The 2-0 victory over Oasis Academy Brislington at Ashton Gate was the culmination of an extremely successful season for the team, who progressed into the latter stages of several cup competitions. A cagey first half of the final was followed by two second-half goals from Max Scott and Louie Clarke.
Man of the match was Cam Bailey. Headteacher Dr Robin Bassford said:"We are very grateful to the organisers of the Woodcock Shield and to Bristol City FC for providing this wonderful opportunity for our Year 10 boys to play at Ashton Gate. There was such a strong sense of community in the stadium, thanks to the great support from students, parents and staff.
Turn to Page 3
Warmley waiting is over – Norbot has arrived!
A sculpture of Norbot, the robot gnome from the latest Wallace & Gromit film, is stationed at Warmley Waiting Room on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path as part of the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail of 50 sculptures raising money for Bristol Children’s Hospital. PAGES 6 & 7
Bristol’s e-bike and e-scooter trial has been expanded to Longwell Green and Warmley. PAGE 4
arrest.
Alfie Richley with his dad Nick
THE
Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in Oldland Common has won the Woodcock Shield.
Champions! SBL Year 10 footballers at Ashton Gate with the Woodcock Shield
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Runner raises
£21,000
PAUL Collings smashed his fundraising target when he completed the London Marathon.
Paul, who was running for the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK, has now handed over £21,085 to the charity.
His effort was inspired by the courage of his wife Abbie, who is being treated for bowel cancer. She was diagnosed two years ago and in May this year she ran the Bath half marathon with Paul just four days after chemotherapy.
The couple, who live in Willsbridge with their children Millie, 16, and Ben, 13, presented a cheque to Louise Gash from CRUK.
The Bowelbabe fund was started by the late Dame Deborah James and is “fuelled by the spirit of rebellious hope – of choosing to remain hopeful in the face of overwhelming odds”.
Paul’s fundraising page is still open: https://fundraise. cancerresearchuk.org/page/pauls-london-2024-marathon
Bin-round changes
BIG changes to bin and recycling collections in South Gloucestershire are coming this summer, the council has said.
Most residents will have a new collection day for black bins and some will have green and black bins collected on different days.
A member of the
The changes are part of a new eight-year waste contract agreed with private operator SUEZ last year, which will lead to black bins being collected every three weeks instead of every fortnight.
Three-weekly black bin
collections will begin in May next year. Before then, the council says that about 85 per cent of residents will have a new collection day for black bins and recycling from August.
The council will post a printed guide next month, with details of the changes and the new collection dates.
Soft plastic recycling, which includes wrappers and plastic bags, will also be rolled out to all households.
For more, visit www. southglos.gov.uk/recycling
Abbie and Paul Collings hand over a cheque for the Bowelbabe fund to Louise Gash from Cancer Research UK at Keynsham Cricket Club
City legends present historic trophy
From Page 1
“We are very proud of the brilliant achievement of our boys and the respectful manner with which they conducted themselves on the pitch.”
The Woodcock Shield competition dates back to 1907. The shield was presented to the SBL team by Bristol City legends Geoff Merrick, Trevor Tainton and Jantzen Derrick, who watched the game from the Lansdown Stand.
Bristol City legends Geoff Merrick, Trevor Tainton and Jantzen Derrick present the Woodcock Shield to SBL Year 10s following their victory over Oasis Academy Brislington in the final at Ashton Gate
Sports hub scheme for Grange site
PLANS have been unveiled for a sports hub alongside a proposed housing development on the site of the former Grange School in Warmley.
The scheme will include a new clubhouse and a new 3G pitch for football and rugby as well as refurbishment of six netball courts and three grass football pitches.
Detailed plans for the sports facilities and outline plans for 160 homes have gone in to South Gloucestershire Council.
The council-owned site has been out of use since the school shut in 2016. The buildings were demolished after being damaged by fire in 2021.
Only the former sports hall remained and it has been converted into a headquarters for Majestic Gymnastics.
Proposals for the redevelopment have been delayed by negotiations with Sport England, which opposes permanent loss of any sports provision.
Now consultants have finalised the scheme, which will be considered by council planners later this summer. It can be viewed on the planning section of the South Gloucestershire website (reference number P25/01316/R3O)
While detailed plans have yet to be submitted for housing on the brownfield site, the proposal is for 160 homes, 35 per cent of which would be classified as affordable and five per cent would be self-build. Current plans are for 16 one-bedroom apartments, five two-bedroom apartments, 37 two-bed houses, 69 three-bedroom houses and 23 four-bedroom houses.
Access to the site would be from Tower Road North and Baden Road, although Siston Parish Council has already expressed concerns about about the volume of traffic that will exit from Baden Road on to the A420, near the A4174 and a petrol station.
E-bike and e-scooter scheme arrives in our area
LEGAL electric scooters and e-bikes have arrived on the streets of Cadbury Heath, Longwell Green, Oldland Common and Warmley.
The distinctive light turquoise Dott vehicles have been widely used in Bristol and Bath since launching in 2020 and now the scheme has expanded into more of South Gloucestershire.
The bikes and scooters can be hired by the minute, by ride or by the month using an app.
West of England Metro Mayor Helen Godwin said: "E-bikes and e-scooters have quickly become a big part of our transport mix in Bristol and Bath, and parts of South Gloucestershire, helping to reduce congestion on our roads and improve air quality."
She stressed that the expansion of the scheme would be alongside a fresh drive to ensure safe use of the vehicles.
Ms Godwin said: “As more parts of South Gloucestershire join this trial, we need to have learned the lessons from the initial e-scooter launch. Convenient travel for some people shouldn’t inconvenience others – so there will be a renewed focus on responsible parking. Working with the police and councils, we will also soon be starting of a joint e-scooter safety campaign to try to help everyone stay safe on our roads.”
E-scooters and e-bikes in Longwell Green
Cllr Chris Willmore, South
Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet member for planning, regeneration and infrastructure, said: "We are very pleased to see e-bikes and e-scooters expand to cover more areas in South Gloucestershire, offering communities another sustainable option for travel.
“As part of our climate and nature emergency aims, we are committed to reducing dependence on cars by encouraging the use of low-carbon, convenient ways to move around the area. Making small changes in the way we travel can help reduce congestion and improve air quality, bringing
improvements for everyone."
The scheme is still officially a trial, and hiring an e-scooter via the app, after uploading a driving licence, is the only way to legally ride an e-scooter on a public roadalthough privately-owned scooters being used illegally on roads and paths are a common sight across the country.
Cllr Willmore said part of the rationale behind the expansion was to convert e-scooter riding "from illegal to legal".
She said: "People have voted with their feet and have been using illegal ones.
"We've been seeing people on scooters everywhere, and I would much rather they had legal, safe ones than illegal ones being driven dangerously by underage people."
Dott head of public policy Iqbal Ahmed said the hire scooters and bikes were also safer because their batteries were charged by the company, rather than in people's homes.
