bishopstonvoice December, 2018 Issue 73
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These are problems we face: please act THERE is hope that finally something will be done to remedy the persistent problem of parking in Bishopston and St Andrews, after many years of delay. The Bishopston and St Andrews Traffic and Parking Group (BOSA) has presented a report to Bristol City Council detailing the issues experienced daily by people who live locally. The group has asked the council to honour the commitment to provide traffic officer resources to support finding a solution so that councillors can consult with residents and all stakeholders involved to draw up a detailed solution to the ongoing problems. Full story: Pages 2 & 3
Lorraine marks 40 years in job Lorraine Richmond, known as one of the characters of Gloucester Road, is celebrating 40 years working at the same opticians. PAGE 22
Bridging the generation gap Children from Westbury Park Primary School visited two local St Monica Trust care homes and joined activities with residents. PAGE 25
MP Darren opens new sixth form Three generations of bakers! Bishopston local and Great British Bake Off semi-finalist Briony May, pictured with her mum Colleen and daughter Nora, judge a baking contest at Briony’s former primary school. The Bishopston Voice went along to meet her and hear about her future plans. Full story: Page 6
Wishing you a warm & cosy Christmas, from all at Ocean estate agents oceanhome.co.uk
Claremont School's Post 16 centre - The Hive - has been officially opened by Bristol North West MP Darren Jones. PAGE 26
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Bishopstonvoice contacts
by Keri Beckingham
Emma Cooper
A GROUP of residents have presented a report to Bristol City Council, detailing the parking issues that are being experienced in Bishopston and St Andrews in the hope that finally, something will be done. The Bishopston and St Andrews Traffic and Parking Group (BOSA) went back to Full Council on Tuesday November 13 to ask again whether the commitment to dedicate traffic officer resources to support finding a solution will be honoured and are awaiting a
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December, 2018
Residents determine written response. Without this technical back-up, councillors cannot consult with residents and other stakeholders on a detailed solution to the problems. Following a public meeting with Bristol West MP Thangam Debbonaire in May, BOSA was set up to address problems in the area. Ways to tackle the ongoing issues of parking and traffic in Bishopston and St Andrews were discussed. These included a shorter period for parking restrictions; the suggestion for buses to be free or offer cycle racks; more use of double yellow
Our January deadline is December 12. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Bishopston Voice, 16 Chandag Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1NR. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
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
General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252
Complaints
Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bishopston Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. A member of the
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,750 copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.
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ed to get solutions to parking problems lines to help emergency vehicles get through; tighter restriction on students bringing cars and partial road closures to stop through traffic. In addition, approximately two thirds of residents were also in favour of introducing a residents parking zone (RPZ) in the area. Since then, BOSA have also launched an e-petition on Bristol City Council’s website, calling for them to “Please manage commuter parking and driving in Bristol”. All options discussed at the meeting have since been reviewed by councillors. To keep raising awareness of the issue, BOSA representatives have also attended a number of meetings including the “Community Conversation” in Bishopston with the Mayor in July, as well as several Full Council meetings. They have also met other local stakeholders such as Gloucester
Road Traders and Gloucester Road BID, in order to talking about possible solutions. The group also met Councillor Mhairi Threlfall at the end of July, who was the cabinet member for transport at the time, where issues were reviewed again and a promise was made that traffic officers would be available in October. In order to support this process it was agreed that BOSA would submit a detailed report that outlined any meetings or consultations that had happened to date and evidence of issues experienced, which was handed over to the council in September. Mike Davies, Labour Councillor for Ashley Ward , has made a statement asking the council to help resolve the parking issues He said: “For the last two years, Councillors Hance, Fodor and I have had meetings with BOSA and with
Bristol City Council Cabinet Members for Transport, regarding parking and highway safety in Bishopston and St Andrews. There is a demonstrable need for an RPZ in the area, and we have been able to persuade Cabinet Members
for Transport that this should be pursued. However, there have been numerous reshuffles of that role since 2016, which has meant that progress has been slower than it might otherwise have been. Turn to Page 4
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'End of Severn Bridge tolls will make things worse' From Page 3 “Recently, Councillor Mhairi Threlfall indicated to me that the next steps for the RPZ (i.e. a formal consultation of residents, with officer support) were in train, and that resource was able to be earmarked in the capital budget for its implementation. She had been impressed by the consultation undertaken with residents so far, and with BOSA’s report. It seemed that this established that the criteria for ‘community support’ that was needed for a new RPZ had indeed been met. “However, the transport portfolio has now been taken on by the Mayor, after Councillor Threlfall’s resignation. I have
asked for a meeting with the Mayor to try to ensure that the work that was planned is able to continue.” Discussing the group’s work to date and their next steps, a spokesman for BOSA said: “In some parts of Bishopston and St Andrews, enforcement is increasing but this is perhaps only because residents are taking more action: reporting pavement obstructions and poor parking on a regular basis. However, the issues are still present, with emergency access compromised in some streets as well as speeding, and pedestrian and cycling safety issues. “And the future does not look set to improve, with the
PUBLIC Health England (PHE) is working closely with the University of Bristol following two confirmed cases of Meningitis B in two students at the university. Both students, who are friends, have been receiving treatment in hospital in Cardiff and are recovering well. PHEs health protection team has worked with the university to identify close contacts of the cases. Students who share the same accommodation have been given antibiotics and vaccination
Public health alert after two Bristol students go down with meningitis
Early signs and symptoms of meningitis • Fever • Headache • Vomiting • Diarrhoea • Muscle pain • Stomach cramps • Fever with cold hands and feet Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all.
have been arranged as a precautionary measure to reduce the risk of any additional cases. Students have been warned to look out for housemates as symptoms of meningitis can look a lot like a hangover – so it’s important to be vigilant for anything out of character. PHE has also provided information to remind students and staff of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia. Other people in the wider university setting are not considered to be at increased risk of developing meningococcal disease so there is currently no need to take any specific action or change the university routine for students and staff. Meningococcal bacteria are carried in the back of the throat of about one in ten people at any one time, but only very rarely cause illness. Most people who carry the bacteria become immune to them. The bacteria do not spread easily and only those who have had close prolonged contact with
prospect of Severn Bridge tolls being removed in December and a clean air zone which may or may not cut through parts of Bishopston, commuter
the person, normally family members, or those sharing the same accommodation (such as a shared kitchen/bathroom) are at a slightly greater risk of getting ill. Fiona Neely, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health England South West, said: “We understand that there will be concern among students, staff and parents following these cases, and we are following national guidelines in implementing control measures such as eliminating carriage in close contacts to reduce spread of infection. “It’s important to reassure all concerned that apart from the very close contacts that are being offered antibiotics and vaccination, there is no need for a wider group of students or staff to take antibiotics or be vaccinated. “The best advice remains for everyone to be aware of and alert to the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, especially students and their parents. Early recognition of meningitis and septicaemia
traffic looks set to increase. This combined with current public transport issues looks set to create a perfect storm for Bishopston and St Andrews. “BOSA is currently recruiting volunteer street representatives to help continue reporting and highlighting local problems and to continue to collect evidence to press the council take action. If you are interested in representing your street, please email: bishoptonstandrewstpgroup@ gmail.com. BOSA’s petition has received 205 signatures to date. To sign the petition, visit: democracy.bristol.gov.uk/ mgEPetitionListDisplay.aspx
symptoms can greatly improve the outcome of the disease. If anyone is feeling unusually unwell, and displaying the symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, they should contact their GP surgery immediately or call NHS 111. “We urge students to register with the Students’ Health Service and to take up the offer of the MenACWY vaccine which is available to students as part of the routine vaccination schedule for this age group.” More information about meningitis and the symptoms can be found on the NHS Choices website or from the Meningitis Research Foundation.
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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A week for reflection and commemoration AS the country marks 100 years since Armistice, students at Redmaids’ High School have been remembering the part their school played during World War One, while also marking their annual Founders’ Commemoration Day on November 16. The event, which sees around 750 girls marching from Welsh Back to Bristol Cathedral for a special service, celebrates John Whitson who founded The Red Maids’ School in 1634 and Reverends T G Rose and Urijah Thomas who opened Redland High School in 1882. When Redmaids’ High School was formed in 2016, it brought together these two distinguished schools to combine over 500 years of expertise in educating young women. With roots dating back 384 years, Redmaids’ High has a tangible link with much of the city’s history including during
wartime. In 1916, following the Battle of the Somme, The Red Maids’ School took on a very different role as a volunteer auxiliary hospital run by nurses from the British Red Cross. Redland High School also had a part to play in the war effort as a number of Jewish refugee children from Belgium were taught there and the school supplied hundreds of towels and garments to the British Red Cross for use at Bristol Royal Infirmary. Isabel Tobias, headmistress at Redmaids’ High School, notes the significance of these strands of the school’s story. “This year’s Founders’ Commemoration Day seems particularly poignant, coming at the end of a week spent marking the centenary of the end of World War One. We have been remembering those who bravely fought over a hundred years ago, some who spent time recovering
THE exciting North Bristol Art Trail takes place on Saturday, November 24 - Sunday, November 25, with a preview night on Friday 23, when you can relax with a mulled wine and chat to artists and friends. See work by over 100 artists in their homes, studios and galleries from St Andrews, Redland and Gloucester Road to Westbury Park and Henleaze. This long-established trail offers an unhurried opportunity to buy original artwork – from paintings and prints to stone sculptures and jewellery. Venue 23 at St Michael’s
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at our school, but also we have talked about the physical and mental injuries servicemen and women still endure today. “We give thanks to our Founders whose commitment to girls’ education has had
such a lasting impact and has contributed a lot to the history of Bristol. I think they would be delighted to know how this outstanding school continues to thrive and flourish.”
Church, 160 Gloucester Road is hosting another interesting exhibition featuring mosaics and jewellery by Caroline Caswell, photography by Paul Bullivant, wheel thrown ceramics by Fran Wardell and contemporary steel sculpture by Pete Moorhouse. There will be music from 2pm on both days as well as an all-day cafe providing tea, coffee, cakes and hot soup.
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Taste test: judges Elmlea headteacher, Lorraine Wright, Lisa Cadd and Briony May, and right, Briony with some of the children
Bake Off's Briony goes back to school GREAT British Bake Off contestant, Briony May, who made it to the final four in this year’s show, took a step back in time in November when she revisited her primary school in Bristol to judge a baking contest. The Bake Off star, now well-recognised locally for her imaginative cookery, lives in Horfield with her husband, daughter and pet dog. Briony grew up in Westbury-onTrym, attended Elmlea Infants and Junior School and later, Colston's Girls’ School. A whole heap of effort and more than a little dusting of icing sugar went into the 150 plus bakes from the children, inspired to take up the Great Elmlea Bake Off challenge. The annual school fundraising event at Elmlea Junior School saw entries from pupils in Years 3 - 6, demonstrating fabulous icing skills, sculptural shapes such as swans and cappuccinos in cups, and even a burger and chips made out of cake! The bakes were judged by Briony, Lisa Cadd ‘The Fuss Free Foodie’ who’s been teaching basic cooking skills to pupils this year, Head Teacher, Mrs Lorraine Wright and Deputy Head, Mrs Jo Sloper. Briony says: “It’s so lovely to see children baking, getting
involved and trying something creative. I think Bake Off’s been a really positive influence on younger people, getting them into the kitchen and trying things out. The quality and standard today was really impressive.” After the winners were presented with awards, the children asked Briony questions about her experience of being on the show. She revealed that her most challenging bake was the chandelier as there were so many ribbons and so little time. And then, disaster struck when one of the cameramen knocked some of the biscuits off onto the floor and they broke! However, It was all fine in the end. Her favourite bake was the Alice in Wonderland pie she made in Pastry Week: “All the practices at home went really bad but it came together on the day and I got Star Baker which I’m
very proud of,” she says. Her nan, now aged 93, taught baking to young people and was always a great inspiration to her. Briony used to bake when she was young with her mum and nan but only really started baking properly about five years ago, making birthday cakes for friends children. She says: “I didn’t tell anyone when I applied. I sent off the application after watching Bake Off last year. It’s been the most incredible experience and I have nothing bad to say about it - even though I cried loads! “My favourite part of the experience is the people that I met - Ruby and Manon are two of my closest friends now. Noel and Sandy were so lovely to work with and incredibly supportive. And, I’m a lot more confident now than when I went in.” Living locally, Briony’s favourite places to go out include family-friendly and dog-friendly pubs, with great food and atmosphere. The Crafty Cow and the Gloucester Old Spot in Horfield are top of the list, along with the Tinto Lounge, Grounded, Bakers and Co, Nonesuch Cup and Cafe Kino on Gloucester Road. She loves Grupo Lounge in Westbury and
has spent a lot of time there over the years with the family. Being on Bake Off has given this former QEH languages teacher new opportunities. Briony has just signed up with an agent and is booked for events next year including CarFest and various food festivals. She’s had a lot of positive responses on Instagram @brionymaybakes and Twitter about her recipes, especially the vegan ones, on her website www.brionybakes.co.uk and she’s keen to bring them all together in a cookbook. “I’m a really big fan of vegan baking and there’s not much out there. It’s only taken me five years to go from not being able to bake much to being on Bake Off. I want to show that if you get the basics right, you can experiment with flavours.”
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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Ginger and Honey Cake Briony has prepared a special Christmas recipe for Bishopston Voice readers - a delicious ginger cake with honey icing and gingerbread on the top Ingredients • 250g unsalted butter • 200g golden caster sugar
• 115g dark muscovado sugar • 280g golden syrup • 200g clear honey • 60g stem ginger, grated • 20g syrup from stem ginger jar • 500g plain flour • 4 tsp ground ginger • 3 medium eggs • 330ml whole milk Icing • 200g unsalted butter, softened • 400g icing sugar, sifted • 2 tsp ground ginger • 1 tbsp syrup from stem ginger jar • Dash of milk to loosen Method 1. Oven on to 160°C fan. Grease and line 3 x 8 inch cake tins. 2. Butter, sugars, golden syrup, honey, stem ginger and syrup into large pan and heat until melted and smooth. 3. Flour and ground ginger into large bowl. Whisk to combine. 4. Milk and eggs into jug. Whisk to combine. 5. Pour butter mixture into flour.
