis in Bristol as £250m national investment is launched NORTH Bristol is set to benefit as the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) launches the biggest UK investment programme the sport has ever seen to transform grassroots tennis over the next ten years. The Transforming British Tennis Together initiative will focus on making courts easier to book, accessible to all and ensure that rain and darkness no longer stop play. Schoolchildren from Cotham School and children on the University of Bristol Performance Programme regularly use the courts at the Coombe Dingle Sports Complex and joined joined Simon Johnson of the LTA and Matt Birch of the University of Bristol to announce a historic £125 million investment into growing tennis participation. Communities in Redland and Bishopston are encouraged to come together and register their interest to receive funding to transform their local tennis courts. The £250m transformation of Britain’s tennis courts comes at a time of huge momentum in elite British tennis and unprecedented levels of interest and pride in the sport, which together have inspired many more people to pick up a racket. The LTA has committed to investing £125 million to improve community tennis facilities across the country, and plans to unlock a further £125 million through match funding from community networks with

Schoolchildren from Cotham School and children on the University of Bristol Performance Programme with Simon Johnson (R) of the LTA and Matt Birch (L) of the University of Bristol. a shared vision for growing the game. Local communities and clubs from across the city can register their interest in the funding. According to the LTA just 9.1% people in Bristol play tennis despite 21.4% of the local community showing an interest in the sport. Improving facilities and making them more accessible and usable is seen as key to meeting that demand and increasing participation. Transforming British Tennis Together will see the LTA work in partnership with local communities in Bristol and the South West to double the number of covered and floodlit courts, install online booking and entry systems so everyone can book a tennis court easily from

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Together' initiative will enable us to continue to grow and improve." Simon Johnson, LTA Head of Region for the South West said: "This is an exciting and transformational opportunity for tennis in Bristol. We know that more and more people are enjoying the sport and there is a real appetite for the improvement and regeneration of local courts to make tennis more accessible to everyone.” The LTA is now calling on tennis clubs, parks, local government, volunteers, coaches and businesses to come together and register their interest in bidding for the funds to transform their local tennis courts. For more information visit www.lta.org.uk/TBTT

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their mobile phone or tablet, refurbish courts, clubhouses and other social spaces and support other innovative and creative ideas that meet local demand. Matt Birch, Director of Sport at the University of Bristol, said: "There couldn't be a better time for the LTA to announce this investment, with University of Bristol Tennis on a mission to transform its tennis offer for students, staff and the wider community. “We aim to create a welcoming facility at the Coombe Dingle Sports Complex for the people of Bristol and surrounding areas, with 300 new places available for children and adults in the autumn, and the LTA's ground-breaking 'Transforming British Tennis

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence

SKIPPING over July we find ourselves racing into August. It feels like the top of summer to us, but the birds have usually completed their breeding cycle by now and, for them, it will already be autumn; time to fatten up for the winter, or for their migration. Swifts are our briefest summer visitors, gone by mid-August, but before they go they put on a great final performance. They gather together and rampage about the sky in hooligan groups, shrieking like banshees. Last August, whilst playing frisbee on the Common, we heard their cries and looked up to see a whirling tornado of swifts, at least 40 together, tearing up the blue. They come together from miles around, this year’s babies already fully grown and holding their own in the melee. I gaze up at them, wishing I could experience that sensation, the rush of air across my wings, the