Overnight charging of private scooter and bike batteries has been linked with several fatal fires, including one in a Bristol tower block in 2022.
The total size of the West of England fleet of e-bikes and e-scooters is almost 4,000.
More details about how to hire the bikes and scooters can be found at the travelwest. info website.
Delight as missing plane is returned
A VITAL part of Kingswood’s commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two has been returned.
A crocheted model of a Lancaster Bomber aircraft, which formed part of a postbox topper in the town centre for VE Day, was stolen within hours of being put on show.
It was replaced for the event in May by three smaller replica planes but the theft saddened many residents, as well as the group of crafters from Yarn and Yardage in the indoor market, who created the display.
Kate Reed, who took three weeks to make the Lancaster, posted on social media: “As a history teacher and with both of my grandfathers serving in WWII, one in the Navy and the other as a Rear Gunner for the RAF, I knew I wanted to make the Lancaster for the top of one of the two boxes. It was a little way I could give a nod of respect and commemoration to my Gramps and Pap.
“To say that we, as a team, are devastated is an understatement. We want to bring a little joy to our local High Street and to have such a poignant memorial removed without any consideration for their purpose, or time given to create them has
left me absolutely gutted.”
Sean Rhodes, a town councillor and South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member, made a video appeal for the culprit to return the Lancaster in time for the VE Day event, but to no avail.
However, the theft was captured on CCTV so, after some painstaking work by Kings Chase shopping centre manager Kadir and his security staff, neighbourhood police and the town council, the perpetrator was identified and the aircraft recovered unharmed.
The policing team posted on Facebook: “Today the Kingswood Neighbourhood Team were able to reunite the stolen Lancaster Bomber post box topper with its rightful owner. Staff at Yarn & Yardage were absolutely delighted to have it returned and the person responsible for taking it, is extremely sorry for their actions and has been dealt with accordingly.”
Cllr Rhodes said: “The theft was painful in more ways than just the loss of a piece of artwork. It was intended as part of our community commemoration of VE Day and it was a symbol of the regeneration of Kingswood. I am so pleased that the Lancaster is now back where it belongs.”
Slimming World
LONGWELL GREEN
Longwell Green Community Centre Shellards Road
Longwell Gren BS30 9DU
NORTH COMMON
North Common Village Hall Millers Drive North Common BS30 8XX
Mondays 6pm & *7.30pm
Tuesdays 9.30am
With Karen 0788940896
* (Quieter sessions)
Tuesdays 6pm & *7.30pm
With Emma 07773689229
Police return the Lancaster to Carly at Yarn and Yardage
Two Food Handler Supervisors
Due to the continued success of The Pine Tree Coffee Shop, we are looking to recruit 2 Coffee Shop Food Handler Supervisors. The successful applicants will need to be friendly and approachable and confident running a small team of 5.
In this customer facing role you will need to be confident in dealing face to face with customers and working in our open kitchen.
Experience working in a kitchen or food preparation environment is preferred but not essential, however an interest in food is essential. Your duties will also include money handling/cashing up. You will need to be available to provide sickness and holiday cover. On occasions, you will need to be available to provide sickness & holiday cover.
The hours of work are;
Position 1: Monday, Tuesday, 9.00-5.00 & Saturdays 8.30-5.00
Position 2: Thursday, Friday, 9.00-5.00pm & Saturdays 8.30-5.00
This could also be made a full time position for the right candidate.
Please send a covering letter stating the position you are interested in together with a CV for the attention of Leanda Saunders to: The Pine Tree Coffee Shop, Fonthill Garden Centre, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HX Or email: leanda@fonthill-lakeside.com
was on a train at the harbourside in Bristol before being taken to its destination at Kingswood Park. The figure is sponsored by Dick
and was designed by
The Mowgli-themed Gromit at the Rose & Crown in Pucklechurch
Starcatcher
Lovett
Oliver Jeffers
Photo: Freia Turland
at the trail launch in Bristol
Gnomes put us on the Gromit trail map
CROWDS will be flocking to Kingswood and Warmley over the summer as they follow the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail.
Sculptures of Norbot, the robot gnome that features in the latest Wallace & Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl, have been placed in Kingswood Park and at Warmley Waiting Room on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path.
The Kingswood character is named Starcatcher and is designed by the children’s illustrator and author Oliver Jeffers, based on his popular book How to Catch a Star. It is sponsored by Dick Lovett.
The Warmley statue is called Sweet and Tidy and is designed by Simon Tozer and sponsored by Global Furniture Alliance.
Also close by is a Gromit at the Rose & Crown in Pucklechurch, which is named Mowgli, after the Jungle Book character.
The trail, which opened on
June 30, features more than 50 sculptures inspired by film, stories and legends. It is raising money for the Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital charity .
Previous trails Gromit Unleashed, Shaun in the City, and Gromit Unleashed 2 have together generated £20 million .
Grand Appeal director Nicola Masters said: “By following the trail, families, friends, residents of Bristol and visitors from the UK and all over the world won’t just be part of a city-wide celebration of creativity –everyone will be helping to create a brighter, and better future for young patients in the children’s hospital.”
To keep up to date with the latest from the Grand Appeal and Gromit Unleashed 3, visit www. gromitunleashed.org.uk and follow @TheGrandAppeal and @ gromitunleashed on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
Sweet and Tidy, the Norbot at Warmley Waiting Room, is sponsored by Global Furniture Alliance and designed by Simon Tozer
Charity’s 30 for 30 fundraising appeal
A CHARITY that supports physically disabled adults in South Gloucestershire is set for expansion as it enters its fourth decade.
Paul’s Place, which was launched in 1995, is about to move into a new base, where it will create an accessible and inclusive hub where people with disabilities can live life to the full.
Building work on the new centre, at the former Shire Way community centre in Yate, is almost finished, thanks to grant funding and anonymous legacy gifts, but more money is needed to equip and furnish it before the charity can move from its rented accommodation at Coalpit Heath Cricket Club.
Chief executive Lynda Williams said: “The new space will be fantastic, not having to clear up and pack away every night. We’ll have individual rooms for specific activities. We’re going to have a sensory room. We’ll have our own physio and gym room, a dedicated music, therapy and arts and crafts room, the outdoor space is just phenomenal.
“We desperately need donations, for example, we need accessible machines for the
gym, and donations for other specialised equipment. We’re starting from scratch with the sensory room as we’ve never had a sensory room before.”
Head of fundraising and communications, Kayley Waller, added: “We’ve been a charity for thirty years this year, and we’ve never owned our own space, we’ve always rented spaces, outgrown those, moved to the next. Paul’s Place Hub will be our own space. We have complete control over making it as accessible as physically possible. It will be amazing”.
Support worker, Darrin Scott, commented: “Our new base will simply make life easier.”
