Hanham & Longwell Green Voice September 2023

hanham&longwellgreenvoice

September, 2023 Issue 82

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

Passengers across Hanham and Longwell Green are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said: “I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

WELL-SET FOR HIGH-SKILLED JOBS

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

Thousands of West of England residents have been taking part in free, flexible training courses so they can go on to get in-demand and high-skilled jobs thanks to a £8 million investment by the Mayoral Combined Authority.

One course that some of the learners took part in was to learn welding skills. They were taught in fully equipped workshops by lecturers with a combination of over 30 years of industry experience.

At the end of the course, all two dozen participants got guaranteed interviews with big West of England-located firms like EDF Energy as well as meetings and other opportunities with companies looking for people with the skills they were learning.

One learner said: “I really enjoyed the welding course. I must admit the bootcamp experience went above and beyond my expectations – both personally and professionally. I interviewed and found a great job before I finished my course. What a great opportunity for anyone looking to start a new career.”

Passengers across Hanham and Longwell Green are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Anyone who wants to be sign up for future training courses can visit:

https://www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/skills

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR DAN NORRIS

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

WEST OF ENGLAND IS BEES KNEES

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said:

“I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

The winners of an awards scheme showcasing “bee bestie” West of England groups taking superpositive steps to support bees and other pollinators in the region have been announced.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised. Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk

The unique competition celebrates the amazing bee busy groups who have gone above and beyond to look after the region’s busy bugs through actions like creating a blossoming community patch or nature friendly allotments, and everything in between.

The Bee Bold Awards ceremony took place as part of a fun packed day of performers, live music and pollinator activities, culminating in the 2023 Pollinator Champions being crowned by the Metro Mayor in front of locals.

There will be more Bee Bold Awards in 2024 so local community groups with pollinator friendly projects should keep an eye out for that!

Mayor Dan Norris finds out about welding skills

Jean Vernon (aka ‘Jeanie Bee’) discusses making the West of England the UK’s pollinator capital with the Metro Mayor

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

Walk in memory of Florence Rose

FAMILY and friends of a baby from Hanham who died at three days old are raising money to help others affected by similar tragedies.

Ryan and Ella Palmer’s daughter Florence Rose was born in September 2019 at the Royal United Hospital in Bath and lost her life at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

While awaiting the results of tests to find the cause of her death, Ryan regularly spent time with their daughter in hospital, cuddling her, singing her nursery rhymes and watching films with her.

This gave the couple a vision: to create a home-like environment at the RUH where bereaved parents can have precious time with their child before the funeral. They are working with hospital officials to develop the Florence Rose Room, a pod-like building with a garden situated on the outskirts of the hospital site.

Four years on, after some delays because of the pandemic, the couple are more than three quarters of the way towards their £20,000 target. The pod is in place and now needs equipping, while the garden has to be landscaped. There are also plans for a metal memorial tree.

Tracey Martin, a retired midwife at the RUH and a friend of Ella’s grandma Cath, is planning an

ambitious sponsored walk this month to boost the funds. She will be accompanied by, Rachel Coleman, a midwife in Trowbridge.

The pair plan to walk 55 miles over two days, September 9 and 10, starting and finishing at the RUH and calling in at birthing centres at Chippenham, Trowbridge, Frome and Paulton.

“We are calling it 55 for Florence,” said Tracey. “We will be joined for a few miles at the start and finish by Florence’s family and midwives who cared for Florence following her birth.” https://www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/55forflorence

Children have been checking shop windows in Hanham High Street for Beatrix Potter characters in a successful summer trail.

PAGE 5

Expansion plan wins go-ahead

The McBraida aerospace factory in Bridgeyate has been given permission to double in size in spite of objections from neighbours.

PAGE 6

Midwife's 50 years in NHS

A midwife who was based for many years in Cadbury Heath, Oldland Common and North Common is celebrating 50 years working for the National Health Service.

PAGES 8 & 9

Florence Rose Palmer

Walkers Rachel and Tracey and, above, Ella and Ryan handing over funds

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Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Hanham & Longwell Green Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

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Complaints

£65k pours in for woodland appeal

NATURE enthusiasts have raised almost £65,000 in the hope of buying a wildlife haven.

Blackswarth Road Wood at Crews Hole is being sold at auction this month and money has poured into a crowdfunding campaign to save it.

The nature charity Protect Earth says it is a crucial wildlife habitat for deer, badgers, buzzards, red kite, nuthatch, tawny owls, sparrow hawks, swifts, cuckoo, and bats. It also helps with carbon sequestration, and reducing particulate matter in the air along the busy Crews

Hole Road.

Blackswarth Road Wood has a rich social and industrial past but since the 1990s it has has been left to naturally regenerate into a diverse woodland.

There has been no public access, so wildlife has been largely undisturbed. The land has also been used as a rubbish dump and a huge community effort will be needed to restore it.

Protect Earth has the backing of a number of organisations as it prepares for the auction, which takes place on September 13.

Denise: hunt goes on

ON the anniversary of the disappearance of Denise Jarvis, from Kingswood, police issued another appeal. Denise, 44, was last seen in the Southey Park area on August 3 last year but despite extensive searches, including use of police divers and a drone, and talking to 90 of her friends and contacts, she has not been found.

Woman hit in the face

Emergency: 999

NHS Health Call 111

Well Aware (health and social care information)

www.wellaware.org.uk

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Hanham and Longwell Green 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. Hanham and Longwell Green Voice is distributed each month to 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 sales@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk This month 9,500 copies will be distributed around Hanham and Longwell Green.

POLICE are seeking witnesses after a woman in her 20s was hit in the face by an unknown offender while she was walking down Moravian Road. The victim sustained a cut to her head from falling and received hospital treatment. She was later discharged to recover at home. A spokesman said the incident happened about 1.45am and was believed to be isolated .

Several cars targeted

ANOTHER police appeal for witnesses comes after vehicles were damaged in Kingswood. About 4am on Sunday August 6, two people attempted to enter a garden in London Street. When challenged by a member of public, they made off in a white Ford van. They used tools to smash the boots of three vehicles along London Street, Gilbert Road and Southey Avenue. The van was then abandoned.

Drawing crowds to Hanham High Street

South Gloucestershire Council is working on a series of improvements to Hanham High Street to make it a more attractive space.

As part of this, it is planning a new art mural for the public toilets on Laburnum Road.

enjoying a circular route searching for Jeremy Fisher, Mrs Tiggywinkle and others. The trail has been very popular and I am already planning another for the October school holidays.

Resident Katie Gingell said: “We loved it! The girls enjoyed finding the characters, completing their sheets and receiving their certificates and prize. The trail is also a way of reminding us what great local shops we have at our doorstep”

local artists have been commissioned to paint it and people who live, work or have a vested interest in Hanham are invited to suggest ideas for the design, so that it truly reflects your area.

Have your say by completing the survey at this link by September 13. https://rb.gy/aizmo SGC will be selecting one respondent at random to receive £30 of local shopping or restaurant vouchers.

OFF

FAMILIES enjoyed a Beatrix Potter Trail in Hanham High Street over the summer holidays. It was organised by Nicola Bartlett from Eclectic gift shop, pictured, and sponsored by Tollgate Hire and Jemima’s Beauty.

Factory expansion given the go-ahead

AN aerospace factory at Bridgeyate will double in size after councillors granted planning permission despite objections.

South Gloucestershire Council development management committee unanimously approved the application by McBraida family-owned Bridgeyate Eng Works, near Warmley, with the expansion securing its future.

But 59 neighbours objected to the plans, raising concerns about road safety due to extra lorries coming out of a new exit on Bath Road, and said the larger building will be overbearing and overlook nearby properties.

Siston Parish Council chairman Andrew Stacey told the meeting the design was “oppressive and depressive” and out of keeping in a residential area.