Mix to combine. Pour in milk mixture. Mix to combine. 6. Divide into tins. Bake for 30-35 minutes until skewer comes out clean. Leave to cool. 7. Make icing. Beat butter until pale and smooth. Add icing sugar and beat for 5 minutes. Add syrup. Beat again. Add milk to loosen if too stiff. 8. Place one cake on plate/ board. Spread over icing or pipe on. Add next layer. Repeat. Spread icing on top of cake (or pipe it on). Add sprinkles or other decorations to finish. \ For inspirational recipes and more see www.brionybakes. co.uk or Instagram @ brionymaybakes
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Buy a tree and help a refugee AID Box Community, a charity that offers hope and help to refugees, is selling its Refutrees again this year. All profits go to helping Aid Box Community provide support, supplies and sanctuary to Bristol’s refugees. Trees can be ordered online now and delivered to your home in December from https://aid-box.squarespace.com/ Alternatively, you can do it the old fashioned way and come and choose your tree, lights and baubles from their festive shop and take it home (or ABC can deliver it for you). The Refutree Shop opens from Dec
Wreathed in wonder SOAK in the local festive community spirit and join renowned local willow sculptor Sarah Jayne either at The Grace or the Gallimaufry where she’ll be on hand to guide you in to creating a wonderful natural Christmas wreath – a splendid addition to any front door this season. All materials are provided and it’s a great workshop for all the family. The event takes place on December 8 at 11am - 1pm. Due to demand last year its advisable to guarantee your willow wreath weaving goody bag and book your place in advance via the Eventbrite link for an early bird price of £6 or it will be £7.50 on the day if you wish to just turn up and join the local, merry, community event. Weaving demonstrations will be at 11am, 11.30am, 12.00pm and 12.30pm. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-big-festive-wreathmaking-event-tickets-50490669953?
Share the festive cheer!
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Top of the shops THIS year A Festive Bonanza is bringing shopping, markets, choirs, experiences, street entertainment, food and drink to Gloucester Road. It’s time to get local and spend the day shopping, drinking, singing... enjoying all the best the street has to offer! A Festive Bonanza takes place on Saturday 1 December, which is also Small Business Saturday, so look out for offers from local businesses. From 9.30am 2.30pm there will be a Cozy Market with stalls selling quality gifts, set up by The Xmas Tavern, at 102 Gloucester Rd. The Riff Raff Choir perform between 11am and midday, followed by rousing music and dance from Bristol Samba, at 12.30 - 1.15pm. In the mid-afternoon events move lower down the Gloucester Road to the Prom, for a market with hot food stalls and festive drinks from local bars. The Riff Raff choir are leading a workshop style Prom Sing-aLong between 5pm - 6.30pm on the terrace of The Blue Lagoon.
This is a FREE event (charity donation optional at the end). To take part, register via the events page on Facebook @ BristolsIndieDistrict. This is a fun event where everyone is welcome, whether you have sung before or not. The aim is to transform a community in a short time into a great sounding harmonizing choir who can sing a song!
Late night opening on Coldharbour Road SHOPKEEPERS on Coldharbour Road have a special late night event planned for Friday 30 November. It’s a opportunity to shop local and stock up on Christmas goodies when the opening hours are extended into the evening until 8pm. Independent shops including Flowers by Barry Toogood, Coldharbour Framery and Gallery and art and jewellery shop Rainmaker will be open and full of seasonal cheer.
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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Glos Rd becomes party Central! IT'S that time of year again when Gloucester Road traders are shaking out the tinsel, putting up the lights and planning the Glos Rd Central Christmas Street Party on Thursday 6 December, from 5 - 8pm. Once again there will be lots of festive goodies, including burgers and bangers outside Giles Butchers and Christmas cakes and biscuits from Joe’s Bakery. The Bristol Jam Plan will also set up outside Joe’s to offer jams and preserves. Artemis will give a free raffle ticket with every purchase to win a gift voucher worth £50. Room 212 will be spilling onto the street with wreaths made by Dot & Dandelion, who are creating an amazing gold leaf display around the front of the gallery. Local Glos Vox choir will be singing traditional songs and live musicians are set to perform outside Alchemy 198, including a 12 piece ukelele band playing a
Shops chosen for seasonal campaign suprising range of popular songs! Alchemy 198 will also launch their December exhibition in the Downstairs Gallery, with well known Bristol street artists in attendance. Dunleavy Vineyards plan to join the party, offering their locally produced English rose and sparkling wines and there'll be mulled wine to keep you warm and in the party mood.
And, of course, the shops will be staying open until 8pm to help you begin your local Christmas shopping. All in all, this popular well attended community event is perfect for all the family, no matter what the weather! For more information follow Glos Rd Central on facebook and twitter.
VISA have selected a handful of independent shops to be photographed with their owners standing proudly in front for this year’s Visa Christmas campaign. Among those selected were Gloucester Road businesses Room 212, Fig, Grape & Grind and Mrs Potts Chocolate shop. The images will go up on billboards in Bristol and across the country on November 19.
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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Refugees and work: an economic argument for fairness Why should we improve the way we treat refugees? I have written in Bishopston Voice before about the human rights arguments for better treatment, but the economic case is just as compelling. Unfortunately, economic arguments can be obscured by heated debate, misinformation and outright lies about benefits and housing and economic migrants. In November I hosted Sanctuary in Parliament 2018, celebrating cities such as Bristol, who have pledged to do everything they can to give refugees a warm welcome. One speaker was a man called Safian, who has been waiting for an asylum decision for several years longer than the Home Office six-month deadline. And because of this, he is prohibited from obtaining work. This benefits nobody. Not Safian, not his local community, and certainly not the British economy. Anyone who wants to work, should be allowed to work – I believe most reading this would agree. In some countries, such as
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Uganda, that includes refugees from the day they arrive. But in this country, we keep people in unemployment and stagnation, sometimes for years. Our rules mean that asylum seekers cannot work until they are confirmed as a refugee. While waiting months or years for a decision, asylum seekers are forced to live off a meagre allowance of £5.39 per day, to pay for everything except accommodation. In short, this system means they contribute little or nothing to the local economy. After 12 months, asylum seekers can apply to be allowed to work, but only for jobs on the Shortage Occupation list, which may not fit their own skills and qualifications or the local job market. Sadly, long, unproductive waiting times are increasingly common. At the end of 2011 there were 3,000 people waiting more than six months for a decision, rising to nearly 11,000 by mid2018. The Home Office itself attributes this to low staffing levels.
I would like the whole system to be improved and sped up – but in the meantime, we could allow more people to do work that fits their skills and experience. Changing the current system would help people move away from publicly-funded benefits. The sad truth is that once confirmed as refugees, and allowed to work, many still struggle to find employment. A major barrier is the extended periods outside work during the limbo of the asylum process, according to research by the Refugee Council. This limbo situation also has a direct cost to taxpayers. Asylum accommodation is provided by the Home Office system, which subcontracts this to private companies. These contracts are worth a staggering £4 billion over the next ten years, according to analysis by Asylum Matters. It is in everyone’s interest to help refugees and asylum seekers contribute to the local economy. And economic arguments aside, I personally believe we have a
Thangam Debbonaire column duty to treat people with dignity. After fleeing war, persecution and torture, a warm welcome is the least they deserve. STOP PRESS: At the time of writing, it seems the government negotiators have reached some agreement on the European Union Withdrawal Agreement. I have not yet had time to read all 500 pages, but rest assured, if it is not a good deal for the UK and Bristol West, I will be voting against it. Check my Facebook, Twitter and website for updates.
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The award-winning Window Wanderland is back in 2019 and needs you to get involved! IN 2018 more than 280 residents in Bishopston decorated their windows, switched on the lights and got the whole of Bristol talking about their inspirational illuminated arts trail. The team is already planning this winter's Window Wanderland and volunteers are needed to help run the project, which will take place take place Saturday 9 February to Monday 11 February 2019. Founder and artist Lucy Reeves Khan said Window Wanderland is a unique and fun way of getting to know your neighbourhood and neighbours: “Let your imagination run free and see what you can transform the front of your house into. “Either decorate your own front windows or help run the arts trail itself – the more volunteers we have, the more fun we have!” Window Wanderland started in Bishopston back in 2015. Each year the arts trail has grown with more and more houses, shops and organisations getting involved. Themes over the years have included Minecraft, cats, dinosaurs, under the sea and
outer space. The project that started here has been so successful that communities across the world have run their own Window Wanderland's, from tower block residents to whole villages, creating curiosities. Lucy's inspirational work to bring communities together was recognised earlier this year by Bristol Life magazine and she won the coveted 'Creative' category in its annual awards ceremony. “When I found out I was in a category with 'We the Curious', the 'Bottleyard' and a heap of PR and photographic agencies, well it seemed obvious they wouldn't pick little old me around my kitchen table,” she said. “It was a shock when they said I had won- but I couldn't have done it without Bishopston's creativity!” There will be art workshops at the Ardagh, to help you create your displays 6pm - 8.30pm on the following Thursday's in January - 10,17, 24, 31 and 6 Feb 2019. Please check windowwanderland.com/event/ bishopston-bristol-2019/ for details, and of
course to sign up! For any queries email wwbishopston@ gmail.com Find out more about taking part in this winter's Bishopston's Window Wanderland www.windowwanderland.com
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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
12
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
n NEWS
Somerset in the spotlight LOCAL author and journalist Maurice Fells has written his twelfth local history book, The Little Book of Somerset, published by The History Press. As with his popular Little Book of Bristol, Maurice has written a compendium of places, people and trivia, about Somerset, where it’s hard to separate history and mystery. With stories about Ashton Court Mansion and the development of Portishead from a small fishing village into a seaside resort for wealthy Bristol merchants in the seventeenth century, there are facts galore about this fascinating county. Max Minerva’s book shop in North View are holding a book signing with Maurice Fells on Saturday December 15 at 10am.
Chandos House shuts its doors AMIDST a national funding crisis Chandos House in Redland, a treatment centre for men with addictions, has had to close the door on its home in Chandos Road. The high profile campaign 'Save Chandos House' has taken its quest for survival to great heights, becoming a regular news feature and making its mark in local and national news. The campaign has been backed by fundraising events in Bristol and further afield, including celebrity led auctions, sponsored abseils and garden parties. Despite the best efforts of its dedicated and passionate team, time has run out for Chandos House to raise the £1 million it needed to keep operations open. In true Chandos style a celebration lunch was held on its final day, November 8, to reflect on the work Chandos has
done over the past 35 years. Men it has helped give lives back to and the husbands, fathers, sons and brothers it has given back
to families came together with supporters and shared memories and songs.
View us online at www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Sparkling festive music performed by Bristol’s professional chamber orchestra this Christmas Handel’s Messiah
Wednesday 12 December, 7.45pm A semi-staged performance with the Choir of Royal Holloway.
Christmas Spectaculars
20 & 21 December, 7.30pm Brilliantly entertaining concerts with the Bristol Ensemble, City of Bristol Choir (Thur) and Exultate Singers (Fri).
Festive Fiesta
Children’s Christmas Carnival
Sunday 23 December, 2pm & 4pm A Christmas treat for all the family including a performance of the musical tale Peter and the Wolf.
A Baroque Christmas
Sunday 3 December, 7.45pm An exquisite evening of Baroque music for Christmas with the Bristol Ensemble and soprano Fflur Wyn.
Saturday 22 December, 7.30pm Come and sing all your festive favourites, accompanied by orchestra with City of Bristol Choir.
Box office www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk • 0845 40 24 001
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
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n NEWS
National Cycle Network needs more investment, says transport campaign THE first UK-Wide of the National Cycle Network has called for more investment to open up traffic-free walking and cycling paths for everyone. A new report by cycling charity Sustrans, titled the ‘Paths for Everyone’, reveals the current condition of the 23-year-old Network. The review involved interested stakeholders and sets out 15 recommendations for local authorities, private and charitable landowners, national governments and agencies, to transform the Network in order to open up walking and cycling to more people, including children and anyone with impaired mobility. The 16,575-mile Network is a critical part of the UK transport infrastructure. Every year over 780 million journeys are made on the Network which links
towns, villages and cities across the country. In our area, two routes have been highlighted within the report as a result of a range of issues such as poor signage, barriers, dangerous junctions and uneven surfacing, as well as solutions for creating safe, accessible and traffic-free paths. These are Ashton Court and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, which was built in 1977 and has become a huge success, being used by 1,000 commuters who travel car free to work between the peak hours of 8am and 9am. Commenting on the report, James Cleeton, Sustrans Director for the South of England said: “The National Cycle Network is a hugely important asset for our region which is enjoyed by millions of users every year. “In the South of England we
are extremely proud of our National Cycle Network. We are fortunate to have second longest Network of all the UK regions and nations, with almost 3,800 miles of routes and paths, covering an area that stretches from Land’s End in the West, to the Isle of Wight in the South, the Isle of Thanet in the East and Banbury to the North. “We also have some of the most iconic routes of the whole Network, including the Bristol and Bath Railway Path that sees over 2.5 million users every year. “This review is our opportunity to secure the investment and commitment
needed to make our National Cycle Network safer and more accessible for all users, creating paths that truly are for everyone and safeguarding its heritage for future generations.” To find out more about the ‘Paths for Everyone’ report, visit Sustrans’ website: www.sustrans. org.uk/pathsforeveryone
Kondi Gifts Lifestyle • Jewellery • Toiletries • Cards • Children’s
A unique range... ... of Christmas gifts, stocking-fillers, cards, wrapping and decorations for friends and family of all ages; featuring famous High Street brands alongside work from local artists, designers and suppliers.
103 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4JP t: 0117 962 5464 e: gifts@kondis.co.uk Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5.15pm Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm www.facebook.com/kondigifts
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3.3 ays nd m a Su
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S AT U R D AY 8 D E C E M B E R 11am – 4pm , r e d m a i d s h i g h s c h o o l , B S 9 3 AW
A host of local artists, craft and artisan stalls offering unique Christmas presents. Food and refreshments. Selection of needlefast trees. Free entry!
