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filtonvoice December 2013 Issue 27

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Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers 1

£70,000 for new play park, Page 3 * With hand delivered issues. Some pens available in public places

‘Invasion’ of cars at an end, Page 4

GP surgery for retail park? Page 7

FREE Filton Flyer pen with this issue, Page 15 16

Street light latest, Page 11 Christmas fayres, pics Page 19

Big crowds at Abbeywood Retail Park, Pages 5-10 22

Festive style, Pages 42-43

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December, 2013

Editor’s note

Shortly after Filtonvoice was launched, I remember a resident telling me: “I didn’t realise there was so much going on in Filton”. It is certainly true that there a lot happening in our town - our schools, churches, organisations and others put on huge numbers of events and courses for people. But there are other things going on as well, some of which lead to grumbles. One such issue at the moment is street lighting which, as I’m sure most people will have noticed, means the town (in most streets) goes dark around midnight with the lights back on shortly before dawn. This has been done to save both money and carbon emissions. Putting to one side the rights and wrongs of this, there has certainly been a lot of debate. For those of us ‘lucky’ enough to be on Facebook, there are petitions, discussions and more. Yet one common complaint is that there was not enough consultation by our council. In fact, there was consultation and discussion at town council level. The fact is that often, and we are all guilty of this, we only begin to be angry ‘after the event’. The town council meets monthly - with plans to take the meetings to different locations in 2014 - and the town also has the quarterly Safer Stronger meeting at BAWA. I would urge any resident to get involved, come to meetings, write letters to Filtonvoice ... and maybe even stand as a councillor at the next election. Our voices can be heard and over the past two years unpopular decisions have been overturned or reviewed as a result of public outrage, the best example being the retaining of the Shield Health Centre. Everyone involved with Filtonvoice would like to wish all readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice 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 although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

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News

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Playpark set for £70,000 revamp The play park at Elm Park is set to get a £70,000 overhaul after money was released to pay for the rebuild. The playpark, which has seen calls for a revamp over the years, will now be subject to a consultation with families to decide the new layout. The money was paid to South Glos Council by developers as a condition of house building in the local area. It was agreed at a recent meeting of the Southern Brooks Area Forum. Filton Town Council has also agreed to put up £10,000 on top of the £60,000 developer money. The town council money is ‘106 money’ left in the coffers from the development of the Combination Ground, Gloucester Road North. It is understood the popular and modern playpark at Canford Park cost around £50,000 so

councillors are optimistic Filton will get something special.

In a joint statement, Cllrs Adam Monk and Roger

Hutchinson, pictured, said: “We are extremely pleased to have secured funding through new homes bonus for improvements to the play area in Elm Park which we think everyone would agree are in need of updating. “In the current climate of austerity cuts it is really refreshing to have something positive to talk about.” A town council spokesperson said: “Filton Town Council has been successful in receiving grant funding for a new play area at Elm Park. “We are in the process of planning a consultation session in the Pavilion on 18th January 2014, 11.30am–12.30a.m to gauge the views of local children and parents.” The area forum also agreed £10,000 for the Pyramid Youth Club and £33,000 for repairs in 10th Avenue.

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News

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Fed-up residents in Filton whose roads were ‘invaded’ by cars owned by MoD staff and Filton Abbeywood station commuters have finally won their battle for parking restrictions. The residents of New Road/ Pilkington Close/Station Road and The Sidings, along with those in the Nutfield Grove area had expressed concerns over the level of on-street parking which has been causing congestion and access problems. The high levels of parking are linked with commuters parking to access the MoD and Filton Abbeywood railway station. Residents said they were having trouble getting their cars out of driveways and there were

worried that emergency vehicles and refuse lorries could not get through. Last year, resident Ken Hoare, who lives in The Sidings, launched a campaign to introduce parking restrictions to discourage workers from leaving their cars all day. Now South Glos Council has agreed and will begin work on a series of measures. In New Road, Pilkington Close, Station Road and The Sidings, these include: • No waiting at any time on one side of the road; • No waiting 11am to 2pm, Monday to Friday, on the other side • Limited waiting bays three

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News focus - parking

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streets - angry residents Residents’ viewpoints As a resident of Pilkington Close I have recently had to acquire a mobility scooter & I need to come down the path on my side of the road to my house no 3. I need to have full width of the pathway to turn into my gate with shopping. This side of the road is usually blocked with cars from the MOD. The bottom part of the road and the far side of the road has always been parking for local residents making it hard for service access into the road with all the extra traffic. C Rex Taylor

Let’s hope our parking misery is finally over

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Residents Ken Hoare and Jenny Small highlight eh problems in Station Road and inset, The Sidings A meeting has been arranged between local councillors, police, MoD and other agencies in an

attempt to resolve the problem as soon as possible. Filtonvoice made repeated

attempts to speak to the MoD but no response was given as we went to press.

It is vital that residents make their voice heard I have been working with the residents of Kenmore Drive and Crescent for a number of months to try to find a solution to parking problems mainly caused by the actions of Bristol CC installing yellow lines in the roads surrounding Southmead Hospital, including Kenmore Drive up to the South Glos boundary. Inevitably this moved the parking from Bristol into the Kenmores. It is really good news that we have reached the point of consulting on options to try to solve the problems in the Kenmores, which is essential, but also that surrounding streets are being consulted. Whilst it will be a step forward if we can resolve the situation in the Kenmores, I think that it is very likely that the problem will probably move to other streets in Filton Park. As a consequence,

other roads/streets have been included in the consultation. It is however important that everyone who has received a letter gives the council their views on what might happen in the future. Do you think that the problem will move to your road? What sort of solutions, similar to those being suggested in the Kenmores, might you accept? I have been keen to ensure that the consultation for the wider area is included in this current traffic management review, so that it can be dealt with sooner rather than later. The problem at the moment is that schemes cannot be drawn up for consultation when the problem isn’t currently there, but the views of those who might be affected are crucial to planning the work should problems arise. So please respond to the

consultation and consider the options for your roads, including the resident only (permit parking) option. In addition to the Filton Park problem I have been very conscious of the issues surrounding the MoD and the waiting restrictions implemented at the Abbeywood Retail Park, which is causing problems in a wide area including parts of Stoke Park and Stoke Gifford. As a consequence, a multiagency meeting has been organised to involve not only South Glos cllrs but also local town/parish councils, Safer and Stronger reps, South Glos officers, MoD and police. As the traffic management review continues over the next few months, other parts of Filton where problems have been identified will be consulted on. Cllr Roger Hutchinson

People don’t care and leave their cars from 8am until 10pm at times. I’ve had enough and something has got to be done! Residents’ permits are definitely needed! Come on, let’s all get together and get someone to do something! Matthew We are also having terrible problems with cars being parked and left in The Sidings, New Road and Pilkington Close in Filton. Please sign the petition. http://www.ipetitions. com/petition/doubleparking-the-sidings-filton/ Alan

What do you think about parking on Filton? Send your views to richard@ filtonvoice.co.uk or log on to www. filtonvoice.co.uk

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Ken and Phillipa Hoare; right, last year’s story in Filtonvoice hours (no return within six) Monday to Friday in parts of New Road • Disabled parking bay in part of New Road. The other work will see: • No waiting at any time in parts of Filton Avenue, Gayner Road, Mackie Avenue, Mackie Grove, Mackie Road, Mortimer Road, Northville Road, Nutfield Grove, Park Road, Shellard Road and Tenth Avenue • No waiting 11am to 2pm, Monday to Friday, in parts of Nutfield Grove

• Disabled parking bay in part of Filton Avenue. Mr Hoare, pictured with his wife Phillipa, said: “This has been miserable for local people with the high levels of commuter cars being left here. “We are glad it has finally been resolved and we are grateful to Cllr Roger Hutchinson for his efforts.” A similar problem in the Kenmore Crescent area due to parking from Southmead Hospital staff led to a residents’ parking scheme.

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December, 2013

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Abbey Wood Retail Park opening

It’s a new era for Filton shopping Six pages of coverage starts here

The biggest retail development for Filton in many years is finally up and running. The Abbey Wood Retail Park, which includes several big names including a 24-hour Asda, attracted around 400 shoppers who queued when the supermarket giant opened its doors for the first time on December 2. Hundreds of local people will be working at the new and existing stores and the mix of retail and restaurants mean the backers of the park have recognised its potential to be a real ‘destination’ area. Turn to Page 6

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December, 2013

Cllr Ian Boulton, Asda manager David Rolph, GWAAC’s John Christensen and Asda Community Life Champion Anne Maddox From Page 5 line-up, performing a selection of Christmas carols as the doors were thrown open, filling Filton-based charity Great customers with festive cheer as Western Air Ambulance Charity they entered the store. (GWAAC) helped open the new Chief executive of GWAAC, Asda, following the store’s search John Christensen, was presented for a ‘local hero’. with a £200 cheque donation to GWAAC celebrated with the air ambulance service. more than 400 customers, Asda He said: “We were extremely staff, the Chair of the Council grateful to have been chosen by Ian Boulton and a host of local Asda Filton to help celebrate the community figures including opening of the new store. Filton Town Council chairman “We rely entirely on the Darryl Collins. generous support of our The new Filton Flyer 555 bus, local community to continue which will include the retail park operating.” on its route, also arrived for the David Rolph, store manager opening. at Asda Filton, added: “We are The air ambulance charity thrilled that Great Western Air was chosen from hundreds of Ambulance Charity was able to nominations by local people to help celebrate with us today and open the new supermarket. we look forward to supporting The GWAAC fundraising the amazing work they do in the team were present to meet the local community.” local community and spread the Customers can expect to find message about the work of the everything for a full weekly shop organisation. at Asda Filton, including a click Bristol singer/songwriter and collect service that allows George Ray performed his new customers to order online and charity single “Time Goes By Too collect it ready packed from the Quickly”, with all proceeds from store. The 30,000 sq. ft. store the song going to the St Peter’s also features a George clothing Hospice where his mother was department and customer cared for. The Bristol Male restaurant. Voice Choir completed the

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Abbey Wood Retail Park

Clockwise from above left: First shopper Susan Burley, the Bristol Male Voice Choir; crowds waiting to get in; Asda’s ‘George’ clothing section;Filton Flyer 555; the Knutty Knitters (see P47)

What we think Claire Jayne Carpenter: At long last Filton has a decent retail park to be proud of. Our area now looks half decent instead of run down. It’s definitely given Filton the boost it so desperately needed

GP surgery could join big name retailers at park A ‘community hub’ including a GP surgery, Post Office and library could become part of the revitalised Abbey Wood retail Park, the site’s management has told Filtonvoice. The community area would be housed above the soon-to-open Subway unit. As Filtonvoice went to press, several of the major retailers had opened their doors. The shopping park, which has undergone a £10 million refurbishment and extension, is now home to Costa Coffee and restaurant chains Frankie & Benny’s and Nando’s as well as Asda. Sporting Pro, the new sports fascia owned by value fashion chain Matalan and backed by Intersport, will also open its first store in the South West at the park before Christmas. The development of the park has included redesigning the car park and common areas to create a public space and developing buildings to provide new

community space and leisure facilities. These new shops and restaurants join existing retailers Matalan, Pets at Home, Brantano, Next Clearance and McDonalds. Further stores that have signed up to the scheme, including the new Subway and other national chains still to be announced, which are expected to open to the public before spring next year. Ian Cody, Asset Manager, Hermes Real Estate Investment Management Limited (HREIML), commented: “We’re looking forward to working with the new and existing shops and restaurants to provide a new shopping and leisure destination for the local community. “The area is rapidly developing with new homes, businesses, the University campus and public facilities so it’s important to us that we provide a central location where people can get their groceries,

take their pets to the vet, shop for clothes, homeware and come together to socialise. “The park has the opportunity to be a local hub and we’re keen to develop that further. The next step will be turning the community space into a doctor’s surgery, post office and library or exercise space – a place that is beneficial to nearby businesses and local residents.” The redevelopment of the shopping park has included a new pedestrian foot bridge has been created to the rear of the new Frankie & Benny’s to improve the access to the site from Filton Abbey Wood Station and the Ministry of Defence’s Abbey Wood site. In addition, bike racks have been installed for cyclists using the surrounding foot and cycle paths that link the site to Bristol Parkway Stations, the MoD and UWE. For individual opening hours visit www. abbeywoodshoppingpark.co.uk

Pat and Pete Burge: It’s brilliant. The are has really been cleaned up and we were able to walk directly from Filton Samantha Louise Radford: It is smaller than I was expecting but still has all the essentials, the fact that it is 24 hours is very handy plus Asda like to get involved in the local community so I’m sure that there will be more benefits to Filton. Leanne Pugh: It certainly looks more appealing as a retail park now. I always thought it was such a shame that the Big W/TJ Hughes buildings were empty for so long. Town council chairman Darryl Collins: 250 new jobs in the Filton area is to be celebrated. This is a very positive regeneration for the town.

