Keynsham Voice March 2023

Calls for action as flood waste blights our river

EFFORTS are being made to clean rubbish and sewage waste from the River Avon in Saltford following the recent flooding.

Volunteers have been clearing the riverbank, while Wessex Water and Bath & North East Somerset Council have said they will play their part to keep the river clean.

Saltford Parish Council wrote to B&NES after being contacted

by residents concerned by the state of the river and its banks.

It said that as B&NES Council is the riparian owner of the riverbank, it is B&NES’s responsibility to tackle the litter, as well as the pollution caused by sunken boats.

The parish council wants B&NES, through its WaterSpace project, to look into measures used by other local authorities

to solve problems resulting from “unhindered, unregulated use and abuse of rivers.”

It also asked B&NES to work with other organisations to improve the river’s safety and cleanliness.

After the Voice approached B&NES Council for comment, Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for planning and

n Turn to Page 2

Park bridge date

A replacement footbridge over the weir at the Memorial Park will be installed this summer.

PAGE 5

Work on schedule

The project to improve Temple Street in Keynsham is on schedule and “good progress is being made”.

PAGE 11

Buses boost

‘Leo’s Heart’ – a book written by the mum of five-yearold Leo Nicholls – is helping Leo settle in with caring pupils and staff at a Keynsham school – full story on Page 4

Keynsham bus services are among those to benefit from a £7 million package of improvements unveiled by the Metro Mayor.

PAGE 18

Tributes to Simon

Tributes have been paid to a “one-of-a-kind” pub landlord following his sudden death.

PAGE 36

Football club blow

The collapse of a proposed merger between two football leagues is proving a costly blow to Keynsham Town FC.

PAGE 41

Rubbish, boat fuel

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n From Page 1 licencing, said: “We agree with Saltford Parish Council that the River Avon is an irreplaceable asset for the region.

“We are working closely with partners such as Wessex Water and the Environment Agency to improve water quality across the Bath and North East Somerset area.

“This includes being an active member of the Bristol Avon Catchment Partnership, which brings together organisations that have an impact on rivers to co-ordinate action such as reducing sediment run-off into the river and reducing the amount of rainwater that enters our drainage system, decreasing the likelihood that sewage overflow systems will be used.”

Councillor Bell added: “There has been a clear increase in the amount of litter on the riverside banks following the flooding in January.

“The WaterSpace volunteers, supported by B&NES and the Canal and Rivers Trust, are working hard to clear litter through the centre of Bath and are planning to address the areas further downstream from March.

“We would welcome engagement with parish and town councils along the whole of the river corridor to ensure we can improve this valuable asset for all residents.”

Meanwhile, Wessex Water said it would act after local angler Charles Halliday told the Voice he had found used sanitary towels and wet wipes strewn along the riverbank in Saltford.

When he phoned Wessex

Water, he was told to contact the Environment Agency and that the waste was not the water company’s responsibility.

But a Wessex Water spokesperson has since told the Voice: “We’ve arranged for a team to help clear up the area, including collecting a large amount of plastic litter and other items from the river banks that are unrelated to the sewer network.”

Charles, a fishing coach with Fishwish, said: “Wessex claimed that no one else had logged a call with them. We seem to have become blind to litter and pollution. Report it to them and the Environment Agency using the what3words location so there can be no deliberate confusion about the exact locations.

“The clean-up above the surface is great news, but we must take equal interest in what lies beneath the surface too.”

The Wessex Water spokesperson added: “Lots of litter and debris will make its way to the river following wet weather, including from private

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Fishing coach Charles Halliday reported sewage waste along the banks of the River Avon

and sewage waste take toll on river

sewerage systems and potentially the public sewerage network, if items have been improperly flushed down toilets.

“Storm overflows sometimes operate automatically during heavy rainfall, releasing mostly surface water into the river to protect homes from flooding, and we’re spending £3 million every month on schemes to reduce how often this happens.”

An Environment Agency spokesperson told the Voice it had been contacted by a number of local people about the sewage waste.

“The EA does have enforcement powers over the use of storm overflows and, where possible, will trace any sewagerelated waste back to the outfall and take appropriate action.

“On this occasion, the extreme weather conditions in January and the length of time that has passed means there

are multiple potential sources of this waste, including private sewage treatment works and septic tanks, that would make identification of the source practically impossible.”

The spokesperson added: “Storm overflows are a necessary part of the current sewerage network. They act as relief valves which prevent the system from overloading during high rainfall which would otherwise result in sewage flooding homes, roads and open spaces.

“Storm overflows are permitted to discharge during and following storm conditions because the waters they are discharging to will be full and fast flowing. This ensures that there is enough dilution to minimise the environmental impact.

“Despite this, we know that sewage pollution can still be devastating to human health,

local biodiversity and our environment.

“Storm overflows must only be used under strict permitted conditions that control their environmental impact.

“Overflows should be screened to prevent solids and

other sewage-related waste from entering the environment. If this does occur, it should be reported to the water company. Otherwise responsibility for the clear-up will lie with the landowner.”

l Saltford’s community clean-up effort praised: Page 21

Sunken boats and strewn litter in the aftermath of January’s flooding Photos: Saltford Parish Council

Leo’s caring classmates show their support

A KEYNSHAM boy who had open-heart surgery as a newborn baby is settling in well at schoolwith help from a book written by his mum.

Five-year-old Leo Nicholls started at Chandag Infants School last September.

His mum Aimee wrote the book, called Leo’s Heart, initially for Leo but thought it would be a great way to help his new classmates understand his circumstances.

She said that before Leo started school, she was worried about him having to show his scar when he got changed for PE.

“He has become more aware of it and knows that not everyone has a scar now.

“His teacher asked if we would like Leo to take the book into school, and they sat down and read it - and then with no one asking him, Leo stood up and showed everyone his scar.

“He has fully embraced it now. His friends are so kind to him.”

A school spokesperson said: “We shared the book with the class, and they had questions for Leo. They were really caring and often make little comments about him needing to stop if he does too much running.”

The school is now supporting the family’s fundraising efforts in

aid of the Heart Heroes charity.

Staff and families were due to walk around Kelston Roundhill wearing red on Sunday February 27, as well as wearing red to school the following day.

Aimee said: “When I told the other mums what the school were planning, the parents were all so supportive of both Leo and the charity. It’s honestly amazing just knowing for sure that we picked the right school. The teachers and the staff are amazing.”

Each month, Leo attends a Heart Heroes group called ‘I Can’, where children aged five to 11 come together to do activities such as baking, street dancing, mediating, acting and practising magic tricks.

The charity also funds visits to the zoo, Easter egg hunts, and parties at Halloween and Christmas.

Aimee said: “It’s really lovely to meet families who have walked the same path, as not many people can understand

Care in your own h

Care in your own home

all the challenges we continue to face. The kids also benefit so much, as they can compare scars and feel less alone.”

Leo was born with four heart conditions and underwent openheart surgery when he was just seven days old. As well as the scar and breathlessness, Leo’s speech is affected by vocal cord palsy that resulted from the operation. He faces the prospect of further valve replacement surgery as he gets older until he is fully grown.

Aimee said: “Leo’s doing really well. We had a cardiology appointment in December and we were told that as long as he has stopped growing for a while - most kids will now slow down between five and nine - then he should get away with not needing open-heart surgery again until he starts growing again - so a few more years hopefully.”

l Aimee’s book is available from the Heart Heroes website. To buy a copy, visit https://heartheroes. co.uk/ and click on ‘shop’.

Leo Nicholls and his classmates are wearing red to raise money

Park’s new bridge to open this summer

A REPLACEMENT footbridge over the weir in Keynsham Memorial Park will be installed this summer as part of a range of improvements to the area.

Bath & North East Somerset Council was due to start work on February 27 to remove the existing bridge after planning applications for the demolition and new superstructure were approved.

Signs have gone up at the park to notify residents and visitors of the works. The smaller children’s play park at Bath Hill was due to close from February 27 and the entrance at Avon Mill Lane is also being closed.

The demolition is due to be completed in mid-April before the new bridge is installed ahead of opening in the summer.

The bridge will be constructed off-site before being built on the existing supports and is made of a polymer that is resilient to damp river environments, providing longevity. A contractor to install the bridge was due to be appointed in early March.

The existing bridge was closed to the public in October 2019 when it was found to be unsafe, due to deterioration of timber beams.

Alongside calls for a new bridge, a public survey about Keynsham Memorial Park

carried out by B&NES Council last spring also identified flooding under Echo Bridge as a high priority for improvement at the park. Works to address the issue will start this year.

Residents and visitors also expressed interest for an indoor or covered café space, improved natural landscape and better play facilities for all ages. These will be explored as long-term improvements during 2023 and 2024.

The Keynsham Memorial Park Discovery and Understanding Survey showed the top five reasons for using the park were enjoying nature, exercise, a place to meet others, children’s play and to have lunch or a picnic.

Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for neighbourhood services, said: “The installation of the new bridge is the first step in a range of improvements for Keynsham Memorial Park over the next two years.

“We know that it has been inconvenient for people while the existing bridge has been closed, so it’s excellent news that we can now go ahead and replace this important link in the pedestrian route around the park.

“During the first few weeks of work there will be some disruption as the site is set up and materials are delivered, so we are grateful for your patience while the works are carried out.

“Thank you to the residents and visitors who responded to our survey to let us know how you think the park can be enhanced for the future. We are acting on the top priorities and will begin work on a solution to the flooding under Echo Bridge this year.”

The schedule of works is subject to any flooding of the River Chew and conditions remaining safe for contractors.

Councillor Andy Wait, chair of Keynsham Town Council, said: “I am aware of the large amount of work that has gone on to get to this point and would like to thank the users of Memorial Park for their patience whilst the bridge was out of action.”

The new bridge planned for the park

Safety concerns remain over High Street falls

A COUNCILLOR is calling for urgent measures to improve safety in Keynsham High Street, a year after its redevelopment.

Alan Hale wants Bath & North East Somerset Council to take “immediate action” to stop pedestrians tripping in the street.

Councillor Hale, who represents Keynsham South on B&NES, says he has reported “countless injuries” to the council, which told him that all reports were being logged as part of an ongoing review.

But he said: “Despite much correspondence, there has been no positive action, save to tell me they are monitoring the situation. That was in September of last year and since then there have been many more casualties.

“The dangers presented by the contraflow cycle lane were made clear almost immediately after injuries were reported within the first week of it being introduced.

Family and friends ride in memory of caring Marc

“Since then, accidents have continued at an alarming rate, with an estimation of an average of one a week. Sadly, many have been grave and have included significant bone fractures, loss of teeth, facial injuries, dislocations and serious bruising.”

He added: “Perhaps the legal action for damages which is pending from some of the casualties might open their eyes and ears.”

As reported in December’s Voice, B&NES Council said the number of falls in the High Street had dropped significantly since the cycle lane was painted red following a safety audit.

Housing and regeneration director Simon Martin said at the time: “We had a number of unfortunate accidents and incidents post-scheme opening. The number of those has dramatically reduced, despite some of the social media claims that are going on.”

BRISTOL’S biggest bike ride, the Tour de Bristol, returns on Saturday April 15 when hundreds of cyclists will raise funds for local charity St Peter’s Hospice.

Cyclists of all abilities are catered for, with routes starting from UWE’s Frenchay campus, weaving around the Gloucestershire countryside, covering distances of 40k, 65k and 100k.

Denise Davies from Westbury-on-Trym has signed up to ride the 40k distance this year, along with a team of more than 16 family and friends.

They are all riding in memory of Denise’s husband Marc, pictured above,who received care from the hospice when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Denise said: “Before he became ill, Marc had raised money for the hospice when running full and half marathons.

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This is the year that Marc would have turned 60 and it will also be five years since he died, so I want to do something special in memory of him.”

