Yate & Sodbury Voice July 2023

yate&sodburyvoice www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2023 Issue 98

FREE EVERY MONTH IN YATE, CHIPPING SODBURY & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

Moby Duck!

Yasmine's big break A CHIPPING Sodbury teenager has sung a duet on stage with pop superstar Lewis Capaldi.

PAGE 5

Stinky summer SOUTH Gloucestershire workers have voted to strike all summer in a dispute over pay.

PAGE 4 THIS rubber duck-themed float won Raysfield Primary School first prize in this year's Chipping Sodbury Lions Club Carnival, a highlight of the Chipping Sodbury Festival. Head teacher Claire Hill said the float the children decorated together had a serious message about plastic pollution, telling the story of 28,800 rubber ducks accidentally released at sea in 1992 and still turning up on beaches more than 30 years later - an incident turned into a story called Moby-Duck. More Festival pictures: Page 19

'I'm so lucky to be alive' A CARE worker who lost his leg in a road crash says he is "completely overwhelmed" by the support he has received.

Life changed in an instant for Curtis Buca when he was knocked off his motorbike in the collision on the main road to Yate from Bristol.

The keen amateur footballer's right foot was

severed and he broke his knee, thigh, pelvis, collar bone, ribs and hand.

An air ambulance critical care team flew in by helicopter and fought to save Curtis's life before he was taken to Southmead Hospital.

Turn to page 3

NO W

OP EN

Babies 'at risk' INSPECTORS say babies at a Yate nursery were allowed to "wander around unsupervised", play with electrical switches and risked choking on small puzzle pieces.

PAGE 2

Matt raises game A WHEELCHAIR rugby player has played his first match in a tailormade chair, after players and fans raised more than £9,000.

PAGE 8

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n NEWS

July, 2023

Nursery babies 'at risk' - Ofsted INSPECTORS say babies at a Yate nursery were allowed to "wander around unsupervised", play with electrical switches and risked choking on small puzzle pieces.

Ofsted said Magic Tree Nursery was 'inadequate' for failing to keep an eye on babies “sufficiently to promote their safety and welfare” during its visit.

Inspector Karen Allen said: "Staff do not notice things that put babies at risk of harm."

The report said staff handed babies bottles of milk and let them “wander around unsupervised”, adding: "Staff…are unable to ensure that babies do not choke or give their bottles of milk to others who may have allergies. Poor supervision of these youngest children by experienced staff puts them at risk of harm.

“For example, staff do not notice when young babies put small puzzle pieces inside their mouths and totter around, or when babies climb on a pile of soft-play equipment near a wall and play with switches on an electrical wall socket.”

The nursery, based on the site of St Paul's Catholic Primary School, in Sundridge Park, received a 'requires improvement' rating last October but Ofsted returned in May, following a complaint.

The inspector also said Magic Tree, which has 61 places for under-fours, was found to be failing to meet babies' individual learning needs. Staff did not identify delays in children's development quickly enough, and failed to put in place swift enough support so they could catch up.

Owner Just Childcare was issued with a welfare requirements notice, ordering immediate changes, and was given until June 30 to correct failings in the curriculum and learning.

The company, which runs 60 nurseries across the UK, four of them in South Gloucestershire, blames industry-wide staff shortages for the failings.

Since the inspection, Ofsted has re-visited the nursery and says it is now satisfied problems with supervision of babies have been put right.

Despite the criticisms, the report said parents spoke positively about the nursery's welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff and new management team. They said children were happy to attend the nursery and they felt well-informed about care routines.

Just Childcare also runs Little Acorns Nursery in Thornbury, which was rated inadequate in May, Tippytoes in Yate, which 'requires improvement', and 100 Acre Wood in Frampton Cotterell, which is rated 'good'.

Just Childcare told the Voice staff recruitment was a problem affecting many providers.

Operations director Liz Carroll said: "One of the primary challenges we have encountered is the industry-wide issue of staffing, which has significantly impacted our nurseries in the Bristol area.

“To tackle this concern, we have made substantial investments in recruitment efforts, including increasing wages.

“We have been working closely with Ofsted and the local authority to improve the situation. We are confident that in the coming months, our nurseries will undergo re-inspections, resulting in improved grades that better reflect their true quality.

“We sincerely appreciate the patience and understanding of our parents and families during this period.”

Beatrice Merrick, chief executive of charity Early Education, said: "Recruitment and retention is a major issue in the early years sector at present, with many staff leaving for better paid and less stressful work in supermarkets and retail, even if they would prefer to remain working with young children."

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2023

n NEWS

From page 1

Surgeons had to amputate his right leg up to the knee to save the rest of the limb, and he was in the intensive care unit for 11 days after the collision, which happened on the A432 Badminton Road at Nibley on May 22.

Curtis, who was on his way to an appointment with a client in Yate, has undergone several more operations and has now moved from Southmead's orthopaedic trauma unit to a rehabilitation ward at Weston General Hospital.

His girlfriend Stacey Hitchens set up an online donations page to raise money for a blade-style prosthetic leg, so that Curtis can be active again, to fund equipment and adaptations he may need to aid his recovery, and to ease the financial impact of losing his nine-year career.

As the Voice went to press, the page had raised more than £15,000.

Curtis can no longer do the physically demanding job he loved, or continue to be a platelet donor - he had donated more than 100 bags - after receiving 10 bags of blood himself.

Stacey has also left her job, as she was unable to take paid leave to help Curtis, and as a result the couple have had to move out of the flat they shared in Emersons Green, and face rebuilding their lives from scratch.

Curtis has no memory of the collision or the next four days, but soon realised how badly he was injured.

He said: "I knew it would change my life completely, however I was not considering all of the negative impacts.

"I just knew I was so lucky to be alive, and grateful for the amazing doctors who worked so hard to save me.

"The skill of the multiple doctors who put me back together as best they could was outstanding.

"Every single person did their jobs so well, and were so kind to me, and attentive. I love the NHS and I wouldn't be here without it.

"I have lots of options for the future.

"I loved my job but I will continue to help people in other ways. Once I have recovered and got to grips with my new way of life then I aim to be a mentor to amputees in the future.

"I have had to move home but I have a fantastic family, great

yate&sodburyvoice

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Carer thanks 'amazing' doctors and donors after crash trauma

Curtis and girlfriend Stacey Hitchens

Curtis Buca with dog Ruby at the hospital where he is recovering friends and a perfect girlfriend who are all there to help me recover. I'm lucky to have a great network of people."

More than 500 people have made individual donations some are friends and contacts on social media but many others are strangers who have heard Curtis's story, including bikers and dance music fans.

Curtis said: "I am completely overwhelmed by the support I have received.

"So many lovely people giving up their hard-earned money to help me is just wonderful.

"I want to thank every single donor for their generosity - it has made me cry multiple times with happiness."

Stacey said: "We want to make his recovery as easy as possible.

"Curtis used to play football twice a week and he wants to get back to doing that, as well as walking our dog, Ruby.

"His employers at Prestige

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

have given him the option of a possible office job but that's not him at all - he'd rather find something he can do to continue helping people directly.

"He's expected to be in hospital for eight to 12 weeks and it's going to be a long process of recovery, but he's lucky he's

alive and had no head or spinal injuries."

The fundraising page can be found at tinyurl.com/5fvwc88e or by searching for Curtis Buca at Gofundme.com. *Avon and Somerset police arrested a 39-year-old man on suspicion of careless driving causing serious injury and drugdriving in connection with the crash that injured Curtis.

A spokesperson said the driver had been released under investigation.

The collision happened near The Swan pub, in a 30mph section close to the Nibley Lane junction, at about 4.50pm.

Badminton Road was closed for more than four hours afterwards.

Police are appealing for anyone who thinks they witnessed the collision or has relevant dashcam footage to call them on 101 and quote the incident reference number 5223 119 312.

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n NEWS

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

Bin strike could last all summer A STRIKE by South Gloucestershire's bin crews could now last all summer.

Union Unite announced on June 27 that it was extending strike action, originally planned to end on July 9, until September 3, saying contractor Suez and South Gloucestershire Council had "ignored repeated requests

by Unite to engage in talks to resolve the dispute".

The council has advised residents that it is prioritising fortnightly collections of black bins and nappy sacks by those staff still working.

The action followed a one-week strike earlier in June, staged by 150 workers in response to a pay offer described as a "significant real terms pay cut".

As the second strike began on June 26, the council said there would not be "sufficient staff" to collect recycling, food bins or green bins and urged people not to put them out.

