Keynsham Voice November 2022

Appeal over industrial estate plan dismissed

A DEVELOPER that was refused permission for an industrial estate in Keynsham has failed to get the decision overturned.

Places For People Strategic Land sought outline permission for the site just north of the A4 Bath Road.

Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee refused the scheme, citing road safety fears among other concerns.

The developer told B&NES Council it would appeal against the refusal. But a government inspector has now announced that the appeal has been dismissed.

In its appeal documentation, the developer had argued that the councillors’ decision was “not reasonable” and went against the advice of council officers. The main issues considered at the appeal were:

l Whether the proposal would demonstrate a comprehensive approach to the development of the allocated employment site, with particular regard to the council’s development strategy for the employment allocation.

l The effect on highway safety.

At the planning committee meeting last December, fears were voiced that schoolchildren could be “wiped out” by HGVs using a new junction with the A4. But these concerns were not upheld by the appeal.

Instead, the inspector’s ruling concluded: n Turn to Page 2

Aimee Phillips, from Saltford, is congratulated by former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt on receiving

national

Page 3

Hitting the heights

A fitness trainer has climbed the equivalent of twice the height of Mount Everest in support of a charity that helps people who have suffered strokes.

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Homes delay

A decision on whether 70 homes can be built on a field bordering Minsmere Road in Keynsham has been delayed for further talks with the developer.

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‘Fairer’ bus fares

The introduction of “fairer” bus fares has been welcomed by Saltford Parish Council.

Winter festival

Keynsham Winter Festival is returning to its full glory after last year’s scaled-down event.

Salute to the fallen

People will gather on Remembrance Sunday to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for their country

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n NEWS

Developer’s appeal fails

n From Page 1

“Whilst I find no harm to highway safety, the proposal would still be harmful as it undermines the council’s development strategy for the employment allocation.

“Accordingly, the proposed development would be contrary to the aims of the development plan policies.”

B&NES Council had allocated the land for employment, and the outline plans proposed up to 5,700sqm for business, industrial process, general industrial and storage uses.

access road onto World’s End Lane, which could be widened to remove pinch points.

Although the appellant argued that widening World’s End was not possible because of third-party ownership of adjacent land, the planning inspector was not convinced that all options to achieve this had been fully explored.

But regarding access from the A4, the inspector said the proposed development would not result in long queues of traffic waiting to leave the site.

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The appeal ruling stated that a comprehensive masterplan, through public consultation, was required to ensure the development was well integrated with neighbouring areas.

The appellant did not submit a masterplan but said the approved masterplan for the adjacent recycling site could be relied on in this instance.

But the inspector said there was “limited evidence” to show that the focus of the previous public consultation of the masterplan was on the whole employment allocation and not just centred on the recycling site.

“Accordingly, based on the evidence before me, I am not satisfied that the recycling site masterplan can be adopted for this scheme, or as the employment allocation masterplan generally.”

One reason for the planning committee refusing the application was that it proposed primary vehicle access from the Bath Road. Members said noise, pollution and safety risk could be reduced by creating a new

“With only limited evidence from the council to demonstrate otherwise, Bath Road and the proposed access would have sufficient capacity to serve the increased traffic from the proposed development.”

The inspector agreed with the conclusions of a road safety audit that “sufficient gaps and sight lines would be present for HGVs to exit the site to the left safely, even when encroaching on the right turn lane.”

The inspector acknowledged that nearby residents were concerned about conflict with vehicles accessing the site.

“While I accept that the proposed access would result in longer waiting times and less convenience, this does not amount to an unacceptable risk to highway safety.”

The planning committee’s decision to refuse permission was made by six votes to four. The meeting was told that the application had been opposed by Keynsham Parish Council, Saltford Parish Council, Saltford Environment Group and 147 objectors.

Best day of my life! Aimee, 9, is honoured

A SALTFORD girl who has written two books to raise money for good causes has been given a national award.

Aimee Phillips, aged nine, was one of just 25 young people from across the UK to receive the British Citizen Youth Award, which recognises those who have made a difference in their communities or society as a whole.

Aimee was chosen after she wrote two e-books, in aid of Save the Children and NHS Charities Together. She was presented with her BCyA medal at the Palace of Westminster.

Aimee said: “It was an unforgettable experience - the best day of my life.

“The day was so much fun and it was such an honour to be in such an historic building.

“We had lunch in the Palace and could go outside onto the terrace overlooking the River Thames. It was so special.”

Aimee said she felt moved by the “causes, achievements and determination” of her fellow medal-winners.

“The medal we received is inscribed ‘For the Good of the Country’ which represents for us so much pride in our achievements and to acknowledge the difference we have made.”

The event was attended by 120 guests, including Kimberly Wyatt, formerly of the Pussycat Dolls and a patron of the awards.

Sonia Phillips, Aimee’s mum, said: “I’m delighted to have joined Aimee to collect this honour. The experience was amazing and we felt very humbled to have been in the

same room as some of the country’s most wonderful, inspiring young people.”

Sonia and Aimee also thanked the local community for their support, including Saltford Primary School, Saltford Environmental Group, Saltford Community Association, and Saltfords post office and library.

Aimee’s love of nature inspired her to create the two e-books. She enjoys taking photos, making illustrations and writing notes from country and coastal walks, with family and friends.

In January 2021, aged just seven and inspired by the Clap for NHS Thursdays, Aimee began to write and illustrate a book called The Very Hungry Honey Bee. She published it digitally and donates all proceeds to NHS Charities Together.

Earlier this year, she decided to write a book about the plant world, inspired by the Queen’s Green Canopy project and by

Sir David Attenborough, with proceeds going to Save the Children. The Secret Garden is a children’s book about one girl’s quest to change the world, one garden at a time.

To date, Aimee has raised around £1,500 for her fundraising efforts.

Her next challenge has

been to walk 10km to raise money for The Wildlife Trusts. Anyone who wants to sponsor her can visit https:// thewildlifetrusts.enthuse.com and search for ‘Aimee Phillips’ Aimee also has a JustGiving fundraising page at https:// www.justgiving.com/AimeePhillips2

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Aimee Phillips with her British Citizen Youth Award. Right, Aimee with some of her fellow winners at the ceremony in London

Lloyd ‘delighted’ by RISE award Support for SEND carers

A POLICE detention officer based in Keynsham has been honoured at a major awards ceremony.

Lloyd Ferguson won the Frontline Workers Award at the Bristol RISE Awards.

RISE (recognising individual successes & efforts) is a not-for-profit organisation set up to raise the profile of Black entrepreneurs and role models and facilitate better inclusion into the city’s economy. It recognises the contribution to and from members of the city’s African and Caribbean communities, in business, enterprise, the arts and community relations.

Lloyd received his award at a ceremony held underneath the Concorde at Aerospace Bristol.

He said: “I am both delighted and appreciative of the fact that many people have thought that I deserve this kind of recognition by casting their votes in my favour.”

The former martial arts instructor talked about his work in an interview on BCfm Radio’s One Love Breakfast Show.

He joined Avon and Somerset Constabulary as a security officer in Portishead before moving to his current role in Keynsham.

He takes care of detainees who come to the town’s detention centre – which can hold up to 48 people - after their arrest. Duties include ensuring detainees have the regular medication they need and giving them access to legal advice.

Lloyd also spoke about the importance of Bristol’s community spirit in his life and of being

inspired by leading black figures from history. He said he was “surprising, overwhelmed but also very grateful” to be nominated for the award and was impressed by the “amazing” contenders in his category.

PARENTS and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and or disability (SEND) are invited to a support drop-in session in Keynsham.

Bath and North East Somerset Council is holding the twohour session, which include workshops, on Friday November 4 from 10am-12 noon, at the Space, above Keynsham Library.

A range of professionals from different support services will be at the event for parents and carers to talk to. These include Educational Psychology, Sendias, Speech & Language Therapy, B&NES Carers’ Centre, Bath and North East Somerset Community Health and Care Services Autism Service (HCRG) and Attendance & Welfare Support Service.

There will be a timetable of workshops for people to take part in if they want to and details will be shared on www.facebook. com/livewellbathnes. There is no need to book - just come along on the day.

Mike hits the heights for stroke charity

height of Mount

Mike Spiring, aged 55, used a climbing machine to scale 58,064 feet in 10 hours

minutes in the fund-raising challenge in Keynsham High Street.

He said: “I have chosen to support Bristol After Stroke as one of my old school friends suffered a life-changing stroke earlier this year.”

His friend, Mark Monks, was aged just 54 when collapsed without warning, losing the ability to speak and the use of his right side within minutes. He was rushed to hospital, where surgeons removed two clots, one in his neck and one in his brain. They saved his life.

Mark, who played rugby alongside Mike at Wellsway School and Keynsham Rugby Club in the late 1970s and early 1980s, is now on the long road to recovery. He was among those who cheered Mike on during the event.

Before the challenge, Mike said: “My last serious climb was when I was 38, where I climbed the height of Everest.

“I expect it’s going to be hard, but with a positive mindset and support I’m going to crack it.

And afterwards, he said: “It’s fair to say I will never do it again! But the support from

people walking by and from friends and family was amazing.”

Mike, who knows two other people who have suffered strokes in the past 12 months,

used a Versaclimber machine to complete the challenge, taking a number of breaks along the way.

He said: “I use the climber as part of my own training and that of clients, as I have my own personal training business which runs alongside my online body transformation programme, which is for people who need to lose weight and improve their health without the need for faddy diets and spending mindless hours in the gym.”

He also runs kettlebell and HIIT fitness classes at Wellsway School on a Monday and Wednesday at 7pm in Mendip Hall.

Bristol After Stroke is an independent local charity helping people rebuild their lives after stroke. It offers practical, social, emotional and psychological support to stroke-affected people and their carers and loved ones.

As the Voice went to press, Mike had raised more than £1,500 for the charity on his JustGiving web page. His fund-raiser is still open, so anyone who would like to donate can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com and searching for ‘Mike’s versa climber’.

Mike said he wanted to thank Wild About Flowers in Keynsham High Street for allowing him to use the shop’s courtyard for his climb, and Alide Hire for providing a gazebo.

Mike Spiring with his friend Mark Monks, who is recovering from a stroke

Minsmere Road homes decision delayed

A

on whether 70 homes can be built on a field behind Minsmere Road in Keynsham has been delayed for further talks with the developer.

Officers for Bath and North Somerset Council had recommended that Taylor Wimpey’s outline planning application be accepted.

But the council’s planning committee narrowly voted – by five against four – not to accept the officers’ recommendation.

Instead, they unanimously agreed to defer their decision so council officers can negotiation with Taylor Wimpey about creating more biodiversity on the site and about when its financial contributions to sustainable transport measures would be triggered.

A planning officer told the committee meeting on October 19 that the 3.3-hectare field to the east of the town was removed from the green belt in 2014 and safeguarded for future development if the need arose.

Although some members were concerned that allowing new homes on the site before the Local Plan Partial Update (LPPU) was completed would be against policy, the officer said the site was likely to be allocated for housing in the LPPU once it was approved, and there were other considerations that outweighed the conflict with policy.

These considerations included the “substantial package of contributions” being offered by Taylor Wimpey.