Marc was 54 when, completely out of the blue, he was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma tumour. He attended the day hospice at Brentry, where he had access to clinical therapies and spent time with other people of the same age in a similar situation to him.

Towards the end of Marc’s life, Hospice at Home nurses played a supportive role in his care.

St Peter’s Hospice provides counselling after a family member has died, something that was vital to help Denise through difficult days.

To register for the bike ride, visit www.tourdebristol.co.uk

How papermaking flowed from our rivers

It was in 1927 that E S & A Robinson took over the old brass mill premises on Avon Mill Lane in Keynsham. In 1933 they completed a modern factory on the site incorporating machinery to manufacture paper in continuous lengths to a width of 162 inches (4.1m). This factory continued in production, with different owners, until 1995.

However, papermaking in this area goes back many centuries. After originating in China, the craft slowly spread westwards, reaching Kent in 1588. The first site in the West Country was set up at Wookey Hole by 1610.

At this period, English paper was made from linen rags softened in water to pulp or “stuff” by water-powered mallets, similar to those of the fullers’ stocks, used in local mills as a stage in woollen cloth-making. With this familiar technology, part of Chewton Keynsham mill, formerly used for fulling, had been adapted to make paper by the 1690s, whilst the rest of the building still housed a grist (or corn) mill. This is the earliest known paper mill in the Bristol region.

A surviving inventory from this date lists 15 hammers with iron heads, and three “throwes”, each plated at the bottom. These were troughs

in which the material was pulped, presumably each having five hammers.

There was also one vat from which “they take the paper out with their moulds.” The moulds were sieves used to take up a layer of prepared “stuff”, which was drained and turned over on a layer of felt. Another felt was placed over it and the operation repeated. Multiple layers of stuff and felts were eventually pressed free of water, and the sheets of stuff dried to form paper.

Chewton Mill was leased for 99 years to Nicholas Falx. The family seem to have struggled, for by 1695 only Mrs Falx was paying land tax and a few years later two Falx children were sent to the hemp mills under poor law rules.

Another papermaker, John Browne, was buried at Keynsham in 1698. Later, and up to 1727, land tax there was assessed to a Mr Ross, who was apparently still papermaking in 1749, when the premises and stock, reported to be valued at £500, were completely destroyed by fire - a particularly common fate for paper mills.

This did not end papermaking in the area. A map published in 1742 shows Saltford paper mill, situated at the lower mill site in Saltford. Adjacent to this was the Jolly Sailor Inn, then also the mill house. In 1765, this was

occupied by Francis Hunt, who advertised that his apprentice, Robert Pain, had absconded. Kind treatment was promised if he returned immediately and prosecution was threatened if any other papermakers provided employment for him. The outcome was not reported.

The method of papermaking at Saltford had probably been improved compared with that at Chewton Keynsham. A “Hollander”, or beater, was now widely used as this proved far more effective in producing the stuff. Rags in a waterfilled vat were shredded by a revolving drum set with knives meshing with projections in the vat itself.

By then there were many small watermills operating using this technology in the Bristol area and the Avon Valley. They became uneconomic when large continuous papermaking was developed in the early 19th century.

In 1799 Saltford papermill still existed, owned by a Mr Whittingham: we don’t know exactly when paper manufacture stopped. Early in the next century the premises became a leather mill, bringing to an end another small-scale industry based on the power from our local rivers.

Richard Dyson

The papermaking hammers at Chewton may have looked like this The site of Chewton Mill today – the buildings are not original

Foodbank’s emergency aid in cost-of-living crisis

KEYNSHAM Foodbank has been providing emergency food parcels to local people as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

Trustee Lesley Jones said: “We are very thankful to all our donors in Keynsham and Saltford who have given so much food and other items, such as toiletries, cleaning items and pet food through the drop-off boxes in Tesco’s and Waitrose.

“In 2022, 7,261 kgs of items have been provided through Tesco and 7,016 kgs of items from Waitrose, which is an amazing total, and all these items will find their way to local people in need.”

Anyone needing support can visit https://keynsham. foodbank.org.uk and click on ‘how to get help’. The website has links to further support and advice, and volunteers at the distribution centres in Keynsham and Saltford offer a cup of tea and a listening ear.

The foodbank, a charity

linked to the Trussell Trust, is run entirely by volunteers and has some key posts to fill.

It is seeking recruits to the trustee board, which makes strategic decisions that improve access to support for local people. It is also seeking volunteers to the posts of project manager and admin manager, whose tasks include co-ordinating the volunteer teams and completing health and safety checks.

Anyone who feels they have the right skills to offer is asked to email the foodbank at info@ keynsham.foodbank.org.uk.

Lesley said: “The local community has always been very generous in the support it shows to Keynsham Foodbank and the work of the charity.

“On behalf the volunteer team, a big thank-you for the ongoing generosity we receive. If you think you can help us, or you need our help, please get in touch.”

Airport expansion

THERE has been outcry across local government after the High Court ruled that Bristol Airport could expand.

North Somerset Council refused planning permission for the airport to expand in 2020, but the decision was overturned by the Planning Inspectorate.

Campaign group Bristol Airport Action Network (BAAN) appealed, with the hearing taking place in Bristol in November — but on January 31, the High Court handed down their judgement that the expansion could go ahead.

Steve Bridger, leader of North Somerset Council, took to Twitter to say he stood by his decision to vote against the airport’s expansion.

Bath MP Wera Hobhouse slammed the decision, saying: “This ruling ignores the climate emergency and undermines democratic decision-making.”

Those campaigning against the expansion include Keynsham Extinction Rebellion, who have held public meetings to update

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town residents’ on their battle.

The West of England’s Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “Mr Justice Lane confirmed that the expansion will impact the environment but, as we know, government policy gives no consideration to the combined impact of airport emissions.

“This must change. We are all seeing the devastating effects of climate change with floods in Keynsham a few weeks ago and record-breaking temperatures this summer.”

But Bristol Airport say that sustainability is part of its expansion plans and it wants to be net zero by 2030.

CEO David Lees said: “The decision is excellent news for our region’s economy, allowing us to create up to 5,000 new jobs, deliver more international destinations for the South West and South Wales, and invest hundreds of millions of pounds improving the customer experience.”

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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ruling is ‘catastrophic for the planet’

Rich Prior, of Keynsham Extinction Rebellion, gives his reaction to the ruling to allow Bristol Airport to expand.

On Tuesday January 31, the devasting news was announced that the High Court appeal to stop the expansion of Bristol Airport had failed.

Keynsham XR, as well as so many others, were outraged. The decision is undemocratic, with so much opposition from local people, local authorities, WECA (West of England Combined Authority) and local MPs.

It is catastrophic news for the planet. Flying by the relatively few has such significant impact on our planet and the climate catastrophe, the recent flooding in Keynsham being a relatively insignificant example.

It is concerning that the airport wish to double the number of annual flights, from 10 million to 20 million. In the last year they flew 7.6 million and even at their

peak pre-Covid hadn’t reached anywhere near 10 million, so the airport is clearly big enough.

Also, it gives the green light to about 20 other regional airports that also want to expand.

It is difficult to understand how the airport get away with their dishonest statements regarding their carbon neutrality, when it does not take into account the emissions of planes flying from the airport or the car journeys driving to it.

It is ironic that they are keen to increase the number of car journeys to the airport through our minor roads, with

no encouragement to use public transport – it is obvious that they make their profits from exorbitant car parking fees.

They also make exaggerated claims regarding increasing the number of jobs. They have a very poor record on this over previous years when they have expanded. The airport’s ‘masterplan’ promised 1,200 new jobs by 2015. The airport’s own figures show that by 2015 there were only an additional 165 jobs.

They make false claims too about it being good for local business. Far more people fly out of the airport to spend billions

of pounds abroad than fly in to support the local economy and local tourism.

It is very unfortunate that the law seems not to support local democracy.

The Government has stood aside and not intervened, despite the Paris agreement and Parliament’s Climate Change Committee (CCC).

It is left to the voluntary work of those of us that are trying to protect the planet, including the awesome BAAN (Bristol Airport Action Network). Happily, they have decided to issue an application to the Court of Appeal, because science is on our side and local people don’t want this expansion.

The public again showed their support, and in three days managed to raise the initial funds to lodge the appeal.

Keynsham XR are determined to rally with the local community to ensure the expansion is thwarted. The fight continues.

Are you interested in being a councillor?

IF you’re considering standing as a candidate in the forthcoming local elections, here is some guidance from Keynsham Town Council, as well as ‘day in the life’ reflections from three of its members.

WITH elections coming up on May 4, you may be considering putting yourself forward to be part of the next Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council or Keynsham Town Council. Councillors are an integral part of running the local government and work hard on behalf of the communities and residents they represent. To stand as a candidate you must: l be at least 18 years old

I’m Andy Wait (Lib Dem)

and I’ve been a Keynsham town councillor for 16 years, in two periods, of 12 years and currently four years. I was chairman from 2003 to 2006 and have also held the role for the past four years. Alongside this, for the past four years I’ve worked as a B&NES councillor for Keynsham East.

My days normally start at 7am so I can go through emails. This helps me get on top of things and respond to my council colleagues, council staff and residents. I find it helpful doing council work for both Keynsham Town Council and B&NES as it normally means I’m up-to-date on most things that are going on in or around the town.

I’m also the chair of a few interest groups, such as Fox and Hounds Lane Nature Reserve Group. I am lead mentor of KeynshamNow, the youth council which I started in 2014.

My days are very varied, with meetings during the day and into the evening, which I enjoy as each day is different. Some of my interests naturally lie with environment and sustainability. I try to cycle as much as I can and was recently involved in my first litter pick of the year with KeynshamNow.

It might all sound quite busy but I enjoy it and love working with the people of Keynsham to try to improve the town in any way I can. I think that being a town councillor is ‘an elastic job’; it can be as much or as little as you like. But I find the more I do, the more satisfaction I get out of it.

What I would say to anyone considering becoming a town councillor in the upcoming elections is: don’t worry about the politics. There is currently very little party politics in the council chamber. It does give you the chance to make a difference and be responsible for positive changes.

It will be a steep learning curve at first, but council staff will be a great help if you have questions. Being a town councillor is about helping individuals and groups to try to make a positive difference. Representing my community is one of the best things I have ever done.

l be a British citizen, an eligible Commonwealth citizen or a citizen of any member state of the European Union, and l meet at least one of the following four qualifications:

l You are, and will continue to be, registered as a local government elector for the parish in which you wish to stand from the day of your nomination onwards.

l You have occupied as owner or tenant any land or other premises in the parish area during the whole of the 12 months before the day of your nomination and the day of election.

l Your main or only place of work during

I’m Caitlin Brennan (Lib Dem) and I’ve been a Keynsham town councillor for the past four years, representing Keynsham East.

When I was younger I I was a part of KeynshamNow, a group dedicated to getting the voice of Keynsham’s young people heard by the town’s decision-makers.

Andy Wait, who was part of that group, encouraged me to become a town councillor. I was uncertain at first, but running for town council has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I absolutely love Keynsham, and as a councillor I can work to help the community I love.

In my day-to-day role, I am a nail technician and manage a salon in Staple Hill as well as running my own nail salon here in Keynsham. So, it’s busy! I have to carefully plan out my workdays and the time spent on council work to ensure I can get it all done.

Many people don’t realise that being a town councillor is a voluntary role, but everyone on the council wants to make Keynsham the best place possible to live and work. Sometimes priorities clash, but the councillor role is quite flexible so it can be as little or as much as you want it to be.

I personally love all the events in Keynsham – winter festival, music festival and the new spring show – and love to get involved in the planning and execution of the events, working closely with the staff at the town council offices.

If there was one thing I could say to anyone considering becoming a councillor during the next elections, it would be: “If you don’t do something, things aren’t going to change. So if you want things to change, you need to make it happen.”

the 12 months prior to the day of your nomination and the day of election has been in the parish area.

l You have lived in the parish area or within three miles of it during the whole of the 12 months before the day of your nomination and the day of election.

