Clifton Voice December 2023 by Emma Cooper

cliftonvoice December, 2023 Issue 4

Move to an Abbeyfield House for less this winter. See back page for 50% off.

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We wish all our readers a very happy Christmas Life-saving move at Observatory A defibrillator has been placed at Clifton Observatory following fundraising by the family of Sam Polledri, who died aged 24. PAGE 15

Monopoly 2023 is another winner A number of Clifton locations feature on the board of the 2023 Bristol Monopoly game - the suspension bridge is on Mayfair! PAGE 3

Golden days for diamond craft

The Christmas lights are on in Clifton Village. Find out more on Page 5.

Wishing you a cosy and happy Christmas from all at Ocean.

Photo: Paul Gillis

Jeweller Harold Hedges is still creating gems at his Clifton workshop, 50 years after he started work there. PAGE 7

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n NEWS THE former Bristol Zoo north car park could become an “empty piece of asphalt” for at least a year. It’s unclear what will happen to the car park on Clifton Down as the zoo’s parking licence will formally run out at the end of the year. The Bristol Zoo had asked the Downs committee — a group of councillors and Merchant Venturers — for permission to continue using the car park for until June 2025, for staff and students who will still occupy the site until at least March 2025, with an offer of £50,000. But the Downs committee had to consult campaigners Downs for People, who in 2021 legally challenged whether cars were allowed to park on the parkland. Due to a High Court decision, they had the deciding factor on if the zoo could continue using the car park. Downs for People said they were “unable to agree” on the deal for the zoo to carry on using the car park. During a Downs committee meeting on November 13, Green Councillor Paula O’Rourke, said the site might now be used instead by van dwellers. She said: “I did hope that we would be persuasive enough to make the case that we’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, where post-pandemic and with the cost of living crisis our income has been very badly hit. When the zoo made this offer, they wanted to be able to use that car park space

Fears over future use of empty zoo car park for the next 18 months, it did seem like a really good opportunity. “It was about £50,000 income that we hoped would be able to help us over this difficult time. But we absolutely realised that we needed to get consent from the Downs for People, especially as they were claimants in the case. We were never trying to breach the order. “Once December 31 comes, we haven’t had time to do anything to get it on to the next phase. So that bit of land is going to stand empty. At the moment the zoo polices it, they give out permits and they walk around several times a day, and they manage it. “But once it becomes a free space, it will probably become a very attractive place for vans or whatever to dwell on that. And they won’t pay us, so we’ll have no income and we’ll have cost implications because the site won’t be managed.” An increasing number of van dwellers have been staying on the Downs, causing complaints from some local residents and

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park users. In turn, some van dwellers say they have chosen to stay there due to skyrocketing rents in Bristol becoming rapidly unaffordable. Downs for People said the car park should become “amenity space”, but failing that, it should be kept for people who use the Downs, rather than nearby buildings. They claimed it would be “fundamentally unlawful” for the zoo to continue using the car park. In a written statement to the committee, a spokesperson said: “While we sympathise with the committee’s financial difficulties, Downs for People is unable to agree that Bristol Zoo should continue to use the North car park after the end of this year. “Such use would be unlawful, and no compelling case has been made for it. The financial benefit cannot outweigh the fundamental unlawfulness of what is proposed. Parking on the Downs can only be provided for those using the Downs.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Clifton 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

Our January deadline is December 11. 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, Clifton Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Clifton 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. Clifton Voice is distributed each month to Clifton 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@Cliftonvoice.co.uk. This month 6,500 copies copies will be distributed around Clifton.

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December, 2023

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Get on board with Bristol Monopoly 2023 A NEW edition of the Bristol Monopoly board game on which more than thirty landmarks, tourist attractions, sports grounds and companies appear has been given a civic seal of approval. Helping to officially launch the game, Bristol’s Acting Lord Mayor, Councillor Steve Pearce said: “I was born in Bristol and have always lived here. I’ve visited other cities but have always found Bristol to be the best. I am very proud of my city and this game is fantastic. I hope it sells millions of copies with each one spreading the name of Bristol further afield. “The first edition of Bristol Monopoly came out 20 years ago. As a keen player myself I’m very much looking forward to playing the new version.” Taking pride of place on the board is Clifton Suspension Bridge, which occupies London’s “Mayfair square” on the original game. The bridge appeared on

Clifton College students try out the new version of the game the first Bristol board but not so prominently. Other Clifton sites are Clifton Downs, Clifton Arcade, Clifton College, Bristol University’s Wills Building, Park Street and Queens Road. Across the city the ss Great

Bristol West & North Somerset

Britain, College Green, Ashton Gate stadium, Bristol Airport, Finzel’s Reach near Castle Park, the Imperial Sports ground at Brislington, Bristol Blue Glass based on Bath Road, Cameron Balloons of Bedminster, appear

on the board All the sites were chosen by people in Bristol in a poll organised by the makers of the game earlier this year. There have been some complaints that Bristol City's ground features but the Memorial Stadium is not on the board and the whole of east Bristol has been ignored. But John Keen-Tomlinson, custom games executive at Winning Moves UK, which produce official versions of Monopoly across the world, said: “The response from the Bristol public has been overwhelming. "A very big thank you to everyone who sent in nominations.” Three local charities also get to ‘Pass GO’, following a public vote: The Grand Appeal, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and Empire Fighting Chance, which uses sport to challenge and inspire young people to realise their potential.

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December, 2023

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Crowds turn out for Clifton's big festive lights switch-on SEVERAL thousand people turned up to watch the lights on the Christmas tree in Clifton village being switched on by actor and broadcaster Joe Sims. The 50-foot Norwegian spruce in The Mall Gardens is decorated with 5,000 LED lights,100 baubles and wrapped boxes of Christmas presents. “It’s a great honour to be asked to switch on the lights,” Joe Sims told the crowd. “This is a great community, and that’s what I’m all about, people getting together and enjoying themselves. It’s great that so many people have come to Clifton to join in the festive spirit.”

Bristol-born Joe is best known for his role as Nige, the plumber, in ITV’s drama series, Broadchurch. He now presents BBC Radio Bristol’s flagship Breakfast programme on weekday mornings. Before the switch-on singers from nearby Christ Church led a half-hour of community carol singing. Among the special guests at the switch-on was the Acting Lord Mayor of Bristol Councillor Steve Pearce. Tony Miles, who organises the event each year on behalf of BID Clifton (Business Improvement District) said: “There’s no doubt that this is Clifton’s biggest social event of the year. People come from all over Bristol and beyond to see the lights.” BID Clifton chairman Chris Firth said: “We have to thank the traders for funding this event including the cost of the tree. Without their help it probably wouldn’t happen.” Above right: Joe Sims with Tony Picture: Paul Gillis Miles Left: Joe Sims with Chris Firth Picture courtesy of Chris Firth

Carla to stand down CARLA Denyer has announced that she will not be re-standing as councillor for Clifton Down in the local elections in May as she wants to focus on becoming Bristol’s first Green MP. Carla has represented the residents of this area in City Hall for almost a decade, after first being elected in 2015. Following ward boundary changes she was re-elected in 2016, and again in 2021. As a councillor she has used her platform to advocate for fairer and greener transport, renters’ rights and climate action, including leading Bristol City Council to declare a climate emergency in 2018, the first such motion in Europe. Carla, who is national co-leader of the Green Party, said:“It has been an honour to represent the residents of Clifton Down since 2015 and I look forward to continuing working hard for them as I finish my elected term. I will then turn my focus to representing the views and concerns of the residents of [new Parliamentary constituency] Bristol Central (which includes Clifton Down) as their Green Party MP candidate."

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December, 2023

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Refurb will mean fewer changing rooms A £1.5 million plan to refurbish changing rooms on the Downs will mean that fewer rooms will be available so football teams will have to stagger kick-off times. The Downs committee, made up of Bristol councillors and Merchant Venturers, met on Monday, November 13 and agreed to press ahead with the refurbishment of the changing rooms. Football players previously described them as “atrocious”, with cold faulty showers. Labour Councillor Kye Dudd, who plays in the Downs Football League, said the new design would bring the changing rooms up to modern standards and requirements — albeit with fewer rooms than currently. He said the building could not be expanded under the plans. He said: “The hard part starts here and that’s trying to raise the funding to actually deliver the project. We’re working within the current footprint of the changing rooms and it’s within the existing structure, so all the changes will be internal. We’re redesigning the layout to bring the changing facilities up to a modern standard.