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2013

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December, 2013

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Abbey Wood Retail Park Why McDonald’s is welcoming developments at retail park

Restaurant now open 24 hours The regeneration of the Abbeywood Retail Park has led to major investment by one of the site’s most established businesses. McDonald’s has invested £50,000 in new kitchen equipment and has raised its payroll numbers from 78 to 122 as franchisee Mike Guerin looks to grow the branch, helped by the anticipated extra visitors. Mr Guerin, who owns 13 McDonald’s restaurants in the Bristol and Wiltshire area, said the park would now attract people from a much wider area. He said the introduction of the new retailers was especially welcome in a park which had become “tired”. “We were one of the major draws for the park after Big W closed down and we estimated 80% of customers came to the park just for the McDonald’s restaurant,” he said. McDonald’s remained successful in the retail park even when units were closing down but he said his restaurant was now in a position to capitalise on all the new developments. He said: “The retail park will be attracting people from a much

wider area now and we had to look at how we would capitalise. “We are now open in both our Drive Thru and dinning area 24 hours 7 days a week, to fit in with lifestyles of people like MoD staff and students in the area. “This will complement the Asda 24 hour operation. “We have increased our staff numbers from 78 to 122 and we remain committed to our programme of career development through apprenticeships.” Mr Guerin initially tested the McDonald’s apprenticeship programme in the Bristol area which has seen hundreds of employees secure both work-related and academic qualifications. The business works with Learn Direct to offer GCSE catch-up qualifications through online and local training. The manager of the Filton restaurant, Scott Morgan, is an example of the scheme in action, having progressed from crew member to manager. Mike Guerin, right, is pictured outside the Filton restaurant with manager Scott Morgan

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December, 2013

Abbeywood Retail Park

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Filton has now got its own Nando’s as part of the Abbeywood Retail Park redevelopment ... and the restaurant manager has made a pledge to offer unused food from the kitchen to a local charity. Sami Lounis, general manager, said he was committed to playing a full part in the local community with educational outreach work and his ‘no waste’ policy. This means that any food not used in the kitchen would be immediately frozen then offered to a charity for homeless people. The restaurant opened this month on the entry corner of the new development with the firm’s trademark stylish decor. Nando’s say they try to offer healthy, tasty food which is affordable for families. Mr Lounis, who lives in Filton, was the chain’s first manager in the South West and has managed the restaurants in Park Street and Cribbs. He said: “We want to be part of the local community by offering the chance for children to come in and learn how to prepare food, which we have done successfully elsewhere. “Our restaurants emphasise healthy eating and fresh ingredients which is very important to us. “Our ‘recycling’ approach is not about waste food but about using food which is left over

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December, 2013

News

Puddle forming outside Airbus site

Residents at the recent Safer Stronger meeting said they were concerned about a large puddle which forms after heavy rainfall outside the new Airbus entrance on Gloucester Road North. One resident said the problem was caused by the drains being positioned at the top of the slip road to the new buildings. This means water gathering at the bottom has nowhere to go. It was agreed that South Glos Council would be asked to investigate the problem and report back. Another concern was an overhanging tree in Wallscourt Road South which again the council would investigate. Residents also raised concerns about speed limits outside schools and were told that despite cutbacks on grass cutting, if there were safety issues the grass would be cut.

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Council to outline options on night street lighting South Glos Council is being asked to give a clear response to Filton residents over the options they have for night street lighting. Lights in Filton are currently switched off for four hours at night as South Glos tries to make budget savings and reduce carbon emissions. However some residents have expressed concerns over safety and crime. It has also emerged that while individual lights could be switched on if residents were willing to pay, there are issues around the administration of this as money would have to be collected at town council level. At a meeting of Filton Safer Stronger, Councillor Roger Hutchinson said he believed it was “technically possible” to switch individual lights on and

that some parish council have been approached with a view to doing this. Cllr Hutchinson also explained that lights had been left on in Northville Road, parts of Filton Avenue and Braemar Avenue because those roads had speed bumps. He said: “It is not because I live on one of those roads!” At the Safer Stronger meeting, a priority was identified to ask South Glos for clarification on whether individual lights could be switched back on and this will be addressed at the next meeting in February. In October, local resident Ken Hoare said he wanted South Glos Council to reconsider the move. He launched a Facebook petition which so far has gathered around 80 signatures.

He would need around 2,500 to prompt a debate at South Glos Council. Another Facebook page, entitled ‘Turn the street lights back on in South Glos’, has been set up for South Gloucestershire residents to discuss their issues about street lighting. The group currently has more than 1,000 members. Residents from across South Gloucestershire have been complaining that they feel unsafe, and have been reporting incidents of night-time crimes on the page. The next meeting of Safer Stronger will be on Tuesday 4th February 2014 at 7pm, at the BAWA club. Town council to consult on lights: Turn to Page 24

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Coming up in Filton Sat 11th January

St Andrew’s Church Messy Church from 4pm to 6pm.

Fri 31st Jan

Race Night (school fundraiser!) Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF. Doors open at 7.00 pm, first race at 7.30 pm prompt Dog, horse and pig racing shown on the big screen - all are welcome but only over 18s are allowed to place a 50p bet Licensed bar, soft drinks, adult & children’s raffles - a real fun and inexpensive night! Free admission so just turn up! We are looking for local businesses to sponsor a race for £10. In return your company details will appear in the programme next to the race you’ve sponsored and before the race is played your details will also appear on the big screen. If you’re interested please email facs@abbeywoodschool.com as soon as possible.

Tues 4th Feb

The next meeting of Safer Stronger Filton will be on Tuesday 4th February 2014 at 7pm, at the BAWA club.

Tues 18th Feb

Have you ever thought about Volunteering but don’t know how to get involved? Discover local volunteering opportunities in a speedmatching event to find your perfect match! The Volunteer Centre Patchway, Filton and The Stokes are holding an event for everyone who would like to hear about volunteering opportunities. The Volunteer Speed-match event will take place at Coniston Community Centre in Patchway on Tuesday 18th of February starting at 5.30pm and finishing at 7pm.

New events

The Horfield Townswomens Guild are a really friendly Guild that meet on the second Wednesday of every month at St. Gregory the Great Church Hall, Filton Road, Horfield at 2.30 pm. Ladies are welcome to just turn up or ring Edna on 0117 949 5413 for a chat about the Guild. We organise talks, outings, quizzes etc., for our members, and

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anyone that would like to come along for a ‘taster’ would be made to feel very welcome. Thursdays - Rainbows, girls aged 5 - 7 years Wednesdays - Brownies, girls aged 7 - 10 years Tuesdays - Brownies, girls aged 7 - 10 years Guides, girls aged 10 - 14 years. For more information please contact : d.wilkey@ btconnect.com or register at Girlguiding UK website and follow the parent links to register your daughter. We also need a Division Treasurer for our new Concorde Division. Please email as above New Harmony Ladies Choir Bristol, an established choir of 19 years and are looking for ladies to come and join us. We rehearse every Wednesday evening 7-30 - 9-30 at Horfield URC church hall, everyone welcome. Telephone Margaret on 01179698619 or Joan on 01275791566 NEW DAY AND TIME: Friendly and supportive Work Club in Filton, Thursdays 12.30pm-3.30pm, St Andrew’s Youth Centre, Elm Park

Ratepayers Arms Filton, Christmas times and events

Events l Monday to Friday 12-3 all Real Ales £2.50 per pint l Christmas Meat Raffle £2 a strip, tickets available from the bar, draw takes place Friday 20th December l Bingo every Thursday Night, 8pm start £4 per book for 8 games. Sunday 15th December - quiz night £1 entry per person, all proceeds to the Great Western Air Ambulance l Sunday 22nd December - Live music from Royal Blue 8.pm - 11.30pm free entry l Tuesday 24th December - Live music from Rock-It-Man 8.30pm -11.30pm £2 entry l New Years Eve Party, music plus buffet, tickets now on sale in Bar, children welcome.

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December, 2013

December 25th 11.30am-1.30pm December 26th 12-6pm December 27th 7pm-11.30pm December 28th 10am-11.30pm December 29th 12-11pm December 30th 10am-6pm December 31st 10am-3pm & 7pm-late January 1st CLOSED January 2nd 10am-11.30pm

Filton church times at Christmas

Don’t forget if you are planning a party in 2014 we have a free function room for hire, subject to terms and conditions and we can help take the hassle out of planning the party by doing the catering for you. Please call 01454 866697 for more details.

Regular events in Filton

Filton Community Garden meetings

Sat 11th Jan 2014 10am-12noon Sat 8th Feb 2014 10am-12noon and then every second Saturday of the month at 10am-12noon in the Pavillion Room at Elm Park.

Turn to Page 22

Filton Town Council

Meeting dates, Page 25

Filton Library Christmas programme Turn to Page 30

Turn to Pages 44/45

If you have an event or group you want to highlight, please contact richard@ filtonvoice.co.uk or call us on 0777 555 0607

Southern Brooks Community Partnership is setting up a Friends Group

We’re looking for local people to support our activities and organise fundraising events

Times December 24th 10am-2pm & 6pm-Midnight

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December, 2013

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Back to his roots for Maniks owner

The opening of Filton’s new Indian and Thai restaurant on Gloucester Road North represents a return to his first love for owner Sam Mohammed. The Filton resident spent four years in Dubai working with Microsoft in IT but on his return to Britain he spotted the former Panasonic shop was available and he decided to take the plunge and follow in his father’s footsteps and open a restaurant. The restaurant in Filton follows two other Maniks, in the Brecon Beacons and in Berkshire. Sam, who hosted the opening night last month, said: “From a young age I worked in the family restaurant, helping out part time. “I eventually ran the restaurant in the Brecon Beacons but then did my degree and worked in IT Consultancy for nine years. “I came back to the UK eight months ago and I saw the Panasonic building was a great opportunity.”