Should you choose to become a nominated candidate for either of the councils, please email elections@bathnes.gov.uk to receive a nomination pack. These will be available from March 21 until April 4 at 3pm. A completed set of nomination papers will need to be taken personally to the Guildhall, Bath, BA1 5AW by 3pm on April 4.

I’m Deb Cooper, and I’ve been a Keynsham town councillor for the past four years, representing Keynsham North. I stood as an Independent, as I felt it was important for me to be able to vote as a Keynsham resident, without representing a political party.

I am balancing life as a councillor with working full-time, which has its moments! Luckily I am a freelance and work from home, so I’m able to be a little flexible with my time and can visit the town council office when I need to. I also co-run Keynsham Repair Café every month.

Before I came to Keynsham seven years ago, I’d never experienced such a lovely community of people. I felt blessed to be able to come and live here, and wanted to make some kind of contribution, which is what drove me to apply to be a councillor.

I am chair of the town council’s personnel committee, and over the last few years I have been helping to restructure and recruit the team. It’s been so rewarding to see the evolution of an incredibly effective and cohesive, happy team.

I am also currently chair of the finance and policy committee, which covers another important area of work – looking after the purse-strings! My own interest in building and architecture are supported by being on the planning committee, which is always interesting.

I love our regular events – the music festival is incredible, our winter festival shines out every year – and the work being put in by groups such as our cultural committee and Keynsham in Bloom, to provide various events throughout the year, is fantastic.

Being a town councillor can be as quiet or as busy as you want it to be – and every day brings something new. But the best thing about it is being able to work with a group of amazing local people who are all committed to achieving the best for Keynsham. I have found it enriches my life and brings me into contact with people who inspire me.

‘Good progress’ on Temple St project

THE project to improve Temple Street in Keynsham is on schedule and “good progress is being made”, says the team behind the scheme.

Work came to temporary halt when a culvert was exposed during excavations but has since resumed.

A project update from Bath & North East Somerset Council states: “We want to reassure businesses, landlords and residents that pauses in onsite work due to in-ground findings are to be expected while design solutions are agreed on.”

The parking suspension remains in place across the area, and the project team will work with contractors to release parking on an ad-hoc basis as works allow.

Temporary barriers to the exit of the access lane (between the old fire station and the Riverside North flat block) remain in place as a safety measure linked to the traffic management of Temple Street. Access to the area behind

the barriers is maintained and there is a turning area.

The civic centre car park, leisure centre, disabled parking and service area loading are still accessible. Arrangements have been made with local businesses for access to be provided for large delivery vehicles and “continue to remain open to future discussions”.

The Temple Street Improvement Project is part of

Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone Programme.

The project – expected to be finished in May this year – is funded by Historic England with match funding from Bath & North East Somerset Council and Keynsham Town Council.

As part of the project, a new community arts and local business space has opened at 2 River Terrace, next to the leisure centre. Those attending

the launch event at Keynsham MakeSpace shared ideas for what they would like to do at the venue. Pilot activities will include creative workshops for young people and families over the spring and summer.

Also linked to the project is a local business directory that can be viewed at the ‘DoVisit-Shop-Eat’ link on the HiKeynsham website – visit www.hikeynsham.co.uk

The MakeSpace community arts and local business venue. Right, traffic control in Temple Street

Braving the mud for a stroll along the river

THE popularity of Keynsham Walkers are Welcome continues unabated.

The last walk on Sunday February 19 was a walk back from Crews Hole in Conham. A minibus had been booked to take us there but this was over subscribed, with people turning up on spec and having to be turned away.

Some members took walkers to the start point in their cars, while another five met us at Conham. So it was a goodly number that were at the start point.

Three weeks prior to this, the entire length of the walk was under water due to the flooding, so a recce was made a week before to check on conditions. These were just about acceptable, although the route was very muddy in parts.

Dave Johnson, the original walk leader, had to cry off at the last minute, so Derek Butler kindly stepped in to take charge of operations.

To our advantage, the sun was shining as we set off, and as the walk progressed, conditions under foot had improved. This is a very

scenic walk along the banks of the River Avon, and there was plenty of bird life to be spotted en route. A refreshment stop was made at the Lock & Weir, where we were made very welcome. It was about two and a half hours later that we arrived back in Keynsham, slightly

a New

mud-spattered but happy.

The next walk is on Sunday March 12 at 10am, meeting at the Memorial Park gates to catch the bus to Saltford for a circular walk. This will take us along another section of the River Avon to Kelston Mills, up to Kelston, before

crossing the fields back to Saltford for a refreshment stop. This is approximately four miles.

Those not wishing to use the bus can meet us in Saltford. Everyone is welcome, including well-behaved dogs and children, and it’s free.

Flexible working to fit around you and your commitments.

A commitment to your development and wellbeing – receive training and support to equip you with the skills you need to succeed.

Access to a range of full NHS benefits (including generous holiday allowance and pension).

We’re here to support you - Health and wellbeing for our colleagues is at the forefront of everything we do.

n KEYNSHAM WALKERS ARE WELCOME

Why not make High Street traffic-free, too?

DEMOCRACY appears not to be dead in Queen Charlton. In response to repeated bleating about rat running (on a legitimate public highway), the residents have convinced BANES to introduce a trial (read “permanent” now it’s in place) cycle and pedestrian route.

I’m sure this benefits dozens of well-heeled, vocal and influential constituents. Maybe our vote, I mean voice, does have the power to make a change for good.

Let’s “temporarily” close other roads to vehicles in, say, Chewton, Stockwood Lane, or even better, the debacle in our own High Street.

Improvement to the latter would benefit thousands of local residents, reducing congestion, air pollution and trip hazards, amongst others.

Unless, of course, Keynsham Town Council claim plausible deniability and avoid representing the whole population of Keynsham - as they appeared to do during the consultation process for the High Street. BANES and Keynsham TC take heed and sort the farce out on our High Street, please!

There are so many reasonable and practical options to reduce vehicle flow, maintain access, and allow pedestrians and cyclists to be prioritised to enjoy an unfettered shopping experience and community engagement.

Maybe it could give our local economy a small boost it needs and possibly even recoup some of the profligate use of council revenues.

Dare I now exercise my own opinion and suggest using some imagination to make the 200m stretch of High Street an attractive, artistic, inclusive, engaging, fun, colourful example of public

amenity and open space. This is not ridiculous or pie-in-the-sky thinking, but maybe I need to get back in my box, or just call someone in Queen Charlton to sort it out.

James Carrick, Keynsham

Intolerable gap in law on inheritance

IT is against public policy for a person who has been convicted of the murder or manslaughter of another person to inherit that person’s estate. So, it would be morally wrong for a husband to inherit his wife’s estate after he has been convicted murdering her.

This is recognised by section 1 of the Forfeiture Act 1982, which defines the forfeiture rule as ‘the rule of public policy which in certain circumstances precludes a person who has unlawfully killed another from acquiring a benefit in consequence of the killing.’

But there is a gap in the law where a person is subject to domestic abuse and commits suicide. For example, a husband abuses his wife both verbally and physically and the wife commits suicide. A manslaughter conviction is possible if it can be shown the suicide was triggered by a physical

assault which was the culmination of a course of abusive conduct by the husband, and the final assault played a significant part in causing the wife to commit suicide, and the wife had a fragile and vulnerable personality.

This is difficult to prove and if it cannot be proved the forfeiture rule does not apply, and the husband will inherit the wife’s estate.

This is intolerable. This gap in the law needs to be filled. Readers should contact Mr Rees-Mogg and ask him to use his influence to get the law changed.

Simon Parsons, Keynsham

Emergency planners’ magnificent response

THE recent heavy downpours brought alarm to residents living close to the rivers in our area. The Bath & North East Somerset Council emergency planners responded magnificently.

Gutters and gullies are cleared regularly by the council but, even so, they were cleared once again overnight at known flooding trouble spots.

Full information and contact details for the key agencies were placed on the B&NES website and

communicated to the public and village representatives.

Places of safety where residents could go in an emergency were placed on stand-by. Flood gates were opened and the flood plains did their job. There was no loss of life and minimal damage to residential property.

Our thanks to the B&NES emergency team, B&NES staff, other agencies, the volunteers in every village and the general public.

Cllr Duncan Hounsell, B&NES (Saltford ward) Alison Streatfeild-James, prospective Lib Dem local candidate

Thank you for giving my friend a lift

THIS letter is rather overdue, but I would like you to publish my grateful thanks to the very kind gentleman who gave my friend a lift home from Temple House practice several weeks ago.

Unfortunately, the appointment was late so we missed the only bus to get him home, now that the buses only run every two hours, and it is practically impossible to get a taxi at certain times.

Mrs Breen, Keynsham

Golfers’ sadness

In your February issue, you referenced myself, alongside Andy Wait and Alex Beaumont, as George Lucas in the article about the Somerdale Pavilion golf course closing. I’m afraid I’m not that famous and my actual surname is Leach. Other than that I thought it was a good article, albeit the outcome was of course disappointing.

George Leach

Do the basics to help beat the burglars

At this time of year we generally see growth in our crime trends, and the trends that are obviously on the rise at the moment are burglaries and thefts from vehicles.

I would like to remind everyone to remain vigilant about their own security. That being said, it is usually failing to follow the most basic of precautions that causes problems, such as not checking that doors and windows to prevent easy access to properties.

Unless a burglar is targeting an address for a specific item, it is rare for them to risk making a noise by causing damage to gain entry. As well as keeping groundfloor doors and windows locked, you should use and maintain any CCTV systems / ring doorbell and security lights that you have.

Join any local Neighbourhood Watch schemes that are running. These can keep you up to date on crime and policing issues in

with PC James Evans

your area. They are also a great way for you to share information about suspicious people hanging around the area paying attention to houses/ garages etc.

Commercial burglaries generally follow different methods, with locations being targeted for specific items. Offenders usually have a knowledge of the buildings and are prepared to force an entry.

If you believe your property might be targeted, please contact us, as we have a dedicated officer who can advise on the suitability of any security

measures you have in place and on products that might enhance them. We can be contacted through the neighbourhood pages of the Avon and Somerset Police website.

Regarding thefts from vehicles, the most basic precaution is to check you have locked your car when you leave it. If you have to park on the street, try to do so by a streetlamp. If you have a driveway, have the vehicle covered by a security light and CCTV system. Avoid leaving items on display in your vehicle, including small amounts of spare change. We have seen reports of hundreds of pounds worth of damage being caused for the theft of just a few coins.

n We have seen a rise in reports of poor parking in and around Keynsham, with vehicles being left within junctions, in cycle lanes and even the controlled areas of pedestrian crossings

(zigzag lines). People have highlighted instances of drivers parking on Durley Hill in Keynsham close to the football and rugby club in the cycle lane and on the pavement, blocking its use for pedestrians.

We will be attending this location and enforcing the traffic regulations with fixed penalty notices for people parking in the cycle lane. I would suggest that if you are visiting this area, you should find an alternative location to leave your car. If you need a reminder of what is a suitable location to park, please check the Highway Code, which you can find online.

n We were saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Simon Sherwell, the landlord of The Old Bank pub on the High Street. I knew Simon for a number of years and was shocked by the news of his death. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

n Tributes to Simon: Page 36

tourOnlinevirtual

Free slow cookers help families cut fuel bills

THANKS to a grant from the Bath and West Community Energy Fund, families in Keynsham are receiving free slow cookers and energy debt advice.

Keynsham Community Energy (KCE) is collaborating with Keynsham Children’s Centre and the Centre for Sustainable Energy to help families cut their energy bills and CO2 emissions, eat more healthily and keep their homes warm.

KCE have been giving away slow cookers at FOODClub sessions in February. Slow cooker meal tasters, a recipe booklet and store cupboard ingredient packs are also available free for people to take home.

