Yate & Chipping Sodbury Voice Newspaper October 2016

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October, 2016 Issue 20

What’s on, Page 24 | Sport, Page 36

Families urged to keep supporting academies as potential cash crisis looms PARENTS of children at Yate and Winterbourne international academies have been urged to keep faith with the schools as efforts are made to prevent a potential £1 million deficit.

The Ridings’ Federation of Academies is investigating ways of making savings in order to avoid the shortfall.

There are fears it could lead to some parents considering looking at other schools for their children.

The National Union of Teachers (NUT) has described the projected deficit as serious but hopes parents will continue to give their support to the schools and staff.

Nigel Varley, joint secretary of the NUT in South Gloucestershire, said: “It’s a very serious situation. Our intention is to preserve jobs and working conditions for our members but we are also anxious to preserve community links with the schools.”

As Yate and Sodbury Voice

went to press, the union said it was hoping to organise a public meeting in order to outline

the position and hear people’s concerns and comments.

Full story page 3

Rescue plan for library

Closure fears ease for Chipping Sodbury branch

Page 2

Road to nowhere finally going places?

MP meets new Chancellor for talks

Page 6

Gateway to cake

New gate opens route to popular Yate cafe

Page 9

Up in smoke

Scouts launch appeal after kit is destroyed in fire

Backing the bid Campaigners, MP Luke hope Chipping Sodbury Fancy a bit including of peace and quiet?Hall, Potential cananglers take onare all being comers in theto Great British invited an open dayHigh to Street Awards. find out about the sport. More, page 7 More, page 4.

Page 21

Kiwi comeback?

Overseas cricketer could return to Sodbury

Page 36

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October, 2016

Library future more secure thanks to volunteers and technology THE future of threatened Chipping Sodbury library looks more positive, with volunteers set to be involved in running the service.

Fears were high that the library would be closed as part of a programme of cuts.

But it is now hoped that support from a friends group will save it.

However, South Gloucestershire Council said it had to ensure there was enough commitment from the group in order to justify it continuing to meet running costs and bringing in new Open Plus technology that allows libraries to stay open even when unstaffed.

Using the Open Plus system, people can use their library cards to swipe themselves into libraries, giving them access to books, IT services and wi-fi printing.

Other parts of the country already use it and although South Gloucestershire wants to introduce the system widely, it plans to run a pilot scheme first at Bradley Stoke.

If successful, it will then be at the heart of updated proposals for the library service throughout the district.

The council has to make further cuts of £22 million by 2019-20 and the library service must contribute to the savings.

Initially its portion was £650,000 but that has now been cut to £500,000.

It will cost up to £400,000 to introduce Open Plus but it will give access to libraries for 11 hours a day, seven days a week. The council said its library staff could then be used when most needed.

Councillor Heather Goddard, chairwoman of the council’s environment and community services committee, said: “While we have to make savings, we want to ensure that these facilities remain at the heart of our communities.

“Access to libraries out of staffed hours is not about replacing staff, it is about providing a service in addition to their expertise.

“This innovative new policy allows us

to save half a million pounds a year on our operating costs while more than doubling the opening hours of libraries.”

Despite Chipping Sodbury library’s rosier future, the costly mobile library is still due to be axed, although people in some rural

areas served by it have offered to run mini community libraries.

The council will now consult for a further three months on its plans, with a final decision to be made in the new year.

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October, 2016

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Federation taking action to avoid potential £1 million deficit as parents are urged to support academies UNION leaders have called on parents to maintain support for Yate and Winterbourne international academies amid concerns over a potential cash crisis at the federation that runs the schools.

A projected £1 million shortfall for the Ridings’ Federation of Academies has been described by the National Union of Teachers as “a serious situation”.

It has led to fears of staff cuts and increased class sizes within the federation, which also runs Woodlands primary phase and nursery in Yate, as well as the sixth form in Winterbourne.

But Claire Emery, chairwoman of the board of trustees, said the federation was investigating cost saving measures to reduce the financial deficit while still

being committed to supporting students and staff.

Federation spokesman Rob Phillips said £1 million was not its current deficit but an initial projected figure for the end of August 2017.

Mrs Emery had revealed the problem in a letter to staff and invited ideas for possible savings.

But it comes as the federation continues to put troubled times behind it. In 2015, both Yate and Winterbourne academies were assessed as requiring improvement; teachers at Winterbourne went on strike, claiming a breakdown in relations with academy leadership, and the then chief executive principal, Beverley Martin, left after only about seven months.

However, progress is being made under her replacement,

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Adam Williams, and the federation said there had been “some very impressive results” at Woodlands, Yate and Winterbourne.

Mr Williams is currently on sick leave and Mr Phillips said trustees were working with senior leaders to keep things running effectively in his absence.

Mrs Emery said: “The federation is dealing with a financial deficit and the trustees are looking at various ways to reduce this.

“The subsequent feedback from staff members will be considered and responded to in the correct forum but I want to reassure all staff, pupils and parents of pupils attending The Ridings’ academies that the federation is committed to supporting its staff and ensuring

that all of its pupils receive excellent learning.

“Trustees are also working closely with the regional schools commissioner for the South West and Education Funding Agency colleagues to ensure there is no disruption to learning for students.”

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yate&sodburyvoice November deadline

Our November edition will be going to print on October 27. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by October 24. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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

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Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

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

October, 2016

Chipping Sodbury bids for glory in high street awards campaign

A CAMPAIGN is running to secure victory for Chipping Sodbury in the Great British High Street awards.

The town has been nominated in the annual contest, which seeks out the nation’s best shopping streets in places from villages and small market towns to cities and coastal resorts.

Chipping Sodbury will be up against other market towns in the competition and is looking for support from those who live and work in the community, as well as shoppers and visitors, to back the nomination.

The awards are run by the Department for Local Government and Communities, with shortlisted high streets to be announced in mid-October.

Those that reach that stage will then be visited and the public will be able to vote for their local street.

Chipping Sodbury’s effort

has been supported by members of Sodbury Chamber of Commerce and Sodbury and Yate Business Association, as well as individual business people, town representatives and local MP Luke Hall.

They hope that the range of independent traders, cafes, pubs, shops and restaurants, as well as the various events held throughout the year, will impress the judges.

But the group behind the entry said they needed those who use the high street to lobby for the town, including through social media. More information about how to do so is on the Visit Sodbury Facebook page.

Mr Hall said: “This year’s bid has been met with such enthusiasm from everyone in Sodbury. It is a first class submission and I really do hope the town gets shortlisted as really does deserve it.”

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October, 2016

Chancellor of Exchequer backs MP’s “powerful case” to finish Yate’s Road to Nowhere NEW moves to try and get Yate’s incomplete Road to Nowhere finally built have been given a boost by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Philip Hammond said Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall had made a strong case for the South Yate Link Road to be finished, decades after it was abandoned.

The road was planned to run from the roundabout where Shire Way, Rodford Way and Westerleigh Road meet at one end of Yate Common up to Badminton Road Trading Estate.

But it was never finished and the only section started has since become a popular location for film crews working on TV series such as Casualty.

Mr Hall had previously had support for completing the road from former chancellor George Osborne.

His successor said: “Luke has presented the case for completing the unfinished road linking south Yate and Badminton Road, powerfully, I look forward to working with him to see how we can improve infrastructure in and around Yate.”

Since getting support from South Gloucestershire Council leader Matthew Riddle, feasibility study funding has been included in a formal West of England bid to the Government for such projects.

Mr Hall said there had been “significant” backing for the

project from local residents through a local transport survey he carried out and he welcomed Mr Hammond’s interest.

He said: “I am, however, absolutely clear that it is paramount for any work on the feasibility of completing the road to be done of the basis of protecting the common that is so valued by our community.”

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New members invited to join Lions clubs A NEW Lions club has opened in Yate and is looking to recruit members.

There is already an established club in Chipping Sodbury and both organisations are keen to attract people who want to make a difference in their community.

Juan Nevo, president of the Chipping Sodbury club, said men and women of all ages would be welcome.

He said all that was required of them was enthusiasm and commitment to helping others, including raising money for good causes, as well as a modest subscription.

Mr Nuevo said: “We already

have an established club in Chipping Sodbury and we are looking for people to join our new branch club in Yate.”

Anyone interested in joining the Lions should email juan@cslions.og.uk for more information.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

October, 2016

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Alternative plan for increased storage at Yate packaging factory approved YATE company Sharpak has been given permission to put six more silos on its Station Road site to allow it to stockpile greater amounts of raw materials. The packaging firm had submitted two alternative applications for increased storage capacity - one for four silos and the other for six.

It recently acquired consent for the four silos and now South Gloucestershire Council has approved the greater number as well.

But the company will only be able to add a maximum of six new structures. Sharpak already has six silos at its factory, where it produces plastic food trays and containers.

They are used to store plastic pellets used in the manufacturing process but the company wants to keep more on site to avoid the risk of running out should deliveries be missed or held up.

Yate and Sodbury town councils had both raised concerns about the visual impact on surrounding homes of the new silos, despite them going next to the existing containers.

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Journey around the coastline with TV presenter ONE of the presenters of the popular BBC television series Coast will help raise money for young carers when she visits Chipping Sodbury.

Miranda Krestovnikoff has been invited by the town’s Inner Wheel club to give a whistle-stop tour around the UK coastline and share memorable filming experiences at a talk on Friday, November 11.

She will also take the audience behind the scenes to explain the challenges and difficulties associated with recording coastal wildlife.

The event in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall has been organised in aid of Young Carers in South Gloucestershire, a charity that supports local youngsters who help and care for members of their own family.

Locally, St Nicholas youth centre in Yate hosts a meeting of Young Carers for those from the age of 13, usually on the last Saturday of the month.

One-to-one support for carers is also provided where needed and the charity raises awareness with schools of some of the problems faced by child carers.

Marilyn Heffer, president of the Inner Wheel, said: “Miranda is a wonderful, entertaining speaker and we are so lucky to have her in Chipping Sodbury and supporting our cause.”

Miranda, who also stars in Wreck Detectives and The One Show, will start her talk at 7.30pm. Doors open at 6.45pm and tickets costing £12 are available by calling 01454 313715.