Paul’s Place member, Ben Holbrook, said the move would also give Paul’s Place the chance to give back by running a community café and growing food.
“The community can meet us and see for themselves what we’re about. They’ll notice we’re not scary or different from them. We breathe the same air and despite our struggles we carry on. It opens a window of
opportunities for the community in Shire Way to get to know and include us. We have the plans in place, but we need your support to make it happen.”
The new premises will have rooms dedicated to music and radio. Paul’s Place member, Paul Neath, has a passion for music and would love to share this passion on theradio.
The Voice recently donated £50 to equip the Music Room. You can make your through the charity’s 30 for 30 challenge. For more information, visit: https://www.paulsplace. org.uk/30for30/ Or to donate, visit: https:// www.paulsplace.org.uk/hub/
Work on creating Paul's Place Hub in Yate is nearing completion
King honours Rodney’s community work
A SOUTH Gloucestershire man has been honoured for more than two decades of voluntary work with three community organisations.
Rodney Stone, 85, was made an MBE for services to the community in June’s King’s Birthday honours list.
The retired BAe Systems chartered engineer has been an active member of the Pucklechurch Good Neighbours scheme since shortly after the organisation, which offers practical help to older and disabled people in the village, was founded around 20 years ago.
He also helped set up Bristol’s branch of Tools for SelfReliance, part of an international organisation that collects old usable hand tools and sewing machines and refurbishes them. The tools are then sent to help people in Africa earn a living as carpenters, builders, mechanics, tailors and blacksmiths.
The group is based at Kingswood Heritage Museum,
Rodney Stone in front of Kingswood Heritage Museum’s air raid shelter exhibit
where Rodney also volunteers. He has been a trustee for around 20 years and recently finished a six-year stint as chairman.
Originally from Brislington, Rodney started work at Filton in 1956 as an apprentice straight out of school, when the Bristol Britannia was being built.
He married in 1967 and he and wife Denise moved to Pucklechurch, where they still live.
Throwing himself into volunteering after his retirement,
Rodney joined Pucklechurch Good Neighbours when one of the founders left.
The group, which now has around 20 members, offers help with odd jobs, although Rodney has recently had to step back from being an active member due to the “frailty of old age”.
Rodney said: “We do everything from gardening to changing lightbulbs, putting out dustbins and providing companionship for older and disabled people.”
He set up the Tools for SelfReliance group in a shed behind Kingswood Museum, in Tower Lane, Warmley, where he is also involved in a thriving Men in Sheds group.
At the museum, he has helped improve the set-up to help visitors learn about the many facets of Kingswood’s past.
Rodney said: “It’s got a lot of history, with Douglas motorcycles, miners, John Wesley and non-conformism, which started here, and outlaws like the Cock Road Gang.”
Rodney also ran a motorcycle training scheme at Patchway School for about 15 years.
The letter telling him he was being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire came “out of the blue”.
Rodney said: “I’m very, very pleased. One goes through life not really expecting anything and you do things because you want to do them but this is just a reward for all the years I’ve put in.”
Museum news: Page 17
Getting our region moving
IT’S been a busy first two months as your new Mayor, but I’ll continue my focus on transport for our region in this month’s column.
We recently shared our exciting plans for free bus travel for all under-16s across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire and neighbouring North Somerset during the school summer holidays from July 19 to September 5. This includes WESTlink and WESTlocal: no registration or bus pass is needed, just hop on board!
That new investment from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority could benefit 150,000 children and young people, and children from Perry Court E-ACT Academy who helped us announce it couldn’t have been more excited.
It’s right that we help people save money and encourage greener travel, so I hope that local families can more easily have busloads of fun this summer.
Working with Visit West and local councils, we will also be compiling a list of dozens of free activities for families and sharing on social media.
But we all know that it will take more than one summer to sort out our transport system –and get to where we want to be.
As a West Country girl, I know the
frustration: we’ve been stuck in the slow lane on transport for too long.
Just a month after being elected as your new mayor, we’ve set the wheels in motion like never before to start that journey. That’s thanks to record investment from the new government for our part of the world: £752 million.
Three-quarters of a billion pounds of new transport money can go a long way. It’s time to really start to catch up with other city regions.
For us and our families, this will mean better buses, more trains, and mass transit.
We can secure more brand-new electric buses and the infrastructure to go with them, while also continuing to seriously invest in fixing potholes, restoring bridges, and making active travel easier.
We can also invest in our rail infrastructure, with an ambition for four trains per hour at stations across our growing suburban railways. New tracks and signalling improvements would allow more regular trains between existing and future stations, with stronger connections between two economic growth zones at Brabazon and Bristol Temple Quarter.
This new money will empower our region to start to fill the gaps in our transport network. It’s time to give local people proper alternatives to their cars.
WE TAKE THE DRAMA OUT OF MAKING A WILL.
Will Writing
Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.
Family & Property Trusts
Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Probate Services
Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.
We can cut the congestion that’s holding back our full potential. Trams, metrobuses, rail, light rail, and guided buses are all on the table to make that a reality.
Over the years, as a region, we have talked too much about mass transit and delivered too little. We can deliver an overall system that people can rely on, even if we all know that can’t be built overnight.
When the first 74 electric buses in Bristol are on the road this autumn, I look forward to sharing a joined-up transport vision for our region. Working with the new government, and with genuine collaboration between local councils, it’s time for real change.
Wills and Probate without the mystery
Q: My sister’s got our dad’s will and absolutely refuses to let me see it.
Every time I ask, she just says “everything’s in hand” and won’t tell me anything. Is there anything I can do to find out what’s going on?
A: This kind of situation can be really upsetting, especially when emotions are already running high after a bereavement. Legally speaking, it depends on whether a grant of probate is required. If your dad owned property or significant assets, it’s likely that probate will be needed.
Once the grant of probate is issued by the Probate Registry, the will becomes a public document. At that point, you can search for it online and request a copy, regardless of what your sister says.
Until then, if you’re concerned something’s not quite right, whether that’s secrecy, stalling, or anything more serious, there are steps you can take. You might want to try a free claim checker online (one is available on our website). It’s a quick way to spot any potential red flags and get some guidance on what to do next.
You’ve absolutely got rights here, but the process does take time. Try not to panic, get the facts, and if you’re still unsure, speak to a professional. You don’t need to take this on alone.
Jim Emsley
Jim Emsley is a professional will writer and the Founder of Bristol-based ELM Legal Services. Have a question related to wills and estates? Send it to Jim at hello@elm-online.co.uk and mention ‘Voice newspapers’ in the subject line for potential inclusion in a future column.
Metro Mayor Helen Godwin writes for the Voice
A GROUP of boys who will join IKB Academy from SBL, Wellsway and Broadlands in September got together to build a go-kart.
They entered it in a national competition, racing it at Whilton Mill, one of the UK’s top circuits on June 14.
