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THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset

29th June 2022

Issue 736

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15 proposed changes to improve Keynsham High Street safety A road safety audit carried out in Keynsham High Street,

regulate the industries involved in both highway design and

where there have been dozens of reports of people

construction, including the new cycle infrastructure design

tripping and falling as a result of the new layout, is

guidance. The audit was carried out by consultants Jacobs

recommending 15 changes – including making the

for B&NES Council following completion of construction

contraflow cycle lane red, better signs and replacing

works, who considered data from the number of reported

“incorrect” paving.

incidents. Here are the recommendations:

It does not include the removal of the controversial stepped

• Installing additional physical measures to prevent parking

kerb between the cycle lane and the road.

on the eastern pavement and ensure the clearway is enforced.

The “enhancements” to the High Street, which led to months

• Improving drainage at the rear access at 69 High Street as

of disruption, included footpath widening and resurfacing,

ponding water could result in vehicles skidding and

improved cycling and bus stop facilities, new street furniture,

pedestrians slipping.

trees and planting, and new signage on the High Street

• Swapping the gully covers in the parking bays to new

between Bath Hill and Charlton Road.

covers with smaller slots as there is potential that heels,

But since the redesigned High Street reopened to traffic in

walking aids, pram wheels or wheelchair wheels could be

March, there have been numerous reports to Bath & North

trapped, resulting in trips and falls.

East Somerset Council of people sustaining injuries including

• At the uncontrolled Bath Hill pedestrian crossing, the

broken bones, sprains, cuts and bruises.

“incorrect and lifting tactile paving could cause confusion

The council has previously maintained that the scheme

and result in trips or falls”. The recommendation is that it is

complied with the legislation, specification and guidance that

changed from red to buff and that the lifting tactiles in the central refuge are replaced. • The zebra crossing on the High Street has “incorrect” tactile paving arrangements that do not guide users to the beacon. In addition, the tactile arrangement on the west side has a number of utility covers which could result in partiallysighted users missing the crossing point or being unclear about whether it is controlled or not, increasing the potential for collision with cyclists and vehicles. The recommendation is that new tactiles are installed as per Department of the Continued on page 3 ‘Look Right’ markings are missing at the crossing point

Also in this week’s issue

More vandalism around Keynsham . . . page 4

Kingswood school locked down . . . page 5

Downend accident blackspot to be made safer . . . page 7

Keynsham Music Festival is here . . . pages 12 & 13

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

15 proposed changes to improve Keynsham High Street safety Continued from page 1

are installed.

Environment, Transport and the Regions guidance, and tactile

And following a design review, more changes are proposed:

paving may need to be added to the covers.

• Installing red Tarmac through the length of the cycle lane

• The large, smooth utility cover in the cycle lane in front of

to enhance demarcation.

The Entertainer store should be treated with anti-ski material

• Reducing the width of the solid white line marking the edge

as it may become slippery when wet, increasing the potential

of the cycle lane, in line with Department for Transport

for collisions and unseating riders.

standards.

• Installing ‘corduroy’ (ribbed surface) paving at the bus stop

• Increasing the number of cycle symbol markings along the

as the lack of it could result in partially-sighted pedestrians

cycle lane.

falling into the road.

• Installing more planters to prevent vehicles mounting the

• During the inspection, cyclists were seen using the

pavement and further encouraging use of the three pedestrian

contraflow cycle lane in both directions. This could result in

crossings.

head-on collisions between cyclists and increases the

• Reinstating the dashed white line at the Charlton Road

potential for collisions between cyclists and pedestrians,

junction.

resulting in injuries. It is recommended that additional signs

Speaking at the Keynsham Area Forum on Thursday, the

and markings are provided.

chair Cllr Alan Hale outlined the recommendations that he

• At the northern end of the High Street there is a “confusing”

had seen for the first time earlier that day. He represents

map-type direction sign which could result in rear-shunt

Keynsham South on B&NES Council and is the member

collisions. The recommendation is that the map is revised.

advocate for road safety.

• The uncontrolled pedestrian crossing point at the end of the

He said: “If you are coming to Keynsham High Street I

Ashton Way access lane has missing ‘Look Right’ markings

suppose a public information warning is that you should be

which have been provided elsewhere in the scheme. This

very careful in crossing the road in relation to the cycle track

could increase the potential for pedestrians to step into the

there. There have been a number of trips and falls and clearly

contraflow cycle lane without looking to the right, resulting

we don’t want any more if we can avoid it.”

in collisions. It is recommended that ‘Look Right’ markings

In response to the recommendations, he said: “I and the other five B&NES district councillors for the town are still concerned that the measures will not necessarily achieve a resolution to the many falls and trips that have been caused by the cycle lane, road and pavement configuration. To that end we are meeting together soon to discuss the matter.” He added: “It is vital that the situation in Keynsham High Street is properly resolved because it is appalling that we have had significant numbers of casualties and not just people grazing their knees, we have had people who have faceplanted the highway, who have destroyed their spectacles, who have gone to the Royal United Hospital in Bath who have come out with plaster casts, boots, etc. because they have had significant bone injuries. It gives me grave concern.”

‘Confusing’

Who will foot the bill? It is not clear who will fund the recommended improvement work. Asked at the forum, Cllr Hale responded: “That is a very good question and I wish I had a very good answer. The cost of the project as I understand it wasn’t borne by the council, it was external money, but I don’t know who will bear the cost but that is a question that can be answered in the fullness of time.” The council was awarded £1.5m towards the cost of implementing the scheme. It was funded by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership through the Local Growth and Getting Building Funds, administered by the West of England Combined Authority. It was also funded by the Combined Authority through its Love our High Streets programme. The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

He added: “At the end of the day we need to be in a position, if nothing else, to say to the council, ‘told you so’.” He encouraged people to make their views on the recommendations known to the council.