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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December, 2018
n NEWS BISHOPSTON Library welcomed a capacity audience for the last ever Bristol performance of Stony Broke in No Man’s Land by the Hotwells Howlers. First commissioned by the Friends of Bristol Museum to mark the centenary of the outbreak of World War I, this show is based on a range of sources, including original research, about the wartime experiences of people from Bristol and Somerset. Through songs – traditional and less well known – words and images, it tells the story of those who fought, those who died, some who deserted and others who were conscientious objectors. Watching Stony Broke was an emotional rollercoaster, harrowing, funny and compassionate, and was certainly really appreciated by the audience. The evening raised £89 for the Red Cross, the Hotwells Howlers chosen charity. The library also had a display of WW1 stories and photos contributed by local people. In
News from Friends of Bishopston Library a similar vein to the show, the display looked at all aspects of wartime experience. The sheer scale of the First World War make it hard to comprehend both the show and the display reminded us that it is perhaps only through the individual stories of men and women that we can begin to understand the lasting and devastating impact. We are still waiting for definite news on the next phase of the library strategy. We understand that it will involve a small number of meetings covering multiple areas, rather than one per library, and that people will be able to attend during the day or in the evening. These meetings are likely to take place in the new year, and we will let you have the dates as soon as possible – look on our Facebook page, and we will send via email to supporters. We will shortly be sending out information about a series of
writing surgeries early in 2019 with local author Mike Manson, who talked about The Hidden History of St Andrews back in March. If you have ideas, a project underway, or would like some feedback, then these will offer the perfect opportunity for you. And don’t forget, if you have written a letter to Santa, you can
post it in the library letter-box. See you all in 2019 You can join the Friends, find out about events and support the library at facebook. com/bishopstonlibrary, at bishopstonlibrary.org.uk or contact us at friends@ bishopstonlibrary.org.uk
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December, 2018
bishopstonvoice
n NEWS
Christmas wreaths
GOLDEN Hill Community Garden are running their CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING SATURDAY on December 1st, from 10am-4pm. There's no need to book and people are welcome to drop in throughout the day. And best of all...it’s still just £10! Making a wreath takes about an hour so please arrive by 3pm. It's a really fun, friendly and informal session, and the community garden helpers will provide willow, foliage, advice and encouragement. If you want to bring your own secateurs, gloves and pretty things winter foliage then that's fine. Lucy Mitchell, Community Project Worker says: “You'll weave a willow ring, decorate it and we guarantee you'll walk away with something ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL. Children are welcome and it's a great start to the festive season!”
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Bristol Pound Champions - could you be one? BRISTOL Pound has launched a new Champions programme, inviting people from all around the city to get involved and be a part of its future. The complementary currency is the largest in the UK and one of the largest in Europe, offering an alternative to sterling with beautiful paper notes and smartphone app payments accepted by a network of independent local businesses. The Champions programme aims to train and support 50 Community Champions volunteers over the next three years and creates an opportunity for businesses to make a commitment to the independent future of Bristol via innovative engagement and funding initiatives. The £B Champions programme has three strands: • Community champions – volunteers working in their local neighbourhoods across Bristol to raise awareness of the Bristol Pound and grow the scheme. • Business champions – businesses who are leading the way in their engagement with the Bristol Pound, and who are committed to helping other Bristol businesses adopt the currency. • Funding champions – people who want to support the Bristol Pound philanthropically, helping develop the scheme in the short term so it can fund itself through trading in the longer term. Watershed Director Dick Penny said recently of £B: “The point of an alternative isn’t necessarily so it becomes dominant, it’s so it can be independent and equal.” Bristol Pound wants to hear your voice. If you’re interested in becoming a Community, Business or Funding Champion, read more here and get in touch: https://bristolpound.org/volunteers/
Preventative Care Crown & Bridgework Cosmetic Treatment Saturday Appointments Dental Hygienists Friendly Caring Staff Easy Parking Dr Mark Haseltine, BDS Dr Susan Lavington, BDS Dr Laura Birch, BDS MFDS RCSEd
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
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December, 2018
n NEWS
Four stars for Home Instead HOME Instead Bristol North has been recognised as a 4 Star Employer in The Best Employers in Care Awards 2018. The award follows independent research among its own staff by leading research agency WorkBuzz. Steven Frost, CEO of WorkBuzz, said: “What makes this award extra special is it’s based on feedback from their caregivers and is only awarded to the top 10% of companies that enter the Best Employers in Care Awards. The care sector too often receives negative publicity – in contrast Home Instead Senior Care has a strong culture whereby caregivers have the right support and training; are well led and have a strong commitment to deliver outstanding care.” Home Instead provide person centred care to clients with visits lasting a minimum of an hour. The service focuses on matching clients and caregivers together based on common
interests or backgrounds so that there is a natural platform for relationships to build. Key to their service is consistency of care, which offers reassurance to clients as well as fulfilment to CAREGivers. Kirsty, a caregiver with Home Instead Bristol North said: “Being able to give the time needed to care for our clients and not rush them enables a better working environment for myself, as well as better individualised care for the clients.” To find out more about Home Instead Bristol North’s individual approach to care please call 0117 989 8210 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/ bristolnorth
Local dementia charity makes awards finals BRISTOL Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA) is one of three finalists for the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Community of the year – City or County award. Chair Tony Hall and Trustee John Moore are representing the charity at the national awards in London on 22 November. The annual awards celebrate and showcase the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations across the UK who have led the way on creating dementia friendly communities and improving the lives of everybody affected by dementia. With an estimated 850,000 people living with the condition in the UK – a number predicted to rise substantially over the coming years, BDAA’s work is vitally important. It is part of an “Alliance” of similar groups throughout the UK, working towards enabling their communities to become more Dementia aware. Chair Tony Hall who set up the charity five years ago, said: ”We are delighted to receive recognition of all our hard work. We are a small local charity with a huge aim – to make Bristol THE Dementia Friendly City of the UK.” For further information please visit www.bristoldaa.co.uk or call 07741 142701.
at our lovely houses in Redland and Henleaze
ABF Adcontact Half PageEmma 180x120 1 22/02/2017 11:09 To21435 advertise, onAW.indd 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
n NEWS
Bike Smart campaign highlights safety risks highlighted as part of national Road Safety Week with the 2018 theme ‘Bike Smart’. Brake is calling for drivers to be ‘Bike Smart’ by slowing down, giving more time to spot danger and react; looking properly for bikes before pulling out at junctions; leaving at least 150cm between cars and a bike when overtaking; and by doing the ‘Dutch reach’, using the opposite hand to open a car door to help avoid ‘car dooring’ incidents. More than a third (36%) of all deaths and serious injuries on roads in the South West in 2017 were bike riders - cyclists and motorcyclists. On average, a cyclist or motorcyclist is killed or seriously injured every hour, on British roads, with a total of 101 cyclist deaths and 349 motorcyclist death in 2017. Most drivers (52%) believe bikes are most vulnerable on urban roads, but rural roads pose three times the risk of a fatal crash.
Commenting, Joshua Harris, director of campaigns at Brake, said: “Raising awareness across the South West about the safety of those on two wheels, who face much higher risk of death and serious injury than those in cars, is absolutely vital. We support the Government’s announcement of a review of the Highway Code to help keep cyclists safe and its stated focus on motorcyclists in the forthcoming road safety action plan. “Rural roads, with their high speeds, blind bends and few cycle routes, pose particular danger to those on two wheels. The Government’s announced focus on rural road user safety is welcome and we encourage the consideration of rural road speed and bikesafe infrastructure, such as segregated cycle lanes, in its plans.”
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Local Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants
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SOUTH West drivers have been urged to be ‘Bike Smart’ as those on two wheels account for more than a third of the deaths and serious injuries on the region’s roads. The analysis marks the start of Road Safety Week (19–25 November), sponsored by Devitt Insurance Services and Ford, which this year urges people, particularly drivers, to be ‘Bike Smart’ to raise awareness about the safety of those on two wheels. The launch of Road Safety Week took place at Brunel Fields Primary School, Arthur Milton Street, on November 19. The launch saw road safety charity Brake, in association with Playing Out, host a street play session where the road outside the school was closed. This allowed pupils, their families and residents to enjoy cycling without fear of traffic and highlight how street play sessions can create safe, pollution-free spaces within communities so children can play and ride their bikes safely. Bike riders’ safety is being
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Forums in North Bristol Area 1: 10 December 2018, 5.45–8pm
Area 2: 13 December 2018 5.45–8pm
Avonmouth & Lawrence Weston, Clifton, Clifton Down, Hotwells & Harbourside, Stoke Bishop, Westbury-on-Trym, Henleaze
Ashley Down, Cotham, Horfield, Henbury & Brentry, Redland, Southmead
At Ambition Lawrence Weston, Long Cross, Lawrence Weston, Bristol BS11 0RX
At Henbury Village Hall, Church Lane, Henbury, Bristol, BS10 7Q
If you are a council tenant in the areas listed, come and discuss local housing services with your landlord. Get involved in your new Local Housing Forum. December’s meeting topic: anti-social behaviour. Free tea & coffee provided. Travel expenses can also be reimbursed. For further information contact: Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk. All details at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums.
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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bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
n NEWS
Christmas celebration with Carols by candlelight Good Afternoon singers SINGING in the Afternoon is proving to be a great pastime for hundreds of people across the region. In the weeks up to Christmas, the nine Good Afternoon Choirs will raise thousands of pounds for local charities. Started by West Country music man, Grenville Jones in 2009 with the Bath Good Afternoon which meets on Thursdays, other choirs have followed in recent years across the South West. Each choir chooses a local charity to benefit from local concerts and fundraising through the year and the last rehearsal is an open carol service with free admission. The Bristol Good Afternoon Choir meets on Mondays at Westburyon-Trym Methodist Church from 1pm - 3pm, led by Ben England. Their Christmas celebration takes place on Monday December 10 from 2pm – 2.45pm at Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church and a retiring collection will be taken for The Great Big Kidney Thank You which is fundraising for The Southmead Hospital Charity Transplant Fund. They have already raised over £1,000.
GET into the Christmas spirit with Carols by Candlelight in the unique and beautiful setting of The Lord Mayor’s Chapel which will be lit with candles and orbs for the evening. Organised by the Friends of Quartet Community Foundation, it’s an opportunity to join in with some favourite Christmas Carols. The North Bristol Wellbeing Choir, a group who come together at the Greenway Centre in Southmead to boost their health and wellbeing through music, will perform carols and festive tunes on the night. The event takes place on Wednesday, 5 December, from 7pm-9pm at The Lord Mayor's Chapel, Bristol BS1 5TB (at the bottom of Park Street, by College Green). Tickets cost *£15 per person. *The price includes a suggested charitable donation of £7 per ticket.To book see: https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/carols-by-candlelight-in-the-lord-mayors-chapeltickets-51581096448
Christmas Crafts at The Flamingo Centre
Willow Tree Decorations Floral Wreaths Needle Felted Robins Ceramic Painting Willow & Herb Wreaths Floral Garlands Season Table Centres (for adults & children)
Please visit our facebook events or website for further information
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
December, 2018
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n NEWS A SINGING teacher from Bishopston is looking to spread some festive cheer and raise funds for important causes at the same time, writes Keri Beckingham. Eliza Fyfe first started playing the piano when she was seven and singing when she was 14. After she began to perform covers and start songwriting throughout her teens, she went on to study for a Commercial Music degree at Bath Spa University. Fast forward to today and Eliza now runs a singing teaching business from a studio in the area. She started teaching nearly six years ago and manages a team of eight teachers, while teaching 35 students of her own on a one-to-one basis. Aside from her singing teaching, Eliza also runs a community choir called Bristol Choir Brigade, and manages three bands: a soul band called Beauty and the Beats, a jazz duo called Fyfe-Stokes Duo, a soul duo called Soul Tones and an a cappella group called Chicapella. Speaking about Bristol Choir Brigade, Eliza said: “I started running the choir in September 2016. I was keen to bring new singers together at any age or ability, to sing songs they know and love in three part harmony. “I was very inspired by Gareth Malone, and I arrange all the songs and teach them every Wednesday at Fairfield High School. There's 40 members, of which 25-30 perform regularly at charity events or student showcases that I put on each quarter.” With the festive season fast
Singing teacher aims to spread some festive cheer
approaching, Eliza has organised a series of local concerts for her bands and students, with the added aim of raising money for local causes. Two of her duos (Soul Tones and Fyfe-Stokes Duo) will be taking part in Southmead Hospital’s Buskathon in aid of Southmead Hospital Charity on Tuesday, December 4 at 12pm and Wednesday, December 12 at 2pm. She is also holding a student concert at Southmead Hospital on Sunday, December 9 at 2.30pm with piano teacher, Claire Housego, as part of North Bristol NHS Trust’s Fresh Arts programme. In addition, Bristol Choir
Brigade and some of Eliza’s to be well looked after during students are set to perform a the Christmas period and during Christmas-themed concert at the cold. Hamilton House in Stokes Croft “Local people will hopefully on Saturday, December 15 from be inspired by the range of 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Tickets cost singers, including the solo £5. All funds raised are for St singer, who are of all levels and Mungo’s, a charity that supports ages. I'm extremely passionate the homeless, and mince pies about encouraging anyone and and mulled wine will also be everyone to sing, and I think available. it spreads that belief further Eliza said: “St Mungo's got when people can see what the in touch for us to sing at one of performers achieve at showcases. their events but unfortunately we They put such hard work into were too busy to book anything their songs and it takes real further, so I offered to raise courage to get up and sing in money for them withThe my existing of others.” with Kevan Boll, Pearsallfront Ensemble event instead. I have supported To find out more about Eliza Suiite Bupcoming minor concerts, for flute and stri Shelter in the past forBach: Christmas andin her visit: as I hope the homeless are able www.elizafyfe.com
BRISTOL CHAMBER CHOI
CHRISTMAS MUSIC & CA
Chamber choir's seasonal concert BRISTOL Chamber Choir’s popular Christmas concert will be performed in the Lord Mayor’s Chapel on College Green on Saturday, 15 December at 2.15pm. As well as a varied programme of Christmas music and carols, The Pearsall Ensemble with Kevan Boll on flute will perform Bach’s Suite No 2 in B minor for flute and strings.
