Yate & Sodbury Voice April 2015

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April, 2015 Issue 2

What’s on, Page 33 | Sport, Page 37

Musical festival gets reprieve Sodbury Live event planned for The Ridings AN alternative venue has been found for a music event in Chipping Sodbury after lack of civic support ruled out staging it in the town centre.

Alistair Gregson’s original idea to have the two-day familyfriendly festival in the heart of the town failed to get the backing of Sodbury Town Council.

Undeterred, Mr Gregson looked at other possible sites and Sodbury Live – currently a working title – is now proposed to take place at The Ridings, off Wickwar Road, on September 4 and 5.

Mr Gregson, who lives in Broad Street, said: “It’s all looking really positive. We are definitely taking big steps in the right direction.”

He has met with Chipping Sodbury Town Trust, which administers The Ridings, and the next stage is to apply for a licence from South Gloucestershire Council.

Mr Gregson has also approached various agents regarding the kind of acts he

wants to book.

It is anticipated to have a family-centric first night, followed by some well known bands on the second day, although no names will yet be announced.

Up to 5,000 people could go

along to the festival and if it’s a success, the plan is to expand to three days in future years.

Mr Gregson works for a company that provides generators for large scale events and festivals. As a project Continued on Page 2

Rodford Way scheme gets green light

Money to be spent on cutting accidents

Page 9 Election 2015

We give you the chance to meet your candidates

Pages 14 & 15 Landmark day for Yate cinema

Work starts on Riverside development

Page 17 Win tickets to the Sodbury Jazz and Blues Festival Page 23 Carving out walking trails

Meet the man creating wood sculptures around Yate and Sodbury

Page 31 Up for the cup Under clear skies: The Chipping Sodbury Mop enjoyed good weather as the rides thrilled visitors.

St Nick’s win cup final

Page 38

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April, 2015

Sodbury music festival

May deadline

Our May edition will be going to print on Thursday April 23. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by Monday April 20.

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From Page 1 manager for such entertainment, he said he had the credentials to provide a successful weekend of entertainment.

He said: “One of the advantages of The Ridings is it’s a green field site so we will build everything we need ourselves.

“We want people to have a really good time and for the first festival’s legacy to be a continuation into future years.”

It is planned to have a big screen and a stage at the site,

with local organisations involved and competitions run for schools.

The price of tickets will be limited and the acts to be chosen will appeal to local people.

Mr Gregson had tried to persuade Sodbury councillors that having the event in the town centre would benefit local businesses such as caterers and pubs.

But the council had concerns about disruption to businesses and residents, as well as noise disturbance.

Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter.

Local information

South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk

Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

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Volunteers turn out to support nature reserve workday A TEAM of volunteers collected litter, planted trees and cleared silt from a pond during a workday at the Wapley Bushes nature reserve in Yate.

The 26-strong group of helpers included members of the Wapley Bushes Conservation

Group and friends, family groups and a community work party from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Trees that were planted will form a barrier at the edge of the picnic area, while 15 bags were filled with litter picked up from

Wapley Bushes nature reserve volunteers given a safety briefing

by Tim Fairhead before starting work.

the main paths and public areas.

Clearance of silt from the water channel out of the site’s top pond was necessary to stop it overflowing. Controlling the flow of the water conserves various habitats and is a vital part of the reserve management.

A quantity of frogspawn was also discovered for the first time in one part of the pond, accounting for the number of frogs that have been seen in the meadows.

Pictures by Paul Hulbert

Paul Hulbert checks the depth of the top pond.

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April, 2015

Fishing for winners at show spectacular

ANGLERS have the chance to put their skills to the test in a competition run in conjunction with the annual South Gloucestershire Show.

Qualifying rounds for the contest are about to start, with the final set to take place during the two-day show in the summer.

The Windmill Fishery angling competition was one of the highlights of the inaugural show last year, which will again be held at the fishery showground, Westerleigh Road.

The national open challenge will be for individual anglers only, with a prize fund of more than £3,000 set up for the event.

Sponsored by Office Beverages, the first qualifying rounds are due to begin on Saturday, April 4, and will run through to July 18.

Final placings will then be determined at the show, which is expected to attract some 20,000 visitors during the weekend of August 1 and 2.

The overall winner will receive £1,000, with prizes for the top eight anglers going down to £100.

Under the rules of the contest, the winners and runners-up of each qualifying round will automatically qualify for the semi-finals.

Full details of how to enter are on the fishery website www.windmillfishery.co.uk or available by emailing info@windmillfishery. co.uk or phoning fishing manager Terry Boulton on 07805 326772.

The South Gloucestershire Show is a celebration of life and leisure in the district and is billed as the biggest event of its kind in the locality.

A programme of events will have something for every age, with a car show, main arena attractions, golf and shooting just some of the attractions.

Local musicians, clubs, groups and societies will be involved and inquiries from

exhibitors are already being made.

Event manager Darren Hawkins said: “Angling is particularly popular and there is a lot of interest in the fishing competition.”

The organisers are keen to have as many local businesses of all sizes represented in all aspects of the show.

Anyone who wants to be part of it should email hello@southglosshow.co.uk or phone 01454 222959 as soon as possible.

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April, 2015

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Yate civic service launched with surprise gymnastic arrival

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GYMNASTS made an unexpected entrance at Yate Town Council’s civic service by walking up the aisle of St Mary’s Church on their hands.

The surprise arrival by the King Edmund acro-gymnasts, who are based at Yate International Gymnastics Centre, was followed by a demonstration of their athletic skills.

The annual service is a thank-you to those people and organisations who give their time to help the town, care for the wider community and hold public office.

During the event, Yate councillors renewed their vows to serve the town and mayor Wully Perks invited a number of people and groups to the front of the church so their contributions to the community could be recognised.

They included representatives of the police, services, care homes and charities, local friends groups, doctors and undertakers.

Councillor Perks, who is coming to the end of his two years as mayor, chose for the service a theme of “I’ll never forget to say a great big thank you. I’ll never forget”.

He also named the Friends of Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre as his chosen charity of the evening, having been a patient there in 2012.

The service was led by Yate rector, the Rev Ian Wallace, assisted by team vicar, the Rev Iain Macfarlane.

Retired Methodist minister Hilary Cooke was the guest preacher and music was provided by the Yate Worship team, more than 40 members of Yate Choral Society – of which the mayor and his wife are members – and St Mary’s Primary School choir.

Former students of Brimsham Green School, with teacher Jo Hewitt, also spoke about a visit to Uganda, where they worked with youngsters in a remote and deprived school near Kampala.

Among the congregation was South Gloucestershire Council chairman, Howard Gawler, together with neighbouring parish leaders.

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yate&sodburyvoice www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk April, 2015 A Bang, a Crash and a Flutter

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Farewell to retiring Yate councillors SIX councillors who between them have given more than 100 years of service to Yate have retired from the town council.

Three of them have each represented their community for between 24 and 27 years - Cleo Trotter, Mike Robbins and Alan Lawrance.

Sue and Dave Evan Jones have both served the locality for 12 years, while Martin Monk has been a councillor for eight years.

All have decided not to stand for re-election at the May local elections and they were thanked for their long service at a recent full meeting of the council.

Chipping Sodbury Music Society recently welcomed an outstanding young Scottish duo, Flercussion, to Chipping Sodbury Town Hall for an unusual and exciting performance.

Jo Ashcroft on flute and Calum Huggan on marimba and percussion teamed together in a creative and quirky combination, to bring the repertoire and sound world of their instruments with a bang, a crash and a flutter into the world of chamber music.

The duo, sponsored by the Countess of Munster Musical

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Trust presented a colourfully and varied musical tour with arrangements of both familiar and less known works.

Opening and concluding with attention-grabbing pieces

by Piazzolla, the Argentine tango composer, the whole programme was interspersed with short anecdotes from the musicians and Jo introduced her solo, “Danse de la Chevre” by Honeggar, with a delightful love story about the eponymous little goat.

For his solo, Calum chose “Battercada”, composed by Rachel Gledhill (Principal Percussionist of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House), which allowed him to showcase an array of extended techniques that can be seen being more

commonly used in contemporary percussion writing.

The “Waltz Number 2” from Shostakovich’s Suite for Jazz Orchestra was sensuous and melodious, a deliberate response to the oppressive Soviet regime of that time. If you have ever travelled on one of the wellknown cross-channel ferries you would have recognised this tune as their early morning wake-up call!

On the 7th April at 7.30pm Chipping Sodbury plays host to 4 Girls, 4 Harps and represents a rare opportunity to see and hear four of these magnificent instruments being played on stage at the same time. Keziah Thomas, Harriet Adie, Eleanor Turner and Elizabeth Scorah will be performing a programme entitled ‘A Journey Around the World’ and will include music from Africa, Spain, France and the Middle East by composers such as Handel, Piazzolla, and Ravel.

Tickets are available on the door or to pre book visit http:// csmusicsociety.co.uk

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April, 2015

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Rodford Way schemes planned to cut accidents ROAD schemes aimed at cutting accidents at two sites on Rodford Way in Yate should be in place within the next year.

The projects, costing a total of £34,200, were approved at a recent meeting of the Frome Vale Area Forum.

One of the blackspots is the offset junction between Rodford Way, Shire Way and Sundridge Park, where a lack of clear priorities confuses drivers.

Dodington parish councillor Paul Hulbert said: “South Gloucestershire Council experts have investigated and found that most of the casualties are cyclists. Drivers are obviously too busy looking out for other cars that they don’t see the cyclists.”

He said the improvement scheme involved having road markings that made it clear who had priority, as well as making cycle lanes more obvious.

Mr Hulbert said: “This expenditure should be good value for money in reducing injuries at the junction.”

The second project involves the Abbotswood junction further

down Rodford Way, where a number of near-misses have been reported as drivers perform U-turns in the wide road mouth.

It is planned to put an island in the mouth of the road to prevent such manoeuvres.

Councillor Tony Davis, who represents Dodington on South Gloucestershire Council, said: “These U-turns particularly happen during peak times when drivers want to get into Kelston Close, where the schools are.

“So drivers are performing dangerous manoeuvres when there are lots of young families arriving to drop off or pick up their children.

“Now there’s a new housing development planned for Kelston Close as well, so the problem is likely to get worse.”

Dodington parish councillor Gloria Stephen said: “Our parish council and Yate Town Council have been campaigning for a long time to reduce accidents at the various junctions on Rodford Way. “It’s a fast, busy road right through the area with all the

houses and the schools. We’re glad these two schemes have been approved but we shall keep pressing for other problem areas to be tackled when money is available.”

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Picture by Ben Campbell: From left, Paul Hulbert, Gloria Stephen and Tony Davis at the three-way junction on Rodford Way.

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April, 2015

Carers get chance of a day out at Badminton This year’s Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials is to be first international sporting event to host an initiative that will allow carers of those with disabilities to enjoy a day out whilst their loved ones are looked after.