“There have been discussions around if we could go up a storey. But for the costs we’re adding into the scheme, we would never see the benefit back. The economics of it don’t really add up.” The building can’t be extended outwards due to a law protecting the Downs from new development. And building a new storey on top could be too expensive. Cllr Dudd added: “The changing rooms have to meet modern requirements in order to receive any external funding from the Football Association or other sports bodies. That does mean a reduction in the changing rooms available. We’ll probably have to have staggered kick-off times, rather than everyone kicking off at the same time. “The idea of this refurbishment is so that we can have women’s football and disabled football. You could potentially have women’s referees at the moment refereeing men’s football, but there’s nowhere for them to change. So that’s part of it as well, providing compliant changing facilities for referees.” The committee, which oversees Clifton Down and Durdham Down, is hoping to

receive up to £500,000 from the Football Foundation, the UK’s largest sports charity which is funded by the Premier League. But it’s so far unclear where the rest of the money for the refurbishment will come from. Plans to refurbish the changing rooms stretch back at least four years, and it’s still not known when work will actually begin on the ground. David Freed, a property developer and Merchant Venturer, said his firm has been working on the designs for free. He said: “Nobody has been paid, there has been no costs to the Downs committee or anybody else. All the work by my team and other professionals involved has been done pro bono, so far. “But more work needs to be done. It’s substantial, if you look at the costs on the changing rooms, by the time we’ve finished you could probably get it done for a million and a half. That’s a lot of money.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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December, 2023

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Clifton's hidden gem LITTLE could Harold Hedges have envisaged that when he set up his jewellery business in Clifton in 1973 he would still be running it half a century later. “I’m still in the same workshop, same street and don’t have any plans to move elsewhere or pack up” he said. Harold recalls that he was fascinated by precious metals, especially gold, when he was just fifteen years old. He served an apprenticeship as a goldsmith, trained at the Central School of Art and Craft and the Sir John Cass college in London. He then broadened his experience by working in Montreal, Canada. On returning to England in 1972 Harold Hedges found work in London’s historic jewellery quarter, Hatton Garden. He had long wanted to run his own

business so the following year moved to Bristol. Since then he has been making custom design jewellery at his Dragon Workshop in Princess Victoria Street. “I create anything in gold, silver platinum, or even copper but I’m mainly working with gold or silver”. Most of his customers want specially made engagement and wedding rings with diamonds in them. “I also source diamonds to create

Harold Hedges still at work in Clifton 50 years on jewellery like necklaces and bracelets. Some of my customers come here because they’re parents did some years ago” said Harold. He’s proud to show off his workshop, which is behind his reception and display desk. His

benches are covered with every tool that a jeweller might need. "It was cluttered when I arrived here and its got a bit more cluttered since then,” he laughs. “Some of the tools and machinery I use today I was using 50 years ago”.

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n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

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News from your Clifton councillors Paula O’Rourke and Katy Grant THIS month we would like to use this space to look at how BCC consults with citizens, and gives you information, and allows you to participate in decision-making. We are often told by residents that they don’t feel they are given enough opportunity to share their ideas and opinions . Consultation does happen, but very often people are unaware of how or when to engage. There are quite a few consultations open at the moment that Clifton residents would be interested in, so we thought that explaining how to access them would be a good idea. You reach the ‘consultation hub’ by first going to Bristol City Council website and hitting the ‘Council and Mayor’ button on the top of the home page. This takes you to a page with a heading called ‘Consultations and petitions’; clickingthis takes you to the hub. Once in, you will see that there are arange of project surveys that you can fill in to have your voice heard. Current consultations range from large transport and building projectsto licensing for HMOs (houses of multiple occupancy) to

educationbudgets. Here are details of a few to whet your appetite: Budget 2023-24 – have your say on the level of Council Tax and other aspects of the council’s budget next year. This consultation is open until 21 December. Harbour place-shaping strategy – this is an interesting project to getinvolved with, as it allows people to join a mailing list about thewider changes that are being scoped out, and includes proposals to develop Western Harbour. Dog controls – perhaps not so vital to the development of the City as above, but it is an issue that we know people care about. One matter in this consultation is whether dogs should continue to be allowed offleads in Victoria Square – and of course, dog fouling continues to worsen. Fair and affordable care policy – while dog fouling is irritating, social care is a really serious matter, with no easy solution. With

rising costs, there is a need to ensure that we get good value for money which means that, perhaps, not all people needing care will be given their first choice on how that care is delivered, affecting their independence. As the title of this consultation says, it is about deciding how to balance limited funds so that care provision is ‘fair’ and ‘affordable’. We citizens are being asked to comment as “your feedback… will potentially impact all individuals who approach the council for help with care and support” We hope that the above has piqued your interest and that you will visit the consultation hub. LIMIT/STOP USE OF GLYPHOSATE We are keen to limit the use of glyphosate to deal with weeds in Clifton. We know how damaging it is to both human and insect life and would really like to have all of Clifton ‘glyphosate free’. The present policy employed by Bristol Waste Company (BWC) is to spray weeds and then return two weeks later to remove the dead matter. BWC map out their spraying/weeding programme and have agreed to add to the map streets which will not be sprayed, but they will only do this when they have a letter from a resident who says that they will organise volunteers to do some weeding sessions. Weeds are a

particular problem right now, as the wet summer has been good for growth, while the pressures on the council’s budget has meant that we have fewer staff to do the work needed. We will support residents by arranging for the letter of agreement between a local representative and BWC to be drafted, and we have now got hoes and bags needed to do the work. We will also be organisingregular weeding sessions which we hope residents will join in with. If you want to know more about this or other local issues, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter with the QR code below. If you want to volunteer to organise keeping your own street pesticide free, then email us at clifton@ bristolgreenparty.org.uk If being asked to help with weeding has made you think 'What do I pay my council tax for?", maybe it is a prompt to engage with the Budget consultation to see where the money is being spent and have your say on the choices available. Have a very merry Christmas, hopefully with friends and family. Go n-éirí leat (May you succeed) k Paula and Katy

passed with majority support from Bristol’s 25 Green councillors. The latest draft is the culmination of years of cross-party work, with a group tasked to update the previous Local Plan first adopted in 2011. Greens on the working group pushed hard to ensure the new plan reflects the climate and ecological emergency declarations, as well as working to support the delivery of affordable homes and culture within the plan. At the time of print the plan is open for representations to be made before being considered for approval by the government planning inspectorate. There has been lots of interest recently from residents looking to lower their energy bills and their carbon footprint, which is why it’s

good to see the formation of the new “Retrofit West” Community Interest Company. Set up by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), this is a free service for households to build a plan of what they can do with their home around insulation, energy efficiency and renewables and gives access to free advice online or over the phone. Homes in the UK are amongst the leakiest in Europe, costing us money and impacting health. If you’re interested in taking action on your home you can head to: www.retrofitwest.co.uk Locally, you’ll have noticed great progress with the Cotham Hill pedestrianisation, which we have worked hard on with residents, traders, and council staff. We’re on track for completion on time before Christmas and on budget, and by the time this is printed the resurfacing works should be finished, making a huge difference to the look of the street. To complement the scheme, we asked traffic officers to make a small adjustment to the timings of the crossing by the shopping

centre, which has shortened the wait time for pedestrians outside of rush hours. Tom has also been working to get the Clifton Down Station bridge in front of the shopping centre cleaned up. The owner of the retail units, Floatzone, has kindly cleared the graffiti off the back of them and re-painted, and we are in conversation with Network Rail about getting the red metalwork and lettering restored to its former glory. Keeping the high street looking attractive gives a boost to our local traders. We can all do our bit by reporting issues like graffiti to Avon and Somerset Police using their online reporting tool or over the phone on 101, and then also reporting through the council website for cleaning on the Graffiti page at: tinyurl. com/3u2kdvwp We wish you all the best for a restful Christmas and a New Year celebrated with loved ones.

News from your Clifton Down councillors Carla Denyer and Tom Hathway WE imagine that local government may not have been top of everyone’s minds in the last month, while international strife is so raw and acute. Like so many the world over, we have been shocked at the scale of civilian suffering in Israel and Gaza. In her role as co-leader of the national Green Party, Carla has been leading calls for a ceasefire, and hopefully by the time this edition goes to print that goal is somewhere closer, aid is flowing more freely, and the lives of children are no longer being bartered in such a way. The big news at home since the last Voice issue was the adoption of the new Local Plan for Bristol, which sets the planning rules for new developments in Bristol. Full Council met and voted on submitting the draft plan to government for approval, which

December, 2023

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Green Party councillors Tom Hathway and Carla Denyer

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December, 2023

n NEWS

Controversial plan for allotments given go-ahead CONTROVERSIAL plans to set up allotments in Abbots Leigh have won approval after an almost year-long planning battle. People in the village opposed the scheme, fearing the 700 allotments would be swamped by people coming across the Clifton Suspension Bridge from Bristol. Roots co-founder Christian Samuel told North Somerset Council’s planning committee that the objectors were “a wild gang intent on destroying people’s right to grow food”. At the meeting on November 15, Mr Samuel unfurled a sheet of names covering the council chamber floor which he said represented those on the waiting list for allotments in Bristol and North Somerset. He said: “Please, I beg, do not let these people down. Roots Allotments are one small part of the solution to a massive problem and deciding to block our legal right to grow food sets a very dangerous precedent across the country.” He added: “We have built three separate sites across the UK with three other councils agreeing that this is legal, just like your council. We have been hounded online, doxxed, harassed, assaulted and chased to each new location we open by some of the people in this room.” It was the third time Roots’s application for a certificate of lawfulness for the allotments came before the committee. Roots said it qualified for the certificate — which councillors have less freedom to refuse or control than a planning application — because it was only changing the fields from one type of agriculture to another. Rory Stracey, representing the objectors, told the council that there were multiple legal grounds on which to refuse the development, but the council’s own planning officers warned that there were not.

