Yate & Sodbury Voice June 2024

Big fine for danger cars

AN "aggressive and unapproachable" Yate man who left up to 17 cars abandoned on a Yate street has been hit with a massive bill.

South Gloucestershire Council said the number of cars Daryl Wallington, of Bredon, left in a "dangerous condition" made neighbours feel unsafe – and they were afraid to complain to him.

The council prosecuted the 60 year old, who has now been ordered to pay a total of £5,363 in fines and costs for breaching a Community Protection Notice

aimed at stopping antisocial behaviour.

Bristol Magistrates Court heard that the council first became aware of Wallington’s activities in 2014 following reports of abandoned vehicles. They used legal powers to deal with some of the vehicles, which seemed to have alleviated the problem.

But a council spokesperson said that two years ago, complaints started to rise again.

Turn to page 2

Top boozer

A CHIPPING Sodbury pub has been named the best in the region by beer lovers.

PAGE 9

Festival feeling

Yate and Chipping Sodbury will host three major festivals in June. PAGE 3

Lights surprise

A PENSIONER who missed the Northern Lights on a special trip to Norway got to see them appear above his patio in Chipping Sodbury.

PAGE 13

Clare elected PCC

LABOUR’S Clare Moody has been elected as Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner, narrowly defeating Conservative Mark Shelford.

PAGE 4

AN inspector has praised the 'family feel' of St Mary's Pre-school in Yate. Full story: Page 7

yate&sodburyvoice

July deadline

Our July edition deadline is June 19.

Yate & Sodbury Voice contacts

Ken McCormick, Editor contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Follow

Your views

Advertising Enquiries

Richard Drew, Publisher 01454 800 120

contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com Search for yate and sodbury voice

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

COMPLAINTS

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101

Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk

General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

NHS Health Call 111

Well Aware

Man fined over 'dangerous' cars

From page 1

They specifically related to Bredon in Yate.

The spokesperson said: "Site visits were made and seven vehicles were noted that appeared abandoned and without tax. Notices were issued against each vehicle.

"A number of letters were sent to the council from Wallington, which acknowledged the vehicles in question, but he contested that he owned the land and that the vehicles were therefore not causing any nuisance."

The council said the dumped cars were having an impact on residents.

The spokesperson said: "Many residents had stated how they fear the area will become unsafe due to broken glass, leaking fluids and the dangerous condition of the vehicles and that they felt the area had become unsightly, affecting house prices and supporting the ‘broken windows’ theory of crime and anti-social behaviour.

health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk

Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Yate & Sodbury Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Yate & Sodbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Yate & Sodbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

"Residents had also reported they were fearful of Wallington who they perceived as aggressive and unapproachable."

The vehicles also took up parking spaces that meant other families couldn't park near their homes.

A spokesperson said that in total, over ten years, there were complaints over 17 different vehicles.

Wallington was given a

Community Protection Warning (CPW) in September, which ordered him to have all the unroadworthy, untaxed or uninsured vehicles safely and legally removed from the public highway, communal parking areas and publicly accessible land and disposed of.

But the amount of vehicles began to rise further, with Wallington failing to discuss the matter with the council.

At Bristol Magistrates Court in May he was found guilty in his absence of breaching a Community Protection Notice relating to the storage of abandoned vehicles and was handed a £2,500 fine, ordered to pay £1,863 in costs and a £1,000 victim surcharge, making a total of £5,363.

Council cabinet member for environmental enforcement Sean Rhodes said: “We’re pleased to see this case finally conclude after a lengthy period, due to Wallington failing to engage with the council about the issues caused by his vehicles.

“The sheer volume of abandoned vehicles in this case has clearly been a serious concern for other residents of the area, so I’m very happy we’ve been able to bring this to court.”

Residents are encouraged to report street issues to the council’s StreetCare helpdesk on 01454 868000, email streetcare@southglos.gov.uk or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ report.

Some of the vehicles abandoned by Daryl Wallington in Yate

n NEWS

Month of festivals ahead for Yate and Sodbury

Yate and Chipping Sodbury will host three major festivals in June.

The Big Lunch

THIS year's Chipping Sodbury Big Lunch has an ABBA and 1970s theme.

The free get-together in Broad Street takes place on the first Sunday of June.

Last year's event, linked to the King's Coronation, brought thousands onto the streets.

This time organisers are promising a "Super Trouper street party", with hula hooping, glitter face-painting, local dance acts performing to ABBA songs and live performances from singer Rhiannon Williamson and Mamma Mia tribute trio The Dynamos, who will also teach the audience how to reenact some well-known dance moves.

Organisers Sarah Todd and Alexandra Arnall said: "It’s 50 years since ABBA won Eurovision and here at the Big Lunch, we don’t need any more of an excuse to thank them for the music.

"Once again, thanks to local grants and donations, we have managed to put on a packed line up of amazing entertainment this year.

"And don’t forget, the Big Lunch is and always will be completely free.

"It’s a way of celebrating our local community and bringing people together with a traditional street party and a good sprinkling of fun!

"All we ask is that you support the event by buying a raffle ticket on the day if you can.

"So get your glad rags on, pack a picnic, bring your tables and chairs, and if rain is forecast you can bring a gazebo, and come to Broad Street for a day of free fun."

The event will take place on June 2 from noon to 5pm.

Children and adults are invited to dress up in 1970s or ABBA outfits, with a competition judged by Chipping Sodbury mayor Adrian Rush at 3pm.

The event is part of the

national Big Lunch initiative and aims to encourage a sense of community spirit and combat loneliness.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ ChippingSodburyBigLunch.

Chipping Sodbury Festival

THIS year's Chipping Sodbury Festival includes ten days of events from June 14, culminating in three big outdoor events on the weekend of June 22-23.

The all-day Street Fayre, from 10am to 5pm on Saturday June 22 will include the town's carnival procession, starting at 3pm, and will be followed by the free Music in the Street show in

Broad Street from 6.45-11pm, headlined by local band For the Record.

The following day the festival closes with the Picnic in the Park event at Jubilee Park, from 2-5pm, with live music and children's activities.

Before that there will be dozens of events at the Town Hall, Old Grammar School, Goldney house, St John's Church and other venues, from concerts, quiz nights, treasure hunts and an arts trail to a cooking demonstration with celebrity chef Romy Gill MBE.

There will be a children's competition called 'Count your Chips' to see how many versions of Chip the dog are in shop windows, replacing the 'Spot the Error' competition.

This year the festival has a theme – Movie Magic – which will run through many of the performances and displays,

and will also be the theme of the Chipping Sodbury Lions Carnival Day. One change this year is that there will no longer be a festival princess and attendants, with organisers deciding that the role's time had passed.

For more details visit the website chippingsodburyfestival.com, or the festival Facebook page.

Yate Rocks...in the Park

YATE will not be missing out on the festival action in June.

The 17th Yate Rocks…in the Park Festival takes place on June 22 and 23 in Kingsgate Park, with music from local bands plus dance displays from local clubs and academies.

For the main Yate rocks event on Saturday, from noon to 8pm, bands include Longshots, Rhiannon Paige & Wild Rose and Limited Edition, while dance groups include Yasmins, 5678 Dance and StreetCred.

There will be stalls, a beer tent, children's rides, an inflatable helter skelter and climbing wall and activities including football skills and junior go-karts.

Sunday's events, from 10.30am-4.30pm, include choirs from Raysfield School, Fascinating Rhythm juniors and adults, Bristol Show Choir, Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir and the Rock Choir.

The event is supported by Yate town Council – for more information visit yatetowncouncil.gov.uk.

The Big Lunch team get into the 1970s spirit

A band performing at Yate Rocks last year. Picture: Rich McD

Chip the dog will be seen in shop windows during the festival

Labour wins police commissioner election

LABOUR’S Clare Moody has been elected as Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner, narrowly defeating Conservative Mark Shelford.

Just over 300,000 people across the region voted on May 2 in the election to choose the person who will set the direction of policing and hold the chief constable to account for the next four years.

Ms Moody received 95,982 votes, 4,976 ahead of incumbent Mr Shelford, who had 91,006.

The Greens' Katy Grant was third and Liberal Democrat Benet Allen was fourth. For the first time since the post was created in 2012, no independent candidate stood in the election.

Turnout was just over 23% — down from over 30% in 2021, when the election was held on the same day as the West of England Metro Mayor vote.

This time the only place an all-out vote was happening at the

same time was Bristol, where city council elections were held.

The higher turnout in the city was decisive: Mr Shelford topped the poll in all areas apart from Bristol, where Ms Moody picked up almost half of her votes. The Bristol votes were also enough to take Ms Grant past Mr Allen into third place overall.

In South Gloucestershire, Mr Shelford received 17,528 votes to Ms Moody's 15,192, with Ms Grant in third on 6,283 and Mr Allen fourth on 5,678.

The only other election in South Gloucestershire was a byelection in the New Cheltenham ward, which Labour retained after Cllr Sandie Davis resigned for health reasons in March.

Speaking at the declaration, Ms Moody said: "The priorities that I have are those that I campaigned on, which is about neighbourhood policing, it is around reducing violent crime, and that is particularly knife crime and violence against women and children. And it is also building that crime prevention that saves people from having to suffer from crime in the first place."

Mr Shelford did not speak at the count but later sent a message thanking supporters, and wishing Ms Moody "every success".

He said: "I'm proud of my achievements in the last three years and have worked with some amazing partners across Avon and Somerset Police and beyond."

South Gloucestershire Council says it was investigating four complaints from electors that postal votes had not been delivered to them in time to vote and send them back.

People whose postal vote does not arrive in time can vote in person at their local polling station but must take photo ID, which is not required to apply for a postal vote.

A spokesperson could not confirm how many returned postal votes had arrived back after the election was over, as the information is not required by the Electoral Commission.

Overall result:

Clare Moody (Labour) - 95,982

Mark Shelford (Conservative)91,006

Katy Grant (Green) - 64,623

Benet Allen (Liberal Democrat) - 45,864

PCC column: Page 14

Complaints after postal votes arrive late

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council says it is investigating complaints that postal votes did not arrive in time for the police and crime commissioner election.

One of those who was affected was Julian Bartram, from Yate, who had not received his postal vote by polling day.

He said: “It’s very inconvenient to me, because of course the whole point of a postal vote is you do it by post. Also part of the

reason I did is I didn’t want to fart around with ID.”

Photo ID needs to be shown when voting in person — but not if voting by post.

Postal voters who have received their ballot paper packs late can hand them in to a polling station without photo ID before polls close without having photo ID.

But those whose voting packs did not arrive at all need photo ID to cast an in-person vote – and

anyone away on election day will be unable to vote at all.

A council spokesperson said its elections team had received four complaints from voters but could not confirm how many votes arrived back after the election, because it does not keep records of this.

A council spokesperson said: “Approximately 40 postal packs were hand-delivered by Royal Mail after the initial mail-out, due

to complications at the Royal Mail sorting centre.

"Although the packs were received later than the others, those people still had enough time to cast their votes.

“Anyone affected by the Royal Mail issues was able to apply for a replacement Postal Vote in person at our Badminton Road office in Yate on Election Day, and we apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.”

Clare Moody

n NEWS

Queen at Badminton

QUEEN Camilla helped celebrate a landmark anniversary when she was guest of honour at the 75th running of the MARS Badminton Horse Trials.

The Badminton estate, near Chipping Sodbury, has hosted what has become a major international sporting event since 1949.

Some 200,000 spectators crowd into the park each spring to see top riders being tested in dressage, over tough crosscountry fences and in the final showjumping phase.

To mark the anniversary the Queen, who is patron of the governing body British Equestrian, watched the showjumping and presented the Challenge Badminton Horse Trials Trophy to winner Caroline Powell.

Earlier she also met some of the riders who contested this year’s event and past winners, among them record-holding sixtimes victor Lucinda Green.

Other anniversary events

saw many former winners meet up in the main arena, among them the “galloping nurse” Jane Holderness-Roddam, who used to work at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, and triumphed back in 1968 on her horse Our Nobby.

A pop-up museum was also set up, featuring photographs and artefacts from the past seven decades.