It is still advising residents to put out black bins on scheduled days and report missed collections.

A spokesperson said more than half of SUEZ staff were on strike, and said it hoped Suez and the union could come to a "swift resolution", adding: "We understand that this will be concerning news for residents, and we are doing all we can to minimise the impact.

"We are working with the staff Suez has available, to provide the best level of service possible under the circumstances."

The council is advising people to visit its website or call the Streetcare team on 01454

Striking social workers and bin crews demonstrated outside South Gloucestershire Council's Kingswood offices on June 12 868000 for updates.

Recycling centres in Yate, Thornbury and Mangotsfield were being kept open, with extra facilities set up to deposit food waste.

Union Unite said 89% of workers who took part in a ballot voted to strike, after rejecting an 8% per cent pay offer from he council's waste contractor Suez.

The union said: "With the real rate of inflation, RPI, at 11.4%, this is a significant real terms pay cut.

Unite says Suez made profits of £80.8 million in 2021. The company’s South Gloucestershire bin loaders earn £11.53 per hour - equivalent to around £460 for a five-day week at eight hours per day, or just under £24,000 a year.

Unite regional officer Ken Fish said: “Unite has repeatedly tried to initiate negotiations with Suez and South Gloucestershire council to bring this dispute to an end. It is a dereliction of duty to the public on the part of both organisations that these requests for talks have been ignored."

Suez says its two most recent

pay offers, this year and last, together represent a pay increase of up to 16.75%.

A spokesperson said: "Industrial action is the very last outcome we wanted to see and our goal is to reach an agreement that would bring this to an end.

Our door is still open and we welcome further discussions with Unite."

Social workers strike SOCIAL workers and occupational therapists working in adult services for South Gloucestershire Council joined bin workers on a picket line outside the authority's Kingswood offices.

Their one-day strike on June 12 was the sixth.

Union UNISON has been in dispute with the council since last summer over a decision to award qualified staff in children’s services an extra £3,000 "retention payment" on top of their basic annual salary to stop them leaving the sector - but not giving it to adult services workers.

Social worker Sarah Bramley said: “Current figures show that retention of qualified workers in adult care is worse now than when the payment was agreed for children's services.

"But retention payments are not being considered for us, which makes us feel we are not valued at all. We hold the same qualification as our colleagues in children’s services and our job is incredibly demanding.

"The basic wage is already higher in all neighbouring authorities, so South Glos Council struggles to attract experienced staff and with Wiltshire Council, for instance, implementing retention payments for adult services, this problem will surely get worse."

Unison says 94% of staff voted for strike action in the ballot.

A council spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that UNISON have proceeded with strike action, given our continuing focus on delivering our workplace action plan, which addresses issues staff tell us matter most.

"Staff in all roles in adult social care undertake vitally important work in our communities in South Gloucestershire.

"We very much hope that UNISON will continue to engage with us on the actions agreed after the last period of industrial action."

The spokesperson said the authority had "maintained a good level of service and support to our communities and hospitals" during the strike.

Row over black bin cuts: Page 12

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July, 2023

n NEWS

Yasmine sings with Lewis Capaldi A TEENAGE singer from Chipping Sodbury has sung alongside one of her music heroes, pop superstar Lewis Capaldi, in front of 2,000 fans.

Yasmine Kabbara-Dolby was invited up on stage during a gig in Bristol, after holding up a banner asking if she could sing with him.

The 17-year-old music student joined the chart-topping singer in a duet of his hit song Someone You Loved.

Yasmine said: “It was a question and answer session before the music, so I went to the front and held up my poster."

Yasmine’s poster showed photos of her with Lewis when they met in 2019, with the words “please can I sing with you” written across it.

She said: "The host came to me, and I said had met Lewis four years ago, and that Someone You Loved was very important to me and I wondered if I could sing it with him.

“It was such an amazing experience. I

5

didn’t think it would really happen, but when it did it was amazing.”

Lewis, who recently announced he is taking a break from live shows, was only performing three songs at the gig in The Marble Factory in May but invited Yasmine on stage to duet with him after hearing her request.

Yasmine met Lewis at Rough Trade record store in Bristol when he was promoting Someone You Loved, which went on to top the UK and US charts, and is the fourth most streamed song ever on digital platform Spotify.

The song was written about Lewis’s grandmother after her death. The music video featured his second cousin, actor Peter Capaldi, and was used to raise awareness of organ donation.

Yasmine’s mum Shamsi, who runs Amigos Cocina Mexican tapas restaurant in Chipping Sodbury, said the song had a special meaning to their family, after her partner Dave Lawrence had a double lung transplant.

She said: "That song just seemed to follow us through the transplant journey, so it's such a special song. It helped us through difficult times.

“Now Yasmine has been on stage singing it – I am so proud of her.”

Yasmine, who is studying an extended diploma in songwriting at the BIMM institute in Bristol, has just finished recording some

A fan captured the moment Yasmine Kabbara-Dolby and Lewis Capaldi sang together more of her own songs, working with her dad Rich at his home recording studio, to produce a new EP, which will be released soon on streaming services.

She sang at Chipping Sodbury's Coronation Big Lunch and has also been approached about possibly singing at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta in August.

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Lynn Bevan

6

n NEWS A BURGER van has been shut down after it received a zero food hygiene rating, following four years of scoring one out of five.

Alex Burger Van, run by Asen Mitkov in Millbrook Road on the Stover Trading Estate in Yate, was refused a licence renewal by South Gloucestershire Council.

The licensing sub-committee also ruled Mr Mitkov was not a “fit and proper person” to hold a street-trading permit, following an objection by environmental health officers to his application, on public safety grounds.

Councillors were told he had been warned repeatedly to improve hygiene standards but had failed to do so, and that any measures introduced had been only temporary before “slipping back” to unacceptable levels a year later.

A food safety inspection by the council in April found Mr Mitkov used the same set of tongs for raw and cooked meat, stored lettuce on a fridge shelf between uncooked bacon and sausages, and failed to check the temperature of the fridge, which contained black pudding and

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

Burger van loses licence over hygiene failures

Asen Mitkov at the meeting, cheese in broken plastic tubs.

Inspectors also found the van was in need of an “urgent clean”, records were not up to date, including no current gas safety certificate and food was not at the required temperature.

They said Mr Mitkov did not wash his hands between handling money and bread rolls, and “a dirty brush from the dustpan was resting against the chopping boards”.

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Councillors meeting at Kingswood Civic Centre on May 26 were told some improvements had been made when officers revisited, including an extra pair of tongs, but Mr Mitkov still had no gas certificate and was still cleaning with reusable cloths.

A report to the panel said: “The food and safety team has worked hard to try and improve standards at Alex Burger Van over the past five years.

“Environmental health routine visits have required further follow-up visits and the food team has very little confidence that standards will be maintained.

“There is a risk to the health and safety of the residents and visitors to the burger van.”

Mr Mitkov told the subcommittee he was sorry for the hygiene lapses but that those

related to his previous, bigger van which was stolen recently, and that he had bought a smaller one which was easier to maintain.

He said: “I’m sure that I’m going to keep it very clean and I will do everything that I should do.

“I’ve worked at this all my life - I don’t have anything else in my life in England.

“I need the chance to keep going with this business.”

The sub-committee heard there had been no complaints from the public about food poisoning.

Licensing officer Andrew Forbes said Mr Mitkov had been given “multiple chances” but had not maintained improvements.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2023

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7

n NEWS

Nursery provides 'best possible start in life' AN “inclusive and enriching nursery” in Yate is 'outstanding', says Ofsted.

The education regulator gave Sodbury Vale Day Nursery its highest rating in all categories measured - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development following a visit in May. Inspector Stella Orfanidou said the nursery at Ridgewood Community Centre, on Station Road, offered children a “unique and ambitious curriculum”.

The inspector said the nursery had passionate and highly knowledgeable staff, adding: "Their priority is to ensure that every child has the very best possible start in life.

“Parents express immense appreciation for the efforts of managers and staff, who consistently extend their support to all children, particularly those with special educational needs or disabilities, and families.

"The managers and staff help children cultivate excellent communication skills in a language-rich environment, where interaction is paramount."

The inspector found children displayed “remarkable behaviour, forming exceptional relationships with peers and showcasing great social skills”.

She said: “The staff members have forged trustworthy relationships with the children, fostering a warm and caring atmosphere.”

Children had “highly enriching learning experiences” indoors and outdoors, from artwork to planting in the

Children at Sodbury Vale Day Nursery

garden, and also had trips to local shops, the library, parks and care homes organised by staff to give them diverse learning experiences.