They included 30 per cent ‘affordable’ housing; £1.5 million for enhancing town centre bus services and Liveable Neighbourhood measures within the Chandag estate; £132,514 to improve paths through the adjacent Manor Road woodlands; £651,816 to support primary school places; and improvements to eight bus stops.

Chris Dolling, a chartered town planner acting for Taylor Wimpey, told the meeting that the scheme would offer people a “realistic opportunity” to get on

the housing ladder and that the £1.5 million towards sustainable transport measures would mitigate the effect of the extra traffic generated by the development.

But Councillor Andy Wait (Keynsham East) said there had been more than 260 individual objections to the scheme, as well as from Keynsham Town Council, Saltford Parish Council and the countryside charity CPRE. He was sceptical of the benefit of the contribution towards bus services, saying it was difficult enough to maintain current routes, let alone create new ones.

He added: “This is an awkward triangular piece of land with no direct access to major

transport networks. My view is it should become a wildlife meadow, acting as a buffer for existing woodland, and not used for housing.”

He believed a parcel of land opposite the Hygge Park housing development, north of the A4 Bath Road – where an application for industrial use had been refused by the committee - should be considered for housing instead.

Councillor Duncan Hounsell (Saltford) was concerned that, until the sustainable transport measures were introduced, that the roundabout linking Bath Road, Bath Hill and the Wellsway – “absolutely crucial as a gateway into Keynsham” – would be operate at or over capacity, creating gridlock.

Taylor Wimpey has proposed enhancing land it owns at Somerdale to meet its target for biodiversity net gain from the application. But some members questioned why those enhancements could not be made to the Minsmere Road site itself.

Concern was also expressed that the sustainable transport measures would not be put in place before the proposed new homes were built, although the planning officer said it was not financially feasible for that to happen before any of the properties were sold.

Councillor Paul Crossley spoke in favour of the scheme, saying that affordable housing was needed, and that Keynsham was a “buzzing town” because of the extra people moving in.

The planning officer pointed out that Taylor Wimpey had met the council’s demands on contributions and biodiversity. So if the committee refused the application and the developer appealed, it would be hard for the council to defend that refusal by arguing against its own policies.

The committee hopes that, following the officer negotiations with the developer, it can consider the application again at its next meeting, on November 16.

‘Fairer’ deal for bus passengers welcomed

compared to £1.85 and £3.25 previously.

It says it is delighted that residents now pay considerably less to travel into

and Bristol than before, and that the price paid reflects distance travelled rather than purely being ‘zonal’.

As reported in last month’s Voice, First West of England has reduced fares as a result of government funding secured by the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset Council

Saltford is in the West of England fare zone, between the Bristol zone and the Bath zone, despite being close to both cities.

Until recently, residents had to pay the higher West of England zone prices to reach either city, which was the same price as those travelling the full length from Bath to Bristol and vice versa.

The previous West of England zone fare structure also meant that residents paid the same for travelling a short distance in the zone as they would if they travelled much further.

Saltford Parish Council (SPC) had been campaigning since 2019 for changes to the previous pricing structure, which it said was unfair for residents and a disincentive for villagers to use First Bus.

Based on the information available from First Bus, SPC assumes that residents travelling to central Bath on an adult ticket now pay £3.30 single / £4 return, while central Bristol is £3.70 single / £5 return. Shorter journeys under three miles will cost less than this.

By comparison, previous “unfair” fares for any First Bus service from Saltford to Bristol or Bath for adults was £3.70 single / £6.50 return, regardless of distance travelled.

Children (aged five to 15) travelling any distance in the West of England Zone now pay £1 one way or £1.80 return,

SPC said: “These changes to the fares makes a considerable difference, particularly for families and young people wishing to travel to and from our nearest cities by bus.”

Following its October meeting, to encourage future bus use, SPC has now urged the West of England Combined Authority that:

l X39/39 (First Bus) maintains the reduced fares introduced on September 25, specifically the West of England zone fares by distance (both single and 2-trip) for adults, and the flat fare for five to 15 year-olds.

l X39/39 (First Bus) increases the number/ frequency of evening buses – the service currently reduces from one approximately every 15 minutes to one every 30 minutes from 6pm.

l X39/39 (First Bus) addresses reliability issues following reports that buses do not arrive according to the timetable.

l X39/39 (First Bus) ensures electronic information at bus stops and on the First Bus app is more accurate for users.

l X39/39 (First Bus) reduces overcrowding by increasing frequency of services, especially during peak times.

l A4 (Airport Bus) increases number of services to the airport (as some services terminate in Keynsham).

Saltford bus users have seen their fares cut

Photo: Saltford Parish Council

Developer given deadline to clear site

THE developer behind the failed bid to set up a biogas energy plant on the outskirts of Keynsham has been given until March next year to clear the site.

An enforcement notice was originally served in November 2020 requiring the demolition or dismantlement of buildings and removal of all resultant material from the Queen Charlton Quarry site.

The deadline for compliance was June 1 this year, six months from when the notice took effect.

The site owners then applied for planning permission for the anaerobic digester facility, but this was refused by Bath and North East Somerset Council planning committee in March this year.

Resourceful Energy Anaerobic Limited (REAL) appealed this decision to the Planning Inspectorate but later decided to withdraw its challenge.

In view of the refused planning application and the appeal lodged, B&NES Council decided to extend the

enforcement notice compliance period to 12 months from the refusal of the planning application. The new deadline is March 10, 2023.

Campaign group Protect Our Keynsham Environment (POKE) led the fight against the plans for the anaerobic digester plant.

It said that because the site owners have until March 10 to demolish the building, “there is

no action the council can take in advance of the compliance date.”

POKE continued: “The council is contacting the owners of the site to establish when they intend to start works to comply with the notice.

“In the event the owners do not comply, the council will need to consider the most appropriate remedy to secure compliance. This could include prosecution,

as it is an offence not to comply with a notice, seeking an injunction, or commissioning direct action whereby the council pays to undertake the works itself and raises a charge against the land.

“At this stage it is impossible to advise what course of action may follow as it is contingent on the actions (or otherwise) of the site owner.

“POKE looks forward to working with the council through enforcing the extant enforcement notice which requires the removal of the anaerobic digestion plant buildings and taking further enforcement action to ensure that the site is restored as approved in previous planning permissions.”

More than 800 objections to the scheme were submitted to B&NES Council, expressing expressed concerns about increased noise, pollution, smell, poor health and a massive increase in HGV journeys to bring in waste from across England and Wales.

Plans to set up an anaerobic digester energy plant at the former Queen Charlton Quarry site were refused

Pastor Chris Williams One Church Keynsham

Are there any McDonalds fans out there? Have you ever driven past the golden arches gazing at pictures of irresistibly good-looking menus and found yourself drawn in by the promise of great-tasting fast food?

You are not the only one! I am not against good marketing, but I do get frustrated when the burger I receive looks nothing like what was advertised. So often my burger looks like it was made last week and has been trampled on a few times on its way to my table.

The feeling you experience in this moment is the effect of something called Hyperreal. At a basic level, Hyperreal describes what is happening when media presents a version of something that is more real than real. It is a simulation of the truth. Yes, you will

get a burger, but it will never live up to the expectations created by the imagery and language used to describe the burger you are buying!

Think about movies, video games, beauty magazines – they all present to us a version of the world that is more real than real.

When our real experience doesn’t

match this expectation, it can leave us feeling discouraged, dissatisfied, discontent, depressed, desensitized to reality, misinformed, frustrated and empty. Not one of those is helpful when it comes our social, physical, spiritual and psychological wellbeing.

Here are three tips on protecting your mental health:

1: Get outside more – In the Bible is an incredible story about a promise to a man named Abraham. It’s a miracle story, but the miracle began with Abraham leaving his tent and God telling him to look up and count the stars. Perhaps a healthy dose of nature, stepping out of our circumstances, out from those thoughts and things that keep us feeling down, and taking time to look up, may produce a healthier mindset and sense

appreciation for the life we have been given.

2: Speak kindly to yourself –remove the negative noise. Your words have power for good and bad. What harmful words have you spoken about yourself? I am not good enough? I am worthless? I deserve to be treated this way? I am a failure? It is time to change your ‘self’ confessions! You are one of a kind, unique, gifted, beautiful; you are not an accident. I believe you were created with purpose and meaning and you are more greatly loved than you could ever imagine.

3: Declutter your social media – if it does not make you feel good, it is time to hide it, unfollow it, block it. Guard your mind and heart if the stimulus you are absorbing is feeding vulnerability. Your soul will thank you!

Think about movies, video games, beauty magazines – they all present to us a version of the world that is more real than real.

in street

been ordered

£1,193

Arsid Hoxhaj, 27, of Carpenters Lane, admitted the offence at Bristol Magistrates Court. He was fined £416, plus £679 clear-up costs, £56 compensation and a £42 victim surcharge.

The court heard that South Gloucestershire Council’s street enforcement officers were on patrol at Halls Road, Kingswood, on February 21 when they found a large quantity of household waste fly-tipped at the base of a lamp post.

The officers discovered an address label on packaging relating to a resident of Carpenters Lane, Keynsham. The investigation was passed to the council’s environmental enforcement team, whose enquiries led to Hoxhaj being identified.

Hoxhaj attended a voluntary interview with the council on June 27. He admitted placing some of the waste, but not all of it, claiming the rest had been put there by other people in the area.

Hoxhaj – who was moving from Kingswood to Keynsham at the time of the offence – said he had left the waste in the street because his black bin had been stolen.

Five charged in county lines drug investigation

FIVE people have been charged after warrants were simultaneously carried out at addresses in Keynsham and Bath as part of an investigation into a county lines drugs network.

The defendants appeared before Bristol Magistrates’ Court on October 20, following the raids the day before.

Courtney Tanner-Mulholland, 18, of Keynsham, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine, as well as with requiring a person to perform forced or compulsory labour, arranging or facilitating travel of another with a view to exploitation and two counts of acquire/use/possession criminal property.

Jamaal Newman, 18, of Keynsham, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine and two counts of acquire/use/ possess criminal property.

Saskia Tanner, 35, of

Keynsham, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine and two counts of acquire/use/possess criminal property.

Sylvia Bearman, 37, of Twerton, Bath, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine.

A 17-year-old male, who as a juvenile cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine, requiring a person to perform forced or compulsory labour, arranging or facilitating travel of another with a view to exploitation and two counts of acquire/use/possession criminal property.

All were released on conditional bail ahead of their next hearing, with the exception of Courtney Tanner-Mulholland, who was remanded in custody.

The waste that was found dumped by a lamp post

KEYNSHAM

This is the original Wingrove Hotel, near the top of Bath Street (now Bristol Road), Keynsham.

One of many licensed premises that have disappeared, it took its name from the Wingrove family who once owned the property. They sold it in 1855 and it is believed to have become a public house in 1881 and renamed as an hotel seven years later.

Before the Second World War, it was a popular venue for functions and wedding receptions but struggled in the 1950s. It was bought by the council in 1954 and later demolished for the Old Vicarage Green development.

Ready, steady, glow for winter festival

KEYNSHAM Winter Festival is returning to its full glory after last year’s scaled-down event.

The festival, from 6pm to 9pm on Friday November 25, will start with a celebration the new community Christmas tree in the Memorial Park, planted as part of the Queen’s canopy for the platinum jubilee.