From Thursday 7th May to Sunday 10th May, the Hop Skip and Jump charity will be attending the horse trials to launch ‘Care at the Event’.

The project will provide respite day care for anyone with additional needs, no matter how complex, in order that they and their families may have the opportunity to enjoy a family day out.

Badminton is the first event to sponsor such a space so that families can enjoy a day at the horse trials without anxiety.

With more than 150,000 people expected at this year’s trials, organisers say it’s a fantastic occasion at which to launch Hop Skip and Jump’s Care at the Event.

The Hop Skip and Jump

marquee will be situated next to the disabled car park where highly trained staff will welcome and care for all ages whatever their disability. There will be a wet room and a variety of activities, as well as a screen showing the dressage, crosscountry and show jumping.

Chairman of Hop Skip and Jump, the Reverend Celia Carter said “It is our wish for families who care for all those with a disability to be given the opportunity to enjoy a special day out at Badminton. Our staff will help provide hours of fun and laughter, while the family are free to walk the course, watch the show jumping and dressage as well as visit the shops. We are thrilled that the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials has had the vision to provide this facility in conjunction with Hop Skip and Jump”.

Care at the Event has been developed from Care in the High Street, an initiative to provide high quality respite care in centrally located and

easily accessible spaces such as shopping centres and football stadiums. This initiative was launched at an event hosted

by Samantha Cameron at Ten Downing Street.

Badminton Event Director Hugh Thomas said “We were very excited when Hop Skip and Jump approached us. To make our event more accessible

to disabled and disadvantaged people and above all their carers is a great step forward”.

‘Care at the Event’ will be open Thursday to Saturday from 10am – 6pm and on Sunday from 10am - 4pm. Reservations can be made in advance by email office@hopskipandjump.org.uk or by telephone 01453 836 390.

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D SA V

with Becky Benge BVetMed MRCVS

Pest control

P

arasites are very common in most animals, but especially so in our pets. Preventative control - in order to keep pets healthy and to try and stop infestations from occurring is the best way of staying in control. Some parasites have the potential to affect humans too, which is another good reason for regular treatment.

Fleas are the most well-known parasite. They are small shiny brown wingless insects that hatch in the environment and hop onto passing by animals. An adult female flea can lay around 50 eggs per day, which drop off pets infesting our homes, cars, sheds and gardens – in fact anywhere you pet goes - meaning a flea problem can rapidly get out of hand. As vets we see flea cases all year round not just seasonally (due to our warm centrally heated homes) and we also often see cases of flea allergic dermatitis, where some pets are allergic to flea bites so that even a couple of the insects can cause intense itchiness and sores.

Ticks are another external parasite .These wait in long grass and attach themselves to animals that brush past. They start off quite small and as they feed, they engorge and swell in size. Ticks should only ever be removed carefully, ideally with a special tick hook, to ensure the head is removed as well as the body. Ticks can be carriers of bacteria too, so removing the tick properly will reduce the chances of bacteria being released from the tick’s saliva into your pet.

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April, 2015

Awards recognise community volunteers

E IC

VET

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Infections with internal parasites are often harder to spot. Roundworms are the most common, and are often seen in puppies and kittens. They can be transmitted from mother to unborn foetus via the placenta and also via their milk after birth.

This is why we worm youngsters even though they haven’t been outside yet.

Older pets are infected through swallowing worm eggs from the environment.

The tapeworm is another interesting parasite, seen commonly in animals that hunt or those that have fleas - due to the flea/tape worm life cycle. Immature fleas can ingest tapeworm eggs on the ground, which are then harboured inside the flea as it matures.

This adult flea can then be swallowed by animals grooming themselves, resulting in the tapeworm hatching out.

If you would like to discuss parasite control for your pet then please call the practice on 01173355999. You might also be interested in our Active Health Club which covers routine parasite control and your cat/dog’s annual booster vaccination, as well as discounts off of neutering, food and microchipping.

This is a monthly direct debit scheme and is an ideal way to help you manage your finances for your preventative treatments. Again, give us a call or just drop in if you want to find out more!

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A COMMUNITY stalwart, scout leader and carnival chairman are among nearly 30 unsung heroes who have been recognised with a special award.

The accolade is given to those who make outstanding contributions to their communities in South Gloucestershire.

This year they went to, among others, Winterbourne Down carnival chairman Fred Smith, the 1st Yate Scout Group’s AnneMarie Walker and Mary Wright, chairwoman of Abbotswood Action in Yate.

Mr Smith has helped organise the carnival for at least 20 years and was praised for being an “excellent motivator” and for working hard with his committee members to ensure the event’s success. Mr Smith is also property steward of Winterbourne Down Methodist Church.

Anne-Marie Walker has devoted 15 years to her scout group, which includes beavers, cubs and scouts, and was said to be a good leader who motivated others and made sure record keeping was of the highest standard.

Mary Wright has played a big role in Abbotswood for 40 years, helping to improve the appearance of the area, community involvement and local events. She has been chairwoman of Abbotswood Action since 2003 and her award said her consistent and long term commitment made her stand out.

The awards are given annually by the South Gloucestershire Council chairman or woman to those who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

Councillor Howard Gawler, the current council chairman, said: “One of the highlights of my term of office has been meeting people from across our region who selflessly give up their time, with no financial reward, for the good of their communities.

“These awards provide an opportunity for us to recognise the importance volunteers make to local people’s lives.”

The award ceremony was held at Gloucestershire and Stroud College’s WISE Campus, with certificates presented by Mr Gawler and Sara-Jane Watkins, the college’s vice-principal.

Extra 2,000 premises to get access to faster broadband MORE than 2,000 extra homes and businesses will have access to high speed broadband in South Gloucestershire than originally planned.

As the first phase of the rollout reaches completion on time and under budget, it has been announced that more than 17,000 premises will be able to use faster broadband, up from the 15,000 target set two years ago.

Areas to have benefited so far from the Great Western Broadband partnership between South Gloucestershire Council, its colleagues in Wiltshire and BT include Winterbourne and Rangeworthy.

When combined with BT’s commercial project, it means that more than 105,000 households and businesses in South Gloucestershire can now get fibre broadband.

Councillor John Goddard, chairman of the council’s resources sub-committee, said: “We are already planning ahead towards the second phase of the rollout when even more communities will be able to benefit from having access to superfast speeds.”

Premises are not connected to fibre broadband automatically.

Users have to sign up with their chosen internet provider to get the service.

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April, 2015

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Taking it on the chin - Red Nose Day at Yate International Academy and Woodlands Nursery. From nursery children to sixth formers, children at Yate International Academy got involved with Red Nose Day.

The Ridings, Wickwar Rd, Chipping Sodbury (entrance off St. John’s Way BS37 6PQ

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Russ Martin, UKIP Parliamentary Candidate I have lived in Yate for 20 years, I’m standing as UKIP’s Parliamentary Candidate for Thornbury & Yate to inspire change, aged 54 I am separated and currently unemployed.

Working as a volunteer Lay Advisor, I support families during care proceedings, researching and investigating cases of injustice, campaigning for transparency and accountability in the Child Protection system.

My working background is in security and loss prevention management employed in the commercial sector, also training & development; I have run my own consultancy and training business too.

A former Chairman of South Gloucestershire Federation of Small Business (FSB) I held the portfolio for Business Crime in the southwest, serving on the Home Affairs Committee, and have represented the FSB on many other forums too.

Here are some of the areas of concern I am addressing.

Democracy – I will continue to fight for our freedoms that are being eroded by the EU project and campaign to expose and eliminate the culture of cover up and deceit that has spread through the establishment on many levels.

We need to leave the EU, control our borders and govern ourselves then we will be free to Iain Hamilton, Green Party Parliamentary Candidate I am proud to be standing as your Green Party parliamentary candidate. As your MP, I will stand as a force for the common good. I will not sell out my principles.

People realise that the ‘two party politics’ of the past is not fit for purpose, the present or the future.

A vote for me, is a vote for a fair and equal society.

A vote for me will give you a community MP who supports you and what you believe in.

The Green party is a party of the many, not the few. A

yate&sodburyvoice

ELECTION 2015

www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

May 7 is decision time as the people of Yate and Sodbury go to the polls for the general election.

We’ve given the five candidates running in the Thornbury and Yate constituency at the time we went to press, the chance to present their case to the voters. Here’s what they had to say.

Steve Webb, Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate

trade on the world stage.

NHS – I will fight to keep the NHS free at the point of use and paid for through taxation.

With a passion for mental health services I will campaign to eliminate the stigma attached to mental health and fight for more investment.

Crime & Justice – I want to see improvements in the delivery of policing, stop the cutbacks, improve morale and improve the standards in service delivery reducing record numbers of complaints, I will encourage crime to be reported, and to be investigated without fear or favour and campaign for more transparency and accountability.

Social Justice – I will continue to fight against injustice and campaign for the rights of families and their children in the Family Courts, especially during Care Proceedings, campaigning to review and reform the working practices of Social Services and the Child Protection system, ensuring transparency and accountability. We also need to abolish the Bedroom Tax. Green vote is a vote for a fairer government, not a government of big business. I want to protect our NHS and stop privatisation of public services, stop fracking in its tracks and improve our public transport.

Our community deserves an MP who will campaign to end the unfair attacks on the poorest in our community. End the bedroom tax, end benefit sanctions, support those trying to find work, not demonise them- an end to austerity! I will fight for a living wage, not a minimum wage.

Our public services are being cut to the bone while

Having lived locally for the last twenty years, bringing up my family here, and with my children attending local South Gloucestershire schools, it was a great privilege in 1997 to be elected to serve our community in Parliament.

This is a great place to live, but we have to work to keep it that way – and improve it. This means tackling gridlock on our roads and offering people decent bus and rail services, as well as safer options for cyclists and pedestrians. We also need to go on fighting the threat to our treasured green fields – access to the countryside is one of the things that makes our area so special.

I work with many great local voluntary groups, businesses and committed local residents to get things done. We successfully campaigned for new facilities for our towns, such as the ‘cinema for Yate’. We must also make sure that our smaller towns and villages have the services they need, such as local post offices and improved broadband – though the fight goes on!.

I am passionate about quality public services and fought alongside local people against the last Government’s decision to close Frenchay. Now I am working to tackle the problems with the new Southmead hospital. We lobbied successfully for a direct bus service to Southmead, but it still needs improving. We also need more local provision, especially at Yate, better support for mental health, and closer working between health and social care.

Creating opportunities for young people is vital, and I support investment in apprenticeships, including recruiting an apprentice to work in my Yate office.

As Minister for Pensions I’ve made many positive changes including the ‘triple lock’ which protects the value of the state pension, as well as giving people new freedoms about how they use their savings.

Most important has been the chance to help individuals who contact me, often at particularly stressful times in their lives, and to do all I can on their behalf.