The students worked on the kart at after-school workshops. Four of the group drove it at the final, with the others acting as pit crew. The students, aged 13 and 14, were supported by two sixthform engineering students at the academy, which specialises in science, technology, engineering and maths subjects (STEM).
Sponsorship from manufacturing firm Apex Pumps in Staple Hill, Bristol, and Bath software developer DevMonki Solutions provided vital funding for parts, tools, and materials.
DIGITECH
GILBERT Martin, a Year 11 student from Digitech Studio School in Warmley, has been making waves in the world of stunt scooter riding, recently taking home top honours in the Scoot GB national final and placing 15th out of 100 international riders at a global competition in France.
Gilbert, who started riding at the age of 13, was first introduced to the sport by friends. Since then, his passion has grown into a daily commitment, practising every day of the week at both Adrenaline Alley – Europe’s largest indoor skate park, located in Corby near Peterborough – and locally at Bradley Stoke, Winterbourne and Dursley.
The teenager has also competed worldwide in Germany, Arizona, Austria, Switzerland.
Gilbert said: “From when I started three to four years ago, I never thought I would be where I am today. The peers I looked up to back then, I’m now competing against.”
Tracey Roberts, a Teaching Assistant at Digitech Studio School, praised Gilbert’s dedication to the sport. She said: “Gilbert’s commitment is truly inspiring. His progress and success are a testament to his determination and passion for the sport. We’re incredibly proud of what he’s achieved.”
CADBURY HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL SMALL SCHOOL • BIG HEART • BOLD DREAMS
YOUR BIN DAY IS CHANGING
From 4 August 2025, your recycling and black bin collection day is likely to change.
This is to make our collection routes more efficient and to provide better value for money.
To help you adjust to this day change
y If there are more than 14 days between your black bin collections, you can put out one extra waste bag on your first new collection day
y Some households will receive an extra one-off black bin collection
y Green bin subscribers will be contacted by post or email if their collection day is changing
y You’ll receive a recycling and waste services guide in the post with more information about this and other upcoming changes
Look out for your guide in the post for more details
Saturdays July 5 and 19th
n CADBURY HEATH LIBRARY
Come and make a Lego model at our Lego Clubs from 10am (for children 5 – 10 years old). Free events.
Friday July 25
n CADBURY HEATH LIBRARY
Tales & Snails FREE drop-in craft activity 2.30pm – 3.30pm (for children 5 – 10 years old)
REGULAR EVENTS
Monday
n YOGA CLASS 6:00-7:00 info at www.magicretreat.co.uk Unity Oldland Church n RAINBOW CARE GROUP
BATH 10:00-4:00 Day Clubinfo on Facebook Page Unity Methodist Church West Street
Tuesday
n WRIGGLE GIGGLE HOP 10:3012:00 Free Toddler Group with refreshments. Unity Methodist Church West Street and 2:00-4:00 Longwell Green Social Club. All are welcome.
n WELSH CONVERSATION
GROUP The Old Manor House, Keynsham 7pm-830pm 3rd Tuesday of the month 15th July (Aug holidays) Free. Organiser Catherine Dhanjal Call Catherine on 07941669925 or follow https://www.facebook.com/ CymraegBrysteCaerfaddon
Wednesday
n THE JOLLY MELODIES MUSIC COMPANY 9am-noon more info on Facebook Page Unity Methodist Church West Street n CRAFTING FRIENDS SOCIAL GROUP. 2:00-4:00Come and join us! Unity Methodist Church Hall n ZEST CHOIR Happy, inclusive singing group, meets term time at Longwell Green Community Centre from 10.15am-11.45am and from 7-8.30pm. Contact Mary on 07954 170532 www.zestchoirs.com. 7pm-8.30pm
n NITA NATA SOCIAL GROUP
Come and join us for knit and chat. 2:00-4:00 Unity Methodist Church Hall West Street
n HANHAM AND KINGSWOOD PHOTO CLUB. A friendly club welcoming photographers of all abilities to share our hobby. Meeting 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start on most Wednesdays, St Barnabas Church Hall, Warmley, BS30 5JJ. https://www.handkphoto. club or contact Geoff Mallin at
geoffmemsechps@gmail.com
n GERMAN CONVERSATION
GROUP - KEYNSHAM
The Old Manor House Hotel, Keynsham, 7pm-9pm 2nd
Wednesday of the month 9th July (August holidays)
Free. Organiser Steve James Join Keynsham Stammtisch https://www.facebook. com/1DJu6UV8Vz/? mibextid=K35XfP
n FRENCH CONVERSATION
GROUP The Old Manor House Hotel, Keynsham 7pm-830pm 4th Wednesday of the month 23 July (Aug hols) Free. Organisers Steve James & Catherine Dhanjal Call Catherine on 0794 1669925 or join L’Amicale Francaise de Keynsham https://www.facebook.com/ groups/429989176573347/
n OLDLAND VILLAGE CLUB
Wednesday Weekly Bingo. Books on sale 7:15pm with Eyes Down 8pm. Open to Members and NonMembers. Over 18s only.
n OLDLAND VILLAGE CLUB
Monthly Coffee Morning take place every 3rd Wednesday of the month, 10:30am start; open to all, cake donations for the table greatly appreciated. Next few dates 16th July, 20th Aug, 17th Sept.
Thursday
n RAINBOW CARE GROUP BATH
DAY CLUB 10am-4pm info on Facebook Page Unity Methodist Church West Street
n UNITY COMMUNITY
CHOIR7:30-9:00 New members welcome Unity Methodist Church Friday
n THE JOLLY MELODIES MUSIC COMPANY 9am-noon more info on Facebook Page Unity Methodist Church West Street
n CROFT END SILVER BAND
practise at Hanham United Reformed Church, Tabernacle Road, 7.15pm - 8.45pm. We welcome new players on all sections, all ages, and training is provided within a Happy band atmosphere - Contact for further info, Chairman Rob 07788473404.
n LONGWELL GREEN WI meet on the third Friday of the month at 7.30 pm at Longwell Green Community Centre. New members are always welcome. Email: longwellwi@gmail.com or Tel: 01179 864782.
n KINGSWOOD HISTORY SOCIETY Cossham Hospital – The Story by
Dr Michael Whitfield – 3rd June 2025
A well-attended event presented at length by our speaker. He started by explaining that in the early 20th century, there were no hospitals in the east of the city. Therefore Handel Cossham, a man with a good fortune, in his will bequeathed to pay for a hospital on Kingswood Hill.
The hospital was built in 1907, 4 wards each with 80 beds. Resident Matron, Doctor and Gardener appointed. Honary (no pay) and Working Consultants were used. The matron had extensive duties appointing nurses. It was a voluntary hospital and as normal not enough money, pre NHS.
Indeed, it had its first closure in 1909 due to finance plus Small Pox outbreak. On reopening a patient might pay a guinea a week. The hospital was home to Belgian Refugees during WW1 !