A warming cup of mulled wine will be served after the concert. Tickets £10 (students and children free) from https// eventbrite.com/e/music-forchristmas-ticket-504423522434, Opus 13, 14 St Michael’s Hill, Bristol, BS2 8DT or at the door. For more information call 07342 954249 or visit www. bristolchamberchoir.org.uk
Condu GORD
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
SATURDAY 15th DECEMBER 2018
Merry Christmas
A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL FROM EVERYONE AT LUNAR
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bishopstonvoice
We wish all of our clients and patients a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year, from the Animal Health Centre Team
Wishing all my clients a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Come and see our exciting Xmas gifts made inhouse by Bridget. 234 Gloucester Road Bishopston Bristol BS7 8NZ 0117 907 5884 info@osnatherapy.com www.osnatherapy.com
Thanking all our readers and advertisers for supporting us in 2018 Have a wonderful Christmas & A Happy new Year
December, 2018
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n NEWS
Celebrating excellence at Bristol’s Apprentice Awards OVER 100 people gathered at City Hall on 14 November for the annual On Site Bristol Apprentice Awards. The awards have been running for over 15 years and celebrate the contribution that local construction apprentices and employers make to local industry. Achievements in trades such as plumbing, brickwork and electrical services were recognised across 18 different award categories. Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, opened the celebrations. He said: “These awards give us the chance to take a moment to reflect on the achievements of our talented young apprentices and I’d like to congratulate all our winners and nominees. The On Site Bristol team play an important role in creating these opportunities, inspiring apprentices and nurturing their talent. This is brilliant for our local industries as many of our past winners have gone on to start their own companies and take on apprentices of their own.” One special award was also handed out to the Apprentice of the Year, Emma Lashwood, a Joinery apprentice with Bristol City Council Housing Delivery, whose hard work and commitment to her development has been an
inspiration to other apprentices. Emma said: “I’m really excited to have received this award and would like to thank Bristol City Council’s Housing Delivery team for giving me many varied opportunities to progress. I love my job and since starting my apprenticeship I have learnt so many new skills which I will be able to use for the rest of my life. I would urge other young people considering an apprenticeship to seriously consider it – for me it is one of the best things I’ve done.” Awards were presented to recipients by
the Mayor Marvin Rees, Councillor Lesley Alexander, Deputy Lord Mayor of Bristol, Councillor Anna Keen, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills and Carl Zammit, Director of 21st Century Building Services. Carl Zammit, said: “Doing an apprenticeship is an excellent way of making yourself appealing to businesses, especially in industries such as construction where hands on learning is essential. The team at On Site Bristol are doing a fine job of joining up the dots between employers, training and young people and helping to reduce skills gaps and develop the workforce of the future.” On Site Bristol currently has 300 apprentices on their programme and has worked in partnership with over 200 employers in the area. 92% of all On Site Bristol apprentices achieve their qualifications and gain permanent employment. On Site Bristol is hosting a free drop-in open evening on 28 November at the Create Centre for anyone leaving education after year 11,12 or 13. For more information call 0117 3521960 or visit www.onsitebristol. co.uk/2018/11/06/on-site-bristol-openevening-3/
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
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December, 2018
n NEWS
'Local treasure' Lorraine celebrates 40 years of work IF local character, Lorraine Richmond, looks familiar to you, it’s probably because she’s worked at the same store on Gloucester Road since the late 1970s. Celebrating her 40-year work anniversary at the opticians now owned by Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, she is a well known and much liked, figure in our local area. Lorraine grew up in Henbury, was educated at Henbury School, and later moved to live in Cotham, then Easton and now lives in Severn Beach. She first saw the job of receptionist for an opticians advertised in the Job Centre in 1978 and went for an interview with the former owner, Roger Owen who ran the practice with his brother Michael. Aged just 20 at the time, Lorraine started work on September 21, 1978. “It was new on the Gloucester Rd so we started from scratch and built up the customers,” says
Lorraine. “I’ve still got someone who comes in now who first came in 1979. I’ve seen children who are grown up now and I see their children. Through the years I’ve grown up and it’s nice to see people coming back. Sometimes it’s because I’m still here - I’m a familiar face.” In those days Lorraine recalls the mix of shops being very different to how they are today: “The whole area’s changed a lot in 40 years. There were shoe shops, Woolworths, three or four other opticians but we’re the ones who’ve survived. Then, there were hardly any charity shops or restaurants.” When Roger Owen retired eight years ago, the practice was taken on by Lynne Fernandes Optometrists and Lorraine’s work changed too as she explains: “When we first started I was just working on the phone, booking appointments and
the
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Makers a @ St P
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A creative space for making & learning new skills
WORKSHOPS & COURSES IN BRISTOL
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doing the filing. We never did any dispensing, or anything like that. Now I do contact lens teaching, glasses dispensing and measuring frames.” The Gloucester Road branch has recently had a refit and the optical equipment is constantly being updated. Lorraine says: “The new refit looks so nice - I really like it. We have a really good team and I enjoy working with the public. I remember the people from year to year when they walk through the door.” Over the years Lorraine has met famous faces as well as familiar ones, including Paul Rutherford from 1980s band, Frankie goes to Hollywood. She’s also been on hand to sort out problems when things go wrong: “One lady was in a bad accident and I helped her son sort out her glasses on the phone.They wrote a lovely letter about me.” Lorraine enjoys travel and
celebrated her 60th birthday this year by embarking on a Mediterranean cruise with her husband. The idea of retirement is a long way off as she hopes to keep working as long as she’s in good health. Good news for her loyal customers! In her typical, jokey way, Lorraine added: “Everyone says that I’m one of the characters of Gloucester Road. If I’m quiet, everyone thinks there’s something wrong with me!”
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December, 2018
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n EDUCATION
CST Trinity Academy: we're opening in September 2019 IT has been a pleasure to meet so many parents and prospective students over the last couple of weeks and to share our vision and plans for Trinity Academy more widely. The commitment and enthusiasm for a new school in the north of the city has been particularly striking and we are very grateful to all those who have shown their support. We are now entering an exciting phase in the development of the new secondary school and we are pleased with the number of applications received by the closing date of 31st October. We are looking forward to welcoming our first cohort of Year 7 students in September 2019 and these students will have a unique opportunity to shape the future of the school from the design of the buildings to the choice of uniform. We will be advertising a number of events over the coming months, including uniform consultation events, spotlight sessions on subjects and extracurricular activities and opportunities to meet members of staff once appointed.
For more information on all of the above and to see the building designs as they become available, please keep an eye on our website or sign up to our mailing list at: www. trinityacademybristol.org and follow us on Facebook: /CSTTrinityAcademy and Twitter: @CST_Trinity. We will also be advertising all jobs including teaching and support staff on the school website throughout spring/summer 2019. In the meantime I would like to thank you again for your support and to wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and best wishes for 2019! Eiron Bailey Headteacher, Trinity Academy
Advent Fair BRISTOL Steiner School are holding their Advent Fair at Redland Hill House, Redland Hill, BS6 6UX on Saturday 24 November from 11am 4pm. There will be lots of fun activities including advent wreath and star making, candle dipping, a crystal grotto, puppet shows, a book stall and a magic apron containing mini pocket money gifts. A waffle making stall will help to tempt the tastebuds as well as stalls selling home-made food and a cafe. Headteacher Ruth Glover says: “Our warming winter event, which is open to everyone, attracts the school and local community, many of whom return year after year." "In addition to providing a festive beginning to the Christmas and Midwinter season, the Advent fair is an opportunity for parents of prospective pupils to visit the school and meet with the teachers, parents, past and present students." Admission is ÂŁ1 for adults and free for children.
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n EDUCATION
Pupils bridge the generation gap CHILDREN from Westbury Park Primary School took part in the first Enrichment Week of the academic year in November, visiting two local St Monica Trust care homes and joining in activities with the residents. The school has a focus on the community and wellbeing for activities this year. Children from all years meet in their house teams to take part in four projects over the course of the school year. As well as the care home visits pupils will take part in a charity bake, sport and wellness activities, and projects to commemorate the school’s 125th anniversary which takes place in May 2019. The activities are organised by teachers, Vicki Inker (Enrichment lead at school) and Alison Painter. Vicki Inker said: “Enrichment weeks are so important and such a fantastic experience for the children. They enjoy working with other age groups and teachers across the school and really benefit from the activities they are involved in. The children always come back to class buzzing with excitement and enthusiasm.” During the week beginning November 12, pupils visited St Monica Trust properties, The Garden House at the Cote Lane site and John Wills House at Westbury Fields, where they joined residents for board games and a lively game of bingo. Lily, aged 8, enjoyed her visit, saying: "We had fun with the residents playing bingo. We got
to know each other better at the same time.” Robyn, age 9, added: "It's good for the older people as they can be lonely and it's good for young people to learn about the community around us.” Erin, age 5, made a picture for two elderly ladies and said: “We wanted to help them have fun again with us, as their own children are now grown up." Emily Pimm is the Deputy Care Home Manager at John Wills House and can see the benefit of the interaction between the generations: “The residents have been looking forward to this a lot. I think it helps having different interaction, especially if they are feeling low. You see lots of improvement in mobility and if they are feeling better, they drink and eat more too and have an improved sense of well being. It benefits the children to have that interaction, learning from people who’ve had lots of experience of life and history and have lots of skills too,” she said. Headteacher, Richard Bamber commented: “At Westbury Park School we pride ourselves on our community feel. One of the most effective ways we achieve this is through our ‘House Enrichment’ events. Every child from Reception to Year 6 is placed in one of our four houses ‘Dahl, Donaldson, Rosen and Rowling’. Over the course of the year the children will meet in their house teams to take part in various projects.
“The children thoroughly enjoy these activities and make the most of the opportunity to work together on a project whilst making friends and building community.
"The children benefit enormously from this experience as they spent time bridging the generation gap by playing games, reading and chatting.”
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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December, 2018
n EDUCATION CLAREMONT School’s new Post 16 centre - The Hive - was officially opened by Bristol West MP Darren Jones on 16 November. A gathering of students, parents, staff and local dignitaries all cheered as Darren cut the entrance ribbon and declared the building open. Work started in May at The Hive and has consisted of extending and converting preexisting buildings at Claremont School’s Primary site in Henleaze. Students transferred from their previous site at Redland Green in September so that they have easier access to the community in Henleaze and
Official opening of The Hive
bus routes in town, something that helps with independence as students get older. Students at the site come from all areas of Bristol and have complex medical needs such as cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Progress for pupils is measured by a focus on communication, cognition, social and emotional health. Steve Cocks, Claremont School Governor, says: “It’s a home for the mature students. Being here gives them a chance to experience more life skills. They can go into the shops and cafes on Henleaze Road, go shopping at Tesco and it’s a flat area so they can easily get out and about. It’s a home that they can call their own and an environment where they can learn more about Darren Jones MP cuts the ribbon as life.” headteacher Emma Richards looks on The new unit has
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Left to right, deputy head teacher, Adam Rider; Steve Cocks,chair of governors; Clare Campion-Smith, Darren Jones MP, CllrGeoff Gollop, Jo Snow and headteacher Emma Richards space for about 20 pupils, many of whom use wheelchairs. When the building was redesigned the doorways were made wider and the areas improved by adding full turning circles and space to
recharge wheelchairs. To mark the day wildflower seed bombs were thrown by one and all, and students held a reception with delicious cupcakes and drinks.
Epic! Awards help children to shine THE achievements of more than 120 children and young people in Bristol who are in, or have recently left care, have been celebrated at an event held at We The Curious. The second Exceptional People in Care (EPIC) awards, sponsored by a range of organisations from across the city, saw children and young people presented with awards for their exceptional achievements. Prizes were given for success in areas including education, sport, music, art, dance & drama, community contribution, personal development, caring for others and leading change. Three inspirational young award recipients were also handed the Mayor’s Award for significant achievements over the past year. This year’s awards were combined with the Strong, Talented, Awesome Rollercoaster Survivors (STARS) of Bristol Awards for care leavers. Awards were presented by representatives of the sponsors
who were joined by Mayor Marvin Rees, Councillor Helen Godwin , Cabinet Member for Women, Children and Families, and Lord Mayor Councillor Cleo Lake. The evening was hosted by Jamala Osman, herself a care leaver, who told her story of how she became an apprentice and overcame the odds to become one of the UK’s youngest bank managers at just 21. Councillor Helen Godwin, Cabinet Member for Children and Families said: “Our children in care and care leavers are remarkable people and I am delighted to have this opportunity to celebrate their achievements. ” There are around 700 children in care and about 400 care leavers aged 18-25 in Bristol. The Children in Care Council, an advisory group made up of children in care, has played a central role in the planning of the awards including choosing the names EPIC and STARS.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
December, 2018
bishopstonvoice
n EDUCATION
Boomsatsuma launches games design course
BOOMSATSUMA has announced the launch of a brand new Games, VR and VFX Extended Diploma at the Engine Shed, Temple Meads. As Bristol’s hub of creative technology, the Engine Shed will be a fitting home for the new full time course as an alternative to A levels, which promises to use industry standard hardware and software, with an experienced team of professionals, to deliver quality ‘bespoke’ training. Creative Director of Boomsatsuma, Mark Curtis, says: “We’re incredibly excited to announce the Games Design course. It’s a path we’ve wanted to take for some time and with the Engine Shed being the high tech digital creative hub of the South West, there couldn’t be a better place to host it. “There is a whole world of creative roles associated with the gaming industry now and the demand will only grow, particularly in the world of VR (virtual reality). We want to continue to ensure, as we do with our other courses, that our training results in fuelling the next generation of creatives and we hope to this end that Bristol can continue to emerge as a key player in the gaming industry.” Executive Director, Stuart Wood, adds: “The course really is a stand out offering for young people here in Bristol, covering everything from games theory to 3D modelling, audio production
and even app design. The course, like the others we offer, is worth 3 A levels while being totally practical, and allows students to choose whether they progress to university, apply for a higher level apprenticeship or go straight into the world of work. Applications for September 2019 are now open at www.boomsatuma.com
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St Bon's remain outstanding ST Bonaventure’s Catholic Primary School remain an outstanding Catholic school following a Section 48 inspection report from the Diocese carried out in October 2018. Headteacher Mrs Lucille Charles commented: “The report includes suggestions about where we can develop our religious education work further. We will of course take note of these so that our provision continues to improve. “The report contains many positive statements about the school. Thank you to parents for all their support before and during the inspection and for the encouragement that they continue to give.” To read the report in full see: www.st-bonaventures.bristol.sch. uk/web/diocesan_inspection_ report_now_available/376336
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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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December, 2018
n EDUCATION
FHS celebrates Black History Month TO celebrate Black History Month, Fairfield High School (FHS) welcomed a very special guest to speak to its Year 11 students during an assembly. Michele Curtis, founder of the seven Saints of St Paul’s initiative, Artist, Founder and Director of Iconic Black Bristolians, plus former FHS student, shared her history, vision, values and beliefs with the students, before giving them an opportunity to ask their questions. Michele is a very talented and inspirational artist who created, designed and actively petitioned for these artwork and murals to come to life within the area of St Paul’s. Her work is quite spectacular, and captures the Saints perfectly as they exude vibrance and vitality; they are due to be completed in June next year. Speaking from her own previous experience and journey within the world of art, Michele advised the students to believe in their own talent and never give up on themselves. She said that there is ‘no perfect’ and what will mean one thing to one person will mean something completely different to another. Cashan Campbell, Year 11 Achievement Co-ordinator said: “I am delighted that
Michele joined us in our efforts to celebrate Black History Month. She is such an iconic figure, who helped share the stories of these unsung heroes in some fantastic works of art. “This affects me on a personal level, as my beloved Nanny, Delores Campbell was one of
those black influential figures who touched the hearts of many. Fairfield is well known for its diverse community for which we are extremely proud, so welcoming Michele into this community could not be more apt.”