He said the additional storey at the front and back of the plant would strip the surrounding area of its character and heritage, while the extension would require the demolition of two houses.

Resident Judith Robson told the committee on August 17, that noise from the business, which makes precision machined parts for the aviation industry, was already a problem.

She said: “We are not Nimbys, we already have the factory in our backyards, and we are

not against McBraida being successful, but we are against the overdevelopment of this site and are highly concerned about safety for road and pedestrian users.”

Ward councillor Sam Bromiley (Conservative, Parkwall & Warmley) said the expansion would bring the building too close to homes and the new road junction would mean the loss of part of the common.

But Adam McBraida told members that the fourth-generation family company was proud to be part of the community and the Bristol aerospace industry.

He said: “At the heart of this proposal is a family legacy, one that is woven into the fabric of South Gloucestershire.

“We’re not outsiders seeking profit, we

are locals investing in a shared future. This development of our business is a necessity to remain resilient in the face of international competition, predominantly from Asia.”

He said the factory in Bridgeyate, which opened in 1959 and employs 180 staff, was too cramped and was stifling its operations and ability to harness new technologies.

“We are very conscious of our presence in a residential area and have been involving the neighbours every step of the way,” Mr McBraida said. “We are not just providing jobs, we are providing a sense of belonging and a place where careers can thrive.”

Principal planning officer David Stockdale said the council had designated the site as a “safeguarded employment zone”. He said the proposals were acceptable and that no windows would overlook the nearest homes.

Mr Stockdale said: “This is one of balance. There are harms from the proposal.”

He said the council’s landscape officer, ecologist and economic development team were happy with the redevelopment and that there was no objection from the noise protection department.

Highways officer Chris Rose said the new exit was acceptable.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

How the factory looks now

No extra cost or discount as bin strike ends

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council did not incur any extra costs from the recent strike by bin workers - but is not paying contractor Suez any less for the reduced service.

Around 150 members of union Unite went on strike for more than a month, from June 26 until July 31, in a dispute over pay.

During the strike, kerbside recycling and green bin collections were suspended as the council and its contractor prioritised black bin collections, keeping recycling centres open and operating temporary 'deposit points' for people to take food waste and recycling.

A spokesperson for the council said any extra "direct and indirect costs" incurred because of the strike were being carried by Suez, including the increase in pay negotiated to end the strike.

However the amount the council pays Suez under its contract to collect, recycle and dispose of waste is not being adjusted to account for the fact that a full kerbside collection service was not being provided for the duration of the strike.

The spokesperson said: "The contract between the council and Suez, as a thirdparty provider, insulates the council from the cost of any pay award but there are no

mechanisms within the arrangement to seek recompense for the strike action."

The council said there had not been an increase in reports of fly-tipping in the district over most of the period of strike action, including an earlier one-week walkout from June 12 to 16, although there was "a slight increase towards the end of July".

Unite members voted to strike after rejecting an 8% pay offer from Suez, which the union said represented a "significant real terms pay cut" as it was well below inflation. The union called for a 15% rise.

A proposed 9% rise was also rejected before Suez came back with an offer of 10.1%, which was accepted at the beginning of August. The strike was suspended from July 31 for the workers' vote.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Suez workers in South Gloucestershire stood firm in their union and secured a significantly improved offer.

"This is a well-deserved result for them

and more evidence that Unite’s focus on enhancing jobs, pay and conditions is winning for our members.”

Unite members at Bristol Waste and Suez in Somerset also won bigger rises following disputes.

A Suez spokesperson said: "We are pleased that we have been able to agree a solution with the union and that further industrial action has been cancelled.

"We are extremely grateful to our employees for their important work and would like to thank the residents of South Gloucestershire for their patience during this time."

The contractor said it was "conscious that residents had high volumes from the suspension of the service" and said it used extra resources to catch up on the backlog and resume normal services as quickly as possible.

Bulky waste collections restarted on August 14.

Asked by the Voice if penalty clauses for contractors unable to deliver a service would be inserted into the new waste contract due to be introduced in 2025, the council said it was "working to ensure a robust approach to contract arrangements".

Birth centre stays shut

A CONTINUING shortage of midwives means Cossham Hospital will not reopen for births until at least next spring.

Cossham Birth Centre shut in October 2022, three years after it had reopened following a year-long closure. It remains open for other maternity services.

North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs Cossham, says expectant mothers can opt to use the Mendip Birth Centre at Southmead Hospital. It has also relaunched its home birth service on a “case by case basis”.

A spokesman said: “We took the difficult decision to temporarily pause births at Cossham due to workforce challenges so that we can maintain safe care for all women and babies across our maternity units.

“Maternity recruitment remains a challenge across the NHS and while we are making good progress, we expect to remain challenged until towards the end of this year and into early next year.

NBT Chief Nursing Officer, Professor Steve Hams, said: “Cossham is a valuable community resource, providing an important hub for a range of healthcare and maternity services.

“We are committed to providing maternity services at Cossham Hospital and hope to use this time to work with our NBT colleagues, local women, the Maternity Voices Partnership and local partners to strengthen the opportunities we provide for women and families in the local area, and more widely across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.”

Community appointments, breastfeeding support and other services continue to be run from Cossham while births are paused.

Midwife Jayne's

A COMMUNITY midwife is celebrating 50 years of service to the NHS.

Jayne Booy has helped thousands of women on their journey into motherhood.

Jayne started her career as a trainee nurse at Bristol Royal Infirmary in 1973, qualifying as a State Registered Nurse three years later and working in general nursing before moving to the then Manor Park Hospital in Blackberry Hill, Fishponds, as a staff nurse on a geriatric ward.

In 1978 she began her midwifery training at Bath's St Martin's maternity hospital and Royal United Hospital, winning the Student Midwife of the Year award before joining the Frenchay Community Midwives team in 1979.

Over the 44 years since then, Jayne has provided antenatal and postnatal care and advice

for women in clinics and on home visits, and delivered hundreds of babies in home births.

Based at Kingswood Health Centre and then Cadbury Heath Health Centre, she spent many years attached to the Oldland and Close Farm GP surgeries in Oldland Common and North Common, where many families will remember her as Jayne Quintin.

In 2012 Jayne was diagnosed with bowel cancer and had to take six months off work, returning to work parttime in 2013 after successful radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.

She has been based at the Downend Clinic in Buckingham Gardens since 2018 and, despite reaching her half century of service at the age of 68, she has no intention of retiring just yet.

Jayne said: "When I started

50 years of service to the NHS

I was the youngest midwife at 22 - now I'm the oldest in the whole area.

"Working keeps your brain going. It keeps me active and I'm still enjoying it - I don't know what I would do at home all day.

"My experience helps my younger colleagues, who also like hearing how it used to be. I get help from them with the computer!"

The nature of the job has changed since Jayne's early days, with the emphasis now mainly on running clinics, breastfeeding support and parental education sessions.

Jayne said: "We used to visit mums at home so much more, and go along for home births.

"You used to just run up the road and deliver a baby, and at weekends you'd pick up the pager on Friday night and give it back on Monday morning.

"You used to be on call 24/7

- it really was 'Call the Midwife' then.

"One Saturday we had three home births, morning into night. That was how it used to be - you would get back into bed and get

called again.

"Because I lived in the same area I worked in, you would see the mums in the school playground.

"Now the ladies come to

us in the clinic and there's a home birth team. It's more computerised work and more corporate."

Jayne, who grew up in Patchway, now lives in Stoke Gifford.

During her career she has had four children of her own and has been the birth partner for her daughters in law when they had her grandchildren.

Jayne's team leader at Downend Clinic, Bethany Rowsell, said: "Jayne is the centre of all knowledge in our team and we are proud to be her professional friends.

"She has a warm presence and always comes to work with a smile on her face. Jayne has a good rapport with the women and families in her care - this is evident from feedback received. As a team, we are grateful to have Jayne with us and we are glad she is not retiring yet!"