Ribbed paving is recommended at the bus stop

Reaction to the recommendations Since we posted this story on our website at the weekend, people have been responding on social media. Here are some of the comments. “The council were quite vociferous and insistent that the work had passed safety inspections throughout the process. So does the decision to make these alterations mean that there was a fault in the system or people just weren’t doing their job. Somebody really does need to own this debacle!” “But it passed the health and safety I remember them saying so. That was before they put those stupid signs up. So is the council not fit for purpose?” “I was walking along The Entertainer side the other day, first time since the works had been completed. I knew there was a dropped kerb but I couldn’t easily see it. I can see how easy it is for people with disabilities or reduced eyesight or just not paying full attention can trip on it. Worrying how this got passed all the various stages.” “None of the recommendations resolve the problem, the stepped kerb between the cycle way and the road needs to be removed!” “It has been proven time and again that in constrained urban environments pedestrians do not deal well with cycle lanes and the best course of action would be to remove the contraflow and widen the pavement out in conventional fashion.” “I recommend people actually looking where they’re walking.” “Pedestrianise the lot.”

‘Slippery when wet’

Vandals blamed for damaged wall THE WEEK IN Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge. 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.

The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381. www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 Publisher Editor Contributors

Stephen Rodgers admin@theweekin.co.uk Becky Feather 07403 273967 Christine Rogers, Sophie Mead, Kamui Oshino

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Tracy Broderick 0117 986 0381 sales.theweekin@gmail.com

Vandals are being blamed for damage to the wall outside of St John the Baptist Church in Keynsham. The damage to a section near the bus stop was discovered last Wednesday morning and it is believed to have been done the previous night. Capping sones on top of the wall outside the Grade II church have been pulled off,

causing the structure underneath to crumble. One reader told us: “Three capping stones have been tipped over, two are broken in pieces. Just in time for the fete on Saturday. Desecration.” The church understands that it will be Bath & North East Somerset Council’s responsibility to repair the wall.

Damage to windows and cars in Keynsham Police have been investigating a number of incidents of damage in Keynsham that took place on Saturday. The first call, reporting damage to the windows of a house and a car in Caernarvon Road, came in just before 8am. Further similar incidents were reported at addresses in Coronation Avenue, St George's Road and Queens Road. Officers believe the incidents may be linked to a dispute which took place in Coronation Avenue at about 7.30am in

which a woman reportedly climbed on the bonnet of a car. Neighbourhood officers have been targeting their patrols in the area and arrest attempts were under way for a number of individuals who police identified through their ongoing inquiries. If you witnessed or have dashcam, CCTV, doorbell or phone footage of any of the incidents, call 101 and give the reference 5222150532. Alternatively ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

@theweekineditor the_week_in_news No material in this publication, nor its associated website (www.theweekin.co.uk) may be reproduced without the written permission of The Week In. All rights reserved. The Week In is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. As such, we adhere to the IMPRESS complaints procedure. A copy of this procedure can be found on our website or can be sent upon written request to the address above.

Windows smashed Someone threw an object at the lounge window of a house in Montague Road in Saltford at around 10.40pm on Friday 3rd June, cracking the glazing. And the rear window and driver’s side window of a car parked on Ashcroft

Avenue in Keynsham were smashed during the night of Monday 6th June. If you have any information regarding these incidents, contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Six men charged with murder Six men have been charged with the murder of 32-yearold Aranit Lleshi who died following an incident in Brislington on Tuesday 24th May. The charges are the result of an investigation by Avon & Somerset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team. The men appeared before Bristol Magistrates' Court last week. They are: Brikel Palaj, 32, of Heavitree Road, London; Kastriot Mhillaj, 34, of no fixed address; Rinush Behari, 32, of Bunton Street, London; Radian Lika, 35, of Watkinson Road, Islington, London; Nikola Palaj, 28, of Heavitree Road, London; and Sadik Lleshi, 34, of Culvert Road, Tottenham, London. The six men who have been remanded in custody have previously appeared in court charged with violent disorder in relation to events that night in May. A post-mortem examination concluded Aranit Lleshi, who was from London, died as a result of multiple stab wounds. Five other people have been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Two of those are on bail, two have been released under investigation and one was last week being questioned by police.

Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Lockdown at Kingswood school after ‘incident’ involving student John Cabot Academy (JCA) in Woodside Road in Kingswood was put into lockdown for half an hour last Thursday after an “incident” involving a student. The police attended. In a statement on their Facebook page JCA said that afternoon: “At approximately midday today we became aware of a situation relating to an individual JCA student. “As a result and to ensure the safety of that student and everyone else on site, we started the lockdown alarm so that nobody was moving around the academy. “Established procedures were followed and additional support obtained to bring the situation to a speedy conclusion with no risk to anyone involved. “The staff all responded extremely professionally and the students behaviour was exemplary throughout and all followed the lockdown rules we have practiced in our drills. “As the incident happened at the start of the first lunch break,

we agreed to have a new lunch plan for each year group so that everyone had time to eat.” In tutor time students were given the opportunity to discuss the experience. The school said that contrary to some reports on social media no weapons were involved. The school, which is part of the Cabot Learning Federation, has more than 1,000 students.

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Plans to make busy accident blackspot safer People are being asked to have their say on proposed traffic calming measures on North Street in Downend following concerns about the speed of vehicles and the number of accidents there. In the last five years, five injury accidents have been reported on the road, which links Downend and Staple Hill. Due to this, and the close proximity of Christchurch Infant School, traffic calming measures have been requested by local councillors to reduce the overall speed of vehicles travelling along North Street. South Gloucestershire Council says that although there is already a 20mph limit on the road, the plans are for a 20mph ‘zone’ which has physical traffic calming measures. The proposed scheme includes four sets of speed cushions and one set of roundels.

The council says that the number of public responses will decide whether it can go ahead. Comments on social media about the plans include: “This can’t come soon enough. I have lived on North Street for 10 years. Yes, it is already a 20mph limit but you wouldn’t know it, most cars go at least 30 and I’ve seen speeds equivalent to a motorway. “I’ve been overtaken on many occasions following the speed limit. And at nighttime it’s used by cars racing up and down.” You can view further details about the proposals online – search in the Consultations section. The deadline is Wednesday 6th July. If you do not have access to the internet and wish to receive a paper copy of the information and questionnaire to complete, call 01454 864673.