For comparison in 1963 Cossham attendance was 51,000 per year at a cost of 18s 7d each, Frenchay 22,500 and 31s 6d.
Numerous interesting and thought-provoking facts were provided in the talk.
It finished with the refurbishment of 2013 to complete the story, so far. Next meeting at the Park Centre, Kingswood is Tuesday 1st July, 7pm for 7,30pm start. Visitors £4 incl tea/coffee and biscuits.
Full schedule of presentations can be found at www. kingswoodhistorysociety.org
SOUTH GLOS WINE CIRCLE
IN June our meeting subject was ‘Pinks’, and we welcomed four new members to a presentation of rosé wine. We were provided with tasting notes and some suggestions to help us identify the country of origin and the grapes used. We had a sheet to put our answers on; and to help us identify the characteristics of bouquet and flavour dishes of strawberries, blackberries, cherries, vanilla, orange and grapefruit peel and more. This enabled us to compare the description of the wine with the actual aromas and taste of the fruit. We worked in pairs to gain points for each correct answer and the evening proved hilarious with much fun and laughter. With two of our members declared as ‘wine masters’ at the end of the evening. Also in June a couple of members entered the Wales & West Federation annual competition held at the Royal Hotel in Weston-super-Mare, gaining third and fourth places in the decorated bottle and photograph classes but narrowly missing out in the fruit liqueur class. Another member was asked to judge the cookery section which proved quite a task with 31 entries.
For our meeting on 2nd July our chairman will be presenting a tasting of West Coast IPA Beers. We meet at St Barnabas Church Hall, Warmley, BS30 5JJ and there will always be a warm welcome for those with a passion for wine, beer and food. If you are interested get in touch by email or look at our website sgwc.org.uk. Doors open 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start. Carol Coombs – Programme Secretary – carol@applause.co.uk
All are welcome to attend our worship services Sun 6th July 10:30 Local Arrangement Sun 13th July 10:30 Rev P.J.Jackson Holy Communion Sun 20th July 10:30 Joy Harris Sun 27th July 10:30 Rev Dilwyn Edwards
Please join us at our Coffee Morning on Saturday 12th July 10:0011:30 - Home made cakes and bacon butties!!! Film Thursdays 31st July at 2:00
‘The Great Budapest Hotel’ 15 a comedy drama Hosted by Home Instead for the Local Community tea and cake. Donations welcome.
Celebrating our volunteers
LAST month I marked Volunteers’ Week with an event to celebrate the 66 dedicated volunteers supporting the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner across Avon and Somerset.
These volunteers give their time, energy, and expertise week in, week out - not for recognition or reward, but because they deeply care about fairness, transparency,
justice, and community.
Each of our volunteers plays a vital role in helping me and my office hold the police to account. What they do isn’t always easy, but it matters enormously.
Reflecting on their impact in 2024, these volunteers achieved the following:
• 646 individuals in custody were interviewed by independent
custody visitors. Their treatment, rights, and entitlements were checked and upheld.
• 96 police complaint files were reviewed in full. Their insights identified areas for improvement and prompted action to be taken.
• 191 cases of police use of force were scrutinised, with over 240 hours of body-worn video footage reviewed. Their findings shaped themes for change, identified areas for improvement, and highlighted examples of good practice.
• 87 Community Resolution cases were reviewed, including cases involving sexual offences, domestic abuse, hate crime, and youth knife possession. Their feedback was shared with magistrates and the Local Criminal Justice Board to drive change.
the Tackling Disproportionality programme, helping to ensure it remains focused on achieving long-term, anti-racist reforms in our criminal justice system.
I am deeply grateful to all those who volunteer to support me, for their ongoing support to create fairer criminal justice services for all.
Additionally, an independent expert board continued to oversee
To find out more about the roles please visit the volunteering pages on my website, www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
After 314 years, this stunning grade two listed country pub finds itself centre stage in a dynamic period of rebirth.
Whether you're with us for a relaxed lunch, a jovial meal catching up with friends and family, an extra special Sunday roast, or a group celebration. Our warm and inviting atmosphere will welcome you like a big hug.
Clare Moody (front, centre) with volunteers at the celebration event
Thanks, 999 crew, for saving my life
A KINGSWOOD man from Bristol was reunited with the ambulance crew who helped saved his life.
Tim Oxenham, 58, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in September 2023. His partner Helen gave vital CPR until the emergency crews from South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) arrived and provided further life-saving medical care.
Tim was taken by ambulance to Bristol Royal Infirmary and spent a further six weeks in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). During this time, Tim had multiple organ failures and a hypoxic brain injury which affected his short-term memory. This resulted in Tim needing to learn to walk again as well as having an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) fitted.
Tim and his family were
reunited with the crew members who attended to him at Bristol Ambulance Station in Easton in May.
Tim said: “It was really special to have the opportunity to meet the amazing crews who came so quickly and saved my life. After suffering a cardiac arrest, I have been enjoying spending time with loved ones and am slowly getting back to a normal way of life. We are all incredibly thankful to the team who came to our rescue, and it was lovely to thank them in person.”
Paramedic Abi Elliott said: “It was wonderful to meet Tim and his family today. This was my first reunion for a cardiac patient, and it was an honour and privilege to have the opportunity to be part of Tim’s recovery journey and I, and the team, wish him well on his journey to full health.”
The exact cause of Tim’s
cardiac arrest is still unknown, but it could be linked to a rare, inherited genetic disorder called Brugada Syndrome. This can cause abnormal heart rhythms, including ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest. Tim is undergoing further genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis.
He hopes that by sharing his story he can raise awareness
about the importance of learning CPR and recognising the signs of cardiac arrest. He encourages everyone to take the time to learn these life-saving skills — because as his story shows, quick action really can mean the difference between life and death.
To learn more about CPR and how to get trained, visit the SWASFT website.
Tim Oxenham and his loved ones meet the 999 crew at the ambulance station in Easton
BITTON PARISH HISTORY GROUP
OLDLAND Common originally comprised a triangular plot bounded by West Street, North Street, and High Street. These lands, once traditional medieval commons, were gradually enclosed by a series of parliamentary acts, culminating in the Inclosure Act of 1819 and a detailed award and map in 1827. By this time, ten fields had been established on the common—eight arable, one pasture, and one garden—mostly owned privately, with a few rented out.
In 1843, housing existed around but not on the common. Clusters of cottages were visible along surrounding roads, while the common itself remained divided into fields. This changed after the Midland Railway Act of 1864, which cut through the southern portion of the common. The railway opened in 1869, but Oldland Station was only added in 1935. By 1882, building began to encroach on the common, especially along the High Street and around the railway. Two footpaths also existed: “The Piece,” which still remains as a path, and another, now vanished, that once crossed Oldland Girls School playing fields and was officially closed in 1965.