During the FOODClub sessions, volunteers from KCE are on hand to give away window and door draught-proofing, blankets and wheaty bags, as well as slow cookers. They’re working alongside an energy

Put your best to the test for a Spring Show trophy

advice expert from the Centre for Sustainable Energy, who can give professional advice to people struggling to pay their bills.

Liz Barling from Keynsham Community Energy said: “With the cost of living going through the roof, families in Keynsham are having to make the stark choice between heating and eating.

“Slow cookers help cut energy bills as well as reducing CO2 emissions.”

Jed Parsons of Keynsham Children’s Centre said: “Families who come to our FoodCLUB have weekly access to healthy, fresh food at affordable prices. Providing a slow cooker will help families cook nutritious food without breaking the bank.”

Keynsham Community Energy’s slow cooker recipe booklet is available to download on their website at www. keynshamcommunityenergy. org.uk/news

I love that this caring role fits around childcare

HAVE you ever been told your Victoria sponge is the best? Or you have the magic touch when it comes to growing flowers in your garden?

On Saturday March 25, Keynsham Town Council will hold its inaugural Spring Show, featuring over 50 classes across horticulture, arts & handicrafts, and cookery, as well as a children’s category, and will give Keynsham residents the opportunity to put their ‘very best’ to the test.

The entry form is now available, with entries due on the day of the show so you have time to perfect your submission.

“There are trophies to be won based on points awarded in each class of the categories,” said Katherine Sears, deputy town clerk. “Enter more classes to earn more points for a chance to win one of the first ever Spring Show trophies.”

The show at the Scout HQ in Ashton Way will be opened by the winner of the 2021 Great British Bake Off, Giuseppe Dell’Anno (pictured) who will also judge the cookery section. There will also be a series of workshops for families to enjoy, including ‘make your own’ pottery, flower arranging, crafting, and cookie and cupcake decorating.

The full schedule, show rules and top tips can be found on Keynsham Town Council’s website www.Keynsham-tc.gov.uk or visit the council offices (15-17 Temple Street, BS31 1HF) to collect a schedule.

The show committee would like to thank all businesses and traders who have sponsored the event.

For more information, please contact Katherine Sears on 0117 9868683 or deputytownclerk@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk

with

This old photograph is easy to date, with the postmen posing to celebrate Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee.

It shows Keynsham’s Post and Telegraph Office at 37 High Street, the building it occupied from some date before 1875 until 1923, when it moved to No 2 High Street, opposite St John’s Church.

The frontage is still substantially the same, although the ground floor is now divided into two retail premises, with Smart Computers being the larger one.

On the extreme left of the picture can be seen the village pump; at one time this space was known as Pump Square.

The range of activities our Beaver Scouts take part in is extensive. While it may not have snowed since Christmas, K2 Beaver colony had a great trip to the Mendip Adventure Centre undertaking a full evening of tobogganing.

They had a great time letting off steam and learning how to try and control a toboggan.

From the adventure of the dry ski slope to the world of digital - the Beavers went about obtaining their Digital Maker badge with such intensity that many leaders had not realised that Beaver knew so much about computers!

Great fun indoors and out for busy Beavers

Beaver Scouts earning their Digital Maker badge and enjoying an evening of tobogganing at the Mendip Adventure Centre

Explaining how they work, writing instructions for someone learning and making a graphic was all part of the challenge.

l Why not book in and support the Scout group’s spring clay shoot at the Chelwood campsite on March 25 and 26?

Bookings are now being taken from individuals or groups of up to 10 people. It is excellent value and great fun, with no previous experience required and all equipment supplied. Each slot lasts around two hours.

If you want to know more or book a slot for the Saturday or Sunday, visit

www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk/clay, email claypigeon@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk or ring 07961 394264

l In the previous edition of Keynsham Voice, we have appealed for adults who might like to join us in providing adventure for our young people, while having some fun and adventure themselves.

We are delighted to report that three people have joined the team in recent weeks, all with different skills, ability and age, but we still would love to hear from more readers - just contact scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk.

£7m boost to improve bus services

METRO Mayor Dan Norris has unveiled a £7 million package of bus improvements to boost West of England services.

It will see buses running at “turn up and go frequencies” during rush hour on five key Bristol routes.

It will also mean buses will run every 15 minutes on more main line routes that serve passengers changing from a WESTlink minibus, as well as more than 3,000 additional journey hours each week added to timetables region-wide from April 2.

The plan is a partnership of investment by the Metro Mayor and commercial operator First Bus, thanks to funding secured via the West of England Combined Authority’s Bus Service Improvement Plan.

More buses will also be added to routes that travel through the heart of areas where the Metro Mayor’s WESTlink minibuses are set to arrive this spring and summer.

This will mean passengers can more efficiently link to a bus on the main route between Keynsham and Brislington to Bristol, using the 39/X39, 349 and 522.

First Bus says the frequency of the X39 Bristol-Bath will be increased, with services Monday-Friday running every 15 minutes through the daytime, and more buses at weekends.

The 349 Bristol City Centre–Keynsham

will have a revised timetable to improve punctuality. Buses will continue to run every 30 minutes, which when combined with the new 522 service will give an improved 15-minute frequency Monday-Saturday between Bristol and Keynsham town centre. The trips that extend to Midsomer Norton will be replaced by the 522.

First Bus says the evening 349 shuttle bus in Keynsham will be withdrawn due to very low usage, but evening buses between Bristol and Keynsham will continue to operate on the 39.

On Sundays, buses on the 349 from the city centre to Keynsham will change number at St John’s Church and become a number 17 to Southmead Hospital before continuing around the Keynsham loop.

The Metro Mayor hailed the “turn up and go” plans for five Bristol bus routes at peak times, which will see eight buses run each hour along Gloucester Road and Filton Avenue, nine buses an hour through Church Road, ten an hour to Fishponds and 13 from the University of the West of England (UWE) to Bristol city centre.

Mr Norris said: “Turn up and go means passengers will no longer need to worry about checking a timetable as they will know a bus will normally arrive quickly. I’ll be monitoring this closely to see if London-style frequency is something that really encourages people to get out of their cars and onto buses as it does in the capital.”

In total, over 3,000 additional journey hours each week will be added to timetables from April, with the total distance covered by West of England buses each year increasing by 1.5 million miles.

Mr Norris said the aim is to ensure West of England buses are not just more reliable in future, but more frequent too - to attract back former passengers and win new passengers as people ditch their cars for the bus.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris hopes the bus improvements will lure back passengers

PEN TO PAPER The Cruise

At last we head off to the port, The largest ship I have seen awaits. Excited passengers gaze amazed at her size, Eventually we find ourselves on board. All checks having been completed Anchors aweigh and the journey at last begins.

We marvel at the Captain’s skill, This giant ship silently slips its moorings Gliding out towards the open sea. Champagne is served as we wave goodbye To friends and family on the shore.

There are no footprints on the sea

No road signs, not a single buoy, No bends, only paths of light and dark waves From which to choose the way ahead. The choice always is a difficult navigation, Eventually we head to bed and our imaginations!

Erica Andrews

Keynsham Creative Writers welcome new members – call George Liddell on 0117 914 8654.

POETRY CORNER Moving House

The day had come to move away, From all familiar we could not stay. Over weeks, so much to pack, The car was full, ‘stuff ’ on the rack!

Much happiness, though doleful sighs, With sadness saying our goodbyes We said farewell, and with our load Departed from our well-known road.

The cat and rabbit stowed away, Excited children, tears at bay. Anxious as we closed the door

Wondering what we had in store.

Our brand new house was soon in sight, Our expectations reached a height. We’d viewed so many in the past, Was this the perfect one at last?

We settled in and found our feet, Discovering all was such a treat!

From our new home we’ll never part Because it’s now endeared each heart.

Sylvia Kirby

KEYNSHAM WI

Warm welcome for Peaches

WE made an interesting start to the New Year. In January we held a craft session which involved making a card using parchment, and a well-attended coffee morning at the Crown, Saltford, on January 11.

A slightly muddy walk took place at the end of the month. We walked from Newbridge into Bath along the towpath, had coffee at the Holburne Museum and then walked into the city centre to get the bus back to Newbridge.

We were honoured to welcome Peaches Golding OBE to speak at our January meeting about her role as Lord Lieutenant of Bristol. She is one of 97 Lord Lieutenants in the country, one for each county, in a role that was originally created by Henry VIII.

She represents the King (and previously the Queen) in many local events, including laying a wreath and taking the salute at Bristol’s Remembrance parade. She also organised the lighting of a beacon at Cabot Tower to commemorate the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

We were pleased to give a donation to her charity, which supports secondary school pupils who show an interest in sustainability and the environment.

Our meeting in February was due to include a visit from Homewood Cheeses - with samples we hope!

Bonny Price

Voter ID needed for May elections

CHANGES in the law mean voters will need to show photographic ID when they go to the polling station to vote in local elections.

A passport, photocard driving licence, Blue Badge, older person’s bus pass or a disabled person’s bus pass are some of the documents that will be accepted as proof of identity before voters are issued with a ballot paper at the polling station. Voters will also need to be on the electoral register.

The need for photo ID is being introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act.

It comes into effect from May 4, when there will be elections for Bath and North East Somerset Council, Keynsham Town Council and Saltford Parish Council.

The full list of acceptable photo ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s

website. An acceptable form of photo ID that is out of date can still be used if the name is the same as on the electoral register and the photo is recognisably you.

Voters who don’t have an acceptable form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper form. They can also apply for the certificate in person at the Guildhall in Bath, where staff will be able to take a photograph to accompany their application.

To apply for the certificate, residents will need to provide a passport-style photo, full name, date of birth, the address at which they are registered to vote, and their National Insurance number. More information is available on the B&NES website. Go to www. bathnes.gov.uk and search for ‘voter ID’.

Peaches Golding OBE, Lord Lieutenant of Bristol

FromÊtheirÊofficeÊbyÊtheÊriverÊinÊSal�ordÊiTeamÊSolu�onsÊhaveÊbeenÊprovidingÊ qualityÊITÊsupportÊtoÊbusinessesÊsinceÊ2004.ÊStartedÊbyÊtwoÊfriends,ÊDavidÊHewe�Ê (whoÊisÊaÊKeynshamÊboy)ÊandÊJamesÊReed,ÊiTeamÊnowÊemploysÊ13ÊpeopleÊandÊ supportsÊbusinessesÊinÊtheÊlocalÊareaÊasÊwellÊasÊbeyond.ÊiTeamÊholdsÊseveralÊ industryÊrecognisedÊcer�fica�onsÊandÊareÊaÊCyberÊEssen�alsÊCer�fica�onÊBody.ÊTheÊserviceÊincludesÊmonitoringÊ systems,ÊhelpdeskÊandÊremoteÊsupportÊtoÊlookÊa�erÊbusinessÊITÊsystems.ÊWhilstÊtheirÊservicesÊhaveÊalwaysÊhadÊ securityÊinÊmind,ÊcyberÊsecurityÊisÊnowÊincreasinglyÊimportantÊtoÊiTeamÊandÊtheirÊclients.Ê

BusinessÊITÊExper�se

AreÊyouÊdoingÊenoughÊtoÊprotectÊyourÊcustomerÊinforma�on?

Keynsham businesses should be doing more to protect their customers’ personal data. That’s the view of iTeam’s Managing Director David Hewe� who says that not enough businesses are taking strong precau�ons against cyber crime.

A simple phishing a�ack against a small business could expose thousands of customers’ private informa�on to criminals.

He said: “Most of us get phishing emails every day, where criminals send a fake message trying to tempt us into clicking a link or falling for a discount – they some�mes land in our junk folders.

“They’re annoying, but are fairly easy to spot, and most legi�mate companies will never email out of the blue asking for informa�on. So everyone should be suspicious when they see this type of email.”