With your support, I will continue to serve local people as well as giving our area a powerful voice on the national stage.

the wealthiest are receiving tax cuts. Corporation tax is at the lowest level for years and is now the same for large and small businesses. This makes it difficult for small business to compete.

Voting Green will improve our community.

I support a referendum on our membership of the EU because I am pro-democracy, not because I’m anti-EU - and because I want to see a radical reform of the way Europe operates.

I will follow Caroline Lucas’s example. I confirm that if I am elected as MP and MP’s are

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awarded the 11% increase they are expecting in May, I will give every penny of this 11% raise to local charities within my community (£7,600pa)

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

April, 2015 Hadleigh Roberts Labour Parliamentary Candidate

I believe we can build a social democracy that combines a modern and productive economy and sophisticated public services, where people are treated equally, with dignity and respect regardless of wealth, age, race, sex, sexual orientation or physical ability.

If you fall ill, you should have access to the best healthcare, without worrying about how you’ll pay for it.

If you want to get a good start in life, you should have access to further and higher education without having to take on a lifetime of debt.

If you want to work, you should have access to a good job, without having to take on unpaid internships or be forced to work for free.

This election is a choice between Labour Government on the side of the great body of working people, or the Liberal Democrat & Conservative Government on the side of the others with wealth and power.

A Labour Government built the NHS. A Labour Government introduced the minimum wage. A Labour Government brokered the Kyoto agreement on climate change.

There can be no doubt that this Liberal Democrat & Conservative Government has tried to dismantle the country Labour built: a changed country built on social inclusion, openness and aspiration, and they have failed.

They will always fail because they fundamentally misunderstand who we are as a nation.

As Ed Miliband has said, the Liberal Democrat & Conservative Government “is strong at standing up to the weak, but always weak when it comes to standing up against the strong”.

Everybody has the right to vote for a candidate they have confidence in, a candidate they know is up to the job, a candidate they would be proud to see in Parliament.

I stand for social inclusion; cooperation in the workplace; a sensible policy in Europe; and that our nation’s byword is tolerance.

These are the principles that make me want to be the Labour MP for Thornbury & Yate. They guide everything I do.

I will be an MP who understands others, facilitates dialogue, and speaks up for those who can’t speak up for themselves.

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Luke Hall, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate As a local man who was born at Southmead Hospital and who has lived in South Gloucestershire all of my life, it is a huge honour to stand as the local MP. Living in our area means that I use the same local roads, schools and hospitals as everybody in the local area. I want to make sure my priorities and and plans for South Gloucestershire are clear: I will fight to protect our precious local Green Belt and green spaces Locally we have seen large developments approved in recent years. As a local man, I am determined to protect our green spaces and green belt. Recently I brought Eric Pickles; Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to South Gloucestershire to see how development is affecting our green space first hand.

I will do everything I can to help local people get back in to work I have held a jobs fair and regular Jobs Clubs around South Gloucestershire, and I have committed to holding two Jobs Fairs a year if elected as the local MP, as well as running special sessions to support those with individual needs.

I will fight for better local transport links The lack of clean and reliable public transport is a big concern locally. I have been campaigning for improvements in our area; and have raised these issues with the Secretary of State for Transport, to ensure that locally, we are not forgotten.

I will support senior citizens in our communities Supporting senior citizens locally is at the heart of my plan for our local area. I recently held my first Senior Citizens Fair, and am running an event with the Alzheimer’s Society in the Shire Way Community Association on the 2nd April.

This election is too close to call, but one thing is certain, either David Cameron or Ed Miliband will be Prime Minister on May 8th. With the Lib Dems being as likely to back either David Cameron or Ed Miliband, there is a real chance that Ed Miliband could form a coalition government with Nick Clegg and Alex Salmond. But if enough people support me in Thornbury and Yate, you will get a hardworking, passionate local MP and we can be sure that David Cameron remains as Prime Minister.

YOU DECIDE MAY 7, 2015

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Quiz the candidates

FASHION retailer Next has announced it will open a store in the new Yate Riverside complex.

Italian restaurant chain Prezzo and American-themed Deans Diner have also been confirmed as tenants at the development, which will open alongside the Cineworld sixscreen cinema.

Mark Hull, of Crestbridge, said the arrival of Next was “fantastic” for the town and the development scheme.

He said: “It will be a catalyst to attract other retailers and is

a major statement of confidence in both the town and Yate Riverside.

“We have always been aware that shoppers want a broader range of fashion choice at the centre and this will answer their demands.”

He said the two restaurant chains would also help create a vibrant night time economy around the new cinema.

Mr Hull said: “We have several other operators close to agreeing deals for both the retail and restaurant units but bringing

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www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

Next up for new development

A hustings event for candidates for the Thornbury & Yate Parliamentary seat, organised by the South Gloucestershire branch of the Federation of Small Businesses, is being held at the Armadillo Youth Centre in Yate.

The event, on Tuesday 14th April, gives FSB members and non-members the opportunity to meet the candidates and to question them on their manifestos.

All of the candidates for Thornbury & Yate have been invited, including: Steve Webb - Liberal Democrat Party Luke Hall - Conservative Party Hadleigh Roberts - Labour Party Iain Hamilton - Green Party Russ Martin - UKIP Party The event starts with registration at 7.00pm with question time scheduled at 7.30 to 9.00pm. Everyone is welcome, it is essential to pre-register.

To book call 0808 20 20 888 or visit http://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/southgloucestershire-branch-hustingsevent-14th-april-registration15871360667?aff=Massmail

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the first tenants onboard is always the major challenge.”

There will be three retail units at the development, with the first due to open later this year. Eight restaurant cafes are also part of the scheme and the cinema will open by the spring of 2016.

Andy Lowrey, the Yate Shopping Centre manager, said: “Existing traders understand that bringing more high street names into the town can only increase footfall and lead to more activity across the centre as a whole.”

Kendleshire.com

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yate&sodburyvoice

April, 2015

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Landmark day for cinema scheme as work starts on Yate Riverside site A SIGNIFICANT step was reached in the new Yate Riverside scheme when the ground was broken to mark the start of construction.

Pensions minister and local MP Steve Webb dug the first muddy turf at the site of the project, which will bring more shops, eating outlets and a long awaited cinema to the town as an extension to Yate Shopping Centre.

He was joined by local councillors, representatives from developers Crestbridge and contractors ISG, as well as residents and shoppers.

Yate mayor Wully Perks said: “A cinema has been one of the town’s long held aspirations and is one of the key elements of the town plan.

“This was another significant day for the town and a major step in the town’s growth.

“With so much new housing scheduled over the next few years, it is important that Yate can offer residents all the

L

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A plea for longer hours at Minor Injuries Unit I was interested in your piece about the MIU in Yate. What you didn’t point out was that they only do certain x-rays. Even the GPs don’t seem to have caught up with that fact. The GP wanted me to have a hip x-ray and sent me to the MIU. After the usual check-in and seeing a pleasant nurse, I was told they don’t do hip x-rays, and I was given a letter to take to Southmead - oh ghastly! That fact, and also the very limited hours of x-ray facilities in Yate, may well account for a number of visits to A&E for less serious issues. It doesn’t explain all,

facilities that are expected in a town of this size.

“It will also be a major boost for the local economy, bringing jobs and preventing people having to drive further afield for evening entertainment.”

Mark Hull, group property controller for shopping centre owners Crestbridge, said the ceremony on the Link Road overflow car park site came after a “long and often tough ride”.

He said: “This project is the fruition of many years’ work by the MP, local councillors and local stakeholders.

“We are aware that Steve has been campaigning for a cinema in Yate for well over 12 years and it is only right that he and the local community came together to celebrate the start of works.”

Mr Webb, said: “It seems many years since we first launched our Cinema 4 Yate campaign in response to the strong views expressed by local residents, and particularly young people, that they wanted Yate to of course, but longer hours of Yate x-rays, plus a wider range of x-rays available, must indeed make some real difference at A&E. Margaret Scripps

A bit of praise for Yate and Sodbury Voice Wonderful to see Yate in its rightful place, Yate gets no lookin when it comes to other local publications. Yate is an old and great place - she deserves to be talked about!!!! Lovely magazine!

Margaret Hasty

A chance to Volunteer in Yate I received a copy of issue one through my door at home and first of all I’d wish to congratulate you on a very informative and highly readable news magazine.

I work for a local infrastructure charity, which wasn’t mentioned and I’d like to put that right for the next issue.

Volunteer Centre Yate

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Mark Hull, approved Group Property Controller, Crestbridge, owners of Yate Shopping Centre; Steve Webb MP; Councillor Wully Perks, Mayor of Yate; and Andy Lowrey, Manager of Yate Shopping Centre.

have its own cinema.

“We have persevered through many ups and downs and it is great to be present for the formal beginning of construction works.

“We look forward to completion of the project and to a new boost to the economy for the people of Yate and the surrounding area.”

has been providing a service to local people who want to volunteer and organisations/ groups that are in need of volunteers for many years – as well as providing a brokerage service for helping people to get into voluntary work, we provide training, advice and information to groups about setting up volunteer schemes, recruiting and best practice and take part in events. We work in partnership with the local Council for Voluntary Service and our colleagues in other South Glos volunteer centres.

We would like to encourage more people to call in to Yate Library and see us to talk about volunteering, or visit our website http://volunteeryate.org.uk Whether you have a particular role in mind or need help to identify suitable roles, call in and speak to one of our advisors. We are open Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays between 10am and Mid-day and on Thursdays by appointment.

You can also find out more about the types of opportunity available by visiting our volunteering opportunities website. Each month we produce a list of most of the current

opportunities to volunteer in the Yate and Sodbury area and beyond. The roles are listed by type or interest, for example ‘admin’ or ‘driving’ roles (and lots more besides) To view the latest issue of Voluntary Vacancies please visit http://volunteeryate. org.uk Many thanks for your help, Carole Zorzo, Co-ordinator Volunteer Centre Yate Yate Library volunteering@ volunteercentreyate.org.uk

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Musicians wanted for band A Yate band is looking for new recruits to join the 21 members it already has.

Westerly Winds Yate is hoping to recruit wind and brass instrument players.

The band, now in its third year, was formed in September 2012 with a mix of complete beginners and members returning to instruments they had not played in years.

If you are interested in joining the band, contact their secretary Jo Cole by email; wwindsyate@gmail.com

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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Top marks for Yate school from Ofsted inspectors A RICH curriculum, high attainment and effective leadership have led to an overall good rating for Broadway Infant School in Yate.

Education inspectors also ranked the school good in the five key areas of teaching quality, the behaviour and safety of pupils, achievement of children, early years provision and leadership and management.

Inspector Dale Burr, who visited the school from watchdog Ofsted, said senior leaders shared high expectations and made sure all staff were focused on continuously improving achievement for all pupils.

He said pupils achieved well and made good progress, with attainment above the national average by the end of year two in reading, writing and maths.