Sport: Page 37

Restaurant wins tables battle

A POPULAR Mexican restaurant in Chipping Sodbury is looking forward to a busy summer after overturning a council decision to refuse permission to use outside space for extra tables.

Last year, Amigos Cocina had used two parking spaces outside its premises for four tables and eight benches to be used during good weather. But the restaurant’s application to Sodbury Town Council to use the space outside on The Pitchings again this year was unexpectedly refused in April.

Councillors decided that the space had not been well used last year and that the loss of two parking spaces for the whole summer was not justified by the amount of use by restaurant customers.

Owner Shamsi Kabbara organised a petition which attracted over 1,600 signatures, from people who urged the council to rethink – and at a council meeting on May 14, attended by supporters of the restaurant, the decision was reversed.

On the restaurant’s Facebook page where Shamsi told her

supporters: "We got our seating approved.

"Thank you all for your support -we are so overwhelmed.

"A huge thank-you to everyone that attended the meeting and spoke – I did get a little emotional.

"Let’s pray for some good weather now!”

Amigos Cocina is a Mexican family restaurant run by Shamsi, her husband Dave and daughter Yasmine.

Dave received a double lung transplant in 2019, but despite the medical issues they have faced, the family have since built a thriving eatery.

The town council had said the outside area with four tables and eight benches, taking up two parking spaces, "wasn’t well used last year – and was hardly ever used during the day except on occasions when the High Street was closed to traffic for other events.”

Chipping Sodbury businessman and former town mayor James Ball was among those who baked the family, saying they had been "singled out".

Queen Camilla presents the winner's trophy to Caroline Powell. Picture copyright Badminton Horse Trials Ltd

Big boost for Paul's Place

A COALPIT Heath charity is set to launch a new service for adults with disabilities, thanks to a £66,000 grant.

Paul’s Place will launch a brand-new inhouse volunteering service to help physically disabled adults to volunteer, thanks to the award from national grant giving charity Global's Make Some Noise fund.

Global supports hundreds of small charities across the UK.

Paul’s Place, which is currently based at Coalpit Heath Cricket Club but is set to take over the Shire Way Community Centre in Yate later this year, says it will use the funds "to upskill and build confidence for physically disabled adults to actively volunteer through its brand-new in-house volunteering service".

The charity said: "Many of the people using services at Paul’s Place have untapped skills and knowledge that they’re eager to use in the community.

"They could also gain vital work experience through volunteering that could lead to future employment. Yet, many volunteer opportunities are not fully accessible outside of our day facility and evening programmes."

The charity will use the money to recruit a volunteer development officer and fund the resources needed to enable physically disabled

adults to volunteer.

The volunteer officer would work closely with the 37 members of Paul’s Place to build their self-confidence and skills.

Paul's Place says the project is inspired by current member Andy Batten, from Coalpit Heath, who had to leave his career as a builder after becoming disabled following an accident later in life, which affected his mental health.

When the charity discovered Andy was a builder by trade, staff offered him the chance to use his skills around its day facility, doing light maintenance and DIY work, in line with its aim of empowering disabled people.

He now runs regular woodwork and archery skill sessions for other members.

Andy said: "It’s something that keeps me alive.

"The accident made me feel useless.

"Paul’s Place is a lifeline for me. I now feel useful and enjoy being here.

"Sometimes people think I’m just another member on the days I am in.

"It sometimes surprises them to learn I’m volunteering that day. It’s changing people’s perceptions."

Paul's Place wanted more of its members to get similar opportunities, to either learn skills to enable them to work or to give them the

social and personal benefits of volunteering.

The charity's fundraising and communications manager Kayley Waller said: "We are honoured to have been chosen by Global’s Make Some Noise and look forward to being able to share more stories of the disabled adults taking part in the project.

"We want to show what people are capable of when given the right opportunities, as well as removing preconceptions some may have about what a disabled life could be."

For more information visit www. paulsplace.org.uk.

Dodington Parish Council’s Noticeboard – May 2024

Paul's Place volunteer and member Andy Batten

n NEWS

Praise for pre-school with 'family feel'

AN inspector has praised a Yate pre-school's skilful staff, varied curriculum and strong partnerships with parents.

Regulator Ofsted visited St Mary’s PreSchool, at St Marys Youth Centre in Church Road, in March.

Inspector Marie Swindells found the pre-school, which has 60 children aged from two to four on its roll, was 'good' in all areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development.

The inspector said: "Children benefit from warm, loving interactions from the attentive staff.

"Partnerships with parents are strong.

"Parent feedback is highly complimentary. They say their children make great progress, and they comment on the 'family feel' of the pre-school."

The inspector said children are "supported to learn the skills required to be independent for their transition to school and successful future learning".

She praised the way staff supported learning language "confidently weave mathematical language into children's play".

Children and staff at St Mary’s Pre-School in Yate

The report said: “Children benefit from a varied curriculum that is based around what they need to learn next.

"They make good progress while at preschool. All areas of children's learning are promoted well.

"There is a particularly strong focus on supporting children's speech and language and personal skills. Staff spend a lot of time using simple language with two-year-old children.”

The inspector said the pre-school is "fully inclusive", with activities planned to ensure all children can participate, including

those with special educational needs or disabilities.

St Michael’s provides care between 9am and 3pm each weekday, during term time only. It employs nine members of staff.

It was the first visit by the regulator to St Mary's for six years, when it was rated 'outstanding' under a previous marking system.

Proprietor Rachel Moore welcomed the inspector’s findings.

She said: "I’d like to thank all my staff team for all their amazing dedication towards all the children and their families in our care and thank all the parents who choose us.

"My staff team are incredible – they ensure all children’s learning is tailored for their developmental needs.

"They work tirelessly to ensure our environment provides a loving, calm, safe place for all children, where they are valued and respected equally and given opportunities to learn and develop and believe in themselves.

"Thank you to our children for being who they are."

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

Horseshoe is Pub of the Year

A CHIPPING Sodbury landlord says he is proud and delighted after his pub was named the Campaign for Real Ale’s Bristol & District Pub of The Year.

The beer champions visited The Horseshoe in Chipping Sodbury in May to present publican Matt Lewis with the award.

The award is voted for by CAMRA members and is not just about beer quality.

CAMRA said: "The judges commented that they particularly liked the atmosphere, friendly staff, community focus and overall impression of The Horseshoe."

Significantly, the High Street pub is defying recent trends by not serving food.

Matt said: "We aim to be like a real traditional country pub.

“We’re not doing food because there is no need, we excel because of the quality of our beer, cider, lagers, everything, so we just focus on that.

"It is unusual but we are finding we are doing better without the food at the moment.

"Overheads are smaller as a result and when all the utility bills are going through the roof for gas and electricity, we don’t have the same problem as other pubs.”

Matt has been landlord for around 18 months, together with his wife Joanne, having previously worked at the pub as manager.

He says that they have tried to gradually improve the premises to make it more

welcoming for customers.

Matt said: "We have redecorated throughout and recently refurbished the gents toilets to get things up to a higher standard. It doesn’t sound very exciting but it is to me to have a really fresh change to the facilities.”

When it comes to winning awards it is the beer that counts to CAMRA, and that is something that the Horseshoe is very proud about.

Matt said: "For the award it doesn’t matter how many beers you have, but we do like to keep seven of our ales.

“Not many pubs around can keep seven or want to – so that is our USP.

"But this is not a new thing – we’ve been in the Good Beer Guide for about seven years now, so we have been steadily building our reputation.“

Winning the Bristol & District Award gives The Horseshoe entry into the South West Pub of the Year competition, with seven other district winners, and Matt hopes that more success could be on the horizon.

He said: "After that it's the National Pub of the Year, and it would be great to do well in that, too!”

Our Services

• Conservatories, Georgian, Victorian, Lean-to or Guardian warm roof system. All to suit your individual taste and budget.

• Double glazed windows and doorsContemporary or Traditional. Choice of colours, range and styles.

• Roofing - Pitched and Flat Roofs. At last, a proven permanent solution for flat roofs with RubberBond EPDM proven to last over 50 years.

• Fascia, Soffits & Guttering - PVCu Solid replacement Fascias, Soil stacks and Cladding. Guttering and Soffits.

Matt Lewis of the Horseshoe receives the Pub of the Year award from a representative of CAMRA

Developer slapped down over flats plan

COUNCILLORS have blocked plans to move a proposed bike store from inside a new block of flats to the back garden after hearing the developer’s reason – fire safety – was bogus.

The change would have seen 80 bike racks relocate to two sheds behind a complex of 40 apartments on the site of the former Railway Inn pub in Yate.

But South Gloucestershire Council’s transport officer told a planning committee that the applicants were “disingenuous” by claiming the move out of the main building was needed because of the danger of e-bike and e-scooter lithium batteries bursting into flames.

Myles Kidd said the developers never mentioned these concerns when they submitted the original plans, which received permission in 2021 and included the internal storage.

Applicants The Railway Building Company’s planning agent Kit Stokes told the development control committee on May 9 that the National Fire Chiefs Council advised keeping e-bikes and e-scooters externally and not indoors, near a staircase leading to homes.

He said the site in Station Road was due to be bought by housing provider Places For People, which intended to make all 40 flats available as “affordable housing” and whose preference was to have the bike store outside.

Planning officers advised councillors to give the goahead, saying the number of

bike racks remained unchanged at 80 and that this was twice that required by the authority’s policy.

They said that although the scheme had shortfalls, these would not justify a refusal.

But in an unusual public display of disagreement among council officers, Mr Kidd said: “The reason I wanted to speak is I do not agree with the recommendation in the officer report.”

He said it would be much less convenient for residents to get their bicycles from the garden and then wheel them through the property than if they were inside, which was why the council “generally fails to encourage people to cycle”.

Mr Kidd said: “The original proposal was an excellent example of good design, and what has been changed here, for very spurious reasons which I fully disagree with, is on the basis of fire safety.

“While there have been news

reports on lithium batteries overheating and exploding into flames, my understanding is that the cause is generally poor quality batteries, as in fakes, or damaged batteries.

“The fire risk is not constrained to electric bicycles, it could be the case for any lithium battery, from your mobile phone to the enormous battery in an electric car, and yet integral car parking under your house is considered safe.

“In all likelihood, if you have an electric bicycle, you will take the battery o ff and charge it in your flat.

“There are no charging points in the new bike sheds, so the implication is that the batteries will be charged in the dwellings.”

Mr Kidd told members there was also 30% less car parking on site than the council’s policy required.

In a report to the committee he added that the developers raised concerns over e-bike

and e-scooter fire hazards as a reason for the relocation.

He said: “I am not aware of these concerns being raised in the consented application and I find this reasoning to be disingenuous.”

Ward councillor Chris Willmore (Lib Dem, Yate North) told the meeting: “The arguments about fire safety of batteries is a total, utter red herring.

“If you have an e-bike with a battery which you need to charge, if you can’t store it in a secure fire-proof store in the building, you will take the battery out and take it to your flat and we will then have batteries in as many of the flats that have e-bikes.

“If anything, that increases the fire risk.”

The indoor bike racks would have become a general storage area under the plans.

Committee member Cllr Jayne Stansfield (Lib Dem, Thornbury) said: “I’m also finding this application disingenuous.

“If you needed a plant room and storage, that would have been designed-in in the first place.”

A report to the committee heard the application was "part retrospective as the external alterations have already been carried out”.

Councillors voted to refuse permission by 8-1 votes.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Retiring beekeeper has beehives for sale. WBC and National hives. Good condition £90 per hive

Contact:

01454 218563

The Railway Inn was demolished for the development

First look at new M4 bridge

NATIONAL Highways has revealed a glimpse of what the replacement for the Badminton Road bridge over the M4 could look like.

The government agency, which is responsible for the crossing, closed the existing bridge in July last year after engineers found "structural failures" during a routine inspection.

The bridge was being used by around 16,000 vehicles a day when it closed, severing the A432 between Cuckoo Lane and the Avon Ring Road for motor traffic.

Around 87,000 vehicles a day pass underneath it on the M4.

National Highways say the new bridge will be what is known as an "online replacement", following a similar alignment and footprint to the existing bridge.

It says this is "the quickest and most economically effective option for replacement" as it uses the same land as the current bridge, with less planning red tape and consultation, less disruption and less impact on surrounding woodland than other

options.