By the early 1900s, housing development expanded further, with the addition of factories and terraced housing. Property transactions increased, and the land was subdivided into smaller plots. One proposed plan to build twenty-four homes on new roads named King Street and Queen Street was never realized, possibly due to financial or practical constraints. Instead, land was sold off piecemeal, resulting in individually built houses with large gardens—many retaining the original orchard trees, some of which survive today.
Frederick Gerrish’s (my great grandfather’s) plot was used for both his family home and bootmaking business, with an orchard and workshop behind the house. His purchase of additional plots in 1931 further expanded the family’s landholdings. By this time, much of the common had been parcelled out for housing or remained as gardens and orchards. Community infrastructure also grew during this period. Before World War I, the Oldland Village Club was established in West Street. Between the wars,
Building on the Common
by Jane Bradley
more plots along West Street were developed. In the post-war years, local councils began investing in housing, with homes built for the district nurse and elderly residents, as well as a police station.
Education significantly influenced land use on the common. The 1944 Education Act (effective in 1947) led to the creation of separate primary and secondary schools. Oldland Common Secondary School for Girls opened in 1956 on North Street to accommodate the growing post-war population. As space was limited, Gloucestershire Council had even resorted to hiring chapel halls as makeshift classrooms. The boys’ and girls’ schools eventually merged in 1971, officially opening as one in 1972 after expansion. The school has since grown to occupy most of the remaining common land.
Ordnance Survey Map 1844-1888; Courtesy OS Maps
The latest wave of development has occurred south of the railway, repurposing former industrial sites into residential areas. These include Gooch Court, Edgemont View
Nursing Home, Trescothick Close, and North Croft—all representing the ongoing transformation of Oldland Common from farm land to suburban landscape.
Jane Bradley, 2025
n KINGSWOOD MEMORIES & HERITAGE MUSEUM
LIONEL BLAIR
Kingswood Heritage Museum has an extensive collection of images of the many celebrities who have grown up in and visited the area, and many of these images are featured in one of the Museum’s new exhibitions for 2025.
This month’s “Memory” features the late Lionel Blair, the well-known actor, choreographer, tap dancer, and television presenter. Lionel made regular appearances as a dancer and entertainer
Museum Opening Hours
The Museum is open until the end of November from 2 – 5pm every Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday, and from 11am to 5pm on Bank Holidays. Children under 16 are admitted free.
Museum Talk: Handel Cossham
This month’s talk takes place at Kingswood Heritage Museum on Wednesday 9th July, when Dr Michael Whitfield tells the story of the life of Handel Cossham.
Admission costs £4.50, including tea or coffee; doors open at 7pm and the talk commences at 7.30 pm; Seats must be booked in advance via 0117 9605664, or by email:kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com.
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on British television from the late 1960s until the early 1980s.
Lionel was one of the team captains on the popular game show “Give Us a Clue” from 1979 until the early 1990s, and was the second presenter of the British version of “Name That Tune” in the 1980s. He also appeared in a number of feature films, and choreographed others.
At the age of 85 Lionel entered the Celebrity Big Brother house. He was the show's oldest ever housemate, and remains the oldest person
Events and activities
The Museum hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or see our website at www.kingswoodmuseum.org.uk for the latest news about the Museum and our events and activities.
Join us
Kingswood Heritage Museum is run entirely by volunteers. Would you like to help us to conserve and display the history of our area, and to pass our knowledge on to future generations?
Whatever skills you can offer, Kingswood Heritage Museum would like to hear from you. If you would like to join our enthusiastic and
to compete in any version of the Big Brother franchise.
The featured photographs (courtesy of the South Gloucestershire Gazette) illustrate a visit by Lionel to the NSPCC Young League in Downend in the late 1980’s.
If you were present when Lionel visited Downend please share your memories with Kingswood Heritage Museum by email at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com, or by phone on 0117 9605664
friendly group of volunteers do get in touch by emailing us at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com, or simply call us on 0117 9605664. We would love to hear from you!
LONGWELL GREEN WI
BERNARD Purrier, representing the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Charity, skilfully delivered a presentation on a serious matter whilst making it entertaining, highlighting the dedicated research and scientific work that is undertaken to protect these amazing sea creatures.
Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.
Dolphins are intelligent marine mammals sharing similarities with humans. It is reported that dolphins would often be found between survivors and sharks in the sea and people on airbeds have been pushed back to shore. The next time you go to the beach and you decide to swim far out to sea, make sure there are dolphins around!
The trees will be planted at Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.
For male dolphins to attract a female dolphin for mating, one behaviour is to pick up a strand of seaweed around its beak and wait for the female to pick it up.
The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
Dolphins are also playful mammals. A young dolphin will find a puffer fish, squeeze it to release the toxin, to give the young male dolphin a high. The puffer fish is unharmed in the process.
From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.
In cloudy or murky water, they will use echolocation, a form of sonar to “see” and find food as well as to avoid predators. They also have a unique sleep pattern where one half of their brain rests while the other half remains awake. This allows them to continue breathing and be aware of their surroundings.
nets. In addition, the practice of commercial whaling still exists. It is important for charities and organisations to protect these beautiful sea creatures.
Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals
The Blue Whale is the largest living creature on the planet with a life span of 80-90 years; the female blue whales tend to live five years longer. A newborn blue whale will be typically 20-26 feet long and weigh around 35-42 stone. It can gain 200 pounds a day and stays with its mother for about six to seven months, nearly doubling its length and reaching on average about 52 feet long, during this time.
A Craft Day was held making dreamcatchers, a noticeboard, paper flowers, painted wooden bangles and tissue holders.
took place around South Stoke and Midford passing through villages, valleys and woodland. Members stopped half way for refreshments and drink which was worked off with an uphill walk near the end!
you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”
To mark 110 years of the WI, a “Party in the Park” celebration will be held at the Community Centre in Bitton on 13th August. The event will include a specially designed homemade cake, food, drinks and cocktails, music and, if feasible, hiring an ice cream van.
And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it –90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.
To give an idea of the size of an adult blue whale, its heart is roughly the size of a small car e.g. a Smart car, and a small child could swim through its blood vessels. It can eat Krill (shrimp like animals) amounting to the size of a fully grown elephant a day.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
The threat to dolphins and whales includes water pollution, plastic, strandings, climate change and being entangled in
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone
Fourteen members attended having great fun, aided by helpers organising the event, and homemade cakes were provided by some ladies to end the day. The next craft day will be held later in the year on 29 November making Christmas-themed items.
into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.
The Friends and Family Walk resumed on Sunday 22 June. Seven members attended with one bringing their pet dog, Crumble, along for the six-mile walk, which
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And
We have lots of groups that our members can participate in. There are book clubs, walking groups, knitting group, skittles and social suppers. On the first Thursday of the month, we meet at The Chapel Coffee Shop in Longwell Green for Tea and Chat.