Sam has spent the autumn months getting the restaurant ready for the grand opening, which saw live authentic Indian and Thai music. The business has six staff with the chefs specialising in both Indian and Thai cuisine. Sam said: “We are keen to use the very best quality, locally sourced ingredients - both meat and spices - and also to focus on excellent service.” The restaurant, which is now open on one side of the building, with the other side to open in the new year. The restaurant is a ‘bring your own’ alcohol restaurant, a system which has worked well at the other Maniks. The restaurant also offers a takeaway service for local people. Sam said that as part of the development of the business, he wanted to get involved with local schools and organisations and is keen to hear from local organisations and charities that he can support.

Clockwise from above: The outside of the restaurant; owner Sam Mohammed; opening night. Pictures: Kai Murphy kai@kaiatwork.com

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Use magic pen to make Filton Flyer appear The Filton Flyer 555 bus has launched to serve all of Filton, with services running from 8.15am-4.15pm every day. And in this month’s Filtonvoice, with issues delivered to homes and in some public places there will be a FREE special pen which contains a handy pullout with a map on one side and the timetable on the other. The Flyer was launched at Bethany Church in Conygre, an area of Filton which has suffered with no service for some time. Councillors, operator Severnside Transport and other backers were in attendance at the launch with South Glos chairman Ian Boulton cutting the ribbon to start the service. Special mention was given

to Katie Donovan of Southern Broooks who was the driving force behind the £50,000 bid which secured the bus and helped with running costs. Residents will be able to flag the bus down on the route or

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stop it at any bus stop. It is hoped the bus will enable residents who do not have access to a bus to use the service to get to GP surgeries, Southmead Hospital, Parkway Station and the main shopping areas, including the new Asda

The fare will be £1.50 but free for Diamond Pass users. Children half price. However Cllr Boulton warned that the service needs to be used by residents to make it have a viable long-term future.

beat the winter blues As days get shorter and evenings darker, it’s easy to lose your motivation to exercise, hibernating in the warmth of the sofa. But for your own physical and mental wellbeing, now is the time to get active. An athlete will train hardest through the winter to reap the fitness benefits in spring and summer competition. And there’s no reason why we shouldn’t all emulate this – put in the work now and by the time the sun returns you’ll look and feel your best. Much better and healthier than rushing to get fit at the last minute before your summer holiday! Being more active can also stave off those ‘winter blues’ as research suggests that exercise raises levels of mood-enhancing endorphins and serotonin, and reduces the stress hormone cortisol. So if you’re feeling sluggish and lethargic, physical activity can help to lift your mood, reduce stress, raise your energy levels and even aid better sleep, so you feel great through the whole winter. And rather than staying indoors, why not go outside and get some fresh air? Walk the dog, go for a run or find a local bootcamp. Outdoor exercise is fun and good for you (even battling against the wind and rain is surprisingly exhilarating) so give it a go – you might be surprised how good it feels! Kate Howe, Personal Trainer 07799 834014 kate@howedynamic.co.uk

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk HoweDynamic BSJ 116x88 ADVERT Dec2013.indd 1

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Your views

Have you got strong views about what’s happening in Filton? Or you might want to take the opportunity to praise a friend, neighbour or family member for an act of kindness or to mark an achievement. Whatever you want to say, write to us and we’ll make sure everyone in Filton knows about it. Send your letter by email to richard@filtonvoice. co.uk, by post to Letters, Filtonvoice, 49 Dunkeld Avenue, Filton BS34 7RQ or call us on 0777 555 0607. You can also comment on stories at www.filtonvoice.co.uk. Please keep letters short.The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

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December, 2013

I had a great time on Twinning trip

In the summer holidays I went to Witzenhausen with my mum to stay with her German friend, Anja. My mum, Adie, took part in the school exchange in 1983 from Filton High School and has now been friends with her German partner for over 30 years! They have visited each other lots of times. When Anja got married my mum went to her wedding and she came over after I was born. Although we have a computer they still write to each other by letter. I loved Witzenhausen, I went swimming in a lake and ate spaghetti ice cream in the ice café. This is a picture of my mum and Anja outside the Rathaus, and me eating bratwurst. George Turner

Consultation views are ignored

It was very interesting to read your readers letters. It is an opportunity to give the sadly lacking democracy in our society a voice. Everyone should use it ! or lose it. One letter from an elderly lady, was of particular interest - it was about the new green bin charge. Every South Glos Ratepayer had the opportunity to write email or send a 2nd class letter to the council voicing their opinion about this stealth tax. I also attended the Streetcare Road Show where the opinion of the residents who attended was clearly against this charge. However, although South Glos Council go through the

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motions of seeking public opinion they completely ignore it. Patchway Residents and everyone who was against the stupidity of closing Highwood Road are only too well aware of this. I can only say to residents “remember who you vote for” and perhaps put up some independent candidates at the next election and break the cronyism that exist with Lib/ Lab/Con (party first, people second). Most of the existing councillors are only in office because of default and do not really represent the majority of South Glos council residents. If you do not vote you get what you deserve. Fred Hillberg, Bradley Stoke

Many of us do not like Facebook

I would like to respond to the article in the Filton Voice November edition. Perhaps if the person / people responsible for this petition set it up on another website it would have got a better response. I and am sure many other people do NOT LIKE using Social media sites. Why was this not put onto Filton Town Council website? Or if that was not possible,put out paper petitions into local shops and the library? Perhaps this could happen now. We in the Conygre Ward are experiencing a lot of burglaries. Name and address supplied

Clarification over lights petition Regarding the story about the street lights petition in the November issue, I would like to make a clarification.

When I said the petition was “dead in the water” I think possibly this is out of context. What I was trying to say was there little mileage discussing this at Filton Town Council until the petition has reached the 2500 signatures required to trigger the debate in South Glos. I appreciate someone raised this to make people aware of the petition. Cllr Adam Monk

Would cyclists have offered?

Interesting to see the letters page ‘Appeal for driver after Filton bump’. I wonder if this had been a reverse of the situation I do not believe that the cyclists would be offering to assist in payment for damage caused by them ! Keith Street, Horfield

Long journey to shopping area

Regarding the Filton Flyer 555 new bus service and its proposed route, I fail to see how this will be of any use to the people living on Filton Avenue near to Conygre Road shops unless you frequently go back and forth to Southmead Hospital. To make a journey to Sainsburys or Parkway you would need to get on the bus at Conygre Road and go all the way to Southmead Hospital, stay on the bus and come back again on a winding route before finally arriving at Sainsburys etc. I would think this would take at least 3/4 hr or longer. People living between the Bulldog and the George already have many buses on that route but there are none between Conygre shops and the George. S Hollister

Have your say on Facebook at www.facebook. com/filtonvoice.You can also join the Filton News and Views Facebook group to find out views of your fellow residents on all sorts of matters. We’re also on Twitter @filtonvoice

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Airbus UK engineering HQ opens

Filton’s brand new Aerospace Park has opened as Airbus in the UK’s engineering headquarters. President and CEO of Airbus Fabrice Bregier flew to Bristol to officially declare Barnwell House open. Barnwell is the huge new building on the park that stands off the Gloucester Road at Filton, behind Pegasus House. Mr Bregier unveiled a plaque and later pressed a symbolic green button in front of hundreds of employees after celebrations to commemorate the launch of the new facility. The bespoke new building is the flagship development in the new multi million Euro Airbus Aerospace Park (AAP) and will eventually house more than 2,000 engineers. Mr Bregier said: “The importance of the Filton site to Airbus and to aerospace in general cannot be overstated. The expertise and skills here

are world class and play a pivotal role in developing new technologies for the future of aviation. “Airbus Aerospace Park represents a major investment by the company. Filton has always been a site of great historical interest for aviators, but today

marks the start of a new and exciting chapter which I know will be just as historic.” Several hundred employees were invited to attend the event in one of the four Barnwell House atria. Hundreds more watched from the internal balconies above.

The event was compered by BBC TV presenter and newsreader David Garmston. Barnwell House is named in honour of Captain Frank Barnwell, one of the UK’s greatest aeronautical engineers. Filton is the base for around 4,000 employees, with some 2,400, most of them engineers, moving into Barnwell House from offices around the site. Another important part of the AAP was the refurbishment of the historic Pegasus House, was opened by HRH the Duke of Gloucester in September.

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Christmas events in Filton

Filton has been fortunate to have several pre-Christmas events in the past few weeks. Here are some pictures to enjoy

Charborough Road Primary Christmas Fair

Charborough Road Primary School got in the festive spirit when they held their annual Christmas Fair on Saturday 30th November. It was a fantastic success, raising over £2,000 for the school’s funds. There were beautiful performances in the hall by the school’s choir and harmonica players, and the grotto was full of expectant children clutching their letters, waiting to see

Charborough Road’s own Mother Christmas, and Santa of course! He was in high demand this year, especially when word got out he had a new improved grotto experience. He even had to dip into his reserve sack of presents! Year 1 teacher Mr Pavey was slightly overwhelmed when he was faced with the mammoth task of selling over 350 teddy bears on the teddy tombola stall! In recent years he has

managed to sell out of his entire stock (usually around just 150 cuddlies) in the first half of the fair. This year’s drive for soft toys had been remarkably successful however, considerably testing his sales technique! He rose to the challenge admirably, and most, if not all children attending left clutching at least one bear. Pete Holcombe, parent to year 1 Isobel, was ‘lucky’ enough to

win the star prize - a 5ft tall, and just as wide bright yellow lion in pink tutu! Meanwhile the classrooms were packed with children playing Christmas games. Smiles on little faces emerging from behind the curtains to the secret Santa room were priceless. Thanks to everyone who came and made it such a memorable event. Joanna Knight

St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Club Christmas Fair

www.filton-central.co.uk

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School news

Abbeywod Community School

Children in Need After raising a healthy £1,080 for Children in Need last year, the Student Forum and the Community Group decided to set a target for £2000 this year.

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In October students were able to secure the school as being one of eight Bristol schools (primary & secondary) to lead on the BBC’s new pilot scheme ‘Be a Hero’. This was kicked off by meeting with the other seven schools at Abbeywood Community School to discuss what the project entails and tell the BBC how they could support students in their endeavours! Off the back of this meeting the school was selected as being one of two secondary schools in the UK to be filmed for the ‘Thank You to Schools’ section on the actual evening of Children in Need. The BBC Film Crew arrived in school on Friday 25th October to film a Cake Bake Sale and a Sponsored Silence held by a Year

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8 tutor group. After the half term break there was much to do, with two weeks to plan for the ‘Children in Need week’. During the week many things went on with two main events taking place after school: The Pudsey Bear Walk & Abbeywood’s Got Talent! Again the BBC joined us on the day, 15th November, all day and night to take photographs of our activities for their publicity literature!! It was an amazing week, one of which we as a school community should be proud of!

December, 2013

their skills all in aid of Children in Need. Anti-Bullying Week Assembly at Filton Hill Primary School On Friday 22nd November four Year 8 students and Head Girl, Fiona Morris, travelled to Filton Hill Primary School to deliver a drama performance, ‘Bullies’, to the entire school followed by a work-shop with Year 6 about bullying.