Reopened toilet block vandalised The toilet block in the car park at Ashton Way in Keynsham had to be closed because of vandalism, less than two weeks after reopening. The block had been closed as part of costcutting in 2015 but reopened earlier this month to provide a disability-compliant facility with a 20p charge (contactless card

payments only). There was a sign on the door last week from Healthmatic, who provide and maintain public toilets on behalf of B&NES Council, saying: “These public toilets are closed until further notice. We are sorry for the inconvenience.” The facility has since reopened.

People urged to report speeding motorists People worried about speeding traffic in their area are being urged to report their concerns to the police, rather than just complain about it on social media, so that officers are aware of where the problems are and can investigate. Speaking at the Staple Hill, Mangotsfield and New Cheltenham Community Engagement Forum this month, local councillor Ian Boulton said he was getting a lot of reports of speeding in residential roads and encouraged residents to report problems to the police.

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

The chair of the forum Chris Amos also highlighted the problems with high performance cars on the A4174 Ring Road. He said: “Every Sunday night in South Gloucestershire we have our own Grand Prix on the Ring Road, you can hear it.” In Issue 733 we reported that Government ministers are being asked to include the Warmley and Barrs Court stretch of the Ring Road in a national ‘noise camera’ trial to catch drivers who race along the dual carriageway in illegally modified vehicles.

LETTERS No response from MP to questions

from start to finish. Traffic continued to flow

Dear Editor

Street. The farmers’ market was doing a roaring

I read with interest in the Letters section of the

trade, with a long queue at the pie stall, and

22nd June edition of The Week In that you have

many others were almost out of stock by

asked Chris Skidmore MP how he had voted in

lunchtime when the XR proceedings finished.

the recent vote of confidence in the Prime

It was difficult to find a table at the Temple

Minister.

Street Canteen too. Chris doesn’t detail the

Good luck with that is all I can say - I am a

extent to which shopkeepers suffered compared

constituent of Mr Skidmore and have asked

to previous weeks but it was very clear that

him questions by email three times this year

Saturday 11th June was a very busy day in

and he has not replied to any of my messages.

Keynsham town centre.

To me this suggests that he views his

Erica

both ways along Ashton Way while the theatrical performance took place in the High

constituents with disinterest and/or contempt. Bad enough in itself but we pay his wages for him only to wilfully ignore pertinent questions accountability in Government office too.

Cheering on local athletes of all ages

Debbie

Dear Editor

and there is the question of transparency and

The Phoenix Allstars Cheerleading team is a

XR rally was good for Keynsham traders

programme currently based in Longwell Green

Dear Editor

as a recreational cheer for fun programme.

Some people question the actions of Extinction

We’re about to enter our 16th season but due

Rebellion (XR) but your letter from Chris in

to a new development we are unable to stay at

last week’s edition really confirms that their

our current premises and are relocating to

message can be drowned out by their actions.

Warmley this winter.

At the rally held in Keynsham Park, they

Of course, moving to a new gym means a lot

focused on the need to halt further exploitation

of costs for equipment and so we’re trying to

of fossil fuels if we are to stand any chance of

fundraise around £10,000+ to be able to afford

limiting global warming to the COP26 target

a sprung floor, new mats and various other

of 1.5 degrees. It was announced that over

equipment.

200,000 houses are at risk of being

In 2018 we established one of the first

uninhabitable due to rising sea levels – a

competitive adaptive abilities cheer teams in

quarter of them in Somerset!

the UK and this has now grown to be two full

But far more serious than that, it seems that

teams competing at levels 1-3.

shopkeepers in Keynsham have to be

Our teams compete in competitions throughout

compensated for the “disruption to their

the UK and have won a number of National

livelihoods”!

Champion titles throughout the years; some of

I was at the rally and march that followed. The

our teams even went to compete in Barcelona

organisers urged those who had turned up

in 2019.

(some by minibus, some by public transport

If anyone can support us, we have a

and many on foot because they were local) to

GoFundMe

stick around after the march and support the

https://tinyurl.com/2p8p5zfb

local traders! The march itself lasted an hour

Emily Clements

and consisting of 125 athletes of all ages and abilities across eight competitive teams, as well

set-up

New owners for greengrocer’s shop A Kingswood greengrocer is changing hands this week. PV Turners in Kings Chase Shopping Centre has blamed a decrease in footfall because of the pandemic for the decision to pass on ownership. PV Turners does not have a website or delivery service and says the

pandemic had a big impact on people’s ability to access the shop. Manager Bryn Williams, who has been there for 22 years, said it would be sad to leave. Some staff are staying on with the new owners who already have two shops in Bristol.

Shed fire spreads to houses A total of 33 firefighters tackled a blaze in Hengrove which started in a shed and spread to four houses last Wednesday afternoon. Crews from Kingswood, Hicks Gate, Temple, Nailsea, Bath and Portishead fire stations were called to Griggfield Walk. They found a fire involving sheds and fencing that had spread to four terraced homes.

The following day fire investigations officers joined CSI at the scene to investigate the cause which was determined as accidental, due to electrical overloading in a shed. • Firefighters from Bedminster were called out to tackle a fire in a skip in Arrowfield Close in Whitchurch last Wednesday lunchtime. The cause is thought to be accidental.

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Old golf course site is front-runner in poll for new jubilee park A community poll which asked people where they would like to see Cadbury Heath’s new jubilee park saw participants firmly voting for the old pitch and putt course. A total of 193 people took part in a vote on the Oldland Common (and surrounding areas) community group’s Facebook page and the vote revealed 77% favoured the former golf course site, 17% Tarzan Park and six per cent Banjo Island. The three green places are being considered

Tarzan Park

Banjo Island

by South Gloucestershire Council, which has budgeted £500,000 to transform an existing open space in Cadbury Heath into a biodiversity park to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the late Duke of Edinburgh’s love for wildlife and nature. Other comments posted on social media in response to the current consultation include: “Tarzan Park would be lovely, lots of history in that area that can be incorporated to the design, e.g. mine shaft entrance, etc …It has a boggy area perfect for a little pond to increase wildlife; it's also ready gated with beautiful cast iron railings...” Another said they “would love to see something beautiful on Banjo Island”. One person said: “Personally I think that the golf course should be left as allotments, skate park and just a beautiful green area…”