Bristol Care Homes supports staff development

DEVELOPING your career as a carer to becoming a nurse has always been a challenge to those who need to earn a living. Nurses require a degree in order to register for practice, however going to university to achieve this is not for everyone. Fortunately, a local social care provider has implemented a pathway which supports employed care staff to develop into nursing professionals while maintaining their employment.

Bristol Care Homes has four high quality care homes in north Bristol and South Gloucestershire. They pride themselves on the quality of care they provide, and the investment they put into the development of their staff team. Their latest investment has come in the form of a pathway to support care staff to attend the University of the West of England and qualify as a Nurse Associate. The Nursing and Midwifery Council describe the Nurse Associate role as “a member of the nursing team in England that helps bridge the gap between health and care

assistants and registered nurses.”

Bristol Care Homes has four members of the team who have followed this pathway so far. Elena from Glebe House, Sarah from Quarry House and Shahira from Field House have all successfully earned their foundation degrees from UWE Bristol. Jemma from Beech house is still on the course and due to qualify in the next few months. Elena, Sarah and Shahira have all decided to progress onto a top up course with UWE which will see them achieve their full Nursing Degrees and become Registered Nurses and Jemma will do the same once she has completed her Nurse Associate studies.

“Here at Bristol Care Homes, we care about our staff just as much as we care about our residents," says Richard Crocker, CEO of Bristol Care Homes.

“It is important for us that we can identify talent within our organisation and support them all to achieve their maximum potential. As part of this latest investment, we decided to fully support our Nurse Associates to

attend university once a week for study, attend their required placements and achieve the required off the job hours within their overall contracted hours all whilst paying them their full salary. This support continues for them as they progress on to the degree. We are very proud of the achievements of this dedicated group, and we look forward to supporting many more of our team through the same route in the future.”

Bristol Care Homes is committed to providing excellent lifetime care to residents and great career opportunities to staff. Two of its homes have CQC ‘Outstanding’ rating, whilst its resident fees remain extremely competitive

and good value. The career development pathways ensures that people who join or work in the company strive to provide that excellent standard of care to residents while also growing professionally within the company. Other staff benefits expected when joining the Bristol Care Homes teams are:

• Up to £250 welcome bonus

• Up to £250 refer a friend bonus

• Great rates of pay

• 10% enhancement salary rate on hours worked on weekends

• Time and a half at Bank Holidays

• Profit share bonus scheme

• Excellent induction programme

• Excellent training and development opportunities

• Valuable career development pathways

• holiday, retail & leisure discounts

• Employee assistance programme

• Cycle to work scheme

• Free meal on +8 hours shifts. If you are keen to work for an employer who invests in staff support and development visit www.bristolcarehomes.co.uk to see the latest opportunities.

“My mother has been so incredibly well looked after. The nursing staff are so very kind, thoughtful and nothing is too much trouble. My

feels safe and comfortable.”

Joanna, Daughter of Resident at Quarry House (source: carehome.co.uk)

Tobacco 'hidden under floorboards'

A SHOPKEEPER has had his licence suspended after trading standards sniffer dogs found illicit tobacco and illegally strong vapes under floorboards.

Tahsin Jasem was banned from selling booze for two weeks at International Store in Regent Street, Kingswood, following the discovery of e-cigarettes made in China and smuggled into the UK.

Councillors gave him a reprieve after deciding not to revoke his premises licence despite a request from trading standards backed by Avon & Somerset Police.

However, they removed the designated premises supervisor (DPS) Seyed Javad Alavifard, who should be responsible for the sale of alcohol at the premises, from the licence.

The constabulary’s licensing officer Wes Hussey said police believed he had no involvement in the day-to-day running of the shop and was merely a name on

the licence form because he had never been there when officers visited, although Mr Jasem insisted the DPS was there two days a week.

Mr Hussey said police had received intelligence that alcohol was being sold to children, which Mr Jasem denied, and that the shopkeeper was not complying with conditions of the licence.

Mr Jasem told South Gloucestershire Council licensing sub-committee he left a friend to run the shop for six weeks while he visited his mum in Iraq.

But he said that during that time a van pulled up outside the store and sold the friend vapes

that turned out to be illegal.

The friend told the hearing on Monday, August 7, that he had made an innocent mistake to buy them and had tried to contact Mr Jasem to check but could not reach him until the following day, and that the shop owner was angry when he told him.

The raid by council inspectors in May followed complaints from parents that illicit tobacco was being sold from the off-licence, including to children as young as 12, the panel heard.

It was the third time they had found illegal goods in the shop in two years, although the previous two were in 2021, the year before Mr Jasem took over the licence as sole director of Jyar Ltd, trading as International Store.

Officials found a small amount of tobacco and 518 illegal vapes, “some of which were hidden below floorboards in a locked storeroom”.

Mr Jasem’s friend said he

had brought the illicit tobacco from his home in Birmingham for his personal use and was not trying to hide the merchandise from the authorities but that the shop had suffered breakins so he concealed it under the floorboards in a locked storeroom.

Mr Jasem said he put his friend in charge of the store because he considered him more trustworthy than the DPS.

He said he accepted the shop had a history of poor management and that he intended to apply to become the DPS after the hearing.

Announcing the decision, Cllr Ron Hardie (Labour, Emersons Green) said a twoweek suspension would allow Mr Jasem to “reflect and address the issues”, while the panel had “no option” but to remove the current DPS from the licence.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

First venture for Tabernacle arts hub

THE restoration of the Whitfield Tabernacle in Kingswood has inspired a novel weekend of art activities this month.

Award-winning artist Vincent Brown will give a demonstration of portrait painting on Saturday September 23 and will run a two-hour art class the following day.

Vincent will produce a portrait of Basil Rogers, the last Minister of Whitfield Tabernacle. The demonstration will take place at New Cheltenham Community Centre where up to 40 people will be able to watch the painting develop with the aid of a TV screen to allow them to get close to the detail.

Participants in the art class in Vincent’s studio at Warmley Clocktower on Sunday September 24 will produce artwork based on the interior of the Grade 1-listed Tabernacle, which they will have had the opportunity to visit the previous day.

The events are a fore-runner of activities that could take place at the historic building once its restoration is completed. The work is being carried out with funding support from South Gloucestershire Council, West of England

Combined Authority and Historic England and the aim is for it to become a focus for arts, heritage and education for the community.

Chair of the Tabernacle Trust Anthony Hick said: “We are excited to be working with such an accomplished artist as Vincent, and we know he shares our vision to encourage more people to get involved in producing and seeing art, drama and performance in all forms.

“When our Tabernacle building is fully converted in 2024, we hope it will provide a useful and attractive venue for community and artistic events. The sessions we have planned with Vincent, and other sessions that we are planning with local musicians and performers are aimed at building a future audience and encouraging the community to help shape what we are finally able to offer.”

There will be no charge to participants for any of the events planned for September 23-24 but those planning to attend must pre-register their interest by contacting Kim.Scudamore@ whitfieldtabernacle.org or calling 0117 932 2723. More information about the Tabernacle can be found at www.whitfieldtabernacle.org.

A painting by Vincent Brown

n AROUND THE WIs

LONGWELL GREEN WI

IT’S been a busy summer at Longwell Green WI. Recently we have welcomed several visitors who have joined to become members.

Longwell Green WI is part of the Royal Chase WI Group; members from the other WIs in the Group were invited to join us for a Hoe Down and buffet. We couldn’t have picked a hotter evening but people joined in the dances or sat and watched. Everyone enjoyed the evening.

We also had the fourth part of the very interesting talks from Susan Symons. This time she told us about “The Colourful, Personal Lives of Queen Victoria’s Five Daughters”. All of the daughters were very much influenced by Queen Victoria and all of the daughters apart from one had their marriages arranged to European aristocracy. Some of the daughters looked after Prince Albert when he was ill and Queen Victoria after Albert’s death.