Abbeywood’s Got Talent On Friday 15th November we hosted a wonderful talent show which gave some of our gifted students a chance to show off

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School news St Teresa’s Primary

Year 5 Kintbury Retreat The Year 5 class family journeyed to St Cassian’s Retreat Centre, in Kintbury, Berkshire. The journey was exciting and full of fun as some read, others sang and some slept. Upon arrival we were greeted by some friendly faces and made to feel at home immediately. Surrounded by the open countryside, the time passed quickly and joyfully, as we partook in a variety of activities and reflections in small groups and as a class family. We ate like Kings during our stay and celebrated like them too on our final day when we enjoyed mass together (with Father Tom). James, a member of Year 5, felt that “Mass was truly amazing and allowed me to reflect on my faith!” Sportshall Festival Eighteen pupils from Year 5 took

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park in a Sportshall Athletics Event at St Bede’s. The children participated in various track and field events including relay sprints, triple jump, long jump and speed bounce. They all excelled in their events and overall we finished in 4th place.

Orchard School

Judge visits school One of Bristol’s top judges has visited Orchard School in Horfield in an attempt to explain to students how the law works and why it is so important they understand the judicial system. Judge Mark Horton guided students through a mock trial with the children acting as the jury. They watched a reconstruction of the crime and heard speeches from the prosecution and the defence. Holocaust survivor History students were privileged

to hear Rudi Oppenheimer talk about his experiences as a child in WW2 in Holland and in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Rudi explained that as his younger sister, Eve, was born in London, the family were classed as ‘exchange Jews’ who were given a measure of protection in the camps in case they could be used for exchange with German families in the UK or USA. Despite this all four of his grandparent were killed in Sobibor Concentration Camp and both his parents died in BergenBelson. Rudi’s message to our students was to speak out if they saw discrimination or injustice and to vote and be engaged in the political life of the country. Jackie’s 40 years Jackie Potts is celebrating working at Orchard School Bristol in Horfield, previously Monks Park School, for 40 years.

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She started work as a cleaner, bringing her children in their buggies early in the morning.

She progressed to the Home Economics department. Jackie is now the technician in the Food Technology department and also works as a Learning Support Assistant.

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December, 2013

Christmas Services in Filton We would be delighted to welcome you to celebrate Christmas with us at any of our Services

St Teresa of the Child Jesus, Roman Catholic Church, Gloucester Road North, Filton Christmas Eve 24th December 6:00pm Family Mass. 11:30pm Midnight Mass Starting with Carols Christmas Day 9:00am Service at St. Vincent de Paul, Southmead 10:30am Christmas Day Mass at St. Teresa’s

St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, Gloucester Road North, Filton 15th December 6:00pm All Age Nativity Service 22nd December 6:00pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve 24th December 11:15pm Communion Service Christmas Day 25th December 10:00am All Age Worship

St. Peter’s Church of England, Gloucester Road North, Filton 16th December 2:15pm Tiny Tots Christmas Service including a visit from Father Christmas 22nd December 10:00am Parish Eucharist and Sunday Club Nativity Presentation 6:00pm Traditional Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve 24th December 5:00pm Christingle Service 11:00pm Midnight Mass by Candlelight Christmas Day 25th December 8:00am Holy Eucharist 10:00am Festival Eucharist 5th January - Feast of the Epiphany 8:00am Holy Eucharist 10:00am Festival Eucharist 6:00pm A Service of Light and Joy as we welcome the Magi to the Infant Jesus

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News

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Residents asked for views on NHS Filton residents are being asked to put forward their views about the NHS, locally and nationally, and what they think its future priorities should be. South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), the body responsible for planning and buying healthcare for the local population, is organising the survey to find out the views of local people. It forms part of a national Call to Action led by NHS England, the national body responsible for NHS services. It is asking the public, patients, carers and staff to get involved in discussing the future of the NHS, so it can plan how best to deliver services, now and in the years ahead. Dr Jon Hayes, clinical chair of South Gloucestershire CCG, said: “The NHS faces many challenges including an ageing population and a rise in the number of people with long-term conditions. Finances are tight

so we have to plan very carefully about where we spend our money to most benefit the people of South Gloucestershire. “Our role as a CCG is to look at the local population and the health services it needs, now and into the future, and plan the best way to provide this within the resources we have. To do this effectively it is essential that we listen to our patients, local communities and partner organisations and work with them to deliver the best services.” The CCG is led by local GPs, supported by experienced managers. The GPs bring their knowledge of working with patients across South Gloucestershire to the decisionmaking process. You can complete the survey on the CCG’s website www. southgloucestershireccg.nhs.uk. The closing date is January 31. If you would like a printed copy of the survey, please telephone 0117 9474400.

Barbers raise over £1,000 for cause A team of barbers from Filton have raised more than £1,000 by supporting men taking part in November's “Movember” initiative. Mario Parrinello and staff from the Filton Barber on Gloucester Road North offered fundraisers a clean shave before they started growing a moustache for the good cause. Mario also visited the Swan Hotel in Almondsbury to carry out hot

towel shaves and returned at the end of the month to shave off the moustaches. In total the team, including Mario, Nathan Bryant, Ryan Glennon, Dan Barry, Adam Fracz, Rosa Parrinello, Chris Thomas, Steve Davis and James Gallagher, had raised £1,381 during the month with more to come, all of which is going to the Movember cause to raise funds and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer.

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Book on its way to winners

A new book that looks at the history of the landmark Pegasus House and local aviation history is winging its way to five lucky readers. Last month we asked for the name of the supersonic, drooped-nose passenger aircraft built at Filton. The

answer was, of course, Concorde and the five winners picked at random who will now receive a copy of Pegasus House published by Airbus Operations Ltd are: Sylvia Horler, Anthony Mannings, Margaret Holloway, Jessica Williams and Keith Ollis. Congratulations to all.

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Important consultations which could affect YOUR Council Tax Filton Town Council is planning to consult with the public on their opinions on the way forward with current issues that could affect the precept ie. your Council Tax. The following topics will be covered in the consultation: 1. Financial implications of ‘Discretionary Licensing’ on Houses of Multiple Occupancy 2.

Street Lighting

Filton Town Council

For Ratepayers Arms hours over the festive period, please turn to Page 12

Christmas opening hours:

3. Streetcare services ie. Amenity Grass Cutting, Hanging Baskets, Emptying of Dog Bins

Sunday 15th December open from 12.00. Tuesday 24th December open ½ day only (till 2pm) Wednesday 25th closed Thursday 26th closed Friday 27th closed

The consultation will be carried out in January via FiltonVoice. Please take the time to respond as your views matter.

Saturday 28th 9-4.30 pool closed at 4 Sunday 29th 9-4.30 pool closed at 4 Monday 30th 9-4.30 pool closed at 4pm Tuesday 31st open ½ day (till 2pm) Wednesday 1st closed Thursday 2nd normal hours

Filton Food Co-op

FRESH ORGANIC FRUIT AND VEG BOX SCHEME Located at the Ratepayers Arms Filton, Elm Park From £12

Example Fruit Bag: (Approx.variety of 5) Bananas, Oranges, Apples, Pears, Grapes

From £6

Example Seasonal Veg Bag: (Approx.variety of 8 ) Carrots, Onions Potatoes, Cauliflower, Leeks, Tomatoes, Cabbage, Cucumber

Example combined bag: (approx variety of 9) Bananas, Oranges, Apples, Pears, Carrots, Onions, Leeks, Tomatoes From £9

Get your first order in for Thursday 12th December 1/2 PRICE!

Place your order by 3pm every Wednesday and collect your fruit and/or veg bag the following Thursdays between 12.30pm—11pm The produce is bought at wholesale cost and no profit is made from the scheme which means everyone gets the most for their money.

Making a difference In the community since 1988 Charity No. 1086485

We are delighted to announce our organic fruit and vegetable Co-op which started in December. Available from the Ratepayers Arms, Filton Sports & Leisure Centre.

Get in touch • Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www. filtontowncouncil.gov.uk • The leisure centre reception is open Monday to Friday 9am – 7.30pm and weekends 9am – 5.30pm. Pop in and see us or ring on 01454 866686 for information.

New Year, new you - in just 6 weeks! Burn up to 1,000 calories at every Boot Camp session! Bootcamp at Filton Sports & Leisure Centre

Town Council meetings Council meetings ‘on tour’

Filton Town Council is going on tour, to a venue near you! Watch this space for dates and venues. We want to hold our full council meetings in different parts of Filton following a number of meetings at the Bethany Hall in Conygre in recent months. The first Full Council meeting in a different venue should be in March.

New Year, new you - in just 6 weeks! Burn up to 1,000 calories at every Boot Camp session!

Amazing results. - This testimonial was from a recent Bootcamper who started just 2 and a half weeks ago. Proof is in the pudding as they say and this would appeal to those with new year’s resolutions to lose weight in 2014!

“ I’ve lost nearly a stone 13lbs, doing just 8 sessions off Jason’s Military Boot Camp and healthy eating!” - Jody Haim The 6 week Boot Camp courses are run back to back and continuously run throughout the year. However you are invited to stay on the Boot Camp after your initial course for continued results! The Boot Camp system is open to all fitness levels as no one can come first and no one came come last! Everyone exercises together and are encouraged to do what they can and rest when they need to. But remember the more effort you put in, the more results you’ll get out! There is a steady progression from week 1 through to week 6 of the type of exercises we do and also the way the sessions are constructed. So there will be various levels of intensity as your fitness improves.

Weeks 1 & 2 - Core and Conditioning. Weeks 3 & 4 - Speed and Agility. Weeks 5 & 6 - Military Fitness Drills.

Swimfit

It is your very own motivational tool for the pool which you can do any time or as part of a class with an instructor. Swimfit is all about getting results and helping you achieve your goal, whether that is to lose weight, to tone, to improve technique or just to become fitter and stronger. It is a fun and effective way to get those

You don’t have to wait until the next course to start, just book your first session and have fun. FREE Boot Camp session for you and a friend! Please bring the voucher below with you. Booking is essential: The Boot Camp sessions are open to all fitness level and beginners are welcome. • Offer for new customers only. • Limited spaces available. For more information please contact Jason Hodge: M: 07855 465 872 E: hodgehealthandfitness@gmail.com Find out more at www. hodgehealthandfitness.co.uk

COMPLIMENTARY BootCamp session. This voucher entitles the bearer to a complimentary Bootcamp session for two people. To redeem your voucher please call Jason Hodge on 07855 465 872 or email at hodgehealthandfitness@ gmail.com. *This voucher has no monetary value and cannot be used for any other products* FSLC2013 (expires 31 January 2014)

results you want, and because water is 800 times denser than air, you are most likely to get there a lot quicker than any other workout! So make Swimfit a part of your life and get active today! Swimfit is available every Tuesday at 7pm only £4.00. No booking necessary. (not available 10/12/13 – 06/01/2014)

January 7th, 7pm – Staffing Committee Small Meeting Room* 14th, 7.30pm – Finance Committee Pavilion 21st, 7pm – Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 28th, 7.30pm – Full Council Pavilion

February 4th, 7pm – Staffing Committee Small Meeting Room* 11th, 7.30pm Finance Committee – Pavilion 18th, 7pm – Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 25th, 7.30pm – Full Council Meeting Pavilion *Not open to public

Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Activities Dinky Dolphins

Baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.70 for 1 adults and up to two children,.