The old pitch and putt course

But another commented: “I think the former pitch and putt course would be my favourite, it has such potential for use by a wide area of residents. It is crying out for someone to bring it to life.” This week a spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said it was pleased with the level of engagement it had already

Road closure for mast installation School Road in Cadbury Heath will be closed for an anticipated five days in August to allow for a new 5G mast to be erected on the pavement. In Issue 734 we reported that there was uncertainty over whether the 15-metre mast would be erected after excavations found an underground spring. The telecoms firm did not respond to our query about what was going to happen and

Sudoku 1-Easy

received and would continue to engage with residents and the parish. People who have yet to complete the survey are encouraged to before the deadline of 12th July. It is on the council’s website – search under Consultations. If you do not have internet access call 01454 868009 to have your say.

about local concerns that the way the hole had been filled in had left a trip hazard. But now an order has been made to close a 25-metre stretch of School Road from its junction with Newton Road for the mast and cabinet installation works. The closure is due to begin on 15th August. Traffic will be diverted. The mast will be the second outside the shopping parade.

SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 3rd July

2 -Hard

Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm) Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH (10am-4pm) Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm) Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Appeal lodged over Saltford pupils win houses for woodland site royal approval for Developers have lodged an appeal after their plans to build up to five homes in a woodland site on the border of Bath & North East Somerset and Bristol were refused. Chapel Hill Homes Ltd had applied to B&NES Council for permission in principle to develop land to the south of 9 Ridgeway Gardens at Whitchurch. The woodland site falls in B&NES but is next to the Bristol boundary to the north and west. To the east is an electricity substation and to the south open countryside. B&NES turned down the application in March on the grounds that it would be inappropriate development in the Green Belt, an unacceptable development within open countryside, and BWCE would lead to a biodiversity net loss.

Close to 100 comments of objection had been received from local residents. Whitchurch Village Council had warned it would reduce the “green buffer” and Bristol Tree Forum also objected, as did B&NES ward councillor Paul May and Tim Kent, who represents Hengrove & Whitchurch Park on Bristol City Council. Chapel Hill Homes Ltd argue that the development of an infill site would not reduce the gap between the village and city and say the site is in a highly sustainable location, with the Gilda Parade 150 metres away, good bus links and proximity to schools. They point out that no trees on the site are covered by preservation orders and say that any future detailed planning application would include ecological enhancements and mitigation.

their green work Saltford Primary School’s ‘Green Team’ has received a special Platinum Jubilee Junior Forester Award, presented by the Queen's representative, the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset. The award, created in partnership with the Queen’s Green Canopy and Green Team representatives with the Royal Forestry Society, Lord Lieutenant Annie Maw was given to the Green Team in recognition of all the good knowing their woodland. work they have been doing within Mrs Maw presented the children with school this year, including planting a an award certificate and three books silver birch tree for the Green Canopy. that promote caring for the The award was presented at the school environment. Each child in the Green by the Lord Lieutenant Annie Maw, and Team and on the school council has her deputy Gloria Craig. There was an been presented with their own Platinum assembly presentation to showcase all Jubilee 50p piece as part of the Junior the Green Team’s work and then the Forester Award and every family with children spent some time with Mrs children at Saltford School has also Maw and Mrs Craig talking received this commemorative coin. enthusiastically about their favourite The visitors were then shown around activities including tree and plant the school grounds by headteacher identification, habitat creation and Dawn Sage.

Crossword 1

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Fibrous tissue (8)

1. Scottish lake (4)

5. Sediment (4)

2. Highest point (4)

7. Disconcert (9)

3. Electronic message (1-4)

9. Keep secret (4) 10. Mess (4)

11. Takes flight (5) 11

14. Heartbeat (5) 15. Bury (5)

16. Carries (5)

17. Bailiff (5)

18 19

18. Saying (5) 19. Speak slowly (5)

22. Expel (4) 22

24. Small US coin (4) 26. Lawyer (9)

27. Smear (4) 28. Course of study (8) 27

4. Number in trio (5) 5. Rich and juicy (4) 6. Carpenter's framework (8) 7. Alpine plant (9) 8. Brine (4,5) 11. Celebrated (5) 12. Additional (5) 13. Sails (anag.) (5) 14. Forgiven (8) 20. Wrecked buildings (5) 21. Spin around (5) 23. Grave (4) 24. Fizzy drink (4) 25. Hence (4)

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Bath’s Clean Air Zone is working, says council Latest figures indicate that Bath’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is working to reduce air pollution, with a 21% reduction in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution recorded across the city in 2021 when compared with 2019 (pre-COVID). The CAZ was launched in March 2021 to drive down high levels of roadside pollution in the city, caused by vehicle emissions. It levies a charge on all vehicles, except cars and motorbikes, that don’t meet minimum emission standards to deter them from driving in highly polluted areas. A report was going before Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Climate Emergency

Scrutiny Panel this week highlighting improvements in air quality both inside and outside the zone. It also highlights improvements in the number of cleaner, compliant vehicles in the city, and the investigations which have been made into understanding concerns about potential traffic displacement. The report notes that while air quality across the city has improved - with a clear decreasing trend in NO2 concentrations across all 123 monitoring sites - three sites within the zone continue to exceed the EU and UK limit value of 40 micrograms per cubic metre of air (μg/m3). Because of the impacts of the pandemic and traffic diversions caused by the restoration works on Cleveland Bridge, the report states that is too early to assess the true impact of the zone alone on Bath’s air quality until further data is collected and analysed during 2022.

Primary school praised in Ofsted report The Tynings Primary School in Staple Hill has been rated as Good in all categories by Ofsted following a recent inspection. The school in Eastleigh Close was told it needed to improve following its previous inspection in 2018. The latest report says that leaders’ high expectations for pupils’ academic and personal development underpin the school’s curriculum.

Inclusion and respect for diversity are promoted. The inspectors also highlight good behaviour and good pastoral care. Leaders involve the 345-pupil school in the community and’ work is displayed in the library and nearby shops. Parents are said to value the wide range of after-school activities which extend their children’s interests.