The hard work of Danny and his company was also recently recognised and commended, with The Window Hub being named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the G24 Awards last year.
In 2025, The Window Hub will grow to cover domestic homes between Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Lands End in Cornwall.
Longwell Green WI’s monthly meetings are held on the third Friday of the month at 7.30 pm at the Longwell Green Community Centre and new members are always welcome. If you are interested, get in touch by email at longwellwi@gmail.com, telephone 0117 9864782 or come along on the evening.
Kamann Huang
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.
KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB
BOTH our ladies and men at Keynsham Bowling Club have now completed a number of fixtures - both league and friendly matcheswith varying degrees of success.
Our ladies compete in the North Somerset League, where they have played six games, winning four, and are currently in second position. They also play in the Ladies County Triples League, having won one of their three matches.
In their cup matches against other clubs, they beat Alexandra Park in the Southey Cup and now play Bath in the next round, whilst Purnells are their opponents in the Fear Cup.
They have held their internal Triples Day, which has resulted in Sheila Hillier, Jennie Crockford and Maureen Cavill set to play Sally Difazio, Joan Harvey and Jan Iles on the Finals Day in September.
Our men field three teams in the Thursday Bristol & District League. The A team was promoted last season to Division 1 and is finding the going a little tough, having won just one of their seven games and accruing 20 points.
Both of B and C Teams play in Division 3, where the B Team has won four of its seven games and is in fourth position with 42 points. The C Team has lost all its six games and has gained 11 points.
The men also field three teams in the
FRY’S BOWLING CLUB
Bristol and District League:
Henleaze 'B' made the trip to Somerdale in Fry's third game of the Bristol and District League Division 3. A back and forth game was in the balance, but Fry's made a late surge to take a commanding 71-48 win with all 10 points to see Fry's into second in the league.
A local derby between the 2nd and 3rd placed teams took place on a sunny and windy night at Somerdale. Fry's took the early advantage across the rinks and continued to pull away. Fry's finished with a 64-22 win with all 10 points, which saw Fry's move 7 points clear at the top of the table.
Fry's continued their good form in the trip to Page Park 'B', missing out on all 10 points on the final bowl. Fry's extended their lead with a 10-0 win over second placed Imperial. Imperial kept 2 rinks tight, with rink 1 battling to get their noses in front. A late 6 for Imperial on rink 3 saw them take the lead, but Fry's would close out the game on the final 2 ends winning 63-36 to extend their lead to 17 points.
Fry's stayed top at bottom club Keynsham 'C'. After a slow start, Fry’s picked things up to come
Saturday Somerset County League, with the A and B Teams both playing in the East 1 Division. Both teams have won two of their four games, with the A team currently on 25 points, with the B team three behind on 22 points.
The C team plays in East 2, where it has won one of its four games, gaining 4 points.
The men also play in the Friday Triples League, which starts much earlier in the season than the other leagues. Nine games
away with a comfortable win, just falling short of all 10 points on the last couple of ends, Fry's take 8 points from the 69-38 win. Fry’s currently top the table, 15 points clear of Imperial.
Friday Triples League:
In the trip to Begbrook Green, Fry’s were able to win two rinks, but with a big deficit on the third rink, Begbrook took 8 points winning 58-40.
A tight encounter at Avonvale went to the home side. Both teams took control of a rink, and with Avonvale taking the third rink, they took 10 points from the 55-53 win.
Fry’s bounced back the following week with a 10-2 o against Keynsham, taking a 57-45 win, narrowly missing out on the third rink.
Another tight encounter saw Fry’s come out on the wrong side of scoreboard at home to St Anne’s Park, with the visitors coming out on top by a single shot to take 10 points, leaving Fry’s with 2 points from the 54-55 scoreline.
Fry’s had a successful Triples Cup quarter-final against Severn Vale. They advance to the semifinal against Victoria Park at Knowle on 8th July. Stephen Day
have so far been played and we have won five, gaining 50 points to be in fourth position.
In the knockout club competitions, we beat Paulton and then Clarence Park in the National 2x4 rinks, before losing to Portishead RBL. We lost away to Bath in the Top Club competition.
In the Lloyds Trophy, we had a bye in the first round and then came up against our local rivals Fry’s in the next round, played on our green. Before the game, players gathered on the green in silence remembrance of Peter Fiedor, the much-respected chairman at Fry’s, who had passed away earlier in the day.
The game was a close encounter which resulted in a win for Keynsham by 46 to 39 shots, meaning that we now progress to the next round, at home to either Olveston or GB Britton.
The club also fields a team in the Friday evening Mid Somerset Mixed League, where we have won one out of four matches. Unlike other clubs, who field their strongest players possible, we select a combination of new and experienced players. This helps new players to understand playing competitively whilst receiving support from those “longer in the tooth”.
The first all-day competition took place, when members played against one another in a series of mixed triples matches to compete for the Ray Percival Shield.
Mike Barrow
Winners Graham Cavill, Jennie Crockford and Roy Wilton
DO you fancy an afternoon boogie or want buddies to go and see local live music gigs? Then Bristol u3a is for you!
Due to the popularity of our existing Daytime Disco group, we’ve started a second group meeting monthly on Wednesday afternoons at Badminton Road Methodist Church. Don’t expect glitter balls or a professional DJ though – this is simply one member’s playlist of mood-busting music from the '70s to the present day. We can’t guarantee that you’ll be familiar with all the music played, but if you enjoy dancing to music with a strong beat, this is for you.
The Live Music Lovers group is more informal, and is for anybody who enjoys live music in local pubs in North East Bristol or at the Fleece in central Bristol. Group members
suggest gigs via a WhatsApp group, and there’s also a monthly email.
Another local music-oriented group is the Soul Music group, also meeting monthly at Badminton Road Methodist Church. Google “Bristol u3a Soul Music” for more info. Bristol u3a (you in your Third Age) is for anybody who has a bit of time for themselves. There’s no lower age limit, but most members are in their 50s upwards.
Members have access to 200 interest groups across Bristol and 40 locally. In July, you’ll find us at the Frenchay Flower show on July 12 (all day), at the Market Café & Lounge in Kingswood on the 14th from 2pm, at the Crafty Egg in Fishponds on 16th at 2.30pm and at the White Lion in Frenchay on the 21st at 2.30pm.Want to find more? Contact me at learnlaughlive@bristolu3a.org.uk. Lindsay Gough
ON THE TREATMENT TABLE WITH TIM BUTTON OF CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC
Green fingers, safe backs: how to garden smart this summer
The summer sun is shining, the weeds are calling, and the garden centre has never looked more tempting. Whether you're planting petunias, digging a new border, or finally building that raised bed, gardening can be a wonderful way to get outdoors, stay active, and enjoy the rewards of your hard work.