Life changing Our entrance exams and assessments for entry in September 2019 are taking place in January.
Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
December, 2018
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n EDUCATION STAFF and students stood silent as Orchard School Bristol remembered the fallen in war. Members of the Horfield school’s Cadets were in full uniform and on parade at 11am. Before the minute's silence, Head of House Mr Hurran reminded everyone why we do this and stressed that Remembrance is not just about the World Wars but also more recent conflicts. Orchard School students have been working on a series of activities across the curriculum. Under the theme of “We Remember”, students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have developed thoughtful and creative pieces, including drawing, paintings
YOUNG Bristol engineer Kate Mactear visited Redmaids’ High Junior School to promote greater involvement in engineering by girls and women. Kate’s mission, as part of the Women in Engineering Society’s Young Members’ Board, is to get girls at a younger age interested in the subject. The 25-year-old, who is studying for a Master’s degree in biomedical engineering at the University of Bristol, says she is determined to change the stereotypical image of an engineer. “It’s time we moved on from the idea of an old man wearing a hard hat,” she said. “Girls need to see more women working in engineering so that they realise it could be a career for them.” Her visit to the Westburyon-Trym based school began by leading an assembly for all year groups when she tested the girls' understanding of how
We will never forget – Orchard School pays tribute to fallen and multimedia responses in Art, poems in English, thought provoking Digital Media images and letters in History to commemorate the day. During tutor time, all pupils have been able to create an individual poppy for a member of the Gloucestershire Regiment who sadly lost their life during World War One. These poppies and other creative pieces have been used to produce a Remembrance display.
Bristol Festival of Remembrance in Bristol Cathedral THIRTY pupils from of Badminton Junior School were honoured take part in The Bristol Festival of Remembrance in Bristol Cathedral on November 10, joining The Royal British Legion for a special festival of remembrance 100 years after the end of the First World War. The girls laid poppies as they joined a procession through the cathedral during which a list of the British Commonwealth countries was read out. The girls were honoured to represent many of those allies from around the world. After the procession, they sang ‘Something Inside So Strong’ with Kizzy Morell. It was a poignant service and the girls sounded beautiful in the acoustically pitch perfect Cathedral. They received a long lasting and enthusiastic ovation from the audience. Badminton School was proud to partake in the South West Commemorations on the eve of Armistice 2018 and support the Poppy Appeal.
Engineer’s visit inspires local girls various strands of engineering impact on our daily lives. She then described how she had considered training to be a doctor but decided to focus on biomedical engineering where she can still directly improve people's lives. She explained how while an undergraduate she had been involved in helping to design the Great British team's track bikes before the Rio Olympics, and later, at BAE Systems, she worked on the design of the skeleton sled before the Winter Olympics. Kate then lead a hands-on engineering workshop for a group of 30 girls from Years 3 to 6, with a brief to build a 60cmlong, biomedical-style helpinghand device made from everyday items such as cardboard, rubber bands, sponges and clips.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
HELP BRISTOL WASTE NOTHING THIS HOLIDAY! Get tips on how to enjoy a sustainable festive season & find out when your holiday waste and recycling collection days are.
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In the interest of reducing our impact on the environment we are encouraging residents to download calendars online. If you are unable to do so please email hello@bristolwastecompany.co.uk or call 0117 922 2100.
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December, 2018
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n NEWS
Three Sopranos tune up
Launch night for Alchemy 198 NEW Gloucester Road bar, Alchemy 198 launched on Saturday 17 November packed out with a crowd from the local community and artists. Live bands played in large downstairs gallery including 12 piece ukulele band and Bossa Nova singer, Cathy Jones. The building was originally the Venus bar, at one time including a Greek restaurant in the basement, which ran for over 30 years. Room 212 owner Sarah Thorp bought the premises and has plans to organise events and exhibitions in both the
ground floor bar and basement chill out area. The walls are decorated with beautiful original art by well known Bristol artists, curated by 212 Productions. Local bar staff include artist Jamie Gillman who created the controversial Bristol Bear. Sarah says: “We plan to hold events here including a Winter Solstice singalong on Dec 21 and the Almanac Supper Club on Dec 12. We're having an artists' party during the Glos Rd central Christmas street party on Dec 6.”
FRIENDS of Welsh National Opera welcome visitors to an evening entitled Now, Three Sopranos at Redmaids High School on Wednesday 12 December, 7.15pm. Lotte Lehmann, Kirsten Flagstad and Regine Crespin together spanned much of the era of studio sound recordings. David Speller discusses their vocal characteristics and styles, their careers and achievements, and plays their restored recordings. Tickets at the door: Friends £5, Guests £7. Contact Margaret Borkowski at borkmail@ googlemail.com
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December, 2018
n NEWS In Bishopston this month... Bristol Energy Did you know that Bristol City Council has founded an energy company, committed to being a force for social good? Bristol Energy is a gas and electricity supplier, for both domestic and business customers, that champions social equality. It’s the one of the only publiclyowned energy companies in the country, and they offer fair and transparent tariffs (including renewables-only options), reinvest in local communities, and support and invest in renewables. Around 7% of residents in our ward are already Bristol Energy customers – find out more here: www.bristol-energy. co.uk or pop into The Hub on the Harbourside. Budget Consultation Every February, the council sets a budget for the next year, which sets out how much money will be spent on each of the services the council provides. Since 2010, government has drastically cut
the amount of money the council receives. At the same time, its costs have risen, because of inflation and because more people need to use the council’s services. In recent years, the council has had to cut budgets to make ends meet. This year, however, that may not have to be the case, but only if council tax is increased by 3%. The council is consulting on residents’ opinions about this - you can take part here: bristol.gov.uk/ budget2019-2020 Bus Changes First Bus have made changes to bus services in our area, which we believe will be to the detriment of local residents. The number 70 will no longer serve Temple Meads (apart from late evenings), and the numbers 9 and 71 will no longer operate on Sundays or evenings. As the buses in Bristol are privately run, the council has no control over the changes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your voice heard. The
more people that tell First what a terrible idea these changes are, the more likely they are to reconsider. You can contact them using their form here: bit. ly/2JJdL2M HMO Consultation Earlier in the year, the council consulted on introducing additional licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in the 12 central wards of Bristol, including our ward. This consultation included a proposed fee structure. Since then, a high court judgement has been made that requires the council to re-consult on the fee structure. Have your say here: bristol. citizenspace.com/communities/ further-consultation-licencehmos Filton Bank Works Residents who have travelled by train recently will no doubt be aware that there are a lot of engineering works going on. A key part of this has been on the Filton Bank, which runs between Temple Meads and Parkway
stations, including past Ashley Down. Network Rail have been doubling the number of tracks, which will allow for more reliable and frequent services, both locally and inter-city. The works will also allow the future reopening of Ashley Down station, which is planned for 2021. You can find out more about the works here: networkrail.co.uk/ bristol-upgrades Gloucester Road Christmas Support our local independent high street! Gloucester Road Central (the top of Pigsty Hill) are having their Christmas Street Party on 6 December, from 5pm - 8pm, and the southern part of the road are having a Festive Bonanza on 2 December, 9am7.30pm. Whatever you’re up to this holiday season, we hope you have a great Christmas and wish you all the best for 2019! Tom Brook – Cllr.Tom. Brook@bristol.gov.uk Eleanor Combley – Cllr. Eleanor.Combley@bristol.gov.uk
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bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
n NEWS In St Andrews this month... FULL Council took place on Tuesday 13 November, and a number of important agenda items were passed by councillors. The Council adopted a new Equality and Inclusion Strategy 2018 – 2023, which seeks to drive forward BCC’s approach to equalities. The key objectives in the strategy are: to be a source of good practice in our handling of equality and inclusion; to build an inclusive organisation that reflects our city; to provide an inclusive service which addresses inequality and exclusion; to increase the extent to which disadvantaged communities can contribute to city life; and to build good relationships between different communities in Bristol. The Strategy has been adopted alongside the city’s first Equality Charter, with a set of related objectives that individuals and organisations are able to sign up to. For more information, or to sign up to the charter, visit bristol.gov.uk/ bristolequalitycharter
Full Council also debated and passed a motion about the issue of period poverty. One in ten girls and young women are unable to afford sanitary products, which can result in bullying, distress and exclusion. Council resolved to work with partners towards the goal of eliminating period poverty in Bristol; to encourage schools to make sanitary products available to those who need them; and encourage employers in the city to do the same. The Council will also play its part in making sanitary products available in civic buildings such as libraries and City Hall. In addition, Bristol is now the first city in the UK to declare a Climate Emergency, after Full Council passed a motion to adopt an ambitious target to become carbon-neutral by 2030. This brings forward our previous target by 20 years. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently published a report warning
that the world has only 12 years to adopt emergency action to prevent global warming greater than 1.5°C. If global warming extends beyond this, the world’s climate will plunge into chaos, threatening our very survival as a species. Cities across the world need to lead the change in preventing this disastrous outcome, and we are proud that Bristol is setting the benchmark in good practice on this crucial issue. In other news, a consultation has been launched by BCC to gather views on options for the level of Council Tax from April 2019. As part of the council’s 2019/2020 budget planning, the authority will be consulting on a number of options ranging from no rise in council tax through to a 4% increase. The implications of each option are explored within the consultation survey – if council tax is not increased then new savings or other sources of funds will need to be found. People living in Bristol are being urged have their say on these proposals before the closing date of midnight on Monday
33 17 December. The consultation survey is available now at bristol. gov.uk/budget2019-2020. Both Cabinet and Full Council will consider the feedback from the consultation before a decision is made at their budget setting meetings in January (Cabinet) and February (Full Council) 2019. 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 1pm – 2pm, 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
In Cotham this month... Climate Emergency: I was very proud to speak for my LibDem group at Tuesday’s council debate in support of a motion to put Bristol on an emergency footing to be a beacon for carbon neutrality by 2030. Achievable or not, I am convinced that we must lead and take determined action NOW to allow future generations a decent life on a healthy planet. Take Control of Bristol’s Buses: Following the reductions to the no.9, and other services, fare increases, driver shortages and poor performance, a petition to lobby for franchising our buses (so we can set our choice of routes, fares and timetables) has been set up with the aim of forcing a debate in Council: tiny. cc/bristolbuses Street flooding: Leaves + rain = large puddles! Please report a blocked gulley to the council on https://fixmystreet.bristol. gov.uk/ If you can please locate the gulley and scrape any leaves clear. Bristol waste company has 20 additional staff to clear leaves during autumn but we
all know this is not enough. For related issues: neighbourhood. enforcement@bristol.gov.uk Outcomes of my recent meetings: The Chief Constable has agreed to follow up reports of large organised parties. The Operations Manager of Bristol Waste Company has logged all households in streets around Chandos Rd who have not put out or restored bins and boxes. These are to be followed up by door-knocking and/or letters. BCC’s Clean Streets officer will get back to me in four weeks with a proposal for sanctions on behaviour that creates unacceptable rubbish. Bristol University are now looking to fund a roving university policeman or a Police Community Support Officer in our area. Seasons Greetings. Please feel free to contact me: Cllr.Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristol.gov. uk /07833 484344
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December, 2018
n NEWS In Redland this month... Sale of the Bristol North Baths building Redevelopment of the old Bristol North Baths building is now at a the stage of a new planning application. The buyer wants to discuss their plans locally, and invited us to discuss their adaptation of the half converted building into offices for their company and other local office users. We are hoping there is scope to support community organisations in some way once the company confirms their move will take place. Any profits from sale will be ring fenced for affordable housing across the city. Libraries ‘Engagement’ Fi and Martin are pleased that the Council has withdrawn its proposed library closures for now but a clear longer term commitment to libraries is still needed. The council proposes to ‘engage’ communities on ideas for the future. These discussions are meant to link issues around
the future of community buildings and branch libraries - and in this area community activities have to share the one council run space. We stressed that earlier ideas and responses from 2015 and 2017 consultations should be included if the council wants a practical discussion. Parking Emergency vehicles were again trapped on the way to a call out by bad parking. Whilst the administration has promised officer support to look at potential solutions, this has yet to materialise so Fi and Martin are pressing for some action on this. Matters are now complicated by the resignation of the Cabinet member for Transport and her replacement by the Mayor, which indicates a delay due to the hand over. Meanwhile, we are conducting some door to door surveys in some of the affected areas. If you think your road is being affected by poor parking
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then please let us know and we will come and talk to residents in your street. Tackling disposable plastics. Martin’s petition calling on the council to eliminate single use disposable plastics from its activities topped 3,500 signatures, securing a debate at Full Council in November. There was unanimous, all party support for the council to take action. We now look forward to seeing the Mayor’s response to the issues raised and what practical steps will be taken. Fi had started work as Cabinet Member to get rid of such plastics in Council owned premises such as parks and museums, but this stalled for the last year. We’re hoping that the 4,000 plus signature petition from people across the city will kick start action by the council to play its part in reducing waste. Bristol announces a Climate Emergency
We’re proud of the motion brought by our colleague Cllr Carla Denyer who achieved another unanimous council vote to agree Bristol should declare a ‘climate emergency’ and take steps to go carbon neutral by 2030, 20 years sooner than was intended. The motion calls for the Mayor to bring a report back within six months to show how the council can deliver such a target. Bristol already has plans for ambitious carbon saving initiatives and this strengthens the work. The latest international reports give us 12 years to stop dangerous climate change. Please sign up so we can keep in touch: http://eepurl.com/ cms9Pr Cllrs Martin Fodor & Fi Hance Redland ward Green Party councillors Green Cllr Group office Tel: 0117 3526156
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December, 2018
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35
n NEWS
Prepare for magic like you’ve never seen before! BRISTOL is in for a real treat this Christmas as internationally acclaimed magicians descend on the city for a magical extravaganza when Stars of Magic comes to the Redgrave Theatre on 27-30 December. For four days in that magical time between Christmas and New Year, people can hide away from the cold and the dark in the intimate setting of Clifton’s Redgrave Theatre and experience joy and wonder from an eclectic mix of performers. This family-friendly show organised annually by Bishopston magician Rob James, features seven incredible magicians, each delivering their own unique brand of breathtaking performances to astound, delight, and tickle. Expect the largest scale magic ever performed in Bristol from Matt McGurk and Katia. This pair of dynamic performers specialise in incredible large scale illusions and will take you on an extraordinary journey you
will never forget. The very gifted Horret Wu hails from Taiwan and is a master of card magic. He won first prize at FISM (the magic olympics) for his groundbreaking act that, if you weren’t watching it with your own eyes, you’d swear was trick photography! Neal Austin is a seasoned pro
with many years of experience and countless TV appearances under his belt. A comedy genius specialising in magical mayhem, he will have you laughing till your sides split. But don’t worry, he’ll magically put you back together again! From China comes the enchanting Huang Zheng who will be sure to win your
heart with her slow-paced and beautiful magic act themed around air and wind. This routine is as unique as it is beautiful. Rob James says: “I am thrilled to be putting on this show for my home crowd. I have worked hard to gather together a collection of truly impressive magicians for this show. I am actually jealous of the audience getting to see all of them for the first time, as it’s remarkable to watch. I also love that it’s perfect for the whole family; mums, dads, kids, grannies and grandads will all be enchanted.” This is the third year running that Rob has produced the Stars of Magic show at the Redgrave Theatre. For the past two years all the performances sold out as audiences came from all over the UK to see a magic show of this calibre. Tickets start at £17. For further information and tickets go to http://www.starsofmagic. 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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n HEALTH BLOG
Tackling incontinence manage to reach the loo in time, or find that you’re leaking without realising it.