Solar farm plans for Compton Dando There are plans for a solar farm at Fairy Hill in Compton Dando. The proposed operator is the not-for-profit community energy enterprise Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE). The proposal is to construct and operate a solar farm generating approximately 2.1MW within an area of approximately two hectares, which is currently in use as an arable field. The site is in the Green Belt and BWCE would need to demonstrate very special

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

circumstances for the principle of development to be acceptable in planning terms. Bath & North East Somerset Council is being asked if the scheme would meet the threshold for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to be carried out. An EIA ensures that the environmental effects of a proposed development are properly considered. The planning reference is 22/02428/SCREEN.

Avon Fire & Rescue crews tackling the flooding

Charlton Road reopens Charlton Road, which links Keynsham with the A37, reopened last Thursday after being shut for a week following a burst water main. Bristol Water said: “Thank you to everyone for being so patient as our crew have worked tirelessly in the heat to get the repairs

completed.” The burst severely damaged the road and caused flooding to some properties as well as taking out water supplies in Keynsham, Compton Dando, Saltford, Whitchurch, Corston and Newton St Loe.

Crimes in Hanham A resident of Abbots Road in Hanham was disturbed by noises at 1.15am on Thursday 23rd June. When they went to investigate, they found three or four men attempting to break into their garage. The men ran off when disturbed but returned some minutes later and the resident again chased them off. Meanwhile cash and bank cards were stolen from a wallet that had been left in

the glovebox of a car that was broken into on Greenbank Road in Hanham at about 11.45pm on Monday 20th June. A car on nearby Preachers Walk was broken into at 11.30pm on the same night. A bank card that had been left in the car was stolen. If you have any information regarding any of these incidents, contact the police on 101. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

D-day for large-scale solar farm The controversial planning application for a large-scale solar farm on Marksbury Plain was being decided by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee today (Wednesday). Permission is being sought for a 15 megawatt (MW) ground-mounted solar farm on fields to the south of the A368 and west of A39. Planning officers were recommending approval for Renewable Connections Developments Ltd’s plans, saying a solar

farm on the 24-hectare site would be a significant contribution to national and in particular local renewable energy generation targets. The council officers consider that the benefits of the scheme amount to very special circumstances which outweigh the harm to the Green Belt. The development is seen as temporary as it is for a limited period of 40 years. Check our website and next week’s issue for an update on this story.

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The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Bake Off winner to open Saltford Festival After a three-year wait and two years in the

Michel’s Kitchen, tea and coffee meetings,

planning, Saltford Festival is back.

indoor games afternoon, a quiz night, treasure

The community week, which is running from

hunt, family barn dance, cheese and wine

Saturday 2nd to Sunday 10th July, has been a

evening, afternoon tea dance and a beer and

tradition since 2011 and hopes again to welcome

cider festival at the Bird in Hand pub. Other

many locals and others from further afield.

events include a series of lunchtime talks with

With more than 80 different events across the

topics ranging from Fairtrade and Climate

nine days, there is something for everyone.

Justice to the role of a Lord Lieutenant. There

Many of the events are free of charge but some

will also be a scarecrow trail with a fairy tale

require ticket purchase.

theme.

Kicking off the festival on Saturday will be

Rounding off the week on 10th July will be

2021 Great British Bake Off winner Giuseppe

Sunday Funday held at Saltford Sports Club

Dell’Anno who lives in the village. He will be

where there will be free sporting taster sessions,

officially opening the festival at an open

inflatables, activities and a live screening of the

morning at Saltford Hall which runs from 10am

Wimbledon final. both& Sundays there will be LucyOn Emery Garry

to 1pm. There will be a Community Café and

Abson collecting special services at St Mary’s Church.

the chance to meet local organisations.

Tickets for a raffle, for which the top prize is

In the afternoon some local gardens will be open

£500, will be on sale during the festival.

and it is also Saltford Primary School’s summer

So whether you are coming on your own or as a

fair. In the evening there will be a murder

group, you’re bound to get a feel of the

mystery performance from Saltford Drama

community spirit. Head to Saltford Community

Club.

Association’s website to download the festival

The week is filled with various social events

brochure

such as a jazz night featuring Hannah Wedlock

https://saltfordhall.co.uk/Festival.html

and the Blue Notes, a Taste of France hosted by

Sophie Mead

tools for Ukraine

Giuseppe Dell’Anno

Picture credit: Channel 4

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Severn Estuary tidal power back on the agenda A press release arrived in our inbox a couple of weeks ago from the office of the Regional Mayor. What was unusual about this particular press announcement was that it contained an image of Mayor Dan Norris and Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales. Two leaders on either side of the Severn Estuary, each with powers and budgets devolved from central government. So what was the main topic of discussion? Marine energy, it appears. In the light of recent global events and the commitment to reducing our carbon emissions to net zero (in just under 30 years’ time!) you might not be surprised that two political leaders on each side of an estuary with the second largest tidal range in the UK are looking at ways to harness its power. You may be surprised however that the Government doesn’t see it quite the same way. In the Energy Security Strategy published in April, tidal power received one sentence. And we have been here before. While the notion of a ‘free’ source of energy that is reliable for as long as we can still see the Moon, the reality is more complex. A two-year study commenced in 2008 identified five possible tidal barrage or lagoon projects in the Bristol Channel. But when publishing the findings of the feasibility study in 2010 the Government concluded that the figures didn’t stack up. The high

Mark Drakeford, left, & Dan Norris

The Orbital O2 turbine. Credit: Orbital Marine Power

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

investment costs were deemed unlikely to attract private investment and the risk would therefore fall to the public sector. At the time, the ‘big ticket’ option of the five considered - a tidal barrage from Weston-super-Mare to Cardiff - was estimated to cost £34bn. Smaller tidal barrages further up the estuary were dismissed as uneconomic while a tidal lagoon in Bridgwater Bay which did show promise was estimated to cost £17bn. If you want some context here, then the Crossrail Elizabeth Line which has just recently opened has so far cost £19bn. Hinkley Point C, which is not publicly financed, has just gone up to £26bn and the HS2 rail link between London and Birmingham (which is publicly funded) has a budget of £40bn. The report concluded that other forms of energy (particularly wind and nuclear) would be cheaper to produce and could be delivered in a shorter timeframe. There were also concerns about what any major infrastructure projects would have on the ecology of the area and also references to tidal technologies other than barrages and lagoons which were not sufficiently developed by 2010. While energy prices from renewable sources have come down since that time, it is also true that the technology has