The youngest daughter, Beatrice, censored her mother’s diaries after her death and a lot of historic information was lost. Susan Symons is a very good speaker who brings history to life.

Members have enjoyed trips to Malvern Show and the RNLI in Poole.

As Longwell Green WI do not have a meeting in August, we decided to have a summer get-together. This year we had a “Prosecco Picnic”. We were so lucky with the weather, we chose one of the few hot, sunny days we have had this summer. Along with the Prosecco and a delicious buffet there were lots of games like giant jenga, quoits, giant noughts

and crosses etc. to keep everyone entertained. It was a great success which everyone enjoyed.

We are looking forward to “Poetry Readings” by Sarah Hemings in September and a Murder Mystery evening in October.

We have lots of groups that our members can participate in. There are book clubs, walking groups, knitting group, skittles and social suppers. On the first Thursday of the month, we meet at The Chapel Coffee Shop in Longwell Green for Tea and Chat.

Longwell Green WI regular meetings are on the third Friday of the month at 7.30pm at Longwell Green Community Centre and new members are always welcome. If you are interested in visiting us, please get in touch by email at longwellwi@gmail.com, telephone 0117 9864782 or come along on the meeting evening.

Linda Muller

HANHAM EVENING WI

A “HOE DOWN at Longwell Green” – not a phrase you hear very often but it was certainly the case in July when members of our branch joined with other members from the Royal Chase Group to enjoy a great evening organised by the Longwell Green WI. Members took to the floor to join in with the country style dancing and were also able to relax and enjoy a drink and excellent buffet. The evening concluded with a fund-raising raffle

At our July meeting we welcomed accomplished author and speaker Susan Symons. Susan has written several books on Queen Victoria and the early life of one of our most famous monarchs

was the subject of her talk. Much is known and has been written about the later life of the widowed queen but not perhaps so much about her early years.

Susan told us that when Victoria was born, she was only 5th in line to the throne with what appeared little likelihood of becoming monarch. Her mother was very protective and Victoria endured a tough, lonely childhood without any friends of her own age which she, herself described as rather melancholy. She grew into a pretty teenager and then, at the tender age of just eighteen years, she inherited the throne as all other claimants had had died without any surviving children.

At the beginning of her reign Victoria was popular and received much public adulation. She involved herself in political issues of the day and was guided by the Prime Minister Lord Melbourne who became an influence on her life. Susan went on to relate the trials and tribulations of Victoria’s colourful early years and the events and relationships that helped to shape her future. She also told us how Victoria came to meet her future husband, Prince Albert.

The branch gave the speaker a well-deserved vote of thanks and she promised to return to continue the story of Queen Victoria’s life

which we are all looking forward to.

An early start on a sunny August morning saw us on our way to Sidmouth for our annual summer outing. And summer it turned out to be as the rain and cold relented and we were able to enjoy a hot, sunny day.

On the outskirts of Sidmouth, we stopped to visit the famous Donkey Sanctuary which provides animal lovers with an opportunity to meet rescue donkeys and see at first-hand how they are cared for by the staff who work tirelessly to protect them.

We were made welcome and given a talk explaining the mission, values, and workings of the sanctuary. We heard that the sanctuary was founded over fifty years ago and has grown into an international animal welfare charity. Since being formed it has cared for over 16,500 donkeys and mules, with 7,000 currently being housed across its six sanctuaries.

After a short break for lunch, we travelled on to Sidmouth where we had a free afternoon to do as we pleased. Some visited the seafront to scoop up an ice cream, some enjoyed a traditional Devon cream tea whilst others visited the local shops.

The group returned in the late afternoon after a very pleasurable day out.

Our thoughts now turn to finalising the arrangements for our ever-popular annual Autumn Fayre. So, make note now of the date – a date not to be missed. The fayre will take place on November 11th with 30 traditional stalls which are already all sold. More details will be published later.

Dianna Coles

n

Look Back at Old Market and Castle Street - 1st August

A reminisce as Mike Hooper took us back up Castle Street and on into Old Market. A great presentation of old photographs mainly before WW2 compared to more current. A great deal of Castle Street being destroyed in the blitz.

Castle Street being the main central shopping area for Bristol. In this Street you would of found BHS, M&S, Boots, the Coop but a few. Indeed the Coop was the only main shop to survive.

There was good interaction with the audience, as one remembered playing snooker on the top floor of BHS. There was some tittering as others remember getting off the bus outside The Tatler.

Rogers Brewery was quite a dominant building overlooking the area. Just a wall now remains on one side of Castlegate House.

Other notable discussion points;

Central Hall ( still there) which had seating for 2000 people, Bristol’s first street light was in Old Market, The Empire Palace of Variety, Drill Hall for 4th battalion Glouc. Regiment. I could go on.

A quandary was Trinity Church, Mike showed us a picture of another similar church. However, no one new where this second church could be, has to be the same architect?

We were all greatly entertained, thanks to Mike.

Next meeting at the Park Centre, Kingswood is Tuesday 5th September, 7pm for 7.30 pm start.

Presentation by Madeleine Bills on Town Cryer (please refer to website for any late change).

Visitors £3.50 incl tea/coffee and biscuit.

Full schedule of presentations for 2023 can be found at www. kingswoodhistorysociety.

All the fun of the fete

Bitton’s annual church fete will be taking place on Saturday September 2 from 1.30pm.

The fete is part of year-round activities to maintain the historic Grade I listed church.

It will be held in the Glebe Field, in St Mary’s Church, and in the garden of neighbouring Church Farm, and as usual there will be plenty of attractions.

The Tatters and Tails Morris Group will be entertaining the crowds and Highcroft Veterinary Centre at Longwell Green will again be running a fun dog show. There will be a collection of classic cars on display, and a Punch & Judy show, along with music from Oldland Brass, the Jazzbeanz and St Mary's Minstrels.

There will also be traditional games, including an egg-throwing contest, and stalls including books, white elephant, nearly-new clothing and cakes. A raffle and tombola will also be held.

Teas will be served in the church and there will be food stalls on the field along with a licensed bar. Visitors can enjoy cream teas on the lawn at Church Farm.

This year the Bitton Baker of the Year competition makes a comeback at the fete. The organisers would like adults to bake an 8 inch (20cm approx) Victoria Sandwich. Children aged under 12 are invited to make four decorated biscuits. All entries must be taken to the WI cake stall by 2.30pm on the day for judging at 3pm.

National education charity, Action Tutoring, works to level the playing field by offering free maths and English tutoring to disadvantaged pupils in Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Are you interested in volunteering, getting more involved in your local community, or doing something a little different with your time? By volunteering as a tutor for just one hour a week at a local school, or online, you can give vital academic support to pupils whose families couldn't otherwise afford it.

It’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your time and no previous teaching or tutoring experience is required. Action Tutoring provide the training and all the resources; volunteers don’t need to plan lessons or be curriculum experts. You are supported every step of the way.

Fill in their short online application form to get started actiontutoring. org.uk

Can

Boost your career with FREE Skills Bootcamps

Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers

Hard work pays off for GCSE students

STUDENTS at Hanham Woods Academy saw their hard work rewarded with some excellent GCSE results.

The class of 2023 were filmed by ITV Westcountry as they opened their results. Special mention to the following students who achieved top:

Gracie B: 4 x 9s, 4 x 8s, 1 x 7; Vanessa M: 3 x 9s, 4 x 8s, 1 x 7; Ahmed A: 2 x 9s, 4 x 8s, 3 x 7s.

Principal Steve O’Callaghan said: “I would like to thank my amazing colleagues at the academy who work tirelessly to give students the best chance of success. We are on an improving journey and there’s still more to do to improve further; however we will take some time to celebrate with students and support them with their next steps. The class of 2023 will leave a positive legacy at the Academy and have set a high bar for next year’s cohort. We wish the students and their families every success for the future.”