Work on literacy included recognising letters and writing names, while diverse collection of books "nurtures their passion for reading from an early age".

The report said: “Children's physical development receives excellent support.

"They enthusiastically engage in risk taking on garden climbing equipment, testing their abilities, and they enjoy scooter races with friends.

"Staff weave physical activities, such as music and movement, into the daily routine, particularly during morning welcome time."

Efforts to ensure that every child could participate fully in all activities and experiences were highlighted, including paying close attention to SEND children who needed extra support and resources to meet their sensory needs.

Staff were also praised for fostering children's

independence through everyday activities, from choosing their play options, to cutting fruit for a snack and cleaning up after themselves.

The nursery was established in 2009, and has 40 places for children aged two to five.

It was last visited by Ofsted in 2017, when it was rated 'good'.

Managers Julie Norcombe & Nic Bennett said it had been a team effort.

Julie said: "We are so proud

that Ofsted has recognised what we thought we knew we had, all along.

"Thank you to the team who always go above and beyond to educate and care for the children that come to Sodbury Vale and to all the parents who shared their positive and supportive comments with the Ofsted inspector.

“We are thrilled with the outstanding judgement."

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n NEWS

July, 2023

New wheelchair helps Matt raise his game A WHEELCHAIR rugby player from Coalpit Heath has played his first match in a tailor-made chair, thanks of the kindness of rugby players and fans.

Matt Badman made an appeal for help to buy a specialist wheelchair, after getting hooked on the sport.

And Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club stepped up to help.

A fundraising touch rugby marathon in June brought in more than £6,180.

Matt’s own fundraiser made another £3,300, including £1,000 from Frampton Cotterell Rugby Club, raised during a club tour to Cornwall, and another £500 from Frampton's juniors.

Together the appeals have raised enough not only to buy Matt his own custom wheelchair but to help other players on his team.

Previously he had to borrow a chair that was not made to measure, and was uncomfortable. He said the new chair made all the difference.

Matt with members of Chipping Sodbury RFC, who raised more than £6,000 Matt, who has cerebral palsy, plays for Taunton Gladiators because there are no wheelchair teams near home.

His first game in the new chair was in a tournament at Stoke Mandeville, known as the birthplace of Paralympics.

Matt said: “I played in all the games, and it was really good.

“It was more or less pain free, because the chair was made to fit me. I was faster and could move

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Matt Badman with his new custom-made chair She said: "We’d like to be there to support him at a game soon, and we are talking about another event – maybe a 24 hour wheelchair rugby event.”

Matt said: “Lucy spent hours and hours sorting it out and I’m so grateful to her and the rugby club - it’s mind blowing really what the community can do."

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You use your hips to move it, to turn left and right.

“With your own chair, you can really play to your full potential.”

More than 120 players and supporters from Sodbury RFC joined in the club's sponsored event.

It was organised by Lucy Lawson, a former Chipping Sodbury player, who now manages the club's touch rugby team.

Lucy said: “We doubled our target and have now been able to help three additional players from Matt’s team! The extra money raised bought spare tyres, which can be very expensive, as well as a whole chair for one lady player.

“The fund raising also raised awareness – I would love to see a wheelchair team in this area in the next few years.

"It gives people such a lease of life to be so active, which is important for them.”

Lucy said the Chipping Sodbury club members plan to visit Matt at a home game.

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July, 2023

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n NEWS

Big crowds for Yate Rocks YATE Town Council has hailed this year's Yate Rocks...in the Park event at Kingsgate Park as an "amazing weekend" Large crowds gathered on Saturday June 24 for the main music and dance event, with Praise in the Park and The Great Choir Showcase the next day also proving popular.

Performers on the Saturday included The Breakdowns, Decanter, South Glos School Jazz Band, V-Dubz, Sonic Sunrise, Elevation, Kaiju Blue and Beacon Rise, with dancing from Redds Dance Group, Danceworks, L.A Dance, Stapleton Dance, 5678 School of Dance and Street Cred.

There were stalls and activities including a climbing wall, funfair games and go-karts.

On Sunday morning, Praise in the Park in the morning was followed by the Great Choir Showcase.

Three junior and four senior choirs, including including Raysfield School, Fascinating

Yate Mayor Cheryl Kirby at Yate Rocks.

Picture: Rich McD Rhythm and Bristol Show Choir, performed individually before a grand finale massed choir.

Yate mayor Cheryl Kirby said: “Yate Rocks was another special and wonderful event enjoyed by the town, and we were so lucky to have such lovely weather for

both days of celebrations.

"It was great to see so many people and families coming together, to eat their picnics, have a dance and generally, just get to relax.

"My thanks to everyone involved in making this fantastic

event happen, and I look forward to 2024!"

The council thanked the businesses, charities, organisations, bands, artists, dance groups and visitors who came to the event.

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July, 2023

n NEWS

yate&sodburyvoice

Firefighters' paw patrol YATE'S firefighters lived up to their “not just fires” catchphrase when they were called in to rescue two dogs trapped in sweltering heat.

The first was golden Labrador Freckles, who had got stuck under a cargo crate at Frome Valley Farm on Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath, on a day when temperatures were up to 28C during the Yate Fire fighters with Freckles and June heatwave. owner Leanne Poole. Picture: Yate But it wasn’t a case Firefighters/Avon Fire & Rescue Service of breaking out the turntable ladder, or high tech cutting equipment… the firefighters used their charm and a few treats to persuade him to squeeze out to safety.

Freckles’ owner Leanne Poole said she was hugely grateful to the team.

She said: “I know it wasn’t a life or death matter, but Freckles was stuck and exhausted.

“She had not been Freckles wedged under the container around for nearly an hour when I realised where she was.

"She had crawled under the container and was exhausted trying to get out. We tried giving her treats and she just couldn’t make it.”

Leanne went to get a farm tractor to see if she could use it to help free her dog – but by the time she returned, the firefighters had coaxed Freckles out, or as Avon Fire & Rescue Service's official spokesperson Boycie in his car put it: "With some encouragement, the dog was able to self-rescue itself from the entrapment."

Yate Fire Station watch manager Andy Lavis said: “When we arrived, Freckles was in a sorry state, and clearly distressed.

“With some gentle encouragement from all involved, he managed to crawl out of the tight space he’d been in and free himself.

“We were really pleased to have helped in this situation and to have seen Freckles go free.”

On their Facebook page Yate firefighters posted: “This is why we say #NotJustFires!”

Leanne said: “The fire brigade were fabulous. I’m so pleased they came to help.”

Five days later Yate firefighters were called out again, to rescue a 14-year-old Jack Russell named Boycie who had locked himself in a family car in Hawkesbury Upton.

A spokesperson said: "Luckily, the air conditioning was on and crews formulated a plan to rescue the dog."

The firefighters used tools to open the door and reunite Boycie with his family, adding: "You're joking - not another one!?"

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12

n NEWS

Row over plan to cut black bin collections BLACK bin collections could be reduced to just once a month and garden waste fees hiked from £30 to £75 under controversial plans being considered by South Gloucestershire Council.

Opposition Tories have branded the proposals, which include new charges for disposing tyres and plasterboard at tips, as “crazy and irresponsible”.

But the new Lib Dem/Labour coalition running the council says the criticism is “astonishing and rather cynical”, as the work on a new waste contract was “largely done by their previous Conservative administration”.

Changes to how the service is run are needed because the council’s 25-year deal with Suez ends in 2025.

Officers have assessed four options to replace it but every one involves a massive funding shortfall.

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

The new cabinet has agreed a "direction of travel" aimed at further increasing recycling, ahead of a consultation over the summer and a final decision in October.

A cross-party scrutiny commission on June 14 heard having four-weekly black bin collections from 2026 would save £800,000 a year, with three-weekly collections saving £500,000.

Charges for disposing of waste, such as asbestos and tyres, at tips would bring in £500,000. Fees for collecting bulky waste could also increase.

Increases to the green bin subscription, from £30 to as much as £75 a year, and £25 charges for replacement bins will be considered.

Tory shadow cabinet member Rachael Hunt said: "We have an excellent record of prosecuting people for fly-tipping. These crazy and irresponsible proposals could see that record seriously jeopardised, as people try to avoid charges and deal with the accumulation of rubbish they’ll see when their bins aren’t emptied as regularly."

Labour cabinet member Leigh Ingham said the new cabinet had "inherited incomplete plans for £40m of cuts", adding: “It is astonishing, and rather cynical, that the Conservatives seemingly appear surprised by the proposals as the work on this project which was largely done by their previous Conservative administration."