But—before you grab the spade and start pulling up half your lawn— let’s talk about how to protect your body while you're out there. Because as any chiropractor will tell you, a weekend of enthusiastic weeding can quickly turn into a week of lower back pain if you’re not careful. Trust me it keeps us busy when the football and rugby season has ended!
Gardening: Not as Gentle as It Looks
Gardening might look low-key, but it’s physically demanding. It involves lifting, bending, twisting, pulling, kneeling, and sometimes working for hours without a break. That’s not unlike a workout at the gym – only with the added danger of doing it on
uneven ground, while distracted by the task at hand.
We see it every year: people come in with pulled muscles, sore knees, aching shoulders, and stiff backs after an ambitious weekend in the garden. The good news is: most of this is avoidable.
Take Time to Prepare
You wouldn't jump straight into a football match without warming up – and the same goes for gardening. A short walk, a few gentle stretches, and some shoulder rolls before you start can make a world of difference.
If you know you’re going to be doing a lot of lifting or bending, it’s worth activating your core with a few simple movements and doing a couple of squats to wake up the legs.
Also, plan your project sensibly. Try to alternate tasks to avoid repeating the same movement for too long – for example, weed a section, then switch to pruning or planting.
Take Regular Breaks
It’s easy to get carried away when you're in the zone. You might think, “I’ll just finish this bit”, and suddenly you've been hunched over for two hours straight. Set a timer if you have to, and make sure you’re standing up, stretching, and hydrating every 30–45 minutes.
It’s also important to listen to your body. That slight twinge you ignore now might become something more serious if you keep pushing through.
Why Your Winter Workouts Matter Here’s where your winter gym sessions, yoga classes, or home workouts really pay off. Keeping strong and mobile throughout the year helps your joints, muscles, and posture cope with all sorts of activities – including unexpected ones like moving a compost bag or wrestling with a stubborn root.
At any age, maintaining strength and flexibility is one of the best ways to stay independent and active – and gardening becomes one more way to enjoy the results of that effort.
Before You Start a Big Project…
Thinking about landscaping the whole back garden? Laying turf? Building a patio? If you’re about to take on a bigger project, it’s a great idea to book in with your chiropractor beforehand. A quick check-up can highlight any imbalances or areas of tightness that might cause problems under stress.
We'll make sure your body is moving well, help you avoid injury, and give you advice specific to your needs and your goals – whether that’s digging flowerbeds or
prepping for a garden party. And If Something Goes Wrong… We’re Here
If you do find yourself with a sore back, stiff neck, or aching shoulder after a day in the garden – don’t suffer in silence. The sooner we see you, the quicker we can help you recover and get back to doing what you love.
We can assess what’s going on, provide hands-on treatment, give you the right exercises, and help prevent it happening again. And if it turns out something more is needed, like a scan or an injection then we can help with that too.
Let Your Garden Grow – Not Your Aches and Pains
Gardening is one of the best things you can do for your health –fresh air, sunshine, gentle exercise, and a sense of achievement. With a little preparation, some common sense, and support from your local chiropractic team, you can make sure this summer is blooming brilliant – without your back paying the price.
If you’d like to speak to one of our team before your next big garden project, give Cleve Chiropractic a call. We’re always happy to help keep you moving, no matter the season.
Tim Button
Lindsay Gough
BITTON WI
WELCOMING the group to our June meeting we celebrated a milestone birthday of our member, Sheila Jennings, who had recently celebrated becoming 90 years young! Never missing the opportunity to sing, we wished her happy birthday in the usual way and presented her with a small flower arrangement.
The summer months before us brings many more opportunities to join together for outdoor visits and events. We are looking forward to a coffee morning with plenty of homemade cakes to raise funds for our WI, as well as a Garden Party on 21 July to celebrate another year of Bitton WI and the 50th anniversary of the Avon Federation. We will be sharing details of these events at our meetings, so please come along to find out more. Our summer outing will take place in August instead of our usual meeting and this year, we are eager to enjoy a river cruise in Bristol with a cream tea. We are keeping our fingers crossed for fine weather for all our events.
Our speaker this month was Dr. Amber Philips who is a criminologist. Amber originally started her working life as a
translator, moving to Calabria in Italy to work with charitable organisations there. Whilst living and working there she heard and saw first hand the effect of the mafia on the area and this peeked her interest in the mafia type groups and inspired her to study criminology for a PhD at the University of Bristol.
Amber started by busting the myths around what we perceive the mafia to be and how fact and fiction lines are slightly blurred by the complexity of what and who the mafia actually are! In fact, it seems the mafia of today have been influenced by the films made about them to the point that they have become more like the characters portrayed in those very movies, replicating the film sets in their own homes! She told how the stereotypical Sicilian mafia we see in the films are just one group, with many other clans scattered across Italy and the world, some of whom have been around for over 150 years!
We heard how being famous was not all it was cracked up to be and this had possibly contributed to a huge law enforcement exercise taking place in Sicily where many of the mafia criminals were tried and convicted. This, although
not wiping out the mafia in Sicily, had diminished their hold and power. The same couldn’t be said for Calabria where Amber lived. There were many mafia “clans” who would frequently wage war against each other to gain power which led to a very uncertain and often difficult life for the people of the country. Business owners would be pressured into paying “protection money” and there are dire consequences for those who don’t obey!
Fortunately, we also heard how governments and surprisingly, charities and local groups, are now trying to fight back against the criminal mafia world and new laws being passed to seize the assets of convicted mafia criminals to give them back to the community. It was heartening to hear how women are often the instigators and influencers in fighting to get things done to eliminate the criminal work of the mafia today.
A fascinating and illuminating insight into the workings of the mafia and a stark reminder that they are real, they are not just in films and sadly, they do still exist today!.
Our July meeting will take place on Monday 14th July, Church Hall, Bitton at 2 pm. Our speaker will be
Sue Goodland from Wessex Water. For more infom email: bittonwi@ gmail.com.
Karen Davidson
DOWNEND WI
WE know summer is here when we start to see the beautiful flowers in Downend.
Thank you to the amazing volunteers of Downend in Bloom for all their hard work.
For our June meeting, we arranged a self-defence session with Luke Chamberlain.
Our July meeting, on the 29th, is on reflexology, and on August 26 we will have our annual ‘Quiz and Fizz’, with a talk on September 30 called Catching a Serial Killer.
If you would like to come and see what we are all about, you would be more than welcome.
We meet at Christ Church Hall in North Street, Downend on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.
Guests are welcome for a small charge of £5, which includes a tea or coffee, and yummy cake!
If you would like to know more, please contact us via email at downendwi@yahoo.co.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Linda Russ
• A wide range of colours & patterns
• A wide range of colours & patterns
• Local Saltford family run business for 70 years
• Local Keynsham family run business for 50 years
• All work guaranteed • Free estimates • Pressure washing Driveways & Patios
Tel: 01225 873587 or 07831 453821
Tel: 0117 9860485 or 07831 453821 www.agldrives.co.uk