But if someone does click a bad link while they’re at work, the consequences could be huge. In recent years, some of the biggest brands in the world have been hit by cyber a�acks that exposed the names, dates of birth and even credit card numbers of billions of customers.

Most of these a�acks succeeded because one person, in one office, clicked an innocent -looking link that opened the door to the criminals.

Now, smaller firms are increasingly becoming a target. Research shows that nearly nine in ten businesses have experienced some form of security incident in the last 12 months. That’s precisely because they o�en don’t take the precau�ons that a big company might do.

But according to David, there are some simple ac�ons that all Keynsham businesses should be taking to stop criminals gaining access to your informa�on.

“We o�en meet business owners who don’t realise the scale of the risk. They may not be using strong passwords, or upda�ng their so�ware o�en enough.

“Most commonly, though, they’re simply not training their staff on the things to look out for.

“We spend a lot of �me helping small businesses to put technical solu�ons in place, but the best thing that any company can do is invest in training their people about what to look out for.

“They owe it to their customers to look a�er their informa�on. And, at the end of the day, it’s a fairly simple thing that can save a whole world of pain, because the cost of pu�ng things right could be astronomical.”

iTeam provides a full range of expert IT support and advice.

ContactÊDavidÊHewe�ÊonÊ0117Ê944Ê4949,ÊvisitÊtheirÊwebsiteÊwww.iteam.co.uk,ÊorÊemailÊiTeamÊ usingÊinfo@iteam.co.uk.

SPOTLIGHT ON SALTFORD

Industrial gem keeps past alive

Saltford Brass Mill is a gem of the early Industrial Revolution, internationally recognised, listed and scheduled, as a unique remnant of a special time.

The mill was acquired by the Bristol Brass Company in the 1720s and processed brass for 200 years before being remodelled as a leisure centre. Those who know the mill will not be surprised that it flooded in mid-January - well above wellington boot level!

Volunteers had moved the displays and models which form the education and history interpretation centre inside the mill building to higher storage, out of reach of floodwater, and the new, thick layer of silt is being swept back into the river.

Volunteers have continued their work to care for the mill through the winter, and new members are always welcome. There is a variety of opportunities, not all involving wielding a

wide broom! They meet every second and fourth Saturday morning but, in the summer, more people are needed to open the mill safely.

If you are able to spare a few hours over the summer, allowing visitors of all ages to learn about a critical period in our local social and industrial heritage here in the Avon Valley, even before the age of steam, please visit the website www.brassmill.com and get in touch. The mill will reopen on May 13 for National Mills Weekend.

SPOTLIGHT ON SALTFORD

SPOTLIGHT ON SALTFORD

Lots coming up at hall

A VARIED programme of events is coming up at Saltford Hall.

Bingo comes to the venue on Friday March 17 from 7.30pm. The bar will be open and the top prize of the night will be £100. Tickets costing £10 for six games can be bought online via www.tickettailor. com/events/scaevents or at the Post Office and library.

The Saltford Community Coffee Club looks forward to welcoming retired residents on Tuesday March 21 at 2pm for tea, coffee and cake. To reserve your place, let us know your dietary requirements, and if you need any help with transport, call 01225 632216 and leave a message for Coffee Club, or email Fiona.bell@saltfordcommunity.org by March 17.

Tickets for the following events can be bought via the Ticket Tailor link previously mentioned or at the Post Office/library:

Saltford Community Cinema will show Mrs Harris Goes to Paris on Friday March 23. The film, starring Lesley Manville, is about a widowed cleaning lady in 1950s

London who pursues her dream of buying a Dior dress. The film starts at 7.30pm, doors open from 6.45pm. Tickets at £6 can be bought in advance or pay on the door.

Park Lane Big Band return on Friday March 31 with music ranging from American standards to contemporary songs given a big band twist. Tickets for the 7.30pm show cost £12 and include nibbles.

A cheese and wine evening hosted by SCA on Friday April 21 will include an auction of promises, such as a flight in a light aircraft, sailing and paddleboarding tuition, dancing lessons, plus hampers, afternoon teas, a lift to the airport and many more. Tickets cost £8 each.

The SCA is looking for additional lots, so if you can help or have any useful contacts who might be willing to assist, please email richard.evans@ saltfordcommunity.org.

Proceeds will go to the SCA funds and will help to top up the Saltford Community Support Fund.

THE Saltford Santa Dash in December raised £10,400 for Off The Record BANES and Time is Precious, two charities that provide services to improve the lives of young people in our local communities.

Since it began in 2013, the event has raised more than £110,000 for local charities supporting young people.

Plans are already being made for this year’s event on Sunday December 3. More details will be released later in the year.

Anyone who would like to get involved behind the scenes is asked to email the organisers at saltfordsantadash@gmail.com.

Belly Laughs on the menu for charity

A SOLD-OUT comedy show in Keynsham’s Chocolate Quarter has raised hundreds of pounds for charity.

More than 80 guests came to B Block restaurant to see a line-up that included Carpriella Hooper, Comic Rik and the creator of Belly Laughs, Bristolian comic Mark Olver.

Belly Laughs sees some of the UK’s best comedians tour Bristol’s small independent food establishments throughout January, raising money for good causes such as the Julian Trust and Caring in Bristol.

During the pandemic, Mark volunteered at St Monica Trust’s Charterhouse Care Home in the Chocolate Quarter.

He said: “The idea behind Belly Laughs is to do comedy nights in venues that wouldn’t normally host events, and we’ve always loved the idea of doing a gig in a retirement village

“When everything shut during the lockdown, I saw an advert asking for people to help out in the care home.

“Remembering how much I enjoyed meeting the residents

Council tax to rise

RESIDENTS will have to pay almost five per cent more for Bath & North East Somerset Council services from April.

The B&NES element of council tax bills will rise by the maximum local councils can raise without holding a referendum. The 4.99% increase includes 2% ring-fenced for spending on adult social care.

For a Band D property, this results in an annual increase of £78.60 (£1.51 per week).

Councillors voted to pass a budget for 2023/24 that includes £2.7m towards Keynsham’s new recycling centre, due to open this year.

Cabinet member for resources, Richard Samuel said it was sad to have to raise council tax, but with inflation over 10% this was “real-terms cut in the value of the income we receive.”

Council tax bills also include a charge for services provided by the police, as well as town and parish councils.

The Avon and Somerset Police amount will rise by 6%, which equates to £15 more per year for a Band D household.

The higher precept – agreed

by Avon and Somerset’s Police and Crime Panel –follows a consultation that saw more 3,700 people complete a survey asking if they agreed or disagreed with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s proposed increase. A total of 45.3% of respondents with an opinion supported the £15 rise while 46.2% disagreed.

Police and Crime

Commissioner Mark Shelford said: “We all recognise the financial challenges so many of us are facing. However, if there wasn’t an increase in the precept, Avon and Somerset Police would have to make significant cuts to staff and services.”

In Keynsham, the town council has voted to increase its element of the council tax bill by 3%, a rise of £2.96 per year for a Band D property. The new Band D figure will be £1.92 per week, or £99.82 per year.

As reported in last month’s Voice, Saltford Parish Council is increasing its council tax precept by £20.8%, meaning an annual Band D bill of £27.08, a rise of £4.55. The hike is due to the high cost of churchyard wall repairs.

here during previous Belly Laughs, I became a ‘helping hand’ and worked there for two days a week supporting the residents and staff.”

St Monica Trust’s food development manager, Adrian Kirikmaa, said: “Mark’s always been a big supporter of what we’re trying to achieve here. He always does a fantastic job in organising the event and putting together such an amazing line-up of comedians, which raised £850 for the local charities Mark supports.”

l Photos: Barbara Evripidou

Pocket Park is spruced up for the spring

MY goodness, how the time flies! Early springtime is upon us and hopefully lifting our spirits with the lighter evenings and warmer daytimes.

Interest in our spring show at the Scout headquarters (12pm, March 25) is gathering momentum. Please collect a brochure and entry form from Keynsham Town Council in Temple Street and in the Keynsham News magazine.

I know there are many highly talented bakers, gardeners and artists of all ages, so don’t delay, enter today.

Keynsham In Bloom gardening year has started with work at the Pocket Park on Saturday mornings and the flowerbeds and containers at Keynsham Station.

Tidying and adding more compost to the Dee James commemorative train, in preparation for incorporating shade-loving plants, has been carried out, together with adding cyclamens to the Bristol side entrance border.

The planters are thriving well,

and bulbs will give a wonderful display in springtime.

The Pocket Park path has been given a good brush to remove

the sycamore seeds that have accumulated over the wintertime, and weeding is well under way. The soil is warming up and bulbs are

popping their little heads out.

The four pots outside of Holmoak shops are filled with alpines and bulbs which are flourishing, and l would like to thank a dear lady called Pam who watered the plants last summer when it was very dry.

Should you wish to be a volunteer for KIB, please contact me at catherinemarywoodman@ gmail.com, Dawn at keynshaminbloom@icloud.com, or pop into Keynsham Town Council in Temple Street. You would be very welcome.

Clare, from Community at 67, and the gang have done a great job of planting up the Queen’s Road tubs outside the shops and, once again, they are healthy and will bring a welcome smile when in full flower.

On behalf of Keynsham In Bloom, a sincere thank-you to our hard-working volunteers and the townsfolk of Keynsham who support us. Keep well, safe, positive and gardening.

Mary Woodman

Pocket Park volunteers Debbie, Jenny and Anne

CHEWTON Keynsham has secured a safer speed limit for its narrow, winding lanes.

Drivers will have to cut their speed from 30mph to 20mph.

Councillors Duncan Hounsell and Alastair Singleton represent the area on Bath and North East Somerset Council.

They said: “We are delighted as the B&NES ward councillors to have secured the reduction in the speed limit for Chewton Keynsham from 30mph to 20mph. This change has been requested by residents for a long time and has received overwhelming local support.”

The 20mph limit runs all through the village, covering part of Redlynch Lane and along the winding Chewton Road until it meets Wellsway on the edge of Keynsham. The hamlet has had new road signs put in place and road markings painted to show the new speed limit.

Wimperis,

River bridge takes step closer

FUNDING has been awarded to develop plans for a new footbridge at Somerdale in Keynsham.

It is part of a project to revitalise the River Avon corridor and create a traffic-free route between Bristol and Bath.

WaterSpace Connected aims to enhance the ecology of the riverside and enable people across the West of England to move by walking, wheeling or riding between the two cities via a green, naturerich river valley.

The bridge at Somerdale over the River Avon is designed to provide a travel and recreational route between Bath and North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire by linking Keynsham with Hanham.

This first phase of WaterSpace Connected also includes enhancing the ecology of the area, developing green spaces along the river corridor

Appeal after shop attack

and improved paths and wayfinding. The West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, has approved an initial award of £295,771 to develop a full business case for the project.

Bath & North East Somerset Council is contributing £160,931 in match funding. The council is leading the project in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council and Bristol City Council.

Taylor Wimpey will contribute £1.3 million towards the construction of the bridge as part of its Somerdale development.

The final business case for the footbridge and accompanying improvements is expected by the end of 2024, with the first phase of the WaterSpace Connected project expected to be completed in 2027.

Go-ahead for 213 homes

PLANS to build 213 homes on the proposed Withies Green development in Keynsham have formally been approved.

Bath & North East Somerset Council agreed to grant outline consent for the 25-acre scheme off the Bath Road in May last year.

But following concerns raised by objectors, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) directed the council not to grant permission until the Secretary of State had considered whether to

call in the scheme. In November, B&NES was told that the Secretary of State had decided against calling it in.

And now the council has issued a notice stating the development has been permitted. The scheme by developer Mactaggart & Mickel includes a new playing field for the Two Rivers C of E Primary School at the neighbouring Hygge Park development, as well as allotments, a community orchard, football pitch and open space, including a wetland park.