Roots’s previous attempt to get the certificate was deferred by the planning committee in July, after members asked for more information about events that would take place on the site. Roots responded, stating that no festivals were planned for the site but the certificate was then refused over the planned 80-space car parking at the site. In the latest attempt, which removed the proposed car parking, ward councillor Jenna Ho Marris argued that the plans should still be refused, even if the council had no reason in law they could defend. She argued: “If the council loses an appeal, worse thing, the council pays the costs.” But planning committee vicechair Robert Payne warned: “I think we have got no choice but to grant it.” Councillors voted 9-3. to grant the certificate of approval. Chair of Abbots Leigh Parish Council, Simon TalbotPonsonby, said he was “bitterly disappointed” with the decision. He warned that most people using the site would not be local. He said: “They are from Bristol. They are not going to walk or cycle there. They are all going to come by car — there’s nowhere to park there!” Mr Samuel said: “We are happy to be able to deliver allotments for the people of Bristol and North Somerset after fighting this for eleven months.” Roots currently have sites in Croydon and Stourbridge as well as two sites near Bath, which cost more than council allotments — at £9.99 to £34.99 a month — but include seeds, courses, and access to tools. 600 people have already signed up for allotments at new Abbots Leigh site. By John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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December, 2023

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Celebrating 50 years of Clifton Cathedral

THE entrance to Clifton Cathedral has been given a new look as part of the celebrations marking the building’s fiftieth anniversary. “With a rich tapestry of faith, history and community, this remarkable milestone deserved a grand celebration,” said Cathedral Dean Canon Bosco MacDonald. “One of the standout features of our jubilee celebrations was the laying of a beautiful polished granite stone. “The newly resurfaced cathedral entrance now has a stone at its centre, engraved with the motto of the Bishop of Clifton, the Right Reverend Bishop Declan Lang, which is Evangelii Nuntiandi (Proclaiming the Gospel).” Some of the first people to see it were the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester who attended a Solemn Mass marking the cathedral’s jubilee. They were joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Peaches Golding, the Anglican Bishop

Lord Lieutenant Peaches Golding with Royals and clerics of Bristol, the Right Reverend Viv Faull, and various civic and church dignitaries. The cathedral, dedicated to SS Peter and Paul was consecrated in 1973 by the then Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Heenan. He described the cost of the cathedral - £600,000 - as

“the ecclesiastical bargain of the century.” It had taken just three years to build and was the first cathedral to be constructed in the West Country since the war. The cathedral was also said to be the fastest such project then undertaken in Britain since the

Middle Ages. Canon MacDonald describes the cathedral as “a testament to stunning modern architecture with its blend of traditional and contemporary design making it a unique place of worship”. The architects chose reinforced concrete for the cathedral as having great durability while its mass reduced external noise and assisted thermal storage. The concrete was clad in large panels of Aberdeen granite of a pinkishbrown colour Part of the architects’ brief was to devise enough space inside the cathedral to seat 1,000 people who would be able to see the altar without any columns or other obstruction in the way. The building is crowned by three spires rising 167 feet from the top of a lantern tower and dominating the Clifton skyline. Clifton Cathedral was named by the Concrete Society as the best concrete building completed in England in 1973.

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December, 2023

n NEWS

Sites identified for 35,000 homes by 2040 COUNCILLORS have approved a major housing blueprint for Bristol with plans for nearly 35,000 new homes by 2040. The draft Local Plan will go out to public consultation this month with a range of policies to guide how and where property developers build new housing in the city. New housing developments will be mostly on brownfield urban sites, rather than countryside areas. Lockleaze is the largest site allocation in the north, with about 1,200 more homes planned. Specific sites across the city have been allocated for smaller developments, which the authority hopes will result in builders submitting planning applications and securing the land. Some are vacant but others are in use by businesses. Councillors sought to find a balance between finding enough land to build enough homes that Bristol needs, while also protecting the local environment. A cross-party working group took four years to draft the plan, which was voted on during a full council meeting on October 31. After a six-week public consultation, the plan will be sent to government planning inspectors to check its evidence. During the council meeting, Bristol mayor Marvin Rees said: “We got 42 square miles, we’re not getting any more land, we’re 472,000 people and one of the fastest growing cities outside London. Our population is predicted to be 550,000 by 2050. There are over 20,000 households on our waiting list and 1,300 households in temporary accommodation. “This Local Plan offers us a blueprint for the city’s future. It will be used to guide decisions on planning applications. At the heart of the plan is the drive to deliver 34,650 new homes by 2040. It’s been an incredibly challenging piece of work.” By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service \

BISHOPSTON AND ASHLEY DOWN Location: land at Gloucester Road / Merton Road, Horfield Site description: the site is currently a mix of leisure uses and workspace. site area: 1.2 hectares

Proposed allocation: comprehensive development for residential-led mixed uses, which incorporates flexible workspace and community uses, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 100 homes. this is likely to be a maximum as it is proposed to provide a mix of uses. CENTRAL Location: The Grove Car Park, The Grove and Prince Street, Harbourside Site description: The site is currently in use as a car park, offices, workshop, café and bike shop. Site area: 0.5 hectares Proposed allocation: Site would be considered appropriate for a number of city centre uses, including housing to create a more efficient use of land. Location: Land at Redcliffe Way Site description: The site covers a central area of the city accommodating a variety of uses including Redcliffe Wharf, road infrastructure, Chatterton’s House and car parking. Site area: 3.15 hectares Proposed allocation: On appropriate sites the area would be suitable for residential-led growth, supported by a mix of uses including offices, community infrastructure, leisure uses and culture / tourism uses, which may include hotel uses. An element of retail will be acceptable on appropriate sites subject to consideration of its impact on other designated shopping areas. Location: Wapping Wharf, Wapping Ward Site description: The site comprises cleared land that is being brought forward in phases for a mixed-use development. Site area: 3.45 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/offices. Estimated capacity of 600 homes. Location: Land to the west of Lodge Street Site description: The site comprises long-term vacant land adjacent to Trenchard Street car park. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, specialist student accommodation. Estimated capacity of 20 homes Location: 55-59 St Michael’s Hill Site description: The site comprises long-term vacant land within the historic frontage of St Michael’s Hill. Site area: 0.06 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, specialist student accommodation, educational use. Estimated capacity of 15 homes. Location: Old Seaman’s Chapel, Royal Oak Avenue, fronting Princes Street Site description: The site comprises a long-term vacant former chapel and commercial premises. Site area: 0.02 hectares Proposed allocation: Office/Workspace/ Leisure/Housing. Location: 16 Narrow Quay Site description: The site comprises long-term vacant land within the historic frontage of Narrow Quay. Site area: 0.03 hectares Proposed allocation: Office/Workspace/ Leisure/Housing. Location: 97-101 Stokes Croft Site description: The site comprises

long-term vacant commercial buildings and land to the rear. Site area: 0.07 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing. Estimated capacity of 20 homes. Location: 27-33 Jamaica Street Site description: The site comprises partially cleared land within the historic frontage of Jamaica Street. Site area: 0.02 hectares Proposed allocation: Arts and Cultural/ Housing/Offices. Estimated capacity of five homes. Location: Land and buildings at Victoria Street / Temple Street Site description: The site comprises office buildings and an historic public house. Site area: 0.59 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/Offices. A comprehensive solution will be encouraged to the development of the site. Opportunities should be explored to narrow Temple Street closer to its historic alignment, create a new public space to the northwest of Temple Church and reinstate a flatiron building to the corner of Victoria Street and Temple Street. Location: Railway Cutting, Lower Guinea Street Site description: The site comprises a former railway cutting used for parking. Site area: 0.17 hectares Proposed allocation: Offices/Workspace/ Leisure. Location: The Bell and adjoining buildings, Prewett Street Site description: The site comprises long-term vacant commercial buildings. Site area: 0.13 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/Pub and Housing. Estimated capacity of 15 homes. CLIFTON Location: 2-16 Clifton Down Road, Clifton Site description: the site is a cleared, previously vacant retail parade. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: mixed use with active ground flood uses including retail, and offices and / or residential uses on upper floors. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. CLIFTON DOWN location: land west of Hampton Lane, Site description: the land is currently characterised as an underused backland, with parking/yards, garages and other small outbuildings. Site area: 0.3 hectares proposed allocation: housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of up to 10 homes. location: land at Whiteladies Gate, Cotham Site description: land is currently in use as a builders’ merchant yard. site area: 0.2 hectares proposed allocation: housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10 homes. Location: land adjacent to alma vale road and alma court, clifton Site description: land is currently in use for car parking.

Site area: 0.1 hectares proposed allocation: housing, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10 homes. location: Barley House, Oakfield Grove, Clifton Site description: land is currently in use as offices. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace. estimated capacity of 20 homes, subject to the suitability of converting the listed building. COTHAM Location: Land at Gibson Road, Cotham site description: land is currently in use as garages and former outbuildings. site area: 0.6 hectares Proposed allocation: housing, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10 homes. Location: land at Sydenham Lane, Cotham Site description: land is currently in use as garages and former outbuildings. Site area: 0.3 hectares Proposed allocation: housing, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10 homes. REDLAND Location: land south of Zetland Road, Redland Site description: land is currently in use as a garage and car-parking. site area: 0.2 hectares Proposed allocation: housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10 homes. location: land at cossins road, redland Site description: land is currently in use as garaging and car parking. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: housing, if no longer required in its current use. estimated capacity of 10-12 homes. STOKE BISHOP Location: land at Sanctuary Gardens, sneyd park Site description: the site is currently vacant and was formerly occupied by pre-cast reinforced concrete housing. site area: 0.5 hectares Proposed allocation: housing. estimated capacity of 20 homes. WESTBURY-ON-TRYM & HENLEAZE Location: former St Ursula’s high school, Brecon Road site description: the site is currently vacant. site area: 0.8 hectares Proposed allocation: the site would be appropriate for residential uses. Estimated capacity of 35 homes, subject to the suitability of converting the listed building. Location: Coombe House elderly persons’ home, Westbury-on-Trym Site description: the site comprises cleared land last used as an elderly persons’ home. Site area: 0.3 hectares proposed allocation: housing .Estimated capacity of 15 homes.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@cliftonvoice.co.uk

cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Support our independent shops this Christmas CHRISTMAS thoughts are undoubtedly turning to shopping: please buy local and support our fantastic independent shops this winter. We have a huge bounty of small, independent shops, selling everything from toys to plants and records to hampers. They’re the beating heart of the West’s communities, doing much to enrich our lives. But they’ve faced huge challenges - soaring energy bills, record inflation, and the cost-ofliving crisis. That’s created a perfect storm for many stores. It’s why I’ve been offering £15,000 green grants for pubs, cafes and others, so they can install more energy efficient equipment. I’m proud of this. Companies are cutting their bills and CO2 emissions by seven tonnes on average - great for their wallets and our precious planet. One group I met recently, who’ve started their Christmas shopping, are care leavers benefiting from a new West of England-wide free bus travel scheme I’ve just introduced. The youngsters joined me on board a WESTlink minibus and told me about how the scheme means they can better access work, get to appointments, enjoy more days out, and, yes,

grab bits and bobs for loved ones at the shops, too. I then went from a bright green WESTlink to a 41-tonne lorry! HGVs are crucial in the Christmas shopping story, ensuring festive goods in our stores. But we’ve all seen the impact of a regional and national shortage of drivers, in terms of empty supermarket shelves and prices being driven up, all adding to the ongoing cost-ofliving crisis. It’s why I created a scheme last year to recruit and train new HGV drivers. While it was not easy, I’m pleased to say we have recruited over 230 in 12 months. And, of course, Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, sometimes travelling across the West to do so. The good thing for those with December birthdays is they can do that by hopping on the buses – for FREE. So, if it’s your birthday coming up, please enjoy the festive season in style by getting your Birthday Bus pass - details at www.birthdaybus. co.uk. We’ve recently had a little taster of chilly weather, but I know for many, reports of ice and