The curriculum, built around pupils’ curiosity and interests, provided “many memorable learning experiences” and pupils enjoyed going to school. As a result, attendance was high and continued to improve.

Mr Burr said head teacher, Sue Tanner, who will be retiring in the summer, was highly regarded by the local authority. She and her deputy had worked closely to ensure the school was a safe, happy and fun place to learn.

His report said teachers and support staff were dedicated, sharing the same aspirations for academic excellence, and it highlighted how “very good use” was made of the primary school sports funding.

Mr Burr said: “The PE leader has successfully increased pupils’ participation in competitive sport and introduced new activities, such as tag rugby. Pupils said they enjoyed the extra activities, especially the after-school sports clubs.”

www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

Downton Abbey filming clash changes Lady Rosamund’s Thornbury date A HASTY re-scheduling of the Thornbury Arts Festival programme was needed due to filming for the latest series of Downton Abbey.

Samantha Bond, who plays Lady Rosamund Painswick in the popular TV drama, should have been in the town on April 19 to give a talk with her actor father Philip.

But the Downton filming plan released after the date was fixed meant Samantha had to be on set in London on that day.

She and her father were anxious not to let people down so re-arranged their diaries and will now be at the festival on Saturday, April 18, for the afternoon talk before Samantha rushes back to London in time for filming.

Samantha’s other credits include Miss Moneypenny in a

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number of the James Bond films.

She was also in the TV comedy Outnumbered. Philip is best known for his appearance in the long running BBC drama The Onedin Line.

The festival runs from April 17-26, with TV presenter and conservationist Bill Oddie joining award winning composer and singer-songwriter Sarah Class to open the event with a musical safari.

Comedian Jo Caulfield, pianist Allan Schiller, the Festival Chamber Orchestra and Theatre Temoin are also among those signed up and the festival will close with an intimate jazz café-style evening with the band Moscow Drug Club.

Online booking is available on www.thornburyartsfestival.com or more details can be obtained by calling 07762 717310.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

April, 2015

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Students Wheels project benefits Foodbank

Official Media Partner

Rotary

Club of Chipping Sodbury

Sodbury

Students from Chipping Sodbury School have transformed a white van, kitting it out to be used by a food bank.

Eight students from the School completed the tranformation of a white Ford van, which was donated to The Wheels project by Avon & Somerset Constabulary.

Students decided to select Stroud Foodbank as the recipient of their van following a presentation by the manager Will Mansell. The students have visited the Foodbank and spent an afternoon helping out in the warehouse.

The students have worked on karts and learnt the basics of servicing before undertaking the work on the van just after Christmas 2014.

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Festival

Pasadena Roof Orchestra

Friday 5th June 2015

Specialists in ‘20s, '30s and '40s early swing and hot jazz - an evening of fun, rhythm and laughter

Will Mansell Manager of Stroud Foodbank and regional Manager Phil Coysh take delivery from the Wheels Project Team from Chipping Sodbury School

Scouts prepared to help the birds

Pee Wee Ellis Assembly

Saturday 6th June 2015

SCOUTS put their DIY skills to the test when they made 12 bird boxes to put on trees around Yate.

Members of the 1st Yate Scout Group used materials donated by local businesses to make the nest boxes, which have already been put in position to attract breeding birds this spring.

Locations include Tyndale Park, Brinsham Fields, Kingsgate Park and Poole Court, as well as close to Yate Heritage Centre.

Wood and paint for the boxes came from the Yate branch of B&Q, while Abraham’s Jewellers donated a plaque for each box to acknowledge the scouts’ work and the sponsors.

Group scout leader Andy Pillinger and Anne-Marie Walker, chairwoman of the executive committee, said the challenge raised awareness of the environment among the youngsters, who had enjoyed creating the boxes.

World famous American saxophonist, composer and arranger and leading member of James Brown’s original horn section ‘The man who invented Funk!’ with very special guest vocalist, Lizzie Deane

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Advertisement

Luke Hall Why a Conservative MP is best for South Gloucestershire

As a local man, who was born and brought up in South Gloucestershire, it is a huge honour to stand as the local MP. I am not a career politician, I used to run the Lidl store in Yate and currently run Farmfoods in the South West of England. I use the same bus services, roads and hospitals as everybody from our area, and I believe that only a Conservative MP can deliver the infrastructure and investment that we need in South Gloucestershire, by taking our issues right to the top, and making sure we are not forgotten on budget day.

This year’s General Election is the most important in a generation – whether or not you and your family can look forward to a better, more secure future is at stake. As things stand the outcome is too close to call – and your vote could be the difference. The Thornbury and Yate constituency is one of just 23 seats that the Conservatives need to win to form a majority government, and keep Ed Miliband out of Downing Street. There will be no need for backroom deals after the election to decide our future – just a strong Conservative government, led by David Cameron, with a clear economic plan to secure a better future for you, your family and for Britain.

Promoted by Owen Evans, on behalf of Luke Hall, both of Tudor House, Hatters Lane, Chipping Sodbury, Bristol BS37 6AA

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How you vote in South Gloucestershire will be decisive to the outcome Just 23 m o re s ea t s n e ed ed

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Your vote will have a big national impact with the Lib Dems going backwards and the SNP set to back Labour, a Conservative vote in Thornbury and Yate is the only way to stop Ed Miliband becoming Prime Minister.

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April, 2015

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Win tickets to the Sodbury Jazz and Blues Festival Yate and Sodbury Voice, the official media partner for the forthcoming Sodbury Jazz and Blues Festival, is offering readers the opportunity to win tickets to the two headline acts appearing at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

Now in its fifth year, the event aims to bring top class names to the Town Hall, supported by first class local acts playing in a number of other venues around the town. This year’s headline acts have performed all over the world.

Simply email your contact details to our email address and you will be automatically entered into a free draw to win 2 tickets to one of the main concerts. The draw will take place on Friday

24 April.

Entries to: contact@ yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk.

Friday 5th June The Pasadena Roof Orchestra Formed in 1969, the acclaimed twelve-piece show band The Pasadena Roof Orchestra, or PRO, specialises in stylish versions of ‘20s, ‘30s and ‘40s early swing and hot jazz classics. For forty years the Pasadena Roof Orchestra has delighted audiences all over the world with its mix of swing and dance music. During the show you can expect to hear the music of Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Duke Ellington, Ray Noble, Jack Hylton, Paul Whiteman, Bix Beiderbecke and many more. Though their music is set in the early 1900s, in recent years the band has also worked with contemporary stars such as Robbie Williams and Bryan Ferry.

Saturday 6th June The Pee Wee Ellis Assembly One of the founding fathers of funk music and a major figure

of 20th-century popular music and dance, James Brown is often referred to as “The Godfather of Soul”. American saxophonist, composer and arranger Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis was an important member of James Brown’s band.

Playing alongside trombonist Fred Wesley, Pee Wee Ellis created one of the greatest horn sections in James Brown’s career.

Pee Wee played with the James Brown Revue from 1965 to 1969 and arranged and co-wrote hits like “Cold Sweat” and “Say It Loud - I’m Black and I’m Proud”.

An immensely versatile artist, Pee Wee enjoys anything from funk to swing. He has been Van Morrisons musical director for 19 years and, since settling in the UK, he performs and teaches all over the world. More recently he has also been touring with the Ginger Baker Jazz Confusion.

The Pee Wee Ellis Assembly has worked consistently since 1992 and will be bringing a very special guest singer to Chipping Sodbury. Soul, funk & blues songstress Lizzie Deane

has a deeply soulful voice that emulates the sweet melodic and raw belting lines associated with the classic divas. Aside from Pee Wee Ellis, she has performed and toured with many highlyacclaimed artists including Mica Paris, Brenda Holloway, Sam Moore, Jocelyn Brown, Boy George and Belinda Carlisle, Tickets for both events are £25 & £22.50 and can be ordered from the Ticket Hotline 01454 334410 or on the website www. sodburyjazzandblues.com The full Festival programme will be published in the May issue of Yate and Sodbury Voice or you can check this out online at the event web site.

At Animal House we understand that registering your pet with a new vet is a big decision.

So to make it a little easier we are making this offer to you.

Make a ‘Meet the vet’ appointment at any of our surgeries and we will give you the first consultation absolutely free.

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In the course of local history research, it is almost inevitable you become enthusiastic about the local area you are representing, especially when certain features of that history are very special.

One of the most significant events of the last hundred years locally was the decision of the Royal Flying Corps to establish an Aircraft Repair Depot on the north side of Station Road in 1916. Apart from the 1920s, this site has been in constant use ever since. With the centenary of this site looming, it made perfect sense for us to produce a booklet of the site.

Planes, Turrets and Tumble Dryers, written by Alison Newey, is not merely the history of a set of industrial buildings, it is the history of modern industry both in Yate and the Bristol region.

Today, the factory site, now owned by Indesit, is much diminished from its earlier incarnation, set back from the north side of Station Road and only partially visible from the railway line. Originally, between 1917 and 1932, the site comprised an airfield sandwiched between two vast factory complexes accounting for much of the land between St Mary’s Church and the railway station.

The factory site, through Parnall Aircraft Ltd 1935-45 and Parnall (Yate) 1945-67 continued as a successful

yate&sodburyvoice

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April, 2015

View from Yate Heritage Centre

operation for many decades.

Originally, aircraft and gun turrets were the key products, while the factory concentrated on domestic appliances of all kinds culminating in tumble dryer production in the modern era.

Yet, the site tells the story of modern Yate and the wider area. Obviously, the different companies provided a livelihood, but also a social life for the workforce. Businesses along Station Road and beyond benefitted from both Parnall’s and Newman’s too. The fluctuating fortunes of later companies such as Jackson’s 1967-82 reflected national, regional and local industrial decline, which in turn reflected

the area.

As the site contracted following industrial decline, residential Yate grew around it. The closure of the airfield after 1945 was followed by the Cranleigh Court Road estate, while the extensive demolition of 1982 was followed by new roads including Parnall Crescent and Whitley Close.

Planes, Turrets and Tumble Dryers will be available from local outlets from April or May. St George Celebrations 2015 On the 25th of April we will be hosting our 11th St George Celebrations. It has become one of our flagship annual events here. Quintessentially English entertainment such as folk

singing, Morris Dancing, brass bands, storytelling and Punch and Judy will once again be available on the day.

Yet, we do still get asked why we do it. From a purely historical perspective of course, celebrating St George in some form has been prevalent for centuries. The Council of Oxford in 1222, declared 23rd of April to be St George’s Day, while the day itself became a national feast day 200 years later. The role of the St George mumming play also formed part of late Medieval celebrations of our national saint.