advanced. One Severn Estuary tidal project was taken forward, however. In 2015 the Swansea Bay lagoon was given the go-ahead along with a pledge of £200m from the Welsh Government. But three years later the scheme was halted after the UK Government refused to guarantee the price of the electricity produced, critical if private investors were to be involved in the £1.7bn scheme. By contrast, the Government reached an agreement with EDF in 2013 which guaranteed the price they would be paid for energy from Hinkley Point C for 35 years. As to the technological advances since 2010, the Government’s feasibility study referred to tests taking place off the Orkneys on tidal stream technology – effectively a wind turbine on the sea bed. Well, the giant Orbital O2 turbine began generating electricity last September. Connected to the island by cable, it generates enough power for around 2,000 homes at present but tests continue to make the system more commercially viable. The European Marine Energy Centre, which is pioneering the project, says it can only achieve those aims with Government support. Ironically, Orkney was the site of the early testing of wind energy in the 1980s. The British Government didn’t pursue it but the Danes and the Germans did. So back to the meeting between the West of England Mayor and First Minister of Wales. The 2010 report highlighted one site with future potential for a tidal bar and there are new tidal stream technologies advancing on a much smaller scale than the 74-metre Orbital O2. The press release issued by the Mayor also mentioned possible collaboration on floating wind projects. Much of the Government’s recent Energy Security Strategy was criticised for its reliance on long-term solutions to shortterm problems. Tidal power is long term but experts estimate its potential to contribute between 5% and 11% of our total energy needs. The two leaders on either side of the Severn Estuary have a long way to go but at least the future of tidal power looks to be back on the agenda. Stephen Rodgers 15

The Community Page Return of community eco festival Following on from the success of last year’s eco festival, a similar event is being arranged by Churches Together in Keynsham and Saltford in conjunction with Keynsham Town Council. Whilst the aim of the festival will be to raise awareness about the environment and climate change issues, this year there will be an emphasis on food sustainability and waste, an issue increasingly important with the pressure on food prices. The festival will take place over the weekend of 14th and

15th October with a Friday night event in The Space in Keynsham with a panel of specialist speakers. On the Saturday there will be stalls from groups, organisations and businesses displaying and selling their work around the library in Market Walk and The Space. Events are also being planned in the churches. In the lead-up to the weekend various workshops are also being planned. There will be more information available closer to the time.

Celebrating parish’s artistic talent A competition is being held by Oldland Parish Council to celebrate the artistic talent of people in the community. The theme for 2022 is Holidays. Categories are painting, drawing, craft activities and photography. The age groups are under-nines, nine-13 years, 14-17 years and 18 and above. The competition is open to every person in the parish which includes Barrs Court, Cadbury Heath, Mount Hill, Longwell Green and Willsbridge (but not Oldland Common).

All entries must be submitted to clerk Claire Dolman by 12th July. Contact her at clerk@oldlandparishcouncil.co.uk or call 07494 262487. Winners will be notified by post following the judging at the council meeting on 19th July 2022. Prizes will be awarded at the Parish Evening on 5th October at Cadbury Heath Hall. The overall winning entry will be on the cover of the September 2022 newsletter.

What we are doing matters Publishing a local weekly newspaper is far different from the national press, and headlines about burst water mains or minor injury units are a long way from those generated by 10 Downing Street or the horrors of Ukraine. But every now and again, some stories do appear that remind us that what The Week In Community is trying to achieve actually does matter. Recently, you may have noticed a story about journalist Carole Cadwalladr’s successful defence of a libel case brought against her by businessman and major funder of the Leave.EU campaign Aaron Banks. That the case concerned comments made by the Guardian and Observer columnist during a conference speech in 2019 is actually a different story. Cadwalladr’s presentation was actually about Facebook and the influence its profiling and targeted advertising can have on democracy and fair elections. The 15-minute talk at TED (Technology

Entertainment & Design) in Vancouver is freely available on YouTube and it really is worth watching. Once again, Facebook’s role in the 2016 EU Referendum is a long way from trying to bring back the number 18 bus or disagreements in local councils over house building targets. But openness and accountability are just as important. And to bring things full circle, a report published just last week by the Charitable Journalism Project highlights the problem in parts of the United Kingdom where there is little or no local media coverage. The report highlights what it calls “news deserts” where, without proper media scrutiny, organisations with large or efficient communications write their own news, confident that it will simply be ‘copied and pasted’. Worse still, increasing numbers of local residents in those areas say they increasingly relied on unmoderated social media platforms for their news – and chief among

those cited was. ... Facebook. We are fortunate that we do not live in a “news desert” (although Trowbridge is apparently). But it does remind us that what we do here should and does matter.

General Meeting Please make a note of Tuesday 19th July. This will be our next chance for members to get together and discuss future plans. We will also conduct the formal business of the society, including the election of directors. The venue is the Royal British Legion Club in Charlton Road, Keynsham (start 6.30pm). More details will follow shortly including the procedure for the election of officials.

Carole Cadwalladr at TED

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

The Community Page

Saltford Parish Council www.saltfordparishcouncil.gov.uk Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or check out the ‘News’ page of SPC’s website

Saltford PC gives grant Be water aware if to Saltford Festival entering open water Saltford Parish Council (SPC) is pleased to support the upcoming Saltford Village Festival by awarding a grant of £1000. The vibrant Saltford Village Festival brings the community together to celebrate all that is wonderful about Saltford. Many events and activities are planned, including the Chair of Saltford Parish Council (Cllr Chris Warren) performing with his band! The Saltford Village Festival takes place from 2nd July to 10th July. Details can be found at www.saltfordfestival.org.uk , and on Facebook @SaltfordFestival. Tickets are on sale at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/scaevents. Those from further afield are very welcome to attend and participate, with activities taking place throughout each day to suit all ages. Congratulations to the Saltford Community Association (SCA) and all the volunteers involved in putting on such a fantastic programme of events.