From September:

Mondays, 9.30am-10.30am Thursdays and Fridays, 10-11am Follow Us On: Facebook, Filton Sports And Leisure Centre or on Twitter @ Filtonpool. Call 01454 866686

r e k c i u q e m o h t e G

buses leave Bristol Parkway every 8 minutes To find out the bus frequency for your destination visit

travelwest.info •

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December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

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Andreas takes on toughest challenge in dad’s honour A Filton man is taking on one of the toughest endurance challenges there is in recognition of his father’s long-term battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Andreas Lomvardos, who runs the Jolly Fryer on Filton Avenue, will attempt to complete an Ironman Triathlon in the Cotswolds in August next year. This will see him on the move for more than 12 hours without rest, swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 miles before running a full 26.6-mile marathon in order to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK and raise awareness of the condition. The gruelling charity challenge has been inspired by Andreas’ father Stamatis, who has lived with Parkinson’s for the past 14 years. Stamatis is familiar to many in Filton after running the Jolly Fryer for 24 years, a business he has now handed over to his sons, including Andreas. Parkinson’s affects 1 in 500 people and is a degenerative brain condition that affects movement and motor functions, and can also cause depression and other issues as it progresses. There is currently no cure. Stamatis also recently suffered a frightening experience when he fell from a coastal path and spent the night in the open trapped between two rocks in waist-high water. His family say his survival was a “miracle” but the ordeal has affected his condition, too. Now Andreas is taking

Andreas Lomvardos completes a previous half-Ironman Triathlon on his biggest challenge yet, having already competed in two half-Ironman Triathlons and numerous shorter triathlons, and says he is grateful for people’s support. People can donate at

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We seek good condition house, modern or modernised, 4 beds or larger, guaranteed 3 year contract, Company let, excellent references.

Tel 0117 974 1459

Andreas’ fundraising webpage uk.virginmoneygiving. com/andreaslomvardos. Alternatively, to support Andreas and Parkinson’s UK people can drop in to the Jolly Fryer, in Filton Avenue, to sponsor him.

A380 order ‘to protect UK jobs’ Emirates Airline has ordered 50 extra Airbus A380 aircraft taking its order to 140 and representing a major boost for the firm. The deal was signed at a ceremony at the 2013 Dubai Airshow with with His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates Airline group chairman, who said the A380 continued to be the flagship of its fleet and it remained highly popular with passengers. He said: “It is still one of the most efficient aircraft to operate today in terms of fuel burn and emissions per passenger, and it gives us the flexibility in some cases to meet passenger demand in slot-constrained markets. “This latest order will help us meet both fleet expansion and fleet replacement needs.” Business Secretary Vince Cable welcomed the order, saying it was good news for Airbus’ workers and many others across the UK. He said: “From nose to tail, the Airbus A380 is a good example of great technology designed and manufactured in the UK. This major new order protects over 2,500 jobs in Filton and Broughton and will also be welcome news for the many thousands more workers employed by companies who supply smaller parts to the aircraft from across the UK.” The wings for the aircraft are designed at Filton and assembled at Broughton, while a number of the aircraft systems are also tested at Filton, such as the landing gear and fuel.

For rent to over 60s One bedroom apartments at Hanover Court, Rectory Lane, Filton BS34 7BE n n n n n

24 hour emergency response Building & grounds maintenance Range of on-site facilities Close to shops and bus routes Pet friendly policy

Call 01179 236828 (Local Estate Manager) or 0800 280 2575 (Enquiries team)

Visit www.hanover.org.uk

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Sport

Siobhan’s a winner

Olympians, Paralympians, British Champions, clubs, coaches and schools gathered at BAWA in Filton last month for the Active South Gloucestershire 2013 Sports Awards. The annual event recognises the achievement, dedication and contribution of local people who are involved in playing, coaching and organising sports across South Gloucestershire. Local residents nominate people who they feel deserve to be recognised for their accomplishments, and all award winners demonstrated a strong commitment to sporting activities at a grass roots level. The winner of the prestigious Sportsperson of the Year was international football player Siobhan Chamberlain, representing Bristol Academy Women’s Football Club (WFC) who play at Filton’s South Gloucestershire & Stroud College WISE Campus.

FIELD GAR K A O

Visit our website for more information

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140-144 Ashley Down Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 9JS

Fax: 0117 952 0420

Tel: 0117 951 2285

or get in touch with owners Pete Coles and Steve Hale

A38 Filton

www.brookfield-garage.co.uk

ste r Rd

Independent Ford specialist but any make or model welcome for Service, Repairs, Air Conditioning & MOTs

Glo uce

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December, 2013

Late double blow for Flyers

filtonvoice

T: 0777 555 0607

City Brunel centre site

Opening hours Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm Sat, 8.30am-12.30pm

The Filton-based Bristol Academy Flyers suffered back to back losses earlier this month despite going to the last period of each game with a lead. The team lost at home on the Saturday 87-80 to rivals Reading Rockets and continued the miserable weekend losing at Westminster the following day 68-64. The team is now on 9th place in the league table with 2 wins and 5 losses. It was a weekend of big comebacks as on Saturday, Reading scored the last seven points of the game as they overcame a large deficit to defeat the home side. Rockets ended the game on a 29-12 run after trailing by as many as 14 in the third quarter. Flyers had enjoyed a 22-4 run after half time that looked to have broken open a tight game however that did not prove enough. Spencer Wells had 24 points to lead Bristol and Captain Greg Streete added 19. The following day it was a 4th period comeback that again sealed the game. Bristol went into the last period with a commanding 12 point lead however a 22 to 6 final quarter performance gave Westminster a happy end to the weekend and left Flyers with the long trip back to the West Country. Two SGS College students led

all scorers for Bristol as Tamas Okros had 17 points and Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye added 11. Head Coach Andreas Kapoulas described the weekend as one of the toughest to take in his 8 year tenure at the club. He said: “It was a very challenging weekend and I do not think any of our previous Flyers teams have experienced something like this previously. “We played very well in both games for the first three quarters. “However both final quarters we had a lot of defensive breakdowns and found it difficult to score crucial points. “It was really upsetting to see us give away what we really worked hard for twice in one weekend. ‘This is a big blow in our league campaign however it is important for us to find the required mental toughness and move forward. “We have two away games remaining before the Christmas break and I believe everything is still to be played for.” The Flyers Captain Greg Streete echoed the Head Coach thoughts: “What happened this past weekend is tough and there is no other way to describe it. “We do have an opportunity in upcoming games to put everything right.”

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

filtonvoice

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‘Speak out on domestic abuse’

Champions show off shield The Bristol North East team of the BAC Bowls Club had something to celebrate at the organisation’s recent end-ofseason dinner. The group are pictured with

the shield they won after being named the North East League champions. BAC Bowls Club is now looking ahead to the 2014 season and are hoping to welcome new

members. Men and women are welcome and free coaching is available. For further information, contact Brian Smith on 0117 975 9126.

A new campaign is encouraging Filton residents to take action on domestic abuse this Christmas by supporting victims to get help. The message – “Help someone this Christmas by speaking out” – is aimed at friends and relatives who suspect a loved one is suffering abuse. The campaign has been launched by South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse, and partners including South Gloucestershire Council and Avon and Somerset Police, as families prepare to get together to celebrate at Christmas. Charlotte Leason, senior community safety project officer, said: “You can seek confidential support and guidance from charities like Survive or speak to someone you’re already in touch with like a housing officer, your GP, health visitor or social worker. We’re all here to help.”

A complete funeral service from £1,550 College plays host to tournament A sports festival brought together students from across Bristol and beyond to play in a football competition at Stoke Gifford. SGS College hosted the Team19 football tournament as part of the British College Sport Recreational Festival. Teams from City of Bristol, Bridgwater, Somerset, Richard Huish and St Brendan's colleges met at the WISE Campus and battled it out for a place in the finals. Only two could make it, though, with SGS College and Somerset facing each other in the final game of the day.

Hosts SGS College eventually claimed victory and Alii Hucker, college sport maker, said: "It’s great to see so many learners getting the opportunity to participate in recreational festivals against other colleges. "All the students have got on a really well and the festival was a success. “I’m looking forward to the next British College Sport festival." For more information on any recreational sport opportunities at SGS College, contact the SGS Active team, Ali Hucker, on 0117 919 2616 or email alexandra. hucker@sgscol.ac.uk.

The home of fair priced funerals 177 Crow Lane, Henbury, BS10 7DR Tel: 0117 950 8066 Web: www.bcmfuneralservices.co.uk

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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with Filton Sgt Steve Ives behaviour and language appropriate. We get a lot of complaints from local residents about anti-social behaviour and we’ll be out on patrols to respond to complaints and to make sure everyone feels safe. I’d like to wish everyone in the Filton community a very happy Christmas and a crime-free new year from your Neighbourhood Policing Team. Contact the Filton team: • Call Filton station on 101 • E-mail: ssn.filton@ avonandsomerset.police.uk

December, 2013

News

Seasonal fun at the library

As we fast approach Santa’s big day, I wanted to remind everyone about the possible consequences of that Christmas drink. We want people to enjoy the season, but not to be tempted to have “just one” alcoholic drink that could make you over the limit to drive. That drink could have a major impact on your life from that point on. Don’t forget that alcohol lingers in your system, so you could still be over the limit the morning after. We don’t want to catch people out. We just don’t want to be knocking on anyone’s door to tell them a loved one is in hospital – or worse. We have already been carrying out increased patrols and stop checks targeting those people who put themselves and others at risk by drink driving, so stay safe and don’t take that risk. When you’ve enjoyed a festive drink and are walking home with your friends, please consider others. Keep the volume down and your

• Make an appointment to meet an officer by phone or e-mail • Go to www. avonandsomerset.police.uk – you can report crime, find local policing information and more • Call into Filton police station, Gloucester Road North. It’s open 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (closed 11.45ammidday), and midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday (closed 4.15-5pm). In an emergency, call 999. Otherwise, you can call us on 101 24/7.

There will be plenty of festive spirit at Filton Library this month with a range of events for children and their families. On Saturday, December 14, the library will welcome the Northavon Singers who will perform some Christmas favourites for all the family from 10.3011.15am and some free festive refreshments will also be on offer. Kids will be able to get creative at a Christmas Crackers event on Monday, December 23, from 10.30am-noon, when there will be Christmas stories and crafts to enjoy. This event is suitable for four- to nine-yearolds. On Christmas Eve there will be stories and rhymes for under-fives and their parents or carers. The events are free, with more information available from the libraries on 01454 868006 or at www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries.

A marriage made in Heaven...

Together we will make your dream day perfect in every way

Wedding and Events Showcase We’ve invited some of our favourite suppliers along, so there’ll be lots of ideas and inspiration for your perfect day. Make a date to visit us on

Sunday 17th March 2013 from 11am ‘til 2pm

- free admission and everyone will be most welcome Aztec Hotel & Spa, Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4TS tel: 01454 201090 aztechotelbristol.com

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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An inexpensive but valuable gift, for a

For a Mum, or Dad, or family, a story of life in World War 2, in Filton, Bristol, the Forest of Dean and South Gloucestershire.