POLICE are appealing for the public’s help after a man was punched in the face in Keynsham.

Officers were called to a shop in Queens Road at about 6.50pm on Friday February 3.

The victim had confronted the offender, believing the unknown man had stolen items from the store, when he was attacked.

The injured man did not require hospital treatment but suffered bad bruising above his eye. The assailant ran off towards Queens Road Park.

Officers would like to identify the man pictured above on CCTV, who they believe has information which could aid the investigation.

He is white, of slim build, approximately 5ft 10ins, with short, almost shaven hair. He is shown wearing a red jacket.

If you have any information, can identify the man, or saw the incident, please call 101 and quote reference 5223027349.

Free tablets at town library

SIX self-service tablets which are free to use with a library membership card have been installed at Keynsham Library.

The Samsung tablets, or ‘Hublets’, are for use only within the library and provide free internet browsing, and access to e-books, newspapers and magazines and other library apps.

Residents with a Libraries West membership can scan their card at the docking station and a Hublet will be released to use.

Eighteen Hublets have

also been installed at Bath Central Library, as well as six in Midsomer Norton’s library.

No personal information can be stored on the Hublet and information is wiped once the Hublet is returned to the docking station. They only operate within the libraries on the libraries’ WiFi network.

The Hublets cannot be booked in advance and are available on a first come, first served basis. People wishing to listen to audio will need to bring their own headphones.

John

Local Democracy Reporting Service

Councillors Alastair Singleton (left) and Duncan Hounsell in Chewton Keynsham

In last month’s Voice, Liz Wintle whetted our appetites with some of the plants to look out for in February. Lesser celandine, daisies, butterbur, hairy bittercress, groundsel, shepherd’s purse and red dead-nettle were just a few.

In last year’s Voice, I described some of the wildlife that could be seen emerging from its winter dormancy in March.

Queen bees, red admirals, small tortoiseshells, comma and peacock butterflies, and hoverflies are among the first insect to appear (good flowers for them include crocuses, narcissus (not deep trumpeted daffodils) and the humble dandelion – let the weeds grow for an early butterfly show!)

Amorous toads might be migrating to local ponds to breed, and the diversity and volume of birdsong increases, the male wren, song thrush, chaffinch, and returning chiffchaff and blackcap being among the most prominent.

Here is a taster of what else to look out for in March.

An animal you are unlikely to see is the mole, but its increased burrowing in the spring is shown by the abundance of molehills. There are an estimated 30 million moles in the UK, and they are unpopular among those who enjoy a well-manicured lawn, but they

are valuable pest controllers and soil aerators, and a useful food source for predators like herons when they are forced to the surface by flooding.

As Chris Packham explained on Winterwatch, moles are so secretive and sensitive to disturbance that they are among the most difficult animals to film underground, so

a great deal is still to be learned about their behaviour.

You are more likely to see the smallest bird in the area - the goldcrest, so-named because of the golden yellow stripe on its head. I have spotted and photographed them at Willsbridge Valley recently, and was pleased to hear one at Wellsway and add it to the count on this year’s schools birdwatch.

Sadly, I probably won’t be able to hear it for much longer because its high-pitched “squeaky wheel” call is at the top of the register, audible to younger people, but decreasingly so as our hearing range narrows with old age. Most people in their 70s cannot hear the call, which begs the question: “Are there more goldcrests than we think?”

The RSPB Nature’s Calendar for March lists these birds to look out for:

The wheatear, returning from Africa, can be seen in open fields of rough pasture searching for insects. I have spotted them

This month sees the arrival of the long-distance traveller - the wheatear Photo: Martin Farrell

as wildlife emerges from its winter sleep

Climate change under our feet

OUR next talk at Keynsham Baptist Church Hall on Friday March 10 at 7.30pm features science podcaster Emma Brisdion. Her field of speciality is permafrost and her talk Climate Change under our Feet! explores peat bogs, permafrost and the soil in our gardens and fields, looking at how the often-ignored ecosystems beneath our feet could be some of our greatest, carbon-capturing allies in the fight to protect our future.

Emma has spent time working with climate science researchers in the Swedish Arctic, and her podcast For What It’s Earth helps to simplify some of the big environmental topics. No booking required - £3 for Avon Wildlife Trust members, £4 for non-members. For more information on our group, visit our website www.keynshamawt.org, email keynshamawt@gmail.com or phone Kathy 07850 508702.

a chain of melody sung brightly and proudly from a high branch. They are great mimics, with some males including man-made sounds within their repertoire.

between Stockwood Vale and Queen Charlton.

Migrant chiffchaffs also return (although increasingly they over-winter, a possible sign of climate change). Their soft twonote onomatopoeic “chiff-chaff” call is easy to hear, but not to be confused with the harsher, more

strident “tee-cher” call of the male great tit.

Like the great tit, the song thrush ramps up its singing in March. But unlike the great tit, its song-writing skills are a little more developed. Males master up to 100 different phrases, ‘borrowing’ some from their neighbours, to create

Finally, watch out for hungry hedgehogs beginning to emerge from their winter slumber. Some of them have been asleep since midDecember so will have lost up to a third of their body weight!

With the numbers of hedgehogs in decline, you can help put a spring in their step by

offering them a drink of water or snack or two – cat or dog food is best (NOT bread and milk!) If you don’t want your neighbour’s cat to eat it, you can make a hedgehog café (for more information, check out the RSPB website).

For a day-by-day account of what UK wildlife to look for throughout the year, I can highly recommend Wonderland, by naturalists Brett Westwood and Stephen Moss, published in 2017.

Dave Sage

Check out the crown of the diminutive goldcrest Photo: Martin Farrell

More care home improvements needed

MORE improvements are needed at a Keynsham nursing home that was branded inadequate by inspectors.

Bath and North East Somerset Council, which runs Charlton House Community Resource Centre, says progress has been made but acknowledged that more is needed.

A Care Quality Commission inspection in November found the quality of care at the home was inadequate.

One person had been left sitting in urine overnight, another had an “unexplained bruise” to their chest, and staff did not call for medical assistance for seven hours after one person had suffered a stroke.

CQC inspectors visited the centre again in January and have published an update.

It has not changed the rating, because the

Crafters say farewell until next season

THE last craft workshop of the season in Compton Dando was another success, with the most attendees yet.

Organiser Harriette Dottridge said: “As the days get longer and warmer and everyone is tempted outside or away, we have decided not to hold another workshop until October.”

The final workshop attracted 29 people with a wide range of ages. Crafts included felting, wood-block printing, spinning, painting, knitting, sock pattern unravelling, crochet and weaving, with a demonstration of warping by Jenny Smart. She prepared Harriette’s loom, with the warp being the threads stretched lengthwise and the weft being those woven across the warp.

Harriette said she was delighted with how the craft workshops had done over the year.

“We have made a profit of £228, which I have paid to Compton Dando Community Association, which publicises and supports our events and also provides insurance for our activities.”

inspection did not revisit all grading criteria, but does acknowledge that improvements are being made.

The purpose of the unannounced inspection was to check if the requirements of the warning notice it issued had been met, ahead of the next comprehensive inspection.

Councillor Alison Born, cabinet member for adult services and council house building, said: “I am reassured that the unannounced inspection in January found improvements had been made since November. However, there is no getting away from the fact further progress is needed.

“I want to reassure residents, their families and staff that improvements will continue to be made, that we will address the matters raised in the latest inspection and

ensure residents are protected and receive the quality of care they should expect.”

The CQC say improvements have been made – for example, people are no longer experiencing delays when requiring emergency medical support. It says the latest inspection identified some areas where the council needs to make improvements, such as consistently recording and monitoring what residents eat and drink.

The watchdog added: “Since our last inspection, the provider had introduced a staffing dependency tool to ensure there was a systematic approach to determining required staffing levels in the service. There was improved oversight of safeguarding in the service, and all safeguarding concerns had been reported.”

Barbara Baxter, above, making her Junk Journo. Right, Jenny Smart, warping Harriette Dottridge’s loom, while Harriette unravels some wool Photos: Ros Anstey

The community association’s activities include free monthly coffee mornings, providing tea and coffee for the craft days, helping to organise the summer fete, supporting ‘open garden days’, and raising funds for the church and village hall, as well as providing

information for visitors on walks, wildlife and local events. Anyone wanting details of the winter craft workshops can contact Harriette by emailing hdottridge@hotmail.com or phoning 07791 832592. She will issue workshop dates for 2023-24 in September.

Plan for 500 homes prompts ‘urban sprawl’ fears

NEW details have been revealed for plans to build more than 500 homes in the countryside, prompting fears of a “continuous urban sprawl” between Bristol and Keynsham.

Bellway Homes is hoping to develop a site in Brislington and is in the early stages of getting permission from Bristol City Council.

The scheme would see 555 homes built on green-field land off the A4 Bath Road next to Brislington Park and Ride. Between 170 to 220 of the homes would be classed as “affordable” and nearby allotments would be

kept. The 38-acre site is owned by Bellway Strategic Land, part of Bellway Homes.

Bristol City Council has included the site in its draft Local Plan document, which sets out where huge new developments in the city should be built over the next few years.

Fergus Thomas, strategic land director for Bellway’s central region, said: “Our plans are at an early stage and we will work with the community as we progress them.”

Bellway has asked the council for details about carrying out an environmental impact assessment. No formal planning application

has been made yet. But councillors says the scheme would mean the loss of important countryside.

Liberal Democrat Andrew Varney, representing Brislington West, said: “If we’re not careful, we run the risk of continuous urban sprawl from Bristol to Keynsham.

“We need to find a way to make sure that our brown-field sites are developed first, and the best way to do this is to remove all greenfield sites from the Local Plan.”

Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Revd John Hayes Minister Keynsham Methodist Church

I LOVE food. I am fascinated by the food traditions in different places, with all the culture and history that goes with it.

When I go on holiday I love to try the “local” specialities. Although not a native, I have lived most of my adult life in Yorkshire. There I discovered the tradition of a slice of fruit cake, accompanied by a slice of cheese (Wensleydale for the purist, but any cheese will do). I discovered that this tradition divides opinion: what some people love, others hate.

Many Christians around the world are marking the season of Lent, traditionally a time of fasting and reflection as they prepare for Easter.

One of the many Lent traditions is the hot cross bun. Maybe you are a hot cross bun fanatic. You can’t wait until they appear in the shops and eat them fresh or toasted and have a sense of sadness when Easter means their

days are done for another year. Or maybe the prospect of a hot cross bun doesn’t do it for you.

There are many stories about how they became a regular feature of Lenten practice. One story tells of how the early Christians in Anglo-Saxon Britain were not happy with the pagan tradition of a tasty holy cake eaten to celebrate the Goddess ‘Eastore’. These cakes were very popular so the Christians encouraged the bakers to put dough crosses on the buns.

In the 18th century, a text appeared in Poor Robin’s Almanac: “Good Friday comes this month, the old woman runs, with one or two a penny hot cross buns.” If you can remember your nursery rhymes, this line will probably sound familiar.

There is even an old tradition of warding off evil spirits by hanging a hot cross bun in your kitchen on Good Friday and leaving it

there for the whole year - not one I have tried or would recommend. Whatever the history, hot cross buns are still popular; some people love them and some people hate them.

Easter is the time when Christians recall the events of Holy Week where Jesus was celebrated, betrayed, falsely accused, tried and condemned to death. It was clear there were those who hated Jesus and all he stood for and those who loved Jesus. There was little middle ground.

The Easter celebration recalls how Jesus was raised from the dead and that the power of death over human life was now over.

So, whether you are planning to tuck into a hot cross bun this year, or whether that would be the last plan you have, I would encourage you to engage with the story of Jesus this Easter - a story where hate seemed to be the winning choice, but where love was the right choice.

There is even an old tradition of warding off evil spirits by hanging a hot cross bun in your kitchen on Good Friday and leaving it there for the whole year.