Officers said “awkward” waste, such as nappies, clinical and sharp objects, would be collected more frequently than black bins.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Hard plastic change RESIDENTS using council recycling centres are being assured that hard plastics are still being recycled, despite dedicated collection areas being removed.

Council leader Claire Young told June's Frome Valley Community Engagement Forum that new collection bays had to be created for foam-filled furniture because of rules on its disposal.

People had raised concerns that they were being told to put hard plastic items in with general waste at Sort It centres, but these are now being separated later, when the waste is taken a sorting facility in Bristol.

A council spokesperson stressed that hard plastics put in black bins are not removed, however, as waste from bin collections is "compromised" for recycling and treated differently, so people are still being advised to take hard plastic items, like garden furniture, to tips.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

13

n NEWS

Mike Drew has been elected as this year's chair of South Gloucestershire Council.

The Yate North ward councillor, who has 40 years of service and previously served as chair 12 years ago, will perform ambassadorial roles, with councillor Franklin Owusu-Antwi (Con, Bradley Stoke North) elected vice-chair.

Cllr Drew is supporting the Motor Neurone Disease Association as his charity of the year.

He said: "I have chosen them because five years ago my younger brother died from motor neurone disease, and it was extremely difficult to see the impact it has on people.

"I’m hoping we can contribute towards the fantastic work of the Motor Neurone Disease Association and the important work they do to support people diagnosed with the disease, and their families.”

Council's new leadership teams are unveiled

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council's new joint Liberal Democrat and Labour administration has announced the cabinet that is taking on the administration of the council.

Last month the Voice reported that the two parties had agreed to share power after the Conservatives lost their overall majority, with Liberal Democrat group leader and Frampton Cotterell ward councillor Claire Young becoming the council leader and Labour group leader Ian Boulton, who represents Staple Hill & Mangotsfield ward, becoming co-leader.

Following the first meeting of the new council at the end of May, the other cabinet councillors - four Lib Dems and three Labour - and their areas of responsibility were confirmed.

They are: Chris Willmore (Lib Dem, Yate North) - planning, regeneration, and infrastructure Alison Evans (Lab, Woodstock) - cost of living, equalities and public health Louise Harris (Lib Dem, Dodington) - climate and nature emergency Maggie Tyrell (Lib Dem, Thornbury) - children and young people John O’Neil (Lib Dem, Charfield) - adults and homes Adam Monk (Lab, Filton) - resources Leigh Ingham (Lab, Kingswood) - communities and local place In addition Cllr Young will be responsible for council governance, with Cllr Boulton taking the portfolio for education, skills, employment and business.

Cllr Young said: "This is an excellent opportunity to put forward a new vision for South Gloucestershire and to help improve the lives of local people. We want to change the way decisions are made and work with residents and communities to ensure they are supportive of our plans."

The council's Conservative group, leader Sam Bromiley said: "The new administration must put the best interests of residents at the heart of everything it does, and the people of South Gloucestershire can be assured that the Conservative Group will be firmly on their side."

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Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

14

n NEWS

New lifeline for threatened bus services

July, 2023

administration had extended subsidies for the route up until June 3, but now a replacement 84/85 service will be delivered by bus operator The Big Lemon with a limited timetable, every two hours in each direction.

South Gloucestershire's new Liberal Democrat cabinet councillor for infrastructure, Chris Willmore, said: “We know how vital this service is to many of our local communities, and share the concerns about its removal that have been raised by affected residents, with many of them relying on these services to get to their doctor, work and school.

“We are very grateful to the various campaign groups for all they have been doing to collect the heart-breaking evidence of these impacts and bring them to the centre stage of this issue."

Gloucestershire County Council's cabinet member for bus transport, Philip Robinson, said: "We’re pleased to financially contribute to this three month offer but ultimately we want a longer-term solution for our residents."

Soon after the Tories lost control of South Gloucestershire in the May elections, Thornbury & Yate MP Luke Hall called on the new administration to save the service, calling it “a lifeline for local villages”.

He said: “The council must not abandon the residents who depend on these vital services. The 84 and 85 are essential bus

TWO bus services connecting Yate, Chipping Sodbury and surrounding villages into Gloucestershire have been given a temporary stay of execution.

The 84 and 85 buses which run through Charfield, Cromhall, Wickwar, Hawkesbury, Horton and Wotton-under-Edge faced the axe last month, after temporary funding ended.

But now South Gloucestershire Council has led a partnership with the West of England Combined Authority and other councils to keep the buses running for another three months, while they look for a long-term solution.

Hundreds of people had joined a Facebook group protesting at the potential loss of the services. They said they were essential for travel to work, hospital appointments, shopping and for pupils going to Katherine Lady Berkeley School in Wotton.

The former Conservative council

services, for residents who rely on the service for health appointments, for commuters and for pupils who rely on these services for school.”

New Lib Dem council leader Claire Young said Chris Willmore Tories' spending on bus subsidies had not kept up with rising costs, adding: “We are looking at the situation very carefully and working to fix the mess that has been left to us.

“We share the frustration of local residents and understand the serious impact this will have. Our priority is working with residents and stakeholders to find a way forward.”

New funding could be found after the Government indicated that part of the £57 million given to WECA to fund "new and innovative" public transport policies could be diverted to support existing subsidised services.

But Metro Mayor Dan Norris said he had yet to be given any information about how much could be made available and "the devil will be in the detail".

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July, 2023

n NEWS

yate&sodburyvoice

15

Nursery's 'passion shines through' A NURSERY and pre-school's "kind, caring and attentive" staff have been praised in its first ever inspection.

Regulator Ofsted said Baker Street Nursery and Pre-school was 'good' in all areas - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development.

The pre school in Station Road, which has 70 places for under fives and 87 children on its roll, registered last September and was visited by Ofsted in May. Inspector Marie Swindells said: "Children are well cared for by a kind, caring and attentive staff team."

The inspector said the curriculum supported individual children to learn through play, while staff made ongoing assessments and observations, using these well to develop children's skills.

She said: "A key focus of the curriculum is to support children to understand and

vocalise their needs while also supporting them to recognise and deal appropriately with their emotions.

“An effective key-person system is in place. Children have secure emotional attachments to all staff, not only their key person."

The inspector said babies individual routines were respected, with a comfortable sleep room and staff who "keep a watchful eye while they sleep”.

Staff placed a strong focus on supporting children's independence from an early age, to help them get ready for school.

Yate Town Council Update

Staff and children at Baker Street Nursery and Pre-school The report highlighted work on the development of language and counting skills as well as opportunities to develop physical skills, in a "spacious" outdoor area where children could climb, balancing and jump, and play organised games.

The inspector said that managers were “proactive and committed” to continually evaluate and improve practice at the nursery, with support for staff training.

Her report said: “Partnerships with parents are strong. They feel very well informed about their child's progress. Staff work well

Bug Hotel Workshops

No Mow May Yate Town Council participated in this annual national scheme, with the aim of giving wildflowers space to bloom and provide vital food and habitats for pollinators.

Mowing was paused on several sites during the month of May and for the 4th year running, this created some abundant areas of biodiversity (Tyler’s Field pictured).

with parents to prepare children for new experiences in their life. Parents comment how the nursery is managed 'brilliantly' and how staff 'adore' the children who attend.”

The inspector said that, to further improve early years provision, the nursery should support staff to broaden their teaching of mathematical concepts.

Baker Street director Chloe Baker said she was "overwhelmed" by the report.

She said: “Our staff, children and families are so proud of the nursery we are building at Baker Street Yate and are just so happy that we had the opportunity to showcase this during our recent Ofsted inspection.

“We were delighted that our passion shone through and were overwhelmed by our families’ positive feedback.

“We cannot wait to continue on this exciting journey and truly look forward to meeting more local children and their families.”

Trees, bees and many flower seeds later, the Local Nature Action Plan has bloomed in North Yate!

Supported by funding from West of England Combined Authority (WECA), this month we’ve been building mansions for mini beasts and planting for pollinators in our parks and open spaces in North Yate. We invite you to take a walk in the parks, to enjoy these spaces as they buzz with wildlife and colour! To find out more about our LNAP, fly by our website Parks, Open Spaces & Sport page.

Randolph Avenue Soil Bunds Randolph Avenue soil bunds have now been planted with wild flower seeds.

The soil was donated by Barratt Homes to form a “bund” and YTC overseeded it with wildflower mix.