Drowning when swimming in open water can happen quickly and without warning. SPC’s new ‘River Avon in Saltford’ webpage details river safety information and advice along with water quality information, as well as actions SPC has taken with regards to river safety. This includes requesting B&NES Council install safety signs around a bridge by the river (see image). SPC and Avon Fire & Rescue are in regular contact regarding river safety, and as in previous years members of the fire brigade’s Hicks Gate team will visit Saltford throughout the summer to engage with users about water

Safety signs on the Bristol & Bath Railway Path in Saltford

Saltford Wildflower Project: All You Seed is Love

SPC has approached Sustrans who have agreed to add temporary ‘shared path’ (see image) sign reminders on the stretch of Bristol & Bath Railway Path through Saltford. At its request, SPC will also be inputting into permanent signage strategy to improve safety and consideration for the benefit of all the path’s users.

Grant awarded for Ukraine Support Group SPC has given a £500 grant towards the costs of SCA's Support Group for hosts and Saltford's newest residents from Ukraine. Saltford residents are pleased to

have welcomed several families from Ukraine to the village in recent weeks. Part of the grant will go towards facilitating English lessons at Saltford Hall.

Saltford welcomes considerate visitors There are many enjoyable walks in and around Saltford – not to mention a range of great hospitality venues in the village to enjoy a well-deserved rest! Many local Public Rights of Way (PROW routes) run through or adjacent to privately owned land often used for farming, and as such visitors to these areas are reminded to The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

follow the Countryside Code. Please keep dogs on the public footpaths and under control if near livestock. We ask people to dispose of both rubbish and dog poo bags appropriately in one of the many bins in the village, or to take waste home. Saltford appreciates and welcomes considerate visitors.

Thank you to everyone who has participated to date in SPC’s ‘Saltford Wildflower Project: All You Seed is Love’ initiative. We are delighted to share that c.600sq metres of wildflower seeds have now been planted at a variety of locations around the village. A special thanks to Saltford Sports Club for creating a wildlife area incorporating SPC’s Beebombs, and to Saltford School’s Green Team and parent volunteers for sowing many Beebombs around the school site. It will take a while to see the full impact of the seeds, however these are sure to benefit

safety. Saltford is known to be a dangerous place to enter the river, with a history of accidents and tragic deaths. Avon Fire & Rescue reminds visitors: “Don’t swim near weirs, once caught in the undertow you have little chance of escape.”

Saltford resident Aimee (age 9) planting Beebombs at Saltford Sports Club’s wildlife area

pollinators for many years to come. We are looking forward to seeing Saltford bloom!

Use ‘FixMyStreet’ to report issues in Saltford Saltford residents are encouraged to report local issues - e.g. dirty street signs, vegetation blocking road signs, fly-tipping and dog fouling issues - to B&NES Council via www.fixmystreet.com. SPC has recently reported the worn-out double yellow lines near Saltford School, which had resulted in

dangerous parking and safety concerns for our younger residents. We’re pleased to see that B&NES Council, the highway authority, has recently repainted these. FixMyStreet is quick and easy to use, with updates on actions emailed directly to your inbox. 17

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Discover comfort, friendship and quality Voted one of the top 20 care homes in the South West, The Gables is a family-owned, award-winning care home set in a quiet, residential area of Hanham, Bristol. Perfectly situated for local shops and parks, The Gables is a small home with only 20 rooms. This means we are able to create a warm and homely environment where strong relationships are built, not only between the residents but among all of the staff too. A family of younger people looking after a family of older people. This is something you may not find in a larger home where staff numbers could be unpredictable and agency staff may have to make up numbers. This can lead to infection control issues among local homes as well as problems keeping standards high. Residents may form smaller groups of friends which can often leave others lonely. In general, large numbers may make better business sense but the elderly may be impacted negatively. At The Gables we believe small is beautiful. Here at The Gables, we have created a safe community where elderly friendships can blossom and we offer all our residents the time, care and warmth they need to really feel at home. Our incredible Registered Manager, Ann Aubrey, who will have been with us for 20 years this July, and our highly skilled team of carers are the reason our home is so homely and full of friendships. As we get older, not only do we struggle with daily tasks such as cleaning, taking care of medication,

cooking and shopping on our own, but the battle with loneliness also increases. You don’t get many opportunities to be able to live with great friends while getting the assistance you need on a daily basis. Families are wonderful and many of our residents have wonderful relationships with their children and grandchildren. But nothing takes the place of

relationships with our peers. People who are at the same life stage with similar life experiences can understand us in ways that other generations never could. At our home, food has always been a big deal, the luxury of being able to have fresh, homecooked meals made for you each day with various options, it makes life so much easier. Our dedicated cooks in our home make delicious recipes that satisfy everyone’s taste buds and dietary needs. No ready meals here! We are also dedicated to ensuring that each resident is getting all the nutrients they need, so while we provide a balanced diet at meal times, we also provide a nutritional breakfast which includes multi-vitamin supplements and a probiotic yoghurt drink every breakfast time. According to Age UK, more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone, also adding that they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member. 1.4 million elderly people in the UK have reported that they struggle with loneliness, and we’re here to change as much of that as we can in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire area. At The Gables you can socialise as much as you like, joining in activities and entertainment sessions or just spending a quiet afternoon in one of our lounges all while creating friendships with up to 20 other residents. We’re a close knit family and love each other’s company. You’ll often find some of our residents outside enjoying the sunshine together with a cup of tea, having a natter in one of their rooms or perhaps cooling off inside watching television together. Our team The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

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care at The Gables in Hanham members often try to get everyone together for an activity each day which gives our residents a great chance to socialise. Just because we get older and weaker, doesn’t mean we’re too old to make new friends.