MP backs nuclear veterans’ campaign Filton’s MP Jack Lopresti has marched on Parliament as part of a campaign to win recognition for the 20,000 service people who took part in the British nuclear test programme in the South Pacific decades ago. Mr Lopresti joined members of the British Nuclear Test Veterans’ Association (BNTVA) and fellow MP John Baron, the association’s patron, in Downing Street to hand over a 5,000-signature petition to the Prime Minister on November 27. Since 2011, BNTVA has been calling for recognition of the veterans’ unique service to Britain, in which they were

present for the detonation of nuclear weapons between 1952 and 1967. The campaigners believe there is a higher than average rate of cancer and rare disorders among the group, and say some of their children have also been born with rare genetic disorders. The association is also pressing for a £25 million benevolent fund to be set up to help with treatment and care for veterans and their families. Mr Lopresti said: “We owe these men a huge debt of gratitude as they helped us gain the knowledge to produce and maintain a nuclear deterrent.”

ADVERTORIAL

Author’s tale of life in wartime evokes memories Author John O’Neill, who has written the book Mum Is In Charge, used Filtonvoice as an important ingredient in the launch of the book during the summer months in conjunction with the publishers, Austin&Macauley. Mr O’Neill says Filton plays a central role in the book, as it is based on his family’s life in the area during World War II. At the launch there were many people who could remember the period 1939-1945 in which the story unfolds, set not only in Filton but also in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Forest of Dean. A number of letters have shown the interest in the book either through direct memories or via relations and friends. Mr O’Neill has been invited by Filton Library to give a talk ending with a question and

The paperback has 283 pages of compelling reading, with a host of interesting, exciting, challenging moments including a close encounter with death during a daytime blitz.

Available on Amazon, Waterstones, and good bookshops. £7.99. ISBN: 9781849632881 answer session on the morning of the National Libraries Day, February 8, 2014. Readers of Filtonvoice are welcome. For complimentary tickets call Filton Library on 01454 868006 or John O’Neill on 01242 821671. l Hot news: The book has been nominated for the People’s Book Award, autumn 2013.

Or contact the Author at johnokeone@aol.com

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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Bolingbroke’s inheritance on the death of his father, John of Gaunt. It is hard to sympathise with the narcissistic, tyrannical King, but with Queen Elizabeth regarding the usurper Bolingbroke as a threat to the divine right of monarchy, that is what Shakespeare (wisely) asks us to do. The paradox of this fey, self-defeating ruler is that he only grows in authority

as his authority wanes. Only when he has lost his kingship does Richard appear to value it. ‘You can’t feel sorry for him!’ hissed my partner as we left the cinema. ‘Remember the Peasant’s Revolt!’ But I was eavesdropping on the comments of the audience, in particular those who might have attended in the hope of seeing a reprise of ‘The Shakespeare Code’, when Doctor Who encounters a Bard in the process of writing his play, Love’s Labours Won. The mood was enthusiastic, surprised even that the language had been a lot easier to understand than they had expected, and with the news that the screening had played to over 60,000 people, with more than 34,000 schoolchildren due to see it two days later, this has to be a cause for celebration. l Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author

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introduction to Stratford, followed by a behind-thescenes peek at the current production. In between were shots of the stage with a set which looked like holographic but actually comprised curtains of hanging chain onto which was projected the image of a soaring nave. Into these regal surroundings sweeps the fickle, unconscionable Richard, who, having sanctioned the murder of his uncle, the Duke of Gloucester, banishes his loyal agent, Mowbray and Mowbray’s

As the queue for Screen 11, the largest in Cabot Circus’ Cinema de Lux, wound around the concourse, I pondered the newfound passion of Bristolians for the works of the Bard. Or were so many of them waiting to see this inaugural live broadcast from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford simply because David Tennant was playing the titular role? Yet there wasn’t as much as a glimpse of a sonic screwdriver to be seen the length of the line. The evening’s entertainment began with a quaint 1950s

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Mitchell triumphs at golf tournament Young golfer Mitchell Waite has done his club proud, winning the Gloucestershire County Junior Golf Trophy with a clear lead over the other competitors. Mitchell, who plays with Filton Golf Club Junior Section, amassed a grand total of 410 points with wins in tournaments at Minchinhampton and Cotswold Hills. This left him 30 points clear of the runners-up, Kelsey March and Chris Williams, both from Minchinhampton Golf Club. The contest is played at eight different Gloucestershire golf clubs throughout the summer season and the winner is chosen by adding up their accumulation of points won from five of the eight tournaments. A Filton Golf Club

spokesperson said: “Well done, Mitchell. All of us at Filton Golf Club are very proud of your achievements this season and feel certain a great future in golf lies before you.”

Home energy loan scheme launched Residents looking to cut their energy consumption without cutting back on heating their homes can take advantage of a new energy loan scheme that has been launched. South Gloucestershire Council is offering loans of between £1,000 and £15,000, which are are repayable over a six-month to 15-month period at a four per cent interest rate. The loan is with South Gloucestershire Council and the scheme is

administered by the Wessex Reinvestment Trust. Residents interested in applying for a loan will be given a home energy assessment to see which home improvement solution would work best for them. The funding can be spent on a range of projects, including installing solar panels, biomass boilers or upgrading an existing heating system. For further details, call free on 0800 500 3076.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

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News Inspiring young to set sights high Filton-based Airbus has been that are out there for them.” helping to inspire the innovators The youngsters were set of the future at an event that challenges on the day by a range highlighted the careers and of organisations, including opportunities open to those Rolls-Royce, the BBC, the studying science and technology. James Dyson Foundation, the Around 300 children from Bloodhound Project and Airbus, 30 different schools including which also debuted its Wing Orchard School attended Academy at the event. TeenTech West at UWE. Airbus head of engineering TeenTech was founded by Neil Scott said: “TeenTech is former Tomorrow’s World a great way to raise awareness reporter Maggie Philbin and of careers young people might Chris Dodson OBE to allow previously not have considered, 811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai 1 08/03/2012 15:36 pupils to take part in interactive or known about, and inspire displays led by some of the them to look closer at these biggest organisations in industry. options. If we are able to achieve Maggie Philbin, who this, not only will companies attended the event at UWE, said: like Airbus benefit from the “TeenTech is an attempt to put additional skills and talent, but this exciting world in front of as innovation and technology in many young people as possible, the UK as a whole will reap the exposing them to the possibilities rewards.” 811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai

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Maggie Philbin with Orchard School pupils Leila Gardiner, Emily Mortimer, Ilhaan Marsal, Taylor Green and Anita Sunmola, all 13, as they try out the Bernoulli blower at TeenTech West

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Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

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with Michael Parry

www.filtonvoice.co.uk filtonvoice Filton planning, November

of Vets4Pets in Filton

The importance of looking after your pet’s teeth At Filton Vets4Pets we like to work with local pet owners to encourage preventative dental care. Taking care of our teeth is important and your pet’s teeth are no different. Dental disease affects 70 per cent of cats and dogs and can result in pain and tooth loss. Gum disease is one of the most common problems. The problems begin when plaque and tartar build up on your pet’s teeth. Plaque harbours bacteria, which can infect gum tissue and the roots of teeth, making the mouth sore,

causing disease and tooth loss. The bacteria can also enter the blood stream and may cause damage to internal organs. If you are concerned about your pet’s teeth why not pop in and visit veterinary surgeon and practice partner Michael Parry and his friendly team at Filton Vets4Pets who can offer expert advice on preventative dental care for your pet. Michael says: “A scale and polish will greatly reduce the chances of your cat or dog developing dental issues which can have a significant impact on their health. We are always happy to help to ensure that your pet has the best possible care.”

December, 2013

Applications S And J Mini Market, 546 Filton Avenue Installation of ATM machine (Retrospective). Display of 1 no. internally illuminated static sign. (Retrospective) 74 Branksome Drive Erection of two-storey side extension to form 1 no. one bedroom flat, 1 no. two bedroom flat and 1 no. 2 bedroom house with new access and associated works. (Resubmission of PT13/2507/F). Decisions Filton Park Service Station, 31-39 Gloucester Road North Demolition and remediation of existing petrol station to facilitate the erection of 4 no. retail shops

(use class A1) and one cafe (use class A3) with parking and associated works (including two solar panels). Creation of new vehicular access (Resubmission of PT13/2421/F) Approve with Conditions 93 Mackie Road Erection of rear conservatory Approve with Conditions 22 Eleventh Avenue Erection of two-storey and singlestorey rear extension to form additional living accommodation Approve with Conditions 74 Branksome Drive Erection of two-storey side extension to form 3 no. one bedroom flats and 1 no. two bedroom flat with new access and associated works. Refusal

New singers put on show after day With just a day to learn three new songs, women who attended a local singing workshop then took to the stage in the evening to perform their repertoire to an audience. Avon Harmony Chorus ran the session for the new singers, who were led through a series of warm-up exercises by the group’s musical director Alex de Bruin. They then learned the songs in four-part harmony with members of the chorus, which marketing officer Jackie Boffin said was a “great achievement”, particularly for those who had not sung since their schooldays. She added: “This was the second such workshop run by Avon Harmony, and there are

plans for more in the coming year. The chorus is hoping to see several of those who came to the workshop joining them at rehearsals at Fairfield School in Horfield in January. Visitors, both experienced singers and novices, are always welcome to come along and enjoy an evening of singing with, and listening to, the chorus in rehearsal any Thursday.” Avon Harmony is a female chorus of all ages who sing a cappella in barbershop-style close harmony. The group was formed in 1975 and was formerly known as Western Connection and The Avonbelles. Visit www. avonharmony.co.uk or email enquiries@avonharmony.co.uk.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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Competition winners

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with Graham Simmonds of goto iT

December: Out with the old

Mark Knight with Joanna, Sophie, 7, Alex, 5, and Santa at Avon Valley Railway

Winners enjoy train trip with Santa A trip on a Santa Steam Special proved to be a treat for all ages for the winners of our Avon Valley Railway competition in last month’s Filtonvoice. Mark Knight and his family hopped onboard a one-hour steam train ride from Bitton

Railway Station, after Mark won tickets for the festive treat. Santa and his elves stopped by their carriage during the trip to deliver some early Christmas gifts and some seasonal refreshments.

Mark said: “Thank you to all at Avon Valley Railway and Filtonvoice for our steam train ride on the AVR Santa Special. The kids loved their presents from Santa and we loved the mince pies!” Santa Steam Specials are running every weekend in December plus Monday, December 23, and Christmas Eve. Find out more and book at www.avonvalleyrailway.org or call 0117 932 5538.