GCSE results at SBL Academy showed strong performances for English (80% grade 4+, 64% 5+) and Maths ( 77% 4+, 63% 5+.

Students who made strong progress include: Chloe T, Harry C, Madeline W, Charlie T, Edison G, Will A, Maisie S, Fin D, Ellie-May D, Esme B, Josh H, George S, Cody W Outstanding outcomes were achieved by:

Harry C, 5 x 9s; Zane J, 5 9s; Ellie May D, 2 x 9s, 5 x 8s.

Principal Dean Anderson said: "This has been an outstanding group of young people, very well supported by family, SBL staff, their peers and the wider community. It is a great pleasure to see so many young people who are able to have the full choice of what they can do next in life. As a school we are delighted with this excellent group and wish them all the best in the next phase of their education - they can be very proud of what they have achieved."

Students at IKB Academy are celebrating success in GCSEs and BTECs. Headteacher Pete Headeach said: |We are extremely proud of our amazing Year 11

students; they have shown resilience and hard work to secure their results and fully deserve the outcomes they have collected.

"It was a joy to share in their achievements born out of all the hard work throughout their time at IKB and confirm their enrolment into IKB 6th Form. As a small school we really get to know our students and their families and look forward to so many students continuing their educational journey with us.

"We are proud of all our students who have made fantastic progress through Years 10 and 11 at IKB."

Special mention goes to Ruby with 1 x 8, 7 x 7s, 2 x 6s; Sean, 4 x 7s, 1 x 6 and 2 x 5s: Ben, 1 x 8, 2x 7, 2 x 6s and 3 x 5s.

South Gloucestershire Council co-leader and Cabinet Member with responsibility for Schools, Cllr Ian Boulton, said: “A huge well done to those who have received their GCSE and other qualification results. Whatever grades you achieved, you are moving from one chapter and on to the next, and I would encourage you to look forward and to see what options you have and to make the best choices for you. I have no doubt that you will have worked hard, just as your families and all the staff in schools a have worked hard to help you prepare."

Dream Big, Work Hard, Be Kind

We are an 11-16 secondary academy based in the heart of Hanham and a proud member of the Cabot Learning Federation. We excel in providing an inclusive education that serves the local community. Our mission is simple: we want to give students the best chance of success and we work tirelessly to ensure they exceed their potential.

You are invited to join us for our upcoming open events for new Year 7 students.

HWA GCSE students being filmed for ITV

n EDUCATION

Schools celebrate success at A-levels

SIXTH FORMERS from Wellsway School and IKB Academy are heading off to destinations from the University of Oxford to apprenticeships with the Ministry of Defence following their A-level success.

Principal Rob Pearsall said students had shown resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges, including changes to bring grading back in line with pre-Covid levels.

He said: “The hard work and motivation of our students ensures that the outcomes are a real credit to them and we wish them every success as they prepare for the next chapter in their lives. I am extremely proud of all our students, so many have worked extremely hard and clearly been rewarded for their ability to adapt and maintain a sustained focus on their learning. I’m pleased that so many now

have the qualifications and skills they need to go on to the next stage of their learning.”

SBL Academy said its results were considerably better than in 2019.

Head of school Simon White said: “Our Post 16 study offer to our Futura Sixth student community has continued to improve significantly in quality and breadth in the last five years. Student outcomes this year bear testament to the strong and caring leadership offered by Post 16 leaders, support staff, tutors and subject teachers.”

Cabot Learning Federation's Post 16 centre in Kingswood has recorded some outstanding achievements by its students in their A-level and vocational qualifications this summer.

Kath Cooper, CLF Post 16 principal, said: “We are immensely proud of all the

work and achievements of our students, especially after such a difficult and disrupted period in education. Our teachers have worked tirelessly to ensure students received the best provision and support to enable progression into further education and employment, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.”

Digitech Studio School

Bristol, in partnership with Boomsatsuma, Robins Foundation and Bristol School of Acting, has recorded another set of outstanding results by

its students in their post-16 qualifications.

More than 60 students achieved the highest possible grades in media, game design, art, acting and dance at the school in Warmley. Many of them will now move on to courses and apprenticeships in these specialist areas, enabling them to follow their individual passions in the creative, digital and high-tech sectors.

Digitech principal Chris Ballard said: “We are immensely proud of all of our students’ achievements and outcomes.”

Open Morning and Evenings at Wellsway School

Year 6 - Thursday 21st September - Tours from 6.00pm - 8.00pm

Year 6 - Tuesday 26th September - Tours from 9.15am - 10.45am

We are delighted to confirm our two open morning dates; we are offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2024. Visitors always comment on the purposeful, caring and happy ethos of the school, so what better way for you to find out about our vision and values then to come and experience them for yourselves? For those parents/carers who are unable to attend, there will be an additional Year 6 Open Evening in September. The morning will provide an opportunity to see the school in action; to visit curriculum areas and discuss the Wellsway School experience with students and staff. Please be advised that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last tour will depart at 10.20am. Our staff and students are the biggest advocate to our school and I am sure when you visit, you will see why we believe Wellsway School is a unique community.

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 5th October, between 6.00pm - 8.00pm

We are delighted to invite key stage 4 students to our Sixth form open evening. On the evening students will be able to see the enhanced range of subjects and enrichment opportunities on offer at Wellsway School and learn how we work as a collaborative Sixth Form ‘Futura Sixth’to be a truly comprehensive sixth form. Students will have the opportunity to speak with staff; attend a presentation from school leaders; speak with sixth form students and discover more about our wide range of courses and experience that support students throughout Post-16 and to their next step. This will be followed up by our Open Morning for external applicants, on Wednesday 18th October 2023, between 9.05am - 10.45am.

Smiles at SBL Academy

Life is an adventure with memories created in places and seasons

After weeks of summer fun, it is time to return to school, college, university, or even head off for a gap year trip abroad! Work also counts for some.

What help can your local pharmacy offer to ensure you have a healthy start and stay well through the year?

The NHS Covid and flu vaccination winter campaigns are starting. If you are eligible, don’t delay and get your jab asap. We can also help with private Flu vaccination.

Chicken Pox usually starts as small red itchy spots. It spreads quickly from contact with clothes and bedding,

while you can also catch it from someone with shingles. Alongside helping to treat, we offer the Chicken Pox Vaccination for children and adults at the lowest price.

A healthy diet helps growth and development, reduces sick days off school, and improves academic results! If your child is a picky eater, we can also discuss options to support them with multivitamins supplements.

Head lice or Nits affect 1 in 3 school children and their families. Nits can survive in long hair for a long time if untreated. From performing a weekly comb detection check to cost-effective treatment options, the pharmacy team

can help. We also have nonchemical natural treatment products.

We offer Meningitis B vaccination to help protect against the death or lifechanging effects of the disease. It can strike at any age, but babies and young children are most at risk, including teenagers and young people. Many universities, colleges and schools increasingly now recommend vaccination, and we offer it the best prices in the South West.

Moreover, we offer savings and peace of mind for those whose next adventure is not in a playgroup, school or campus

but involves a gap year abroad. Our low-cost travel clinic offers jabs at affordable prices with a price-match promise.

Ellacombe Pharmacy is committed to providing the best, easily accessible and affordable healthcare in our community. Vaccination query? Call us on 0800 7723575

FRY'S BOWLING CLUB

An improved month for Fry’s saw their Triples League Team progress to final of the Triples League Cup with a 55-51 semi-final win over Keynsham. Fry’s now progress to the final on 15th September. Friday Triples League: Fry's got their first Triples League win since May with the visit of Victoria Park. A close game saw both teams with a rink winning comfortably, but Fry's took a single shot win on the third rink, so Fry's took 10 points from the 50-47 win. Fry's made it two wins in a row in the Triples League with a dominating performance against Bristol Greenbank. Winning all 3 rinks, Fry's came away with a big 81-42 win with 8 points.