CHANGING FOR THE BETTER with Transition Keynsham

What we can do to halt the insect apocalypse

I RECENTLY saw my first bee of the year, tempted out of hibernation by a sunny day. With little food and the temperature set to plummet overnight, I wondered about its fate.

I’ve written about insects before, but every time I read about their steep decline I’m moved to write again.

Insects are critical to the continuance of humankind. Without them, the world will grind to a halt. Eighty-seven per cent of plants rely on them for pollination, including most of our crops. They recycle dung, leaves and corpses, keep the soil healthy and control pests. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to farm.

Insects sustain biodiversity. They’re at the bottom of the food chain for so much wildlife – take them away and there’s no food for the birds and beasts that rely on them to survive.

They feed humans too –around 80% of the world’s population. They’re full of protein and far less likely to spread diseases to humans and use minimal land and electricity to produce.

Yet pollution, monocultures, climate change, insecticides and light pollution have brought invertebrate populations to an

unprecedented low in most countries in the world. In Britain, climate disruption and intensive farming have caused a 60% decline in flying insects in just 20 years.

What can we do to stop this insect apocalypse? Bug enthusiast and sustainable food expert Vicki Hird’s brilliant book Rebugging the Planet has loads of ideas. She suggests starting with a bug plan. Here’s how.

Change people’s attitudes to bugs – share photos or fascinating facts about insects with friends and family.

Create a bug-friendly environment – grow native wildflowers, make a log pile, let weeds grow.

Rebug your lifestyle – buy unprocessed fresh food (organic is best for bugs), don’t buy new clothes.

Get political – join and get active with local organisations like the Wildlife Trust or local parks group, or national ones like Buglife or PAN-UK.

Systemic change in how we grow food, live our lives and protect nature. That’s in the gift of governments. But individual actions add up, and every bug saved is a win, however small.

Liz Barling

Coronation picnic in the park

A PUBLIC picnic is to be held in Keynsham Memorial Park to celebrate the coronation of King Charles.

The event, organised by the town council, is described as a “free family afternoon of music, entertainment and more” and will be held on Sunday May 7, 12pm-5pm. Details have yet to be announced.

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n WHAT'S ON

Friday March 10

n Avon Wildlife Trust’s Keynsham Group monthly talk, “Climate Change under our feet!” with science communicator Emma Brisdion. Keynsham Baptist Church Hall, 7:30pm. No booking required - £3 for Avon Wildlife Trust members, £4 for non-members. For more information, check our website www.keynshamawt.org, email keynshamawt@gmail.com or phone Kathy 07850 508702.

Saturday March 18

n Royal British Legion Women’s Section spring fayre with craft tables, 10am-1pm, at the RBL club, Charlton Road, Keynsham BS31 2JA. £10 per table - to book, please call Gill 07709057777/0117 9868868. All welcome.

Saturday March 18

n Keynsham Orchestra Concert, St John’s Church, Keynsham, 7.30pm. Tickets £10, or £8.50 for concessions, and accompanied under-18s free. The vibrant, Latin American-themed program includes Pirates of the Caribbean, West Side Story, Carmen Suite No. 2, Overture to The Barber of Seville, and Danzas Fantiasticas.

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays

n Key Voices Community Choir meets Mondays at 7.30pm at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, BS31 2BQ (or third Monday of month at Royal British Legion). We sing a wide range of music, with occasional performances and social events. We are a friendly non-auditioned choir, all are welcome. First session free to newcomers.

n The Royal British Legion Women’s Section Keynsham Branch meets on the first Monday of each month upstairs at the RBL Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2JA, 7.30pm. Occasional speakers, social events and outings.

n Keynsham Bridge Club can now welcome new experienced players to our Monday evening sessions. If you would like to attend, contact Pat 01275 835583 or Diane 0117 9861267.

n CPK Badminton Club is a friendly but competitive club playing at Keynsham Leisure Centre, Mondays 7.30-9.30pm. Match night Fridays. Ideal for existing and potential league players, or those looking to improve their badminton. For more details please email info@ cpkbadminton.club

n Saltford Whist Club, Saltford Hall, Mondays (except last two weeks in August), 1.30pm-4pm. Contact Malcolm 01225 872555.

n ASP Poetry Circle meets every third Monday of the month, 10am11am, in the upstairs balcony at Keynsham Library. Bring two or three of poems to share; your own or other poets’.

Mondays/Thursdays

n Yoga For Men Monday 7-8pm, mixed ability Keynsham Baptist Church, BS31 1DS.

Thursday 7-8pm, mixed ability Saltford Hall, Wansdyke Room, BS31 3BY. Free first class, £8 thereafter.Book online at www. yogadad.co.uk

Mondays/Fridays

n Butterflies Haven, Keynshambased charity supporting families of children with autism, sessions Mondays 7pm-8pm for ages 1118 and Fridays 5.45pm-6.45pm or 7pm-8pm for ages 4-11, at St Francis Church, Warwick Road, Keynsham, BS31 2PW. A safe place for children to be themselves, supported by volunteers. Sessions must be booked in advance. For more information, email info@butterflies-haven.com.

Tuesdays

n Badminton - friendly, beginners and improvers, mixed, adult (18 - 80!) group play every Tuesday 10am-12 noon at Keynsham Leisure Centre. Ring Clive 0117 9866793 or just turn up.

n Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, 7.30pm-10pm, Fear Hall, Keynsham, every Tuesday. Contact Brian and Jo, Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, on 0117 9868540, or just turn up. Everyone welcome.

n Beginners Pilates for Backs for older adults

Tuesdays 9.30am. Do you find that after sitting down for most of the day that your back feels stiff and achy? Do you feel you should make an effort to move or do some type of exercise but never get around to it? Join Sandhya for this class at the Fear Hall, 30 High St, Keynsham, BS31 1DQ. To book, call Sandhya on 07565 976 129 or visit www.Sandhyacoyle.org

n NEW Seated Pilates class

Tuesdays at 11-11.45 am

Saltford Hall - Avon Room, Wedmore Road, Saltford. This class is aimed at anyone who would benefit from an adapted pilates class with a qualified physiotherapist. This includes anyone with a longterm health condition (e.g MS or Parkinson’s), loss of confidence or those wanting to get fitter but have difficulty attending a floorbased session. You are welcome to do a trial class first to see if it suits your needs. Please book your place by contacting Kate 07518 522292 www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

n Relax, Stretch and Tone, a beginners’ introduction to getting the body moving. You don’t need to be flexible or young to do this. You will learn how to incorporate more movement and flexibility into your body. Most people are 50-70 in this class. Yoga, Pilates and meditation classes are also available every weekday in Keynsham. No masks required. Fear Hall, 30 High Street, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1DQ. Booking essential: Sandhya 07565 976 129 or visit my website www.Sandhyacoyle.org

n St Keyna Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Fear Hall, Keynsham, from 10am to 12pm on the second Tuesday of each month.

n The Ship Inn Petanque Club meets every Tuesday morning (weather permitting) 10.30am12.30pm at the Ship Inn, Temple Street, Keynsham. Join us for an informal game or two of this increasingly popular sport which is suitable for all ages. You can borrow boules from the pub bar. Ring the club secretary on 01179407924 for more information.

Wednesdays

n Oldland Ukulele Club is a mixedability group who meet every Wednesday at 1.30pm at Oldland Common United Reformed Church (the blue church), High Street, Oldland Common, BS30 9QN. All abilities welcomed to this friendly club. Places are £4 each. For further details, call/text ‘Ukulele’ Ben on 07910 668258.

n Beginners Meditation in Keynsham

Wednesdays 10.50am. Do you feel foggy headed? Busy thoughts? Worrying too much? Have you considered trying meditation but think you can’t quieten your mind? If this is you, try this class to help you feel calm and peaceful. The Sanctuary at St Monica’s, Trajectus Way, Keynsham, BS31 2GL. Other classes available in pilates, yoga and monthly retreats. To book, call Sandhya on 07565 976 129 or visit www.Sandhyacoyle.org

Thursdays

n Complete Beginners’ Yoga for the Inflexible Thursdays 7pm, Baptist Church, High Street, Keynsham, BS31 1DS (opposite Boots). Do you feel too stiff to do yoga? Nervous about joining a class? If you have been meaning to try yoga, now is your chance. Georgie and Sandhya have created these private, 1-2-1 classes. Gift vouchers available. Classes also offered in pilates, meditation and retreats. To book, call Sandhya on 07565 976 129 or visit www.Sandhyacoyle.org

Thursdays

n Longwell Green Orchestra meet each Thursday at Longwell Green Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.40pm. We have players of all abilities. Email Contact@ longwellgreenorchestra.org.uk or

n WHAT'S ON

07972 844073. Please get in touch with us beforehand to tell us what instrument and what level.

n Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance runs Music for the Mind sessions for people living with dementia and their carers. St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Keynsham, 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, 10.30am-12.15pm. Singing and gentle exercises from 11am. No charge. www.keynshamdaa. co.uk, ksdaa22@gmail.com or 07392442966.

n Physio-led Mat Pilates Classes

Thurs 7-7.55pm (intermediate)

Thurs 8-8.55pm (beginners)

St Francis Church, Warwick Rd, Keynsham. 6 week block of classes £54. You are welcome to do a trial class first £10.

1:1 sessions also available at my studio in Saltford.

Book online or by contacting Kate - 07518 522292, www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

Saturdays

n Keynsham Repair Café, second Saturday of the month, 10am-12 noon. Volunteers will try to fix your broken household things, for free. Clean it, find the bits, bag it and wear a mask. Keynsham Baptist Church, High Street, BS31 1DS.

Choirs’ concert

TWO choirs will perform at St John’s Church, Keynsham, on Saturday April 22.

The event, organised by Chelwood Bridge Rotary Club, will raise money for the RUHX charity (the Royal United Hospital charity formerly known as Forever Friends) and other charities the club supports.

The Cantorion Creigiau Singersand the Bristol Military Wives choir will sing classical and popular pieces. The concert starts at 7.30pm, with refreshments in the parish hall from 6.30pm.

Tickets at £10 through www. ticketsource.co.uk/rotary-club-ofchelwood-bridge. Or email rob@chelwoodbridgerotary.com

Alan’s life story in print

chaired the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s Avon coordinating committee for a number of years, and was committee chair for Keynsham Guide Dogs for the Blind.

with us

childhood. Born in St Paul’s, Bristol, he moved with his family to Keynsham at the age of 10.

Alan went on to serve the police service for 33 years. Incidents he writes about include having his head banged against a pavement as he held on to a violent robber.

Off-duty, Alan was a member of the Lions Club of Keynsham for 36 years.

He became a CRUSE bereavement counsellor,

In 2012 Alan founded Keynsham Foodbank, managing it for nine years, and also founded and led Keynsham and Saltford Dementia Action Alliance. Last year he founded the Bereavement Support Keynsham drop-in service.

Alan edits his church magazine and examines for the Institute of Advanced Motorists. He is a Bath and North East Somerset councillor.

The book, published through the Choir Press, can be bought from Amazon and the Book Depository.

‘I enjoy it so much.

The girls are lovely and I feel I’m doing something worthwhile. It’s amazing!’ Tayba, leader

Tributes for ‘caring and joyful’ Simon

TRIBUTES have been paid to a “one-of-a-kind” pub landlord following his sudden death.

The Old Bank in Keynsham High Street announced on its Facebook page: “We are deeply saddened to inform you all of the passing of our landlord, our friend, our legend - Simon Sherwell. The most caring person you could wish to meet, who would go to all lengths to help anyone and everyone. A joyful, humorous character that will be sorely missed.”

OPINION

Hundreds of people reacted to the news on social media, with tributes from customers, friends and colleagues.

One described him as “truly one of nicest guys you could ever meet.”