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LUKE HALL MP MP for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH e: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk w: lukehall.org.uk Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk Promoted by Luke Hall MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.

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October, 2016

Poachers targeted in police operations near Chipping Sodbury MORE than 50 vehicles were stopped and checked by police between Chipping Sodbury and Wiltshire in an operation targeting poachers.

South Gloucestershirebased officers teamed up with Wiltshire colleagues in two overnight operations.

It led to two men being arrested and bailed on suspicion of poaching, two uninsured vehicles being taken off the road and high-powered lamps thought to be used in poaching being seized. One person was also issued with a cannabis warning.

Neighbourhood PC Dan Jones said: “We are running these operations as a result of information from the community about rural crime, especially poaching.

“We’ve had really good feedback from local people. I

hope they feel reassured by the action we’ve been taking and that criminals will think twice about offending in the area.

“We know these criminals don’t worry about causing damage to crops and property when they trespass for game.”

Police said poaching was no longer about an individual taking one or two animals for the pot.

It now involved organised groups taking game and livestock to sell into the food chain with no regard for the welfare of the animals or the unsuspecting end customer.

A number of potential health risks were associated with eating illegally caught game, including contamination from unhygienic processing techniques.

Police column, page 33

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October, 2016 A NEW gate has been installed to give direct access to a recently opened cafe from popular Kingsgate Park in Yate.

The Vintage Birdcage Cakery opened in February in a renovated groom’s house near the park, behind Stanshawes Court.

Nicole Jones and Suzanne Jenkinson, who run the enterprise, were already in talks with Yate Town Council over the provision of a gate at the time of the opening.

Now one has been put in place and formerly opened by town mayor Tony Davis.

Mr Davis said the council and the Friends of Kingsgate Park were pleased to have been able to support the cafe through installation of the gate.

The business developed as a result of Nicole using her baking skills to help raise money for her daughter’s school more than five years ago.

She went on to bake commercially from home and recruited Suzanne as her business partner as demand increased.

A move to a bigger kitchen in Frampton Cotterell followed but they soon outgrew that and switched to Yate.

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Gateway to cakes for Yate park users

Yate mayor Tony Davis joins Nicole Jones and Suzanne Jenkinson for the opening of the gate linking the Vintage Birdcage Cakery with Kingsgate Park, flanked by Yate town councillors and members of the Friends of Kingsgate Park.

African village lit up thanks to Yate Rotary Club YATE’S linked village in West Africa has had solar lighting installed in every household with the help of a £1,600 donation from the town’s Rotary Club members.

The money was the biggest single cash gift the Yate-Genieri Link had received and covered the cost of supplying 45 solarpowered lightbulbs and their installation.

It meant all 50 compounds in the village in The Gambia could have a solar light - a benefit to households that often contain an extended family of ten people or more.

Until the work was carried out by specialist company ComAfrique, villagers in Genieri used to light their homes with candles at an equivalent cost of 11p a day.

Now every family contributes the equivalent of 3p a day to a fund, which will be used

to replace lights as they wear out and to provide an income for the village.

As well as being safer, the lights also give more time for children to do their homework and improves the social life of the village.

Yate and District Rotary Club said on a recent visit to Genieri, the Link’s Jez Truelove and Gwyn Rogers had assessed the viability of the scheme, which the entire population supported.

While there, they also set up a trial solar light in the village’s primary health centre, Jez Truelove demonstrates the first solar equipment to Genieri villagwhich allows safer ers health care to be provided at night.

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October, 2016

New bus operator to put on extra services BUS operator Stagecoach has started running services in the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area.

The new routes also provide links from surrounding villages to local facilities, as well as allowing passengers to make onward connections.

Among the buses operated by Stagecoach are services 84, 85, 86 and 620.

The 84 is a circular route going in an anti-clockwise direction from Wotton-underEdge through Charfield, Cromhall, Wickwar, Chipping Sodbury and Yate, back to Chipping Sodbury and on to Horton, Hawkesbury Upton, Hillesley and Alderley before returning to Wotton.

It runs alongside a new 85 service that covers the same circular route as the 84 but in a clockwise direction.

Both the 84 and 85 buses also link with the 86 service in Yate, providing a connection to Kingswood and re-introducing a service to Longwell Green leisure centre.

Meanwhile the 620 service runs between Tetbury and Bath via Chipping Sodbury, Yate, Westerleigh and Pucklechurch.

Passengers can go online to www.travelinesw.com to get full details.

Councillor Colin Hunt, South Gloucestershire Council’s lead member for transport, said: “A growing number of our residents are choosing to use the bus and we look forward to working with Stagecoach to continue that trend.”

Cllr Colin Hunt, James O’Neil - Commercial Manager at Stagecoach, Wayne Johnson - South Gloucestershire Council’s Public Transport Manager, Peter Sheldon - Engineering Director at Stagecoach, Mark King - South Gloucestershire Council’s Head of StreetCare and Transport

Relay for life breaks fundraising record A RECORD breaking sum of more than £54,900 was raised through this year’s Yate Relay for Life.

The annual event at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex involved 32 teams and 350 participants completing a relay around the track for 24 hours in aid of Cancer Research UK. Music helped to keep them going and survivors of cancer were there to inspire everyone

taking part. A Candle of Hope ceremony also allowed people to remember those lost to the disease.

The sum raised was announced at a post-event party, when a number of awards were also presented.

Hayley Farmer-Hall, the Yate Relay For Life cancer awareness chairwoman and a scientist with Cancer Research UK, said: “Thanks to the hard

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October, 2016

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Queues at Yate Riverside to see new store THE third and final major retailer at Yate Riverside has opened, with TK Maxx joining Next and Pets at Home at the complex.

Six-screen Cineworld is at the heart of Riverside, where there are also a number of restaurants creating an extension to the main Yate Shopping Centre.

The latest store in the TK Maxx clothing and homeware chain covers 22,000 sq ft and keen shoppers queued up to be first inside on opening day.

Andrew Lowrey, Yate Shopping Centre manager, said: “T K Maxx will be a tremendous boost to the centre, being a wellknown high street name, and will complement the existing shops.

“When we did our survey work back in 2008, local people were asking us to incorporate more fashion and now we have a diverse range of outlets suiting all ages, styles and budgets.

“The summer months have been very busy, with footfall showing an increase over last year as the centre now begins to settle down after several years of building and development

and a packed summer activity schedule.

“Already we have three interested parties taking shortterm leases for the Christmas period - The Christmas

Shop which will occupy The Entertainer unit, Calendar Club and Giftbox. “ He said a date had already

Successful dementia service in line for award A PIONEERING service launched to speed up dementia diagnosis and early treatment in South Gloucestershire has already slashed waiting times.

In its first year, the GPprovided service has cut waiting times of up to nine months to less than six weeks.

Diagnosis rates have also risen from 38 per cent to 58 per cent over the same period.

The memory assessment service was developed by South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and is run by GP practices using a simple screening tool.

Its success has resulted in it being shortlisted for an award, as well as being adopted in other areas of the UK. Dr Peter Bagshaw, South Gloucestershire’s clinical lead for dementia and a GP, said: “Our ageing population means supporting people with dementia is a top priority for the CCG. “Early diagnosis is

particularly important because it allows treatment plans to be put in place as soon as possible.”

If left untreated, dementia can increase the chance of people becoming ill or injured, adding to pressures on NHS services.

That is a particular concern in areas such as South Gloucestershire, where the population of elderly people is higher than the national average.

But early diagnosis of the condition can play a key part in helping people get the care they need.

Before the service started, patients had to attend a specialist memory clinic for assessment - often a major problem for the elderly and frail and those with difficulties in travelling far.

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been set for the launch of the centre’s Christmas schedule on November 10.

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October, 2016

All change at post offices as vital services move to new premises CHANGES to two post offices have been finalised as both relocate to new homes.

Chipping Sodbury’s post office was recently moved from its long-standing premises in Horse Street into Cotswold Vintners in High Street.

Meanwhile, North Road Post Office in Yate will welcome its first customers within a new shop behind the nearby Codrington Arms pub at 1pm on Monday, October 17.

As previously reported, North Road’s post office closed in May 2015 when the postmaster resigned and the premises could no longer be used for postal services.

Publicans Jenna Hale and Paul Jefferies were approached to see if they were interested in taking on the business and agreed to provide the service inside the convenience store.

The couple, who have run the pub since 2014, said the new venture would fit in well due to

the shop’s opening hours - seven days a week, including Sunday mornings.

Sue Whittall, area manager with Post Office Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be restoring the service very close to the previously closed branch.”

The Cotswold Vintners wine merchants was taken over by Chanmugam Mohan and his wife, Saru, some three years ago when the couple and their family moved to Chipping Sodbury from London.

Mr Mohan, known to regulars as Mo, was prompted to also accommodate the post office

after seeing an advertisement earlier this year.

Post Office Ltd had to consult on the move but once the formalities were over, the transfer could go ahead, keeping the vital service in the town.

The change meant the doors to the post office in Horse Street, which had served locals for so long, could be closed by Tim and Caroline Green.

The new location gives easier access for many users as it has no steps and offers longer opening hours. Customers can be served from 9am-9pm in the week and on Saturdays, as well as from 10am-6pm on Sundays.

It also gives people another means of banking and withdrawing cash now that Lloyds bank has closed Mr Mohan said many post office services were being provided, although passport applications would have to be dealt with at Yate’s post office or online.

New plots for travelling showpeople planned for Yate

SEVEN further plots for travelling showpeople could be set up in Yate if planners approve a scheme submitted for land in North Road.

There is already a site for showpeople in the road at Acres Fair.

If approved, the extra plots would be created on land next door to the established site The agent for the applicants said there was an unmet need for such accommodation in South Gloucestershire Dr Simon Ruston, of Bristol-based Ruston Planning, said: “The adjoining travelling showpeople’s yard enjoys peaceful co-existence with the local community and there is no reason as to why the proposed yard would not enjoy the same.”

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Shoppers raise a glass to food festival

RECORD numbers of visitors enjoyed tasting and buying a range of produce at Chipping Sodbury’s food and drink festival.

Even a wet start to the second day failed to deter those who wandered among a collection of food trucks and stalls.