Paediatric physiotherapy – because children are not just small adults

We are excited to welcome Kate Tucker to Bristol Physio a specialist paediatric physiotherapist with over 15 years of experienced Paediatric physiotherapy is the treatment and care of babies, children, and young people from birth to 19 years. Paediatric physiotherapists bring their generic skills as physiotherapists with additional knowledge and experience of child development and of childhood disabilities. Paediatric specialists help children to achieve their optimal physical development. Treatment may involve soft tissue massage, mobilisation, stretching, specific therapeutic exercises and posture education. Children are not small adults, they have many differences in development and growth, meaning they need specialist assessment and treatment. Kate encourages children to move to the best of their abilities through play and age-appropriate fun and instruction.

Go ahead and book your appointment at Bristol Physio today Contact info@bristolphysio.com for more details. Quote Failand10 for your 10% discount today.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

snow don’t bring hope of snowman building! It’s why I’m once again running a ‘Keep Warm this Winter’ drive, as it is vital to stay above 17°C, especially if you’re ill, an older person, or have young children. Fuel costs are still frightening, so please check out the top tips at www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/keepwarm. Finally, I know Christmas can also be a tough time for many people having to work over the holidays. Thank you to those who keep everything running while the rest of us relax and celebrate, for all that you do.

Incontinence Post natal checks Vestibular issues Home visits Joint and muscle pain Chronic pain Paediatric problems Holistic and sports massage Got a niggle? Get it checked out before it gets worse. Had pain for a long time? We can help with that too. Stress/Urge incontinence – don’t suffer in silence.

Stuck for Christmas ideas? Why not get your loved one a gift voucher for a sports or holistic massage Email info@bristolphysio for more details. Book today - online www.bristolphysio.com or call 0117 9237 506.

Book today - online www.bristolphysio.com or call 0117 9237 506 Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk

December, 2023

n NEWS

Tragedy inspires family to help others A POTENTIALLY life-saving defibrillator has been installed at Clifton Observatory in memory of popular and talented rugby player Sam Polledri, who died aged 24 after a cardiac arrest while on a night out with friends. Sam, who was a fit and healthy young man, was taken ill at Millennium Square. There were no publicly accessible defibrillators nearby. Although the emergency services and the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) attended, they were unable to save him. After his death in February last year Sam’s family, his girlfriend and family friends set up the Sam Polledri Foundation in partnership with GWAAC. Their aim is to raise funds to buy defibrillators and install them across Bristol as well as teaching people how to use them. People they have trained so far include school, sports teams and passersby at events such as the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta at Ashton Court. Soon after the defibrillator

The Clifton Observatory defibrillator in memory of Sam Polledri was installed at the Observatory near the Clifton Suspension Bridge it was used to help save a life but because of patient confidentiality GWAAC cannot give more details.

Other defibrillators installed around Clifton and the nearby area are at the Downs Cafe, Clifton Rugby Club and Cotham Park. Since the Foundation started

it has raised £66,700. A lot of support has been given by the rugby community by organising various fund-raising events. Sam had played for various clubs, including Clifton, Dings and St, Mary’s. Claire Harris, of GWAAC, said it was their goal that no one should be more than five minutes’ walk away from a defibrillator. The air ambulance charity has installed 50 across their region. Thirteen were installed thanks to the Sam Polledri Foundation. A further five are in progess. Sam’s mother Louise said: “I so wish there had been a public access defibrillator available for my beautiful boy but knowing we have made a difference because of Sam’s passing, and that other families may have been saved from our living nightmare, is huge. This is massive. This makes all we have done worthwhile. I know Sam would want us to do this in his memory.”

n PUZZLE PAGE

The FIEND

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY easier!

4 7

3 9 6

9 2 7 5 8 6 3 1 9 5 7

Txtpert Theme: Feelings

4 5 7 5 7 1

For younger readers

Winter Sudoku

Every row, column and mini-grid must contain the letters W I N T E R. Don’t guess - use logic

I W

T N R I N T

6 9 N T

www.ActivityVillage.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example:

Easier sudoku Solutions Rules the same as the Fiend, but only four

cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS FROM OUR MP Voting for peace in Israel and Palestine I voted in the House of Commons on 15th November on amendments to the King’s Speech that addressed the concerning situation in Israel and Gaza. You can read the full text of Labour’s amendment below. The recent events and conflict in Israel and Palestine are horrifying and have a backdrop going back centuries. Hamas’ barbaric terrorist attack on 7th October killed the highest number of Jews in a single day since the Holocaust. Over 200 Israelis are still being held hostage somewhere by Hamas. More than ten thousand people in Gaza have been killed, including thousands of children. Gaza’s people are in the midst of a humanitarian catastrophe on an unimaginable scale. All of this death and destruction is devastating. That is why, I voted for an end to the violence and for humanitarian pauses as a necessary step towards an enduring cessation of fighting as soon as possible.

The Renters Reform Bill returned to the Commons After four years of the government dragging its feet, I welcomed the long-awaited Second Reading of the Renters Reform Bill in late October. Many people from Bristol have written to me about how they have been affected by the rental crisis. Labour supports fundamental reform of the private rented sector and has called for this for many years. I am disappointed that the Bill doesn’t go far enough. The new grounds for and protections from evictions are a welcome step, but the details remain vague. The most glaring gap is the delay in a ban to no-fault evictions. I was disappointed that Rishi Sunak has suggested that the promised ban on Section 21 eviction will be delayed until reforms to the judicial system are completed. Despite its faults and gaps, the Renters (Reform) Bill is an important step forward, supporting renters facing the cost-of-living crisis, so Labour will

engage constructively throughout its remaining stages. Work on plans for a Citizens Assembly on Culture for the West Country Recently, I met representatives from some of Bristol’s most treasured cultural institutions – Emma Harvey from Trinity Arts Centre, LaToyah Jackson from St Paul’s Carnival and David Jubbs from Citizens in Power. We had a wonderful discussion about their plans to develop a to develop a Citizens Assembly for Culture for the West region. They will be working with WECA (West of England Combined Authority) to launch the Assembly in 2024. They informed me about the in-depth research, engagement with cultural and community stakeholders they have done to inform how the Assembly will work. One of my roles as the next Culture Secretary under a Labour government will be to pose the question – where are the women, the people of colour and working class people. A Citizens Assembly

Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice will be a great way to hear diverse views on how we tackle structural inequalities and make all kinds of culture genuinely accessible to everyone. I look forward to the launch next year.

01934 830 111 info@clevedonsalerooms.com Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

www.clevedonsalerooms.com

Thursday 7th December Winter Specialist Sale to include the principal contents of Gatcombe Court, North Somerset Visit our website to browse & bid Clevedon Valuation Days at Clevedon Salerooms, each Monday 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm Bristol Valuation Day Tuesday 13th February, 10am -3pm Stoke Lodge, Shirehampton Rd, BS9 1BN Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@cliftonvoice.co.uk

cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

'Apparelled in red' girls on parade GIRLS from Redmaids’ High in Bristol marked the founding of their school with their traditional annual procession through Bristol. Led by the school’s two head girls Maddie and Muznah, pictured right, more than 700 students aged seven to 18 marched from Welsh Back to Bristol Cathedral for a service. The day was originally called Founder's Day; a Red Maids' School tradition to celebrate its founder, John Whitson. His crypt is in St Nicholas Church and every year the school’s head girls lay a wreath on his tomb before proceeding to the cathedral. Students in the first few rows of the procession dress in traditional Red Maids’ boarder attire, a red cape and bonnet,

which is a nod to Whitson, who as a merchant imported red dye to the city and on founding the school, said that the students should be 'apparelled in red'. In 2016 following the school’s merger with Redland High, Founder's Day became Founders'

Commemoration Day, and the occasion now recognises the founders of both schools; John Whitson, Reverends T G Rose and Urijah Thomas. Alumnae, parents and members of the public line the route to watch the spectacle.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD Fraud and cybercrime are the most common criminal offences in the UK. As the threat continues to grow and evolve, it’s important to remember one thing - most of it can be prevented. By following just a few steps, you can make it harder for fraudsters to steal your money or personal information when online, on the phone or at your front door.