ANDREW MURLEY The Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre,

Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Mondays 5.00 pm. & 7 pm Contact: Carolyn - 01454 898494

The Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre,

Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Tuesdays 10.00 am Contact: Maxine - 01179 792391

Horfield Leisure Centre,

Dorian Road, Horfield, BS7 0XW. Wednesdays 3.30 p.m., 5.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m. Contact: Carolyn - 01454 898494

Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations. Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310

The season of spend, spend, spend is here again and one of the items we love to get is a new PC or tablet. Maybe the old one is running slow or just completely broken. Maybe it won’t run the latest computer games. This means there are thousands of computers all across the country that will be thrown away during the next few weeks. But what is the best thing to do? Keep it – You could consider not throwing away at all and upgrading it – perhaps it could still be useful with a little TLC. Donate it – There are plenty of charities around who will take your old computer, refurbish it, then send it to other countries or projects around the world. Although if it is too old they still might not take it! Recycle it – You can take it to your local recycling centre or call your council to see how they would recycle it for you. However, if you are going to say goodbye to your old friend, you must consider if there is any data left on it. Even if you delete, uninstall and empty your recycle bin, a knowledgeable person still could retrieve your data. The safest way is to remove the hard drive which stores your data and keep it yourself. Alternatively you can bring it to us and we can wipe your drive so no data remains. Don’t forget to check your DVD drives in case you left that old film or album inside. If you would like to have a chat about this or need any help with the data security, please contact us on 0117 969 8767 or visit us in our shop on the corner of Filton Ave and the A4174. Advert, Page 21

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

News

filtonvoice

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December, 2013

Show aims to attract 20,000 visitors

Plans for a lifestyle and leisure show are under way on a huge site off the M4. The South Gloucestershire Show will take place on a 176-acre area between the Westerleigh Road and the M4 in Henfield, near Emersons Green. The show, on August 2 and 3 next year, has ambitious plans to rival other West Country events such as the North Somerset Show. The main arena is planned to be as big as 10 football pitches, and there will be a large music stage to showcase local bands. Although other shows of this size are focused on agriculture – this event aims to highlight pastimes and leisure activities of local people. One arena has already been planned for classic cars, with fishing and clay pigeon shooting also at the event. The show is expected to have a big emphasis on cycling, with sustainable transport charity Sustrans supporting the event

The organisers of the 2014 South Gloucestershire Show and organisers are hoping large numbers of people will cycle to the show, as the site is close to Avon Cycleway routes that link to the Bristol and Bath cycle track.

Darren Hawkins, the event manager, is keen to underline that a large part of the show will be devoted to voluntary groups clubs and societies and many of

these will be offered a stand at the show at no cost to them. “If you’ve got a business, you’re not going to get a better place to showcase your business,” he said. “The nice thing is that by exhibitors paying to be on site this in turn gives us the ability to give away free space for community groups wanting to show what they have to offer. So by exhibiting you are giving a bit back as well.” Mr Hawkins says although the event is nine months away, local people need to get in touch soon. He said: “Voluntary groups need to get in touch as soon as possible. If you are in a morris dancing group, a rock band, a judo club, for example, and you want an audience, we’ve got the audience if you’ve got the talent.” You can contact the show organisers by emailing hello@ southglosshow.co.uk, or call 01454 222959.

Lollipop team mark service’s 60 years Sixty years of keeping children safe on their way to school was cause to celebrate for South Gloucestershire’s school crossing patrol staff. To mark the service’s milestone, the area’s 38 lollipop men and women were invited to a thank you event where chairman of South Gloucestershire Council, Councillor Ian Boulton, presented them with a certificate. Mr Boulton said: “Here in South Gloucestershire we currently have 38 school crossing patrols serving the area and they each carry out an extremely important road safety role. The whole team vary in age and personality but they all have

one aim, which is to keep the children safe on their way to and from school every day and their dedication and commitment to the job is to be commended.” The service’s longestserving member of staff is Joan Crossland, who works at Beacon Rise Primary in Kingswood and has 24 years’ experience. The eldest is John Pitt, at 71, and the youngest is Simon Hawker at 23. If you are interested in joining the team of school crossing patrol staff you can call South Gloucestershire Council on 01454 863611 for more details. You will receive full training and a uniform.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

filtonvoice

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Forum celebrates birthday in Filton

A celebration party was held in Filton last month to mark the 20th birthday of the South Glos Over 50s forum. Members gathered at the Filton Community Centre in Elm Park for an afternoon of entertainment and a special cutting of the birthday cake. They were joined by South Glos councillors Matthew Riddle and Ruth Davies. Membership secretary Dennis Ryan said: “The forum covers the whole of South Glos, having been founded in Kingswood in 1993. “It aims to raise the profile, needs and interest of the over fifties and to campaign for justice, respect and recognition “Membership is free and the orgnaisation is non-party political. We hold bi-monthly meeting at various venues around South Gloucestershire to accommodate are members, and currently we have over 4,300 members.” Among the members at the Filton event was Keith Miller, 69. Keith, pictured on the left of the photo, joined the group after his wife sadly passed away two years ago. The former coach builder from Warmley said that he had l Filton residents told a public meeting that there are real fears in the town over possible levels of congestion if large numbers of homes are built on Filton Airfield. The South Glos core strategy has identified land in the Cribbs-Patchway area for the development of a new neighbourhood with approximately 5,700 dwellings, around 50 hectares of employment land, open spaces, schools and community facilities. It will develop over the next 10-15 years. Residents told the recent Safer Stronger meeting in Filton that the twoon could not cope with such an influx of cars. Cllr Roger Hutchinson said he agreed but riueld out any major new road building. He said the answer was the reopening of Filton North rail station in conjunction with the Henbury Loop Line, part of the Bristol MetroWest local rail proposals.

found the forum to be invaluable for him. He said: “Most organisations for people our age are geared towards women. There’s not a lot for men but at the forum we have different speakers and some good two-way discussions. “There’s a real mix of people and I find myself going to the different venues.”

The Filton event was one of three held across the South Glos area to mark the 20th birthday, with the others in Hanham and Mangotsfield. The forum has a management committee of 24 elected members that meets once a month. The chairwomen is Tina Dean and vice chair is Brian Smith. Members receive

assistance and a grant from South Gloucestershire Council, and financial support from: Parish and Town Councils, the Lottery Fund, Quartet Foundation, Rolls Royce Charity Fund, Help the aged and St Monica’s Trust. For more information visit www.sthglosoverfiftiesforum. co.uk

Are you Lonely? Bored? Shy? Or just feeling a bit Down? 5

Want some company & something to do?

Build your confidence + self-esteem! Have some social time in a safe + welcoming environment! Learn new things! Have a go at some crafts! Bake a cake! Relax and drink tea / coffee! Or play a game of pool with new friends!

£3.00 each session

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

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December, 2013

Shield Road Primary

Primary school nativity plays

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

Filton Hill Primary

Primary school nativity plays

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

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December, 2013

St Teresaâ€™s Primary

Primary school nativity plays

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

Charborough Road Primary

Primary school nativity plays

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

News Be bright to stay safe this winter

Be bright morning and night – that’s the message to Filton residents this winter. South Gloucestershire Council’s Road Safety Team and local police have issued a reminder to road users to take extra care as the nights draw in and have offered some advice. l Wear bright or fluorescent clothing in daylight or poor light l Wear reflective clothing at night as it shows up in vehicle headlights – fluorescent clothing is not so visible after dark l Always use lights after dark, in the rain or if the weather is overcast or there is reduced visibility l Remember that it is illegal to ride a bicycle on the road with no lights after dark – white lights at the front and red at the rear l Check that all lights are in good working order Drivers are also being reminded that now is a good time of year to check that windscreen wipers are working and that the depth of tread on their vehicle’s tyres is sufficient to be able to disperse water and to handle and brake efficiently in winter conditions. Cyclists should also ensure their helmets are in good condition, the road safety team and police have warned.

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

Fashion ... with Amy McQueen

It’s beginning to

Charity appeal

Filton Chest and Heart Committee is looking for new committee members to help with the local charity. For more information, contact Brian Smith on 0117 975 9126.

Email: info@lanescarpets.co.uk

Novelty Christmas jumpers. Those once dreaded, itchy, handknitted presents you received from your nan, pretended you loved and were forced into wearing by your mum on the most exciting day of the year have become the latest fashion frenzy! They have put last year’s onesie on ice by becoming the most desired get-up on shop shelves.

With no end of traditional Christmassy designs and patterns from dancing reindeer, to Christmas puddings with pom-poms, and, for those less adventurous “bah humbugs”, classic Fair Isle style, there really should be no excuse as to why you and your family aren’t all digging into your Christmas turkey dinner in a cosy festive knit. Here are some of my favourite designs, which are all available at The Mall, Cribbs Causeway:

1. Snowman Sweater, £32 from Next 2. Pale Blue Polka Dot Pudding Jumper, £29.99 from New Look 3. Polar Bear Jumper, £35 from Marks & Spencer

Home Selection Service

4. Angora Snowflake with Sequin Detailing, £89.50 from Jack Wills 5. Hipster Henley Hooded Jumper, £114.99 from Superdry 6. Knitted Crystal Reindeer Jumper, £44 from Topshop 7. Red Reindeer Fair Isle Jumper, £45 from Fat Face

223 Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0XY

No compromises, with all the services and professionalism you would expect from your local Carpet and Flooring Supplier

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

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www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Fashion ... with Amy McQueen

News

look a lot like 4

Hundreds of car seats inspected

5 6

Parents in Filton were among hundreds of motorists across South Gloucestershire who had their child car seats inspected by police in recent months. More than 800 free roadside checks were carried out by Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s road safety team between April and October, with some startling results. While 346 car seats from 835 checked were fitted correctly, more than half were not, with 393 children travelling in car seats that were not safe or properly adjusted. The team found 91 had major faults, 273 minor faults and 29 seats were incompatible with the make of vehicle. Children travelling in the cars were also measured to check they were the right height to safely use seatbelts. Of 92 youngsters, 41 were found to be under the legal limit of 135cms with no booster seat. Road safety officer Pamela Williams said: “These car seat safety checks provide a great opportunity to find out from experts the right way to fit in-car child safety seats. “Each year around 100,000 children are involved in car accidents in the UK and the way their car seat is fitted can make a huge difference to whether or not they sustain injuries. The best way to protect them is by investing in a properly fitted seat which is the appropriate size for their weight and height. “These free checks are offered to give reassurance to parents that their children are safe and secure when travelling by car. We check child car seats to ensure that they are fitted correctly and we also educate drivers of the laws concerning child passengers and of potential dangers. As a driver, if you are convicted of failing to ensure that a child passenger is using an appropriate child restraint or wearing a seat belt, you could face a fine of up to £100.” There will be more car seat safety checks taking place in 2014. Anyone requiring further advice can also contact the council’s road safety team on 01454 863606 or visit www. southglos.gov.uk/childcarseats.

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

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December, 2013

What’s on in Filton on a regular basis Mondays

Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 9.30am10.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.70 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Tea Dance, Filton Folk Centre, 1.45pm-3.45pm 0117 302 6981

Tuesdays

Filton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Tuesday afternoons. Contact the library to book a session. 10am - 1pm NOTE TIME CHANGE Pre-School story and Rhyme time 9.30am, Filton Library, Shields Centre, Unity Coffee morning takes place every Tuesday (term time) starting 10-11.30 at PYRAMID Youth Club, 470 Filton Avenue, Bristol, BS7 0LW. Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.45 – 10.30am & 8.30 - 9.15pm, cost £4 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre 2-3pm Call 0117 969 3326

Wednesdays

Filton Garden Club, St Teresa’s Social Club, 7.30pm. 1st Wednesday of every month, 0117 975 9126. Not January. Filton Camera Club, 7.30 p.m, on alternate Wednesdays (except June, July and August) at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park. For details, contact Brian Frost on 0117 9651242, Brnf3335@aol.com, Filtones Choir. We rehearse every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45 to 3.45 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church. “We are a non auditioning four part harmony choir of mainly retired ladies and gentleman who enjoy the sociability of singing together. We give afternoon concerts to organisations, such as pensioners’ clubs, all over Bristol, and at least two main evening concerts every year, one

of which is in summer (our main charity fund raising event) and at Christmas. We have sufficient sopranos at present but are actively seeking tenors, basses and ladies who can sing alto. If you would like to come along and try us out please ring our Musical Director, Mike Watson on 0117 9083778 for a chat or just come along one Wednesday afternoon and have a listen to us. You will be made very welcome.” For more information please see our web site www.filtones.co.uk

Thursdays

Goldies meets in Filton “Singing for Fun”, songs from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. Every Thursday 10.30am-11.30am In Sinclair House community room (next to the police station). £1 donation to the Goldies charity. For further information contact abby@golden-oldies.org.uk or call 01761-470006 Bristol Male Voice Choir, weekly practice at South Gloucestershire andd Stroud College, Filton Avenue, 7.15 pm. Potential new members very welcome. Call 0117 979 3208 Knitting Group 5.45 pm – 6.45pm Thursdays, Filton Library, Shields Centre Aqua circuits 10am - 11am £4.00 Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only Tiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10am-noon, term time only Filton Ladies, St Andrew’s Church, 2pm-4pm, new members welcome, call 0117 969 1825 Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre, 8-9pm 0117 969 3326 Silver surfers: St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon (note we’ve changed from Fridays!) Drop-in for ‘silverhaired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with accessing computers, the internet, mobile phone technology, digital cameras, and much more! Run by a dedicated team of friendly volunteers with Lisa at the helm, this supportive group is just as much a social session as it is about learning! Come and join us! Free to come

along anytime, just £2.50 per session with free refreshments. This group does not run during August.