Produce from cakes, crumpets and beer to pies, meat and fresh lemonade was on offer, most of it from local suppliers, with some items served from quirky tuk tuks and converted horse trailers.

There were also stalls in Hatherells Yard, a display by beekeepers and scone making demonstrations by the town’s Hobbs House Bakery.

The family firm’s Tom and Henry Herbert also hosted a bread making workshop, while army chef reservists from 162 Regiment, Royal Logistics Corps, showed how they catered for large numbers of hungry soldiers.

Events at the two-day festival started with a food trail , a butchery demonstration by Jon Howell and workshops by Sibling Gin, as well as a pub quiz for foodies.

Co-ordinator Ann Murray from the Cooking4 cookery school, said: “There was a lovely buzz in the town and everyone had a great time. These are the kind of events that keep the high street alive.”

The festival was organised by Sodbury Chamber of Commerce and supported by council leaders, local organisations and

“People came from far and wide to

businesses.Chamber chairwoman Joanne Cox said: “We felt this year’s festival was a

experience the vast range of food and drink.”

resounding success, despite the weather.

Photo courtesy of Rich McD Photography

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Hidden furry friends make annual summer search a big hit with families

HUNDREDS of children joined in the hunt for furry toy creatures that had taken up residence in shop and business windows in Chipping Sodbury.

The third annual Sodbury Summer Search, run by the town’s chamber of commerce, involved youngsters seeking out the 30 animals between July and September.

Organisers said the challenge was a big success, with 1,120 correct entries received.

Each toy became a prize and the 30 winners received them from Michelle Baden-Daintree of Simpson Solicitors during the annual food and drink festival.

Chamber secretary Laura-Lee Phillips said: “Previous years have seen children looking for sheepdogs and then sheep so it was a natural progression to have them searching for squirrels, badgers, deer, owls and hedgehogs.”

She said there was also plenty of enthusiasm from the youngsters for another search next year.

The challenge was launched as a way of bringing more people into the town, especially during the often quiet school holiday period.

17

Winners collecting their prizes. Photo credit to Rich McD Photography.

Improvements at Chipping Sodbury School being made - but not fast enough for Ofsted EFFECTIVE action is being taken at Chipping Sodbury School to improve the comprehensive after two consecutive inspections concluded it had to get better.

Education organisation Ofsted assessed the school as requiring improvement in both 2013 and 2015.

In the first monitoring visit by the watchdog since the 2015 report was published, Ofsted inspector Jim Sage said senior leaders and governors were tackling the areas that had to improve in order for the school to be rated as good.

He said tighter systems and procedures for monitoring the quality of teaching and for evaluating its effect on raising pupils’ achievement had been introduced.

However, although there were indications that raised expectations were starting to improve teaching and learning, he said improvements were inconsistent across the school and the rate of progress was not fast enough. Progress in the sixth form was also slow.

Mr Sage said: “The senior leadership team has been

expanded through internal promotions to increase its capacity to secure the rapid improvements the school needs.

“Senior leaders and governors, supported by the local authority, have produced a detailed action plan to tackle all of the areas for improvement identified.

“The actions planned, and in many cases already started, are well considered and appropriate.

“However, the resulting improvements in teaching are not yet fully embedded across the school.”

Mr Sage said the achievement of boys and disadvantaged pupils had to rise further and while the behaviour of students in lessons and around the school continued to be good, more youngsters needed to show positive attitudes to their work.

In the sixth form, almost all students completed their courses with some success and good attention was given to developing their wider employability skills.

But Mr Sage said: “The achievement of many students is not good enough given their starting points.”

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18

n THE MEDICAL BLOG

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Back to school by Mya Ahmed

A

FEW things to keep in mind now we’re back to reality, the summer’s over and the kids are back to school.

Bad habits start from a young age, a few things we didn’t expect to affect us as kids are now issues that a lot of adults are having to deal with. In an age where technology has taken over majority of our time, it is even more important to be aware of our posture with everyday activities. Activities such as sitting at a desk in front of a computer, sat down on the sofa whilst watching TV or walking to work whilst carrying our overfilled bags on one shoulder and juggling a flask of coffee in one hand with our smart phones in the other.

A lot of people think backpacks are only for children but many adults have taken to the trend this season. The weight distribution of a one shouldered bag predisposes us to strains of the neck and shoulder as well as shifting the body’s entire posture to one side in order to cope with the heavy load. Using a backpack ensures an even

weight distribution over both shoulders which in turn means there aren’t any imbalances in the posture.

Although a backpack evenly distributes heavy loads across the shoulders and back, it can still have an effect on the posture. Carrying a heavy load on the back alters the biomechanics on the back putting more pressure on the mid and low back, which in turn can cause muscle strain, irritation of the joints in the spine and lead to back pain.

The result of a heavy load across the shoulders can lead to leaning the head forward, putting stress on the neck and spine as well as slumped shoulders. Don’t over fill your child’s back pack with books they don’t need, encourage them to use lockers or only

take in the books which they need.

Some tips to remember: • Consider using a backpack as opposed to a one shouldered satchel.

• If using a one shouldered satchel be sure to swap the bag over to the opposite shoulder day to day.

• Make sure the back pack is not overfilled and is worn at the correct height; wearing the backpack too low can increases the strain on the low back.

• Consider a backpack with wheels which can be pulled as opposed to carried on the back • If you or your family members suffer from back pain, get yourselves booked in to see one of our practitioners.

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Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

October, 2016

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Steve’s fundraising up to par at charity golf day MORE than £3,500 was raised for research into Parkinson’s disease at a charity event at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club.

The special match day was organised by long-standing club member Steve Taylor, of Iron Acton, who was diagnosed with the condition nine years ago.

He has been raising money and making more people aware of the disease ever since.

Steve, a former club captain, thanked everyone who helped at the event, which saw more than 130 golfers play in teams of four.

He said: “It was a tremendous day, which was very well supported by golfers and local businesses to raise awareness of Parkinson’s and raise much needed funds for research into this unpleasant illness.”

The research to be funded as a result of the event will be carried out at Bristol University.

Thornbury and Yate MP Luke

Hall, who helped launch the fund raiser, said: “Steve has shown

real courage and determination in the face of his diagnosis. I was

delighted to go long and show my support for such a great cause.”

A t A n i m a l H o u s e w e u n d e r s t a n d t h a t r e g i s t e r i n g y o u r p e t w i t h a n e w v e t i s a b i g d e c i s i o n .

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T o t a k e a d v a n t a g e o f t h i s o f f e r , s i m p l y f i l l o u t t h e f o r m o n o u r w e b s i t e t o r e c e i v e y o u r v o u c h e r .

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Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

October, 2016

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yate&sodburyvoice

Award winning brass quartet blow their own trumpets AN all-trumpet, women-only quartet is about to visit Chipping Sodbury as part of the town’s music society programme for the autumn.

Bella Tromba was originally formed as a classical brass chamber group, with a repertoire of original music from the Renaissance to the present day played on an array of trumpets.

The members continue to perform recitals and concerts alongside collaborations with popular and jazz musicians and will bring their award winning brass repertoire to the town hall on Tuesday, October 11.

Another four-strong group, the Artisan Quartet, will be in concert with stringed instruments on Tuesday, November 8.

Its programme will feature varied pieces as well as arrangements compiled by viola player Ross Cohen.

The final performance of the year - the 69th season for the society - will be by the GBH Big Band on Tuesday, December

6, with a selection of seasonal favourites promised, along with

some classic big band tunes.

Anyone who wants tickets

should visit www.ticketsource. co.uk/csmusicsociety for details.

Scouts appeal for help after thousands of pounds of kit goes up in smoke AN appeal has been made by scouts in Chipping Sodbury for help to replace equipment that was destroyed in a van fire.

Members of the 1st Chipping Sodbury group were heading to the Lake District for their summer camp when the fire broke out in the van carrying their kit as they were on the M6 in Preston.

No-one was hurt but the damage to the equipment was estimated at £21,000.

Scout leader Nick Cook said: “We had a few tents in another vehicle and, with the fine weather, we were able to continue with the camp but had to cancel many of the planned activities.”

He said the van had been on loan to the group from Yate company Powersystems and insurance cover did not extend to all of the equipment lost, leaving the scouts with an £11,000 shortfall.

A number of companies and organisations in the Chipping Sodbury area have already come to the aid of the scouts, including the Town Lands Charity, but there is still more equipment to replace.

Mr Cook said: “We would like to thank Powersystems for its generous support and also Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club, which has donated £2,000

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

towards replacement kit.

“Unfortunately this still leaves us out of pocket and we would like to appeal to anyone who could help us replace the

lost equipment.”

Mr Cook should be contacted via email at nick.cook742@ btinternet.com by anyone who is able to help.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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October, 2016

Brighten up October with some little jewels

W

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

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yate&sodburyvoice

HEN I was growing up, pomegranates seemed really exotic and slightly weird.

If anyone asked me if there was any food I didn’t like I used to say “pomegranates”, even though I had never tasted them.

It was only much later (after I’d tasted them) that I learnt how delicious they were. On a miserable October day their bright shiny seeds glow like little jewels and the taste of this posh casserole always brings a smile to my lips.

•Cumin – 1 tsp •Tomato puree –1 tbsp • Grenadine syrup (pomegranate syrup) – 50ml. You can get non-alcoholic, or alcoholic, you choose.

•Chicken stock-900ml •Dried apricots – 120g (4oz) •Raisins – 1 tbsp •Red onion – 2, chopped • Easy cook pre-washed rice – 200g • Pomegranate- 1, broken carefully open to reveal the seeds.

Persian Chicken Biryani

Here’s what you do:

Serves 4 Another easy 1 pot meal containing all the essential ingredients. Much more interesting for the whole family and full of vitamins from the pomegranates.

Don’t be put off by the list of ingredients, the end result will be worth it, trust me!

1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based pan and cook the chicken until lightly browned.

(Don’t keep moving about the pan or it won’t get a chance to cook!)

2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook for a couple

of mins.

3. Add the ginger, saffron or turmeric, chili, cumin and coriander if using. Cook for a further couple of mins, stirring occasionally to stop it sticking.