Another dominating performance from rinks 1 and 3 against Bristol saw Fry’s take all 12 points for the second consecutive week. Rink 2 was close through most of the game, with Fry’s pulling away at the end.

The good run of form continued with a home match against Begbrook Green, but this would be a much closer encounter. With honours shared on the first rink,

the other 2 rinks would decide the match. With Fry’s winning the third rink by 5 shots, Begbrook could only take the second rink by 2 shots, seeing Fry’s take 9 points as the season heads into the final few games.

Scores: 21st July: Fry's 50-47 Victoria Park; Rink 1: 10-19; Rink 2: 24-13; Rink 3: 16-15; (10-2)

28th July: Fry's 81-42 Bristol Greenbank; Rink 1: 28-11; Rink 2:

26-16; Rink 3: 27-15; (12-0)

4th August: Fry's 71-33 Bristol; Rink 1: 28-12; Rink 2: 18-10; Rink 3: 25-11; (12-0)

11th August: Frys 50-47 Begbrook Green; Rink 1: 19-19; Rink 2: 11-13; Rink 3: 20-15 (9-3)

=Bristol and District League: Fry's welcomed bottom club

Imperial and the home side Fry's soon pulled away, but Imperial put up more fight than previous matches at Somerdale. Despite this, Fry's were able to pull away to comfortable 59-34 win, but the 10 points were in the balance, with a poor second half from rink 2 saw them holding on to their lead. Things went the way of the home side seeing Fry's take all 10 points. A trip to Bradley Stoke was the

next encounter for Fry's in the Bristol and District League. Fry's dominated on rink 3, but the other two rinks remained close. Rink 2 struggled throughout the night and fell away at the end. With the match secure, Fry's went into the final end on rink 1 4 shots up, but a poor end saw Fry's sitting a precarious position. Fry's skip was able to promote a bowl cutting the count to 2 shots, giving Fry's 8 points from the 51-38 win. A tight game with promotion pushing Severn Vale ‘A’ saw Fry’s run out victors. 2 rinks remained tight, with Severn Vale ‘A’ taking both of those rinks, but a combined 5 shots. However Fry’s were much stronger on the third rink, pulling away to comfortable win giving Fry’s a 45-37 win and 6 points.

A narrow defeat at Ardagh came down to the final bowls, with Ardagh clinching the victory with the final bowl.

Scores: 27th July: Fry's 59-34 Imperial; Rink 1: 23-12; Rink 2: 1613; Rink 3: 20-9; (10-0)

3rd August: Frys 51-38 Bradley Stoke; Rink 1: 15-13; Rink 2: 10-19; Rink 3: 26-5; (8-2)

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Together we can make policing better

I HAVE launched a campaign called Together We Can… to raise awareness of the work being done by my office to improve, change and challenge policing.

Together We Can… is a call to action for residents to get involved in policing to ensure our communities are safe.

The campaign is also an opportunity to highlight how the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) continues to work for local people.

My Police and Crime Plan, launched in 2021, includes four priorities – preventing and fighting crime; engaging and supporting communities and victims; leading the police to be efficient and effective; and increasing confidence in the criminal justice system.

Many people are not aware of the work that the OPCC carries out and, crucially, when they can turn to us for support to address issues or concerns they have with policing.

We work hard to tackle so many varied issues that may affect all our lives at some point – from violence against women and girls and racial disproportionality to fraud and anti-social behaviour.

My job is to hold Avon and Somerset Police’s chief constable to account and to keep striving for policing that serves everyone equally, so we all feel safe and supported in everyday life.

For more information about Together We Can… and my police and crime priorities visit the OPCC website, www.avonandsomersetpcc.gov.uk.

I would also like to take the opportunity to highlight the recently-opened preventing victims fund. The fund is an opportunity for any Avon and Somerset-based group that already provides services to victims of crime to apply for a grant of up to £20,000.

The Preventing Victims Fund is being delivered in partnership between the OPCC, Somerset

Community Foundation and the Quartet Community Foundation.

The fund aims to complement groups providing services to victims of crime, enabling them to explore different approaches that could prevent people from becoming victims in the first place. This prevention focus is one of the Police and Crime Plan key priorities.

Finally, I urge local people to remain vigilant over an emerging scam involving fake emails purporting to be from mortgage lenders.

It has come to my attention that Action Fraud received 538 reports in just a two-week period relating to these emails that claim to offer limited-time deals to low-rate mortgages.

Heartless criminals are taking advantage of people’s concerns relating to mortgages to lure them into phishing scams. The websites set up by criminals disguise themselves as a trustworthy source in order to steal personal and financial data for their own gain.

10th August: Frys 45-37 Severn Vale ‘A’; Rink 1: 25-12; Rink 2: 10-12; Rink 3: 10-13; (6-4)

17th August: Fry's 44-46 Ardagh; Rink 1: 15-13; Rink 2: 12-17; Rink 3: 17-16; (4-6).

Cups:

Fry's went out of the City and County of Bristol Clarence Davey Plate to the hands of Victoria Park. Fry's fell behind early with 3 rinks struggling. Fry's were able to claw some ground back on rinks 1 and 2, but a dominating performance from Victoria Park set up the win, the other rinks unable to pull the deficit back, seeing Fry's out of the 4's cups for 2023.

Another close match in the annual Alsop Shield match with Keynsham went the way of the home side. Fry’s held a lead towards the closing ends, but Fry’s let Keynsham back into the game, with Keynsham holding out for the win.

Scores: Clarence Davey Plate: Fry's 48-80 Victoria Park; Rink 1: 16-18; Rink 2: 15-17; Rink 3: 11-18; Rink 4: 6-27

Alsop Shield: Fry’s 78-81 Keynsham; Rink 1: 17-22; Rink 2: 22-19; Rink 3: 27-21; Rink 4: 12-19

With Police and Crime Commissioner

Mark Shelford

We need to let as many people know that such scams are circulating, to ensure we prevent people from falling victim.

Remember if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you have doubts about an email or message, contact the organisation directly before sharing any personal or financial information. Do not use the numbers or addresses in the email – use the details from their official website.

Potholes 'getting worse each year'

POTHOLES in South Gloucestershire are getting “a little bit worse each year” according to council chiefs, due to a lack of funding. The problems get worse through the winter when extra staff are hired to meet the rising demand from bad weather.

South Gloucestershire Council would resurface roads “in an ideal world”, but one new cabinet member said that the government does not pay councils enough money to keep all the roads across the district in good condition.

The problems are particularly affecting unclassified roads, councillors heard during a meeting of the scrutiny commission at South Gloucestershire Council on Wednesday, July 26.

Mark King, head of transport and waste services at the council, said: “We struggle like a lot of other local authorities in the country to maintain our network to a reasonable level. Because we have a declining network, and mainly on our unclassified network, we do suffer with potholes and defects.

“Over the winter is bad obviously, from October through to February that’s when we have our peak period. We have to supplement the gangs and we have additional gangs on site to keep the network safe, and

Singing for good

that’s what we aim to do. In an ideal world, we would resurface those roads and they would be more robust and resilient, but unfortunately we’re not in that situation and it’s a bit of a firefighting exercise.”

Until May this year the council was run by a Conservative administration. But after local elections, a new cabinet has taken power with a coalition of Liberal Democrats and Labour councillors.

Labour Councillor Leigh Ingham, cabinet member for communities and local place, said: “The pothole situation is a symptom of decades of underinvestment by governments across the local road network, which has become particularly acute in the last 13 years. We only spend about a third of what we should be spending to maintain at a standstill the quality of roads we have at the moment.

“But things are getting a little bit worse each year. We do the best we can with what we have available, but to make sure that we’re ready in terms of the climate emergency, development, economic growth and air quality, we need long-term national investment plans to make this work for all areas around the UK, not just South Gloucestershire.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

PEOPLE in the Hanham area are part of a network of choirs that enjoy singing in the afternoon – and raise money for good causes as a bonus!