From there, a procession will lead its way up Bath Hill and along the High Street, magically switching on the Christmas lights as it passes.

The procession will continue to the Christmas tree in the grounds of St John’s Church, where the church choir will sing Christmas carols while the tree is lit.

Local dance schools, theatre groups, choirs and schools will perform throughout the evening in the church and on the main stage in The Space, above the library.

Father Christmas will greet children throughout the evening, while street performers in the High Street will include elves with their “good-o-meter” to find out who’s on the naughty or nice list.

Market Walk and the Fear Hall will host more than 40 stalls - with traders and community groups selling handmade, locally-sourced crafts and gifts - while many High Street stores staying open for late-night shopping.

The Key Centre will offer activities for

Metro Mayor’s pick of local attractions

METRO Mayor Dan Norris paid a preHalloween visit to a Keynsham visitor attraction as part of his Explore Local campaign. The initiative aims to encourage West of England residents to rediscover great places to visit in their region.

Mr Norris went to Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park in Pixash Lane to see its 40,000-strong pumpkin patch, where local people can source their seasonal squash.

He also met owner Doug Douglas and his father John Douglas, who opened the park 33 years ago, to discuss how local attractions like theirs are vital to the region’s economy.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “We really do have some great things to do right here on our doorstep. Let’s wrap up warm and get out there to rediscover all our amazing region has to offer this Halloween and beyond.”

children, ranging from face painting to craft stations.

A wide variety of food and drink will be on sale, including mulled wine, and the funfair makes a return this year, with rides for all the family.

Roads will be closed during the festival as follows: The High Street from St John’s Church to the junction with Bath Hill by Poundland; Temple Street from Iceland to Carpenters Lane; Charlton Road from the mini roundabout to the junction of the High Street; and a short closure (of about 15-20 minutes) to allow the procession to go from the Memorial Park up Bath Hill and into the High Street.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris with Doug Douglas

PEOPLE will gather in Keynsham and Saltford on Remembrance Sunday to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for their country in military conflicts, including the two world wars.

The parade in Keynsham on November 13 will form at Ashton Way at 8.45am before proceeding through Rock Road, Temple Street and High Street to St John’s Church for a service at 9.30am.

After the service, the parade will muster at the rear of the church in the road known as The Park and will then proceed through Station Road, turning left into the High Street to form up behind the marching band.

The parade will then go along the High Street via Bath Hill to the Memorial Gates.

At 11am, the first maroon will start the two-minutes’ silence, the second maroon will end the two-minutes’ silence, and Last

We will remember sacrifice they made

Post will played. The Kohima will be read before the parade marshal leads the laying of wreaths at the gates.

Standards will form at the front of the parade and march off at 11.20am via Bath Hill, part of Temple Street, Rock Road and onto Ashton Way for dismissal.

There will be rolling road closures during the parade.

Ashton Way will be closed to traffic from 9am to 9.30am, with the car park closed from 8.55am, reopening after 9.30am and closing again from 11am to 11.30am as the parade returns.

Keynsham branch of the Royal British Legion welcomes members of the public to attend

the service at the Memorial Gates, asking that they follow the instructions of the marshals and remain safe at all times.

In Saltford, road closures are scheduled to be in place from 9.30am to 11.45am between Saltford Hall and St Mary’s Church, including Norman Road and the High Street.

Saltford Scouts, Guides and other uniformed young people will parade from Saltford Hall to St Mary’s Church.

After a church service (held for those in the parade due to space limitations), the parade will march to the war memorial on the junction of High Street and Beech Road at about

10.45am, where many villagers will gather to pay their respects during a short service.

Saltford Parish Council’s chair, Chris Warren, will lay a wreath from the council on behalf of the village’s residents.

After leaving the war memorial, the parade will return to the Saltford Hall area.

Compton Dando will hold its Remembrance service at 10am in St Mary’s Church. It will be led by churchwarden Clive Howarth and followed by a village gathering at the war memorial at 10.50am. All are invited to the parish hall afterwards for hot soup and rolls.

Parochial church council member Jenny Davis said: “Teas will be available in the church later that day, from 2pm until 3pm, where you can see our poppy display and also read the stories of our brave village soldiers who did not return.”

The Remembrance Sunday parade in Keynsham last year. Right, a plaque honouring the fallen of the Second World War at the memorial gates in Keynsham

Plea as parking issues hot up

have prompted Saltford Parish Council (SPC) to request measures

Bath and North East Somerset Council to combat the

“Whilst Saltford welcomes considerate

who respectfully enjoy the countryside and support local businesses, a minority have caused issues as reported by residents.

include excessive littering and noise, and parking issues, especially in the narrow residential roads of Saltford’s historic conservation area.”

SPC has asked B&NES Council for better management of The Shallows car park, more frequent parking enforcement visits, and protection from parking on green space amenity areas (i.e. the grass around the car park).

It has also requested preventative parking measures on the double-yellow lines and an increase in the amount of Resident Parking Zone signage.

SPC also wants the public right of way route in the field opposite The Shallows to be protected by fencing to ensure good visitor access (the privately owned agricultural field in Kelston parish is where most visitors head to via Saltford during heatwaves).

The parish council has entered into discussions

with B&NES Council to try to resolve these issues.

SPC has also received several complaints about a paddle-boarding business operating for free from B&NES land, including taking up most of the car park space and pushing pushed parking problems further afield. B&NES Council has asked SPC pass on the complaints.

SPC has now formed a working group to look at how to improve riverside areas for residents and visitors while protecting the historic and natural environment, public rights of ways, and improving safety and wellbeing.

£2,000 boost for petanque

SALTFORD Sports Club has been given £2,000 by the parish council towards the costs of two new pétanque courts.

The club stated in its grant application that “petanque is a very inclusive game that can be played by everyone regardless of age and ability.”

Saltford Parish Council, which approved the grant at its October meeting, said: “It’s yet another excellent initiative by this notfor-profit community club.”

Stage thriller

SALTFORD Drama Club’s autumn production will be Agatha Christie’s thriller And Then There Were None.

The show will run at Saltford Hall from Thursday November 17 to Saturday November 19, starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets costing £14 are available from www.tickettailor. com/events/scaevents and Saltford Community Post Office & Library Hub.

Saltford has requested measures to curb parking problems Photo: Saltford Parish Council

this winter

The changes in our office seem to be coming thick and fast at the minute. Our sergeant, Stuart Cumine, has moved to a new role at the Regional Organised Crime Unit, and we wish him well.

We are now waiting to see who will be steering the ship for us, but fear not, as we are being covered by a sergeant who used to work in Keynsham on the response teams and so has a good working knowledge of the area. As soon as I have some information on this, I will let you know.

We also have good news for two of our PCSOs, who have been accepted to join Avon and Somerset Constabulary as police officers. Their training will begin in January 2023 and we will update when that is actually happening.

n As we move into winter, I always issue a vehicle-checking reminder, from screen washer bottle levels, to tyre conditions and pressures.

with PC James Evans

As the condition of our roads is affected by the rain, frost, leaves etc, you need to check that your vehicle is ready for this time of year.

From the ground up, check your vehicles tyres from tread depth right across the tyre, and the tyre pressures. With colder air temperatures, your tyre pressures will be lower, so they will need checking and adjusting to suit.

It’s also worth checking your oil and antifreeze levels, and it’s a good idea to keep some warm clothes in your car in case it breaks down and you have to wait for a recovery vehicle.

n You may have seen on the

news about five people being arrested for drug supply who have links to Keynsham. Avon and Somerset Police acted on a number of simultaneous warrants to arrest the suspects. The investigation is ongoing and I will update when there is a result.

n Since the schools have been back, our Neighbourhood Policing Team have been delivering presentations to the children about crime and consequences. We do all sorts of visits, including to youth groups and Scouts. If you would like to arrange a talk, please contact us via the neighbourhood pages of the Avon and Somerset Police website.

n With Halloween just around the corner, we have been expecting to be busy. If you are taking part in trick or treating, please respect the addresses you visit.

We supply flyers to people who do not wish to have visitors, and this may be for a number

of reasons, so if you see one of these please avoid the address.

n The other excitement coming up is Bonfire Night, another event that comes with its own challenges. The main complaints we get are about fireworks being let off by youths in communal areas, parks etc.

If you have children below the age of 18, please do not buy them fireworks. The last thing we want to deal with is an injury caused by the misuse of fireworks that could have been easily avoided.

We are lucky to have some large firework displays locally, so if you need to get your fix, pop along and watch one of these.

If you are a planning a home display, please ensure you have safety provisions in place, from buckets of water to first-aid kits, in case an accident occurs.

All the emergency services are under huge strain at the moment, so if we can prevent further pressure on them, we can all hopefully get back on track.

MP under fire for fracking comments

JACOB Rees-Mogg has been accused of taking his constituents for granted after saying that he would be “delighted” to allow fracking in his back garden.

The North East Somerset MP made the comments at a fringe meeting at the Conservative Party Conference when he was asked if he would allow fracking at his Somerset home.

He said: “Of course I would, I would be delighted. Particularly if I get these royalties.”

He added that attendees should be happy for it to happen in their back gardens too, saying: “If we do what I am suggesting on shale gas, you will be doing a public service by having it in your back garden but you’ll also get paid for it.”

Wera Hobhouse, MP for the neighbouring constituency of Bath, hit out at the business, energy and industrial strategy secretary’s comments.

She said: “Jacob ReesMogg’s arrogance is staggering.

Time and again he takes his constituents for granted and this is yet another example.

“Mr Rees-Mogg said he would welcome fracking in his back garden. I am quite sure he did not ask, nor care, whether any of his constituents shared his view. The government consistently ignores the wishes of the local community and Mr Rees-Mogg is promising more of the same.”

Other local voices who have condemned the comments, including Mr Rees-Mogg’s local councillor on Bath and North East Somerset Council, Liberal Democrat David Wood, and the leader of the Conservatives on the council, Vic Pritchard.

Mr Pritchard said: “We

recognise the advantages that shale gas has over other fossil fuels, and note the government’s desire to allow fracking to take place at appropriate locations. In Bath and North East Somerset, however, we believe fracking is highly inappropriate.

“We live in an area replete with natural beauty and rich in cultural capital.

“One of the jobs of local councillors is to represent the views of residents and on an issue such as this, which would have a huge impact on communities, local peoples’ legitimate concerns about fracking are paramount.”

Mr Rees Mogg has previously dismissed criticism of fracking, saying: “So who doesn’t like it? The socialists and [Green Party MP] Caroline Lucas. Well, that makes my heart bleed.”

Mr Wood, who represents the Mendip ward that includes Mr Rees-Mogg’s village of West Harptree, said: “By saying he would be ‘delighted’ by the

prospect of fracking ‘in his back garden’ in Somerset, Mr Rees Mogg is showing how very out of touch he is.

“People are crying out for help with the cost-of-living crisis, which fracking will do nothing to address, and for action on insulation and other efficiency measures to cut fuel poverty and wasted energy. The government should focus on these issues rather than trashing the environment to line energy fat cats’ pockets.”

Bath and North East Somerset Council agreed a motion in 2018 which identified the potential impact fracking could have on Bath’s hot springs.

The government said that local support would be needed for fracking as it lifted the ban on the practice which had been in place since 2019, but has not yet been made clear how local support will be defined.