4. Add the rice and stir gently to make sure the grains are coated all over with any residual oil in the pan. (You may need to give the rice an extra spritz of oil) 5. Stir in the tomato puree and add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Add the pomegranate juice and stock and bring to the boil.

7. Add the raisins and apricots and stir gently.

8. Reduce the heat and cook for about an hour or until the rice and chicken breasts are tender.

(Add more water/Grenadine if it becomes sticky.)

9. Serve garnished with pomegranate seeds and a crisp, green salad, or a selection of seasonal green veg.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts – 4, cut in half, lengthwise, or use mini-fillets •Veg / olive oil -2-3 tbsps • Cloves of garlic – chopped-2-4, depending on your taste • Fresh ginger – peeled and chopped- ½ to 1 inch according to your taste • Saffron –a good pinch soaked in a couple of tablespoons of warm water for 10 mins, or dry turmeric powder - ½ tsp •Chilli powder – ½ tsp •Coriander – 1 tsp (optional)

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24

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

n WHAT’S ON IN THE AREA October 10 n Town Hall 10 October at 7.30pm. An evening of comedy and music as 14 ukes, drums and bass ramble through the musical genres. There will be ghost chickens, pizza with no cheese, and Major Tom with communication problems as the orchestra bring you the News at Ten.You’ll leave with a big grin as a souvenir of a great night out. Tickets £10 from the High St Tourist Office or Tobacco Factory on 01179 020344.

October 13 n Thursday 13 October - 12.153pm - S.Glos. Ladies Lunch Club . 2-course lunch and a speaker or event, every 2nd Thursday October to March. 01454 620176 or audrey.rosser@btinternet.com October 15 n Breast Cancer Charity Event.

Saturday 15th October, 7pm Late. Yate Outdoor Sports Complex. Tickets £8. Adults only.

October 20 n Thursday 20 October @ 7.30 – AAG AGM (all local residents welcome) October 25 n Sodbury & District Flower Arranging Society are meeting at the Old Grammar School

Rooms, Chipping Sodbury, on Tuesday 25th October at 7.30pm for a Demonstration by Sandra Snell entitled ’Shades of Autumn’ All visitors are very welcome November 5 n Crafts, Papercraft Supplies and Gift Fayre, Saturday 5th November, Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, 10am to 4pm, local crafts, craft supplies, gifts and collectables, cakes, refreshments and more, voluntary entrance fee (20p) to be donated to Jareth who is recovering from cancer and still undergoing treatment.

Contact 07895 187292 for more info.

November 12 n Sodbury Vale Musical Comedy Club - Autumn production of ‘And The Award Goes To’. Saturday 12th November at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall with performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 and can be booked by contacting our Box Office on Telephone 0333 666 3366 or online at: www.svmcc. co.uk/boxoffice November 26 n Sat 26 November @ 1630 – Christmas Event when the Christmas Tree lights will be switched on (this event has been attended by over 300 people for

Discover Festival

Other events at Yate Library in October Art Exhibition, come along to view and vote on the entrants to our art competition. Yate Library from 6 September to 20 October Events in October Have a go – for juniors (7 – 11 years), your chance to have a go at a new craft or hobby Saturday 1 October, 10am – 1pm The Sky’s the limit: Astronomy workshop, a fascinating interactive show in an inflatable planetarium, about starts, constellations and astronomical objects visible during the autumn from the UK, together with their mythology. Come along and be amazed.

Tuesday 4 October, at Yate Library 7.30pm, tickets £3 available fromwww.southglos.gov.uk/discover Avon Valley Railway – an illustrated talk, a captivating insight into the history and day to day running of Avon Valley Railway. A must for the train enthusiast and anyone interested in local history Friday 7 October at Yate Library 7.30pm, tickets £3 available from www.southglos.gov.uk/discover A history of Frenchay Hospital: an illustrated talk, an opportunity to find out a miscellany of fascinating facts about Frenchay Hospital. Tuesday 11 October at Yate Library 7.30pm, tickets £3 available fromwww.southglos.gov.uk/discover Have a go at a new hobby – Lots of different crafts and activities for you to try with one-one tuition from hobby enthusiasts. With knitting, crochet, scrapbooking, jewellery making, stamping, card making and much much more. Take a finished product home which YOU have made yourself and impress your family and friends. Saturday 15 October Yate Library, 10.30am for more details www.southglos.gov.uk/discover Westerly Show Band, performing at Yate Library Saturday 15 October 10.30am – 11.30am

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the last two years)

Monthly courses from Natural Progress n October 7th— What You Believe You Can Achieve n November 11th— Understanding Thoughts & Behaviour n December— Holiday n January 6th—Living in Line with Your Values. n February 3rd — Motivation Techniques n March 3rd —Communicate More Effectively . n April 7th —Where the Magic Happens. n May 5th —What Are You Like? n June 2nd —Mind-Body Connection n July & August—Holiday For each workshop attended you may book one discounted, private coaching session for £25 1 ticket = £25 2+ tickets = £20 each 7:30 pm—9:30 pm at YOSC, Broad Lane, Yate Contact: www.naturalprogress. co.uk jen@naturalprogress.co.uk

Regular events

Monday n 10am to 12 noon, Lipreading Classes, Old Grammar School Rooms, High Street Chipping Sod bury, £27 every 6 weeks (term time only). Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939. email lipreadingmary@yahoo.com n New Zumba Gold Class 10-11am, Chipping Sodbury Baptist Church Hall £3.5 per week heatherkimbell.zumba.com Every Monday term time only 10am to 12 noon Lipreading Classes Old Grammar School Rooms, High Street Chiiping Sod bury £21 every 6 weeks. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939 emai lipreadingmary@ yahoo.com n Third Monday every month Frome Valley Ladies Probus 2-4pm Charter Suite, Chipping Sodbury Town Hall T 01454 316301. Interesting Speaker each meeting, raffle, refreshments and lunches n 1st Yate Boys brigade various activities for boys 5+ meet at Moorland road Methodist church 6.30pm. Contact Simon Crocker 01454 329017 n Gentle Yoga Class Every Monday for Over 55’s 10.30am11.30am at Masonic Hall, Hatters Lane Chipping Sodbury, T (01454) 327112 E hello@yogain.co.uk www.yoga-in.co.uk

n The over 50s club meet every Monday afternoon at shire way community centre at 1,30 - 2-0pm. get together for tea coffee game of bingo, entertainment , raffle meet new friends , all welcome , Yate Com transport, available. Further info 01454317866-----07749712351 n Bristol Budgerigar Society hold meetings at Little Stoke Community Hall, Little Stoke Lane, Little Stoke, Bristol BS34 6HR. Meetings commence at 7.45pm on the second Monday of each month. Details from the Secretary Colin Parsons Tel 01454 775878. E-mail colinpauline@hotmail.com or Chairman, Peter Dark. Tel 01454 201217.

E-mail honey@darkm.freeserve. co.uk Membership; Adult £7.00, senior £5.00, same address partners £10.00, different address partners appropriate single rate each. Juniors free. Visitors always welcome without commitment or charge to see the wonderful budgerigar breeding, exhibition and social experience that Bristol Budgerigar Society can offer. n Chakra Dancing Workout for body & mind Ridgewood Community Centre, Yate, BS37 4AF. 7-8pm. £5 each on the door Julie 0795 440 6640 Tuesday n Sodbury & District Flower Arrangement Society The Society meets every month of the year (except August and December) at the Old Grammar School in Chipping. Sodbury.

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

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

For further information contact Pauline Holder, 01454 776361 n Art Club, Ridgewood Centre, Yate: 7pm - 9 pm http://yateandsodburyartsociety.weebly.com.

Tel Roz on 01454 316956 or 0794 194 6412 n Pucklechurch Folk Dance Club. We meet every other Tuesday at Pucklechurch Community Centre from 7.45 pm to 8.15 pm. Contact Veronica Holder – 0117 937 2818. n Frome Valley Tang Soo Do, open to adults and children 7yrs +, Wellesley Primary School, Edgeworth, Yate every Tuesday 6.45pm - 8.15pm. Contact Rachel Woodford for more details on 07712 729726 n Bristol Budgerigar Society.

Monday October 10 commencing 7.45pm. Budgerigar talk by Hampshire breeder / exhibitor Peter Merritt. Venue; Little Stoke

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

nW HAT’S ON CONTINUED Community Hall, Little Stoke Lane, Bristol BS34 6HR. Visitors welcome to join us without commitment to join. Further details from the Secretary Colin Parsons. Tel 01454 775878. colinpauline@hotmail.com or Chairman Peter Dark 01454 201217. honey35@hotmail.co.uk n Diddi Dance 9:30am 10:15am Wednesday n Art Club, Ridgewood Centre, Yate: 7pm - 9 pm http://yateandsodburyartsociety.weebly.com.

Tel Roz on 01454 316956 or 0794 194 6412 n Thornbury and South Gloucestershire Amateur Radio Club (TSGARC) we meet every Wednesday in the Buckingham Room at the Chantry in Thornbury. Meetings usually start at 8pm with people arriving from 7:30pm. We welcome new members and can train people to pass their Amateur radio Foundation and Intermediate Licences. Our website is at http:// tsgarc.uk. n Chakra Dancing Workout for mind, body & soul, Ridgewood Community Centre, Yate, BS37

4AF. 0930-1030am £5 each on the door. Suitable for all abilities and fitness levels. 0795 440 6640 - www.julieshowering.co.uk n Gentle Yoga Class Every Wednesday for Over 55’s 2pm3pm at Old Sodbury Village Hall, T (01454) 327112 E hello@ yoga-in.co.uk www.yoga-in.co.uk n Chakra Dancing Workout for body & mind Ridgewood Community Centre, Yate, BS37 4AF. 930-1030am. £5 each on the door Julie 0795 440 6640. n Sew & Sew at Ridgewood Community Centre from 1 .30 pm to 4.0pm at £2.00 per week.

Phone Joan for details on 01 454 314355. n Walks for single people. Solo Rendezvous meet at Downend Cricket Club, every Wednesday, 8.30pm, entrance £3, and walk every Sunday. Please phone for walk details: 01454 775508 / 01454 774984 / 0117 9850210.