There are 24 Good Afternoon Choirs across the West Country and already in 2023 they have netted more than £14,000 for good causes. Each choir chooses its charity for the year in January.

The South Gloucestershire Good Afternoon Community Choir is led by Matt Finch and meets every Wednesday at Kingswood Community Church (Great Hall) from 2-4pm. Its concert with guests Oldland Brass at a packed Holy Trinity Church in Kingswood and other fundraising events have raised £802 for the Dementia UK charity so far. More concerts are planned in the run up to Christmas including an open Christmas celebration which will take place this year on Wednesday December 13.

“Following our summer break the choir starts back Singing in the Afternoon on Wednesday September 6. There are no auditions, everyone is welcome – come and meet us, there’s no charge for your first rehearsal,” said Matt.

Many of the choir members will be looking forward to attending the annual Good Afternoon Choir ‘Big Sing’ which will take place in Wells Cathedral on Wednesday November 15. Over 500 singers will take part.

Good Afternoon Choir founder Grenville Jones said: “Last year our total was over £22,000 and with the fantastic support of choirs like the South Gloucestershire members and with Christmas concerts ahead, I am hoping we can reach £24,000 by the end of the year.”

See www.goodafternoonchoir.org for more details.

LONGWELL GREEN LADIES GROUP

Longwell Green Ladies Group, which started out more than 60 years ago as Longwell Green Young Wives Group, are pleased to start their autumn programme on Tuesday September 5. We meet at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green. BS30 9DF (opposite Aldi). We are a friendly group of ladies who like to get together in a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy talks from interesting speakers, tea and chat. New members and visitors always welcome. For further details please contact Maureen on 0117 932 2341 or just come along – we’d love to see you.

n WHAT'S ON

n THE KINGSWOOD PLAYERS present Alan Ayckbourn’s’ “A Snake in the Grass”. Saturday 30th September 2.30pm and 7.30pm Tickets £11 (Concessions £10) Box Office:- 079519827891

TUESDAY

n LIP READING CLASS, 1.303pm at North Common Village Hall, Millers Drive, BS30 8YH. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@yahoo.com

n TUESDAY CLUB a social group meet every Tuesday 1.45-3.45pm at Longwell Green Community Centre

n HANHAM TENNIS CLUB reopens after court repainting and the addition of new lighting. Adult PlayTuesday & Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings, 9.30am - 11 am. Beginners' session coaching - Wednesday 7-8pm. Junior coaching - most early evenings. New players welcome. Fully qualified LTA coaching. See website for details www. hanhamtennisclub.co.uk

MONDAY

n YOGA CLASSES AT HANHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE - Monday evenings 7-8 pm plus a NEW CLASS starting from Monday 03 April 8-9pm. All levels including Beginners welcome. To book your place or for further information please email yogashula@hotmail.com or Tel 07949333548.

n TAI CHI CLASS, Hanham Community Centre, 118-124 High Street BS15 3EJ. Mondays 7-8pm starting May 15. All welcome, £7 per class or £35 for 6 classes. Contact Georgina Green - 07845 748568, georginagreen@mindfultaichi. org.uk

n LONGWELL GREEN LADIES GROUP meet at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green BS30 9DU (opp. Aldi). Please phone Maureen on 0117 9322341

WEDNESDAY

n BARRS COURT PROBUS CLUB Retired and semi-retired Professional and Businessmen: Meet 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 10-12 at Longwell Green Community Centre. Please contact our Membership Secretary, Mick Funnell: 0117 932 4104 or email bcprobusclub@gmail.com to arrange a visit. Website: https:// barrscourtprobus.org/

n BARRS COURT LADIES CLUB: Wives and partners of the Probus club members meet 10-12 on the second Wednesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green. Website: https:// barrscourtprobus.org/

n LONGWELL GREEN PROBUS CLUB meets at Warmley Community Centre on the first and third Wednesday of each month.. New members welcomefor details contact Mike on 07817094147

n HANHAM BRIDGE CLUB

Every Weds 7-10pm at Hanham Community Centre, see www. hanhambridgeclub.co.uk.

n HANHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY: We are a friendly club who welcome photographers of all abilities to share our hobby. Meetings are at 7,30p.m. Wednesday evenings at Hanham Methodist Church, 26 Chapel Rd, Hanham, Bristol BS15 8SD. Visit https://www.hanhamphoto. org.uk or contact Geoff Mallin by email geoffmemsechps@gmail. com.

n RWP BADMINTON CLUB play at Hanham woods Academy 6.307.30 social club, 7.30-9.30 league club. Visitors welcome, please look at the website for more details

n LIP READING CLASS, 10amnoon, Warmley Community Centre. Termtime only. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@yahoo.com

THURSDAY

n ‘STAND UP REACH OUT’ A social group meet every Thursday 2-4pm at Longwell Green Community Centre for different activities.

n TAI CHI MOVEMENTS FOR WELLBEING TMW gentle, nourishing, easy to learn. Wesley Memorial Church Hall, Bryants Hill, BS5 8QS. Thursdays 1.30 from mid-September. £10/class. Trial class free. Contact Helen helenc@tmwtraining.com 07968 361129

n HANHAM ART CLUB We are friendly group that meets on a Thursday evening at Hanham Community Centre 7pm9pm. New members welcome from beginners to the more experienced. For more information contact Hilary on 07880548481 or email tweenuk2003@yahoo.com

n AVON SCALE MODEL

SOCIETY: As a friendly long standing local model making club, we meet at Longwell Green Community Centre on the Third Thursday of every month at 8pm. All subjects in all scales are covered,- aircraft, AFV,s cars, bikes, sci-fi, etc. New members are always welcome. Please phone Ian on 0117 9324053

FRIDAY

n LONGWELL GREEN WI meet on the third Friday of the month at 7.30pm at Longwell Green Community Centre. New members are always welcome. Please email longwellwi@gmail.com or tel. 0117 9864782.

n TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON'S: Weekly beginners Tai Chi & Qi Gong class for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and carers. Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. Fridays (term times) 10.15 – 12.15 including tea / coffee break. Contact: Claire - Claire@Taichibodyandmind. co.uk (07769 857672) or Sarah - buqiworks@gmail.com (07815 662844)

n LONGWELL GREEN SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB, Fridays 13.30-15.30 At Longwell Green Community Centre. Bowls provided For information please E:mail maryjcoles@hotmail.co.uk Mary 0797 2062449 May 0117 9606454

n LONGWELL GREEN COMMUNITY CENTRE QUIZ NIGHT, meets normally last Friday of each month at 8 pm. Bar available. For details please contact Marian.r.summerill@gmail.com, or ring me on 07503989880.

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Birthday Bus passengers enjoy the benefits

OVER the Summer, I’ve been meeting some of the first ‘Birthday Bus’ passengers - West of England residents enjoying free bus travel throughout the month of their Birthday.

You can sign up too at www.birthdaybus. co.uk.

I have to say, people are really buying into the benefits of this scheme.

People like Helen, who works in a chocolate shop. I got chatting to her a few weeks ago and she told me she’s been using her Birthday Bus pass to travel to work when she’d usually take the car.

She said it’s given her a reason to leave her car at home and try the bus, and she’s really loved helping the planet.

Or people like Pauline, who told me Birthday Buses was a really good way to help ease a bit of financial stress during this frightening cost-ofliving crisis.

The verdict is clear, so for those who haven’t already done so, please do apply for your free month of birthday travel at www.birthdaybus. co.uk today, and tell your friends and family too. There’s nothing to lose and lots to gain!

When I was coming up with the idea for Birthday Buses, I knew we needed a plan that

ticked lots of boxes. There are so many crises at the moment, with the cost-of-living crisis and the environmental emergency always at the forefront of my thinking.