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service l Letters: Page 28

Could you be the next incredible member of our team?

Could you be the next incredible member of our team?

Fundraiser

Fundraiser

Do you enjoy talking to new people and getting involved in the local community? Would you like to run and manage local fundraising events of different sizes? And can you write compelling copy supporting business cases that would secure grants and trust funding?

Do you enjoy talking to new people and getting involved in the local community? Would you like to run and manage local fundraising events of different sizes?

And can you write compelling copy supporting business cases that would secure grants and trust funding?

Well, we have a vacancy for a fundraiser to join our friendly team.

Well, we have a vacancy for a fundraiser to join our friendly team.

We are looking for an enthusiastic person who is excited about making a difference for local people and can get the local community involved in helping too.

We are looking for an enthusiastic person who is excited about making a difference for local people and can get the local community involved in helping too.

You would be assisting local people with a learning disability to enjoy social opportunities and activities in Keynsham and the surrounding areas.

You would be assisting local people with a learning disability to enjoy social opportunities and activities in Keynsham and the surrounding areas.

A flexible 20 hrs a week role with some weekend and evening work £14.50 per hour based in Keynsham.

A flexible 20 hrs a week role with some weekend and evening work £14.50 per hour based in Keynsham.

If this sounds like you, you can apply online at keynshammencap.org.uk

If this sounds like you, you can apply online at keynshammencap.org.uk

For people with Learning Disabilities and Autism

Jacob Rees-Mogg has been accused of taking his constituents for granted

Auction returns in style and sets a record!

while the toy room was like Santa’s grotto.

Keynsham and comes at a time where they are seeing pressures on their operations due to rising costs.

an event! The main auction room saw activity from 9am until 6pm, the book and music room was overflowing with books and DVDs,

To top that off, the bargain marquee did indeed offer bargains and the KESU Café did a roaring trade in bacon rolls, home-baked cakes and more. After a three-year absence, the auction was well and truly back, creating a buzz in the town and proving that when it comes to teamwork, Scouting wins through.

Everyone was happy, bargains galore, and an amazing amount of money raised for the Scout group. Thank you again to those who donated,

those who collected, those who organised and those who came and spent money. Watch out for the first weekend in October next year - it will return.

Our next fund-raiser is our winter clay pigeon shoot at Chelwood campsite on Saturday and Sunday November 26 and 27 - a perfect opportunity for groups or individuals to have some fun. Advance booking is required. Visit www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk or email claypigeon@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk for details.

Bargain-hunters of all ages flocked to Keynsham Scouts’ auction and book sale - its

is a clay pigeon shoot at the Chelwood campsite

BANG! Pop! Screeeeech, Pant!

Hello, I’m Angel, First Dog of the West of England, and I write today to formally protest about your human Bonfire Night celebrations with those loud boom-boom things that terrify me and my fellow canine pals. Bad humans! Bad!

I’m sorry. I don’t actually think you’re bad. I think you’re the best, promise. Let’s go for a walk. Please can we go for a walk. Anyway, let’s cut to the chase. What, did someone say chase?!

Sorry, back again. The point is that for you hoo-mans, Bonfire Night may well be a time to ‘ooh’ and ‘aww’ over impressive displays and pretty colours exploding in the night sky. But un expected loud noises tend to have the opposite effect on us pets, and can leave owners pretty frazzled too - sorry, Dan!

The RSPCA say an estimated 62% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear on Bonfire Night. It’s easy for you all to say “Calm it, it’s just fireworks,” but that’s like you watching the UK’s current eco nomic trials and tribulations and us dogs telling you: “Calm it - mortgage rates, interest rates, fuel costs and inflation are no big deal – they are just money things.”

So what can you do to help man’s best friend? Here are a few pointers for the big night.

The best thing you can do for your scaredy cat (or dog) is to make the day as un-Bonfire Night-like as possible. Why not create a ‘doggy haven’ with all our fave toys and blankets, like Dan has in the spare room - which, if you don’t mind me saying, is a bit dusty - or put on calm music to muffle the boom-y noises? I’m a big fan of Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No 9 in E major –yes, I’m a cultured pooch!

And if you’re going to buy them, then please consider getting those ‘silent’ fireworks, or qui eter ones at least. The good thing about that is loads of supermarkets are stocking their shelves with these now - and some, like Sainsbury’s, have even stopped selling fireworks altogether (woooo!).

Dan’s a big fan of these quieter fireworks. He doesn’t want to be complete killjoy, because he, like many people, really enjoys the displays, but he thinks it’s bonkers the noise levels in those big scary light things used at public events are around 120 dB - equivalent to a rock concert or a jet engine.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris and his dog Angel write for the Voice

He thinks there are sensible ways to reduce the impact fireworks have on animals – includ ing farm animals and horses. That’s why he’s written to all supermarkets to clarify whether or not they’ll be stocking quiet ones in the run-up to celebrating the Gunpowder Plot near-miss of 1605 in 2022, and is encouraging you all to buy them. Way to go, Dan!

Happy Bonfire Night! Keep yourself and your furry family members safe and healthy!

Sincerely,

Angel, very good girl to Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

HISTORY SOCIETY

Flanders House – a journey through time

House was a substantial white house that stood at the bottom of Bath Hill East, where the large car park is today. What do we know of its history?

It is believed to have been built in the late 1600s. Although the name infers a connection with the Flemish brass workers, they did not arrive in Keynsham until after April 1705, when the Bristol Brass Company took a lease on Downe Mill on the Chew (later known as the Colour Mill).

So, the house was probably not built for an owner/manager in the brass industry, but it may well have been occupied by them and named Flanders House. When it was built, the house was level with the adjacent main road, but this was later raised, leaving the house set low, needing a flight of steps to reach the footpath.

So far, nothing definite has been discovered about the early owners or occupiers. A later account said that in 1917 there was still a pane of glass in the window of a large upper room on which was scratched the name ‘Mary Racker’ and the date 1700. It is believed that a James Racker held the title deeds from 1767 to 1799, so it may be that the Racker family lived there for many years.

A source of interesting information, although not documented proof, are the stories recounted in 1957 by the Misses Christine and Zoe Parnell and told to them by their great aunt, Miss Louisa Hudden, who lived there for many years.

The Hudden family moved in after Flanders House was auctioned in March 1838. Sarah Hudden was a widow; her school master husband, William, had run a boarding school in Beckington before his death in 1837, and daughter Caroline was listed as a schoolmistress.

They ran a school at the house, for day and boarding pupils, and in 1851 Sarah was still the head of the household, with Caroline and Louisa both shown in the census as schoolmistresses and three girl scholars also resident.

Ten years later, after Sarah’s death, they still had the school and were living at the house with their uncle John Hudden, four boarderstwo girls and two boys - and a house servant. Caroline died in 1861 but Louisa continued the school until about 1885.

Flanders House is to the right of the centre of this picture. Below, the front and rear of the house

One of the stories passed on was that in the early 1800s a housekeeper at the property, who was in love with one of the owners, drowned herself in the Chew when her employer married another. Her ghost was reputed to haunt the house, walking the passages and up and down the stairs, with the swish of her wet silk dress quite audible, although she caused no harm.

Another piece of oral history is the Flanders House connection with one of the 19th century’s most notorious criminals, Charlie Peace. A prolific burglar, responsible for more than one murder, he travelled the country, at one time selling musical instruments by day and burgling by night.

Peace tried to pick the lock of the front door,

but Miss Parnell’s great-grandmother, on hearing the noise, summoned a retired policeman who lived nearby, by ringing a large bell from an upper window. Peace made off but was later caught attempting another burglary at Saltford; he appeared in court, where he was convicted and jailed.

In the 1890s the house passed through marriage into the Parnell family, who lived there until 1917. The last residents were Reginald and Sidney Pearce, who were there until Reginald’s death in 1961. Flanders House was then empty until its demolition in 1964.

This article is based on detailed research by Sue Tatford, the society’s archivist

Richard Dyson

Delight as our town strikes gold again

KEYNSHAM In Bloom is delighted to report that once again our little town has been awarded a gold in the South West In Bloom competition.

KIB representatives heard the great news on Thursday October 13 at Haselbury Mill in Crewkerne. As chairman l breathed a sigh of relief because 2022 hasn’t been an easy year, the heatwave arriving in time to kill or damage many plants just as SWIB judging arrived.

Needless to say, we have learned lessons as gardeners and will put these into practice for the future.

l must thank many Keynsham people who have donated sun-loving plants to replace the empty spaces at the Pocket Park and Keynsham Station. I have kept them safely in my nursery bed until required to be planted by our wonderful volunteers, who are the lifeline of KIB.

Saturday October 15 saw our KIB stall at the Eco Festival held in Market Walk. It was well attended and raised funds for more plants and seeds to fill our local containers and flowerbeds. Young people were taught how to pot up bulbs and use cardboard rolls to plant seeds. Once again KIB volunteers pulled out all the stops.

Another two dates for your diaries are Sunday November 13 at Wellsway School craft fare and Friday November 25, the Winter Festival at the Fear Hall. We will be selling Christmas crackers filled with chocolates and all sorts of yummy items. Don’t forget to look out for us.

Well, it’s coffee time for me and as the sun is shining l am going to drink it in the garden. Keep well and keep gardening.

Mary Woodman

The Keynsham in Bloom stall at the Eco Festival held in Market Walk

The end of an era as Church’s closes

CHURCH’s newsagents in Keynsham High Street has closed after almost 90 years.

The premises have been taken over by the PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need.

The newsagents used to be run by Eric and Margaret Church until their retirement and was then taken over by their daughter Wendy and son Nigel.

Wendy told the Voice: “We have finally signed and completed on the lease of the shop to PDSA. They are starting work on the shop immediately.”

The PDSA said it did not have a confirmed date for opening the shop but was aiming to do so by the end of November.

Church’s announced its last day of trading on Facebook on September 24. A sign in its window said: “We would like to thank all our loyal customers who have supported us over the last nearly 90 years.”

Many people on Facebook voiced their sadness at the closure.

One said: “Thank you to the Church family, you will be greatly missed. Amazing to have lasted such a long time.”

Another said: “Sad to see them go. It’s an end of an era. They did a very admirable job serving the community for all those years.”

And another commented: “Thank you for being part of my childhood and all the years after that. Fond memories popping into Church’s for a sweet treat after school, which was handy as it was almost opposite. A sad day indeed for Keynsham.”

The PDSA is seeking volunteers to help run its new shop and is appealing to animal lovers who can spare a few hours a week to get in touch.

Anyone interest is asked to call Nicola Hughes on 07825 862933 or email her at hughes. nicola@pdsa.org.uk.

Or they can use the following link to apply online: https:// www.pdsa.org.uk/volunteerkeynsham.

Brighter outlook for old street lamps in village

HERITAGE street lights in Saltford’s conservation area are to have their bulbs changed to cut carbon emissions and energy costs.

Bath and North East Somerset Council will be replacing the bulbs with warm white LED ones in the coming weeks – the light fittings themselves will not be changed.

B&NES says the lights will look clearer once the bulbs have been changed. It has tested the bulbs in other parts of the district and says the reaction so far has been positive.

Saltford Parish Council has welcomed the initiative. Phil Harding, lead councillor for environmental matters, says the change makes sense and that the new bulbs should not detract from the heritage look of the existing light fittings.

Are you looking for a new job?

Photo: Saltford Parish Council

‘Hands tied’ on cutting noisy gull population

BATH and North East Somerset Council has been told its “hands are tied” over reducing the number of gulls in the area.

There are nearly a thousand breeding pairs of gulls in Bath, with smaller colonies of 183 in Midsomer Norton and 98 in Keynsham.

Central Bath resident Tim Newark told a council panel on gull strategy that the noise had got worse through the 40 years he had lived in the city.

He said: “This summer was perhaps the worst period. As the temperatures rose to record highs, we could not open our bedroom windows in the hot night because of the ear-splitting racket in the morning from 4.30am onwards.”

Gulls are protected under law but in 2019 Bath and North East Somerset obtained a licence from Natural England, allowing it to remove nests and eggs when it could show non-lethal methods

had failed and that it was needed for public protection.

Aled Williams, the council’s environmental protection manager, said ‘proofing’ a property, with netting or spikes where gulls would perch or nest, could have a more long-term effect than removing nests.

Councillor Grant Johnson asked if anything could be done to actually reduce the number of gulls, saying: “They are clearly finding other places to rest, hence why we are getting population increases.”

Mr Williams: “I think, whilst we’ve got the organisational licence with Natural England as it is, our hands are tied.

“If there’s a desire by local authorities, by society generally, then they need to be taken off that list. But that’s not where Natural England are at the moment.”

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

New homes bid sparks fear of strain on services

DEVELOPERS are seeking to build 65 houses onto a village in the Chew Valley, although locals are concerned about the strain on services.

The houses would be built in two fields in the north of Temple Cloud, surrounding the houses at the Square.

Two trees in the fields covered by tree protection orders would be maintained, and a field on the other side of the Upper Bristol Road would be developed into a public outdoor green space.

However, some people who live in the village worry Temple Cloud cannot accommodate more people.

Anna Dash said: “The village does not have enough facilities for a further 65 homes. The school was recently extended to accommodate the growing population of the village from the recent building of homes. There is no further space to increase the size of the school.”

Several residents were concerned it would put pressure on the village’s GP surgery.

Not everyone in the village was opposed to the development.

Another resident, Lee Taylor, commented: “Temple Cloud needs more homes. It’s a lovely place to live.

“Links to public transport isn’t a huge issue as there’s adequate buses for those who need them.”

A total of 30% of the homes will be affordable housing.

Agents of the developer, Vistry Homes, said: “The affordable housing units will be dispersed throughout the scheme and designed to a high quality to be materially indistinguishable from the market housing.”

A decision on the planning application by Bath and North East Somerset Council is expected by November 29.

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Park footbridge plans to

new

at Bath and North East Somerset Council are hoping to demolish the existing

this autumn and have a new one installed

spring 2023.

The existing bridge has been closed to the public since October 2019 when a visual inspection found it was unsafe for public use.

then, the Conservative councillors who represent Keynsham on B&NES Council have been urging the administration to get it fixed to provide a safe and convenient link to the park for pedestrians.

Councillor Lisa O’Brien, B&NES Conservative councillor for Keynsham South, said: “I’m pleased that plans to fix the footbridge are progressing.

“The bridge is a convenient link to the park and, throughout its closure, people who aren’t able to walk far will have suffered due to the long

diversion route. It’s also been difficult for children and their families to access the play area via Avon Mill Lane.

“I’m excited to see designs for the new bridge, which will breathe new life into the park and improve public safety for pedestrians.”

Following the closure of the bridge in 2019, investigations revealed that it was beyond repair and that the most cost-efficient solution was to install a new one. The council set aside £750,000 for the project in its budget for 2022/23.

Call to protect trees from development

SALTFORD Parish Council has requested that a temporary tree preservation order on woodland in the village should be made permanent.

The temporary order was made after Bath and North East Somerset Council was alerted to concerns about the loss of trees at a parcel of land referred to as Partis Hill, which adjoins the A4 Bath Road, The Folly and Uplands Road.

It is described as mixed deciduous woodland with mature trees. The woodland is clearly visible from the A4 Bath Road, especially on the approach into Saltford from the direction of Bath, as well as from nearby residential areas. The area is recognised as a wildlife habitat for many species, including bats.

Following a site visit by B&NES Council’s senior arboricultural officer in August, B&NES Council issued a temporary tree preservation order (TPO) to prevent the loss of more trees at this location.

B&NES Council made the order because “the woodland is considered to contribute towards the green infrastructure of the area; has sufficient visual amenity and forms an important skyline feature. The selling of the woodland and recent activities has resulted in requests for the woodland to be considered for protected.”

At a meeting of Saltford Parish Council, it was agreed to request that the temporary TPO become permanent, stating that “replacing this woodland area with a property development would adversely affect the character” of the surrounding area.

Councillor Lisa O’Brien by the old bridge in the Memorial Park

Poor excuse for parking charge rise

I REFER to the article in last month’s edition of the Voice concerning the 50 per cent increase in the parking charges in Keynsham by B&NES.

In defending this, Councillor Manda Rigby, the cabinet member for transport, states: “Changes to permit and parking charges are aimed at shifting the way we get around and encouraging walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport, which in turn eases congestion, improves air quality and helps with our journey to net zero ambitions.”

In referring to the B&NES website, I see that outside of Bath, Keynsham is the only place in B&NES where parking is chargeable. If the reason for hiking the parking charges in Keynsham was to help B&NES achieve its net-zero ambitions, which I endorse, why is the council not looking to discourage the use of the car in places like Radstock, Midsomer Norton and Paulton by imposing car parking charges there?

I am sorry, Councillor Rigby, but I do not accept your explanation - you are simply looking on the residents of Keynsham to help balance the books, and the reason is nothing whatsoever about limiting carbon emissions.

I share the concerns of Councillor Brian Simmons that this will have a detrimental effect on our businesses in Keynsham High Street, particularly as shoppers can drive to Kingswood and shop in the High Street there and park for free.

Mike Barrow, Keynsham

Councillor Brian Simmons at Ashton Way car park – he and fellow Conservative councillors say the rise in parking charges will deal a “devastating blow” to High Street businesses

Another blow for older people

I fail to see how the Liberal Democrats can use the excuse about needing to tackle climate change to increase parking charges.

Many older people cannot use Keynsham shops by walking to them, and the Liberal Democrats again show their lack of understanding for business following the prolonged Keynsham High Street saga which, despite council denials, still continues with many injuries to users.

In addition, the online public consultation was poorly advertised and again does not allow many older people who do not use the internet the opportunity to comment.

Perhaps this helps to reduce adverse comments, like the survey used to justify the High Street changes.

Keynsham resident (name and address supplied)

Crossings provide a level of safety

JUST two brief points on the neverending saga of Keynsham High Street prompted by your October issue. I have every sympathy with the disabled pensioner who wrote to say he was keeping away from the High Street due to the erratic level changes, which are simply bad urban design, not aesthetically pleasing and ultimately indefensible.

However, I do hope people realise that in this relatively short High Street there are three pedestrian crossings, including a zebra, all with safe onelevel access.

Also, in the same issue, PC Evans (On the Beat column) clears up the confusion of the D-shape barriers that look like bike racks but aren’t (so seemingly serve no purpose, as they are certainly not decorative).

But isn’t it odd for a street that encourages cycling to the extent of having a dedicated cycle lane only to have racks at the library end?

If you cycle to Boots for instance in the direction of the cycle lane, there is nowhere to park a bike - and I’m sure there were before the ‘improvements’!

Charles McLaughlin

Some light relief

I HAPPENED to be talking to somebody recently who told me they had been driving around Keynsham that day and hadn’t encountered any temporary traffic lights. Obviously I thought this was highly improbable. So I wondered: Have any of your readers ever experienced this?

Ben Crang

Fracking is not the answer to our energy problems

‘FRACKING’ is the hydraulic fracturing of bedrock which involves blasting gas from underground rock with a mixture of water, sand and chemicals.

Jacob Rees-Mogg, the North East Somerset Conservative MP and the Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy, has announced that the moratorium on fracking is to be lifted. This is of concern because parts of Somerset (including land near Keynsham) have been targeted in the past for potential ‘fracking’ of coal-bed methane.

The government issued licences some years ago covering our area that allowed for the exploration and drilling of sites subject to planning permission.

For each well, after drilling a vertical then horizontal well, drillers use a ‘perforating gun’ to enable huge quantities of water plus sand and chemicals to be forced down the well pipeline under high pressure at around 3,000m (10,000ft) below ground level.

Most but not all of the fracking liquids (water

and chemical additives) are returned to the surface for removal. Potential environmental impacts include earth tremors, contamination of ground water and the migration of gases and fracking chemicals to the surface.

There are concerns about the visual impact of drilling rigs and the amount of 24-7 heavy lorry traffic required for the delivery and removal of huge volumes of fracking liquids during the drilling and fracking procedure.

There are other site specific worries. For example, any explosions deep under the Mendips followed by pumping vast quantities of water into the sub strata of the rock could mean that the flows of water underground will be changed forever and affect the hot springs in both Bath and Bristol. This would cause immense damage to the tourism industry in Bath and its environs. Who would come to enjoy the hot springs if they stopped flowing? This would lose our local economy countless millions of pounds, reduce council income, and lead to higher council tax across the authority.

The government has said that fracking could be allowed where there is public consent, but our MP has repeatedly refused to explain in the House of Commons what exactly that means.

He has spoken vaguely about limited financial payouts to those affected by a fracking site. It is impossible to make up such a list of affected people. How would local opinion be gauged? What if neighbours support this and you don’t? Would locally elected councillors have any say? What effect would this have on the value of your property?

This is a concern, and residents need to be vigilant and prepared.

The use of fossil fuels such as fracking gas contributes to devastating climate change. We need to invest in renewable energy, carbon capture technology, and home insulation, not fracking.

Cllr Duncan Hounsell, Cllr Alastair Singleton (B&NES councillors, Lib Dem - Saltford ward)

Cllr Hal MacFie, Cllr Andy Wait (B&NES councillors, Lib Dem – Keynsham East ward)

The Last Library

Freya Sampson

by Freya Sampson (of

The

destined to go to Oxford University. She lives with her brother Edward and is love with his friend Roland. However, when the First World War begins, both men join up.

BOOKS OF THE MONTH with Judith Thomas from Keynsham Library

There is also a guide that explains preparation and cooking techniques. A great introduction to the joys of slow, tasty and winter fuelling food!

Young Adult Fiction Letters from the Lighthouse

Emma Carroll

her mum. Work is scarce and this new village also has wounded soldiers stationed nearby.

in

where we meet library assistant June. She lives a solitary life – with ready meals and a cat. Her whole life

around the colourful characters who visit the library each day, about whom she makes up stories based onthe books they take out.

However, after a traumatic RhymeTime, June is told by her manager that the library is threatened with closure.

is devastated, but the community rallies round and establishes the Friends of Chalcot Library campaign - and from this June’s life is also changed forever. A real treat of a story and a real homage to local libraries.