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

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

Anniversary concert for Doddington Parish Band DODINGTON Parish Band is about to celebrate a landmark anniversary at a special concert in Chipping Sodbury.

The band was formed in 1996 to benefit the local community by improving and widening opportunities for those who wanted to play, especially young people.

It was aimed at those living in Dodington parish, as well as neighbouring Yate and Chipping Sodbury, and today boasts a wide range of ages and musical abilities - from new players and those returning to music to musicians with high levels of experience.

Band secretary Vicki Sims said the mix worked well and ensured help and encouragement for younger ad less experienced

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October, 2016

players.

Having reached the band’s 20th anniversary, members decided to stage a concert to recognise the achievement and to raise money for the Bristol Children’s Hospital charity, the Grand Appeal.

The event takes place in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on October 22 at 7.30pm, with tickets on sale for £5 in the town’s tourist information centre.

The band does not take part in competitions but has a wide range of engagements every year, from local fetes and garden parties to concerts.

Practice sessions are on Tuesdays from 7.30pm in Dodington Parish Hall, Finch Road, Chipping Sodbury.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

call Jo on 07974 381333. n Meditation Class Ridgewood Community Centre, Yate, BS37 4AF. 10-11am. £5 each on the door Julie 0795 440 6640 n Diddi Dance 9:30am 10:15am Friday Hatherell’s Yard Market 9am to 4pm. www.facebook.com/ hatherellsyard Saturday n Hatherell’s Yard Market, 9am to 4pm. www.facebook.com/ hatherellsyar n Options (now in its 16th year) meets at the Ridgewood Community Centre from 10.30am to 3.0om. Lunches are available plus free tea or coffee. £2 .50 a session. Phone Joan for details on 01454 314355 Sunday n Car Boots Sale at Yate Town FC, Lodge Road Stadium, Yate BS37 7LE. Every Sunday in July and August, 8am-1pm. n Indoor short mat bowls at Pucklechurch Community Centre. Established players and beginners welcome. Bowls provided. Sessions Sunday afternoon and Monday and Wednesday evenings. Contact Roger Payne 0117 937 3653. n Teas on Sunday at Old Sodbury Church. 2.30 - 4.30pm,

Sunday afternoons during the summer from May 29th to Sept 4th. Come and have a cup of tea and see the amazing view over the Severn Valley n Teas on Sunday at Old Sodbury Church 2.30 - 4.30pm Sunday afternoons during the summer from May 29th to Sept 4th Come and have a cup of tea and see the amazing view over the Severn Valley New Opening Times n The Chipping Sodbury Tourist Information Centre will now be open 10am - 4pm Monday - Saturday ALL year round Shopmobility South Gloucestershire, Yate Library, Yate Shopping Centre.

The service hires out battery powered scooters and wheelchairs, to help people to retain their independence and to use the facilities of the centre.

You can also hire scooters and wheelchairs for longer terms. If you have a S. Glos.

Council Diamond card then you can use that on the service.

The Shopmobility office is open Tues and Friday 9.30 am - 4 pm, and Thurs and Sat 9.30 am - 2 pm Telephone 01454 868718 or 07999574474 for more information or e mail shopmobilitysouthglos@yahoo.com

MP’s latest jobs fair hailed a success as unemployment figures for women gives boost to constituency

HUNDREDS of jobs and apprenticeships were on offer at the fourth jobs fair hosted by Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall.

Mr Hall pledged to host at least two such fairs every year to bring together local employers and job seekers.

Those looking for work were able to find out about full, parttime and flexible roles with employers that included Avon and Somerset Police, Asda and insurance firm Europa.

South Gloucestershire-based training providers were also in attendance at the event held in Yate Parish Hall.

The fair took place as recent figures showed unemployment among women in the constituency was at its lowest level for a decade, while youth unemployment was also down more than 21 per cent in the last year alone.

Mr Hall said: “These jobs fairs are a great way to put local people in touch with local employers and I’m pleased to see they are growing in attendance with each event.”

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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View from Yate Heritage Centre

Mining around Yate and South Gloucestershire October 11 – November 26 One of the great success stories in local heritage during the last ten years has been the rise of the South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group and the resulting research into local mining and quarrying history.

The group (SGMRG) has successfully produced a string of mining-related books, including Frog Lane Colliery 60 Years On, Celestine, Kingswood Coal and more recently Killed in a Coalpit. It can also be credited with producing high quality exhibitions, managing events and open days at Old Wood pit and even organising a national mining conference at its spiritual home at the Miners’ Institute in Coalpit Heath.

Exhibition It is no surprise that Yate Heritage Centre and the SGMRG are once again collaborating to produce an up-to-date exhibition on the history of mining and quarrying in the area. Coal

Celestine digging in North Yate mining is recorded as early as the 14th century in Coalpit Heath and in the 17th century in Westerleigh. Through the 19th century it was the second largest source of employment after farming west of Yate, with mines, shafts and mining communities dotted around the area.

Quarrying has also had a major

CHARITY CONCERT SUPPORTING

SATURDAY

impact on the landscape, either as major works or as the source of many of our stone buildings.

And let’s not forget Yate’s very own mineral – celestine, or spar as it is known locally. Celestine was dug in the area from the late 19th century to refine sugar beet in Germany and after 1914, it was used in such things as explosives, ceramic glazes and even hair restorer.

Why Now? This is our first joint exhibition for some time. SGMRG continues to research and re-evaluate the mining and quarrying history so a new display is long overdue.

The group is also constantly excavating new sites as the area has some outstanding local

October, 2016

industrial archaeology. Most mines in the area shut in the 19th century but were not capped and filled as thoroughly as today, so there are more remains to study. Currently, work at Serridge engine site at Coalpit Heath and at Brandy Bottom, west of Pucklechurch, continues apace. Ram Hill Colliery has also continued to grow in importance and this Coalpit Heath site has become an official scheduled ancient monument. Other features of the exhibition will include recently excavated items, including an enormous celestine tub and Victorian pit props from Yate Colliery.

For your diaries Tues, October 4, 7.30pm.

Yate lecture series - HMS Dreadnought and the ship’s journal.

Tues, October 11, 7.30pm.

Military rule in the South West during the Commonwealth period.

Thurs, October 13 to Saturday, November 26. Exhibition on mining in Yate and South Gloucestershire.

Wed, October 26, 10.30am and 1.30pm. Clay “grotesque” masks workshops. Ideal for primary age children.

Thurs, October 27, 10.30am and 1.30pm. Weaving workshops. Ideal for primary age children.

All lectures and workshops to be booked.

15th October

ST. MARY’S CHURCH, YATE 7.30 p.m.

CONDUCTOR

GEOFF WICKHAM

ACCOMPANIST

HAZEL WICKHAM

TICKETS

£8.00

From:

chipping sodbury tourist information centre 01454 314779 01454 316485 & Choir Members www.yatechoralsociety.co.uk Supported by Chipping Sodbury and Yate Town Councils and South Gloucestershire County Council

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

Miners at Coalpit Heath

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

27

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Housing plan for countryside site criticised by Yate and Iron Acton councils PARISH leaders are opposing plans to build seven detached houses in open countryside north of Yate.

Developers want to put the homes on land to the rear of Holmelea House in Tanhouse Lane, which lies between Yate and Rangeworthy.

But Yate and Iron Acton councillors have opposed the scheme submitted by Juniper Homes.

Yate Town Council said it would introduce housing in open countryside and set a “terrible precedent” by opening up the entire area to Rangeworthy for development.

It also said there was poor access to highways services and public transport.

Iron Acton Parish Council said the site was outside the settlement boundary and had a lack of local amenities.

It said North Road Primary School was at least one-anda-half miles away along a busy road, while Brimsham Green School was even further away, bus services were infrequent and Tanhouse Lane was part of the Avon cycleway.

It also said the plan did not include affordable housing for local people.

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Blooming good idea to turn unused garden into allotments A GARDEN at the back of the Old Reading Rooms in Chipping Sodbury is set to be given a new role as an allotment site.

The Sodbury in Bloom team is keen for local residents to use it to grow plants for use in the town’s floral displays, as well as cultivating fruit and vegetables.

The site is at the back of Sodbury Town Council’s office in High Street and although the authority pays “considerable costs” for the upkeep of the garden, it said it made no use of it.

Having been approached by the Sodbury in Bloom group, it is enthusiastic about making the plot available for use by the community, especially as there is a waiting list for formal

allotments in the town.

It is believed the garden had been put to allotment use in the past.

Ian Gething, South Gloucestershire Council’s conservation officer, said: “The proposal would appear to be a good use of this historic burgage plot associated with the grade two* listed building.

“The garden, judging by aerial photographs, was historically used as allotments, later reverting to a plain, lawned garden.

“The proposed use of the site for a community garden associated with Sodbury in Bloom would make positive use of this space.”

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28

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Past and present photographs combined for latest Chipping Sodbury calendar PICTURES old and new have been included in the annual town calendar published by Chipping Sodbury Chamber of Commerce.

The 2017 version continues the Then and Now theme adopted for this year’s calendar and features the work of Murray Dowding and Rich McDonough.

Dowding, who was born in 1881, was the seventh child of ironmonger Marcus Dowding of Broad Street.

After starting in photography with portrait work, using a half plate camera, he then recognised the demand for street and rural scenes, especially for the postcard market and the recording of special events.

By 1910 he was advertising that he always had 350 local views in stock and today his postcards are collectable, giving an insight into life in the early 20th century.

Mr McDonough, a member of the chamber who runs his own photographic business, said: “We are very grateful to local historian Jim Elsworth for adding a fascinating commentary to each page. The historical detail and quality of Murray’s photographs are amazing.”

Money raised from sales of the calendar and local sponsorship will help the chamber organise events and plan schemes that bring

more people to the town and encourage new businesses.

The calendars cost £6.50, or £12 for two, and are on sale in the town’s tourist information centre and at the Cotswold Vintner Post Office.

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

29

Park conservation group in need of weekend volunteers for work morning A CONSERVATION group that helps care for Lilliput Park is looking for volunteers to get involved in a weekend work day.

The park is sited between Heron Way and Chipping Sodbury and is popular with people of all ages.