I
NCONTINENCE affects around 1 in 10 people and can affect men and women of all ages. Sadly many people still consider it to be a taboo subject and, instead of seeking help, resign themselves to never getting any better. But this simply isn’t true – for most, it’s entirely curable. Debbie Harris, Bladder and Bowel service manager for Bristol Community Health, is on hand for help. What are the signs of incontinence? You might notice that you don’t
December, 2018
What are the causes? Incontinence is usually caused by the weakening of the pelvic floor – the group of muscles which support the bladder and bowel. This can be as a result of childbirth, age or being overweight. Incontinence can also occur following a spinal injury, cancer or as a side effect of some long-term medications. What can I do? • Ditch the caffeine: Highly caffeinated drinks can overstimulate your bladder – try (gradually!) switching to decaf. • Drink more water: I’m not joking! Drinking less fluid makes urine more concentrated, which irritates your bladder and causes it to spasm. This can make you feel like you need to go, even when your bladder is empty.
•M aintain a healthy weight: Being overweight can pull on your pelvic floor. By losing a few pounds you can reduce this pressure and improve your continence. • S trengthen your pelvic floor muscles: Contact the service, visit our website or take a look on YouTube to find simple exercises you can do every day to help build the muscle group. •H ave the right mental attitude: These things take time so don’t expect things to change overnight. But improvements will come – it just takes dedication. So what help is available? Our Bladder and Bowel Service is here to provide advice and support. Our team will assess you to find out more about your continence issues and check to make sure there are no underlying infections or causes. We can then work with you to identify changes in lifestyle and habits, and show you exercises to help strengthen your pelvic floor
– all with the aim of restoring your continence. Contact the Bladder and Bowel Service on 0117 456 9933 or BRCH.ContinenceService@nhs. net Bristol Community Health is a social enterprise providing NHS community health and wellbeing services to people in Bristol and beyond. We are not-for-profit - all surpluses are reinvested back into our services for the good of the communities we serve. www. briscomhealth.org.uk / 0117 440 9000
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37
n MAYOR'S VIEW
We're leading way in battle for cash to tackle air pollution AIR pollution is a public health crisis, with Bristol being one of many UK in cities breach of legal limits. Estimates suggest that in Bristol around 300 deaths every year are attributable to air quality, with many more suffering poorer respiratory health. Westminster has placed a requirement on us to develop a Clean Air Plan to reduce harmful Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) pollution. Our plan will look at ways to improve air quality, including investment in public transport and cycling, changes in traffic management, greater use of existing regulatory powers such as taxi licensing and ways to support and encourage a shift to cleaner vehicles. We are working through all the options, taking into account the costs and anticipating consequences of each. A failure to do this would not only risk a disproportionate financial impact on those least able to pay, it would also risk the plan failing to deliver the improved air quality it was designed for.
Around this we are still working through feasibility studies for a mass transit system including underground/overground. This would be transformational, offering a chapter change in Bristol’s transport system and a genuine alternative to private car use. But it’s not enough for central government to set a standard and then walk away without lifting a finger to help. Success in tackling poor air quality will be dependent on adequate funding. At the Global Parliament of Mayors, Bristol hosted the first ever joint meeting of the UK’s Core Cities and Metro Mayors. Air quality was an agreed area for us to focus. As city leaders we are on the front line of the battle for air quality and we are committed to real delivery. We are calling for government action in two areas to enable us to protect the people we represent from an avoidable threat. First was to make an additional £1.5bn investment in the Clean Air Fund (taking the total to £1.75bn) for Local Authorities and Cities to use in mitigation.
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Secondly, a national targeted vehicle renewal scheme, prioritising the help for the least well off. An enhanced Clean Air Fund will be the decisive factor in determining success or failure for this national issue. Local Government, and Bristol, wants to and will lead on this. But we all need the resources that will enable us to do so.
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December, 2018
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES The sheep are back in the vineyard ! Apart from being company for me, they’re helping keep the vineyard grass down and making up for the lack of grazing available to them over the long, hot summer we had. The local farmer who supplies the sheep likes rare breeds so we have a range of shapes and sizes. He knows them all by name and has hand-reared some so they’re very tame and friendly. Like the sheep, I’m spending most of my vineyard time tidying things up and doing all jobs I don’t have time to do in summer. I’ve been focused on the release of our new sparkling wine, which has been going very well. Many of you may not realize you can actually buy our wine direct from the vineyard via our neighbour the Somerset Flower Farm Café & Shop just
off the A38 past Bristol Airport. You can have a coffee, buy some wine and peep over the gate at the vineyard where all the grapes are grown. The leaves have now fallen off the vines, which means the plants are becoming dormant and it’ll soon be time to start the big prune! This is job takes a long time and is normally finished just before the growing season starts again next year. As always at this time of year we’re running low on Pinot noir rosé and our new sparkling white is selling fast. Get in touch if you’d like to reserve some (only 500 bottles were produced). You can also come and find us at one of the following events over the next couple of months... 22nd Nov – Bishopston Christmas Market @ Bishop Road School 6th Dec – Gloucester Road Street Party @ Alchemy 198 Bar 8th Dec – Bristol Browsers Market @ St Michaels Church, Gloucester Road with Billings & Briggs (Natural/Biodynamic/Organic Wines) & mulled wine! 8th Dec – Wiper & True Christmas Market, St Werburghs 14th Dec - Dickensian Evening @ Wrington, North Somerset 15th Dec – Harts Bakery Christmas Market nr. Temple Meads Station – a small but eclectic mix of stalls outside the bakery/café.
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December, 2018
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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA REGULAR EVENTS IN OUR AREA December 1 n Page 53 Books present the Gloucester Road Book Fair - new books for all the family; strolling storytellers; dramatized reading of 'A Christmas Carol' throughout the day; literary gifts to buy; refreshments available. B and A Hall, Pigsty Hill, Gloucester Road from 11am - 4.30pm. December 6 n Henleaze Ladies’ Choir CHRISTMAS CONCERT on Thursday 6 December, 1.45 - 3.30pm at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze. Enjoy carols and music at this FREE afternoon concert, plus tea and mince pies! A collection will be taken for the Julian Trust charity. Contact Jean on 0117 9624466 or Jane on 07752 332278. December 8 n The OutThereMusic Choir Christmas Show will be at the Elmgrove Centre, Elmgrove Road, BS6 6AH at 8pm. We will be singing a mixed range of songs including Christmas favourites. Tickets available on the door, opening at 7.30pm. n Christmas Charity Quiz in aid of Great Western air Ambulance. Held at Bristol St Andrews Bowls Club, Derby Rd, Bishopston BS7 9AQ, 7.30pm for 8pm start. Teams of up to 5, £10 per team, register in advance online at www.justgiving. com/fundraising/bsa-quiz n Saturday 8 December at 10.30am, Holy Trinity Church, Church Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3EQ Organist Richard Johnson gives this month's popular Organ Elevenses recital at Westbury-onTrym Parish Church. Coffee and cakes will be served from 10.30am and the 40-minute recital gets under way at 11am with a largescreen projection of the organist. Suggested donation £5 on the door. December 10 n Bristol Cabot Choir - Christmas with Handels’ Messiah – Monday. 10 December 2018 – 7.30 pm Bristol Cathedral - Inspiring excerpts from the Messiah; Eric Whitacre’s luminous Lux Aurumque and carols for Choir and audience. Conducted by Rebecca Holdeman , with Ffion Edwards, Soprano, James
Atherton, Tenor and Paul Walton, Organist Charity No 116260 Tickets: Reserved £15 - Unreserved £10/£5 (NUS card/under 18s) – On line: www.opus13.co.uk - Ticket Line: 0117 923 0164. Supporting Bristol Age Concern. December 12 n Wednesday 12 December at 7.45pm, St George's Bristol, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR Bristol Ensemble and the Choir of Royal Holloway bring Handel’s masterpiece, Messiah, to life in a semi-staged performance. Tickets £14 to £25 from St George's box office on 0845 40 24 001 or www. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk December 14 n The Filtones Choir's Christmas Crackers Concertat Eden Grove Methodist Church, Horfield, BS7 0PQ. 7.30 p.m. Retiring collection in aid of the charity "BRACE" (research into dementia). Tickets £7.50 and can be obtained from Dot Bryant in advance 07870 984760, from members of the choir or on the door on the evening. December 15 n Bristol Bach Choir present the Spirit of Christmas at St George's, Bristol, BS1 5RR, 7.30pm. St George's will overflow with the Spirit of Christmas through our uplifting choral music and both humorous and profound readings. Tickets: £20, £15 and £10; students and under 18s, £5 Box Office 0117 214 0721 or tickets@bristolbach. org.uk December 19 n Pop into Kellaway Pharmacy on Wednesday 19 Dec between 11am2pm for a free consultation with our Nutritional Advisor, Theresa. Goodie bags will be handed out too so don’t miss out! December 20 n Thursday 20 and Friday 21 December at 7.30pm, St George's Bristol, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. Two brilliantly entertaining evenings of Christmas music led by David Ogden and Bristol Ensemble with City of Bristol Choir (Thursday) and Exultate Singers (Friday). Tickets from £14 available from St George's box office on 0845 40 24 001 or www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk December 22 n aturday 22 December at 7.30pm, St George's Bristol, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. Plenty of audience participation in this sparkling festive concert featuring all your favourite carols, Christmas choral works and orchestral piece with members of City of Bristol Choir, accompanied by professional
orchestra The Bristol Ensemble, conducted by David Ogden. Tickets from £14, available from St George's box office on 0845 40 24 001 or www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk. December 23 n Sunday 23 December at 2pm and 4pm, St George's Bristol, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR Give the whole family a Christmas treat at this special children’s concert which features Prokofiev’s well-loved musical tale, Peter and the Wolf. Tickets £14 for adults including one free child's ticket, additional children's tickets £7 each, from St George's box office on 0845 40 24 001 or www. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk December 23 n Sunday 23 December at 7.45pm, St George's Bristol, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR An exquisite evening of Christmas music from the golden era of the Baroque including festive music for solo soprano sung by Fflur Wyn. Tickets from £14, available from St George's box office on 0845 40 24 001 or www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk.
The Arts Society n The Arts Society Bristol is for those who enjoy the arts and welcomes new members. Activities include lectures by specialists in their field. The lectures are at 8pm on the second Tuesday each month at Redmaids' High School BS9 3AW. More information is on our website www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk 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 Redland Wind Band rehearses at Redland Parish Hall, Redland Green at 730pm. We sometimes have vacancies, currently mainly for bass instruments. Go to our website redlandwindband.co.uk for further information and to contact us email us on redlandwindband@gmail. com. Get in touch if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like to book us for events or fundraisers.
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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 Redland Green Choir meets for rehearsals every Monday 7.30pm-9.30pm 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 Exercise Movement and Dance class for ladies. Low impact classes offer dance, exercise and core strengthening. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.25-7.30pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Tel: Rachael at FL Exercise on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@ talktalk.net . Classes run on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking (£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@
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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December, 2018
nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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. 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) n 8pm Fun Quiz Night: Tv, Film, Music & more! at the Bristol Flyer, Gloucester Road, Bishopston Just £1 to enter n Watercolour Painting Art Classes take place every Monday at Redland Library, between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Each half term course focusses on a new subject each half term. Suitable for beginner and intermediate levels, with some previous drawing experience recommended. For more information or to book, please visit: www.painting.zone. For queries or to add your name to the mailing list, contact Stella Shaw at admin@painting.zone or ‘phone 07791400362. n Bristol Bridge Club - Come and play, there are daily bridge sessions for experienced and less experienced players. Try a free taster session on a Monday afternoon or evening and Wednesday afternoon. Phone the club before coming, Tel.0117 929 1846 or www.bristolbridgeclub. co.uk n Cotham Parish Church Drop-In Playgroup, Cotham Church Hall, Cotham Road, BS6 6DR, open every Monday of term time from 1.30 to 3.30, offering a warm welcome to children from 0-school age, with their carers. We charge £1 per session per family, which includes refreshments for all, singing and a variety of toys. Some parking is available in front of the church. 0117 9733395 Tuesday n The Golden Buds is a group aimed at 18 months to 4 year olds 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. 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 Bristol Harmony West Gallery choir and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18th century. We are looking for new members, all voices welcome, also all string, wind and reed instruments. No auditions but ability to read music helpful. Meet in the University Staff Club, Woodland Road on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. www. bristolharmony.wordpress.com or ring Colin on 0117 968 6860. Venue tricky to locate so please ring before coming. n After school French Club for primary children at Gloucester Rd Quaker Meeting House. KS1 class: Tuesday: Level 1 – 4.10 – 4.45, Level 2 – 4.50 – 5.30 Level 3 – 5.40 – 6.20 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 n Discover Buddhism 8pm every Tuesday. Introductory sessions involve 20 minutes of explained meditation then a short talk on a Buddhist topic. Sakya Thinley Rinchen Ling, 121 Sommerville Road, St Andrews, BS6 5BX. Suggested donation £4/£2. 0117 9244424 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. n Bristol Brunel Lions Club – We meet at Shirehampton Golf Club on the first Tuesday of every at 7 for 7.30 on the 3rd Tuesday of each month we have a social gathering normally with food. We raise money for charity both locally and beyond through a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Lots of fun and fellowship raising and spending money for good causes. For more details of how to apply for assistance with charitable activities in Bristol or to become involved in our activities see Bristol Brunel Lions Club on line or contact our Club Secretary Bill O’Neill at lion. bill@virginmedia.com n A new knitting and crochet group has been set up in the local area. All abilities welcome, including beginners. Please do come along to meet and chat with fellow crafters, discuss projects, share ideas and even learn a new craft. 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10:30 am at JP Destiny, Kellaway Avenue. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, 7:00 pm at The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze Road. If you are interested in coming along or would like more information please contact Stephanie ToftJones at poppytoft@hotmail.com or visiting our facebook group 'Bristol Knitting and Crochet. n Circle Dance Evenings at The Old Library Eastville, Muller Road BS5 6XP. Last Tuesday evening of the month, 7:30 – 9:30 pm, led by Susannah Temple, £5 donation. Calm & lively, lovely music, beginners welcome, no need for partners. Contact 0117 979 1519, susannahtemple@googlemail.com n Bristol United Walking Football - every Tuesday 10.3011.30 at Horfield Leisure Centre. The beautiful game played at a slower pace for the over 50's. First session free then £3. Contact Keith Gwilym on 07948383536 or e-mail buwfc2018@gmail.com n Women's Reading Group looking for new members. We read a wide variety of fiction and meet monthly on a Tuesday evening. Please contact ksnowdon29@gmail.com for further information. n The Arts Society Bristol is for those who enjoy the arts and welcomes new members. Activities include lectures by specialists in their field. The lectures are at 8pm on the second Tuesday each month at Redmaids' High School BS9 3AW. More information is on our website www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk n Japanese Swordsmanship, Aiki Bokutodo in Redland. Every
Tuesday at 7pm. Using wooden swords, study basic postures, cutting techniques and individual and paired exercises to explore the essence and ethics of the Samurai Warrior, and strengthen mind, body and spirit. Suitable for all, beginners welcome. Information from Robert Brinkhurst 07967 142148. n The Arts Society Bristol is for those who enjoy the arts and welcomes new members. Activities include lectures by specialists in their field. The lectures are at 8pm on the second Tuesday each month at Redmaids' High School BS9 3AW. More information is on our website www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk 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 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 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,
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
41
n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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@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
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n Fishponds Friendship and Exercise Club Fishponds Baptist Church (scout hall) 10-11.30am each Tuesday. Chair based gentle exercise for older people.Tea, coffee, friendly chat. Instructor: Spencer Davies. Telephone 07825 155954.
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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. n Westbury Park WI is the local WI for Westbury Park, Henleaze and Bishopston. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm in Redland Church Hall, Redland Green Road, BS6 7HE. Guest fees are £4 per meeting – Glass of wine £2, tea, coffee, soft drinks 50p, other refreshment options available, biscuits/cake free. Email westburyparkwi@ gmail.com or see website www. westburyparkwi.org.uk. n Wednesdays at 10.30am Buddhist Meditation - use a simple technique to help the mind rest in the present and give space for reflection. Sakya Thinley Rinchen Ling, 121 Sommerville Road, St Andrews, BS6 5BX. Suggested donation £2. 0117 9244424 n Sound of Song ( a Choir for Female Voices) meet in Horfield URC, Church Hall, Muller Road on Wednesdays 7.30 - 9.30pm. Repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular, folk, and show songs. No auditions necessary. www.soundsofsongchoir.com n North West Bristol Camera Club are an enthusiastic group of amateur photographers who meet each Wednesday at 7.45pm at Westbury Fields, Greystoke Avenue. New members of any level of ability are most welcome. For details contact Neville on nevwgoodman@mac.com 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 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.
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
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
Join us at our award winning club With over 35 walks each week Get fit, have fun, enjoy the outdoors See our website or call Ros on: 07886 885213
www.bristolnordicwalking.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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nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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. 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. n Henleaze Ladies Choir is a friendly welcoming group which meets in St Peters Church Hall, Henleaze on Thursdays between September and May from 1.30 – 3.30 pm (with a short break for tea). We give 2 charity concerts Advertise your event with our special rate 5cm advert
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Low impact classes offer dance, exercise and core strengthening. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.25-7.30pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Tel: Rachael at FL Exercise on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@talktalk.net . Classes run on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking (£8 per class -1st Class Free)
a year in December and May and from time to time are invited to entertain community groups around the city. There are also occasional social events organised. We are always pleased to see new members. Pease come and try a rehearsal without obligation. To find out more contact Jane English (07752 332278) or Jean Wickham (0117 9624466). n North Bristol Community Project Arts Fringe: Arts for Well-being, Thursdays 10am-12pm. Well-being Lunch Club, Thursdays 12.30-2pm. 10 week Sewing for Employability course, Mondays 10am -12pm; now taking bookings for the next sewing course starting on January 8 2018. The 10 week sewing course & the Lunch Club are FREE. For all other activities, there is a fee of £10 towards the cost of basic materials, tuition & refreshments. 160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT, Tel: 0774 237 7799 /0117 924 6228, www. northbristolcommunityproject. org.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 needed, just come along and listen. Bishopston Library every Thursday 11.30am - 1.00pm. We read and chat. Refreshments provided free. n Bristol Healing Group Dropin Healing Session at Friends Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. Thursdays 5.00 6.30 pm, donation basis. Healing is holistic, gentle, relaxing, helps restore balance and wellbeing, recommended for stress. Contact Barbara 0117 9082061. n Henbury Singers welcome new members. A mixed, non audition choir, we meet at Stoke Bishop Primary School, Thurs evenings. We sing choral music, carols, musicals,
gospel and folk songs. Contact Maggie Cavanna 0117 973 4794 or secretary@henburysingers.org. n"Time to Move" Stay Active Movement to music for over 55's. All abilities welcome, improve balance, mobility and well being. Friendly, supportive and fun. Thursdays 10-11am (tea and biscuits afterwards) £7, commencing 13th September at Redland Club, Burlington Road, BS6 6TN. Contact Michelle 07505 937156 n Singers Wanted! Henleaze Ladies Choir meet on Thursdays at 1.45pm in the hall at St Peter’s Church, Henleaze. We sing a range of music from works by Elgar to Bernstein’s West Side Story and lots more! Our new season starts on Thursday 13th September – come along for fun and friendship. For further details, contact Jean Wickham on 9624466 or Jane English on 07752 332278. Friday n Bristol University of the third age (u3a) scrabble group would welcome new members. We play very friendly and informal games every Friday at the Beehive, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY from 2 to 4pm. For further info please contact Heddy SARA on 0117 9241318 and indicate when asked to give your name that you are phoning about scrabble in order not to be blocked. also email : nigel.d.sara@btinternet.com n The Bristol Astronomical Society host astronomical talks and activities each week. Friday evening talks are held at 7pm at Bristol Photographic Society, Montpelier, BS6 5EE. Our new 2018/2019 programme starts on 5 October with Prof: Mark Birkinshaw: Orbits of many types. On clear Saturday evenings we open our observatory in Failand
December, 2018
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
and often hold Star Parties in and around Bristol. We are also signing-up for our four-week Junior Astronomy Courses in October and November. See the BAS website for details: www.bristolastrosoc. org.uk Saturday n Whiteladies 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.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
43
n NEWS
Bristol film becomes a phenomenal best seller Sir Tony Robinson’s History of Bristol DVD breaks records “No one else does history like him. We are so lucky the city has this unique of record of its history, presented by such a big national star.” Martin Weitz of Bristol’s Focus Productions. Last year it became one of the fastest-selling DVDs on Amazon and at Waterstones (at both The Galleries and Cribbs Causeway branches). Now it has become available again - but probably for the last time ever, say the producers. Sir Tony Robinson’s famed History of Bristol was a remarkable sensation last year, wherever it went on sale. “It was phenomenal, we couldn’t cope with the demand,” says producer Weitz. “Orders were coming in from all over the country, not only from the Bristol and the South West, but from Sussex to Surrey, Scotland to Stratford-on-Avon. It seemed as if everyone just wanted to have a copy - or give it as a gift to someone they love. We even had orders from Australia! “I think it’s become such
Visiting Bristol's Redcliffe caves
a popular DVD because it’s presented so entertainingly by TV’s favourite historian. Sir Tony’s passion and enthusiasm for Bristol really shines through.” Tony who, not so many years ago, used to live in Clifton, says: “It’s such a pleasure to be able to sing the praises of my favourite British city, show you its magnificent architecture, and tell you some of its fascinating stories.” The original film was made just over 20 years ago and the producers have restored the master onto a high quality DVD format so it can be enjoyed again in this special anniversary edition. Historic places in Bristol visited by Tony in the DVD include: *Tony’s visit deep into the mysterious Redcliffe Caves *Tony inside the ruins of the pump room of the 18th century Hotwells Spa. * A visit to the Clifton Rocks Railway * Tony on board The SS Great Britain *A breathtaking ascent to the top of the Cabot Tower *An eye-opening visit to St Mary Redcliffe Church where Tony meets up with Blackadder character Baldrick’s ‘old friend Queenie’. *Bristol’s role in the Slave Trade *The Matthew sailing down the River Avon, into open sea for the first time. Sir Tony Robinson’s famed History of Bristol is available from Waterstones (The Galleries), and Waterstones Cabot Circus, Bristol Tourist Office, Canon’s Rd (next to The Watershed), Bristol Bridge Visitor Centre, at all branches of Romantica AND it can also be ordered online from Amazon.co.uk for only £9.99.
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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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44
December, 2018
n NEWS Yoga for Health
by Diana Penny
of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)
Yoga Pose of the Month:
Vrksasana: (Vrksasana is a classic yoga pose, good for improving balance, focus and wellbeing) 1. T o go in: Starting from Tadasana (standing upright: see October’s issue for full instructions), with your feet pressing down, your legs active and your hips gripped, keep your left leg straight and the hip gripping in, turn the right leg out from the hip, pick up the right foot and place as high
as you can on the left inner thigh (note: do not place it against the knee, if it doesn’t reach above the knee, place it against the lower leg instead, or use a belt as listed below in ‘alternatives’). Push the bent leg foot into the opposite thigh, and grip back with the straight leg hip: like a vice this will stabilise you. 2. Place your hands on the hips to check they are level, and lift the chest. 3. Once you have your balance, raise your arms with your palms facing each other shoulder width apart (shown in the 2nd picture), draw your upper arms in towards your head, and back towards your ears. If you have flexible shoulders (main picture), you may be able to join the palms of the hands. There is a 2-way action in Vrksasana: imagine your feet are extending down beyond the floor (like the roots of a tree: this will help with stability), and your legs, side trunk and arms are extending up towards the sky (like branches of a tree finding
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the light: this is an uplifting action). 4. Hold for a few breaths, then repeat on the other side. Alternatives: If you have a shoulder injury, or high blood pressure, practise this pose with your hands on your hips. If you can’t balance safely, practise with your back (or one hand) to a wall. If you can’t keep your foot in place, you can use a belt to hold around your lower leg with one hand. If you are confused about any instructions, then bring along this page to a class at Yogawest and a teacher will help you. Yogawest is just off the Gloucester Road in Bishopston, and has two beautiful yoga studios set in a quiet sanctuary behind Bishopston Hardware. Yogawest specialises in Iyengar yoga, a type of yoga focusing on careful and supported alignment in poses, and offers over 50 classes a week for all levels of ability, including classes for beginners, children, teenagers, gentle (older and stiffer), pregnancy and postnatal. A warm
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welcome awaits. Drawings by Jess Wallwork, a popular teacher at Yogawest. Jess teaches two gentle classes a week, suitable for older and stiffer people.
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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
December, 2018
45
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm feels the heat THE exceptionally hot and dry summer this year hit Christmas tree growers at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm particularly hard, causing thousands of baby trees to die during the relentless drought and scorching weather. “We saved what we could,” said Simon Maughan, “But the ground was utterly parched and we have to use water responsibly.” The heat was felt right across Europe, and
industry experts believe that almost an entire season’s crop of Christmas trees has been lost, with Denmark, Germany and Poland being the areas hit the worst. A systematic replanting programme has already begun (see picture), but as Simon admits, “It won’t cover all our losses – we’ll just have to write 2018 off as a bad year.” “Customers mustn’t worry about tree shortages, however,” says Simon. “It takes at least 6 years for a Christmas tree to grow to the appropriate height, so the affects of this heatwave will not be felt before 2023.” A silver lining, perhaps, is that because of the heat, many Christmas trees this year are showing first-class foliage. Another Europe-wide phenomenon this year is the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in May. “We can no longer hold people’s information without their consent, which means that this year there will be no Christmas cards sent out to our customers. Rest assured we’ll be back in 2019 – all you have to do is enter our free Christmas Raffle, in which three £100 shopping vouchers are up for grabs.” With the drought behind them, hundreds of Christmas Trees now await harvest at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm. Nordman Firs continue to be their biggest seller, with
the Norwegian Spruces a close second. “The benefit of a freshly cut tree is that it will last much longer once you bring it into the house. The latest research still tells us that it is worth watering a cut tree after it has been felled, particularly for Norwegian Spruce, because it keeps the foliage glossier for much longer.” Eager customers wanting to reserve their trees for later cutting are welcome at the Christmas Tree Farm from late November onwards. Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm is open until Christmas Eve, 9am-5pm every day. “Choose and Cut” runs for as long as stocks last. Prices start from just £20. www.frenchaychristmastreefarm.co.uk
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bishopstonvoice
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December, 2018
n BOOKS OF THE MONTH Book Reviews by Bishopston Library Reading Group
Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Vonnegut
Kurt Vonnegut was a writer, lecturer and painter. He was born in Indianapolis in 1922 and died in 2007. During WWII, as a prisoner of war in Germany, he witnessed the destruction of Dresden by Allied bombers, an experience which inspired Slaughterhouse Five. First published in 1950, he went on to write fourteen novels, four plays, and three short story collections, in addition to countless works of short fiction and nonfiction. The reading group reported that this book wasn’t an easy book to read but well worth the effort. The subject is the allied bombings if Dresden in 1945. There was a good discussion
THE Friends of Redland Library are hosting another Desert Island Books event on Thursday 6 December. The venue is Redland Library and the event starts at 7pm, with doors opening at 6.45pm. In Desert Island Books, a panel of interesting people select one book on the main theme for the event; and a second ‘wildcard book’, being a book that they have enjoyed and would recommend to others. The theme for this event is “Books & Europe” and the panel comprises: Molly Scott Cato (MEP for South West England, Academic, Green Economist)
about this book among the group. Some members of the group found it too fractured but overall it was considered a moving and good book to have read and very thought provoking.