Adult Non-Fiction Testament of Youth

Vera Brittain

A timely classic, this heartbreaking, beautiful story is always relevant as Remembrance Day approaches. Vera Brittain is 20 in 1914, has been living a comfortable, tranquil life and is

Vera and Roland’s love story is poignantly described as well as the dramatic changes the war brings on Vera and her country. She does not take up her position at Oxford but volunteers as a nurse. This role gives her some purpose, travelling to Malta and nursing the wounded, both British and German. However, she emerges from those terrible years into a much-altered world.

Slow Cooking

Catherine Atkinson

As slow cookers become popular this winter and the nights are drawing in, why not try this mouthwatering cook book? It is filled with 135 recipes that include seafood chowder; Boston baked beans, cider-glazed ham, baked stuffed apples and a delicious golden ginger cake – yes, that you can bake in a slow cooker! All explained in a simple style and with great photos.

pets

This is an artfully written book set in the Second World War. It is February 1941, and after months of bombing raids on London, 12-yearold Olive Bradshaw and her little brother Cliff are evacuated to the Devon coast.

The only person with two spare beds is Mr Ephraim, the local lighthouse keeper. But he’s not used to company. Meanwhile, Olive is desperately trying to solve the mystery of her sister’s disappearance. The grown-ups seem intent on hiding something important and somehow connected.

An intricately woven tale of secrets and intrigue. Fans of wartime fiction will love this book.

Children’s Fiction

When the War Came Home

Lesley Parr

In Wales after the First World War, Natty has moved to her aunt and uncle’s Fferm Fach (little farm) with

Natty meets two young soldiers –Huw and Johnny. Both have seen terrible things and poor Johnny has complete memory loss.

A sweet friendship develops between Johnny and Natty as they embark on trying to solve a local mystery while everyone is trying to recover from the war. There are many interesting characters and great historical details. You really cheer Natty on with all her grand plans and ambitions.

Library news

Always remember the two super free apps, Libby and BorrowBox, which you can use to download newspapers, magazines and audio books, all with the use of your library card.

The Bath and North East Somerset’s Virtual Library offers something for everyone.

We share facts, Baby Bounce and Rhyme, competitions, storytime and crafts for children in the mornings, as well as information, support, news and recommended reads for adults in the afternoon.

Never miss a thing by following us on Facebook www.facebook. com/bathneslibraries1, Instagram www.instagram.com/bathnes_ libraries, and Twitter www.twitter. com/BathnesL

Food bank seeks to fill vital volunteer roles

KEYNSHAM Foodbank is gearing up for a busy autumn as temperatures drop and the costof-living crisis starts to bite.

The charity has a number of volunteer roles that need filling.

Chair of trustees Gwen Edwards said: “This is an important time for us, and we really need specific skills and help from our community.”

The food bank is looking for a trustee with safeguarding experience to succeed Lesley, who needs to step back next summer as she will have reached her maximum tenure.

Gwen said: “You don’t need to have been a trustee before –we will provide training.”

The charity is also seeking a project manager. Anyone interested in either of these roles can visit https://keynsham. foodbank.org.uk or email info@ keynsham.foodbank.org.uk

Those who wish to support the food bank can find details of how to donate money on the

website, which also has a Gift Aid form.

Gwen said: “We always have bills to pay - rent for the warehouse and van, and council tax. Thank you for your generous ongoing support - we couldn’t do what we do without you.”

Those who need help from the charity are also asked to get in touch.

Gwen said: “If you don’t know how you are going to afford to feed yourself or your family, please don’t wait until the cupboard is bare.

“We also have toiletries, household cleaning items, sanitary items, nappies, some pet food (usually), and other things.

“As well as the cupboard stuff we offer, our volunteers offer a cup of tea and a listening ear.

“Our website contains lots of links to places where you can get further help and advice, and our volunteers will also be able to talk with you about this.”

Liveable Neighbourhood traffic trials on the way

THE next steps for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Liveable Neighbourhoods programme have been announced.

Cabinet member for climate and sustainable travel, Councillor Sarah Warren, is being asked to give the go-ahead for the council to test throughtraffic restrictions on Queen Charlton Lane near Whitchurch village, Church Street in Bath, and Southlands in Weston, Bath.

The trials, which would last for six months from November 17 until May 17 next year, are now being recommended for approval.

Councillor Warren: “Following extensive public engagement as part of our Liveable Neighbourhoods programme, I am pleased to consider these recommendations for changes to the road layout to make these streets and lanes safer for walking and cycling.”

“The proposed measures aim to make streets safer for people

to walk, cycle and play outside, and would not prevent residents, visitors or key services from accessing homes or farmland.

“Introducing through-traffic restrictions with six-month experimental traffic regulation orders (ETRO) means that local communities can see how the measures work and have their say, before a final decision is made.”

The measures proposed vary at each location but include droppable bollards and planters on the road.

These allow pedestrians, cyclists and people with pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters to pass through, but not vehicles.

Vehicle access to homes would be maintained from either side of the restrictions, with adequate turning facilities provided.

Emergency services would be provided with a key to drop the bollards if necessary.

On your marks for festive run

THE countdown to the Saltford Santa Dash on Sunday December 4 is now well under way.

Organisers say the event, on the first weekend of the month, is the perfect way to start the festive season for all the family.

All age groups are welcome, with the one-mile “mini” dash for those aged under 12 starting at 10am and the five-mile adult dash at 11am, with entertainment and warm-ups

taking place during the morning. Once again, there is also the option of going virtual this year. Those who can’t make it on December 4, or simply fancy running their dash on another day, can choose to take part any time between Saturday November 26 and Saturday December 3.

All entrants receive a Santa suit and running number with their registration and a medal on completion of their dash.

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Organisers are also on the lookout for marshals on the Santa Dash route. To find out more about how to get involved, and to register your place, visit www.

saltfordsantadash.com

All proceeds from the event will be split between two local charities that support children and young people in the regionOff The Record (OTR) BANES and Time is Precious.

We must stand together against hate crime

MY team and I recently recognised National Hate Crime Awareness Week.

Hate crime is an offence that is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability and gender identity, instead of something they have done, the result of a disagreement or being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Being targeted because of your age, race, sexual orientation, religion or any other reason is unacceptable and, as communities, if we see this behaviour we must challenge it and report it.

We must help give victims of hate crime the confidence to speak to the police or partner agencies about their experience.

If, as a victim, you do not feel like you can talk to the police for whatever reason, there are still many options available for support, such as Victim Support, SARI

or VOCAS, the Victims of Crime Advocacy Service.

VOCAS provides an enhanced advocacy service to those victims of crime who feel they need it and an opportunity to talk in confidence to someone who understands how race, sexuality, disability, mental health, age and/ or exclusion can contribute to you struggling to have your voice heard or understanding your rights and options.

To tackle hate crime, we must stand together and fight for a stronger and fairer society.

I also want to let you know about courier fraud scams, which appear to be increasing.

Unsuspecting victims receive calls from criminals asking them to withdraw cash and leave it for a courier to collect.

In one scam, the criminal pretends to work for the victim’s bank and says they are investigating counterfeit notes at their local branch.

They tell the victim to withdraw

money, and not to tell the bank what they have been asked to do.

The criminals then send someone to the victim’s house to collect the notes, claiming they will be checked to see if they are counterfeit – in reality, they just drive off with the victim’s money.

Another scam is when the fraudster claims to work for the police and says they have arrested someone using a cloned card belonging to the victim.

The victim is urged to withdraw money as part of the investigation - but is simply giving it to the fraudster.

These scammers pose as trusted officials and apply pressure in the hope people will let their guard down.

I want us to be one step ahead of them.

So, what should you do if you are targeted?

Take your time and consider if the police or your bank would really ask you to do this. If the answer is no, hang up - as long as

With Police and Crime

Commissioner Mark Shelford

you have not provided your bank details, your money is safe.

If you want to call the police or your bank, using an advertised number, leave it at least 10 minutes or preferably use a different phone - fraudsters often stay on the other end of the line, keeping the connection open and pretending to be whoever you have dialled.

Finally, report it to Action Fraud, online or on 0300 123 2040.

PEN TO PAPER

Bearded Laydee

rope walkers, flying trapeze, Clowns that forever gay be.

Nothing there that interests me, For I’m in love with the Bearded Laydee.

It’s coming up to the end of the month, And very soon they’ll pay me, And then I’m going to ask her out. For I’m in love with the Bearded Laydee.

I’ll offer to wine her and dine her in style, And hope that her answer won’t nay be.

I’m sure I’d die if she turned me down, For I’m in love with the Bearded Laydee.

Has she ever noticed me?

Will I get her to say “oui”?

I wonder if she feels the same way too, For I’m in love with the Bearded Laydee.

Will this be the start of a lifetime of bliss?

Will we many a happy day see?

I must pluck up the courage and see what she says, For I’m in love with the Bearded Laydee.

George Liddell

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

Pleasures

over, the clocks have gone back.

enjoy some cosy nights in

jigsaws and hobbies, discovering new books,

the curtains and chatting with kin.

time for getting old photographs out,

pondering on happy days, now in the past.

fireworks and bonfires, lighting the sky -

upon us, the year’s gone so fast.

warmly when going to school,

at times

Academy trusts set to merge

TWO academy trusts in Somerset and the West of England are set to join forces early next year.

The proposed merger between Futura Learning Partnership and Clevedon Learning Trust has received formal approval from the Department for Education. It will create a trust comprising 27 schools - one special, 20 primary and six secondary - across Somerset, North Somerset, Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

The new organisation will be called Futura Learning Partnership, the name adopted by the former Wellsway Multi Academy Trust last year, and will adopt the Clevedon Learning Trust strapline ‘Children, Choice and Collaboration’.

Chief executive Andrea Arlidge (pictured) said the two trusts had common vision and values and were each committed to developing an inclusive, allthrough organisation based on a powerful

understanding of the educational journey from age three to 19. She said: “We are all delighted that the DfE Advisory Board has recognised the strengths of our proposal, which was unanimously supported by both trusts. This merger will bring improved opportunities for more than 10,000 young people and 1,500 staff.

“Each of our schools will retain its own identity, reflective of the community it serves, while also benefiting from the support of a strong trust.”

The proposal is in line with the Government’s ambition for every school to be part of a strong trust by 2030. Staff and governors will have the chance to find out more over the coming months. The target date for the merger is February 2023.

Schools in the current Futura Learning Partnership include Wellsway and IKB in Keynsham, as well as several local primaries.

n WALKERS ARE WELCOME Walking through winter to spring

KEYNSHAM Walkers are Welcome have revealed their programme of walks until April 2023. All walks start at 10am unless otherwise stated.

Sunday November 20: Meet at the Fox & Hounds car park to catch the Dial-a-Ride minibus for a walk around Timsbury – six miles, includes a refreshment stop. Alternatively, meet us at Timsbury.

Sunday December 11: Annual festive wreathmaking walk. Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a short walk around the fields of Keynsham picking flora for a wreath, after which there will be a wreath-making demonstration, with mulled wine and mince pies

Sunday February 19: Meet at the Fox & Hounds car park to catch the Dial-a-Ride minibus to Crews Hole and walk back along the River Avon to Keynsham – five miles and includes a refreshment stop Alternatively, you can get someone to take you to Crews Hole and walk back with us.

Sunday March 12: Catch the bus to Saltford, start time dependent on bus timetable, for a circular walk to the Kelston cheese shop, with a refreshment stop near the end of the walk –five miles. Alternatively, meet us at Saltford.

tickly!

with much leisure and play,

the best time’s on Saturdays

Sunday January 15: Meet at the Memorial Park gates . A short walk to Bitton Station via the cycle path, stopping for refreshments, returning alongside the River Avon – three miles.