DOUBLE SIDED - CUT OUT AND KEEP

Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk

Head Paul Dwyer said: “I think our founders would all be incredibly proud to know that centuries later, we continue to realise their dream in offering an outstanding and forwardthinking education for girls in Bristol.”

cliftonvoice

n BOOKS

December, 2023

Bristol 650 – Essays on the Future of Bristol I HAVE been working in the County & City of Bristol since 1978. In that time I have witnessed the decline of Broadmead and the construction of The Galleries and Cabot Circus. I have seen the transformation of the Harbourside with the conversion of warehouses to form The Watershed, the M Shed,We Are Curious and numerous bars and restaurants. Bristol is unique in being both a City & a County. Back in 1373, King Edward III granted County status to Bristol. Bristol 650 celebrates the 650th anniversary of that event. There are 35 essays chronicling the city’s past as well as looking to the future. Eugene Byrne takes us back to 1400, when Bristol was the second biggest town in England, with English cloth being exported in exchange for wine from France, Spain & Portugal. Local merchants, helped to finance John Cabot’s expedition to North America in 1497 as well as

the Triangular Slave Trade between England, Africa and the colonies in America and the Caribbean with half a million African slaves being transported across the Atlantic on ships registered in Bristol. Michael Manson heralds Bristol as the home of Concorde, Banksy and Wallace & Gromit and praises the vitality of areas such as Stokes Croft, St Marks Road, Totterdown and North Street. Shawn Naphtial Sobers describes Bristol, as a city coming to terms with its past links to slavery and calls for a permanent site in the city where history can be explored and enslaved Africans can be commemorated. George Ferguson recalls arriving in Bristol in 1965, to find a city recovering from World War II, with hosts of unattended bombsites and derelict buildings. He suggests a network of 15 Minute Healthy Communities with all needs met within easy walking distance. He recommends

a ban on car commuting into the city during peak hours, expanded Park& Ride and a city owned public transport network. Sian Norris highlights the long history of feminism in the city including Annie Kenney who arrived in 1907 to set up the West of England branch of the Womens Social & Political Union. Bristol City Council is the only local authority to have a Cabinet Member for Women & Children. Annabel Smith records that Bristol is the only city outside London in which there are more people with degrees than people without them. However, Bristol is also a tale of two cities, with almost all school pupils in Clifton progressing to higher education as opposed to just eight per cent of pupils living in Hartcliffe. Martin Boddy praises the city’s capacity to reinvent itself with the old tobacco and dock industries superceded by

Airbus, Rolls Royce & Aardman Animations. If you are not already a library member, drop in and join your local library . Bob Deacon

Clifton Library opening hours Monday 10am-2pm Tuesday 1pm-5pm Thursday 1pm-5pm Friday 10am-2pm Saturday 1pm-5pm

STOP. CHALLENGE. PROTECT.

WANT TO KNOW MORE

Go to www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk for more information on keeping yourself safe and to provide feedback.

DON’T FEEL PRESSURED

Just because someone knows your basic details doesn’t mean they’re genuine.

YOUR MONEY

Protect your money. Don’t feel rushed into handing over money or financial information, take time to think about it and talk to someone you trust.

SOCIAL

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Your bank, or any other official organisation, won’t ask you to share personal information over the phone, email or text, be aware of unexpected contact. If you are asked for personal information check that it’s genuine, call them directly using contact details on their official website or correspondence.

STAY SAFE

CREATE STRONG RANDOM PASSWORDS FOR YOUR DEVICES KEEP YOUR DEVICES UP TO DATE VERIFY WHO YOU ARE TALKING TO ONLINE, OVER THE PHONE OR EVEN AT YOUR DOOR

/aandspcc

If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or alternatively call 0300 123 2040. If you receive a suspicious email report it to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you receive a suspicious text forward it to 7726 (free of charge)

DOUBLE SIDED - CUT OUT AND KEEP

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@cliftonvoice.co.uk

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01172 350 240 | enquiries@hamberleycarehomes.co.uk Lovell Place Care Home, Sparrowbill Way, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5AU www.hamberleycarehomes.co.uk

cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence

Have yourself a wild and lovely Christmas On the First Day of Christmas… Look out for a Christmas robin. Both he and she sing through the winter, each holding a private territory and refusing to attend seasonal parties. Sometimes they will sing a subsong (a muted version) often from the depths of a bush or to thank you for turning over the compost. On a clear night listen for their territorial proclamation - loud and melodic with crystalline notes. On the Second Day of Christmas… Try some urban botany. The lovely slurry that was spread onto our pavements has acted as top dressing and the plants are flourishing (I imagine this was not the intended effect). You could join a New Year Plant Hunt (check Bristol Naturalists’ Society website) and see if you can help break the national record of 120 species found in flower, set in Swanage in 2019. Only wild plants are counted, though garden escapes are included. On the Third Day of Christmas… When you have done enough looking down, or if you have yet to get used to your new varifocals, look up at the trees. At this time of year the branches can be adorned with birds like decorations on a Christmas tree; a mingling of magpies, a squabbling of starlings or maybe the simple gilding of a charm of goldfinches. Unlike the robins a lot of species prefer to socialise at this time of year so keep an eye out for treetop flocks. On the Fourth Day of Christmas… Keep looking at trees - can you tell what species they are without the leaves? The outline, the branching pattern, the arrangement of the twigs, the colour and shape of the buds and the details of the bark are all helpful. Does the bark spiral up the trunk - probably a sweet chestnut; are the buds asymmetrical with a purple tone, alder would be my guess. No cheating and looking at the fallen leaves underneath! On the Windiest Day of Christmas… Look out and listen. As the trees thrash you may be lucky enough to see a stormcock singing from the highest branch. This wonderful old name for the

thing). On the Ninth Day of Christmas… Look for animal signs. A low-slung badger sliding down a bank rubs the ground smooth with regular use. But the quick brown fox jumps the bank in one and creates a narrow path, picking its way around tufts of grass and thorns. Look out for poo (more fun than you might think); fox poo ends in a twist whilst a dark poo in a little hole is a badger marking territory. Check thorns and wire fences for stripey badger hairs and look out for feathers. If you find dry scaly deposits with bones in them they might be owl pellets. The robin is the bird of the season

Photo: Flappy Pigeon

Bonnet mushrooms (Mycena olida) on a mossy branch Photo: Rupert Higgins mistle thrush (avid consumer of seasonal berries) celebrates his habit of singing wildly into a gale in apparent defiance of wind and rain, as if his message is too important to wait. Not to be missed. On the Sixth Day of Christmas… Look for moss gardens. Peer into these lush miniature habitats on trees, walls and shady ground and find all manner of living things. Tiny fungi rise on slender stems; lichens elbow for space in slo-mo competition; beetles, aphids and (on a microscopic scale) water bears are traipsing, waddling and swimming through the mossforest. Use a microscope, hand lens or upside down binoculars to help. On the Sunniest day of Christmas… Spot the insects. Red admirals will break hibernation for a few hours of sunlight. In our increasingly erratic climate you

might see a queen bee fooled into emerging early (or perhaps she is the last bee of the old year). Tiny gnats twinkle in the slanting sun and a close examination of rough twigs will turn up the aphids and grubs that the blue tits and great tits are taking as they pass through your garden. On the Eighth Day of Christmas… See the sun rise. As someone who should really have been named Dusk I recommend a winter dawn as you don’t even have to get up very early. Find a spot with a view to the east (such as the peregrine viewing point on the Downs) and listen to the world waking up. Birds begin to forage, a goat in the Gully strikes a dramatic pose, the clouds gather and part and perhaps a fog lifts from the river. Or simply watch from your own window and see what bird is your #FirstBirdOfTheDay (a Twitter/X

Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

On the Tenth Day of Christmas… Admire dew-lit cobwebs. Dew and frost highlight them beautifully and orb webs, the classic Hallowe’en icon, and hammock webs, slung casually amongst the orbs are two of the easiest types to find. Details show up well and provide useful clues. The missing sector orb weaver is one of the easiest to identify – that’s not a broken web, that’s a deliberate gap . On the Snowiest Day of Christmas… Check for footprints. Both fox and dog have four toes but foxes have a narrow foot making an oval print whilst dogs’ feet are broader leaving a rounded print. If the print is longer than 5cm it is most likely dog (but if there are no claw marks on a smaller print that will be a cat). Deer are not unknown in the city (two wide pointed toes together – the cloven hoof ). In the absence of snow check out fresh mud, maybe even create a smooth patch in your garden. On the Twelfth Day of Christmas… Search for waxwings. These are the bon vivants of the bird world; dressed up in flashy plumage with flamboyant crests these large finches go around in noisy parties. They breed in Scandinavia and points east and sometimes arrive in large numbers to over-winter in Britain. This is such a year. They are exceedingly fond of rowans so track down some still hung with orange berries (or, more rarely, pale pink ones) and stake them out. If you see any please let me know! A Wildly Happy New Year to you all.

December, 2023

cliftonvoice

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Watch out for festive online shopping scams AS we approach the festive season, I would like to warn local people to take extra care when shopping online. During the Black Friday and holiday sale events last year, almost £10 million was lost to criminals. One common tactic used to defraud victims is the use of fake websites that are purporting to be reputable companies. These websites are created to look identical to the real website they are imitating and will advertise items but at a much cheaper price than retail price to entice victims. In reality, these websites are fake and the victim will never receive the item they have paid for. To protect yourself from fraud and cyber crime I advise that the public follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign: Stop: Taking a moment to stop

and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. Protect: If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud, online at actionfraud.police. uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. We recently marked Respect for Shopworkers Week. The purpose of the week is to support retail workers and ensure the general public understands the key message that abuse is not part of the job. I am keen to meet with shop owners and work together to help reduce retail crime in Avon and Somerset and support workers in the sector.

I have convened a new national group, the E-Scooter Safety Forum, to discuss issues around micro mobility. The first meeting was held earlier this month, and I look forward to updating you with my progress on this. The third week of November was the annual Road Safety Week. As road safety is one of the areas of focus in Priority One of my Police and Crime Plan, I’m very supportive of the work Avon and Somerset Police do in helping to reduce collisions and traffic accidents. I am a member of my local Community Speedwatch group and regularly attend meet-ups. Community Speedwatch is a national initiative where proactive members of local communities join with the support and supervision of their local police to record details of speeding vehicles using approved

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford detection devices. Together we can help reduce speeding. Unfortunately, so far in 2023 we have had 47 road deaths across Avon and Somerset. As a community we must commit to tackling the ‘Fatal Five’ actions – not wearing a seatbelt, using a phone, not paying attention, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and speeding.

n BOOK REVIEW Late Light by Michael Malay MICHAEL Malay moved to Bristol in 2008, having grown up in Jakarta and then in Queensland. That first move he outlines as one from ‘high-rises and mile-long traffic jams to wallabies on the way to school’. In England – coming here to study with the expectation that Australia would remain his home – he finds a landscape with which he is unsure how to interact. Not knowing the names of plants, trees and birds or why a friend might touch his cap on seeing a magpie, Malay interrogates the language, spoken and unspoken, of England and the English. He seeks a sense of belonging to the landscape and finds aspects at which to wonder and to despair. What starts as an exploration of feelings about home and place becomes an inquiry into an increasingly nature-depleted Britain. The storybook version of rolling English countryside proves more complex on closer inspection. Malay develops a keen interest in the declining species which are spoken of and written about rather less often than “charismatic species”, those with more popular appeal, leading him to detail his fascination with eels, moths, mussels and crickets. The writing is so fluid and each chapter so well balanced between biological particulars, historical research and personal anecdote that I did find myself convinced of the intelligence of the eel (though I can’t say I have the desire to hold one), of the ingenuity of the cricket and of the intricate stories suggested by the lines of a moth’s wing. But most mesmerising is the chapter on mussels. I was ignorant of their longevity – Malay describes the discovery of a 134-year-old mussel – and absorbed by the explanation of their relationship with the creatures, plants and water of the river. The book offers an honest picture of the decline of nature whilst holding out a little hope that it may not be too late. Malay’s care is not only that of the conservationist but that of the tender admirer of nature. He writes that ‘we should attend to the fate of our creaturely neighbours simply because we ought to care for reality’. In searching for his place in the English landscape, he recognises the connectivity of that landscape and the importance of wildness in home. Elizabeth Moss, owner of Heron Books

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Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk

cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n PHARMACY BLOG

We must take away the stigma around mental health issues WHEN discussing mental health, we can quickly move to sharing wellbeing and selfcare tips. This is important, but let's also talk about kindness and stigma. One in four people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year, with around one in six reporting experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England. Anyone can get a mental health problem, and the causes of mental health problems can be very complicated. Higher risks are linked to several factors, including social inequality and disadvantages, discrimination and social exclusion, challenges with physical health and traumatic experiences. The groups we know that are more likely to be affected include people who identify as LGBTQIA+, Black or Black British people, women aged 16-24, people with overlapping problems including homelessness, substance misuse and contact with the criminal justice system. Social justice matters. Everyone copes and responds differently

when times are tough for them. Be gentle with yourself and those around you. Just because others seem to cope, there is no right or wrong way to manage or be in any situation. Don’t ever judge others. Many things impact our lives differently: family situations, national and international events, health and relationship issues and financial pressures. Don’t expect to always feel ok or be perfect at everything; do also make allowance for others too. We must urgently remove the stigma attached to taking medications to manage our mental health. It can be awkward to speak with someone about their mental wellbeing, but remember, a thoughtful message/act communicating you care for them and are supportive makes a difference. We can all boost our mental wellbeing by avoiding social isolation and building stronger and closer relationships. Pursuing shared interests and volunteering builds a sense of belonging and self-worth. Get Active. Physical health and fitness activity releases chemical changes in your

0117 9246579 18 Kellaway Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7XR

brain, which can help to change your mood positively. Eat well. Evidence shows that consuming junk-unhealthy food hurts your mood and waistline. Consider also taking Vitamin D supplements in the winter months. Set boundaries and limit your time on social media; this can help you focus on other things. Cherish Duvet Time because good sleep boosts your mental health. Connect with the outdoors by watching through a window, looking at trees or watching birds fly past. Try to enjoy the moment, whatever you’re doing. Speak with your GP if you have had a low mood for more than 2 weeks or in the last month you have been bothered by feeling down, depressed or hopeless; if things you’re trying yourself are not helping or if you are having suicidal thoughts,. Society’s language and understanding of mental health and wellbeing still has further to go but at Kellaway Pharmacy, we will always offer our time to listen and care. Please do come in for a chat in our private consultation room. Let Kindness always be our gift to share.

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henleaze&westburyvoice cliftonvoice

28 December, 2023

December, 2023 23

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

Look out for release of our new bubbly THE slower autumn months are a welcome a mulch to improve the soil around the base relief from the busy summer growing of the vines over the coming years. They’ve period. In the winery our recently pressed become a real wildlife haven because they wines should be coming to the end of their tend to provide a home for thousands of first fermentation. They won't be ready for willow aphids which in turn provide a great bottling until next March or April but so far source of food for small birds and predatory things are looking good. insects. In the vineyard we've been busy With the festive period looming we removing the nets we put up in September are hoping to be able to prepare a new to protect the red grapes from the hungry sparkling wine for release soon. At the birds. Removing them is quite a nice job moment, we only have still rosé for sale. and allows time to reflect and ponder how Frustratingly most people think of rosé as a the summer went and what we might do summer drink and we’re forever reminding differently next year. them that it's nice all year round! We are Most of the leaves have fallen off the in the middle of dosage trials on our new vines now so we’ll shortly begin the long sparkling red and sparkling white wines. We process of winter pruning. As well as very much hope to disgorge and prepare pruning the vines we will also be chopping one of them in time for Christmas so watch back our willow windbreak. We planted this space. the willow about six years ago and they’ve We’ll be at the Christmas Market at grown really big, really quickly. Every few Bishop Road School on Thursday 23rd years we pollard them and chop them right November, 7-9pm – hope to see you there! back down before they begin to shade the vines. Their job is to create a more hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk sheltered environment and break up the www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk south westerly breeze. We’ll be chipping and @DYvineyards (twitter) shredding their branches and using them as dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram) The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout 1 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1 The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout 1 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1 The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout 1 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1

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Craft event SEVEN Bristol artists & makers are joining forces to host Festive Shopping Evening in Bishopston. The free event at Kiln Workshop in North Road will take place on Wednesday 6 December from 6 - 9pm. Taking part are: Elin Horgan: Handmade jewellery in recycled silver & gold, www.elinhorgan.com/ Mandy Sutcliffe: Cards & prints inspired by childhood

December, 2023

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Feel-good feasting with The Community Farm

have yourself a local, organic Christmas

homeless. Or you can buy a Christmas veg box with an added donation. Last year their customers’ generosity meant that they were able to send £1,200 worth of fresh veggies, 19 halal beef joints and £300 IF you’re looking to support local businesses in cash to the project. This contributed towards 660 whilst tucking into top notch, organic produce this breakfasts, 1,050 served lunches and 525 delivered Christmas-time, make sure you buy everything you meals for people experiencing homelessness. They’re https://mandysutcliffe.bigcartel.com/ need for your festive feasting from The Community determined to do even better this year! Leather Needle Thread: Modern leather craft kits & Farm. From bumper veg boxes to organic meat They'll also be delivering boxes full of organic workshops boxes with all the trimmings; to delicious nut roasts produce, all sourced from their network of local www.leatherneedlethread.com/ and carefully selected cheeses, they’ve got you farmers and producers, to around 200 families in Macrame Emma: Macrame covered. You and your loved ones can tuck into need in Bristol, funded by Holiday Activities and plant hangers & kits nourishing, organic produce safe in the knowledge Food Programme, department for education. The https://macrameemma.co.uk/ that you'll also be supporting their mission to grow families have been identified by Bristol Council's Hello Cleo: Slow fashion & healthy food of the highest quality, whilst continuing Families in Focus who, along with the family's accessories https://www.instagram. to care for our environment and communities. support workers, will be delivering the Holiday com/hellocleouk/ They’ve also got some incredible charity projects Hampers as part of their visit to families in the week Izzy Mae Makes: Small batch Bumper veg boxes that they’re Cheeses & crackers supporting this year. Once again running up to Christmas day. handmadeChristmas pottery www.instagram. they’ll be joining forces with Caring in Bristol, to Now that’s something to celebrate! com/izzymaemakes/?hl=en; Meredith feed people whoin areBristol vulnerable The Community Farm is an organic farm that grows, Nut roastMason Maker: Hand Caring giftthroughout vouchersthe build sculptural ceramics Christmas week. When you buy your food from them, sources and delivers climate-friendly food across the meredithmason1.wixsite.com/website you’ll have the opportunity to add gift vouchers Organic meat boxes All our usual fresh, organic fruit & veg,local area. They are community-owned and not-forwhich provide two meals for people who are profit. Find out more at thecommunityfarm.co.uk

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cliftonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

'Don’t shut our vital pharmacy' HUNDREDS of people have joined a campaign urging Boots not to shut its pharmacy in Southmead Road. They say news of the proposed closure in January has come as a blow to the community, which was not consulted. An online petition has been set up urging Boots to think again about the branch, which serves parts of Horfield, Henleaze, Southmead and Westbury on Trym. Within a week, it had collected more than 500 signatures and won support from a number of councillors. The petition says that the shop at 37 Southmead Road is “a very busy, well used and wellloved” pharmacy that has served the community for many years. One campaigner, Neil Goldsmith, said: “It is always full of customers, particularly accessing the pharmacy for both prescription medicines and advice, as well as buying the retail staples ranging from shampoo to vitamins. “The branch is particularly important for those in the local community who have no means

of transport and a significant proportion of the customers walk to the branch as it is surrounded by residential streets. “The staff at the branch know many patients by name, know their circumstances, and also provide support for some of the more vulnerable of our community.” The alternative suggested by Boots, its branch in Henleaze Road, was not a walkable distance and was in any case also very busy so would not have capacity to take on the additional demand, Mr Goldsmith said. Southmead Councillor Brenda Massey said: “I would be very sorry to see the pharmacy close. Many of the residents who use it may well not have any means of transport to a different site, and will now be extremely concerned about how they can collect potentially life-saving medicines without an accessible chemist close to them. Henleaze & Westbury on Trym Councillor Steve Smith, who chairs Bristol City Counci is also against this closure. “Many residents rely upon this branch, and I join them in urging Boots to reconsider."

Barclays branch to close WESTBURY on Trym is losing another bank with the announcement that Barclays is to shut its branch. The bank says it has taken the decision to close the High Street branch on February 16 because most people bank online, by app or on the phone. It says there are 16 customers who use the branch regularly as their only way to do banking and promises to “work with the local community to understand the impact of closing this branch.” The blow to the community follows the closure of NatWest and HSBC last year. Lloyds and Nationwide branches re-main. Councillors have been trying to establish a banking hub, in which all the major banking outlets share a shopfront. It is not yet known whether this could happen but there is hope in Barclays’ online announcement, which says: “We want to reassure you that we’re here to help. We’ll stay in your community and you’ll be able to talk to us in person. We’re finalising the details of where we’ll be based, and when, to support you with your banking, and we‘ll share the details locally once confirmed." People who have concerns about the closure are invited to call 03457 3453452, or email Michael Watts, customer care director for south west counties at michael.watts1@barclays.com

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Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2023

n FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE

The future of the Colston statue MANY lessons can be learnt from what happened in the past, especially when many of the impacts are still felt today. Understanding our history remains as important as ever. Since the day that Colston’s statue was pulled down in June 2020, particularly during its temporary display at M Shed, Bristol has come together to ask important questions about our city’s heritage. We must continue trying to make a better, fuller history. It was through the We Are Bristol History Commission that we held a citywide conversation about the future of the statue and how we can build and present a better understanding of our history for this generation and the next. Nearly 14,000 people responded to the commission’s survey, with residents and people from further afield taking part. The vast majority (80%) of Bristol

residents who responded agreed that the best place for the statue in future was in one of our museums. The History Commission made the same recommendation in their report. To help make this a reality, an application to regularise the legal position of the listed asset, away from its plinth, has recently been submitted which will go to a planning committee early in the new year. It was submitted following discussions with Historic England, the government advisory body responsible for designating listed buildings, as part of the preapplication process. Alongside this, a new M Shed exhibition is being developed and will open in March, refreshing the theme of ‘protest’ in the People Gallery. This will include Colston’s statue as part of an exhibit focusing on racial injustice. More

details on the exhibition will be released nearer the time. The progress that has been made so far is a testament to the strength of feeling in Bristol and the dedicated work of all those who have been involved. I thank them for all they have done before the History Commission formally comes to an end in November. The work they have started will be taken forward by the Bristol Legacy Foundation, which has more plans for acknowledging our city’s history in the trafficking of enslaved African people. If we want to be a city that is fully inclusive and fair to all, then race equality is a topic that needs to remain firmly on our agenda. Great strides have been made but the conversation is by no means over. Standing together, we remember what happened before us, agree what happens

Marvin Rees shares his views with the Voice now and create a legacy of our own that sits proudly alongside our history and not in its shadows. As 2023 draws to a close, I want to wish all residents across South Bristol a safe, peaceful festive period and a happy New Year.

Winter water health check Don’t get caught out by the cold this winter – follow our top tips to stay warm and leak free. 1. Protect exposed pipes Wrap them up with lagging. If they freeze they could burst and leak. 2. Check your outdoor taps Look for drips (these can cause frozen pipes). Wrap them up too. 3. Find your stop tap You’ll be able to turn the water off quicker in an emergency.

4. Look after your boiler Check your boiler is serviced so it’s fighting fit to keep you warm all winter. 5. Going away? Don’t forget to keep your heating on low (min 14ºC), to help stop your pipes from freezing while you’re away.

Get more information at bristolwater.co.uk/winter

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@cliftonvoice.co.uk

cliftonvoice longashton&failandvoice

December, 2023 10

n n SPORT NEWS FROM YOUR COUNCILLOR

Getting a taste of success

27 December 2023

n LOCAL CHARITY NEWS

Fundraising santas

has been staggering.” The EPIC planning application is Highly popular with players now available for comment and can be accessed via the North Somerset has been the contribution of local Planning Portal. The planning restaurants in providing much reference is 23/P/2185/FU2. Please valued dining options for man the HUNDREDS of motorbiking Santas will review and consider the impact this be heading through the city centre on match awards. Clifton Sausage will have on Long Ashton, noting that and Fishers Seafood Restaurant are Saturday 02 December to raise festive cheer the land proposed for development in support of Children’s Hospice Southnow being joined by the Brunel highNovember value greenClifton belt land, and INismid were West (CHSW). The ride to the charity’sWine Bar. development willplace significantly impact Simon Quarrie, owner of the sitting in second in National Charlton Farm children’s hospice in Councillor Stuart the village’s character. Clifton League 2 having closedI understand the gap onthe Wraxall starts at Winterbourne Academy at Sausage, added: “The public leaders meetingLuctonians. organised by the Parish McQuillan (he/him) Clifton Sausage has sponsored league They 10:30 and will pass through Bradley Stoke, Council to discuss this application look forward to a successful run-inhas Gloucester Road, Bearpit Roundabout,Clifton Rugby 1st XV Man of the Green Party to the 27thseason January 2024 – Match for many years. Winners get tonow themoved midpoint of the Bristol Hippodrome, The Triangle, pleaseChristmas. mark this inThe yourfinal diaries! a three course meal for two and we Hotwells, Cumberland Basin, Long Ashton before home In other news as be I write this, the know that they really appreciate and Failand. match of 2023 will at 14.30 on North Somerset funded highways works to improve the area outside Piccolos and theHenry BrocksHarper, Lane crossing begun. by Steve who ishas sponsored Ian Clark thehas prize and thousands enjoy coming TheBullimore annual SantasPhoto: on a Bike fundraiser raised of to our Saturday 16 December against Together with the recent refit of the Coop store and car park, this will make the restaurant. pounds for CHSW over the years. Organisers said: “We’re expecting local rivals Dings Crusaders. village centre more attractive and safer for pedestrians. Once this is complete I "It's great to support our local dozens of Santas,toriding bikes covered in festive decorations this year. The coaching staff are businesses who else sponsor matches, the opportunity sponsor a player will be discussing with Long Ashton Parish Council where may need work. teamand as we and they a part of Please spread the word, invite your friends support yourare local committed to bringing in younger provide manCourt of theacross match awards at CRFC was an absolute must. One place I would like to look at is crossing by Ashton Clarken localand community. we get children’s hospice – let’s make this theour biggest best yearWhen ever. All players to establish themselves as , advertise in match programmes "National League 2 offers any Coombe as I know there are safety concerns. If you have any views on this, a chance toisvisit Clifton Rugby on bikes, trikes and quads are welcome, and the ride L-plate friendly.” regulars and integtate with more and sponsor individual players. keen supporter a chance to see an please contact me or Long Ashton parish council. match daysHospice I'm always impressed Lucie Perryman, area fundraiser for Children’s South West, seasoned players. Outstanding player eclectic mix of young academy, ex If you have any ideas for schemes in FailandAmong or Leighcommitted Woods as well, please the friendly andon funa atmosphere said: “We are really looking forward to by seeing the Santas Bike again indo recent games have been Shay is Stephen Bullimore, professionals and the regular team get in touch – I know there is a feelingsponsors that the crossing by the Failand of wethe areevent always made very this year and want to say a huge thank and you to organisers and Sainsbury Freddie Myattat, who InStep Shoes, who is sponsoring players compete at the highest village halland should be looked but all suggestions are welcome. We regularly see club the riders for all the work that goes intowelcome. making this happen. This is a are Finally, part ofIahave packheard including longerSomerset’s popular second row Henry level. It's exciting, it's 'touch line from North environmental crime unitHarper. that members and we highlight in our festive calendar at Charlton Farmin–our therestaurant families staying standing playersis Charlie Bullimore, son Charlie is sponsored viewing' andallthere is always a good progress being made in securingSteve’s a prosecution regarding the case by really the promotion of our love seeing of the santas arriving, and the value money raised helps the Ricky Cano and Henry Harper. Estate warm on match days vital carebusiness of the fly tipping of fridges at Yanley LaneRobin earlierKing in the year. Agents. Many thanks to charitywelcome to continue to provide and support toclub." local families by the club relies the support theThe residents who on reported this, gathered evidence and submitted“Rugby it to North Steve commented: is with 14they homes games each season. when need it most.” For details of sponsorship ofSomerset its members, spectators and the Police. and my passion and Clifton has been Thoroughly recommend it and the For more info or to make a donation, options visit www.santasonabike.org. rogeropie@gmail.com businesses with particular 07866 391 my base for over 40T:years so,512 given viewings on my website via CRFC uk/bristol or www.justgiving.com/page/santasonabike2023 ROGER OPIE involvement of local Clifton E: stuart.mcquillan@n-somerset.gov.uk

n ADVERTORIAL

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We can’t wait to dress our homes for the festive season. Luckily for us colour-lovers, traditional colours no longer monopolise the Christmas décor market, having made way for a myriad of more creative options. Why not tie in your Christmas scheme to the colours you adore and have used in your home interiors for a more exciting and individual look? Some of our favourite themes:

Whether you are looking to update one room or are embarking on a full house renovation or redesign, we are able to offer our colour-focused expertise.

Luxe Metallics Who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle at Christmas? This theme is all about embellishment, richness and warmth. Why not introduce burgundy or plum as on-trend fashion colours for 2023, or use jewel tones with your metallics to add a playful pop of colour? Rainbow Colours Make your home jolly and bright by using a bold mix of strong colours. With this, anything goes, and the more colourful the better!

Photo courtesy of Ideal Home December Top Tip Fairy lights add a magical feel to any theme. Don’t limit them to the Christmas tree, they can be used effectively throughout the home to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. K Interiors is all about colour, whether subtle, popping or something in between. If you would love an interiors refresh, a great first step could be one of our ‘Inspire Sessions’, where we will offer expert advice and tips on how your colourful interiors aspirations can become reality. http://k-interiors.co.uk

Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

n WHAT'S ON December 10 n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR WITH HORFIELD CEVC PRIMARY SCHOOL CHOIR present festive songs and readings to help you get into the Christmas spirit. 10th December at 4pm St George's Bristol BS1 5RR Tickets from £12 bristolbach.org.uk November 26 n CHRISTMAS ARTISAN CRAFT FAIR 10am-4pm. Ashton Court Mansion Bristol BS41 9JN. Bristol Makers and crafters with 40 stalls indoors. Handmade gifts cards artwork, jewellery, soaps candles, knits crochets, textiles, Christmas wreaths and decorations, craft beer, preserves and much more Café serving teas coffees and cakes £2 entry – under 16s free December 8-13 n BRISTOL REFUGEE ARTISTS COLLECTIVE and UWE students are staging an exhibition on “Compassion and Belonging” at Centrespace Gallery. Open daily from 11am to 7pm.

Regular events Various days n WEST OF ENGLAND BRIDGE CLUB based at RAFA Club, 38 Eastfield, Henleaze. Five sessions every week, catering for different standards. Thursday afternoon is Improvers. Monday and Friday afternoon is for more capable players; this is an EBU recognised session. You may come alone to any afternoon session; a partner will be found. The evening sessions are on Wednesdays and Fridays, and are open to pairs. www. woebridgeclub.co.uk or contact Secretary, Chris Frew, on 0117 962 5281. Monday n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579 n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. New members welcome. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875 for further details. n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON AREA DISCUSSION GROUP meet at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday 9.45am to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to help to

cliftonvoice solve some of today's challenging issues with good company, tea and biscuits - contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628. Tuesday n WESTBURY PARK WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meets on the first Tuesday of every month in the Girl Guide Hut on Westmorland Road from 7.00 - 9.30pm. We are an active and friendly group with a varied programme plus extra sessions for craft, coffee, book clubs, walks etc. Visitors are always welcome and for more information do call Sue on 07813795936 or email westburyparkwi@gmail.com n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL is recruiting new members We are a 'threshold choir' actively looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn soothing and uplifting songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join or support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org n BRISTOL BRANCH OF THE KNITTING AND CROCHET GUILD meet on the third Tuesday of the month, 10am-12pm, usually in the function room at the Boston Tea Party on Whiteladies Road. Free to attend, all welcome (members and non-members). We cater for beginners through to experienced makers. Email BristolKCG@gmail. com for more info. Wednesday n HENLEAZE CHORAL SOCIETY We are a thriving, non- audition choir performing mainly classical repertoire. Rehearsals take place at Henleaze Bowling Club, Grange Court Road on Wednesdays 7.30-9.00pm New members welcome. Go to www. henleazechoralsociety.org.uk for more information and contact details. n CLIFTON CRAFTERS We all have craft items we started and are now lurking in a drawer unloved – dig them out and come and share with us a morning of knitting, crochet, tapestry, rag rugs or whatever you would love to resurrect or mend. Clifton Library every Wednesday 10-30 -12-30 n BLAISE COMMUNITY GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, open Wednesday and Saturday 10-2. Originally a walled kitchen garden. Free to enter. We’re looking for volunteers. Our Café (+

homemade cakes) open 10-2, 18 March and 8 April. n WELCOME WEDNESDAY Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your area. Call 0117 435 0063. n CLIFTON CRAFTERS We all have craft items we started and are now lurking in a drawer unloved – dig them out and come and share a morning of knitting, crochet, tapestry, rag rugs or whatever you would love to resurrect or mend! Every Wednesday in October at Clifton Library 10 30-12 30pm. Thursday n LOCAL CHOIR ACTIVELY RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See website www.henburysingers.org contact secretary at secretary@ henburysingers.org. n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278. n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feeling stressed? Come and try our drop in sessions run by trained volunteers. Healing/Reiki is a gentle, relaxing, complementary therapy that helps restore balance and vitality. Used in healthcare to reduce stress. Donation basis. Venue: Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. s 3.30 pm to 4.45 pm. For information and dates, contact Selina at Bristol Healing Group: T:0117 9466434 or E:selinanewton@yahoo.co.uk. Friday n HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB. 5.45pm Grange Court Rd, by Newman Hall. Call 0117 962 1669 or email hbcsec@ henleazebowlingclub.org.uk

December, 2023

Christmas in Clifton CHRISTMAS SERVICES CHRIST CHURCH, CLIFTON December 10 Contemporary Carols Traditional carols with a modern twist 6pm. December 13 Christmas Songs of Praise Hear personal stories behind the carols. 11am December 16 Street carols Princess Victoria Street from 4.30pm December 17 Nativity from Scratch Come dressed as a character as we tell the Christmas story afresh. 10 am Carols by candlelight 6pm. December 24 8am Christingle family friendly Christmas Eve communion with candles, sweets and songs 4pm December 25 8am Christmas Day communion celebration. Family friendly 10am CLIFTON CATHEDRAL Mass times for Christmas December 23 Carol service, 5pm December 24 5 Stations of Christmas 11pm followed by midnight mass 11 30pm Christmas Day Services at 7.30, 9.30 and 11 15 am

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December, 2023

cliftonvoice

n HISTORY WITH JULIAN LEA-JONES

Mystery? The plot thickens... NESTLED among the sheds and veg of Birchall and Cranbrook Road allotments is a small brick shed with these enormous pipes outside – what on earth? – is someone growing giant mushrooms or even captured Triffids? Neither, but the gardeners will never forget the day in 1986 when they were all turned off their allotments. All their hard work replaced by a massive crater which occupied the entire site and was nearly three storeys deep. But why? The answer lay in a problem that had bedevilled Bristol’s history down the centuries, and one which sadly still distresses many communities even today. Bristol, the city of hills and steep sided valleys, has many streams and rivers emptying to the River Avon and eventually to the Severn Estuary. Homes in the

Country scene on the banks of the Cran Brook before the road

The storm water tank control pipes at the Cranbrook Road allotments site valley bottoms were always prone to serious flooding, and down the centuries many were destroyed and lives lost. In the 1900s, endeavouring to reduce the cacophony of iron rimmed cart -wheels, the city laid eighteen miles of hardwood block paved roads. The junction of Cheltenham, Cranbrook and Zetland roads was one such, but in 1902 it was flooded thoroughly, soaking the wood blocks, which swelled to such an extent that they rose forming a wooden ‘bubble’ about three feet, (nearly a metre), high. But what has this to do with the allotment holders'

n LETTER It's the season for help on a shelf! BEING stuck at home may not be a lot of fun. It leaves no energy for the things that bring you joy, like getting in the library books. But help is at hand, the Bristol Home Library Service is available for anyone over 18, living in Bristol and who is unable to get to their local library for reasons of age, disability or responsibility. The HLS has DBS checked volunteers in most parts of the city who will be happy to come around to your house and keep your book pile topped up. The free service is offered monthly and most of our volunteers have time to stop for a chat too. So please can I ask you to share the good news around and help reduce isolation in our community. Thanking you in advance Ken Luxon. Service Manager, Bristol Home Library Service.

distress? Beneath the junction of Gloucester and Cheltenham Roads there is a large brick chamber where the culverted waters of the stream flowing between Cranbrook and Elton Roads joins the Horfield Brook which, culverted, becomes the Cutler’s Mill Brook to continue behind Cheltenham Road before joining the River Frome, and onto the Avon. Flood plains weren’t possible in an urban environment, and the usual solution was to have holding tanks where the storm water could be stored and slowly released. By the 1980s it was realised the problem of repeated flooding required drastic action – bigger holding tanks, but where? Unfortunately for the allotment

holders, theirs was the only open space in the problem catchment area. Therefore in 1986 allotments between Birchall and Cranbrook Road were cleared enabling Bristol City Council’s Engineering department and Wessex Water to dig a colossal storm water relief tank. The tank occupies the entire allotment site and is nearly three storeys deep. Not until 1990 were the allotments re-instated so that veg and flowers could once more flourish. Nowadays, among the veg, fruit and flowers the only evidence of this engineering feat is a small water control blockhouse and these massive set of pipes which are needed to vent the rush of air when storm water fills the tanks.

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n NEWS

December, 2023

All set for Henleaze Christmas Festival IT’S the most wonderful time of the year … and it starts with Henleaze Christmas Festival on December 6. The fun starts at 4pm and continues until 8pm. It is sponsored by CJ Hole. This year it is supporting the charities Bristol Autism Support, Bristol Soup Run and Incredible Me. Entertainment will be at the outside Arena in Waterford ‘Road, St Peter`s Church, Trinity Henleaze URC and

Bradbury Hall. More volunteers are needed to ensure the festival can continue into the future. Co-ordinator Jane Emery said: "I am sure this year will be as enjoyable and successful as all the others since the first one in 2008, but do please consider if you can help us keep it going. I would be delighted to hear from you." mikeandjane.emery@blueyonder. co.uk.

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