Covid Memorial Dedicated Fruit Orchard Project The Covid Memorial Fruit Orchard Project, planted in March 2023, currently contains 25 fruit trees; a mix of apple, pear and plum. YTC is now contacting South Gloucestershire Council for permission to plant further trees to expand the orchard further, for trees for general dedications.

If you would like a tree planted in memory of a loved one, with a dedication plaque, please contact us for further details.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Hidden Gems on South Gloucestershire high streets

Discover unique and quirky finds across South Gloucestershire, on urban high streets and market towns, at small, independent businesses offering friendly service and something out of the ordinary.

Beach Boudoir

Eclectic Gift Shop

At the end of Chipping Sodbury High Street, Beach Boudoir is a specialist swimwear shop that opened in 2021. They offer a wide range of bikinis, swimming costumes, and beach coverups. Vicky, the owner, enjoys helping customers explore new styles. Whether you’re looking for a fresh holiday outfit or planning a girls' trip, Beach Boudoir has over 100 styles in sizes ranging from small to plus, there’s something for everyone.

Discover unique, locally made gifts at Hanham’s Eclectic Gift Shop. They have an amazing range of Bristolthemed items, such as locally brewed beer, cider, and gin, prints of Bristol landmarks, clothing, jewellery, and more. Nicola, the owner, is passionate about supporting local artists and makers saying ‘you know when you buy something here you are supporting independent makers.’

Chipping Sodbury

www.beachboudoirbb.com

Hanham

Safari Rock Softplay café Thornbury

Looking for a place to unwind while your kids play? Safari Rock is a family-friendly softplay café. Owner Aimee designed the play area with parents in mind, so you can always keep an eye on your little ones without having to climb around inside the equipment. They also offer animal encounter days, where kids can meet exotic animals, reptiles, and insects. www.safarirock.co.uk

www.eclecticgiftshop.co.uk

Fresco Fish Kingswood

Fabrics Plus Downend

Fabrics Plus is a haven for crafters. They offer a diverse range of supplies, including quilting, dressmaking, and upholstery fabrics, yarn, patterns, haberdashery, fabric dyes, and felting equipment.

Owner Robin and the team are experienced crafters themselves and provide guidance on fabric and yarn choices. They also offer classes on various crafts.

Fresco Fish on Regent Street is a traditional fishmonger with an impressive selection of fish and seafood. From wild sardines to organic salmon and dressed crab, they have something for every taste. Michael, the owner, and his staff are always available to provide advice on preparation, storage, and cooking. www.frescofishmarket.co.uk

www.fabrics-plus.co.uk

The Friendly Eco Staple Hill

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Filton

Need help with a broken smartphone, a slow-running computer or something not quite right with your laptop?

The goto IT team offer free diagnostics and clear, jargon free, explanations to ensure customers understand the issues and solutions. They also provide IT support for local businesses of all sizes. www.goto-it.co.uk

The Friendly Eco is a sustainable parenting store.

They specialise in cloth nappies and offer a range of brands. Owner Freya is passionate about promoting sustainability and diversity, offering toiletries, reusable sanitary products, plastic-free lunchbox supplies, wooden toys, and children’s books.

They also provide nappy classes to help families make informed decisions. www.thefriendlyeco.co.uk

Bike Station Yate

Bike Station has been serving the community for 19 years.

They have a wide selection of bikes for adults and children, including road, mountain, and electric bikes. Jude and Pat, the owners, provide expert advice on choosing the right bike, bike fitting, and saddle options for a comfortable ride. They also have a fully equipped workshop for manual and electric bikes so, if your bike needs a repair, suspension servicing, or your electric bike battery has gone dead you can book in with their qualified bike mechanic. www.bikestationuk.com

Supporting small, independent businesses on our high streets is a great way to contribute to the local economy. In South Gloucestershire, there are plenty of free parking spaces available for short and long stays on our high streets so make sure you check out a hidden gem and other independent businesses on their local high street on your next shopping trip.

yate&sodburyvoice

18

July, 2023

n LOCAL MP

Protecting green spaces must be council's top priority IN the coming months, South Gloucestershire Council will be taking important decisions about where to build large housing developments, how to support our local bus services, and how much to invest in our roads.

Our towns and villages have seen unprecedented levels of housing in the past few years. We know that South Gloucestershire simply does not have the infrastructure to accommodate thousands more houses. It has never been clearer.

Building over 700 more houses off St Johns Way in Chipping Sodbury would be a mistake.

This would more than double the number of houses along St John’s Way and would increase pressure on schools, health services and our local road

network.

The proposals would also create more congestion and raise issues about road safety and the impact on local pollution levels.

That’s why this new council should place protecting our local towns and villages like Chipping Sodbury at the heart of its mission.

It should be firm with urban areas like Bristol and Bath that they need to take their fair share of housing, something that government ministers have clearly said should be the case.

Alongside residents, I have taken up the fight to protect our greenbelt time and again, as I did regarding the flawed plan that would put 725 homes on the land off St John’s Way in Chipping Sodbury.

Armed with hundreds of residents’ views from my survey, together we demonstrated the strength of feeling the community has for this proposal. I also recently received clear, written assurances from Government Ministers that areas such as Bristol should be taking an additional 35% of housing need, to stop further pressure being put on our GP services, our schools, and our roads.

With a new council administration now in place, it is vital that its leaders keep up this fight, and pledge to throw out these unacceptable proposals.

The Council will be judged by how well it protects our green spaces from overdevelopment.

South Gloucestershire is the best place in the country to

Luke Hall MP writes for Yate & Sodbury Voice

live, work and raise a family. No wonder developers want to build here.

However, we cannot allow the council to give the green light to developments which put our roads, GP services and schools under further pressure.

Protecting our precious green spaces needs to be this council’s core mission.

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Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

19

n NEWS

Festival brings a buzz to Chipping Sodbury

Festival Princess Millie-May Batten and her attendants Sarah Dendy and Imogen Allen are officially crowned

Jellyfish on the carnival parade ORGANISERS have thanked the hundreds of people who attended, performed, sponsored or otherwise helped make this year's Chipping Sodbury Festival a success.

The 10-day festival's theme was 'Ship Ahoy!' - and as well as plenty of nautical entries in the carnival parade the theme was to be found throughout the event, having been chosen to mark the 40th anniversary of the landlocked Chipping Sodbury Yacht Club.

Chipping Sodbury Festival Society chair Kate Cox said: "From bunting and bears to cream teas and quizzes, the festival team brought an amazing showcase of events to our market town.

"Highlights included the crowning of Millie-May Batten

as the 2023 Festival Princess and also her attendants Sarah Dendy and Imogen Allen.

"An Arts Trail, Music in the Street, and the Lion’s Club Carnival were once again a huge success, as were the morning talks, school concerts, and craft workshops .

"The Yacht Club’s talk had the whole audience joining with the club’s choir in a rendition of their anthem!

"The Picnic in the Park was the perfect way to round off this magnificent festival, and after a week of sun, even the rain held

Dancers at the Music in the Street event off until after the boat races and a fantastic musical performance from the Rock Choir."

Anyone who would like to get involved in planning next year's

festival should email csfestival. adm@gmail.com or visit www. chippingsodburyfestival.com.

Award-winning young actors bring Shakespeare to Sodbury MEMBERS of Sodbury Players Youth Section have taken on the challenge of bringing Shakespeare's classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet to the stage.

The group had to break for almost two years for the pandemic but since returning to rehearsals last September they have won a series of awards.

Their production Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr last year won the Best Youth Production awards at the 2022 NODA South West awards.

They also won last year's 5 Counties

Youth Theatre competition for original play The Dream We Never Lost Tonight and Best Youth cup, along with second place overall, in the Avon Short Play Festival in March this year for In the Noir Garden.

Both plays were written by Ross Brown, who has adapted the latest production of Romeo and Juliet, which will be staged at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, from July 20-22.

Ross said: "This production of Romeo and Juliet uses Shakespeare's text but

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

is set to be an immersive, contemporary and original take featuring a thrust stage, a range of music from the 70's to today, singing, dance and stage combat.

"Our aim is to entertain everyone, even if they are not fond of Shakespeare or if they find it hard to follow.

"By using music, dance and other theatre styles, we hope to tell this classic story in an eclectic way. It has been a great challenge for our youth and their leaders."

For tickets visit www.sodburyplayers. org.uk.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

21

n YATE HERITAGE CENTRE

Women in charge

IT is very tempting when summoning up images of life in past decades to imagine local business and trade to be solely the preserve of men.

Where a woman was behind the counter of a draper’s shop or haberdashery, there might nevertheless be a man in charge behind the scenes doing the finances - but research into business and trade before 1939 reveals a more complex picture.