view of the city, flung about me, as I twist and wheel through the air. Back to earth and our gardens can start to look a bit hot and bothered in August. Mildew creeps across the courgettes and Michaelmas daisies as they become stressed by water shortages. But the insects march on. This is their time: they bask in the hot sun. Check a flowery herbaceous border or look out for patches of tall herbs such as hogweed and fennel. These umbellifers are particularly attractive to many insects: the photo shows a beetle and two micro-moths with a honey bee monster behind them all sharing one flowerhead. Some insects, such as the wool carder bee prefer the snapdragon shape of peas, vetches and toadflax, whilst others such as the patchwork leafcutter bee with its startling neon-orange bottom prefer the flat flowers of large daisies such as Inulas and Heleniums. And don’t overlook any patch of brambles, they draw all kinds of wildlife. Those patchwork leafcutter bees snip beautiful circles and crescents from the leaves and then use these segments to line their nests. Some flies and moth larvae burrow into the leaves leaving tracks and blisters that appear on the leaf surface. The most elegant is the purpletinted track which looks like a cryptic symbol waiting to be deciphered: it is made by the micro-moth Stigmella aurella, so now you know. Nectaring insects love the bramble flowers

appy live h is th

summer!

and of course birds, foxes, badgers and mice (we get house mice and wood mice round here) will all race you to the berry harvest. Even the cut stems of bramble, trimmed back endlessly by the harassed allotment holder (why does my bramble grow so much faster than my produce?) are burrowed into by some solitary bees which over-winter and even nest within. But as I have mentioned before, you don’t even need to leave the streets; just in time to squeeze into this column we found a field grasshopper today, sitting on that well-known wildlife habitat, the bare wall!

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n ON THE BEAT

F you’re heading away on holiday, please make time to think about what you’re leaving behind as well as what you’re taking. Returning home to find you’ve been burgled is an experience none of us want to endure, so please think about the following steps you can take to help minimise the risk:

News from the local policing team with Adam Dolling

Before you go: • Be careful about what information you give out on social media. Only tell people who need to know you’re going away • If you're away for a while, empty recycling bins, cut the lawns and cancel deliveries of milk, newspapers or anything else that may build up, discreetly • Make your house look occupied - get automatic time switches to switch lights and a radio on and off • Mark any valuable items with your postcode or take photographs of these items

• Register your belongings on the national property database www. immobilise.com Just before you go: • Don’t leave valuable items like laptops and tablets visible through windows • L ock the garage and shed with proper security locks. Make sure your tools and any ladders are locked away so they can’t be used to break into your house. • Lock all outside doors and windows • If you have a burglar alarm, make sure it’s set and that you’ve told the police who the key-holder is Whilst you are away: • Don’t have your home address showing on your luggage for the outward journey. Put this on the inside of your cases. If possible, have a neighbour park their car on your drive whilst you’re away, to make your house look occupied. We have carried out three Community Speed Watches this

month targeting Kennington Avenue and Church Road, after residents told us their concerns about speeding drivers on these roads. We also seized an uninsured car from a speeding driver on Ashley Down Road whilst we were patrolling the college area. It’s worth noting that there seems to be an upsurge in wallet and bag thefts on Gloucester Road. Thieves are targeting contactless debit cards, so keep them secure and on your person at all times if possible. As part of our local school engagement, we visited a number of primary schools before the end of term, delivering crime and consequences talks. As children move onto secondary school, it’s important that they are made aware of some of the safety challenges they face, particularly around online crime. The talks include some crime definitions and how to take personal responsibility. Enjoy the summer! Sergeant Adam Dolling

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

World Cup cricket smashes records It’s been a summer of success for England’s cricketers as they beat India by nine runs in thrilling final at Lord's to win the Women’s World Cup at Lord’s on 23 July. Eight matches were played in Bristol at the Brightside Ground in Nevil Road during June and July, with the England v Australia match attracting the biggest crowd of the tournament (excluding the final which was a sell-out) with nearly 5,000 supporters attending. On the field, records have been shattered, providing fans with the highest quality Women’s World Cup to date. The event has seen more runs, more wickets and more players than ever before competing for records on the global stage. The league match between England and South Africa in Bristol saw a record total of 678 runs. That match also saw Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Taylor set a new England ODI

partnership record of 275 runs. Steve Elworthy, the ICC Women’s World Cup Tournament director, said: “We promised that this would be the best-ever ICC Women’s