A Royal visit Last month our Registered Manager Ann was recognised for her contribution to the health and social care industry and was invited to spend the afternoon at Buckingham Palace for the Queen’s Garden Party. This was because we were recently nominated for an award for Leaders in Care Awards 2021 and got through to the final awards ceremony, where one of the judges, Steve Palmer, from the Social Care Institute for Excellence, was very impressed by Ann’s entry form. Although we didn’t win, Steve was able to pick four individuals to attend the Queen’s Garden Party, and out of the hundreds that he could have chosen, he selected Ann to represent The Gables. Ann attended with one of our owners and Managing Directors, Dr. Paul Edwards, and they spent the afternoon walking around the beautiful gardens, eating a fabulous cream tea and listening to the musical entertainment from the Coldstream Guards, all with the company of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, with the Earl and Countess of Wessex, Edward and Sophie. It was a beautiful day and after two years of missing big events like this, it was so

The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

lovely to be able to get together and mingle with others who work in the same industry as we do and have accomplished great things in life. This was such a big achievement for us and especially for Ann, certainly a once in a lifetime opportunity that we won’t be

forgetting any time soon! If you are looking for a care home for an elderly relative, please contact us on 0117 987 1862 or email our Registered Manager Ann Aubrey – ann@thegablesresidentialhome.com

New footbridge in place Club to host walking rugby festival A new footbridge has been lowered into place over Folly Brook at Weston Farm in Lyde Green. It links Westerleigh Road with Jenner Boulevard and ramps have also been added to improve pedestrian and cycling access. South Gloucestershire Council said the

footbridge would be opened to the public as soon as timber fencing and a kissing gate had been added to stop livestock getting onto the bridge. The work was carried out as part of the Linking the Greens project which is bringing the communities of Emersons Green and Lyde Green together.

The Kingswood Walking Rugby Festival will take place on Saturday 9th July. Walking rugby has taken off as a sport in recent years and Kingswood Rugby Club, based at Grimsbury Road, host one of the most successful teams in the country. Around 25 teams from all over the country will be coming to Kingswood to take part in the festival at KRFC’s home ground. The club have developed good relationships with several in South Wales, playing by invitation at some of their Welsh Rugby Union sponsored events. They are also forging strong links with clubs in the local area including Trowbridge RFC, Chippenham RFC, Broad Plain Pioneers RFC and North Bristol RFC, sharing in mixed training sessions.

KRFC now have a membership of more than 60 playing members with a strong training group of 30 or more participating at their regular Wednesday evening sessions and up to 20 taking part in the Thursday morning sessions. Walking rugby is a simplified form of Rugby Union and primarily targeted at older players (55 years+) but can include players of any age, gender, physical or mental ability. The game is a form of ‘walking’ touch rugby that limits the levels of physical contact whilst allowing players to experience working as part of a team, score tries and get a good level of exercise. Anyone interested in coming to watch on the 9th will be welcome. Matches begin at noon. There will be a bar, food and entertainment.

Specialist academy told to improve Fishponds-based St Matthias Academy, where most pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities, has been told by Ofsted that it needs to improve in all areas. St Matthias converted to become an academy pupil referral unit in 2017 when it became part of Learn@ Multi-Academy Trust. As St Matthias Park Pupil Referral Service, it was judged to be Good at its Ofsted in 2014. In their report published last week, Ofsted inspectors said that the quality of education varies between St Matthias’ three Bristol

sites – Alexandra Park in Fishponds, Easton and Brentry. The report said that school leaders and local governors have an “overgenerous” view of the quality of education at St Matthias and that ineffective monitoring has led to delays in identifying and addressing the issues quickly enough. The inspectors also pointed out weaknesses in the curriculum. On a more positive note, teachers and pupils are said to have strong relationships. Youngsters feel safe and happy and there is a wide range of enrichment activities.

Road closure advance notice Part of Conham Road and Crews Hole Road in St George will be closed between 18th July and 5th August for safety improvements, including footway extension works, to be carried out.

The closure will affect the stretch of Conham Road from Crews Hole Road southwards for 362 metres, and Crews Hole Road from Conham Road to Anchor Close. A diversion will be in place.

McDonald’s extension approved The McDonald’s restaurant at Aspects Leisure Park in Longwell Green has been granted planning permission to extend, including the relocation of the entrance door. South Gloucestershire Council planners

said the proposed development does not add any significant customer floor space or propose to increase the capacity of the restaurant or drive-thru by any substantial amount and relates more to a re-modelling of existing facilities.

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The Week in • Wednesday 29th June 2022

Electric vehicle spaces in South Glos ‘not well used’ Electric vehicle (EV) charge point in council car parks in South Gloucestershire are reportedly not being well used. Stephen Walters, patrol team leader for parking services with South Gloucestershire Council, was speaking at this month’s meeting of the Staple Hill, Mangotsfield and New Cheltenham Community Engagement Forum. He said he does not see a great deal of usage apart from the ones in Thornbury. “The ones in Thornbury seem to definitely be used more than the ones in Kingswood and Mangotsfield. The only other ones I see usage of is Staple Hill, in Page Road short-stay car park and Haynes Lane.”

B&NES Council relaunches Discovery Card programme Bath and North East Somerset Council has relaunched the Discovery Card programme which gives residents free access to council-owned heritage sites, including the Roman Baths, Fashion Museum, Parade Gardens and Victoria Art Gallery. Cllr Kevin Guy, leader of the council, said: “While we were unable to issue cards during the pandemic, our team has taken the time to develop many improvements to the Discovery Card programme ahead of its relaunch. Residents will now be able to order their cards online and will have the choice of ordering an e-card or physical card (made from recycled plastic). We’ve also developed some new partnerships and discounts with more local businesses.” Until the end of December, residents will be able to continue to use old or expired Discovery Cards, or ID and proof of address, to access their benefits. From 1st January 2023, all residents will need a new Discovery Card to continue receiving their benefits. For more information visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard

Robert Kiely with his award, pictured with Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford, left, Deputy Chief Constable Nikki Watson, & the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Sir Dusty Miller KBE.

Robert wins award for helping officer make arrest Among those being recognised at a recent Avon & Somerset Police awards ceremony was a man who helped an officer make an arrest in Keynsham. Robert Kiely received the Waley-Cohen Award, which is given to members of the public who assist the police carry out their duty or who perform meritorious acts in the pursuit of law and order. Robert had been driving in Keynsham when he spotted an officer in pursuit of a man on foot. He offered the police

constable a lift further up the road, before stopping the vehicle next to where the man was standing which allowed the officer to arrest the man. He then stayed with the officer to ensure everyone was safe and provided further assistance. He also checked on the welfare of the other officers involved. Chief Superintendent Elizabeth Hughes praised him for his “selfless actions”, adding: “Without Robert’s support, the man may have avoided being detained for the incident, as his personal details were not known prior to being arrested.”

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