At the turn of the 20th century, a core of women ran businesses in Yate and Sodbury. This emerged either from inheritance or the death of a husband.

In Chipping Sodbury in 1903, Mrs T.G. Coggan ran the post-office, while Mrs E Trotman owned the butcher business, normally the preserve of men.

The pattern continued in 1914.

Miss Emily Dixon and Elizabeth Dowding, mother of the renowned photographer Murray Dowding, ran the ironmonger’s business on Broad Street, Sodbury.

Ann Matthews ran a general store in the town, and Constance Dixon was a glass and china dealer.

Yet, it is in the field of public houses where women clearly prevailed. Often, “mine host” ruling the roost in a public house was seen as a man, yet women publicans were commonplace.

At the Portcullis Hotel in 1903, Elizabeth Codrington was the publican and was responsible for managing Jinnie Trotman, niece and barmaid, and Amy Hardinger, the hotel waitress.

At the Railway Hotel in Yate, Frances M Maidment was the publican, followed by Mrs S Cox in 1923.

Another supposed male preserve was beer sales but even here, a Mrs M Le Gassack was a beer retailer in Chipping Sodbury from 1935 to 1939.

While notions of equality in the workplace would take many more decades to be established - the 1939 Yate electoral roll confirms the clear majority of women

Yate's Railway Hotel in the 1920s. At the time the pub was run by a female publican, Mrs Cox. in the town were described as housewives - nevertheless, in the world of small, family businesses, women have been in charge for far

longer than many people realise.

Yate Heritage Centre is part of Yate Town Council.

David Hardill

Diary dates: Until July 29: Romans around Yate display July 5-15: Yate Academy Art Exhibition.

July 8: Viking and Saxon day July 15th Meet a Roman July 19, 7.30pm: Yate Lecture Series – Joseph Lancaster and the British School Movement, with Terry Ransome.

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22

yate&sodburyvoice

n NEWS

July, 2023

Dodington Parish councillors and staff at Woodchester play area as a young resident tries the new slide.

Time to play!

NEW play equipment has been installed in Woodchester play area, off Shire Way in Yate, in time for the summer holidays.

Dodington Parish Council took over the responsibility of the play area from South Gloucestershire Council in 2018 and, after a consultation with residents, commissioned a new embankment slide, climbing rope and balance equipment, at a cost of £17,700.

The council said the previous slide had been "damaged beyond repair".

Dodington’s project support assistant, Liz Hazelby, said: “We had a brilliant response to a consultation with residents – thank you to everyone who completed our survey or emailed in.

"It is wonderful to see children enjoying the new equipment, which has given the play area a new lease of life ahead of the summer holidays.

"We have taken all the comments we received during the consultation on board and will be looking to make further improvements to the play area in the future."

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yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

23

n NEWS

Double treat for fans of the classics

Scooter riders ready to hit the road. Picture: Rich McD

Adrian Rush and Bob Holt at the start of the Classic Vehicle Run. Picture: Doug Lodge

CHIPPING Sodbury hosted two events for classic vehicle lovers during June, with Yate & Sodbury Scooter Club's rally followed closely by Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club's Classic Vehicle Run.

night a little later in the year once decided.”

The club's next event is its annual Soul Night at Sodbury Town Hall on October 7.

Yate & Sodbury Scooter Club Festival DOZENS of classic scooters took to the streets of Chipping Sodbury for Yate & Sodbury Scooter Club's second annual scooter festival.

The three-day event at Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club

from June 16 to 18 raised more than £4,500 for charity.

Andy Davis, who founded the club with brother-in-law Kevin Milford, said: “We had around 150 scooterists from various parts of the UK camping for the weekend, with around 80 classic scooters attend the event.”

In total six live bands played on Friday and Saturday night, playing to hundreds of local people, who enjoyed a free show of scooters old and new.

Andy added: “We were also asked to support the carnival procession, so a few of us joined in for the parade to the High Street.

Andy thanked the rugby club, Chipping Sodbury Town Trust, residents and club members whose hard work had made the event a success, and said the money raised was "phenomenal and unexpected".

He said: “We will be donating to local charities but haven’t decided which ones. We will be holding a charity presentation

This rare three-wheeler took part in the Classic Vehicle Run. Picture: Doug Lodge

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Rotary Classic Vehicle Run IN glorious sunshine 200 classic cars, vans and motorbikes of all colours, shapes and sizes lined up in Chipping Sodbury High Street on June 25, for the 27th running of the Rotary annual vehicle run.

Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club president Bob Holt and town mayor Adrian Rush, lined up at the start to greet the participants as they set off on a tour including a break at Dowty Sports and Social Club, Gloucester, where teas, coffees and home-made cake were served up by members of the Inner Wheel Club of Chipping

Sodbury.

Crowds came out both to see the start of the run and to see some of the rare vehicles on display at the Ridings afterwards, with entertainment provided from the Rock Choir.

Prizes were awarded for ‘Best Car’, ‘Best Motorcycle’ and ‘Best Theme’ participants and the winners were David Britton, Mel Cullum and Peter Adams respectively.

Bob said: "Another terrific event staged by our club, and it was gratifying to see so many people, participants and members of the public clearly enjoying themselves.

"This is our major fundraising event of the year and, once more, I must pay tribute to Mark Benstock and his team for staging such an eye catching and successful event."

To find out more about membership of Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club email csrotaryapplication@gmail. com.

An American classic. Picture: Doug Lodge

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

24

n WHAT'S ON

July 1 n MUSIC IN THE MEADOWS WITH RUSSELL WATSON & GUESTS, Iron Acton Parish Meadows. Gates open 6pm. UK’s best selling classical artist with the Bristol Millennium Orchestra. Tickets in advance only. More details at www. actonaid.org.uk.

July 10 n BRISTOL BUDGERIGAR SOCIETY young bird competition, 7.30pm, Little Stoke Baptist Church, Kingsway, Little Stoke. Visitors welcome, with no commitment to join. More details from secretary Ron Ramplin at ronnie.ramplin@ btinternet.com or 0774 874 0794.

July 11 n SODBURY AND DISTRICT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT society practice class - learn how to arrange flowers. Also chairman’s evening on July 25, with modern button hole challenge. The Old Grammar School Rooms, Chipping Sodbury, 7.30pm. More information from 0117 937 3836 or rosemary.cummings2@gmail.com.

July 20 n SHOPMOBILITY South Gloucestershire drop-in 20th anniversary celebration event, Yate Library, 2pm to 4pm. All welcome. For more details call 01454 868718.

July 20-22 n SODBURY PLAYERS YOUTH SECTION present Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, adapted

by Ross Brown, Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, 7.30pm. For tickets visit www.sodburyplayers.org.uk.

July 30 n BRASS ON THE GRASS, Lilliput Park, Chipping Sodbury, 2.304.30pm. Free afternoon of brass band music featuring modern and traditional pieces, provided by Dodington Parish Band & Council.

Bring a picnic. Light refreshments available, for donations to local charity.

REGULAR EVENTS: Monday n GENTLE YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga class 9.30am. Easy to follow gentle yoga, ideal for back pain relief and joint issues. A slowerpaced, mindful and lighter yoga in Chipping Sodbury with experienced teacher. Beginners Welcomed. Sodbury Masonic Hall, 1 Hatters Lane, Chipping Sodbury. From £6.00. Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353 n YATE & SODBURY ART & CRAFT CLUB meets every Monday, 7-9 pm at Ridgewood Community Centre. Painting, drawing, collage and many other crafts in a friendly informal setting. £5 per session.

More information at yateandsodburyartsociety.weebly.com or call Roz on 07941 946412. n FLOW-IN YOGA WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga classes 6.15pm & 7.45pm in Chipping Sodbury. Become more flexible, worry less and sleep better with an easy to follow flowing yoga.

Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353 n YATE & DISTRICT BOWLING CLUB in Moorland Road meets every Monday evening from May to mid-September from 5.30pm for club practice night. Home and away friendly matches, also ladies and men's leagues run throughout the summer season. Call 01454 882230 for more information.

Tuesday n YATE POETRY GROUP meets every Tuesday morning. Small, informal and friendly group to share and enjoy poems. For details

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July, 2023

and to learn more about the venue, contact Tony on 0770 4140682 or email yatepoetrygroup@gmail.com. n SUNRIDGE GOLF CROQUET CLUB meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in Coalpit Heath and has players at all levels.