The agency says: "Pedestrian and cycling facilities will be much improved, with wider shared footways and higher parapets."

National Highways has now carried out two of three planned closures of the M4 linked to the current stage of work, with the last one due on June 13, from 9.30pm until 6am.

There will be further motorway closures in

the autumn and winter, as utilities like pipes and cables currently in the bridge structure are rerouted under the motorway, before the bridge is demolished.

Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to use the bridge up until demolition, which is due to take place before the end of the year.

For more information on the bridge and diversions, visit tinyurl.com/368yk6yc and www.southglos.gov.uk/BMRclosure.

Row over 'intolerable' junction

An MP has called for an end to the "intolerable" delays caused by traffic restrictions at the Hambrook lights – sparking a furious response.

Jack Lopresti has joined Conservative councillors representing wards near the junction of the Avon Ring Road and Bristol Road to call on South Gloucestershire Council to either reverse or rethink the restrictions.

They say they are backing residents who have signed an online petition, which has gained around 4,000 supporters, calling for the changes – which

divert traffic heading towards Winterbourne around the M32 roundabout – to be reversed.

But the Liberal Democrat council cabinet member in charge of infrastructure says it is "ridiculous" that the Tories are demanding changes to arrangements they introduced when they were still in charge of the council in 2019, at the insistence of a Conservative government.

The online petition calls on the council to either reinstate the right turn from the Avon Ring Road towards Winterbourne, and allow traffic to drive

straight across from Frenchay to Hambrook, or to "provide a viable alternative route".

Calls to rethink the closure have increased since the closure of the A432 Badminton Road bridge over the M4.

Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Mr Lopresti said: "The situation at Hambrook junction is intolerable and creates inconvenience for local residents and visitors alike.

"That is why I will be petitioning the House of Commons and the government to urge South Gloucestershire Council to restore the junction

to how it used to be, before these measures were taken."

Council cabinet member Chris Willmore, part of the Lib Dem/Labour administration which took over when the Tories lost power last year, said the restrictions were put in place almost five years ago "following a direction from the Secretary of State" to tackle pollution at the junction.

She said: "It is ridiculous that councillors and MPs are calling for the council to change something set by the government in Westminster."

A 'concept' design of the new bridge. Image: National Highways

Ladden View care home, opening this September will provide high quality care to its residents, as well as a hair salon, café and cinema.

Northern lights dance over Yate and Sodbury

PEOPLE living in the Yate and Chipping Sodbury had a rare chance to see the Northern Lights above their heads, thanks to a huge solar storm.

The green, red, purple, pink and blue lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are caused by ejections from the Sun disturbing gases in the Earth's magnetosphere, and are more commonly seen in the Arctic Circle, with northern Scotland usually the most likely place to see them in the UK.

But on the night of May 10-11 an extreme geomagnetic storm, caused by the approaching peak in the 11-year solar cycle, combined with clear skies overhead meant the lights could be seen late at night across the UK, including over South Gloucestershire.

The lights could be more easily spotted using a smartphone or digital camera than the naked eye, as the devices enhance the colours.

For 90-year-old Trevor Marsh, the event was the fulfilment of a lifetime dream.

Following several unsuccessful attempts to see the lights in Norway, they finally appeared above his house on the Birds estate in Chipping Sodbury.

Daughter Helen said: "Despite now being 90 years young, Dad has had a few trips to Norway in recent years to hopefully see them but has sadly never been successful.

"We were both therefore delighted to finally see them on the evening of May 10 from his very own patio at home in Chipping Sodbury!

"The colours weren't quite as bright to the naked eye, but you could still see the rays and the hazy burgundy sky.

"It was a very special moment and Dad said it was 'just brilliant'."

Samantha Rudge took her picture from near Greenways Road in Yate.

And members of the Yate & District u3a Photography Group captured the lights from Yate Common.

The lights are expected to be visible again in the coming weeks, if the weather allows: experts say the sunspot cluster that caused the last display will be facing the Earth again around the beginning of June.

Helen Marsh and dad Trevor outside his house in Chipping Sodbury, with the lights above

Samantha Rudge's picture

College vision is praised n

A COLLEGE with thousands of students across the region has been praised for its "clear and ambitious vision" for education and training.

South Gloucestershire and Stroud college (SGS) was rated 'good' overall by regulator Ofsted, with 'outstanding' ratings for its adult learning programmes and students' personal development.

The college, formed from the merger of Filton and Stroud colleges in 2012, has six main campuses from central Bristol to Berkeley and Stroud, with around 3,800 learners aged 16 to 18, the same number of adult learners plus around 300 14 to 16 year olds and 900 apprentices.

A team of 15 inspectors visited the college's campuses between January and February this year.

In their report, the inspectors said: "Learners and apprentices enjoy studying in the highly inclusive environment created by staff at all levels and in all areas of the college.

"Learners and apprentices are taught curriculums that have been thoughtfully designed.

"Leaders and managers have a clear and ambitious vision for providing education and training that contributes strongly to meeting the needs of local and national employers."

College principal Sara-Jane Watkins said: "We are really proud of the judgements that Ofsted have made of SGS.

"They recognise the excellent work that staff across the college have made in their commitment and enthusiasm in delivering great education and learning for all of our learners.

"We are especially proud of the recognition that Ofsted has made of our many initiatives that we have developed in order to help so many of those disadvantaged in society.

"We want to make a positive difference to the lives of all of those we support."

Armed cop sacked

A POLICE firearms officer based in South Gloucestershire has been sacked for having sex in public places with a vulnerable woman. Avon & Somerset police said PC Ross Knox exploited the woman, despite being told she suffered from mental health issues including bipolar and borderline personality disorder, and had been the victim of both childhood abuse and domestic violence.

A police misconduct hearing was told the married father, who

had been an officer for 23 years, had sex outdoors with the woman at least four times while off duty, in 2022 and last year, and also sent her degrading messages and photos of himself in uniform and with his gun to encourage her to meet him.

Chief Constable Sarah Crew found gross misconduct proven and dismissed PC Knox without notice on May 17.

PC Knox will now be placed on a barred list preventing him from serving in policing or other law enforcement agencies again.

EAR WAX REMOVAL

• Using latest micro suction techniques

• Treatments carried out by EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONERS

• Very competitive prices

n M E S S AGE F R OM POLI CE AND CRIME C OMMISSIONER

I will be

visible and accountable to you

IT’S a privilege to have been given the opportunity to serve the people of South Gloucestershire as your newly-elected Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset.

My commitment to you was to be visible and accountable to all residents of Avon and Somerset, and I intend to fulfil this commitment now I have taken up this role. I will also be focused on the twin challenges of reducing crime and raising public confidence in our police.

I bring a wealth of experience to the role, gained from working across different sectors. I served as a Member of the European Parliament for our area, I worked at the heart of government in No. 10 Downing Street, and I was a trade union officer for over 20 years.

Prior to being elected to the PCC role, I was co-chief executive of an equality and human rights national charity. These roles have

given me a good understanding of how institutions work, and effective strategies for getting things done.

As your PCC, I will be tireless in speaking truth to power, calling out the uncomfortable, and above all, I will work to build a safer future for everyone. To do this, I will be working with community partners, police staff and police officers to understand and address the challenges we face – I am eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work.

In my time running up to the elections, the people of Avon and Somerset made their most pressing priorities clear to me. I heard that people want to see a greater connection to their local neighbourhood police and for their police service to address and reduce violent crime, particularly knife crime and male violence against women and girls. I also heard how people would like prevention of crime to be a higher priority, for the police service and

for others who run services within and for communities.

I am here to listen, and I am here to represent you. To do this, I need to truly understand how you feel and where you would like our police to prioritise their time and resources.

As I begin my term as your PCC, I will be getting out and about to hear from as many groups and individuals as I can across Avon and Somerset.

I’m also going to create a comprehensive Police and Crime Plan to address the evolving challenges in policing and to deliver lasting solutions.

I’m committed to actively listening to the concerns and priorities of residents – one way I will do this will be to run a public survey. The details for how you can take part will follow soon.

Please follow my office on our social media accounts for regular updates – you can find us

on Instagram, X, Facebook and LinkedIn – search ASPCC. I commit to being a PCC who stands for you, actively engaging with and understanding the diverse communities our police serve. Please reach out to me and my office with any concerns or suggestions you may have. For more information visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.

n

YATE HERITAGE CENTRE

Remembering trips to the seaside

HOPEFULLY you will be enjoying some summer sunshine by the time you are reading this article.

As temperatures rise, we often turn our thoughts to holidays.

The history of the holiday demonstrates how much expectations have changed. Although Yate was blessed with a railway station from as early as 1844, oral history research confirms that few locals enjoyed holidays as we understand them today.

Up until the First World War, the Yate area remained a farming community. Looking after animal stock precluded any thoughts of a week by the sea, even at nearby locations such as Weston-super-Mare.

Arguably, not going on a seaside holiday was ingrained in the farming culture.

David Gallop recalled going decades without a holiday of any kind: farming was a way of life, and holidays got in the way.

The day trip was one means of seeing the sea. The gateway to seaside adventures was the day trip to Weston.

The chapel or church outing enabled children and families to travel to Weston, whether by charabanc (mainly 1920s), bus or coach. Local buses, especially from outlying villages, were few and far between and therefore any trip was a major undertaking.

Yet holidays caught on, and soon local people started to venture further afield.

In the immediate post-war period, increasing numbers of people travelled to farflung destinations. Trains and buses enabled people to go to Weymouth, Torquay and Paignton for a week in a B&B. Local resorts also came into their own, for those unable or unwilling to go further. The train or even motorbike side car could take you to Weston or even Severn Beach.

Irene Barnard recalls a week’s holiday to Severn Beach in the 1940s. Green corrugated iron chalets resounded to the sound of heavy rain hitting the building, drowning out any conversation. The picture is completed by blocks of toilets and washbasins, offering only cold water.

The 1960s and 1970s ushered in the modern age. Newcomers

The Nelson family of Yate in Paignton, 1955. Gladys and Monica Nelson are on the far left. Picture: G Nelson

to Yate came to expect a foreign holiday.

Jim Ruston, a TV installer based in Yate Shopping Centre, recalled the mind-numbing regularity of seeing a bull or señorita statuette above the TV in the new houses of South Yate.

If finances allow, the world has now become our oyster. Today, many fret about our carbon footprint and air miles, but holidays to Florida and the Mediterranean remain de rigueur for many. Yet the nature of the holiday has changed rapidly, and the history of our seaside holidays is far from over.

The Yate by the Sea exhibition is on at Yate Heritage Centre until June 15.

Yate Heritage Centre is part of Yate Town Council.

David Hardill

Diary dates:

Until June 15: Yate by the Sea – the history of seaside holidays from Yate. Until June 15: Yate and the Bristol Blitz.

June 8: WWII event and first aid post tours (booked tours). June 19-July 13: Yate in 25 Objects

June 25, 7.30pm: Yate Lecture Series – The Skimmington Riots and Gloucestershire, with Owen Adams. £2 admission, free for Friends of YHC. Booking essential.

More information on yateheritage.co.uk or by calling 01454 862200

Colin Groves on a donkey during the family's trip to Spain in 1972.

Picture: J Groves

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Aerospace Bristol and Cameron Balloons to celebrate Bristol’s hot air ballooning heritage this summer

‘Look up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will put hot air ballooning history on display, offer a behind-the-scenes look at how hot air balloons are made, and give visitors the chance to enjoy a packed programme of family activities.

From Britain’s first modern hot air balloon, the Bristol Belle, to the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta and the incredible colours and shapes that decorate the city’s skies each August, Bristol is the home of hot air ballooning in the UK.

This summer, Aerospace Bristol and Cameron Balloons will celebrate that heritage with a temporary exhibition at the museum and a special programme of hot air balloon themed activities running throughout the summer holiday.

discover how and why hot air ballooning took off in Bristol, find out how Bedminster-based Cameron Balloons design and manufacture their amazing special shapes, and get hands-on with a range of hot air balloon themed activities.

Sally Cordwell, CEO of Aerospace Bristol, said:

a century, from the early days of powered flight to the supersonic Concorde and beyond. Thanks to this new partnership with Cameron Balloons, we’re excited to expand that story and celebrate hot air ballooning as an important part of our city’s rich aviation heritage.”

Jess Siggers, Marketing Manager of Cameron Balloons, said:

company’s inception in 1971, we’ve proudly created and built thousands of hot air balloons for pilots and operators around the world from our home of Bristol, born from the passion and vision of our founder, aeronautical engineer Don Cameron.

We’re looking forward to telling the story of Bristol’s ballooning heritage alongside Aerospace Bristol’s innovative ethos and educational qualities, celebrating the boundless possibilities of aviation together and hopefully introducing the joy and excitement of ballooning to some pilots of the future!”

‘Look Up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will give museum visitors the chance to

"Aerospace Bristol tells a fascinating story of aviation achievements spanning more than

“Cameron Balloons are thrilled to be partnering with Aerospace Bristol this summer. Since our

‘Look Up! The Story of Hot Air Ballooning in Bristol’ will run from Wednesday 24th July to Sunday 1st September. The exhibition and activities are included with museum admission and Aerospace Bristol tickets include free return visits for 12 months.

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Child of the 90s? Play your part in cutting-edge research

Researchers at the University of Bristol are calling on 31-33 year olds living in the Bristol area to take part in one of the most detailed health studies of its kind in the world.

The Children of the 90s is an internationally renowned research study, following the health and development of more than 14,000 families with a child born in Bristol and the surrounding area between April 1991 and December 1992. Researchers have used the data collected over the last 30 years to help answer important questions on key health issues, including asthma, childhood obesity, and dementia.

Almost 4,000 young people have already attended the latest @30 clinic and taken part in a series of physical and mental health measures including full-body bone density scans, liver scans and lung function tests.

Now, as the @30 clinic comes to an end in July, the Children of the 90s team want to hear from anyone who was born in or around the city in 1991/2 and would like to take part in this ground breaking

n NEWS

research. As a thank you for taking part, you’ll get £40 (bank transfer or voucher) – with free parking and travel expenses covered.

Children of the 90s Q&A with Danielle

How long have you been involved with Children of the 90s and what are your earliest memories of the study?

My earliest memories of Children of the 90s are from primary school, however at that point I wasn’t actually attending and was jealous of all my class mates getting time off school and showing off their skeleton scans!

When I was in my early 20’s I received a letter asking if I wanted to start taking part. I asked my mum if she signed me up as a baby and she did recall being approached about it. I was really excited to say I was finally part of Children of the 90s!

Why is it important to you to be involved in the study?

Not only is the clinic visit a great health check, checking areas of

my body and development that wouldn’t usually be checked, it’s also great to be taking part in a research project that will help towards the future.

What makes you continue to be part of Children of the 90s?

My first visit was similar to @30 but I was in my early 20’s. Since then our family has become part of the study – I have been coming in for CoCo (Children of the Children of the 90s) visits with my children, doing the

questionnaires and even got the hubby to sign up too!

What would you say to a participant considering taking part in the @30 clinic?

It is a really interesting few hours, from liver scans to full body scans, breathing tests and samples. It’s never a dull experience. You also get your transport costs covered and a £40 voucher for coming along, which is a nice touch.

To find out more:

Call 0117 331 0011 or text 07989 209557. Email info@ childrenofthe90s.ac.uk. There is more info about what happens at the clinic at childrenofthe90s.ac.uk/at30 –and participants only do as much or as little as they want!

Gus helps children understand deafness

A VISIT from a hearing dog was a highlight of a Yate school's events to mark Deaf Awareness Week.

The event in May, organised by the UK Council on Deafness, is held to help people understand more about the challenges faced by the deaf community and how to support them.

A week of events was held at Woodlands Primary School, in Sundridge Park which has a specialist resource base for deaf children.

Head teacher Rachel Dean said: "This is an important week in our calendar.

"The Woodlands theme for the week was 'how can we include everyone?'

"Building on our work in school on diversity, equity and inclusion, pupils learned about how small changes can make a big difference to deaf people.

"We listened to deaf people from our own school community

and in the media, who told us what is helpful to them.

"Children made posters about what they had learnt to remind everyone of the best deaf awareness top tips!

"On Friday, we were all very excited to welcome hearing dog Gus, his owner, and representatives from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to our school.

"The children learned about how hearing dogs like Gus are trained to alert deaf people to sounds they might otherwise miss.

"The children loved engaging with the dog and learning about how clever he is.

"They also asked some interesting questions about the important partnership a hearing dog has with their owner.

"Everyone was impressed by how incredibly patient Gus was, meeting everybody in the school!"

Danielle with her husband Daniel in clinic.

Hearing dog Gus and his owner with Woodlands Primary School pupils

Win tickets for Music in the Meadows

VOICE readers have the chance to win tickets to the Music in the Meadows event in Iron Acton.

Acton Aid, the charity which raises funds for local good causes, is presenting two evenings of live music in the Iron Acton Parish Meadows on July 5 and 6.

The winners of the competition will get a pair of tickets worth over £50 for either night of live music.

The Mash on Friday July 5 is headlined by the Nearly Elton tribute show, featuring the UK’s top Elton John tribute band. Frontman Lee Brady and the band play at theatres and festivals throughout the UK and Europe.

Opening the evening will be the tenpiece band Joey the Lips, who played last year and are back by popular demand. Organisers describe them as “the nation’s funkiest 10-piece band”, providing a high-energy show, with well known songs from the last 30 years.

On the following night, Saturday July 6, Britain’s best-known soprano, Lesley Garrett, will be performing.

Lesley regularly appears in opera, musical theatre and on television, and

has been performing for over 30 years, winning critical acclaim across her international career. She will be singing popular classical numbers plus songs from musical stage shows.

Backing her will be Bristol’s only professional orchestra, the Bristol Ensemble, who are making their debut appearance in the Meadows. The evening culminates with Last Night of the Proms music and a firework display.

Tickets are available at www.

actonaid.org.uk.

To enter the competition for Voice readers, go online to www.actonaid. org.uk/2024-music-competition and answer the following two questions:

1) What was the colour of the brick road that Elton John sang about?

2) In what English county was Lesley Garrett born?

The competition closes on Monday June 17 and the winner will be contacted by Monday June 24.

Steve's bird boxes make big difference

A RETIRED lecturer who found himself with time on his hands started building bird boxes – which are now flying off the shelves at a Yate charity shop.

Steve Kerner, 80, from Cromhall, started his hobby in his workshop at home 18 months ago, with all the proceeds going to Children’s Hospice South West.

Steve sells the bird boxes at craft fairs as well as his village community shop and they are now also stocked at the CHSW shop in Yate.

So far Steve’s handiwork has raised £2,000 for CHSW.

He said: "I’ve always enjoyed watching birds in the garden and I used to put out feeders and the like to encourage them in.

"I found I had some time on my hands once I had retired and I had always enjoyed carpentry, so I thought I would put my skills to good use.”

After selling the first of his bird boxes, Steve decided he wanted to donate the proceeds from them to charity – and chose Children’s Hospice South West.

He said: “The first lot literally flew out of the door!"

The bird boxes, which come with either

a wooden or slate roof, have been a real hit, with stocks of them at the Yate CHSW charity shop being snapped up within days of going on display.

Steve saw for himself the work of CHSW when he visited Charlton Farm in Wraxall last year.

He said: "The place is just phenomenal.

“The care that is provided along with the facilities for children and families just blew my mind.

Council's new plan

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council has sets out its "overarching strategy" and vision for the district to be "a fairer and greener place for all in 10 years' time".

Members of the authority approved its new Council Plan at a meeting in May.

The plan aims to set out how the council manages a growing, ageing and more diverse population, while building the right infrastructure and

protecting the environment.

It aims include:

*Focusing on renewable energy, green infrastructure, nature recovery, low carbon transport and decarbonising heating to drive the "green transition".

"Ensuring every child is able to thrive.

*Strengthening "social infrastructure", taking action to help communities cope with climate

“It enthused me even further to keep building the bird boxes and raise funds for this incredible charity.”

The bird boxes are either flat roofed, open fronted – preferred by robins, wrens and similar, or ridged, pitch roofed, with a small entry hole to the front – preferred by various tits and finches, and are sold for £10 to £15.

Steve has now also diversified his range and is also making bug houses, which are proving equally popular.

He said: "I love making them, and what makes it more special is knowing that the money is going to help an incredible charity.”

CHSW area fundraiser Amanda Leonard said: “It has been a pleasure meeting and getting to know Steve. His bird boxes are truly wonderful, and we even have two at Charlton Farm.

“We are so very grateful that Steve dedicates his spare time supporting Children's Hospice South West doing something he loves in making these beautiful bird boxes that bring joy to any garden whilst raising money along the way.”

change and reduce long-term health inequalities.

*Using council powers in planning, transport and housing to "build better places", increasing its influence on the West of England Combined Authority and government.

Council leader and Frampton Cotterell councillor Claire Young said: "We want to set a fresh direction for a fairer, greener future.

"Since the last local elections, we have had hundreds of community conversations with local people, community groups, and town and parish councils.

"The message we have heard loud and clear is that this and future generations want more affordable homes, but to retain what makes South Gloucestershire special, with its balance of places to live and our beautiful countryside.

"People also want it to be easier to get around and to be able to make the choice to travel in cleaner and greener ways, not always relying on the car.

“The vision is underpinned by a range of action plans and we will report on and demonstrate our progress to ensure that we can be held to account for our work.”

Steve Kerner with some of his boxes

n ABBOTSWOOD PHARMACY

Help keep your community pharmacy open

Pharmacist Ade Williams writes on the crisis facing a pillar of the community healthcare system.

ABBOTSWOOD Pharmacy is not just a part of the NHS, it's a vital pillar of our community's healthcare system.

It's a place that provides care for everyone and is open to everyone. We take pride in being the standard-bearers of the NHS values. However, the situation is becoming increasingly dire for us and our local colleagues, as community pharmacies across the country are closing at an alarming rate.

Recent reports now put that rate at 10 closures a week!

Why? Community pharmacies, most of them independents like ours, face a daily perfect storm of rapidly declining government funding, which no longer covers the cost of our service, while carrying the burden of high inflation.

The increased cost of operating

a dispensing pharmacy means we are left subsidising our NHS service, which is neither fair nor sustainable. Add to all this the daily workload of managing medicine shortages.

Does it matter if we close? The answer is a resounding yes.

When a pharmacy shuts its doors, it has far-reaching effects on our communities, particularly on vulnerable groups such as older people, individuals managing longterm health conditions, including those living with and caring for those with disabilities, young families, and most especially, those who don't have the means to travel to a pharmacy that is further away.

It is not only regular users that are impacted, but the entire fabric of our community is at risk.

Worse, it puts more pressure on the other local NHS and social care providers, including local pharmacies and GP Surgeries. More people seeking help, with fewer access points and appointments, only worsens things.

The evidence is that it will widen health inequity and exacerbate the pressures on the NHS.

Despite the challenges, we are heartened by the unwavering support from our patients and the community.

Your role in ordering and waiting to collect your prescription orders on time, as well as your courteous interactions with our team, all help to significantly reduce pressures, even putting smiles on our faces. Your support is not just appreciated; it's crucial to our

operations.

We are proud that opportunities like the new NHS Pharmacy First service are making a positive difference.

This service allows us to prescribe antibiotics where appropriate, guided by sensible and safe use, also better inform people about managing symptoms and when to return for treatment.

Did you know that all patients through this service receive inhouse care and NHS treatment as appropriate?

The ability to refer urgently to the GP when the surgery uses the NHS Community Pharmacy referral pathway also means a quicker, safer, easier patient care journey.

This is just the start of what is possible.

Our team will change over time, but we are optimistic that Abbotswood Pharmacy, with your continued support, can build a brighter future for healthcare in our community.

GP strike warning

HEALTH bosses have warned that there is a "real danger" of a walkout by the area's GPs after they overwhelmingly rejected a new contract from the Government.

EARACHE

(adults and children aged 1 year & above)

SINUSITIS

(adults and children aged 12 years & above)

INFECTED INSECT BITES

(adults and children aged 1 year & above)

SORE THROAT

(adults and children aged 5 years & above)

SHINGLES

(adults aged 18 years & above)

URINARY TRACT INFECTION

(women, aged 16 to 64 years)

BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS

(children aged 30 days to 2 years)

IMPETIGO

(adults and children aged 1 year & above)

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB), which funds health services in the region, said industrial action could result from the row over funding.

The British Medical Association’s GP committee chair Katie BramallStainer has warned local NHS bosses that they need to start preparing for coordinated action, expected later this year before a general election, amid a “profound workload and workforce crisis”.

In a letter to the ICB – the local health authority – she said 99.2 per cent of 19,000 GPs and GP registrars who took part in a referendum in March voted to reject the contract changes for 2024/25.

Dr Bramall-Stainer said: "Over the past decade, England has lost over 1,300 practices and thousands upon thousands of GPs.

“Despite NHS England ‘hailing hard-working GPs’, continued consecutive years of underinvestment have resulted in a profound workload and workforce crisis. This will be recognised by all ICB colleagues.

“GPs are telling us in their thousands, via both the referendum result and in our 2024 national survey of GPs, that the current status quo is not sustainable nor safe.

“The imposition of the 2024/25 contract will continue to see practices close, patients lose their GP services, and local NHS systems face increased costs as a direct result.”

ICB chief executive Shane Devlin told a board meeting in May: “The letter really highlights very clearly the notification of the real chance of some forms of industrial action within General Practice.

"We are talking about 1.4million appointments, we are talking about the front door of the health service and we are now starting to build what are the mitigations that we could put in place to keep patients safe should GPs go this particular direction."

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

n NEWS

Sodbury Fest returns

A POPULAR beer, cider and live music festival hosted by Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club is returning for a third year.

Sodbury Fest will take place on July 13 at The Ridings, where the club is currently celebrating its 75th anniversary.

Organisers have announced a line-up of live music with headliners Badness playing a 90-minute set of Madness songs.

Other acts include Bristol acoustic duo The Peppercorns, local acoustic solo artist Ross McKay, banjo-playing George Formby tribute Seb Gibson, skiffle, rock 'n'roll, country and folk act Jimmy Lee & Dyligans, 1940s tribute trio the Cats Pyjamas, Horseshoe pub DJ Alistaire Lawrence, covers band For The Record and jazz funk outfit Freeze.

There will also be performances from steel band Panache, dance group

Street Cred and a selection of entertainment for children.

Organisers are also bringing in food vendors to keep festivalgoers fuelled for the day, including a noodle bar, carvery van, Caribbean food, ice cream and doughnuts.

The Sodbury Fest Committee said: "We were so excited to bring back Sodbury Fest to The Ridings in 2024.

"We love seeing the local community come together and enjoy themselves whilst supporting their local rugby club, which has been an integral part of the town for the past 75 years.

"The event attracts approximately 2,000 visitors a year to Chipping Sodbury.

"This year we have been lucky enough to secure sponsorship from a number of local businesses including Heidelberg Materials UK to be

23rd June, local Churches will be hosting ‘Praise in the Park’ at 10:30am followed by ‘The

Grants for the Community

able to provide a free inflatable arena for the kids.

"We’re keeping our fingers crossed for good weather and looking forward to providing a day out for all the family with entertainment, drinks, food and lots of fun."

Tickets are available online for £20 per person, including

Tylers Field, BS37 7BB Beacon lit at 9:15pm

If your organisation is in need of some financial assistance and provides a beneficial service or activity for the community of Yate you can submit a grant application form to Yate Town Council for consideration.

Application forms for the 2024/2025 grants round are now available and can be obtained by email: info@yatetowncouncil gov uk Alternatively, you can download an application form from the Town Council website www yatetowncouncil gov uk

F o r m

plastic cup and programme. Under 18’s are free but must be accompanied by a responsible paying adult.

Camping is available for £10 per tent.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/ sodburyfest24.

Crowds at last year's Sodbury Fest

New health centre will be fully funded

I AM delighted to confirm the Government have agreed to make available the full funding that we asked for to redevelop Thornbury Health Centre.

At last, we have achieved what we set out to do all those years ago – getting the money we need to build a new health centre for Thornbury.

It hasn’t been easy and it has certainly been a long and hardfought campaign. But back in October last year, for the first time in decades, we received a real glimmer of hope that we could make progress.

Health Centre, we secured £1.3m to fund an initial business case for the rebuild.

It has now been announced that the Government are making available the full £14.4m we need to build a new health centre and the Health Minister Lord Markham has been clear that enabling construction work should begin as soon as possible.

support.

I am now in talks with local NHS officials, the Department of Health, and the council about the next steps and will be pushing for preliminary construction works to start as soon as possible.

Luke Hall MP writes for Yate & Sodbury Voice

Following a debate in Parliament and a petition calling on the Government to make progress on Thornbury

NHS officials have also explained that the new health centre will be able to deliver both the existing services and host new and expanded services too, including enhanced primary care services, outpatient services, GP services, and better mental health

Attempts to make this happen have been going on for decades and is something I have been working on before being elected as our local MP.

I could not be more excited to confirm that together, we have finally secured this vital funding in full.

This could not have happened without support from the community.

9364-AC-Voice-ad-2024-180x120-V1.qxp_Voice 1/2 page 15/05/2024 10:51 Page 1

Thank you to everyone who

signed my petition, filled in the surveys, and lent their support to this campaign. Without it, we simply could not have got this far, and we are now agonisingly close to getting on with the rebuild once and for all.

I will not stop fighting until our community has the health services that it deserves. It’s now time to finish the job and finally start the redevelopment of our new health centre.

ACTON COURT

Self-guided audio tours Wednesdays to Sundays 10:30 13:00 & 14:00 16:30

Admission to Acton Court gives access to the grounds, the Royal Apartments, the ground oor area and any activities that may be taking place on the day.

Admission £12 plus Eventbrite booking fee.

Thursday 27 June | 16:00 18:30

The King’s Heralds Heralds and Heraldry at the College of Arms

A talk by one of His Majesty's heralds Dr Dominic Ingram, Portcullis Pursuivant.

Admission £10 plus Eventbrite booking fee. Light refreshments included.

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 June

Tudors, Magic and Music Acton Court’s end of season weekend

Including Magician Greg Chapman, The Merchant’s House Musicians, King Henry, Lady Samantha, birds of prey, art activities and lots more. See website for details.

Admission £15 plus Eventbrite booking fee.

n NEWS

School racers power ahead

A TEAM of engineers and racers from Chipping Sodbury took their electric racing car to Leicestershire to compete in the latest round of the Greenpower Championship.

The Chipping Sodbury Secondary School Rotary Racer Greenpower team has seven drivers racing in two categories in the competition – F24 for students aged 11-16 and F24+, for older drivers aged 16-25.

Greenpower Education Trust is a UK-based charity which inspires young people around the world to excel in science, technology, engineering and maths by designing, building and racing an electric car.

Alfie Gendall, a former Chipping Sodbury student now studying at SGS, said: "All our drivers completed practice with no issues, getting our younger drivers a good experience of the track. The first F24 race of the day shortly followed.

"We started near the front of the field and as the flag dropped we immediately moved up to second place. Our drivers did very well to run consistently in the podium positions against some very fast cars, but with some good pit stops and smooth driving, we

managed to achieve a third place finish in the first race of the day."

Alfie, who won the Junior American Cup Car Racing Championship in 2020, races in the F24+ category.

He said: "We quickly got into a very exciting three car battle which lasted 16 laps. Positions swapped multiple times a lap until our car finally broke away and cruised home to a hard fought 7th place which was enough to qualify us for the final later in the year."

In the final F24 race of the day the team needed another good result to get on the overall podium and had to work their way up

from near the back of the grid.

Alfie said: "We continued to tick off the laps, gaining positions up into fourth. Fourth became third as some of our competitors pitted early to change drivers.

"The team were running comfortably in third with just five minutes to go until the car in second place stopped just on the line on the last lap. Keeping our pace consistent throughout the race allowed us to capitalise and overtake for second place on the very last lap.

"The team managed to collect a third place trophy for the F24 category overall which we were very pleased with. The team have started the year off very well and we are very pleased with the results we have had."

Alfie thanked the team's sponsors, including Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club, Chipping Sodbury Town Lands Charity, Dodington Parish Council, Beam, DS Machining and EDF, and team members' parents.

He said: "These results wouldn't be possible without them."

Potential sponsors can contact the team at rotaryracergp@gmail.com

The Greenpower Championship race at Mallory Park. Picture: Alfie Gendall

Yate & District Bowling Club

WHEN Yate & District Bowling Club were given the proceeds from the closure of the Yate Leisure Centre where they played indoor bowls, they decided that extra funds were to go to helping the local

community.

On May 5, we welcomed a number of charities to our open day and chairperson Sue Tubey presented them with cheques. We gave £400 to Shopmobility, presented to Sheridan Crew, project manager and Janet Biggin, chairman; £400 for Children’s

Hospice South West to Amanda Leonard, area fundraiser; £400 to Martin Charlton and Andy Whybrow of Men’s Shed; £400 to Tony Davis, chairman of Community Transport – Green Travel; £400 to Adrian and Sally of Yate Community Bike Hub and £200 each to Yate Hedgehog Rescue and Chipping Sodbury Hedgehog Rescue, with Anne Dyke representing Yate.

On May, 8 Yate Bowls Club held their annual Mayor’s Trophy Day and new Mayor, Ben Nutland spent a pleasant afternoon with us before presenting the trophy to the winners, John Mayhead and Maurice Hawkins.

His visit was greatly appreciated by the members of the club.

We welcome anyone who is interested in taking up the game, young or old, of any ability and experience, including beginners.

Come along on a Monday evening from 5.30pm and just have a go at bowling or have a cup of tea and a chat.

You’ll find us off the car park at Sunnyside Playing Fields, at the end of Moorlands Road in Yate. Contact secretary.yatebowls@ gmail.com for more details.

Chris Furmston

Old Sodbury WI

WE had a fabulous entertainer at our May birthday meeting. Dave Brooks turned back time and we all joined in, singing along to our favourite Elvis songs and many others. There was plenty of dancing, after a lovely supper and birthday cake.

We had welcomed a number of ladies from local WIs to help us celebrate: it was such a fun evening!

For our next meeting in June we have Becs and Annwen, medicinal herbalists from Rhyzome, coming along to tell us how we can build our resilience from our local herbs. It sounds like it will be a very interesting talk.

visits to the cinema, the theatre, lunches and afternoon teas. If you would like to know more or to come along to one of our meetings, you would be made very welcome. For more information give Sue a ring on 01454 315161

Linzie Clark

Chipping Sodbury Inner Wheel Club

A LAST-minute substitute speaker at our May meeting provided an interesting and inspiring talk on DIY bath bombs, body wash, lip balms and so on.

Paula had begun experimenting during lockdown, wanting to find something that she could send to family members and friends.

This was very popular, and the gifts have continued.

The room took on a very pleasant aroma as we sniffed various potions and creams. We were delighted to be each given a small bath bomb to take home and sample.

We are very much looking forward to celebrating the club’s 40th anniversary with lunch at Chavenage House, near Tetbury. Some 55 members, partners and friends will be gathering to reminisce and look at memorabilia from the club’s past and, of course, to enjoy a delicious meal in wonderful surroundings (and possibly to dream of Ross Poldark striding into the room, or will that be just me!)

Later in the week, several members will be joining Malvern IW at an inter-club event, celebrating the centenary of the Inner Wheel movement.

These events are always very friendly and sociable, as we enjoy getting to know members from other clubs and sharing new fundraising ideas and speakers.

Old Sodbury WI meets on the first Wednesday of the month in Old Sodbury Village Hal, a lovely hall with plenty of parking.

We have a book club and a craft group and there are a number of social outings being planned,

Our June meeting will be our AGM, and July and August meetings are both away from our usual venue, but the second Monday in September will see us back at the Town Hall and happy to welcome visitors.

Liz Pattison

yate & sodbury voice

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Upper Frome Friends

RECENT river cleans have resulted in the collection of several bags of rubbish (bottles, cans, soft plastics and wrappings), as well as footballs, tyres, plastic buckets and even a lone roller skate.

We have regular river cleans planned over the summer – and we may even find the other half of the pair!

Himalayan balsam bashing sessions have begun, to try to eliminate this invasive non-native species from the riverbanks. It grows very quickly, so it’s important that we have regular clearance sessions.

We can all help our river by not dropping rubbish, but it would be brilliant if we had more volunteers for river cleans and ‘balsam bashing’ events.

It’s a great way to meet new people, connect with our environment and training is provided. You won’t need to enter

Yate and District Townswomen’s Guild

ARE you looking to be part of an organisation that will always give a warm and friendly welcome to women of all ages?

Yate & District Townswomen’s Guild meet on the second Wednesday of each month, between 9.45am and noon at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall. Come along and experience the Fun and Friendship that TG always aims to provide.

We have an annual programme offering interesting or amusing

the river – unless you want to.

Look at the Upper Frome Friends Facebook page, join the Facebook group or contact riverfromereconnected@southglos. gov.uk for details of events and how you can join in.

We will also be at local events like ‘Yate Rocks’ on June 22-23 –come and say hello and find out more about what we do and how you can help.

Did you know that Bristol Avon Rivers Trust have a number of programmes to monitor the quality of the Frome in the Yate and Sodbury area?

A number of Upper Frome Friends are already involved in testing for nitrates and phosphates, checking for pollution events and monitoring the number of riverflies in the water.

talks, here are some.

Jane Davies

Selective Hearing

Have you ever felt the frustration of being ignored by close family, a friend or even your spouse? It might have felt as if they did it on purpose or were trying to ignore you. Have you ever wondered if they have selective hearing?

To start, an ear wax factoid: Ear wax is naturally antimicrobial. It acts to prevent bacterial infections of our ears, perhaps as our inner ears last line of defence against infection.

What is selective hearing? Scientifically, selective hearing is known as selective auditory attention, which is the ability to filter relevant from irrelevant acoustic stimuli. Rather than intentionally ignoring sounds or speech, those with selective hearing subconsciously choose to pay attention to a particular sound or voice and exclude other sounds.

Why do we have selective hearing? The ability to filter sounds is a crucial function our brains possess that allows us to concentrate on specific conversations or noises in an environment containing background noise. It is not usually an indication of a hearing disorder, but a complex process normally involving the frontal and mid aspects of our brains.

On June 12, our speaker will be Jen Davies from the charity Gympanzees; on July 10 Tony Cherry will enlighten us about the history of Thornbury Castle; on August 14 Mr Campbell of Gimbys Books will talk to us about Ladybird Books.

We have a handicrafts and games group, lunch club and gardening group for those who love plant swapping and garden visits. We also enjoy days out and are always open to new group ideas. For further information contact 01454 321731.

Christina Shinton Chairperson

Is selective hearing a bad thing? This could well be a matter of opinion, as selective hearing is often referred to in a less than positive way. Now I’m not trying to join or provoke an argument here, more provide information to facilitate understanding! On the basis that selective hearing lets us continue a conversation or listen out for a tannoy announcement in a busy environment, I’m sure you’d agree that it can be a positive trait. A technological application of selective hearing is noise cancelling headphones - as I've written before, just remember to not have these too close to your ear drums or set too loud!

When do you need to get a hearing or ear wax checkup? If you feel that you have a problem unrelated to selective hearing, such as muffled hearing, sudden or gradual hearing loss, a stuffy sensation or ringing in the ear or dizziness then you should get your ears checked for wax buildup or hearing loss.

You can now book an hearing care consultation with me, Debbie. I’m a fully qualified, registered and experienced Audiologist working at Turners Opticians in Fishponds. I’m passionate about people having access to clear effective hearing and being confident to seek further help where it is needed.

At your ear health consultation appointment you will have the opportunity to discuss any difficulties you are having with your hearing and then I can examine your ears and show you through brilliant technology, what your ears look like on the insides. If something doesn’t look or sound quite right with your ears, I’ll recommend a course of action for you.

So, if you have any concerns about your hearing or ear health - including your ears being blocked with wax, come along and see us for a friendly appointment to see how we can help you hear more clearly.

The lone roller skate

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Chipping Sodbury Morning WI

WE had the opportunity to meet twice in April: at our regular meeting a road safety team taught us how to keep driving longer, safely.

We also had a coffee morning with Bingo.

In May we learnt about Saint Wulfstan, from Hawkesbury, who was the first person to ban the slave trade in Bristol.

This month our regular meeting is on the 18th, with the opportunity to learn all about the Tudors. On July 16 we are hoping to have a jewellery-making demonstration.

We meet on the third Tuesday of the month at 10am in the Masonic Hall, Hatters Lane, Chipping Sodbury, which is a fullyaccessible building, with plenty of free parking.

Meetings last for two hours and include a coffee break, so ladies

can chat with friends and make new ones.

We have a lunch club, skittles group and a regular walk ladies are welcome to attend.

We would love to welcome any ladies who want to see what a friendly group we are.

Please call 07809 534 107 to find out more.

Sue Bird

Yate & Sodbury District u3a

THE speaker at one of the meetings of our history group was Clive Burlton.

He gave us an interesting and in-depth talk about Bristol’s Lost City, which was part of the Bristol International Exhibition, a 30-acre site in Bristol between Ashton Gate and the Cumberland Basin. It started taking shape in 1912, and was finally opened in May 1914.

The ‘lost city’ of temporary buildings was made of white

material, earning it the nickname ‘White City’, and it included a replica of Bristol Castle.

Unfortunately, it was not commercially successful and the exhibition faltered, nearly going into administration after the first month.

It struggled on until war broke out in 1914, when the men working on the exhibition had to enlist in the forces and it was finally closed.

Our group meets in the Watkins room at the Old Grammar School in Chipping Sodbury, every second Wednesday of the month from 10am-noon.

We are open to anyone interested in history and look forward to seeing you at one of our talks.

Annual membership of the u3a is just £8 a year.

For more exciting u3a groups visit our website at u3asites.org.uk/ yate-sodbury/welcome

Pauline Mullholland

Yate WI

CATHERINE from Age UK South Gloucestershire came to our May meeting to advise us of all the services and assistance that is available to over 50’s in the South Gloucestershire area.

Yate WI meets on the second Monday of the month at 7pm for 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 meet in a small cosy room which means no-one is left out, making friends is our aim.

We also meet in smaller groups. If you would like to join us, you will be assured of a warm welcome. For more information email us at or just come along to our next meeting at Poole Court.

Sharon Bower

A NEW LOOK FOR YOUR OLD KITCHEN THIS SUMMER

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Yate-Genieri Community Link

IN 2021 'the Link' successfully funded the renovation of the primary healthcare centre (PHC) in the village of Genieri In The Gambia. In 2023 we connected electricity to the centre, to provide lighting so that more efficient patient examinations could be carried out.

We have set up a system of record-keeping (in a card-index) and a system of charging for simple basic medicines, so that supplies can be replaced.

Now is the onset of the malaria season, and

although vaccinations against this killer disease are being tested, they are not yet certified by the World Health Organisation.

We therefore need to appeal once again for medicines to treat malaria. Coartem is only a treatment, not a prevention, and it costs £5 per patient.

Please help if you can – it's only the cost of a cup of coffee, and it could save a child's life.

Please go to the website www.yategenierilink. org.uk to donate or call 07837 588362 for more information.

To help raise funds I will be joining Peter McNaughton in daring to undertake a skydive on Friday June 21.

Details for sponsorship are available on our website and Facebook page.

Marian Gilpin

Chipping Sodbury WI

THE WHEN the subject of Suffragettes is discussed the name Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters Christabel, Sylvia and Adela come up.

A small group of women, based in Manchester, founded the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1903.

The WSPU aimed to "wake up the nation" to

the cause of women’s suffrage through "deeds not words".

However the Bristol Suffragette movement was strong and determined, with the Bristol 5 being imprisoned at Horfield Prison: Theresa Garnett, Ellen Pitman, Vera Wentworth, Mary Sophia Allen, and Jessie Lawes.

They were campaigning against Churchill, who had come to Bristol to deliver a speech opposing votes for women.

Another Liberal, Herbert Henry Asquith, the Prime Minister between 1908 and 1916, was also against giving women the vote.

The Bristol Branch burned down the Bristol University sporting facility and broke windows in government buildings.

The talk was given by Lucienne Boyce, who has written many books on the subject.

Our next meeting is on June 6 at 7.30pm in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, with a talk being given by Paul Barnett titled Light in the 'Darkest Hour – Dunkirk’s Little Ships'.

The next outing is the RNLI training facility in Poole with a tour of the facilities.

The WI welcomes new visitors so come and give us a try

Jeanette Oakley

Children in Genieri

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Our trains are on track for success

BRITAIN’S railway system is the oldest in the world; we invented the railways and introduced them to the globe That is something to be really proud about.

And we should celebrate our region’s role in this story. Britain’s most famous engineer, Brunel, changed the face of the English land-scape with his groundbreaking viaducts, bridg-es, and tunnels for the Great Western Railway. He set standards for a well-built railway.

Fast forward to the present day, and I’m really pleased to be able to point to some great stats about how our local railways are going full steam ahead, with more passengers than ever before.

It’s now 12 months since we introduced half-hourly services to and from Temple Meads for Yate and other local stations.

In that time, over 3.4 million journeys have been made by passengers. This is a year-onyear increase in passengers of 27%.

This impressive growth is a great news for passengers and the planet.

The new and improved services have been funded by a £7 million-plus investment by the Combined Authority and delivered by GWR

and Network Rail This substantial investment underscores our commitment to upgrading and improving our transport infrastructure.

Growing passenger numbers is my biggest priority in terms of building the sustainable West of England public transport system we all want to see.

Increased usage not only supports economic growth but also contributes significantly to our environmental goals, by reducing car dependency and lowering emissions.

But I am not stopping there: we’re planning for the future.

I’ve revived plans to electrify railway lines in the West, starting with tracks from Temple Meads. Electrification is a crucial step towards a greener, more efficient rail network, reducing delays and environmental impacts.

Additionally, I have launched a new station study. This is doing very early-stage work to look at the case for building additional stations in Lockleaze, St Anne’s, Saltford, and Ashton Gate.

Expanding our rail network with new stations is essential for improving accessibility and convenience for our passengers. These new stations could help to better connect our communities, providing more travel options and support the local economy.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

Our efforts to improve the railway system are not just about numbers and infrastructure; they are about creating a better quality of life for the residents of our region. By providing efficient, reliable, and sustainable transport options, we are making it easier for people to commute, travel, and explore.

The future of our region’s railways is looking brighter. With continued investment, innovative projects, and a clear vision, we are on track to create a transport system that is not only a source of regional pride, but also a model for others to follow.

Let’s celebrate our progress and look forward to even more improvements that will keep our trains – and our region – moving forward.

I'm a convert to the air fryer cult

MY article this month is a departure from the norm.

I like to think in my cooking I keep abreast of the times, so here goes – I am a huge convert to the air fryer!

I never thought I would utter those words, but I am unashamedly admitting that I was prejudiced. I had somehow got it into my head that air fryers were just for chicken nuggets and chips, and that no self-respecting cook would want one.

It turns out that I was completely wrong.

I will still be using my super Neff ovens and hob for certain recipes, but there are many dishes that I will now do in my air fryer (AF for short).

These can be done quickly, economically and often more

healthily than with traditional ovens and hobs. Especially as we move towards summer, it makes great sense to spend less time in a

01454 32 26 66

Lasting Powers of Attorney only £75 + VAT each

A Single or Joint Will only £75 + VAT

Probate Services from only £250 + VAT

Single Will and Power of Attorney package only £125 + VAT

Protect your Home against Nursing Home and Care Fees from only £250 + VAT

• Over 55’s only

• Home and Office appointments with Disabled Access

Call now, quoting “Yate & Sodbury Voice”

hot kitchen and less time washing up pans.

There is plenty of advice out there on which AF to buy, so I won’t go into that. What you need to bear in mind is the number of people you will be cooking for routinely and, most importantly, your worktop space. Remember the AF has a lid, so you will have to allow clearance for that, so no shelves directly above. As these are very much the thing at the moment - it's estimated that 30% of households now own one – there are lots of offers on.

So there you have it, I've been converted. But don’t just take my word for it, have a look at Jamie’s Channel 4 series. We can’t both be wrong, can we?

Crispy Chicken Schnitzel Two Ways

This is a light, quick summer dish, perfect for a casual lunch. You can cook it in either an air fryer or a conventional oven – I've included the traditional method at the end.

As a sceptic, I was delighted and amazed at how crispy and quick this was cooked in the AF.

Serves 2

Ingredients:

● Chicken fillet – 2 medium chicken breast fillets beaten out with a rolling pin between 2 pieces of cling film, or get your friendly butcher to do it.

● Panko breadcrumbs (lighter and crispier than ordinary breadcrumbs.) – 50g

● 1 small egg- lightly whisked

● Plain flour – 25g

● Dried mixed herbs – 3- 4 tablespoons

● Olive oil

● Lemon wedges

Ann Murray founded the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury. She’s teamed up with Yate & Sodbury Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen.

Frozen sweet potato fries can also be cooked in the AF. Use the 'cook and crisp' tray at the bottom on 200C for 15 mins after you have cooked the schnitzel. Cover the chicken in foil to keep warm whilst cooking the fries.

Here’s what you do:

● Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the dried herbs. Place in a shallow dish.

● Place the egg in another shallow dish.

● Place the flour on a plate.

● Preheat the AF to 200C for 3 mins

● Season the chicken on both sides.

● Dip the schnitzel in the flour, shaking off the excess.

● Dip n the egg, then the breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to coat.

● Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the chicken all over.

● Arrange the schnitzels in a single layer in the bottom basket having brushed the bottom of the basket with oil.(Cut each schnitzel in half if it fits the bottom of the basket better.)

● Set the timer for 12 mins, turning halfway through. The schnitzel should be golden, crispy and cooked through. Cook for a further 4 mins if not done.

● Cook sweet potato fries to serve if wished. See above.

● Serve with plenty of lemon wedges and a salad of your choice or try my suggestion above.

IF COOKING CONVENTIONALLY:

● Prepare the schnitzel as above.

● Heat a pan to a medium heat.

● Add 1-2 inches of olive oil to a sauté pan. Sauté the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side.

● Lift out onto kitchen paper and blot to remove any excess oil.

● Serve with lemon, salad and fries as above. Lindsey House, Oaklands Business Park Armstrong Way, Yate, Bristol BS37 5NA

To serve: Salad of watercress, thinly sliced strawberries and cucumber.

June 15

n WHAT'S ON

JUNE

May 31 and June 1

n TMTG TIME-TRAVELLING CONCERT ‘JOURNEY BACK TO THE FUTURE’, 2.30pm and 7.30pm at Thornbury Methodist Church upstairs hall. Tickets £10 plus booking fee from www.tmtg.org.uk/tickets or Lisa Costa Estate Agent, 53 High Street, Thornbury, from May 1.

June 1

n AVON FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE CHARITY CAR WASH at Yate Fire Station, Station Road, 10am-4pm, in aid of the Fire Fighters Charity and SARAID.

June 2

n TEAS ON SUNDAYS and bank holiday Mondays are being held throughout the summer at Old Sodbury Church, from 2.30-4.30pm. Tea, cakes, entertainment on certain Sundays. All welcome.

June 2

n CHIPPING SODBURY BIG LUNCH, Broad Street, noon-5pm. ABBA and 1970s-themed street party with free family fun. For further information visit www.facebook.com/ ChippingSodburyBigLunch.

June 3-22

n U3A YATE & SODBURY ART GROUP Summer Showcase at Yate Library during opening hours. Pictures available for sale. Visit u3asites.org. uk/yate-sodbury/welcome for more details about u3a.

June 6

n CHIPPING SODBURY RFC Youth touch rugby sessions for Year 6 to 9 children, every Thursday for 12 weeks at the Ridings. More details from Lucy on 07342 249195 or csrfctouchrugby@yahoo.com.

June 8th

n CRAFT AND GIFT FAYRE! Chipping Sodbury Town Hall. Saturday 8th June - 10am till 4pm. 35+ stalls of locally Handmade Crafts & Gifts, Cakes, Refreshments and More! Voluntary Entrance fee (20p) to be donated to The Cotswolds Cats & Dogs Home. Email bythewoodsfayres@hotmail. com for more info.

June 14-23

n CHIPPING SODBURY FESTIVAL - ten days of concerts, workshops, events and activities leading up to street fair and carnival on June 22 and picnic in the park on June 23. More details elsewhere in the Voice and at chippingsodburyfestival.com.

yate & sodbury voice

n BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER FOR THE PEOPLE OF UKRAINE, Iron Acton Parish Hall, 8-11am. All proceeds to From Bristol With Love for Ukraine. More information at actonaid.org.uk/ events

June 15

n ROCKHAMPTON FOLK AND WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL, from 2pm, by Rockhampton church. Traditional folk from Tarren and Intarsia, African songs from the Ganda Boys, Tango Calor, Lochrian Ceilidh. Children's activities and free workshops with musicians. More information and tickets from rockhamptonfolkfest. org.uk.

June 20

n ARTS APPRECIATION GROUP at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne, 2pm. Illustrated talk by Justine Hopkins, 'Landscape Art'. More details from Sally on 07946 508316.

June 17

n FRIENDS OF KINGSGATE PARK AGM, Poole Court Heron 2 room, 7-9pm. election of new officers. More details from friendskingsgatepark@ gmail.com.

June 22

n YATE ROCKS…IN THE PARK, Kingsgate Park, noon-8pm. Free festival featuring a range of different music from local acts, dance displays, rides for children and stalls. Beer tent, food and drinks stalls.

June 23

n PRAISE IN THE PARK AND GREAT CHOIR SHOWCASE, Kingsgate Park, 10.30am-4.30pm. Outdoor service with local churches 10.30am-noon, choirs 12.15-4.30pm. Free entry.

June 30

n CHIPPING SODBURY ROTARY CLUB CLASSIC CAR RUN, gathering from 7am in Chipping Sodbury High Street for 8.30am start. returning to the high Street from 1pm onwards.

REGULAR EVENTS:

Monday

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 & 7.30pm in Chipping Sodbury. Become more flexib le, worry less and sleep better with an easy to follow flowing yoga. Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353

n BRISTOL BUDGERIGAR SOCIETY holds open meetings at Little Stoke

n LIBRARY NEWS

YATE Library is looking for friendly volunteers to join the team running the Summer Reading Challenge.

Volunteers support children, help with activities and must be 14 or over – speak to a member of staff for more details.

The library is holding two events with authors in June: An afternoon with Stephen J Cook, talking about his first novel, Angels in the Architecture, takes place on June 1 at 3pm.

On June 15 there will be an afternoon with historical novelist Lizzie Lane from 3pm.

Tickets for each event are £5, to include refreshments, and are available at sglibraries.eventbrite.com or Yate Library.

Free family friendly storytime for preschool children takes place every Tuesday morning from 9.30-10am.

Stay & play with Duplo and trains is every Tuesday and Friday during term time, from 10.30-11.30am.

Wriggle & Rhyme: Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/toddlers, Thursday and Friday from 9.30-10am.

Lego Club: June 1 from 10.30-11.30am and June 7 & 21 from 4-5pm (drop-in). Suitable for 4-10 years, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Reading group ‘Have You Read’ takes place every fourth Friday, from 10.30-11.30am.

Craft Group meets on June 1 and 15 from 10am-noon for knitting, sewing or crochet projects.

Computer support with digital champion volunteers is on Saturdays & Tuesdays from 10am-noon.

Vision West of England information, advice and support drop-in every second Thursday, 10am-noon.

Legal advice with Wards Solicitors: June 6, 10am-noon.

For more information on any event call 01454 868006, enquire at the library, email yate.library@southglos.gov.uk or visit www.southglos.gov. uk/libraries.

*CHIPPING Sodbury library is hosting a Saturday Lego club on June 8 at 10am, at The Waters Room, Old Grammar School Rooms.

Rhyme Time takes place every Friday during term time in the library from 10am to 10.30am, and is free for children aged up to four.

No need to book for either event.

Baptist Church, Kingsway, Little Stoke, at 7.30pm on the second Monday of each month. More details from Ron Ramplin at ronnie.ramplin@btinternet. com or 07748 740794. Visitors always welcome without commitment or charge.

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 slower-paced, 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

Tuesday

n YATE POETRY GROUP meets every Tuesday morning. Small, informal and friendly group to share and enjoy poems. For details and to learn more about the venue, contact Tony on 0770 4140682 or email yatepoetrygroup@gmail.com.

n SERENGETI BRASS BAND, small band for improvers, meets every Tuesday from 9.45-11.45am at Yate

Methodist Church in Moorland Road. Straightforward pressure-free music making in good company. For more information email SerengetiBrassClass@gmail.com or phone Paul on 07851 239500.

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, 7.309.30 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 7.30-10.15pm. All welcome, with a partner or solo. Call Alan on 07812 508396 or Linda on 07843 240414

Kumon Bradley Stoke Instructor Sarah Nutchey joins forces with Sonya Willman to open new Kumon centre in Emersons Green

Wednesday

from 2-4pm. New members welcome, especially men, to thriving community choir, with no auditions. First rehearsal free. For more information phone Jody on 01761 472468.

Thursday

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club

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.

Sarah Nutchey, a qualified teacher, began her Kumon career in 1998 with around 12 students, and over the last 25 years she has nurtured more than 1,400 students through the Kumon maths and English programmes.

n GOLDEN OLDIES SING & SMILE SESSIONS, Cambrian Green Court, Wellington Road, every third Thursday from 10.30-11.30am. Sing along to hits of the 50s onwards, chat and laugh with friends. £3 donation to attend. Call 01761 470006 for more details.

Sarah has been awarded Elite status numerous times as Instructor of Bradley Stoke Study Centre. To earn the prestigious Elite status, Sarah has developed students who are able to study ahead of their school level, working independently with excellent study skills, and has also nurtured students who are able to complete both the maths and the English Kumon programmes.

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

Forming a partnership with Sarah is Sonya Willman, a Kumon parent and accountant. Sonya’s six children have all studied the Kumon programmes and she brings valuable experience from a parent’s perspective.

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

OUR club was delighted to have partnered with the Yate and Sodbury Sports Network for the inaugural Family Fun Day at the Yate Outdoor Sports Complex on April 27.

The weather was unkind, but this did not detract from a good attendance and a decent amount of money was raised to go to Cancer Research UK.

via the Physionet organisation, to Zimbabwe. Some members joined Rotarians from other clubs in May to load a lorry with medical equipment for Physionet, destined for Lesotho.

Our speaker in April was Richard Lewis, a volunteer with the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, who gave members a fascinating insight into the lifesaving work undertaken around the clock both in the air and on the ground.

Club members are now helping at Culverhill School in Yate on a weekly basis, working with students on a range of gardening-related activities.

Our major fundraising event of the year beckons. On Sunday June 30 the club will stage the annual Classic Car Run.

Kumon Bradley Stoke Study Centre offers maths and English study, both paper-based and via KumonConnect, using a tablet. Classes currently run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays after school as well as Saturday mornings. Assessments are free, and without obligation.

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

Weekly Flow-in Yoga 6.15pm & Back Care Yoga 7.30pm 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

If you would like your child to build confidence in maths and English and develop their study skills, book a FREE maths and English assessment today at www.kumon.co.uk/bradley-stoke or call 07808 720208. Furthermore, to celebrate the opening of the new Kumon Emersons Green Study Centre, you can save £50 with FREE registration at both centres until 30th June.

Some of our club members really got into the spirit of the day, entertaining children and adults alike, demonstrating what can only be described as a somewhat unique human fruit machine. Recently the club has agreed to financial donations and pledges to six local schools for a variety of projects and events, the second set of awards in this Rotary year.

Kumon Bradley Stoke at The Willow Brook Centre, Bradley Stoke, BS32 8EF.

n YATE AND CHIPPING SODBURY GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR, St Mary’s Church, every Wednesday

On the international front the club made a further financial donation to Aquabox, a charity that enables the availability of safe drinking water in countries of need. We also made a donation towards transporting medical equipment,

Vehicles of all shapes and sizes and motorbikes will line up in Chipping Sodbury High Street from about 7am and will be seen off by our club president and Chipping Sodbury's mayor from 8.30am. Cars will return to the Ridings from about 1pm onwards. As always, members of the public are encouraged to come along.

Stuart Fraser

Match tribute to player and umpire Paul

PLAYERS, members and old friends turned out in force for a special match at Chipping Sodbury in memory of Paul Reynolds, who died last year at the age of 50.

Paul’s cricket career began at Sodbury, who put together a side of former team-mates for the game against Leinster, the club Paul served with distinction after moving to Dublin in 1995.

He made a towering contribution to the club, the Leinster Cricket Union and Cricket Ireland as a player, administrator and umpire who stood in some 50 internationals, the last of which was a T20 between Ireland and India in Dublin last August.

Leinster flew in over the weekend for the memorial match, Sodbury emerging narrow winners before the clouds once again opened over the Ridings.

Wet weather has continued to disrupt Sodbury’s early season activities, to the great frustration of many players who practised diligently over the winter at indoor nets, only to then see a long series of matches washed out.

In-between the showers, though, numbers at training have been so strong that

Sodbury have been able to resurrect their Saturday 5th XI, as a development side for members new to cricket and youth players stepping into the senior ranks for the first time. Several players made a big impression in the opening rounds of games, including Dave Wooton and Riley Wakefield.

Dave marked his debut for Sodbury 4ths with a terrific spell of 6-31 in a narrow defeat away to Bristol Malayalee, and youth team player Riley completed his first ever senior 50, for the 5ths, in a friendly away to Stoke Gifford.

Steve Hill

The Chipping Sodbury and Leinster teams line up before the Paul Reynolds memorial match

n TURNER'S VISION

TREE Spectacles

Choosing the perfect pair of frames can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options, each one vying for your attention with promises of style, comfort, and durability. From considering face shape and skin tone to pondering frame colours, the decision can feel weighty, especially when we’re often stuck with this choice until our next eye exam!

If you're on the hunt for frames that strike the perfect balance between a statement piece and being subtly stylish, you’ll want to consider TREE Spectacles – our latest frames boasting innovation and elegance – embodying everything you desire in eyewear.

Peter Turner of Turners Opticians 0117 962 2474 0117 965 4434

www.turnersopticians.co.uk

Who are TREE Spectacles?TREE Spectacles symbolise a modern, minimalist look, defined by their sleek form. Each frame incorporates contemporary aesthetics, crafted to showcase beauty through clean, sophisticated design.

One of the foundations of TREE Spectacles is evolution, not revolution – a powerful statement we at Turners Opticians can get behind. This ethos emphasises continuous improvement and refinement, rather than radical change, ensuring that each iteration builds upon the last, resulting in a timeless eyewear that endures.

Why TREE Spectacles?

Handcrafted with high-quality materials, the unique Italian designs add a touch of luxury to any look. TREE Spectacles’ use of innovative technical solutions and advanced materials puts this brand at the forefront of modern eyewear companies, taking inspiration from all over the world with a natural inclination towards beauty. These frames are bold and intriguing with unconventional colours that are sure to compliment any outfit.

More than just an independent label – TREE Spectacles is a brand that is visually captivating and durable, all whilst remaining stylish and fashionable – so much so that I’ve ordered a pair for myself! Breaking the mould of traditional eyewear

What sets TREE Spectacles apart from other eyewear brands is the courage to experiment with different materials such as Japanese titanium and nylon hi-tech, each known for their durability and flexibility – a must for eyewear that stands the test of time. Each pair is carefully crafted to achieve the optimal blend of crispness, cleanliness, and timelessness, exuding sophistication every time you wear them.

Paired with our range of lenses including varifocal, precise colour tinting, and everyday lenses, you can enjoy bespoke eyewear that you love, tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Need help choosing?

At Turners Opticians, we want you to look and feel your best in your new glasses. That’s why we offer a VIP personalised styling experience at both our practices, helping you choose the perfect pair to suit your style while ensuring you receive maximum comfort.

Call our Henleaze team on 0117 962 2474 or Fishponds team on 0117 965 4434 to find out more about our VIP-styling service or visit our website at www.TurnersOpticians.co.uk for further information about our glasses range.

Peter Turner is an Independent Prescribing Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, who also works as a Senior Medical Optometrist at Bristol Eye Hospital. Peter has a specialist interest in visual development and visual performance.

WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

Trust Funds - Who do you trust?

Setting up a Trust Fund may sound very “Downton Abbey” but it has become a device that can benefit so many people. And it’s no longer very expensive!

Usually they are set up in your Will and only take effect when you die.

• So when you die, the gift in your Will (whether it is your home or savings or both) is not transferred directly to the person you want to benefit.

• Instead, the gift becomes “looked after” by the Trust Fund and managed by people you trust –appropriately called your Trustees – on behalf of the person you want to benefit.

Michelle says, “At Simpson

Solicitors we offer fixed price packages for Additional Trust Protection to be added to our Wills. We will also help you prepare a Letter of Wishes to guide your Trustees and we then offer aftercare to help them.”

Care Home Fees: A popular Trust Fund for couples is to protect the assets of the first to die, so they do not get used up in paying Care Home Fees for the survivor.

Vulnerable Person: Here the vulnerable person is not considered able to manage their inheritance – they may have special needs, disability, or an addiction. So, it is protected for them and released as and when needed.

Divorce or Bankruptcy of an Adult Child: This type of Trust Fund protects your child’s inheritance until it is safe for them to receive it - without leaving your family.

Children's Trust: Used where a couple have children from a previous relationship or might have further children with a new partner after one of them has died. The survivor can continue to live in the home, but the share of the partner who died is guaranteed for their children.

John says, “To find out more about how a Trust Fund in your Will may help your family, please call us or email message@simpsonslawuk. com for a Free Review Meeting with advice in plain English.”

Free Will Review

We make it easy to get up-to-date Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney to make sure it is your wishes that are followed. Have peace of mind that everything is done properly by our award-winning team: In person meetings. Plain English advice. Clear fixed prices. No hidden costs. Protect their inheritance.

On your own: You choose who you want to inherit from you Living together: Decide if and how your partner is protected

Parent Wills: Provide for children & name Guardians to raise them

Later Life Wills: Protect inheritance from Tax and Care Home Fees

Lasting Powers of Attorney: Appoint those you trust to make decisions, in case of serious illness or injury

“We

“You

Or visit our ground floor offices by the war memorial (free parking outside): 79 Broad

Veteran rider claims dramatic Badminton win

CAROLINE Powell became the unexpected and stunned winner of the MARS Badminton Horse Trials after favourites for the title fell out of the reckoning in a drama-filled contest.

The 51-year-old held sixth place after the first two phases of dressage and crosscountry on the mare Greenacres Special Cavalier, then jumped one of only three clear rounds within the time allowed in the final showjumping.

As one-by-one each of the five riders above her failed to keep a clean scoresheet, Powell crept higher and eventually leapfrogged them all to take top spot on the podium.

Shocked at her achievement, she said: “Can you believe it? I didn’t think that was going to happen.

"Things like that just don’t happen to people like me. Winning was never on my radar – it just never entered my mind.

“But it means so much. I’m not in my youth and just to get a horse to this stage is difficult enough - but to win? I can’t believe it!”

Powell is one of the most experienced riders on the eventing circuit. A New Zealander, she has been based in Britain for many years and was part of the bronze medal-winning Kiwi team at the 2012 London Olympics with her popular grey Lenamore.

She heaped praise on the horse that carried her to her first Badminton win, after 15 previous attempts.

Powell said: “Cav has had her tricky moments but she has been absolutely amazing here. This is a dream come true.”

Runner-up was one-horse Irish rider Lucy Latta, aged 27, who made a phenomenal debut on RCA Patron Saint.

A marketing manager for a drinks company, Lucy was the fastest around the testing 32-obstacle cross-country track, over which no-one made the optimum time.

She said: “I’m a bit overwhelmed but

thrilled. It’s just the best.”

Third place went to former farrier and rugby player Alex Bragg, from Somerset, on the mare Quindiva, who climbed from 60th place after the dressage to become the best British rider at the event.

European champion and Badminton 2023 victor Ros Canter was favourite for a repeat success but had warned ahead of the cross-country challenge that her horse this year, Izilot DHI, was unproven at the highest level, and ended up retiring at the Lake complex of fences.

William Fox-Pitt, twice a Badminton winner, couldn’t have a dream ending to his illustrious career, with a disastrous show jumping round sending him from second place after cross-country to 13th on Grafennacht.

Having survived a serious head injury in 2015, he returned to competitive riding but said this year’s Badminton would be his last.

Fox-Pitt said: “I’m 55, I’m in one piece and I’ve been lucky.”

For New Zealander Tim Price, going into the lead after cross-country on Vitali was no guarantee of victory due to the horse’s record in the showjumping phase, and four fences down saw him drop to eighth.

But there was a clear round for Bubby Upton, 25, returning from a serious spine injury that could have stopped her walking again. She and Cola finished in 10th.

Meanwhile Zara Tindall rode Class Affair into 16th place and South Gloucestershire’s Harry Meade wrapped up the top 20 on Away Cruising.

Lynne Hutchinson

Southwold swimmers clinch runners-up spot

YATE-based Southwold Swimming Club is celebrating achieving second place in the Cotswold Series swimming league.

After having a break from the league for many years, we rejoined this year.

We competed in four rounds from January to March and qualified for the A final, which took place at Hutton Moor Leisure centre in Weston-superMare in late April.

Up against eight other clubs from Bristol and Gloucestershire, Southwold were placed second in the final standings.

Over all rounds of the competition we had 55 swimmers compete, with 30 making up the team for the final.

Swimmers who competed were aged from nine up to 53 years old.

We were very proud of all our swimmers for reaching the A final, after such a long break from competition.

We train at Yate Leisure Centre and anyone wishing to join can contact the club at southwold@swimclubmanager. co.uk.

Laura Perry

Caroline Powell going across country on Greenacres Special Cavalier. Picture copyright Badminton Horse Trials Ltd

Members of the Southwold Swimming Club squad

n SPORT

Reasons to be cheerful for Yate Town

A DRAW in the final game of the season confirmed an 8th-placed finish for Yate Town in the Southern League Division One South.

The last match was a trip to Devon, where the Bluebells drew 1-1 at Tavistock, with James Taylor equalising in the 82nd minute after Liam Prynn had put the home side ahead.

Finishing the season on a six-match unbeaten run, and with team manager Darren Mullings signing a new two-year contract, there is much to look forward to next season.

The Bluebells were on 12 points from 14 games when Mullings arrived in January but since then have lost only three, finished with 50 points and had the third-best defensive record in the league.

The club will look to progress further, both on and off the field, after an encouraging year under the leadership of chairman Mark Thorne.

Town are also thrilled to announce a three-year tie up with Graphic Packaging International, who are based in Great Western Business Park, Yate, and will be the shirt sponsor from next season.

On May 3 the club held its end-of-season presentation evening and it proved to be a highly successful event.

More than 100 people attended, including players, officials, sponsors and fans.

Captain Joe Guest was the manager's player of the year, with James Taylor picking up the players' player award and Oli Jenkins the supporters' player of the year.

Nick McCootie was presented with the Golden Boot, after scoring 14 goals in 18 appearances since signing for the club in January.

Season tickets for next season are on sale, while the club are also looking for a bar manager and for additional coaches to support their new under-18s set up.

More details can be found on the club website at www.yatetownfc.co.uk.

The club's last home game against Cribbs included a final bucket collection for the club’s charity of the season, the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity. It raised £195.73, bringing the total so far to £1,342.76.

Another fundraiser will be a skydive by supporter Guy Lomas on June 27, with half the money raised via sponsorship going to the air ambulance and the other half to the Bluebells Budget Booster to support the manager's team-building for next season.

A GoFundMe page is now live at gofund. me/a50969c1.

Darren Mullings will be looking to build his squad ready for the pre-season friendlies in July and the start of next season on August 10, when there will be 22 teams in an expanded division.

New opponents are likely to be Falmouth Town, Helston, Shaftesbury, Cirencester, Cinderford Town and possibly Worcester City.

Bob Chester

Nick McCootie is presented with the club's Golden Boot award