Granny
recommend it. Reviewed By Oscar For these books and many more, visit us at Bishopston Library. If we don’t have exactly
by Antony Horowitz
This is about a boy called Joe who is very unhappy. His parents are very rich but don’t really care about him. He lives in a big house but is like a prisoner there. Worst of all is his granny and when his parents go on holiday, she moves in. Not only is she ugly and mean, she seems to have nasty plans involving him. I thought this book was good. It was exciting and a good read for children aged 9-11. If you like dodgy grannys, mysterious deaths and action, then you should read this book. I would definitely
what you’re looking for, there are over 2 million items from which you can reserve across LibrariesWest and collect from any library of your choice. Opening Hours:
Monday 1–7pm Tuesday closed Wednesday
11am-5pm
Thursday 11am-5pm Friday 11am-5pm Saturday 11am–5pm Sunday closed
Desert Island Books Professor Michelle Cini (Head of School of Sociology Politics & International Studies, University of Bristol) Professor Susan Harrow (Head of School of Modern Languages, University of Bristol) This event explores how European literature (and culture in general) has impacted our lives. The Friends of Redland Library are a voluntary group set up to support Redland
Library, helping to sustain and improve its service, and also connecting it with the local and wider community. Redland Library is situated on Whiteladies Road, close to Clifton Down train station. Admission to the event is £3 (pay at the door). Full details of this and future events can be found on the website: https:// FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk
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48
December, 2018
n VETS' ADVICE
Brexit and the Pet Passport 29th March 2019 - Brexit! The date is fast approaching and we still do not know what agreement we will have with the EU. The government is hoping for a deal but at the same time is putting contingencies in place in case of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. There is much to cover but as a Government ‘Official Veterinarian’ (OV) my concern is professionally with the possible implications for the Pet Passport Scheme. DEFRA is already issuing advice to pet owners to cover all eventualities and in particular the possibility of a ‘no deal ‘ Brexit. The advice currently offered to pet owners wishing to take their pet abroad either using an existing passport or needing a new passport is to think ahead and assume the worse ‘just in case’. So what happens if we have no deal? After 29 March 2019, dogs, cats and ferrets would continue to be able to travel from the UK to the EU but the requirements for documents and health checks
will differ depending on the ‘listed’ status of the UK post Brexit. Very possibly we will not know the listed status of UK until Brexit happens so it may be best to plan now for the ‘worst case scenario’ so our pets can continue to travel without interruption. If the UK becomes an unlisted third country it will have major implications for pet travel. Instead of the almost instant issuing of a Pet Passport and travel to the EU 21 days later, we would now have to plan our trips to EU at least four months in advance. The new rules for an unlisted UK will require pets to have a Rabies vaccine, a minimum of 30 days later to have a blood test to prove that the vaccine has been effective and then the pet has to wait a further three months from the date of the blood test before being allowed to travel to the EU. All in all, taking four months. In addition, a health certificate will be needed for each trip to EU to be issued by an OV
within 10 days of the date of travel. No one knows what the final situation will be but the current advice for owners wishing to travel with their pet to the EU is to keep an eye on the Government website for up-to-date information. If you are already certain that you will want to travel with your pet soon after 29 March 2019, it may be sensible to start the four month process now regarding vaccination and blood test so you won’t be caught out in March next year. Both Holly Rowe and me, Nicky Bromhall are Government Official Veterinarians. If you have any questions please do call us at Animal Health Centre and also keep watching the Government website www.gov.uk/guidance/ pet-travel-to-europe-after-brexit, as well as a help page from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons https://animalowners. rcvs.org.uk/help-and-advice/ pettravel/ for further information.
Nicky Bromhall
Veterinary Surgeon Animal Health Centre
Gloucester Road’s Independent Veterinary Practice 358 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8TP 0117 9247832 www.animalhealthcentre.org
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Vets4Pets Bishopston Call us: 0117 942 4243 or visit: vets4pets.com/bishopston 275-277 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NY
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December, 2018
49
n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence
Holly and ivy are wreathed together when we think about Christmas. They are the joint subject of the well-known carol (though the holly bears the crown and ivy is forgotten after the first verse) and are favoured evergreens for decorating the house, a mid-winter custom that long pre-dates Christianity. The evergreens symbolise the constancy of nature and assure us that life continues through the darkest days. Holly with berries is most highly prized for decoration but not every holly tree bears berries: holly trees, unlike most of our common trees and shrubs, are either male or female and only the female bears the berries. In the dull winter light, the berries of holly stand out – all the better to attract birds who will eat the berries but not digest the seeds, taking them far from the parent plant and redistributing them with a small dose of fertiliser
to grow elsewhere. When we allowed a hedge to develop naturally in our front garden, holly was one of the first trees to appear. Ivy berries, blueblack when ripe, are also very attractive to birds, especially wood pigeons who feast riotously, throwing them back with gusto. Ivy flowers, which appear in autumn and can persist almost to Christmas, are vital food for late insects to fuel their hibernation. The ivy bee, an autumnal insect, named for its preference for ivy flowers, is a recent addition to our local fauna. This extraordinary insect somehow evaded science until 1993! It is now known to be widespread in Europe so how it escaped notice is hard to imagine. The large females have a sunset-orange furry thorax and bold yellow and brown stripes on the abdomen - they’re not hard to spot! It is, however, a genuinely new arrival to the UK having been recorded first in Dorset in 2001 and first appearing in our area in 2016. Both holly and ivy have a rich mythology and a variety of unusual uses. A holly branch would be placed in a new house or barn to protect the people or animals living in it from evil spirits. Holly was also planted next to buildings to protect them from lightning: we have one near our back door although possibly by coincidence, donated by a long-ago bird resting in the walnut tree. Ivy was associated particularly with protection for cows and the
Photo by Max Pixel dairy, sprigs being kept in the cowshed and by the butter churn to assure good yields. On a more practical note, holly wood was used for pot handles, being very resistant to cracking when heated, and as a durable, flexible wood for whip handles, whilst ivy wood was prized for rolling pins! Ivy wood was also used for drinking vessels as it was believed that it would protect against the effects of over-indulgence. Which brings us back to the season – may it be a merry one for you all!
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Clifton 0117 974 1741 Westbury-on-Trym 0117 962 2299
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bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
n PROPERTY
51
Berkeley Road £875,000 A substantial period semi detached home, located on a sought after road. The property is within easy reach of Gloucester Road in the desirable West Bishopston area. This position also benefits from falling within the RGS APR and Bishop Road primary school catchment. The property itself has many benefits, of particular note is the off street parking, 140 ft rear garden and three spacious levels of living space. The interior retains many period features and will make a fantastic family home.
201 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8BG Phone: 0117 942 5855
n INSIDE OUT Five ways to decorate with ultraviolet If you are at all interested in interior design you have probably noticed the Pantone Colour Of the year for 2018 is Ultraviolet. If you are intrigued by this enigmatic, mystical and unconventional hue but unsure how you can incorporate it into your home, here are a few pointers to help you create a successful scheme. Quantity When it comes to using a ‘marmite’ decorating colour like purple you might want to consider first whether for you it is a case of more is more or less is more. In a small room with minimal natural light, such as a downstairs loo, you can afford to go wild with a rich, dark, deep purple all over. You won’t spend a long time in there so the drama will be exciting and enjoyable for short periods. In a larger room where you pass more time you may prefer to use purple
in a smaller portion on armchair upholstery, a cushion or art print. Intensity There’s no reason why you can’t vary the intensity of your preferred purple. Turn the saturation volume up high with an intense tone or dial it down and go for a pastel lilac. Texture Colour can never be considered in isolation in interior design and sometimes the surface it is applied to can make or break the scheme. Deep purple looks sumptuous on a luxurious velvet, but can make painted shelves or walls look flat and cheap. Colour Pairings The complimentary colour of purple is yellow which could be a zingy tone or a more sedate mustard. Or try purple together with the colours either side of it on the Colour Wheel (blues and pinks) for a more harmonious colour scheme
with interior designer Zoe Hewett Browse my collection of favourite ultraviolet interiors on my Pinterest board and see if you can become inspired to use it in your home. Don’t forget to share your pics with us on instagram with #mybristolhome if you do! https://www.pinterest.co.uk/ stylemongersofbristol/ultravioletpantone-colour-of-the-year-2018interi/ www.stylemongersofbristol. 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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52
n NEWS A LOCAL WI group is welcoming new members in January 2019, with the opportunity to make new friends while enjoying a range of talks and activities. Gloucester Road WI meet on the third Tuesday of every month at St Andrews Bowling Club on Derby Road. As well as enjoying traditional crafts and baking, the group offers much more than the usual jam and Jerusalem stereotype, and their meetings are also attended by local, national and international speakers. Past talks include the Prevention of Torture by UN member Professor Malcolm Evans OBE, Tom Hovey on his Great British Bake Off illustrations and Anna Freeman, poetry slam champion and writer on her award winning novel, The Fair Fight. There is also the opportunity for members to get involved in a wide range of fun activities, such as wine, gin, beer and chocolate tasting sessions run by local artisans, plus Bollywood dancing and yoga. Each month they have
December, 2018
Gloucester Road WI welcomes new members for 2019 an update on the group’s current campaigns, projects, clubs, as well as local and national WI news. And of course, there’s also a chance to catch up with other members over a cuppa or a glass or two! The WI group are actively involved in fundraising for local charities. Members have completed the Three Peaks Challenge, jumped out of planes and run cake stalls for local events, raising over £21,000 in six years. They also campaign on relevant issues, and every year the WI vote and take action on a resolution at a national level. This year, they are looking to tackle micro bead pollution and the stigma of loneliness. Discussing the work of
Gloucester Road WI, President Alison Bingham said: "Joining Glos Road WI was initially for me about community. Despite living in the area for many years I didn't really feel I was connected to it in any way. I didn't really know anyone locally and felt I wanted to be involved in something that offered variety of events to a variety of people, and got me out of the house in the evenings. “The Glos Rd WI really does offer something for everyone, not just in the monthly meeting but in the spin off groups, and if there isn't one you can suggest one. I initially joined as a member but after a couple of years I took on the role of President – I think I now only realise what a privilege this
position is. Our WI is a real reflection of our local area. Just like the Gloucester Road we are a great mix of lots of interesting, vibrant things." All women are welcome to join Glos Road WI, and they will be open for new members from the first meeting of 2019, which is taking place on Tuesday, January 15. Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Membership costs £42 for the year but you can come to a meeting as a guest for £5 before deciding to join. For more information about Gloucester Road WI, follow them on Facebook: www.facebook. com/gloucesterroadwi visit their website: gloucesterroadwi.org or email: info@gloucesterroadwi. org
Call for Bristol dads willing to share the ups and downs of early parenthood RESEARCHERS from the University of Bristol are looking for local dads from Bishopston and Redland to help with a new study exploring their early parenting experiences. Thanks to a new £280,000 grant from the Wellcome Trust, researchers are taking a unique look at the role of fathers and their parenting when their
partner has experienced mental health difficulties. Although many of the 200 dads sought will come from Bristol’s Children of the 90s study, researchers want to recruit more fathers of six to 12-month-old babies from the Bristol area whose partner may or may not have experienced mental health difficulties during
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or after the pregnancy. Recruited dads will be asked to take part in a range of activities, including keeping a diary to capture everyday activities with their child, use wearable technology to capture interactions during meal or play time, fill in a questionnaire and take part in interviews about their experiences of being a parent. Dr Iryna Culpin from the Centre for Academic Mental Health at the University of Bristol commented: “Our three-year study will help influence a much-neglected area of mental health research – how dads contribute to the wellbeing of family life and their role in parenting when mothers experience mental health difficulties. We know that mothers’ mental health is important for child development, and this new study will help us find out more about the role of fathers and their experiences of parenting in such families. “In Bristol we have a wealth
of health data from volunteers in the Children of the 90s study and we may find that dads who come forward will become valuable assets for future health research.” Matthew Moriarty, aged 26, has been taking part in the Children of the 90s study since birth and is has just welcomed his second child. He said: “I’ve been taking part in health research since I was born and think it can be really helpful. There’s a lot of advice out there for new mums but it would be beneficial for dads, especially if they are separated from their partner. For anyone thinking about becoming a research subject I would say just go for it – you have nothing to lose and will be helping future generations of new dads.” Fathers who wish to take part can contact Dr Iryna Culpin, Centre for Academic Mental Health, Bristol Medical School, Oakfield House, BS8 2BN. E-mail: iryna.culpin@bristol. ac.uk or call: 0117 331 0162.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
December, 2018
53
n NEWS A LOCAL amateur dramatics group are pleased to announce that tickets for their 50th pantomime will be available after Christmas. The Bartholomites’ latest pantomime is going to be Red Riding Hood. The local community theatre group was formed over forty years ago when a group of fun-loving friends got together for a laugh and produced what turned out to be a great pantomime. After receiving such great feedback from the community, it was repeated the next year, and the next, and the next – and the rest as they say, is history. Over the years the group have covered all of the traditional pantomimes such as Jack and The Beanstalk and Treasure Island, plus a few that are out of the ordinary including The Man in the Moon, The Magic Clogs and Tom and the Crooked Sixpence. The group have been rehearsing since the beginning of September, and the cast ranges in age from five to 80+. The show will include three founding members of the group, who have been involved in every one of their 50 shows. Speaking of The Batholomites and their history, Publicity Officer Louise Hammonds said: “This year is a year of celebration for us as we will be staging our 50th pantomime. “There is one family who have had three generations in some of our shows and one family that had four generations represented in one show – not bad eh! I myself joined the group at the age of four and am still here 27 years later. “There aren’t many groups
Tickets go on sale for local pantomime – oh yes they do!
that offer the chance for pre-school children to work alongside pensioners. We all learn a lot about life from the fun and friendship that comes from being a member of The Bartholomites.” Red Riding Hood will be performed at St Bartholomew's Church Hall on Sommerville Road on Thursday 14, Friday 15 and Saturday 16 February 2019 at 7.30 pm, with an additional matinee on the Saturday at 2pm. To find out more about the group and to book tickets, email: thebartholomites@gmail.com
bishopstonvoice LOCAL SERVICES To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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54 BUILDING SERVICES
CARPENTRY
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December, 2018 HEALTH SERVICES
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