Learn how to play, club equipment is available to use. To find out more contact croquet@wilko.eclipse. co.uk or call 07977 201440. n SOUTH COTSWOLD PROBUS GROUP meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month at Masonic Hall Sodbury, 10am. Contact Pete Chaplin for details. 01454 324956. n YATE & SODBURY ART & CRAFT CLUB (POTTERY SECTION) meets every Tuesday and Wednesday, 7.30-9.30 pm at Ridgewood Community Centre. Tuition available. £5 per session. More information at yateandsodburyartsociety.weebly.com or call Roz on 07941 946412. n YATE CHORAL SOCIETY rehearses at St. Nicholas' Church Centre, Chargrove, Yate, 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. For details call 07833 597114 n PUCKLECHURCH FOLK DANCING CLUB, Pucklechurch Community Hall, Abson Road, every other Tuesday from 7.3010.15pm. All welcome, with a partner or solo. Call Alan on 07812 508396 or Linda on 07843 240414 f.

Wednesday n LINE DANCE CLASSES AT RIDGEWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE, Wednesdays 9.30am to 12. Cost £5 No partner needed. A fun way to keep fit, reduce stress, improve memory and make new life long friends.

Contact Gill 07837 784816, or FB gill.butler.90 n GENTLE YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga class 9.30am (term time). Easy to follow gentle yoga, ideal for back pain relief and joint issues.

Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353 n CRAFT MORNING, St Mary's Church, Yate, 10am-midday. Bring a project, get help learning something new or just come to sit and chat, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit. Small donation requested to support church heating. n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@ yahoo.co.uk

WE WOULD LOVE TO PUBLICISE YOUR EVENT Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS

in no more than 40 words.

Send by email, with 'what's on' as the subject, to contact@ yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Thursday n GOLDEN OLDIES SING & SMILE SESSIONS, Cambrian Green Court, Wellington Road, every third Thursday from 10.3011.30am. Sing along to hits of the 50s onwards, chat and laugh with friends. £3 donation to attend. Call 01761 470006 for more details. n COELIAC UK LOCAL CAFÉ MEET UP occurs every third Thursday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iron Acton Garden Centre cafe. Join us to share experiences of living gluten free. For further info contact volunteering@coeliac.org.uk. n YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly Flow-in Yoga 6.15pm & Calm-in Yoga 7.45pm in Chipping Sodbury. Become more flexible, worry less and sleep better with an easy to follow yoga. Beginners Welcomed. Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre. From £6.00.

Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353

n BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR Always been keen to sing? Come along to our rehearsal nights, 7pm - 9.15pm on Thursdays in St Andrew's Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. No need to read music, no audition, just a voice test to establish whether you are tenor, baritone of bass. We cover many musical styles, enjoy singing in a great social vibe as we prepare for our regular concerts in local and national venues. From the Beatles to Mozart, from classical choruses to classic pop. Ffi : www. bristolmvc.org.uk ; facebook; or contact Steve: secretary@ bristolmvc.org.uk;or ring 07776447699; or 07587143 Sunday n TEAS ON SUNDAY at Old Sodbury Church, 2.30-4.30pm, every Sunday and bank holiday Monday until August.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

n NEWS

25

Isla wins

Children's parking crackdown CHILDREN at a Yate infant school launched their own street patrol to stop unsafe parking.

Members of Broadway Infant School's council put on high vis jackets and grabbed clipboards as they made sure drivers were not using the zigzag lines outside the entrance on Broadway.

The school has also bought 'parking buddies', signs reminding motorists to think before they park, after receiving a grant from Avon and Somerset Police Community Trust.

Headteacher Jodie Tumelty said: "Parking outside has always been a concern to the school, parents and local residents.

"Many cars park on the zigzag lines directly outside of school,

Broadway Infant School councillors and head teacher Jodie Tumelty which makes it unsafe for the families arriving and leaving the school.

"Parents and carers arriving at school on the morning the parking buddies were launched were very supportive and pleased to see the new initiative in place.

"Broadway hopes that these

make a difference to the parking and safety of the school."

The school councillors told drivers they were not allowed to park on zigzags from 8-10am and 2-4pm, and said: "It is important that cars don’t park on the zigzags because children could get hurt."

A PUPIL at St John’s Mead Primary School in Chipping Sodbury beat off stiff competition from other budding young poets to scoop a prize in Metro Mayor Dan Norris’s Easter Egg Poem competition.

Isla Williams, aged nine, was awarded the Top Bard prize after impressing with her thoughtful poem about the history of chocolate egg and how her her favourite Easter tradition is the egg hunt.

The competition was organised for Metro Mayor Dan Norris's campaign to celebrate the West of England’s role in the creation of the popular treat.

Mr Norris said: "Whittling the applicants down was certainly a tough ask, but Isla’s poem really stood out for me. It had great rhymes, and was really funny well done Isla!”

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26

n LIBRARY

n NEWS

Library update THE Summer Reading Challenge Ready, Steady, Read - is back at Yate Library from July 8.

It is for all primary school-age children, aged four to 11, who are being challenged to read six books

by September 9 to earn a medal, with activities planned throughout the holidays.

The library stages many other regular events, including a craft group on July 15 and 22 from 10am-noon, legal advice from 10am-noon on July 6 and regular events for parents and pre-school children on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings.

For bookings and more information on any event call 01454 868006, speak to a member of staff at the library, email yate. library@southglos.gov.uk or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries.

The library is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 10am5.30pm, Thursday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 9am-2pm.

yate&sodburyvoice

July, 2023

20 years for Shopmobility A CHARITY is celebrating 20 years of making shopping more accessible for people with disabilities.

Shopmobility South Gloucestershire was set up in July 2003 by Keith Holloway, from Thornbury, who called a meeting in Dodington Parish Council hall after seeing a mobility scheme for shoppers elsewhere.

Planning started and the service began operating in 2006.

Based in Yate Library at Yate Shopping Centre, it provides mobility scooter and wheelchair hire on a daily and longer-term basis to help people who have limited mobility use the centre and other nearby services.

Its opening hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 9.30am to 4pm, with free daily hire for people with a concessionary bus pass.

Vice-chair David Bell, who was at the original meeting in 2003, said: "I am so pleased that Shopmobility South Glos is still going strong after all these years.

"We have been able to help so many people in

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that time."

Trustee Linda Banister said: "What an incredible service this is! I survived bone cancer in 2020/1 and unfortunately had to lose a leg in the process. Whilst recovering, a friend mentioned the Shopmobility service to me.

"I visited Shopmobility and the lovely (project manager) Sheridan Crew was kind and extremely helpful. He patiently showed me how to use the scooter, what to do and not to do, and how to dismantle it to go in the back of my friend's Mini.

It enabled me to go on my first holiday.

Chair Janet Biggin said: "I am very proud with the service we provide for people who wish to remain independent, in using our wheelchairs and mobility scooters to go shopping, visit friends, or needing to hire a wheelchair following surgery.

"We are aware of the issues with isolation and know that our service helps to overcome this in allowing people to get out and about."

People can pre-book a scooter or wheelchair by calling 01454 868718 or 07999 574474, emailing shopmobilitysouthglos@yahoo.com or visiting the office.

Shopmobility South Gloucestershire will be holding a drop-in celebration event at Yate Library on July 20, from 2pm to 4pm.

All are welcome, including anyone interested in volunteering.

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Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

27

n NEWS

Nursery's 'friendly and devoted' staff praised A CHIPPING Sodbury nursery's well-behaved children and "devoted" staff have been praised by an inspector.

Ofsted visited First Steps Day Nursery in Hounds Road in April - its first visit for nearly six years.

The watchdog's report said the nursery was 'good' overall, and children's behaviour and attitudes were 'outstanding'.

Inspector Charlotte Adcock said the nursery has a clear and ambitious curriculum, which staff embed through their planning and daily practice.

She said: "Children are warmly welcomed by the friendly and devoted staff, whom they have formed secure relationships with.

"Children are friendly and confidently talk about what they are doing. They behave exceptionally well and are respectful of their friends and staff.”

The report said staff “enthusiastically” join in with children's play and use these

Children and staff at First Steps Day Nursery moments to extend children's learning, such as their mathematical understanding.

The inspector found parents had many positive things to say about the nursery, feeling that their children were "in safe hands".

She said: "Parents comment that there is a 'strong sense of community and belonging'.

They feel included in every part of their child's learning and understand their next steps and progress."

The report praised staff for

carefully planning a range of opportunities based on children's interests and what they need to learn next.

The inspector said: “This positively ignites children's curiosity and thirst for learning.

Children particularly enjoy group-time activities.