World Cup and I believe that the statistics – on and off the field – show that we have delivered on that pledge. The attendances have been outstanding and they have been treated to some

exciting, exhilarating cricket.” Unprecedented media coverage, including all 31 games shown live for the first ever time, has seen a global audience of more than 50 million for the group stage games with ICC video content from the group stages being viewed more than 75 million times. Clare Connor, the chair of the ICC Women’s Committee, added: “The challenge for this tournament was to ensure that we showcased the talent of the world's best cricketers, and to inspire the next generation of girls and women to engage with the game. The quality of cricket has been truly fantastic and the demographics of the crowds we've seen reveal that we have attracted thousands of girls and women to attend. Now we have to retain that level of interest to continue to build a new fan base and drive levels of participation, both in this country and around the world."

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS A NEW pottery exhibition has opened at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Radical Clay: Teaching with the greatest potters of the 1960s showcases the studio pottery which formed the Schools Art Service collection given to the museum in 2004. Fifty years ago Bristol school children had the work of world-famous potters in their classrooms. Pieces from some of the leading potters of the time including curious shapes by Hans Coper and Lucy Rie, and enormous thrown vases by Janet Leach were used to inspire children by showing them the very best. The display includes ceramics by the radical potters, including Ruth Duckworth and Gillian Lowndes whose pioneering work in the late 1950s and early 1960s created a new language for ceramics. Helen Brown, applied art curator at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, said: “The most striking thing about the collection is how many leading potters of the 20th century are represented. We are reviving some of the aims of the

August, 2017

Pottery that inspired the language of ceramics is on show at museum collection through a hands-on programme with local schools and a public events programme that will give visitors the chance to have a go at some clay-work themselves and meet some makers.” Other work in the collection includes Bernard Leach and Michael Cardew from the first generation of studio potters as well as Lucy Rie and Hans Coper, both refugees whose timeless ceramics were highly acclaimed. The ceramics historian, Paul Rice, commenting on the collection in 2003 particularly noted the work by the women potters, Janet Leach, Ruth Duckworth and Gillian Lowndes as being of ‘national interest’ and often of ‘exceptional quality’. The exhibition includes a piece of work by Kate Malone (The Great Pottery Throw Down), made when she was a

Ruth Duckworth, Photograph courtesy of Bristol Culture student at Henbury School in Bristol in the early 1970s. With her interest in creative education, Kate is supporting the show with a programme of talks for schools groups. Through recent and archive film footage of pottery techniques and interviews with makers,

the exhibition explores how the collection was used in schools and helped to stimulate learning in the 1960s and '70s in what was to be an exciting time for the teaching of ceramics in schools. The exhibition is available from 22 July 2017 - 10 June 2018.

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n PROPERTY

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bishopstonvoice

August, 2017

n INSIDE OUT ACCORDING to my partner, I have an addiction to Instagram. As a self-confessed passionate interiors enthusiast (obsessive) I fear it may be true. Slightly different from other social media platforms, the visual nature of Instagram has made it a happy place for fans of interior design. The option to use hashtags to collect photos with particular themes together into searchable groups, and chain-like, pass-it-on style games, has made it a fun and friendly place to be online. Businesses are launched, collaborations made, competition prizes won, communities built and real life, offline friendships forged. Bristol is a game city full of interesting people, so I thought their interiors should have their fifteen minutes of insta-fame (and not only so that I can be nosey and snoop around them all from the comfort of my sofa, honest). A few months ago I launched the hashtag #mybristolhome as a way to collect together and celebrate the variety of home interiors across our beloved city.

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Image Credits clockwise from top left: @kylamagrathinteriors @ freelancemum01 @house.of.wards @zoehewettinteriors Gradually more people are playing along and sharing snaps of their homes, and as you might expect from such a vibrant place there isn’t a bland beige shot in sight.

So have a scroll through #mybristolhome and please do feel welcome to join in and share your favourite corner with us all in the instafam!

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