Sunday April 16: Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a circular walk to Burnett Blue Bell Woods. This includes a refreshment stop –seven miles.

For more information, call Dave on 07866 440968, email wrwkeynsham@outlook.com or visit the group’s website at https://e-voice.org. uk/keynshamwalkersarewelcome/

Generating heat - and keeping cars cool

groups could install solar panels on their “acres of roofs.”

The council is aiming to generate 12MW of

owns,

to

and communities in developing 300MW of renewable energy across Bath and North East Somerset by 2030.

Solar canopies can keep cars in the shade while using the sunlight to generate electricity.

A council officer said: “It’s something the park and ride car parks lend themselves to.

“We are just revisiting the feasibility of those as the unit prices have come down from when it was first explored.”

Ground-mounted solar panels on sites where the council owns land are also being considered. It is hoped these two approaches could together produce two thirds of the 12MW the council is aiming to generate, although ground sites have not been identified yet.

The council has already installed rooftop solar panels on four council properties: Keynsham Civic Centre, Charlton House care home in Keynsham, Newbridge Primary School, and office building Lewis House, with

more installations currently under way.

Further solar panels in the pipeline include planned rooftop panels on Odd Down Sports Ground and the new Keynsham Recycling Hub, which has the largest expected power output of anything currently planned, with a peak output of 783KW.

The 12MW the council is aiming to generate reflects the energy consumption of the council’s estate. The Bath and North East Somerset district as a whole, however, will need to generate 300MW of renewable energy to meet the council’s aim for the area to achieve net zero by 2030.

This 300MW target is for all energy generation across the district, whether by the council, individuals, companies, or community groups.

Councillor Paul Crossley asked if faith

An officer said: “We have been in touch with the dioceses and so on. You’re right, they have got capacity and they’re very interested in doing it. And some of them are already doing it.”

Private solar panels are currently generating approximately 40MW towards this 300MW target, twice as much as in early 2019. Community energy groups are also contributing, such as Chelwood Community Energy, a cooperative solar farm with a 5MW output, while others such as Keynsham Community Energy are not currently generating power but have projects planned.

The council officer said: “The 300MW target is an indicative target based on modelling and sits alongside all the other things we need to do to decarbonise the economy in Bath and North East Somerset. So 300MW doesn’t achieve net zero on its own. It’s a renewable energy contribution to it.”

Although the national target for net zero is 2050, Bath and North East Somerset Council committed to achieving this by 2030 when it declared a Climate Emergency in 2019.

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Thanks and recognition for volunteers

South Division, made up of Keynsham and Saltford

districts, met on Sunday September 18 for their annual Thanks & Recognition event.

event celebrates the hard work of volunteers and leaders towards Girlguiding.

Valley South has units for all ages, from Rainbows to Rangers.

is also an active Trefoil Guild in Keynsham for adults who want to join in the fun.

enables girls to learn new skills and explore new activities which they may not otherwise get a chance to experience. It is also a great opportunity to create new friends, with a welcoming and supportive leadership network across the two divisions. Volunteering with Girlguiding offers a social and rewarding hobby, where you really feel you’re making a difference.

Thanks & Recognition event was hosted by the Division Commissioner, Sally Deft, who said: “The Avon Valley South Division’s Thanks & Recognition event was

a great opportunity for everyone to meet up and celebrate the achievements of many volunteers over the last 12 months.

“It was fantastic that we could acknowledge 274 years of service this year, including the Division President’s 60 years of service!

were also able to celebrate

volunteers achieving various leadership qualification awards.

“We were delighted that the Assistant County Commissioner could join us and help with the presenting of the awards.

“So many young members are able to make new friends and learn new skills whilst having fun, and

take advantage of opportunities giving them confidence for the future. It’s due to the dedication of our volunteers. I am so grateful to them and to the Ammonites Trefoil Guild for their continued support of Girlguiding in Keynsham and Saltford.’’

Ali Deft

CHANGING FOR THE BETTER with Transition Keynsham

Paying for climate justice

OnNovember 6, delegates from around the world will descend on Sharm elSheikh in Egypt for COP27. It comes a year after COP26 in Glasgow, where world leaders agreed a deal to limit global temperature rises to 1.5C.

The pace and brutality of geopolitical changes since November last year has made implementing last year’s deal incredibly difficult. The war in Ukraine has created energy market chaos, spiralling food prices and inflation, and the threat of global recession and unrest. The frantic rush to secure enough energy for Europe to keep the heating on has led to coal, oil and gas companies seeing huge profits at the very moment they should be dying out.

A key issue in Sharm el-Sheikh will be about how to help the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Known as the V20, these countries are responsible for the smallest amount of global heating and yet are the most impacted. They’re coming to COP27 to demand that rich countries pay for the ‘loss and

damage’ they’re suffering due to climate change.

Loss and damage refers to the most disastrous impacts of climate breakdown, from the recent floods in Pakistan to recordbreaking typhoons and hurricanes devastating island nations around the world. It isn’t just about funds to assist in the aftermath of a disaster. It’s about supporting countries over the longer term as they struggle with the socioeconomic effects of such disasters.

And it’s about helping them rebuild their infrastructure, so it is resilient to the challenges of global heating.

With the world’s richest nations distracted by the political fallout from the war in Ukraine on their own doorsteps, it’s debatable whether there’s an appetite to pay up. But pay up we must if we want a fair and equitable world.

Climate justice is a word that’s been talked about in environmental circles for years. It’s time it entered the mainstream, and that we in the West face up to the consequences of our own actions.

Soft plastic recycling in store

SOFT plastics, such as cling film, biscuit wrappers and carrier bags, can now be recycled at the Co-op store in Queens Road, Keynsham.

It is among 21 Co-op stores in Bristol and Somerset that now has a recycling bin for such plastics.

Simon Eastwood, chief operating officer for retail at Southern Co-op, said: “We would ask recyclers to double check if their plastics can be recycled before putting it in the bin. One way to do this is the scrunch test. It also needs to have had a quick clean but it doesn’t need to have been bought in store to be recycled with us.”

Once collected, the recyclable material is sent to a company called Jayplas, which will turn it into plastic granules for making various products. These are then made into products such as bin liners, buckets, and construction industry materials.

Liz Barling

keynshamvoice

Friday November 11

n Alasdair Cameron presents a talk called ‘Somerset WildlandsDecentralised Rewilding in South West of England’ to Keynsham Group, Avon Wildlife Trust, at Keynsham Baptist Church Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £3 for Avon Wildlife Trust members and £4 for everyone else. For more details, visit www.keynshamawt.org, email keynshamawt@gmail.com or phone Kathy 07850 508702.

Saturday November 12

n Keynsham Repair Café has a change of venue for this month - Keynsham Scout HQ, (just off Ashton Way car park), 10am to 12pm. Volunteers will try to fix your broken household things, for free. Clean it, find the bits, bag it and wear a mask.

Saturday November 12

n Craft fair, Keynsham Baptist Church, 10am - 4pm, Free entry, local artisans, gifts, cakes, café.

Sunday November 13

n Craft fair, 12pm-4pm, Wellsway School, Chandag Road. 90 indoor stallholders plus outdoor hot food including burgers, fish and chips, Greek food, pizza, coffee, cakes.

Saturday November 26

n The Royal British Legion women’s section Christmas fayre with craft table-top sale, 10am-2pm, at the RBL Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham. Bookings now being taken, £10 per table. To book, please call Sally on 0117 9862298. (Charity no. 219279).

Saturday December 10

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

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays

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, at 7.30pm. Occasional speakers, social events and outings. We are a friendly group of ladies of mixed ages who welcome new members.

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

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

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. Keynsham Baptist Church (next to Grounded) 7pm start, Mondays. Saltford Hall (Wansdyke Room) 7pm start, Thursdays. Free first class for new joiners. £8 thereafter. See YogaDad. co.uk for details, including how to book, or contact helloyogadad@gmail.com.

Tuesdays

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

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 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

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.

Thursdays

n Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance runs Music for the Mind sessions for people living with dementia and their carers at St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Keynsham, on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, 10.30am-12.15pm. Hot and cold drinks, biscuits and cakes from 10.30 are followed by singing and gentle exercises from 11am. No charge. Visit www.keynshamdaa. co.uk, email ksdaa22@gmail.com or call 07392442966.

n Longwell Green Orchestra meet each Thursday evening at Longwell Green Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.40pm. We have players of all abilities. Email Contact@longwellgreenorchestra. org.uk or 07972 844073. Please get in touch beforehand to tell us what instrument and what level.

n Pilates Class led by Physiotherapist Kate.

Thurs 7-7.55pm (mixed ability)

Thurs 8-8.55pm (beginners)

St Francis Church Hall, Warwick Rd, Keynsham.

6 week block of classes £54

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

Book online or by contacting Kate - 07518 522292

kate@corerehab-physio.co.uk www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

Fridays

n Pilates Class led by Physiotherapist Kate.

Fri 10-10.55am (mixed ability)

St Francis Church Hall, Warwick Rd, Keynsham.

6 week block of classes £54 Book online or by contacting Kate - 07518 522292

kate@corerehab-physio.co.uk www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

n NEWS

Decade of arts trails

THIS month sees the Cam Valley Arts Trail celebrate 10 years of supporting arts in the local community.

It takes place on Saturday November 5 and Sunday November 6, 11am to 4pm.

Karen George, group chair, said: “Ten years of art trails is a huge achievement for everyone who has been involved. We are thrilled to have so many artists taking part this year, with over 40 artists in 14 venues.”

Karen will be one of six artists opening up their own studios during the trail, offering visitors the chance to see where the artists create their work. They can find Karen at 11 Rotcombe Vale in High Littleton.

Some artists are offering demonstrations and free taster workshops during the trail weekend.

As the workshop spaces are limited, visitors should book their place by using the trail website – www. camvalleyartstrail.co.uk –which also has details of the artists taking part, venues and events.

Galls - the study of nature and language

There must be quiz books full of questions on collective nouns for birds - a parliament of crows, a murmuration of starlings and a mischief of magpies.

It is not just these words whose meanings in common use are different to their use in ecology; gall can have several meanings, from mildly annoying to extremely vexatious, depending on the context.

The British Plant Gall Society defines a gall as “an abnormal growth produced by a plant or other host under the influence of another organism. It involves enlargement and/or proliferation of host cells, and provides both shelter and food or nutrients for the invading organism.”

The website www. britishplantgallsociety.org explains that galls are caused by fungi and a huge range of insects, as well as viruses, bacteria and phytoplasmas.

Galls are definitely dominant in this relationship as the host plant cannot control the shape or form that the gall takes, but each one will grow according to the needs of the parasitic invader.

Galls can be found in every part of plants from stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds to roots. Many common species of plants host galls. Willow and oak are particularly prone to them.

The English oak can support 70 species of gall wasp, which

sometimes produce different galls during their life cycles. In some years the acorns will appear to be damaged by the Knopper gall wasp and they may not germinate, but nature does what nature is good at and balances this out with some poor years for that particular gall wasp and “mast” years when acorns are plentiful.