Lilliput Conservation Group runs work mornings on the first Tuesday of each month but is now going to have a weekend session on the morning of Saturday, October 15.

It will run from 10am-noon and anyone who wants to be involved should meet at the Kingfisher Road gate.

All ages are welcome but children must be accompanied by responsible adults. Suitable footwear should be worn and gloves would be useful.

Dodington parish councillor Paul Hulbert, who is a regular at the work sessions, said: “There will be something for everyone digging and tidying, cutting back the bushes and litter picking - and people can work at their own pace.”

More information is available on Lilliput Conservation Group’s Facebook page or from Mr Hulbert on 07771 562505.

Day nursery requires improvement after assessment by Ofsted AN inspector from education watchdog Ofsted said a Yate day nursery required improvement.

Lorraine Sparey said Cherry Tree day nursery in Lodge Road could not be assessed as good because the quality of teaching varied.

She said at times staff engaged with children well but on other occasions youngsters wandered aimlessly and staff did not fully support their learning.

She also highlighted the monitoring of educational programmes by the management team as an area for improvement

and said staff were not consistent in involving all parents fully in their children’s ongoing learning.

However, her report said staff supported children with special educational needs or disability well, working closely with other early years professionals to help them reach their full potential.

Ms Sparey also said older children benefited from moving freely between indoors and outdoors and making choices in their play. Children feeling safe and secure was another strength of the nursery.

WE’RE ONLINE TOO! www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

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T

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October, 2016

Thought for the month

OUG

T H

TH

30

E MO

N

I

HAD my secondary school education locally at what was then Chipping Sodbury Grammar School and consequently I am no longer a young person. In fact the year I was born, the King of England abdicated. However my Mum always maintained that my birth was not in any way connected with that unfortunate albeit historic event.

I expect like me you have par-

Rev. Ray Avent

ticular memories of your education. One of my special recollections was for my English teacher named John Brock. When he stood out at the front of the class and quoted Shakespeare or Shelley it really did come alive.

This gave me a lifelong love of literature in general and admiration for those with the ability to express concisely life and its panorama of experiences.

One poem comes to mind by John Keats namely his ‘Ode to Autumn’.

It starts ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’. How do you view the seasons - by that I include the seasons of life itself?

Everyone reading this is in one of life’s seasons. Each season has its challenges, its uncertainties but also its rewards along

the way.

Someone like me can look back and see how amazingly at times my seasons, my years have unrolled.

As for the future seasons let us go forward in the confidence that can rest securely in the knowledge that One far greater than any of us is in overall control.

We just have to place our trust there in Him and be ready for the unwinding of Autumn 2016 and any other future seasons, years or decades that lie ahead. It is called taking a step of faith in the One I believe created us all in the first place.

Rev. Ray Avent 01453-844178 aventray@hotmail.Com

Yate welcomes high sheriff as Lady Bathurst takes in tour of the town THE High Sheriff of Gloucestershire learnt about aspirations for the Abbotswood area of Yate when she was given a brief tour of the town.

Lady Bathurst met Mary Wright, the chairwoman of Abbotswood Action Group, and local residents to hear of their hopes for the land surrounding Abbotswood Shopping Centre which Yate Town Council bought earlier in the year.

She also went to see Kingsgate Park, called into the recently opened Vintage Birdcage Cakery and visited the Armadillo Youth Venue and Cafe.

Local youth workers gave an insight into the work they did with young people and spoke of plans to replace the Urbie - the urban vehicle for information and education - which plays an essential part in the team’s outreach work.

Yate Town Council is currently fundraising for a new vehicle and is inviting support from businesses and organisations.

Lady Bathurst, third from left, with Councillor Cheryl Kirby, far left, Mary Wright, chairwoman of Abbotswood Action Group, third from right, Yate mayor Tony Davis and local residents at Abbotswood Shopping Centre.

Town mayor Tony Davis said: “We were delighted to meet Lady Bathurst and show her some of the town council facilities.

“We welcomed her interest in

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

ongoing projects, particularly in the areas of Abbotswood and the Armadillo, and work done with the young people of Yate.”

Lady Bathurst told those who

had accompanied her on the tour that she hoped to return to see more of the town.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Support groups eyes New hospital for brain injured up events for rest of patients opens at Frenchay centre of excellence the year A PROGRAMME of visiting speakers for the rest of the year has been drawn up by the recently formed Macular Support Group in Chipping Sodbury.

The group was set up for people with macular degeneration, an eye condition that affects the central vision and which is thought to be the commonest cause of sight loss in the UK. Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club helped organise initial meetings but the aim is for the group to become self-supporting, with members now taking on various roles.

Meetings take place on the third Monday of every month from 1.30pm-3.30pm at the Old Grammar School in High Street, with health professionals and people with macular disease among guest speakers.

The next talk, to be given by Wendy Fillingham on October 17, will be on the topic of being deaf and blind.

Vivienne Mills, of the charity Action for Blind People, will be the guest on November 21, while the last meeting of the year, on December 19, will include a Christmas party.

WE’RE ONLINE TOO! www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

MORE than 200 people were shown around a new hospital for brain-injured patients at Frenchay before work started to move into the premises.

The Frenchay Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre (Frenchay BIRU) has a national reputation for excellence, providing specialist assessment and therapy.

But with only 29 beds, it needed a new unit that could allow it to expand its services and meet demand for its care and treatment, both locally and throughout the South West.

The new hospital is directly opposite the one it is replacing and has 52 beds.

Once services and patients have been switched over, the old unit will be refurbished and modernised to offer a service to up to 23 people who require a longer period of rehabilitation, treatment and support from the same team of experts.

They will also be able to practice independent living in a safe environment.

The open days were held for local residents, medics, past patients and those who refer people to the hospital.

Typically, patients requiring the service are transferred directly to the centre after treatment in an NHS acute hospital to stabilise their medical condition.

They are in the very early stages of recovery from their brain injury and many arrive with complex and profound cognitive and physical impairments.

Hospital director Alison Woods said: “The team are delighted to see our long-held vision to expand our services finally come to fruition.

“With a new hospital here at Frenchay, we can now provide more much-needed beds for individuals with brain injuries.”

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Campaign launched to protect pregnant women and unborn babies from serious infection NEARLY one in three pregnant women in South Gloucestershire are not being vaccinated against highly infectious whooping cough.

Cases of the illness have increased by 50 per cent across the South West, posing a serious risk to babies and young infants.

But despite the rise, thousands of women are still not taking the protection that vaccination offers to their new born child.

Now a regional campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the risks and promote uptake of the vaccine.

Whooping cough, known medically as pertussis, can result in serious breathing difficulties, particularly in babies and young children. It can also lead to major health complications, such as brain damage and pneumonia, and can be fatal.

In the South West, the number of cases leapt from 426 in 2014 to 641 in 2015. In 2012, as a result of whooping cough infection, 14 babies died in England and Wales.

The vaccine is routinely available to pregnant women, who then pass the resistance

to their unborn child. It gives protection to babies from birth until they are old enough to receive their childhood immunisations at around three months old.

The vaccine is given at a GP practice or in maternity units at the point of the foetal abnormality scan, from 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Ideally it should be given before 32 weeks but can still be given right up to the point of labour, although with reduced effectiveness.

During the winter flu season, pregnant women should also receive the flu vaccination, which can be given at the same time as whooping cough protection.

Dr Nigel Acheson, regional medical director for NHS England South, said: “People often think of whooping cough as an illness from days gone by but it is a real threat to babies and young children right now.”

South Gloucestershire has one of the better rates of vaccination take-up, with 68.4 per cent of eligible women being protected as of March 2016, but still leaving a large number at risk.

Volunteers needed by South Gloucestershire charity to help older people claim vital benefits MORE volunteers are needed by Age UK South Gloucestershire to help make a difference to older people.

A team within the organisation carry out free benefits checks for the elderly, including those who struggle with application forms.

The team is made up of staff and three volunteers and last year it secured more than £660,000 of benefits for clients. More than 30 of those who were helped lived in the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area.

Now Age UK hopes to recruit more volunteers who can give at least two hours a week to supporting others who need help applying for much needed benefits.

Anyone interested should email volunteering@ ageuksouthglos.org.uk or phone 01454 411707.

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

Luke Hall MP writes for Yate & Sodbury Voice

Getting South Gloucestershire moving

O

NE of the biggest issues we face in South Gloucestershire is an outdated infrastructure network - strained and at points overwhelmed. This is principally due to large scale developments, for example Emersons Green and Lyde Green, without the required investment in our roads, rail and public transport networks to balance increased volume of movement on the network.

Traffic congestion in the area, has seen a 30% increase in traffic in the last 15 years – significantly above the national average of 21%. As a great, but growing community, I want our area to reach every last bit of potential, and that means tackling our infrastructure problem. I recently delivered 11,000 surveys to houses in South Gloucestershire, asking people locally how they felt we could best improve our local transport network, infrastructure and services.

The response so far has been phenomenal with over 1000 responses returned from residents, and more coming in every day. There has been a strong consensus about the changes and investment we require for our area. 90% of respondents support the campaign for a new junction 18A onto the M4, and over 85 % of residents in Yate wanting to see the road to nowhere finally completed after it

was abandoned in 1974.

Changes and improvements to our public transport is also a priority; more frequent services to and from Southmead Hospital, a Yate Park and Ride and more frequent train services have been repeatedly raised. I have already started using the responses to raise these concerns and suggestions with the Council and private providers, demonstrating the strong demand for improved services in Yate and Coalpit Heath particularly.

I have been consistently raising these issues in parliament, calling a debate on building Junction 18A and raising funding for The Road to Nowhere directly with the Chancellor and Government Ministers. We have had some success, securing £500,000 to complete the full feasibility study into Junction 18A, submitting the bid to investigate completing the Road to Nowhere and re-opening discussions about the Yate Park and Ride.

We have to be forward thinking about what infrastructure is needed in South Gloucestershire, these combined projects have the potential to unlock significant economic and personal benefits to our community. Change won’t happen overnight, but I can assure Voice readers that I will be constantly fighting to get South Gloucestershire Moving.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

October, 2016

yate&sodburyvoice

On the beat with PC Dan Jones

M

Y colleagues and I have been working on a cross-border operation with Wiltshire police to tackle rural crime.