Since the early 18th century the role of the day steadily diminished. In the 2nd half of the 20th century links to St George and England have been quite toxic and regarded as too nationalistic. However, in Yate, nothing could be further from the truth and the event here at least, has been well worth resuscitating. It is striking how it has been well supported by all members of the community including recent newcomers from overseas. The major performers are far from chauvinistic. The success of the St George event demonstrates people are now seeing beyond old stereotypes of the event and once again, St George and history appears to be bringing us closer together.

Christie classic for Actonians The Actonian’s are take to the stage again for their first production of the year, Agatha Christie’s murder-mystery, ‘The Hollow’.

The Actonians are creating an ambitious box set, representing the garden room of the Angkatells’ eponymous home.

Pat Stimson is designing and making much of the wonderful 50’s garb to be worn by the cast.

This period drama has all the characteristic hallmarks one associates with Agatha Christie – except Hercule Poirot. She never wanted him to appear on stage and so created Inspector Colquhoun instead.

The group’s autumn production is the classic pantomime – ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, written by one of the group, Dee Mason. It’s due to run from 24-28 November.

Sarah McMahon said: This has been another busy year for

us, our final production of last year, ‘Bazaar and Rummage’, was nominated for the NODA award of Best Drama, which unfortunately we did not win – but we mustn’t be greedy, having won Best Comedy the year before.

The new play by Austin Hawkins – ‘Moving Aside’ (which we showcased last July as part of the trilogy of plays entitled ‘Going Solo’), won him Best Original Script and Mike Schofield a nomination for Best Actor, at the AAD OneAct festival, held at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall in February.

Well done to them and the whole team behind the production”.

The Actonians are also running two workshops for our members in the next few months.

Local professional actor, Mark Danbury, will be giving tips on improving our acting skills. and Mark McGann will be showing

members how to become better directors.

The Hollow, By Agatha Christie, 21-23 May 2015,

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

7.30 pm: Iron Acton Parish Hall. Tickets: £8, book at: www.actonians.co.uk or Call: 07807 547 238

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

yate&sodburyvoice

25 Hats off to play area improvements

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Dementia Friend event in Yate A Free Dementia Friend event has been arranged to help people in the local area recognise and understand dementia in our community.

The event is free and is being run by Prospective MP Luke Hall and the Alzheimer’s society, alongside local residents Jon Shaw and Phil Jones. It is aimed at training local people to spot the signs of dementia in other people in the home or in the community.

Dementia Friends will learn a little bit about what it’s like to live with dementia and will help people turn that understanding into action. This could be helping someone find the right bus or being patient in a till queue if someone with dementia is taking longer to pay.

The free event will be held in Shire Way Community Association on the 2nd April between 1pm and 2pm. This is the first Dementia Friend event that Luke Hall has held alongside local residents, who is hoping to organise Dementia Friend events around South Gloucestershire if

elected as the local MP. Luke said: “Being a Dementia Friend is not about volunteering or fundraising, it helps local people have a better understanding of how it affects people in our community. I am hugely grateful to Jon and Phil for helping to organise the event

and I hope that many people from the local area are able to attend.”

The event is free, but please book early to avoid disappointment, please email Luke Hall at luke@lukehall.org. uk or telephone Jon Shaw on 07709 423675.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

WORK to improve the Witches Hat play area on Westerleigh Road, Yate, is due to be completed in early May. The site is undergoing a £148,000 refurbishment and local people were invited to a workshop, organised at the play area by Yate Town Council, to hear how the money was being spent New features include a mini skatepark, a skatepark shelter with graffiti wall, a six-metre bridge and a fireman’s pole.

There will also be a fort running through the trees to nets in the trees.

The area will also be landscaped to provide seating areas and a jungle maze at one end of the site.

A section of the play area is currently closed to allow work to be carried out.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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T: 01454 800 127

n 2013 the BTE Academy opened to create a specialist Technology and Engineering school.

Available to 14-19 year olds, the Academy gives students technical knowledge and focusses on workbased skills in addition to their academic qualifications. Students will benefit from a head start in a huge variety of sectors.

As one of over 30 new national UTCs (University Technical Colleges), students in Year 10 and Year 11 study engineering alongside their other qualifications.

Students also experience real life industry projects supported by key employers within the engineering sector. These include GKN Aerospace, Airbus, Astra Zeneca, Rolls Royce and Atkins Global. Additionally, we are formally affiliated to The Royal Navy and will have a Combined Cadet Force (CCF) on site at the Academy from late 2015. We are one of only five schools nationally to receive this recognition.

Students with an interest in Maths and Science will certainly thrive at the UTC with all given the opportunity to study triple science. The high quality practical and academic curriculum is complemented by outstanding enrichment opportunities including use of the superb sporting facilities

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Educating the designers and engineers of our future

at our neighbour, The Wise Campus.

Student also take part in nationally recognised engineering and design competitions.

The catchment area for the UTC covers the greater Bristol area and South Gloucestershire widening the number of students

who can benefit from the opportunity of attending. For ease of transportation, five buses cover a wide geographical area to ensure students can directly reach the Academy, the UTC is located close to Parkway train station, making travel by train accessible.

If you are currently in Year 9 at secondary school there are a few places left for September 2015.

Visit www.bteacademy.co.uk, www. utcolleges.org or call 0117 983 8080 for more information. We welcome visits during the working day throughout the year.

Do you know a potential young Engineer?

Do they enjoy maths and science?

Our specialist academy teaches the designers and engineers of the future

Bristol Technology and Engineering Academy Students gain a specialism and work based skills in addition to academic qualifications – preparing for a fantastic career.

Industry projects supported by employers.

Students enjoy hands-on challenges which aid learning.

Gain a head start with the best mix of qualifications.

If you are currently in Year 9 we have a few places left for September 2015. Call now to book your visit.

Visit www.bteacademy.co.uk/tours Supported by

BTE Academy Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF

0117 983 80 80 For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2015

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Spinach and Feta Frittata

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Ann Murray is from the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury.

She’s teamed up with Yate and Sodbury Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen. She says: “Welcome to my world of observations, comments on what’s happening and sometimes some half-baked thoughts.

Each month I’ll be giving you a seasonal recipe and some cooking tips to go with it”.

t’s Easter so let’s have an eggs-travagenza(!) For most kids Easter is all about eggs.

Lots of them. All sorts of variations, but generally made of chocolate. I want to share a few tips with you about cooking with eggs, the sort hens lay, or ducks or geese - duck eggs are particularly good for baking.

First, without getting too preachy, a few words on buying and storing eggs. I always suggest cooking with free range eggs. I know they’re more expensive, but they taste better and they’re much more likely to be fresher than the ones you buy in the supermarket.

I recommend you try Tony’s eggs from Patch Elm Lane, Rangeworthy. These are the freshest eggs I have bought since I moved to Sodbury AND they are cheaper than the supermarkets.

Store them in a cool place or the top shelf of your fridge, but do get them to room temperature before cooking or baking, particularly for meringues which won’t whip up so well if chilled.

Eggs are the most versatile food and despite some warnings about not eating too many because they bump up cholesterol, recent research

suggests you could eat as many as 2 eggs a day every day without effecting your cholesterol, so get cracking.

Enjoy this frittata for breakfast or brunch over the Easter break, especially if you’ve got guests.

It makes a change from the traditional English breakfast.

This is like a quiche without its clothes i.e. NO PASTRY! It tastes delicious and is lower in calories than its counterpart, quiche, because it doesn’t have the pastry.

Serves : 4-6 Ingredients: Vegetable base 1 tablespoon oil 1 large onion, diced 1 red pepper, diced (could be leftover bits of roasted red pepper) 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram 250g fresh baby spinach, washed, spun dry, stems removed and chopped Salt & pepper to taste Cream and feta mix 75g ounces feta cheese, crumbled 2 eggs 200ml / 7fl oz single cream

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Freshly ground salt and pepper to taste Here’s what you do: Preheat the oven to 375f, 190c or gas mark 5 Heat the oil in a large saucepan ‘til one piece of onion sizzles when you put it in.

Add the rest of the onion and red pepper. Sauté til beginning to soften, but not brown.

Add the parsley, garlic and marjoram and cook for a couple of minutes.

A handful at a time, add the spinach, letting it cook down a bit before adding more. Season to taste.

Leave to one side.

Spread the feta on the bottom of the flan dish.

Gently arrange the spinach mixture over top.

Whisk together the eggs, cream and salt and pepper, then gently pour over spinach. Bake for 35 - 40 minutes or until centre is set and the top is golden brown.

Leave it to rest for 5 minutes which makes it easier to serve.

Bosses urged to get their staff trained in dementia awareness EMPLOYERS in Yate have been encouraged to take up the offer of free training as part of a campaign to make the town dementia friendly.

As reported in Yate and Sodbury Voice last month, a community development worker has been appointed by Yate Town Council to raise awareness of the needs of people living with the condition.

Debbie Woolley is working with community groups, local residents and businesses to establish what changes can be made that people with dementia and their carers would welcome.

People can also be trained as dementia friends so they can understand about often simple things that can make a big difference to someone with dementia.

Thornbury and Yate MP Steve Webb, together with his office staff in Yate, has already benefited from a short training session, which in that instance

was provided by Jane Gilliard of Thornbury.

He is now urging as many employers as possible to sign up for the scheme.

Mr Webb said: “With an ageing society, more and more of us will either have first hand experience of dementia or have a close family member or friend affected by the condition.

“There is much that can be done to improve the quality of life of people with dementia and businesses which deal directly with the public would benefit greatly from the training available.

“I found the training very valuable in understanding better how people are affected by dementia and how best to respond and I would encourage local firms to take up the chance to gain this understanding.”

The MP said through the dementia friends campaign, it was hoped to get a million people nationwide trained up so they

understood the challenges faced by people with dementia and be in a better position to help and support them.

Yate councillors Sue Walker and Tony Davis held a public meeting to launch the local friends network, with Mr Davis going on to become a dementia friend trainer.

Fellow councillor Chris Willmore said: “Steve Webb has got all of his staff trained, so has the town council, and the shopping centre owners have committed to getting as many shops as possible involved.

“People with dementia can lead active lives so everyone

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

encounters people with dementia in daily life, often without knowing it. We need to get rid of the fear and stigma associated with the condition.”

Anyone interested in taking up the training should email info@yatetowncouncil.gov.uk to find out about future sessions.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Would you like a meaningful job that makes a difference?

Would you like to support individuals to fulfil their potential?

Do you want to be part of a great team?

Freeways support adults with a learning disability and/or physical/sensory impairment and provide person centred services that improve people’s lives.

We are looking for SUPPORT WORKERS in Yate, Keynsham, Bath, Bristol and Weston Life experience and personal values are more important than previous work or training.

This is just some of the training we provided last year: Full Induction, Diploma Level 3, Safeguarding, Mental Capacity Act, Developing Positive Relationships, British Sign Language - Level 2, Benefits Information, Mental Health Awareness, Epilepsy Awareness Varying working patterns available

Please call Kate on 01275 372109 or email recruitment@freeways.org.uk www.freeways.org.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

April, 2015

Village ready for May Day The outgoing head of Iron Acton Primary School will the honoured at the villages May Celebrations this year.