"Overall, staff challenge children's abilities and check they understand what is being taught.”

Children with special educational needs or disabilities were supported “exceptionally

well”, the report said.

The inspector said that to further improve, staff should work to consistently meet the needs of all children who take part in group times, especially those who are quieter than others.

First Steps proprietors Clare Saphier & Hollie Dennis said: "We are very proud of all of the children and staff at First Steps and we feel that the inspector experienced the warm, friendly and positive nursery environment.

“We were particularly pleased to be awarded 'outstanding' in behaviour and attitudes. The children were praised for their exceptional behaviour and staff were recognised for being great role models and being respectful.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our dedicated, enthusiastic and highly motivated staff who make First Steps the happy nursery that it is.”

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29

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Children at school in Genieri

Bob Holt and Andy Kybert. Picture: Doug Lodge

Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club IT was with great pleasure that our club President, Bob Holt, welcomed and inducted new member Andy Kybert to the club at our June meeting.

Fifteen club members and partners travelled to the French city of Toulon in May, to join Rotarians from one of the Toulon clubs, Mannheim and La Spezia. Our hosts had prepared an excellent programme over four days to celebrate their 75th anniversary: a memorable experience for all of us who attended.

Last month I mentioned that we had collected over £1,200 in donations from the five tea dances held between October and May. The club has decided to share this sum between the Alzheimer's Society and the Oasis Memory Cafe, which meets at the Baptist Church in Chipping Sodbury every fortnight.

We have made a financial contribution to St John’s Mead School's residential trip to the Kilve Outdoor Centre in Somerset for a group of Year 5 and 6 children.

The annual Rotary district boules tournament is now underway. So far, our Thunderboules team has won both

of its matches. Our other team has yet to play.

On July 19 the club will have a stand at the Yate Ageing Better Festival in Yate Shopping Centre.

Please come along and have a chat with one of our members on the stand.

We will be delighted to share our experience of Rotary membership.

We are a friendly and very active club, and keen to grow our membership, both men and women, from the current 40.

Stuart Fraser

Yate WI WE had a wonderful visit from the Guide Dogs Association, including a guide dog owner and dog, and two trainers with a puppy, at our June meeting.

Our visitors talked about their roles in fundraising and preparing the puppies for training.

Yate WI meets on the second Monday of the month, at 7pm for a 7.30pm start, at Poole Court in Yate.

Our Committee works hard to ensure that we have a variety of activities, from speakers to quizzes, games and demonstrations.

We always enjoy a hot drink, biscuits and chit-chat.

We meet in a small cosy room which means no-one is left out making friends is our aim.

We also meet in smaller groups for craft, coffee mornings, supper club and, when the weather is good, for local walks.

If you would like to join us, you will be assured of a warm welcome.

For more information email us at yatewiavon@gmail.com, or just come along to our next meeting at Poole Court.

Sharon Bower

Yate-Genieri Community Link MALARIA kills over 700,000 children under five worldwide, every year – that is one child every 30 seconds.

The rainy season has begun in Gambia and the mosquitoes are out and biting.

The Yate-Genieri Link has, over many years, provided hundreds of mosquito nets, but medicine (Coartem) is now urgently needed to treat cases of malaria as they arise.

Testing strips are also needed to make sure that the patient really has malaria and not a cold or flu: paracetamol is cheap. Coartem is expensive!

You can help us to help. Enter the Yate-Genieri Community Link Summer Quiz for £5, and you can provide a life-saving treatment for a child.

It’s easier than last year’s quiz, and there are cash prizes to be won - the amount of cash will depend upon the number of participants, so tell your friends!

Go to www.yategenierilink.org.

uk for more details and to buy your quiz entry via PayPal - or email genierilink@gmail.com for other payment options.

Your Summer Quiz entry form will be sent to you by email.

The closing date is September 7.

Marian Gilpin

Chipping Sodbury WI THE last WI meeting did not turn out as expected, as the booked speaker failed to arrive at the Town Hall.

However, the WI ladies are very resourceful, and we were certainly entertained by Mary, one of our committee members who opened our eyes to her life growing up in Scotland as a child.

Stories of outdoor toilets, no running water and later, when she got married, the sheer pleasure of having an inside loo - even though it had to be shared with another family.

Mary has been looking into her ancestry and remarked that when she was young, parents and grandparents did not talk about her family history.

This rang true with my own aunt, who said that she never did ask about her family but now wishes she had.

The next meeting is on July 6 at 7.30pm, in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, with Dr Gillian White talking about Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors very welcome Jeanette Oakley

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yate&sodburyvoice

30

n SPORT

July, 2023

Call-ups for young talents

Yate in scorching form

CHIPPING Sodbury Cricket Club is celebrating the selection of a record number of outstanding young prospects to represent Gloucestershire age-group sides this summer.

Eight players have come Chipping Sodbury's Gloucestershire through an arduous trial representatives. system to win places in county and development squads, which will soon begin a hectic calendar of matches.

Delighted Sodbury chair Jim Kendall said: “We’re very pleased to see so many players being recognised by Gloucestershire.

“We’re very fortunate to have a dedicated team of coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly with our junior players, in and out of the season, and it’s brilliant to see the hard work and dedication of everyone being rewarded.”

Several Sodbury’s senior players have produced outstanding individual performances in the first half of the league season.

Mason Poole hammered an unbeaten career-best 96 for the first XI who recovered from 104-7 to reach 285-9 at home to Gloucester, who were eventually dispatched by 116 runs, with skipper Jamie Rendell hitting 49 and following up with 5-26 from ten overs in the WEPL. Callum Mealing, 16, finished with 5-25 – his first five-for for Sodbury 2nds – to help his side win by 40 runs away to Corse & Staunton, continuing a strong start to their Gloucestershire County League campaign.

For fixtures and more details, visit the club’s Facebook page.

Steve Hill

THE men's section at Yate Hockey Club has entered two teams into the Summer League, for the first time.

The 1st team has been in imperious form, winning all three matches against Mendip, Westbury and Weston-super-Mare, scoring 18 goals and Yate 1st team squad after their 9-0 win only conceding 3.

The whole team have against Westbury. made significant contributions but the opposition have really struggled to contain the pace and skill of forwards, Josh Whittle, Rhys Gamlin and Nik Perry-Gough, who have been in electric form.

With five games left, and four of those at home, Yate have a real opportunity to get promoted into Division 2 if they continue this form.

One step below them in Division 4, the 2nd team has been set up to help develop the youngsters in a relaxed environment and bridge the gap between youth and adult hockey.

To date, the team has drawn one and lost two but the performances have been excellent, with several youngsters showing real promise.

Fitness training is taking place on Saturdays and all club members are welcome to attend.

In the winter, the club runs three ladies' teams, two men's teams plus mixed and veteran teams and a junior section.

For more information please email mail@yatehockey.com.

Andy Bethell

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10 Year Warranty’s available

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

Contact Stuart or Sue

518308

ROOFING & CLADDING

anytime inc. weekends

TREE SERVICES

Sodbury Roofing & Cladding Systems Ltd COMMERCIAL ROOFING - DOMESTIC ROOFING - FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERING A roofing company you can trust

01454 311127 07930 344943

info@sodburyroofing. co.uk www.sodburyroofing. co.uk

D. ATTWELL

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921

Find us on Yell:

PAINTING & DECORATING

RUBBISH CLEARED

Boiler installation, servicing and repairs

Full Load Full £299 Full Load Load £299£299

MAN WITH A VAN

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

TREE SERVICES

SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured

Free Quotations

Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

From as little as

£20

CALL RICHARD ON: .00 01454 800 120

+VAT

Per month

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

The Heathers Nursing Home Our aim is to give a high standard of nursing and personal care in a traditional, homely and friendly environment. The Heathers is a home of great character and charm. The interior architecture, with many of its original features, gives a perfect setting for the home comforts we aim to provide.

The Heathers Nursing Home is a privately owned, Grade 2 Listed Georgian manor house, situated within walking distance of the town centres of Chipping Sodbury, and Yate.

First Class Facilities and Support • A history of providing 24 hour, high quality care in South Gloucestershire • Each resident is unique to us and treated as such • The home is small and family run, offering a highly personalised service • Exceptional standards of cleanliness and hygiene • Respite, residential care and day care available • Special diets catered for by our expert Chefs

Get in touch and speak with our team, or arrange a viewing to see our facilities for yourself.

Aneesh – Registered Manager • Julie – General Manager

Telephone 01454 312726 or Email info@heathersnursinghome.co.uk

www.3abcare.co.uk