Should you wish to take Flower Arranging lessons, there is a small, friendly group which meets at Filton Community Centre (formerly Filton Folk Centre) on Thursday evenings at 7-9pm from mid September. Catering for beginners and improvers we cover all aspects of flower arranging from traditional to contemporary including Church flowers and flowers for special occasions. More details from 01454 323610 or 01454 412087. The Avon & Bristol Woodturners meet every thrid Thursday at St Teresa’s Church Hall from 7pm to approximately 10pm. For details, www.avonand-bristol-woodturners.org.uk/ Fortnightly, North Bristol Creative writing group. Meets fortnightly. 07535111294 northbristolwriting@gmail.com St Peter’s MU (Mothers Union) 2nd Thursday of each month (except August), 2pm in the church hall. All ladies and Gentlemen invited. For more information look on St Peter’s Church web site or call 0117 9491833 or just turn up. Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 12.30-3.30: Drop-in session, Open to all who want some advice / guidance looking for work! Get support with CV writing, filling in job aplications, job searching, interview techniques/practise, volunteering placements, and finding local courses to get more qualifications!

Fridays

Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.70 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time only. Pre-School story and Rhyme time 2.30pm, Filton Library, Shields Centre Bingo, Filton Community Centre, 7.30pm

Saturdays

9.30am – 10.30am, Filton District Councillors’ Surgery, Filton Library. Filton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Saturday mornings. Contact the library to book a session. Monthly Chatterbooks reading group for children in years 5 – 6. Meets on a Saturday afternoon, Filton Library, Shields Centre. St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Vigil Mass, 6pm

Sundays

St Peter’s Church, 8.00am Holy Eucharist; 10.00am Parish Eucharist with crèche and Sunday Club; Noon, Baptism (by appointment); 6.00pm Evening Worship (Choral Evensong on the 1st Sunday of each month)’. St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Morning Mass, 10.30am. Other masses visit www.stteresasfilton.org.uk St Andrew’s Church, Filton, 10.30am, Morning Worship; 6pm, Evening Worship Kids street dance classes(5 - 16 years of age), every Sunday @ Charborough Road Primary School, Filton, 5.15 - 6pm or 6 - 7pm (depending on age/ability), £3.50/£4.00 per session (pay as you go). Lots of fun, make new friends and very good exercise too!! Please phone Emma on 07725 612088 or email her at emmacwyatt@hotmail.com for more information.

Weekdays

Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton

St Andrews Youth Centre

For young people: Mondays 5.30-7.30pm Duke of Edinburgh’s award groups Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth Club for Years 8-14 (13-19yrs) Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth Club for Years 8-14 (1319yrs)

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2013

Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth club / transitions for young people aged 16-25 with learning difficulties

filtonvoice

Fridays 6.30-8.30pm Girls Only youth club

weekends away! Contact the office for holiday times as we usually change the programme to do more trips! Contact us at 0117 9691938 or standrewsmyc@ hotmail.co.uk

Fridays 8.30-9.30pm Tea & Toastie drop-in (tea, toasties, and information, advice / contraception drop-in for 13-20s)

Juniors 5-9 yrs Thursdays 6.30 - 7.45 p.m.

PLUS: Tuesdays 5.30-7pm Youth club for Years 5, 6 and 7 (9-12yrs) Wednesdays 5-7pm Youth Council Thursdays 5.30-7pm Youth club for 11-15year olds with learning difficultiesThe youth club programme has a range of activities including sports, arts/ crafts, roller skating, quizzes, computers, games, Wii, karaoke, and cooking. We’re also a C-card access point for condoms! Also tuck shop and pool tables available at subsidised rates! We also do lots of trips and

Pyramid Youth Club Inters 10-12 yrs Mondays and Fridays 6.30 - 8.00 p.m. Seniors 13+ Mondays and Fridays 8.00 - 10.00 p.m.

Judo Tuesdays Juniors under 13 yrs 6.30 - 7.30 p.m. and 13+ adults 7.30 - 9.00 p.m. Juniors have a rotating programme of crafts, games, cookery and computers working in small teams.

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

more information. There are vacancies in all age groups. Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315

Filton Community Centre 983 6500

Mondays: Tea dance, 1.453.45, call 302 6981. Zumba fitness class, 6.30-7.30 Tuesdays: Keep fit, 2-4pm, 969 3326; Flower arranging, 2-4pm, 01454 412 087; Dog training, 7-9pm, 01454 616630; Pilates, 7-9pm, 502 2411; AA, 7.30-9.30; Cacti club (3rd Tues), call 950 3604

Inters and Seniors have football, basketball, dodgeball etc. plus pool and table tennis, computer games, cookery and music.

Wednesdays: Pilates, 10-12; Dawn James Art, 962 2982; Camera Club, 7.30-9.30, alternate weeks, call 965 1242 for details; Strictly Ballroom, 907 6960; Historical Club (4th Wed), 7.30-9.30, 969 2025

New members are welcome. Please ring 9691315 if you want

Thursdays: Short mat bowls, 2-4pm, 969 2025; Line dancing,

7.30-9.30, 07792 456988; Flower arranging, 7.30-9.30, 01454 412087; AA, 07831 338085; Keep fit, 8-9pm, 969 3326 Fridays: Bingo, 7.30-9.30, 9690311; Karate, 6-8pm, 07982 720158 Saturdays: Kung Fu, 07759 583688; Sundays: Karate, 10.30-noon, 07982 720 158; New Pastures Ministry, 07786 271 33

1st Filton Scouts, Cubs & Beavers

Beavers, aged 6-8, Weds 6-7pm Cubs, 8-101/2, Thurs 6.30-8.30 Scouts, 101/2 - 14, Tues 7-9pm The group is based in Scout Headquarters, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LH. All sections are open to boys and girls. Contact for all sections is John Cahill (jcahill@blueyonder.co.uk), Phone 0798 605 3005)

Coming up in Filton in the next month, P12 Volunteer Speed Matching Discover local volunteering opportunities in a speed matching event to find your perfect match! Tuesday 18th February between 5.30—7pm Coniston Community Centre in Patchway.

�

(School fundraising event!)

to be held at Abbeywood Community School, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8SF on

Friday 31 January 2014

Doors open at 7.00 pm, first race starts at 7.30 pm prompt! Free admission! Adult & Children’s Raffle!

Licensed bar available! Prizes and lots of fun guaranteed!!!!! Open to anyone

but only over 18s will be allowed to bet

Share Your Skills Meet With Local Charities

Hear About Volunteering Opportunities Everyone Welcome info@volunteercentre-pfs.org.uk 01454 868 986

Just come along and join in the fun!

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

ocean

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Filton Property of the ® Month, with 112 Conygre Grove, Filton

December, 2013

ocean

£105,000

A spacious one-bedroom ground floor flat offering a kitchen/ diner, living room, shower room and a good-sized double bedroom. This flat also offers plenty of storage and has recently had new carpets fitted in the bedroom and living room. This flat is perfect for firsttime buyers or investors as there is a potential rental income of

£550 per month. Offered with no chain!

Ocean, 8 Gloucester Road North, Filton, Bristol, BS7 0SF 0117 904 4000 www.oceanhome.co.uk

Knitters on tour again with Knitivity The Knutty Knitters are back and touring Bristol with their famous knitted nativity scene this month – and will be joined by three new friends. The group, who met at St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School in Monks Park, have created a new camel, donkey and an angel to add to their festive display, which is going on show at venues around the city. Christmas cards featuring the tableau in front of the Clifton Suspension Bridge are also proving popular, becoming St Peter’s Hospice’s best-selling charity card ever. Alison Spurrell, who is a Knutty Knitter alongside Jean Richards, Anne Iles, Eileen Agnew, Pat Dardis and Julia Worth, said: “The popularity of our Knitivity last year was astounding so we have been

working hard for the past 12 months to create three new characters for people to meet. We’re thrilled with our new camel, donkey and angel and can’t wait to show them off! “As with last year we will

be making many stops around Bristol to raise money for St Peter’s Hospice, which cared so wonderfully for our friend Christine at the end of her life. Although the tour is great fun for us, we want to raise as much as

possible for this amazing charity. “Last year during our tour we made our own thank you cards for our supporters so it’s fabulous to be actually selling our own cards this year. To hear that it is the best-selling card the charity has had is unbelievable!” The Knitters’ tour is stopping at various local primary schools, St Peter’s Hospice shops, Asda in Bedminster and Patchway, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, The Galleries and Cabot Circus among others. St Peter’s Hospice community fundraiser Petra Littlefair said: “The Knutty Knitters have been fantastic fundraisers for us so to welcome them back for a tour this year is very exciting. They have a really unique fundraising idea and are a perfect example of using a hobby to support a good cause.”

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448. Email: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Trade services

To advertise in our trade services section from as little as £15 per month contact Richard on 07775 550607 or Emma on 0117 9082121.

PLASTERING SERVICES

COMPUTER SERVICES

Jon Drake

Plastering Service A quality & reliable local plasterer for internal & external work. Call Jon for a free, no obligation quote

Tel: 07565 797646

Tel 0117 9790575 / 07800 939148

HAIRDRESSER

PLUMBER

Mobile Hairdressing

Karen Fed up with your hair?

Why not give me a call

07788 370751

Senior stylist with over 20 years experience. Expert in all aspects of hairdressing, will travel all over Bristol.

www.jondrakeplastering.co.uk

Reliable Plumber

Leaking taps l Blocked wastes l WC l Ball valves Overflows l Showers l Basins l Taps l Boilers l Heating & Plumbing

Complete bathroom installations

Tel: 0117 979 3842 or 07791 786 820

MEDIA SERVICES

YOU make HI! the headlines!

FIRST FOR CELEBRITY NEWS ISSUE 1

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SPECIAL BIRTHDAY EDITION FREE ... IN RETURN FOR A SLICE OF CAKE

SPOTTED PIGGING OUT IN GOURMET BURGER

DEANZ: ‘I COULDN’T BELIEVE HOW MUCH SHE ATE’ BRISTOL’S NEXT TOP MODEL?

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December, 2013

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