Jill Bendeaux will crown the May King and Queen when they arrive at the village green during the celebrations on May 4. Mrs Bendeaux is retiring at the end of the School Year and the May Day organisers say she will be greatly missed by the pupils, their families and staff.

Annie King, part of the organising committee, said; “True to form, this year’s May Day will be filled with many show-ring acts, traditional fairground rides, numerous free activities, local craft gift stalls, food and drink tents, music from Westerleigh Brass Band and a return visit from the Dixie Belles. We are so excited to have the Dixie Belles joining us once again. They will round off the day with one hour of their 1940s and 50s three part-harmonies”.

If you would like to get involved with the Day or to hold a Stall, please contact Annie on anniekinghome@gmail.com for more details. The Day opens at 10.30am and ends around 4pm.

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Progress being made at Yate school after Ofsted’s call for improvements EFFECTIVE action is being taken at Brimsham Green School in Yate to tackle areas that need improving, according to Ofsted.

The school was assessed as requiring improvement after an inspection last autumn.

But a monitoring visit by the education watchdog has revealed that progress is being made.

Ofsted said more teaching was consistently good and the achievement of students was set to improve again.

It said: “The head teacher, senior leaders, subject leaders and governors are absolutely clear about what the school needs to do to improve. They have set a tight timescale to become a good school as quickly as possible.

“All students are now set challenging targets. Achievement for the current Year 11 is on track to be above national averages for both progress and attainment.

“The achievement of students from disadvantaged backgrounds is improving at a faster pace so that gaps between their achievement and that of other students are narrowing. The achievement of students in English is improving significantly.”

But Ofsted said there were still weaknesses in some subjects being taught and the progress of some students was not so strong.

It said the school needed to take further action to ensure that all the improvements it had made were applied consistently well by all teachers and in all subjects.

Mountain bikers take cycle safety message to schools A MOUNTAIN bike stunt team have helped spread the message about safe cycling to children at schools in Yate and Chipping Sodbury.

The riders from the MAD display group joined forces with South Gloucestershire’s road safety experts to visit schools in the district, including St Paul’s Catholic Primary in Yate and Raysfield Junior School in Chipping Sodbury.

Children in years four to six watched the cyclists perform some of their stunts, learnt about

the importance of wearing a cycling helmet and discovered why cycling was good for people’s health.

St Paul’s head teacher, Maxine Sewell, said: “It was a very entertaining performance.

It had the children captivated. It was a great way to get the bike safety message across to them.”

The MAD team also encouraged pupils to sign up for free Bikeability cycle safety awareness courses, which are available during school time and during the school holidays.

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For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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T: 01454 800 127

Farrington’s sales and lettings

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No day is the same and it is not without problems, but overcoming those problems is challenging and rewarding. Our vendors, our purchasers and just the people we meet everyday, making their move run smoothly and ultimately seeing them happy.

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ESTSH IN N MO BFUTS HE

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Farrington’s is a family run business, started in February 2013 by Neil and Cheryl Farrington who have lived in the area all their lives. Neil and Cheryl have been involved with property letting for over 10 years and opening an estate agent was a natural progression.

And the worst?

When a property falls through, which is not often, and we do our level best to hold every sale together. Sometimes things just happen that are unavoidable and feeling the disappointment for both vendor and seller is hard.

What were the biggest challenges you faced at the time?

Making sure we had the right premises with prominent presence. Employing staff who had experience in estate agency and customer service based roles. Staff are so important in shaping a business as they set the ethos and promote the brand name

What do you attribute your success to?

Being independent and getting involved with the local community and schools. Estate

April, 2015

What is the best part about running your business?

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What are the biggest challenges you face today? agency is competitive but not all estate agents are the same and Farrington’s pride themselves in excellent customer service and going that extra mile.

How do you stay ahead in such a competitive market?

It is not easy, but Farrington’s believe that integrity and really caring about their customers is why we have been successful.

Selling properties is not just about the initial sale, it’s also about what happens next and we have recognised that progressing a vendors sale right until the point of exchange and completion is very important.

Moving is one of the most poignant and life changing things we experience and we do everything we can to make that experience as stress free as possible.

Getting our name out there and being able to let more vendors know what a great experience they could have with Farrington’s.

What plans do you have for the future?

We would love to open another branch eventually.

Farringtons Estate Agents

70 Rounceval Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AR Phone:01454 326846

50th anniversary

Classic Car Run

Committee members of Sodbury and District Flower Arrangement Society celebrated their 50th Anniversary in March at the Old Grammar School Chipping Sodbury. The club enjoyed an anniversary cake and buffet.

Competitors line up for the start of the 2014 Chipping Sodbury Classic Car Run. To enter this year’s event held on the 28 June, call 01454 311 712 or email rotary.classic.run@hotmail.co.uk

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

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Seek out Andy’s carved creatures along walking trails FAMILIES can take up the challenge of seeking out wooden sculptures in Yate and Chipping Sodbury by following two specially devised walking trails.

Creatures such as badgers, butterflies and bees have been carved out of fallen and diseased trees by locally-based Andy O’Neill.

He is called in to give a new lease of life to trees that might otherwise be chopped up for firewood, using his creative skills to make sculptures, play features and seats.

A number of them are sited in and around the two towns and now two Walking for Health walk leaders have developed routes that take in the carvings.

Mary Wright and Jan Callicot said each trail was no more than a mile long, one for Chipping Sodbury and the other for the Millside Nature Reserve in Yate.

Leaflets have been produced to give details of the routes and the carvings to be found along them. They also list other locally sited works by Andy that people might want to hunt out.

The Millside trail starts at the reserve entrance on Randolph Avenue, while walkers

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can pick up the Chipping Sodbury route from the Wickwar Road car park.

As well as a frog, woodlouse, squirrel and snake, there are carvings of an octopus, angel and ladybird to be found.

Andy said: “I have been a full time wood carver for the past seven years and thoroughly enjoy it.

“I have been very lucky in having the support of my local authority, Jane’s Pond Landscaping and Lawrence Tree Services, who have been kind enough to commission me for various projects within my local community.

“I hope people have fun exploring the local area and discovering my work.”

Some of Andy’s other wooden works of art include a flying fish in Brimsham Park play area, Yate, a green man in Ridge Wood, various plaques and a double headed serpent in Kingrove Crescent, Chipping Sodbury.

The trail leaflets, designed and printed by South Gloucestershire Council, are available in libraries, the council’s one stop shops and supermarkets. They can also be viewed on the South Gloucestershire Council website.

Spring clean-up at Yate park Dumped waste leads to fine for gardener

ABOUT 30 bags of rubbish were collected by local residents and Yate councillors during a spring clean of Brimsham Park.

The town council teamed up with the park’s friends group to organise the event.

Councillor Chris Willmore said: “Lots of residents from the Friends of Brimsham Park and councillors Mike Drew, John Ford and me collected loads of bags of litter plus a shopping basket and a web camera.”

Anyone interested in volunteering with Yate Town Council should visit its website or phone 01454 866506.

Yate & District Bowling Club Moorland Road, Yate, South Gloucestershire Would like to invite members of the public to a friends and family Day at the club’s bowling green on SUNDAY 10th MAY 2015 at 10-00am. All equipment can be provided and there will be trainers attending to give coaching tuition. All abilities are very welcome.

We would love to see you

A MAN has been ordered to pay more than £700 in fines and costs after an old shed and household waste was dumped in Westerleigh.

James Buckley, 23, had denied fly tipping and was cleared of the offence but was convicted of failing to have a waste carriers licence and not providing a waste transfer note.

Such requirements are designed to ensure an audit trail of waste from producer to final disposal to help prevent fly tipping.

Buckley, of Whiteladies Road, Redland, Bristol, was fined £220, with £500 costs, by North Avon magistrates in Yate as a result of an investigation by South Gloucestershire Council’s envirocrime team.

Magistrates heard that in October 2013, a farmer found a substantial amount of rubbish tipped in one of his fields next to Nibley Lane.

There was evidence linked to an address in Filton, leading to Buckley, who traded as JB Landscaping, being traced.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

The householders had employed the company to carry out jobs such as grass cutting and hedge trimming but on one occasion the man who did the work offered to take away the dilapidated shed and its contents for £160.

Buckley said he had removed the waste with another person but claimed he then paid £5 to another man to take the material away.

However, he could not provide a name or telephone number for the man or a registration number for his vehicle. * JB Landscaping is not connected to JB Landscapes of Drummond Road, Fishponds.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Download FREE bus and real time information with TravelWest buschecker

www.travelwest.info/buschecker

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April, 2015

Wednesday 1st April n 7.30pm: Growing Ideas Gardening Club, Watkins Room, Old Grammar School Rooms.

Torworth Plants - Tim Hancock.

Admission for visitors is £3.00 with free tea or coffee. Contact 07522 265141 or 07799 042948 for details.

Monday 6th April n 10am Extravaganza - Easter Egg Hunt - Kingsgate Park.

11am Judging of the Easter Bonnet Parade. For more information contact Yate Town Council Tel 01454 866506 or email info@yatetowncoouncil. gov.uk.

Tuesday 7th April n 7.30pm: 4 Girls 4 Harps, Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

Chipping Sodbury Music Society presents: 4 Girls 4 Harps - Box Office: 01454 315741.

Wednesday 8th April n 7.30pm: Sodbury Vale Family History Group, Shire Way Community Centre. Pat Hase: My Family and Jack the Ripper.

For more information please contact Lynne English on 0117 9373130.

Wednesday, 8th April n AGM 2015 Sodbury & District Twinning Association, at 7.30pm Dodington Parish Hall, Finch Road, Chipping Sodbury BS37 6JZ. A warm welcome is extended to anyone interested in

yate&sodburyvoice Twinning.

Friday 10th April n 7.30pm: Clairvoyant Night, Hanson Social Club, Chipping Sodbury. For further details contact Christine on 882151. £4 on the door.

Saturday 11 April n 9.30am to 3.30pm - 61 Broad Street Chipping Sodbury. Rotary Club of Chipping Sodbury. Know Your Blood Pressure Day. Saturday 11 April - 1pm to 3pm n Table Top Sale. Coalpit Heath Village Hall and Miners Social Club. www.cphvh.co.uk - 07920 145352.

11/25 April n Chipping Sodbury Farmers Market - High Street.

Thursday 23 April - 7pm n Horton & Little Sodbury Village Hall. Chipping Sodbury and Cotswold Edge Safer Stronger Community Group - Public Meeting May, 8th n Charity concert for Cancer Research UK Friday 8th May at 7.30pm in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall. Dodington Parish Band, U3A Ukulele Band;singers from Colston’s School Bristol Tickets £7 from Cancer Research Shop in Yate or on the door. Raffle & Bar May 15 The Cleeve Singers of Downend with Dodington Parish Band will be giving a Concert of Show & Popular Music at St. Mary’s Church, Yate on Friday, 15th May at 7.30 p.m.