Since August 31 we’ve stopped and checked more than 50 vehicles in two overnight operations which have also led to one person being issued with a cannabis warning, two uninsured vehicles being taken off the road, high-powered lamps suspected of being used in poaching being seized, while two men are currently on police bail follow-

ing their arrest on suspicion of poaching.

These operations are a result of information from the community about rural crime. I hope you feel reassured by the action we’ve been taking and that criminals will think twice about offending in the area.

We know these criminals don’t worry about causing damage to crops and property when they trespass for game. They’re not above theft of other property while they’re there either.

Poaching is not nowadays about an individual taking one or two animals for the pot – it’s all about the money. Organised groups are taking game and livestock to sell into the food chain, with no regard for the welfare of the animals or the unsuspecting end customer.

These criminals don’t following hygiene standards and the meat they sell may not be fit to eat, with potential health risks including faecal and environmen-

tal contamination.

We need you to keep telling us about criminal activity so that we can continue with these targeted operations. If you have any information about crime, you can report it: • Through our online form https://www.avonandsomerset. police.uk/contact-us • By calling 101 • By calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

PC 4897 Daniel JONES Chipping Sodbury and Cotswold Edge Neighbourhood Beat Manager Avon and Somerset Constabulary (General Enquires: 101 (NonEmergencies Only) (Mobile 07802874498 :Email:Daniel.jones@avonandsomerset.police.uk

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Nominations invited to recognise best rural businesses BUSINESSES in South Gloucestershire’s rural areas can be nominated for the 2016 Countryside Alliance Awards.

Regarded as a gold standard, the awards recognise businesses in four categories - tourism enterprise, farm enterprise, village shop or post office and local food and drink.

Their aim is to honour those who routinely go the extra mile for their community or help to preserve and protect rural life.

The public can make their nominations online at www. countryside-alliance.org until November 4.

Judges will visit finalists before the winners are announced in March 2017.

n REVIEW

Sound of Music, Bristol Hippodrome LIKE many people, I saw The Sound of Music on telly when I was a kid; but I’m not a megafan. I’m not a regular musicalgoer either. However, after watching this show I’m ready to see more!

The Hippodrome itself is a gem of flamboyant lateVictorian architecture. The stage mechanics and scenery changes are fascinating.

All the songs you know and love are here – from brownpaper packages tied up with string, to the hills are alive, to the lonely goatherd (yodel-ayhee-hoo) - along with a couple I didn’t remember. And there’s some charming choreography, particularly Rolf and Liesl’s Sixteen Going on Seventeen.

After the obligatory plotsetting, the show came alive for me with the entrance of the seven children – the Von Trapp family. The little ones were just as cute as they should be, and

the older ones had presence and likeability.

After a joyful rendition of Doe A Deer (official title Do-Re-Mi), I was fully engaged and enjoying

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the show. As was the rest of the audience – someone by me said she was finding it hard to resist joining in, and I agreed.

The cast includes Lucy

O’Byrne (as seen on BBC’s The Voice), and Coronation Street’s Andrew Lancel.

Becky Golding

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

ADVERTISEMENT

Aston Martin and Dick Lovett launches in Bristol ASTON Martin has opened its latest new dealership in the UK in Bristol, partnering for the first time with Dick Lovett.

The purpose-built stateof-the-art facility at Cribbs Causeway features a 25-car luxurious showroom for new and pre-owned Aston Martin sports cars and a separate lounge where customers can tailor their new car to the exact specification.

Speaking at a VIP customer reception held last month to launch the showroom, Aston Martin President and CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “I am delighted to open this outstanding new facility here in Bristol, which sets the benchmark for all dealership showrooms worldwide.

“Dick Lovett are why we chose to open in Bristol, partly because it’s a family and we like the spirit of welcoming that you get when you come here. It is a fantastic location and they were prepared to make something that is really special to represent the brand.”

Lynn Campbell, Managing Director, Dick Lovett said: “It was great to see over 400 Aston Martin owners and enthusiasts this evening. The opening of our new state-of-the-art facility, in our 50th year, has made 2016 a fantastic year. The facility has been uniquely designed and reflects Aston Martin’s core design philosophy and

craftsmanship.”

On display at the opening event was the new DB11. The first product launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan, the DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic, dynamic sporting GT in the finest Aston Martin tradition.

Also included in the display was the new Vanquish Zagato, a DB4 Convertible, the Aston Martin Racing #99 V8 Vantage GTE plus a host of other Aston Martin special project vehicles.

In addition to this were examples from the company’s current lineup, and a selection of heritage

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models, including the Aston Martin A3, the oldest surviving Aston Martin in the world.

The showroom was packed with admirers of the luxury cars on the evening, including the first customer to purchase a car from the showroom, Patrick Cullen from south Bristol, who has ordered a metallic silver DB11 v12.

“I’ve wanted it for quite a long time and have been saving for most of my life. It’s in production at the moment and is due in November,” he said.

Aston Martin cars have been compared to owning a luxury handbag - the Hermes Birkin of the car world. Dr Andy Palmer added: “Our customers fall into two categories. There are the car nuts who have always dreamt of owning an Aston Martin, may not be hugely wealthy, or may have come into the brand through the second hand car market. The Aston is their passion. If you go to racing at Le Mans you will find a whole bunch of people who are supporting the band and perhaps are James Bond fans too.

“Then there are the high net worth individuals. There are about 16 million people around the world who have £1m of

disposable cash and they are very discerning and look for the understated - that is where the Aston customer is drawn from.”

The new South West and Wales showrooms are well placed for the production of the new DBX crossover SUV and the Lagonda which will be hand built at a new £200m factory in St Athan in South Wales.

Dr Andy Palmer said: “We at Aston Martin are going through a revolution - we have the new factory, the new product range and the new DB. As a consequence of that the Zagato sold out even before we announced it. What we now have is a destination that is worthy of the brand.”

Aston Martin Bristol offer a convenient “Collection & Delivery” service using their covered vehicle transporter and a “Roaming Technician” service to assist with minor repairs and original diagnostic work.

The dealership has a dedicated aftersales team and a 10 bay workshop staffed by world-class Gaydon-trained technicians.

For further information about Aston Martin Bristol, please visit: Aston Martin Bristol .

Give Richard a call on 01454 800 127 or e-mail contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

S

TER T E

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yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Home-start Bristol HOME-START Bristol (HSB) is recruiting two Trustees to join its current eight-member Trustee Board team.

Our charity supports families living within the geographical boundaries of Bristol and South Gloucestershire, who have at least one child under 5 and who are experiencing problems affecting their wellbeing as a family. This support is provided by our trained volunteers (under the guidance of our professional co-ordinators) who visit a family each week, offering support, friendship and practical assistance.

We have a staff of 6 parttime employees and 78 (as at September 2016) volunteers.

One of our employees combines her administrative role with that of Early Intervention Worker, providing rapid and direct response to families in, or on the point of, crisis.

During 2015/16 we supported 134 families and expect to support at least that number in the next 12 months.

By becoming a Trustee of HSB you will be part of a team helping to make a lasting and positive impact on the development of children and the health and welfare of families.

Trustees are unpaid, but reasonable expenses can be claimed.

Board meetings are held monthly, usually on a Wednesday or Thursday morning at the Greenway Centre Doncaster Road, Southmead Bristol BS10 5PY For further details please contact either our Scheme Manager, Beverley Symonds, (email address schememanager@homestartbristol.org. uk, telephone 0117 950 1170 or our Chair of Trustees, Sue Otty (email address sue-

otty@hotmail.co.uk, telephone 07568503481.

Our website address is www.homestartbristol.org.uk and is well worth a visit, as is our Facebook page.

Supporting Age UK COULD you give 2 hours a week to make a real difference to an older person’s life?

Our Information and Advice Benefits team carry out free benefits checks for people in later life. We also support people who want to claim benefits but are struggling with the application forms.

The team is made up of staff and three volunteers.

Last year our three I&A Benefits volunteers secured over £660,000 of benefits for our clients, volunteers making a real difference.

We are in need of more volunteers to help us reach more people in later life who are in need. The role is rewarding, and by giving 2 hours a week you can support people living in your community who need help applying for much needed benefits. If you can

give more time we would be delighted.

Last year we supported over 30 people living in the yate and Chipping Sodbury areas and we are experiencing similar demand this year.

To find out more information please call 01454 411707 and select Option 2 for volunteering, Michelle and Naomi would be delighted to hear from you.

Alternatively e-mail volunteering@ageuksouthglos.org.uk

ADVERTISEMENT

View the Stunning Range of Windows, Doors, Rooflights and Conservatories at Crystal Clear’s New Showroom VIEW and touch Crystal Clear’s extensive range of doors, windows and rooflights at their brand new Bristol showroom in Brislington. The business recently moved to new, larger premises next door to their previous building, which is easy to find as it’s painted in Crystal Clear’s striking pink.

The new showroom is Bristol’s largest indoor window and door showroom and showcases a wide range of energy-efficient doors,

windows, glazing, rooflights and conservatories, offering low upkeep combined with ease of use and high security.

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Crystal Clear place great importance on attention to

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detail and delivering the very highest standards of customer service. Whether you’re looking for windows, doors, rooflights or conservatories, Crystal Clear supply and fit high quality ‘A-Class’ energy efficient double glazing, all with a 10-year guarantee and fitted by one of their expert installation teams.

Visit their extensive new showroom to see the very latest designs and range of stunning

designer and traditional doors, windows and rooflights. Open from 7:30am until 4:30pm, Monday to Friday and 9:00am until 3:00 pm on Saturday, Crystal Clear’s professional team will on hand to discuss your requirements.

For further information, please call Crystal Clear on 0117 405 7289 or alternatively view their website at www.crystal clearbristol.co.uk.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

36

yate&sodburyvoice SPORT STARTS HERE

October, 2016

Overseas player proves boon for Chipping Sodbury AFTER an impressive summer in English cricket, New Zealander Phil Lill is set to say farewell to Chipping Sodbury but could return in the spring for a second season with the cricket club.