John Aldridge kindly allowed us to share his beautiful picture of Robin’s Pincushion (Bedeguar Gall). It is caused by the larvae of a tiny gall wasp (Dipoloepis rosae) and can be found developing on the stems of Dog-roses during late summer; it acquires its reddish colour as it matures in autumn. Each gall holds many grubs, which feed on the gall tissues throughout the winter and emerge in spring as adults.

Crucially, despite appearing to have alien growths and misshapen

forms when galls are present, the host plant survives. Once the original insect has matured and left the host plant, the galls often support different communities of insects, providing refuge to moths, beetles and ants.

We certainly have the language to describe nature in all its various forms but even now we are only just beginning to understand and appreciate the complexities and interconnectedness. Nature, given a chance and space, will balance between abundance of species without demanding perfection. We

should appreciate galls, not for the perceived “damage” to plants, but for their addition to biodiversity.

If you are lucky enough to have a garden, early November is not too late to set some spring bulbs such as crocus or grape hyacinths, as they will flower in February when early pollinators will be out on mild days and very hungry.

When browsing seed and plant catalogues, try to make sure you have as many plants as possible that will provide nectar and shelter for insects.

Julia Shahin

Robin’s Pincushion, left, created by the larvae of a tiny gall wasp on Dog-rose

Photo: John Aldridge Right, Muscari (grape hyacinths) - plant some bulbs today to give an early supply of pollen for insects

Photo: Creative Commons

BRISTOL EMPIRE DRAGONS

Dragons roar to victory at Nationals

BRISTOL Empire Dragons successfully returned to the BDA dragon boat racing national finals, bringing a major trophy home to their base in Saltford.

The Nationals are held annually at the National Watersports Centre in Nottingham.

Dragon boat racing is one of the fastest-growing recreational sports in the UK, with 30 registered clubs spread across most counties, so the Nationals are a great way to benchmark your own regional club against others.

Bristol have gone through quite a transitional period over the last few years, with original crew members hanging up their paddles and a newly formed committee, tasked with ensuring we always have fun, whilst recruiting and committing new paddlers to training and racing.

A crew made up of 11 males and nine females, ranging from teenagers to pensioners, made the long journey to Nottingham and entered every discipline, from 200-metre sprints through to the 2km endurance race.

Where most of the 18 clubs at the Nationals had large squads and could rotate paddlers between preliminaries, heats, semi-finals and finals, the Bristol crew had to paddle every race. This equated to over 6.5 miles on the water, with four miles of that at 100% intensity.

Results from the race series were: 200 metres open: 1st place in tail final 200 metres mixed: 4th place minor final 500 metres mixed: 3rd place minor final 2,000 metres mixed: 3rd place major final

Bristol chairman James Burston said: “For over half of us on the boat, this was our first experience of competitive racing. I joined the club on August bank holiday 2021 and have been truly bitten by the bug of dragon boat racing.

“We train three times a week, but nothing compares to racing other crews.

“The boat weighs two tonne with paddlers and can reach over 18km an hour, so it is an exhilarating sport but accessible to all ages and abilities.”

Former world champion and GB paddler Lee Curtis, head coach of Bristol, said: “To have achieved what we did with the new crew we had is nothing short of remarkable.

“We train hard and practise technique and endurance, but our inexperienced crew turned a few more experienced crews’ heads, and that can only be a great thing for the 2023 race season.”

Bristol hope to stage a BDA race series league event in April 2023 in Bristol Harbour.

This will be a huge opportunity for the Dragons to bolster numbers and showcase the sport in the West Country. We would welcome support from any locals to help us stage this event and showcase what excellent hosts we can be for our National family of UK teams.

Come and join us if you want to experience this fully inclusive sport.

We train three times a week at Salford Rowing Centre. All equipment is provided, so just come and have a go. For more information, visit www. bristolempiredragons.com

FRYS BOWLING CLUB Club’s first title for 10 years in floodlit thriller

FRYS had a successful end to the season, picking up their first title in 10 years by winning the Bristol St Andrew’s Floodlit League Division 3 title after a thrilling finale.

The format was six teams of two rinks, with all teams playing on the same night. A total of six points were on offer in each game; two points for winning a rink and a further two for the overall win. The open competition allowed players who don’t usually get the chance, to experience some competitive bowls.

Frys started against Bristol Arrow, winning 48-18 and taking all six points. That left Frys top on shots difference from Yate and SLAT, who also recorded 6-0 wins.

The second game was against Yate. Rink 2 pulled away to set up the 35-25 win for Yate, while rink 1 kept things tight and Frys picked up the required shots for a single point.

SLAT were next, in a high-quality encounter. Rink 1 pulled out a 17-16 win, leaving Frys two up, with rink 2 one shot up with one end left. After falling behind in the end, Frys restricted

the SLAT skip to a draw for the final shot, leaving Frys 36-35 winners with five points.

Game four against Bristol Greenbank started in poor conditions, which got worse as the night went on, leading to the round being abandoned. With not enough ends completed to constitute a match, all six teams were awarded three points.

The final round of games saw Yate top of the table, five points ahead of Frys and SLAT, with a superior shots difference to both. Frys and SLAT were level on 15 points, with Frys 10 shots ahead.

Frys met Begbrook Green, with Yate and SLAT meeting on the two rinks next door. Two points for Yate would see them take the title.

Frys fell behind to Begbrook early on, while SLAT led on both rinks. Then Frys’ rink 2 fought back to take a comfortable lead, while rink 1 got back into the game.

SLAT were taking an easy victory on rink 1, but with rink 2 having conceded a six, Yate were back in the hunt, taking a three-shot lead on the

rink with two ends left. A thrilling last couple of ends saw Frys take the lead on rink 1, leaving Frys sitting on the six points needed for the title.

Back on rink 2 in the SLAT v Yate game, SLAT picked up two shots on the penultimate end, and held two shots with Yate’s skip having the last bowl, needing to grab the shot to win the league. A running bowl from Yate’s skip went through the gap between SLAT’s second shot and the jack, giving SLAT a six-point win.

With Frys comfortably up on shots and rink 1 six shots up in their final end, a single shot and a 43-26 win confirmed that the Division 3 title was coming to Somerdale.

Frys finished on 21 points and 18 shots ahead of SLAT, earning promotion into the second division in 2023.

Please contact our secretary, Stephen Day, on 01225 872959, email frysbowlsclub@gmail. com, for more information or to apply for membership. You can also visit our website at www.frysbowlingclub.wixsite.com/frys, and follow us on Twitter: @FrysBowls.

Girls win six in a row to top the table

KEYNSHAM Ladies u18s girls have got off to a flying start this season, winning their first six league matches to sit on top of the inaugural Bristol Girls League u18s division.

After they struggled to even field enough players last year, and at risk of folding after just one win and a draw all season, a recruitment drive was launched by coach and manager Rob Macer and his assistant Ross Andrews.

It included open post-season sessions, a poster campaign and social media advertising, resulting in this season’s squad of 20 talented and driven players.

Rob Macer said: “The girls have worked very hard for this new-found success. They attended pre-season gym sessions, took on personal fitness goals, and had only one week off training post season.

“The girls are fantastically close and the best of friends, and the talent they always had has flourished.”

All bar four of the girls would still be eligible for u16s football, but their desire to stay

together resulted in enquiries to the Bristol Girls League about setting up a new u18s league.

Rob said: “We were so pleased this league was organised so the girls could stay together for another two or three seasons. The younger u16s players have also entered the Somerset u16s cup and have won through to the quarterfinal stages.”

Keynsham Ladies u18s are grateful to their

sponsors, Bath Domestic and Commercial Cleaning, who stepped in at the last minute to provide their full match-day home kits, away/ training tops and full tracksuits.

l Pictured, left to right, are – front, Jess, Belle, Rosie, Grace (captain), Flo, Martha, Falisha; middle, Liv, Millie, Molly, Sophia, Isabel, Florrie; back, Annie, Elma, Jaz, Macy, Kira, Isabella and Mika.

Victory eludes promising young talent

THElast few weeks have seen some creditable performances from Keynsham Town’s young first team, but they were unable to secure any more victories in the Toolstation Western League Premier Division table.

A balmy September Saturday saw the Ks draw 1-1 with a very well-supported Falmouth Town side, who had the better chances in the game, but thanks to a resolute defensive performance after a beauty of a looping header from Will Sage, a well-earned point was gained.

But a week later, Keynsham produced one of their most disappointing performances of the season, as Crown Fields visitors Street romped to a 5-1 victory. A fine finish by Owen Brain was all the Ks had to show for their efforts.

An improved performance was obviously needed four days later, when they visited Shepton Mallet, who at the time had a 100 per cent record in the league.

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Despite conceding early, Keynsham began to cause the hosts problems, with speedy debutant Dylan Lewis a constant threat up front. But they had no luck in front of goal, and a late second goal gave Mallet a 2-0 win.

After a rare Saturday off for the Ks, local rivals Cadbury Heath visited Crown Fields on a chilly Tuesday evening. In a tight game, a fine volley gave Heath the lead in the first half, and despite intense

pressure from the home side, they clung on for their second victory over the Ks this season.

A trip down to Cornwall followed for Keynsham’s first ever game against Torpoint Athletic. The hosts took the lead on 20 minutes, but an alert Will Sage grabbed an equaliser just before half-time.

A penalty and a poorly defended corner in the space of five second-half minutes gave Torpoint a 3-1 lead, and despite a late goal from substitute Sahr Nanoh, the Ks lost 3-2.

A week later saw Keynsham come out the wrong side of a nine-goal thriller at home to big spenders Barnstaple Town.

New signings Brandon Oputeri and Filbert Owusu-Antwi made their Ks debuts, and Brandon scored twice as they deservedly went in at halftime 3-1 to the good, with Henry Njonjo scoring the other.

Barnstaple soon pegged it back to 3-3 after the interval, but Dylan Lewis then won and converted a penalty with 15 minutes left.

The visitors equalised late in normal time, and after Oputeri narrowly missed out on his hat-

trick deep into stoppage time, the visitors cruelly took the points with a 97th-minute goal. The fact that Barnstaple’s players and fans celebrated like they had won the FA Cup spoke volumes as to how unluck the young Ks braves were!

Ks reserves have continued to find it tough going in the Uhlsport Somerset County Premier Division, with only two wins to show from their nine League games to date.

Similarly, the Ks ladies have mirrored the men with a disappointing start to the season, with two wins to show for their endeavours so far.

One piece of pleasing news in the last month was the return of coach Marvin Brown to the club after a major operation.

Football secretary Phil Blundell said: “It was great to welcome back Marvin Brown to Crown Fields. Several of us were on the gate when he arrived and it was good to see him looking so well.

“His experience will no doubt be a fantastic asset to our players on a match day and his knowledge of the game is second to none.”

The club have also announced an excellent half-price season ticket deal, which is now available.

Club secretary Jules French said: “Our first team has 10 home league games remaining this season, starting with the visit of Millbrook on Saturday November 19.

“We are offering season tickets for those 10 games for the bargain price of only £45 (adults) and £25 (over 65s), which will also gain you free entry to our reserves’ home league games.

“If you are interested in this fantastic deal, please contact us on jules1233@live.com.”

Owen Brain scored the Ks’ only goal against Street

Dylan Lewis won and scored a penalty against Barnstaple