Tickets are £7; obtainable from Chipping Sodbury Tourist Office and also by telephoning 01454 880162/0117 9561881.

Refreshments will be available during the interval.

May 21-23

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n The Actonians next production is The Hollow By Agatha Christie, 21-23 May 2015 7.30 pm: Iron Acton Parish Hall. Tickets: £8.

Book at: www.actonians.co.uk or Call: 07807 547 238 Sodbury & District Flower Arrangement Society n The Society meets every month of the year (except August and December) at the Old Grammar School in Chipping.

Sodbury.

The second Tuesday of the month we have a Practice and Tutorial Class. On the forth Tuesday of the month a guest demonstrator joins us for our Demonstration Evening.

All our meetings start at 7.30pm; visitors and new members are most welcome.

Next Demonstration Evening is: ‘Just for You’ by Jo Jacobs Tuesday 28th April 2015 For further information contact Pauline Holder, 01454 776361

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Chipping Sodbury Folk Night n Meets on 1st Thursday of each month in function room at Beaufort Pub . 8 pm - 11pm, next date Thursday 2nd April.

Huge range of music and performers covering various genres , all welcome, performers slots are available on a first come basis. £1 on the door . Visit our Facebook page for more info, Chipping Sodbury Folk Night. Or call Jo on 07974 381333.

New Opening Times n The Chipping Sodbury Tourist Information Centre will now be open 10am - 4pm Monday Saturday ALL year round.

Do you have an event you would like to publicise?

You can publish it for free on our

What’s On Page

Yate and Chipping Sodbury Library What’s On Yate Library 44 West Walk, Yate BS37 4AX T.01454 868006 Opening hours Monday 9:30am-7:00pm Tuesday 9:30am-7:00pm Wednesday Closed Thursday 9:30am-7:00pm Friday 9:30am-7:00pm Saturday 9:30am-5:00pm Sunday 11:00am- 3:00pm Special events Teen focus group meets monthly (3rd Thursday of the month) Term-time pre school

storytime Tuesday 2.15pm – 2.45pm School holidays – children’s activities, details on request

Macmillan cancer information and support every Friday: 10.00 – 12.00.

Chatterbooks – reading group for children in years 5 and 6. Every 4th Saturday, 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Chipping Sodbury Library High Street, Chipping Sodbury BS37 6AH T.01454 868006

Pre-school Wriggle and Rhyme every Friday in term time 10.30am -11.15am

Opening hours Monday Closed Tuesday 9:30am-5:00pm Wednesday 9:30am-5:00pm Thursday Closed Friday 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday 9:30am 12:30pm Sunday Closed

Exhibition space – Yate library showcases the best local arts and crafts for you to see, enjoy and even buy

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Chipping Sodbury library closes between 12.30 and 1.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Special events “Have you read book group” coffee, tea and books: 2nd Thursday of each month 7.30 – 8.30pm Click On Line sessions – 1 to 1 introductory sessions for people starting off on the Internet Disabled access - disabled parking - library is on one level

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T: 01454 800 127

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Area Dean of Wotton & Rector of the Sodbury Vale Benefice Jane Kenchington reflects on a terrifying ordeal for the people of Vanuata

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Catastrophe in the Pacific The disaster in Vanuatu has caught many of us by surprise and horror. Unfortunately, we are used to hearing of hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico or typhoons in the Far East. But Pacific islands seldom hit our TV screens and newspaper front pages.

Everything changed recently, when Cyclone Pam hit Vanuatu – one of the worst ever cyclones.

We have seen thousands of homes flattened, people killed, 30,000 survivors having to cope with no power, medical aid or drinking water. Disease will get a grip and more people will die if action isn’t forthcoming immediately. It’s like imagining the population of Yate and Chipping Sodbury being without electricity, drinking water and medical aid, surrounded by devastation.

Aid is gradually reaching Vanuatu, but it will take a very long time to restore what has

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been lost. There will be no “quick fix.”

As a spiritual leader, invariably, I’ll be asked questions like, “Why has God allowed this?” “How can there be a God of love if disasters like this happen?” Without going into a long theological treatise, I can make some observations.

The natural world isn’t perfect – things go wrong. Tectonic plates crunch against each other causing earthquakes and tsunamis.

If the natural world never went wrong because God intervened every time to prevent anything going wrong, then we are entering into a very different relationship with God than God has with us at present.

It would mean that every time that we are about to make a mistake, God would intervene to stop it happening. Then that means that we are mere puppets, with God pulling the strings. And if that’s the case, we wouldn’t be free human beings.

One of the greatest gifts God gives us is to be free; to discover how much he loves us; to take

The Bell at Old Sodbury The Bell at Old Sodbury is a family run public house that’s home to a range of great beers and a fantastic menu of seasonal British cuisine. We offer a great value “Fixed Price Lunch Menu” available Monday to Friday and serve a cracking Sunday Roast for which booking is advisable.

A Recent TripAdvisor Review: “Enjoyed the atmosphere and the food was excellent I had the steak pie and my friends had steak and fish and chips all meals were freshly cooked with quality ingredients the staff were attentive and friendly would highly recommend a visit to anyone.”

Jabamolly - March 2015

April, 2015

responsibility for our actions; to learn from our mistakes; to learn to be compassionate and loving towards each other.

We either have freedom, which means that good and bad things will happen or we have a situation where we aren’t free at all. If God is a God of love, freedom is an essential component of love. Sadly, disasters will happen but so can much good happen as well.

We might be full of questions castigating God. But God is asking us a question and it’s this: “how are you going to help the people of Vanuatu?” There will be ways in which we can send money to the disasters relief funds which will work towards giving people in Vanuatu new life and new hope.

That’s the way we can show our love for those survivors. God, in giving us freedom, has given us the responsibility to make good decisions for the sake of others who are in less fortunate positions.

So, how are you going to use that freedom that god has given you?

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GREAT FOOD & FRIENDLY SERVICE Offering great food along with friendly service and open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, The Bell offers a varied menu and creative Daily Specials. Join us for our superb Sunday Roasts and during the week, our Fixed Price Lunch Menu.

www.thebellatoldsodbury.co.uk TheBellOldSodbury @BellOldSodbury Badminton Road, Old Sodbury, BS37 6LL. 01454 325582

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WEDNESDAY IS STEAK NIGHT Two 8oz Rumps or 10oz Gammons with all the trimmings £19

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April, 2015

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Sodbury Sportive ready for entries Those fancying the challenge of the Sodbury Sportive are being asked to sign up for this year’s competition.

Organisers say that interest is already at an all time high and are encouraging cyclists to enter early.

The tough cycling race takes place on Sunday August 16. Starting and finishing in Chipping Sodbury, the event offers a choice of 3 distances, 100 miles, 60 miles or 30 miles.

The Saddleback Sodbury Sportive enjoyed its most successful year with a record number of 905 cyclists entering in 2014. Since its inception just three years ago the Sportive has become the

most popular of its kind in the South West The route takes riders through some of the prettiest highways and byways of the region. With fast, flat sections combined with challenging steep climbs of the Cotswold ridge and superb views across the Severn valley, the Sportive is highly regarded by experienced and club riders alike.

Organised by the Members and Friends of the Rotary club of Chipping Sodbury, all profits from the event are given to charity, with the 2014 event raising £18,858.

For an entry form visit www.sodburysportive.co.uk

Local athlete to run at World Transplant Games Racing comes A kidney transplant patient is setting her sights on competing at the World Transplant Games in Argentina this summer.

Ruth Medcroft, from Yate, has been competing in transplant games since her operation in 2008, and is the current British women’s champion at the race walk.

Diagnosed with a kidney condition as a child, it wasn’t until Ruth turned 23 that she began to feel the effects and tests revealed a deterioration in her condition. A change in lifestyle including diet, no smoking and exercise meant that she did not start dialysis for a further three years. During her treatment at Southmead Hospital she was made aware of the British Transplant Games and following a transplant two years later she began to realise her goal of taking part.

She competed in her first games in Coventry a year later and has been involved every year since. Winning medals at each games including Gold in the race walk on three occasions, Ruth has now set her sights on the World Transplant Games to be held this August in Argentina.

Ruth says she feels stronger and fitter than ever before, and she has also taken part in the 24 hour Adidas Thunder run as part of a team, last years TR24 and the 12 hour Lightning run as a solo competitor, as well as running 4 marathons.

The Games aim to raise

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awareness of the issues surrounding organ donation, and each year participants are supported in their efforts by the Donor Family Network.

Competitors in the games range from the tiniest toddlers to the super, super veteran age category (70+). They have all received lifesaving transplants and the games

help them to celebrate the gifts their donors gave them.

Competing at the World Games does come at a cost and Ruth is now actively involved in fundraising to finance her trip. If you would like to support Ruth through sponsorship please contact rmedcroft@blueyonder. co.uk

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Two Yate racing drivers are showing off their cars in the Town’s Shopping Centre.

Chris Hignell and Dan Burt, in conjunction with Castle Combe racing circuit, will have two of their race cars on display on Saturday 18th April.

The cars, a Fiat Punto HGT, and a Dominator TS400 Sports GT, will be available for photographs and for youngsters to get a first hand experience of the workings of a race car.

The cars will compete at Castle Combe later this year, and are supported by local businesses including Abrahams Jewellers, Infinity Exhausts, Sodbury Fuels, Avon Valley Adventure Park and Miles Tea & Coffee.

Castle Combe will be promoting the racing and action days held at their circuit, and will be giving away a range of prizes.

These include entry tickets and baseball caps as well as a formula ford experience. Chris and Dan have also offered high-speed laps in one of their cars for one winner later in the year.

Abrahams Jewellers celebrate their 70th birthday this year, and have sponsored the Driver of the Day award at the circuit for 30 years. They will be on hand to tell visitors all about a prize draw taking place later this year.

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yate&sodburyvoice www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk April, 2015 Muddy fun for pupils in rugby tournament . . . . . . after a tag rugby competition organised by Yate International Academy and run at Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club T: 01454 800 127

The competition was part of the Sainsbury’s Schools Games with the finalists going onto compete at Bristol Grammar School on the 16th April.

Despite the poor weather first thing in the morning, 240 students from 16 schools battled hard on the muddy ground at Chipping Sodbury rugby club The Ridge School beat St Pauls in the Plate Final, Charborough Road School overcame Trinity Primary in the Cup Final, and Holy Family Primary were voted winners of the Fair Play award.

Steve Revett, Head of PE at Yate International Academy said “It was really good to see the quality of the Tag Rugby improve as the afternoon went on and was great to play the finals in sunshine after such a wet morning.