The 25-year-old from South Canterbury made a big impression on and off the pitch as the club’s overseas player.

Lill said, “I was surprised in a good way by the standard of cricket. After a strong start to the season it was a little disappointing that we could not keep it up but overall the club is only going one way and that’s forward. I really appreciate everything the club has done for me this year and I would love to come back if we can get all the paperwork sorted.”

Lill ended the summer as the thirteenth highest run scorer in the WEPL’s Gloucestershire division finishing with 375 runs and an average of 27.

He also took 22 off-spin wickets at an average of 18.7, finishing thirteenth in the bowling lists for Sodbury who improved from seventh in 2015 to claim fifth place, just 29

Club Chairman Andy Shield with New Zealander Phil Lill points behind second-placed Dumbleton.

Chairman Andy Shield said, “The concept of having an overseas player is fairly new to us but at this level of cricket it’s a very necessary part of your first-team setup. Phil more than met our aspirations and fitted in

brilliantly with everyone.”

Lill’s time in England was greatly enhanced by the generosity of Sharon and Steve Poole who provided him with a real home from home while he was in the UK. Sodbury seamer Tom Clay is hoping for a similar experience

when he spends the winter months playing for Christchurch side Heathcote who boast one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in New Zealand.

Sodbury hold their annual meeting at their Ridings clubhouse on Tuesday October 4 from 7.30pm.

SPONSORED STORY CHIPPING Sodbury Motor Company is proud to announce that they will be the main sponsors of St Nicholas Football Club, for the next three years.

As a family-owned local business, Chipping Sodbury Motor Company is delighted to have the opportunity to sponsor their local football team. The company, which offers new and used car sales, has been in Chipping Sodbury since it was established in 1967 and is based on Hatters Lane, just off the high street.

St Nicholas FC provides football for local children in Yate and Chipping Sodbury and the surrounding areas, from its grounds at ‘The Ridings’ in Chipping Sodbury. It was one of the first local clubs to run girls football teams, which enjoyed much success and led to formation of a St Nicholas Ladies in 2008, followed by St Nicholas Old Boys in 2010.

The club is now running twenty teams of all ages, from boy’s and girl’s development teams starting at age 4 through to U18 and Adult teams.

Chipping Sodbury Motor Company has formed a close partnership with St Nicholas FC, and as part of the sponsorship package, has donated new playing kits for all of St Nicholas FC’s teams, which feature the company’s logo.

David Powell, Dealer Principal and Co-

Chipping Sodbury Motor Company Proud Sponsor of St Nicholas FC

owner of Chipping Sodbury Motor Company said, “We see this as an exciting opportunity to support our local football club and children in the community and are looking forward to being a part of the success of the Club over the next few years.”

Steve Venn, St Nicholas FC Chairman,

For Newsdesk or Advertising contact 07733898762

stated “For a non-profit making club like ours, sponsors are a great help. Not only do they assist on the financial side of things but they also help cement bonds within the local community. This is one bond we hope will continue long into the future.”

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

October, 2016

yate&sodburyvoice

Wiggo’s farewell to road racing brings out the crowds as cycling spectacular arrives in Sodbury

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CYCLING star Sir Bradley Wiggins made one of his last appearances in road racing when he sped through Chipping Sodbury in the Tour of Britain.

The holder of five Olympic medals, who has done much to raise the profile of competitive cycling, helped bring huge crowds of spectators out to see riders flash through the town and surrounding areas.

Another big name cyclist, Mark Cavendish, was also in the race, which eventually finished in London three days later with Britain’s Steve Cummings taking the honours.

Sir Bradley had already claimed he would be retiring later this year but those lining the route to get a glimpse of him only had seconds to try and pick him out from the crowd during the stage-five spectacle.

The cyclists had started the stage in Aberdare and raced into Chipping Sodbury just minutes after going through Wottonunder-Edge and Wickwar. They then headed out to Westerleigh and Pucklechurch en route to the stage end in Bath.

But despite the shortlived excitement, residents, shopkeepers and school children maintained their enthusiasm, having lined the town’s streets for a good hour before the cavalcade of police motorcyclists, tour support vehicles and elite cyclists appeared.

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38

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

Old Sodbury Yate back to winning ways in September youngsters endure tough start to season

LAST season’s division 4 champions Old Sodbury under 16s were handed a tough fixture at much fancied Bitton on the opening day of the new season.

Sodbury started strongly creating numerous early chances, leading to a deserved two goal lead. Debutants Oskar Earp and Owen Ladip opened their accounts with Earp’s excellent strike quickly followed by a reactive finish by Ladip.

A change of shape by Bitton led to a goal late in the half and an equaliser immediately after the break. Old Sodbury reacted by taking control of midfield again with man of the match Dan Watson battling away. The pressure brought just reward when Ross Womack’s fine touch and pass found Ethan Lloyd who sprinted through to give the away side the lead once again.

Bitton’s greater physical presence drew them level and they then roared them into a two-goal lead. Last season’s top scorer Womack pulled a goal back with his first of the campaign but Old Sodbury couldn’t recover and fell to a 5-4 defeat.

Old Sodbury Manager Damian Frodsham said afterwards; “While the loss is a frustrating one there were lots

of positives to take into the first home game of the season.’

Despite dominating possession Old Sodbury were once again left ruing missed chances when they hosted league leaders Midsomer Norton.

The home side began brightly with Dan Watson and Owen Ladip controlling the midfield.

Ross Womack’s pace caused the visitors problems but their imposing goalkeeper kept them in the game.

Against the run of play, Midsomer Norton broke away and took their chance to score, but within minutes Sodbury were awarded a free kick 25 yards out which Womack dispatched with dip and swerve to equalise.

After the break the pattern of play continued with Sodbury creating chances. Against the run of play Midsomer Norton took the lead but were pegged back immediately with a Sodbury equaliser, when a longrange effort from Robbie Foxwell caused confusion amongst the away defence and an own goal ensued.

The away side took a surprise lead and despite a late bombardment from Old Sodbury they held firm to leave with all three points.

YATE town enjoyed a winning start to September with three wins improving on their dismal start to the season. A home match against Bridgwater Town opened the month and Yate made an excellent start with young striker Jack Ball scoring twice in the opening stages. His first goal after 7 minutes was finished with a low shot into the corner of the net as he held off several challenges. His double soon followed when he was first to react to a low cross from Josh Morgan-Williams and volleyed home from close range.

Bridgwater seldom threatened but still managed to reduce the arrears just before the break when former Yate player Syd Camper took advantage of some slack defending. An entertaining second half saw both sides create opportunities.

The visitors equalised on 76 minutes when Ben Palmer scored following a corner but just three minutes later Yate regained the lead when Kyle Thomas curled a delightful free kick into the top corner.

Yate came close to extending their lead twice hitting the woodwork in the remaining 10 minutes but had to settle for a well deserved and a welcome 3-2 win.

Yate also made a bright start when they visited Wantage Town. Jack Ball gave them the lead midway through the first half. Treyvond Anderson found Josh Morgan-Williams with a fine cross field pass and his cross fell to Ball who forced over despite the efforts of a defender and the home keeper.

Apart from a period before half time, Yate generally looked the better side but they badly needed a second goal to make the game safe. Kye Thomas hit the post following a good move down the left before captain Kye Mountford swept the ball home from just outside the box on 78 minutes to give Yate an unassailable two goal advantage.

The next game of the month saw Yate come from behind to

beat big-spending Salisbury at Lodge Road. Although they trailed at half time, three goals in the second half saw them overcome the visitors.

Following and unprecedented treble last season Yate’s Youth Team are expected to face a more challenging season as the team consists almost entirely of first years at Under-18 level. Despite their inexperience, the team has made progress in the FA Youth Cup, beating New College Swindon 4-3 in the opening round before travelling to Tuffley Rovers where they trounced the home team 9-1. Sandwiched between these two excellent victories was their opening league match against Cullompton Rangers where the older Devon team won 2-0.

Bristol Rovers Youth team are also using Lodge Road for some of their home matches and have been impressed by the playing surface and facilities. They drew a very entertaining match against Bournemouth before convincingly beating Yeovil Town in their next match.

Yate Town FC October fixtures Sat 1st October AFC Totton, away 3.00 Pm Tues 4th October Shortwood UTD (league cup), away 7.45 Pm Sat 8th October Mangotsfield UTD (fa trophy), away 3.00 Pm Sat 15th October Bideford, home 3.00 Pm Sat 22nd October Bishops Cleeve, away 3.00 Pm Tues 25th October Taunton Town, home 7.45 Pm Other matches @ the Jelf Stadium, Lodge Road during October Sat 8th October, Bristol Rovers Youth v Swindon Town 10.30 Am Wed 19th October, Yate Town Youth v Taunton Town 7.30 Pm Sat 22nd October, Bristol Rovers Youth v Exeter City 10.30 Am Wed 26th October, Bristol Rovers – 15 v Bristol City – 15 7.30 Pm

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www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk

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Give Richard a call on 01454 800 127 or e-mail contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

October, 2016

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39

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S ER RE FF O O ST IN

ON THE OLD BRANCHES OF BRISTOL SITE OPPOSITE TEMPLEMEADS STATION We’re opening The Old Mill Interiors & Furnishings store in the heart of Bristol, bringing the people of Bristol and surrounding areas great value furniture, homewares and gifts with everyday low prices.

On the site of the recently closed Branches of Bristol store, you’ll be able to find a world of oak, pine and painted furniture for all rooms in your home in every look imaginable, from stylish classics to ultramodern industrial looks. But we don’t stop there, with leather and fabric sofas and suites, mattresses and more. There’ll also be a great range of rugs, lighting, homewares and gifts. Simply everything you need for a more beautiful home.

Store Opening times Monday - Saturday: 9.30am -5.30pm Sunday: 10.30am - 4.30pm

O U R N E W LO O K D E ST I N AT I O N STO R E OPENS SATURDAY 22 ND OCTOBER 9.30AM FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT WWW.THEOLDMILLINTERIORS.CO.UK OR ON FACEBOOK T H E S H O W R O O M S , C I TY P O I N T, T E M P L E G AT E , B R I STO L , BS 1 6 P L