Simon’s funeral will be held at Haycombe Cemetery on

Keynsham resident HELEN COLGAN gives her views on what she describes as a social housing crisis for disabled people

I BECAME an above-knee amputee in August 2020, which resulted in me having to find suitable social housing to accommodate my new needs. My previous home was a secondfloor flat, with stairs but no lift and totally unsuitable for my new life.

I joined the Homesearch list in September 2020 and was offered a bungalow in April 2021. During this time, I was offered ground-floor flats with steps, or properties on hills, which were not practical with a manual wheelchair. These offers made me think more about how disabled people are treated, especially with regard to housing.

I’ve heard many different stories, such as of disabled amputees being discharged home with no thought if their home is suitable - and I’m not just talking about social housing.

In one case (many years before I became an amputee) an elderly man, disabled due to amputation, was discharged to a “ground-floor” flat, with about five or six steps down to enter his home - the only way he could get out was by volunteers physically carrying him and his wheelchair!

So the question is, are we in the midst of

Wednesday March 22 at 12pm.

Organisers say all are welcome to come and pay their respects, space permitting, followed by a ceremony for family and close friends. People are also invited to walk behind the funeral car, which will leave The Old Bank at about 11.20am, drive through the High Street and down towards the Memorial Gates on Bath Hill, before it heads off to the cemetery. The funeral will be followed by a gathering at The Old Bank.

A GoFundMe page had raised £3,650 of its £5,000 target towards Simon’s funeral by the time we went to press. Donations include one of £790 from The Old Bank FC.

Keynsham Town Football Club, which Simon sponsored and supported, also held a fundraising football match on February 25, which is believed to have raised at least £2,000-plus. To donate, visit GoFundMe’s website and search for ‘Lets help pay for Simon funeral’.

social housing to be built, but not only do we need to build family homes, we also need to think about disabled people and the special needs they require to lead independent lives.

Many disabled tenants are housed in accommodation that is unsuitable. Local housing providers seem to think that just any ground-floor flat or bungalow is suitable for someone in a wheelchair 24/7, but this is not the case.

Social housing providers should talk to disabled people about what they want to be included in any new builds. This should include the layout of kitchens, as someone in a wheelchair needs more space, and lower units and work surfaces.

another housing crisis, as we were at the end of the Second World War, when the Government had to authorise a massive building programme to replace bomb-damaged houses?

Time rolls on and a different government decided these council house tenants had the right to buy their homes, sometimes with a huge discount. This meant councils lost a number of properties they could have offered to those tenants who could not afford to buy on the open market.

Today in 2023 we desperately need more

In bathrooms, they need the space to safely transfer from their wheelchair to the WC. My current property does not have space between the WC and wash hand basin to fit pull-down grab rails because of pipes.

So yes, we are facing another social housing crisis. Social housing providers do not have enough stock to house everyone who needs a new home, let alone for those with special needs or adaptations.

We need more ideas on how we can adapt a variety of properties to include disabled people living alone, as well as families with disabled dependants.

We need to do better to give disabled people a good home

Simon Sherwell was landlord of The Old Bank

Situated in a private cul-de-sac location just off the Bath Road is this recently constructed, immaculately presented four-bedroom detached property.

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Avon Valley Gardens is a small development of just four new homes on the eastern edge of Keynsham, which has been constructed by Woodstock Homes and falls within the well-regarded Wellsway School catchment area.

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League merger collapse is costly blow

ALTHOUGH Keynsham Town’s first team came away with three narrow away defeats in February, there has been more worrying news filtering down from the ivory towers of the FA at Wembley.

As readers may be aware, a merger was planned for the start of next season between the Western League and South West Peninsula League, which would in simple terms created both “north” and “south” premier divisions at Step 5 of the non-league football pyramid.

Currently there is just one Step 5 division (of which Keynsham Town is a member), stretching all the way from Bristol to Penzance and beyond.

Sadly, rumours began to surface in early February that the board members of the two leagues were in disagreement over who should fill the various board roles in the new league. These rumours were confirmed in an announcement by the FA on February 20 that plans for the merger had been scrapped.

The Western League Board issued a statement expressing its disappointment at the news.

“We had hoped that the intervention of the Football Association, under the leadership of an independent chairperson, would have led to further talks on February 22, but today’s statement makes it clear that not only have the South West Peninsula League withdrawn from this process, the FA have no desire to engage in proactively addressing the economic challenges our clubs currently face with travel.

“Whilst we had been consistent in our commitment to the merger project, the FA had requested an alternative solution to managing the challenges posed by long-distance travel.

“The board proposed a plan to split the Premier Division into two geographical areas as an interim measure for 2023/24 season, in order to reduce clubs’ travel.

“At the same time, we were told that the South West Peninsula League had submitted a proposal to create their own Step 5 division,

There have been further changes to the various teams’ fixture lists as a result of postponements in December and January due to the weather, so here are the remaining games for both the men’s and ladies’ sections at Crown Fields until the end of the season in May.

In the meantime, you can keep up to date with the Ks’ fortunes plus any fixture changes via social media and next month’s Keynsham Voice.

Men’s first team

Saturday March 11: Saltash United, 3pm

Saturday March 18: Ilfracombe Town, 3pm

Friday April 7: Ashton & Backwell United, 3pm

Monday April 10: Torpoint Athletic, 3pm

Saturday April 15: Mousehole, 3pm

Saturday April 22: Helston Athletic, 3pm

Men’s reserves

Saturday March 25: Mendip Broadwalk, 3pm

Saturday May 6: Watchet Town, 3pm

Ladies’ first team

Sunday March 5: Maidenhead United, 2pm

Sunday March 12: Moneyfields, 2pm

Thursday March 16: Swindon Town, 7.45pm

Sunday March 19: Portishead Town, 2pm

Sunday March 26: AFC St Austell, 2pm

across the southern region originally planned for the Western Peninsula League. Both proposals have been rejected by the FA.

“In the short term, the board remain resolute in our belief that clubs competing in the Western League Premier Division must have their travel requirements addressed before next season.

“The board welcome the FA’s proposal to consult clubs on the future of Step 5 and 6

football in the South West, and with this in mind the Western League will be conducting our own engagement exercise to ensure that all options are properly considered.”

The board refuted any suggestion that it was to blame for the breakdown of negotiations.

“In the short term, the league will issue a short survey to all our clubs to ascertain their views and this will be followed by a meeting with all our clubs.”

This affects everyone: teams in the Western League’s Step 6 Division One have been playing all this season with the knowledge that the top four would gain promotion to the new Step 5 league – that is now not the case, and the number of teams to be promoted is anyone’s guess.

Similarly, with Bitton having resigned from the Premier Division earlier in the season, thereby filling a “relegation” place, it was thought that no more teams would be relegated from that division; clearly that may not now be the case.

Ks club secretary Jules French said: “This news is a massive disappointment to everyone involved with our community club.

“Whilst we are in a stable financial position due to our players receiving no money to play for the club, our current first-team travel costs for this season will be close to £8,000, with six trips to Cornwall, three to Devon and one to Dorset out of our 18 away league games.

“With the proposed restructure, we were looking forward to reducing that cost by around 50%, but with that now having disappeared, we are now having to recalculate our financial forecast for next season and beyond accordingly.

“With no income from our clubhouse bar, we will now be even more reliant on the supporters from our local community to come to home games and for local companies to help the club with the various sponsorship deals we have to offer.”

Keynsham Town in action earlier this season - the club’s hopes of reducing its travel costs through a league restructure have been dashed

SALTFORD TENNIS CLUB

Champion Milly inspires young players

On a cold afternoon in November, members of Saltford Lawn Tennis Club held a fundraising tournament so their ladies singles champion, Milly Allen, could buy tennis equipment to take to Uganda when she returned home in January for a holiday.

The entrants covered a wide range of playing abilities, consisting of players from junior coaching, adult coaching, club and league players. Members who could not attend also donated prizes for the winners and donated money to the cause.

Milly only started playing tennis in 2016, when a friend visiting her from England introduced her to the game. Having no access to tennis coaching, she learned most of her skills by watching lots of YouTube videos, and practised and practised.

As well as being Saltford ladies singles champion, she is joint holder of the Avon league’s best women’s partnership for the 2022 summer league season.

Milly first came to Bristol in 2018 to study for a degree, and that is when she took advantage of Saltford LTC’s student membership deal and joined the club.

Her introduction to the club was the Monday morning ladies club session, where she found everyone welcoming and friendly.

Having only ever played singles, she had no concept of how to play doubles and was touched by the ladies’ kindness and patience, especially from long-standing member Joyce Pickard, who explained the rules and tactics of doubles play. Milly says she could not have asked for a better club than Saltford LTC.

As Milly never had the opportunity to play tennis when younger, when she returned to Uganda for a holiday in 2021 she decided to share her love of the game with the local children in her home town of Mbarara.

Armed with only three balls and six racquets, she hired one of the two courts at the local tennis club and started junior tennis sessions. She started with four children but numbers quickly grew to 16.

On her second visit home in January this year, Milly took much-needed balls, racquets of

various sizes, and a portable junior tennis net, which were all donated by the Saltford club.

As the local tennis courts were unavailable for the first few days, the net was put into immediate use. Milly erected the net in her family garden and the children spent hours having fun playing tennis in the sun.

The Saltford LTC tournament raised just over £200, which may not seem like a huge amount but just £50 secures the court for the children to play tennis for free all year round.

To show their gratitude, the children sent the club a Ugandan tablecloth for the table in the new clubhouse and wrote thank-you messages.

Whilst in Uganda, Milly has kept the club updated on the children’s progress by sending pictures and video messages.

The numbers of children playing tennis continues to increase, and Milly has arranged for the equipment to be stored at the local tennis club while two of her friends, Seka and Abu, carry on her good work.

Seka will be heading off to Kampala soon, where he will take a coaching award, so the future of tennis looks good in Mbarara.

Milly has been a wonderful addition to the tennis community at Saltford and is now sharing her passion for tennis with her community back home in Uganda. The club are proud to be able to support her endeavours in Uganda now and in years to come.

Saltford Tennis Club ladies single champion Milly Allen with children in Uganda. Below, a thank-you letter from a girl who is benefiting from the club’s gift of tennis equipment

KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB KEYNSHAM WALKING FOOTBALL

AT the start of last year, the parks department of Bath and North East Somerset Council carried out an online survey to seek people’s views on Keynsham Memorial Park.

This ran for eight weeks up to March 29 and prompted 668 responses, of which 84% were from Keynsham residents.

There were a number of questions, but the one of interest to members of Keynsham Bowling Club read: “Which areas of the park are you particularly satisfied/ dissatisfied with?” Of 14 stated areas, the highest percentage for “very satisfied” was 17.07% for the bowling club, followed by the tennis courts at 13.82%.

Club members have always prided themselves on the way the area is maintained, particularly with summer floral displays, and it is good to note this is appreciated by the public.

As we get closer to the start of a new season, regular social events take place in the clubhouse.

About 60 members were delighted by an evening of magic by Bristol-based Magic Circle member Paul Preager. During the show, there was a break for supper prepared by Lynne, Louise, Sally and Sheila. Our photograph shows those attending giving Paul a wave for a most entertaining evening.

Mike Barrow

KEYNSHAM Walking Football has donated £1,000 to a charity that helps support families affected by autism.

Club chairman Mike Slucutt is pictured presenting the cheque to Alison Smith of Butterflies Haven.

The Keynsham-based charity says: “Butterflies Haven is a volunteer-led registered organisation that helps families affected by autism in terms of diagnosis and support sessions.

“We provide a safe space for children and young people with an autism spectrum condition, as

well as empowering their parents, carers and other family members to support each other.”

They meet at St Francis Church, Warwick Road, Keynsham, on Mondays for children aged 11 to 18, and on Fridays for those aged four to 11.

The donation brings the amount raised for good causes by the football club since its formation to more than £31,000.

For more information about Butterflies Haven, visit www. butterflies-haven.com

Photo: Pete Ricketts

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