A big thank you also goes to Phil and his team from Chipping Sodbury Rugby club for providing the pitches, referees, food for the children and tea and coffee for all. Without their fantastic support we would not have been able to run this event’.

The Ridge Tag-Rugby team

Countdown starts for Badminton Horse Trials as top riders gear up for the challenge NINE former winners are among the entries for the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, with Aussie Sam Griffiths returning to defend his title with his stable star Paulank Brockagh.

All of the British riders who won team silver at London 2012 have entered, headed by William Fox-Pitt.

But although Zara Phillips is among them, it is anticipated that she will instead take High Kingdom to the big Kentucky event in late April and only go to Badminton if the USA trip doesn’t come off.

With a maximum of 85 horses to run over the four days of the international, some riders are currently on the inevitable waiting list.

But this year it is shorter than usual, with only 14 having to wait for someone to drop out in order to get a run.

The tough cross-country challenge produced by new course designer Giuseppe Della

Chiesa in 2014 - praised by many riders for putting the phase back at the heart of the competition – may have led to some competitors to re-assess whether they are ready for the test.

Surprisingly, crowd favourite Mary King is on the waiting list with Kings Temptress but the horse was out with an injury last season so is lower in the points league that determines order of acceptance.

Eventing’s leading players all feature in the line-up, with New Zealand’s strong side including Andrew Nicholson, Mark Todd, Jonelle Price and Jock Paget.

Nicholson, despite holding the record for the number of completions, has yet to win Badminton but has a big chance with Avebury and Nereo.

As well as Grfifiths, Australia has past winners Paul Tapner and Andew Hoy, while world and Olympic team gold medallist Ingrid Klimke is looking for success with Horseware Hale

Bob. Oliver Townend, the last British winner, returns with Armada to go one better than last year’s runner-up slot and Pippa Funnell relies on Redesigned and Second Supreme to earn her another Badminton title.

Nick Gauntlett, the most local rider at the event, will take El Grado and Crown Talisman from his Chipping Sodbury yard.

Gauntlett recently helped a British side take third place in the opening Nations Cup eventing competition of the season with Crown Talisman in Fontainebleau, France.

The main Badminton contest will run from May 7-10, with two days of dressage, followed by the cross-country and the final show jumping.

It will be preceded by the now annual grassroots championships for amateur riders, with the park also open to the public on Wednesday, May 6.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Judo athletes bring home medals

Chipping Sodbury School students Chloe and Ozzie Gowen have taken gold and bronze at a Judo competition in Samobor, Croatia.

51 clubs took part involving some 591 competitors from across Europe including Ukraine, Hungary, Bosnia, Italy, Slovenia, Poland, Czech, Bulgaria, Germany, and Croatia.

In the under 14 age group, Ozzie secured a hard fought Bronze medal while Chloe achieved a Gold in the under 16s.

All seven players from their Judo club also medalled.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2015

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37

Town nets grant to improve community tennis courts COMMUNITY tennis courts in Yate are back in use after an improvement programme was completed.

The scheme involved resurfacing and re-painting the two Sunnyside courts, installing better fencing and a gate and building a path from the car park to the courts to improve access.

Most of the funding for the project came through a grant of £31,150 from the SITA Trust Landfill Communities Fund.

Trust spokesman Jools Granville said: We are delighted to have been able to support this project.

“The application was submitted with many letters of support from local regulars who frequently use the courts – and from the Lawn Tennis Association coach who runs the Yate Community Tennis Club.

“Without this facility, the immediate area offers no opportunity for the general public to turn up and play tennis.”

The re-opening of the courts was led by Yate’s deputy mayor, Tony Davis, who was joined by

Steve Webb MP, second from right, with representatives of Yate Town Council, the local community and SITA Trust at the re-opening of Yate’s community tennis courts. town councillors Sue Walker and Chris Willmore, Thornbury and Yate MP Steve Webb and Phil Gregory from SITA Trust.

Local people who had supported the project were also there to celebrate the courts being open for play once more.

Councillor Walker said: “I am absolutely delighted that SITA Trust awarded funding for the refurbishment of the Sunnyside courts.

“These community courts are a much loved local facility, used by a range of local people – from

the very young to the young at heart - to keep active and enjoy playing tennis.

“These improvements will make the courts even more appealing to existing and new users of the facility in the future.”

Former wwe star to wrestle in Yate Former WWE Intercontinental champion Drew Galloway, formerly known as Drew McIntyre, will be wrestling at the Yate Leisure Centre in May. Drew will be wrestling one of the biggest stars in the UK, and TNA British Bootcamp 2 Finalist, Rampage Brown.

Bristol based Pro Wrestling Chaos is behind the event and promoter Rob Woolcock said ‘This is the biggest show we have held to date and we are thrilled to have someone of the calibre of Drew Galloway to represent our company’.

This event on the May 23 is suitable for all ages and tickets are on sale now for from Yate Leisure Centre.

Front row seats for this event sold out in less than 48 hours and previous events have sold out in advance, and organisers are suggesting fans book early to secure a ticket.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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T: 01454 800 127

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April, 2015

Hawkins appointed as Yate interim manager Yate Town FC appointed Nigel Hawkins as Interim Manager following the decision to relieve Rob Cousins and Michael Meaker of their positions. The new chapter in Town’s history started promisingly with successive victories over Shortwood United and Fleet Town, a drew at Tiverton Town and then a return to winning ways against fellow promotion candidates Didcot Town. The odd goal in five against North Leigh ended the teams’ excellent run of form.

With just seven matches of the season remaining, Yate are six points off a top five finish but still have an outside chance of reaching the promotion play-offs.

April brings matches against three of their rival contenders including an Easter Monday match at Lodge Road against play-off favourites Larkhall Athletic and a home game the following Saturday against title favourites Merthyr Town.

Yate Town’s Under 18 team has enjoyed a very successful season, and are virtually assured of winning the Somerset Floodlight Youth League North

Brad Abraham battles for possession Photo courtesy of Scott Boulton, (Jack Flash Photography)

Division. They won 14 of their first 16 matches and enjoy a huge goal difference. In addition, the Youth Team reached the finals of both The Glos FA Under 18 Youth Shield and the SFYL

League Cup, where they meet Gloucester City and Weston Super Mare respectively.

April fixtures: Sat 4 April , Bishops Cleeve v Yate Town, Easter Mon 6 April

Yate Town v Larkhall Ath. Sat 11 April Yate Town v Merthyr Town Sat 18 April Taunton Town v Yate Town, Sat 25 April Yate Town v Bashley. All matches KO 3.00pm

St Nick’s girls in cup triumph St Nicholas U-14 girls are celebrating after winning the Gloucester Football Association cup.

The match played at GFA Headquarters in Almondsbury proved to be a closely fought contest with opponents Bristol Ladies Union taking an early lead before St Nicks managed to force an equaliser.

With the game heading for a penalty shoot out, an 88th minute winner from St Nicks gave the Chipping Sodbury team a deserved victory.

St Nicholas Old Boys are hoping for similar success in their respective GFA Cup competition. Playing for the first time in the Intermediate (North) cup, they put on a solid display to beat Fintan 3-0 in the semi-final.

They now meet Ellwood Reserves in the Final on 14 April 2015.

Currently top of Division 3 of the Stroud and District League, having only lost one game, the team are enjoying a very successful season.

As the football season draws to a close, St Nicholas FC are busy planning their May football

tournament. Held annually at the Ridings in Chipping Sodbury, the tournament regularly attracts over 150 teams from South West England and Wales over the two days of competition. This year’s event will take place on 16-17 May 2015. More details are available at: http://www. stnicksfc-tournament.co.uk/ If you are interested in

playing football in any age group, regardless of your ability, then you are encouraged to contact the club at info@stnicholas. co.uk or visit their website www. stnicksfc.co.uk.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 01454 800127 or 01454 334410

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2015

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39

Record points haul for Chipping Sodbury RFC

Chipping Sodbury 1st XV – 78 Old Colstonians 1st XV –3 Sodbury secured their biggest points total of the season, running in 12 tries with Dan Bradley bagging three and converting nine to amass a personal points tally of 33.

The first two tries came of the back of brutal runs from Charlie Rokodakunivosa, cutting through the Old Colstonians’ defence with ease and setting up rucks which produced a quick ball. Steve Hopes cut a brilliant line through the defence to open Sodbury’s account and just 5 minutes later Joe Horton was on hand to take advantage when his supporting run was rewarded with a scoring pass.

Where the first two tries were all about the power of Sodbury’s bludgeoning pack, the next two had some definite artistry to them. The first of Jake Lewis’ brace of tries saw him float down the wing in support of some great passing movements. On receiving the ball from Horton he stepped on the gas, threw in a belly swerve and skipped to the line.

A 15-metre line-out provided the ball for his next, simple passing and running straight made the easiest of first phase tries.

When Colstonians stroked over a penalty on 20 minutes the contest was already as good as over, they were never coming back from 28 – 3 down.

Sodbury’s scrummage took a total of six feeds off Colstonians and this avalanche of possession was put to good use. Andy Parsons found himself with the ball from 40 metres out following a particularly robust scrum – his fancy footwork and low centre of gravity saw him slice his way through the field to score. At a 5-metre scrum won against the head by Sodbury, Rokodakunivosa was on hand to pick up and charge over for a try with his trademark steamrollering of any tacklers.

The Old C restart only travelled 10 metres and the ensuing scrum on half way provided a great platform to attack. Cameron Flye surged into the line from full back to create an extra man; his pass found Parsons who, in turn, whilst under severe pressure, swung out a brilliant pass to Bradley, who loped in for his first try.

Dan Bradley on his way to one of his three tries

The second period yielded only one try in the first 20 minutes as the visitors threw up a solid defence. Sodbury were forced to endure a lot of pressure before eventually managing to build their own pressure through multiple phases. Free-running hooker Dave Guest found himself in midfield with the ball in hand and didn’t look at all out of place.

His line break and subsequent long pass found Ryan Halford in space, allowing him to touch down.

When Dave Telford entered

the fray, Matt Cooke went to number 8. Cooke and his shorts really caught the eye when he started the move deep in Sodbury territory for Bradley’s second try.

Just a few moments later Cooke combined with Anthony Steele and starting from deep once again they both managed to step defenders and deliver precise passes. Flye latched onto one of these passes 30 metres out, dropped his shoulder and jinked his way in for a try.

Sodbury scored two tries which came from glaring errors

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by Old C’s, first a free kick from a lineout was moved rapidly left allowing Bradley to cut back like a knife through butter for his hat-trick.

When Colstonians shanked a clearance kick infield Telford was on hand to make the catch.

From 40 metres a score looked improbable but he evaded all attempts to bring him down as he dazzled the crowd with a stunning solo effort.

Photos courtesy of Jeff Gendall Photography

Katie Summerville leaves Westbury Ladies in her wake as Chipping Sodbury Ladies RFC ease to a 62-0 win against Westbury.

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