Birthday Buses ticks that cost-of-living box, with a whole month of bus travel for free. That’s one twelfth off your annual transport bills.

It’s also about tackling the climate emergency. A huge 44% of our carbon emissions currently come from transport, with fewer than one in ten regional commutes made on public transport. Shockingly, there are 300 preventable premature deaths due to air pollution every year. That’s why we need new ideas to encourage people out of their cars and onto public transport.

Like many regions, our buses are struggling to match pre-pandemic performance. While most people who used to use buses are doing so again, they are travelling less.

Delve in and this makes sense. It reflects changing demand, as working from home practices displace commuting patterns and many face-to-face meetings, like GP appointments, move online. But with people making fewer journeys, there is less fare income coming in. That means cuts, and a downward spiral.

Norris

Other places have tried free travel for a day or a week, but this is a whole month. Why? Because if you try our buses, I think you might like them - maybe even love them. And after a whole month, you might never look back.

We have to try something new.

Just throwing taxpayers money at subsidising buses isn’t sustainable. You spend the money and it runs out. And then you need more.

Instead, I’m determined that we invest to encourage new passengers to use our buses. It is the only long-term solution to grow a thriving bus network.

So to Helen, Pauline and especially to you: many happy returns - and singles!

Longwell Green Community Centre, Shellards Road

Longwell Green BS30 9DU

Monday: 6.00pm & 7.30pm

Tuesday: 9.30am

Tel: Karen 07889408969

North Common Village Hall, 16 Millers Dr, North Common BS30 8XX

Tuesday: 6pm & 7.30pm

Tel: Emma 07773689229

& 7.00pm

Friday: 9.00am

Tel: Kate 07979494964

Hanham Baptist Church, 157A High Street, Hanham BS15 3QY

Saturday: 9.00am

Tel: Erica 07766425725

Metro Mayor Dan

writes for the Voice

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.

For younger readers

NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY easier! Find the summer holiday words in this word search puzzle.

1 3 4

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n KINGSWOOD MEMORIES & HERITAGE MUSEUM

Sir Anthony (“Tony”) Robinson is a well-loved actor, author, broadcaster, comedian and presenter, and lived in Bristol for several years. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Baldrick in the BBC television series Blackadder, but has also appeared in numerous films and television programmes.

In an extremely varied career Sir Tony has presented several historical documentaries, including the Channel 4 series Time Team and The Worst Jobs in History. He has also written a number of books and

Free admission for all: Heritage Open Days

Kingswood Heritage Museum and the adjacent William Champion’s Garden are both open as part of the annual national “Heritage Open Days” from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th September 2023

All visitors are admitted for free on these two days. There is free parking at the Museum, and refreshments will be available in the Museum tea room.

Museum Talk in September

This year’s programme of monthly talks continues at Kingswood Heritage Museum on Wednesday September 13th with a presentation by Tim Mayo on Being a Pantomime Dame.

Admission costs £4, including tea or coffee; doors open at 7pm and the talk commences at 7.30 pm; seats can be reserved by calling 0117 960 5664.

William Champion’s Gardens and Grotto

The remarkable and rare surviving 18th century garden of the industrialist

narrated several audiobooks.

The photograph recalls a visit by Tony to the Grange School in 1990, 23 years before he received a knighthood in the 2013 Queen's Birthday Honours for his public and political service.

Sir Tony is Patron of Kingswood Heritage Museum. If you attended the Grange School and would like to pass on your memories of his visit, Kingswood Heritage Museum would love to hear from you on 0117 960 5664 or by email at: kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com

William Champion is hidden behind his brass mill (now Kingswood Heritage Museum). Grotto and Garden tours take place on the second Sunday of the month until October, meeting at the museum entrance at 2.15 pm. The cost is £5 per person, children free.

Volunteer opportunities

Kingswood Heritage Museum always welcomes new volunteers. The Museum would be particularly interested in hearing from anyone interested in helping with marketing or in managing or helping to run our café. If you are interested in helping the Museum in any capacity, please either: email us at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com or call us on 0117 960 5664

The Friends of William Champion’s Gardens also welcome new volunteers. They hold monthly working parties on the second Sunday of the month from 11-3. For more information please either: email kross@ kingswoodmuseum.org.uk or call Kingswood Heritage Museum on 0117 960 5664.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Email: sales@hanhamandlongwellgreen voice.co.uk

SIR TONY ROBINSON

KINGSWOOD RFC WALKING RUGBY FESTIVAL

WHAT a day it was on Saturday July 15 as Kingswood RFC Titans’ Walking Rugby held their fifth Walking Rugby Festival. Thirty two teams came from far and wide and despite the horrendous weather conditions, everyone who attended would agree it was another successful time.

Congratulations to Gosport and Fareham

Walkers for winning the Fair Play Trophy and to Beccehamian Walkers for winning the Sporting Team Memorial Shield, however all the teams were winners on this day.

£736.00 was raised during the day for our two worthy causes, Macmillan Cancer Support and the Clubhouse development.

A big thank you to local residents who came to support us

Wendy Batten

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MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

WEST’S E-SCOOTERS GET A GREEN MAKEOVER!

E-scooters have become a familiar sight on streets across the West of England with over ten million journeys made since 2020.

But it will be a new era come the Winter when the region’s e-scooters change colour - from coral to green - and are branded WESTscoot. The Mayoral Combined Authority has negotiated a brand-new contract where alongside 4,000 e-scooters, there will, for the first time, be 1,500 e-bikes and 20 e-cargo bikes. Plus there will be new parking racks and plans to address residents’ safety concerns. The deal will bring an estimated £9.7 million to the Mayoral Combined Authority over four years to be reinvested in improving transport for local people.

Passengers across Hanham and Longwell Green are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Mayor Dan Norris said: “I hope WESTscoot will build on the successes of e-scooters in our region, but also start to address the concerns I hear from residents over anti-social riding and dangerous e-scooter parking. These bright green electric e-vehicles are an important part of our net- zero ambitions.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said:

“I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

MORE BUS DRIVERS NEEDED!

Could you be a real community hero? After all that’s what bus drivers are. You take kids to school, nurses to the hospital, office workers into town and elderly folk to the shops. You do it with a smile. You reduce carbon emissions. And you keep our communities working. No wonder bus drivers are the most thanked profession! Cheers Drive!

But we need many, many more drivers to add to the 150 drivers who have gone through the training necessary and qualified since the beginning of the year.

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR DAN NORRIS

New recruits have come from unexpected places, including a local student, Callum, who is working as a driver part-time while completing his studies.

For any Voice readers who might fancy a career change, please to go to www.driveandthrive.co.uk to find out more about becoming a community hero today.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

goodemploymentcharter.co.uk

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised. Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

GREAT AVON WOOD

Winnie-The-Pooh sized woodland comes to West!

Metro Mayor Dan Norris planted the first tree in the brandnew Great Avon Wood.

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

It’s the biggest new forest ever in the region, all made possible thanks to a bumper £700,000 cash injection from the Mayoral Combined Authority.

At over 100 acres it’s even bigger than Winnie the Pooh’s wood! Over the next three years, volunteers will help to plant 40,000 trees over three linked areas, which together will form Great Avon Wood.

Dan Norris said: “More trees please! The West of England will need more woodland areas and green spaces as we aim to reach our ambitious net-zero by 2030 targets locally.

“I’m proud a bumper cash injection from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has helped set the stage for this 100-plus acres of lush woodland which I know so many people in our region are looking forward to exploring and enjoying. I’m proud to back those tree-mendous tree-planting projects which will really make our amazing region an even happier, healthier and more beautiful place to call home”.

Passengers across Hanham and Longwell Green are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said: “I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

BE A COMMUNITY HERO. BECOME A BUS DRIVER

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR DAN NORRIS

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

Mayor Dan Norris helps to plant the first tree in Great Avon Wood

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses